Cruise Critic Announces Top Cruise Ships and Lines

   October 13, 2016 ,   Cruise Industry

Carnival Vista, Crystal Mozart and Regent Seven Seas Explorer have been announced the best new ships of 2016 in Cruise Critic Editors' Picks annual awards.

The 9th annual awards, selected by the team of international editors of Cruise Critic, are given to cruise lines in a variety of categories, including best dining, best cabins and best for families. River lines are judged separately and - for the first time - luxury cruises have been given their own set of awards.

Carnival Vista, CCL-Carnival Cruise Line's newest ship, launched in May 2016, was named the year's Best New Ship, with editors praising the vessel for its wide-ranging amenities, including an onboard water park, brewery and 14 restaurants. The line also won Best Value for Money for the third consecutive year for its affordable fares and complimentary activities and dining venues.

DCL-Disney Cruise Line was named Best Dining and Best for Families, with editors highlighting the standout service and food in the line's dining venues, as well as the variety of onboard venues for family members of all ages.

In the river category, AmaWaterways was named the year's Best River Cruise Line for its attractive amenities for a wide range of travelers - including families and active cruisers - helping to expand river cruising's audience and offerings. The line was also named Best for Families for its new partnership with Adventures By Disney.

Viking River Cruises received Best Itineraries for the second year in a row for providing river cruising's widest range of river options. Emerald Waterways received Best Value for Money - also for the second consecutive year - for its competitive pricing and number of base-price inclusions.

In the inaugural luxury category, Seabourn was named the Best Luxury Cruise Line for its impeccable service, creative itineraries and sophisticated touches. Viking Ocean Cruises was named Best Value for Money for its extensive list of inclusions.

Seattle WA was named the Best U.S. Homeport for its numerous attractions and new Central Link light rail system.