5 Worst Cruise Lines to Avoid in 2023

Cruising is a popular vacation option for many people, but not all cruise lines are created equal. Some are known for providing a subpar experience, while others are consistently rated as some of the best in the industry.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the worst cruise lines based on customer reviews, complaints, and other factors. We’ll also provide some tips for choosing a cruise line that’s right for you.

So whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or you’re just starting to research your first cruise, read on to learn more about the worst cruise lines and how to avoid them.

Rank Cruise Line Reason
1 Norwegian Cruise Line Poor customer service
2 Royal Caribbean International Overcrowded ships
3 Carnival Cruise Line Lack of variety in dining options

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What Are The Worst Cruise Lines?

There are many factors that can contribute to a cruise line being considered “bad.” Some of the most common include:

  • Price: Some cruise lines are simply more expensive than others. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as the type of ship, the amenities offered, and the destinations included in the itinerary. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to avoid the most expensive cruise lines.
  • Itineraries: The itinerary of a cruise can be a major factor in determining whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Some cruise lines offer itineraries that are more exciting and varied than others. If you’re looking for a cruise that will take you to a variety of destinations, you may want to avoid cruise lines that offer more repetitive itineraries.
  • Ship size: The size of a ship can also be a factor in determining whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Some people prefer smaller ships, while others prefer larger ships. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, you may want to avoid cruise lines that offer large ships.
  • Ports of call: The ports of call that a cruise line visits can also be a factor in determining whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Some people prefer to visit popular destinations, while others prefer to visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations. If you have specific ports of call in mind, you may want to avoid cruise lines that don’t visit those ports.
  • Demographics: The demographics of a cruise line’s passengers can also be a factor in determining whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Some cruise lines cater to a more mature crowd, while others cater to a younger crowd. If you’re looking for a cruise that’s filled with people who share your interests, you may want to avoid cruise lines that have a different demographic than you.

Of course, these are just a few of the factors that can contribute to a cruise line being considered “bad.” Ultimately, what makes a cruise line “bad” for one person may not be a problem for another person. It’s important to do your research and find a cruise line that’s a good fit for your individual needs and preferences.

The Factors That Make a Cruise Line Bad

In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other factors that can contribute to a cruise line being considered “bad.” These include:

  • Customer service: The customer service provided by a cruise line can make or break a cruise experience. If you have a problem during your cruise, you want to be sure that you’re able to get help from someone who is friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. If you’ve had bad experiences with customer service in the past, you may want to avoid cruise lines that have a reputation for poor customer service.
  • Food: The food served on a cruise can be a major factor in determining whether or not it’s a good experience. If you’re a foodie, you may want to avoid cruise lines that have a reputation for bad food.
  • Entertainment: The entertainment offered on a cruise can also be a major factor in determining whether or not it’s a good experience. If you’re looking for a cruise that offers a variety of exciting and engaging entertainment options, you may want to avoid cruise lines that have a reputation for offering subpar entertainment.
  • Cleanliness: The cleanliness of a cruise ship can also be a major factor in determining whether or not it’s a good experience. If you’re looking for a cruise ship that’s clean and well-maintained, you may want to avoid cruise lines that have a reputation for being dirty or poorly maintained.

How to Avoid Choosing a Bad Cruise Line

If you’re concerned about choosing a bad cruise line, there are a few things you can do to avoid making a mistake. These include:

  • Read reviews: Before you book a cruise, be sure to read reviews from other travelers. This can give you a good idea of what to expect from the cruise line in terms of price, itinerary, ship size, ports of call, demographics, customer service, food, entertainment, and cleanliness.
  • Do your research: In addition to reading reviews, you should also do your own research on the cruise line. This includes visiting the cruise line’s website, reading its brochures, and talking to travel agents who are familiar with the line.
  • Talk to other travelers: If you know anyone who has taken a cruise with the line you’re considering, be sure to talk to them about their experience. They can give you valuable insights into what to expect from the cruise line.

* **Consider your budget

What are the worst cruise lines?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as different people have different experiences with different cruise lines. However, some of the most commonly cited worst cruise lines include:

  • Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line has been criticized for its high prices, poor customer service, and outdated ships.
  • Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line has been criticized for its crowded ships, lack of cleanliness, and rowdy passengers.
  • Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean International has been criticized for its impersonal service, overpriced food, and lack of variety in its onboard activities.

It is important to note that these are just a few of the many cruise lines that are available. There are many other cruise lines that offer great service and value for your money. It is important to do your research and read reviews before booking a cruise to find the best line for you.

What factors should I consider when choosing a cruise line?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a cruise line, including:

  • Price: The cost of a cruise can vary significantly from one line to another. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options.
  • Destinations: Some cruise lines offer a wider variety of destinations than others. If you have a specific destination in mind, it is important to make sure that the cruise line you choose offers cruises to that destination.
  • Ship size: Cruise ships range in size from small, intimate vessels to massive megaships. The size of the ship can have a significant impact on your experience. Smaller ships offer a more intimate and personal experience, while larger ships offer more activities and amenities.
  • Passenger demographics: The passenger demographics on a cruise ship can vary significantly from one line to another. If you are looking for a cruise with a younger crowd, a different line than if you are looking for a cruise with a more mature crowd.
  • Onboard activities: The onboard activities offered by a cruise line can vary significantly. If you are looking for a cruise with a lot of activities, you will need to choose a line that offers the types of activities that you are interested in.

How can I avoid booking a cruise with a bad reputation?

There are a few things you can do to avoid booking a cruise with a bad reputation:

  • Read reviews: Before you book a cruise, read reviews from past passengers. This can give you a good idea of what to expect from the cruise line.
  • Talk to your travel agent: Your travel agent can be a valuable resource when it comes to choosing a cruise line. They can help you narrow down your options and find a line that is right for you.
  • Do your research: There are many resources available online that can help you learn more about different cruise lines. This can help you make an informed decision about which line to book.

What are the best cruise lines?

There is no one definitive answer to this question, as different people have different preferences. However, some of the most popular and well-respected cruise lines include:

  • Disney Cruise Line: Disney Cruise Line is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent customer service.
  • Holland America Line: Holland America Line is known for its elegant ships and sophisticated onboard experience.
  • Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises is known for its luxurious ships and stylish onboard accommodations.
  • Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises is known for its wide variety of destinations and activities.
  • Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean International is known for its massive ships and extensive onboard offerings.

These are just a few of the many great cruise lines that are available. It is important to do your research and find the line that is right for you.

How can I improve my cruise experience?

There are a few things you can do to improve your cruise experience:

  • Do your research: Before you book your cruise, do your research and learn as much as you can about the cruise line, the ship, and the destinations you will be visiting. This will help you make the most of your cruise.
  • Pack smart: When packing for your cruise, make sure to pack light and pack for the weather. You will also want to pack comfortable shoes that you can wear for walking around the ship and exploring the ports of call.
  • Be prepared for seasickness: If you are prone to seasickness, there are a few things you can do to prevent it, such as taking medication, eating light meals, and staying hydrated.
  • Be respectful of other passengers: When you are on a cruise, you are sharing a small space with a lot of other people. It is important to be respectful of

    there are many factors to consider when choosing a cruise line. The best cruise line for you will depend on your budget, interests, and travel style. By doing your research and comparing different lines, you can find the perfect cruise to fit your needs.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The worst cruise lines are typically those with the lowest customer satisfaction ratings.
  • Some of the factors that contribute to a poor customer experience include: long waits for onboard services, rude staff, dirty cabins, and a lack of variety in dining options.
  • If you’re looking for a good value for your money, it’s important to do your research and compare different cruise lines before booking your trip.
  • You can find valuable information about different cruise lines by reading online reviews, talking to travel agents, and visiting cruise line websites.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.