Your support helps us tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to big tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the finances of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word,’ which shines a light on American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know the importance of analyzing the facts of messaging. .
At such a critical moment in American history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to continue sending journalists to tell both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to block Americans from our reporting and analysis with a paywall. We believe that quality journalism should be available to everyone, and paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes a difference.
Let’s move on a cruise can give you once-in-a-lifetime access destinationsbut there are plenty of them ships which are their own must-have and unforgettable experience.
From large, family-oriented vessels with 24-hour entertainment and activities, to the quieter sailings of small ships, cruise ships offer a range of on-board amenities that can be just as exciting as the ports you visit.
Many cruise ships offer water slides, quality food and drink, spas and adults-only areas, but some go further. Here are six of the best cruise ships you must travel on in your life.
The best cruise ships
1. Evrimas
Read more: The best Disney cruises and vacation packages
The luxury brand Ritz-Carlton has a super yacht named after it Evrimanamed after the Greek word for discovery.
Expect an experience similar to staying in a luxury hotel while on the water. It serves 298 passengers in 149 suites, with a choice of five restaurants and six lounges.
Each apartment has its own terrace and you can enjoy the spa, beauty salon and gentleman’s grooming salon, as well as swimming in the pool or drinking cocktails on the Marina terrace.
said Emma Sanger-Horwell, Head of Cruises at Kenwood Travel The Independent: “Enjoy Michelin-starred restaurants, relax with world-class treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, or dive straight into adventure from the marina, offering water sports just steps from your suite. With spacious, private terraces and breathtaking views, Evrimina’s apartments are designed for comfort and elegance.
“This is more than a cruise – it’s a journey of discovery and enjoyment like no other.”
Prices start from £6,700pp sailing from Tokyo, Japanin Seward, Alaska in May 2026.
2. Icon of the sea
At 1,196 feet long and with 18 guest decks, Royal Caribbean’sIcon of the sea is the largest cruise ship in the world, with a capacity of 5,610 passengers.
His first trip was this year and he has plenty to offer for all ages. There are eight different districts and more than 40 dining rooms and bars on board.
Features include Thrill Island, an adventure zone boasting the largest water park and waterslide at sea. There is also an adults-only area on Cloud 17 and the AquaDome, which offers a place to relax by day and a place to party at night.
The ship even has a resident golden retriever named Rover, who has the important job of head dog.
Tony Andrews, managing director of Cruise.co.uk, said: “Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the sea is an absolute game changer, designed to be a destination unto itself. In my opinion, it offers an experience like no other, making it a must-see for anyone who loves cruising.
“As the largest cruise ship in the world, it is packed with exciting innovations, luxurious spaces and plenty of family activities. Icon of the sea is a once-in-a-lifetime trip that perfectly blends adventure, luxury and fun.”
Eastern Caribbean return trip from Miami costs from £1,267pp when departing from 8 November.
Read more: Europe’s best river cruises, from the enchanting Rhine to the magical Danube
3. Commander Charcot
French cruise brand Ponant’s Commander Charcot has been described as the only luxury icebreaker in the world.
The deep polar exploration cruise ship is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), offering guests a more responsible way to explore more remote and delicate regions.
It was the first ship in the world to reach the southernmost navigable latitude, in the Ross Sea, in February 2022.
With 215 crew to 245 guests, you’ll practically have your own dedicated staff member on board.
Said James Cole, CEO of Panache Cruises The Independent: “She chews ice, but more than that she does it with typical French grace and fashion. Charcot allows guests to experience the thrill of a polar adventure and get up close and personal with wildlife like never before.
“Because of the ship’s capacity and its ability to slide through ice fields, there is always the possibility of stepping on ice.
“But still, research begins in the pipeline, with experts providing insightful and invaluable insights as they conduct thought-provoking conversations about this fascinating ecosystem.”
He adds: “The restaurant is to die for. Nuna offers a typically French menu, which exudes flair and sophistication with nine-course tasting menus and gala dinners.”
Prices start from £2,360 for a four-night sailing from Brest, France to Reykjavik, Iceland in April 2026.
Read more: The best European cruise destinations
4. Queen Mary 2
Cunard’s newest shipqueen anne, it can be hailed as the introduction of the brand into the modern erabut Queen Mary 2 is a must-visit for a taste of old-school luxury cruising.
Cole says it “smells the best of Britain”.
Launched in 2003, the ship’s 2,691 guests can enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea between visits to the ship’s planetarium, exploring the 8,000 books in the largest library at sea, as well as seeing Royal Shakespeare productions or the English National Ballet during its transatlantic run. sailings between Southampton and New York.
Plus, you can even bring your pet. Cole said: “Cunard offers an amazing pet scheme, where guests can bring dogs, cats or ferrets on board with a dog day centre.
“Cruisers can relax and leave their dog in safe hands, with the option to visit and walk them in a dedicated area with a fire hydrant where they can go about their business.”
Prices start from £269pp sailing from Southampton to Hamburg, Germany, or £599pp for a transatlantic crossing from New York back to the UK.
Read more: What Disney’s new billion dollar cruise ship is really like on it
5. RV African dream
Why limit yourself to marine life when you can combine a cruise with a safari?
CroisiEurope’s RV African dream a luxury cruise ship sails on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe.
Guests get an intimate experience, with space for 16 passengers in eight cabins, with 15 crew members.
Amenities include a sun deck, lounge and jacuzzi area when you’re not enjoying the African views. From February to December, African dream sails on an eight-night cruise-safari itinerary, which includes three nights at CroisiEurope’s lodge near Chobe National Park, Botswana’s second largest game park.
Sanger-Horwell added: “In addition to the stunning views from the balcony or private terrace of your French-style cabin, you’ll experience thrilling drives in the nearby Chobe National Park and the opportunity to soar over Victoria Falls by helicopter.”
This fully escorted trip blends comfort and exoticism, giving you a front-row seat to Africa’s stunning landscapes and extraordinary wildlife.”
Prices are available on request.
6. Scenic Eclipse
Launched in 2018, owned by Australia Scenic Eclipse described as the world’s first discovery yacht.
The expedition ship can accommodate 228 passengers and boasts space for two H130 helicopters with pilots who take guests on excursions during the Antarctic voyage.
But an interesting feature lies beneath: the ship has its own custom submarine known as the Scenic Neptune, which dives to an impressive 1,000 feet below.
Cole added: “This is a real small ship experience – a smaller ship means you can call at smaller ports at the end of our country. Even with such a small size, guests can enjoy a choice of 10 restaurants that showcase international delicacies on board.
“Scenic Eclipse is equipped with a state-of-the-art spa, which is home to a thermal suite and pool designed to allow guests to relax and unwind between busy stops.”
Prices start from £15,440 to sail to Antarctica in 2025
Read more: Ice island exploration best discovered by the sea