A recent study conducted by SlotsUp examined 20 of the most popular cruise lines operating globally, revealing which ones consistently receive negative reviews for various reasons. Although cruises are typically seen as a relaxing escape offering both adventure and convenience, some cruise lines fail to meet the high standards that many travellers expect. The research team reviewed thousands of negative ratings marked as "Poor" or "Terrible" on Cruise Critic, a well-respected cruise review site owned by TripAdvisor since 2007, to identify the main causes of dissatisfaction.
Their findings showed that certain cruise lines are frequently criticised for overcrowded facilities , poor customer service, and overall disappointing experiences. Costa Cruises topped the list of poorly-rated cruise lines, with 39.16 percent of its reviews being negative.
Out of 1,532 total reviews, 600 were classified as "Poor" or "Terrible." Passengers often mentioned issues like overcrowding, insufficient amenities, and inconsistent food quality. One reviewer aboard the Costa Diadema during a Baltic Sea cruise shared their experience, claiming: "Save yourself, literally, and just don't book with Costa unless you want an overcrowded experience with food poisoning, a disrespectful reception, negligent safety, dirty rooms, towels and bed lining.
" Another traveller opined: "Avoid Costa Cruise at any cost! The most despicable and dishonest cruise line that we've ever experienced after sailing around 60+ cr.
