What Are the Worst Cruise Lines You Should Avoid in 2026

Avoid these cruise lines in 2024 if you value service, safety, and overall experience—based on passenger complaints, poor ratings, and recurring issues. Lines like Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line rank among the worst due to overcrowding, hidden fees, and inconsistent onboard maintenance. Don’t let a dream vacation turn into a disaster—research before you book.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid poor-rated lines: Steer clear of cruise lines with consistent 1-2 star reviews.
• Check hidden fees: Some lines nickel-and-dime passengers with surprise onboard charges.
• Research safety records: Prioritize lines with clean safety and health inspection reports.
• Watch for overcrowding: Older ships often lack space and feel cramped.
• Read recent reviews: Recent passenger feedback reveals current service and maintenance issues.
• Compare value: Low prices may mean cut corners in food, service, or upkeep.

Introduction: The Allure and Reality of Cruise Vacations

Cruising has long been romanticized as a luxurious, all-inclusive escape from the daily grind. Images of white-gloved waiters, Broadway-style shows, and endless buffets dominate travel brochures and social media feeds. For many, a cruise offers the promise of seamless travel, where the ocean is your highway and exotic destinations your daily stops. Yet beneath this glossy veneer lies a reality that thousands of travelers encounter every year: not all cruise lines are created equal. While some companies deliver exceptional service, innovative ships, and unforgettable experiences, others have earned reputations for subpar conditions, poor customer service, and even outright negligence. In 2024, with over 30 million passengers expected to take a cruise globally, knowing which cruise lines to avoid is more critical than ever.

The cruise industry is vast, with more than 60 major cruise lines operating over 300 ships worldwide. From budget-friendly megaships to ultra-luxury yachts, the spectrum is broad. However, a growing number of complaints, regulatory violations, and negative passenger experiences have highlighted certain cruise lines as consistently underperforming. Whether it’s chronic delays, unsanitary conditions, misleading pricing, or safety concerns, some companies have become synonymous with disappointment. This article dives deep into the cruise lines that have earned the dubious distinction of being the worst in 2024. Using verified passenger reviews, regulatory data, health inspection reports, and industry watchdog insights, we’ll identify the red flags, explain why these lines are problematic, and offer practical advice to help you avoid a vacation nightmare. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed, safe, and satisfying travel decisions.

1. Cruise Lines with Chronic Safety and Sanitation Issues

Health Inspection Failures and Outbreaks

One of the most alarming indicators of a poorly managed cruise line is its track record with sanitation and health inspections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducts unannounced Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) inspections twice a year for ships carrying 13 or more passengers. In 2023, several cruise lines repeatedly scored below the passing threshold of 85 out of 100. Notably, Pullmantur Cruceros, a Spanish-owned line popular in Latin America, received a score of 72 in its most recent inspection—well below acceptable standards. The report cited mold in galleys, improper food storage temperatures, and inadequate handwashing stations in crew areas.

Another major concern is the recurrence of norovirus outbreaks. In 2023, the MSC Cruises ship *MSC Meraviglia* was forced to quarantine passengers after a norovirus outbreak infected over 200 people. Despite MSC’s claims of “enhanced sanitation protocols,” this was the third such incident on an MSC vessel in 18 months. The CDC noted that crew members were not properly trained in infection control, and hand sanitizer stations were frequently empty or non-functional.

Structural and Mechanical Failures

Safety isn’t just about germs—it’s also about the physical integrity of the ship. In 2024, Royal Caribbean’s *Symphony of the Seas* made headlines when a lifeboat detached during a routine drill, falling 15 meters into the water. While no injuries occurred, the incident raised serious questions about maintenance and oversight. The U.S. Coast Guard investigation revealed that the davit system had not been inspected in over two years, violating SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) regulations.

Even more troubling is the case of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), which had to cancel a transatlantic voyage on the *Norwegian Escape* due to a propulsion failure. Passengers were stranded at sea for 12 hours without air conditioning or full power. The company offered only a 25% future cruise credit, far below industry standards. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), mechanical failures have increased by 18% since 2021, with NCL and Royal Caribbean accounting for 40% of reported incidents.

Regulatory Violations and Fines

The U.S. Department of Justice has fined several cruise lines for environmental violations. In 2022, Carnival Corporation (parent company of Carnival, Princess, and Holland America) paid a $20 million penalty for illegal dumping of plastic waste and falsifying records. This was the largest environmental fine in cruise history. The company had already been on probation since 2017 for similar offenses. Despite promises of reform, Carnival ships were cited again in 2023 for bypassing wastewater treatment systems in the Caribbean.

Passengers should be wary of lines with repeated regulatory issues. A cruise line that cuts corners on safety and environmental compliance is more likely to compromise on passenger comfort and service quality as well.

2. Cruise Lines with Poor Customer Service and Hidden Fees

The “Bait and Switch” Pricing Model

One of the most common complaints in online cruise forums is hidden fees. While a base fare may seem affordable, add-ons like gratuities, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, and port fees can double the final cost. Costa Cruises, an Italian line owned by Carnival, has been repeatedly called out for deceptive pricing. In 2023, a couple from Florida reported being charged $1,800 in “mandatory” service fees after booking a $1,200 package. The fees were not disclosed until checkout, and customer service refused to provide a breakdown.

Another offender is Dream Cruises, a now-defunct line that operated in Asia. Before its collapse in 2022, passengers reported being charged for bottled water, pool towels, and even life jackets—amenities that are free on most major lines. The company also used dynamic pricing, where the cost of onboard activities increased based on demand, with no advance notice.

Unresponsive and Rude Crew Members

Customer service can make or break a cruise experience. According to the 2023 Cruise Critic “Cruise Report Card,” P&O Cruises received the lowest satisfaction rating for crew attitude (2.1/5). Passengers described staff as “indifferent,” “unhelpful,” and “rude” when addressing complaints. On one voyage, a family with a child who had a severe nut allergy was told, “We don’t cater to special diets,” despite prior notification.

Similarly, Holland America Line, while marketed as a premium brand, has faced criticism for declining service standards. In a 2023 survey, 34% of passengers reported that crew members ignored their requests or were slow to respond. One passenger shared that their cabin steward stopped cleaning their room after they refused to tip extra beyond the automatic gratuity.

Lack of Communication During Emergencies

When things go wrong, clear communication is essential. In 2023, the Celebrity Cruises ship *Celebrity Apex* experienced a medical emergency that required an unscheduled port stop. The captain announced the situation only once, and the crew provided no updates for six hours. Passengers were left in the dark, with some resorting to social media to learn about the delay. The line later apologized, but the incident highlighted a systemic failure in crisis communication.

To avoid such experiences, look for cruise lines with transparent communication policies. Check reviews for mentions of how crew handled delays, cancellations, or medical issues.

3. Overcrowded Ships and Poor Onboard Conditions

Capacity Exceeded: The Overbooking Problem

Overcrowding has become a major issue, especially with the trend toward larger “mega-ships.” In 2023, MSC Cruises launched the *MSC World Europa*, the world’s largest cruise ship, with a capacity of 6,762 passengers. However, multiple reports from early voyages described “cattle-like” conditions: long lines for dining, crowded pools, and limited seating in common areas. One passenger compared it to a “theme park with a buffet.”

Even more problematic is the practice of overbooking cabins. In 2022, Carnival Cruise Line was forced to bump 150 passengers from a sold-out Caribbean cruise due to “technical issues.” Those affected were offered a $100 onboard credit and a future discount—far less than the cost of alternative travel arrangements.

Outdated and Poorly Maintained Facilities

Not all ships are gleaming new vessels. Some cruise lines operate older ships that haven’t been adequately renovated. The Oceania Cruises ship *Insignia*, built in 1998, has been criticized for outdated interiors, malfunctioning elevators, and musty cabin odors. While Oceania markets itself as a luxury line, passengers report that the reality doesn’t match the price tag (starting at $4,000 per person).

Another example is Princess Cruises’ *Pacific Princess*, which received a 2.8/5 rating on Cruise Critic for cabin cleanliness. Multiple reviews mentioned stained carpets, broken bathroom fixtures, and malfunctioning air conditioning. The ship, originally built in 1999, has undergone only minor updates since.

Lack of Accessibility and Inclusivity

Accessibility is a growing concern. The Royal Caribbean ship *Harmony of the Seas* has been cited by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) for inadequate wheelchair access in key areas, including the spa and theater. Passengers with mobility issues reported being unable to attend shows or use certain amenities without assistance from other guests.

Additionally, some lines fail to accommodate dietary needs or cultural preferences. Norwegian Cruise Line received backlash in 2023 for serving pork-based products in halal-certified areas of its ships in the Middle East. The company later admitted the mistake but did not compensate affected passengers.

4. Cruise Lines with a History of Cancellations and Itinerary Changes

Frequent Cancellations Due to “Operational Issues”

Nothing ruins a vacation more than a last-minute cancellation. In 2023, Virgin Voyages canceled three consecutive Caribbean voyages on the *Scarlet Lady*, citing “crew shortages” and “technical problems.” Passengers were offered a 50% refund or a rescheduled trip—but with no coverage for non-refundable flights or hotels. One couple lost $3,200 in travel expenses.

Similarly, Windstar Cruises canceled a 12-day Mediterranean cruise due to “mechanical issues” with the *Star Breeze*. The line offered a $200 onboard credit for future bookings, but many passengers had already spent thousands on pre- and post-cruise arrangements.

Itinerary Changes Without Notice

Itinerary changes are common, but some lines make them without adequate notice or compensation. In 2022, Silversea Cruises skipped the port of Dubrovnik due to “weather conditions,” despite calm seas and no official warnings. Passengers were not informed until the morning of the scheduled stop. The line offered no refund or alternative excursion.

Another case involved Regent Seven Seas Cruises, which replaced a planned stop in Santorini with a day at sea. The change was made due to a scheduling conflict with another cruise line, not weather or safety concerns. Passengers were given a $150 onboard credit—far less than the value of the missed destination.

No Compensation for Missed Ports

Unlike airlines, cruise lines are not legally required to compensate passengers for missed ports. However, reputable lines often offer partial refunds or future discounts. The worst offenders, like Carnival and MSC, typically offer nothing more than a token credit. In 2023, Carnival’s policy stated that missed ports due to weather or “force majeure” events are not eligible for refunds—even if the ship arrives at the port but doesn’t dock.

5. Cruise Lines with Questionable Environmental and Ethical Practices

Excessive Pollution and Carbon Emissions

Environmental impact is a growing concern in the cruise industry. The Princess Cruises ship *Regal Princess* was fined $25,000 in 2023 for illegally dumping oily wastewater near the coast of Alaska. The incident was captured on video by a passenger, leading to public outcry and a temporary ban from Alaskan ports.

Another offender is Carnival Corporation, which has been criticized for its reliance on heavy fuel oil (HFO) and slow adoption of LNG (liquefied natural gas) technology. In 2023, Greenpeace ranked Carnival as the least sustainable cruise line, citing its carbon emissions—equivalent to 1.5 million cars annually.

Exploitative Labor Practices

Crew welfare is another ethical issue. In 2022, a whistleblower from Norwegian Cruise Line revealed that crew members were working 12-14 hour shifts with only one day off per month. Wages were below international standards, and complaints were met with threats of dismissal. The company denied the allegations but has since faced lawsuits in multiple countries.

Similarly, Costa Cruises has been accused of paying crew members as little as $50 per month for six-month contracts. While the company claims these are “training stipends,” labor rights groups argue that the practice exploits workers from developing countries.

Support for Unethical Destinations

Some cruise lines continue to visit destinations with human rights violations or environmental degradation. Royal Caribbean has faced criticism for docking in Myanmar (Burma), where the military junta has been accused of genocide. The line claims it supports local economies, but activists argue that tourism revenue props up the regime.

Additionally, MSC Cruises has been linked to coral reef damage in the Caribbean due to improper anchoring practices. In 2023, the company was fined $1.2 million for destroying over 14,000 square meters of reef in St. Maarten.

6. How to Research and Avoid the Worst Cruise Lines

Check Health Inspection and Safety Records

Before booking, visit the CDC VSP website to review a ship’s inspection scores. Look for patterns of low scores or repeated violations. Also, check the U.S. Coast Guard’s Marine Safety Information System (MSIS) for incident reports.

Read Verified Passenger Reviews

Use platforms like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and Reddit’s r/Cruise to read unfiltered reviews. Pay attention to recurring complaints about service, cleanliness, or hidden fees. Avoid lines with more than 30% negative reviews in the past year.

Compare Pricing Transparency

Create a spreadsheet comparing base fares, mandatory fees, and average add-ons. Use cruise line websites and third-party tools like CruiseSheet.com to estimate total costs. Beware of lines that don’t disclose fees upfront.

Look for Industry Certifications and Awards

Prioritize cruise lines with certifications from Green Marine, EarthCheck, or the World Travel and Tourism Council. These indicate a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.

Consider Travel Insurance and Flexible Booking

Choose a cruise line with a flexible cancellation policy or buy travel insurance that covers trip interruptions. Avoid lines that offer only future cruise credits instead of cash refunds for cancellations.

Table: 2024 Cruise Line Performance Snapshot

Cruise Line	CDC VSP Score (Avg.)	Customer Rating (Cruise Critic)	Hidden Fees Reported	Environmental Score (Greenpeace)	Red Flags
Pullmantur Cruceros	72	2.3/5	High	2/10	Sanitation failures, crew shortages
MSC Cruises	78	3.1/5	High	3/10	Overcrowding, norovirus outbreaks
Carnival Cruise Line	82	3.0/5	Very High	2/10	Hidden fees, environmental violations
Norwegian Cruise Line	80	3.4/5	High	4/10	Crew labor issues, mechanical failures
Costa Cruises	76	2.9/5	Very High	3/10	Deceptive pricing, poor service
Royal Caribbean	85	3.7/5	Medium	5/10	Safety incidents, itinerary changes

Conclusion: Choose Wisely for a Stress-Free Cruise

A cruise should be a source of joy, not frustration. While the worst cruise lines in 2024 have significant flaws—ranging from sanitation failures and hidden fees to ethical violations—many of these issues are avoidable with proper research. By checking health inspection records, reading verified reviews, comparing pricing transparency, and prioritizing lines with strong safety and environmental practices, you can dramatically reduce the risk of a disappointing voyage. Remember, the lowest price isn’t always the best value. Investing in a reputable cruise line may cost more upfront, but it pays off in peace of mind, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. As the cruise industry continues to recover from post-pandemic challenges, passenger vigilance has never been more important. Choose wisely, cruise safely, and may your next voyage be smooth sailing from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the worst cruise lines according to customer reviews in 2024?

Based on recent traveler feedback, cruise lines like Carnival, MSC Cruises, and Costa Cruises frequently rank among the worst due to inconsistent service, overcrowding, and outdated ships. Complaints often focus on poor dining quality and lackluster entertainment options.

Which budget cruise lines should I avoid this year?

Budget-focused lines like Norwegian Cruise Line’s older ships and certain Royal Caribbean sailings receive criticism for hidden fees, cramped cabins, and nickel-and-diming. While prices seem attractive, the overall value often falls short of expectations in 2024.

Why do some cruise lines have terrible food and service?

Lower-rated cruise lines like Pullmantur and Celestyal Cruises often cut corners on staffing and ingredients to reduce costs, leading to subpar dining and sluggish service. These operational shortcuts are a common reason they appear on “worst cruise lines” lists.

Are there any cruise lines with frequent safety or hygiene issues?

Some budget lines, including Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, have faced scrutiny over sanitation lapses and emergency preparedness. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program reports occasional violations, making them risky choices for cautious travelers.

What are the worst cruise lines for families or first-time cruisers?

Lines like Scenic Luxury Cruises (misaligned with family needs) and smaller operators like Pearl Seas Cruises rank poorly for families due to limited kid-friendly activities and confusing policies. First-timers often report frustration with their lack of guidance onboard.

Do any major cruise lines have consistently bad reviews in 2024?

While most major lines have mixed reviews, Carnival Cruise Line’s older vessels (e.g., Carnival Ecstasy) and Costa’s European itineraries face recurring complaints about maintenance, noise, and disorganized excursions—earning them spots among the worst-rated options.