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| Above, yours truly aboard the Norwegian Sky to the Bahamas. Norwegian Cruise Line didn't score too well in the rankings. |
Now that 2025 is over and done and we're now in 2026, what bodes for consumers in the cruise ship industry.
To help figure it all out, Cruise Blog has posted their list of cruise lines from worst to best.
They begin it with:
The cruise industry is constantly evolving, with brand-new ships, private destinations, and exciting onboard experiences debuting each year. In 2025, for example, many cruise lines made headlines with new ship launches, private destinations, and expanded itineraries.
As such, it’s no surprise that more people are considering cruises than ever before. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), first-time cruisers made up a record-breaking 31% of all passengers in 2024, revealing that the industry is experiencing unprecedented growth.
With so many options available, choosing the right cruise line is important. Travelers have different styles, budgets, and preferences, and selecting the wrong line can lead to a disappointing experience.
In this article, we’ll explore and review the most popular cruise lines of 2026. Our worst-to-best cruise rankings are based on personal experiences and industry news. That said, don't be upset if your favorite line ranks lower than expected — everyone's perfect cruise is different, and the right line for you is based solely on your priorities and preferences.
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| Above, the Norwegian Sky pool deck. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
To read on, go here.


2 comments:
Didn't read the whole article but as I just had a very satisfactory Norwegian Cruise, I was surprised to see them ranked as "worst." Yet the article's criticisms were because of new NCL policies fining people that make specialty reservations and then don't show up without canceling, and making people who want second and third entrees in the specialty restaurants pay $5 for them. They are also limiting the room service to what seems to be a very reasonable number of entrees per day. In short, they are making the pigs and inconsiderate people pay so that the people who use the services responsibly don't have to. I eat one entree in the restaurant... why should I have to cover the cost of someone that eats three or four?? Why should I be denied a place in the restaurant because someone made a reservation and then doesn't show up without canceling?? If people want to be gluttonous and spoil the cruise for others, they absolutely should pay extra. As a normal, considerate person who has no interest in abusing the system, this article makes me more likely to go on an NCL cruise in the future.
The cruise to the Bahamas was with NCL and it was okay. They seem to want to nickel & dime a bit, nothing extravagant. I had a good time and made $60 on their ship's roulette table in the casino.
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