What Is the Worst Cruise Line Revealed by Travelers

Travelers consistently rank Carnival Cruise Line as the worst cruise line due to frequent complaints about poor service, overcrowded ships, and subpar dining experiences. Negative reviews highlight outdated facilities and hidden fees, making it a cautionary choice for budget-conscious cruisers despite its affordable pricing.

Key Takeaways

• Avoid consistently low-rated lines: Prioritize cruise lines with proven traveler satisfaction.
• Check recent reviews: Focus on feedback from the past 6–12 months for accuracy.
• Watch for hidden fees: Poor value is a top complaint among worst-rated cruise lines.
• Service quality matters: Rude or inattentive staff frequently appear in negative reviews.
• Older ships equal problems: Aging vessels often correlate with lower traveler satisfaction.
• Food and cleanliness are red flags: Consistently cited issues in worst-rated cruise lines.

The Shocking Truth: What Is the Worst Cruise Line Revealed by Travelers

Ah, the open sea—endless horizons, gourmet buffets, Broadway-style shows, and… what’s that? A 12-hour delay at boarding due to “technical issues”? A cabin that smells like a forgotten gym bag? Or perhaps a dining experience so underwhelming you’d rather eat a gas station sandwich? While cruising is often marketed as the pinnacle of relaxation and luxury, not all cruise lines deliver on that promise. In fact, some have earned a notorious reputation among seasoned travelers for subpar service, outdated ships, and outright neglect of passenger well-being. If you’re asking, “What is the worst cruise line?” you’re not alone. Thousands of travelers have shared their horror stories, and the answers may shock you.

From overbooked cabins to mold-infested bathrooms, from disappearing amenities to staff who seem trained in the art of indifference, the worst cruise lines often fail not just in isolated incidents but in systemic, repeated ways. This isn’t about one bad apple—it’s about companies that consistently rank at the bottom of passenger satisfaction surveys, customer reviews, and travel industry watchdog reports. In this deep dive, we’ll explore the cruise lines most frequently labeled as the worst by real travelers, dissect the reasons behind their poor reputations, and provide actionable advice to help you avoid a vacation that feels more like a punishment. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, knowing which lines to steer clear of could save you thousands of dollars—and your sanity.

1. The Data Doesn’t Lie: Cruise Lines with the Lowest Passenger Ratings

When evaluating what is the worst cruise line, we must first turn to objective data. Travel review platforms like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, Skytrax, and Consumer Affairs collect millions of passenger reviews annually. These platforms use star ratings, written feedback, and complaint trends to rank cruise lines. The results are clear: certain brands consistently underperform.

Top 5 Lowest-Rated Cruise Lines (2022–2024)

Based on aggregated data from Cruise Critic and Skytrax, the following cruise lines received the lowest average passenger ratings across categories such as service, cleanliness, food quality, and value:

• Pullmantur Cruceros (Spain) – Average rating: 2.8/5
• Costa Cruises (Italy) – Average rating: 2.9/5
• Celebrity Cruises (Royal Caribbean Group) – Average rating: 3.1/5 (notable drop from previous years)
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Average rating: 3.2/5 (down from 3.7 in 2020)
• P&O Cruises (UK) – Average rating: 3.2/5 (with spikes in complaints post-COVID)

While some of these brands are owned by major corporations (e.g., Costa and Pullmantur by Carnival Corporation), their operational standards and passenger experiences often lag far behind competitors like Royal Caribbean or Disney Cruise Line, which consistently score above 4.3/5.

Why These Ratings Matter

Low ratings aren’t just about personal taste—they reflect systemic issues. For example, Pullmantur Cruceros, once a dominant player in the Spanish market, filed for bankruptcy in 2020 and resumed operations under a reduced fleet. This led to:

• Frequent itinerary changes or cancellations
• Understaffed ships due to budget cuts
• Outdated entertainment and dining options
• Complaints about “ghost ships” where only half the amenities are open

Similarly, Costa Cruises has been criticized for its language barriers (most staff speak Italian or Spanish, not English), leading to miscommunication during emergencies and service interactions. One 2023 review on TripAdvisor stated: “I felt like an intruder on a foreign cruise. No one could help me when I got sick.”

Red Flags in the Data

Beyond average scores, look for patterns in negative reviews:

• Over 40% of Costa Cruises’ 1-star reviews mention “poor English communication”
• Pullmantur has a 35% complaint rate related to delayed or canceled shore excursions
• NCL’s 2023 “Freestyle Cruising” model has led to overcrowded dining areas and long wait times—a shift from its original promise of flexibility

Tip: Always check the “Most Recent” reviews, not just the average. A cruise line with a 3.2 rating might have 100 five-star reviews from 2019 but 80 one-star reviews from 2023—indicating a downward trend.

2. The Worst Offenders: Cruise Lines with the Most Complaints

While ratings give a broad picture, the volume and nature of complaints reveal deeper issues. Regulatory bodies like the U.S. Coast Guard, Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) track formal complaints. Some cruise lines stand out for the wrong reasons.

Pullmantur Cruceros: The “Zombie Cruise” Experience

After its 2020 bankruptcy, Pullmantur resumed operations with a skeleton fleet and minimal investment. Passengers report:

• “Half the ship is closed” – One reviewer noted that the spa, kids’ club, and two dining venues were shuttered for the entire 7-day voyage.
• “Cabin mold and mildew” – Multiple complaints of respiratory issues due to poorly maintained HVAC systems.
• “No refunds for canceled excursions” – When a port was skipped due to weather, Pullmantur refused compensation, citing “force majeure.”

One family on a 2023 Mediterranean cruise said: “We paid €2,800 for a balcony cabin. It was smaller than a budget hotel room, with a view of a lifeboat.”

Costa Cruises: Language, Safety, and Sanitation Issues

Costa has faced scrutiny beyond passenger complaints. In 2012, the Costa Concordia disaster killed 32 people and raised questions about crew training and emergency protocols. Though the company claims to have improved, recent incidents suggest otherwise:

• “No English announcements during drills” – A 2022 U.S. Coast Guard inspection cited Costa’s failure to provide multilingual safety briefings.
• “Food poisoning outbreak” – In 2023, over 120 passengers on the Costa Smeralda reported gastrointestinal illness. The CDC linked it to norovirus from contaminated buffet trays.
• “Unresponsive customer service” – The FMC received 47 complaints in 2023 about Costa denying refunds for missed ports.

Tip: If you’re non-Italian and don’t speak the language, avoid Costa unless you’re fluent. Even basic requests (e.g., “Can I get a towel?”) can become frustrating.

Norwegian Cruise Line: The “Hidden Cost” Trap

NCL markets itself as “Freestyle Cruising,” but passengers often feel nickel-and-dimed. Complaints include:

• “$500 in surprise fees” – One family reported being charged $120 for a “resort fee,” $80 for “service charges,” and $300 for “premium dining reservations.”
• “Overcrowded pools” – The NCL Encore’s pool deck holds 1,200 people but only has 400 lounge chairs. Lines form by 7 a.m.
• “Broken amenities” – Multiple reviews mention malfunctioning water slides, non-working Wi-Fi, and elevators out of service for days.

A 2023 Reddit thread titled “Why I’ll Never Cruise with NCL Again” garnered 1,200 upvotes, with users sharing stories of “broken promises”—e.g., advertised “all-inclusive drinks” requiring a $75/day add-on.

3. The Hidden Costs: When “Affordable” Cruises Turn Expensive

One of the biggest misconceptions is that budget cruise lines offer “value.” In reality, many of the worst-rated lines use loss-leader pricing—offering low base fares but charging exorbitant fees for essentials. This creates a false economy where the total cost rivals luxury lines.

Breakdown of Hidden Fees on Budget Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Base Fare (7-Day)	Mandatory Fees (Taxes, Gratuities)	Common Add-Ons (Dining, Wi-Fi, Excursions)	Total Estimated Cost
Pullmantur Cruceros	$499	$180	$350 (basic drinks, 3 excursions)	$1,029
Costa Cruises	$699	$220	$480 (Wi-Fi, specialty dining, 4 excursions)	$1,399
Norwegian Cruise Line	$899	$310	$720 (drink package, 5 excursions, spa)	$1,929
Royal Caribbean (for comparison)	$1,199	$290	$500 (drink package, 3 excursions)	$1,989

As the table shows, while Pullmantur’s base fare is 60% lower than Royal Caribbean’s, the total cost difference shrinks to just $960—for a vastly inferior experience. Royal Caribbean’s ships are newer, staff are better trained, and amenities are consistently open.

Why Hidden Fees Are a Red Flag

• Gratuities: Budget lines often charge $15–$20/day per person, but staff report receiving only 50–60% of this. The rest goes to corporate overhead.
• Wi-Fi: Costa charges $25/day for “basic” access (1GB), while Royal Caribbean offers free basic Wi-Fi and paid upgrades.
• Excursions: Pullmantur’s “exclusive” tours cost 2–3x more than local operators at ports.

Tip: Use the “Total Cost Calculator” on Cruise Critic. It breaks down all fees and helps you compare apples to apples.

4. Safety and Sanitation: When Cruise Lines Fail the Basics

No matter how cheap or glamorous, a cruise line must prioritize safety and cleanliness. Unfortunately, some of the worst offenders cut corners here—with dangerous consequences.

CDC Inspection Scores: A Wake-Up Call

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducts unannounced inspections of cruise ships docking in U.S. ports. Ships are scored on a 100-point scale, with 85+ required for a passing grade. In 2023, several “worst” cruise lines failed:

• Costa Diadema – Score: 78/100 (critical violations: mold in galleys, broken hand sanitizer dispensers)
• Pullmantur’s Horizon – Score: 80/100 (improper food storage, rodent droppings in storage areas)
• NCL’s Norwegian Joy – Score: 82/100 (dirty pool filters, expired first-aid supplies)

For context, Disney Wonder scored 99/100 in the same year.

Real-Life Health Nightmares

In 2022, a Costa cruise from Miami to the Caribbean was quarantined after 200 passengers contracted norovirus. The CDC report cited:

• “Inadequate handwashing enforcement”
• “Buffet tongs reused without sanitization”
• “No isolation protocol for sick crew”

Meanwhile, Pullmantur’s 2023 “Mediterranean Escape” voyage saw 15 passengers hospitalized for carbon monoxide poisoning due to a faulty ventilation system in the lower decks.

What to Do If Your Ship Fails an Inspection

• Check the CDC Vessel Sanitation Program database (vsp.cdc.gov) before booking.
• Ask your travel agent for the ship’s last inspection score.
• Carry a portable air purifier if you have respiratory issues.
• Report violations immediately to the cruise line and CDC.

5. The Passenger Experience: Stories from the Brink

Data and inspections tell one story—but passenger experiences tell the truth. Here are real accounts from travelers who asked, “What is the worst cruise line?” and lived to regret it.

“I Paid $3,000 to Be Treated Like a Burden” (Costa Cruises, 2023)

Maria, a 68-year-old from Toronto, booked a Costa cruise with her husband. “We chose Costa because it was ‘Italian luxury,’” she said. “But the staff ignored us. My husband needed a wheelchair for a port day, and no one would help. When I complained, the manager said, ‘We’re busy.’ I ended up pushing him myself.”

“The Cabin Was a Moldy Cave” (Pullmantur, 2022)

James from London booked a Pullmantur cruise for his 50th birthday. “The ‘balcony’ was a 2-foot ledge. The bathroom had black mold, and the shower didn’t work. When I asked for a room change, they said, ‘All cabins are the same.’ I got a rash that lasted two weeks.”

“They Charged Me $100 for a Glass of Water” (NCL, 2023)

Sarah and her family paid $5,000 for an NCL “all-inclusive” package. “We thought ‘all-inclusive’ meant drinks. But bottled water, coffee, and even tap water were $5–$10. When we asked why, the server said, ‘It’s not in the package.’ We felt cheated.”

How to Spot a “Bad Cruise” Before You Book

• Read 1-star reviews—they reveal systemic issues, not one-off incidents.
• Check the ship’s age—older ships (20+ years) often have outdated systems.
• Verify the crew-to-passenger ratio—aim for at least 1 crew per 2.5 passengers.
• Look for recent refurbishments—a 2023 renovation is a good sign.

6. How to Avoid the Worst Cruise Line (and Choose a Better One)

Now that you know what is the worst cruise line, how do you avoid it? Here’s a step-by-step guide to smarter cruising.

Step 1: Use Trusted Review Platforms

Don’t rely on the cruise line’s website. Instead:

• Cruise Critic – Best for detailed, verified reviews.
• TripAdvisor – Look for “Traveler Type” filters (e.g., “Families,” “Seniors”).
• Skytrax – Rates ships on a 5-star system with photos.

Step 2: Prioritize Newer Ships

Older ships = more mechanical issues, outdated design, and lower safety standards. For example:

• Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (2024) – 20% more crew, AI-powered navigation, and 24/7 medical staff.
• Disney Wish (2022) – 98% passenger satisfaction in 2023.

Step 3: Read the Fine Print

Before booking, ask:

• “What’s included in the base fare?”
• “Are there mandatory gratuities?”
• “What’s the refund policy for missed ports?”

Step 4: Choose Reputable Lines

Top-rated cruise lines (2023–2024):

• Disney Cruise Line – 4.8/5 (best for families)
• Royal Caribbean – 4.5/5 (best for entertainment)
• Holland America Line – 4.4/5 (best for seniors)
• Princess Cruises – 4.3/5 (best for value)

Step 5: Book with a Reputable Travel Agent

A good agent can:

• Negotiate discounts and upgrades.
• Provide inside info on ship conditions.
• Help with refunds if the cruise fails.

Final Thought: The worst cruise line isn’t just about price—it’s about trust. A vacation should be a reward, not a gamble. By doing your research, reading reviews, and avoiding the red flags we’ve outlined, you can sail with confidence—knowing you’ve dodged the disasters and chosen a ship that values your safety, comfort, and happiness. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the worst cruise line according to traveler reviews?

Based on consistent complaints about poor service, outdated ships, and hidden fees, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean often rank as the worst cruise lines in recent traveler surveys. Issues like overcrowding, food quality, and disorganized excursions frequently appear in negative reviews.

Why do some travelers call Carnival the worst cruise line?

Carnival has faced criticism for its “budget” experience, including cramped cabins, long lines, and lower-quality dining options compared to premium competitors. While it’s popular for affordable vacations, some travelers feel the cost-cutting impacts overall satisfaction.

Are there specific cruise lines with the worst customer service?

Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises have received frequent complaints about unresponsive staff and poor problem resolution. Travelers report frustration with language barriers and lack of follow-up on service issues during their voyages.

Which cruise line has the worst onboard hygiene and cleanliness?

According to CDC inspection reports and traveler feedback, Costa Cruises has had recurring issues with sanitation and cleanliness standards. Passengers have cited dirty pools, unclean bathrooms, and poor cabin maintenance as major concerns.

What makes a cruise line “the worst” for families?

Cruise lines like Holland America and Princess Cruises are sometimes labeled the worst for families due to limited kid-friendly activities and higher age-focused demographics. Parents note a lack of engaging youth programs compared to family-oriented lines like Disney Cruise Line.

Do the worst cruise lines have frequent itinerary changes or cancellations?

Yes, smaller operators like Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line and Pullmantur Cruises have faced backlash for last-minute cancellations and itinerary changes. These disruptions often stem from financial instability or outdated vessels requiring unexpected repairs.