The votes are in, and the 2025 Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards have named the world’s best cruise lines, with the results reflecting a rapidly evolving industry.

Cunard led the way in the large ship category (2,500–4,000 passengers), earning a standout score of 94.29. Meanwhile, Viking proved dominant across several categories. It ranked first among medium ships (96.74) and river cruises (96.36), and placed second in expedition cruises (98.11).

In the small ship category, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (pictured below) took the top spot with an exceptional score of 99.09. Famed for its superyacht-style design and personalised service, the brand edged out strong competition from Seabourn (98.18) and Viking (98.17).

Elsewhere, Seabourn topped the expedition cruising category with a score of 98.18, praised for its seamless blend of luxury and adventure. And in the mega ship class (more than 4,000 passengers), MSC Cruises came out ahead, scoring 90.91 thanks to its modern fleet and improved onboard experience.

Crystal also impressed in the medium ship category (90.08), with its Nobu-branded dining drawing particular acclaim.

Top Five Cruise Lines by Category

Mega Ships (More than 4,000 passengers):

1. MSC Cruises – 90.91
2. Princess Cruises – 89.09
3. Royal Caribbean – 83.22
4. Norwegian Cruise Line – 71.36

Large Ships (2,500 to 4,000 passengers):

1. Cunard – 94.29
2. Holland America Line – 91.24
3. Virgin Voyages – 90.99
4. Disney Cruise Line – 89.70
5. Celebrity Cruises – 89.09

Medium Ships (500 to 2,499 passengers):

1. Viking – 96.74
2. Holland America Line – 94.25
3. Cunard – 93.29
4. MSC Cruises – 92.05
5. Crystal – 90.08

Small Ships (Fewer than 500 passengers):

1. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection – 99.09
2. Seabourn – 98.18
3. Viking – 98.17
4. Silversea – 96.97
5. SeaDream Yacht Club – 95.45

River Cruises:

1. Viking – 96.36
2. Emerald Cruises – 95.95
3. AmaWaterways – 95.36
4. The Oberoi Luxury Nile Cruisers – 95.00
5. Aqua Expeditions – 94.69

Expedition Cruises:

1. Seabourn – 98.18
2. Viking – 98.11
3. Holland America Line – 97.58
4. HX Expeditions – 97.34
5. Silversea – 95.66

(Note: some categories had more than five finalists)