With 2014 drawing to a close, cruise aficionados are declaring their favorites for the past year, and industry publications are releasing lists of cruisers’ top picks.
Just a few weeks ago, one of the world’s leading consumer cruise publications, Porthole Cruise Magazine, finally announced the results of its 16th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards. Among the biggest winners, Royal Holiday-affiliated lines sailed away with top honors in roughly 20 categories.
Porthole Cruise Magazine readers were asked to submit their cruise favorites in more than four dozen “Best Of” categories. These discerning cruisers evaluated countless ships, entertainment options, dining establishments, shore excursions, itineraries, and more, and then voiced their opinions by mail, by fax, and online. Editors tabulated the numbers and revealed passengers’ favorites at the end of November. A few of the winners are listed here:
* Best Megaship—The brand-new Norwegian Getaway impresses passengers with an array of entertainment, excellent dining, innovative performances, and gorgeous layout, making this ship tops among the largest vessels on the sea.
* Best Value-for-Money Cruise Line—Carnival has become known as the most affordable line for cruises, making it an especially attractive option for families.
* Best Line for Short Cruises—Its huge fleet and large choice of itineraries helped Carnival win top honors with cruisers who are looking for great cruises in limited time.
* Best Onboard Activities—Royal Caribbean International offers some of the most sought-after entertainment options in the industry, making it a favorite among active cruisers.
* Best Specialty Restaurants—With dining establishments offering everything from exquisite French cuisine to hearty hamburgers, cruisers are raving about the eating options on Norwegian Cruise Line ships.
* Best Theme Cruises—MSC knocked one out of the park this year with its fun Baseball Greats theme cruises.
A large number of other awards were given in other categories, as well. For example, cruise lines such as Princess, Norwegian, RCI, and Carnival all earned recognition for their excellent itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Atlantic, and Pacific Oceans.
