Best Cruise Ships of 2014

"Quantum of the Seas is all about innovation," writes Cruise Critic. "Bumper cars and skydiving at sea grab the headlines, but the ship itself is simply revolutionary. The technology available onboard makes staying in touch a snap, and thoughtful details like USB ports in cabins and interactive kiosks for booking onboard activities are perfect for the modern cruiser."

Disney gets top marks for family cruises by proving "its understanding of what's important to parents [and] providing a cruise vacation that is fun and relaxing for kids and adults of all ages," says Cruise Critic. "It covers the basics with creativity and flair, then goes beyond with thoughtful touches that make it easier to travel as a family."

For romance at sea, this year's Cruise Critic award goes to Windstar Cruises: "Exotic ports, small size, and masted sails on most ships make Windstar the choice for swoon-worthy romance at sea. Honeymooners love the line's luxe touches and indulgent service, while couples of all ages enjoy the ships' casual vibes. With the addition of three yachts, the line has doubled in size while maintaining its intimate flavor."

"When cruisers book with Carnival," says Cruise Critic, "they get great included features like waterslides, Guy's Burger Joint, and the Seuss at Sea family program. To make sure passengers get more bang for their bucks, the line introduced Carnival Live, its fun and well-priced concert series. The icing? Carnival's Great Vacation Guarantee—proving the line's confidence in its product."

"The French line Ponant, which has three 264-passenger yachts with another launching in 2015, offers adventurous itineraries framed by luxury onboard. All have ice-strengthened hulls for travel to the Arctic and Antarctic, plus a fleet of Zodiacs for sightseeing in out-of-the-way ports. From cabins and restaurants to the spa, the nautical decor is upscale yet low-key," writes Cruise Critic.

International Expeditions wins this year's Cruise Critic award for Best Adventure Cruise: "Primarily a land tour company, International Expeditions offers ship-based explorations of the Peruvian Amazon and the Galapagos Islands. What's special about IE's cruises is how much the regions are incorporated into the experience, both onboard and in port. Particularly special are the guides, chefs, and crew that create a family ambience onboard."

"Variety abounds when it comes to dining on Oceania's ships, which feature world-class gourmet options with an open-seating scenario in its main dining rooms," notes Cruise Critic. "Where the ships really shine, though, is with their included alternative restaurants: Asian Red Ginger and French Jacques, named for the line's famous executive culinary director, Jacques Pepin.

"From the sing-along fun of Legends in Concert on Norwegian Epic to the head-banging joy of Rock of Ages on Norwegian Breakaway and sizzling Latin sounds of Burn the Floor on Getaway, Norwegian Cruise Line is all about entertainment," says Cruise Critic, naming Norwegian Cruise Line the best for at-sea entertainment. "Fleetwide, you'll find musical revues, comedy, and jazz on all Norwegian vessels."

To get the full list of award winners in the U.S. and U.K., including categories such as Best Suites, Best Shore Excursions, and Best River Cruise Line, or to book your next cruise vacation, visit Cruise Critic. Happy sails!

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