What Is the Best Cruise Line for European Cruises in 2024

For 2024, Viking Cruises stands out as the best cruise line for European cruises, offering immersive, culturally rich itineraries across the Mediterranean, Baltic, and beyond with a focus on destination depth over onboard glitz. With elegant mid-sized ships, inclusive pricing, and expert-led excursions, Viking delivers a refined, stress-free experience ideal for curious travelers seeking authentic European exploration.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Viking for cultural immersion and inclusive amenities.
• Opt for Regent Seven Seas if luxury all-inclusive is your priority.
• Book Silversea for intimate ships and curated European itineraries.
• Pick MSC Cruises for budget-friendly family options and modern ships.
• Consider Celebrity Cruises for stylish mid-sized ships and diverse dining.
• Evaluate ports first—match your ideal destinations to line itineraries.

What Is the Best Cruise Line for European Cruises in 2024

Europe—a continent steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty—offers some of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. From the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean to the dramatic fjords of Norway, the ancient ruins of Greece to the vibrant cities of Western Europe, there’s no better way to experience its diversity than by sea. Cruising in Europe allows travelers to visit multiple countries, often with overnight stays in port cities, offering a seamless blend of convenience, luxury, and discovery. But with so many cruise lines vying for your attention, what is the best cruise line for European cruises in 2024? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on your travel style, budget, interests, and the kind of European experience you’re seeking.

In 2024, the European cruise market is more competitive than ever. Cruise lines are investing heavily in new ships, enhanced itineraries, and immersive shore excursions. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser looking for a relaxed Mediterranean getaway, a foodie eager to sample regional cuisine in France and Italy, or an adventurer chasing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, there’s a perfect cruise line out there for you. This guide dives deep into the top contenders, evaluating them across key criteria such as itinerary variety, onboard experience, service quality, value for money, and sustainability. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which cruise line aligns best with your dream European vacation.

1. Evaluating the Top European Cruise Lines: Criteria That Matter

Choosing the best cruise line for Europe isn’t just about picking the biggest ship or the most Instagrammable pool. It’s about matching your personal preferences with the strengths of each cruise brand. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve analyzed the top cruise lines using five critical factors: itinerary quality, onboard experience, service and staffing, value for money, and environmental sustainability.

Itinerary Quality and Port Selection

The heart of any European cruise is the destinations it visits. The best cruise lines offer diverse and well-planned itineraries that maximize time in port, avoid overcrowded tourist traps, and include overnight stays in key cities. For example, a 10-day Mediterranean cruise should ideally include stops in Barcelona, Marseille, Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, and Athens—with at least one overnight in a major city like Barcelona or Rome to allow for evening exploration.

• Oceania Cruises excels here with its destination-rich itineraries, often spending 8–12 hours in port and offering overnights in cities like Venice and Istanbul.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises includes free unlimited shore excursions in every port, giving guests unparalleled access to cultural and historical sites.
• Royal Caribbean focuses on major hubs like Barcelona and Rome, with efficient port calls but less time for deep exploration.

Tip: Look for itineraries that include lesser-known ports like Kotor (Montenegro), Split (Croatia), or Bordeaux (France)—these offer authentic experiences without the crowds.

Onboard Experience: Luxury, Comfort, and Entertainment

The onboard experience can make or break a cruise. Whether you prefer a quiet library, a bustling pool deck, or a world-class spa, the ambiance and amenities matter. European cruises often attract a mix of retirees, couples, and families, so cruise lines must balance sophistication with accessibility.

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its freestyle cruising—no set dining times, multiple specialty restaurants, and high-energy entertainment like Broadway shows.
• Celebrity Cruises offers a more refined, modern luxury experience with sleek design, farm-to-table dining, and wellness-focused programs.
• Silversea Cruises provides an all-inclusive, ultra-luxury experience with spacious suites, butler service, and a serene, adult-oriented atmosphere.

For families, Disney Cruise Line offers European itineraries with kid-friendly zones, character meet-and-greets, and family staterooms—though it’s less common in Europe than in the Caribbean.

Service and Staffing: The Human Touch

European travelers often value personalized service. Cruise lines with higher staff-to-guest ratios and trained multilingual crew tend to score better in guest satisfaction. According to 2023 Cruise Critic reviews, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania consistently rank highest in service, with attentive butlers, sommeliers, and concierge teams.

• Regent: 1 crew member per 1.3 guests (highest ratio in the industry).
• Oceania: 1:1.6, with many staff trained at the Culinary Institute of America.
• Royal Caribbean: 1:2.5, with more automated services but excellent multilingual support.

Tip: If you value personalized attention, consider smaller luxury lines like Seabourn or Paul Gauguin Cruises, which specialize in boutique European voyages.

2. Best Cruise Line for Luxury: Regent Seven Seas & Oceania

For travelers seeking the pinnacle of luxury and refinement, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises are the gold standard for European voyages in 2024. Both brands are part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings family and share a commitment to all-inclusive, destination-focused cruising—but they cater to slightly different tastes.

Regent Seven Seas: All-Inclusive Opulence

Regent is often called the “most inclusive luxury cruise line” for good reason. Their European itineraries include:

• Free unlimited shore excursions—no need to choose between budget and experience.
• Business-class airfare (from select U.S. cities) included on most sailings.
• All drinks (premium wines, spirits, cocktails) and specialty dining at no extra cost.
• Butler service in all suite categories.

In 2024, Regent is deploying the Seven Seas Grandeur—a 750-guest ship with a 3D theater, a 180-degree observation lounge, and a Culinary Arts Kitchen offering cooking classes with visiting chefs from Michelin-starred European restaurants. Their 12-day “Mediterranean Tapestry” itinerary includes overnight stays in Barcelona, Florence, and Venice, with excursions like a private tour of the Doge’s Palace and a truffle hunt in Tuscany.

Best for: Discerning travelers who want a seamless, worry-free luxury experience with deep cultural immersion.

Oceania Cruises: The Foodie’s Paradise

Oceania is renowned for its culinary excellence, earning the nickname “The Finest Cuisine at Sea.” Their European cruises feature:

• Jacques Pepin as executive culinary partner, with French-inspired menus in all dining venues.
• Red Ginger (pan-Asian), Toscana (Italian), and Polo Grill (steakhouse) as specialty restaurants.
• OceaniaNEXT program—renovated ships with enhanced staterooms, new lounges, and a dedicated Culinary Discovery Center.

The Insignia and Nautica ships (700–1,200 guests) offer 7- to 21-day itineraries across the Mediterranean, Baltic, and Adriatic. In 2024, Oceania’s “Grand European Sojourn” (14 days) includes stops in Lisbon, Seville, Marseille, Monte Carlo, and Rome, with shore excursions like a private wine tasting in Bordeaux and a guided tour of the Acropolis in Athens.

Best for: Food lovers and culture seekers who appreciate gourmet dining and immersive, slow-paced exploration.

Comparing the Two

Feature	Regent Seven Seas	Oceania Cruises
All-Inclusive	Yes (excursions, air, drinks, dining)	Yes (drinks, dining, gratuities)
Shore Excursions	Unlimited & free	Extra cost, but high quality
Ship Size	750 guests (mid-size)	700–1,200 guests
Best For	Ultimate convenience & luxury	Culinary excellence & destination focus
2024 Avg. Price (7-day)	$5,500–$8,000	$3,800–$6,200

3. Best for Families and First-Time Cruisers: Royal Caribbean & NCL

For families and first-time cruisers, the best cruise lines offer ease of booking, onboard fun, and value-packed amenities. Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) dominate this segment, offering large ships with diverse activities, kid-friendly zones, and flexible dining options.

Royal Caribbean: The Ultimate Entertainment Hub

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis- and Quantum-class ships are floating cities with:

• Adventure Ocean kids’ programs (ages 3–17), with themed activities and STEM workshops.
• FlowRider surf simulators, rock climbing walls, zip lines, and ice skating rinks.
• Broadway shows (e.g., “Grease” on Symphony of the Seas) and live music venues.
• Dynamic Dining—choose from 20+ restaurants, including Jamie’s Italian and Chops Grille.

In 2024, Royal Caribbean offers 7- to 12-day Mediterranean cruises from Rome, Barcelona, and Civitavecchia. The Harmony of the Seas (6,780 guests) includes stops in Naples, Santorini, and Mykonos, with shore excursions like a family-friendly Pompeii tour and a catamaran cruise in the Greek Islands.

Best for: Families with teens and active adults who want non-stop fun and convenience.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Freedom

NCL’s “freestyle cruising” philosophy means no formal nights, no set dining times, and no pressure to follow a schedule. Their European itineraries feature:

• Specialty dining (e.g., Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro) with à la carte pricing.
• Water parks and ropes courses (on Breakaway- and Prima-class ships).
• “Sail & Sign”—pay-as-you-go for drinks, excursions, and spa services.

The Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima offer 7-day “Greek Isles & Turkey” cruises from Athens, with stops in Santorini, Rhodes, and Istanbul. NCL also provides “Free at Sea” perks like a free specialty dining package, beverage package, or shore excursion credit (based on booking tier).

Best for: First-time cruisers and budget-conscious families who want flexibility and value.

Family-Friendly Tips for European Cruises

• Book early—family staterooms and connecting rooms sell out fast.
• Check age requirements for kids’ clubs (e.g., Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean starts at age 3).
• Look for “kids sail free” deals—NCL and Royal Caribbean often offer promotions in spring and fall.
• Pack smart—bring European power adapters, reusable water bottles, and light rain gear.

4. Best for Adventure and Culture: Viking Ocean & Hurtigruten

For travelers who want to go beyond the tourist trail and immerse themselves in European history, nature, and local life, Viking Ocean Cruises and Hurtigruten offer unparalleled experiences. These lines focus on destination immersion, small-ship intimacy, and cultural enrichment.

Viking Ocean Cruises: The Cultural Curator

Viking is the fastest-growing luxury cruise line, with 10 ocean ships (930 guests each) designed for in-depth exploration. Their European itineraries include:

• Free shore excursions in every port, led by local guides.
• Onboard enrichment—lectures by historians, cooking demos, and wine tastings.
• “Viking Resident Historian”—a PhD scholar who gives daily talks on regional history.
• No casinos, no kids under 18—a quiet, adult-oriented atmosphere.

In 2024, Viking’s 15-day “In the Footsteps of the Vikings” cruise sails from Bergen, Norway, to Dublin, with stops in the Scottish Highlands, Orkney Islands, and Iceland. Excursions include a visit to a Viking longhouse in Norway and a guided tour of the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.

Best for: Retirees, history buffs, and solo travelers seeking a serene, intellectually stimulating journey.

Hurtigruten: The Arctic and Fjord Specialist

Hurtigruten is not just a cruise line—it’s a lifeline for remote Norwegian communities. Their hybrid-powered ships (e.g., MS Fridtjof Nansen) sail along Norway’s coast daily, carrying passengers, cargo, and mail. For tourists, this means:

• Authentic coastal towns like Ålesund, Trondheim, and Tromsø.
• Northern Lights viewing in winter (Dec–Feb).
• Expedition-style excursions—kayaking, snowshoeing, and whale watching.
• Sustainability focus—hybrid engines, plastic-free operations, and carbon offsetting.

In summer, Hurtigruten offers 12-day “Norway’s Fjords & Arctic Circle” cruises, with Zodiac landings and wildlife spotting. Their “Science Center” onboard features real-time data from marine biologists.

Best for: Adventure seekers and eco-conscious travelers who want to experience Norway’s raw beauty.

5. Best Value for Money: MSC Cruises & Costa Cruises

For budget-conscious travelers who still want a European adventure, MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises offer the best value in 2024. These lines combine large ships, affordable fares, and European-centric itineraries.

MSC Cruises: The Mediterranean Giant

MSC is the largest privately-owned cruise line, with 23 ships (including the new MSC Euribia, powered by LNG). Key features:

• Low base fares—7-day Mediterranean cruises from $599/person.
• “MSC for Me” app—digital concierge, dining reservations, and excursion booking.
• Family perks—kids sail free on select sailings, water parks, and kids’ clubs.
• “Bella” and “Fantastica” experience tiers—choose your level of service and amenities.

MSC’s “Grand Mediterranean” itinerary (11 days) includes Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Rome, Naples, and Valletta (Malta), with optional excursions like a guided tour of the Vatican.

Best for: Families and budget travelers who want a European cruise without breaking the bank.

Costa Cruises: Italian Flair and Fun

Costa, owned by Carnival Corporation, offers Italian-style cruising with vibrant onboard energy, themed parties, and affordable pricing. Their 2024 European itineraries include:

• 7-day “Western Mediterranean” from Rome—stops in Naples, Palma de Mallorca, and Marseille.
• “Costa Smeralda”—a LNG-powered ship with a 1,000-guest theater and rooftop pool.
• “Sail with Costa” promotions—drink packages, shore excursion discounts, and onboard credit.

Costa also partners with UNESCO to offer “World Heritage” excursions, like a private tour of Pompeii or the Colosseum.

Best for: Younger travelers and couples who want fun, affordability, and Italian hospitality.

6. Sustainability and the Future of European Cruising

As climate change and overtourism become pressing issues, sustainability is a key factor in choosing the best cruise line. In 2024, leading lines are investing in green technologies, carbon offsetting, and responsible tourism.

• MSC and Royal Caribbean use LNG-powered ships to reduce emissions.
• Hurtigruten and Silversea are carbon-neutral and use hybrid-electric propulsion.
• Oceania and Regent have banned single-use plastics and source local, organic food.
• Viking partners with UNESCO to protect cultural heritage sites.

Tip: Look for cruise lines with third-party sustainability certifications like Green Marine or EarthCheck.

Choosing the best cruise line for European cruises in 2024 depends on your priorities. For luxury and all-inclusivity, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania lead the pack. For family fun, Royal Caribbean and NCL are unbeatable. For cultural depth, Viking and Hurtigruten offer transformative experiences. And for value, MSC and Costa deliver European magic at affordable prices. No matter your choice, Europe’s seas await—with stories, flavors, and wonders that only a cruise can unlock.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cruise line for European cruises in 2024 for first-time travelers?

For first-time cruisers, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) stand out due to their diverse itineraries, user-friendly onboard experiences, and frequent departures from major European hubs. Both offer modern amenities, flexible dining, and excursions tailored to newcomers.

Which luxury cruise line is ideal for a European cruise this year?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn consistently rank as top luxury choices for European cruises in 2024, with all-inclusive fares, spacious suites, and curated shore excursions. Their smaller ships access intimate ports while delivering exceptional service.

Are there budget-friendly cruise lines for exploring Europe?

MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises provide affordable European itineraries without sacrificing comfort, offering value-packed deals on Mediterranean and Northern Europe sailings. Both feature lively onboard atmospheres and family-friendly pricing.

What is the best cruise line for European cruises with cultural immersion?

Viking Ocean Cruises excels in cultural depth, with longer port stays, complimentary shore tours focused on history, and expert-led lectures. Their mid-sized ships balance accessibility with enriching experiences.

Which cruise line offers the best Mediterranean itineraries?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are standout choices for Mediterranean cruises, with well-paced itineraries covering iconic destinations like Barcelona, Santorini, and the French Riviera. Both emphasize local cuisine and regional storytelling onboard.

Do any European cruise lines cater specifically to adults?

Virgin Voyages and Oceania Cruises focus on adults-only (Virgin) or adult-oriented experiences (Oceania), offering refined dining, sophisticated entertainment, and wellness-centric activities. Both are ideal for travelers seeking a quieter, more elegant voyage.