Consumer Reports ranks best cruise lines to set sail on

Tuesday, February 3, 2026
If our frigid temperatures have you dreaming of getting away, you are not alone.

And, if taking a cruise is on your bucket list, you're in luck: a new Consumer Reports survey broke down the hottest destinations and the cruise lines that stood out the most.

Nearly 22 million U.S. travelers are expected to book an ocean cruise this year, which is a record-breaking 52% jump in just six years.

There are dozens of cruise lines, hundreds of destinations, and prices that can run from several hundred dollars to well over $10,000 per person.

"Consumer Reports surveyed nearly 19,000 members about their experiences on a cruise ship, everything from value for price paid, the kind of service they received, and even the food quality," said Consumer Reports Travel Expert Lisa Gill.



After wading through the data, three cruise lines earned Consumer Reports' recommendation.

At the very top: National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions. These are small ships, heading to places like Antarctica and the Galápagos. You get access to experts on nature, marine biologists, and expert photographers to deepen your experience.

Also, in CR's top three: Windstar Cruises and Viking.

Windstar also has small ships as well as motor-sail-powered yachts that give you a private feel. Consumer Reports said this line is relaxed, with no formal nights, and plenty of crew. But be aware: while it allows kids 8 and older, the ships don't have a lot of activities for children.

And, Viking does not permit children at all. No kids and no casinos.



It has smaller as well as mid-sized ships that hold a maximum of 1,000 passengers.

And this cruise line is also for people who like to learn, expect TED Talk-style lectures, great service, and a lot included in the price, from excursions to beer and wine with meals.

Each cruise and destination has a different price point.

But, seven-day cruises begin at around $2,000 and that starting price goes up to $3,400 for Consumer Reports' top three recommendations.

But it's important to note that survey respondents actually paid a lot more.



According to Consumer Reports, the median cost paid per adult for a National Geographic-Lindblad cruise is nearly $11,000.

The median cost on Windstar Cruises is almost $5,500 per person.

And Viking's median is a little more than $7,000 per person.

Coming in fourth on the list is the Disney Cruise line which is a fraction of those prices.

The median cost for a Disney cruise is a little less than $2,500 per person. (Disney is the parent company of 6abc).



Another cruise line that won't break the bank is Azamara. That's also in the top five and will cost you about $3,600 a person.

None of those prices includes extras or travel to or from the ship.
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