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2025 Best in Cruise Awards Unveiled by Cruise Critic

In an exciting announcement, Cruise Critic®, the premier online resource for cruise reviews and insights, has revealed the winners of its 17th annual Best in Cruise Awards. This year, the awards spotlight a diverse range of cruise lines and experiences, celebrating excellence in the cruise industry as it continues to thrive.

A Growing Industry

As the cruise industry expands, the anticipation for travel on the high seas continues to soar. Editor-in-Chief Colleen McDaniel noted that an estimated 40 million global travelers are projected to embark on cruises in 2026. This growing interest is mirrored in the increasing variety of cruising options available today.

Mark Patscher, the General Manager of Cruise Critic, emphasized the unique insights that shape the award selections. "Our editors have extensive firsthand experience onboard numerous ships, ensuring our awards reflect true excellence. The combination of expert analysis and reviews from over two million cruisers offers a trustworthy gauge of the top cruise lines for this year."

Highlights of the Awards

The 2025 Best in Cruise Awards shone a spotlight on numerous cruise lines. Here are some celebrated winners:

Ocean Awards

• - Best Ocean Cruise Line: Virgin Voyages

- Recognized for its innovative approach, providing nearly all-inclusive pricing and exceptional onboard experiences.

• - Best New Ship: Celebrity Xcel

- Lauded for reinventing the acclaimed Edge-class of ships while ensuring a bold, fresh direction in cruising.

• - Best Value for Money: Carnival Cruise Line

- Acknowledged for offering excellent value without compromising on the quality of the cruising experience.

• - Cruisers' Choice Award: Margaritaville at Sea

- Celebrated for its exceptional hospitality and seamless cruising experience.

River Awards

• - Best River Cruise Line: Avalon Waterways

- Winners for their comprehensive river offerings and varied excursions.

• - Best New River Ship: AmaMagdalena

- Recognized for showcasing Colombia's vibrant scenery through its unique design and offerings.

Luxury Awards

• - Best Luxury Cruise Line: Explora Journeys

- Highlighted for setting a new bar in the luxury experience with outstanding service and cuisine.

• - Best New Luxury Ship: Oceania Allura

- Known for its emphasis on extraordinary culinary experiences and elegant design.

Expedition Awards

• - Best Expedition Cruise Line: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions
• - Recognized for pioneering unique exploration experiences and nurturing a love for discovery among its guests.

Conclusion

The 2025 Best in Cruise Awards reflect the continuing evolution of the cruise industry, with companies setting standards defined by service excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. As cruising continues to grow in popularity, these awards serve as a vital resource for travelers seeking memorable experiences on the high seas. For those looking to book their next voyage, exploring these award-winning lines could lead to an unforgettable adventure.

Stay tuned for next year's awards, as we eagerly watch the developments in the cruise industry and look forward to more excitement on the horizon!