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Best cruise lines 2015: Cruise Critic Awards
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  • Crystal Cruises has one of the highest staff to passenger ratios in the cruise line industry so it's no surprise that it won the accolade of best for luxury in 2015. The ship also boasts a Michelin starred chef working in it's delicious Japanese restaurant. 
  • Sophisticated decor, popular bars and clubs and a host of fine dining opportunities are just some of the reasons why the Britannia from P&O has been named the best this year. The boat also offers a cookery club with a dedicated kitchen and fun filled Strictly Come Dancing activities. 
  • Although many cruise lines have plenty for families to do, Royal Caribbean has been singled out for providing activities and events that are perfect for parents and kids alike. The ship boasts DreamWorks parades, characters and exclusive screenings not to mention family cabins and an extensive facilities programme.
  • These adult-only ships set sail from small Caribbean islands with spa services and massage tents all part of the package. Star Clipper offers guests the chance to relax in the warm weather on the spectacular tall ship vessels.
  • It is expected that Southampton Port will break its previous record of 1.75 million cruisers this year - which goes some way to understanding why the port has been voted best in the UK. The port also hosted the launch of Royal Caribbean's, Britannia, the UK's biggest purpose built cruise ship.
  • Fred. Olsen has four ships that leave from the UK's regional ports and the itineraries once on board are second to none. Mystery cruises, Amazon rivercruises and a trip from Scotland to the Caribbean are just some of the experiences on offer.
  • Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway ships have perfected the art of nightlife on board a cruise ship. All of the attractions, including bars, clubs and restaurants can be found in the ship's central area, with alfresco drinking and dining available on the boardwalk as well.
  • Celebrity Cruises' already popular Eclipse ship went into dry dock to undergo refurbishments and came out with plenty of new features including outstanding suites, a restaurant where the menu changes daily and two new bars. Whether you fancy a cocktail crafted by an expert mixologist or a craft beer, there's something for everyone.
  • If VIP tickets for the Monaco Grand Prix and private concerts are your kind of thing then a trip with Azamara Club Cruises will be perfect for you. That's just a selection of the impressive events and excursions that the cruise line has put on for their passengers in the past. 
  • Take a trip with Hurtigruten and you can look forward to activities such as dog sledding with huskies, trips to the Arctic and a night in an ice hotel. A new adventure ship will soon be launched too, the Spitsbergen will join Fram and offer cruises to some of the most out-of-the-way places around the world.
  • Best UK port of call, which includes the British Isles, is a hotly contested category and this year Guernsey has snatched the title. The second largest Channel Island has 110 scheduled cruises calling this year and there is even a newly built arrival area to welcome the passengers to the island. Beautiful beaches and a fascinating history helps draw in the tourists and there are plenty of activities to be enjoyed on the island as well.
  • A combination of West End transfers and a partnership with DreamWorks has won Royal Caribbean the entertainment title this year. With shows such as We Will Rock You and Mamma Mia available, it's no surprise that the line has won the accolade for 2015.
  • Thomson Cruises win this category thanks to their competitive fares, the fact that tips are included and also the added bonus that alcohol is generally sold at prices that are less than what you would find in a UK pub. For those looking to save on the small things, this is the perfect option.
  • Fine dining, molecular gastronomy and a host of celebrity chefs are just part of the reason why P&O have won the dining category this year. Sindhu and The Glass House restaurants can both be found across the fleet and are not to be missed. 
  • The Royal Loft Suites found on Royal Caribbean's 'Oasis' and 'Allure of the Seas' are fitted with top class interiors and offer guests stunning views while the virtual balconies in the Family Suites are an amazing technological innovation.
  • Unlike most other mainstream cruise lines, Holland America offers passengers tempting bath/shower combinations as standard in most cabins. Not only that but the cabins are generally larger than industry standard, granting you that little bit more space while you're at sea.

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