THE OFFICIAL CRUISETRUTH 2026 RANKINGS OF THE

WORLD’S TOP TEN CRUISE LINES

Summary

(Full Ratings Available on www.cruisetruth.com)

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We are pleased to announce the Cruisetruth Top Ten Rankings for 2026.  Given the attention our ad-free, hype-free, and research-intensive ratings receive, we take our work on this project quite seriously. Our analysis of online visitors shows a growing number of travel agents and travel media have begun visiting our site regularly. The cruise industry is well aware of our rankings and this report will, we imagine, generate a fair number of phone calls from corporate headquarters. Our site visitors obviously include our ETTC Members, but as our consumer sites feature open access, we get visitors from throughout the United States and a surprising number from abroad.

As you review our new TOP TEN CRUISE LINES rankings, you will discover one or two surprises. That reflects some decline in services as well as the entrance of several new lines vying for Top Ten status. These include the new Crystal, Explora Cruises, the Scenic Eclipse class of Exploration ships, and the Ritz-Carlton Yachts. Here is our current quick guide to the World’s Top Ten Cruise lines, followed by comprehensive reviews of each line, including reports from our trained and highly experienced CSI Inspection Team:

#  1  – RITZ CARLTON YACHTS

New, luxurious, with outstanding spa facilities, this is as close as one gets to a floating five-star hotel at sea. The primary issue with The Ritz-Carlton’s venture on the high seas is its collection of “too short” sailings to typical large-ship ports. The itineraries seem designed, in part, to support occupancy at the brand’s hotels at either end of many itineraries. Ritz-Carlton Yachts justifies shorter itineraries by noting that its average age of 57 is far younger than that of many TrueLux competitors. The assumption is that most of their guests are still working and cannot be away from work for more than a week to ten days. But that said, there is little doubt that RCY is, at this point, the very best cruise line in the world. The ships are gorgeous – but so are most of the vessels on this TrueLux Listing of The World’s Best. Where the Ritz-Carlton clearly shines is its unmatched level of personal service at sea. For example, you may want to read our published accounts of a recent inspection voyage that included our Senior Editor and 11 members of our Certified CSI (Cruise Ships Inspector) Program. (see www.cruisetruth.com) The food and accommodations are clearly top-tier five-star. The intimate “Living Room” is a truly comfortable gathering place. But the points of differentiation really revolve around this cruise line’s willingness to empower staff at every single level to enhance and truly personalize the guest cruise experience. Combine superior interior design and comfort, an all-caring crew with training that surpasses that observed on any other line, food options that exceed those of many larger ships, and a tough-to-measure but easy-to-observe Ritz-Carlton notion of “Ladies and Gentlemen serving Ladies and Gentlemen. When we work on our Riverboat annual rankings, the competition for the top spot is always hotly debated. That is not the case when it comes to our 2026 Cruise Line Rankings. No one comes close to matching the Ritz-Carlton’s version of truly personalized yet laid-back service. Ritz-Carlton does not own this cruise line. But they oversee the onboard services and all aspects of marine operations. They deserve to be commended for what they have achieved on behalf of their investors. Ownership includes a major investment group, a family fund built on the profits from an online Poker franchise, and the government of Singapore.

# 2 – HAPAG-LLOYD EUROPA CLASS

Think crystal, glass chandeliers, and fine European service. But this is a German Line, so speaking fluent German would be helpful. Imagine Michelin-quality dining and absolutely top-tier professional services. Hapag-Lloyd announced late in 2025 that its vessels will now be bilingual – German and English. This indicates that there will be strong, new marketing directed at American cruisers. The feedback so far has been truly excellent, and the respected Insider’s Cruise Guide affiliated with Berlitz claims that Hapag is the only true Five-star line in the industry. We concur that was true at one time, but it is no longer accurate. Now, with offices in the United States and a determined policy to attract more cruisers from North America, the Europa I and II will become more familiar to Americans, who are attracted by its modern take on European tradition and great service. Add excellent cuisine and adventurous itineraries of truly worldwide scope, and this will be a line worth watching. It is partially owned by the Royal Caribbean group, so that marketing relationship will also be fascinating to observe. The major downside may also be the significant upside – one cannot be sure of the demographic make-up of any specific Hapag-Lloyd sailing. For those who enjoy mingling with an international “cast,” this might be the perfect choice.

# 3– SCENIC ECLIPSE YACHTS

This Australian company has leading-edge riverboats and a large escorted-tour operation. Its new Exploration Yachts have very quickly become industry leaders in some of the world’s most exotic destinations. Think exquisite food and service, along with onboard helicopters and submarines. American guests will generally be in the minority. Ships feature a crew that is superbly trained and enjoys interacting with guests. This is the best five-star line that operates in relative obscurity. The Eclipse I & 2 do operate in North America, but their primary cruising grounds are Antarctica and other exotics. Their beautiful design and extraordinary service are complemented by hardware, including submarines and helicopters on each vessel, for in-depth touring. Think high-level onboard lectures followed by a day that includes a Zodiac approaching monumental glaciers and a welcome back onboard with chilled champagne and caviar waiting. That is the Eclipse experience. Scenic is another TrueLux line seriously intent on increasing the percentage of North American guests it serves. Scenic is the five-star Exploration Benchmark Cruise Line with excellent cuisine only a small part of the story.

#  4 – SILVERSEA CRUISES

Now owned by Royal Caribbean, Silversea is among the very best for personal service and fine dining. All staterooms come with butler service. Silversea is somewhat more formal than its competitors – but that is slowly changing. The specialty restaurants are intimate and worthy of their reputation. Staff is well-trained but can be distant. Itineraries shine with longer voyages that appeal to the line’s mostly retired demographics. Silversea scores well because the line has few internal weaknesses. It is reliably luxurious. It is also satisfying in its inclusiveness with specialty dining, many shore excursions, drinks, and gratuities included. There is an unusually high staff-to-guest ratio. Silversea has been a luxury leader, and there is little evidence that will change any time soon under Royal Caribbean’s ownership. In fact, many in the industry feel that Silversea now has the financial backing it needs for future growth and expansion of its highly praised Exploration division. Silversea is a highly respected brand now operating on every continent and offering ultra-luxury products in Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Galapagos Islands. Given its high-end clientele, which includes a high percentage of retirees, Silversea often provides the longest and most interesting itineraries in the regions it serves.

#  5 – CRYSTAL CRUISES

The new Crystal, using two thoughtfully refurbished Crystal ships, is now owned by Abercrombie & Kent. A&K has made a long-term commitment to the line, and the results already show. We anticipated that our inspection reports might reveal that Crystal has returned to its former, impressive self. With 81% of the crew returning and A&K redesigning land program packages, we are instead seeing reports from our CSI Team Members that Crystal now ranks higher than it did under its previous ownership. This is the line to watch, as its ranking can rise quickly. Smallish cabins are less of an issue, as both ships underwent major refurbishments, and several category staterooms were enlarged. The Symphony, which previously accommodated 890 guests, now accommodates 606 guests at full capacity. That is a significant enhancement, and the same general stats apply to its sister ship. Cuisine ranks among the best at sea. Nobu is on board, along with several Italian superstars, and dining reservations are rarely an issue. We have detected a surprising number of shorter one-week sailings, which could indicate that management in London is concentrating more on the potential European market. We feel that lackluster itineraries in several key operating markets is Crystal’s major current deficiency. Crystal is the luxury line that has the potential to keep moving up in our rankings. There were previously announced A&K-designed pre- and Post multi-day programs on many exotic itineraries. But now, true to its word, A&K is introducing day tours by A&K. In a typical port, guests should expect about 11-12 different tour options with two or three of them identified as “A&K Created”. Based on CSI trend data, we expect Crystal to rise in our rankings, to the detriment of one or two competitors. Crystal ships feature a full-production show theater, a movie theater for first-run films, and an impressive casino —an elegant venue created in partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. We anticipate that Crystal will appeal to more European travelers through A&K’s London-based Marketing Group. Two new vessels are already on order. Crystal’s larger capacity compared to its top-tier competitors allows for greater diversity in shore excursions, entertainment, and dining. Crystal has risen rapidly in our evaluations based on the warmth of staff interaction with guests, extremely high crew-to-guest ratios, and the quality of nightlife options, theater, movie theater, and casino that most of the other TrueLux lines cannot match. Add some of the best cuisine at sea to the mix, and you can expect Crystal to be the topic of conversation increasingly among perceived competitors.

# 6– REGENT SEVEN SEAS

Regent’s luxury value proposition has slipped since the previously included Free Business Air program was discontinued. At one time, Regent was the only TrueLux Line providing inclusive Business Class Air in its pricing. That pricing model is no longer viable. But that said, Regent still maintains a high position when it comes to the inclusive nature of its pricing. Shore excursions and all specialty restaurants are included. On cruises of less than 16 days, there are no formal nights. This has turned out to be a serious plus for Regent as it is the more casual of the major mid-size luxury groups, including Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal. Owned by Norwegian Cruise Holdings. Regent’s onboard product is more inclusive than competitors because the vast majority of shore excursions are included in the fare, and there are no additional fees attached to dining in the top-tier onboard restaurants. Regent uses so-called “Dynamic” pricing models. This usually means that those who book first receive the best pricing on the first 25% of staterooms. Deals come later, but they are based on price increases and what AI and some human interaction determine the market can absorb. We expect the “Dynamic” pricing model to expand across most of the TrueLux Lines. Regent is extremely popular because guests love its new-design ships, which accommodate up to 750 guests, and because Regent holds the title of “Top Tier Luxury without a Single Formal Night”. It is the more casual of the luxury lines, aside from Sea Dream and the Ritz-Carlton Yachts. Regent features multiple specialty restaurants (e.g., Prime 7 steakhouse, Chartreuse French cuisine) at no additional charge. Wine pairings and premium spirits are included, and menus reflect regional influences. On paper, Regent has all the bells and whistles when it comes to inclusiveness. Its point of differentiation seems to be its appeal to a clientele that would prefer not to pack gowns/suits or even a tie on an ocean voyage. Regent is, in our view, the most “Comfortable” of the lines within its ocean orbit. And comfort counts for a lot these days. Regent is the TrueLux member of the Norwegian Cruise Line family, which includes Oceania cruises.

# 7 – SEABOURN CRUISES

The star of the Carnival family luxury division, Seabourn, features some of the industry’s most creative itineraries. Their itineraries in Europe and even Alaska are often longer than those offered by competitors. Guests are more international. Food and facilities receive high marks. Service can be a bit reserved and lacking warmth. Seabourn Loyalists love the centrally located Lounge with Concierge services and a lovely coffee bar. Social media pretenders love to tell tales that Carnival is cutting costs and downgrading some facilities aboard the ship. Several mass-produced YouTubers make the same claim. They are false. Carnival has a strong financial interest in maintaining one of the world’s strongest luxury brands, so it does not lose clients who graduate from the company’s less luxurious offerings. The rumors that the Saudi Royal Fund has expressed interest in Seabourn were true, but we have seen such interest directed at other luxury products as well. This line offers Yacht-Style Ships & an Intimate Atmosphere. Seabourn’s vessels carry between 458 and 600 guests, creating a club-like ambiance with no lines, no crowds, and easy access to all amenities. It features ocean-view suites: Every stateroom is a suite with ocean views, and many offer expansive verandas and walk-in closets. Highly personalized service: Staff are trained to anticipate guest needs with intuitive grace—many guests report that the crew remembers names, preferences, and even drink orders without prompting. Complimentary champagne and caviar are available anytime, anywhere onboard—even delivered to your suite or served poolside. Seabourn’s purpose-built expedition ships offer polar-class capabilities, onboard submarines, and Zodiacs for immersive exploration in Antarctica, the Arctic, and remote regions. Onboard lectures and discussions with notable experts, authors, and explorers, along with refined classical music tailored to a sophisticated audience, are part of the Seabourn “aura”. But some CSI Inspectors comment on the “lack of fun” observed onboard. Seabourn earns praise for its carefully curated voyages: the line’s smaller ships can often access hidden harbors and boutique ports that larger vessels can’t reach. We also like flexible overnights and late departures: Designed to maximize cultural immersion and relaxed exploration.

# 8 – SEA DREAM YACHT CLUB

Owned by a Norwegian shipping family, these identical yachts are inclusive and carry just 100 guests each when full. Given their size, they often visit ports that the larger vessels can’t. Rooms are yacht-like – translate – smaller than usual in the five-star category. Food wins raves, and dinner under the moonlight on an open deck is a real plus. Bathrooms leave little room for dancing or much of anything else. The bedding features Frette linens and is quite comfortable. But don’t be surprised if you end up getting “engaged” to your shower curtain. These are older vessels. But they truly deliver a yachting experience and itineraries that often feature destinations their larger competitors can only dream about. The Spa services are more than adequate, and there are numerous opportunities to dine and even sleep on the upper deck. A high percentage of Sea Dream guests currently own their own yachts. If you can handle the lack of stateroom balconies and a bathroom that can only be described as “tight quarters”, Sea Dream Yacht Club should be carefully considered. The repeat factor is among the highest in the industry. Sea Dream does not provide airfare, or pre- or post-hotel stays. The ship’s refurbishment schedule has been well documented, and the interior of the boat exceeds the vessel’s exterior appearance, which once sailed as The famed Sea Goddess Yachts, the ultimate cruising experience in its time. Sea Dream Yachts does not top this list of The World’s Top Ten Cruise Lines. But it does have one of the two highest repeat percentages among the lines listed. Perhaps that is its most significant achievement.

# 9 – PONANT YACHTS

This is a line owned by the wealthiest family in France. Most guests prefer to book one of the full- or partial-charter sailings for American guests operated by Tauck, Smithsonian Journeys, or Abercrombie & Kent, as unaffiliated Ponant sailings have a high concentration of European, primarily French-speaking, guests. Service aboard the ship is of a high caliber, but guest recognition is rarely achieved. The staterooms and the yachts themselves are modern and beautiful, but the entry-level staterooms come in at just over 200 square feet – small for a TrueLux listing. Officers usually are French, and the atmosphere can resemble an upscale French supper club. Some reviewers feel the food is “Americanized,” although it generally gets high marks. As of late 2025, Ponant operates a fleet of 22 ships. This includes: 13 core cruise ships, such as Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal, Le Lyrial, and Le Commandant Charcot, designed for luxury expeditions and small-port access. Three luxury catamarans under the new Ponant Yachting brand: Spirit of Ponant, La Désirade, and Spirit of Ponant II, offer intimate sailing experiences. Additional vessels like Le Ponant (the original three-masted sailing yacht)

# 10 – PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES (PONANT DIVISION)

Purchased by Ponant and owned by the French family that includes leading fashion icons like Louis Vuitton, the Gauguin is based in Tahiti, which means beach-oriented itineraries. Longer 10-12 day sailings to places like the Cook Islands provide a better experience than the standard seven-night itineraries out of Papeete. The ship is fine, the food is quite good, and the service staff can be warm and helpful. But this is a cruise line whose luxury DNA derives from the places it sails rather than the ship itself. The ship is purpose-built for the South Pacific with a shallow draft design that allows access to secluded lagoons and smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach—ideal for destinations like Bora Bora, Moorea, and Fiji. With just 330 guests, the Gauguin offers a cozy, uncrowded experience that feels more like a private yacht than a mega-cruise. Nearly 70% of the staterooms feature private balconies, and recent refurbishments added eight new connecting staterooms for families or groups. The three dining venues include the newly redesigned Le Grill, with open-air views and local flavors. Menus often feature Polynesian ingredients and dishes, enhancing the cultural immersion. The ship features an onboard floating marina: Guests can launch directly into the sea for kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling—no tender needed. Tahitian Hosts (Les Gauguines): Local entertainers and cultural ambassadors onboard offer dance, music, and storytelling that deepen the connection to the islands. On select itineraries, our inspectors were impressed by exclusive beach days on Motu Mahana, a private islet with BBQ, cocktails, and watersports. No one knows French Polynesia better than the Gauguin Team. Several of the islands seem well-worn and not at all affluent. The major exception is Bora Bora, where extra nights in an over-the-water bungalow are highly recommended. Ten and 11-night itineraries that include the Marquesas Islands are most highly recommended.

ALSO WORTHY OF SERIOUS CONSIDERATION AND REPRESENTING SUPERIOR VALUE

OCEANIA CRUISES

The four-star-plus line is part of Norwegian Cruise Holdings. Itineraries are often excellent, but these tend to be higher-density vessels. Guests are typically not addressed by name, and beverage packages and shore excursion costs quickly add up. Oceania has a large fan base that believes the line offers better overall value than its upscale NCL sister brand, Regent Seven Seas. Oceania advertises that it has “the finest cuisine at sea.” It doesn’t – but it is true that food is a standout in several of the onboard venues and you can, on any given night, enjoy a dining experience that is, at least, the match of those TrueLux lines higher up on “The Rankings”. The onboard cooking academy and the food-focused shore excursions are unique to Oceania and partially reflect the involvement of culinary superstars like Jacques Pépin. Oceania scores exceptionally well in the “Itinerary Design” department, making serious efforts to include ports that many competitors rarely visit. But at 1200 passengers, Oceania guests in port experience some of the same operational challenges as less prestigious, larger vessels. Our evaluations tend to reflect the view that Oceania is a lower-priced alternative to the TrueLux options while providing meals that often match and sometimes exceed the culinary creations on the top-tier lines. Name recognition and truly personalized service are not hallmarks at Oceania, and non-included items can add up. But given the strength of this line, its many options, lovely, advanced-designed vessels, truly creative cuisine, and more favorable pricing, Oceania currently reigns as the best value in the four-star category.

WINDSTAR CRUISES

Sailing Yachts and a small fleet of former Seabourn yachts make Windstar a brand worth watching. They do itineraries that make the best use of their size, and guests love the “perfect size” of these vessels. Bathrooms on the sailing yachts are tight, and shore excursion options are, by necessity, limited. Outdoor dining is usually possible, and the food, in recent years, has come to match the scenery’s quality. Windstar is not inclusive, but the entry-level pricing is attractive. Windstar is a line that is not afraid to try new things to compete with older vessels.

VIKING CRUISES

Technically, the largest upscale line, Viking, is not inclusive. The ships are beautiful if you love contemporary Scandinavian furnishings and can avoid walking into glass walls. They pledge more time in port, and the ships do not have casinos. They often have excellent onboard lecturers. Food and service are quite satisfactory, but they do not match the top-ranked five-star lines. Several of our Inspection Team Members have noted some level of “portion control,” and there is little doubt that Viking is a tightly run operation. Children are not permitted on Viking ships—a major draw for many consumers. While there is some nickel-and-diming, these Norwegian-owned vessels are beautiful and deliver true cultural experiences. Their onboard lecture programs are well-received. Their programs along the Norwegian Coast, as well as their new Mississippi programs with new boats, are highly recommended. Viking will soon be dominating the upper-end cruise market. They now have 104 ships sailing, with nine more on order by 2030. They also operate two Expedition ships and are, by an extremely wide margin, the largest player in the Worldwide Riverboat Market. Viking has had problems coming up with creative shore excursions—but so have several of its competitors. Viking has the best advertising campaign in the industry, and it is interesting to note that they intentionally avoid using the word “luxury” in their print ads. Viking is the largest shipbuilder in the cruise industry, which means it has assumed enormous debt. They are still strong financially, but they have policies and cost-cutting measures that reflect their “Viking way or the highway” mentality. For instance, many current discount offers require full payment of one’s cruise up to a year in advance of sailing. Viking does not generally offer creative pre- or post-cruise programs. For guests seeking beautiful ships, a four-star food/service experience, with above-average time in port and cultural port lectures, Viking could be a good choice while operating in most of the destinations cruisers have on their bucket lists. And did we say – “No Kids”?

EMERALD YACHTS

These ultra-sleek 100-guest yachts, a division of Scenic Cruises, are among the best value in today’s upscale cruise market. Shore excursions are extra, air is not included, and drinks are included exclusively at meal times. But these minimalist-styled yachts are always the best-looking in port and the crew gets to know passenger’s preferences quickly. This is a vacation for guests who would like their neighbors to think they are spending more than they actually are. Aussie-owned and guests will normally rather international. Decor throughout the ship borders on minimalist – sort of similar to the Bezos Yacht. This is a nice way to experience a yacht while avoiding Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, and Scenic pricing levels. But have reasonable expectations in terms of inclusions and service levels. 

EXPLORA CRUISES

Our evaluations, thus far, are insufficient to assess Explora fairly. This new luxury line is well-funded by the Aponte family, owners of the huge Italian shipping and passenger line MSC. The new brand is undertaking an ambitious building program, and the new ships are bright and beautiful, accommodating just under 1,000 guests. This line will have to compete with Crystal, a line with similarly sized vessels. MSC tends to market worldwide, so the comfort of Americans aboard these ships remains to be seen. Initial reports are positive, and the Italian vibe of the cuisine appeals to most first-time guests. Be prepared for “Wow” a moment after boarding. The decor is striking and reflective of some of the best work in modern Italian ship design. Nightlife is taken seriously – those seeking a stream of onboard “action” will likely enjoy this experience more than those seeking relaxation. We are not seeing anything unique in terms of itineraries due to the ship’s large size. Pricing is, thus far, a plus.

POTENTIAL CRUISE LINES TO BE ADDED TO OUR LIST ONCE SHIPS ARE LAUNCHED AND FAVORABLE REVIEWS ARE RECEIVED

FOUR SEASONS YACHTS

Launch Timeline & Fleet
• Four Seasons I: First ship completed its float-out in January 2025 and is scheduled for delivery in late 2025. Maiden voyage begins January 2026, sailing from Barbados to Aruba with stops in St. Lucia, Martinique, and Antigua.
• Four Seasons II: Financing secured; construction underway with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. Expected delivery in 2027, with sailings starting in 2028.

Design & Experience
• All-suite, residential-style vessels with ultra-luxury amenities.
• Suites start around $24,000 per voyage, emphasizing exclusivity and personalized service.
• Voyages include Mediterranean gems like Porto Cervo, Saint-Tropez, and Croatia, as well as Caribbean itineraries.

Ownership & Operations
• Operated by Marc-Henry Cruise Holdings Ltd, a subsidiary of Four Seasons Hotels Ltd.
• Ships accommodate around 180 guests, ensuring an intimate onboard experience.

ORIENT EXPRESS YACHTS

Launch Timeline & Fleet
• OE Corinthian: Launching summer 2026, this will be the world’s largest sailing yacht. It will begin in the Mediterranean before heading to the Caribbean.
• OE Olympian: Second vessel planned for 2027, continuing the brand’s expansion into luxury maritime travel.

Design & Experience
• Created in partnership with Accor, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and LVMH.
• Combines wind-powered elegance with modern luxury—designed for serene, nature-guided voyages.
• Accommodates 108–130 guests in 54 suites, with a crew of 170.

OUR IN-DEPTH 2026 REVIEWS OF THE WORLD’S TOP TEN CRUISE LINES APPEAR ON OUR CONSUMER CRUISE SITE –  www.cruisetruth.com

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