Dreaming of a luxurious escape on the open sea? Cruise ships are the perfect choice to combine adventure, relaxation, and luxury. From high-end dining experiences to thrilling entertainment, these floating cities offer something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top 10 cruise ships in the world based on customer experiences for an unforgettable vacation.
Top 10 Highly Rated Cruise Ships in the World
Here is a comprehensive review of the top-rated cruise ships based on customer experiences gathered from around the web:
1. Symphony of the Seas
- Ratings: 4.5/5 (Royal Caribbean website), 4.8/5 (TripAdvisor)
- Positives: People rave about the entertainment options on board, with shows like “Flight, Dare to Dream” getting high praise for visual effects. The dining options, especially the variety in the buffet and specialty restaurants, are also well-loved. The innovative Central Park area leaves passengers in awe due to its serene atmosphere.
- Negatives: Some reviewers mention issues like overcrowding during peak times and delays at certain venues. One notable concern is the constant disturbance during shows due to guests arriving late, which affected the overall experience(Emma Cruises)(Wander Eat Write).
2. Harmony of the Seas
- Ratings: 4.6/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.7/5 (Travel Weekly)
- Positives: Travelers love the attention to detail in the service and the wide array of activities available, such as the Ultimate Abyss slide and FlowRider surf simulator. The accommodations, including spacious suites, also receive high marks.
- Negatives: The large number of passengers sometimes results in long wait times for attractions, and some people feel the additional charges for certain activities and dining options are excessive.
3. Celebrity Edge
- Ratings: 4.7/5 (Cruise Line), 4.6/5 (Cruise Critic)
- Positives: Known for its luxurious ambiance, Celebrity Edge receives excellent reviews for its modern design and exceptional dining experience. The Magic Carpet, a floating platform offering stunning ocean views, is a standout feature.
- Negatives: While the ship’s innovative design is praised, some passengers mention that the entertainment options could be more varied for longer cruises.
4. Norwegian Bliss
- Ratings: 4.5/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.4/5 (Norwegian website)
- Positives: The Bliss is highly regarded for its onboard attractions like go-karting and laser tag. Reviewers love the Observation Lounge for its panoramic views and relaxing atmosphere.
- Negatives: Some reviewers highlight that the pool areas are often crowded, and dining reservations can be difficult to secure during peak times.
5. MSC Seaside
- Ratings: 4.3/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.2/5 (MSC website)
- Positives: MSC Seaside impresses passengers with its beautiful exterior design and its focus on outdoor spaces. Guests appreciate the range of family-friendly activities and the international cuisine offered in the main dining areas.
- Negatives: Several reviews mention that the service can feel inconsistent, and the entertainment options are not as appealing as on other ships.
6. Carnival Horizon
- Ratings: 4.2/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.3/5 (Travel Weekly)
- Positives: Carnival Horizon is praised for its vibrant atmosphere and affordable pricing. Families enjoy the WaterWorks aqua park and the IMAX theater.
- Negatives: While the entertainment is popular, some passengers find the ship overcrowded, especially during holiday periods.
7. Oasis of the Seas
- Ratings: 4.4/5 (Royal Caribbean), 4.5/5 (Cruise Critic)
- Positives: Like its sister ship, Symphony, Oasis offers world-class entertainment and a wide range of dining options. Guests particularly enjoy the variety of staterooms and the family-friendly atmosphere.
- Negatives: Some guests report that while the ship offers plenty of amenities, it can feel overwhelming due to the large number of passengers.
8. Disney Dream
- Ratings: 4.7/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.6/5 (Disney)
- Positives: Disney Dream is highly rated for its exceptional service, family-friendly entertainment, and iconic Disney-themed experiences. Reviewers love the cleanliness and kid-focused activities.
- Negatives: Some guests feel that the ship is more suited for families with young children and may not offer enough adult-only entertainment options.
9. Viking Orion
- Ratings: 4.8/5 (Cruise Critic), 4.7/5 (Viking Cruises)
- Positives: Viking Orion stands out for its intimate atmosphere and luxurious amenities, including all-inclusive pricing. Guests appreciate the cultural enrichment programs and well-organized excursions.
- Negatives: Some passengers mention that entertainment options are not as varied compared to larger ships, but the quiet atmosphere appeals to mature travelers.
10. Queen Mary 2 (Cunard)
- Ratings: 4.6/5 (Cunard), 4.5/5 (Cruise Critic)
- Positives: Known for its elegance and transatlantic voyages, Queen Mary 2 receives top marks for its classic style and luxurious dining experiences. Passengers love the formal events and ballroom dancing.
- Negatives: While the ship’s old-world charm is appreciated by many, some guests feel the onboard technology and entertainment options are outdated compared to newer ships.
Conclusion:
This review combines both positive and negative feedback from various sources to provide a comprehensive look at how these cruise ships are rated by real passengers across the web
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