The Rise of the Cruise Industry: Awards and Trends in 2023
In the vast expanse of the leisure travel industry, cruise ships continue to sail toward unprecedented popularity. Cruise Critic’s 17th annual Best in Cruise Awards has recently highlighted the best options for travelers seeking maritime adventures, with Virgin Voyages capturing the coveted top spot. As Colleen McDaniel, Editor-in-Chief of Cruise Critic, notes, “The growth of the cruise industry is astounding — with nearly 40 million travelers expected to cruise in 2026.” This remarkable expansion brings with it an ever-increasing variety of options for travelers. These awards, determined by both expert reviewers who have “spent hundreds of nights at sea” and actual cruisers through the Cruisers’ Choice category, provide valuable insights for anyone considering a voyage on the high seas.
Virgin Voyages has emerged as the standout cruise line of the year, earning the distinction of Best Cruise Line overall. What sets Virgin apart is its refreshing approach to the cruise experience – offering exceptional onboard experiences with a come-as-you-are policy and truly all-inclusive fares. In an industry often criticized for constantly upselling passengers, Virgin’s transparent pricing model has earned enthusiastic praise. As one reviewer on Reddit put it, “Virgin doesn’t nickel-and-dime — there’s no gratuities and all specialty dining is included… 98% of all the food is included.” The addition of the Brilliant Lady, a massive 110,000-gross-ton vessel that began its maiden voyage this summer, has further strengthened Virgin’s position. Perhaps most appealing to many travelers is the adults-only policy, which Cruise Critic describes as preventing the ships from feeling like “being trapped in a jungle gym on the high seas” while delivering “high-wattage fun, boundary-pushing food, dazzling entertainment and cool vibes.”
The Cruisers’ Choice award, representing the voice of the people, went to Margaritaville at Sea. This cruise line lives up to its relaxed namesake with a “laid-back vibe” and welcoming “island time” atmosphere that resonates with passengers. Travelers particularly appreciated the lively entertainment options including live music, comedy shows, trivia contests, and deck parties. The attentive crew members, from cabin stewards to restaurant staff, also received high marks, as did the tropical-themed comfortable cabins. However, it hasn’t been entirely smooth sailing for Margaritaville. Earlier in 2024, their ship Margaritaville at Sea Paradise initially failed a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sanitation inspection, scoring only 82 out of 100 (with 85 being the passing threshold). The good news is that a follow-up inspection in July saw the ship earn a much-improved score of 92, demonstrating the company’s commitment to addressing concerns and maintaining proper standards.
The Celebrity Xcel, the newest and largest vessel in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, claimed the Best New Ship award after its debut in Florida last month. This 3,260-passenger floating palace impressed Cruise Critic with its “transformative experience in the destination-driven Bazaar” and elevated dining options, including new specialty venues like Bora and Mosaic that complement an already impressive array of restaurants. Beyond dining, the ship offers unique entertainment experiences with “a secret speakeasy and fun retro adult-forward arcade called The Attic,” plus “upgraded entertainment in the tech-forward theater and hip Club” that “continues to inspire awe.” This recognition comes at a welcome time for Celebrity Cruises, which faced challenges in August when one of its other ships, the Celebrity Constellation, experienced a significant electrical failure that left it drifting off the southern Italian coast for three hours before power was restored and the journey continued.
For travelers mindful of their budget, Carnival Cruise Line earned the Best Value for Money distinction. Carnival has mastered the art of providing an affordable yet comprehensive cruise experience, offering lower base fares than most competitors without compromising on inclusions or resorting to excessive additional charges. According to Cruise Critic, “Carnival offers one of the most inclusive cruise experiences around, with many of its restaurants included, and those that aren’t come with a reasonable fee.” The diverse selection of staterooms makes it easy for passengers to find accommodations that match both their needs and budget. Additionally, Carnival’s signature entertainment options, from comedy clubs to piano bars, are all included in the base fare, “ensuring your cruise will feel like a splurge without killing your wallet.” However, like any large travel company, Carnival has faced some challenges, including a recent lawsuit from two passengers who claimed they suffered more than 30 bed bug bites during a voyage in February.
As the cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory, these awards highlight the diverse options available to travelers with varying preferences and budgets. Whether you’re drawn to Virgin Voyages’ adults-only, all-inclusive approach, Margaritaville’s laid-back island atmosphere, Celebrity’s cutting-edge innovation and luxury, or Carnival’s exceptional value, there’s truly something for everyone on the high seas today. The industry’s expansion reflects travelers’ increasing desire for experiences that combine convenience, variety, and the unique perspective that only comes from exploring the world by sea. With nearly 40 million cruisers expected by 2026, cruise lines are continuously innovating to stand out in a competitive market. From enhanced dining experiences and entertainment options to improved sustainability practices and technological innovations, the future looks bright for cruise enthusiasts. As more people discover the joys of cruising, these annual awards serve as a valuable guide for navigating the many options available and finding the perfect maritime getaway to match individual preferences, interests, and budget constraints.
