On any typical day at PortMiami, the world’s cruise capital, you can see an array of cruise ships ready to let passengers get off and welcome new travelers. From afar, their impressive heights and many decks can make them seem alike.

While significant cruise companies share many features, there are also distinct differences that can influence your holiday experience. RacQuelle Major-Holland, the owner of Major Adventures Travel Agency, emphasizes that choosing the right cruise line and ship is just as vital as selecting your destination.

“Cruising should balance itinerary and the type of ship. You need to consider, ‘Do I want to be on a family-oriented ship?’” she told YSL News. “Or would I prefer a more relaxed environment where I can unwind and maybe enjoy a book?”

Here are some main distinctions among four of the most well-known mainstream cruise lines. Keep in mind that the activities and programs may differ based on specific ships and itineraries.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival proudly earns the title of “Fun Ship,” and it truly lives up to it. Major-Holland mentions, “You can expect a continuous stream of activities all day long.”

Activities include exciting deck events like the 80s Rock-N-Glow Party, Family Feud Live, bingo, karaoke, and much more. Some ships also feature advanced attractions like BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster, yet according to Major-Holland, it’s the Fun Squad and the crew that really enhance the fun experience.

“In my opinion, the crew makes the fun even more than the onboard facilities,” she stated.

Alyssa Griffin, who shares her cruise experiences with her husband Cullen on their YouTube channel, Griff & Alyssa, noted that Carnival excels in providing quick dining services. They highlighted Big Chicken, a casual dining spot created by the line’s Chief Fun Officer Shaquille O’Neal, as an example.

While families are sure to find numerous activities, adults looking for tranquility can retreat to spaces like the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat. The affordable pricing is also appealing for travelers on a budget, according to Major-Holland.

“Carnival is an excellent introductory option for first-time cruisers,” stated Alyssa Griffin.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean stands out in the large ship category, having recently introduced the biggest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas, in January, followed by Utopia of the Seas, the second-largest, around six months later.

“They truly set the standard for what could be considered megaships,” stated Cullen Griffin. The cruise line enhances onboard experiences with thrilling attractions, from the largest water park at sea, Category 6, on Icon to the Crown’s Edge, which allows guests to walk over 150 feet above the water. Utopia offers a unique dining experience with its immersive train-car-themed restaurant.

In areas like the Royal Promenade, guests may forget they are even on a cruise. Major-Holland mentioned, “It’s designed to feel like a city on the sea.”

This city-like environment can be comforting for those who might feel anxious about being at sea. “They can go to the Central Park area and feel like they are in a park rather than out on the ocean,” she added.

The Griffins emphasized that the entertainment on Royal Caribbean is exceptionally high quality, featuring Broadway shows, ice skating performances, and acts incorporating aerial acrobatics and diving.

However, these high-end features typically come with a higher price tag. “So, it might not be the best choice for budget-conscious travelers since even their mid-age and older ships tend to be pricier than, say, Carnival,” she noted.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Major-Holland describes Norwegian Cruise Line as more relaxed in its approach. The company launched “Freestyle Cruising” over 20 years ago, which brought a more flexible style to dining options, dress codes, and cruising overall.

However, she pointed out that their dining experiences are quite refined. (I can personally attest that the Indian cuisine at Indulge Food Hall on the Norwegian Viva ship is among the best I’ve ever tasted.)

Norwegian also offers thrilling activities, including The Drop – an exciting free-fall dry slide – along with go-karts and the Galaxy Pavilion for virtual reality arcade games. “They are also well-known for their Broadway-style shows,” Major-Holland added.

This cruise line has taken steps to cater to solo travelers, as mentioned by Cullen Griffin, featuring a variety of cabins designed for single occupancy.

Although Norwegian’s prices are generally higher than those of Carnival, according to Major-Holland, their recently rebranded Free at Sea package, now known as More at Sea, offers guests the chance to bundle amenities like Wi-Fi and specialty dining, enhancing the overall value of the cruise.

“Some travelers truly enjoy getting on board and having these features already included without worrying about additional costs,” Major-Holland emphasized.

MSC Cruises

In recent years, MSC has significantly expanded its presence in the U.S. market. However, Major-Holland pointed out that this cruise line, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, typically attracts a more international clientele.

According to the Griffins, MSC is also budget-friendly. Earlier this year, they secured a week-long cruise in a balcony cabin on the MSC Seashore for less than $1,500 with their daughter.

Despite its affordability, MSC offers premium experiences as well. Cullen Griffin noted that the high chairs and booster seats provided for families were not the usual hard plastic but cushioned (thanks to a partnership with the baby product brand Chicco). The MSC Yacht Club, a luxurious section within the ship, provides guests with an exclusive experience complete with all the advantages of a large cruise ship – somewhat similar to offerings from Norwegian.

This focus on luxury extends to the visual appeal of the ships. “Their vessels are simply stunning,” Major-Holland remarked.

MSC will reinforce its presence in the U.S. with the launch of the MSC World America in April 2025. “It appears to offer a very premium, luxurious vacation experience at a very affordable price,” Alyssa Griffin noted.