Top Cruise Lines in June 2019 for Your Perfect Summer Getaway

June 2019 offers unbeatable summer cruise deals with top-rated lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival delivering exceptional value and unforgettable experiences. From Alaska’s glaciers to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, these cruise lines feature expanded itineraries, upgraded amenities, and family-friendly activities perfect for a sun-soaked getaway. Book early to secure balcony cabins and exclusive onboard credits during peak season sailings.

Key Takeaways

• Book early: Secure June 2019 sailings now for best rates and cabins.
• Choose destinations wisely: Alaska and Mediterranean offer ideal summer weather.
• Family-friendly options: Carnival and Disney lead in kid-approved activities.
• Luxury seekers: Regent and Seabourn provide all-inclusive high-end experiences.
• Adventure cruises: Lindblad explores remote spots with expert guides.
• Onboard savings: Look for June promotions on dining and excursions.

Top Cruise Lines in June 2019 for Your Perfect Summer Getaway

As the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher, June marks the unofficial start of summer and the peak season for unforgettable cruise vacations. Whether you’re dreaming of turquoise waters in the Caribbean, dramatic fjords in Alaska, or the historic ports of the Mediterranean, June 2019 offers a golden opportunity to set sail with the world’s most renowned cruise lines. With favorable weather patterns, extended daylight, and vibrant destinations in full bloom, this is the ideal time to plan a cruise that blends relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.

The cruise industry in 2019 was booming, with major lines investing in innovative ships, enhanced onboard experiences, and expanded itineraries. From luxury liners offering five-star dining and butler service to family-friendly mega-ships packed with water parks and entertainment, there’s a cruise line to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. This guide dives deep into the top cruise lines in June 2019, spotlighting their standout features, best itineraries, and insider tips to help you choose the perfect vessel for your summer escape. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, the insights below will ensure your June voyage is nothing short of spectacular.

1. Royal Caribbean International: Innovation Meets Adventure

Why Royal Caribbean Stands Out in 2019

Royal Caribbean International (RCI) continued to dominate the cruise scene in June 2019 with its fleet of cutting-edge mega-ships and adrenaline-fueled activities. Known for pushing the boundaries of what a cruise vacation can be, RCI’s 2019 offerings included the newly launched Symphony of the Seas—the world’s largest cruise ship at the time—boasting seven distinct neighborhoods, a robotic bartender, and a full-sized Central Park. For thrill-seekers, ships like Harmony of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas featured the North Star capsule, a glass observation pod that lifts guests 300 feet above sea level.

June itineraries focused on the Caribbean and Alaska, with popular routes including the 7-night Western Caribbean from Miami and the 7-night Alaska Inside Passage from Seattle. These voyages were perfectly timed to take advantage of June’s warm weather and extended daylight, especially in Alaska, where the Midnight Sun phenomenon allowed for unforgettable glacier views at 10 PM.

Top Features for Families and Solo Travelers

Families were drawn to RCI’s Adventure Ocean youth programs, which offered age-specific activities from toddlers to teens. The line also introduced the Ultimate Family Suite on select ships—a two-story, 1,346-square-foot suite complete with a slide, cinema, and LEGO wall. For solo travelers, RCI’s Studio Staterooms and dedicated solo lounges provided a social yet private experience. The Cruise Planner app, launched in 2019, allowed guests to pre-book shows, dining, and excursions, minimizing lines and maximizing convenience.

Insider Tips for Booking in June

• Book early: June sailings on popular ships like Symphony of the Seas sold out by March. Early-bird discounts (up to 20% off) were available for bookings made 12+ months in advance.
• Choose balcony cabins: For Alaska cruises, a balcony is essential for glacier viewing. RCI’s “virtual balconies” (real-time screens in interior cabins) were a budget-friendly alternative.
• Pack smart: Caribbean cruises required lightweight clothing, while Alaska trips needed layers. RCI’s “packing checklist” emails helped guests prepare.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Cruising Redefined

The Freedom of Choice in 2019

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) solidified its reputation as the “Freestyle Cruising” leader in June 2019, offering unstructured dining, flexible schedules, and no formal nights. The fleet included the Norwegian Bliss, a 4,000-passenger ship launched in 2018 with a 188-foot-long go-kart track, Broadway-style shows (like Jersey Boys), and a 3,500-square-foot laser tag arena. NCL’s “More At Sea” promotion, introduced in early 2019, included free open bar, specialty dining, and Wi-Fi packages—a major draw for value-focused travelers.

June itineraries highlighted NCL’s strength in the Caribbean, with 7-night Eastern and Western routes from Miami, Port Canaveral, and New Orleans. The line also expanded its Alaska offerings, with the Norwegian Joy offering 7-night voyages from Seattle, featuring stops at Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan.

Specialty Dining and Onboard Experiences

NCL’s 28 dining options per ship catered to diverse tastes. Highlights included:

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts and wine pairings.
• Teppanyaki: Interactive Japanese cuisine.
• The District Brew House: Craft beers from local breweries.

For relaxation, the Spa & Thermal Suite offered hydrotherapy pools, salt rooms, and thermal loungers. The Mandara Spa also introduced CBD-infused treatments in 2019, a trendy wellness perk.

Maximizing the “More At Sea” Deal

• Pre-book specialty dining: The free dining credit covered 2-3 meals at select restaurants. Reservations opened 120 days pre-cruise.
• Use Wi-Fi wisely: The free package included 300 minutes. Download maps and apps before boarding to conserve data.
• Attend onboard events: NCL’s “Freestyle Daily” newsletter listed free concerts, trivia, and mixology classes.

3. Princess Cruises: Scenic Routes and Cultural Immersion

Alaska and Europe: Princess’s 2019 Crown Jewels

Princess Cruises excelled in June 2019 with its destination-focused itineraries, particularly in Alaska and the Mediterranean. The line’s “North to Alaska” program included 7- and 14-night voyages on ships like Grand Princess and Regal Princess, featuring glacier-viewing decks, onboard naturalists, and the “Alaska State Museum” exhibit. For Europe, Princess offered 10-night Baltic cruises from Copenhagen and 12-night Mediterranean routes from Barcelona, with stops in Rome, Athens, and Santorini.

A standout feature was the Discovery at SEA program, which partnered with Discovery and Animal Planet to offer wildlife talks, cooking demos, and stargazing sessions. The line also introduced MedallionNet, a wearable device that enabled contactless check-in, cabin unlocking, and personalized service—a game-changer for seamless cruising.

Onboard Enrichment and Wellness

Princess prioritized cultural immersion with:

• ScholarShip@Sea: Lectures on history, art, and local cuisine.
• Local Flavors: Port-specific menus (e.g., fresh salmon in Alaska, paella in Spain).
• Lotus Spa: Yoga classes on the deck at sunrise.

The Horizon Court buffet offered 24-hour dining, while specialty restaurants like Chef’s Table Lumière provided intimate, multi-course experiences.

Pro Tips for Princess Cruises

• Book shore excursions early: Princess’s “MedallionClass” app allowed pre-booking of limited-capacity tours (e.g., Juneau’s whale watching).
• Upgrade to a mini-suite: These cabins included priority boarding and access to the Club Class Dining Room.
• Attend the “Farewell Party”: A free event with live music and complimentary champagne.

4. Carnival Cruise Line: Fun-Focused Value Cruising

Affordable Adventures for All Ages

Carnival Cruise Line remained the go-to for budget-friendly, high-energy vacations in June 2019. The fleet, including Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista, offered water parks with 11 slides, the SkyRide (a suspended bike track), and the IMAX Theatre. The line’s “Fun Ship 2.0” upgrades brought new bars like the RedFrog Pub (with a brewery) and the Guy’s Burger Joint (a partnership with celebrity chef Guy Fieri).

June itineraries focused on the Caribbean, with 4- to 8-night cruises from Miami, Tampa, and Galveston. Popular stops included Cozumel, Nassau, and Half Moon Cay (Carnival’s private island). The line also launched its first Alaska cruise on the Carnival Miracle, a 14-night voyage from Long Beach.

Entertainment and Dining Highlights

Carnival’s entertainment was unmatched, with:

• Hasbro, The Game Show: Interactive family games.
• Comedy Club: Stand-up acts in the Punchliner Comedy Club.
• Seuss at Sea: Dr. Seuss-themed activities for kids.

Dining options included the BlueIguana Cantina (build-your-own tacos) and the Steakhouse (reservations required). The “Cheers!” beverage package (unlimited drinks up to $50/day) was a popular add-on.

Carnival’s June 2019 Deals

• “Early Saver” rates: Up to 25% off for bookings 6+ months ahead.
• “Free Upgrades”: Interior to ocean-view cabins on select sailings.
• “Kids Sail Free”: Third and fourth guests under 12 sailed free on most Caribbean cruises.

5. Holland America Line: Elegance and Expedition Cruising

Refined Cruising with a Focus on Destinations

Holland America Line (HAL) catered to mature travelers and culture enthusiasts in June 2019. The fleet, including Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam, blended classic elegance with modern amenities. HAL’s “Signature of Excellence” program introduced the Music Walk (featuring BB King’s Blues Club and Lincoln Center Stage), the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, and the Digital Workshop (free tech classes).

June itineraries highlighted Alaska (7-night voyages from Vancouver) and Northern Europe (14-night Baltic cruises from Amsterdam). HAL’s “Explorations Central” (EXC) program provided destination experts and curated excursions, such as a private tour of St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum.

Onboard Luxury and Dining

HAL’s five-star dining included:

• Pinnacle Grill: Premium seafood and steak.
• Canaletto: Authentic Italian cuisine.
• Rudi’s Sel de Mer: A pop-up French bistro on select ships.

The World Stage theater hosted live performances, while the Explorations Café offered coffee, wine, and library access.

Booking Strategies for HAL

• Join the Mariner Society: Repeat guests received discounts (up to 10%) and free internet.
• Choose a verandah cabin: Essential for Alaska’s scenic views.
• Attend the “Captain’s Reception”: A free cocktail party with the ship’s officers.

6. Comparison and Decision-Making: Choosing Your Ideal Cruise Line

Data Table: Top Cruise Lines at a Glance (June 2019)

Cruise Line	Best For	Avg. 7-Night Price (per person)	Unique Feature	Best Itinerary
Royal Caribbean	Families, thrill-seekers	$1,200–$2,000	North Star observation pod	7-night Alaska (Seattle)
Norwegian	Flexible schedules, dining	$900–$1,600	188-foot go-kart track	7-night Eastern Caribbean (Miami)
Princess	Alaska, cultural immersion	$1,300–$2,200	MedallionNet wearable tech	7-night Alaska (Vancouver)
Carnival	Value, family fun	$600–$1,100	SkyRide suspended bike track	7-night Western Caribbean (Tampa)
Holland America	Luxury, mature travelers	$1,500–$2,500	BB King’s Blues Club	14-night Baltic (Amsterdam)

Matching Your Travel Style

• Families with kids: Royal Caribbean or Carnival for water parks and youth programs.
• Couples seeking romance: Princess or Holland America for scenic routes and fine dining.
• Solo travelers: Norwegian or Carnival for social lounges and flexible dining.
• Adventure seekers: Royal Caribbean or Norwegian for onboard thrills.
• Budget-conscious: Carnival’s “Early Saver” rates or Norwegian’s “More At Sea” package.

Final Booking Checklist

• Compare prices: Use cruise meta-search engines like Kayak or Cruise Critic.
• Read reviews: Check recent passenger feedback on TripAdvisor.
• Verify inclusions: Confirm if gratuities, Wi-Fi, and excursions are covered.
• Check visa requirements: Some European itineraries require Schengen visas.

Choosing the right cruise line in June 2019 was about aligning your priorities—whether it’s adventure, relaxation, culture, or value—with the unique strengths of each brand. From Royal Caribbean’s high-tech thrills to Holland America’s refined elegance, the options were vast and varied. By leveraging the insights and tips above, you could transform your summer getaway into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So pack your bags, raise the anchor, and set sail on the journey of your dreams. The open seas await!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top cruise lines in June 2019 for summer vacations?

In June 2019, leading cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line stand out for their summer itineraries, offering diverse destinations from Alaska to the Mediterranean. These brands combine family-friendly amenities with seasonal perks like extended daylight excursions and themed onboard events.

Which cruise lines offer the best deals for June 2019 departures?

For budget-conscious travelers, Carnival and MSC Cruises provide competitive pricing and promotions for June 2019 sailings, including early-bird discounts and onboard credit offers. Booking through travel agencies or directly during seasonal sales can further reduce costs.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines for a June 2019 summer getaway?

Absolutely! Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean excel in family-friendly experiences, with kids’ clubs, water parks, and character meet-and-greets. Both lines feature June 2019 itineraries to the Caribbean and Europe, perfect for multigenerational trips.

What destinations are popular on cruise lines in June 2019?

June 2019 cruise lines focus on Alaska (glacier viewing), Mediterranean (cultural hotspots), and Northern Europe (midnight sun adventures). Norwegian and Princess Cruises lead in these regions, with itineraries tailored to summer weather and daylight hours.

Do any cruise lines in June 2019 cater to adults or couples?

Yes, luxury lines like Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas offer adults-focused voyages with fine dining, spa packages, and exclusive shore excursions. Their June 2019 Mediterranean and Baltic routes are ideal for romantic or serene escapes.

How do I choose the best cruise line for June 2019 based on activities?

Adventure seekers should consider Carnival’s onboard water slides or Royal Caribbean’s rock climbing, while culture-focused travelers might prefer Holland America’s enrichment programs. Match your interests to the cruise line’s signature activities for a tailored June 2019 experience.