The 169,000 ton Norwegian Encore won Cruise Critic’s award for best new ship.
(CNN) — Viking Cruises dominated the 12th annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards for the third year in a row with five wins in 2019. Royal Caribbean International, AmaWaterways and Crystal Cruises tied for second place with three awards each, all of which were revealed on December 4.
“Our list of winners represents just how much the industry continues to change — and the fact that there really is a cruise for every traveler,” said Colleen McDaniel, executive editor of cruising website Cruise Critic.
“Whether you’re a family or adventure-seeker, solo traveler or foodie, these are the absolute best lines to try in the upcoming year.”
Cruise Critic’s editors name winners in three categories: ocean cruises, luxury cruises (all on ocean ships) and river cruises.Viking won three luxury awards (best enrichment, best spa, best value for money) and two river cruise awards (best for first-timers and best itineraries). It’s no surprise that Disney Cruise Line won the best for families in the ocean category, and Disney’s Adventures by Disney earned top honors for families in river cruising — and both won for the fourth year in a row.
A member of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Class, Norwegian Encore is the Cruise Critic pick for best new ocean ship.
“A number of fantastic new ships launched this year, but what made Norwegian Encore stand out to our editors was the sheer depth of offerings available for every traveler,” McDaniel said.
“From an onboard go-kart track and virtual-reality simulators, to nearly 20 restaurants and a dual-deck, adults-only escape — there’s something on board for everyone. And while the ship isn’t an entirely new concept — it’s not first-in-class — the line has clearly taken what’s worked on its previous ships and perfected it on Norwegian Encore. It’s truly an exciting addition to the industry.”
To see all the results of Cruise Critic picks for 2019 visit: <a/href=”https://www.cruisecritic.com/editors-picks” </a> Cruise Critic
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