Porthole | 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards: Past Champions

The significance of these awards lies in their democratic nature. While industry critics often focus on technical specifications or corporate growth, Porthole’s readers—a demographic characterized by their extensive travel history and discerning tastes—prioritize the lived experience. This year, the voting process is officially underway, inviting travelers to cast their ballots at porthole.com/vote. The results, scheduled for a grand reveal this coming November, often provide a mix of long-standing dynasties and shocking upsets that keep the industry’s major players on their toes.

One of the most remarkable stories in the history of the Readers’ Choice Awards is the enduring dominance of Windstar Cruises in the “Most Romantic” category. Windstar has secured this title every single year since 2005, a twenty-year streak that is virtually unheard of in any travel award category. Industry analysts attribute this consistency to Windstar’s unique positioning; by operating a fleet of small, motorized sailing yachts and all-suite Star Plus Class vessels, the line offers an intimate, "180 degrees from ordinary" experience that larger mega-ships struggle to replicate. The sight of white sails unfurling to the sound of Vangelis’s "1492: Conquest of Paradise" as a ship departs a Mediterranean port remains a quintessential romantic image for the Porthole readership.

However, if Windstar represents stability, the "Best Entertainment" category represents the current volatility of the market. Traditionally, this category has been a battleground for the industry’s giants. Royal Caribbean International, with its high-budget Broadway productions and high-diving AquaTheater shows, often leads the pack, closely followed by the family-centric spectacles of Disney Cruise Line and the high-energy, European-influenced productions of MSC Cruises. Yet, the 2025 results delivered a major surprise: Victory Cruise Lines, a relatively small player in the coastal and Great Lakes sector, surged to a close second place behind Royal Caribbean. This shift suggests that modern cruisers are beginning to value intimate, storytelling-driven performances and local cultural immersion just as much as—if not more than—the pyrotechnics of large-scale theaters.

A similar disruption occurred in the "Best Service" category during the 2025 cycle. For years, the title was traded between established luxury icons like Seabourn, Cunard, and Celebrity Cruises, as well as the ambitious newcomer Explora Journeys. However, the "reborn" Crystal Cruises—now under the stewardship of the A&K Travel Group—successfully reclaimed the crown. Following a high-profile corporate restructuring and a meticulous refurbishment of its fleet, Crystal’s victory underscores the power of brand loyalty and the value of a tenured crew. Many of Crystal’s staff returned to the ships after the brand’s hiatus, maintaining a level of intuitive, personalized service that readers clearly felt surpassed the offerings of newer luxury entrants.

The "Onboard Enrichment" category has also seen a change in leadership. In 2025, Viking took home its first award in this sector, unseating perennial favorites Crystal and Cunard. Viking’s "Thinking Person’s Cruise" philosophy, which eschews casinos and "umbrella drinks" in favor of world-class lecturers, resident historians, and TED Talk collaborations, has resonated deeply with a demographic that views travel as a form of continuing education. Interestingly, the data from previous years reveals a "David vs. Goliath" dynamic in this category. While large lines get the volume of votes, small expedition lines like Quark Expeditions and Overseas Adventure Travel (OAT) consistently "punch above their weight." Their voters are among the most dedicated in the world, often citing the expert-led zodiac tours and scientific lectures as the highlight of their journeys. If these niche lines continue to mobilize their passionate fanbases, 2026 could see a specialized expedition line taking the top spot for the first time.

In the realm of destinations, the competition is equally fierce. In the Caribbean, Grand Cayman and St. Kitts have engaged in a years-long tug-of-war for the title of "Best Caribbean Beach Destination." Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach offers a sophisticated, luxury-oriented experience, while St. Kitts provides a more rugged, lush, and authentic island atmosphere. The 2026 vote will determine which aesthetic currently holds more sway with the modern traveler.

Further north, the Canada/New England region remains a stronghold for Québec City. With its cobblestone streets and the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the city consistently wows voters with its Old World European charm. However, a new rivalry is brewing. Montréal was recently crowned the "Best North American River/Great Lakes Destination," signaling a growing interest in the Saint Lawrence River as a cruising corridor. As more lines deploy ships to the Great Lakes and the Northeastern seaboard, the competition between these two Québécois gems is expected to intensify, with Montréal potentially emerging as a "dark horse" challenger for the broader regional title.

The most prestigious accolade, "Best Ocean Ship," serves as a reflection of the industry’s technological and design trends. In 2025, the title went to MSC World America, a vessel that represents the pinnacle of modern "smart ship" technology and environmental consciousness, featuring LNG (liquefied natural gas) propulsion and a sprawling, multi-district layout. This followed the 2024 success of Norwegian Encore, a ship that has become a reader favorite for its blend of high-thrill amenities—like its expansive go-kart track—and refined dining options. The fact that Norwegian Encore repeated its 2020 performance in 2024 proves that a well-designed ship can maintain its "wow factor" long after its inaugural season. As voters look toward 2026, the question remains whether they will favor the massive, feature-heavy giants or the sleek, ultra-luxury vessels currently entering the market.

Beyond the recognition of the cruise lines and destinations, the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards offer a tangible incentive for participation. Every reader who submits a ballot is entered into a drawing for a Monarch Jewels diamond bracelet, a prize that has become a tradition of the awards program. This partnership with Monarch Jewels highlights the intersection of cruising and luxury lifestyle, reflecting the high-end shopping experiences that are a staple of the cruise vacation.

The voting period is not merely a contest; it is a vital data-gathering exercise that helps cruise lines and port authorities understand where they are succeeding and where they need to improve. When a line like Viking wins for enrichment, it signals to the rest of the industry that there is a significant market for intellectual engagement. When a newcomer like Victory Cruise Lines challenges a titan like Royal Caribbean in entertainment, it forces the larger companies to rethink their creative strategies.

As the 2026 awards approach, the editorial team at Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine—led by experts who have covered the industry for over three decades—remains committed to providing the context and analysis that help travelers make informed decisions. The magazine’s bimonthly digital editions continue to offer in-depth ship reviews, culinary features, and destination guides that serve as the foundation for the knowledge readers bring to the voting booth.

The ultimate winners will be announced in the November issue, marking a celebration of the resilience and creativity of the global cruise industry. Whether you are a fan of the massive "cities at sea" or the quiet elegance of a river cruiser, your voice is the most important factor in determining the "best of the best." To ensure your favorites are represented in the winners’ circle, visit porthole.com/vote today. Your contribution not only helps define the standards of excellence for 2026 but also shapes the future of travel for years to come. In an industry that is constantly evolving, the Readers’ Choice Awards remain the most authentic reflection of what it means to travel well.