Cruise Critic Awards 2025 Unveil the Best in Luxury, Ocean, River, and Expedition Cruises: Discover the Top Winners Transforming Travel

Published on December 3, 2025

Cruise Critic, renowned as the world’s leading site for cruise reviews and a vibrant online community, has recently unveiled the winners of its 17th annual Best in Cruise Awards. The prestigious awards, which are based on expert insights and traveler ratings, recognize the top cruise lines and destinations from across the globe. In 2025, the awards were celebrated with a focus on the outstanding achievements of several cruise lines, including Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Margaritaville at Sea, and many others. These awards serve as a true reflection of the growing demand and excellence in the cruise industry, which is expected to see nearly 40 million travelers embarking on cruises in 2026.

Growth and Expertise Behind the Cruise Critic Awards

According to Colleen McDaniel, the Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, the cruise industry’s growth has been nothing short of impressive. Nearly 40 million travelers are expected to set sail in 2026, a reflection of the increasing popularity of cruise vacations worldwide. McDaniel emphasizes the critical role of Cruise Critic’s editorial team, who are experts in the industry and have sailed on hundreds of cruise ships, ranging from mega-ships to the smallest expedition vessels. The team’s dedication to uncovering the finest offerings in the cruise world, paired with the input from over two million cruisers in the community, ensures that the awards truly reflect the best of the best.

2025 Award Highlights: Recognizing Excellence Across Categories

The 2025 Cruise Critic Best in Cruise Awards spotlight several major cruise lines and ships, recognizing their contributions to the industry. The awards are divided into four key categories: Ocean Awards, River Awards, Luxury Awards, and Expedition Awards. Each category is focused on different aspects of the cruising experience, including value for money, luxury offerings, best cabins, and adventure travel.

Ocean Awards: Celebrating Innovation and Value

In the Ocean Awards category, Virgin Voyages was crowned the Best Ocean Cruise Line. The editors praised the cruise line for its groundbreaking approach to redefining the cruising experience, combining cutting-edge innovation, all-inclusive fares, and exceptional onboard experiences. The Best New Ship title went to Celebrity Xcel, a new addition to Celebrity Cruises. The ship’s introduction marked a bold reinvention of the acclaimed Edge-class ships, with new specialty restaurants, enhanced entertainment, and transformative experiences onboard.

Carnival Cruise Line was awarded the Best Value for Money title for its ability to deliver quality cruise experiences without breaking the bank. Despite offering lower base fares compared to many other lines, Carnival ensures that passengers receive significant value without compromising on inclusions. Meanwhile, Margaritaville at Sea earned the Cruisers’ Choice Award, with guests praising its warm hospitality and incredible entertainment, making it a standout for those seeking a relaxed and enjoyable cruise experience.

River Awards: Offering Unmatched River Cruise Experiences

In the River Awards category, Avalon Waterways was named the Best River Cruise Line, and it also earned the Best River Cruise Line for Active Cruisers. Avalon’s Panorama Suites, varied itineraries, and fresh and varied dining have made it a favorite among river cruise enthusiasts. AmaMagdalena, a new addition from AmaWaterways, received the Best New River Ship title for its custom design and intimate sailing experience along Colombia’s Magdalena River.

Avalon Waterways also earned the Cruisers’ Choice Award for Best Service, with passengers praising the ship’s magnificent rooms, delicious meals, and friendly, engaging staff.

Luxury Awards: Redefining High-End Travel

Explora Journeys emerged as the Best Luxury Cruise Line in the Luxury Awards category, with its two boutique ships offering a luxurious onboard experience that sets new standards in service, cuisine, and accommodation. Oceania Allura was named Best New Luxury Ship for its exquisite design, spacious staterooms, and emphasis on culinary excellence. Oceania’s variety of restaurants, including those designed by multi-Michelin-starred Jacques Pepin, has made Allura a top contender in luxury cruises.

In the Cruisers’ Choice Award segment, Viking Cruises was praised for its effortless service, with passengers highlighting the ship’s well-appointed cabins, delicious food options, and superb entertainment.

Expedition Awards: Exploring the Remote Corners of the World

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions earned the title of Best Expedition Cruise Line, thanks to its unwavering commitment to passionate exploration and educational enrichment. The Best for Adventure award was given to Quark Expeditions, which offers some of the most thrilling polar experiences, from heli-hiking to kayaking in icy waters. Aqua Expeditions received the Cruisers’ Choice Award, with guests praising the ship’s beautiful rooms, great food, and incredible staff.

Cruisers’ Choice: The Top-Rated Cruise Lines

The Cruisers’ Choice awards featured top-rated cruise lines as voted by passengers. In the Ocean Cruise Line category, Margaritaville at Sea, Virgin Voyages, and Celebrity Cruises stood out for their exceptional service and innovative offerings. In the River Cruise Line category, Avalon Waterways, Viking, and Emerald Cruises were celebrated for their top-tier river cruise experiences. In the Luxury Cruise Line category, Viking, Explora Journeys, and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection were recognized for their luxury experiences.

Meanwhile, in the Expedition Cruise Line category, Aqua Expeditions, Quasar Expeditions, and Quark Expeditions earned top honors for their exploration and service.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cruising

As the cruise industry continues to grow, with nearly 40 million travelers expected to cruise in 2026, Cruise Critic’s Best in Cruise Awards are more important than ever. They highlight the cruise lines that stand out from the crowd, showcasing exceptional value for money, luxury, service, and adventure. The rapid development of new ships, innovative cruise experiences, and luxurious services ensures that cruising remains a popular choice for travelers seeking new and exciting ways to explore the world.

Conclusion

The 2025 Cruise Critic Best in Cruise Awards shine a spotlight on the top cruise lines, ships, and destinations of the year. With Virgin Voyages, Celebrity Xcel, Explora Journeys, and others receiving recognition, these awards represent the best the cruise industry has to offer. As the industry continues to grow, these winners will help shape the future of cruising, offering travelers unparalleled experiences that combine luxury, adventure, and value. Whether you’re seeking a luxury getaway, an adventurous expedition, or a family-friendly voyage, these award-winning cruise lines are sure to provide the ultimate cruising experience.

[Source: PR Newswire]