U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs, has released its 2025 Best Cruise Lines rankings.

In its 11th year, the rankings highlight 18 of the most popular cruise lines in six categories catering to various travelers, including couples, families and those in search of luxury or a scenic Mediterranean adventure.

There's a new No. 1 in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking this year, as Celebrity Cruises takes the lead as the best value among ranked cruise lines. Disney Cruise Line continues to dominate the competition in the Best Cruise Lines for Families ranking, while also claiming the No. 1 spot in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean. In addition, Viking Ocean Cruises continues its reign as No. 1 in three categories: Best Luxury Cruise Lines, Best Cruise Lines for Couples and Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean.

"With so many cruise lines to choose from, it may be hard to know where to start when it comes to finding the perfect cruise vacation," said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The 2025 Best Cruise Lines rankings not only recognize the top cruise lines, but also provide a way for travelers to compare features, amenities and offerings to find the right cruise for an exciting experience at sea."

The rankings are based on a comprehensive and transparent methodology that takes into account expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and other relevant factors.

2025 Best Cruise Lines Rankings

Best Cruise Lines for the Money

1. Celebrity Cruises
2. Virgin Voyages
3. MSC Cruises

Best Cruise Lines for Families

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Royal Caribbean International
3. Norwegian Cruise Lines

Best Cruise Lines for Couples

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Celebrity Cruises
3. Virgin Voyages

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Luxury Cruise Lines

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The 8 Best New Cruise Ships for 2025

• MSC World America: April 2025
• Norwegian Aqua: April 2025
• Viking Vesta: July 2025
• Oceania Allura: July 2025
• Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas: August 2025
• Star Princess: October 2025
• Disney Destiny: November 2025
• Celebrity Xcel: November 2025