People always ask me, what is the best cruise ship? If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of exploring the open seas, it’s that no two cruise ships are quite the same. Each ship has its own personality, its own heartbeat, and each one fits a specific need or kind of trip! After countless sailings and plenty of daydreaming in between, I’ve narrowed down my personal top five favorite ships.
5. Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Apex feels like stepping into a modern design magazine… but with ocean views and impeccable service. Everything feels luxurious! While children are welcome onboard, it tends to draw a more sophisticated crowd and doesn’t attract families in the same way that more kid-centric ships do. My favorite part is the Magic Carpet, the floating platform that moves up and down the ship’s side for dining, drinks, or simply watching the horizon. Fans love the innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the greenery-filled Rooftop Garden, perfect for those quiet moments at sea. This ship is so perfect for couples or even an adult only friend group!
4. Disney Fantasy
Disney Fantasy is pure storytelling magic. I love how Disney weaves character encounters and Broadway-caliber shows into the flow of the day so seamlessly. The AquaDuck water coaster is always a hit, as is the rotational dining where you get a new themed restaurant every night. Our kids especially adore the kids clubs (the best at sea), especially the Oceaneer Lab, where they’ve made slime with Stitch, listened to story time with Tinker Bell, and danced with Pluto at a decked-out party. And when the sun goes down, the fun keeps going… from Pirate Night with its swashbuckling shows to fireworks at sea that light up the sky in true Disney style. This ship is perfect for multigenerational families! We have travelled with grandparents, cousins, and even just as our immediate family and one thing is for sure, you’ll always compare any other cruise to a Disney Cruise!
3. Carnival Jubilee
Carnival Jubilee is all about fun… bright, lively, and unapologetically festive. My favorite place onboard is the Havana section, an exclusive retreat available only to guests booked in Havana staterooms or suites. With its own pool, hot tubs, and a laid-back tropical vibe, it’s worth every penny of the upgrade if you enjoy a quieter, more private space away from the main decks. I also love BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, which gives you a thrill with every twist over the ocean. Fans flock to Jubilee for the vibrant Carnival fun zones, the variety of eateries (hello, Shaq’s Big Chicken) and the way the ship’s pools are thoughtfully spread out to help keep crowds from gathering in just one spot, making it easier to find your own little corner of fun!
2. Harmony of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas is an adventure playground. I love the split-neighborhood design, where each area feels like its own little world… from the leafy Central Park to the adrenaline-packed Boardwalk. We love the dual FlowRider surf simulators, perfect for both beginners and pros, and the zip line that soars high above the Boardwalk for an extra shot of adrenaline. Our family also can’t get enough of the Ultimate Abyss slide, the AquaTheater high-dive shows, and the sheer number of dining choices. It’s a ship where you can be as active or as relaxed as you want.
1. Icon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas isn’t just a cruise ship… it is the most magnificent floating resort to ever sail the high seas! With 7 pools and 6 waterslides sprinkled throughout the ship, guests are never crowded all into one central place! My favorite pool? I love the adults only pool in the aft! Amazing views and good vibes ALL DAY! My favorite eatery? The Aquadome Marketplace! It has an incredible range of fresh, international food options just steps from the action. Pro Tip….. try ALL of the Crepes… the combos are PERFECT!!! Favorite show? I can’t even pick! The Wizard of Oz and the Aquadome Show are definitely on the list! For the kids- the Surfside Neighborhood is absolute paradise! I LOVE the kids events that happen all day here! Face painting, yard games, and of course, the carousel! Plus there is a restaurant devoted to ALL the kids foods! They never want to leave this area because everything is kid centric!
