The World's Most Admired Boat Passengers

The cruise industry has seen rapid expansion in recent years, with ships getting bigger and better. The largest cruise ship in the world is currently the Icon of the Seas, operated by Royal Caribbean. This ship is 364.75m long, has a gross tonnage of 250,800, and can accommodate 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew members. It has 20 decks, 7 swimming pools, and 6 water slides, and is powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). The second-largest cruise ship is the Utopia of the Seas, also operated by Royal Caribbean, which has a gross tonnage of 236,860 and can accommodate 5,668 passengers and 2,290 crew members. Other large cruise ships include the Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas, all operated by Royal Caribbean, as well as the MSC World Europa, operated by MSC Cruises, and the Costa Smeralda, operated by Costa Cruises. These ships offer a range of amenities and entertainment options for passengers, such as multiple dining options, swimming pools, water slides, theatres, and sports facilities.

Best cruise ships for large-scale celebrations: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, P&O Cruises, Virgin Voyages

If you're looking for a cruise line that can accommodate large-scale celebrations, there are several popular options to consider. Here are some of the best cruise lines for large-scale celebrations:

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean International is known for its massive ships, with some of the largest cruise ships in the world. Their ships offer a wide range of amenities, including water parks, surf simulators, ice skating rinks, rock climbing walls, zip lines, and multiple dining and entertainment options. They cater to families and offer a variety of activities for all age groups. Royal Caribbean sails to various destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. They offer a range of entertainment and dining options, including water parks, sports courts, mini-golf, and live shows. Their ships vary in size, with some accommodating up to 5,362 guests. Carnival typically sails to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and other destinations in North America and the Caribbean.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is a great option for families, especially those with younger children. Their ships offer a balance of Disney-themed activities and elegant spaces. They have spacious cabins and provide a variety of activities for both kids and adults, including pools, sports courts, live shows, and spa services. Disney Cruise Line sails to destinations such as the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, and more.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more relaxed and flexible cruise experience without a dress code or fixed dining times. Their ships feature a wide range of activities, such as water slides, go-kart tracks, virtual reality games, and Broadway shows. Norwegian caters to couples, honeymooners, and families. They sail to various destinations, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a good option for budget-minded travellers and couples looking for a romantic getaway. They have a large fleet and offer a variety of itineraries, including longer cruises up to 100 days. Princess Cruises sails to destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Asia, Australia, and Europe.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a European-based cruise line that has been expanding its presence in North America. They operate large, resort-style ships with a wide range of amenities and activities. MSC Cruises sails to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, and other destinations.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is the oldest cruise line in the world, established in 1837. They cater primarily to a British audience and offer a classic cruising experience with traditional activities. Their ships accommodate up to 5,200 passengers and typically sail to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages, backed by Richard Branson's Virgin Group, offers a hip and inclusive cruise experience for adults only. Their ships feature unique amenities such as tattoo shops, karaoke booths, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Virgin Voyages sails to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, Australia, and the Dominican Republic.

These cruise lines offer a variety of options for large-scale celebrations, with a range of amenities, activities, and destinations to choose from. When planning your celebration, consider the specific needs and preferences of your group to find the best fit.

Best sailboats for sailing around the world: Beneteau Oceanis 46.1, Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42, Island Packet 349, Neel 51, Arcona 435, X-Yachts X4.9, Figaro Beneteau 3, Hylas 48, Lagoon 50

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best sailboats for sailing around the world. Here is a list of some top-rated sailboats with their unique features:

Beneteau Oceanis 46.1

The Beneteau Oceanis 46.1 is a popular choice for sailing enthusiasts, known for its performance and spacious design. It features a stepped or full-chined hull with twin rudders for added control and a taller mast and deeper keel for increased performance. The modern Med-style cockpit offers plenty of space and can be sailed short-handed with well-laid-out electric controls. Below deck, the yacht provides ample internal volume with a spacious owner's cabin, separate shower and heads compartments, and multiple layout options to accommodate different needs.

Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42

The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 is a stylish and solidly built yacht with a traditional feel. It offers panoramic views from its raised main cabin and a comfortable, spacious interior. The composite construction and resin-infused balsa core ensure durability, while the teak finishes add a touch of elegance. The Wauquiez Pilot Saloon 42 is a modern yacht with features like twin wheels and rudders, a drop-down transom, and a hull chine that enhances the interior space.

Island Packet 349

The Island Packet 349 is a nimble and well-designed cruiser that offers excellent sailing performance. It features a Solent rig option, a scoop transom for safety, and sturdy "Full Foil" full keel with attached rudder and encapsulated lead ballast. The hand-laminated fiberglass hull and vacuum-bagged Divinycell core deck ensure a sturdy and safe construction. The cockpit is spacious and well-equipped, with sturdy coamings, large drains, and a single Edson wheel. The interior offers semi-customization options, ample storage, and LED lighting throughout.

Neel 51

The Neel 51 is a cruising trimaran that stands out for its speed and spacious living areas. It offers exceptional directional stability and excellent weight management, with a low centre of gravity for a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Neel 51 provides ample features, including a spacious "basement" housing essential systems and generous storage. It also boasts impressive living space, with a master suite, two centre-hull cabins, and the option for additional cabins. The performance of the Neel 51 is impressive, with easy drivability and excellent speed capabilities.

Arcona 435

The Arcona 435 is an award-winning Swedish cruiser that offers a balance of speed, comfort, and elegance. It provides a smooth and responsive helm experience, with a direct connection to the boat's performance. The Arcona 435 is versatile, suitable for those who want to cruise in comfort or occasionally compete in races. The interior is traditional Scandinavian, with floor-to-deck Khaya mahogany and white hull-side panels. The galley is spacious and secure, and the boat offers excellent ventilation and natural light.

X-Yachts X4.9

The X4.9 is a stylish performance cruiser that combines comfort and racing capabilities. It has a sleek and subtle design with a full teak deck, and its hybrid nature strikes a balance between comfort and performance. The X4.9 can be easily managed solo, with well-laid-out electric controls. The interior is understated yet stunning, with Nordic oak finishes and LED lighting throughout. The boat offers ample storage and a spacious saloon with a U-shaped sofa and dining table.

Figaro Beneteau 3

The Figaro Beneteau 3 is a racing boat that is the first foil-assisted offshore one-design boat in the world. It offers a thrilling sailing experience with impressive speed and responsiveness. The boat is easy to handle, and its foils provide a "turbo effect" above certain speeds. The Figaro Beneteau 3 is a demanding boat with a steep learning curve, making it a favourite among experienced sailors.

Hylas 48

The Hylas 48 is a bluewater voyager designed for long-haul cruising. It features a versatile cutter rig, hip-high lifelines, and a robust emergency steering system. The motion of the boat is stable and stiff, providing a comfortable sailing experience. The interior is stunning, with teak cabinetry, bulkheads, and furniture, and a teak-and-holly sole. The saloon features a large dining table and U-shaped seating, while the galley offers ample counter space and storage.

Lagoon 50

The Lagoon 50 is a spacious and easy-to-handle catamaran that offers multiple social areas and layout options. It features a self-tacking jib, electric winches, and a networked plotter and autopilot for simplified sailing. The boat provides ample dining and lounge areas, both indoors and outdoors, and a spacious galley with ample counter space and appliances. The Lagoon 50 is well-suited for owners who want to go voyaging independently.

Best boats for family fun and entertainment: Bowriders, Cabin cruisers, Center consoles, Deck boats, Motor yachts/power cruisers, Personal watercraft, Pontoon boats, Sailboats, Ski boats/wake boats, Trawlers

There are many types of boats that can be used for family fun and entertainment. Here is a list of some of the best options:

Bowriders

Bowriders are perfect for small-scale celebrations with groups of up to six people. They offer a range of fun activities such as watersports, angling, and boat picnics. While they may not have many amenities or cooking facilities, they are relatively inexpensive, easy to trailer, and simple to clean.

Cabin Cruisers

Cabin cruisers are ideal for larger gatherings as they offer spacious features, including full galleys, private bathrooms, ample seating, and weather protection. They are perfect for extended stays aboard and can accommodate a wide range of guests depending on their size.

Center Consoles

Center consoles are popular among those who enjoy saltwater fishing, but they are also great for entertainment due to their wide-open spaces and plentiful seating. Many center console builders offer models with features like outdoor grills, ice makers, and wet bars, making them perfect for festivities.

Deck Boats

Deck boats offer similar advantages to bowriders but with a bit of extra room, especially in the bow. They provide the best of both worlds, combining the spaciousness of a pontoon boat with the performance of a powerboat. Deck boats can comfortably fit five or more people and have ample room for all your necessities.

Motor Yachts/Power Cruisers

Motor yachts and power cruisers are the epitome of luxury and comfort for entertaining large crowds. They offer multiple cabins, indoor and outdoor social areas, full cooking facilities, and all the conveniences of home. Depending on the size, you can invite a substantial number of guests. Renting or chartering a motor yacht for a single event or vacation is also an option if you want to experience the luxury without the commitment.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Personal watercraft are small, typically accommodating one to three people, but they are incredibly popular for entertainment and family fun. They are perfect for setting up obstacle courses, playing water games, towing tubes, island hopping, and exploring nature. While you won't host a large party on a PWC, they are often brought along to larger celebrations for added excitement.

Pontoon Boats

Pontoon boats, also known as "party barges," offer a spacious and stable platform for entertaining. They come equipped with various features, including changing rooms, grills, and blenders. Even the smaller models can accommodate eight to ten people, while the larger ones can hold dozens of passengers.

Sailboats

Sailboats may not be the first choice for high-capacity parties due to their smaller cockpits, but they are perfect for intimate gatherings with another couple or family. They offer a calmer and more peaceful experience, allowing for game nights, storytelling, fishing, and other activities that can be enjoyed in a confined space.

Ski Boats/Wake Boats

Ski boats and wake boats are all about treating your friends and family to thrilling experiences on the water. They offer a wide range of watersports options, making them ideal for adrenaline-seekers. While they may lack integrated entertainment features, a simple cooler loaded with drinks can make your ski boat the destination everyone wants to be.

Trawlers

Trawlers tend to have more interior space than exterior, making them better suited for smaller groups seeking year-round entertainment. Larger models often feature big flybridges, providing guests with expansive views. Trawlers are excellent for those who want to go distance cruising or explore the ocean.

Best cruise ships for small-scale celebrations: American Cruise Lines, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, SeaDream Yacht Club, Australis, Aranui, Sail Croatia, Seabourn, Windstar Cruises, Variety Cruises, Ponant

SeaDream Yacht Club's twin yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II, have been ranked among the best cruise ships in the world, including the titles of "World's Best Small Cruise Ship" and "World's Best Cruise Ship for Romance" at the 2023 World Cruise Awards. With a 1-to-1 crew-to-guest ratio, the yachts offer a highly personalised and luxurious experience with inclusive culinary experiences and activities such as watersports.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, launched in 2022, offers superyacht-style cruises with cutting-edge design, intimate spaces, and abundant outdoor areas. The first of their three yachts, Evrima, accommodates 298 guests, while the recently launched Ilma and the upcoming Luminara in 2025, can host 456 guests each. The yachts feature a marina at the back, providing direct access to the water and extended wings for more outdoor space.

Seabourn is another line that offers in-depth Caribbean exploration with 14-night round-trip voyages from Barbados and St. Martin. Their fleet of seven ships provides a refined yet relaxed ambience, making it a great choice for cruising the Caribbean.

For a unique experience, the French cruise line Ponant offers stylish yachts that prominently feature the French Caribbean in their programme. Their itineraries include classic Caribbean routes as well as expedition-style voyages to explore the amazing dive sites of Belize and the idyllic Bocas del Toro archipelago in Panama.

Variety Cruises, an award-winning small ship cruise line, offers intimate and luxurious experiences with a focus on unique destinations. Their ships sail to off-the-beaten-path ports and offer a high crew-to-guest ratio, ensuring personalised attention and exceptional service.

American Cruise Lines, Australis, Aranui, and Sail Croatia also offer small-ship cruising experiences with a focus on exploration and personalised service, making them ideal for small-scale celebrations.

Best cruise ships for medium-scale celebrations: Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Cunard, Azamara, Oceania Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, Silversea Cruises

If you're looking for the best cruise ships for medium-scale celebrations, there are several options to choose from. Here are some of the top cruise lines that offer ships in the medium size category, carrying between 500 and 2,499 passengers:

Royal Caribbean International

While Royal Caribbean is known for its mega-ships, they also have a number of medium-size ships with a capacity of just under 2,500 guests. These ships offer more intimate experiences while still providing exciting features and destinations.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has 15 ships in its fleet, with the two smallest being the Coral Princess and Island Princess, carrying around 2,000 passengers each. These ships are perfect for sailing through the Panama Canal or exploring various destinations worldwide.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' Millennium-class ships, including the Celebrity Millennium and Infinity, carry between 2,100 and 2,200 passengers. They offer elegant and eco-friendly experiences, sailing to destinations around the world.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line has eight medium-size ships in its fleet, carrying between 1,400 and 2,500 passengers. These ships provide a refined and elegant cruising experience, with popular destinations like Alaska.

P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises, the United Kingdom's premier cruise line, has two medium-sized ships carrying about 1,900 to 2,100 passengers each. They cater primarily to British nationals and offer a classic cruising experience with a British twist.

Cunard

Cunard's Queen Mary 2 and Queen Anne are larger ships, but their sister ships, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria, carry around 2,000 passengers each. Cunard offers a more formal and traditional cruising experience with a nod to ocean liner traditions.

Azamara

Azamara's four 700-passenger ships offer top-quality dining and onboard activities, but the real highlight is their focus on destinations. They offer personalized shore excursions and overnight stays, allowing guests to explore destinations in-depth.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' MS Marina and MS Riviera are known for their exceptional food and culinary-themed excursions. Their four smaller Regatta-class ships carry 684 passengers each, offering an intimate and gourmet cruising experience.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' Europa 2 is a medium-sized ship carrying a maximum of 500 passengers to destinations worldwide. This German cruise line offers a small and intimate cruising experience.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises has four medium-sized ships with passenger counts of around 600. They offer luxurious accommodations, exotic itineraries, and gourmet restaurants, providing an exclusive and personalized cruising experience.

Frequently asked questions