Embarking on a cruise for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many cruise lines offering unique experiences, it’s important to choose one that suits your needs, preferences, and travel style. From action-packed mega-ships to more relaxed, refined voyages, there’s a cruise line for everyone.
Here’s a guide to the best cruise lines for first-timers in 2025. Each option offers distinct features, onboard activities, dining options, and overall ambiance to help you make the best choice.
1. Royal Caribbean International
Perfect for: Families, Adventure Seekers, Thrill Lovers
Why First-Timers Love It
Royal Caribbean is a powerhouse in the cruise industry known for its massive ships and endless entertainment options. From surfing simulators and zip lines to ice-skating rinks and water slides, there’s never a dull moment. The large fleet includes ships of all sizes, but their Oasis-class ships are floating cities packed with adventure.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Surf simulators, rock climbing walls, zip lines, and mini-golf.
- Entertainment: Broadway-style productions, aqua theater shows, and live concerts.
- Dining: Over 20 dining options, including buffets, specialty restaurants, and grab-and-go snacks.
- Kids & Teens: Adventure Ocean Youth Program, teen clubs, and Splashaway Bay water park.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
Royal Caribbean’s “something for everyone” approach makes it perfect for first-timers. You’ll have so many options for entertainment, food, and fun, making it nearly impossible not to have a great time.
2. Carnival Cruise Line
Perfect for: Budget Travelers, Party-Goers, Families
Why First-Timers Love It
Known as the “Fun Ship” line, Carnival is all about good times. It’s affordable, lively, and caters to families, groups, and solo travelers alike. It’s the best choice if you want to experience non-stop entertainment and activities on a budget.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Comedy clubs, poolside parties, water slides, and mini-golf.
- Dining: Casual dining at Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and buffets.
- Entertainment: Punchliner Comedy Club, live music, and deck parties.
- Family Perks: Seuss at Sea programs, water parks, and family-friendly accommodations.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
Carnival is one of the most affordable cruise lines, which is ideal for first-timers unsure about how much they want to spend. The lively, upbeat vibe ensures no one will be bored, regardless of age or interests.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Perfect for: Free-Spirited Travelers, Solo Travelers, Couples
Why First-Timers Love It
Norwegian pioneered the “Freestyle Cruising” concept, where guests aren’t bound by strict dining schedules. This freedom makes it a favorite for those new to cruising who don’t want to be tied to a clock. Norwegian’s ships also offer unique features like go-kart tracks and laser tag arenas.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Race go-karts, play laser tag, or relax in the Mandara Spa.
- Dining: No fixed dining times. Choose from specialty restaurants, buffets, and casual spots.
- Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, comedy clubs, and live music.
- Flexibility: Eat, play, and relax on your own schedule with no assigned times or dress codes.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
If you want flexibility, Norwegian delivers. Eat when you want, dress how you want, and explore on your schedule. It’s stress-free cruising for first-timers.
4. Celebrity Cruises
Perfect for: Couples, Luxury Seekers, Foodies
Why First-Timers Love It
Celebrity Cruises caters to those seeking a more elegant experience. It blends upscale dining, modern design, and high-end amenities with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. First-timers looking for a luxurious experience without the price of a luxury cruise will love Celebrity.
Highlights
- Onboard Vibe: Sleek, modern design with chic lounges and stylish staterooms.
- Dining: Michelin-star dining, Le Petit Chef™ dinner experience, and poolside eats.
- Service: Personal butler service in The Retreat, a private experience for suite guests.
- Enrichment: Culinary workshops, wine tastings, and wellness programs.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
First-time cruisers looking for an upscale experience will be impressed with Celebrity. The vibe is refined but not stuffy, and the ship’s layout is easy to navigate for beginners.
5. Princess Cruises
Perfect for: Couples, Older Travelers, Culture Seekers
Why First-Timers Love It
Princess Cruises offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with a mix of enrichment activities and elegant amenities. The ship size is more manageable, making it a perfect choice for first-time cruisers who want a quieter experience.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Wine tastings, cultural workshops, cooking demonstrations.
- Dining: Award-winning cuisine with traditional and flexible dining options.
- Entertainment: “Movies Under the Stars” outdoor theater.
- Relaxation: Expansive spa, adult-only sundeck, and peaceful onboard vibe.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
First-timers looking for a quieter, more elegant experience will love Princess. It’s not as high-energy as other cruise lines, making it a more relaxed, refined experience.
6. Disney Cruise Line
Perfect for: Families with Kids, Disney Fans, Multi-Generational Families
Why First-Timers Love It
Disney Cruise Line takes everything you love about Disney theme parks and puts it on a ship. From character meet-and-greets to exclusive Disney musicals, every aspect of the cruise is designed for magic.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Character experiences, movie screenings, and themed parties.
- Dining: Rotational dining system with immersive dining experiences.
- Entertainment: Broadway-quality musicals featuring Disney characters.
- Family Fun: Kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and dedicated adult-only spaces.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
For families with kids, Disney sets the standard for magical, memorable cruises. The quality of service is unmatched, and the entertainment is second to none.
7. Holland America Line
Perfect for: Older Adults, Art Enthusiasts, Food Lovers
Why First-Timers Love It
Holland America offers a more refined and peaceful experience. It’s not flashy or trendy, but it’s known for exceptional service, culinary excellence, and elegant, mid-size ships. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quieter experience.
Highlights
- Onboard Activities: Culinary workshops, live music, and art tours.
- Dining: World-class dining in specialty restaurants and buffets.
- Entertainment: Intimate live music venues like Lincoln Center Stage.
- Cultural Perks: Destination immersion programs and regionally inspired cuisine.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
First-timers looking for a quieter, more cultured experience will love Holland America. It’s ideal for travelers who want enrichment, elegance, and a smaller-ship feel.
8. MSC Cruises
Perfect for: European Travelers, Families, Stylish Travelers
Why First-Timers Love It
MSC Cruises offers a European-style experience with sleek, modern ships that exude elegance. Their larger ships have dazzling Swarovski crystal staircases and upscale lounges, giving the cruise a luxury feel at an affordable price.
Highlights
- Onboard Vibe: Modern Italian design with chic lounges and sophisticated décor.
- Dining: European-inspired menus with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
- Entertainment: Exclusive Cirque du Soleil shows and immersive entertainment.
- Family-Friendly: Partnerships with LEGO® and dedicated family activities.
Why It’s Great for First Timers
For first-time cruisers wanting a more international feel, MSC delivers. It blends style, elegance, and European charm with family-friendly offerings.
How to Choose the Right Cruise Line
When deciding on a cruise line, consider your travel style. Do you want action-packed adventure or refined elegance? Are you looking for budget-friendly fun or upscale luxury? Each cruise line offers something different, so prioritize what matters most.
Set Sail in 2025
The best cruise lines for first-timers in 2025 offer diverse experiences to suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, family fun, or elegance, there’s a cruise line ready to make your first voyage unforgettable. Pick the line that fits your travel style and prepare for the journey of a lifetime.
