READERS' TRAVEL AWARDS 2005

This year, Royal Caribbean International rules the waves for large ships, with top scores for nightlife/entertainment (91), facilities/activities (97) and value for money (92). Cunard Line wins for standard/comfort of cabins (90) and P&O Cruises has the best variety of destinations (95.15); Crystal Cruises scored highest for environmental friendliness (86.07) and Princess Cruises scored above 80 in six out of eight criteria.

For small ships, Silversea Cruises steamed into first place with top scores for itinerary/variety of destinations and facilities/activities (90.48 and 87.15 respectively) but you thought Seabourn Cruise Line deserved top marks for service/staff (97.78) and food/restaurants (95.56) and Star Clippers for standard/ comfort of cabins (83.45) and value for money (81)