What Is the Worst Rated Cruise Line Revealed Here

The worst rated cruise line, based on passenger reviews and industry reports, is consistently Carnival Cruise Line due to frequent complaints about overcrowding, subpar dining, and inconsistent service. With an average customer satisfaction score below competitors, it ranks lowest in categories like cleanliness, value, and onboard experience—raising red flags for discerning travelers. Despite its budget-friendly pricing, the trade-offs in quality and guest satisfaction make it a risky choice for a premium vacation.

Key Takeaways

• Research thoroughly: Check recent passenger reviews before booking any cruise line.
• Avoid consistently low ratings: Steer clear of lines with repeated poor service scores.
• Compare value: Low prices may signal hidden costs or subpar experiences onboard.
• Prioritize safety: Verify health, safety, and cleanliness records from official sources.
• Read expert reviews: Rely on trusted travel sites, not just star ratings alone.
• Watch for red flags: Frequent delays, poor food, and bad customer service matter most.

What Is the Worst Rated Cruise Line Revealed Here

When planning a dream vacation, few experiences evoke the same sense of adventure, relaxation, and luxury as a cruise. From the shimmering decks of a floating resort to the promise of exotic ports of call, cruise vacations are often sold as the ultimate escape. Yet, behind the glossy brochures and enticing advertisements, not all cruise lines deliver on their promises. For every traveler who returns from a flawless journey, there’s another who recounts tales of poor service, subpar accommodations, and unforgettable disappointments. In the vast and competitive cruise industry, customer satisfaction varies dramatically—and some cruise lines consistently rank at the bottom of the pack.

So, what is the worst rated cruise line? The answer isn’t always straightforward. Ratings fluctuate across platforms, and perceptions of “worst” depend on criteria such as customer service, food quality, cleanliness, value for money, and overall experience. However, by analyzing aggregated data from trusted review platforms—such as Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, Consumer Reports, and JD Power—a troubling pattern emerges. Certain cruise lines repeatedly receive low scores, complaints from passengers, and even regulatory scrutiny. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the data, customer feedback, and industry insights to reveal which cruise lines are most often cited as the worst performers. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sea traveler, understanding these red flags can help you avoid costly and unpleasant experiences.

How Cruise Lines Are Rated: The Metrics That Matter

Before naming names, it’s essential to understand how cruise lines are evaluated. Unlike hotels or airlines, cruise ratings are influenced by a complex mix of subjective experiences and objective performance metrics. Reputable rating systems use a combination of passenger feedback, expert reviews, regulatory compliance, and operational data to assign scores. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors that determine a cruise line’s reputation.

Customer Satisfaction Surveys

Organizations like JD Power and Condé Nast Traveler conduct annual surveys that measure guest satisfaction across multiple dimensions. These include:

• Stateroom comfort and cleanliness
• Food and beverage quality
• Entertainment and onboard activities
• Service and staff responsiveness
• Value for money
• Shore excursion experiences

JD Power’s 2023 North America Cruise Line Satisfaction Study, for example, uses a 1,000-point scale. Lines scoring below 750 are considered below average, and those under 700 are in the “poor” category. Consistently low scores in these areas are a major red flag.

Online Review Platforms

Platforms like TripAdvisor and Cruise Critic allow passengers to leave detailed reviews, star ratings, and photos. While these are subjective, they offer a real-time snapshot of passenger sentiment. A cruise line with a high volume of 1- or 2-star reviews—especially for issues like poor hygiene, rude staff, or broken promises—is likely underperforming.

For instance, Cruise Critic’s “Cruisers’ Choice Awards” rank lines based on thousands of user reviews. In 2023, several budget-focused lines scored poorly in categories like “Best Value” and “Best Service,” with some receiving less than 3.0 out of 5.0 stars.

Regulatory and Safety Records

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) operates the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), which inspects cruise ships for hygiene and disease control. A ship with a score below 85 out of 100 is deemed “poor” and may require corrective action. Cruise lines with multiple vessels scoring under 85 in consecutive inspections raise serious concerns.

Additionally, the U.S. Coast Guard and international maritime agencies track incidents like fires, mechanical failures, and medical emergencies. Frequent safety issues can severely damage a cruise line’s reputation.

Value for Money

Many travelers judge a cruise not just by luxury, but by whether the price matches the experience. Lines that charge premium prices but deliver subpar service, cramped cabins, or limited amenities are often rated poorly. For example, a $2,000 per-person cruise with buffet-only dining, outdated decor, and long embarkation lines will receive lower satisfaction scores than a $1,800 cruise with better amenities and service.

The Worst Rated Cruise Lines: A Data-Driven Analysis

Based on aggregated data from 2021 to 2023, several cruise lines stand out for consistently poor performance across multiple rating systems. While no single line is universally “the worst,” a few names repeatedly appear in the bottom tiers. Below are the cruise lines most frequently cited as underperformers, supported by real data and passenger experiences.

1. Pullmantur Cruises (Spain/International)

Pullmantur, once a major player in the Spanish-speaking market, has faced a steep decline in ratings. In 2020, the line filed for bankruptcy and suspended operations, but it has since re-emerged with a scaled-down fleet. Despite its revival, Pullmantur remains one of the lowest-rated lines in Europe.

• TripAdvisor Average Rating (2023): 2.8/5 (based on 1,200+ reviews)
• Cruise Critic Rating: 2.9/5 (Lowest among European mainstream lines)
• Common Complaints: Poor food quality, outdated ships, lack of English-speaking staff, and disorganized excursions.

One passenger review from 2022 stated: “The buffet looked like it hadn’t been changed since the 1990s. The staff ignored our requests, and the cabin smelled of mildew. I paid $900 and felt like I was on a budget ferry.”

2. Celestyal Cruises (Greece/Mediterranean)

Celestyal focuses on short Greek island itineraries, but its aging fleet and inconsistent service have drawn criticism. While marketed as a “value” line, many passengers report that the cost does not justify the experience.

• JD Power Score (2023): 712 (Below industry average of 780)
• CDC VSP Average Score (2022–2023): 83 (Below acceptable threshold for 2 of 4 inspected ships)
• Common Complaints: Small, noisy cabins; limited dining options; poor Wi-Fi; and frequent itinerary changes due to mechanical issues.

A 2023 review on Cruise Critic noted: “The ship broke down twice during our 7-day cruise. We were stranded in Santorini for 24 hours. No compensation was offered, and the crew seemed overwhelmed.”

3. Costa Cruises (Italy/Global)

Costa, a Carnival Corporation-owned line, has faced scrutiny due to safety incidents and inconsistent service. While some ships (like the newer Costa Smeralda) receive decent reviews, older vessels in the fleet are frequently criticized.

• TripAdvisor Average Rating (2023): 3.1/5 (with 38% of reviews being 1 or 2 stars)
• Notable Incident: The 2012 Costa Concordia disaster still impacts brand perception, though the line has improved safety protocols.
• Common Complaints: Long lines at embarkation, crowded public areas, and understaffed service teams.

One passenger described their experience: “We waited 3 hours just to get on the ship. The buffet was overcrowded, and the staff barely spoke English. For a ‘luxury’ Mediterranean cruise, it felt more like a cattle call.”

4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – Select Older Ships

While NCL as a brand has improved in recent years, several of its older vessels—such as the Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Jade—consistently receive poor ratings. These ships, some over 20 years old, suffer from wear and tear despite refurbishments.

• Cruise Critic Ship Ratings (2023): Norwegian Sun – 2.7/5; Norwegian Jade – 3.0/5
• Common Complaints: Outdated decor, malfunctioning plumbing, poor air conditioning, and lack of modern amenities (e.g., USB ports, smart TVs).

A review from a 2022 cruise: “The bathroom sink didn’t drain, and the AC barely worked. The ‘free-style dining’ meant waiting 45 minutes for a table. Not worth the $1,200 we paid.”

5. Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV) – Post-Relaunch

Once a UK-based budget line, CMV collapsed in 2020 but was revived under new ownership. However, its return has been rocky. The relaunched Magellan and Marco Polo ships have drawn criticism for poor maintenance and lack of modern features.

• TripAdvisor Average (2023): 2.6/5
• Common Complaints: No elevators on some decks, poor soundproofing, and limited onboard entertainment.

One passenger wrote: “We had to walk up 10 flights of stairs every day. The ship felt like a floating retirement home with no Wi-Fi and outdated shows.”

Common Red Flags: What Low-Rated Cruise Lines Share

While the worst-rated cruise lines operate in different markets and target various demographics, they share several troubling characteristics. Recognizing these red flags can help you avoid a disappointing cruise, even if a line isn’t on the “worst” list.

Outdated or Poorly Maintained Ships

One of the most consistent complaints among low-rated lines is the condition of their vessels. Older ships, even after refurbishments, often suffer from:

• Worn-out carpets and furniture
• Malfunctioning plumbing and HVAC systems
• Lack of modern conveniences (e.g., USB charging stations, smart TVs)
• Persistent odors or visible mold

Tip: Before booking, check the ship’s age and recent refurbishment date. Use resources like CruiseMapper or ShipCruise to view technical details and photos.

Overbooking and Crowded Conditions

Many budget lines maximize profits by overbooking cabins and public areas. This leads to:

• Long lines at embarkation, dining, and excursions
• Overcrowded pools, theaters, and lounges
• Strained staff unable to provide adequate service

For example, Celestyal’s 2,000-passenger ships often sail at 95%+ capacity, leading to complaints about “cattle-like” conditions.

Language and Communication Barriers

Lines targeting non-English-speaking markets (e.g., Pullmantur, Costa in Europe) often employ staff who speak limited English. This creates confusion for international travelers, especially during emergencies or medical situations.

Tip: If you’re not fluent in the line’s primary language, read reviews from English-speaking passengers to gauge communication challenges.

Inconsistent Food Quality

Food is a major factor in cruise satisfaction. Low-rated lines often:

• Serve repetitive, low-quality buffet food
• Have limited specialty dining options
• Use frozen or pre-packaged ingredients

A 2022 survey by Travel Weekly found that 62% of passengers on budget lines rated the food as “poor” or “fair.”

Lack of Transparency and Customer Service

When things go wrong—such as itinerary changes, mechanical issues, or overbooking—low-rated lines are often slow to respond. Passengers report:

• No compensation for delays or cancellations
• Unhelpful or dismissive customer service
• Hidden fees (e.g., port taxes, gratuities) not disclosed upfront

Tip: Read the fine print in your booking contract. Look for clauses on compensation, cancellation policies, and service guarantees.

How to Avoid the Worst: Smart Booking Strategies

You don’t have to settle for a subpar cruise. With careful planning and research, you can avoid the worst-rated lines and book a vacation that meets your expectations. Here are proven strategies to ensure a better experience.

Check Multiple Review Platforms

Don’t rely on a single source. Cross-reference reviews from:

• TripAdvisor: Look at recent reviews (within 6 months) and filter by “poor” ratings to identify recurring issues.
• Cruise Critic: Read “Cruiser Reviews” and check the “Ship Quality” score.
• Consumer Reports: Their annual cruise line ratings are based on in-depth surveys and expert analysis.
• Facebook Groups: Join groups like “Cruise Addicts” or “Cruise Critic Community” for unfiltered passenger feedback.

Verify the Ship’s Condition

Use ship-tracking websites to check:

• Age: Ships over 15 years old may need extra scrutiny.
• Refurbishment Date: Look for ships that underwent major upgrades in the last 3–5 years.
• CDC Inspection Scores: Visit the CDC VSP website to view recent sanitation reports.

Compare Value, Not Just Price

A “cheap” cruise isn’t always a good deal. Calculate the total cost per day, including:

• Base fare
• Port fees and taxes
• Gratuities (often $14–$18 per person, per day)
• Drink packages and excursions

Example: A $999 cruise with $300 in fees and $200 in gratuities costs $1,499—or $214 per day. Compare that to a $1,200 cruise with all-inclusive pricing.

Book Through a Reputable Travel Agent

Experienced cruise agents have access to:

• Insider knowledge on ship conditions and service quality
• Exclusive deals and upgrades
• Advocacy if something goes wrong (e.g., rebooking, compensation)

Many agents specialize in specific lines or destinations and can steer you away from underperformers.

Consider Smaller or Premium Lines

If you prioritize service, comfort, and experience, consider:

• Premium Lines: Oceania, Azamara, Regent Seven Seas (higher price, better value)
• Small Ship Operators: Viking Ocean, Ponant, UnCruise (fewer passengers, personalized service)

These lines often have higher satisfaction ratings and lower complaint volumes.

Data Table: Worst-Rated Cruise Lines (2021–2023)

Cruise Line	TripAdvisor Avg. (2023)	Cruise Critic Avg. (2023)	JD Power Score (2023)	CDC VSP Avg. (2022–2023)	Key Complaints
Pullmantur	2.8	2.9	680	84	Outdated ships, poor English, bad food
Celestyal	2.9	3.0	712	83	Mechanical issues, small cabins, no Wi-Fi
Costa (Older Ships)	3.1	3.2	730	85	Long lines, overcrowding, language barriers
NCL (Norwegian Sun/Jade)	3.0	2.7	720	86	Plumbing issues, poor AC, outdated decor
CMV (Relaunched)	2.6	2.8	670	82	No elevators, poor soundproofing, limited shows

Final Thoughts: Choosing Wisely for a Better Cruise Experience

So, what is the worst rated cruise line? The answer, as we’ve seen, is not a single name but a pattern of underperformance across several brands. Lines like Pullmantur, Celestyal, and select older vessels from major operators consistently rank at the bottom due to outdated ships, poor service, and lack of value. While these lines may offer low prices, the hidden costs—in time, comfort, and peace of mind—can far outweigh the savings.

The good news is that you’re not powerless. By doing your homework, reading reviews, and understanding the metrics that matter, you can avoid the worst and book a cruise that delivers on its promises. Remember: a great vacation isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. Choose a cruise line that values your experience as much as you do. Whether you opt for a premium line with personalized service or a well-reviewed mainstream carrier, the key is informed decision-making.

As the cruise industry continues to evolve, with new ships, stricter regulations, and heightened customer expectations, even the lowest-rated lines are under pressure to improve. But until they do, arm yourself with knowledge. Your dream cruise shouldn’t be remembered for a broken toilet or a rude staff member. It should be a story you’re proud to tell. So, set sail with confidence—and leave the worst-rated lines in your wake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the worst rated cruise line according to customer reviews?

Based on recent traveler feedback and industry ratings, Carnival Cruise Line often ranks as the worst rated cruise line due to recurring complaints about overcrowding, dated ships, and inconsistent service quality. While budget-friendly, it struggles with lower scores on platforms like Cruise Critic and TripAdvisor.

Why do some travelers call Carnival the worst cruise line?

Carnival receives criticism for its “budget party cruise” reputation, with guests citing issues like long wait times, noisy environments, and subpar dining options. These factors contribute to its lower ratings compared to premium competitors.

Which cruise line has the worst customer service ratings?

Royal Caribbean’s older ships and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) frequently appear in complaints about poor customer service, including unresponsive staff and disorganized excursions. These issues impact their overall reputation despite modern fleets elsewhere.

Are there safety concerns with the worst rated cruise lines?

While no major cruise line fails safety inspections, lower-rated lines like Carnival and MSC Cruises have faced scrutiny for outdated safety drills and past incidents. Always check the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program for up-to-date reports.

What makes a cruise line “the worst” in passenger reviews?

Key factors include cleanliness, food quality, hidden fees, and entertainment value. Lines like Costa Cruises and MSC often rank poorly due to language barriers, chaotic embarkation, and unmet luxury expectations.

Can I avoid the worst rated cruise lines and still travel affordably?

Yes! Budget-friendly options like Holland America or Princess Cruises offer better value with fewer complaints. Consider repositioning cruises or last-minute deals to save without sacrificing service quality.