Festive Holiday Cruises with the Top 5 Cruise Lines
- Karen Kilian
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
Why stay home for the holidays when you can celebrate at sea? Holiday cruises have become a favorite way to skip the stress and embrace the season in style.
Here’s a look at how a few of the most popular cruise lines make the holidays unforgettable:
Royal Caribbean – Deck the Halls (and the Ship!)
Royal Caribbean goes all out with their “Deck the Holidays” program. Think Christmas tree lighting ceremonies, festive parades, holiday-themed shows, and even Santa himself greeting kids with presents. Onboard ice rinks host seasonal skating, while dining rooms glow with gingerbread houses and holiday menus.
Celebrity Cruises – Modern Luxury Meets Holiday Magic
Celebrity keeps things chic and cozy, offering special holiday menus, themed cocktails, and festive décor throughout the ship. Guests enjoy live holiday performances and carol sing-alongs, plus Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations at sea. New Year’s Eve is particularly dazzling, with champagne toasts, live music, and big-deck countdown parties.
Princess Cruises – A “Merry” Tradition at Sea
On Princess, holiday voyages mean snow falling in the atrium (yes, really!), gingerbread house-building contests, and carolers singing your favorite tunes. Kids can meet Santa, while adults enjoy seasonal cocktails and holiday movies under the stars. A highlight?
Holland America Line – Classic Elegance for the Season
Holland America offers a more traditional holiday ambiance, with beautifully decorated ships, Christmas choirs, and special religious services. Guests are treated to holiday dinners, Hanukkah celebrations, and gingerbread village displays. New Year’s Eve brings an elegant gala ball, complete with champagne and live orchestras.
*Not all cruise ships offer the celebrations listed above. Pick the destination and then we can find out which cruise lines offers the holiday celebrations you and your family/friends are most interested in.
