Nearly everyone has a favorite cruise ship. In this chart, we outline the key distinctions among the 8 most popular cruise ships in the industry. Look for highlights of onboard accommodations, dining and entertainment, as well as ship itineraries. Don't have a favorite cruise ship just yet? Our picks just might inspire you to find the perfect vacation match.
Want more info about these top 8 cruise ships? Click on the vessel name below to read about ship highlights and find links to itineraries, a photo tour of the ship, a comprehensive expert review and hundreds of reader-submitted critiques.
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1. Harmony of the Seas
Sleep
- Cabins are compact but cozy, with lots of storage space.
- Solo cabins do not bear a single supplement.
- Family Presidential Suite can accommodate 14 people.
Eat
- A variety of free and for-fee options offers something for every taste.
- Wonderland serves up whimsical cuisine using molecular gastronomy.
- Johnny Rockets is a great, free alternative for breakfast.
Fun
- "Grease" production show brings the Broadway original to life.
- Escape room makes for a fun, challenging group activity.
- Outdoor entertainment includes water slides, zipline and surf simulators.
Photo Tour of Harmony of the Seas
2. Carnival Vista
Sleep
- All cabins are capable of fitting two to five people.
- Family Harbor cabins include a private lounge and free group babysitting.
- Cloud 9 Spa cabins come with spa freebies.
Eat
- Bonsai Sushi serves some of the best rolls and sashimi at sea.
- Staples such as Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.
- DIY pasta bar for lunch at Cucina del Capitano.
Fun
- Outdoor recreation includes sky-high bike and ropes course.
- RedFrog Pub & Brewery offers craft beer, tours and tastings.
- IMAX theater, perfect for rainy days and lazy nights
Photo Tour of Carnival Vista
3. Norwegian Escape
Sleep
- Cabins boast a contemporary, sophisticated design.
- Variety of categories include family, spa and solo.
- The fleet's largest suite-only enclave, The Haven.
Eat
- Alfresco dining offered in The Waterfront.
- Traditional Spanish tapas served at Pincho.
- Norwegian staples like Cagney's and Teppanyaki.
Fun
- The District Brew House is a beer lover's dream.
- Largest ropes course at sea.
- Spice H2O turns into an outdoor nightclub.
Photo Tour of Norwegian Escape
4. Anthem of the Seas
Sleep
- 75 percent of cabins have balconies.
- Inside rooms feature "virtual balconies" with ocean views.
- Choice of suite types, all with extra perks and exclusive dining room.
Eat
- Jamie's Italian offers family-style dinner in a colorful space.
- Find macarons, petits-fours and chocolates galore at La Patisserie.
- Vegetarian dishes and healthy options are indicated on menus.
Fun
- SeaPlex offers bumper cars, roller skating and trapeze lessons.
- Hit shows "We Will Rock You" and high-tech "Spectra's Cabaret".
- Gorgeous adults-only Solarium with cascading pools.
Photo Tour of Anthem of the Seas
5. Norwegian Breakaway
Sleep
- Energy-efficient cabins require key cards to operate lighting and power.
- Haven suites get private courtyard with a small pool, exclusive lounge and restaurant.
- No-supplement solo cabins have private lounge access.
Eat
- Many restaurants offer alfresco dining.
- Free options include supper club, noodle bar and grill.
- Cirque Dreams and Dinner show is family-friendly.
Fun
- Popular shows include "Rock of Ages" and "Burn the Floor".
- At night, enjoy live jazz, comedy, dueling piano players and theme parties.
- Top-deck attractions like rock climbing, water slides and ropes course.
Photo Tour of Norwegian Breakaway
6. Allure of the Seas
Sleep
- 20-plus cabin categories ranging from insides to suites.
- Cabin TVs let cruisers book tours, order room service and more.
- Top-end rooms include lofts, two-bedroom suites overlooking the AquaTheater.
Eat
- 20-plus dining options, both free and for a fee.
- First-ever "food truck" at sea serves hot dogs and sausages.
- Alternative venues: Japanese, Italian, steakhouse, Mexican.
Fun
- Coney Island-style Boardwalk with a carousel.
- Outdoor AquaTheater for daredevil diving shows.
- "Beach" and "sports" pools, plus H2O Zone for kids.
Photo Tour of Allure of the Seas
7. Norwegian Epic
Sleep
- Every outside cabin has a balcony.
- Two-deck complex for solo travelers.
- Unique design with separate rooms for sink and toilet.
Eat
- Great Outdoors alfresco restaurant serves world cuisine for free.
- Asian food lovers can dine at four free and for-fee options.
- Intimate specialty restaurants are perfect for date nights.
Fun
- Full-sized, three-lane bowling alley beckons competitive cruisers.
- Splash Golf (nine holes with water jets) is perfect for families.
- Beatles-themed bar offers great beer and live music.
Photo Tour of Norwegian Epic
8. Liberty of the Seas
Sleep
- Select interior cabins offer views of the Royal Promenade.
- Family-friendly options in each category offer more beds and storage space.
- One Presidential Family Suites sleeps up to 14.
Eat
- Burgers and shakes at Johnny Rockets make for tasty casual eats.
- Cupcake Cupboard satisfies any sweet tooth (and offers decorating classes).
- Specialty Mexican restaurant Sabor serves tableside guacamole.
Fun
- Thrilling Tidal Wave is the only boomerang-style slide at sea.
- Main street-style Royal Promenade is lined with bars, eateries and shops.
- Ice skating rink theater puts on jaw-dropping shows.
Photo Tour of Liberty of the Seas
Updated February 16, 2021
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