Our 2025 Readers’ Choice awards are bigger than ever – and reflect big changes in the Australian market.
For a start, this year’s results show the phenomenal growth of river cruising since we launched The River Cruise Collective, with APT’s sparkling new sister ships voted Most Innovative, and newcomer AmaWaterways taking out its first award, showing it has made a big impact in its first year.
AmaWaterways once partnered with APT, and had no presence here. Now it has been voted our Best River Cruise Line. With new ships on the never-sailed-before Colombia River and its extensive program in Europe, Egypt, Africa and Asia, it also has the largest ship sailing on the Danube, the AmaMagna.
In ocean, perennial favourite Princess has once again won multiple awards, taking out the Best Premium Line category and Best for Entertainment. It has looked further than the stage, and at its 360 dining experience on ships like Discovery Princess, it has incorporated food and entertainment. On the new Star and Sun Princess ships, The Dome, a pool during the day and entertainment hub by night, hosts fantastic live shows.
But the Best Cruise Line award has been taken out by Oceania Cruises, which this season will have Oceania Riviera homeported in Australia for four months. It’s a recognition that our readers have continued to lean into the upper premium and luxury segments.
All-inclusive is becoming an important consideration for cruisers, and premium and upper premium lines are starting to package and bundle things like specialty dining, drinks, shore excursions and more.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has once again won the Best Luxury Line category. With its standout vessels dripping in beautiful artwork, a brilliant shore excursion program and exceptional service, it is a deserving winner.
Last year, we introduced a new category – the Best Upper Premium Line, where we are starting to see an emergence of lines tailored to those moving towards the luxury segment. Viking was your pick of the bunch this year.
An enormous amount of work goes on behind the scenes to improve our lives at sea. From the design of our suites to the food served from galleys, the cruise industry has made tremendous strides. As a result, the winners of our awards are at once a reflection of old loyalties and new relationships.
Uniworld has reclaimed its position as the Best Luxury River Line with its opulent ships, each vessel designed to reflect the destinations it visits. The brand also has huge plans for 2027 with the launch of more vessels.
And, for the first time, a river cruise line has won the Best for Shore Excursions category. Tauck has made its mark with unique and exclusive programs taking guests to Michelin-starred restaurants exclusively hired out by the company, and private meetings with lords and ladies in Europe’s castles.
Enjoy reading about our awards. What’s next? That’s what makes cruise so exciting.
Bernadette Chua, Editor
Table of Contents
Best Cruise Line
WINNER: Oceania Cruises
For the first time, luxury line Oceania Cruises has taken out the top gong in the Cruise & Travel awards.
The line has now positioned itself in the luxury sector and our readers have given Oceania their vote because of its service, smaller ships, immersive shore excursions and exceptional food.
The line’s well-appointed ships sail to an array of destinations, including the Mediterranean, South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, North and South America, and Alaska, calling in at more than 400 ports.
Over the past two years, Oceania has launched two new flagship vessels – the Oceania Vista in 2023 and Oceania Allura in 2025 – both with expanded dining options that include venues such as the specialty French restaurant, Jacques, named after the line’s founding Executive Culinary Director, Jacques Pepin. On board, there are more wellness options and larger suites that span up to 185 square metres.
Oceania Cruises has also revamped its included offerings, which includes all specialty restaurants, unlimited WiFi, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, 24/7 room service, as well as access to the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center.
Oceania Cruises has eight vessels in its armoury, combining older and newer vessels that can host up to 1250 guests. The line’s smaller ships, such as Oceania Sirena, Regatta, Insignia and Nautica, exude elegance. Their intimate size (they accommodate up to 670 guests), as well as the convivial atmosphere on board, make these vessels the perfect ships to explore smaller ports.
Every itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to ensure guests spend more overnights in port, experience local cultures firsthand and visit off-the-beaten-path destinations.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Princess Cruises
Known for its premium style of cruising, great food and wide array of accommodation, Princess has come a close second. With sailings around the world, as well as a fleet of ships based in Australia, Princess is praised for its Broadway-style shows and excellent service.
Most Innovative Ship
WINNER: APT Solara and APT Ostara
This year saw the launch of two new river cruise ships that have changed the face of the river industry. Just when you thought you have seen everything, APT has come along with two luxury vessels that hold just 154 passengers.
This is the first time a river vessel has won the Most Innovative Ship award and it was well deserved.
APT Solara entered service in April, while APT Ostara followed just a month later. The identical ships are the first to have a restaurant that literally moves from one deck to another.
When the ship is sailing, the Gruner Bar and Dining is accessed from the back of deck three; when it’s in port, crew press a button and the entire venue, seating, galley, bar and all, lifts hydraulically up to the sundeck. Once there, it doubles as a walk-up bar where passengers catching a few rays or enjoying the views from the sundeck can refuel with their favourite tipple.
Unlike other river ships, there is no main dining room that seats everyone at once; instead, there are six different places to eat, plus the option of room service, all with their own look and feel (APT calls them dining experiences) so guests can chop and change between venues as the mood takes them.
APT Solara and APT Ostara’s interior look and feel was the work of Hecker Guthrie, a Melbourne-based design firm that had never worked with a cruise company. The result is something very different on the rivers, neatly blending clean lines with a light, bright, yet cosy vibe and nautical touches here and there.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Oceania Allura
The newly launched Oceania Allura doesn’t just look gorgeous, but the quality and style of the build shows that nothing has been overlooked.
There are almost a dozen different places to dine on board the 1200-person ship, including a new Japanese-Peruvian menu in Red Ginger as well as 270 new dishes in the Main Dining Room.
Oceania decided to do away with inside cabins and now, all rooms either have French balconies or verandas to suit all budgets.
Best Luxury Cruise Line
WINNER: Regent Seven Seas
Ultra-luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises has been chosen by Cruise & Travel readers as the Best Luxury Line once again. It comes as no surprise at all, as each RSSC ship delivers excellence in dining, service and accommodation, as well as experiences on and off the ship.
The beauty of the RSSC experience is that it is all-inclusive – once you step on board the ship, you don’t ever have to think about pulling out your credit card.
In every suite – whether it be the Regent suite or a deluxe veranda suite, you’ll find an amazing amount of space, with sumptuous décor and a butler to tend to your every need.
In 2024, the line debuted the Seven Seas Grandeur, which delivered jaw-dropping design as well as an incredible art collection. A Fabergé egg takes centre stage and a custom-made bronze and glass bonsai cherry tree is the main attraction outside the Pacific Rim specialty restaurant.
Next year, RSSC will debut the beautiful Seven Seas Prestige, and the line has already teased details before her arrival. At the pinnacle of the accommodation offerings is the new Skyview Regent Suites. At over 836 square metres, these bespoke suites feature private in-suite elevators, second-floor private terraces and a private gym, just to name a few inclusions.
The successful Culinary Arts Kitchen will return on Seven Seas Prestige, where guests will learn how to make dishes that are indicative of the regions they visit, which then ties in beautifully with the Epicurean Explorer Tours on land.
Guests can choose from a variety of shore excursions that take them to local markets to find exotic spices, savour gourmet meals by famous chefs or visit rolling vineyards to sample the best vintages of the region.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Scenic Ocean
Scenic’s all-inclusive model, high level of service and unique shore excursions have solidified the line’s place in the luxury sector.
The well-appointed Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II not only explore the sunny destinations of the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Australia, but the vessels are also both designed for luxury in the polar regions.
On board, there’s free-flowing premium wines and spirits, gourmet cuisine and butlers for every suite.
Scenic’s wellness offering is also exceptional, with ships boasting a 550-square-metre spa, yoga and Pilates instructors, Salt Therapy Lounge, Infared Sauna and Vitality Pools.
Best Upper Premium Line
WINNER: Viking Ocean
Known for its unique blend of contemporary luxury and cultural exploration, Viking Ocean’s fleet offers all-veranda intimate vessels catering for up to 998 passengers. The ships have been designed to navigate access to most ports around the world.
Dubbed as the ‘Thinking Person’s Cruise Line’, the no-kids, no-casino policy has been popular with adult cruisers. The wide array of enrichment programs on and off the ship, guest lecturers and destination-focused cruises make Viking a hit with Cruise & Travel readers.
The sleek Scandinavian-inspired ships have an abundance of public space, including the Explorer’s Lounge that boasts panoramic views and the Nordic-inspired Spa and Wellness Centre. The beauty is that the therapy rooms, like the Snow Grotto, Sauna and hydrotherapy pool, are included in the price of your fare.
For guests, all meals including specialty dining venues and room service are inclouded as part of your Viking cruise, as is WiFi, beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner as well as activities like entertainment and enrichment lectures.
Guests are also offered one complimentary shore excursion in each port, with the option to pay for alternative experiences. Don’t miss the lovely afternoon tea in the glass-roofed Wintergarden, the traditional Italian cuisine at Manfredi’s or a food and wine pairing at the stylish Chef’s Table.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Cunard
With its rich maritime history, Cunard has long been a favourite among traditional cruisers. Known for its iconic dark bows and red funnels, the line has been sailing since 1840.
On board, guests will find classic décor and white-gloved service and it’s one of the few lines where guests can learn ballroom dancing and take fencing classes.
Afternoon tea is still served on board and guests can opt for formal wear at dinner. At the upper end of suite categories, Grill-class guests have access to butlers and to the Queens Grill restaurant.
Best Premium Line
WINNER: Princess Cruises
What sets a premium cruise line apart from contemporary is that these companies aim to provide a more luxurious experience while not breaking the bank.
These lines will have more inclusions, may appeal more to adults, and also offer fabulous dining and entertainment options.
This is why, by a huge margin, Princess Cruises has once again won this category. The line’s outstanding ships give guests all the big-ship takeaways, but with a sophisticated touch and approach.
Princess is renowned for its dining options, which include specialty restaurants like the steakhouse Crown Grill and the Italian Sabatini’s. The entertainment on board is also world-class, with Broadway-style shows that dazzle every evening and live bands in the bars.
Princess is particularly popular among families with older children, multigenerational groups, groups of Gen X friends, solo travellers and couples looking for romantic escapes.
For the 2025/26 season, the Crown Princess and Discovery Princess will homeport in the region, while the 2026/27 season will see the Royal, Grand and Crown Princess sail from Australia.
Princess last year launched the new Sun Princess, the first of its Sphere-class ships. The vessel features a new multi-level, glass-covered deck called The Dome, which by day is a pool and by night is a stage.
The Sun Princess also boasts 30 restaurant and bar venues with special highlights like Love by Britto, an artistic-inspired dining experience celebrating love in partnership with Brazilian painter Romero Britto and the new Sanctuary Collection. This part of the ship has 80 Signature Collection Suites, 123 Mini-Suites and 12 Premium Deluxe Balconies.
Guests staying in this area have access to exclusive private dining and relaxation areas.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises is a worthy runner-up this year and with the Celebrity Edge committing to Australia for a fourth in 2026/28. With three ship classes – Millennium, Solstice and Edge, the line has continuously evolved the ships with cutting-edge designs like the cantilevered Magic Carpet as well as the Infinity Verandas, which have revamped the traditional balcony cabins so there is much more space for guests.
The cruise line is also lauded for its wonderful dining options and culinary experiences. The Edge-class ships have four main dining venues and a host of specialty restaurants.
Best Family Cruise Line
WINNER: Royal Caribbean
Indoor skydiving? Surf simulator? Waterparks, ice skating rinks and ziplines? When it comes to action-packed family fun, Royal Caribbean is hard to beat. And with Disney’s exit from the Australian market, you won’t find a more family-friendly line sailing out of local ports.
Operating the largest cruise ships in the world, Royal Caribbean has the space to keep everyone entertained around the clock. With a fleet of 30 vessels, you can go anywhere in the world – even to a private island owned by the line. A huge range of cabin configurations means there’s something to suit families of every size, from budget-friendly interior cabins with bunk beds to the over-the-top Ultimate Family Suite. Set over two storeys, it has a slide, air hockey table, in-suite cinema with video games and a Royal Genie to grant your every wish.
With on board restaurants ranging from buffets to poolside burgers, pizza, sushi and Italian, you’ll find something for even the pickiest eater. Family Time Dining lets you get the kids fed early in the main dining room and promises to have them finished within 40 minutes.
The kids’ clubs are next level, with options from babies to teens. The Adventure Ocean program has dedicated science and art spaces, a theatre with special kids’ shows, and supervised hangout spots for the older ones. The late-night party zone runs from 10pm to 2am, so parents can enjoy a well-deserved night out.
For the upcoming season there will be two Royal Caribbean ships in Australia – Anthem of the Seas sailing from Sydney and Voyager of the Seas sailing from Brisbane. The line has formed an exclusive partnership with local icons The Wiggles for six exclusive ‘Wiggly Sailings’ that will feature special entertainment, live concerts and character meet-and-greets with Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus and Wags the Dog.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line has been calling themselves the ‘Fun Ships’ for decades and that’s exactly what you can expect on board. Waterslides, sports courts, ropes courses and thrilling edge-of-the-ship experiences will entertain both the young and the young at heart.
And when the grown-ups need a break, the Adult-Only Serenity Retreat is an escape from the Carnival chaos, with a pool, hot tubs, bar, spa treatments and more. Since taking over beloved local line P&O earlier this year, Carnival now has three ships homeported in Australia year round and another that visits during the peak season.
Best Contemporary Line
WINNER: Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line has come out as the winner of the Best Contemporary cruise line in the Cruise & Travel awards. Designed to suit all types of travellers across different budgets, the ships also appeal to a range of cruisers.
Whether you’re a couple looking for a more intimate experience, or a multigenerational family that wants plenty of activities and dining options on board, the cruise line really does offer something for everyone.
The fleet of 19 ships is split across nine classes, which vary in size and amenities onboard. The newer vessels in the Prima-class is where you’ll find a multitude of dining options, the sumptuous ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept, The Haven and plenty of rides like the Aqua Slidecoaster – the world’s first hybrid roller coaster and waterslide at sea.
NCL’s entertainment team are at the forefront of designing new shows that have never been seen before and on board Aqua, the high-octane, adrenaline pumping show, Revolution: A Celebration of Prince is masterful tribute to the artist.
The decadent Haven promises luxurious accommodation, a private dining area, bar and pool separate from the rest of the ship. Solo travellers are also treated to their own sanctuary with cabins designed specifically for singles.
For those looking for a smaller ship experience, the line recently refurbished the Norwegian Spirit, which will be dedicated to APAC region. In 2020, the ship received a $100 million renovation where all its staterooms, dining areas and lounges have been modernised.
The beauty of the Norwegian Spirit is that it has been designed for longer journeys and, because of its size, it can navigate into smaller ports and spend more overnights in destinations.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Royal Caribbean
Boasting the world’s largest ships as well as a range of different classes of vessels, Royal Caribbean is a firm Australian favourite in the contemporary category.
The line’s new Icon-class has attracted plenty of attention with its Royal Promenade area, waterparks, array of food and beverage options and accommodation choices. Locally, Australia will have Quantum of the Seas based out of Brisbane and Anthem of the Seas sailing from Sydney.
Best Adventure Line
WINNER: Ponant
The French expedition line is a firm favourite among Cruise & Travel readers, and Ponant’s array of intrepid itineraries and purpose-built ships have earned it the accolade of Best Adventure Line once again.
Ponant has proven time and time again that there are still remote corners of the seas left to be discovered. In September 2024, the hybrid-electric icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot, took passengers and scientists to the North Pole of Inaccessibility – a stretch of the Arctic where no human had dropped anchor before.
Ponant’s Science Program, tied to its expedition itineraries, is designed to attune guests to environmental concerns and engage in conservation efforts while they sail on their adventure.
The line’s fleet hosts only around 250 guests and, aside from cold climate regions, Ponant has also stamped its mark as the leader in expedition cruising in the Kimberley, South Pacific and South America.
The onboard experience is second to none. With superb cuisine, spacious accommodation, indulgent spa and wellness offerings and luxurious public spaces, guests will experience five-star service after a day filled with adventure and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Ponant’s vessels are smaller than most other cruise ships and can access regions and boutique ports where larger ships can’t visit.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: HX
HX has been taking curious travellers and sailors on adventures since 1896, particularly around the Norwegian Fjordlands where they have a long and storied history.
But the HX of today now visits destinations like the Galapagos Islands, South America, Iceland and Alaska, as well as the Northwest Passage and Arctic Canada.
HX has science centres on board some of their ships so guests can get closer to the destinations they visit.
Best Line for Yachts
WINNER: Scenic
Scenic has once again won this prestigious category, delivering on exceptional service on the Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II.
Scenic’s all-inclusive approach as well as its intimate and gentle atmosphere have seen it take out the Best Line for Yacht category for three years in a row.
Cruise & Travel readers mentioned the extensive itineraries that stretch from the Kimberley all the way to the Arctic. Guests have use of helicopters, submersibles, floating hammocks, Seabobs and kayaks, bringing the fun to their adventure cruise.
The adventure-led ships are designed though, for guests to experience yacht-life onboard. There are 10 sumptuous dining venues on both vessels, including specialty fine-dining venues like the French-inspired Lumiére, the Asian fusion restaurant Koko’s, as well as the exclusive Chef’s Table.
Scenic also takes pride in its wellness offerings – the Senses Spa comes equipped with saunas, steam rooms and Vitality pools, as well as a cold plunge pool. There’s also specialised classes dedicated to yoga, Pilates and stretching, and masterclasses taught by expert chefs on healthy cooking.
There are other features like Scenic’s open-bridge policy, which invites guests to visit the captain whenever they wish. On top of that, the vessels have a dynamic positioning system that allows access to untouched beaches that many other vessels can’t offer.
In 2028, Scenic will launch a new class of yacht, the Scenic Ikon, which will be larger than the Eclipse-class and will sail the Mediterranean for the majority of the year, before offering expedition voyages in Antarctica.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The ultra-luxury hotel brand is the first to venture into the cruising space and has done a splendid job of making its mark. The company has redefined luxury yacht-cruising and currently has three yachts sailing.
All suites on the Evrima, Ilma and Luminara have balconies, and concierge services are available to all accommodation categories. There are intentions for the yacht brand to bring a yacht to the Australian/New Zealand region.
Best River Line
WINNER: AmaWaterways
For the first time, AmaWaterways has won Cruise & Travel’s Best River Line Award.
Our readers have lauded AmaWaterways for its sleek and contemporary ships, the destinations they sail, their seamless service and robust shore excursion program.
The family-owned and operated company operates 23 ships sailing in Europe as well as an additional six vessels dedicated to Southeast Asia, Egypt, Africa and Latin America.
Whether you’re sailing on the picturesque Douro River, a wine trip through Bordeaux or on an African safari, there is an itinerary suited for everyone.
What AmaWaterways has done so well to capture the hearts of its readers is the personalised and uncrowded experience onboard. They have also mastered the art of wellness and activity on and off the ship, and as the first river line to offer complimentary bicycles for guests, they now have full biking programs complete with expert leaders and support vehicles.
Culinary experiences on board AmaWaterways are also highly regarded, with the cruise company a proud member of the internationally recognised La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and Tables et Auberges de France. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included, and talented chefs prepare exceptional dishes inspired by regional flavours, showcasing locally sourced ingredients.
All cabins and suites on AmaWaterways vessels frame river views and the interiors are contemporary with striking pops of colour and luxe finishes.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways has perfected the art of contemporary river cruising with its great array of shore excursions, sleek ships, elevated dining and award-winning suites. Suite Ships average just 150 guests, which give travellers much more space.
And while the brand has fabulous service, it’s all the pampering without the puff. You’ll find younger river cruisers on board due to the plentiful hiking, biking and active shore excursions on offer.
Best Luxury River Line
WINNER: Uniworld
It’s two in a row for Uniworld as our readers name it the Best Luxury River Line again in 2025. Its fleet of Super Ships are unashamedly opulent, with richly patterned wallpaper, plush furnishings, marble bathrooms and original artworks. Expect grand staircases, chandeliers studded with sapphires, priceless antiques and enough gilt finishes to put the Palace of Versailles to shame.
Each ship is inspired by the destinations it sails, so you’ll find beautiful azulejos tilework on the S.S. Sao Gabriel sailing in Portugal, and enjoy Venetian glamour on board S.S. La Venezia as you sail through Italy. In every stateroom and suite, you’ll sleep on a handcrafted bed from Savoir of London and bathe with toiletries from Asprey. Stay in a suite and you’ll have a butler on hand to help with everything from unpacking your suitcase to preparing a pre-dinner cocktail and even ironing your newspaper.
All-inclusive fares are one of the true hallmarks of a luxury line and once you step on board your Uniworld ship you won’t need to spend another cent. Sumptuous meals, all-day drinks (including fine wines and top-shelf spirits), shore excursions, 24-hour room service, WiFi, airport transfers and more are all covered. Food is always a highlight on a Uniworld cruise, with a farm-to-table philosophy that puts authentic recipes made with local ingredients on your plate every day. Each ship has multiple restaurants, with the S.S. Joi de Vivre offering an incredible six dining options including a French bistro, supper club and Chef’s Table in the kitchen.
Big things are on the horizon for Uniworld, with seven new ships to launch by 2027. Film buffs will want to cruise on the S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene, inspired by screen icons Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich. They are also branching out into ocean cruising, launching a small expedition yacht, Aqua Blu, in partnership with Aqua Expeditions.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Tauck
This is the first time Tauck has been awarded a place in this highly competitive category. The 100-year-old, family-owned company has been cruising the rivers of Europe for more than 30 years and has perfected its unique style of boutique luxury.
Tauck’s ships are a similar size to other ships on these rivers but carry an average of 110 guests – far fewer than competitors. That means you’ll enjoy more public space, larger cabins, personalised service and a tranquil atmosphere on board. The ships are also a big hit with solo luxury travellers, offering spacious single cabins and no single supplement.
Best Line for Food
WINNER: Oceania Cruises
Cruise & Travel readers have their clear favourites, and when it comes to dining, the obvious choice is Oceania Cruises. This Upper Premium cruise line has been voted the Best Line for Food for seven years in a row. But that’s to be expected when you’re serving “the finest cuisine at sea” and constantly refining your overall offering in the endless pursuit of culinary excellence.
Oceania frequently updates the menus across its many prestigious, highly regarded restaurants, which are all included in the fare (apart from select wine-paired dinners on Oceania Marina and Riviera). The sense of dynamism is a big reason why readers love dining on an Oceania cruise, whether that’s fleet favourites like the Asian-inspired Red Ginger and Italian Toscana, or new concepts like Aquamar Kitchen, which has been added to Oceania Marina after debuting on Vista in 2023. New ship Allura will make its debut in 2025 with a new culinary venue, Crêperie, serving French-style crepes, Belgian waffles and ice-cream sundaes.
The gourmet experiences continue with best-in-class, hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Centre, found on Riviera and Marina, and signature Culinary Discovery Tours ashore. Each edible innovation ensures Oceania stays the frontrunner for foodies.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: APT
Australian line APT’s two new river ships – APT Solara and APT Ostara – launched in 2025, have seriously upped the ante for river cruise dining. With six restaurants on board (seven if you count room service), they have twice as many dining options as you’d find on a standard river ship.
Several are by invitation only, so we recommend booking one of the Owner’s Suites to try them all. In a world-first, Gruner Bar & Dining can be raised by hydraulics from deck three up to the sun deck while the ship is docked, making for spectacular views over the port.
Best for Activities
WINNER: Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean takes out this highly competitive category again this year, thanks to their constant onboard innovation. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the ships are the destination – floating cities packed with outdoor adventures, games, entertainment and much more.
It starts with those instantly recognisable, one-of-a-kind experiences you’ll only find on Royal Caribbean. Catch a wave on the FlowRider surf simulator, feel the wind in your hair on a Ripcord by iFly indoor skydive and take in the world’s most famous ports from more than 100 metres above sea level in the North Star observation pod. On Quantum Class ships, Seaplex is a one-stop entertainment extravaganza with roller skating, bumper cars, ice skating, sports courts, laser tag and arcade games. Ever wanted to run away and join the circus? A few classes at trapeze school will have you swinging with the best of them.
Across other ships in the fleet, you can challenge your friends in the escape room, enjoy the thrills and spills of the largest waterpark at sea, brave the sky-high ropes course, scale the rock-climbing wall, tee off at mini golf, and ride the zipline all the way across the deck. For something a little more relaxing, join the daily classes in everything from salsa dancing to Spanish language to sushi making. Belt out a tune in the Star Moment karaoke studio, test your skills during an interactive game show or just relax with a movie under the stars.
On Oasis Class ships, the AquaTheatre features the deepest pool at sea flanked by nine-metre diving platforms and puts on mesmerising high dive performances. More world-class shows are held in the Two70 theatre where cutting-edge tech transforms two storeys of 270-degree windows into anywhere in the world.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Norwegian Cruise Line
Coming in a close second, Norwegian Cruise Line promises some of the most adrenaline-pumping activities at sea. Inside their signature Thrillplex (found on Breakway and Breakaway Plus ships), you can zoom around one of the largest racetracks at sea, climb a dizzyingly high ropes course and walk the plank, which extends eight metres off the side of the ship.
Huge waterparks have everything from towering waterslides to fun splash pads for kids and immersive gaming lets you play against your fellow cruisers in augmented reality laser tag or trippy virtual worlds. On Norwegian Aqua, the Slidecoaster is the world’s first hybrid waterslide and roller coaster.
Best Line for Service
WINNER: Princess Cruises
We saw a big upset this year in the Best for Service category. Traditionally, it’s been won by the ultra-luxury lines with butler service and white-glove dining. So it was something of a surprise to see premium line Princess come out on top. But our readers told us how much they appreciate the warmth, dedication and attention to detail from the Princess crew. It’s one of the reasons the line has some of the highest rates of returning passengers in the industry.
This approach to service is summed up in Princess’ official C.R.U.I.S.E. credo: Courtesy, Respect, Unfailing In Service Excellence. Every member of the crew has been trained to follow these guidelines, ensuring the whole ship works together harmoniously to create memorable moments. Our readers highlighted the personalised service they’ve experienced, with favourite crew members remembering their preferences and making every day run like clockwork. Everything is designed with your enjoyment in mind, and the crew will feel like family by the end of your voyage. At the same time, this award shows that good service doesn’t have to mean over-the-top indulgence. A relaxed approach suits the typical Princess cruiser, making them feel at home on board.
Princess Cruises takes their service up a notch with technology, as seen in the MedallionClass experience. The Medallion is a small wearable device that enables faster boarding, stateroom entry and navigation on the ship, and WiFi access. It also lets you find your friends and family on board, send messages, save events that you’d like to attend, and contact the crew to have food, drinks or anything else you need delivered to you anywhere on the ship.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Regent Seven Seas
Once more, it’s a battle of the small ship luxury lines in this category, with Regent coming in second again. Expect exceptional ships and impeccable service, though butler service is only available for Penthouse Suites and above.
The staff-to-guest ratio is high here as well, with 1:1.5 across its fleet of elegant boutique ships. Regent promises that every crew member will know your name by the end of the cruise, and they’ll also remember your drink order or how you like your eggs. With the launch of the new Seven Seas Prestige in 2026 teasing a new legacy of exclusivity, expect even more from Regent in the future.
Best Line for Entertainment
WINNER: Princess Cruises
A surprise new winner for the Best in Entertainment category this year, our readers have recognised Princess Cruises for their commitment to fresh new shows, interesting performance spaces and a stellar cast.
The new Sphere Class ships (2024’s Sun Princess and Star Princess, which launched just a few weeks ago) are the pinnacle of at-sea entertainment with shows unlike anything you’ve seen before. Guests will enjoy multiple arena shows, like Meridien, a cinematic love story set on a fictional cruise ship; Stage Struck, a celebration of musical theatre; and Illuminate: A Spectacle of Joy, an immersive experience set beneath a velvet circus tent. The Princess Arena is the most technologically advanced theatre in the fleet, a versatile, in-the-round set-up that can seat up to 1000 guests. For more intimate performances, The Dome is a unique glass-enclosed space on deck, the first of its kind ever built on a cruise ship. Inside, be entranced by candlelit classical concerts that blend sight, sound and cinematic storytelling as well as aerial acrobatics from the French-Canadian Cirque Éloize.
Across the rest of the fleet, the exclusive Magic To Do show is a first-of-its-kind partnership with Broadway icon Stephen Schwartz, a three-time Oscar-winner and composer of Wicked, Pippin and Godspell. It’s a Broadway-calibre musical that combines some of Schwarz’s best-known songs, new works created especially for Princess, and plenty of magic. On Royal Princess, you can watch another Schwartz exclusive – The Secret Silk, an Asian folklore tale with puppets.
Away from the theatres, there’s more entertainment to be found across Princess’ ships. Enjoy live music, game shows, comedy, magic and illusionists, and movies under the stars. There’s even an interactive version of the famous singing show The Voice, complete with auditions, performances and the spinning chairs – the audience gets to choose the winners.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Norwegian Cruise Line
Cruise & Travel favourite NCL has slipped back a spot in this category this year, but our readers still rave about the entertainment offerings. Big-name international productions, sizzling dance performances and live music of every genre will keep you entertained each night of your cruise.
Step back into 1960s Liverpool with a Beatlesesque gig at The Cavern Club, laugh along to the latest live comedy act, play interactive Wheel of Fortune, or put on your brightest whites to dance the night away at the H2Glow deck party. Night owls will want to hit the Bliss Ultra Lounge nightclub, open until the small hours.
Best Line for Wellness
WINNER: Scenic
A cruise is the perfect opportunity to relax and focus on yourself. Our readers think the best place to do this is on a Scenic ship. On both its river Space-Ships and ultra-luxury oceangoing Discovery Yachts, the wellness facilities are unmatched.
Almost a decade ago, Scenic introduced its unique Salt Therapy Lounges on European river ships and is still the only river cruise line to offer them. The salt brick walls and precise humidity and temperature setting will soothe your tired muscles after a busy day on shore. You’ll find these lounges on the 6-star Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II as well, though they are even fancier. Designed by renowned German company KLAFS, you can relax on heated stone lounges with music playing through Bose headsets while breathing in the dry salt mist that benefits your respiratory system and skin. The yachts also feature infrared saunas, steam rooms, therapeutic showers and multiple vitality pools. Indulgent treatments in the huge Senses Spa use lush ESPA products.
If you like to stay fit on board, head for the Pure yoga and Pilates studio, the only one of its kind at sea. Sessions include aerial yoga using cloth slings suspended from the ceiling, TRX suspension training and mindful meditation. Scenic also runs dedicated wellness ocean voyages, where the focus is on holistic health and healing. The itineraries have more days at sea with minimal ports, so there’s more time to experience everything on board. With a schedule of fitness classes, special events, workshops and masterclasses, you’ll feel like a new person when you disembark.
The next-generation yacht Scenic Ikon will launch in 2028 and takes wellness to a whole new level. The expanded spa will span 1700 square metres across two levels, with nine vitality pools and a huge range of specialised treatments.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Cunard
Though it traditionally offers a more old world style of cruising, Cunard has put a renewed focus on its wellness offerings in recent years. And our readers have taken notice. Cunard’s new Wellness at Sea program (in collaboration with luxury bible Harper’s Bazaar) features a range of signature experiences and tailored programs themed around recovery, relaxation or energisation.
The new Pavilion Wellness Café serves a plant-forward menu plus smoothies, pressed juices and ‘health shots’ with ingredients like turmeric and ginger. Special Wellness at Sea voyages are guided by experts who can give you the tools you need to continue your health kick back on dry land.
Best Line for Accommodation
WINNER: Avalon Waterways
On Avalon Waterways ships, beds face the wall-to-wall window, rather than the traditional set up where the bed runs parallel to it. It’s one of those innovations that seems obvious in retrospect but only a handful of lines have implemented it. It means you can relax in bed, open the curtains and watch the ever-changing views unroll before you.
Better still, you can open the window to almost the entire width of the cabin, so your stateroom effectively becomes one giant open-air balcony. This revolutionary style of balcony is the star of the line’s signature Panorama Suites and top-of-the-line Royal Suites, and a big hit with Cruise & Travel readers. While many outdoor balconies effectively steal space from the cabin, these open-air balconies bring the outside in without making things feel tight. The windows open sideways (rather than the standard top down) and the opening is over two metres across in Europe and an incredible 3.3 metres on Avalon Saigon in Asia. This vast wall of glass is the largest standard window in river cruising.
Space is a big feature of Avalon Waterways’ accommodation. Staterooms and suites are more spacious overall than the river cruise average. The 18.5-square-metre Panorama Suites are 30 per cent larger than average and Royal Suites can be up to 28 square metres. On Avalon’s newer ships in Europe, you’ll find two full decks of Panorama Suites making up as much as 80 per cent of the accommodations on board.
They’re big on style too – many cruisers say it feels more like floating in a boutique hotel rather than travelling on a river ship. Egyptian cotton linens, marble bathrooms and L’Occitane products make these ships the perfect blend of luxury and comfort.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Oceania Cruises
The opulent Owner’s Suites on Oceania Cruises’ newest ships Oceania Allura and Oceania Vista are up to 223 square metres. That’s about the same size as your average Sydney house, though considerably more luxurious. They also come with 24-hour butler service, catering to your every whim around the clock.
Even if you’re not staying in the top suites, Oceania’s entry-level staterooms still feature floor-to-ceiling windows, complimentary minibar and gourmet chocolates at turn down. It’s this consistent and considered approach to luxury that made our readers vote Oceania Cruises into second place for accommodation in the 2025 awards.
Best Line for Shore Excursions
WINNER: Tauck
Our readers know that what happens on shore is just as important as the facilities on board. This is one area where Tauck really shines. You told us how much you like the line’s small group sizes, handpicked local guides and authentic experiences, making it a worthy winner of this category. And with every shore excursion included in the fare, Tauck cruises also represent some of the best value around.
One of Tauck’s big selling points is that it has fewer guests on board its river ships, and this philosophy carries over into shore excursions as well. Smaller groups make for a more intimate experience and the chance to get even closer to Europe’s treasures. There’s a focus on cultural immersion and connecting with the locals, from artisans and artists to historians and chefs. Tauck guests get to enjoy experiences unavailable to other travellers, like exclusive classical concerts, gala dinners in grand palaces and tastings at private vineyards. It’s also one of the few lines that runs dedicated family river cruises in Europe and the shore excursions are tailored to match. That could be a guided scavenger hunt through the Louvre or an evening in a German castle with archery lessons and medieval games.
On its small ship ocean cruises, you can choose cultural itineraries or intrepid expedition voyages with one-of-a-kind shore excursions to match. Enjoy an evening with a geisha in Japan, tour a private villa in Palermo, explore the Sistine Chapel after hours and visit a family farm in Iceland to learn about their traditional way of life. Tauck expedition cruises visit Antarctica, the Arctic, the Galapagos Islands and the Panama Canal. Shore excursions here are guided by experienced naturalists or passionate adventurers. Wildlife encounters, mountain hikes, Zodiac cruises and ocean kayaking will thrill even the most experienced cruiser.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Ponant
Ponant takes silver again this year, with our readers highlighting its signature French style of immersive experiences on shore. Each excursion is led by naturalist guides, wildlife photographers or experts from the worlds of art, science, culture or cuisine.
Cruising to some of the world’s most remote destinations, Ponant guests have the opportunity to interact with Indigenous communities and learn about their strong ancestral traditions. Small ships and off-the-beaten-track ports mean excursions are always intimate, and you can expect the same level of five-star luxury you enjoy on board. Ponant also has a strong commitment to sustainability, so your experience on shore will also be a positive one for the environment.
Best Line for Sustainability
WINNER: Ponant
Ponant makes it two years in a row as our readers name it Best for Sustainability. The luxurious French line believes that travel must be a responsible act and that taking guests to the farthest corners of the globe can only be done with care and respect. With 13 ships in the fleet, from ultra-luxury catamarans to intrepid icebreaking expedition vessels, Ponant offers an incredible diversity of cruises from the sparkling waters of the Seychelles to the icy extremes of the polar regions.
In 2024, Ponant became the first-ever cruise line to earn Green Globe certification, an internationally recognised standard for sustainable tourism. It is only awarded after a detailed assessment based on 44 criteria and 380 indicators, and the certification process needs to be carried out again every year. That means there’s no resting on their laurels for Ponant. They have continued to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency across the fleet, have almost entirely removed single-use plastics, use desalination and wastewater treatment systems to reduce water usage, and select suppliers based on a short supply chain.
Through the revolutionary Swap2Zero program, Ponant’s research and development team is aiming to launch the world’s first carbon neutral transoceanic vessel in 2030. This next-generation cruise ship will combine fuel cell technology, marine carbon capture, and wind-assisted propulsion to achieve near-zero carbon emissions.
As well as the latest onboard tech, Ponant is committed to protecting marine life and vulnerable ecosystems. The Ponant Science program regularly welcomes scientists onto the ships, taking them to inaccessible regions to learn more about the ocean. Ponant also places Indigenous communities and their traditional knowledge at the centre of their onshore explorations. For example, in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, they collaborate with the Wunambal Gaambera and Dambimangari Aboriginal Corporation to offer immersive Indigenous-led experiences.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Hurtigruten
Norway is leading the way when it comes to sustainable tourism, so it makes sense that Norwegian-based line Hurtigruten is also at the forefront. The fleet utilises certified biofuels, advanced propellor blades and control systems, shore-power connectivity, and state-of-the-art wastewater systems to minimise their impact.
They have also eliminated single-use plastic and compost their onboard food waste to be used by local farmers growing fresh produce for the ships. Like first-place Ponant, Hurtigruten is also working towards launching a zero-emissions ship in 2030 – we can’t wait to see who comes out on top.
Best Cruise Port
WINNER: Sydney
Sydney makes it four in a row, taking out the title of Best Cruise Port again in 2025. We have to agree with our readers – there’s nothing like docking right in the heart of the world’s most spectacular harbour. Even the most seasoned cruiser can’t resist standing on deck or out on their veranda as their ship sails through the heads and past Australia’s most famous landmarks.
Perched on the edge of Circular Quay right between the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, the Overseas Passenger Terminal is arguably the world’s most picturesque place to dock. Stroll off your ship and it’s just a few steps to Sydney’s top restaurants, bars and tourist attractions. Wander the historic streets of The Rocks, Australia’s oldest suburb; walk across the bridge to admire the view; or hop on the new light rail to explore George Street, Chinatown and beyond.
Some smaller ships dock at White Bay in the inner harbour. While it’s a little further away from the action, it does mean you get the once-in-a-lifetime experience of sailing beneath the Harbour Bridge. It’s just a quick taxi ride or shuttle bus trip into the city.
Once you’ve docked in Sydney, there’s so much to see and do. Catch a wave at the world-famous Bondi Beach, then celebrate with a drink at Icebergs overlooking the iconic Bondi ocean pool. Talk to the animals at Taronga Zoo, which sits on a hillside overlooking the harbour. Learn about the area’s ancient Indigenous roots on a guided tour or soak up some contemporary art at an award-winning gallery. Sydney is even close enough to places like the Blue Mountains and Hunter Valley that you can easily visit them on a day trip while in port.
HIGHLY COMMENDED: Brisbane
The capital of the Sunshine State is fast emerging as Australia’s second-most-important cruise port. After a revamp worth close to $200 million, some of the world’s largest cruise ships can now call at Brisbane and ships are starting to homeport in the city year-round.
Almost 150 vessels visited Brisbane in the last wave season, and it’s perfectly positioned for short cruises along the Queensland coast, and to New Zealand and the South Pacific. Shore excursions can take you into the city, to spectacular Stradbroke Island, into the lush hinterland and in search of Australia’s iconic wildlife.
