top 20 biggest cruise ships 2023

The 20 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World in 2023

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: March 1, 2022  - Last updated: January 6, 2023

Cruise ships have been getting bigger—and adding lots of attractions that were unheard of just a few years ago. To help you pick which megaship is right for you, I’ve rounded up the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world in 2023.

Along with a ranking of the top 20 cruise ships by size , I’ve included important stats and unique features for each ship. If you’re considering sailing on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, you’ll want to read this guide before you choose!

How do we determine the size of cruise ships for comparison?

Cruise ships can be measured by a variety of factors. You might assume that a ship’s size is determined by its length, weight, or even its passenger capacity.

But the size of a cruise ship is generally determined by gross tonnage —and (confusingly) that’s not a measurement of weight!

Gross tonnage, or GT, is a measure of the ship’s internal volume . To calculate GT, first a ship’s volume is calculated by measuring from keel to funnel to the outside of the hull framing. That number (in cubic meters) is then run through several mathematical formulas to determine GT. (I won’t go into all of that here, but if you’re interested the US Coast Guard has a simplified guide to measuring gross tonnage ).

The world’s 20 largest cruise ships in 2023

Currently, the top 20 biggest cruise ships have four sets of ties in the rankings, all between sister ships that share the same cruise line and class. So although we’ll start our list at #16, there are twenty ships in total!

Cruise fans will notice there are several new ships on the list this year. Have any of these newer ships bumped your favorites down in the rankings? Read on to find out!

16. (tie) MSC Seascape

• Cruise line: MSC
• Year built: 2022
• Gross tonnage: 170,412
• Length: 1112 ft / 339 m
• Max. beam: 135 ft / 41 m
• Staterooms: 2270
• Max. passengers: 5877
• Passenger decks: 15

Just making this year’s list of the world’s 20 largest cruise ships, MSC Seascape is tied for #16. The second Seaside EVO class ship launched by MSC Cruises in just over a year, Seascape features a glam New York City vibe.

The ship’s four-story Atrium is at the heart of the action on board, and boasts a sparkling staircase set with 10,000 Swarovski crystals—the perfect spot for a photo op on formal nights !

But MSC Seascape isn’t all glitz and glamour—the family-friendly ship offers 13 pools and water features and more than 140,000 square feet (13006 m²) of public outside space. Kids will love Pirates Cove Aquapark , a play space with slides, a rope bridge, and plenty of water sprayers and dumping buckets to beat the heat.

Seascape is also the first ship to feature the new thrill ride Robotron , a robotic virtual rollercoaster ride perched on the top deck.

Foodie guests on MSC Seascape will enjoy the ship’s eleven restaurants, including a massive Market Place Buffet and several specialty dining venues grouped together at Chef’s Court .

Related: MSC Cruises Launches MSC Seascape in New York City

16. (tie) MSC Seashore

• Year built: 2020 (launched 2021)
• Max. beam: 134.5 ft / 41 m

Almost identical to her sister ship Seascape , MSC Seashore is tied for #16 on the list of the largest cruise ships. The first in the EVO subclass of MSC’s Seaside class ships, Seashore and her sister are larger than other ships in their class and offer expanded outdoor spaces.

As an EVO ship, MSC Seashore offers improved technology to increase efficiency and reduce her carbon footprint. The energy-efficient equipment includes an advanced wastewater purification system and Safe Air , a new sanitation system that eliminates viruses and bacteria.

Seashore was purpose-built for the American market, but still offers the European flair that MSC is famous for. Guests can enjoy a taste of Italy at the ship’s Venchi 1878 gelato bars , offering twenty flavors of the decadent frozen treat in flavors like tiramisù and stracciatella.

MSC Seashore also features a gorgeous aft infinity pool—one of the largest at sea—with luxurious submerged sunbeds. The spot is a tranquil adults-only oasis by day, but it comes alive in the evening as the setting for the always-popular Silent Disco .

15. (tie) MSC Bellissima

• Year built: 2019
• Gross tonnage: 171,598
• Length: 1,036.2 ft / 315.83 m
• Max. beam: 141 ft / 43 m
• Staterooms: 2,217
• Max. passengers: 5,686
• Passenger decks: 14

Tied for the fifteenth spot in the list of the world’s largest cruise ships, MSC’s Bellissima is as tall as thirteen double-decker buses!

Perfect for a family cruise, Bellissima offers a wealth of kids’ activities for children aged one through seventeen. Parents can track kids’ whereabouts on board via an RFID bracelet synced with MSC’s app. For adults who want to enjoy a leisurely meal, there’s the Happy Dinner program where the little ones are escorted to the kids club as soon as they finish eating!

MSC Bellissima is home to a thrilling Grand Canyon-themed waterpark with three waterslides—two racing tubes as well as a champagne bowl-style slide. The younger set will love the Aquaplay spray area, and guests of all ages can climb the Himalayan bridge, a rope course that crosses the ship high above the water.

Guests aboard Bellissima also have access to an electronic cruise assistant, similar to Siri or Alexa. A first in the cruise industry, Zoe —who speaks seven languages and adapts to each passenger’s preference—provides information and help booking shows, spa treatments, and shore excursions, as well as notifications of events and promotions.

15. (tie) MSC Meraviglia

• Year built: 2017
• Staterooms: 2,244
• Max. passengers: 5,655

When MSC’s Meraviglia entered service in 2017, she was the sixth-largest cruise ship in the world—but has since fallen to #15, tied with her newer sister ship Bellissima .

The namesake of the Meraviglia class of cruise ships, she was the first to offer an expanded dining experience with fourteen restaurants, including a whopping four complimentary main dining rooms. Celebrity chef Carlo Cracco was enlisted to improve the quality of the ship’s cuisine.

On Meraviglia entertainment options abound—the Broadway Theatre hosts six unique shows each cruise, along with the Carousel Lounge where you can experience Cirque du Soleil at sea. The crew also puts on an impressive amount of activities and events, so there’s always something to do on a sea day .

The ship’s Amusement Park has a full-size bowling alley, 4-D cinema, F1 simulators, an arcade, as well as a sportplex that becomes a disco spot for young cruisers in the evening.

14. (tie) MSC Virtuosa

• Year built: 2020
• Gross tonnage: 181,541
• Length: 1,087.4 ft / 331.43 m
• Max. beam: 160 ft / 50 m
• Staterooms: 2,421
• Max. passengers: 6,334

MSC’s ship Virtuosa , built in 2020, is one of the newer offerings by the Swiss-Italian cruise line and is tied for number fourteen on our list of the world’s biggest cruise ships.

Virtuosa offers five pools in total, plus a water park with three waterslides, so water babies of all ages can spread out and enjoy the fun. The pools can accommodate over a thousand guests at a time!

If relaxing with a cocktail is more your style, stop by and see Rob the bartender at Starship Club . He’s the first humanoid bartender at sea, and speaks six languages!

Cruisers can also wander the Galleria Virtuosa —the pretty indoor promenade with restaurants and shops features an arched ceiling with the longest LED dome at sea , presenting an ever-changing light display.

14. (tie) MSC Grandiosa

• Staterooms: 2,632
• Max. passengers: 6,761

Tied for number 14, Grandiosa was the first vessel in MSC’s Meraviglia-Plus class , later joined by her sister ship MSC Virtuosa .

With 200 more staterooms than previous MSC ships, Grandiosa has expanded the number of accessible cabins on board, and added groups of up to three connecting staterooms as well as new family balcony cabins. Some spacious family staterooms can sleep up to twelve!

Grandiosa also has some innovative environmental features, including systems to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 80%, and sulfur emissions by 97%. She has a fuel-efficient hull and can run on shore power when docked.

Fun fact: Grandiosa ‘s godmother is Italian screen legend and longtime MSC ambassador Sophia Loren. She actually holds that honor for most of MSC’s fleet!

13. Mardi Gras

• Cruise line: Carnival
• Gross tonnage: 181,808
• Length: 1,130 ft / 344 m
• Max. beam: 138 ft / 42 m
• Staterooms: 2,641
• Max. passengers: 6,630

The 13th biggest cruise ship in the world is Carnival Cruise Line’s widely-anticipated Mardi Gras (currently the cruise line’s second-largest ship) which took her maiden voyage in July 2021.

Mardi Gras debuted several new concepts for Carnival, including three new dining venues. Big Chicken by Shaq serves up fried chicken and more, while quick-service Street Eats offers three food stations, each specializing in a different type of cuisine.

Emeril’s Bistro 1396 , created in partnership with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse (Carnival’s new Chief Culinary Officer ), serves up New Orleans-style Creole dishes.

The Grand Central Atrium reinvented the central area of the ship, with a larger space featuring bars, cafés, and shops with aerial performances overhead.

She also boasts the first rollercoaster at sea —BOLT is an open-air coaster with spectacular sea views. Riders can control their speed using pedals inside each two-person motorcycle-themed car.

12. AIDAcosma

• Cruise line: AIDA
• Year built: 2021
• Gross tonnage: 183,200
• Length: 1,106 ft / 337 m
• Staterooms: 2,626
• Max. passengers: 6,600
• Passenger decks: 16

Setting sail on her maiden voyage in February 2022, Carnival Corporation’s German brand AIDA ‘s newest ship AIDAcosma makes #12 on the list.

AIDAcosma ‘s unique features include the Ocean Deck , a four-story relaxation oasis with an infinity pool and panoramic ocean views.

The ship also has a reinvented Fun Park , complete with a ropes course, rock-climbing wall, and a large indoor playground.

Her seventeen restaurants and 23 bars and cafés ensure that guests have plenty of variety on their cruise vacation! Notable is the new Mamma Mia specialty restaurant, serving fresh Italian cuisine including homemade pasta dishes.

11. Carnival Celebration

• Gross tonnage: 183,521
• Length: 1130 ft / 340 m
• Max. beam: 137 ft / 42 m
• Staterooms: 2687
• Max. passengers: 6631

Carnival Cruise Line’s newest ship Carnival Celebration launched in 2022 as the second member of the Excel class , joining her sister Mardi Gras . The new ship almost made the top 10 of the largest cruise ships, landing at number 11.

Celebration pays homage to her homeport of Miami with the 820 Biscayne zone, named after the cruise line’s first headquarters. The zone will feature the Deco Deli and 820 Bar , serving up Cuban sandwiches and tropical drinks.

Pizza fanatics will want to try the brand new Miami Slice , a free pizzeria that replaces the Pizza Pirate or Pizzeria del Capitano venues found on all other Carnival ships. The walk-up pizza joint features vibrant décor reminiscent of late-night eateries on Miami Beach’s Ocean Drive. 

Younger guests can check out Space Cruisers , a new program offered in partnership with the Kennedy Space Center. Kids age 2 to 11 will have the opportunity to try NASA-inspired activities tailored to their age group.

Celebration is the second ship in Carnival’s fleet to be completely powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Related: Cassidy Gifford Becomes Godmother of Carnival Celebration in Miami

10. AIDAnova

• Year built: 2018
• Gross tonnage: 183,858
• Max. passengers: 6,654

In tenth place is AIDAnova , sister ship to AIDAcosma . The first of AIDA’s ships to use liquefied natural gas (LNG), AIDAnova has nearly zero emissions.

Wellness-minded cruisers will love AIDAnova ‘s 3545 square meters dedicated to fitness and relaxation. The new Body & Soul Spa features five ocean-view saunas, a sun terrace with three jacuzzis, and a tepidarium. Over 30 free exercise classes are offered each week in the Sport area, or train solo in the open-air gym.

Or take a leisurely stroll on the Lanai deck, where guests can walk almost all the way around the ship, stopping at restaurants and bars including the Lanai Bar at the stern.

• Cruise line: P&O
• Gross tonnage: 184,089
• Length: 1,130 ft / 344.5 m
• Staterooms: 2,614

Number nine is P&O UK’s Iona , the largest cruise ship built specifically for the British market. One of the newer ships on the list, Iona was delivered in 2020 but made her first voyage in August 2021.

Family-friendly Iona features the enclosed SkyDome pool area, kids’ splash zone, and a shallow pool for little cruisers. Hosted by specially-trained Reef Rangers, the Reef kids’ club is a fun environment for children aged 2-17, open from early morning until late.

But Iona ‘s not all about the kids! She’s actually home to the world’s first gin distillery at sea , producing the Marabelle label. Inspired by the Scottish island of Iona, the gin contains 18 botanicals. Guests can attend two unique gin masterclasses on board, including one that allows you to craft your own gin with expert guidance.

8. (tie) Costa Toscana

• Cruise line: Costa
• Gross tonnage: 185,010
• Staterooms: 2,612
• Max. passengers: 6,554

Italian line Costa Cruises’ newest ship, Costa Toscana , comes in at the eighth-largest cruise ship in the world. The Tuscan-inspired vessel features furnishings, fabrics, and accessories all made in Italy. Even the driftwood used to craft dining tables at Archipelago restaurant was harvested from the Italian shoreline by Guardians of the Coast .

Food is a major focus of the ship, with many of her 21 restaurants offering authentic local cuisine by chefs including Bruno Barbieri, Hélène Darroze, and Ángel León. Even the littlest cruisers have a special place to eat— Squok Restaurant is dedicated to families with kids.

If all the amazing food on board inspires you, be sure to check out Toscana ‘s Food LAB , where guests can learn to prepare their own culinary creations alongside the ship’s chefs.

8. (tie) Costa Smeralda

Tied for eighth place is Costa Smeralda , a favorite of sustainability-minded cruisers. Smeralda was the first in Costa’s fleet powered by liquefied natural gas (sister ship Toscana now also shares this feature), a fuel source that reduces the ship’s environmental impact.

Other eco-friendly features include LED lighting throughout the ship, an onboard desalinization plant that sustainably harvests onboard water directly from the sea, and systems that recover the engines’ heat to reduce energy use.

Costa Smeralda earned the coveted Green Plus notation from RINA, only awarded to the most environmentally friendly cruise ships.

• Cruise line: P&O Cruises
• Gross tonnage: 185,581
• Length: 1130 ft / 344.5 m
• Staterooms: 2614
• Max. passengers: 6685

P&O UK ‘s newest ship Arvia is also the cruise line’s largest, and debuts at #7 on the 2023 list of biggest cruise ships. An Excel-class ship like Iona , Arvia is similar but boasts some key differences.

Like her sister, this ship also features a Sky Dome over the pool area—but Arvia ‘s is retractable to allow for alfresco swimming, dining, and entertainment when the weather is right.

Arvia is home to the fleet’s first swim-up bar , complete with plenty of in-water seating, allowing guests to order and enjoy a cocktail right in the pool.

The new ship debuted several new restaurant concepts, including Green & Co featuring Mizuhana , featuring fish and plant-based cuisine. Also new are Roast at The Quays for traditional British lunches and the 6th Street Diner , an American-style diner serving breakfast,brunch, and dinner.

Arvia also has the first rum distillery at sea ! The Tidal Rum has partnered with P&O to produce the unique rum blend on the ship at Anderson’s Bar .

6. MSC World Europa

• Gross tonnage: 215,863
• Length: 1094 ft / 333.3 m
• Max. beam: 154 ft / 47 m
• Staterooms: 2626
• Max. passengers: 6762

With the debut of MSC World Europa in December of 2022, MSC Cruises now has a whopping seven ships on the list of the top 20 biggest cruise ships in the world—the most of any cruise line!

The Geneva-based company has been working diligently to expand the fleet and MSC’s newest cruise ship is a whopper of a vessel.

The ship is an astounding 21 decks high (there’s a deck 22, but cruise superstition skips deck 13), four decks taller than the largest cruise ship in 2023. Sixteen of those decks are passenger-accessible.

Much like the megaships offered by Royal Caribbean, MSC World Europa is divided into several districts that contain similar offerings—a must-have on any gargantuan cruise ship. Guests can visit the adults-only Zen district for a bit of calm, or the Family district with ten kids’ facilities offering fun for little cruisers and their grownups.

Ranking among the top ships with the most water features at sea, World Europa offers six pools and 14 hot tubs , along with an aquapark featuring multiple waterslides.

MSC World Europa is also the line’s first LNG-powered cruise ship —and the biggest liquefied natural gas powered cruise ship in the world! This cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuel significantly reduces carbon, sulfur, and nitrogen oxide emissions.

5. Allure of the Seas

• Cruise line: Royal Caribbean
• Year built: 2010
• Gross tonnage: 225,282
• Length: 1,180 ft / 360 m
• Max. beam: 198 ft / 60.5 m
• Staterooms: 2,742
• Max. passengers: 6,780

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas ranks as the fifth largest cruise ship in 2022. She’s the second (and smallest) of the Oasis-class ships.

Allure of the Seas features seven themed “neighborhoods”—the Royal Promenade, Central Park, Entertainment Place, Boardwalk, Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea, and the Youth Zone.

With a ten-deck-high zip line and the interactive H2O Zone waterpark, Allure of the Seas is a favorite ship for adventurous cruisers of all ages.

4. Oasis of the Seas

• Year built: 2009
• Gross tonnage: 226,838

Number four is Oasis of the Seas , the first of the namesake Oasis class, and the oldest ship to make the top 15 list. Built in 2009, she was then the largest cruise ship in the world, and the first to have a maximum capacity of over 6000 passengers!

Oasis of the Seas may be an older ship, but she doesn’t look like one! In 2019 she had a $165 million transformation that brought the ship up to date.

Entertainment abounds on this ship, from the splashy Aqua80 show in the AquaTheater to Music Hall , a live music venue with plenty of floor space for dancing. Or try one of the four onboard water slides including the ten-story-high Ultimate Abyss .

3. Harmony of the Seas

• Year built: 2016
• Gross tonnage: 226,963
• Length: 1,188.1 ft / 362.12 m
• Max. beam: 215.5 ft / 65.7 m
• Staterooms: 2,747
• Max. passengers: 6,687

Coming in at number three is Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas , built in 2016 at a cost of 1.3 billion dollars.

With her three pool decks containing an impressive collection of pools and hot tubs, you’ll never feel crowded taking a dip. You can even learn how to SCUBA dive , right on the ship! Aboard Harmony of the Seas , guests have the opportunity to take the PADI® Open Water Diver Course, culminating with open water dives at various ports of call.

After you’ve worked up an appetite in the pool, try one of Harmony of the Seas ‘ twenty restaurants, serving over 200 different dishes on a daily basis.

2. Symphony of the Seas

• Gross tonnage: 228,081
• Length: 1,184.42 ft / 361.011 m
• Staterooms: 2,759
• Max. passengers: 6,680

The largest cruise ship in the world until 2022, Symphony of the Seas comes in second—but is still a behemoth at 1184 feet and 228,081 gross tons!

Built in 2018, Symphony of the Seas boasts some fun tech! Check out the Big Wonder , a seven-ton canopy lit with color-changing LEDs that cast a glow over the ship’s Solarium at night.

Enjoy a cocktail at Bionic Bar , where one of two robot bartenders can shake you up the perfect martini. But don’t worry, the ship’s 13 other bars and lounges are staffed by friendly humans.

Or play a lively game of glow-in-the-dark laser tag to battle for control of Planet Z —when the ship’s ice rink is temporarily transformed into an alien world, of course.

1. Wonder of the Seas

• Gross tonnage: 236,857
• Length: 1,187.8 ft / 362.04 m
• Max. beam: 210 ft / 64 m
• Staterooms: 2,859
• Max. passengers: 6,988

Wonder of the Seas from Royal Caribbean International is the cruise line’s newest—and the world’s biggest cruise ship, at almost 1188 feet long and 236,857 gross tons!

Delivered in February 2022, Wonder of the Seas made her maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale on March 4, 2022.

Like the other Oasis-class ships, she’s organized into neighborhoods, but with the addition of an eighth unique section. This new neighborhood is dedicated to suite guests, with a plunge pool and bar as well as the suites-only Coastal Kitchen and Suites Lounge .

Wonder of the Seas offers some exciting new features—in addition to boasting the largest poolside movie screen of any RCCL ship there’s also The Vue , a cantilevered bar offering panoramic ocean views.

For the kids, there’s the new Wonder Playscape —an underwater-themed play area with climbing walls and an interactive puzzle mural.

Comparing the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world

Largest cruise ships faq.

How is the size of a cruise ship measured?

Ships are measured by gross tonnage, which is a measure of internal volume.

What does maximum beam mean on a ship?

Maximum beam is the measurement at the widest part of a ship’s hull.

Which cruise ship is the biggest?

Royal Caribbean’s  Wonder of the Seas  is the world’s largest cruise ship, with a gross tonnage of 236,857.

Which cruise ship is the longest?

Royal Caribbean’s  Wonder of the Seas  is the world’s longest cruise ship at 1,187.8 ft (362.04 m).

Which cruise ship can hold the most passengers?

Royal Caribbean’s  Wonder of the Seas  can hold the most passengers, with a maximum occupancy of 6,988.

Which cruise ship has the most staterooms?

Royal Caribbean’s  Wonder of the Seas  has the most passenger staterooms, at 2,859.

Have you sailed on one of the largest cruise ships in the world? Or do you prefer cruising on a smaller ship? I’d love to hear in the comments below!

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20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

From opulent suites to onboard surfing, explore some of the world's biggest and most luxurious cruise ships in the world for 2023.

Read update

These Cruise Ships Just Keep Getting Bigger!

• Cruise ships are growing larger and larger, with some of the newest ships in 2022, 2023, and 2024 being the largest in the world.
• Royal Caribbean dominates the cruising sector and has recently launched Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, which are breaking size and tonnage records.
• These massive cruise ships are like floating cities, with numerous decks, amenities, and activities to accommodate thousands of passengers.

Since the first trans-Atlantic cruises launched over a century ago, cruise ships have grown steadily. It is not just about the number of passengers and the crew's quarters ( and their lives on board the ship ) but also the vessel's size. Today's cruise ships are so large that they can be considered floating cities—some even come with their own private islands!

Love the idea of starting a new adventure at every destination or just craving a relaxing getaway in the lap of luxury? While there are no disappointments on the largest cruise ships in the world as of 2022 , 2023, and 2024 promise even bigger and amenity-packed vessels.

UPDATE: 2023/11/29 10:22 EST BY NOAH STAATS

This article has been refreshed with two of the newest 'big' ships in the water this year, including two new monoliths from Royal Caribbean. Whether it's the Icon or Utopia of the Seas, remember to book a room with a view. These are mini-cities!

RELATED: Royal Caribbean Unveils Their Icon Of The Seas Cruise Ship

1 Icon of the Seas

One of the more exciting announcements from Royal Caribbean has been the creation of its largest ship ever: Icon of the Seas. This mega-ship boasts the title of largest in the world, as well as being a new flagship design from the brand. Royal Caribbean has always dominated the cruising sector, but with Icon of the Seas, they bring that title to a new extreme. The ship will have 20 decks, be 1,200 feet long, and weigh 250,800 gross tons. That makes it more of a mini city than a typical cruise liner, with Icon of the Seas breaking all records.

• Gross tons: 250,800
• Length: 1,200 ft
• Width: 213 ft

Utopia of the Seas

• Gross tons: 236,860
• Length: 1,188 ft
• Width: 211 ft

P&O Arvia

• Gross tons: 185,000
• Length: 1,132 ft
• Width: 138 ft

MSC World Europa

• Gross tons: 215,863
• Length: 1,092 ft
• Width: 154 ft

Wonder Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 235,600
• Width: 215 ft

Symphony Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 228,081
• Width: 215.5 ft

Harmony Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 226,963

Allure Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 225,282
• Length: 1,187 ft

Oasis Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 226,838
• Length: 1,180 ft
• Width: 198 ft

P&O Iona

• Gross tons: 184,700
• Length: 1,129 ft

• Gross tons: 183,900
• Length: 1,106 ft

MSC Grandiosa

• Gross tons: 181,541
• Length: 1,087 ft
• Width: 141 ft

Costa Smeralda

• Length: 1106 ft

Norwegian Bliss

• Gross tons: 168,02
• Length: 1,094 ft
• Width: 136 ft

Queen Mary 2

• Gross tons: 149,215
• Width: 134 ft

Queen Elizabeth 2

• Displacement: 49,738
• Gross tons: 70,327
• Length: 963 ft
• Width: 105 ft

Viking Octantis

• Gross tons: 30,150
• Length: 665 ft
• Width: 77 ft

Viking Polaris

Carnival Mardi Gras

• Gross tons: 180,000
• Length: 1129 ft

Spectrum Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 169,379
• Length: 1138 ft

The 25 Largest Cruise Ships in the World That You Can Sail in 2023

Here are the Largest Cruise Ships in the World available to sail in 2023, ranked from biggest to smallest . These are absolute units. If you're a fan of big ships, you'll want to copy and paste the following directly onto your bucket list.

Let's first get an idea of just how big these things are. As a society, we don't typically deal with such large measurements. It's tough to conceptualize these huge numbers. The chart below compares the size of the Symphony of the Seas (spoiler... that's the largest cruise ship in the world) to popular monuments around the world.

Many of us have stood at the base of the Empire State Building and gazed up in astonishment. Pulling up to a cruise ship provides the same " wow factor ."

Check out the size comparison chart below!

Here's a fun exercise. Picture 176 Lebron Jameses lined up from head to toe. What would that represent? If you said, " $84 billion dollars in value " then you're not wrong. 176 Lebron Jameses also equals the size of the largest cruise ship in the world!

Cruise Ship Size Increase Over Time

The trend is clear. The largest cruise ships in the world today measure roughly 8x the size of vessels 40 years ago ! Cruise lines proudly boast their biggest and newest ships. Each is guaranteed headlines when breaking the previous record for "biggest ship."

Look at the chart below. We've analyzed nearly 300 ships over the past 50 years. The graph represents average ship size (in gross tonnage) for the included periods.

It's interesting to look at the average ship length versus tonnage. While new vessels today are nearly 5x the gross tonnage as decades ago, ship length has increased roughly 2x. What does that mean? Ships are getting significantly "beefier." These massive gains are found in both height and width. Some of the largest ships in the world have 20 total decks and span 167 feet from side to side (later measured in the "beam" metric).

Cruise Ship Capacity Growth Over Time

Cruise lines are well aware that more passengers equals more profit . Using "economies of scale," these companies have been able to grow revenues disproportionately to the associated increase in costs. In nerd speak, the marginal returns can increase at a rate greater than marginal costs.

Consider this. Royal Caribbean decides to add their magnificent Central Park feature. That's a fixed cost and occupies a fixed space. Whether the vessel has 100 guests or 1,000, the marginal expense is essentially $0 for each additional passenger taking advantage of that space. Adding more passengers adds a clear impact to the bottom line . RC is going to optimize for the greatest number of people feasible in the available space.

How much to book the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?!

Would you guess that it's more or less expensive to book the largest cruise ships in the world? Their size allows all types of variety when it comes to dining, entertainment, and more. So it should be more expensive , right? But then again their size allows for economies of scale. They should be able to charge less as a result. Then is the largest cruise ships less expensive ? Below is a cruise pricing widget for the biggest cruise ship in the world. Play with dates and destinations to get a sense of pricing for the Symphony of the Seas.

Largest Cruise Ships in the World in 2022

Below we highlight the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world . You'll find a bunch of helpful metrics included with each. Take some time to explore metrics like beam, capacity, passenger decks, draft, year built, cost, and much more.

#1 - Wonder of the Seas Ship Size

The Wonder of the Seas has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 236,857 gross tons. The ship measures 1,188 feet (362 meters) in length and falls in line as number 1 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. At full capacity, the Wonder of the Seas holds 7,912 passengers. That includes 5,518 cruise vacationers and 2,394 staff members. The Wonder of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,745.

• Cruise Line : Royal Caribbean
• Gross Tonnage : 236,857 GT
• Ship Length : 1,188 feet (362 meters)
• Beam : 137 feet (42 meters)
• Draft : 31 feet (9 meters)
• Max Speed : 25 mph (22 knots)
• Year Built : 2022
• Years Served : Future-2021
• Capacity : 5,518 passengers
• Crew Members : 2,394
• Total on Board : 7,912
• Total Staterooms : 2,745 cabins
• Flagged Country : Bahamas
• Ship Cost : $1,350 Million
• Status : active

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Wonder of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Wonder of the Seas Deck Plans .

#2 - Symphony of the Seas Ship Size

The Symphony of the Seas has a construction date of 2018 and a total size of 228,081 gross tons. The ship measures 1,188 feet (362 meters) in length and falls in line as number 2 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. At full capacity, the Symphony of the Seas holds 7,718 passengers. That includes 5,518 cruise vacationers and 2,200 staff members. The Symphony of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,745.

• Gross Tonnage : 228,081 GT
• Year Built : 2018
• Years Served : 2018-Present
• Crew Members : 2,200
• Total on Board : 7,718

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Symphony of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Symphony of the Seas Deck Plans .

#3 - Harmony of the Seas Ship Size

The Harmony of the Seas has a construction date of 2016 and a total size of 227,700 gross tons. The ship measures 1,187 feet (362 meters) in length and falls in line as number 3 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. At full capacity, the Harmony of the Seas holds 7,779 passengers. That includes 5,479 cruise vacationers and 2,300 staff members. The Harmony of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,745.

• Gross Tonnage : 227,700 GT
• Ship Length : 1,187 feet (362 meters)
• Beam : 122 feet (37 meters)
• Year Built : 2016
• Years Served : 2016-Present
• Capacity : 5,479 passengers
• Crew Members : 2,300
• Total on Board : 7,779

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Harmony of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Harmony of the Seas Deck Plans .

#4 - Allure of the Seas Ship Size

The Allure of the Seas has a construction date of 2010 and a total size of 225,282 gross tons. The ship measures 1,181 feet (360 meters) in length and falls in line as number 4 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. At full capacity, the Allure of the Seas holds 7,878 passengers. That includes 5,494 cruise vacationers and 2,384 staff members. The Allure of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,742.

• Gross Tonnage : 225,282 GT
• Ship Length : 1,181 feet (360 meters)
• Year Built : 2010
• Years Served : 2010-Present
• Capacity : 5,494 passengers
• Crew Members : 2,384
• Total on Board : 7,878
• Total Staterooms : 2,742 cabins
• Ship Cost : $1,500 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Allure of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Allure of the Seas Deck Plans .

#5 - Oasis of the Seas Ship Size

The Oasis of the Seas has a construction date of 2009 and a total size of 225,282 gross tons. The ship measures 1,181 feet (360 meters) in length and falls in line as number 5 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. At full capacity, the Oasis of the Seas holds 7,888 passengers. That includes 5,494 cruise vacationers and 2,394 staff members. The Oasis of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,137.

• Year Built : 2009
• Years Served : 2009-Present
• Total on Board : 7,888
• Total Staterooms : 2,137 cabins
• Ship Cost : $1,300 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Oasis of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Oasis of the Seas Deck Plans .

#6 - MSC World Europa Ship Size

The MSC World Europa has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 205,700 gross tons. The ship measures 1,083 feet (330 meters) in length and falls in line as number 6 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s World Class. At full capacity, the MSC World Europa holds 8,550 passengers. That includes 6,850 cruise vacationers and 1,700 staff members. The MSC World Europa total number of staterooms is 2,700.

• Cruise Line : MSC
• Gross Tonnage : 205,700 GT
• Ship Length : 1,083 feet (330 meters)
• Beam : 154 feet (47 meters)
• Years Served : 2022 - Present
• Capacity : 6,850 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,700
• Total on Board : 8,550
• Total Staterooms : 2,700 cabins
• Flagged Country :
• Ship Cost : $1,150 Million

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC World Europa Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC World Europa Deck Plans .

#7 - Costa Smeralda Ship Size

The Costa Smeralda has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 185,010 gross tons. The ship measures 1,106 feet (337 meters) in length and falls in line as number 7 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Costa’s Excelence Class. At full capacity, the Costa Smeralda holds 6,870 passengers. That includes 5,224 cruise vacationers and 1,646 staff members. The Costa Smeralda total number of staterooms is 2,612.

• Cruise Line : Costa
• Gross Tonnage : 185,010 GT
• Ship Length : 1,106 feet (337 meters)
• Beam : 138 feet (42 meters)
• Draft : 29 feet (9 meters)
• Year Built : 2019
• Years Served : 2019 - Present
• Capacity : 5,224 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,646
• Total on Board : 6,870
• Total Staterooms : 2,612 cabins
• Flagged Country : Italy
• Ship Cost : $950 Million

To see how this compares to all Costa ships, click here: Costa Smeralda Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Costa Smeralda Deck Plans .

#8 - MV Iona Ship Size

The MV Iona has a construction date of 2020 and a total size of 184,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 8 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in P&O UK’s Class. At full capacity, the MV Iona holds 6,968 passengers. That includes 5,206 cruise vacationers and 1,762 staff members. The MV Iona total number of staterooms is 2,610.

• Cruise Line : P&O UK
• Gross Tonnage : 184,000 GT
• Ship Length : 1,130 feet (344 meters)
• Draft : 28 feet (9 meters)
• Max Speed : 20 mph (17 knots)
• Year Built : 2020
• Years Served : Future (2020)
• Capacity : 5,206 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,762
• Total on Board : 6,968
• Total Staterooms : 2,610 cabins
• Flagged Country : United Kingdom
• Status : future ship

To see how this compares to all P&O UK ships, click here: MV Iona Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MV Iona Deck Plans .

#9 - Carnival Celebration Ship Size

The Carnival Celebration has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 183,900 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 9 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Carnival’s XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Celebration holds 8,375 passengers. That includes 6,630 cruise vacationers and 1,745 staff members. The Carnival Celebration total number of staterooms is 2,641.

• Cruise Line : Carnival
• Gross Tonnage : 183,900 GT
• Max Speed : 26 mph (23 knots)
• Years Served : Future (2022)
• Capacity : 6,630 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,745
• Total on Board : 8,375
• Total Staterooms : 2,641 cabins
• Flagged Country : Panama
• Ship Cost : $1,000 Million

To see how this compares to all Carnival ships, click here: Carnival Celebration Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Carnival Celebration Deck Plans .

#10 - Carnival Mardi Gras Ship Size

The Carnival Mardi Gras has a construction date of 2020 and a total size of 183,900 gross tons. The ship measures 1,130 feet (344 meters) in length and falls in line as number 10 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Carnival’s XL Class. At full capacity, the Carnival Mardi Gras holds 8,375 passengers. That includes 6,630 cruise vacationers and 1,745 staff members. The Carnival Mardi Gras total number of staterooms is 2,641.

• Years Served : 2020–Present

To see how this compares to all Carnival ships, click here: Carnival Mardi Gras Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Carnival Mardi Gras Deck Plans .

#11 - AIDAnova Ship Size

The AIDAnova has a construction date of 2018 and a total size of 183,900 gross tons. The ship measures 1,106 feet (337 meters) in length and falls in line as number 11 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in AIDA’s Class. At full capacity, the AIDAnova holds 8,300 passengers. That includes 6,654 cruise vacationers and 1,646 staff members. The AIDAnova total number of staterooms is 2,626.

• Cruise Line : AIDA
• Years Served : 2018 - Present
• Capacity : 6,654 passengers
• Total on Board : 8,300
• Total Staterooms : 2,626 cabins

To see how this compares to all AIDA ships, click here: AIDAnova Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. AIDAnova Deck Plans .

#12 - Costa Toscana Ship Size

The Costa Toscana has a construction date of 2021 and a total size of 183,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,106 feet (337 meters) in length and falls in line as number 12 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Costa’s Excelence Class. At full capacity, the Costa Toscana holds 7,000 passengers. That includes 5,322 cruise vacationers and 1,678 staff members. The Costa Toscana total number of staterooms is 2,661.

• Gross Tonnage : 183,000 GT
• Year Built : 2021
• Years Served : Future (2021)
• Capacity : 5,322 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,678
• Total on Board : 7,000
• Total Staterooms : 2,661 cabins
• Ship Cost : $780 Million

To see how this compares to all Costa ships, click here: Costa Toscana Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Costa Toscana Deck Plans .

#13 - MSC Grandiosa Ship Size

The MSC Grandiosa has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 181,541 gross tons. The ship measures 1,087 feet (331 meters) in length and falls in line as number 13 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s Meraviglia Plus Class. At full capacity, the MSC Grandiosa holds 8,038 passengers. That includes 6,334 cruise vacationers and 1,704 staff members. The MSC Grandiosa total number of staterooms is 2,421.

• Gross Tonnage : 181,541 GT
• Ship Length : 1,087 feet (331 meters)
• Beam : 141 feet (43 meters)
• Capacity : 6,334 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,704
• Total on Board : 8,038
• Total Staterooms : 2,421 cabins
• Flagged Country : Malta

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC Grandiosa Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC Grandiosa Deck Plans .

#14 - MSC Virtuosa Ship Size

The MSC Virtuosa has a construction date of 2021 and a total size of 181,000 gross tons. The ship measures 1,087 feet (331 meters) in length and falls in line as number 14 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s Meraviglia Class. At full capacity, the MSC Virtuosa holds 8,038 passengers. That includes 6,334 cruise vacationers and 1,704 staff members. The MSC Virtuosa total number of staterooms is 2,421.

• Gross Tonnage : 181,000 GT
• Ship Cost : $937 Million

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC Virtuosa Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC Virtuosa Deck Plans .

#15 - MSC Meraviglia Ship Size

The MSC Meraviglia has a construction date of 2017 and a total size of 171,598 gross tons. The ship measures 1,036 feet (316 meters) in length and falls in line as number 15 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s Meraviglia Class. At full capacity, the MSC Meraviglia holds 7,250 passengers. That includes 5,714 cruise vacationers and 1,536 staff members. The MSC Meraviglia total number of staterooms is 2,244.

• Gross Tonnage : 171,598 GT
• Ship Length : 1,036 feet (316 meters)
• Year Built : 2017
• Years Served : 2017 - Present
• Capacity : 5,714 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,536
• Total on Board : 7,250
• Total Staterooms : 2,244 cabins

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC Meraviglia Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC Meraviglia Deck Plans .

#16 - MSC Bellissima Ship Size

The MSC Bellissima has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 171,598 gross tons. The ship measures 1,036 feet (316 meters) in length and falls in line as number 16 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s Meraviglia Class. At full capacity, the MSC Bellissima holds 7,222 passengers. That includes 5,686 cruise vacationers and 1,536 staff members. The MSC Bellissima total number of staterooms is 2,217.

• Capacity : 5,686 passengers
• Total on Board : 7,222
• Total Staterooms : 2,217 cabins

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC Bellissima Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC Bellissima Deck Plans .

#17 - MSC Seascape Ship Size

The MSC Seascape has a construction date of 2022 and a total size of 169,500 gross tons. The ship measures 1,112 feet (339 meters) in length and falls in line as number 17 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in MSC’s Seaside Class. At full capacity, the MSC Seascape holds 7,525 passengers. That includes 5,877 cruise vacationers and 1,648 staff members. The MSC Seascape total number of staterooms is 2,270.

• Gross Tonnage : 169,500 GT
• Ship Length : 1,112 feet (339 meters)
• Beam : 135 feet (41 meters)
• Draft : feet (0 meters)
• Capacity : 5,877 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,648
• Total on Board : 7,525
• Total Staterooms : 2,270 cabins

To see how this compares to all MSC ships, click here: MSC Seascape Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. MSC Seascape Deck Plans .

#18 - Odyssey of the Seas Ship Size

The Odyssey of the Seas has a construction date of 2021 and a total size of 169,379 gross tons. The ship measures 1,139 feet (347 meters) in length and falls in line as number 18 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-Ultra Class. At full capacity, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,835 passengers. That includes 4,284 cruise vacationers and 1,551 staff members. The Odyssey of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,098.

• Gross Tonnage : 169,379 GT
• Ship Length : 1,139 feet (347 meters)
• Capacity : 4,284 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,551
• Total on Board : 5,835
• Total Staterooms : 2,098 cabins
• Ship Cost : $940 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Odyssey of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Odyssey of the Seas Deck Plans .

#19 - Norwegian Encore Ship Size

The Norwegian Encore has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 169,116 gross tons. The ship measures 1,094 feet (333 meters) in length and falls in line as number 19 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class. At full capacity, the Norwegian Encore holds 5,733 passengers. That includes 3,998 cruise vacationers and 1,735 staff members. The Norwegian Encore total number of staterooms is 2,040.

• Cruise Line : Norwegian
• Gross Tonnage : 169,116 GT
• Ship Length : 1,094 feet (333 meters)
• Beam : 136 feet (41 meters)
• Years Served : 2019-present
• Capacity : 3,998 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,735
• Total on Board : 5,733
• Total Staterooms : 2,040 cabins
• Ship Cost : $920 Million

To see how this compares to all Norwegian ships, click here: Norwegian Encore Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Norwegian Encore Deck Plans .

#20 - Spectrum of the Seas Ship Size

The Spectrum of the Seas has a construction date of 2019 and a total size of 168,800 gross tons. The ship measures 1,139 feet (347 meters) in length and falls in line as number 20 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-Ultra Class. At full capacity, the Spectrum of the Seas holds 5,480 passengers. That includes 4,180 cruise vacationers and 1,300 staff members. The Spectrum of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,098.

• Gross Tonnage : 168,800 GT
• Years Served : 2019-Present
• Capacity : 4,180 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,300
• Total on Board : 5,480

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Spectrum of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Spectrum of the Seas Deck Plans .

#21 - Ovation of the Seas Ship Size

The Ovation of the Seas has a construction date of 2016 and a total size of 168,666 gross tons. The ship measures 1,142 feet (348 meters) in length and falls in line as number 21 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class. At full capacity, the Ovation of the Seas holds 5,480 passengers. That includes 4,180 cruise vacationers and 1,300 staff members. The Ovation of the Seas total number of staterooms is 1,918.

• Gross Tonnage : 168,666 GT
• Ship Length : 1,142 feet (348 meters)
• Beam : 134 feet (41 meters)
• Years Served : 2016 - Present
• Total Staterooms : 1,918 cabins
• Ship Cost : $1,100 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Ovation of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Ovation of the Seas Deck Plans .

#22 - Quantum of the Seas Ship Size

The Quantum of the Seas has a construction date of 2014 and a total size of 168,666 gross tons. The ship measures 1,142 feet (348 meters) in length and falls in line as number 22 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class. At full capacity, the Quantum of the Seas holds 5,660 passengers. That includes 4,160 cruise vacationers and 1,500 staff members. The Quantum of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,090.

• Year Built : 2014
• Years Served : 2014-Present
• Capacity : 4,160 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,500
• Total on Board : 5,660
• Total Staterooms : 2,090 cabins

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Quantum of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Quantum of the Seas Deck Plans .

#23 - Anthem of the Seas Ship Size

The Anthem of the Seas has a construction date of 2015 and a total size of 168,666 gross tons. The ship measures 1,142 feet (348 meters) in length and falls in line as number 23 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class. At full capacity, the Anthem of the Seas holds 5,654 passengers. That includes 4,154 cruise vacationers and 1,500 staff members. The Anthem of the Seas total number of staterooms is 2,095.

• Year Built : 2015
• Years Served : 2015-Present
• Capacity : 4,154 passengers
• Total on Board : 5,654
• Total Staterooms : 2,095 cabins

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Anthem of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Anthem of the Seas Deck Plans .

#24 - Norwegian Bliss Ship Size

The Norwegian Bliss has a construction date of 2018 and a total size of 168,028 gross tons. The ship measures 1,094 feet (333 meters) in length and falls in line as number 24 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class. At full capacity, the Norwegian Bliss holds 5,720 passengers. That includes 4,004 cruise vacationers and 1,716 staff members. The Norwegian Bliss total number of staterooms is 2,220.

• Gross Tonnage : 168,028 GT
• Years Served : 2018-present
• Capacity : 4,004 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,716
• Total on Board : 5,720
• Total Staterooms : 2,220 cabins

To see how this compares to all Norwegian ships, click here: Norwegian Bliss Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Norwegian Bliss Deck Plans .

#25 - Norwegian Joy Ship Size

The Norwegian Joy has a construction date of 2017 and a total size of 167,725 gross tons. The ship measures 1,094 feet (333 meters) in length and falls in line as number 25 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class. At full capacity, the Norwegian Joy holds 5,625 passengers. That includes 3,804 cruise vacationers and 1,821 staff members. The Norwegian Joy total number of staterooms is 1,926.

• Gross Tonnage : 167,725 GT
• Years Served : 2017-present
• Capacity : 3,804 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,821
• Total on Board : 5,625
• Total Staterooms : 1,926 cabins

To see how this compares to all Norwegian ships, click here: Norwegian Joy Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Norwegian Joy Deck Plans .

#26 - Norwegian Escape Ship Size

The Norwegian Escape has a construction date of 2015 and a total size of 165,157 gross tons. The ship measures 1,069 feet (326 meters) in length and falls in line as number 26 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class. At full capacity, the Norwegian Escape holds 5,999 passengers. That includes 4,266 cruise vacationers and 1,733 staff members. The Norwegian Escape total number of staterooms is 2,092.

• Gross Tonnage : 165,157 GT
• Ship Length : 1,069 feet (326 meters)
• Years Served : 2015-present
• Capacity : 4,266 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,733
• Total on Board : 5,999
• Total Staterooms : 2,092 cabins

To see how this compares to all Norwegian ships, click here: Norwegian Escape Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Norwegian Escape Deck Plans .

#27 - Norwegian Epic Ship Size

The Norwegian Epic has a construction date of 2010 and a total size of 155,873 gross tons. The ship measures 1,081 feet (329 meters) in length and falls in line as number 27 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Norwegian’s Epic Class. At full capacity, the Norwegian Epic holds 5,824 passengers. That includes 4,100 cruise vacationers and 1,724 staff members. The Norwegian Epic total number of staterooms is 2,122.

• Gross Tonnage : 155,873 GT
• Ship Length : 1,081 feet (329 meters)
• Beam : 171 feet (52 meters)
• Years Served : 2010-present
• Capacity : 4,100 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,724
• Total on Board : 5,824
• Total Staterooms : 2,122 cabins
• Ship Cost : $1,200 Million

To see how this compares to all Norwegian ships, click here: Norwegian Epic Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Norwegian Epic Deck Plans .

#28 - Freedom of the Seas Ship Size

The Freedom of the Seas has a construction date of 2006 and a total size of 154,407 gross tons. The ship measures 1,112 feet (339 meters) in length and falls in line as number 28 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class. At full capacity, the Freedom of the Seas holds 5,142 passengers. That includes 3,782 cruise vacationers and 1,360 staff members. The Freedom of the Seas total number of staterooms is 1,946.

• Gross Tonnage : 154,407 GT
• Beam : 128 feet (39 meters)
• Year Built : 2006
• Years Served : 2006-Present
• Capacity : 3,782 passengers
• Crew Members : 1,360
• Total on Board : 5,142
• Total Staterooms : 1,946 cabins
• Ship Cost : $800 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Freedom of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Freedom of the Seas Deck Plans .

#29 - Independence of the Seas Ship Size

The Independence of the Seas has a construction date of 2008 and a total size of 154,407 gross tons. The ship measures 1,112 feet (339 meters) in length and falls in line as number 29 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class. At full capacity, the Independence of the Seas holds 5,008 passengers. That includes 3,648 cruise vacationers and 1,360 staff members. The Independence of the Seas total number of staterooms is 1,667.

• Beam : 127 feet (39 meters)
• Year Built : 2008
• Years Served : 2008-Present
• Capacity : 3,648 passengers
• Total on Board : 5,008
• Total Staterooms : 1,667 cabins
• Ship Cost : $830 Million

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Independence of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Independence of the Seas Deck Plans .

#30 - Liberty of the Seas Ship Size

The Liberty of the Seas has a construction date of 2007 and a total size of 154,407 gross tons. The ship measures 1,112 feet (339 meters) in length and falls in line as number 30 among the 30 largest cruise ships in the world. It’s included in Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class. At full capacity, the Liberty of the Seas holds 5,008 passengers. That includes 3,648 cruise vacationers and 1,360 staff members. The Liberty of the Seas total number of staterooms is 1,636.

• Year Built : 2007
• Years Served : 2007-Present
• Total Staterooms : 1,636 cabins

To see how this compares to all Royal Caribbean ships, click here: Liberty of the Seas Ship Stats

Also make sure to check out this ship deck by deck. Here you’ll find all ship floorplans and activities, including Bars, Restaurants and Things to Do. Liberty of the Seas Deck Plans .

If you like big ships, we hope that there's a satisfying option in the list above.

Here are some of our most frequently asked questions about the largest cruise ships in the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest cruise ship in the world? Today, the largest cruise ship is Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas. It's also the biggest cruise ship ever built. The Oasis Class ship is 228,081 gross tons and spans 1,188 feet in length. The vessel has 2,745 cabins with a capacity of 5,518 passengers. See our chart above for more stats and fun facts about the Symphony of the Seas.

How many passengers does the largest cruise ship hold? The Symphony of the Seas has a maximum guest capacity of 5,518. The vessel also houses roughly 2,200 crew members. The total passenger capacity of this ship is 7,718 people on board during operation.

Where are the biggest cruise ships? Due to port restrictions, the biggest ships typically operate in the Caribbean. The region offers the most port destinations able to accommodate these huge vessels.

Who owns the biggest cruise ship? Royal Caribbean dominates the leader board when it comes to size. The brand has 10 of the 20 biggest ships in operation.

What is Carnival Cruise Line's biggest ship? The Carnival Mardi Gras is the cruise line's biggest. It measure 183,900 gross tons and spans 1,130 feet (344 meter) in length. Of our list of 20 biggest ships, the Mardi Gras ranks 9th.

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The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

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The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

With every year comes bigger and grander cruise ships.

Just when you think cruise ships can't get any larger, a major cruise line unveils yet another longer, taller and grander state-of-the-art vessel – with the capacity to carry the population of a small town. To put the size of today's megaships into perspective: They often stretch three times longer than a 120-yard football field, and some feature nearly two dozen decks or measure more than 215 feet wide.

So, if you're looking for a vacation aboard a large-scale vessel, consider booking a voyage on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world. With cutting-edge technology and entertainment, world-class dining, and endless attractions and activities for cruisers of all ages, you may not even want to leave the ship. Here are the biggest cruise ships, arranged by gross tonnage.

• 1. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
• 2. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas
• 3. Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas
• 4. Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• 5. Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• 6. Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• 7. Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas
• 8. MSC World Europa
• 9. Costa Smeralda
• 10. Costa Toscana
• 11. P&O Cruises Arvia
• 12. AIDAcosma
• 13. P&O Cruises Iona
• 14. AIDAnova
• 15. Carnival Jubilee
• 16. Carnival Celebration
• 17. MSC Euribia
• 18. MSC Virtuosa
• 19. Carnival Mardi Gras
• 20. MSC Meraviglia
• 21. Norwegian Encore

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Length: 1,198 feet

Width: 213 feet

Gross tons: 250,800

Maximum number of passengers: 7,600

Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship afloat when it debuts in January 2024. The next-level megaship is Royal Caribbean 's first Icon-class vessel and the first of three ships powered by liquefied natural gas, or LNG, which is considered a more sustainable alternative to other fuel options. The ship will have 2,805 staterooms and carry up to 2,350 crew. There's no end to the fun with eight unique neighborhoods, including the new Surfside: a stay-all-day space designed specifically for families.

Other features on the ship include seven pools, nine whirlpools and six record-breaking waterslides. There are also more than 20 new dining venues, such as the swanky Empire Supper Club, which features an eight-course tasting menu; the AquaDome Market, the line's first food hall; and sushi restaurant Izumi in the Park. Cruisers will also find other international cuisine, including Japanese, Mexican and Italian fare, as well as The Lemon Post, the Surfside Eatery and Pier 7 in the Surfside neighborhood.

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 211 feet

Gross tons: 236,860

Maximum passengers: 6,788

Royal Caribbean's first LNG-powered Oasis-class ship will sail its debut voyage in July 2024. The new ship will have 2,834 staterooms and up to 2,290 crew members, as well as eight neighborhoods to keep passengers entertained. Ten complimentary dining venues include the line's new food truck concept, The Spare Tire, which serves up handheld eats on the pool deck. The ship will also feature sloping beach-entry and resort-style pools, plus three Lime & Coconut bars on the outdoor deck.

In total, there are more than 40 dining options, bars and lounges on Utopia of the Seas. Many of Royal Caribbean's specialty dining and bar favorites are returning, such as Chops Grille, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Rising Tide Bar and Vue Bar. Guests will also find familiar entertainment offerings with rock climbing walls, the AquaTheater, Splashaway Bay, laser tag, mini-golf, the Sports Court, Studio B and much more. With two casinos, five pools and a visit to private island Perfect Day at CocoCay, you'll never run out of things to do.

Read: The Top New Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Gross tons: 235,600

Maximum passengers: 7,084

Royal Caribbean's current largest ship at sea, Wonder of the Seas , first set sail in March 2022. The Oasis-class vessel has 2,867 staterooms and carries as many as 2,204 crew members. While you may get lost on this ship, you'll never be bored. Features include eight unique neighborhoods – such as Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the new Suite Class neighborhood, an exclusive space for suite guests.

Take advantage of the AquaTheater, an outdoor live entertainment venue with a 30-foot diving platform and incredible ocean views. Wonder Playscape is an underwater-themed outdoor space for kids filled with slides, climbing walls, games and more. You can also enjoy a few of Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class favorites, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, the rock climbing wall or laser tag at the Battle for Planet Z. If you dare, head into the Ultimate Abyss: Billed as the tallest waterslide at sea, it towers 150 feet above sea level and features an exhilarating 13-second ride through 10 stories of dark, winding tunnels.

When hunger strikes, dine at your pick of more than 20 complimentary and specialty restaurants, including the new Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar. If you're craving a cold beer, a cocktail or a cup of Starbucks coffee, you'll have roughly a dozen bars and lounges at your disposal.

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Width: 215.5 feet

Gross tons: 228,081

Maximum passengers: 6,680

Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas , another Oasis-class ship, debuted in April 2018. This ship features 2,759 passenger staterooms and accommodates 2,200 crew members. There are seven distinct neighborhoods, four pools, roughly 20 restaurants (about half of which are specialty venues), and about a dozen bars and lounges. The ship even boasts two robotic bartenders that whip up drinks at the Bionic Bar.

Adults can enjoy Broadway-style shows in the onboard theaters and major international sports games at Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Meanwhile, kids can cool down at the Splashaway Bay water park, soar on a zip line nine decks high through the Boardwalk neighborhood, try out rock climbing or attend a show at the AquaTheater.

Read:  Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Gross tons: 226,963

Maximum passengers: 6,687

Another Oasis-class ship, Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas has been sailing since May 2016. The vessel features 2,747 staterooms and up to 2,200 crew members. Cruisers have plenty of places to dine thanks to eight complimentary venues – including the main dining room and Windjammer Marketplace, a globally inspired buffet – as well as nine specialty restaurants serving everything from burgers and shakes to Italian fare. The Boardwalk, one of the ship's seven neighborhoods, is a favorite spot for cruisers; it contains casual eateries, retail shops and carnival games.

Harmony of the Seas also has Splashaway Bay, the Ultimate Abyss waterslide and a trio of slides called The Perfect Storm. In the evening, don't miss a pre-dinner cocktail at the Rising Tide Bar, which offers a ride between the Central Park neighborhood and the Royal Promenade with dazzling skylight views. Sit back and sip your drink while the entire bar slowly floats between the decks.

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Simon Brooke | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Length: 1,187 feet

Width: 215 feet

Gross tons: 226,838

Maximum passengers: 6,771

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world when it was launched in 2009. The line's debut Oasis-class ship is nearly five times bigger than the Titanic by gross tonnage; it has 2,801 staterooms and carries 2,109 crew members.

Oasis of the Seas was reimagined in 2019, with many added amenities that are on newer Oasis-class ships, such as FlowRider simulators, the Perfect Storm waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Across the ship's seven distinct neighborhoods, you'll also find state-of-the-art technology such as VOOM, billed as the fastest internet connection on the high seas – plus exciting live performances and theater productions, laser tag, escape rooms and more.

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Gross tons: 225,282

Maximum passengers: 6,826

Embarking for the first time in 2010, Allure of the Seas was Royal Caribbean's second Oasis-class vessel. The ship underwent a refurbishment in 2015. Allure of the Seas has 2,748 staterooms and 2,054 crew. Onboard highlights include seven neighborhoods, four pools, and several whirlpools and hot tubs, plus more than 20 dining venues and too many bars and lounges to count.

There are also plenty of entertainment options for guests of all ages, including an ice skating rink, the Sports Court, a nine-deck-high zip line, two rock climbing walls and two FlowRider simulators (a Royal Caribbean favorite). Kids will especially enjoy the interactive H2O Zone Water Park. Adults on this ship will appreciate Broadway productions like "Mamma Mia!," aerial acrobatic performances in Oceanaria (an original AquaTheater production) and '70s disco dance parties. If you find yourself on board for business reasons, rest assured that the ship's conference facilities can host as many as 1,394 guests.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

MSC World Europa

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Gross tons: 215,863

Maximum passengers: 6,762

MSC World Europa was one of the most anticipated new cruise ships when it launched in December 2022 as the first vessel in the line's MSC World-class fleet. It's also the first LNG-propelled ship by MSC Cruises , reaching a maximum cruising speed of 22.7 knots.

The ship's futuristic interior and exterior design features a 341-foot-long promenade. Half the promenade is covered with the Meraviglia-class LED sky screens, while the other half is open-air and offers ocean views. MSC World Europa features 2,626 staterooms and can house 2,138 crew members. As a special touch, each passenger deck is named after an international city, including London, Paris, Lisbon and Rome.

The ship is divided into distinct areas, with a quiet zen district for adults and a family zone that has bumper cars and roller skating. At the fleet's largest onboard water park, younger cruisers will find a twisty, stainless steel tunnel slide towering 11 decks high at the center of the ship. Luna Park Arena, the ship's 300-seat multifunction entertainment venue, can accommodate almost any performance or event.

When you're exhausted from all of the action, grab a bite to eat at one of 13 restaurants or a drink at a selection of bars and cafes. Then, take time to relax and unwind with a signature treatment at the Balinese-inspired MSC Aurea Spa. For an all-inclusive VIP experience during your voyage, book stateroom accommodations in the MSC Yacht Club. This exclusive part of the ship boasts premium suites, a separate pool, a private restaurant and lounge, butler service, and other amenities.

Costa Smeralda

Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Length: 1,106 feet

Width: 138 feet

Gross tons: 185,000

Maximum passengers: 6,554

Costa Smeralda was the first of the two Excellence-class vessels in the Costa Cruises fleet. The vessel debuted in 2019 as the Italian cruise line's largest ship to date. It was also the line's first vessel to use LNG power at sea and in port. The ship has 2,612 staterooms and can carry as many as 1,678 crew members.

Cruisers will never go hungry or thirsty, thanks to the 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on Smeralda . One of the most notable dining venues on board is Archipelago, which serves innovative cuisine created by three world-renowned chefs. If you're interested in culinary pursuits, join other passengers for a cooking class at sea in the Food LAB. When it comes to entertainment, centrally located Colosseo – modeled after the piazzas across Italy – is the place to go for socializing and live performances. What's more, the ship also has 13 pools and hot tubs, an aqua park, the Beauty Spa Solemio, and the Squok Club for kids ages 3 to 11.

Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana, Costa Cruises' newest flagship and the second Excellence-class vessel in the fleet, set sail on its debut voyage in March 2022. Similar in size and passenger capacity to Costa Smeralda, Toscana is also LNG-powered. This vessel has 2,663 staterooms, and there can be up to 1,678 crew members on board.

Similar to Smeralda, Colosseo is the centerpiece of Toscana; you'll find live entertainment and themed bars in this area. There are 11 restaurants and snack bars plus 19 bars and lounges on the ship. For a refreshing aperitif with a view, head to the Aperol Spritz Bar, which features special beach cocktails. Another dining highlight is Sushino at Costa, the line's new sushi bistro. After dinner, take in unparalleled views of the sea along the Volare Skywalk, the highest point of the ship, which towers more than 200 feet above sea level.

Explore Costa Cruises deals on GoToSea.

P&O Cruises Arvia

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Maximum passengers: 5,200

Arvia joined the P&O fleet as sister ship to Iona in December 2022. It is also LNG-powered, has 2,614 cabins and carries up to 1,800 crew. The family-friendly ship offers guests many firsts, including Altitude, a new activity area with an escape room, a high-ropes experience, the Splash Valley aqua zone, the Sports Arena and much more.

Arvia has 30 bars and restaurants. New dining venues include the American-inspired 6th Street Diner and Green & Co. feat. Mizuhana, which focuses on sushi and plant-based dishes. For entertainment, plan to see the line's production of "The Official Take That Musical," an adaptation of London West End musical "The Band." Guests can also head to the dome beneath the SkyDome retractable roof for live performances, aerial displays, movies on the giant SeaScreen and DJ parties under the starry skies.

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Courtesy of AIDA Cruises

Gross tons: 184,600

Maximum passengers: 6,654

The sister ship to AIDAnova, AIDAcosma set sail in early 2022. The partly LNG-powered AIDA Cruises vessel has 2,732 staterooms and the capacity for up to around 1,500 crew members. With 17 restaurants and 23 bars and cafes, AIDAcosma offers passengers a seemingly endless number of venues to dine and imbibe. Other onboard attractions include a four-deck outdoor area, complete with an infinity pool and an expansive area for sunbathing; an indoor playground with a bouldering wall and ropes course; the Body & Soul Spa; and a 360-degree stage at the Theatrium.

P&O Cruises Iona

Length: 1,129 feet

Gross tons: 184,000

P&O Cruises' Iona, which launched in spring 2021, has the distinction of being the first LNG-powered British cruise ship. The family-friendly vessel has 2,614 cabins and carries 1,800 crew members. Iona's top features include the two-story SkyDome, a gin distillery, four pools, 10 entertainment venues, and 30 restaurants and bars offering a wide variety of food and beverage options.

With selections ranging from casual eateries to gelaterias to Indian- and British-inspired cuisine at Sindhu, you won't get bored with the restaurant choices. For an especially unique meal, dine and sip wine while watching aerial performances in the Grand Atrium at The Glass House. Or, enjoy dinner at The Limelight Club, an adults-only supper club venue featuring vocal performances and other live music. After dinner, check out the entertainment around the ship, including aerial productions in the Grand Atrium, guest and crew shows in Headliners, late night dancing in The Club House, and performances in partnership with the entertainment company Creativiva in the SkyDome.

Gross tons: 183,900

When German line AIDA Cruises' first Helios-class ship, AIDAnova, debuted in December 2018, it was the first LNG-powered cruise ship in the world. The ship is equipped with 2,626 staterooms, including the two-deck Penthouse Suite, and carries around 1,500 crew members. You won't miss this ship when it's docked in port: It features the line's signature exterior design, with bold red lips at the ship's bow and blue-and-yellow eyes on the port and starboard sides.

While on board, passengers can check out 17 restaurants, along with 23 bars and lounges; party the night away at the Beach Club; and take in live performances on the 360-degree stage in the Theatrium. When it's time to relax, head to the Body & Soul Spa, where you can book a massage, spend time in one of the hot tubs or saunas, take a dip in the private pool, and chill out on the private spa sun deck.

Carnival Jubilee

Width: 137 feet

Gross tons: 183,521

Maximum passengers: 6,631

Carnival Jubilee, as sister ship to Carnival Celebration and Carnival Mardi Gras, will offer many of the same features and amenities as its two predecessors when it launches in December 2023. The new vessel will have 2,687 staterooms, 1,735 crew and six zones of fun. Currents and The Shores are new to Jubilee . Currents is inspired by the underworld of the ocean with mermaids and sea monsters; it's designed with new bars, restaurants, music venues and high-tech spaces, including a wave-shaped LED ceiling and six LED windows that virtually take guests under the sea. The Shores is all about the outdoors, inspired by beaches and boardwalks. Cruisers can grab a slice of pizza at Coastal Slice, a hot dog at Beach Buns and a cocktail at Marina Bar.

On Jubilee, you'll also find Carnival Cruise Line favorites such as BOLT, the first and fastest roller coaster at sea, as well as Waterworks, the onboard water park with twin racing slides, three spiraling slides and more. The line's "next-level fun" ship will also include familiar eateries and lounges like Shaquille O'Neal's Big Chicken, Guy's Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, Cucina del Capitano, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and more.

Carnival Celebration

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Celebration sailed its inaugural cruise in November 2022. Carnival's second-newest ship at sea is LNG-powered and the second in the line's Excel class, with 2,687 staterooms and as many as 1,735 crew. Guests will find new attractions to enjoy on the ship, such as the partnership with the Kennedy Space Center at Space Cruisers: This program is designed for children ages 2 to 11 at Camp Ocean.

Adults can check out the new bar at Latitudes, which features specialty cocktails and outdoor scenery through the virtual windows. Celebration has a variety of complimentary dining venues, including Shaq's Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and Mexican favorites at BlueIguana Cantina. There is also a selection of specialty restaurants like Emeril's Bistro 1397, Rudi's Seagrill, the Steakhouse and Bonsai Teppanyaki. For action and 360-degree views of the ocean from the top of the ship, take a spin around the track on the BOLT roller coaster.

Compare Carnival Cruises on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia

Length: 1,087 feet

Width: 141 feet

Gross tons: 181,541

Maximum passengers: 6,327

MSC Euribia, the newest MSC Cruises ship, debuted in June 2023. The line's second LNG-powered vessel – and the fifth Meraviglia-class ship – has 2,419 cabins and can carry as many as 1,711 crew members. The ship's hull features Alex Flämig's artwork "#SaveTheSea" to highlight the company's dedication to preserving the marine ecosystem.

On board Euribia , guests will find five pools and 11 dining venues, offering everything from sushi and teppanyaki to Latin American street food. There are also 21 bars and lounges, the MSC Aurea Spa, the Ocean Cay Aquapark, luxury retail shopping and more. Two additional highlights are the longest – and most impressive – LED Dome at Sea, which covers the ceiling of Galleria Euribia, and the reimagined Carousel Lounge. The beautiful, updated space features floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor terraces and cozy seating to enjoy live entertainment, including performances by one of the largest big bands at sea.

MSC Virtuosa

Maximum passengers: 6,334

This vessel launched in 2021 as a sister ship to MSC Grandiosa , the line's other Meraviglia Plus-class ship. MSC Virtuosa has 2,421 staterooms and carries around 1,704 crew members. It offers cruisers 11 dining venues plus 21 bars and lounges. At the heart of the ship, Galleria Virtuosa houses the largest shopping area on a cruise ship, with more than 12,500 square feet of retail space. In this area, you'll also find entertainment venues, restaurants and cocktail bars. And don't forget to look up: An impressive LED dome, one of the longest at sea, spans the ceiling of the promenade.

Another highlight to check out during your voyage is the MSC Starship Club, which features Rob, the first humanoid robotic bartender on a cruise ship. The multilingual expert mixologist even tells jokes and will show you a dance move or two. After all the indoor fun, head outside for a cool dip in one of MSC Virtuosa's five pools or take a ride on the slide at the Savannah Aquapark.

Book an MSC Cruise on GoToSea.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Gross tons: 180,000

Maximum passengers: 6,465

One of Carnival Cruise Line's newest ships, Mardi Gras , debuted in July 2021. Its name honors the line's first ship, the TSS Mardi Gras, which launched in 1972. The original Mardi Gras was around 27,000 gross tons and 650 feet long – in contrast, the new Carnival Mardi Gras weighs more than six times as much and is nearly twice as long. This ship also holds the title as North America's first LNG-powered ship. It has 2,641 staterooms and holds up to 1,745 crew members.

Six themed areas each offer unique dining and entertainment experiences. For New Orleans -inspired cuisine, head to the French Quarter; there, you'll find Emeril's Bistro 1396 and The Brass Magnolia, a bar reminiscent of The Big Easy's jazz culture and Garden District. Don't miss one of the ship's top onboard attractions: the BOLT roller coaster, where riders can hit speeds of nearly 40 mph at 187 feet above sea level.

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of Port Miami for MSC Cruises

Length: 1,036 feet

Gross tons: 171,598

Maximum passengers: 5,655

MSC Cruises' Meraviglia first set sail in 2017 with an impressive 2,244 staterooms and the capacity to carry 1,536 crew members. A dozen restaurants offer a wide variety of cuisines, including a Spanish tapas bar with dishes created by a Michelin-starred chef, Japanese teppanyaki, Italian fare, fresh seafood, steaks and more. There are also 20 bars, lounges and cafes serving everything from Champagne and cocktails to ice cream and crepes.

The central highlight of the ship is Galleria Meraviglia, a 315-foot promenade with eateries, boutiques and evening parties. Nightly entertainment includes live performances and shows in the Broadway Theatre and the Carousel Lounge. Kids will find plenty to do, as well: There's an Aquapark, an F1 simulator, a flight simulator, LEGO play areas, bowling and more. When it's time to wind down, book a signature treatment at the MSC Aurea Spa.

Norwegian Encore

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Gross tons: 169,116

Maximum passengers: 3,998 (double occupancy)

Norwegian Encore was built in 2019 as one of Norwegian Cruise Line 's Breakaway Plus-class ships. The vessel has 2,040 staterooms and carries 1,735 crew members. There are several complimentary culinary venues on board, including three main dining rooms, The Local Bar & Grill, the Garden Café buffet, and grab-and-go options. Specialty dining restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, from seafood to steak to Japanese teppanyaki.

When it's time for cocktail hour, 14 bars and lounges serve up everything from cold brews to fine wine and whiskey. For a pre-dinner option, head up to the Observation Lounge for panoramic ocean views. Norwegian Encore is also home to several entertainment venues featuring award-winning live shows and performances.

You'll find the most fun on the ship's top decks. First, head to the Encore Speedway race track, which takes thrill-seekers on a heart-pumping ride through high-speed curves extending 13 feet off the side of the ship. Also at the top of the vessel you'll find The Haven: Norwegian's exclusive "ship within a ship" concept boasts luxurious suites, villas and penthouses with balconies. These luxe accommodations include perks like 24-hour butler service, a concierge and a private sun deck.

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Frequently Asked Questions

The largest cruise ship currently in service is Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, at more than 235,000 gross tons. Icon of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world at 250,000-plus gross tons after its launch, set for January 2024.

Carnival Jubilee, scheduled to debut in December 2023, and Carnival Celebration are the line's largest ships at 183,521 gross tons.

The line's largest ship is Disney Wish at about 144,000 gross tons. The vessel is 1,119 feet in length and 128 feet wide; it has 1,254 staterooms and carries up to 4,000 passengers and 1,555 crew.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top World Cruises
• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Top Gay Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance

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Travel + Leisure Readers' 5 Favorite Large-ship Ocean Cruise Lines of 2023

Readers loved all the entertainment options, ports of call, and spacious rooms on these large-ship ocean cruise lines in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

When it comes to crowd-pleasing vacations, it’s hard to top the value and fun that a large-ship ocean cruise line delivers. These spacious ships, which have anywhere from 800 to 1,499 cabins, are big enough to give guests a wide choice of onboard activities, fine dining, and cutting-edge entertainment. They also deliver a huge variety of stateroom choices, whether you’re seeking an affordable cabin for a budget-minded getaway or plenty of space in a grand suite for a celebratory splurge.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers completed the 2023 survey, an increase of nearly 25 percent over pre-pandemic voting levels. A total of more than 685,000 votes were cast across over 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

For the cruise category, respondents were asked to rate individual ships; the results were combined to generate scores for cruise lines in different categories based on number of cabins, with large-ship ocean cruise lines falling between 800 to 1,499 cabins. Some cruise lines may appear in multiple categories depending on the makeup of their fleet.

Ships were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Cabins/facilities
• Itineraries/destinations
• Excursions/activities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. 

Courtesy of Disney

This year’s rankings delivered a few surprises. No. 2 Holland America Line moved up two spots from its 2022 ranking. The brand is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023, but readers had other things in mind when giving “HAL” the nod: “The tone of our ship was just what we were looking for, calm and relaxing,” said one voter of a voyage aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam . Others praised the company’s rock-solid musical entertainment and rewarding itineraries that go to Alaska, yes, but also many ports in Europe and South America. “We really, really enjoyed our Alaskan cruise,” one fan said. “The ship was nice, the food was great, the service was excellent, and the surroundings were absolutely beautiful!”

Slotting in at No. 3 this year was Disney Cruise Line, which garnered plenty of praise for its family-friendly programs and onboard atmosphere, despite falling from No. 1 last year. With a fleet of five ships, the line is celebrating an anniversary of its own this year, its 25th, with specialty music and entertainment on board this summer. “The ship was absolutely beautiful and there was amazing detail to everything,” said one passenger who traveled with extended family on Disney Wish . “Our granddaughter absolutely loves anything Frozen, so she certainly enjoyed the dinner show!”

This year’s voting also crowned a new No. 1: Cunard, yet another brand with plenty of history. Read on to learn why it topped the list as the best large-ship ocean cruise line.

Courtesy of Cunard

First launched in 1840, Cunard is once again top of mind for travelers who named it the world’s best large-ship line. Some fans may be looking ahead to the 2024 launch of Queen Anne, but many others don’t want to wait: the quintessential Queen Mary 2, which does transatlantic crossings between New York City and Southampton, England, offers as decadent a trip as ever, readers say. “Expect nothing less than the utmost of comfort and service,” opined one. “Loved our time on board and dressing up for a couple of nights during our seven-night crossing,” said another. This summer’s Alaska itineraries, aboard Queen Elizabeth, will afford plenty of opportunities to explore the wilds in the company of experts from the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a new partner for the classic brand. The line’s Queen Victoria is another solid choice: “A lovely, well-crafted ship with excellent, attentive service — and a fabulous tea service," one reader shared.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 88.00

2. Holland America Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.44

3. Disney Cruise Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 86.31

4. Celebrity Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 84.56

5. Princess Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 82.13

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The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Is Nearly 1,200 Feet Long

Scheduled to debut in January, the vessel can accommodate 5,600 guests and 2,350 crew members

Daily Correspondent

The world’s largest cruise ship is almost ready to set sail.

Royal Caribbean’s massive new ship, Icon of the Seas , passed its inaugural round of sea trials with flying colors, bringing it one step closer to hitting the open ocean with passengers, the cruise line  announced late last month. If all goes as planned, the record-breaking vessel will begin sailing in the Caribbean in January 2024.

Just how big is Icon of the Seas ? Really big. As Jalopnik ’s Ryan Erik King writes, it’s the size of five Titantics. More specifically, Icon of the Seas measures 1,198 feet long—nearly a quarter of a mile—and has a gross tonnage of 250,800. All that space means it can accommodate 5,600 guests and 2,350 crew members.

The cruise line is positioning the vessel as “the ultimate family vacation,” as CEO Michael Bayley told reporters earlier this year, per  CNN ’s Maureen O’Hare.

“When you step back and look at all the energy and time that has gone into creating this ship, it is mind-blowing,” he added.

The previous world’s largest cruise ship was also a Royal Caribbean vessel, Wonder of the Seas , which spanned 1,188 feet long and featured 18 decks.

Crews in Turku, Finland, began work on Icon of the Seas in 2021. Last month, the vessel sailed the open ocean for the first time, as staffers spent four days testing the main engines, hull, brakes, steering system and other components. They also measured noise and vibration levels. 

The vessel will undergo another round of sea trials later this year before officially launching in Miami early next year, according to Royal Caribbean. Icon of the Seas will primarily take cruisers to the islands of the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night itineraries.

With progress on Icon of the Seas moving along, Royal Caribbean has already started building another large “icon class” ship. The cruise line expects that unnamed vessel to launch in 2025, per a  statement .

Icon of the Seas has 20 total decks, 7 swimming pools and 8 “neighborhoods,” or distinct areas with entertainment and dining. Another noteworthy feature is Category 6, which will be the largest waterpark at sea when Icon of the Seas sets sail.

The ship will be equipped with a special grooming robot that will clean the hull whenever it’s in port to help reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency by 3 to 4 percent, reports  TTG Media ’s Charlotte Cullinan.

Icon of the Seas will also be the first ship in the cruise line’s fleet to run on liquefied natural gas and  fuel cells , which are similar to batteries but do not need to be recharged. Water is the main byproduct of fuel cells—which combine oxygen and hydrogen to produce energy—which should help the ship reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

Liquefied natural gas , meanwhile, is a controversial energy source that involves cooling natural gas to a liquid state to make it easier to transport. The liquid version is “actually worse than ordinary gas,” writes the  Natural Resources Defense Council . “The energy required to chill, ship and regasify the fossil fuel makes it far more carbon-intensive and increases the potential for leakage of dangerous methane,” according to the organization.

Royal Caribbean’s leaders say they view liquified natural gas as a “ transitional fue l,” and that they hope to continue to  reduce the environmental impact of their ships moving forward. 

"[Liquefied natural gas] is about 20-30 percent better for the environment [than heavy fuel oil], but it’s still not going to be the solution,” Bayley tells TTG Media . “We don’t know the answer, but the whole industry is working towards the answer.”

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Sarah Kuta is a writer and editor based in Longmont, Colorado. She covers history, science, travel, food and beverage, sustainability, economics and other topics.

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Take the Quiz: Find the Best State for You »

What's the best state for you », u.s. news announces the 2023 best cruise lines.

Virgin Voyages earns its first No. 1 ranking in the Best for the Money category.

U.S. News 2023 Best Cruise Lines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today released its annual rankings of the Best Cruise Lines .

The 2023 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines to help every type of traveler find the cruise that’s right for them. For the first time, Virgin Voyages takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking, offering the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality and average base fare per night, as well as extra benefits such as free gratuities, Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its budget-friendly fares and frequent sales, and Celebrity Cruises, which offers a more upscale experience at reasonable rates, rank No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.

For the ninth consecutive year, Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families . The family-oriented line offers ships with character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks, waterslides and more. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly perks like water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses on its ships.

"After more than two years of sailing restrictions and limited voyage options due to the coronavirus pandemic, cruisers and cruise lines are excited to be on the seas again,'' said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The Best Cruise Lines rankings evaluate a variety of cruise types, making it easy for travelers to find the best options that fit their budgets, cruising styles and desired destinations."

U.S. News ranks cruise lines in six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines. The rankings follow a comprehensive, transparent methodology that factors in expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and more.

This year's rankings are accompanied by editorial roundups of the top gay cruises for 2023, the top cruise lines for solo travelers and the best cruise insurance ; each piece aims to provide helpful advice and planning information to a wide community of cruisers. U.S. News also offers additional cruise tips and recommendations, such as what to pack on a cruise , the top river cruise lines , fun adults-only cruises and more.

2023 Best Cruise Lines Rankings

See the full rankings here .

Best Cruise Lines for the Money 1. Virgin Voyages 2. Carnival Cruise Line 3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines for Families 1. Disney Cruise Line 2. Royal Caribbean International 3. Carnival Cruise Line

Best Cruise Lines for Couples 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Azamara

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean 1. Disney Cruise Line 2. Virgin Voyages 3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Azamara

Best Luxury Cruise Lines 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For more information on the Best Cruise Lines , explore Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using #BestCruises.

Media Contact: Michelle Day, [email protected] , 202-955-2212

About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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After taking my first cruise on the world's largest ship this year, here are the sailings I'm most excited for in 2023

• In 2022, I took my first cruise onboard Wonder of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world . 
• Next year, cruise lines are coming out with new ships and itineraries around the globe.
• Here are the 2023 ships I'm most excited for, including cruises to the Mediterranean and Australia.

I went on my first cruise in 2022 onboard the world's largest cruise ship this year, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas.

In spring of 2022, I embarked on a seven-night voyage on the largest cruise ship of its kind , Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas . We sailed to Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian island. 

It was my first cruise, and I thought it felt surreal to be on such a large vessel in the middle of the ocean. A week of sun and cool breezes was just what I needed after a winter at home in New York City. 

I learned a lot about this type of travel on my first cruise. I realized that I disliked dealing with motion sickness and crowds , but I loved seeing multiple countries on one trip and the feeling of being out in the middle of the ocean.  

I also came to understand that cruising is a lifestyle and it's easy to see the appeal. In January 2020 — before the pandemic disrupted the cruise industry  —  Forbes reported that at that time, an average of 30 million people took a cruise each year, up from 17.8 million in 2009. And according to Cruise Line International Association's 2022 report , there will likely be even more people cruising by the end of 2022 than there were in 2019 before the pandemic. 

While I left my trip thinking the cruising lifestyle was not for me, I still thought it was a totally epic way to travel, and I want to take more cruises to get a well-rounded perspective on this type of vacation. I hope to take another one in 2023, hopefully on one of the following new ships and routes that I'm particularly excited about. 

Carnival Cruise Line's new Carnival Jubilee ship will have an onboard roller coaster and is set to debut in 2023.

Carnival Cruise Line's new Carnival Jubilee ship will set sail for the first time in 2023.

Named after one of the first Carnival cruise ships that sailed for 30 years before being scrapped in 2016, according to Cruise Hive , the new Carnival Jubilee will have several fun "zones," from water slides to a roller coaster,  according to the company's website . 

Sailing from Galveston, Texas, to the Western Caribbean, the Carnival Jubilee will have a range of cabins ranging from interior staterooms to suites with private balconies, according to the same source. 

Pricing, which starts at around $534 per person, includes the room and most onboard meals and activities, according to the website. 

I don't have kids, but with the wealth of fun for children onboard this ship, I think it's a great option for families, and I'd love to take some of my younger cousins on a Carnival Jubilee cruise to experience the ship's wide variety of activities while visiting Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Explora Journeys is a brand-new luxury cruise line coming in 2023, and it's designed for non-cruisers.

MSC Cruises, a European cruise company, is launching Explora Journeys in 2023. It's a new luxury cruise line with four ships meant for people who don't consider themselves cruisers, Travel and Leisure reports . 

Unlike a typical cruise where travelers often only spend one day in each port, Explora Journeys will be slower-paced, giving guests multiple nights at each port, CN Traveler reports . And no itinerary will ever be repeated, making each cruise a unique experience, according to the same source. The trip duration will range from three to 35 nights, according to their website . 

The same article states that every stateroom will have an outdoor terrace, and the ships will hold up to 900 passengers. Onboard Wonder of the Seas, I booked an oceanview room because a room with a terrace was more expensive, so I think this is a unique and exciting feature.

Explora Journeys will travel to off-the-beaten-path ports around the world, from Norway and Greece to Alaska and the Arabian Peninsula, beginning in July 2023, according to their website. 

Prices range between $2,000 and $20,000 per person, depending on the route and trip duration, according to the same source. This price includes lodging and most onboard meals and activities, as well as Wi-Fi. 

I think Explora Journeys would be the perfect cruise line for me since I longed for more time at each port during my Wonder of the Seas cruise . And having an outdoor terrace in my room might help relieve my motion sickness at sea. 

Celebrity Cruises will launch the Celebrity Ascent in December 2023, which will have true king-size beds and rooms designed specifically for solo passengers.

I had a hard time sleeping onboard the Wonder of the Seas cruise ship. In my oceanview stateroom , I slept on two twin-sized beds pushed together to form a king-size bed and I often found myself waking up in the crevice.

However, luxury cruise line Celebrity Cruises, which is owned by Royal Caribbean, is known for having cozy, cashmere-topped true king-sized beds.

But I'm especially intrigued by their forthcoming ship, Celebrity Ascent, which will have 32 cabins designed for solo travelers, according to the company's website . As someone who traveled solo on a cruise, I think these single staterooms are much needed within the cruising industry. 

Because I sailed alone, when booking my Wonder of the Seas cruise , the listed rates for my ship were per person, not per room like most hotels. When switching between one and two guests in my search, the cost per person doubled when I had just one person selected. This is known as the "single supplement." Solo cabins were not available when I booked my Wonder of the Seas cruise.

These solo cabins will be smaller than rooms for more than one person, but cheaper. I think it's a great alternative to paying the dreaded single supplement, where solo cruisers may have to pay double to occupy a room meant for two people. This is because it helps the cruise line make up for the lost revenue that would have come from having a second person onboard staying in the cabin, according to the LA Times .  

On the Celebrity Ascent, single rooms will come with a private small outdoor space, according to the same source, which I think might have also helped to relieve my motion sickness.

Setting sail in December 2023, the company's website states that the Celebrity Ascent will have many of the same features as the Celebrity Edge  and  Celebrity Apex ships, like the movable "Magic Carpet" deck that functions as a restaurant, bar, and embarkation area.

With prices ranging from $600 to $3,000 per person, Celebrity Ascent ships will travel to the Caribbean and Europe, according to their website. This price includes the room, Wi-Fi, and meals from most of the restaurants onboard. 

Virgin Voyages is launching adult-only cruises on a new ship, Resilient Lady.

Virgin Voyages is adding a new member to its class of luxury adult-only "lady ships" in 2023. With a similar layout to the 2021 Scarlet Lady ship, the forthcoming Resilient Lady will also only be available to passengers 18 and up. 

When I cruised onboard Wonder of the Seas , I noticed that there were many kids running around everywhere, which I thought made my trip less relaxing than it could have been. I think an adult-only ship would give me a calmer experience.

Cabins onboard the Resilient Lady will range from interior staterooms with no window to 2,000-square-foot suites with personal outdoor hot tubs, according to the company's website . 

The Resilient Lady will depart from Athens, Greece, and travel to Australia and the Caribbean in the winter months, according to the same source. 

While pricing and booking are not yet available for the Resilient Lady, the cost will include a room, Wi-Fi, and meals from every restaurant onboard, according to the same source. 

Viking Ocean Cruises is adding the new Saturn ship to its fleet in 2023.

Viking Cruises is a travel company with a line of identical ocean cruise ships that are able to access smaller ports that mega ships can't, and the new Viking Saturn will be just like the rest, except newer.

One thing I loved about cruising onboard Wonder of the Seas was how new the ship was. I appreciated the modern design of my stateroom , which felt completely untouched when I stepped inside. So I'd love for my next ocean journey to feel just as sparkling new. 

Unlike my Wonder of the Seas trip, which had more than 5,000 guests onboard, I think the Viking Saturn will give cruisers a more intimate experience. Like its sister ships, every cabin for the Viking Saturn's 900 guests will have a balcony, and the ship will also have luxury communal spaces like an infinity pool and a Nordic spa, according to the company's website . 

The same source states that Viking Saturn will embark on journeys around the world, from Europe to the Americas, with starting prices ranging from $3,000 to $14,000. This price includes the room, meals, and drinks onboard, and one excursion at each port of call, according to Eat Sleep Cruise .

Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise will take passengers to more than 60 countries over 274 nights.

Although I don't imagine I'll ever have the budget or time for it, Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise looks to me like the most exciting sea journey I could ever take.

Over 274 nights, Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas ship will travel from Miami, Florida, to more than 60 countries around the world, including stops for the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, and the Great Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, according to the company's website . 

The ship embarks on this journey for the first time in December 2023, and rooms onboard will range from interior staterooms with no windows to balcony suites, according to the website.

While pricing is not available online, interested travelers can call Royal Caribbean to reserve a spot on this global adventure, according to the same source. 

The price, which I suspect will command several thousand dollars, will include business-class airfare, a hotel stay before the cruise, transportation from the airport to the hotel and the cruise port, laundry service, Wi-Fi, and some shore excursions.

My first cruise in 2022 left me craving the unparalleled feeling of being in the middle of the ocean again, and I hope to experience that once more in 2023.

I'm not sure if there's any vacation that feels quite like cruising. The epic sight of the sun rising over you in the middle of the ocean is something worth experiencing — even with motion sickness — in my opinion. 

From relaxing on the top deck to exploring ports of call, I hope my 2023 is filled with new adventures at sea on one — or all — of these ships. 

• Main content

The 9 most exciting new cruise ships of 2023

This year will be a big one for new cruise ships, though not as big as last year.

Perhaps the most notable new cruise ship of 2023 will be MSC World Europa , the first of a new series of megaships from MSC Cruises that is designed to go head-to-head with Royal Caribbean 's giant Oasis-class ships.

It's just one of two major new cruise ships arriving in 2023 that has a tie-in to MSC Cruises. Also on the way is Explora 1, the first vessel for an all-new luxury line that is being developed by MSC Group, the parent company of MSC Cruises.

The year will also bring the first new ship in nearly a decade from upscale line Oceania Cruises , to be called Vista, as well as the first of a new class of ship for luxury line Silversea Cruises , to be called Silver Nova.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Those four vessels — MSC World Europa, Explora 1, Vista and Silver Nova — are the four new cruise ships for 2023 that have us the most excited here at TPG. However, they're not the only major new cruise vessels arriving during the next 12 months.

Also on the way are several significant new ships from major lines that, while new, will look familiar. That's because they will be sister ships to existing vessels. That is, while they will be new builds, they'll feature designs we have seen before.

Among lines unveiling new ships that are sisters to vessels already in their fleets are Norwegian Cruise Line , Carnival Cruise Line , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Virgin Voyages and Celebrity Cruises .

Because a large percentage of the new cruise ships arriving in 2023 belong to an existing class and therefore have a familiar look, cruise fans might not find this year's new arrivals to be as exciting as last year's debuts.

The past 12 months, notably, saw the arrival of entirely new classes of vessels for Norwegian Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line , Viking , Seabourn and Emerald Cruises, as well as an entirely new cruise brand ( The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection ). It was the sort of year that gets hearts racing for fans of new cruise ships.

Note that in some cases, the new ships coming in 2023 will arrive months behind schedule due to ongoing pandemic-related construction delays at the shipyards that are building them. Thanks to these delays, the first sailings of a few ships that were expected to debut in 2023 — including Royal Caribbean's much-awaited Icon of the Seas — have been pushed to 2024.

Icon of the Seas, which will be the biggest cruise ship in the world when it debuts, is now scheduled to sail with paying passengers for the first time in January 2024.

In all cases, the new ships that are on the way for 2023 are already available for booking — and are indeed booking up fast. Cruise fans always love to be on the latest and greatest vessels.

To whet your appetite for cruising in the year ahead, take a look at our list of the nine new cruise ships arriving in 2023 that have us the most excited.

MSC World Europa

Maiden voyage: Dec. 20, 2022.

Unveiled in the final days of 2022 (so close to year's end that we consider it a new vessel for 2023), this massive new MSC Cruises ship is nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis-class vessels — and that's a big deal.

This is the first time in the 13-year history of the record-breaking Oasis-class series (the world's biggest cruise ships) that a vessel has come close to the Royal Caribbean ships in size. MSC World Europa offers a major new option for cruisers who love being on the biggest, most amenity-packed vessels.

Additionally, it's just the first of at least four sister vessels that MSC Cruises plans to unveil over the next few years, including one destined for deployment in Florida .

In short, it kicks off a major new battle of the megaships.

At around 215,863 tons, MSC World Europa is about 4% to 8% smaller than the five Oasis-class ships. But by one measure, it's even bigger. MSC World Europa is 21 decks high — three decks higher than the Oasis-class vessels.

Like the Oasis-class ships, it's able to hold nearly 7,000 passengers with all berths filled — 6,762, to be exact.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking the right cruise for you

As for its onboard offerings, MSC Cruises is taking a page from Royal Caribbean's playbook by breaking down the public areas of MSC World Europa into districts. They include an adults-only "Zen district" and a separate "family district" that houses as many as 10 new kids facilities. There also is a central interior promenade with entertainment, shops and bars.

Additionally, MSC World Europa has six pools and 14 hot tubs, making it one of the most pool-covered ships at sea. The watery offerings include an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that integrate virtual reality technology. There is also a family sun deck.

MSC World Europa has 13 dining venues, including the new-for-the-line Chef's Garden Kitchen (an outlet focused on microgreens) and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. In a twist, the ship has three separate buffet restaurants as well, each with its own ambiance.

Drinking spots include a two-deck English-style pub dubbed Masters of the Sea Pub, which serves beer made on board. There's also a new gin bar, a first for MSC Cruises.

The line has a second new ship, the 4,810-passenger MSC Euribia, too, which will debut later in 2023 — in June, if all goes according to plan. At around 182,000 tons, it won't be quite as big as MSC World Europa but will still be one of the biggest cruise vessels in the world.

MSC World Europa is initially sailing in the Persian Gulf out of Dubai but will reposition to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2023. Fares for seven-night sailings start at $559 per person, not including taxes and fees.

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises

Maiden voyage: May 13.

Upscale line Oceania Cruises is getting back into growth mode in 2023 with the unveiling of Vista — its first new vessel in more than a decade.

At 67,000 tons, Vista will be a tad bigger than Oceania's last two new ships, Marina and Riviera. However, it'll carry fewer passengers (1,200 versus 1,250), meaning its "space ratio" of space per passenger will be higher.

The space ratio of a ship is considered a measure of how upscale it is, with higher space ratios typically corresponding to more luxurious vessels.

As for decor and amenities, Oceania has promised an "evolution" of the intimate, residential-style interior venues for which its ships are known. Vista will retain such Oceania signatures as a Grand Staircase at its center and a Grand Lounge that serves as a central meeting point, as well as a martini bar, Aquamar Spa, Horizons observation lounge, a tranquil pool area and a casino with an accompanying bar.

Oceania also promises a wide range of cabin sizes for the ship, ranging from standard balcony cabins measuring 291 square feet (the largest standard balcony cabins in the industry, according to the line) to a range of super suites that measure from 1,000 square feet for an Oceania Suite to 2,400 square feet for an Owner's Suite.

Vista will also be the first Oceania vessel with built-from-scratch solo cabins — six in all. They'll measure 270 square feet and feature their own balconies, something that is relatively rare for solo cabins on ocean ships.

In fact, every cabin on Vista will be a balcony cabin, as every cabin has either a full balcony or a more limited French balcony. The ship will have no windowless inside cabins or balcony-less ocean-view cabins.

The solo cabins, notably, also are concierge-level cabins, which means they come with access to a private keycard-accessed concierge lounge and complimentary use of the ship's Spa Terrace.

Oceania long has been known as a foodie's line, and Vista won't disappoint, with 12 different culinary options for passengers — four of which will be new concepts for the brand.

The newcomers include Ember, serving "inventive American" cuisine, and wellness-focused Aquamar Kitchen (think: smoothies, organic "power bowls" and yellowfin tacos with white cabbage slaw). Also new will be the Culinary Center Dining Room, an ocean-view space offering food-and-wine pairing experiences that will tie to the ship's cooking classroom, and a new Bakery at Barista outlet that will serve fresh-baked pastries.

Classic Oceania eateries that will be on board the ship include the line's signature Polo Grill steakhouse, Italian-inspired Toscana and upscale Asian outlet Red Ginger.

Vista will be the first of two sister vessels in the line's new Allura class. The second ship in the series is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Vista will initially sail in Europe before repositioning to North America for the winter. Fares start at $1,699 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night Caribbean voyage out of Miami.

Resilient Lady

Maiden voyage: May 14.

Resilient Lady will be the third ship for Virgin Voyages, the startup line backed by Sir Richard Branson — and it'll look familiar to anyone who has sailed on the brand's first two vessels ( Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady ).

Originally scheduled to debut in 2022 but delayed by nearly a year , the 2,770-passenger ship will be a nearly identical sister to the two earlier vessels, which began sailing in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Like Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady has been designed to shake up the cruise industry with a new, hipper style of cruising. The ship will have everything from a tattoo parlor to a colorful karaoke lounge where you can get your Lizzo on. To ensure a proper party vibe, it also will be a kid-free travel zone , with a minimum age to sail of 18.

Related: Is Virgin Voyages right for you? Our thoughts

Virgin is going after travelers who might think themselves too cool to cruise. To that end, Resilient Lady will have no buffets, no dress codes and no big Broadway-style theater shows. For entertainment, expect interactive dance parties, DJ sets and "microplays," plus late-night games of dodgeball. Suites will have a rock star theme .

A fourth vessel in the series, Brilliant Lady, is scheduled to debut in 2024.

Resilient Lady will initially sail in the Mediterranean before repositioning to Australia for the winter (where it'll mostly cater to the Australian market). Fares start at $455 per person for a two-night voyage out of Melbourne, Australia.

Maiden voyage: July 17.

Call it the biggest new cruise ship of 2023 — not in size, but in significance. The unveiling of Explora 1 will mark the arrival of Explora Journeys, an entirely new luxury line that could quickly become one of the biggest in the world.

A creation of the deep-pocketed MSC Group, which already owns MSC Cruises, Explora Journeys plans to launch at least six superluxurious vessels by 2028, each of which is designed to hold at least 922 passengers.

In just a few years, that'll give the line a bigger capacity than such well-known luxury cruise operators as Seabourn and the soon-to-relaunch Crystal Cruises .

Explora Journeys will compete in the same upscale cruise space as Seabourn and Crystal, as well as luxury lines like Viking, Silversea Cruises and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. It'll be run completely separately from its sister brand, MSC Cruises, which caters to a mass-market audience.

Related: 1st photos of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collections' new Evrima

Like its five coming sisters, Explora 1 will offer oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences designed to be "homes at sea," and it'll be packed with upscale amenities. They will include 10 distinct culinary experiences, 10 indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, four swimming pools, outdoor deck areas with private cabanas, wellness facilities and entertainment.

MSC Group is the parent company of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, as well as the Mediterranean Shipping Company. The latter, also known simply as MSC, is the largest container shipping company in the world.

Explora 1 will initially sail in Northern Europe before repositioning to North America for the winter. Fares start at $3,600 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a three-night voyage from Hamburg, Germany, to Southampton, England.

Silver Nova

Maiden voyage: Aug. 14.

The latest ship for the luxury line Silversea Cruises will be bigger than its predecessors and feature an all-new design — one that, notably, will be asymmetrical in many areas. That is, some of the vessel's most prominent spaces, including its main pool area, will feature layouts that are off-center in a way that is unusual for cruise ships.

Silver Nova's main pool area, for instance, will have an unusual horseshoe shape with an orientation that runs from the port side of the ship to the starboard side. The pool itself will be off-center in the space, skewed far to the starboard side of the ship, with rows of lounge chairs and a grand entrance on its port side and unobstructed views through glass railings on its starboard side.

The idea is that the pool area will thus be much more orientated toward the destinations that the ship visits, or the open ocean when it is at sea, than the pool areas of other cruise vessels. Passengers will be able to float in the pool and look straight out over the water without the obstruction of more rows of lounge chairs.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Silversea ship

Silver Nova's asymmetrical design will also be evident at two new food and beverage venues at the top of the vessel.

The first, Marquee, will be an alfresco dining venue that is also off-center, with an orientation that offers commanding views of the sea from the port side of the ship. It'll be home to The Grill, Silversea's signature outdoor "hot rocks" dining venue, and also double as the ship's Spaccanapoli pizza outlet. The second new venue, The Dusk Bar, will be an open-air sky bar at the back of the vessel that, like Marquee, is positioned on the port side of the ship.

Additional dining venues on board will include versions of Silversea's main signature restaurant La Terrazza, French eatery La Dame, seafood eatery Atlantide and sushi outlet Kaiseki.

In addition to asymmetry in many areas, one thing that will be particularly noticeable about Silver Nova is its spaciousness. At 54,700 tons, the ship will be about 34% bigger than the line's last three new vessels — Silver Muse, Silver Moon and Silver Dawn. It'll only hold about 22% more passengers, though. That means the space available per passenger will increase significantly.

With every berth filled, Silver Nova will sail with 728 passengers — just 132 more than the earlier vessels.

The extra space has allowed Silversea to expand its lineup of cabin categories on the ship, with more large suites. As is always the case with Silversea ships, every cabin on the ship will be a suite. However, Silversea fans will find new premium aft suites that include a massive 1,324-square-foot complex called the Otium Suite. Inspired by Silversea's new wellness program, Otium , the Otium Suite is in a premium aft corner position of the ship (according to the cruise line) and features floor-to-ceiling windows in all living areas. It has a sprawling 431-square-foot balcony area that is the most spacious on board.

Even the smallest cabins on Silver Nova will measure at least 357 square feet, which is unusually large for a cruise ship cabin.

Silver Nova will initially sail in the Mediterranean before repositioning to the Caribbean for the winter of 2023. Fares start at $4,700 per person, including a flight credit, airport transfers and shore excursions, for a seven-night Caribbean sailing out of Miami.

Norwegian Viva

Maiden voyage: Aug. 26.

The rollout of Norwegian Cruise Line's much-awaited Prima class of ships continues in 2023 with the arrival of Norwegian Viva — the second vessel in the series after the recently unveiled Norwegian Prima .

Like Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva is notably smaller than other vessels the line has added in recent years, such as the 3-year-old, 169,116-ton Norwegian Encore — a factor that will allow it to access smaller ports around the world. But, also like Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva will still pack a lot of over-the-top amenities, including a go-kart track that occupies three decks .

Related: Why I love the new Prima class

Plus, Norwegian Viva will have The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that Norwegian says offers more G-force than an accelerating Formula One race car. The vessel also will be home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub and will host interactive, real-life game shows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right."

Still, like Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva will be about more than flashy activities and entertainment. It'll also mark the continuation of a more upscale turn for the line that began with Norwegian Prima. Norwegian Viva will offer a wide range of suite categories (13), as well as the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel. Inside Norwegian Viva, ocean view and balcony cabins also will be larger than has been typical for Norwegian ships in the past.

Related: My strange night out at Prima's new 'zero-waste' bar

Additionally, Norwegian Viva will offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship, according to the line, including more total pool deck space than any other ship in the brand's fleet other than Norwegian Prima.

Norwegian Viva will initially sail in the Mediterranean before repositioning to the Caribbean for the winter of 2023. Fares start at $849 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night Caribbean sailing out of Miami.

Seven Seas Grandeur

Maiden voyage: Nov. 25.

Every few years, Regent Seven Seas Cruises comes out with a new ship so luxurious that it verges on the ridiculous — and that, in a nutshell, is what Seven Seas Grandeur will be.

A sister vessel to Regent's Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor (unveiled in 2015 and 2020, respectively), the 750-passenger ship will, like its sisters, be one of the most expensive cruise vessels ever built with all sorts of over-the-top luxuries.

Expect soaring ceilings, inlaid marble floors, crystal chandeliers and Picassos on the walls, for starters.

When it comes to cabins, Seven Seas Grandeur will basically offer two choices: fancy and really, really fancy. Every one of the ship's 375 rooms will be a suite. Even the smallest accommodations will measure 307 square feet, which is not too shabby for a cruise ship. Many cabins will be much bigger, though.

Related: Inside Regent's super luxurious new ship

The biggest accommodation on board, the Regent Suite , will measure an astounding 4,443 square feet — nearly twice the square footage of the average American home. It'll cost $11,000 a night.

Seven Seas Grandeur will also offer an array of elegant and high-end restaurants, all of which are included in the fare.

This is what you would expect from Regent, of course. Known for its luxury focus, the 30-year-old brand has long operated some of the world's most elegant ships. Regent is the cruising equivalent of the hotel world's Four Seasons chain — a brand promising beautiful accommodations, refined food and pampering service.

After an initial transatlantic voyage from Barcelona to Miami, Seven Seas Grandeur will operate Caribbean sailings out of Miami for the winter before returning to Europe for the summer of 2024. Fares start at $4,439 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night Caribbean sailing out of Miami.

Celebrity Ascent

Maiden voyage: Dec. 3.

Celebrity Cruises will continue the rollout of its new Edge class of ships in 2023 with the unveiling of Celebrity Ascent — the fourth of five vessels in the series.

Like the last new Edge-class ship, the 8-month-old Celebrity Beyond , it'll be a stretched version of the two initial ships in the series ( Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex ), being both 20 meters longer and a deck taller.

As was the case with Celebrity Beyond, the extra length and height will allow for new and bigger venues, including an expanded "resort-within-a-resort" area for suite passengers called The Retreat and a greatly expanded Sunset Bar at the back of the vessel.

Like Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Ascent also will offer a redesigned Rooftop Garden area with increased seating, new private nooks and two new floating pools cantilevered over the side of the ship.

Another area that will be bigger on Celebrity Ascent than on the first two Edge-class ships is the three-deck-high Grand Plaza.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity ships and itineraries

As was the case with Celebrity Beyond, Ascent will have 179 more cabins than its sister vessels, each of which has 1,467 cabins. That's about a 12% increase. As a result, Celebrity Ascent, like Celebrity Beyond, will hold 3,260 passengers at double occupancy. That's up from a 2,910-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Apex and a 2,918-passenger capacity at double occupancy for Celebrity Edge.

Celebrity Ascent initially will sail to the Caribbean out of Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades. Fares start at $1,056 per person for a seven-night sailing.

Carnival Jubilee

Maiden voyage: Dec. 23.

Carnival Cruise Line will continue its move toward bigger ships in 2023 with the unveiling of Carnival Jubilee — the third vessel in its new Excel-class series.

Under construction at a shipyard in Germany, the 15-deck-high ship is a sister to the line's recently unveiled Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration , which have made waves in the past 18 months for their huge size and what may be the most unusual attraction ever on a cruise vessel: a deck-top roller coaster .

Like Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee will measure 181,808 tons, putting it in a tie with the former ships for the position of biggest ship ever to sail for Carnival. The two earlier vessels in the series are a whopping 35% bigger than the next-biggest Carnival ships currently afloat, and they are also bigger than all but 11 other cruise vessels in the world.

Also like Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee will have a roller coaster on its top deck. Dubbed Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster, it'll be similar to the roller coasters on its sister vessels, with an 800-foot-long track and vehicles that reach speeds of 40 mph — give or take.

Carnival Jubilee will also be designed to hold up to 6,630 passengers. That's just a tad below the 7,084 passengers that can fit aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas — the world's largest cruise ship.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Jubilee will have a giant water park on its top deck and, like its sister, a far broader array of suites than earlier Carnival ships. However, the vessel won't be a carbon copy of the previous vessels. Carnival has said some new features are planned.

The development of ships on the scale of Carnival Jubilee and its sisters has been a big deal for Carnival. Until recently, the line had resisted the trend among major brands to build even-bigger vessels that offer a supersized megaresort-at-sea experience.

Carnival's last new vessel before the arrival of Mardi Gras in 2021, Carnival Panorama, didn't even crack the top 40 list of biggest ships when it debuted in 2019.

After an initial transatlantic voyage from Southampton, England, to Galveston, Texas, Carnival Jubilee will sail seven-night voyages to the Western Caribbean out of Galveston. Fares start at $549 per person, not including taxes and fees.

Other new ships

In addition to the above, newcomers for 2023 also include several small expedition ships and other small vessels from such cruise operators as Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn, Emerald Cruises, Vantage Travel and Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Viking also has a new ocean ship coming in 2023 that is a sister to earlier vessels.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Top 20 Cruise Ships so Big, You Can Never Miss Them

How big is a cruise ship? How big is the biggest cruise ship? What are the best large cruise ships? We have been asked these questions so often, we had to give you answers. We'll tell you why you should try cruising with one of those gigantic sailings, will reveal which large cruise ships are cruisers favorites and finally show you the world's biggest cruise ships so you have a better understanding of the market.

Why choose to cruise with a large vessel?

We get it, they're not just massive, mega vessels are also fascinating! They've kept getting larger in the past decade, proving that bigger is better. Besides that, we understand you might want to choose the best cruise ship size .

Largest vessels have numerous qualities:

• They'll help you blend in a crowd, while still finding a spot of your own
• They'll have you never meet the same people twice if you like meeting new people
• They provide lots of options for dining, activities, bars and clubs
• They are vast enough to be family friendly and provide adult only entertainment
• These immense ships are likely to have a high passenger-crew ratio ensuring a better service quality

All that's left to do now is check our ranking of most popular boats with the greatest size to determine which cruise ship is best for you and take a peek at the world's biggest vessels to compare the existing market to your tailored needs.

Top 20 large cruise ships you should try at least once

We had to read through more than 180.000 customer reviews to get to this list, but here it is: the 18 most popular large vessels. Click on a ship's name to track the ship's current location, find available sailings and check its average price per day and cabin type.

The ranking is largely dominated by Royal Caribbean cruise line with Allure of the seas, Harmony of the seas, Oasis of the seas and Symphony of the seas from which some also belong to the largest ships in the cruise industry. Norwegian cruise line also appears on the list. However, Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the seas isn't included in large popular cruise ships list.

How big are the biggest cruise ships?

Allure of the Seas, which used to be the largest ship worldwide (225,280 gross tonnage) until 2016 was dethroned by its sister ship from Royal Caribbean, Harmony of the seas (226,960 gross tonnage) which has a capacity of 6 296 passengers and 2 394 crew members.

Furthermore, only 4 of the best Carnival cruise ships are included in this list: Queen Mary 2 from Cunard, Britannia from P&O, and Royal and Regal Princess from Princess Cruises. Celebrity Cruise ships are missing from the list, when MSC Meraviglia ranks at the top 4 largest cruise ships in the world.

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The ‘Icon Of The Seas’ Will Soon Be The World’s Largest Cruise Ship — Here’s How Much It Costs To Get Aboard

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The Icon of the Seas—what will be the world’s largest cruise ship to date with 20 decks, seven pools and a waterpark—is preparing for more trial runs after passing its first in June, six months ahead of its first scheduled voyage when it will carry almost 8,000 workers and passengers in January 2024.

The Icon of the Seas—what will be the world's largest cruise ship—will be able to carry nearly 8,000 ... [+] passengers and workers and is set to take its first voyage in January 2024.

Tickets for the first trips aboard the Icon of the Sea first opened in October 2022, started around $1,537 a person, and led to Royal Caribbean having its “single largest booking day in the company's 53-year history,” according to CBS .

Now, a ticket for one of the seven-day voyages to either the western or eastern Caribbean runs a bit pricier: the least expensive voyage, taking off in September 2024, costs about $1,851 a person for an interior room; most passenger prices for an interior rooms in other months run between $2,000 and $3,300.

For a seven-night trip to the eastern Caribbean, rooms with an exterior view start at $2,061 for a September voyage and go up to $4,119 for a March voyage; rooms with a balcony start at $2,249 in September and increase to $5,245 in March.

The ship will be nearly 1,200 feet long and is projected to weigh 250,800 tonnes; among its features are a 55-foot waterfall, a five-deck tall open-air Central Park with living plant walls, both a “chill island” and a “thrill island” offering different pool and waterpark features and an infinity pool, along with a number of restaurants and entertainment options.

The least expensive voyage scheduled for the Icon of the Seas, taking off in September 2024, costs ... [+] about $1,851 a person for an interior room; most passenger prices for an interior rooms in other months run between $2,000 and $3,300.

$10,864. That’s about how much it costs—per person—for a spot in the Sunset Suite aboard some voyages on the Icon of the Seas.

In June, the Icon of the Seas successfully completed its initial round of sea trials and sailed the ... [+] open ocean for the first time.

Key Background

Royal Caribbean already boasts having the world’s largest cruise ship—the Wonder of the Seas —so the Icon of the Seas will be breaking the cruise company’s own record. The Wonder of the Seas took its first voyage in 2022 and is only about a dozen feet shorter than the Icon. It can carry 7,084 people total, about 1,300 of whom are workers, and has 18 decks, two fewer than the Icon. Royal Caribbean started construction of the Icon in 2021 at a ship building facility in Finland, the same place the ship passed its first sea trials last month . The trials included four days of preliminary tests on the ship’s technologies and equipment and, according to a press release , the ship “successfully sailed the open ocean.”

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Today’s cruise lines are building bigger and better cruise ships regularly. These floating cities are now reaching unimaginable sizes and offering guests incredible amenities.

The Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Cruise Addicts has rounded up and listed the worlds top ten biggest cruise ships in the world by gross tonnage (which is a measure of volume, and not weight). You will also find some other useful information and statistics to show incredible size these floating resorts have to offer guests.

When she is completed Icon of the Seas (shown above) will be joining our list when she enters service in January 27, 2024. She will then take her place as the largest cruise ship at 250,800 gross tonnage.

What’s the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?

Currently the largest cruise ship in the World is Wonder of the Seas by Royal Caribbean International. She is an incredible 235,600 gross tones and is part of the popular Oasis Class and can hold a total of 7,084 passengers.

Keep in mind that this list of biggest cruise ships in the world changes annually as cruise lines regularly updating their fleets. Take a look at our list of the biggest cruise ships in the list below.

1.  Wonder of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

Wonder of the Seas  is the fifth ship in the popular  Oasis Class  and is 235,600 GT’s. She carries   5,734 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of 7,084. Wonder of the Seas is the first ship in the Oasis Class to feature 8 neighborhoods with the addition of the new  Suite Neighborhood . She also received other design enhancements to the Windjammer Café and other areas and is the first ship to include the popular restaurant,  The Mason Jar . The Godmother of the ship is Marie McCrea.

Wonder of the Seas  Stats

• Cruise Line:  Royal Caribbean
• Entered Service:  March 4, 2022
• Gross Tonnage:  235,600
• Length:  1,188 ft
• Decks:  18
• Staterooms:  2,867
• Passenger Capacity:  5,734 (Double) / 7,084 (Total)
• Crew Capacity:  2,204

2.  Symphony of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

Symphony  of the Seas   is the fourth ship in the Oasis Class and is 228,081 GT’s. She carries 5,518 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of 6,680. The 18 deck ship ship includes 7 neighborhoods and the Ultimate Family Suite. You can also take a ride of the Ultimate Abysss, which is a 10-story dry slide. The GodFamily of the ship are the PeneVegas family which includes Alexa, Carlos and Ocean.

Symphony of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  April 7, 2018
• Gross Tonnage:  228,081
• Staterooms:  2,759
• Passenger Capacity:  5,518 (Double) / 6,680 (Total)
• Crew Capacity:  2,200

3.  Harmony of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

Harmony  of the Seas  is the third ship in the  Oasis Class  and is 226,963 GT’s. She carries   5,479 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of   6,687. The 18 deck ship took her maiden  voyage  on May 29, 2016. Her Godmother is Brittany Affolter.

Harmony of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  May 29, 2016
• Gross Tonnage:  226,963
• Decks: 18
• Staterooms:  2,747
• Passenger Capacity:  5,479 (Double) / 6,687 (Total)

4.  Oasis of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

The revolutionary  Oasis   of the Seas  is the first ship in the Oasis Class and is 226,838 GT’s. She carries   5,602 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of   6,771. The ship features 7 different neighborhoods and highlights like the Portside BBQ, Ultimate Panoramic Suite, Music Hall, Ultimate Abyss (10-story dry slide), The Perfect Storm waterpark and more. Her Godmothers are Gloria Estefan, Michelle Kwan, Dara Torres, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Shawn Johnson, Jane Seymour and Daisy Fuentes.

Oasis of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  December 5, 2009
• Gross Tonnage:  226,838
• Length:  1,187 ft
• Staterooms:  2,801
• Passenger Capacity:  5,602 (Double) / 6,771 (Total)
• Crew Capacity:  2,300

5. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Allure   of the Seas  is the second ship in the  Oasis Class  and is 225,282 GT’s. She carries   5,496 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of   6,826. The 18 deck ship took her maiden voyage on Dec 5, 2010. The ship features 7 different neighborhoods and highlights featuring a Central Park, Carousel, Zip Line ride and an Aquatheater. Her Godmother is  Princess  Fiona.

Allure of the Seas  Stats

• Entered Service:  December 5, 2010
• Gross Tonnage:  225,282
• Staterooms : 2,742
• Passenger Capacity: 5,496 (Double) / 6,826 (Total)
• Crew Capacity:  2,054 

6.  MSC World Europa  (MSC Cruises)

At 1,093 ft. long, 22 decks high and with 430,556 sq. ft. of public space,  MSC World Europa  is MSC Cruises’ longest ship in the fleet, but this space is not just for show. The increased size means that the ship will offer a variety of novel and engaging experiences to be enjoyed by one and all.

One of the key features of the completely reimagined ship is The Spiral – a striking architectural centerpiece in the form of a dry slide spanning 11 decks – the longest at sea! The sleek curves of the impressive stainless-steel slide make it a true work of art as well as a fun way to get from the top of the ship to the promenade.

MSC World Europa Stats

• Cruise Line:  MSC Cruises
• Entered Service:  December 2022
• Gross Tonnage:  215,863 tons
• Length: 1,093 feet
• Decks:  16
• Staterooms:2700
• Passenger Capacity:  5,400 (Double) / 6,762 (Total)

7. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)

The LNG powered  Costa Smeralda  was built in 2019 and is one of the line’s Excellence Class ships .

Costa Smeralda Stats

• Cruise Line:  Costa Cruise Lines
• Entered Service:  2019
• Gross Tonnage:  185,010
• Length:  1,106 feet ft
• Decks:  20
• Staterooms:  2,614
• Passenger Capacity: 5,224 (TWO) / 6,554 (Max)
• Crew Capacity:  1,646

8.  Costa Toscana  (Costa Cruises)

Costa Toscana Stats

The LNG powered  Costa Toscana was built in 2022 and is one of the line’s Excellence Class ships.

• Entered Service:  March 2022
• Gross Tonnage: 1 82,700
• Length:  1,105 ft
• Decks:  19
• Staterooms:  2,663
• Passenger Capacity:  6,600 passengers
• Crew Capacity:  1,678

9. P&O Iona (P&O Cruises)

P&O Iona Stats

At 185,000 tonnes, 1131 feet in length with 16 guest decks, Iona is P&O Cruises second ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the marine industry’s most advanced fuel technology to date.

• Cruise Line:  P&O Cruises
• Entered Service:  August 2021
• Gross Tonnage: 184,700
• Length: 1,128 ft
• Decks:  15
• Passenger Capacity:   5,200 passengers
• Crew Capacity:  1,800

10.  P&O Arvia  (P&O Cruises)

At 185,000 tonnes, 1131 feet in length with 16 guest decks, P&O Arvia is P&O Cruises second ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the marine industry’s most advanced fuel technology to date. Arvia has an optimised hull design to minimise drag and is installed with the latest energy-efficient technology on board.

P&O Arvia Stats

• Entered Service: December 15, 2022
• Gross Tonnage:  185,000
• Passenger Capacity:  5,734

Looking Ahead at  Icon of the Seas

Join us as we take a special first look at  Icon of the Seas , the World’s next biggest cruise ship. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the highly anticipated  Icon of the Seas , the Icon of Vacations.

Arriving in late 2023 ahead of its January 2024 debut, the first  Icon Class  ship will be the travel industry’s first-of-its-kind combination of the best of every vacation.

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The New Cruise Ships We’re Most Excited About in 2023

This year, cruise lines that include celebrity, oceania, virgin voyages, and regent seven seas are unveiling not just some of their most impressive but also some of their most ecofriendly vessels to date..

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The forthcoming super-luxe Silver Nova from Silversea will be emissions-free while in port thanks to new hybrid power technology. Added bonus: ocean views from the bathtub.

Courtesy of Silversea

Each year, a fresh batch of cruise ships draws headlines and fanfare. The pandemic, however, slowed down ship launches to a mere trickle as cruise lines weathered the public health crisis storm. But for 2023, with cruising fully back in action, a robust new flock of vessels is being unveiled that introduces not just sleek new designs and exciting amenities but also a stronger focus on more responsible cruising than ever before.

Cruising certainly isn’t known as being the most climate friendly mode of transportation, but as technologies advance and stronger climate commitments come to fruition, cruise lines are debuting some of their most environmentally conscious ships yet. The result is that travelers can hit the high seas knowing that cruise companies are making more meaningful efforts to reduce their footprint. It’s a start at least.

Here are our picks for the most exciting cruise ship launches coming in 2023.

“Celebrity Ascent” from Celebrity Cruises

The Celebrity Ascent will debut in the Caribbean at the end of this year.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

With a specialty restaurant by legendary chef Daniel Boulud and spaces envisioned by British designer Kelly Hoppen, the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Ascent is the fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Edge class—and it’s no less impressive than its sister ships . The Retreat on top is reserved for suite guests and has its own restaurant, lounge, and multi-level sundeck with pool. If you book a splurge-worthy Edge Villa, you can take dip in your very own outdoor plunge pool. The ship debuts in December in the Caribbean.

Green notes

The Edge-class ships consume 20 percent less fuel when compared to the line’s previous generation of vessels. Like most new ships, Celebrity Ascent will also be able to reduce emissions in port by connecting to shore power, when available. And the vessel will be part of Celebrity’s fleet-wide “zero waste” goal. Currently, 85 percent of the line’s waste is “recycled, repurposed, or sent to a waste-to-energy facility,” according to Celebrity’s sustainability statement .

“Explora I” from Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is a new luxury cruise line from the MSC Group.

Courtesy of MSC Group

The 922-passenger Explora I is the debut ship of Explora Journeys , an all-new luxury cruise line owned by MSC Group, the Geneva-based shipping container giant that also owns MSC Cruises. On a ship that’s big by luxury standards, guests will stay in oceanfront suites, penthouses, or residences, lounge around four pools, and choose from 18 food and beverage options. Unusual activities and entertainment examples will include music master classes and a monthly full-moon party. The ship debuts in northern Europe in July, with five sister ships scheduled to join it by 2029.

Explora I uses an emissions control system known as selective catalytic reduction to decrease its nitrogen oxide emissions—another extremely harmful climate pollutant—by up to 90 percent. It’s also equipped with battery storage that will allow for hybrid power generation once the new technology becomes available. Two of its sister ships will be powered by hydrogen.

“MSC Euribia” from MSC Cruises

With its #SavetheSea hashtag on its side, the MSC Euribia is a floating reminder of what’s at stake for the world’s oceans if cruise ships don’t do more and better.

MSC Cruises wants the world to know that its 6,327-passenger MSC Euribia is environmentally focused. The ship’s hull is decorated with huge underwater scenes and includes the hashtag #SaveThe Sea. Guests will lounge around five pools, one large enough for 1,000 people. For more intimate surrounds, splurge on the exclusive MSC Yacht Club section of the ship for access to a dedicated sundeck and pool, restaurants, bars, and lounges. The ship debuts in June 2023 and will sail its first season in the Norwegian fjords.

MSC Cruises recently laid out the framework for its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. In addition to running on cleaner-burning liquefied natural gas (LNG), the MSC Euribia has such features as an advanced wastewater treatment system, which the line says means no water leaves the ship without meeting the highest environmental standards.

“Norwegian Viva” from Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Viva will be a big ship but with more intimate touches like the fine Italian dining venue Onda by Scarpetta (pictured in the rendering).

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Debuting in August in the Mediterranean, the 3,219-passenger Norwegian Viva is the second in a newer class of upscale Norwegian Cruise Line ships geared toward cruisers who want a plethora of activities without huge crowds. The ship has a separate complex for suite guests, a multi-million-dollar art collection, and dining options that include a hip food hall with a solid international roster. For the kid in all of us, there’s the three-level go-kart racetrack up on top.

Norwegian Viva has integrated cutting-edge technologies that filter out up to 98 percent of sulfur oxides and up to 90 percent of nitrogen oxide emissions. It’s also equipped with an advanced treatment system that handles all wastewater produced on board and can plug into shoreside power.

“Resilient Lady” from Virgin Voyages

Adult-only line Virgin Voyages may be cheeky, but the line has has some ambitious climate goals for its vessels.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The trendy, adults-only cruise line Virgin Voyages is debuting its third ship, the 2,770-passenger Resilient Lady , in May 2023 in the Mediterranean. Given the no-kids environment expect super-fun parties indoors and around the pool, slightly naughty entertainment, and sophisticated dining. There’s also a tattoo and piercing parlor, should you have the urge to get inked or pierced.

Virgin Voyages aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Some of the new tech that will help it get there includes Climeon, units that use heat from the ship’s engines to generate a portion of the electricity on board (which decreases fuel demand). Additionally, the company invests in carbon offsets along with emissions-reducing technology, such as a catalytic reduction system (which reduces up to 75 percent of nitrogen oxide emissions), and exploring alternative fuel options for future sailings. The smart bracelet that unlocks passengers’ cabin doors is made of recycled plastic.

“Seven Seas Grandeur” from Seven Seas Cruises

Welcome to ultimate luxury—a Regent Suite on the forthcoming Seven Seas Grandeur .

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The latest “world’s most luxurious cruise ship” from Regent Seven Seas Cruises (each new vessel outdoes the last in terms of extreme luxury) debuts in Europe in November, before a season in North and Central America. Expect on the 750-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Grandeur the brand’s signature extravagances such as marble floors, crystal chandeliers, gold leaf here, and expensive art there.

Technology will reduce up to 90 percent of nitrogen oxide emissions by transforming it into water and nitrogen, while a waste heat recovery system will heat auxiliary systems, such as potable water. Among shore excursions, which are included in fares, are some 150 “eco-connect tours” focused on local conservation efforts.

“Silver Nova” from Silversea

On the super-luxe Silver Nova , the restaurant S.A.L.T. will focus on culinary education and local food culture.

Deputing in August in the Mediterranean, the 728-passenger Silver Nova will be the largest ship in the fleet of ultra-luxury brand Silversea . An expanded pool area is designed for optimum views from cushy lounge chairs, and the ship will boast 10 bars and lounges and 8 restaurants—including S.A.L.T., with a focus on culinary education and local food culture. The spa, with its own pool, is inspired by Roman baths.

This ultra-luxe ship is one of the most environmentally conscious ships in the world. It’s equipped with a large-scale hybrid power source, which combines hydrogen fuel cells, batteries, and dual engines that run on LNG. It can achieve emissions-free operations in ports.

“Vista” from Oceania Cruises

It’s been more than a decade since Oceania launched a new vessel. Enter: Vista .

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises’ first new build in 11 years, the 1,200-passenger Vista, debuts in June in the Mediterranean. The ship offers an impressive 12 dining options—important on an upscale line that prides itself on its popularity with foodies. Vista will have the line’s signature cooking school and largest-in-fleet staterooms. At the top end, palatial Owner’s Suites are being styled by Ralph Lauren Home, which is also decorating the top-of-ship library.

In 2022, Oceania launched some 200 Go Green tours that look to educate travelers on ways people at ports are working to conserve their environment. In St. Lucia, you can book a tour to learn about beekeeping practices at an apiculture collective; in Norway, you can meet with a designer who upcycles to create eco-conscious clothing.

The best cruise lines in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

By Condé Nast Traveller

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

Cruises are booming right now, buoyed partly by the popularity of domestic seacations that hauled in first-time sailors. So much so that Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 34,000-mile world trip for 2024 sold out in just over two hours, while the adults-only Virgin Voyages, which aims to throw cruise stereotypes overboard, rose to first place in Large Ships. And we’ve brought back last year's new category showcasing the expedition cruises – small, often sustainable vessels with a shoal of scientific experts onboard – that follow in the wake of adventurers such as Sir Ernest Shackleton.

These are the best cruise lines in the world, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards .

The best cruise lines in the world 2023

Mega ships (More than 4,000 passengers)

4. MSC Cruises. Score 83.42 3. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 85.35 2. Royal Caribbean International. Score 86.69 1. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.72.

Large ships (2,500 to 4,000 passengers)

10. MSC Cruises. Score 83.77 9. Royal Caribbean International. Score 84.31 8. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.41 7. Holland America Line. Score 87.79 6. Costa Cruises. Score 87.95 5. Celebrity Cruises. Score 88.57 4. Princess Cruises. Score 89.42 3. Cunard. Score 89.55 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.21 1. Virgin Voyages. Score 94.07

Medium ships (500 to 2,500 passengers)

15. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 80.56 14. P&O Cruises. Score 83.29 13. Princess Cruises. Score 84.84 12. Marella Cruises. Score 85.60 11. Hurtigruten. Score 86.23 10. Cunard. Score 86.33 9. Holland America Line. Score 86.42 8. Celebrity Cruises. Score 86.68 7. Azamara. Score 87.50 6. Silversea Cruises. Score 87.74 5. Oceania Cruises. Score 87.99 4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Score 91.07 3. Seabourn. Score 91.67 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.92 1. Viking. Score 94.98

Small ships (Fewer than 500 passengers)

10. Variety Cruises. Score 86.75 9. SeaDream Yacht Club. Score 89.66 8. Silversea. Score 89.93 7. Seabourn. Score 91.34 6. Ponant. Score 91.45 5. Windstar Cruises. Score 91.87 4. Sea Cloud Cruises. Score 91.94 3. American Cruise Lines. Score 92.88 2. Paul Gauguin Cruises. Score 92.94 1. Emerald Cruises. Score 95.27

10. AmaWaterways. Score 93.09 9. Sanctuary Retreats. Score 93.14 8. Uniworld River Cruises. Score 93.24 7. Pandaw. Score 95.28 6. Grand Circle Cruise Line. Score 95.69 5. Les Bateaux Belmond. Score 95.90 4. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Score 95.91 3. Tauck. Score 96.14 2. American Cruise Lines. Score 96.66 1. Viking. Score 97.32

Expedition ships

15. Alaskan Dream Cruises. Score 80.77 14. Lindblad Expeditions. Score 91.23 13. Silversea Cruises. Score 91.81 12. Hurtigruten. Score 91.87 11. Ponant. Score 92.25 10. Quark Expeditions. Score 93.15 9. Seabourn. Score 93.37 8. Metropolitan Touring. Score 94.71 7. Quasar Expeditions. Score 94.91 6. Celebrity Cruises. Score 95.38 5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. Score 95.80 4. Ecoventura. Score 95.82 3. Aqua Expeditions. Score 95.97 2. UnCruise Adventures. Score 96.41 1. Viking. Score 96.52

The 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Where to float on the biggest boats.

E very vessel that's once held the title of "biggest cruise ship" has one thing in common: It is a destination in and of itself. Of course, these enormous passenger cruise ships also transport guests to thrilling ports, exotic islands and remote locations too. It's almost as if you could live on a cruise ship !

These massive ships each have so much going on: theater and music on a multitude of stages, water slides, roller coasters and go-kart tracks, zip lines, ice skating rinks, laser tag arenas—you name it. There are also hidden cruise features waiting to be discovered and more restaurants than you will ever need to feed yourself. They are, simply put, awe-inspiring creations. Have you ever thought about how cruise ships float ?

One of the most important cruise tips for vacationing on one of these big boats is to accept that you won't be able to do it all on your first visit. Thankfully, with many itineraries to choose from, you can sail on the largest cruise ship again and again, learn cruise ship code words and have new experiences every single time you're on board one of these massive ships.

What is largest cruise ship in the world?

The current reigning champion is Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. But next year, there will be a brand-new biggest cruise ship, the Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas . Planned with 20 decks, 2,805 staterooms, seven pools and nine hot tubs, the future largest ship in the world is currently being built in Finland. Here are the details about the biggest and grandest ships to sail on.

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise line: Royal Caribbean

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 215 feet

Guest capacity: 7,084

A true wonder, the current biggest ship in the world delights guests every week with a feast of activities, shows, meals and memories. Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , an Oasis-class ship that is a city at sea, has 16 guest decks, 2,204 crew members from every corner of the planet and more than 10 bars and 20 dining destinations—nine of which are complimentary. Curiously, even though the Icon of the Seas will eventually take the mantle as the largest cruise ship, Wonder will still have more staterooms than its new big sister, a whopping 2,867 of them.

It also features a carousel on a real boardwalk, a dry slide that twists down 10 decks, surfing simulators, a laser tag arena, an ice skating rink and a zip line that spans the interior width of the ship. It also has interior rooms with balconies that look out over the restaurant and a tree-lined neighborhood that looks like Central Park. Wonder of the Seas will soon lose its crown as the biggest cruise ship in the world, but it'll never lose its ability to provide unique vacations thanks to affordable cruises for every kind of traveler.

World Europa

Cruise line: MSC

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Guest capacity: 6,762

MSC is not only a privately held shipping company, the largest in the world, they are also the maker of some of the largest cruise ships in the world. The World Europa , which took to the sea for the first time in 2022, is currently escorting passengers all over the Mediterranean, using one of the cleanest marine fuels to do so.

The World Europa features some of the best rooms on a cruise ship, thanks to having the most cabins with a balcony. It also has the world's longest dry slide at sea, taking adventurous cruisers down 12 decks in a shiny, twisting stainless steel tube, and bumper cars in a SportsPlex arena that also hosts rollerblading—not at the same time, however. People looking for something a little less dramatic will enjoy six pools, some surrounded by tropical greenery, 14 whirlpools and MSC's first-ever department store at sea. Finally, you'll never go hungry on this ship , given its 10 restaurants, including four main dining rooms and three buffets.

Cruise line: P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Width: 138 feet

Guest capacity: 6,685

Whether you want the sunshine of the Caribbean or the culture found in and around Mediterranean ports, Arvia is P&O's largest cruise ship and one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, with 1,800 crew members, a three-screen cinema complex, a wide range of staterooms to choose from and four pools, including an infinity pool with a swim-up bar. There are also nearly two dozen whirlpool spas, a sauna, steam room and a hydrotherapy pool.

This means that whether you're taking a singles cruise or have children in tow—the Arvia is a family-friendly ship with age-specific kids clubs on board—serious rest and relaxation are definitely on the agenda. Then, when you're feeling spry and ready for some adventure during your vacation at sea, you can try an escape room or ropes course, play in the sports arena or strut your stuff in a dance class.

Costa Toscana

Cruise line: Costa Cruises

Length: 1,105 feet

Width: 137 feet

Guest capacity: 6,600

A sister to the Smeralda , the Costa Toscana became the fleet's largest cruise ship when it took to the water in March 2022. The ship uses LNG propulsion engines to make sea travel more sustainable, both while cruising and in ports of call around the world. An international crew of 1,678 works to deliver dream vacations for up to 6,600 passengers who will love to discover all there is to do, see and experience on board.

The ship has 1,550 staterooms ranging from interior cabins to elaborate suites, a baker's dozen pools and whirlpools, and a total of 20 restaurants, bars and lounges. Costa's new flagship vessel is a smart city at sea, offering subtly high-tech sailings that provide fun for the whole family, thanks to Peppa Pig character parties, an aqua park with water slides and a mind-bending skywalk 213 feet above the ocean! So book a vacation on one of the largest cruise ships in the world, then pack your cruise ducks and your appetite for learning how to cook at Toscana 's Food LAB cooking school, among other adventures at sea.

Celebration

Cruise line: Carnival

Guest capacity: 6,631

As cruise lines jockey for position at the top of the biggest cruise ship in the world leaderboard, the original family-fun ships are also getting larger. A total of 1,735 international crew, famously considered the best in the business, will ensure that every family's cruise on the Celebration not only maximizes the fun but also the memories, and all at some of the most affordable prices in the cruise industry.

This ship has BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, Dr. Seuss children's themed cruises with character appearances, and incredible water parks with multiple slides. Delicious food is made fast-and-fresh at Guy's Burger Joint, Shaq's Big Chicken and the Seafood Shack, as well as tasty street-food carts located near the pools. Plus, with all the extra space on the largest cruise ship in their fleet, Carnival's Playlist Productions has more stages to dazzle you and your kids with famously fantastic live music and musical theater.

Cruise line: Norwegian

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Guest capacity: 3,998

With 1,700 crew members and more than 2,000 staterooms, including suites in The Haven—Norwegian's luxurious, private and tranquil ship-within-a-ship concept high atop the ship, which comes with 24-hour butler service and its own lavish sundeck—the Encore ranks among the largest cruise ships in the world. Curiously, this vessel from 2019 is still the largest in the Norwegian fleet! Both Prima  and the forthcoming Viva were built after Encore but are considerably smaller in size, bucking the cruise industry trend of "bigger is better."

Encore shines as a superior and super big ship, the fourth in the Breakaway Plus class, and features a multi-deck go-kart track, the Cavern Club music venue, fashioned after the famous Liverpool room where The Beatles became big, a virtual-reality gaming room, an outdoor laser-tag arena and some of the best food at sea. No doubt, this will become one of every passenger's favorite cruises.

Symphony of the Seas

Width: 216 feet

Guest capacity: 6,680

None of the many all-inclusive cruises take place on the largest cruise ships, but you may be forgiven for thinking you're enjoying an all-inclusive experience on Symphony of the Seas . The ship's many spectacular activities include a zip line that soars above the boardwalk many decks below, an old-fashioned carousel, Broadway-style theater shows, surfing simulators and the 10-story Abyss dry slide. There's also delicious food all over the ship that is 100% complimentary. And while you may fly on the zip line over and over again, you'll probably still wonder, Why do cruise ships have wings ?

After its maiden voyage in April 2018, Symphony was the biggest cruise ship in the world. But because of its ingenious neighborhood concept, guests rarely feel overcrowded. Seven distinct areas carve up the ship into unique spaces to play, eat, stroll, sleep and enjoy live entertainment, and the traffic flows brilliantly to make passengers feel as though they're on a more intimate ship and not cruising with upward of 6,680 other people in more than 2,700 staterooms, some of which are interior cabins with balconies that boast views of the Central Park neighborhood's greenery and eateries.

Cruise line: AIDA

Guest capacity: 6,654

While American travelers looking to cruise the Caribbean may not encounter her, the AIDAnova is not only the largest cruise ship in the AIDA fleet, she's also a revolutionary lady. The ship's Four Elements adventure deck, with its three water slides and climbing garden under the dome of a retractable glass roof, drops jaws on every sailing. The ship's more than 2,600 staterooms with 20 different types, ranging from a glorious two-deck penthouse to budget-friendly interior cabins, allow guests to sleep well and arrive in port well rested, and the two-deck spa offering 80 different treatments provides even more healing and luxury.

But AIDAnova is also impressive because it made history as the world's first cruise ship to be powered in port and at sea by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel. It's important that big ships can be more sustainable, but did you ever wonder why there are big balls on cruise ships ?

Sun Princess

Cruise line: Princess

Length: 1,133 feet

Guest capacity: 4,300

The Love Boat is getting much, much bigger! Yes, this is the namesake ship from the beloved '70s TV show. With 2,150 cabins, the Sun Princess is close to carrying 4,300 passengers to Europe for its inaugural season later this year. And then all around the world, people will be asking, "Why do cruise ships have to stop in Canada?"

The third ship in the history of the fleet to be graced with the iconic name, the S un Princess is poised to be a fan favorite. There are more than 29 bars, lounges and restaurants on board, with the Sea View Terrace and Bar ensconced in glass at the top and front of the ship, book-ended by the Wake View Terrace at the back, which has a stunning infinity pool hanging off the edge. Drawing inspiration from the tiered terraces of Santorini, Greece, this evocative area will have an indoor/outdoor pool to enjoy supreme relaxation during the day. But once the sun says goodbye, the pool becomes a stage and the dome above transforms into an entertainment venue with eye-popping lighting effects.

Length: 1,085 feet

Width: 141 feet

Guest capacity: 6,334

Come June 2023, one of the newest and biggest cruise ships at sea will be carrying eager pasengers, and more than 1,700 dedicated crew members, to world-class destinations in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. While on board the Euribia , cruisers will enjoy a massive amount of personal space (100-plus square feet per person) at any one of five unique pools, including one of the most intricate waterparks at sea, covering more than 10,000 square feet.

These watery areas of rest, relaxation and revelry will comfortably accommodate more than 1,000 guests at a time. Indoors, a 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade is lined with myriad shops, along with some of the 20 bars and 10 restaurants found on the ship. It also features a domed LED screen that magically displays the sky and other animations throughout the day and night. MSC continues to be a favorite cruise line of environmentalist travelers looking to ease their mind and minimize their footprint, as the Euribia has an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system that doesn't allow any water to leave the ship without being treated and cleaned.

The post The 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World appeared first on Reader's Digest .

The best cruises to book for 2024

Whether you're looking to sail near or far, these are the best cruises to consider for 2024

So many places, so little time - and the best cruises for 2024 are ideal for seeing as much of the world as you can.

They also open up spectacular views you wouldn’t get on land, such as fairytale castles dotted along the Danube or the rolling vineyards flanking the Douro Valley .

Choosing a cruise means seeking new adventures, perhaps travelling to a continent you’ve never set foot in before or trying new activities like hiking, wildlife spotting or cooking . There are other ways to expand your horizons on a cruise too, such as seeing some local entertainment or making new friends on board.

As it’s become ever-more important to us to take a stress-free holiday, we've rounded up the very best cruise packages that won’t disappoint, with everything from the best river cruises to amazing cruises for couples and excellent cruises around the UK .

It doesn't matter when you're looking to sail either, as these cruises take in all the seasons. Fancy a wintery adventure? We've got an epic Norwegian expedition cruise for that. Feel like a spring cruise to escape the summer crowds? We've got the perfect cruise around Japan at the height of cherry blossom season . Japan cruises are always popular and tend to sell out early, but we've got you covered with an excellent 2025 sailing already available — make sure to take a look before it sells out.

However or whenever you want to travel, there's a trip for you, and the best cruises in 2024 take you to the most incredible destinations. You can travel with celebrities on star-studded holidays , visit lesser-known towns and villages to get a real taste of a location and sail to amazing wildlife destinations.

These are the best cruises for 2024.

Venetian Lagoon - Best cruises

Venice is a city that's famous for its water, and a cruise around the Venetian Lagoon reveals more of this romantic and fascinating destination than a hotel city break ever could.

On a Venetian cruise, you can visit the islands of Venice's northern lagoon, including Mazzorbo, Torcello and Burano during a sailing on the luxurious SS La Venezia. Burano is known for its traditional lacemaking and its vividly colourful fisherman cottages lining the lagoon.

The opportunity to visit Burano isn’t the only reason to pick a cruise in the Venetian Lagoon. On Good Housekeeping's special cruise , you’ll sail in the company of top chef James Martin, who will give a talk and Q&A about his career, and design and cook a grand gala dinner on board the luxurious ship SS La Venezia.

FIND OUT MORE

If you fancy an autumnal sailing with more of a musical theme than a foodie one, you might choose to join an eight-day cruise of the Venetian Lagoon in the company of world-famous tenor Russell Watson, who will give a special talk and Q&A, sign your complimentary CD, and give an exclusive intimate concert. You’ll have a chance to explore the highlights of the Lagoon as well, with trips to its islands of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello and private visits to Venice's iconic Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

Croatia - Best cruises

If you're looking for a sunny Mediterranean cruise you'd do well to consider Croatia and its stylish seaside towns and dozens of sun-kissed islands and islets off the glittering Dalmatian Coast.

With their astounding natural scenery, stylish coastal towns and off-the-beaten-path beaches, Croatia’s islands are wonderful to explore by small ship where you can dock in hard-to-reach corners only accessible by boat.

There mainland has no shortage of attractions either, with bustling cities to be explored too, like Dubrovnik, with its labyrinth of limestone streets and alleyways, palaces, churches, monasteries and picturesque piazzas, and Split, which has a long and varied history and excellent museums.

On Good Housekeeping's cruise you'll dock in Hvar, Dubrovnik and Split as well as one of Croatia's most beautiful beaches at Zlatni Rat - the Golden Horn - whose distinctive shape has made it an icon of Croatian tourism. You'll also visit the island of Mljet and discover the Mljet National Park with its serene saltwater lakes and verdant pine forests.

Vietnam and Cambodia - Best cruises

A cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia is a fantastic way to discover the rich cultures, fascinating histories, and delicious cuisines of these two Southeast Asian gems. The countries are connected by the mighty Mekong River, which is a destination in itself, providing a home for diverse ecosystems and fishing communities on the delta and with ancient archaeological wonders along its banks.

Good Housekeeping is offering a 17-day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia, which includes seven nights cruising the Mekong on board the Mekong Jewel - an ornately decorated luxury ship.

You'll visit Ho Chi Minh City, where skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, Phnom Penh, Cambodia's thriving capital, and Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, where you can visit excellent museums and historic sites before indulging in some delicious Vietnamese street food.

There are excursions to the sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat, the remnants of the last capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom, and to local villages and markets on sampans - traditional wooden boats.

Northern France - Best cruises

If you want to enjoy pretty coastal towns with a touch of history, a cruise to Northern France can offer you all of this without having to spend a huge amount of time at sea.

Sail to the Normandy region and you'll discover charming harbourfront towns like Honfleur, where you can sample local delicacies like camembert and Calvados, a rich local brandy made from apples and pears. Originally occupied in the 9th century by the Vikings, Honfleur has attracted artists for many years, including a young Claude Monet.

Join Good Housekeeping on a cruise to Normandy on board the luxurious ship Borealis. On the way to Northern France, you'll make several stops in the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, with its elegant Georgian and Regency architecture, and St Mary's, a marine conservation zone with lovely coastal walks. FIND OUT MORE

Japan - Best cruises

As each new spring begins, millions of Japanese residents and tourists wait with anticipation for the first buds of the pink cherry blossom, known as sakura , to appear.

These blossoms are a symbol of renewal, vitality and beauty, and they make Japan's already spectacular cities and landscapes even more breathtaking than usual.

You'll have the chance to experience this phenomenon for yourself with Good Housekeeping's once-in-a-lifetime two-week cruise around Japan. The journey begins and ends in Tokyo, where you'll find soaring skyscrapers contrasting with blooming gardens and traditional noodle houses.

Along the way, you'll stop in Hiroshima, where you can learn about its devastating Second World War history, Osaka, where you can see some of the country's most ornate shrines and temples, and you'll even make a stop in Busan in South Korea to enjoy the city's subtropical landscapes. FIND OUT MORE

Norway - Best cruises

Another wonderful European cruise destination for seeing the Northern Lights is Norway. It's one of Europe's best destinations for aurora spotting, especially if you head north above the Arctic Circle, where sightings of the lights are an almost daily occurrence at certain times of year.

From the Arctic capital of Tromsø, you can sail on to the remote and mysterious Lofoten Islands and visit North Cape, Europe's most northerly point, passing ancient Viking villages and herds of reindeer on the way.

On Good Housekeeping's Northern Lights cruise of Norway , you'll enjoy all the highlights of Norway's spectacular coastline: from exploring the Unesco-listed port of Bergen, the city of Tromsø and the ancient Viking trading post of Trondheim. You'll sail through some of Norway's most jaw-dropping landscapes, cruising past more than 1,000 mountains and 100 fjords. There'll be opportunities for wildlife spotting and stargazing and you'll be sailing with an expert expedition team who'll give you the best chance of catching a unique light display.

If you'd prefer a summer sailing, Good Housekeeping has a wonderful cruise over the August bank holiday weekend. You'll sail through several of Norway's most heavenly fjords, learning about ancient Viking history and the fascinating myths and legends that surround these icy waters.

Scottish Highlands - Best cruises

Loch Ness, Loch Nevis, the Sound of Mull, Iona, Eigg, Skye, Fort Augustus, Fort William… these names conjure up images of glistening waters, wild landscapes and towering castles, majestic flora and fauna, and ancient myths and legends.

A cruise in this part of Scotland would surely be a contender for the most scenic of British getaways. You can travel through the Highlands and islands of Scotland to explore the endlessly beautiful Caledonian Canal, the magical islands of Scotland's western shore and hidden sea lochs that are only accessible on the water.

The deluxe Lord of the Glens hosts a maximum of 54 passengers and is one of the best ways to sail the Highlands. Guests stay in outward-facing en-suite cabins and enjoy superb cuisine throughout.

You can experience this ship on a exclusive sailing with weather presenter Carol Kirkwood, who'll join you on a journey through the tranquil Caledonian Canal and onwards towards the Sound of Mull, sharing stories of her Scottish family's history.

Egypt - Best cruises

If you're looking for a culture and history-filled cruise a little further afield, a river cruise through Egypt is a great option. Sailing along the Nile allows you to visit magnificent temples including Kom Ombo, Philae, Edfu and the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty.

Good Housekeeping has a fabulous 12-day trip to Egypt packed full of historical and archaeological excursions. The trip begins in Cairo, where you'll take a trip to Giza to see the ancient pyramids and the Great Sphinx before heading to Luxor and boarding an opulent river ship for your seven-night cruise.

Making this cruise extra special is the company of historian Lucy Worsley. Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie and will share her knowledge of the author's work during Q&As and talks, pointing out her connections to Egypt and the locations which inspired one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile.

Antarctica - Best cruises

Choosing the best Antarctic cruise can seem like a daunting task. It’s an investment of your time and money and likely something you may only do once and remember in exquisite detail. It’s a remote and thrilling part of the world to explore, where 12 million penguins live in the coldest, highest, and driest place on earth.

To get the best out of this bucketlist experience, you need to go with experts who will take care of everything. Hurtigruten expedition cruises have explored Antarctic waters for over 20 years, and their premium ships have been designed so guests can explore the region comfortably.

Good Housekeeping’s Antarctic cruise on MS Fridtjof Nansen has one of the lowest possible CO2 footprints of all expedition ships in Antarctica, thanks to a special hybrid engine on this future-ready vessel.

You’ll depart from Ushuaia, a city nicknamed ‘End of the World’ and head through the icy waters of the Drake Passage, home to the incredible marine life you may have only seen on screen, where the white wonderland envelopes you on an adventure like no other.

The Hebrides - Best cruises

For a slightly different kind of island holiday - one that's more about getting out and about in wild, untamed nature and spotting incredible wildlife - try a cruise around the dramatic Hebrides .

These Scottish islands offer rugged coastlines, varied flora and fauna and delicious local whisky to taste at several historic distilleries.

Each island has its own special charms. There's the outstanding wildlife haven of Arran, the Isle of Mull with its brightly painted harbourfront houses, the 'whisky island' of Islay, world-renowned for its peaty single-malts, and the uninhabited Hirta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you're interested in exploring the Hebrides, we have an eight-day sailing that will take you to Iona, Eigg, and Skye, as well as many other picture perfect locations on the mainland.

Greece - Best cruises

The idyllic Cyclades, a collection of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, are known and loved for their pretty white-walled houses draped in pink bougainvillea, sandy beaches and bright blue waters.

But there is more to the Cyclades than just sun, sea and sea. These isles have a rich history, shaped by their many past conquerors, including the Minoans, Persians, Byzantines and Romans. You'll see remnants of these cultures in the architecture, from the Monastery of the Apocalypse Patmos to the cliff-clinging monastery of Hozoviotissas on Amorgos.

Discover a range of these intriguing buildings and monuments with Good Housekeeping on a cruise of the Cyclades . As well as the Cyclades you'll also spend time in Athens and Kusadasi, a beach resort in Turkey.

Douro River - Best cruises

Anyone wanting to explore the Douro wine region should choose a cruise along the Douro River. This scenic waterway is central to the Portuguese wine trade and is flanked by rolling hills and vineyards, with storybook villages rising from the banks.

The Alto Douro, the name of this wine-producing valley region, holds UNESCO status and is one of the oldest and most renowned wine-making regions in the world.

Good Housekeeping offers an exclusive cruise along the Douro, where you can truly soak in the beauty of this golden valley as you travel.

Whereas some cruises like their passengers to dress in their finest gowns for dinner, A-ROSA ALVA has no such rules. Instead, an eight-day cruise invites its guests to relax on a wine-themed voyage where you'll visit multiple wine estates. Depending on the time of year, you might even get the chance to take part in a traditional grape harvest, including crushing the grapes underfoot in traditional granite troughs.

Germany - Best cruises

The Rhine Valley is a captivating part of Germany, characterised by storybook castles and hilltop vineyards. A cruise on the Rhine is particularly inviting during the weeks leading up to Christmas, when the towns, villages, and cities along its banks go all out for their famous Christmas markets.

Good Housekeeping has a Christmassy cruise which will take you to the best of these markets. Starting in elegant Cologne, you'll see the incredible Gothic cathedral before boarding your beautifully appointed ship and setting sail along the Rhine.

You'll make several stops along the way, including in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, and Rüdesheim. At each stop you'll have time to browse the fairytale markets, picking up unique gifts and trying local delicacies as the heavenly scent of roast almonds, mulled wine and spiced cider fills the air.

India - Best cruises

The Ganges is India's most sacred river, meandering 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas. Flowing through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature, a cruise down the Ganges is a fantastic way to see some of India's best attractions.

On a Ganges cruise, you can visit highlights like the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes a seven-night cruise down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including an unforgettable trip to witness both sunrise and sunset over the Taj Mahal – you'll board the luxurious Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals.

Another highlight of any trip to India is the food, and you'll be joined on board by the Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who'll share his passion for Indian cuisine in a live cooking demonstration.

Alaska - Best cruises

With its staggering mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling tundra, dramatic glaciers and a jaw-dropping range of wildlife, ranging from bears and moose to whales, Alaska is wilderness at its best. And no location in Alaska is more inviting for nature lovers than its Inside Passage, a network of waterways that wind through the fjords and mighty forests of the USA's largest state. Cruising through this incredible body of water gives you a rare chance to glimpse humpback whales, orca, bald eagles and bears in their natural habitat, and to discover the diverse and fascinating culture and history on its banks. From intriguing Gold Rush history to the traditions of Native Alaskan communities, there's so much to learn about on an Alaska cruise. Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime cruise of the Inside Passage as part of a Canadian and Alaskan adventure. You'll ride on a scenic train route through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver, where you'll set sail for a week-long Alaskan cruise on board a well-equipped ship.

Danube River - Best cruises

The enchanting Danube is a wonderful river for a culture-packed European cruise. It winds through seven European countries and boasts opulent cities on its banks, as well as picturesque towns and villages and dramatic unspoilt rural scenery, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley.

Good Housekeeping is offering a week-long Danube cruise , where you'll discover the highlights of three of the great capitals on its banks. You'll enjoy the culture and culinary treats of Vienna, marvel at the its magnificent buildings in Budapest, and take in the Gothic architecture and imposing castles of Bratislava.

In Vienna, you'll also have a very special event to look forward to; a trip to the famous Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School with one of UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley. Here, you'll get an insight into the training work of the riders with their Lipizzaner stallions as you watch them train to the sounds of classical Viennese music.

FIND OUT MORE Looking for inspiration for your next holiday? Grab a cuppa and browse our brochure packed with unique escapes.

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Tornadoes strike across 7 states with more severe weather on the way

Severe weather is forecast for Thursday across the entire South.

The threat for tornadoes continues Thursday following an outbreak of deadly storms throughout the Midwest and South over the past few days.

As of Thursday afternoon, at least 17 tornadoes had been reported in the previous 24 hours across seven states. There have been nearly 100 reported or confirmed tornadoes across 18 states since Monday.

Over 30 million Americans, from Texas to South Carolina, are in the storm zone and can expect to see severe weather Thursday night into early Friday. The tornado threat is lower than it has been during the multiday outbreak -- damaging winds and large hail will be the main threat with these storms Thursday -- though a couple of tornadoes will still remain possible.

MORE: 3 skiers missing in Utah avalanche, search underway: Police

Damaging winds up to 70 mph, scattered hail and a couple of tornadoes will all be possible as a cluster of thunderstorms with a history of producing tornadoes moves through southern Georgia, heading south and east through the evening.

A tornado watch has been issued for South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama and Florida until 9 p.m. ET Thursday. The cities located in that tornado watch include Jacksonville, Florida; Savannah, Georgia; and Charleston, South Carolina.

In Texas, a cluster of storms is expected to fire up Thursday afternoon and evening then progress west across the Gulf Coast states through the overnight hours. The main threats are significant wind gusts to 85 mph and very large hail up to 4 inches, though a couple of tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

A tornado watch has also been issued for parts of Texas, including Dallas, Waco and Abilene, through 9 p.m. CT Thursday.

The latest severe weather threat comes after three people were killed in storms on Wednesday.

One person died in Claiborne County, the Tennessee Department of Health said. Another person died and four others were injured after storms moved through Maury County, Tennessee, Maury Regional Health said.

A third person died in North Carolina, The Associated Press reported.

MORE: How to prepare for and survive a tornado outbreak

The National Weather Service said a tornado that devastated Columbia in Maury County, Tennessee, on Wednesday was an EF3 with winds up to 140 mph. Some 40 homes were heavily damaged or destroyed in the county, officials said Thursday.

A tornado emergency was issued near Huntsville, Alabama, overnight into Thursday, including at least one reported tornado that produced damage.

A flash flood emergency was issued north of Nashville, Tennessee, where some areas got more than 8 inches of rain in just a matter of hours. Water rescues were reported in the area overnight.

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AI, online gaming among the top cyber threats to kids

Americans under age 20 saw 2,500% increase in money lost due to online scams from 2017 to 2022.

(InvestigateTV) — According to a study by the DQ Institute , almost 70% of children worldwide were exposed to at least one cyber threat in 2023.

David Emm, a principal security researcher at cyber security company Kaspersky , highlighted the top five online threats for children and adolescents.

Bank cards for children : These financial products are designed for kids as young as 12 and make kids easily susceptible to financially motivated scammers.

Smart home devices : These items are easily accessible by children, so make sure to regularly change the passwords. Also regularly inspect monitoring devices, like doorbell cameras and baby monitors, to ensure they have not been hacked.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is quickly becoming ubiquitous, with a new study revealing about 25% of children use some form of AI on school assignments.

“What we need to understand, I suppose, with these large language models, is that we are feeding them with information, and that information can be brought out of those systems as well,” Emm explained. “So, we need to be really careful, I think, about the sharing implications, something which children are not really going to think about.”

AI apps can provide children with inappropriate content, so monitoring AI use is crucial for parents.

Online gaming : Chat functions combined with anonymity make kids an easy target for online scammers. Teach children to not share personal information with anyone online or to click on unknown links.

“It’s really the fact that there may be people that they’re interacting with who are not who they say they are, or they are who they say they are, but that they’re potentially a threat,” Emm emphasized.

Trendy apps : Fake iterations of popular apps are often created to trick users. These apps can contain malicious links for software designed to scam users.

Emm’s overall message to parents is simple:

• Stay informed about the latest cyber security threats.
• Talk to children regularly not sharing personal information.
• Do not click on random links.

Copyright 2024 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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