Disney Cruise Line Ranked BEST for Families in 2022

We talk about the Disney theme parks a lot over here, but there’s another major way to take a Disney vacation — by taking a Disney cruise!

Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line is a great way to travel, vacation, and get your dose of Disney all at the same time. We’ve checked out a lot on the Disney Cruise ships, including almost everything on the newest ship, the Disney Wish. But how does Disney Cruise Line compare to other major cruise lines? Well, a new rankings list is here to tell you!

Disney Cruise Line was ranked number 1 for the Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean in 2023 according to U.S. News & World Report. U.S. News said they used “a methodology that factors in each cruise line’s variety, number, and percentage of Caribbean itineraries, along with approval ratings among experts and travelers,” in order to determine this list.

Disney Magic

The reasoning for Disney’s ranking according to U.S. News & World Report was that “Disney’s ships sail to ports across the Caribbean, including Barbados, Jamaica and St. Lucia. Most of Disney’s Caribbean cruises stop at Castaway Cay – the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas. In addition to offering character greetings and waterslides, the island boasts less-congested beaches and prime snorkeling.”

After Disney Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages was #2, Celebrity Cruises #3, Royal Caribbean was #4, and Carnival was #5.

Castaway Cay

Not only did Disney Cruise Line rank #1 for the best Caribbean cruise line, but they were also ranked #1 as the Best Cruise Line for Families. To determine this ranking, U.S. News used a methodology that “factors in health ratings, reputation among experts and approval among families with both younger and older kids.”

Disney Dream

The explainer for the ranking of #1 for Disney Cruise Line said “From its signature Mickey’s Sail-A-Wave Party to its pirate-themed dinners, Disney attracts passengers looking for a full roster of entertainment options.

Passengers can enjoy kid-friendly dining venues and amenities, plus visits from Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Pluto. The line’s cruise ships also offer adults-only dining areas, quiet pool spots and nightlife options.”

Mickey on Castaway Cay

In 2nd place was Royal Caribbean, 3rd was Carnival, 4th was Norwegian, and 5th was MSC Cruises. It’s not super surprising that DCL earned the top spot for family cruises, it’s a little bit hard to beat seeing Mickey and friends during your cruise, and that extra Disney magic adds something special!