These major cruise lines won big in Forbes Travel Guide Star Awards

More than a dozen ships – ranging from those carrying thousands of passengers to more intimate, yacht-like vessels – earned accolades from the independent rating system, including some first-time Five-Star designations.

"Forbes Travel Guide's newest Star Award winners showcase an exciting evolution in luxury," Amanda Frasier, FTG's President of Standards & Ratings, said in a news release. "As guests navigate the increasingly complex travel landscape for the best places to stay, sail, dine and spa, we are proud to provide them with the trusted, integrity-based guidance they need. The 2026 list showcases properties deeply committed to delivering consistent and reliable world-class experiences."

What do the categories mean?

Five-Star winners are properties that “deliver an outstanding experience and consistently offer a highly customized level of service,” according to the Forbes Travel Guide website. The rating system describes Four-Star winners, meanwhile, as “exceptional” with high-level facilities and service.

Those deemed Recommended are “excellent properties with consistently good service and facilities."

Which cruise ships earned 2026 Star Awards?

The following ships were designated as Four-Star:

Celebrity Ascent
Explora Journeys’ Explora II
Seabourn Ovation
Silversea Cruises’ Silver Endeavour
Silver Nova
Silver Origin
Silver Shadow
Regent Seven Seas Splendor
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima

The remaining ships received Recommended awards:

Celebrity Apex
Celebrity Flora
Celebrity Xcel
Explora I
Oceania Insignia
SeaDream II
Viking Neptune
Viking Sky
Windstar Cruises’ Star Pride

Le Voyage on Celebrity Ascent.

Which cruise ship restaurants made the list?

Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, an upscale dining venue on Celebrity Xcel, earned Forbes Travel Guide’s first Five-Star award for a cruise ship restaurant. The following eateries earned Four-Star ratings: