What Cruise Lines to Avoid and Why You Should Know Before Booking

Avoid cruise lines with consistently poor customer reviews, hidden fees, and outdated ships—these red flags often lead to disappointing vacations and unexpected costs. Lines like Carnival’s budget-tier “Fun Ships” and certain older Royal Caribbean vessels frequently rank lowest in service, cleanliness, and value, making them risky choices despite low upfront pricing.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid budget lines: Hidden fees and poor service often outweigh low prices.
• Check reviews: Consistently low ratings signal deeper operational issues.
• Skip overcrowded ships: Overbooking leads to long waits and reduced amenities.
• Watch for age: Older fleets may lack modern safety and comfort features.
• Verify cancellation policies: Rigid terms can cost you during unexpected changes.
• Research incident history: Frequent accidents or violations demand extra scrutiny.

What Cruise Lines to Avoid and Why You Should Know Before Booking

Dreaming of turquoise waters, luxurious decks, and all-inclusive buffets? A cruise vacation can be one of the most relaxing and memorable travel experiences—but only if you choose the right cruise line. With over 50 major cruise operators sailing the world, not all ships are created equal. Some cruise lines have earned reputations for overcrowding, poor service, outdated ships, hidden fees, or even safety concerns. While every traveler’s experience can vary, certain patterns emerge from customer reviews, industry reports, and expert analyses that point to cruise lines you might want to avoid—or at least approach with caution.

Booking a cruise is a significant investment, both financially and emotionally. You’re committing time, money, and expectations to a vacation that’s hard to change once the ship leaves port. That’s why doing your research before clicking “confirm booking” is essential. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, understanding what cruise lines to avoid can save you from disappointment, frustration, or worse—health and safety risks. This guide dives deep into the cruise lines that frequently appear on “avoid” lists, the reasons behind their poor ratings, and practical tips to help you make a smarter, more informed decision. From hidden fees to outdated fleets and customer service nightmares, we’ll cover everything you need to know before you set sail.

1. Cruise Lines with Consistently Poor Customer Satisfaction Ratings

One of the most reliable indicators of a cruise line’s quality is its customer satisfaction score. Organizations like Cruise Critic, J.D. Power, and Consumer Affairs conduct annual surveys and compile user reviews to rank cruise lines based on service, cleanliness, value, and overall experience. While some lines excel, others consistently fall short—sometimes dramatically.

Top Offenders in Customer Satisfaction

According to the 2023 J.D. Power North America Cruise Line Satisfaction Study, several cruise lines ranked significantly below the industry average. Among them:

• Carnival Cruise Line – While popular for its affordability and party atmosphere, Carnival has long struggled with customer service and cleanliness complaints. In the 2023 study, it ranked lowest among mass-market cruise lines in overall satisfaction.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Despite its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, NCL received poor marks for dining quality, cabin comfort, and onboard service. Over 30% of reviewers on Cruise Critic cited long lines, unresponsive staff, and inconsistent food.
• MSC Cruises – Known for low introductory fares, MSC has a growing presence in the U.S. market, but its customer satisfaction scores lag behind competitors. Common complaints include language barriers, disorganized embarkation, and understaffed guest services.

Why These Ratings Matter

Low satisfaction isn’t just about a bad meal or a slow elevator. It reflects systemic issues: undertrained staff, overbooked ships, and cost-cutting measures that impact the guest experience. For example, Carnival’s frequent reports of “dirty cabins” or “broken amenities” stem from high guest-to-staff ratios and rapid turnaround times between cruises. Similarly, NCL’s push for larger ships (like the Norwegian Encore, carrying over 4,000 passengers) has led to overcrowding and longer wait times at dining and entertainment venues.

Tip: Before booking, check recent reviews on trusted platforms like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and Consumer Affairs. Pay attention to recurring themes—not just isolated incidents. If “poor customer service” appears in 40% of recent reviews, it’s likely a systemic issue.

2. Cruise Lines with Aging or Poorly Maintained Fleets

Modern cruise ships are marvels of engineering—equipped with water parks, theaters, spas, and smart cabins. But older vessels often lack these amenities and may suffer from maintenance issues, outdated HVAC systems, or even safety concerns. Some cruise lines continue to operate ships well past their prime, which can drastically affect your comfort and safety.

Ships Past Their Prime: The Risks of Older Vessels

• Carnival Fantasy-class ships (e.g., Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Sensation) – These ships, launched in the 1990s, have undergone minimal refurbishments. Reviews consistently mention “musty smells,” “outdated decor,” and “poor ventilation.” In 2022, a Carnival Sensation guest reported mold in their cabin’s bathroom, leading to a formal complaint.
• Holland America’s Rotterdam-class (e.g., MS Rotterdam) – While Holland America markets itself as a premium line, some of its older ships lack modern amenities. The MS Rotterdam (launched 1997) has been criticized for cramped cabins, slow elevators, and outdated entertainment options.
• Costa Cruises (part of Carnival Corp.) – Costa operates several ships over 20 years old, including the Costa Victoria. In 2021, a fire broke out in the engine room of the Costa Victoria due to a fuel leak—highlighting potential safety risks on aging vessels.

How to Check a Ship’s Age and Refurbishment History

Before booking, research the specific ship—not just the cruise line. Use tools like:

• CruiseMapper.com – Provides detailed specs, launch dates, and refurbishment history.
• ShipCruise.info – Shows cabin layouts, deck plans, and recent passenger reviews.
• Cruise Critic’s Ship Reviews – Look for “Refurbished” tags and read comments about cleanliness and comfort.

Tip: Avoid ships over 25 years old unless they’ve undergone a full-scale refurbishment within the last 5 years. Even then, check if the updates were cosmetic or included critical systems like plumbing, HVAC, and electrical.

3. Cruise Lines with Hidden Fees and Poor Value

“All-inclusive” sounds great—until you realize it doesn’t include anything. Many budget and mid-tier cruise lines advertise low base fares but bury costs in mandatory gratuities, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and even bottled water. These hidden fees can inflate your final bill by 30–50%.

Lines Known for Aggressive Upselling

• Royal Caribbean – While Royal Caribbean offers impressive ships, it’s notorious for upselling. The “Deluxe Beverage Package” can cost $70+/day. Specialty restaurants (like Chops Grille) are $40–$60 per person. Even basic Wi-Fi is $20–$30/day.
• Celebrity Cruises – Marketed as a premium line, Celebrity charges extra for premium coffee, spa access, and even some fitness classes. Gratuities are automatically added ($16–$20/day per person).
• MSC Cruises – MSC’s “Beverage Package” is often mandatory for adults, even if you don’t drink. Shore excursions are priced 30–50% above market rate. Families report being charged extra for kids’ activities.

How to Spot a “Bait-and-Switch” Pricing Model

Watch for these red flags:

• Low base fare with high add-ons: A $500 cruise that becomes $1,200 after fees.
• Mandatory gratuities: Most lines now auto-add these, but some (like MSC) charge them upfront.
• “Free” Wi-Fi with data limits: You get 100MB, then pay $10/hour for more.
• Specialty dining restrictions: Some lines limit how many free specialty meals you get, even on higher-tier packages.

Tip: Calculate your total cost before booking. Add:

• Base fare
• Port taxes and fees
• Gratuities (check if included)
• Excursion budget ($50–$150/day)
• Wi-Fi (if needed)
• Drinks (soda, coffee, alcohol)

Compare this total across lines—not just the headline price.

4. Cruise Lines with Safety and Sanitation Concerns

While rare, cruise ship incidents can have serious consequences. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) inspects ships twice a year and issues scores out of 100. A score below 85 is considered a “failing grade,” requiring immediate action. Some cruise lines have a history of poor sanitation or safety lapses.

Recent Sanitation Failures and Safety Incidents

Ship	Line	CDC Score (2023)	Issue	Year
MSC Seaside	MSC Cruises	78	Food handling violations, mold in galley	2023
Norwegian Breakaway	Norwegian Cruise Line	82	Cross-contamination, dirty dishware	2023
Costa Diadema	Costa Cruises	76	Rodent sightings, poor hand hygiene	2022
Carnival Breeze	Carnival Cruise Line	80	Unsanitary ice machines, food storage issues	2022
Royal Caribbean Symphony	Royal Caribbean	84	Minor violations, no major issues	2023

Note: A score of 85+ is passing. Scores below 80 require immediate corrective action.

Other Safety Red Flags

• Overcrowding: Ships operating at 110%+ capacity (common on Carnival and MSC) increase fire and medical emergency risks.
• Engine failures: In 2022, the Carnival Horizon lost power for 12 hours near Puerto Rico, stranding passengers.
• Medical facilities: Some ships lack 24/7 medical staff or adequate equipment. Check if your ship has an on-call physician and emergency evacuation plans.

Tip: Visit CDC.gov/travel and search “Vessel Sanitation Program” to view inspection reports for your ship. Avoid vessels with multiple recent failures or scores below 80.

5. Cruise Lines with Poor Accessibility and Inclusivity

Not all cruise lines are equally welcoming to travelers with disabilities, mobility issues, dietary restrictions, or diverse cultural backgrounds. Some lines lack accessible cabins, trained staff, or inclusive programming—leading to frustrating or even discriminatory experiences.

Accessibility Gaps in Mainstream Cruise Lines

• Carnival and MSC: While both offer accessible cabins, reviews report that staff often lack training in assisting guests with disabilities. Ramps may be available, but elevators are frequently out of service.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Despite ADA-compliant ships, guests with mobility issues report difficulty navigating crowded decks and long lines for accessible restrooms.
• Costa Cruises: Language barriers (Italian/English only) can make communication difficult for non-Italian speakers. Dietary accommodations (e.g., gluten-free, halal) are limited.

Inclusivity and Cultural Sensitivity Issues

• Entertainment: Some lines (e.g., Carnival) feature stereotypical “tropical” themes that may offend Indigenous cultures.
• Staff diversity: MSC and Costa have been criticized for predominantly European staff, leading to cultural insensitivity toward Asian, African, and Middle Eastern guests.
• Gender and LGBTQ+ inclusion: While most lines now welcome LGBTQ+ travelers, some (like Costa) still lack same-sex couple amenities or inclusive marketing.

How to Ensure an Inclusive Experience

• Book with lines that have dedicated accessibility coordinators (e.g., Princess, Holland America).
• Request an accessibility questionnaire before booking.
• Check if the line offers dietary accommodations (e.g., vegan, kosher, halal) and medical support.
• Read reviews from travelers with similar needs on Accessible Travel Reviews or Wheelchair Travel.

Tip: If you have a disability or special need, contact the cruise line’s accessibility department at least 90 days before departure. Document all communications.

6. Cruise Lines to Approach with Caution: The “Buyer Beware” Category

Not all problematic cruise lines are outright “bad.” Some fall into a gray area—offering good value for certain travelers but posing risks for others. These lines require careful evaluation based on your priorities.

“Budget-Friendly” Lines with Trade-Offs

• MSC Cruises: Great for families on a budget, but expect language barriers, long embarkation lines, and aggressive upselling. Best for travelers who don’t mind chaos and prioritize low cost.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Ideal for young adults seeking a “party cruise” vibe, but not for those wanting quiet, relaxation, or gourmet dining. The Freestyle concept means no formal nights, but also no structure.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Perfect for first-time cruisers or families with kids (thanks to water parks and kid zones), but avoid if you value cleanliness, quiet, or premium service.

Lines with Regional Limitations

• Costa Cruises: Excellent in Europe (Mediterranean, Canary Islands), but poorly rated for Caribbean or Alaska itineraries. Ships are optimized for European guests.
• TUI Cruises (Germany): Highly rated in Europe but offers few U.S. departures. English may be limited.

When “Avoid” Might Not Apply

Some lines have improved significantly. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Once criticized for overcrowding, now leads in innovation (e.g., robotic bars, skydiving simulators) and consistently scores above 85 on CDC inspections.
• Princess Cruises: After a 2020 outbreak, implemented strict health protocols and now has some of the highest sanitation scores.

Tip: Use the “3 P’s” rule before booking:

• Priorities: What matters most? (e.g., quiet, service, value, activities)
• Passenger profile: Are you a family, couple, solo traveler, or senior?
• Port of departure and itinerary: Some lines perform better in specific regions.

Match these to the cruise line’s strengths—not just its marketing.

Choosing a cruise line isn’t just about price or destinations. It’s about value, safety, comfort, and respect. The lines highlighted in this guide aren’t universally “bad,” but they have consistent patterns of issues that could ruin your vacation if you’re unprepared. By researching customer satisfaction, ship age, hidden fees, sanitation records, and inclusivity, you can avoid the worst offenders and find a line that matches your expectations.

Remember: a great cruise starts long before you board. Read reviews, check inspection scores, calculate total costs, and ask questions. The extra effort could mean the difference between a dream vacation and a nightmare at sea. Don’t let a low fare or flashy ad trick you—know what cruise lines to avoid, and set sail with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines have the worst customer reviews?

Cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean often receive mixed-to-negative reviews due to overcrowding, inconsistent service, and hidden fees. While they cater to budget travelers, reading recent passenger feedback can help identify recurring issues.

What cruise lines to avoid if I want a quiet, relaxing vacation?

If you’re seeking serenity, consider avoiding mass-market lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and MSC Cruises, known for lively atmospheres and family-heavy crowds. Opt for premium or luxury brands instead for a quieter experience.

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

According to CDC inspection reports, some budget-focused lines like Costa Cruises and Pullmantur have faced recurring sanitation and safety concerns. Always check the latest Vessel Sanitation Program scores before booking.

What cruise lines should solo travelers avoid?

Solo travelers might want to avoid lines with high single supplements (like Celebrity Cruises or Holland America) or limited solo cabins. Carnival and Royal Caribbean are more solo-friendly but can feel overwhelming in social spaces.

Do any cruise lines have a reputation for poor food quality?

Passengers frequently cite Costa Cruises and Pullmantur for underwhelming dining experiences, with complaints about repetitive menus and low-quality ingredients. Research specialty dining options if food is a priority.

What cruise lines to avoid for luxury or all-inclusive experiences?

Avoid mainstream lines like MSC Cruises and Carnival if you expect true luxury—their “all-inclusive” packages often exclude premium drinks and services. True luxury seekers should consider Regent Seven Seas or Seabourn instead.