World’s Best Mega-Ship Ocean Cruise Lines
This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on March 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come — whenever they may be.
The world’s biggest ships aim to be crowd pleasers, with so much to do on board that they can rival resorts on land. And whether your interest is a family vacation, seeing multiple destinations on a single trip, or simply relaxing with an ocean view, the best mega-ship ocean cruise lines can deliver.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, readers provide their feedback on travel experiences around the globe — sharing opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on various factors, including cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and overall value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in five categories; mega-ship ocean cruise lines feature ships that can carry 2,200 passengers or more.
This year’s list demonstrates a steady approach from voters, who tended to give the highest marks to the same lines they favored in 2019. One of them, Holland America Line, is this year’s No. 3. Voters praised the excellent entertainment and highlighted the Koningsdam for its great cabins, specialty dining (especially Club Orange), and live music venues. Holland America’s itineraries also received rave reviews, with many fans expressing a desire to travel with them again.
Cunard’s iconic ships were also favorites this year. The cruise line sails in popular destinations like Alaska, the Mediterranean, and around Australia and Asia. However, its week-long transatlantic crossings between Southampton and New York aboard the Queen Mary 2 remain among the most beloved voyages. Voters mentioned the onboard offerings and services that made their experience memorable.
This year, Princess Cruises ranked No. 5, known for its numerous choices with a fleet of 16 ships that provide outstanding value. Voters praised the attentive staff and captain, noting remarkable service and an enjoyable overall experience during their voyages.
One cruise line, however, stood out above the rest: Disney. Continue reading to discover why it topped the list and which other companies joined it on this year’s best mega-ship ocean cruise lines list.
1. Disney Cruise Line
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 85.83
Voters consistently love Disney Cruise Line, a perennial favorite. While Disney’s first-place score this year dropped slightly, it retains its title thanks to nearly flawless service and a range of ships and itineraries appealing to all ages. Readers mentioned the excellent food, entertainment, and stateroom design. While some perceive it as just for families, many found it equally suitable for adults-only trips. Indeed, readers highlighted the well-maintained adults-only areas onboard.
2. Cunard
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 85.26
3. Holland America Line
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 85.23
4. Celebrity Cruises
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.08
5. Princess Cruises
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 81.84
Cruise Lines Retirees Will Fall in Love With
6. Royal Caribbean International
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 77.84
7. Norwegian Cruise Line
Score: 76.70
8. Carnival Cruise Line
Score: 75.40
9. MSC Cruises
Score: 73.94
10. Costa Cruises
Score: 73.59
