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Trips are really made easy with all-inclusive cruise options. From dining inclusions to shore excursions or free WiFi and drink packages, there's plenty to tempt you. Take a look at what each line has to choose from.

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13 best all-inclusive cruise lines

Editor's Note

All-inclusive cruising sounds alluring — until you realize that this phrase can mean different things to different cruise lines.

Generally speaking, all-inclusive in the cruise world means that the fare you're quoted includes the cost of your room on a ship (based on double occupancy), port fees and taxes, most meals, gratuities, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.

The most inclusive cruise lines also offer complimentary Wi-Fi, airfare (economy, chartered or business class), all specialty dining (rather than only at select venues) and shore excursions — pretty much everything short of spa and salon treatments, ultrapremium wines and spirits, and purchases such as cigars.

As you might expect, all-inclusive cruises are typically found on luxury or upscale cruise lines and are priced higher because they include so much.

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Beyond the truly all-inclusive cruise lines, some more affordable lines offer pricing packages that are more inclusive than the average big-ship cruise. You may be able to opt into an inclusive fare package for a higher cruise fare or get one free as a booking perk.

On some cruise lines, the highest-priced suites come with so many amenities as to make those fares all-inclusive. If you're just looking for all-inclusive alcohol, nearly every cruise line that doesn't already include alcohol in its fares will sell you an all-inclusive drink package that lets you have an open bar experience on board.

Here, we share the 13 best all-inclusive cruise lines where you can enjoy your cruise without ever pulling out your wallet.

All-inclusive cruise lines

Five lines stand out for having the most inclusive cruise fares in the industry. With so many things included in everyone's base fares, you'll mainly pay extra for spa treatments, souvenirs, some shore excursions and ultra-premium drinks.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises surely ranks as the most all-inclusive luxury line. Just be warned: With so much bundled into the fare, its prices are usually loftier than its competitors.

If tasteful opulence is your style, you will love Regent. Generously sized, all-suite accommodations feature spacious verandas. The multimillion-dollar art collection (think Picasso and Chagall) onboard the newest ships Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Grandeur astonishes; you will sail amid multiple museum-quality pieces.

This line's cruise fares include nearly every cruise-related travel expense: business-class airfare on intercontinental flights (economy airfare for domestic flights), transfers between your airport or hotel and the ship, all alternative dining (Chartreuse for Parisian-inspired fare and Pacific Rim for Asian-fusion cuisine are standouts), unlimited beverages, valet laundry service, crew gratuities, Wi-Fi and most shore excursions. Complimentary shore excursions are unlimited, so you can join a couple every day you're in port.

Related: Regent Suite: The $11,000-a-night cruise ship suite that's bigger than a house

Guests in Concierge Suites and above can count on a one-night fancy hotel stay pre-cruise, with transfers, breakfast and porterage. Select itineraries also offer two- or three-night land programs for free.

What is extra? Spa and salon treatments, hands-on cooking classes in a state-of-the-art culinary workshop, small group or special-interest shore excursions, the fanciest wines and liquors, cigars and sundries.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, an upscale cruise and tour company known for its luxurious riverboats, now operates two 228-passenger "adventure yachts" — Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II.

These stunning ships are as sleek and sexy as any private yachts custom-built for a billionaire. Think of each as a bliss factory, churning out one mind-blowing complimentary experience after the next. Plus, as ice-class expedition vessels, Scenic's yachts deliver adrenaline-charged activities that adventurous cruisers adore.

Among many inclusions, count on all-suite accommodations with verandas or terraces, butler service for every passenger, up to 10 dining experiences, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, an in-suite minibar restocked daily, Wi-Fi, airport transfers and gratuities, both on board and for excursions ashore.

The included wines and spirits are particularly noteworthy, especially the more than 100 whiskeys. Belly up to one of nine bars and sip your way through the impressive collection.

Related: Luxury adventure cruise ships you have to see to believe

Most exploration toys, such as Zodiacs, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, are complimentary. Scenic Eclipse even carries e-bikes, an inflatable trampoline and water skis. Up to 15 onboard expedition experts (20 in polar regions) lead complimentary adventure and enrichment programs on and off the ship.

You will only pay extra for Scenic Neptune, the ship's six-seater submarine, and for a ride on the two helicopters.

Count on divine dining experiences. Sushi@Koko's skilled chefs cut the finest sashimi, flashing knives as if the fish were an art piece. Lumière prepares meticulous modern French cuisine; linger pre- or post-dinner at its sexy Champagne bar.

Senses Spa is steeped in complimentary offerings. Relax on thermal loungers, awaken the senses in showers delivering aromatherapy and multiple jets, take meditation classes, and work out in the gym and yoga and Pilates studio. Unwind in women's and men's saunas, steam rooms and relaxation lounges, and soak away your cares in three plunge pools. You'll only pay for one-on-one fitness sessions and spa treatments.

Seeking casually elegant — think exclusive, country club-like vibe — for an all-inclusive voyage? Meet the seven Seabourn ships, which play up luxury in a sophisticated yet laid-back style. (Seabourn Pursuit, the line's second expedition vessel, debuted in August.)

Seabourn's cruise fares include oceanfront suites with double vanities and living areas (many with private balconies), premium wines and spirits, Wi-Fi, specialty restaurants, 24-hour in-suite dining (served course-by-course), caviar whenever and wherever you like, and gratuities.

The only major add-ons to your tab are airfare and shore excursions, the fanciest wines and spirits, and spa and salon treatments.

Related: 5 secrets to getting a luxury cruise for less

Fine dining on Seabourn ships includes an array of complimentary gourmet restaurants, including a dedicated sushi spot and an alfresco restaurant focusing on international cuisine with a twist. The line is soon to replace The Grill by Thomas Keller with Solis, a Mediterranean restaurant focused on fresh and healthy cuisine, all made from scratch on board.

Seabourn has created a Mindful Living Program in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Weil, an esteemed pioneer in integrative medicine. The line offers complimentary classes with Dr. Weil-trained practitioners in guided meditation, as well as free Pure-Form yoga and Pilates group workouts.

Silversea Cruises

Interested in nibbling complimentary caviar and sipping fine Champagne on all seven continents? You are not alone. Silversea Cruises delivers that fabulous perk and much more in its impressive inclusions.

This luxurious Italian-inspired line offers two types of all-inclusive travel, "Port-to-Port" and "Door-to-Door."

Port-to-Port includes all-suite accommodations, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, tuxedo-clad white-gloved butlers for all passengers, basic Wi-Fi, gratuities, laundry room usage and meals in most dining venues, including 24-hour room service with dinner served course-by-course. It also includes one complimentary shore excursion per port; the rest are available for purchase.

You will pay extra for spa treatments, cigars and other purchases like the most exclusive wines and spirits.

Related: 7 compelling reasons to book a luxury cruise

Expedition sailings include extra perks in their Port-to-Port fares, such as all in-country economy air travel and pre- or post-hotel night or day use, necessary equipment and gear, and expedition team-led shore excursions.

For all types of Silversea sailings, Door-to-Door travel includes all of the above plus international economy airfare (or an air credit), business-class upgrades and/or in-country flights for select itineraries, pre- and post-cruise hotel nights (depending on flight timing) and airport transfers by private executive car service. This choice aims to eliminate all travel stress, with Silversea handling every detail between your walking out your front door and returning home.

Some other points to note when contemplating Silversea and its benefits: Suites truly are suites, with separate living and sleeping areas. For instance, on the 596-passenger Silver Moon, a spacious entry-level suite rocks a cool 334 square feet. A veranda brings the total square footage up to 387 square feet.

If you book the biggest onboard suites, you are privy to even more freebies, such as valet laundry, unlimited premium Wi-Fi (for faster speed than the included plan) and dinner for two in the fabulous La Dame restaurant.

The ultimate luxury inclusion? Caviar is served whenever you like, wherever you wish to dine, with all the proper accoutrements.

Luxury cruise line Crystal re-launched in 2023, bringing back an all-inclusive onboard experience on two vessels, the 606-passenger Crystal Symphony and 740-passenger Crystal Serenity .

Fares include all ocean-view rooms with butler service for all, fine dining in multiple venues (including one complimentary reservation at Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa Restaurant and Sushi Bar and Osteria d'Ovidio per cruise of up to 11 days), in-suite dining, all beverages, Wi-Fi, a youth program on select voyages and crew gratuities (for housekeeping, bar and dining staff).

You'll be wowed by the friendly and intuitive service on board. With a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1:1, you'll feel pampered every moment of your vacation.

Crystal's signature activities are always complimentary, whether that's lounging around the gorgeous pool by day, challenging new friends to a game of pickleball, enjoying afternoon tea in the Palm Court, ballroom dancing with gentleman hosts or attending performances in the evening.

If you have to take out your wallet, it'll be for ultra-premium liquors, gourmet wine-paired meals in the Vintage room, cigars in the Connoisseur Club, spa treatments and shore excursions.

Cruise lines with more-inclusive fares

Four cruise lines cover more costs in their cruise fares than the average line, but not as many things as the truly all-inclusive lines. We refer to these lines as more-inclusive, not all-inclusive.

If you love a port-intensive cruise on a smaller, upscale ship, Azamara might be the cruise line for you.

Cabins on its older ships are compact yet cozy, with a modern look, but you won't spend much time in them. That's because the line prioritizes getting you to multiple ports and spending as much time as possible on land, with longer stays and evenings ashore.

In keeping with the line's destination focus, Azamara offers a complimentary AzAmazing Celebration on board or ashore on nearly every cruise. These exclusive, no-cost events highlight local culture and performers, often with exclusive access to cool locations.

Related: The ultimate guide to Azamara

Also included in every Azamara guest's fares are nonalcoholic drinks (such as specialty coffees and teas, soda and bottled water), as well as an assortment of standard liquors, wine and beer. Crew gratuities and self-service laundry are also included in your fare.

However, you will still have to pay for premium drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, spa treatments and tours.

Azamara does offer several extra-fee packages to make its inclusive fares even more inclusive. Its five "Experience More" packages bundle together extra-fee items (shore excursion credit, Wi-Fi, premium beverages, spa credit, laundry and/or Chef's Table dining) for a roughly 30% discount compared with purchasing those amenities a la carte.

Whether you're sailing Viking 's ocean or river voyages, or the new Viking Expeditions, this cruise line delivers many inclusions for a company that insists it's not a luxury company.

Here's what Viking includes on ocean and expedition sails: one complimentary shore excursion in each port; Wi-Fi; alternative restaurant dining; 24-hour room service; thermal suite spa access; beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinner; specialty coffee, tea and bottled water; and self-service launderettes. If you purchase airfare through Viking, ground transfers are also complimentary.

River cruising also includes the above, except it does not offer alternative restaurant dining, thermal suite spa access, 24-hour room service or self-service launderettes on board.

Cabins are a notch above what you'll find on other premium ships. They come with upscale amenities, such as king-size beds rather than queens, and bathrooms with spacious glass-enclosed showers, heated bathroom floors and anti-fog mirrors.

Perhaps what passengers rave about the most is complimentary access to the Nordic Spa and that awesome thermal suite mentioned above. Breathe deep in the steam bath or sauna, freeze your you-know-what off in the Snow Grotto to wake up every cell (including those you never knew you had) and take a whirlpool, cold-water splash or plunge pool dip. Alternating hot and cold therapies invigorates your mind and body in the best ways.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

The complimentary alternative dining inclusions are mighty fine, too. Little feels better than sitting down to an incredible meal in Manfredi's Italian restaurant and not signing a room charge at the end. No corners are cut here for a complimentary meal. Pastas are excellent, but by all means, order the signature bistecca alla Fiorentina , a Florentine-style porcini-and-spice-crusted ribeye steak that makes meat lovers swoon.

The overstuffed house-made bread basket, served with aged Parmesan chunks and high-quality balsamic vinegar and olive oil, is worth the price of admission alone — if there were one in the first place.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises sails smaller, upscale ships with a focus on fine dining and restaurant variety. It has recently made its cruise fares more inclusive with the introduction of Simply More pricing.

All cruise fares now include free round-trip airfare plus transfers, a shore excursion credit of $600 to $1,600 per cabin to use on the guests' choice of tours in port and a beverage package that covers a selection of wine, beer and Champagne at lunch and dinner.

Oceania already includes nonalcoholic drinks (soda, specialty coffee and tea, smoothies, juice), specialty dining (including meals by celebrity chef Jacques Pepin), Wi-Fi (two devices per cabin), fitness classes and shuttles into town in port.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages ' goal is to reimagine the cruise experience, which means that it doesn't follow the typical rules of cruising. You'll find tattoo parlors, drag shows, balcony hammocks and a novel approach to fare inclusions.

Onboard Wi-Fi and crew tips — typically extra charges on most mainstream cruise lines — are included in everyone's cruise fare on Virgin. All of its ships' 20+ eateries are complimentary, from the vegetarian restaurant to the Korean barbecue joint, though you may have to make reservations in advance. Select nonalcoholic drinks (including soda, non-pressed juices and sparkling water) also do not incur extra fees. The line's creative and energetic fitness classes are also fee-free; other lines charge $15 to $20 for these.

Virgin does not offer an all-inclusive beverage package add-on and instead claims it offers fair prices for drinks. However, if you purchase a Bar Tab (essentially prepaying for drinks) , the line will throw in extra free money you can use on your bar bill.

Related: Too hip or just right? Here's what it was really like sailing on Virgin Voyages

Cruise lines with all-inclusive fare classes

A relatively new addition to the all-inclusive cruise fare world is the all-inclusive add-on package . Select cruise lines allow guests to opt into higher-priced fares that include more perks or purchase fare add-ons that grant them extra inclusions. The cruise lines claim that the extra fees are a savings on the a la carte price of the included amenities.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises aims to be the cruise line for Gen Xers, and its newest ships are filled with dining variety, resort-worthy bars and plenty of places to grab a seat and gab with your girls, guys or significant other. Innovative cabins let fresh air in without creating under-used outdoor space. The line has also gotten creative with options for more inclusive fares.

Celebrity lets cruisers choose from two fare types: Cruise-Only or All Included. Cruise-Only fares get you the standard cruise amenities, such as meals in the main dining room and buffet, a short list of nonalcoholic drinks (drip coffee, iced tea, juice from a machine at breakfast) and traditional onboard entertainment.

Upgrade to the All-Included fare, and you'll pay more but get more inclusions. (Prices vary by ship, itinerary and sail date.) These fares cover a Classic Drinks Package and Celebrity's Basic Wi-Fi plan. The fares used to cover crew gratuities, but that perk has been phased out.

Alternatively, if you book upper-category cabins and suites, your base fares will include additional perks. Passengers in AquaClass accommodations receive exclusive access to the Blu restaurant, a complimentary thermal suite pass, free fitness classes and discounted spa packages.

Related: Everything you want to know about Celebrity cabins and suites

Suite guests receive a premium drinks package, premium Wi-Fi, 24-hour in-suite dining and specialty coffees, and exclusive access to the Luminae restaurant and suites-only lounge and sun deck. These fares include concierge and butler service, as well.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises ' hallmark is casual luxury, so the line lets guests choose how inclusive they want their fares to be.

The line's base prices get you a nicely appointed stateroom, dining in multiple venues with menus by James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs, and nonalcoholic beverages (such as soft drinks and specialty coffees). Take your pick from small, luxury cruise ships with spacious suites to motorized sailing yachts with gorgeous sails.

If you want one-and-done pricing, passengers can choose All-Inclusive Fares for an additional $89 per person per day. With this plan, guests receive complimentary Wi-Fi, prepaid hotel and beverage gratuities, and an unlimited beverage package, which includes all beers, 33 different wines by the glass, 40 house and select brands of liquor, cocktails made with the included liquors and minibar items.

Princess Cruises

The Love Boat cruise line explores the world on big, but not too big ships, with a particular focus on Alaska sailings . It welcomes everyone from families with kids to retired couples with a variety of onboard offerings and inclusive fare options to suit a variety of budgets and preferences.

Princess Cruises offers its guests two ways to make their cruise experience more inclusive. The Princess Plus Package costs $60 per person per day and includes a Plus Beverage Package (covering drinks priced up to $15 each), Wi-Fi on one device per passenger, two meals at casual extra-fee restaurants, two fitness classes, two premium desserts, unlimited juice bar drinks, free room service delivery and tips for the crew.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

For a more all-inclusive experience, guests can purchase the Princess Premier Package at $80 per person per day. With this elevated program, passengers receive a Premier Beverage Package (covering drinks priced up to $20 each), Wi-Fi on up to four devices per passenger, tips for the crew, two meals per guest in the line's extra-fee specialty restaurants, unlimited meals in the extra-fee casual restaurants, unlimited premium desserts and juice bar drinks, free room service delivery, a photo package of three prints plus unlimited digital files and reserved theater seating.

Holland America

Holland America is Princess Cruises' sister line and Alaska rival. It sails midsized ships around the world, catering to a mature cruiser who loves live music, fine dining and a classic cruise experience.

The cruise line also has a similar all-inclusive add-on to its sister. The line's Have It All fares include a shore excursion credit of $100, $200 or $300 per person (based on length of sailing); a Signature Beverage Package covering alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks priced up to $11 per drink; one, two or three comped meals in the line's specialty dining restaurants (based on length of cruise); and a Wi-Fi Surf Package, HAL's basic Wi-Fi package.

The cost to make your cruise all-inclusive is $55 per person per day, added to your cruise fare, and applies only to the first and second guests in each cabin.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

Cruise lines with all-inclusive promotions

A few cruise lines take a different approach to all-inclusive cruising and offer inclusions as booking promotions . Depending on the current offer, you are entitled to a slew of included amenities or your choice of only a few.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its anything-goes attitude: Eat where you want, dress how you like, enjoy the ship as you see fit. Its megaships are known for their variety of dining and drinking venues, as well as onboard attractions that include Broadway-caliber entertainment, go-kart tracks , laser tag, VR game rooms and crazy water slides. Many of the attractions come with fees, so it's easy to find yourself pulling out your wallet again and again on board.

To combat that, NCL has been running some version of its Free at Sea promotion for years, which offers complimentary amenities to make your cruise fare a little or a lot more inclusive. Depending on the current offer, you might be eligible for all the amenities or you might get a choice of some number of them depending on the type of cabin you book.

The included perks vary, but are usually an Open Bar beverage package (covering drinks up to $15 each), one to three free meals for two people in specialty restaurants on board (depending on type of cabin and length of cruise), a $50 shore excursion credit for one person in each port, 75-300 minutes of free Wi-Fi each for two people (based on length of cruise), and complimentary or $99 third and fourth guest fares on select sailings. Sometimes free airfare (buy one ticket and the second guest flies free) is part of the promotion, as well.

Note that guests must pay a 20% gratuity on the value of the Open Bar beverage package and the specialty dining package.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers a paid upgrade to the Free at Sea perks called Free at Sea Plus. This add-on would upgrade your perks to a Premium Plus beverage package (including all top-shelf liquors, beer and wine plus unlimited still or sparkling bottled water, Starbucks coffee and energy drinks), two extra specialty restaurant meals, a $50 excursion credit for two guests in every port (versus one) and an unlimited Wi-Fi package (no streaming).

The additional cost is $49 per person, per day, for adults and $29 for children; solo adult travelers pay $42 per person.

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When you cruise to the Caribbean with us, you’ll experience breathtaking beaches, natural wonders, UNESCO sites, and more. Explore a never-ending parade of verdant mountain peaks, tropical rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife, hidden waterfalls and alcoves designed only for you, and dazzling coral reefs bustling with fish of every size, shape, color, and stripe. An escape to the Caribbean promises new experiences at every turn—both on board and off.

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On board our Caribbean cruises, you’ll be surrounded by our famous personalized touches that make every Celebrity vacation a special sailing. Embrace bliss with open arms during a Caribbean-inspired spa treatment. Indulge from globally inspired menus across up to 12 specialty restaurants, so you can dine somewhere unique every night. When it’s time to raise a toast to the setting sun, your certified sommelier can pour you the perfect vintage to match the moment—uncorked from a selection that’s won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 10 years in a row. 

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Top Caribbean FAQs

How long are Caribbean cruises?

Celebrity offers a wide range of cruises all over the Caribbean, from  three-night getaways  to 12-night voyages. Relax and rejuvenate in The Bahamas and CocoCay, or over a week visiting Mexico and Grand Cayman, or San Juan, the British Virgin Islands, and St. Kitts. On our longer Caribbean itineraries, we visit the Southern Caribbean, Central America, and South America, crossing the Panama Canal.  

Can I cruise during hurricane season?

Yes! Celebrity’s ships sail, between June and November, which is regarded as hurricane season. 

Only a very small portion of cruises that sail to the Caribbean during a storm season are actually affected by these storms. Though you may encounter slightly rougher water on a cruise during hurricane season, there are many systems in place to detect any hurricane weather along your cruise route, ensuring your ship’s captain and crew will be able to chart a path around any bad weather or make modifications to the itinerary to keep you safe. Celebrity’s state-of-the-art ships are built for stability, keeping movement in rough seas to a minimum.

See our blog post about  cruising during hurricane season.

Where are the best beaches in the Caribbean?

Every island in the Caribbean has beautiful beaches, from rocky coves to long sweeps of white sand lined with umbrellas and buzzing beach bars. Naming the  Caribbean's best beaches  is a purely subjective topic, as everybody has their favorite. Some of the most famous, though, include Grand Cayman’s gorgeous Seven Mile Beach, and the dazzling white sand of Eagle Beach on Aruba. Dickenson Beach in Antigua is a picturesque paradise, while Crane Beach on Barbados boasts pale pink sand. 

Honeymoon Beach on St. John is home to one of the most romantic settings in the Caribbean, while The Baths on Virgin Gorda is a day full of adventure, where you can hike through caves that lead you straight down to secret rock pools. Rent an overwater cabana for the day at  the Coco Beach Club on CocoCay in the Bahamas, or relax with a cocktail in hand on this natural coral island at any of the island's white sandy beaches. Deciding which beach is your personal favorite is all part of the fun.

What can I do besides go to the beach?

The Caribbean has a rich culture that extends beyond beach life. Explore colorful streets and colonial-era forts in Old San Juan, and ride the St. Kitts Scenic Railway across verdant countryside with beautiful ocean views. Take a day off from sunbathing and join a horseback riding tour along St. Maarten’s stunning coastline. Explore Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua or climb the Pitons in St. Lucia, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

Join a gourmet walking tour of Charlotte Amalie in the U.S. Virgin Islands to learn about its culinary culture, or stroll through the Queen Elizabeth II Botanical Park on Grand Cayman. Learn about spice cultivation in Grenada or join a nature walk in Barbados. It doesn’t matter how many times you visit the Caribbean—you will never run out of things to do.

Do I need a passport to cruise to the Caribbean? 

It is the responsibility of each guest to identify and obtain all required travel documents and have them available at the pier when necessary. Before leaving home, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the required travel documents you will be asked to provide prior to boarding the ship. You’ll find more information  here . 

Not all Caribbean cruises require a passport. If you are an American citizen traveling from the U.S. to the Bahamas or Mexico on a closed-loop cruise, starting and ending at the same U.S. port, a state-issued ID and an original U.S. birth certificate is sufficient. 

On other Caribbean cruises, you can enter with your U.S. passport book, passport card, Trusted Traveler card (Nexus, SENTRI, or FAST), or an enhanced driver’s license. See our  blog post  for more information.

When’s the best time to cruise?

You can now cruise the Caribbean year round on one of our newest Edge series ships, Celebrity Beyond, starting in 2024. The Caribbean is a cruiser’s dream vacation in every season, but the best time to cruise the Caribbean can depend on your schedule, your travel budget and your travel desires. Discover the  best times to cruise the Caribbean  on our blog. 

Where do Caribbean cruises depart from?

Celebrity’s Caribbean cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, Port Canaveral and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

What should I pack for a Caribean Cruise?

When  packing for a cruise to the Caribbean , you’ll need clothing for a warm, sometimes humid climate. Bring plenty of beachwear, a sun hat, sunglasses, coverups, water shoes if you’re visiting coral beaches, and reef-friendly sunblock. 

If you book a snorkeling excursion, all gear will be provided, but where there are places that you may want to snorkel independently, consider bringing your own equipment. 

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through cover ups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

Is it easy to get around the Caribbean islands? 

The easiest way to get around each island is to  book a shore excursion . 

What language is spoken in the Caribbean?

English is the main language spoken in the Caribbean. However, there are many other languages spoken within the region. On the ABC Islands and St. Maarten (on the Dutch side), Dutch is the official language, but locals also speak Papamiento, a hybrid of Dutch, Spanish, and various West African languages. In the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, it’s Spanish. On the French side of St. Maarten/St. Martin, it’s French. Across the Caribbean, you’ll hear Creole spoken, or patois, which varies from island to island.

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The Best All-Inclusive Cruises in 2023: Luxe Voyages to Italy, Japan, Iceland, and South America

Imagine indulging nonstop in champagne, caviar, and lobster every day aboard a cruise—and not needing to pay one cent extra. All-inclusive cruises make fantasies like these reality by bundling many luxurious amenities into the voyage fare. And savvy cruisers know that the perk-laden, all-inclusive itineraries make for the most lavish, stress free vacations. 

Plus, there’s no need to worry about getting your money’s worth, as most luxury lines offer benefits for every type of traveler, from personal butlers, 24-hour room service, and complimentary spa treatments, to top-shelf liquor, business-class airfare, and fee-free shore excursions. Add enticing destinations like Japan, Iceland, and Northern Africa to the mix, and the fact that it all happens aboard some of the most stylish and boutique ships at sea, and you can see why all-inclusive itineraries are some of the most popular in the cruise industry.

Read on for everything you need to know about all-inclusive cruises, from booking tips to some of our favorite itineraries.

Is there such a thing as an all-inclusive cruise?

All-inclusive cruises definitely exist, primarily on luxury cruise lines and some upper-premium lines. Award-winning luxury lines Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, and Silversea , all with multiple ships, offer the most inclusions in cruise fares. Upper-premium cruise lines, particularly award-winning Viking, bundle more amenities into cruise prices than other non-luxury lines.

What’s in an all-inclusive cruise?

All-inclusive cruising is a rather tricky term, as each cruise line offering them puts their own spin on the definition. Luxury cruising delivers the most inclusive voyages, typically bundling dining, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, port and tax fees, and gratuities into fares. 

Some cruise lines bundle in even more enviable perks, such as airfare, either economy, chartered, or business class, airport-to-ship transfers, laundry service, most or all specialty dining, and most or all shore excursions. Sometimes, all-inclusive cruises have special offers to include a pre-cruise hotel night, or pre- or post-cruise land programs, including tours and hotel stays. 

With the best, most all-inclusive cruises , the only extra charges typically appearing on a final bill are spa and salon treatments, private fitness training, premium alcohol, and purchases in boutiques or cigar lounges. 

How much is an all-inclusive cruise?

All-inclusive cruises usually run between $500 to $1,500 per person per day. Multiple factors influence the pricing range: The line’s inclusion level, the competitiveness or exclusivity of the itinerary, and the itinerary date. It's less expensive to cruise during shoulder season, when the weather may be chillier or rainier, say May in Alaska or April on the Mediterranean , versus high season, when the weather is at its best. Price is also influenced if a ship is repositioning (an itinerary transiting from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, for example), which also decreases costs. Consider expedition cruises the priciest as their costs are higher; they sail with multiple expedition experts and much excursion and scientific equipment, plus most or all shore excursions are included. Antarctic luxury sails requiring chartered flights to fly over the Drake Passage are the priciest, and can run up to $3000 per person per day.

What is the best cruise line to go with?

The best all-inclusive cruise lines for 2022 and beyond, in alphabetical order, are Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, and Viking. All showcase stunning ships with all suites (other than Viking) and inviting public venues, and deliver impeccable service and excellent cuisine. 

To assist in deciding which line would be your personal best, look hard at the itinerary and inclusions. For instance, if searching for an Alaskan cruise, know that shore excursions are vital to an in-depth experience. Look for a cruise line including most or all, as those additional costs rapidly add up. Regent Seven Seas and Silversea include most or all shore excursions, as do Scenic and Seabourn expedition ships. 

If you primarily prefer exploring individually, like on a New England fall foliage or Caribbean cruise , you might care more about complimentary specialty dining in-suite and about the ship, and sipping free custom martinis poolside or in buzzy bars. Then select a Seabourn ocean liner, where shore excursions are not factored into pricing. 

Are you a caviar devotee? Look to Seabourn and Silversea for offering free premium caviar, anytime, anywhere, beautifully presented with all the accouterments. If you’re a die-hard foodie idolizing superstar chef Thomas Keller of Napa’s French Laundry fame, choose Seabourn to feast on his dishes at Keller’s only at-sea restaurant and also on Keller-influenced plates in other dining venues.

5 best all-inclusive cruise itineraries to book in 2023 and beyond

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Regent Seven Seas is known for its opulent ships.

Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro with Regent Seven Seas

Experience South America's lively cities and pristine beaches with this 10-night voyage aboard Regent's elegant Seven Seas Voyager that departs from Buenos Aires in March 2023. Among the itinerary highlights are stops in Ilha Grande, Brazil—famous for its beaches and tropical rainforests—and Búzios, which Regent likens to a Brazilian version of St. Tropez, as well as overnights in Monte Video, Uruguay , and Rio de Janeiro. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises hits the gold standard in all-inclusive luxury cruising . Their ships are gorgeous—opulent, even—with multi-million dollar art collections, and dripping in elaborate hand-fashioned crystal chandeliers. Cruise fares include international business class airfare or economy on domestic flights, airport-ship transfers, all-suite accommodations, all dining including specialty restaurants, unlimited beverages including fine wines and spirits, valet laundry service, unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities, and most shore excursions. In fact, you can take unlimited complimentary shore excursions in each port. In addition, RSSC offers a one-night complimentary pre-cruise hotel for passengers booked in concierge suites and higher. Special offers include free pre and post-land programs on select voyages.  

Cultural wonders of Japan with Scenic

Scenic currently offers one “adventure yacht,”  Scenic Eclipse , with near-twin  Scenic Eclipse II  debuting in 2023. The sleek and glamorous expedition vessel feels most yacht-like among our best all-inclusive cruise list. 

In June 2023, the Scenic Eclipse will voyage throughout Japan , visiting a total of eight cities in the country. Ports of call include Hakodate on the island of Hokkaido—where travelers can hike to the summit of active volcano Mt. Esan for spectacular views or visit the Hakodate Morning Market—as well as stops in Aomori, home to the world's largest virgin beech tree forest, and Hagi, known for its preserved castle town from the Edo era.

Among inclusions, count on all-suite accommodations with verandas or terraces, butler service for every passenger, up to 10 complimentary dining experiences, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (including a stunningly sexy 100-bottle whisky bar), in-suite minibar stocked with passenger favorites, Wi-Fi, internal country flights, airport-to-ship transfers, all gratuities—even for shore excursions. The spa features many complimentary offerings, such as thermal loungers and meditation classes. As an expedition ship, exploration “toys,” such as Zodiacs, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards, are complimentary. The only extra exploration fees are for submarine and helicopter rides.   

A terrace onboard Viking, an upper-premium line.

Venice, the Adriatic, and Greece with Viking

Spend eight days cruising the Adriatic and Ionian seas aboard this Viking sailing, which visits four countries across six ports of call. After departing from Venice , one of Viking's ocean ships (several operate this itinerary) will visit Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; as well as Corfu and Katakolon in Greece, before docking in Athens.

As the sole upper-premium line on this list, Viking includes many luxury-line-level perks in the cruise fare. On ocean and expedition cruises, passengers receive one complimentary shore excursion in each port, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, soft drinks, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, specialty coffee drinks and tea. If purchasing airfare through Viking, ship transfers are also complimentary. 

Viking’s complimentary spa access is a huge perk, as the Thermal Suite, which includes a steam, sauna, real snow grotto, whirlpool, cold-water splash and plunge pool, is a spa devotee’s dream-come-true. Also, staterooms are more upscale than on competitive premium lines. They feature king, not queen, beds, and oversized bathrooms with anti-fog mirrors, glass-enclosed showers, and heated bathroom floors. 

Silversea's Arctic and Anarctic expedition sailings are part of its all-inclusive cruise offerings.

Iceland, Faroe Islands, Scotland with Silversea

Sailing roundtrip from Reykjavík on board Silversea's newest addition to its fleet, Silver Endeavor , this two-week-long cruise checks off a whopping 19 ports across three countries, including Iceland, Scotland, and the Faroe Islands. Being a more boutique expedition ship, Silver Endeavor is able to ferry passengers to small ports, including Iceland's outer islands, like Vigor Island, home to the Isafjardardjup Fjord and migratory Atlantic puffin colonies.

Silversea delivers a chic Italian-inspired vibe, evoking a luxurious custom-designed Milano home. The line offers two styles of all-inclusive luxury cruising , “Port-to-Port” and “Door-to-Door.” Port-to-Port includes all-suite accommodations, shore excursions, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, butler service for all suites, Wi-Fi, gratuities and meals in most dining venues. Dining includes 24-hour room service served course-by-course. Complimentary premium caviar is available anywhere, anytime. Under the Port-to-Port category for Silversea’s expedition ships, passengers also receive in-country economy airfare, pre or post-cruise hotel day use or overnight and some expedition gear. 

All Door-to-Door cruises add a few extras to all the above inclusions. International economy airfare (or air credit) and airport-to-ship transfers, and roundtrip transfers between home and airport by private car service are among them.  

Seabourn is known for luxe all-inclusive cruise dining perks, like unlimited caviar.

Northwest Africa with Seabourn

Although this sailing departs in 2024, we included it in our list for 2023, as it's sure to sell out quickly. In March 2024, Seabourn will take its expedition ship, Seabourn Venture, to the Northwest coast of Africa for a unique two-week cruise ending in Spain. Departing from Cape Verde, the sailing includes stops in Banjul, Gambia; Dakar, Senegal ; Casablanca and Tangier in Morocco; and Malaga, Spain, among others.

Seabourn Venture includes all-suite accommodations and all other Seabourn complimentary amenities other than The Grill. Most shore excursions are complimentary. A second expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit, will debut in 2023 with similar all-inclusive features. 

A luxury line with an elegant casual country club ambiance, Seabourn offers numerous high-end inclusions, such as all-suite accommodations, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, 24-hour in-suite dining (served course-by-course, if desired), high-end caviar service anywhere, anytime, and gratuities. On Seabourn’s ocean liners, passengers also receive one complimentary dinner at The Grill by Thomas Keller, a restaurant deftly duplicating the world-famous chef’s cuisine, prepared with his favorite high-end ingredients. In addition, many Keller-influenced plates appear on other dining venue menus, such as in the Colonnade. Seabourn features a Mindful Living Program in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Weil, and passengers can take complimentary classes with practitioners trained by the esteemed doctor in meditation and yoga, among the options.

All prices shown now include taxes and fees.

What's Included on a Cruise?

SO MUCH MORE VALUE

Introducing Fair & Flexible Fares

Fair, in that we give you much more for your voyage fare, and flexible, in that you can make changes anytime you want, without a penalty.

A lot of travel companies like to trick you with (extra) low prices in their headlines — nickel and diming you later. On every voyage here, you get over $1,000 of value which includes access to all the premium dining at our 20+ eateries with menus curated by Michelin star chefs, group fitness classes, WiFi, gratuities, award-winning entertainment, and a soda and drinks package. And if you need to change your sail dates or the name(s) on your booked voyage, we let you do that, too.

Incredible value. True transparency.

You should know what you’re spending at the end of the vacation… well, before it’s the actual end. And we love a chart, so we created one to break down exactly what we mean….  

Word-on-the-sea is that we’re *the* ship to be

5-star reviews. Awarded Best New Cruise. And incredibly kind reviews.

Incredible!

"Amazing experience and best cruise I have ever been on. Exceptional food, helpful/kind staff, shows were out of this world. Definitely will only be booking with Virgin from now on!".

Great Atmosphere & Great Crew

"The Scarlet Lady is so welcoming and inclusive! They make you feel so comfortable no matter who you are and their entertainment and crew are fabulous!".

Best cruise and ship ever!

"Everyone, everything was on point. No buffet is served on this cruise. The staff is friendly and professional. Nothing is too small or large for them to deliver. There's no other ship like virgin voyages. The food…".

Excellent cruise line

"From the adult-only option all the way to food and entertainment. They did an awesome job. There was so much to do on the ship we needed more time. Will definitely be back to Virgin for our next cruise and many many more".

Award Winning Value

Best cruise line for the money 2023, best value-for-money - large ship category.

Cruise Critic - Cruisers' Choice Awards

ALWAYS INCLUDED

Food to elevate your mood.

When we say “included,” we mean it. From comfort go-to’s to experimental cuisine, elaborate brunches to Korean BBQ, all our specialty eateries are on us — no hidden tax, no pesky disclaimer, no crowded buffets or designated dining times. Plus, all our food is sustainably sourced, made fresh-to-order, and always tasty. Go ahead, snap that pic (you know you want to) — because we’re picking up the bill.

ALSO INCLUDED

We’ve taken care of tipping.

We’ve reimagined the way people holiday at sea from the hull up — so that epic service becomes the norm. Our Crew is knowledgeable, friendly, and incredibly stylish — but mainly, our Crew is genuinely happy to help you make your vacation one of a kind. So get pampered, taste everything, and enjoy a drink (or two) knowing that all tips are covered. Cheers to that.

YEP INCLUDED, TOO

Free wi-fi for all.

Check in with your loved ones. Make new connections aboard. Or post that ice cream selfie before it melts. With Wi-Fi included on every sailing, you can show off share the view with your home crew, find your newest best friends online, or check in on your email (look, we get it, sometimes it’s hard to *fully* let go) — because, let’s be honest, in this day and age, Wi-Fi should be considered as essential as water.

INCLUDED? THIS, TOO

Unlimited group workouts.

For the 'do-nothings,' the 'do-somethings' and the 'do-literally-everythings' (you know who you are), we have tons of group fitness classes on board so that you can sea the world and keep your #FitnessGoals going. From sunrise yoga and outdoor boxing to a cycling studio and bungee workouts — you’ll have full access to classes and state-of-the-art gym equipment for unlimited opportunities to break a sweat. And if you’re not the working out kind, well, the views are nice from the gym?

STILL INCLUDED

All essential drinks. always on us..

Hydration is key — especially in a sun-soaked, adventure-filled, energy-buzzing holiday at sea. Start your day with a drip-coffee, quench your post-workout thirst with still and sparkling water, get a non-pressed juice by the pool, or find the perfect soda and end your day in paradise with your favorite bedtime tea. With all essential drinks already covered, you can recharge, free of charge.

LIGHTS. CAM. ON US.

Late nights and neon lights.

With a festival-like lineup featuring original, first-to-sea productions, extraordinary pop-up acts, and immersive experiences, the entertainment you’ll experience on board is something you’ve never seen before. It’s wild. It’s thought-provoking. It’s a full-on extravaganza. And it couldn’t be anything else. Digging deep into our musical roots, we’ve collaborated with the world’s most-talked-about directors, choreographers, and artists to create the live entertainment only a Virgin brand could.

A lavish retreat away from it all

With spaces that transform to your given mood, you can live like a rockstar or retreat to a quiet and luxurious oasis whenever you need a break away from all the action.

Restore and explore

Beachside Mexican mornings. Bioluminescent bays in Puerto Rico. Exclusive beaches in Bimini. Let us take you far away.

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Cruise vs. all-inclusive resort: which one is right for you.

Find out the pros and cons of each and see which option is right for you.

Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort

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Picking your dream vacation can be tricky. Use our tips to help you plan.

If you're trying to decide whether you should book a cruise or stay at an all-inclusive resort for your next vacation, there are a lot of factors to consider. Beyond selecting a destination, you'll need to determine what type of experience you're looking for and what's included in the price of each option. After all, there's nothing worse than having a stress-free trip turn into a sticker shock surprise when you review the final bill.

To help, U.S. News compiled a list of questions to consider when comparing cruise versus all-inclusive resort vacations, along with suggested options for both.

What are your travel goals?

When deciding between an all-inclusive resort or a cruise, ask yourself the following questions:

Do I want to explore multiple destinations in one trip?

If your answer is yes, book a cruise . Cruises are a great option when you want to visit several locales in one trip, but aren't concerned with spending a lot of time in any one place. They're also perfect for getting an overview of a region, such as the Caribbean or the Mediterranean . If you want to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations instead of busier, more popular ports, consider itineraries offered by cruise lines with smaller ships that can navigate tighter waterways than larger ocean liners. For example, Windstar Cruises' small ships can visit small Greek islands ; remote Tahitian villages; Alaska's wildlife-filled Inian Islands; and sail the only navigable river in Spain, the Guadalquivir River.

Do I want to stay relax in one place?

If a relaxing land-based experience sounds more your speed, an all-inclusive resort may be a better option. You can spend your time taking advantage of luxurious resort amenities and exploring the surrounding areas. The Grand Velas Riviera Maya in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico , offers family-friendly accommodations and activities, as well as romantic oceanfront suites with plunge pools and spa bathrooms for couples. The resort also has an impressive selection of internationally inspired restaurants and indoor and outdoor bars. During the day, sign up for holistic treatments at the SE Spa by Grand Velas (for an additional fee) or enjoy complimentary water activities like kayaking and snorkeling. You can even explore ancient ruins in nearby Tulum, Mexico , on an off-property excursion.

Still, for some cruisers, the ship itself is the destination. The details of the itinerary don't matter much to them, as they plan to spend most of their time relaxing on board. Big cruise ships and/or new vessels offer seemingly endless dining and entertainment options.

What kind of atmosphere do I want?

If the shrill screams of children playing might bother you, you can easily opt for an adults-only cruise or adults-only all-inclusive resort . Of course, if you're traveling with kids, there's no shortage of kid-friendly cruise ships and all-inclusive family resorts in the Caribbean , Mexico and U.S.

What's included in the price?

Another huge variable is the price you'll pay for a cruise versus all-inclusive resort – and what exactly is covered.

Cruises: Taking a cruise can be a great value , but it's important to note that inexpensive base fares aboard large, mainstream cruise lines can often be misleading. Once you add in additional costs for taxes, fees and port charges; gratuities; stateroom upgrades; specialty dining and beverage packages; excursions; and Wi-Fi access, the total price of your voyage may end up much higher than you expected.

To avoid surprise extra fees throughout your trip, you might want to consider sailing with a luxury line like Viking Ocean Cruises . Although such cruises typically come at a higher price point, the line's fares cover all meals (including specialty dining venues), beer and wine with lunch and dinner, nonalcoholic beverages and bottled water, one shore excursion in each port, onboard Wi-Fi access and more. Also consider cruise deals, which often include last-minute incentives and kids-cruise-free promos .

Book a cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

All-Inclusive Resorts: When it comes to all-inclusive resorts, be sure to research what's included in the nightly rate before you book. Couples-only Sandals Resorts International in the Caribbean offers some of the most inclusive resort pricing setups, with rates covering accommodations, gourmet dining at up to 16 restaurants, snacks, premium wines and liquors, stocked in-room bars, water sports, complimentary golf course greens fees (select resorts), PADI-certified scuba diving (at most properties), entertainment, Wi-Fi access, gratuities and airport transfers. Extra fees apply for spa treatments, local excursions and personalized events, like private dinners on the beach. Other resort brands may not offer such an extensive list of included perks, so be sure to check with the specific property you are interested in. And again – look for available offers when booking. Many all-inclusive resorts offer kids-stay-free promos on a regular basis.

Do you want to drive or fly to your vacation destination?

Courtesy of Sandals Resorts

Before you find yourself sipping umbrella drinks with a good book in hand, you'll have to put in the work of traveling to your destination. It goes without saying that visiting an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean will require an international flight, but you may also need to hop on a plane to reach your chosen cruise ship terminal. Still, many ships sail from popular ports in Florida cities – including Fort Lauderdale , Miami , Tampa and Cape Canaveral (Orlando) – and travelers outside of the Sunshine State can find sailings out of ports in California, Texas, New York and Louisiana. Depending on where you live, you may be able to save yourself a flight (and some money) by driving directly to your embarkation port.

You may also be able to book a stay at an all-inclusive resort (or a property with an all-inclusive option) without traveling too far from home. Florida offers a couple of all-inclusive properties ideal for those who don't want to leave the U.S. Consider Bungalows Key Largo, which caters to travelers 21 and older visiting the Florida Keys. In contrast, some properties across the U.S. offer special packages to create your own all-inclusive experience .

What type of accommodations do you prefer?

Cruise ship cabins can be tight, especially if you're traveling with another person (or an entire family). The good news is that there are plenty of choices when it comes to stateroom sizes and configurations, depending on the cruise line and specific ship you choose. Cabins can be as compact as 100 square feet (in the case of Norwegian Epic 's Studio staterooms) or as vast as 4,443 square feet ( Regent Seven Seas Splendor 's lavish two-bedroom Regent Suite).

If space is important to you, plan to budget for a larger cabin, or one with a veranda. The Azamara Quest 's Club Verandah Staterooms (175 square feet) are not much larger than its Interior Club Staterooms (158 square feet), but the addition of a balcony with extra seating, natural light and outdoor access makes them feel much more roomy. For even more space, consider splurging on a suite, which may also add valuable perks like complimentary specialty dining, laundry service and Wi-Fi access. Some suites are designed with families in mind, such as the Ultimate Family Suite on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas . The two-story accommodation features an indoor slide, a private game and movie room, a hot tub, ocean views and VIP experiences across the ship.

Back on land, hotel rooms and suites at all-inclusive resorts will typically be more spacious than most cruise ship accommodations, meaning you'll have more square footage to spread out. At the family-friendly all-inclusive Windjammer Landing in Castries, St. Lucia , accommodations run the gamut from 400-square-foot ocean view rooms for two to almost 1,400-square-foot, two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six people. The property also boasts a selection of luxury beachfront villas that measure up to 4,200 square feet.

What type of entertainment and dining options do you expect?

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Whether you're traveling solo or with a partner and/or friends, decide whether you'd like to party on vacation (think Carnival Cruise Line ) or prefer a more quiet, intimate getaway (such as a river cruise ). Also think about the entertainment and dining options offered by each. On large cruise vessels, like Norwegian Cruise Line 's ships, you can find infinite eateries, Broadway-calibur entertainment and adults-only nightclubs that stay open into the wee hours of the morning. There are also fun-filled activities for younger travelers, like racetracks, laser tag, aqua parks, rock climbing walls and rope courses. Not all these activities will be included in your fare, so you can choose to pay as you go or purchase packages that offer unlimited access. Fitness classes, spa access and entry into adults-only lounge areas may also come with a fee, as can soft drinks and bottled water throughout the day (unless you have a beverage package).

However, smaller, more intimate ships still offer plenty of fun – albeit with fewer crowds. Cruisers can choose from several dining venues, some of which change their menus daily. For example, Azamara changes its menu every evening in the main dining room, Discoveries Restaurant. The eatery always offers classic favorites, such as shrimp cocktail and grilled New York strip steak, but it also includes nightly features, many of which are inspired by the ship's destination. Smaller ships will also typically have a few bars or lounges that host entertainment for more mature, refined audiences (think: piano players or other live music in the evenings), plus theaters that feature a different show each night. Still, you might find fun-loving passengers on the dance floor late at night and DJs spinning karaoke tunes at lounges on the ship.

All-inclusive resorts typically offer a wide range of on-site dining venues, entertainment, activities and amenities as well. For example, the gated 7,000-acre Caso de Campo Resort & Villas in La Romana, Dominican Republic, features three golf courses, an equestrian center, tennis courts, skeet and trap shooting, water sports, complimentary merengue lessons and more. Packages at the resort include accommodations, all meals and beverages and access to most (or all) of these activities.

Resorts may also feature more unique amenities than cruise ships. For example, at Caso de Campo, guests can visit Altos de Chavón. Inspired by a 16th-century Mediterranean village, this impressive replica of a medieval hamlet is home to local artisans and boutiques. There's also an archeological museum, the St. Stanislaus Church and a 5,000-seat amphitheater with panoramic views of the Chavón River and the Caribbean Sea. After dinner at one of the property's signature restaurants, you can hit the nightclubs, or, if you're lucky, catch a concert in the amphitheater. If you'd like to spend an afternoon or two outside of the property, sign up for a resort excursion (additional fees apply). Travelers can explore nearby beaches by catamaran, visit a local cigar-making factory or take an exhilarating zipline ride through the treetops.

Bottom Line

With so many variables to consider, choosing between a cruise and an all-inclusive resort can be overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Too often, travelers are lured by low prices and get frustrated trying to select from the many alternatives. Instead, follow the simple process summarized below.

Once you've figured out your travel goals and have decided between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, you can narrow down your options. If you don't want to fly, check out the cruises that sail from ports in the U.S., all-inclusive resorts within driving distance, and even properties that offer package deals for meals, beverages and excursions. Also, consider the amount of entertainment and activities you or your family are interested in. If you're not traveling with kids and prefer adult-focused venues and activities, book an adults-only resort or cruise that doesn't cater to families.

If you're hoping to avoid crowds, then you might be happiest on a small ocean voyage or at an intimate property. You should also arrange to travel in the offseason. In addition to fewer people, this time of year offers some of the best-discounted cruise fares or room rates. Offseason varies depending on the destination, but it's typically between June and early September in Florida. If you're headed to a resort in Mexico, the Caribbean or the Bahamas, or if you're considering a Caribbean cruise, prices drop dramatically during hurricane season – June 1 to Nov. 30. Europe is a great option for deals from late fall into early spring. There is also a period right before Christmas and after the New Year holiday that offers a window where you can score discounted pricing before the season gets busy again.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Top Cruise Line Private Islands
• Cruise Packing List

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Hotels and Resorts , All-Inclusive Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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All Inclusive Cruises

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The 12 Best All-Inclusive Cruises for 2024

When it comes to all-inclusive cruises, there are a few different options:

• Luxury cruise lines: All-inclusive cruise rates are available on luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. While more expensive than traditional cruise rates , the fares cover nearly everything, including door-to-door transfers, luxurious suite accommodations, specialty dining , premium alcoholic beverages and excursions. Plus, you don't need to show your cruise card every time you order a latte or a pre-dinner cocktail. You'll disembark the ship with very few, if any, additional charges on your final bill.
• Cruise lines with inclusive pricing: Alternatively, you can consider an upscale cruise line like Viking, which offers fares with more-inclusive pricing and some of the amenities found on board the fully inclusive lines. However, you'll still have to budget for a few expenses, such as immersive excursions and alcoholic beverages beyond wine or beer at lunch and dinner.
• Packages and add-ons: Other cruise lines like Oceania, Windstar and Norwegian offer add-on drink packages and other promos so you can create a more all-inclusive experience.

After comparing the costs between a truly all-inclusive cruise and a sailing with package pricing for the extras, the total price may be closer than you think.

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All-Inclusive Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Regent Seven Seas touts its six ships – with the newest vessel, Seven Seas Grandeur , which debuted in late 2023 – as "the world's most luxurious fleet." The line's intimate ships accommodate up to 750 guests. They feature all ocean-view suites, prestigious museum-quality art collections (including a prized Fabergé egg on the new Grandeur), and itineraries that call on more than 500 destinations around the world.

With Regent's "every luxury included" philosophy and 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares, passengers receive round-trip airfare and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs (based on the itinerary), and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel package for concierge suites and higher. On the ship, enjoy a fully stocked in-suite minibar; specialty dining; unlimited fine wines, spirits and other beverages; prepaid gratuities; unlimited Wi-Fi; and free valet laundry service.

On top of personalized service, guests sailing on Regent Seven Seas cruises will enjoy immersive exploration ashore – with overnights in some ports of call – and enrichment programs. Top-notch dining includes French cuisine at Chartreuse (on select ships), Pan-Asian fare at Pacific Rim (also on select ships) and Italian fare at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen (available on Grandeur, Splendor and Explorer ), some tours and bespoke excursions, spa treatments, unique offerings, and certain wines and top-shelf liquors come with an additional cost.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Sailing on board one of Silversea's 13 ultra-luxury cruise or expedition ships commences with the line's new chauffeur experience. This door-to-door service transports guests from home to the airport and back home on the return trip. The line's all-inclusive pricing also encompasses international or domestic flights (with business class upgrades in certain destinations), pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, butler service in every suite, all gratuities, gourmet dining, and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including Champagne.

Guests will also enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1 – and with no more than 728 guests. Other all-inclusive perks include at least one shore excursion in each port plus onboard lectures and programming. On expedition sailings in destinations like Antarctica , all guided Zodiac tours and landings are included in the fare.

When it comes to dining on Silversea ships, gourmet options feature French, Asian and Italian cuisine along with other international fare. For a special evening, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is a new destination-focused concept on Silver Ray, Nova , Moon and Dawn . This immersive dining experience, Sea And Land Taste, was developed in partnership with the former editor-in-chief of "Saveur Magazine," Adam Sachs. The culinary offerings with S.A.L.T. also include shore excursions, where guests can tour a 500-year-old family winery and vineyard in Croatia, visit an organic farm in Denmark, or learn to make gelato in Sicily.

Expenses not covered in Silversea's fare include salon and spa services, personal training sessions, select excursions, upgraded internet packages, and special bottles of wine or liquors.

Compare Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn's seven purpose-built expedition vessels and intimate luxury cruise ships accommodate between 264 and 600 guests. The club-like atmosphere on board its ships comes with highly intuitive and personalized service with about a 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. Each suite also has a dedicated personal suite host and a suite attendant that will cater to your every whim.

All-inclusive fares include oceanfront suites with walk-in closets, living areas and luxurious bathrooms. All Seabourn Encore and Ovation accommodations feature private verandas, while 90% of the suites on Seabourn Odyssey , Sojourn and Quest have balconies. Premium and penthouse suites offer additional amenities and perks.

While aboard Seabourn Cruise Line , guests will enjoy complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome Champagne, and a fully stocked in-suite bar with your personalized selections. Dining is a real treat, with several venues in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller, such as the line's signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller. Seabourn is also a member of the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy.

Other complimentary amenities on Seabourn's cruise ships include special evenings with dinner and live entertainment; a marina and complimentary water sports; "Caviar in the Surf" on select voyages; movie nights; a chance to shop with the chef at local markets; personal valet luggage shipping service; enrichment lectures; and more.

Additional expenses include a wide selection of epicurean, mindfulness and wellness excursions as well as cultural and historical bespoke tours. You can also book the ultimate underwater adventure on one of the line's high-tech submarines on the two expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Pursuit. Programs and treatments at Seabourn's Spa & Wellness are also at an additional cost.

Find a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages features "always included" cruise fares on its two purpose-built yachts, World Navigator and World Traveller. The line recently welcomed a third ship to its fleet for the 2023-24 Antarctica season, World Voyager. Atlas' high-end boutique ships cater to just 198 passengers and feature spacious staterooms and suites with panoramic windows or private balconies and beautiful public spaces and lounges. These small ships also have several options for dining, depending on the sailing and destination.

The all-inclusive fares cover complimentary dining; unlimited wines, craft beers and spirits; 24-hour bar service with canapes; a free in-room minibar; afternoon high tea; fresh-pressed juices and specialty teas and coffees; butler service; 24-hour room service; prepaid gratuities; cultural immersion in every port; and other perks.

Polar expedition fares cover private charter jet service, group transfers from the airport to the yacht, an Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest to take home, Zodiac sightseeing safaris, expert guided shore landings, and destination lectures and briefings.

If you're on one of the line's Epicurean Expeditions, the cultural immersion program offers complimentary special tastings, market visits and cooking demonstrations. In addition to use of the marina's water toys (on select sailings, weather permitting), guests can enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and an alfresco Josper Grill dining experience at 7-AFT Grill. On select voyages, culinary presentations, wine tastings and other special events are hosted by an expert.

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More-Inclusive Cruises

Cruise fares with these lines include many of the amenities and perks that you'll find with the all-inclusive cruises. However, you'll still need to budget for some expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, excursions and specialty dining, depending on the line.

Viking's ocean fleet of nine 930-passenger all-veranda ships offers a nearly all-inclusive experience for guests. The upscale Scandinavian-inspired ships feature king-bed staterooms and suites with many amenities, including luxurious linens and plush robes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi – plus an in-room minibar with soft drinks, water and snacks. Higher-category staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises come with additional perks like priority dinner and spa reservations, early stateroom access, and a welcome bottle of Champagne.

Cruise fares also include complimentary dining at all the venues; one free shore excursion in every port; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffee and bottled water; access to the spa; lectures and performances; port taxes and fees; and more.

Viking also has two 378-passenger Polar Class 6 expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. These ships also offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with the same amenities as their oceangoing vessels. Pricing on the expedition sailings includes Zodiac safaris, the use of kayaks, a keepsake Viking jacket, and essential gear for excursions and landings.

Select excursions, pre- or post-dinner cocktails, spa treatments, special bottles of wine, and other optional purchases come at an additional expense.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships carry a maximum of 702 guests and offer immersive experiences around the world, calling on many smaller, lesser-known ports. The line also boasts more than 380 overnights and 850 late nights in port, so guests can have dinner in town and experience more of the destination's local culture and cuisine.

Azamara's cruise fares include all meals (other than the specialty dining restaurants) with water, tea and coffee. A selection of complimentary wine, sparkling wine, beer and spirits is available throughout the voyage. Cultural evenings ashore or on board the ship and gratuities are also included in the basic cruise fare.

If you'd like to enhance your onboard experience, Azamara offers inclusive "Experience More" packages that are discounted and based on the length of the voyage.

For example, on a seven-day or shorter sailing, solo travelers can add a package for $799 that's valued at $1,114 (a savings of 28%). This value-add bundle includes $350 of onboard credit to use for shore excursions; unlimited Wi-Fi for one device; a drinks package featuring premium wines, spirits and bottled water; a $150 spa credit; and a dinner at the Chef's Table or a total of three nights of specialty dining at Prime C or Aqualina. Three bags of laundry are also included.

Guests can book similar packages for double occupancy staterooms and longer voyages. You can also choose individual beverage, dining or internet packages if you don't need the extra amenities or features of the bundled options.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' four superyacht-inspired ships are designed with adults in mind and feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. Pricing with the adults-only cruise line includes stateroom or suite accommodations and meals at more than 20 eateries serving up international cuisine and dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. Guests also have access to complimentary Wi-Fi; unlimited group exercise classes; nonalcoholic drinks such as water, tea and coffee; and plenty of lively entertainment.

Virgin does not offer beverage packages, but the line at times advertises special promotions that include voyage credits to cover expenses like airfare and drinks. Shore excursions and spa treatments – including skin care offerings on board Scarlet Lady in partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Virgin's chief entertainment and lifestyle officer – are some of the additional expenses not covered in the base fare.

Find a Virgin Voyages deal on GoToSea.

Add-on Packages and All-Inclusive Fares

These five cruise lines offer basic cruise fares that cover accommodations and some amenities – and you can typically find special pricing and promotional deals throughout the year.

With the optional packages, guests can create a mostly all-inclusive voyage with bundles of add-on extras, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities or shipboard credit to cover miscellaneous personal expenses such as spa treatments or a bottle of wine for a special celebration.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania's eight small luxury ships carry between 648 and 1,238 guests. The line's newest ship – Vista , the first Allura Class vessel – debuted in Rome in May 2023. The beautifully appointed vessel features four new dining concepts, spacious standard staterooms at 290-plus square feet in size, new Concierge Level veranda accommodations for solo cruisers, an elevated mixology program and more.

Oceania's culinary program is touted by the line as "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" under the tutelage of Jacques Pépin, executive culinary director and master chef. Complimentary specialty dining is included in cruise fares on Oceania sailings. Pricing also covers airfare, still and sparkling water, specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, and Wi-Fi on the ship.

Oceania's "OLife Choice" package provides additional value to your cruise with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare and airport transfers – plus one free amenity you'll choose out of eight complimentary shore excursions, a beverage package or up to $800 in shipboard credit.

Explore Oceania Cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers special rates and packages throughout the year that save money over a la carte pricing – and elevate your onboard experience to be more inclusive. You'll be able to access the best deal on the added perks if you book the upgraded package before you sail, saving up to 40 to 50 percent of the actual cost.

The line's "All-Included" package bundles the most popular add-ons for cruisers: a standard beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, unlimited basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities for the staff and crew. Pricing depends on the stateroom or suite category and sailing.

There are other options when booking a cruise with Celebrity to create a more upscale and all-inclusive experience. Guests staying in all-suite The Retreat have exclusive access to a sundeck (on select ships), a lounge and Luminae – a private restaurant that features Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud at the helm. Guests of The Retreat booking the "All-Included" package receive a premium beverage package, premium unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities and an onboard credit.

If you book AquaClass accommodations, you'll also have access to complimentary amenities and perks, such as unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, discounts on spa treatment packages and complimentary fitness classes. In addition, you'll also find a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival (by request) and two bottles of water refreshed daily in your room. AquaClass guests also have exclusive access to the restaurant Blu. You can add the "All-Included" package to your booking, which will include the Classic Drinks Package, basic Wi-Fi and gratuities.

Passengers who want to book this "All-Included" package and are sharing a stateroom or suite will need to book the same package.

Compare Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers promotional fares and special deals throughout the year that feature similar amenities and perks to what you'll find on an all-inclusive cruise. The "Free at Sea" deal bundles discounts on the cruise, free specialty dining, unlimited open bar privileges, shore excursion credits, savings on Wi-Fi access, discounts on the third and fourth guests in the stateroom, and a 2-for-1 deal on airfare.

"Free at Sea Plus" takes the package up a notch with a more comprehensive beverage selection, including top-shelf cocktails, Champagne by the glass, bottles of select premium wines at dinner and signature Starbucks coffee drinks. This option also includes unlimited Wi-Fi, additional nights of specialty dining and shore excursions.

Prices for both packages on Norwegian Cruise Line will depend on the dates, length and destination of the cruise.

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line's "Have It All Premium Cruise Package" is available to book for cruises six days or longer, excluding the line's Grand Voyages. The benefits vary depending on the length of the trip but include credits for shore excursions; the Signature Beverage Package; specialty dining at Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto; and a Wi-Fi Surf Package. The cost starts at $50 a day per person. 

An early booking bonus for this package includes an Elite Beverage Package upgrade, covered crew appreciation charges and a premium Wi-Fi upgrade. Holland America has other special promotions throughout the year. One of these is an early booking bonus of up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom for Mariner Society members.

Find Holland America deals on GoToSea.

Princess Cruises

"Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages offer guests two options to upgrade their onboard amenities from the standard Princess Cruises plan, which covers accommodations, dining, entertainment and the line's signature MedallionClass experience.

"Princess Plus" perks include a beverage package with drinks up to $15 each, Wi-Fi on one device per guest, gratuities for the crew, two premium desserts a day (think hazelnut gelato at the onboard gelateria), two fitness classes per cruise (such as Pure Barre or YogaSix) and unlimited trips to the juice bar. The cost is $60 per day per person for this middle-tier package.

Additional benefits of the highest-tier option, at $80 per person per day, include the Premier Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $20 each, and Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest. Other features of the "Princess Premier" upgrade are two specialty meals, a photo package, Princess Prizes, reserved theater seating and a Medallion accessory.

Explore Princess Cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises
• First-Time Cruise Tips: Mistakes to Avoid
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Best Cruise Insurance Policies
• Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which One Is Right for You?

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WHY CRUISING IS THE BEST WAY TO

Vacation with the family.

Trying to plan the ultimate family vacation? Royal Caribbean offers thrills for everyone onboard

Pulling off the perfect family vacation isn’t always easy, especially when you’re trying to cater to different ages and preferences. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean is known for delivering great family getaways designed to wow guests across multiple generations. Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is packed with palate-pleasing dining options, incredible entertainment, and unforgettable activities for all ages included in your cruise fare — not to mention itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most adventure-filled shores. The best part? All the planning has been taking care of for you, so you can focus on bonding with your loved ones while doing as much or as little as you like. 

GETAWAYS THE WHOLE CREW WILL LOVE

Your next family getaway is a click away — where will you wander next?

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BOLDER FAMILY BONDING STARTS HERE

Family-friendly vacation destinations are always on the itinerary when you sail with Royal Caribbean®. From thrill-topping island hopping to exploring the Last Frontier, max memories like never before onboard the best family cruise ships in the world.

cococay getaway

Kick family bonding up a notch at Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas — voted Best Private Island Experience by Travel Weekly readers. Turn up the thrills, like conquering Daredevil’s Peak®, the tallest waterslide in the Caribbean. Or unplug and chill along Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

EXPLORE OUR PRIVATE ISLAND

TROPIC TREKS

Sun-kissed shores are yours to explore. Build epic castles on the pink sand beaches of Barbados . Splash into the turquoise waters of Curaçao. Or wander through legendary forts in Puerto Rico . No one does kid-friendly cruises better than Royal Caribbean® — the cruise line voted Best Overall for 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers.

EXPLORE CARIBBEAN CRUISES

WILDEST WEEK EVER

Discover the magic of Alaska, where snowcapped mountains, towering forests and misty fjords dare you to deny their majesty. Spot bears hunting for salmon in Tongass National Forest. Listen to the thunderous roar of Hubbard Glacier . And cross once-in-a-lifetime experiences off your list together — on one unforgettable journey.

EXPLORE ALASKA CRUISES

WEST COAST WANDER

Nothing fuels bolder bonding like an epic adventure with your squad. Set out from L.A. on the family vacation you’ve been waiting for onboard the best cruises for kids. From whale-watching in Ensenada to post-card pretty shores in Puerto Vallarta and lounging on Cabo’s world-famous beaches — make memories that last a lifetime.

EXPLORE THE MEXICAN RIVIERA

SET SAIL ABOARD THE BEST SHIPS FOR FAMILIES

Cruise Planner is the place to get the most out of your adventure. Securing reservations and purchasing packages before you sail lets you score the best savings available anywhere. Add peace of mind to the mix — and you’re ready for big adventure. 

OF THE SEAS

CUE THE MEMORY MAKING

From record breaking rides — like the tallest slide at sea — to dining that offers a taste of every culture and shows that will leave you in awe, being onboard a Royal Caribbean ship makes the journey as bold as the destinations you’ll visit.

SUN-SOAKED FUN

Each ship offers endless ways for families to fill their sea days. Think epic experiences like a plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠, and glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles that are bound to boost your adrenaline. Sun-soaked pool parties and hang ten sessions on the FlowRider®* surf simulator. A round of Mini Golf with a side of sea views and a rushing zip line ride ten stories above deck — and that’s barely scratching the surface.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

DIAL UP YOUR DINNER

With so many delicious dining options onboard, everyone in your family will find something to satisfy their cravings in between adventures. From the endless selection of complimentary flavors at Windjammer Café and family-friendly feasting with My Family Time Dining at the Main Dining Room, to specialty restaurants that take you from the Far East to Italy to Wonderland, there’s something to please every taste onboard.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

NEXT LEVEL SHOWS

Every night is an opportunity for the whole family to enjoy some of the best entertainment at sea. Dazzling original productions and fan favorites straight from Broadway, deck-defying high dives and aerial stunts at the AquaTheater, and the coolest moves you’ve ever seen on ice at the skating rink — you’ll quickly discover that on these ships, every performance is a show-stopper.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

room for everyone

Finding your crew’s just-right stay-place is easy, with spacious rooms designed with families in mind. Choose from rooms with endless ocean views or suites with wrap-around balconies. And if you’re craving next-level luxury, the first-ever Ultimate Family Townhouse on  Icon of the Seas℠ maxes the memories with three tiers of unbelievable amenities and direct access to the Surfside℠ neighborhood from your private patio.

EXPLORE ACCOMODATIONS

ENDLESS WAYS TO DO DATE NIGHT RIGHT

Who says a family vacation has to be all about the kids? While the young ones are off exploring onboard or having a blast at the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program, reconnect with your partner over dinner at one of the fleet’s world class specialty restaurants, catch a Broadway spectacular in the Main Theater, or get down on the dance floor to the sounds of a DJ or a talented live band.

KID APPROVED CARE

Craving a little grownup time? Both Adventure Ocean and the Royal Babies & Tots programs provide care and educational activities for kids in different age groups. Adventure Ocean also offers a Late Night Party Zone group sitting for children ages 3-11 between the hours of 10 p.m. and 2 a.m., so you can enjoy a stress-free adults-only night out on deck.

EXPLORE YOUTH & TEEN PROGRAMS

PENCIL IN A PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

While the kids are at play, indulge in the ultimate date night with your partner in adventure. Kick things off with a dinner to remember, followed by a glass of your favorite wine at Vintages or a singalong session at Schooner Bar. Then keep the party going long into the night at a live stand-up comedy show before you take a whirl on the dancefloor at Club Twenty.

EXPLORE CRUISE NIGHTLIFE

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Don’t sweat the details — they’re all taken care of so you can focus on making lifelong family memories.

Family vacations should be stress-free, and Royal Caribbean makes it easy to fuel your wanderlust without worry. You can book unforgettable  shore excursions , onboard activities and shows online before you board, making the planning process a breeze. Once you’re on deck, you’ll enjoy award winning service by dedicated staff members that strive to meet every request, whether you’re traveling with special needs or just looking for ways to celebrate a special occasion onboard.

You can even get started customizing every aspect of your vacation from the moment you book. Browse and save big on onshore experiences, beverage and specialty dining packages, spa treatments and more when you reserve in advance online through  Cruise Planner . That way, you can go straight to enjoying your vacation as soon as you come aboard the ship.

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Many of the attractions onboard require closed-toed shoes and socks, so pack accordingly.

Even if you’re on a summer sailing to the tropics, pack a sweater if you plan to use the ice skating rink.

Luggage might not arrive in your stateroom until later. Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can dive into adventure early.

BEYOND BRAGWORTHY

Fill every minute with everything you love, anytime you want. Indulge in gourmet globetrotting, applaud show-stopping entertainment, and take on fleet favorites like rock climbing and the FlowRider®* surf simulator, plus so much more!

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• World's Best

Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Large-ship Ocean Cruise Lines of 2023

Readers loved all the entertainment options, ports of call, and spacious rooms on these large-ship ocean cruise lines in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

When it comes to crowd-pleasing vacations, it’s hard to top the value and fun that a large-ship ocean cruise line delivers. These spacious ships, which have anywhere from 800 to 1,499 cabins, are big enough to give guests a wide choice of onboard activities, fine dining, and cutting-edge entertainment. They also deliver a huge variety of stateroom choices, whether you’re seeking an affordable cabin for a budget-minded getaway or plenty of space in a grand suite for a celebratory splurge.

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. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

For the cruise category, respondents were asked to rate individual ships; the results were combined to generate scores for cruise lines in different categories based on number of cabins, with large-ship ocean cruise lines falling between 800 to 1,499 cabins. Some cruise lines may appear in multiple categories depending on the makeup of their fleet.

Ships were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Cabins/facilities
• Itineraries/destinations
• Excursions/activities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

Courtesy of Disney

This year’s rankings delivered a few surprises. No. 2 Holland America Line moved up two spots from its 2022 ranking. The brand is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023, but readers had other things in mind when giving “HAL” the nod: “The tone of our ship was just what we were looking for, calm and relaxing,” said one voter of a voyage aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam . Others praised the company’s rock-solid musical entertainment and rewarding itineraries that go to Alaska, yes, but also many ports in Europe and South America. “We really, really enjoyed our Alaskan cruise,” one fan said. “The ship was nice, the food was great, the service was excellent, and the surroundings were absolutely beautiful!”

Slotting in at No. 3 this year was Disney Cruise Line, which garnered plenty of praise for its family-friendly programs and onboard atmosphere, despite falling from No. 1 last year. With a fleet of five ships, the line is celebrating an anniversary of its own this year, its 25th, with specialty music and entertainment on board this summer. “The ship was absolutely beautiful and there was amazing detail to everything,” said one passenger who traveled with extended family on Disney Wish . “Our granddaughter absolutely loves anything Frozen, so she certainly enjoyed the dinner show!”

This year’s voting also crowned a new No. 1: Cunard, yet another brand with plenty of history. Read on to learn why it topped the list as the best large-ship ocean cruise line.

Courtesy of Cunard

First launched in 1840, Cunard is once again top of mind for travelers who named it the world’s best large-ship line. Some fans may be looking ahead to the 2024 launch of Queen Anne, but many others don’t want to wait: the quintessential Queen Mary 2, which does transatlantic crossings between New York City and Southampton, England, offers as decadent a trip as ever, readers say. “Expect nothing less than the utmost of comfort and service,” opined one. “Loved our time on board and dressing up for a couple of nights during our seven-night crossing,” said another. This summer’s Alaska itineraries, aboard Queen Elizabeth, will afford plenty of opportunities to explore the wilds in the company of experts from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a new partner for the classic brand. The line’s Queen Victoria is another solid choice: “A lovely, well-crafted ship with excellent, attentive service — and a fabulous tea service," one reader shared.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.00

2. Holland America Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.44

3. Disney Cruise Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.31

4. Celebrity Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 84.56

5. Princess Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 82.13

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