Heidi BucoloIf you’ve cruised before odds are you’ve sailed Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian Cruise Line. The big three mainstream cruise lines are popular for a reason — they offer something for everyone, sail from dozens of homeports, and make it easy to have a great vacation. But after a few (or few dozen) cruises you might be starting to wonder: what else is out there?
To find out exactly which lines experienced cruisers have on their radar, we asked our Facebook community which cruise lines they hadn’t tried yet but were absolutely dying to.
A clear top 5 emerged, followed by a secondary group of bucket-list-worthy lines. Whether you’re looking for something adults-only, a step up in elegance, or a completely different style of cruising altogether, this list has something for you. Here are the top 5 cruise lines experienced cruisers are dying to try next — counting down to the one that ran away with the most votes.
The Top 5 Cruise Lines Experienced Cruisers Want to Try Next
These five lines pulled away from the pack with the most votes in our community poll. There’s a reason each of them keeps coming up in conversations among experienced cruisers — they each offer something genuinely different from the mainstream experience.
5. Princess Cruises
Kicking off our countdown at number five is Princess Cruises. As inspiration for The Love Boat — the iconic TV series that introduced millions of Americans to the magic of cruising — Princess still delivers on the romance and elegance. This classic cruise line is one that many experienced cruisers have simply never gotten around to trying despite its strong reputation.
Why cruisers are curious: Princess has earned its reputation particularly in Alaska, where its presence spans over 50 years. The line also introduced MedallionClass technology, centered around a wearable OceanMedallion device that enables contactless cabin entry, food and drink ordering from anywhere on the ship, and personalized service. Princess is also known for its value with inclusive bundle packages and competitve pricing on itineraries spanning across the globe.
Who it’s best for: Princess appeals to a broad range of cruisers but tends to resonate most with those who appreciate a more traditional cruise experience. Multigenerational families, couples, and destination-focused travelers all fit in on Princess Cruises. If Alaska is on your bucket list, Princess is arguably the best line to get you there.
What makes it different from the big three: The classic cruise atmosphere without all the loud and flashy distractions, the MedallionClass technology, and the itinerary depth. Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages bundle WiFi, beverages, casual and specialty upcharge dining, and crew appreciation into convenient all-inclusive options that offer strong value.
What to expect to spend: Princess fares are competitive with the mid-to-upper range of the big three, especially when you factor in the value of the inclusive packages which cost extra on most mainstream cruise lines.
4. Viking
Viking might be a household name, but it’s in a completely different league than Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian. And that’s precisely why it landed so high on our poll. Known first for its river cruises, Viking has expanded into ocean and expedition cruising with a product that earns high loyalty.
Why cruisers are curious: Viking’s reputation speaks for itself. The cruise fare covers all dining across every venue including specialty restaurants, beer and wine at lunch and dinner, WiFi, and one shore excursion per port. There’s no nickel-and-diming and no upsells at every turn. Guests also have access to enrichment lectures, local performances, a thermal suite (on ocean vessels), and more. With smaller, more intimate ships, the cruise line offers upper premium service and amenities without feeling stuffy like some other luxury cruise lines.
Who it’s best for: Adults who are destination-first travelers. If you’re more interested in the history and culture of your ports than onboard attractions, Viking is worth trying. Ships stay in port until late evening or sometimes overnight, maximizing time ashore for a deeper connection. With ocean ships typically accommodating around 930 passengers and river ships only about 190 guests, the experience is intimate and sophisticated.
What makes it different from the big three: Nearly everything. The destination-first philosophy, the smaller ship sizes, the inclusive pricing, the adults-only atmosphere, and the Scandinavian design aesthetic all add up to a fundamentally different kind of trip.
What to expect to spend: Viking is an upper premium product and priced accordingly. Expect to pay quite a bit more than the big three but get many more inclusions in the upfront price tag.
3. Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises occupies a sweet spot that a lot of experienced cruisers find irresistible: it’s a step up in elegance from the big three without jumping into the luxury cruise sector. The line has carved out a distinctive position as a premium brand — sophisticated without being stuffy and elevated without being too expensive.
Why cruisers are curious: Celebrity’s tagline is “Nothing Comes Close,” and it delivers on that promise. From the moment you step onboard, the difference is noticeable. It’s not overwhelming, but rather contemporary with clean lines and thoughtful touches. The culinary program is a step above as well, with main dining rooms that outshine mainstream cruise lines and superb specialty dining. While the newest Edge-class ships are stunning, Celebrity has invested in revolutionizing its Millennium- and Solstice-class ships as well for a seamless brand experience.
Who it’s best for: Couples and adults looking for a refined, resort-like atmosphere without the high-energy entertainment of the big three. Celebrity tends to attract a middle-aged demographic — think mid-30s to mid-50s — who are looking to escape families and party vibes. It’s also worth noting that Celebrity shares a loyalty program with Royal Caribbean and Silversea, so you can cross over brands while still maintaining equivalent loyalty status and perks.
What makes it different from the big three: The overall atmosphere trends toward sophisticated and relaxed. For families and thrill-seekers expecting waterslides and go-karts, Celebrity will likely disappoint, but for experienced cruisers ready for something more refined, Celebrity might just be the answer.
What to expect to spend: Celebrity fares are typically higher than the big three for comparable itineraries. The “All Included” fare bundles a drink package and WiFi for greater overall value.
2. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise line by fleet size, and yet a surprising number of North American cruisers have never sailed with them. That’s quickly changing though, especially with MSC World America now sailing from Miami. MSC came in a strong second among lines experienced cruisers are most eager to try.
Why cruisers are curious: MSC has been steadily growing its North American presence while offering some of the most competitive fares in the market. The line often meets or beats pricing from Carnival while delivering a visually striking, European-influenced product. The line’s ships are a bit classier than the often loud and flashy decor on its competitors, but they are still very family-friendly. They also offer one of the best “ship within a ship” products.
Who it’s best for: Value-conscious cruisers who want a stylish, modern ship experience. Families will find a lot to love too, as MSC ships have solid kids programming and a variety of onboard attractions. And experienced cruisers who’ve been curious about the MSC Yacht Club — with its private restaurant, lounge, pool deck, and dedicated butler service — can experience a taste of luxury at a fraction of luxury line pricing.
What makes it different from the big three: The European flair — expect a more international crowd and an atmosphere that feels a bit more cosmopolitan. MSC also has its own private destination, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas, which consistently ranks among the best private islands in cruising.
What to expect to spend: MSC is frequently one of the best values in cruising. Base fares are competitive, and the MSC Yacht Club entry point, while premium, remains well below comparable luxury offerings.
1. Virgin Voyages
It’s no surprise Virgin Voyages topped our poll. No other cruise line generates more buzz among experienced cruisers, and the curiosity is well-deserved. Launched in 2021, Virgin Voyages set out to buck the definition of cruising — and it delivered.
Why cruisers are curious: Simply put: Virgin Voyages is different. There’s no main dining room, no kids, edgier entertainment, and more inclusions than other mainstream cruise lines. All specialty-restaurant-quality dining is included with choices like Extra Virgin for Italian, Pink Agave for Mexican, and The Wake steakhouse. In addition to all dining, basic WiFi, soda, and fitness classes are also included in the fare, not to mention one-of-a-kind entertainment and nightlife.
Who it’s best for: Adults only — you must be 18 or older to sail. If you’ve always wished cruising felt a little less like a theme park and a little more like a stylish boutique resort, Virgin is worth a serious look. The vibe trends livelier than most lines, with experiences like the signature Scarlet Night. This ship-wide deck party transforms the entire vessel into a red, tentacle-filled celebration. Yet, there’s still plenty of posh relaxation areas like the aft-located Dock, balcony hammocks, and the Redemption Spa.
What makes it different from the big three: The adults-only policy, the all-inclusive dining model, and a completely distinct atmosphere. Virgin ships don’t just feel like a flashier version of what you already know, they feel like a different experience.
What to expect to spend: Virgin fares are generally in the mid-to-upper range compared to the big three, but the additional inclusions add value.
Also on the Radar: More Cruise Lines Worth Trying
While the numbers were smaller, these additional six lines each earned a decent number of votes still worth mentioning. This tier skews heavily toward the premium and luxury end of the spectrum. Many lines are the next level for cruisers who are ready to splurge or are seeking something truly different.
Explora Journeys
MSC’s luxury cruise product launched in 2023 and has been turning heads ever since. Explora Journeys targets the luxury travel market with beautifully designed ships, a relaxed all-inclusive experience, and itineraries that emphasize the destinations. If you’re curious about luxury cruising but want something contemporary, Explora Journeys is worth a closer look. Yes, it’s one of the cruise lines we’re dying to try next as well!
Best for: luxury-curious cruisers who want modern design and a laid-back atmosphere.
Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises has one of the strongest culinary reputations in the industry, claiming “the finest cuisine at sea”. The ships are elegant and mid-sized, and they sail destination-rich itineraries with longer port stays. New in 2026, Oceania has transitioned to offer an adults-only experience with emphasis on a serene atmosphere and exceptional service.
Best for: food-focused travelers and destination seekers who want a premium experience without full luxury line pricing.
Holland America Line
Holland America is one of the most underappreciated mainstream cruise lines. In fact, Holland America Line has been sailing the world’s oceans since 1873, making it one of the oldest and most storied cruise lines. It offers a refined, classic experience with excellent enrichment programming, attentive service, and itinerary variety that allows guests to “linger longer” in destinations. The line’s music programming and dining quality are also top-notch.
Best for: experienced cruisers who appreciate a quieter, traditional atmosphere, perfectly mid-sized vessels, and unique itineraries.
Disney Cruise Line
Given its premium price tag, Disney Cruise Line is on many travelers’ bucket lists, and it’s not just for families with young kids. The attention to detail, service, entertainment, dining, and overall execution are best-in-class across the board. You don’t have to be a kid or have kids to enjoy all the Disney magic — from character meet-and-greets to the only fireworks at sea — Disney truly offers a unique cruise experience.
Best for: Disney fans of all ages, families with children, and anyone who appreciates exceptional service and Broadway-class entertainment.
Cunard
Cunard is in a category of its own. The Queen Mary 2 is the last true ocean liner in service, and many consider crossing the Atlantic on her one of the greatest travel experiences. With a current fleet of four ships, Cunard brings old-world elegance, formal nights, and a level of tradition no other line can match. And we’re as eager as you are to test out this classic British cruise line.
Best for: travelers who want a truly historic, classic cruise experience and appreciate formality and tradition done right.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is widely considered one of the top ultra-luxury cruise lines in the world. All dining, beverages, gratuities, unlimited shore excursions, a pre-cruise hotel stay, and more are included in the fare. The price is significant, but for what you get, many travelers consider it the pinnacle of cruising. Count us in — we too would love to experience Regent for ourselves!
Best for: affluent cruisers of any age who are ready to invest in the ultimate luxury cruise experience.
Which Line Will You Try Next?
The beauty of cruising is that there’s always another line to discover, another ship to explore, and another experience waiting. If you’ve spent years sailing Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian, you’ve built an excellent foundation, but with so many other options, now might be the perfect time to branch out.
The lines on this list are some of the best the industry has to offer, and your fellow cruisers are clearly paying attention. Whether you end up on a Virgin Voyages, Viking, or Disney sailing, one thing is certain: you won’t regret expanding your cruise horizons.
Comments
Which cruise lines are you eager to try next? Did any of your favorites not make our list? Drop us an anchor below to share if you’re ready to test the waters on another cruise line.
