The 2015 U.S. Cruise
Critic Editors' Picks Awards have been revealed -- and it's the Viking that has
conquered all.
Viking Star was named
Best New Ship of 2015 in the ocean category, with judges loving its boutique
style and stylish restaurants.
But this is no Viking
longboat -- it's a state of the art cruise liner that has earned rave reviews
from judges.
Viking Star won the
Best New Ship of 2015 in the ocean category.
The 930-passenger ship
was praised for its "more inclusive price structure from its river
offerings" as well as the complimentary Wi-Fi, alcoholic beverages at
lunch and dinner and a free shore excursion in every port.
Azamara Club Cruises
scored highly with the judges as well, winning the Best Shore Excursions award
for the second year in succession, while Carnival Cruise Line snagged the Best
Value-for-Money award, commended for its "range of affordable fares and
well-rounded offerings onboard."
There was a big win for
Un-Cruise in the Best for Adventure category.
The line offers hiking,
kayaking and snorkeling experiences across Alaska, Hawaii, the Pacific
Northwest, Baja Mexico and the enchanting Galapagos.
Next year it's heading
to Costa Rica, too.
Un-Cruise adventures
was praised for its alternative style and adventure programs.
"Our editors live
and breathe cruising, sailing year-round and covering every aspect of the
industry -- from new ships and programs to updated amenities and
features," said Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic.
"With so many
wonderful cruise options available, it's never an easy list to narrow down, but
these awards truly represent the lines that our experts have recognized as the
best of the best.
"This year we also
highlight the top river cruise lines, reflecting the growth of this sector --
in terms of both interest and options."
In the river category,
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection stole the show with editors singling
out the line's "lavish onboard offerings and amenities, new itineraries
and innovative excursion offerings."
Uniworld's S.S. Maria
Theresa wowed the editors with its style and sophistication.
The line won the Best
River Cruise Line, Best New River Ship -- for the new S.S. Maria Theresa -- and
Best Shore Excursions.
The S.S. Maria Theresa
is a beautifully styled baroque vessel that sails down the Danube, Rhine and
Main rivers with 150 guests on board.
Uniworld has
successfully maintained the ship's character and history while making sure all
the necessary mod cons are on board.
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