Cruise Critic announces the winners of 18 ship superlatives for 2012

The Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards have been chosen by Cruise Critic’s team of cruise editors based on the lines and ships they feel best represent excellence in each of the designated categories. Awards announced December 2012.

Best New Ship: Carnival Breeze embodies a new breed of Carnival’s Fun Ship concept with a toned-down tropical feel and new-to-Carnival restaurants and entertainment, while also remaining true to its casual cruising roots.

Best for First-Timers: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian’s newest ship, and the line’s Jewel-class series of vessels offer the industry’s largest selection of restaurants, a massive spa and fitness complex, and a much-improved kids program.