Cruise Critic hosts the largest online cruise forum in the world and is a one-stop-shop for passengers on the search for first-hand information on all things cruise related. They know their stuff and when they announced their pick of 2014’s top lines we couldn’t wait to see what had won their attention. The Annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards are seven years in the making and cover 18 categories.
Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, explains, “We originally launched our Editors’ Picks Awards in 2008, to highlight lines that we felt were doing a great job. Just six years later, the industry has grown tremendously; cruise lines continue to up the ante, and there are more options than ever before for travellers looking to hit the seas. With our team of editors covering hundreds of cruise ships each year, these awards allow us to both highlight lines that truly lead the way and also help guide consumers to a purchase that’s right for them.”
Want to know more? Read on for an overview of which lines made the cut!
Best New Ship – Royal Caribbean International
To see Royal Caribbean’s next generation smartship take out the Best New Ship award was no surprise. The vessel is packed full of cutting edge innovations and technological advancements that more than deliver on the line’s trademark “WOW” promise. As well as exciting onboard activities such as a skydiving simulator, surf machine and glass observation pod passengers also enjoy lighting fast Wi-Fi, virtual balconies, robotic bartenders and a specially designed iOS mobile app.
Best for Families – Disney Cruise Line
This is the second year in a row that Disney Cruises have been crowned the best line for families. With a plethora of child-friendly activities, entertainment options and shore excursions it’s definitely well deserved!
Best Value for Money – Carnival Cruise Line
Thanks to a roll out of complimentary programmes and onboard experiences Carnival was crowned the winner of this year’s Best Value for Money award. Editors loved free perks such as the Seuss at Sea family program as well as a handful of no-fee dining establishments such as Guy Fieri’s Guy’s Burger Joint.
Best Entertainment – Norwegian Cruise Line
Over the past few years, the cruise industry has started to place more and more emphasis on offering passengers world-class entertainment. Norwegian led the pack this year with its world famous Blue Man Group performance as well as Broadway-style shows, comedy nights and sing-along sessions.
Best Inside Cabins – Royal Caribbean International
With its introduction of virtual balconies designed to simulate a spectacular ocean view, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas was a no-brainer for this award.
Best Itineraries – Princess Cruises
When it comes to exciting new itineraries, Princess Cruises leads the way. The line is committed to delighting its guests and does this by calling at destinations across the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Hawaii and beyond!
Congratulations to all of the companies that have worked tirelessly to make it onto the Annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards list! If you want to snap up some fantastic deals on all of the mentioned lines make a beeline for the Cruise 1st website. The company is currently running offers from all the major cruise lines including Disney, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival and more.
Find Your Perfect Award Winning Cruise Today
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits:Don McCullough
