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The best ocean escapes for 2026 have been revealed.
Nearly 800,000 travelers voted in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards to crown the top cruise lines in the world — from floating mega-resorts to smaller, exclusive boutique boats.
Whether you want non-stop action on a 4,000-passenger megaship or a river cruise past Europe’s must-see attractions, these winners cruised their way to the top spots.
Here are the best cruise lines in the world by category.
Best Megaship (4,000+ passengers) : Princess Cruises
The real-life “Love Boat” line sails to over 345 destinations across seven continents. Operating under Carnival Corporation, Princess boasts a 17-ship fleet. Its newest and largest vessels, Sun Princess (2024) and Star Princess (2025), hold up to 4,300 passengers each.
Voters praised Princess for having both top-tier itineraries and comfort. Signature Alaska voyages feature exclusive access to Glacier Bay National Park and wilderness lodge stays. And their tech advancements include wearable OceanMedallion keyless entry to rooms and on-demand delivery of food and drinks anywhere on board.
Aside from the Alaskan voyage, the Princess cruise is notable for the 7-day Mexico cruise and their California coast getaways.
Best Large Ship (2,500 to 4,000 passengers): Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages brings boutique luxury to its four-ship fleet: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady.
Since launching in 2021 out of Miami, the adults-only line has revamped its nightlife. Its 2,770-passenger ships feature nightclubs and “risqué” live shows. They have an onboard tattoo parlor and interactive dining like Korean BBQ hotspot Gunbae with drinking games for guests.
The Virgin Voyages, while 18+, offer spa and yoga days along with vibrant nightlife. They also hold specific theme evenings like Scarlet Night (wear red) and PJ night.
Best Medium Ship (500 to 2,499 passengers): Viking
Viking’s ocean fleet grew to nine ships with the arrival of Viking Vesta in June 2025. Carrying roughly 930 guests in all-balcony staterooms, the line includes a shore excursion in every port, and included beer and wine with meals. It also includes unlimited Wi-Fi for all guests.
On-board highlights include the three-deck Living Room atrium and panoramic Explorer’s Lounge. For relaxation, there is a Nordic Spa with a thermal suite and destination lectures to learn about port destinations’ histories.
The Viking prides itself on the adults only environment (18+) to create a peaceful environment. The focus is more on enrichment than nightlife, providing destination historians and classical music performances.
Best Small Ship (Fewer than 500 passengers) : Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent offers small-ship luxury on vessels like the 490-guest Seven Seas Navigator, which features 345 crew members. The all-inclusive model covers shore excursions and open bars. Itineraries span from one-week trips to three-month odysseys to destinations like New Zealand and Dubai.
Regent is typically described as a “country club at sea” with its emphasis on ultra luxury and comfort care. Complimentary laundry service is included for all guests — a rarity on cruise lines, and useful after a long day exploring the Arabian desert.
Best River Cruise Line: Viking
Viking also leads on river cruises, sailing waterways like the Danube and Rhône in Europe and the Volga in Russia. The Viking Nile land-and-cruise package allows visitors to explore the pyramids. Its top-rated itinerary is the 15-day Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest.
In North America, Viking offers Mississippi River cruises running between New Orleans and Memphis or St. Paul. Passengers can also enjoy Viking’s “Culture Curriculum,” featuring regional wine tastings and seasonal menus from each destination.
Best Expedition Line: andBeyond
Safari operator andBeyond expanded into cruising with the Galapagos Explorer—an exclusive yacht accommodating just 12 guests for Galápagos expeditions. The yacht features six spacious cabins (including two suites) decorated with Galápagos-inspired decor, vintage maps, and scientific prints.
Their Caribbean charter boats to St. Thomas range from $19,000 up to $90,000 per week, which includes a private chef and captain, and accommodates 4-10 guests depending on the vessel.
