Cruise Critic just announced its annual list of the Best Cruise Lines of The Year. This is the 15th iteration of the list compiled by the online cruise community’s international team of cruise experts.
The 2023 list is the most exhaustive to date, covering four cruise categories: ocean, river, expedition, and luxury cruises.
“This was a banner year for the cruise industry,” explained Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, in a press release announcing the latest awards.
“We saw demand for cruises surpass pre-pandemic times, and a number of lines reported ships sailing at over 100% capacity. Cruising has always been a high-value vacation, but with costs of land- and air-based travel going through the roof, the true value of a cruise really hit home this year.”
To help consumers better choose cruises that meet their needs, interests and budgets, the broad categories are broken down along a number of dimensions—including best cabins, service, enrichment, dining, itineraries, shore excursions and more.
Here are the top winners in the Luxury Category:
Silversea Cruises topped the list as Best Luxury Cruise Line for the second year in a row.
The line’s newest ship, Silver Nova, which holds 728 passengers was ranked as the Best New Luxury Ship. This environmentally-friendly ship, which began its inaugural cruise in August, 2023 is the industry’s first hybrid luxury cruise ship.
Cruise Critic noted:
“Silversea’s constant innovation and a desire to set the luxury bar ever higher sets it apart from all others. Sure, the line has suites, butlers, Champagne and caviar across the fleet, but it’s more than that–Silversea’s restaurants rival Michelin-starred establishments, its S.A.L.T. enrichment program is outstanding, and its art and décor are reminiscent of a five-star hotel. And Silver Nova is a giant step forward for a cruise line that has never been content with the status quo.”
Crystal Cruises, which was relaunched by its new owner, Abercrombie and Kent Travel Group, was recognized for Best Service. The line has two newly-renovated ships: Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, holding 606 and 740 passengers respectively.
Cruise Critic noted:
“Crystal has built a reputation on exceptional service, and it comes down to the crew onboard, who are empowered to keep guests happy and satisfied, no matter the issue. Sailing on a Crystal ship feels like a vacation with family. No ask is too small–or too big–and service always comes with a sincere smile.”
Emerald Yacht Cruises, a line best known for its river ships, launched its first ocean-going vessel, Emerald Azzura, in 2022 followed by an identical sister ship, Emerald Sakara, in 2023. Both ships are intimate with a capacity of 100 passengers in
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Picture this: Your first flight is delayed, and your connection time is cut in half. If you’re going to make your next flight, you’ll have to hurry. Thankfully, you packed light and only brought a carry-on. Many savvy frequent flyers know that checking luggage can often bring more stress and hassle than necessary—not only are missed connections a possibility with checked luggage, but also, bags sometimes get lost or damaged. Plus, who wants to wait for luggage to round the carousel at the airport baggage claim? Packing light is simply the quickest way to speed through the airport—either to start your vacation or to get home and in your own bed as soon as possible.
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