‘Best’ cruise lines for ‘value for money’ crowned

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  • Top 10 Best Value for Money Cruise Lines
  • 1.Virgin Voyages
  • 2. Celebrity Cruises
  • 3. Princess Cruises

    • Whether you’re looking for a family holiday around the Caribbean islands or are after a luxurious adults-only sailing across some of Europe’s chicest destinations, cruise holidays can come with a hefty price tag when compared to some of the offerings from budget package holiday providers like Jet2holidays.

    But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some incredible cruise deals to be had. In light of this, U.S. News has released its annual Best Cruise Lines rankings for 2024, and revealed the best value for money cruises right now.

    Not only are these cruise lines applauded for how much holidaymakers can get for their money, there are even some additional deals and sales on right now to help you get even more bang for your buck.

    Scroll down to see the full round-up of ‘best for money’ cruise lines, plus some deals from the top three best value-for-money cruises. Or click the links to jump to the relevant section.

    Top 10 Best Value for Money Cruise Lines

    U.S. News 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings have unveiled its top 10 cruises in the ‘best for money’ category as:

    1. Virgin Voyages

    2. Celebrity Cruises

    3. Princess Cruises

    4. Royal Caribbean International

    5. Holland America Line

    6. MSC Cruises

    7. Carnival Cruise Line

    8. Norwegian Cruise Line

    9. Cunard Line

    10. Costa Cruises

    1.Virgin Voyages

    Taking the number one spot for ‘best for money’ is Richard Branson’s swanky, mermaid-clad cruise line Virgin Voyages. Having first launched in 2014, Virgin Voyages specialises in glitzy, hip adults-only sailings to destinations around the globe.

    There are four ships in the fleet, including Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady (due to debut in 2024), with ports in Miami; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Barcelona, Spain; Athens, Greece; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Singapore; Melbourne, Australia; and Auckland, New Zealand so far.

    Itineraries range anywhere from two nights to 15 nights, and guests can expect more than 20 dining venues and bars, an on-deck swimming pool, unique entertainment and evening performances.

    “Virgin Voyages may not seem like the most affordable offering at a glance, but it presents cruisers with supreme value,” said a U.S. News insider.

    “Base fares include all onboard dining, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, group fitness classes and more. Add those benefits to Virgin’s ongoing sales, and you’re looking at a top-notch experience for less.”

    Holly Johnson, a contributor to U.S. News shared an insider tip, explaining: “One detail to note about Virgin Voyages is the line’s four ships are nearly identical and feature the same layout.

    “This means you can focus on finding a cruise with the dates and itinerary you want without having to compare ships or unique amenities.”

    And, if your dream itinerary departs from a port outside of the UK, the great news is that you can book a flight and cruise package with Virgin Holidays.

    Express.co.uk has independently searched the latest deals on offer from Virgin Voyages, to help you save even more:

    • Book by October 31, 2023, and get 25 percent off your cabin, plus a $600 (£496.20) complimentary bar tab per cabin when sailing on any 2023 or 2024 sailing

    • Up to 20 percent off spring and summer 2024 voyages to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Transatlantic, or South Pacific when you book and pay in full at least 180 days before departure

    • Securing your sailing 180 days before departure earns you 10 percent off the voyage fare or book between 179-121 days out for 5 percent off

    Virgin Voyages offers deals throughout the year, from speciality drinks packages to room upgrades. But, these deals are often seasonal, so won’t be around for long. 

    2. Celebrity Cruises

    Celebrity Cruises is a popular option for guests thanks to its upscale design and innovative cuisine options onboard. Though the cruise line often departs from US ports, in cities such as Honolulu, Miami, Boston and Seattle, overseas guests can book a flight and cruise package.

    Alternatively, the cruise line does offer no-fly cruises from Southampton, with 18 itineraries on offer including sailings around the Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia, Bruges, Amsterdam, Spain and Portugal.

    The U.S. News ranking explained: “Celebrity Cruises’ vessels offer the endless amenities and buffets of its competitors’ megaships but maintain the service standard of smaller lines.

    “Rates on Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries run less than $200 (approximately £165.42) per person, and all-inclusive add-on packages are available.”

    Express.co.uk has independently searched the latest deals on offer from Celebrity Cruises, to help you save even more:

    • Up to 40 percent off every guest plus save up to £200 per room when you book by October 31, 2023

    • Four nights on a Bahamas cruise, and a stop off at Perfect Day, when sailing in May 2024 from £308 per person

    Celebrity Cruises has an array of seasonal deals on offer – but deals run for a limited time only so be quick!

    3. Princess Cruises

    Princess Cruises has been awarded the third best value for money position, based on the numerous activities covered within the fare. U.S. News’ ranking explained: “Along with lodging and select dining, fares cover activities like cooking demonstrations and educational lectures.”

    The cruise line is more aimed at adults than families, particularly on its longer voyages. Its 15-ship fleet traverses the globe with popular sailings covering Alaska, Mexico, Europe, Hawaii and the Caribbean, among other locations.

    Many sailings depart from US cities, including Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, however, Princess Cruises also offers sailings from UK ports, to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, Norway and Iceland.

    U.S. News added: “Whatever ship you choose, you can count on a refined atmosphere and personalised service, with approximately one crew member per every two or three passengers. Cruises last between two and 116 days and feature everything from specialist-guided stargazing to stage shows to “Movies Under the Stars” poolside screenings.”

    Express.co.uk has independently searched the latest deals on offer from Princess Cruises, to help you save even more:

    • Get a free stateroom upgrade when you book by October 31, 2023 
      (Offer includes Deluxe Balcony to Mini-Suite, Cabana Mini-Suite on selected Sun Princess cruises. Deluxe Balcony to Mini-Suite on selected Royal Class ship cruises. Oceanview to Balcony on selected voyages for all other ships)

    • Sail on a cruise from Southampton in 2024 with cruises starting from £449

    Princess Cruises offers deals throughout the year, including cheaper and free upgrades, food and drink packages and discounted sailings around the world.

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