rccl newest cruise ships

Royal Caribbean cruise ships from newest to oldest — a complete list

What's the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship? It might seem like a strange question to ask, but it's something that matters if you're in the market for a Royal Caribbean cruise.

The newest Royal Caribbean ship is typically also the Royal Caribbean ship with the most bells and whistles and the most up-to-date cabins, restaurants, bars and attractions. It's what you want if you want the latest and greatest in a vessel for your Royal Caribbean cruise vacation.

Right now, the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Icon of the Seas , which is just debuting in January . It's the first of a new class of vessels for the line.

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Other relatively new Royal Caribbean ships include Wonder of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. All began sailing in the last six years.

In all, Royal Caribbean operates 27 cruise vessels. On average, the line comes out without about one new ship a year, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them from the fleet. The oldest Royal Caribbean ship, Grandeur of the Seas, is 27 years old.

In general, Royal Caribbean's newest ships are far bigger and much more amenity-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of activities in a Royal Caribbean cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 15 or so years.

Related: The 6 types of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

Royal Caribbean's oldest cruise ships — those built in the 1990s and early 2000s — in many cases are half to a third the size of the line's newest vessels and have far fewer venues on board. Still, even these smaller ships offer a lot of attractions as compared to many vessels at competing lines.

Royal Caribbean is known for bustling, activity-packed ships across its fleet.

Here, every Royal Caribbean ship currently in operation is ranked from newest to oldest:

1. Icon of the Seas (2024)

Icon of the Seas is the belle of the ball at Royal Caribbean — the line's newest and most state-of-the-art ship. It's also the biggest ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet and, indeed, the biggest ship ever built by any line.

Icon of the Seas is the first of a new class of vessels at Royal Caribbean called the Icon Class that will be rolling out over the next few years . Royal Caribbean has initially ordered three of the vessels but could add more ships to the series down the road.

Maiden voyage: 2024 Size: 250,800 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,610

2. Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 235,600 gross tons Passenger capacity : 5,734

Wonder of the Seas was the world's biggest cruise ship until the arrival of Icon of the Seas, and it remains one of the biggest ships ever built by any line.

Wonder of the Seas is the fifth vessel in Royal Caribbean's much-ballyhooed Oasis Class series of vessels — the world's largest ships from the time they began debuting in 2009 until the arrival of Icon of the Seas early this year.

3. Odyssey of the Seas (2022)

Maiden voyage : 2022 Size: 167,704 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,284

Odyssey of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's five Quantum Class ships. The five-ship series debuted in 2014 with the unveiling of Quantum of the Seas and is the newest class of ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet (until the arrival of the Icon Class of ships in January).

4. Spectrum of the Seas (2019)

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,379 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,246

Spectrum of the Seas is the fourth vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class series and has traditionally sailed in Asia, often on cruises aimed at the Asian market.

Like all Quantum Class ships, Spectrum of the Seas features an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and other amusements and an unusual attraction called North Star that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

5. Symphony of the Seas (2018)

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 228,081 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,518

Symphony of the Seas is the world's third largest cruise ship, just a tad smaller than its newer sister Wonder of the Seas and the recently unveiled Icon of the Seas. Like Wonder of the Seas, it's part of the groundbreaking Oasis Class of ships that began debuting in 2009 (it's the fourth in the series).

Like all Oasis Class ships, Symphony of the Seas is broken up into multiple neighborhoods for cruising fun, including a Central Park neighborhood full of eateries, bars and shops that runs down the middle of the ship and is open to the sky.

6. Harmony of the Seas (2016)

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 226,963 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,479

Unveiled in 2016, Harmony of the Seas was the third vessel in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class series and the biggest ship in the world at the time of its debut (it's since been eclipsed by its slightly bigger sisters Symphony of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas as well as the new Icon of the Seas).

The ship was the first in the Oasis Class to have a sprawling water park area known as Perfect Storm and the 10-story-high dry slide attraction Ultimate Abyss.

7. Ovation of the Seas (2016)

Maiden voyage: 2016 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Ovation of the Seas is the third vessel in Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class of ships. In recent years, it has mostly sailed in Australia and Alaska.

Like its Quantum Class sisters, Ovation of the Seas is filled with amusements such as an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and a North Star ride that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

8. Anthem of the Seas (2015)

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Anthem of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's five Quantum Class vessels (it was the second ship in the series). It currently splits its time between New York City (where it spends the winter, sailing to New England, the Bahamas and the Caribbean) and Southampton, England. It sails voyages out of the latter home port during the summers.

For the winter of 2024-2025, Anthem of the Seas is scheduled to move to Singapore for Asia sailings.

9. Quantum of the Seas (2014)

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 168,666 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,180

Quantum of the Seas was the original Quantum Class vessel for Royal Caribbean, and it thus kicked off a new era for the line.

The 4,180-passenger ship notably was the first in the world with a Bionic Bar — a bar with a robot making drinks (a concept since rolled out to several other Royal Caribbean ships). It was also the first cruise ship with an iFly skydiving simulator, a SeaPlex entertainment complex with bumper cars and a North Star ride that takes passengers into the air in a suspended pod.

10. Allure of the Seas (2010)

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 225,282 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,484

When Allure of the Seas debuted in 2010, it was the biggest ship in the world (by a hair) and is still one of the world's five biggest cruise vessels.

Allure of the Seas was the second ship in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class series, and only the three newer vessels in the series are bigger than it.

Like all Oasis Class ships, Allure of the Seas features multiple neighborhoods, including the Coney Island-inspired Boardwalk with an AquaTheater for acrobatic and high diving shows, a carousel, an arcade, restaurants and sweet shops, and two rock-climbing walls looming above.

11. Oasis of the Seas (2009)

Maiden voyage: 2009 Size: 226,838 gross tons Passenger capacity: 5,602

Oasis of the Seas was the cruise ship that changed the cruise world; a vessel so much bigger and with so many more attractions and venues when it debuted in 2009 that nobody who loved megaships wanted to be on any other vessel.

At the time of its debut, it was a stunning 40% bigger than any other cruise vessel on the planet.

Fourteen years after its debut, Oasis of the Seas remains one of the biggest ships on the planet, being just a tad smaller than its four Oasis Class sisters that have debuted in the years since it arrived. It's also eclipsed in size by the just unveiled Icon of the Seas.

12. Independence of the Seas (2008)

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,634

Independence of the Seas is the newest of three ships in Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class series.

Like other Freedom Class vessels, it's notably smaller than Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class ships, but it still is big enough to offer a lot when it comes to deck-top attractions, eateries, lounges and bars. The back of its top deck features a FlowRider surfing pool, a water park area with swirling waterslides and a rock-climbing wall.

13. Liberty of the Seas (2007)

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 154,407 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,798

Liberty of the Seas is the second of three ships in Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class series.

Like its newer sister Independence of the Seas, it's smaller than Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis Class ships but still is big enough to pack in a lot of options for cruisers. You'll find many deck-top attractions, eateries, lounges and bars across this vessel.

14. Freedom of the Seas (2006)

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 156,271 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,926

Freedom of the Seas was another groundbreaking ship for Royal Caribbean, the first in a three-ship series (the Freedom Class) that were the biggest ships in the world when they debuted.

While no longer in the Top 25 list of biggest ships (so many bigger ships have since debuted), Freedom of the Seas still offers a lot of onboard fun. It was, notably, the first Royal Caribbean ship to feature a FlowRider surfing simulator on its top decks — now a signature attraction for the line. It also boasts multiple pool areas, a water park, a miniature golf course and a rock climbing wall.

15. Jewel of the Seas (2004)

Maiden voyage: 2004 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,191

Jewel of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's four Radiance Class vessels, a series of ships that is significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships.

Indeed, at 90,090 tons, Radiance of the Seas and its three sisters are less than half the size of the massive Oasis Class ships.

Still, Radiance of the Seas has more than a half-dozen places to eat, including the main restaurant, casual buffet, steakhouse, Italian restaurant and Asian venue.

You'll also find three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium. Inside, a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges keep passengers entertained.

16. Mariner of the Seas (2003)

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 139,863 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,000

Mariner of the Seas is the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series, which began debuting in 1999.

At the time of their debuts, the Voyager Class ships were the biggest cruise ships in the world (as is often the case with the new series of Royal Caribbean ships). But today, they are essentially midsize in the pantheon of Royal Caribbean vessels.

Still, Mariner of the Seas and its four Voyager Class sisters have many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions, including rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks. In fact, the ships were the first at Royal Caribbean to have those attractions.

Voyager Class ships were also the first to feature a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops in their interior. Each also has several specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room and casual buffet; specialty restaurants include a version of Royal Caribbean's signature Chops Grille steakhouse and an Italian restaurant.

17. Serenade of the Seas (2003)

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

Serenade was the third ship to debut in Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class series, which rolled out in quick succession in the early 2000s.

Like other Radiance Class ships, it is significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships but still has a lot to offer, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

Like Jewel of the Seas, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

18. Navigator of the Seas (2002)

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 139,999 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,388

Unveiled in 2002, Adventure of the Seas is the second newest vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

Like other Voyager Class ships, it is significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's newer vessels but still offers many of the line's signature attractions, including a rock climbing wall, ice skating rink, and a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

19. Brilliance of the Seas (2002)

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,142

Coming out just a year earlier than Serenade of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas is an almost identical vessel.

Like Serenade of the Seas, it's a Radiance Class ship, and that means it's significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. However, it is still loaded with venues, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

Like its Radiance Class sisters, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

20. Adventure of the Seas (2001)

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,114

Adventure of the Seas is the third newest vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

21. Radiance of the Seas (2001)

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 90,090 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,143

Radiance of the Seas was the prototype vessel for Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class series, which debuted between 2001 and 2004.

Like the other ships in the series, it's significantly smaller than the line's newer Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. However, it still is loaded with venues, including more than a half-dozen places to eat, three pools, whirlpools, a rock climbing wall, a miniature golf course, a sports court and an adults-only solarium.

In addition, its interior venues include a theater, spa, casino and multiple bars and lounges.

22. Explorer of the Seas (2000)

Maiden voyage: 2000 Size: 137,308 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,286

Unveiled in 2000, Explorer of the Seas was the second vessel in Royal Caribbean's five-vessel Voyager Class series.

Like the other four vessels in the series, it has many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions despite being smaller than the Royal Caribbean ships that have debuted over the past 15 years. These include a rock climbing wall and ice skating rink as well as a Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

Explorer of the Seas also has several specialty restaurants in addition to the main dining room and casual buffet; specialty restaurants include a version of Royal Caribbean's signature Chops Grille steakhouse and an Italian restaurant.

23. Voyager of the Seas (1999)

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 137,276 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,602

Voyager of the Seas was the original Voyager Class ship, and at the time of its debut, it was the biggest cruise ship in the world.

Twenty-four years later, it isn't even one of the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world, the result of years of growth in the cruise industry that has seen far bigger vessels.

Still, Voyager of the Seas has many of Royal Caribbean's signature attractions, including a rock climbing wall and ice skating rink (two concepts it debuted). It was also the first Royal Caribbean ship with an interior Royal Promenade with bars, cafes and shops.

24. Vision of the Seas (1998)

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 78,340 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,050 passengers

Vision of the Seas is the newest of Royal Caribbean's Vision Class ships, which are the smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Unlike most Royal Caribbean ships, they offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line's vessels.

In general, Vision of the Seas and its three older Vision Class sisters appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship and cruisers who care more about the destinations they visit than the onboard attractions.

25. Enchantment of the Seas (1997)

Maiden voyage: 1997 Size: 82,910 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,252

Enchantment of the Seas is the third of four Vision Class vessels that began joining the Royal Caribbean fleet in 1996.

Like its sister ships, it's less than half the size of Royal Caribbean's newest, biggest ships and has far fewer onboard attractions and amenities.

Like Vision of the Seas, Enchantment of the Seas appeals to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship.

26. Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)

Maiden voyage : 1997 Size: 78,419 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,998

Rhapsody of the Seas was the second vessel in Royal Caribbean's Vision Class of ships, which are the smallest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Like its sisters in the Vision Class, it offers fewer onboard attractions and amenities than are typical for the line's vessels.

27. Grandeur of the Seas (1996)

Maiden voyage: 1996 Size: 73,817 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,992

Grandeur of the Seas was the original Vision Class vessel in the Royal Caribbean fleet, and it's the smallest of the series, too. In fact, it's the smallest ship in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet.

Like its sisters in the Vision Class, Grandeur of the Seas offers relatively few onboard attractions and amenities — at least compared to newer Royal Caribbean ships.

What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship?

The newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Icon of the Seas. As noted above, it is just debuting in January, with its first sailing with paying passengers scheduled for Jan. 27.

Measuring 250,800 gross tons, Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship ever built. It's also loaded with more restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top attractions than you'll find on any other ship at sea.

TPG got a sneak peek at Icon of the Seas in early January in advance of its first sailing with paying passengers. Don't miss our first stories live from the ship:

• Icon of the Seas preview: Photos of Royal Caribbean's newest ship
• Why the world's largest cruise ship won't be as crowded as you fear

What is the oldest Royal Caribbean ship?

The oldest Royal Caribbean cruise ship is Grandeur of the Seas. Unveiled way back in 1996, it's not just the oldest Royal Caribbean ship but the smallest Royal Caribbean ship — far smaller than the newest Royal Caribbean vessels. Measuring just 73,817 gross tons, it's just a third the size of Wonder of the Seas and has far fewer venues.

Except for a rock climbing wall, Grandeur of the Seas has none of the gee-whiz deck-top attractions found on bigger Royal Caribbean vessels, such as skydiving simulators and giant water parks. For the most part, its top deck is lined with pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s.

That said, Grandeur of the Seas has a loyal following among Royal Caribbean fans who prefer smaller and more intimate ships.

What new Royal Caribbean ships are coming?

Royal Caribbean currently has three new cruise ships on order, all of which will be among its biggest cruise ships ever — if not its biggest.

The first to arrive, in July, will be Utopia of the Seas , the sixth and final vessel in the line's iconic Oasis Class series. Launched in 2009 with the debut of Oasis of the Seas, the Oasis-class ships have dominated the world of mega-size cruise ships since that year. At the time the class began rolling out, the vessels were around 40% bigger than the next-biggest cruise ships, and they have continued to be the biggest and most amenity-laden ships in the world ever since.

Utopia of the Seas is expected to be roughly the same size as Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second-biggest cruise ship. But it'll be smaller than the line's biggest ship, Icon of the Seas. It's currently under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Royal Caribbean also has two more vessels similar to Icon of the Seas on order from shipyards for delivery in 2025 and 2026. The first of the vessels will be called Star of the Seas. The second of the vessels has not yet been named.

Known as the Icon Class, these ships are being built at the giant Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland.

What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship available for booking?

Star of the Seas is the newest Royal Caribbean ship that you can book right now. While the ship isn't yet sailing, its initial sailings scheduled for August 2025 are already on sale, as are future sailings through April 2026.

Also not yet sailing but available to book is Utopia of the Seas, the new Oasis Class vessel that will debut in July. Utopia of the Seas sailings through April 2025 are now open for bookings.

The third Royal Caribbean ship on order has yet to open for bookings.

What is the newest class of Royal Caribbean ships?

The Icon Class is the newest class of Royal Caribbean ships. It'll be made up of at least three vessels, the first of which (Icon of the Seas) is debuting this month.

At 250,800 tons, Icon of the Seas is more than 6% bigger than the biggest Royal Caribbean ships that came before it. It can hold up to 7,600 passengers — a new record for a passenger ship. That's about 7% higher than the maximum capacity of Wonder of the Seas, the line's next oldest vessel, which can hold up to 7,084 passengers.

The bigger passenger capacity of Icon of the Seas is in part due to the ship's greater focus on family travelers. Icon of the Seas is being built with more cabins that have plenty of extra bunks to accommodate families with children. It'll also have more amenities geared to families, including a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside dedicated to families with young children.

What's the difference between newer and older Royal Caribbean ships?

Newer Royal Caribbean ships generally are bigger than older Royal Caribbean ships — sometimes much bigger. As a result, they have room for many more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest Oasis Class vessels, for instance, you'll find three separate main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on their top decks.

Inside the vessels, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine — plus huge casinos, spas and showrooms with Broadway-style shows. They even have indoor ice skating rinks.

In short, they're like giant floating versions of the megaresorts you find in the Orlando area or Las Vegas, and they appeal to people who like a megaresort experience.

Royal Caribbean's new Icon of the Seas has a similar array of venues.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's older ships are a half to a third smaller and lack many of the above features. They have a much more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold far fewer people. While Icon Class and Oasis Class ships can hold more than 6,600 passengers with every berth full, the line's four oldest vessels (known as the Vision Class) are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

That makes them a good choice for someone who wants to try Royal Caribbean but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The oldest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet thus appeal to a subset of Royal Caribbean fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Royal Caribbean loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the oldest ships at Royal Caribbean are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Wonder of the Seas.

Note that all Royal Caribbean ships are renovated and upgraded on a regular schedule every few years, so even the oldest Royal Caribbean cruise vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, they also have had entire eateries and bars renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

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Icon of the Seas Sets Sail Fall 2023

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DISCOVER THE BEST CRUISE SHIPS

There are so many reasons to get excited about a Royal Caribbean® cruise. Choose from itineraries that take you to top-rated vacation destinations, from sun-soaked Caribbean isles to ancient temples in Asia and everywhere in between. Make the most out of every moment at sea while traveling onboard the world’s best cruise ships, loaded from bow to stern with game-changing thrills, dazzling entertainment, as well as next-level dining and unmatched activities for all kinds of adventure-seekers. No matter which ship you choose to sail on, this is a fleet filled with incredible feats.

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These engineering wonders take home awards every year for their cutting-edge design, first-of-their-kind attractions, world class dining and accommodations, and unforgettable experiences. From the tallest slide at sea, to culinary concepts that take guests from Japan to Italy to Wonderland, the world’s largest cruise ships are full of adventures guaranteed to wow every kind of explorer.

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The Best New Cruise Ships

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Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas will be the world's biggest new cruise ship.

Cruising is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, with passenger numbers projected to reach 37.2 million by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Cruise lines are responding to this growth by building new (and often, larger) vessels with all the bells and whistles, including technological advancements that are more environmentally friendly and create the capability to use alternative fuels.

U.S. News has compiled this roundup of new cruise ships that have just set sail or are scheduled to launch later in 2023 and in 2024, plus a preview of new ships coming in 2025 and beyond. The list includes everything from expedition and luxury yacht-style vessels to reimagined ships and megaships – plus the debut of a brand-new cruise line.

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Oceania Vista: May 2023

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Top feature: Luxurious, distinctive spaces

Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's first new ship in 10 years. The 1,200-passenger, all-veranda vessel features a fresh interior design inspired by nature. The elegant new signature spaces include the dramatic Grand Staircase, the reimagined Martinis bar, the clubby Grand Lounge and 180-degree ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons.

Another highlight of the new ship is the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Elevated dining concepts on Oceania Vista include the new venue Ember, wellness-inspired cuisine at Aquamar Kitchen and The Bakery at Baristas, which specializes in French and Italian pastries.

Book an  Oceania  cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival Venezia: May 2023

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Top feature: Italian-style ship

Fares begin around: $419 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night cruise to the Bahamas

Sails to: Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Panama Canal

Originally built for the Chinese cruise market in 2019, Carnival Venezia first sailed throughout Asia under the Costa Cruises brand. It headed to Europe in 2020, then was reintroduced as a Carnival Cruise Line vessel in 2023. The rebranded ship, now homeported in the U.S., features Carnival's "Fun Italian Style" concept, with Venetian-style artwork and the Piazza San Marco atrium – not to mention Italian-inspired beverages and dishes at venues like Frizzante, Amari, Marco Polo, the Canal Grande Restaurant and La Strada Grill.

The 4,090-passenger ship has classic Carnival favorites, too, like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Piano Bar 88 and the Serenity Bar. Guests will also find Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, three kids clubs, the outdoor SportSquare and onboard water park WaterWorks.

Find a  Carnival  cruise on GoToSea.

Resilient Lady: May 2023

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Top feature: New and exciting entertainment offerings

Fares begin around: $2,550 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to the Greek islands

Sails to: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific

Virgin Voyages' third adults-only ship , Resilient Lady , debuted with its MerMaiden voyage sailing the Greek islands in May 2023. The new 2,762-passenger ship offers the same features as its sister ships, including more than 20 dining venues with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, an impressive fitness and wellness program, and superyacht-inspired cabins.

The immersive entertainment is one highlight on the new Virgin ship, with shows like rock 'n' roll "Persephone," a concept from the Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive. The Supper Club Series featuring Another Rose is a new show by Randy Weiner of theatrical performance "Sleep No More." The evening with the Supper Club includes a dining experience with cabaret and acrobatic performances in a tale of ill-fated love.

Explore  Virgin Voyages  deals on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia: June 2023

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Top feature: Commitment to sustainable cruising and environmental stewardship

Fares begin around: $219 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Northern Europe cruise

Sails to: Northern and Western Europe

The LNG-powered MSC Euribia has several features that exemplify the line's commitment to sustainable cruising , including an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system and energy-saving equipment like smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation. MSC Euribia's hull, decorated with the hashtag #SaveTheSea, was designed by artist Alex Flämig and is also a symbol of MSC Cruises ' dedication to preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.

One of the most striking features on MSC's fifth (and final) Meraviglia-class ship is the two-story Galleria Euribia. The 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade – lined with shops, restaurants and bars – sits beneath the longest LED dome at sea. Another highlight is the Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship. The new space features floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor areas, and Big Band at Sea: a 19-piece in-house group of musicians and entertainers. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.

Compare  MSC Cruises  on GoToSea.

Viking Saturn: June 2023

Courtesy of Viking

Top feature: "Residential design" (found on all Viking ocean vessels)

Fares begin around: $2,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Mainland Europe, British Isles, Iceland, Mediterranean and India

The 930-passenger Viking Saturn is the ninth ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet and identical in design to its eight sister ships. The all-veranda vessel offers six categories of accommodations ranging from the 270-square-foot Veranda Stateroom to the spacious 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. On board, guests will enjoy the sleek, elegant Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and lounges. The line's enrichment program includes lectures with resident historians, TED Talks and sessions with world-renowned guest speakers. There are eight dining venues featuring destination-focused cuisine, the Nordic Spa with its snow grotto, two pools and hot tubs, and a sports deck.

Book a  Viking Ocean cruise on GoToSea.

Norwegian Viva: August 2023

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Top feature: Indulge Food Hall

Fares begin around: $629 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night Greek islands cruise

The line's second Prima-class ship, Norwegian Viva mirrors the elevated design of sister ship Norwegian Prima . The new ship features six complimentary dining venues, including globally inspired dishes at Indulge Food Hall, pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill and 270-degree ocean views at the beautifully redesigned main restaurant, Hudson's.

The Haven on Viva is the most exclusive and spacious private enclave in Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet; it was designed by one of Italy's leading designers, Piero Lissoni. Guests will also find updated styling at Mandara Spa. There's no shortage of entertainment on Viva; it's home to the first free-fall dry slide in the world, a three-story racetrack, high-tech mini-golf and the musical "Beetlejuice." Viva has the capacity to carry up to 3,099 guests.

Find a  Norwegian Cruise Line  itinerary on GoToSea.

Explora I: August 2023

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

Top feature: Luxury details and design, with a focus on sustainability

Fares begin around: $3,000 per person (double occupancy) for a six-night cruise to the Caribbean and Columbia

Sails to: Mediterranean and Western Europe, Caribbean and Central America, U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

Explora I is the first of six luxury vessels for new cruise line Explora Journeys. Owned by the Aponte family and MSC Group, the elegant 922-guest ship combines Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship, offering suites and residences that are comfortable and spacious enough to be considered "homes at sea."

Guests can explore 14 decks offering nearly 27,000 square feet of outdoor space. Lounge at four pools (one with a retractable glass roof), book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa, work out at the fitness center or browse the boutiques. There are also six dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen for culinary classes and private dining. Regional wine pairings will accompany the onboard dining experience, which includes Pan-Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as classic steakhouse offerings.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Silver Nova: August 2023

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Top feature: Ship's asymmetrical deck plan, which offers more open spaces and higher ceilings

Fares begin around: $3,850 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Central and South America

Sails to: Caribbean, Central America, South America, U.S. West Coast, Alaska, Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Silversea Cruises' newest ship is the 728-guest Silver Nova . The 12th vessel in the fleet is ultra-luxurious and offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry. Two highlights are the ship's asymmetrical design and aft suites, which have 270-degree views. Silver Nova's nine dining options include S.A.L.T. Kitchen's destination-inspired menus, Silversea 's classic dining experience at Atlantide and French cuisine at La Dame. Silver Nova is also Silversea's most environmentally friendly vessel yet.

Explore  Silversea  cruises on GoToSea.

Seven Seas Grandeur: November 2023

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Top feature: "Journey in Jewels," the first Fabergé egg at sea

Fares begin around: $3,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Mexico and Central America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Panama Canal

The 746-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises' third Explorer-class vessel when it launches late this fall. While Grandeur is similar to its two sister ships, Explorer and Splendor , the new vessel features updated lounges, restaurants, spa spaces and suites. The line's signature Regent Suite – coming in at an impressive 4,443 square feet – has also been redesigned by Miami firm Studio DADO.

A few additional standout spaces include the art nouveau design of the Observation Lounge (located at the bow of the ship) and the reimagined Serene Spa. The stunning new Compass Rose is the ship's main dining room. Meanwhile, the onboard art collection is also notable: Seven Seas Grandeur will set sail with the first Fabergé egg at sea.

Compare  Regent Seven Seas  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Ascent: November 2023

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Top feature: 32 restaurants, bars and lounges, including the redesigned Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud

Fares begin around: $756 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Sails to: Europe, Caribbean

The fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge class, Celebrity Ascent , will accommodate up to 3,260 passengers and offer the same features as other ships in the series. There are 32 bars, lounges and restaurants, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.

Other favorites from the Edge-class ships will return on Ascent, such as the multideck Sunset Bar and an open-air Rooftop Garden with floating pools that are cantilevered over the edge of the ship. It's also home to Celebrity's Magic Carpet, a multipurpose 90-ton deck that moves up and down the side of the ship between Decks 2, 5, 14 and 16; it's used for everything from tendering passengers to hosting happy hours and private functions and late-night parties. Guests will also find Celebrity 's innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the exclusive ship-within-a ship concept of The Retreat.

Book a  Celebrity Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Carnival Jubilee: December 2023

Top feature: Two new ocean-themed zones, Currents and The Shores

Fares begin around: $669 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Western Caribbean

Carnival's newest ship in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee , will offer six zones (fun themed areas) for up to 6,631 passengers. The LNG-powered vessel features two new zones: Currents and The Shores. Currents is an immersive space with innovative technology such as LED windows and a wave-shaped LED Ceiling. Located on Decks 6 and 7, the space offers new venues for imbibing, dining and listening to live music, such as casual bar Inks, Ph.D and stylish lounge The Golden Mermaid. This is also where you'll find Emeril's Bistro 717.

The Shores, located on Deck 8, features a three-deck-high art installation of a school of fish, a boardwalk, and vibrant colors throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. Dining and bar venues include Rudi's Seagrill, Cucina del Capitano and Marina Bar. Enjoy other returning Carnival favorites on Jubilee such as the BOLT sea coaster, Waterworks, SportSquare, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

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Icon of the Seas: January 2024

Top feature: Largest cruise ship in the world, carrying up to 7,600 passengers

Fares begin around: $1,930 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the first Icon-class vessel in the Royal Caribbean International fleet – and the first new class of ship since 2014. When the massive vessel debuts in January 2024, it will replace Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship at sea (Icon of the Seas is 6% larger). The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods – including the new Surfside neighborhood, a colorful space geared toward family fun with kids clubs, Splashaway Bay, themed eateries and bars, adjacent staterooms and more.

There are four additional new neighborhoods as well. Thrill Island features Category 6, the largest water park at sea, while Chill Island boasts the line's first swim-up bar and The Hideaway features the first suspended infinity pool at sea. AquaDome, the impressive glass-enclosed space at the top of the ship, is home to the AquaTheater, panoramic ocean views, a waterfall, and bars and restaurants.

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Sun Princess: February 2024

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Top feature: Princess Cruises' largest ship and the first in the line's Sphere class

Fares begin around: $577 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean, Mediterranean

Sun Princess will have many new attractions when it launches in early 2024. It has the most balconies on any Princess Cruises ' ship, and you'll find exciting new dining, activity and entertainment offerings. One notable highlight is Park19, a top-deck space with activities for kids of all ages, including the Sea Breeze Rollglider, the first ride of its kind on a cruise ship. This new attraction soars 19 decks high and offers unparalleled views of the ocean below.

Cruisers can enjoy additional spaces like a two-story dome that is a pool during the day and a stage for shows at night; the European-inspired Piazza, which offers ocean vistas from nearly every angle; the Princess Arena, a high-tech performance space; the elegant three-story Horizons Dining Room; and the new Wake View Terrace with an infinity pool. There are also new styles of accommodations and expanded offerings for young children, tweens and teens. Sun Princess can accommodate up to 4,300 passengers.

Queen Anne: May 2024

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Top feature: The Pavilion, a glass-enclosed pool area with a retractable roof

Fares begin around: $1,199 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, British Isles, Australia, Asia, Africa and Indian Ocean

When Queen Anne launches in spring 2024, it will be Cunard Line's 249th ship since the company's inception in 1840, and the line's first new vessel in 14 years. The 3,000-passenger ship will feature a fresh, modern design, yet still give a nod to the Cunard's art deco past.

Once on board, guests will discover new entertainment venues like the Bright Lights Society show bar and more wide-open spaces throughout the ship, as well as Cunard 's first two-story theater. New international dining options include Japanese restaurant Aji Wa with sushi and omakase menus, plus Indian cuisine at Aranya. Queen Anne also offers an extensive health and wellness program in collaboration with health group Mareel that features a large thermal suite, a spa pool and a top-deck wellness studio.

Find a  Cunard  cruise on GoToSea.

Utopia of the Seas: July 2024

Top feature: Three- and four-night ultimate weekend getaways

Fares begin around: $471 per person (double occupancy) for a three-night Bahamas cruise

Sails to: Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island)

Utopia of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean's sixth (and final) Oasis-class ship when it debuts in summer 2024. With a capacity of 5,668 passengers, the vessel will join the line's other Oasis- and Icon-class ships as the largest cruise ships sailing on the high seas. The ship will have the same eight neighborhoods as other Oasis-class ships, including Central Park, The Boardwalk and the Pool & Sports Zone.

The 40-plus food and beverage options will include new additions like the Pesky Parrot bar and a themed "mixed reality" dining experience that takes place on a train. A reimagined playscape is another addition, with nets, games, puzzles, slides and climbing walls for junior cruisers. The line's Ultimate Abyss – a dry slide with 10 stories of thrilling twists and turns – will now stretch an additional 43 feet, making it the longest dry slide at sea.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands and What They Offer

Explora II: August 2024

Top feature: Luxurious cabins

Fares begin around: $4,500 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean and Central America, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula and Red Sea, India, Indian Ocean and Africa

As sister ship to Explora I, Explora II will offer the same transformative travel experience for 922 guests. The luxury vessel will feature 461 oceanfront suites with private terraces. Cruisers can take advantage of 11 culinary options across six dining venues, a dozen indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen. Guests will also have access to four pools, 64 private cabanas and wellness facilities.

Silver Ray: Summer 2024

Top feature: One of the most spacious ships ever built; extraordinary space-to-guest ratio

Fares begin around: $4,000 per person (double occupancy) for a nine-night cruise to South America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Caribbean and Central America

Silver Ray, Silversea's second Nova-class ship, is scheduled to set sail in summer 2024. The 728-passenger, low-emissions vessel will offer the same advanced hybrid fuel technologies as its sister ship, Silver Nova. It will also have Silver Nova's horizontal layout and asymmetrical design, creating more open public areas and providing suites with 270-degree views. In addition, guests on board the luxury vessel will have their choice of eight dining venues and a wide selection of bars and lounges, including The Marquee, a new alfresco restaurant.

Viking Vela: December 2024

Top feature: Larger than Viking's other ocean vessels, carrying up to 998 passengers

Fares begin around: $4,999 per person (double occupancy) for a 12-night northern lights cruise

Sails to: Scandinavia, British Isles, Iceland

Measuring 748 feet long and 101 feet wide, Viking Vela will be the line's largest ship when it debuts at the end of 2024. It will accommodate 68 more passengers than its sister ships, but feature Viking's signature veranda staterooms, public spaces, amenities and dining venues. Seasoned Viking cruisers can look forward to favorites like The Nordic Spa, the Wintergarden, Mamsen's, the Explorers' Lounge, the Sports Deck, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table.

Disney Treasure: December 2024

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Top feature: Debut of new Disney Parks-inspired onboard venues

Fares begin around: $4,028 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line's private island)

Fans of Disney Cruise Line will find many familiar venues, attractions and restaurants on the new Disney Treasure, sister ship of Disney Wish . However, there will also be plenty of new features, including the theme of the ship: adventure. The Grand Hall, inspired by the movie "Aladdin," is designed with dark shades of blue, turquoise and gold and features a golden statue of a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Plaza de Coco replaces Disney Wish's "Frozen" dining experience with a two-night Mexican, "Coco"-themed theatrical dinner show. Meanwhile, "Disney The Tale of Moana" – a Broadway-style production based on the film "Moana" – will be exclusive to Disney Treasure. Adults will also find new lounges, such as the Jungle Cruise-themed Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, which is inspired by "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Disney Treasure can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

MSC World America: Spring 2025

MSC's new futuristic ship – and sister ship to MSC World Europa – will be based in Miami and sail the Caribbean. The LNG-powered, 6,762-passenger ship will offer more than 420,000 square feet of public space and many of the attractions found on World Europa, such as the MSC Luna Park Arena and World Galleria. There will also be more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, as well as the line's private enclave, MSC Yacht Club.

Oceania Allura: June 2025

Oceania Allura will be the eighth ship in Oceania's fleet, the second vessel of the line's Allura class and the sister ship to Oceania Vista. The 1,200-passenger Allura will offer the same upscale amenities as Vista, as well as a new Chef's Studio and one of the highest space-to-guest and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Allura is scheduled to debut in June 2025.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Star Princess: August 2025

Star Princess is scheduled to set sail in 2025 as the sister ship to Sun Princess. The 4,300-passenger, LNG-powered ship will offer the same features as Sun Princess, including the Dome, the Piazza and the line's Signature Collection Suites. The vessel will also have 29-plus restaurants and bars.

Star of the Seas: Summer 2025

Royal Caribbean plans to introduce Star of the Seas – the second Icon-class vessel and sister to Icon of the Seas – in summer 2025.

Disney Cruise Line: 2025

Disney purchased the former Global Dream from Genting's Dream Cruises in 2022, when it was still being built at the German shipyard MV Werften. Disney plans to base the ship in Singapore for at least five years, offering Disney vacations to the Southeast Asian market. When it launches in 2025, the vessel will be the line's seventh ship and is expected to carry 6,000 passengers. Another newly built, currently unnamed Disney ship is planned to debut in 2025, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 2025 and beyond

The third Prima-class ship is expected to be approximately 10% larger than the first ship in the class, Norwegian Prima (143,535 gross tons). The following ships for the line are anticipated to be even larger, with the fifth and sixth Prima-class vessels (debuting in 2027 and 2028) weighing as much as 171,000 gross tons.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's fifth Edge-class ship will be more eco-friendly, thanks to the addition of a new tri-fueled engine model and the capacity to store three different kinds of fuel, including methanol. The effort toward net-zero emissions and more sustainable cruising is a partnership between Royal Caribbean, the French shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique and the technology firm Wärtsilä. A debut date for this ship has not yet been announced.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. She used her extensive experience with cruises to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• What to Wear on a Cruise
• The Best Gay Cruises
• The Best Transatlantic Cruises

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I stayed in a balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean's 2 newest and largest cruise ships. One was clearly better — and $900 cheaper.

Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships.

I stayed in both of their balcony staterooms — a $130-per-person-per-day difference.

Icon's pricier cabin looked more modern but lacked the functionality and comfort of Wonder's.

Do you know what $900 could buy you? More than three years of Netflix's premium plan, a new Gucci purse, or 2,059 spicy chicken McNuggets.

Or, in the case of Royal Caribbean's two largest and newest cruise ships , the cash could mean the difference between a cheap but functional balcony cabin and, ironically, a more expensive but less comfortable one.

Staterooms with balconies are the most popular cruise cabin category. After all, if you're going on a vacation at sea, wouldn't you want to be able to feel its breeze from your room?

But not all cabins with private outdoor spaces are created equal, even on two new mega-ships owned by the same cruise line.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in 2022 and its larger successor, Icon of the Seas, in January.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony cabin for both complimentary sailings, the longest of which was three nights on Icon.

Both ships are operating seven-night cruises around the Caribbean in 2024.

About 66% of Wonder's cabins fall under the 'balcony' category. On Icon, they make up half of the staterooms.

Wonder of the Seas' balcony cabins start shy of $1,110 per person in 2024.

Even with nearly identical itineraries, the ones on Icon are, at their cheapest, a little more than $2,000 per person this year — or double that for the a New Year's cruise.

Wonder and Icon are the most boisterous, flamboyant, and overwhelming vessels I've ever boarded.

The pool decks were intensely colorful, the crowds were inescapable, and the long lists of activities and dining options were paralyzing.

So imagine my surprise when I unlocked my doors to find surprisingly bland rooms.

The neutral tans, blues, and whites did not scream "we belong on the world's biggest and most colorful cruise ships."

The vessels have an almost two-year age difference, as evidenced by some of their decor (mainly Icon's recessed mood lights and the more chic, darker wood tones).

But besides the light fixtures, rugs, and — frankly negligible — wall art and pillows, both cabins were fairly underwhelming compared to everything outside their front doors .

Aesthetics aside, let’s talk functionality.

Both had furnished 50-square-foot balconies.

Regarding the interior space, my 204-square-foot cabin on Icon of the Seas was 22 square feet larger than mine on Wonder.

In retrospect, I would've thought Icon's was smaller. More on that in a bit.

Both king-sized beds faced a television and some wall storage.

And both were flanked by light fixtures with built-in USB outlets, as is expected on most modern cruise ships.

The cruise line says the ships' balcony cabins use two twin mattresses that have been "converted" to make a king bed. It's a common practice I've never had an issue with — until Icon.

On Wonder, the plush pillows enveloped me the moment I laid down. I slept great. No complaints.

Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the new ship.

I (my back pain) could feel the hard ridge where the two mattresses met, making for a pretty miserable and uncomfortable sleep.

So much for starfishing — I kept to one side of the bed to avoid rolling over the bony bump.

For the most part, the living “rooms” were the same.

Both had the same furniture I see on almost every mass-market ship: a couch that could convert into a bed and a desk that extended into a dresser.

But storage, a high priority for cruisers, was organized differently.

Two thin wardrobes with drawers, hangars, and shelves surrounded either side of my bed on Wonder .

Icon, on the other hand, had one large wardrobe next to the living room.

Unfortunately, it had noticeably less shelving. And the metal bins let out ear-piercing screeches at every move — a lazy and annoying detail that the designers could've easily fixed with cheap felt pads.

So far, the differences have been small. But not for long.

I had two gripes with my Wonder bathroom: the lack of hair conditioner and the ill-positioned faucet that flooded the counter whenever I washed my hands.

I had the same issues on Icon. But that was the least of my concerns.

My bathroom on the older ship was well-sized for 1 person, but maybe too small for 2.

On Icon — the world's largest cruise ship — my bathroom was too compact for even one body.

Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told reporters in January that 80% of Icon's 2,805 cabins were designed for families, a sharp increase from previous vessels like Wonder.

I'm not sure a family of four could coexist in Icon's balcony cabin — solely because of the bathroom size. There's no way two people could fit in there simultaneously. A fight over who gets priority access to the toilet could ruin a peaceful family vacation! (Which is to say, I'm glad I was traveling alone.)

With the bathroom door closed, I accidentally elbowed the walls more times than I could count.

The spare towels had to be stored on a shelf inside the shower. Because the counter was so small, I had to keep most of my toiletries and products on the shelves or in the drawer.

Surprisingly, that's where Icon excelled. Its bathroom had more storage options than its older counterpart, which didn't even have a drawer.

However, the older ship's shower had a clothesline perfect for drying swimwear. It's a small but crucial amenity, especially on a vessel with so many pools and waterslides.

Unfortunately, both were stocked with two-in-one body wash and shampoo — and no hair conditioner

Let’s go through our checklist.

My balcony cabin on Wonder looked less modern than its successor (the TV on Icon had Chromecast, after all).

But it was significantly more functional and comfortable. The bed was incomparably more pleasant, the closets had more defined storage components, and the bathroom was considerably larger, even if it lacked additional shelving and drawers.

The question is: Which one is more worth its price?

Icon's cheapest balcony cabins are currently $900 more than the most affordable ones on Wonder — an almost $130 per person and day difference.

Based on the quality of the staterooms alone, if you prioritize functionality, comfort, and affordability over modern decor, consider saving money and going with the two-year-old ship .

But let’s not forget that cruise fares include unlimited food, on board activities, and nighttime entertainment.

Both ships have a fairly similar list of amenities. But only the newer one has a waterpark , an adult-only infinity pool club, and a swim-up bar, to name a few unique amenities.

So yes, Icon's balcony cabins are more costly. But the staggering price difference — and tiny bathroom — could be worth it if you think the its surplus of additional amenities is worth paying for.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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I went on 2 of Royal Caribbean's largest and newest cruise ships. I enjoyed them, but they're not for everyone.

• I've sailed on Royal Caribbean's largest cruise ships , Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
• Both megaships are jam-packed with people, amenities, and dining options.
• But if you want a quiet cruise to unique destinations, they might not be for you.

Before booking a vacation at sea, travelers should always research the best cruise line and ship for their needs.

If you're looking for a cheap and fast trip, try Margaritaville at Sea . Craving something more upscale? Consider Oceania Cruises.

But if you're looking for high-end sailing to unique destinations, I'd suggest avoiding Royal Caribbean's megaships .

Royal Caribbean has become synonymous with giant, family-friendly cruise ships

By 2028, Royal Caribbean wants one-third of its fleet to be megaships.

The latest addition, the 1,196-foot-long and 248,663-gross-ton Icon of the Seas, entered service in January, unseating Wonder of the Seas as the world's largest cruise liner.

Together, the two vessels can fit over 19,000 people — about 4,500 crew and 14,500 guests. Each ship has eight neighborhoods and there are 29 bars and 48 eateries between them.

I've attended complimentary sailings on both Wonder and Icon, the longest of which was three nights on the latter. From their colorful pool decks to the inescapable crowds, as a solo-adult traveler, I was equal parts entertained, overwhelmed, and overstimulated.

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But admittedly, I had fun. I do love a good waterslide; Wonder has three of them and Icon has six.

If you want to go on a cruise with your children — and if they, like me, love activities like rock climbing and mini golf — Royal Caribbean's megaships could be your best option.

Wonder and Icon are jam-packed with activity spaces like ice-skating rinks and ziplines.

But don't expect a peaceful retreat. The rowdy, bar-hopping adults and screaming children at the water playground aren't conducive to a relaxing vacation.

Megavessels might not be for you if you want a quiet cruise

If you want a relaxing vacation — maybe one that doesn't involve crowds of children — you shouldn't stay on either Royal Caribbean yacht.

There are many ways to have a luxury vacation on Icon of the Seas . But unless you want to pay for upcharged amenities at every turn, you'd be better off spending more upfront to reserve a premium cruise line — especially if you're interested in cruising for the destinations, not the ships.

After all, like most of Royal Caribbean's largest vessels, Icon and Wonder exclusively sail in the Caribbean.

Some destinations, such as French Polynesia, have set restrictions on which cruises can travel there amid concerns about pollution and overcrowding.

If stopping at these ports — or, really, anywhere outside the Caribbean — is at the top of your vacation wish list, you'll have to travel on a smaller Royal Caribbean ship or go with a different cruise line like Oceania , Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas.

You might not get a waterpark, but you'll get a quieter vacation to locations no megaship will likely be allowed to visit.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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8 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2024 That You Need to Know About

E veryone loves the thrill of sailing on a brand new cruise ship. If you’re wondering what new cruise ship options you’ll have in 2024, there are eight ships set to launch. One of them, the Sun Princess from Princess Cruise Line, has already made its debut.

Sun Princess

• Launched February 2024

Princess Cruise just launched its biggest ship, the Sun Princess, with a 4300-passenger capacity. This new ship is designed to be more family-friendly, with the aim of attracting younger cruise-goers. On the top deck, they’ve introduced a hang-gliding ride, the first of its kind on a cruise ship. Additionally, there’s a ropes course, a splash zone, a wider range of restaurants, a high-tech theater, and a glass-covered dome entertainment venue.

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• Launching June 2024

Cunard’s latest addition to its fleet is the Queen Anne, the company’s first new ship in over a decade. This 2794-passenger cruise liner will embark on its maiden voyage in Europe, with sailings in the Mediterranean and Scandinavia. The ship’s design is a modern take on the classic “golden age” of cruising, featuring new restaurants and a two-deck Royal Court theater. Check the prices for Cunard cruises .

Utopia of the Seas

• Launching in July 2024

Royal Caribbean is introducing another massive cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, which will soon become the second largest cruise ship worldwide, surpassed only by Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Utopia of the Seas is an impressive ship, with a passenger capacity of 6,700, a total weight of 237,000 tons, and 2,830 cabins. 

It is part of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class of ships featuring an impressive array of amenities, such as an indoor ice skating rink, a zip line, a FlowRider surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, a water park, a 259 ft Ultimate Abyss waterslide, an aqua theater, and neighborhoods filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Cruise passengers will be entertained with Broadway-caliber shows.

Utopia of the Seas will sail on short getaway itineraries from Port Canaveral (Orland), offering 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday itineraries to the Bahamas and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Check the prices for Royal Caribbean cruises .

Disney Treasure

• Launching December 2024

Disney Treasure, the latest addition to the Disney Cruise Line, will launch in December this year, marking a significant milestone after a decade since the launch of the last Disney cruise ship. The ship has 1256 cabins and suites, each designed with a theme inspired by Disney movies like Aladdin, The Lion King, and Pocahontas. 

Passengers on the cruise are in for a treat, with exciting Broadway-style musicals and the Aqua Mouse, a thrilling Disney water ride. The themed restaurants on board are another highlight, featuring a Marvel-themed restaurant and a Mexican restaurant inspired by the movie Coco. And if that wasn’t enough, the ship also features a new Haunted Mansion-themed bar, resembling a classic ocean liner’s haunted drawing room, serving ghostly cocktails.

• Launching August 2024

Silversea Cruises is preparing to launch its newest ship, the Silver Ray, in the summer of 2024. The Silver Ray is the second Nova Class ship in the Silversea fleet, and it promises to bring ultra-luxury cruising to a new level. With a capacity of 728 passengers, the Silver Ray is a small ship that offers an all-balcony cabin experience, complete with walk-in closets and butler service. 

But that’s not all. The Silver Ray is also an eco-friendly cruise ship, making it the first hybrid, luxury cruise ship to be completely emission-free while in port. It does this by using fuel cells and batteries to power the ship. 

The Silver Ray will begin its maiden voyage season sailing in the Mediterranean, before repositioning to Fort Lauderdale, where it will offer South America cruise itineraries. Check the prices for Silversea cruises .

Brilliant Lady

• Launching TBA 2024 

Virgin Voyages, the popular adults-only cruise line, is launching its newest ship, the “Brilliant Lady,” sometime in 2024. The brand new ship will have a capacity of over 2700 passengers and will be an adults-only cruise—perfect for anyone seeking an indulgent cruising experience. 

Explora II is the latest ship of Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s newest addition to its luxury brand. With a capacity of slightly over 900 passengers, it’s a smaller cruise ship that promises a more personalized experience for its guests. 

Passengers on board the ship will be treated to a range of luxurious amenities that include oversized suites, welcome champagne bottles, an exclusive whiskey and cigar bar with rare whiskeys, an expansive spa, and plenty of bespoke experiences. The ship will sail in the Mediterranean, perfect for passengers looking for a luxurious and intimate cruising experience.

Mein Schiff 7

• Launching Summer 2024

Mein Schiff 7 is the latest addition to TUI Cruises’ fleet and is expected to launch in the summer of 2024. TUI Cruises, a German-based cruise line co-owned by Royal Caribbean, has designed Mein Schiff 7 as a mid-size ship with a passenger capacity of 2896. 

The brand new cruise ship has 12 restaurants and bistros, 17 bars and lounges, and cabins for solo travelers. The ship also features a reinvented casino concept that combines a lounge and casino. The ship will sail in the Baltic and British Isles.

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The post 8 New Cruise Ships Launching in 2024 That You Need to Know About appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

Royal Caribbean lifts profit view again on cruise boom, higher prices

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Reporting by Juveria Tabassum in Bengaluru and Doyinsola Oladipo in New York; Editing by Devika Syamnath and Shounak Dasgupta

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