The Most Popular Cruise Lines and Ships Right Now

Cruising is back in a big way nearly two years into the COVID-19 pandemic. As public health metrics improve and restrictions loosen, more ships have taken to the world's rivers and seas. Spectacular deals and incentives make it a great time to be a passenger, whether cruising the Rhine or the Caribbean. Here's a look at the most popular cruise lines and cruise ships heading into spring, according to CruiseCompete's March 2022 CruiseTrends Report, which is based on tens of thousands of actual consumer quote requests and transactions taking place via CruiseCompete.com.

Royal Caribbean International, which dominated at the 2021 Travvy Awards late last year, ranks as the most popular premium cruise line heading into the spring of 2022. RCI's fellow Royal Caribbean Group subsidiary Celebrity Cruises finished second in the premium category, followed by Carnival Cruise Line. Still celebrating its 50th birthday, Carnival is eyeing a big year in 2022, which will include the debut of the new Carnival Celebration.

Among luxury cruise lines, Oceania Cruises, which recently announced details for its upcoming 2024 Around the World in 180 Days itinerary, is the most popular name heading into March 2022, edging out the U.K.-based Cunard Line and Royal Caribbean Group subsidiary Silversea Cruises.

An award-winning cruise line with legitimate staying power, Viking River Cruises kicks off March as the single most sought-after river cruise line, based on CruiseCompete's latest data, followed by domestic cruise lines in American Cruise Lines and American Queen Voyages.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Royal Caribbean International ships dominate the list of the most popular premium vessels. The group is led by the Oasis-class Harmony of the Seas. The new largest cruise ship in the world, Wonder of the Seas, ranks second, followed by Allure of the Seas in third. Five other Royal Caribbean ships rank inside the top 10, including Oasis of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

Cunard Line's unmistakable Queen Mary 2 is the most coveted luxury cruise ship at the moment, but Oceania Cruises' fleet is getting strong consideration. In fact, Oceania Riviera, Oceania Marina, Oceania Nautica, Oceania Insignia and Oceania Regatta round out the top six most popular luxury vessels for March 2022.

A small ship specifically designed to cruise the Mississippi River and inaugurated just last year, American Cruise Lines' American Melody is the most popular river cruise ship among CruiseCompete users this spring. Meanwhile, American Queen Voyages' boutique-style American Duchess ranks second, followed by Avalon Waterways' Avalon Tranquility II.