5 Top Cruise Lines in the Caribbean & Hawaii
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There are so many islands in the world, and the best way to see them is by setting sail. Endless sunshine, tranquil waters and exciting ports are what you can expect on a Caribbean or Hawaiian cruise. Most cruise lines sail to these tropical spots, and each ship has its own special features and unique offerings. In this guide, we’re covering our most popular cruise lines sailing in the Caribbean and Hawaii. Here’s what’s to love about these favourites!
Royal Caribbean International
No surprise here, Royal Caribbean is known for its big ships, family-friendly vibes, and over-the-top amenities.
Didn’t think you could skydive, ice skate or learn to surf all on a ship? Think again. Highlights include rock climbing walls, a zipline 10 decks high and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants and bars. On Oasis Class ships you’ll find an aqua theatre featuring the deepest pools at sea flanked by 2–30-foot diving platforms that set the scene for high diving and aerial performances. Plus, enjoy exploring unique public spaces like a recreation of New York’s Central Park, an upscale gathering place that opens to the sky with quiet nooks for reading and relaxation, and high-end shops for some retail therapy. You can even reserve staterooms overlooking these spaces, classified as Boardwalk and Central Park views.
Royal Caribbean even has its own private island in The Bahamas, designed to offer guests an unforgettable experience of relaxation and adventure: the aptly named Perfect Day at Coco Cay.
Fun fact: Royal Caribbean has trademarked “of the Seas”.
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Celebrity Cruises
No, Leonardo DiCaprio won’t be aboard these ships, but you’ll still feel like a star on Celebrity Cruises. A love of travel is the ethos behind this cruise line which offers a modern luxury experience aboard stylish and cutting-edge ships featuring upscale design and innovative cuisine. Take in breathtaking destinations, luxurious accommodations and personalized service as you relax and explore.
Discover innovative public spaces like the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform floating above the sea where you can enjoy a meal or catch a show. You could even visit a rooftop garden with real grass while you’re out at sea. Plus, Celebrity Cruises features an exclusive Suite area with dedicated pool decks, lounges and exclusive dining by renowned chef Daniel Boulud. \
Plus, Celebrity Cruises takes the stress out of travel with accessible cruising options, like Boarding With Ease and autism-friendly certification.
Fun fact: The first cruise ship that performed same-sex marriages onboard was part of Celebrity Cruises fleet. Also, the first woman to captain a mega ship was with Celebrity Cruises!
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Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its fun, laid-back ambiance and inventive “freestyle cruising” concept. It’s easy to spot these colourful ships as they sail into port, as each has a unique mural painted on the hull. Some ships have an exclusive area full of high-end cabins and suites called The Haven that comes with its own private pools, lounge areas and restaurants.
Frequently named the leading cruise line by World Travel Awards. With no enforced dress codes and a huge array of onboard entertainment ranging from Broadway-style shows to laser tag and speedway tracks, you’ll never run out of things to do while onboard. Plus, Norwegian Cruise Line offers cruises sailing from Hawaii all year round and has its very own private islands, Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye, for you to explore.
Fun fact: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America Ship is specifically and exclusively built for Hawaiian cruises only.
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MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is known for its refined onboard experience, eclectic facilities and commitment to lower-impact tourism. A luxurious resort experience at sea coupled with the cruise line’s renowned Mediterranean flair and service all but guarantees an unforgettable escape at sea.
Exclusivity is the name of the game, and MSC Cruises has it in spades, with their very own private island escape: Island Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, and tailored Yacht Clubs just for suite guests to enjoy at their leisure.
There’s always excitement aboard thanks to the wide range of amenities and all-ages activities on the ships, ranging from Broadway shows and live music to bowling alleys and arcade games. If you need some time away from the little ones, there are dedicated supervised kids’ clubs for different age groups to socialize in, so you can enjoy the extensive spa facilities in peace.
Getting hungry? MSC Cruises has plenty of dining options to explore ranging from casual to gourmet, so every meal is guaranteed to please.
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Princess Cruises
If you’re after an extended experience at sea, Princess Cruises has the perfect itineraries for you, with trips ranging from 7 to 20 nights. A trip with Princess Cruises is the perfect way to indulge in luxury travel at affordable prices.
While aboard, you can take advantage of the exclusive and innovative MedallionClass® program to enjoy a personalized cruise experience with perks like touch-free boarding, keyless stateroom entry, as well as food and drink delivery service from anywhere on the ship.
Plus, you’ll find the travellers aboard Princess Cruises ships to be of a more mellow and relaxed disposition, so you’re not very likely to come across packs of excited kids or energetic young adults.
Fun fact: Mature travellers may already recognize Princess Cruises from the iconic TV show, “The Love Boat”, which was set aboard the Pacific Princess and Island Princess ships. In fact, the show’s theme song can be frequently heard playing over their ship’s horns.
What’s Next
We’ve taken you on a tour of our most popular Caribbean and Hawaiian cruise lines, but there’s still many to explore! Check out deals from all partners here to find your perfect match or read about some of their top island itineraries