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The 10 Best River Cruise Lines in 2022

The best river cruises blend refined onboard accommodations with exciting itineraries along some of the world’s most memorable waterways.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

After pandemic-related challenges at the beginning of last year, river ships got back to what they do best: exploring inland waterways in Europe, the United States, and select other destinations around the world. Travel + Leisure readers enthusiastically returned, setting out on voyages both classic and new.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in six categories, including river cruising.

The top three in the river cruise lines were very close in their scores. Viking, the world's largest river cruise company, moved up two spots into the lead position. Tauck, the well-known tour and river-ship operator, retained its No. 2 spot. "The itinerary was thoughtful as well as instructive," wrote one reader who traveled on the Joy . In the No. 3 spot is Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, with praise that included this rave from one voter who sailed on the Maria Theresa : "This was an exceptional cruise. The staff was excellent. I can't say enough about this cruise line and this ship."

Aqua Expeditions, with journeys on the Peruvian Amazon, ranked No. 4, thanks in part to the sophisticated onboard dining. "Its cuisine is rich in local products and designed by one of the most renowned chefs in Peru," noted one reader. Closer to home, No. 5 American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company) earned praise — especially from older adults — for its leisurely cruises on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

Top-ranked Viking does all the major riverways of Europe, with ships also on the Nile and the Mekong, and, new in 2022, on the Mississippi. Readers praised the line's value proposition and shore experiences that go beyond the norm. The "Thinking Man's vacation" is the way one reader who sailed on a Viking ship on the Rhine river put it.

Find the full list of the best river cruise lines — and more on what sets Viking apart — below.

With its fleet of more than 50 contemporary "longships" on rivers such as the Rhine, the Danube, and the Seine, plus additional ships in Europe, Egypt, and Vietnam, T+L's top-ranked river cruise line for 2022 is often praised for its steadiness. "Having traveled on seven Viking longships that are virtually indistinguishable from one another, I believe it's the consistency that makes Viking one of our favorite ways to travel," said one reader. The longships are light-filled floating boutique hotels with a Scandinavian-design aesthetic, indoor and outdoor dining, and herb gardens up on top. Viking's carefully crafted itineraries and "good value" also received praise from readers. "Met wonderful new friends. Absolutely outstanding service and terrific food," said one fan.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.77

More information: viking.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.60

More information: tauck.com

3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.31

More information: uniworld.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 93.27

More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines)

Score: 92.82

More information: aqvoyages.com

6. Grand Circle Cruise Line

Score: 90.64

More information: gct.com

7. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.12

More information: amawaterways.com

8. Avalon Waterways

Score: 89.88

More information: avalonwaterways.com

9. Vantage Deluxe World Travel

Score: 84.71

More information: vantagetravel.com

10. American Cruise Lines

Score: 81.17

More information: americancruiselines.com

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Protect Your Trip »

The 9 top river cruise lines for 2024.

Sail through Europe, Asia, the U.S. and more on one of these exquisite river cruise lines.

The Top River Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Viking River Cruises

Not one for the high seas? Explore the world along its rivers instead.

If you'd like to take a cruise but aren't interested in the hustle and bustle of a massive ocean liner, consider a river cruise. River cruises offer the chance to visit lesser-known ports around the world, thanks to the small size and maneuverability of the vessels. These sailings are known to provide exceptional, personalized service, as most welcome fewer than 200 guests at a time. On top of that, you'll spend the majority of your trip exploring a different port each day, as most destinations along the waterways are fairly close together.

Read on to discover the best river cruise lines around the world, with details about where they sail, the number of passengers you can expect onboard, a snapshot of amenities and experiences, and sentiment from recent travelers.

Viking River Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, american cruise lines, amawaterways, avalon waterways, emerald cruises.

• Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

CroisiEurope Cruises

Number of passengers: 75 to 250 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, U.S.

Viking's 60-plus ships – known as longships – traverse major rivers across Europe, including the Danube , the Rhine, the Douro and more. Other popular routes sail Egypt's Nile River as well as the Mississippi River , and newer options include a series of Great Lakes itineraries.

What to expect: Travelers may be familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises , which operates larger ocean voyages with an emphasis on opulent accommodations and diverse enrichment activities. Viking's river cruises follow a similar road map, with meals, daily walking tours and Wi-Fi access (where applicable) included in the base fare. Other amenities and activities span guest lectures, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, libraries, outdoor decks and more. Select Viking riverboats are also equipped with swimming pools, while cabins feature minibars, premium toiletries, purified water and TVs.

On board, you can expect to find mostly English-speaking passengers. Viking's price point generally attracts older crowds in the 55-plus age group, and travelers must be at least 18 years old to cruise on the line.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers thoroughly enjoyed their experience with Viking, praising the scenic shore excursions, top-notch service and comfortable rooms. Some, however, expressed disappointment with the service as well as the food.

Book a Viking River Cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Number of passengers: 32 to 159 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Uniworld offers luxurious sailings in historic cities across central Europe, France , Italy , Portugal , India, Egypt and Peru.

What to expect: Its 17 ships aim to create the feel of a boutique hotel with stylish decor, antique artwork and specialty restaurants. The ships hold an average capacity of 120 cruisers, and the company boasts one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry: about one crew member for every two travelers.

Stateroom amenities vary by vessel but may include marble bathrooms, Egyptian cotton linens, French balconies, iPod docking stations, Nespresso coffee machines, rainfall showers and more. The line's all-inclusive rates cover meals, alcoholic beverages, select excursions, gratuities, onboard fitness classes and Wi-Fi access, on top of entertainment and enrichment classes. Uniworld prides itself on its top-notch cuisine, which is made with local ingredients sourced from the ports on your itinerary and also includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Uniworld's typical clientele tend to be in their 50s or 60s and reside in North America, the U.K. and Australia . The river cruise line has select itineraries aimed at families, LGBTQ cruisers and solo travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers offered abundant praise for Uniworld's voyages, complimenting the stylish accommodations, attentive staff and fascinating excursions. Though complaints were few and far between, a handful of past travelers felt the experience was not worth the high price point.

Compare Uniworld Boutique River Cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

Number of passengers: 90 to 180 Sails to:  U.S.

As the name suggests, American Cruise Lines sails exclusively on the rivers and coastlines of the United States. Popular cruises visit destinations along the Mississippi River, on the Hudson River, throughout New England , and lining the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line also tours Alaska , the Southeast coast including Florida , and the Puget Sound between Washington state and the Canadian border.

What to expect: American Cruise Lines operates 19 relatively new small ships and river vessels (the average ship is about 5 years old), ranging from modern riverboats to small coastal ships to authentic paddlewheelers. Comfortable cabins can accommodate up to three people per room, and all ships offer single staterooms designed exclusively for solo travelers . Each room boasts picture windows, a spacious bathroom and – in some cases – a private balcony. In the ships' public spaces, cruisers can enjoy daily onboard entertainment like jazz and blues performances, as well as presentations by historians and area experts.

The line promises an all-American experience. As such, you can expect to find American staff aboard the American-built ships as well as food that pays homage to the destinations you will visit, from New Orleans -style andouille sausage gumbo to New England-inspired seafood boils. Complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are served every night prior to dinner; all meals, snacks, and wine and beer are included in the base fare. Shore excursions are not typically included in the rate.

Passengers on American Cruise Lines tend to lean North American and are typically mature retired travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers enjoyed their experience, particularly on the line's themed cruises.

Read:  Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Number of passengers: 28 to 196 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America  

Consider a river cruise with AmaWaterways, whether you're looking to sail through the heart of Europe or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure touring destinations like Vietnam, Egypt, South Africa or (beginning in 2024) Colombia. A family-owned business founded in 2002, AmaWaterways operates 29 river cruise boats that welcome 150 passengers on average.

The cruise line aims to provide excursion-rich experiences and offers unique themed sailings for passengers with certain interests. Wine-themed voyages are perfect for oenophiles wishing to explore some of Europe's most popular wine regions, while a concierge golf program will transport passengers from one famous golf course to the next. Or, opt for a holiday river cruise to visit magical Christmas markets around Europe. In 2024, AmaWaterways will offer three new Black history-themed itineraries.

What to expect: On board, guests can expect cabins suitable for couples or single travelers, as well as a set amount of connectible rooms designed for multigenerational families. Staterooms are spacious, with perks like bathrobes, slippers and plush bedding. Cabins can feature up to two balconies with AmaWaterways' twin balcony design, which allows for a full, step-out balcony alongside a French balcony with sliding glass doors. In-room Wi-Fi is complimentary, and guests will have access to movies and music on demand.

Outside of their cabins, passengers can enjoy amenities spanning small pools, sun decks, fitness equipment, a hair salon, massage services and more.

AmaWaterways primarily attracts North American travelers in their 50s who enjoy taking part in active shore excursions that involve walking or cycling. Passengers from the U.K. and Australia sail on this river cruise line as well. You can expect to find a mix of couples, families and solo cruisers – including a growing number of millennial travelers – on your vessel, thanks to AmaWaterways' diverse cabin offerings. Adventures by Disney charters AmaWaterways ships for select sailings each year as well.

What travelers say: Recent travelers say AmaWaterways exceeded their expectations, with many noting it was especially enjoyable for families. Still, some were disappointed, particularly with the food.

Find AmaWaterways cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Number of passengers: 16 to 166 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Avalon Waterways sails 19 riverboats along popular thoroughfares like the Danube, the Rhone, the Seine, the Nile, the Rhine, the Moselle, the Mekong, the Ganges and more. In 2024, it will also sail the Douro River in Portugal.

What to expect: Launched in 2004, Avalon stands out for its spacious vessels – known as Suite Ships – which feature some of the largest rooms in the river cruise industry and beds that face wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, providing panoramic views. Additional stateroom perks include complimentary breakfast in bed, L'Occitane toiletries, sitting areas, ample storage space and mattress toppers.

Across the ship, passengers can enjoy amenities like a sun deck with lounge chairs, whirlpools and a game area, in addition to numerous restaurants and bars and a 24-hour self-serve coffee station. You will also have your pick of Classic, Active or Discovery shore excursions – ranging from standard tours with a local guide to hiking outings along a hilltop castle – depending on your interests and physical abilities.

Avalon Waterways attracts English-speaking cruisers from a variety of countries, typically in their 50s and 60s. However, children ages 8 and older are welcome on board (though there are no designated kids clubs), and some voyages draw younger or older passengers.

What travelers say: Most recent reviews are positive, with travelers highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable staff and tasty food.

Explore Avalon Waterways cruise deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Tauck

Number of passengers: 84 to 130 Sails to:  Europe

Travel company Tauck wears multiple hats: It operates small-ship voyages around the world, land tours across seven continents, small group journeys for an average of 24 travelers at a time, family tours and – finally – European river cruises. Six new river itineraries in Europe are on the docket for 2024. Take your pick from nine river vessels to explore popular waterways like the Douro, the Moselle, the Rhine, the Danube and the Rhone.

What to expect: All-inclusive fares cover shore excursions, onboard activities and entertainment, gratuities, beverages and more. Plus, Tauck offers exclusive access to unforgettable experiences like wine tastings at private vineyards and gala dinners in historic castles.

More than 80% of the staterooms feature French balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for excellent views. Other in-room amenities may include adjustable climate controls, satin linens, pillow-top mattresses, terry cloth robes and more. Outside of your cabin, you'll find perks such as a sun deck, a putting green, enrichment programs like cooking demonstrations, a fitness center and complimentary bikes for onshore exploring.

Tauck caters to affluent, English-speaking cruisers – primarily Americans in the 55-and-older age group – though you may also find families with adult children on board. The line appeals most to travelers who prefer all the details of their trip to be taken care of for them, versus those who like to plan activities independent of the cruise line.

What travelers say: Recent passengers generally speak highly of their Tauck river cruise experiences, pointing to the exceptional level of organization and spacious, luxurious accommodations. Others said they were underwhelmed for the price.

Getty Images

Number of passengers: 84 to 180 Sails to:  Europe, Asia

Previously known as Emerald Waterways, Emerald Cruises transports travelers across some of the most popular rivers in Europe and Asia, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Douro and the Mekong.

What to expect: The cruise fare covers all meals, beverages with lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions − which include more physically rigorous options called EmeraldACTIVE – Wi-Fi access and gratuities.

Emerald operates nine river vessels, all of which boast luxurious public spaces and accommodations with en suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Common-area amenities span heated indoor pools, sun decks, spa and wellness facilities, and a variety of eateries. Onboard fitness classes are available, as are other forms of entertainment. On shore, cruisers can borrow bicycles to explore historic city centers.

Typical clientele aboard Emerald Cruises' voyages includes American and British passengers around retirement age, though some younger travelers may make an appearance as well. Children 12 and older are permitted on board and on tours, but there are no kids clubs or designated activities for younger cruisers. Special rooms and dinner reservations are available for solo travelers.

What travelers say: Cruisers on recent sailings – especially first-time sailors – enjoyed their experiences on Emerald Cruises. High points included the attentive crew members and the stress-free booking and planning process. However, some felt that customer service and communication were subpar.

Gillies Zaiser | Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Number of passengers: 68 to 163 Sails to: Europe, Asia

From the Danube to the Mekong, Australian travel company Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours offers lavish, all-inclusive river sailings with an emphasis on customization. The more upscale sister brand of Emerald Cruises, Scenic affords travelers the opportunity to do as much or as little as they want while on board and ashore.

What to expect: Enrichment activities are hand-picked by the line's "Journey Designers," and vessels provide a top-notch level of service thanks to their high crew-to-passenger ratios. In fact, each passenger receives a designated butler who can complete nightly turndowns and make laundry arrangements, among other tasks.

Spacious suites on board are larger than those on most other riverboats (ranging from 160 to 510 square feet). High-tech balcony controls allow lodgers to let in as much air as they'd like with the touch of a button. Cruisers will also enjoy special in-room touches like pillow menus, slippers and robes.

When it comes to dining, Scenic sources local ingredients and culinary inspiration from the ports visited on the itinerary to provide an authentic experience. All meals are included in the base cruise fare, along with beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions and electric bicycle usage in select destinations.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers were pleased with their experiences aboard Scenic's vessels, praising the spacious cabins, pampering butler service, and knowledgeable crew members and tour guides. However, some travelers were particularly disappointed with the food.

Helwin Goetzinger | Courtesy of CroisiEurope

Number of passengers: 22 to 200 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa

CroisiEurope is a family-run French cruise line that has been in business since 1976. This line has more than 50 ships and barges that sail to countries around the world, including Egypt, Cambodia and Spain . Unusual in river cruising, the line operates two custom-built ships that sail on Lake Kariba in southern Africa. Additionally, CroisiEurope has a division that sells barge cruises throughout France on six different canals, such as Burgundy or Provence.

What to expect: CroisiEurope is known for its wide range of destinations and is one of the only river cruise lines that operates custom-built ships on Germany 's Elbe river, the Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers in Spain and Portugal, and Venice 's canals. Onboard accommodations are relatively basic, which keeps the cruise fare to a budget-friendly minimum. The cruise line aims to provide the best value for money in the cruise industry. Cuisine is focused on French food with some local flair in the main dining room, which is included in the cruise fare.

The passenger mix on a CroisiEurope cruise is relatively international, featuring large contingencies from France, Germany, the U.K. and North America. Announcements are typically given in both French and English. The cruise line sees a mix of older couples and groups as well as younger families, depending on the itinerary and time of year.

What travelers say: Several cruisers echoed that some of CroisiEurope's river ships are due for a refurbishment and that internet connectivity leaves a lot to be desired, while others maintain that the experience was superb.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Size: River cruise ships are smaller in size and the number of passengers they can accommodate, with one lounge and one main dining room being a typical setup.
• Atmosphere: The overall vibe on a river cruise is more relaxed and far less busy than that of an ocean liner.
• Onboard entertainment: River cruising is notoriously sleepy at night, with a focus instead on local enrichment like cooking demonstrations or liqueur tastings. Due to the busy schedule of port calls and excursions, most passengers are tired after a long day of sightseeing and don't mind a lack of nightlife.
• Excursions: Most of your time on a river cruise is spent out exploring the destinations, which can sometimes be two stops in a single day. Passengers can choose from a variety of activities in port – including biking, kayaking and hiking – or explore the destination at a leisurely pace.
• Cuisine: Cuisine tends to be focused on local specialties but is prepared to accommodate predominantly American tastes. Not every river cruise line offers unlimited drinks, but the majority include beer and wine at lunch and dinner, often showcasing regional varieties.
• Price: River cruising typically comes at a much higher price point than ocean-based itineraries.
• American Queen

Note that inclusions can vary by cruise line. For example, Viking rates – while not fully all-inclusive – cover beer and wine at meals and one tour per day, while gratuities and other drink packages are left to the discretion of the guest.

Avalon Waterways, on the other hand, offers a number of included tours in every port on select itineraries that range from cultural or culinary-focused to active.

In terms of inclusions and service ratios (the number of crew on board to guests), the following river cruise lines are considered the most luxurious:

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

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18. From Tromso all- inclusive Midnight sun cruise by Boat

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24. Private RIB Boat Tour of Hella

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28. Tromsø: Skjervøy RIB Whale Watching Tour with Drinks & Snack

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CRUISE MILFORD (Milford Sound) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Reader's Digest

The Best Caribbean Cruise for Every Type of Vacationer

Posted: July 29, 2023 | Last updated: July 29, 2023

Get ready to set sail in the Caribbean

It's no wonder cruising in and around the Caribbean is so popular. But with so many ships—50,000 yearly—offering up exciting itineraries from a variety of departure ports, not to mention the number of islands the ships call on, finding the best Caribbean cruise can seem downright overwhelming! We're here to help by breaking down the options with all the best Caribbean cruises. Whether you want an affordable warm-weather family cruise, a luxury couples getaway or a solo cruise to meet new people, we've got the scoop.

If you're in the market for the best deal on a Caribbean cruise, there are two seasons to be aware of. Between January and March is what's known as "wave season." This is when the cruise lines promote deeply discounted fares for the best Caribbean cruises. Or you can choose to shop around for sailings during the fall, when prices tend to be low because of hurricane season. Don't worry, though—the captains of the ships are well-versed in avoiding stormy weather.

How we chose the best Caribbean cruises

Not only did I rely on my own personal experiences at sea (I've taken eight cruises in the past year alone, and I've been cruising for about a decade), but I also scoured websites to find the  best cruise lines based on the many different types of travelers, from those who want to snorkel every day to cruisers who want nothing more than a sunny deck chair by the pool. Now, all you need to do is brush up on all the things you can't do on cruises , discover the many hidden cruise features , decide if you want to add on a stay at one of the most glamorous all-inclusive Caribbean resorts before or after your cruise , and then book your vacation!

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Best overall

Celebrity cruises.

With a breathtaking mix of elegant ship design, gorgeous cabins, delicious restaurants and luxurious outdoor spaces—including a rooftop garden, martini-glass hot tubs seemingly floating in mid-air, the adults-only Solarium and the thrilling Magic Carpet lounge jutting out over the water on the Edge-class ships (Beyond, Edge, Apex and the forthcoming Ascent)— Celebrity is our choice for the overall best Caribbean cruise. Plus, the Edge-class ships feature a unique main dining room concept that not only soars above other cruise lines' complimentary dining options but also the majority of the fee-based specialty restaurants that I've dined at. Each of the four main dining destinations has stunning, regional-specific design elements, shared and individualized menus and top-notch service.

Additionally, the Celebrity spa and its thermal suite are the best at sea for affordable luxury and ultimate relaxation while island-hopping. If you're looking for the best cruises for couples in the Caribbean, it's hard to beat the affordable elegance and sheer class of these ships.

• 11-day southern Caribbean itineraries with a port of call in Cartegena, Colombia
• Three top-notch complimentary main dining rooms
• Eden, the live entertainment venue that's home to more than 5,000 live plants
• The spa's SEA Thermal Suite is the apex of relaxation
• Lack of outdoor activities like waterslides and rides for families
• The theatrical stage shows sometimes disappoint

Best budget

Carnival cruises.

For decades, Carnival "fun ships" have been the premier choice for cruisers looking for ways to travel on a budget . Carnival is still competitively priced, still hosts hairy-chest contests and a St. Jude charity dance party, and still ranks as one of the best Caribbean cruises you can book for less. Better yet, the newest ships in the fleet have added a touch of class thanks to the Brass Magnolia, a cool, new jazz club. Overall, we love the fact that you can have a ton of fun on board Carnival cruise ships in the Caribbean, not just in the most exciting ports, like Nassau in the Bahamas, Ocho Rios in Jamaica, and Cozumel, Mexico. On the ships, you'll find colorful water parks with twisty waterslides, the Bolt roller coaster and the Red Frog brew pub. While the ideal time of year to cruise the Caribbean is usually from January to April during the Caribbean's dry season, Carnival makes visiting the islands fun any time of year.

• Affordable prices starting at under $500 per person for a week in the Caribbean
• Guy's Burger Joint and Smokehouse offer some of the best free food at sea
• Superb live music and theatrical entertainment
• Exciting kids camp partnership with the Kennedy Space Center on Carnival Celebration
• Low prices make Carnival one of the best cruise lines for kids as well, which means couples and seniors may find these ships too loud and busy

Best for kids

Disney cruises.

The best cruises for kids and families will naturally be focused on the joys of childhood and the unique needs of children from start to finish. That's definitely true on Disney cruises , which pay as much attention to the bright and fun design of the staterooms as they do to the interactive restaurants, bars and lounge experiences that call on Marvel,  Star Wars and Disney's famous animated characters. (These are all exclusively on Disney Wish.) In my experience, the kids clubs—with Marvel superhero school, Jedi training camp and never-ending arts and crafts—are where Disney truly excels. In fact, your elementary-school-aged kids may never want to leave!

Another high point are the Broadway-caliber shows, including Aladdin , Frozen and The Little Mermaid . So put on your mouse ears or grab your lightsaber, check out these  Disney cruise tips , and book a magical Caribbean cruise with Disney.

• Character meet-and-greets and multiple interactive dining experiences
• Themed sailings for Marvel, Pixar and Star Wars fans
• First-run Disney films premiering in the onboard movie theaters (think: the live-action Little Mermaid )
• Access to Castaway Cay, a private Caribbean island
• Cost-prohibitive for many families

Best for luxury lovers

Scenic cruises.

The world's first discovery yacht, the Scenic Eclipse , which spends part of the year exploring the Arctic and Antarctica, is now bringing guests to some of the most exotic small ports of the Caribbean. Scenic is one of the best Caribbean cruises for the traveler who wants to experience remote escapes for a more culturally authentic vacation in well-traveled waters. You will visit ports such as Darby Island, Egg Island and Long Island in the Bahamas, Puerto Rico's Isla de Culebra, Grenadine's Mayreau and Colombia's Isla de Providencia, as well as have the opportunity to make a full Panama Canal voyage.

And the joy of cruising the Caribbean on this luxury small ship isn't limited to the destinations—you'll enjoy extraordinary onboard experiences too. Let's start with the fact that there are private butlers for each cabin and suite, and just 228 guest maximum on any given sailing, with almost a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio. You'll also find 10 dining options, premium beverages and all airport transfers and gratuities included in the price. Plus, once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions and enrichment experiences, like floating through mangroves and small caves in glass-bottom kayaks, are all complimentary. With everything covered and handled on a Scenic Caribbean cruise, the only thing you'll need to worry about is figuring out what to pack .

• Private butlers and a nearly 1:1 guest-to-crew ratio
• Remote ports of call accessible only on a small ship
• Truly all-inclusive , with even excursions included in the price
• Lack of diverse activities and entertainment on board

Best for LGBTQIA+ travelers

Virgin voyages.

Virgin took to the Caribbean Sea a few years ago with the aim of disrupting the cruise industry. Its cruises feature cabins that convert to social spaces thanks to beds that become seating areas, and swing hammock chairs on private balconies, and nearly everything is rolled into the main price—including restaurants, Wi-Fi, group exercise classes and gratuities. In short, Virgin comes the closest to offering affordable all-inclusive cruises . With no kids under 18 allowed onboard, the upstart cruise line was and still is a breath of fresh air for cruisers looking for adults-only cruises .

The most exciting thing about Virgin Voyages, however, just may be the "come as you are" vibe on their cruise ships. Crew members are allowed to show off their tattoos and piercings, and the ships have unisex bathrooms, sexy shows, raucous parties and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA+ cruisers, making them feel safe and seen in the sunshine of the Caribbean.

• A "come as you are" vibe
• Sexy, adult-oriented entertainment, dances and parties
• Private Bahamian beach experiences and parties that go late into the night
• All food, many beverages, Wi-Fi and gratuities included in the cost
• Vegan dining at Razzle Dazzle
• Families, even those with worldly teens, aren't able to cruise on Virgin Voyages

Best for Texans

Norwegian cruise line.

The brand-new Norwegian Prima is an amazing Caribbean cruise for families—both because of its features and its accessibility to different parts of the country. Those family-friendly features include go-kart tracks spanning multiple decks, virtual reality games, an escape room, thrilling dry and wet slides hanging off the edge of the ship, and a neon sports area featuring mini golf, dart rooms, pickleball courts and so much more. And thanks to departures from both Galveston, Texas, and New York City, the Caribbean has never been more accessible to so much of the country. From Texas's south coast, Prima easily reaches southern Caribbean ports like Roatán and Belize, while travelers departing from New York can cruise all the way down to St. Kitts, the Dominican Republic and the British Virgin Islands, with a stop in Bermuda on the way back, without having to get on a plane first. Whether your family is in the Midwest or the Northeast, Norwegian puts the Caribbean right at your doorstep.

• Departs from Galveston, Texas, and New York City
• Access to a private Caribbean island for exclusive beach time
• A go-kart track spanning three whole decks, and a massive virtual reality gaming room
• Studio staterooms for solo travelers
• Go-kart drivers must be under a set weight, which means some family members may not be able to drive

Best for action lovers

Royal caribbean oasis class cruises.

Like a thriving city at sea, Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships offer up more fun, entertainment and activities than most people can even see and do during a typical weeklong cruise! It is nearly impossible to be bored on an Oasis-class ship. That's why these vessels are the best Caribbean cruises for anyone who wants to try new things like ziplining or simulated surfing, feel nostalgic riding a carousel on a boardwalk, or see Broadway-caliber theatrical shows inside and out.

While they are some of the biggest cruise ships at sea, these vessels were cleverly designed to make it not feel like you are surrounded by upwards of 6,000 other passengers. There's so much to see and do on Royal Caribbean in the Caribbean, you may not even have time to ponder those strange white balls on cruise ships , but if for some reason you do get bored, know that you've got Perfect Day at Coco Cay to visit. This is arguably the best private island in the Caribbean, and you can spend a day here ziplining, riding in a hot-air balloon, chilling out by one of many pools or playing in an incredible waterpark that features North America's tallest waterslide.

• Multipurpose deck that serves up ice skating and ice shows, then transforms into a laser-tag arena
• The tree-lined Central Park neighborhood in the center of the ship is literally a breath of fresh air at sea
• Interior rooms have balconies and views of "Central Park"
• Every itinerary includes a trip to Perfect Day at Coco Cay, a private island paradise
• Oasis-class ships may feel too big for some cruisers

Best for cultural explorers

Windstar cruises.

Thanks to departures from Caribbean ports like San Juan, Puerto Rico , and Bridgetown, Barbados, Windstar allows you to spend less time in transit and more quality time in places like St. Barts, Montserrat, St. Maarten, Barbados and the British Virgin Islands. Not only are these budget-friendly luxury smaller ships fabulous, but the excursions also offer the opportunity for you to make deep dives into the history and traditions of some of the most culturally rich islands in the Caribbean. You'll meet locals who will invite you into their homes, teach you to cook with their herbs and spices, and provide you with experiences that showcase why travel is so important in the first place.

There are itineraries covering two distinct sides of the Caribbean: Eastern and Western. The Eastern side is where you'll find more cultural and historical ports of call, with some great shopping too. The Western side is better known for water sports and fun in the sun on white-sand beaches.

• Intimate excursions that explore the culture and traditions of each island
• Option for a 35-day grand Caribbean adventure
• Windstar's Signature Beach Party on a secluded beach with a buffet lunch and free water sports
• Onboard poolside barbecues
• Not a robust selection of onboard activities or entertainment

Best for seniors

Princess cruises.

If you're of a certain vintage that fondly recalls the TV show  The Love Boat , then Princess Cruises is the best Caribbean cruise for you! It was a Princess ship featured in that classic show, and they still call it The Love Boat, so nostalgic seniors will think that Princess Cruise Line ships are the bee's knees! But Princess is one of the best Caribbean cruise options because the ships have a retro elegance about them, an old-fashioned level of class with shiny brass decorative elements, elaborate chandeliers, familiar tasty food, upscale wine tastings, cultural enrichment programs, Deal or No Deal games on the main stage, Broadway-style entertainment, and The Love Boat Piazza Party on one of your formal nights.

Additionally, seniors will enjoy knowing that on every Princess ship cruising the Caribbean, there are many ADA cabins with full wheelchair-turning space, roll-in showers with grab bars and a fold-down bench seat, as well as closets and desks that are both cleverly designed and highly accessible. Princess Cruises also offers one of the best Alaska cruise itineraries.

• Numerous ADA-accessible staterooms across all cabin types (from suites to interior rooms)
• Old-school elegance
• May feel too old-timey for some travelers

Best for sailors

Star clippers.

These classic clipper ships have sails that aren't just for show—they are actually powered by the wind whenever possible! When it's time to sail away to a new island, the ceremonious hoisting of the sails, which is accompanied by the epic strains of "Conquest of Paradise" from the movie 1492,  is a truly breathtaking sight to behold. And here's an interesting fact : Star Clippers holds the Guinness World Record as the world's largest full-rigged sailing ship. The five-masted vessel is a beauty and a throwback to another era of seafaring. While the big ships may have ziplines and ice-skating rinks, on a Star Clippers cruise you can lounge in a net suspended high above the sea and kayak or stand-up paddleboard off the marina platform at the rear of the ship.

• A working sailing ship that transports you to another era
• Sailings start and end in the Caribbean
• Access to small islands like St. Lucia and Martinique and Virgin Gorda
• "Treasure Island" itinerary visits a host of small, intriguing Caribbean islands that you won't get to experience on the bigger cruise ships
• Pirates don't mind the rough seas on a sailboat, but you might on a Star Clippers cruise
• Pirates also don't need a lot of entertainment options on board, so don't expect Broadway productions on these ships

Best for LEGO fans

Msc cruises.

While we love the F1 simulators and the full-size bowling alley on MSC cruises , spending a week at sea on this Caribbean cruise is really all about LEGO for us. MSC and the LEGO Group have an exclusive entertainment partnership that gives kids the chance to play and build with LEGO bricks in colorful areas of the ship designed just for them in the Mini and Juniors clubs. But the LEGO (and Duplo) fun isn't confined to the kids clubs. Once during every Caribbean cruise, there's an entire day dedicated to LEGO activities for kids of all ages to enjoy, LEGO diplomas to earn, and parades to watch.

But, of course, it's not really  all about LEGO. For environmentalists and cruisers looking for a relaxing private island escape with miles of white-sand beaches with chairs, umbrellas and cabanas calling your name, MSC's Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a sheer delight. It's a biodiverse and sustainable environment with coral reefs being relocated and saved, and you get to explore it on your trip.

• LEGO fun for kids, with loads of play areas and activities
• MSC Meraviglia departs for the Caribbean from Brooklyn, New York
• Late-night and overnight stays on MSC's exclusive private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
• Not as many onboard activities for families as the other big cruise ships

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Nude cruise to set sail from Florida next year: Here are the starting costs, itinerary

The "Big Nude Boat" cruise, which allows passengers to bare all − yes, even at the buffet − is set to sail from Florida next year.

The "11-day adventure" to the Caribbean is set for the first two weeks of February on the Norwegian Pearl, according to the Bare Necessities Tour & Travel website.

"Bare Necessities’ newest nude cruise is a private island double-dip with a brand new travel partner!" the company wrote on its website.

The trip which embarks from Miami, includes "an exclusive visit to an idyllic private island" in The Bahamas as well a another exclusive stop on the way back to the Port of Miami.

"Two opportunities to enjoy a new slice of Bare-adise, coupled with a beautiful selection of Eastern Caribbean island stops, will make this a can’t miss Big Nude Boat experience," the travel company posted.

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Big Nude Boat cruise sailing dates and destinations:

The ship departs from the Port of Miami on Feb. 3 and returns to the same port on Feb. 14.

The itinerary includes stops at the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Martinique and St. Lucia.

How much does the Big Nude Boat cruise cost?

Rates for an inside cabin start at $2,000 per person.

They stretch as high as $33,155 for the top room on the ship: a Haven three-bedroom garden villa.

Laws of the land (and sea)

Guests are encouraged to park their bare behinds on towels provided on board in areas including the pool deck and the buffet area, according to the website.

"Passengers can easily follow our rule on nudist etiquette by always placing a towel down before sitting," it reads. "Remember to pack a swimsuit; not all excursions are clothing optional."

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.