Best Cruises for First Timers
Setting sail on your first cruise is an exhilarating feeling. You’ll get to experience the open waters from the balcony of your ship, explore exotic new destinations, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
However, picking the right line can pose a challenge, especially if you have limited experience in the field. With our cruising expertise, we will guide you through each of the best cruise lines for first time cruisers, so you can figure out which starter cruise is the perfect fit for you.
On This Page:
- Best Overall: Royal Caribbean International
- Best for Young Families: Disney Cruise Line
- Best Premium Line for First Timers: Norwegian Cruise Line
- Best for First Time Couple Cruisers: Celebrity Cruises
- Best for First Timers on a Budget: Carnival Cruise Line
Find your first cruise:
1. Best Overall: Royal Caribbean
Why is Royal Caribbean the Best Cruise Line For First Timers?
If you’re a first time cruiser, it's important to have a wide variety of options when it comes to entertainment, dining, and activities, since you don’t know what kind of cruise experience is right for you. On board Royal Caribbean ships, guests can enjoy multiple complimentary dining venues, several pools, a number of entertainment venues, sports areas, and more. Royal Caribbean has earned its spot among the best large ship cruise lines, with many cruisers claiming that being on a Royal Caribbean ship feels like staying at a mega-resort.
Royal Caribbean is also very easily accessible, with 28 ships sailing from 15 ports all around the country. Many cruisers also appreciate the line's commitment to sustainability, with initiatives focusing on conserving water and energy, recycling waste, and serving meals with sustainably sourced ingredients.
Onboard Fun For Guests of All Ages
Royal Caribbean offers amazing cruises for active adults and children alike. On deck, you’ll find an array of thrilling amenities, including the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, a nine-deck high Zip Line, and the FlowRider surfing simulator.
Onboard Royal Caribbean ships, live entertainment is in abundance with Broadway hits such as “Cats” and “Mamma Mia!”, one-of-a-kind live ice skating performances, and shows at their very own AquaTheater, which features the deepest pool at sea flanked by 30-foot tall diving platforms.
