U.S. News & World Report released their 2020 Best Cruise Lines Rankings. The global authority in rankings and consumer advice evaluated 176 ships from 17 top cruise lines across a variety of categories. The rankings help travelers select the best cruise by brand, region, traveler type and budget.

Disney Cruise Line remains at the top of the list for Best Cruise Line for Families, a spot they’ve held since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines. Additionally, for the seventh consecutive year, Disney is also the top Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean. Seabourn Cruise Line remains the No. 1 Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean for 2020.

“This important recognition from U.S. News & World Report highlights our focus on creating fun, immersive vacation experiences for every member of the family and delivering great service every step of the way,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Disney Cruise Line. “The energy and enthusiasm our Crew Members bring to their roles is the driving force behind why Disney is such a trusted name in cruising.”

Royal Caribbean International takes the No. 1 spot as the Best Cruise Line for the Money. Viking Ocean Cruises is the No. 1 Best Cruise Line for Couples and Best Luxury Cruise Line thanks to its adult-focused environment and luxurious, romantic amenities, such as fireplaces in each ship’s common area and private verandas in every stateroom.

Cruise lines are also joining recent initiatives across many industries to become more environmentally conscious. Some lines are investing in liquefied natural gas-powered ships and eliminating single-use plastics on board to directly offset their environmental impact. Additionally, cruise lines are adding more unique sailing locations to their itinerary offerings as less-traveled destinations gain popularity, such as Antarctica, Madagascar and the Galapagos Islands.

“Cruise lines are constantly adapting to new trends and providing updated amenities to directly cater to what consumers want,” said Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News. “Whether you’re planning your first voyage or you’re a seasoned cruiser, the U.S. News Best Cruise Lines rankings offer insights to simplify your travel decisions based on your budget and chosen destination.”

Disney Cruise Line ship rankings dropped from last year, but still maintained a respectable ranking. Out of the 176 ships, the Disney Magic and Disney Fantasy tied for the 11th spot, and the Disney Dream and Disney Wonder tied for 21st overall.

U.S. News 2020 Best Cruise Lines Rankings

For Families

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Royal Caribbean International
3. Carnival Cruise Line                                                                    

In the Caribbean

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Royal Caribbean International
3. Seabourn Cruise Line

For the Money

1. Royal Caribbean International
2. Celebrity Cruises
3. Norwegian Cruise Line                                                               

For Luxury

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Crystal Cruises

For Couples

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Crystal Cruises

In the Mediterranean

1. Seabourn Cruise Line
2. Crystal Cruises
3. Viking Ocean Cruises                                                                            

Check out the complete rankings for Best Cruise Lines rankings on U.S. News & World Report’s dedicated Cruise ranking webpage.

The methodology for the Best Cruise Lines rankings factors in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other factors such as price class and itinerary offerings.