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BOLDER AND BIGGER

The world's largest cruise ships.

On the world’s largest cruise ships, bigger means bolder adventures.

On the world’s largest cruise ships, bigger means bolder adventures. There isn’t a holiday in the world that packs more adventure into one week than Oasis Class ships – Harmony®, Allure®, Symphony®, Oasis®, Wonder® and Utopia of the Seas℠. Whether you’re looking forward to a thrill-filled getaway with a squad that spans several generations, or a sun-soaked couples’ retreat elevated by world class dining and electrifying nightlife, each Oasis Class cruise ship offers experiences to wow every kind of traveler. Discover why the largest cruise ships sailing to Caribbean and Europe vacation destinations are consistently awarded Best Ship year after year by Travel Weekly readers. 

FIVE SHIPS, ENDLESS ADVENTURES

Larger than life thrills.

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DISCOVER THE BOLDEST ADVENTURES YET

With more than 16 decks and 20 restaurants, 7 distinct neighborhoods bustling with unique onboard experiences, and endless thrills to discover around every corner, the world’s largest cruise ships serve up expeditions filled with excitement drenched slides and rides, shows that transcend the stage, and gourmet globetrotting from Italy to Wonderland.

GAME CHANGER

When it debuted, Oasis of the Seas® won Best Cruise Ship — and now the Amplified game changer will set a new standard for making memories.

SHOW STOPPER

Awarded Best for Entertainment, Best Individual Cruise Ship, and Best Large Cruise Ship, Allure of the Seas® is a certified scene-stealer.

FAMILY FAVORITE

Named Best for Families in the Cruise Critic’s Choice Awards, Harmony of the Seas® delivers thrills to explorers of all ages.

BIGGEST & BOLDEST

The largest cruise ship in the world, Symphony of the Seas doesn’t just win awards — it wins over everyone who sets foot onboard.

NEWEST, BIGGEST AND BOLDEST FAMILY ADVENTURES

Go big on bold when you sail aboard the three largest cruise ships in the world. Deck-defying attractions aren’t the only things to look forward to when you sail onboard the newest cruise ships addition to the Oasis Class.

utopia OF THE SEAS℠

Introducing Utopia of the Seas℠ — the ship that’s totally transforming weekends for good. We’re talking bigger flavors. Bolder play. And better chill days than you’ve ever imagined. No craving goes unsatisfied with over 40 ways to dine and drink. New charttopping showstoppers blow your mind on stage, ice, water and air. This is not a routine recharge. This is the World’s Biggest Weekend — arriving in summer 2024 to Port Canaveral.

EXPLORE UTOPIA OF THE SEAS

WONDER OF THE SEAS®

Wonder of the Seas® brings even bigger adventures to the award-winning Oasis Class. Like eight unique neighborhoods, including the Suite Neighborhood. A totally redesigned pool deck with more ways to soak up the sun —or shade —than ever before. The most immersive AquaTheater ever, with a game-changing surround-stage that makes you feel part of the action.

EXPLORE WONDER OF THE SEAS

SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS®

One of the world’s biggest cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas®, the travel adventures are larger than life. From epic onboard thrills to revolutionary dining and entertainment, this ship will change how you vacation no matter what kind of experience you’re after.

EXPLORE SYMPHONY OF THE SEAS

DISCOVER THE WORLD’S LARGEST CRUISE SHIPS

There isn’t a vacation in the world that packs more adventure into one week than Oasis Class ships — Harmony®, Allure®, Symphony®, Oasis, Wonder®   and Utopia of the Seas ℠ . With ships this packed with adventure, next-level thrills never ends.

OASIS OF THE SEAS

Reimagined from bow to stern, the Amplified Oasis of the Seas® is loaded with fresh and exciting things to do to level up your romantic retreat — including bars, entertainment and dance floors that keep the fun going long into the night.

EXPLORE OASIS OF THE SEAS

ALLURE OF THE SEAS

The most awarded ship in the world is stealing the spotlight again for entertainment, dining, family activities and more, it’s filled with endless ways to make every moment incredible.

EXPLORE ALLURE OF THE SEAS

HARMONY OF THE SEAS

Rally the crew for the boldest family vacation ever. Harmony of the Seas® offers thrills for all ages, like the tallest slide at sea, surf sessions on the FlowRider®* and plenty of unique spaces just for kids of all ages.

EXPLORE HARMONY OF THE SEAS

Central Park

Ultimate abyss/flowrider*, splashaway bay, sugar beach, playmaker's.

DISCOVER. PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Forget everything you thought you knew about beach days, because this private island destination is raising the standard to a whole new level. Experience elevated island vibes while lounging in The Bahamas’ only private overwater cabanas. Earn bragging rights on the tallest waterslide in North America. And take your vacation to new heights — literally — in a helium balloon ride above the island. This is Perfect Day at CocoCay — only on Royal Caribbean®.

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

SEVEN NEIGHBORHOODS ENDLESS WAYS TO EXPLORE

Get ready for an unforgettable getaway filled with first-of-their-kind feats, including seven distinct and vibrant neighborhoods that each offer up bucket list adventures, palate-pleasing dining and inspiring entertainment to rival any cosmopolitan city on land — and they’re only found on Oasis Class ships by Royal Caribbean®. 

READ OUR GUIDE TO OASIS CLASS NEIGHBORHOOD'S

EXPLORE MORE  

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Full List: The 10 Current Largest Cruise Ships on the Planet

If you think cruise ships have gotten bigger, it’s not just your imagination. Whereas a ship built in the 1990s might hold 2,500 passengers and come in at around 75,000 gross tons (a measure of ship size), that’s nowhere near the ships built today.

Today, any new ship from a major line will be at least 140,000 gross tons, with many much larger than that. Passenger counts have also swelled, with many new ships carrying 5,000 cruisers when completely full.

But the largest cruise ships on the planet are in another league altogether. They can measure up to 250,000 gross tons (roughly triple the size of a ship built 30 years ago!) and when at full capacity with crew, have nearly 10,000 people onboard.

Why Are Cruise Ships So Big?

Truth be told, while the size of massive modern ships is staggering, not everyone likes the large ship experience. Some people can find them too crowded and too hard to navigate. But not everyone feels that way, and cruise lines have invested literally billions into building ships that are as large as possible. So what is the appeal of a mega ship?

Amenities/Activities: For passengers, the big advantage of size comes with everything that can be fit onto the ship. Instead of the old days where there was a pool, some loungers, and a buffet, modern mega ships are literal resorts at sea.

There are multiple pools, more than a dozen restaurants, casinos, ziplines, literal parks, ice-skating rinks, rock-climbing walls, spas, and more bars than you can count on your fingers and toes.

All of that combines into an experience that can exceed expectations and keep passengers coming back for more.

Efficiencies of Scale: For cruise lines, one big positive about a larger ship are greater efficiencies. Instead of having the cost of building two smaller ships — and the costs of having two sets of crew to run them both — one larger ship offers the chance for just as many passengers at a lower cost.

Marketing: Finally, one overlooked aspect of why cruise ships are bigger than ever has to do with marketing and publicity. There’s a certain awe and interest that comes with the world’s largest ships. Seeing them in port is essentially a giant billboard for a cruise line. And the largest ships also get significant press due to their size. All of that can translate into more interest, ticket sales, and prices for the newest — and biggest — ships.

With that in mind, here is the current list of the world’s largest cruise ships as of now…

Icon of the Seas

When it comes to the largest ships, Royal Caribbean is the undisputed leader with the six biggest cruise ships in the world. But the king of the fleet — and the largest cruise ship in the world — is Icon of the Seas .

Icon of the Seas doesn’t sail with passengers until 2024, but it’s already made waves. It’s not just the massive size (250,800 gross tons and 7,600 passengers at maximum capacity), but what’s onboard. A full-fledged waterpark, seven different pools, and eight different neighborhoods offer a spot for everyone. This ship looks to change cruising forever.

• Gross Tonnage: 250,800
• Length: 1,198 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,610 double occupancy; 7,600 max capacity
• Year Built: 2023

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas is the latest edition of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships (until Utopia of the Seas arrives in 2024), which were the largest class in the world until the new Icon class took the torch. Still, it’s not as if Wonder of the Seas is a slouch.

At 235,600 gross tons, there’s room for 7,084 passengers and an amazing amount to see and do onboard. This includes Central Park, the mid-ship outdoor promenade that winds through lush gardens, and the AquaTheater, where performers put on aquatic shows, including towering high dives at sea.

• Gross Tonnage: 235,600
• Length: 1,188 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,734 double occupancy; 7,084 max capacity
• Year Built: 2022

Symphony of the Seas

Each iteration of Oasis-class ships has arrived just slightly larger than the previous when it comes to gross tonnage. That means they each had their time as the largest in the world before another arrived on the scene. In this case, Symphony of the Seas (228,000 gross tons and the ability to hold 6,680 passengers) took the crown in 2018.

Today, it’s the third-largest cruise ship on the planet, but it’s no slouch. It holds seven different neighborhoods, nearly 3,000 staterooms, three waterslides, and Ultimate Abyss — a 10-story dry slide.

• Gross Tonnage: 228,081
• Passenger Capacity: 5,518 double occupancy; 6,680 max capacity
• Year Built: 2018

Harmony of the Seas

Built in 2016, Harmony of the Seas features 18 decks, more than 225,000 gross tons (about 10% smaller than Icon of the Seas) and can carry nearly 6,700 passengers when completely full. That’s good enough to make it the fourth-largest cruise ship in the world.

It features many of the same components of other ships in the class, like the adults-only Solarium, Central Park, and the AquaTheater. That’s not to mention 17 different spots to grab a bite to eat.

• Gross Tonnage: 226,963
• Passenger Capacity: 5,479 double occupancy; 6,687 max capacity
• Year Built: 2016

Oasis of the Seas

The ship that started the trend of truly mega ships is also the namesake of the Oasis class — Oasis of the Seas. If you notice, most of the largest ships on our list were built recently. This ship first began sailing in 2009 and set off the “arms race” of larger ships that continues today.

Following a refurbishment, it now features three waterslides, a dozen lounges, 2,801 cabins (including one with a panoramic view right above the ship’s bridge), a splash pad for kids, and even an escape room themed like the 1960s NASA mission control. And did we mention 20 different places to find something to eat?

• Gross Tonnage: 226,838
• Length: 1,187 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,602 double occupancy; 6,771 max capacity
• Year Built: 2009

Allure of the Seas

Following a refurbishment of Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas — which was the second ship in the class and built in 2010 — is actually now the smallest of the group based on tonnage. Still, that’s good enough for sixth largest in the world at “just” 225,000 gross tons.

On the ship, you’ll find 18 decks, 2,748 staterooms and more than 6,800 passengers when completely full. That’s definitely a lot of people, but remember that you also have a lot more space to spread out, giving plenty of elbow room.

• Gross Tonnage: 225,282
• Passenger Capacity: 5,496 double occupancy; 6,826 max capacity
• Year Built: 2010

MSC World Europa

While Royal Caribbean has a lock on the largest ships, the title of largest cruise ship from outside that cruise line goes to MSC World Europa.

Coming in at almost 216,000 gross tons, it’s roughly 14% smaller than Icon of the Seas. But don’t think it’s some slouch. From bumper cars to seven pools to an 11-story slide, there’s no shortage of things for kids to do. Adults will love the 13 different dining options and an indoor promenade or Panorama Lounge for shopping, having a drink, or just relaxing.

This ship will be joined in 2025 by sister-ship MSC World America, set to sail stateside.

• Gross Tonnage: 215,863
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,231 double occupancy; 6,762 max capacity

Costa Smeralda/Costa Toscana (Tie)

These two ships come in at a tie for the eighth-largest cruise ship in the world. Built in 2019 and 2021, respectively, they both belong to Costa Cruises. And if the shape of the ship looks familiar, that’s because Costa is a sister line to Carnival. A similar design is used for Carnival’s largest ships, Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee. However, those ships come in just under the 185,000 gross tons seen with Smeralda and Toscana.

Both ships offer 13 pools and hot tubs, nearly a dozen restaurants and just under 20 bars and lounges. And if you like balcony views? There are 1,550 balcony rooms on each, providing plenty of options for the roughly 6,500 passengers that can sail at full capacity.

• Gross Tonnage: 185,010
• Length: 1,106 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,224 double occupancy; 6,554 max capacity
• Year Built: 2019/2021

P&O Arvia

Taking the crown as the 10th-largest cruise ship in the world is Arvia from P&O Cruises. Measuring just under 185,000 gross tons, it offer a similar design to ships like Costa Smeralda and Carnival Celebration, but don’t think these ships are all the same.

For instance, Arvia features a unique Skydome area that is a pool area with retractable roof by day and an entertainment venue by night. It also features its own rum distillery onboard, meaning you can take home rum literally made on the ship. Kids will love the Altitude zone that features a ropes course, mini-golf, and more. There’s also Mission Control, a submarine-themed escape room.

All told, a reported 6,685 passengers can enjoy the ship at one time.

• Gross Tonnage: 184,700
• Length: 1,130 feet
• Passenger Capacity: 5,200 double occupancy; 6,685 max capacity

More on Large Ships:

• The World’s Largest Cruise Ship Compared to Famous Places
• The World’s Largest Cruise Ships Sailing For Each Line (With Photos)
• Photos: See the New Icon of the Seas Sail for the First Time

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17 biggest cruise ships in the world

From ships with rollercoasters to eighteen-deckers with eight ‘neighbourhoods’, here are the biggest cruise ships on the planet.

T he past decade has seen a massive growth in cruise ships. Vessels are getting bigger and bigger, with mega-ships now able to accommodate more than 7,000 passengers and 2,300 crew members. And, as well as carrying more guests, cruise lines are now adding amazing attractions such as theme parks, race tracks, waterslides and even a rollercoaster, which take up a lot more space than the deck quoits of old. We’ve taken a look at some of the biggest cruise ships in the world — including a couple of unusual ones — and their maximum passenger capacity.

Main photo: MSC Virtuosa

1. Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 7,600 Royal Caribbean’s largest ship to date, Icon of the Seas will have capacity for up to 7,600 passengers — plus 2,350 staff — when it officially sets sail in January 2024. The 20-deck vessel will be a great one for families — in addition to the seven pools and nine whirlpools on board, there’s a waterpark with six waterslides.

2. Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,988 Royal Caribbean’s whopping Wonder of the Seas made waves when it set sail in March 2022 to take over the title of the “biggest cruise ship in the world” with a gross tonnage of 236,857. Eighteen decks are divided into eight distinct “neighbourhoods” with the all-new underwater-themed Playscape for youngsters. Entertainment includes the AquaTheatre, where performers take the plunge from 30ft diving platforms.

3. Harmony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,780 Harmony of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, is a floating resort. Oasis features include the Royal Promenade packed with shops and restaurants; the Boardwalk, with a fairground carousel; and the ten-deck Ultimate Abyss slide for thrill-seekers. Outside there are waterslides, surf simulators, rock-climbing walls and Splashaway Bay for children.

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4. Symphony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,680 Another that was the world’s largest passenger ship when it was launched in 2018, Royal Caribbean’s all-singing, all-dancing Symphony of the Seas has 22 restaurants, 42 bars and lounges, a zip line and ice rink. A stateroom highlight is the incredible private playground that is the two-storey, 1,346 sq ft family suite where there’s a slide from the children’s bedroom to the living room, a climbing wall and 3D cinema.

5. Iona, P&O Cruises

Capacity 5,200 The largest cruise ship built for the UK market when it launched in 2021, P&O Cruises’ Iona is also one of the first ships in the world to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a greener alternative to diesel. Iona also has the first gin distillery at sea, plus the huge glass SkyDome — a pool, lounge and dining area by day and a spectacular entertainment venue under the stars at night.

6. Mardi Gras, Carnival Cruise Line

Capacity 6,500 Named after the first Carnival ship launched in 1972, which carried just over 1,000 passengers, the Mardi Gras is the biggest in the Carnival fleet. The headline feature is Bolt, the first rollercoaster at sea. Mardi Gras is also the first Carnival ship to be divided into themed zones, such as the New Orleans French Quarter and Italian-inspired La Piazza.

7. MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises

Capacity 6,334 Billed as MSC Cruises’ most environmentally advanced ship to date, MSC Virtuosa is, with sister ship MSC Grandiosa, one of the two biggest cruise ships in the MSC fleet. The central promenade running through the heart of the vessel has the longest LED ceiling at sea, which is used for spectacular music and light shows. A newly recruited crew member is Rob, a humanoid robotic bartender to shake and stir drinks on the waves.

8. Panorama, Carnival Cruise Line

Capacity 5,146 When Carnival Panorama launched it made history as the first new Carnival Cruise Lines’ ship in 20 years to sail from Long Beach, California. Highlights are SkyZone, an indoor trampoline park, and SkyRide, where passengers pedal around a two-lane bike course suspended high above deck. Guests can also brush up their culinary skills at the Carnival Kitchen cookery school.

9. Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Cruise Line

Capacity 4,903 Norwegian Bliss incorporates the thrills and entertainment that are synonymous with Norwegian Cruise Lines and an Observation Lounge that comes into its own during Alaska sailings. Then there’s the exhilarating Aqua Racer: a two-level electric car racing track located at the top of the ship on deck 19. Always a hit after dark is the Cavern Club that pays homage to the Fab Four with Beatles tribute bands.

10. Discovery Princess, Princess Cruises

Capacity 3,660 Sky Discovery has many of the features that were debuted on its predecessor Sky Princess, including the art deco-style live jazz lounge Take Five and WakeView bar, and pool overlooking the back of the ship for drinks and dips with sweeping views. Staterooms include the pair of swish Sky Suites that sleep up to five and have 1,000 sq ft wraparound balconies, which are the largest in the fleet.

11. MSC Meraviglia, MSC Cruises

Capacity 4,500 MSC Meraviglia is one of the four MSC ships that sail to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. The line’s private Bahamian island has two miles of white sandy beaches where passengers can take part in a variety of activities and watersports, chill out in a cabana or enjoy spa treatments. Back on board, standout features include the exclusive Yacht Club, a ship-within-a-ship concept with its own suites, restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

12. Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Capacity 2,695 The QM2 might have been launched back in 2004 but Cunard’s flagship, which is the only true transatlantic liner currently in service, remains one of the world’s record-breaking passenger ships. It is one of the biggest, fastest and most expensive ocean liners ever built and at 1,132ft is one of the world’s longest cruise ships. Upholding Cunard traditions, the ship encapsulates old-style cruising glamour with afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters and cocktail parties.

13. Arvia, P&O Cruises

Capacity 5,200 Identical in structure to sister ship Iona, P&O Cruises’ second Excel-class ship showcased a raft of new features when it launched at the end of 2022. Thrill-seeking passengers can step out on the line’s first-ever Altitude Skywalk high ropes course while those in search of gentler pursuits can test out their skills on the nine-hole mini golf course or relax with a drink at the swim-up bar.

14. MSC Seashore, MSC Cruises

Passengers 5,632 Measuring 1,112ft from bow to stern, MSC Cruises’ flagship MSC Seashore has plenty of bragging rights. It’s the longest ship in the fleet and the largest cruise ship built in Italy. It’s got the biggest children’s club and MSC Yacht Club, the line’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship enclave. Topping the interior decor is a Statue of Liberty and four-deck high LED wall with images of the New York skyline.

15. Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Cruises

Capacity 3,260 Celebrity Beyond is the newest and biggest ship in Celebrity Cruises’ innovative Edge class, notable for the Magic Carpet bar and restaurant platform that moves up and down the outside of the ship. Larger than its two sibling vessels, Celebrity Beyond has 179 extra cabins, including two-storey villas that are the biggest in the fleet, and 40 per cent more outside deck space.

16. Costa Smeralda, Costa Cruises

Capacity 6,554 Another LNG-powered ship, Costa Smeralda is the flagship of Italian cruise line Costa Cruises. With decor influenced by the Italian region of Tuscany, the heart of the ship is the three-deck-high Colosseo atrium. An open-air balcony at the back of the ship has a glass floor to create the sensation of flying over water.

costacruises.com

17. Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line

Capacity 4,000 Feel the magic on Disney Wish , the biggest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, which launched in summer 2022. The ship showcases AquaMouse, the first Disney attraction at sea combining a ride with water effects and cartoon animation. There’s also the first Frozen-themed dining experience and a nostalgic 1923 restaurant named after the year Walt Disney Studios was founded. Disney Wish also has the line’s first Royal Suites spanning two storeys.

disneycruise.disney.go.com

• What it’s really like to go on a round-the-world cruise • Best cruise lines for first-timers • How safe is a cruise ship in a storm?

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

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The 15 Largest Cruise Lines In The World

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Largest Cruise Lines Research Summary

The largest cruise line in the world is Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) , with a revenue of $22.86 billion .

As of 2022, the global cruise line industry has a market size of $7.67 billion.

A person can spend between $1,300 – $2,000 on the average 7-day sailing with a mainstream cruise line.

The global cruise line market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% through 2028.

Cruise lines or cruise companies are classified as passenger shipping corporations, associations, or organizations. The cruise line industry offers individuals leisure travel without needing to hop on a plane.

The cruise ships developed for these organizations are massive, offering everything from a travel experience, great food, company, entertainment, and tours. Many of the individual brands provide unique activities and signature amenities to their clients aboard the vessels.

The four top cruise lines own much of the cruise line market, with their market share projected to grow to 87.6% by 2021. Many of these companies are well-established passenger shipping brands, founded in the latter half of the 20th century when cruise ships became more popular.

There are a variety of different cruise lines, but typically, they can be classified into 3 different types: mainstream, premium, and luxury.

From luxury brands to budget deals, there’s something for everyone on a cruise ship. The 15 largest cruise lines in the world are as follows:

Diving Deeper into the Top 15 Cruise Lines in the World

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)

2022 Annual Revenue : $22.86 billion Number of Passengers : 1.4 million

Founded in 1970 in Naples, Italy, MSC is a Swiss-Italian-owned shipping line with a presence in all the major ports of the world. Their cruise line division, MSC Cruises focuses on holiday cruises for their passengers.

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately held cruise company, and fourth-largest in the world, boasting a 7.2% share of all cruise line passengers in the market.

In 2019, MSC Cruises rolled out the world’s first personal cruise assistant , called ZOE. This device is found in every room on the ship and is available to ask questions about your stay, reserve excursions, check your bill, and more.

Find Mediterranean Shipping Company Jobs Near Me

Carnival Corporation

2022 Annual Revenue : $12.2 billion Number of Passengers : 5.8 million

Founded in 1972, Carnival Corporation is a British-American cruise operator and currently holds the title of the world’s largest travel leisure company .

Carnival boasts over 100 vessels over ten different cruise line brands. It is a dual-listed company, meaning it operates as two companies, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc, functioning as a single entity.

The company was initially publicly offered on the New York Stock Exchange in 1987 with the intention to generate capital for future acquisitions. During the 1990s, Carnival acquired a variety of companies including Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, among others.

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Royal Caribbean Group

2022 Annual Revenue : $8.8 billion Number of Passengers : 3.3 million

Founded in 1997 when Royal Caribbean Cruise Line purchased Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean Group is an American-owned global cruise company based out of Miami, Florida . It holds the title of second-largest cruise line operator in the world.

This organization owns three cruise lines, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. In addition to their cruise lines, Royal Caribbean Group has a 50% stake in TUI Cruises in a joint venture with TUI AG.

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NCLH-Norweigan

2022 Annual Revenue : $4.844 billion Number of Passengers : 1.3 million

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is a holding company domiciled in Bermuda and headquartered in Miami, Florida . This organization owns and operates three different cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

In February 2011, NCLH was incorporated as a Bermuda exempt company before debuting on the NASDAQ in 2013. NCLH is the third-largest cruise operator in the world, controlling 9.5% of the cruise market’s share.

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Viking Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $2.1 billion Number of Passengers : 143,700

Based in Switzerland and headquartered in Los Angeles, California , Viking Cruises is a cruise line that provides adventures on rivers, ocean, and expeditions. Their three divisions are named Viking River Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Viking Expeditions.

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Disney Cruise Line (DCL)

2022 Annual Revenue : $1.6 billion Number of Passengers : 312,200

This cruise line is a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company. In 1996, the Magical Cruise Company Limited launched their first vessel in London, with headquarters in Celebration, Florida .

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TUI Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $1.32 billion Number of Passengers : 330,100

TUI cruises is a German-based cruise company, formed in 2007 between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises as a joint venture. This specific line is targeted towards German tourists and competes heavily with AIDA Cruises.

Their fleet features cruise ships across three brands, TUI Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, and Marella Cruises. This is a premium cruise line and its amenities include food, entertainment, and amenities, all tailored for a German experience.

Virgin Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $973.3 million Number of Passengers : 111,100

Headquartered in Florida, Virgin Voyages was the result of Virgin Group and Bain Capital merging together to form the organization in 2015. In June 2020, there was only one single ship in their fleet, with three more scheduled to make their debut for up to 2,700 passengers each.

Genting Hong Kong: Dream Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $723 million Number of Passengers : 264,100

This holding company operates cruise and resort businesses, with their largest cruise line being Dream Cruises. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Genting established Dream Cruises in 2015 as an Asian luxury cruise line, debuting their first cruise in November of 2016.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

2022 Annual Revenue : $327.3 million Number of Passengers : 110,700

This Norwegian-owned cruise shipping line is based in Suffolk, UK. Currently, its operation includes four cruise ships, but the company was founded in 1848 by three Olsen brothers.

Hurtigruten AS

2021 Annual Revenue : $334 million Number of Passengers : 122,300

This Norwegian-based company is a ferry service and cruise line operating out of Norway. Part of their business is operating a ferry service along the Norweigan coast, while the other part is their cruise line.

Marella Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $281 million Number of Passengers : 102,900

This British cruise line entered the cruise line market in 1973 but due to financial difficulties, shut down its operations in 1976. In 1995, they were in a position to open up their line again, after a competitor entered the cruise line industry.

Ponant/Paul Gauguin Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $233 million Number of Passengers : 85,400

Founded in 1988, Ponant, or Compagnie du Ponant is a French-owned cruise ship operator. Founded by officers from the French Merchant Navy, this organization now operates eleven ships. This luxury cruise company offers all kinds of cruises, including Antarctica.

Star Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $219 million Number of Passengers : 80,200

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Star Cruises operates primarily in the Asia Pacific market including destinations to Japan, Vietnam, and other Asian destinations. This organization is another offshoot of Genting Group in Malaysia.

Celestyal Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $175 million Number of Passengers : 64,100

Founded in 2014, Celestyal Cruises is the only cruise company based in Greece. Currently, their fleet consists of four ships with expeditions to Greek, Turkish, and Cuban ports.

Largest Cruise Lines FAQ

How much does the average person spend on a cruise?

The average cruise can cost someone $237 per day. For the average 7-day sailing with a mainstream cruise line, a person can spend between $1,300 and $2,000. This typically includes both fare and onboard spending.

What is the most popular cruise line?

The most popular cruise line is Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), with an average revenue of $22.86 billion. The second most popular cruise line is Carnival Corporation with a revenue of $12.2 billion, followed by Royal Caribbean Group with $8.8 billion in annual revenue.

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

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Largest Cruise Shipping Companies

See here the complete list of the world's largest cruise companies (passenger shipping corporations), associations and organizations. Corporate cruise line ownership - who are the owners of all cruise brands. As this is a very long survey, for your convenience next links jump down directly to largest cruise corporations (shipowners) , list of ALL cruise lines , RIVER travel brands and NEW brands .

According to official cruise industry statistics, the world's 4 largest cruise companies slowly conquered the market. Their combined market share was projected to grow over the forecast period 2015-2021 from 83,2% to 87,6%. World's largest (by combined fleet's passenger capacity/stats 2020-Q4) are Carnival Corporation (39%), RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (24$), MSC (11,5%), NCLH-Norwegian (8,3%). All other companies had combined market share (2020-Q4) 17,2%.

For the ones that are no more, see CruiseMapper's list of DEFUNCT companies .

What is a cruise line?

Cruise company's business is leisure travel, cruise tours, and entertainment. Most brands have unique activities and signature amenities offered exclusively onboard their vessels. Many activities and land tours are additionally (optionally) offered in ports of call along the ship's itinerary route.

Cruise ship companies typically hire two separate types of staff: crew (commanded by the Captain) and service staff (hotel and dining operations) supervised by Hotel Manager.

The cruise line is a passenger shipping company operating privately-owned, parent-owned or chartered vessels. Cruise brands differ from ferry companies, which operate Ro-Ro ships and offer combined passenger and cargo shipping services on a limited number of routes and in just a few regions/destinations.

Most companies are well-established passenger shipping brands. Most were founded in the second half of the 20th century, and specifically for cruising. Some were founded over 100 years ago as cargo shipping lines. Failures and consolidations in the 1990s resulted in many subsidiary companies existing as "brands" within large corporations. Brands exist partly because of their repeat customer loyalty, also to offer different levels of quality and services. Corporative shipowners frequently sell, renovate or simply rename their vessels to keep up with the travel industry's trends.

All brands offer complimentary onboard live entertainment, leisure facilities, daily scheduled activities, enrichment program, youth programs, buffet dining.

Cruise lines classification

According to the quality and price of their product, brands are classified into 4 distinct types.

CHEAPEST brands (aka mass-market/mainstream) offer good product at affordable prices. Fares range from $50-300 (Inside-Suite) pp per day. Itineraries range from 3 to 10 days. Typical passengers are a mix of veterans and first-timers, many kids and couples in their 50s. Ships are large-sized (over 3000 passengers), providing large resort-like experience. Examples include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, MSC, Costa, Holland America, AIDA, TUI.

BUDGET brands fares range from $200-500 pp per day. Itineraries range from 3 to 17 days. Typical passengers are predominantly first-timers, singles, families, kids. Ships are smaller and older, usually serving regional markets. Examples include NCL Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, Princess, Star Cruises, Marella, P&O, Pullmantur, Phoenix Reisen, Fred Olsen, Bahamas Paradise.

LUXURY brands are Viking OCEAN, Resorts World, Cunard, Oceania, Hapag-Lloyd, Ponant, Saga UK. Services are premium (including 24-hour highly personalized concierge), prices are affordable, and the boats are new (refurbished more often), but the product is not all-inclusive.

ALL-INCLUSIVE brands are Seabourn, Silversea, RSSC-Regent, Azamara, Crystal, Virgin Voyages, NYV-Norwegian Yacht Voyages, Four Seasons Yachts, Ritz-Carlton Yachts, SeaDream Yachts. Onboard product is the industry's best and includes 24-hour personal butler service, all beverages, specialty dining, Internet, shore excursions, gratuities, flights, transfers, sophisticated enrichment programs (world-class performers, professional lectures and classes, art auctions), fewer mega-ship seaports, more yachting destinations. Vessels are mid-sized (mega-yachts) with a capacity between 200-1000 passengers, industry's highest ratios (passenger-to-space and passenger-to-staff), usually without kids facilities (babysitting arranged with off-duty staff). Passengers are sophisticated, highly social, wealthy, adventurous. Itineraries are diverse and global. Most mega-yachts provide alternative private ship-charter deals to large corporations and the world's richest families. The smallest boats are yachts with capacity from 100 up to 300 passengers. Some accommodate up to 700-800 guests. Most luxury ships operate in Europe (Mediterranean), Asia, Oceania, Alaska, Galapagos Islands, Around South America, Around the World .

EXPEDITION TRAVEL brands operate nature-themed voyages to unusual destinations (Arctic, Antarctica, Galapagos, Indian Ocean islands, Alaska). Prices depend on itinerary (fares from $150-500+ pp per day. Itineraries range from 1-3 weeks. Passengers are older and more experienced. Ships are usually with ice-strengthened hull (also icebreakers), marina platform (watersports) and Zodiacs (large boats for landings). Examples include Windstar, Lindblad-National Geographic, Quark Expeditions, Uncruise Adventures, Star Clippers, Metropolitan Touring.

RIVER TRAVEL brands operate modern boats on inland waterways (lakes, rivers, and canals), mainly in Europe and USA-Canada, also in Russia, China, Egypt, Peruvian Amazon. Fares range from $250-450 pp per day. Itineraries are 1-2 weeks. Passengers are regular and loyal. Most boats accommodate between 90-200 passengers (over 300 on Russian ships). Shipboard amenities and services are of premium quality. The market's largest are Viking, Uniworld, CroisiEurope, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic, Scylla, Luftner, American Cruise Lines, Russia ( Vodohod , Mosturflot , Infoflot , Doninturflot-Orthodox ).

Cruise Lines List

Small cruise lines list.

The following small ship cruise companies (and cruise ferry lines) are well-known brand names. Some of them operate locally, others operate expedition ships. Most companies are in the "small ship luxury cruise" business.

RIVER Cruise Lines List

River cruise lines provide as product a very "especially modern" style of travel cruising. It's the perfect combination of the world's best river cruise itineraries (in Europe, USA, Asia, Africa), tranquility and style, vessels with innovative design and top technology, highest standards of service, all-inclusive cruise deals prices - and much more.

NEW Cruise Lines (2021-2024)

World's largest cruise companies.

The biggest cruise companies - they all are very big, some are bigger big, one is the biggest. They all are very very very much rich!

(No 1) Carnival Corporation & plc (1972-founded American-Panamanian company) is the world's largest cruise shipowner, with 1/2 share of the market. The company is dual-listed (as Carnival Corp and Carnival plc), Southampton-headquartered, has a combined fleet of 100+ ships, 160,000+ berths, 10,000+ employees, ~75,000 crew, USD 38,9 billion in assets, USD 16,4B revenue (data 2016). Carnival owns the following brands (in brackets - the year of acquisition/establishment) - AIDA (2000), CCL-Carnival (1972), Costa (2000), Cunard (1998), HAL-Holland America (1989), Ibero (2007), P&O UK and P&O Australia (2003), Princess (2003), Seabourn (1992). Carnival's major stock-holder is the company founder's Arison family (47%).

(No 2) Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) - 1997-founded as an American-Norwegian cruise company. RCG is the 2nd largest cruise shipowner in the world, controls over 1/4 of the cruise market, with 58,000 employees, nearly USD 20 billion in assets, and almost USD 7B in revenue (data 2011). The combined fleet includes the brands Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity , Pullmantur (purchased 2006), CDF Croisieres de France (est 2008 / merged with Pullmantur in 2017). RCG also fully owns Air Pullmantur, and 50% of TUI Cruises (2009-founded joint venture with TUI AG).

(No 3) Mediterranean Shipping Company SA (MSC, founded in 1970, owned by the Aponte family) - the 2nd largest shipping line in the world (by container ship capacity), with more than 555 vessels of almost 2,2 million TEU (including 11 under construction - some of the world's largest container ships ever built, with capacity 15,000 TEU each). The MSC shipping line serves 270 ports worldwide, with over 29,000 employees.

(No 4) Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) ownership is 43,4% Genting Group, 32,5% Apollo Management and 10,8% TPG Capital (Texas Pacific Group, large private equity global investments firm). NCL controls ~8% of the global cruising market.

Genting Group (founded in 1964, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). Genting is a leading Asian multinational company (developing, operating and marketing in Tourism, 1,800 ha Resorts World Genting, Gaming (casinos), Real Estates, 54,000 ha Plantations, Power Generation, Oil-Gas, e-commerce, over 58,000 employees, USD 5,1 billion revenue, USD 13,5B in assets). One of the most famous tourist features of Malaysia is the "Genting Highlands" resort, with a world-class casino and a theme park. Owns about 20% of Star Cruises (the world's 3rd largest operator).

Apollo Global Management LLC (founded in 1990 as Apollo Advisors). Apollo is one of the world's largest private investment companies (over USD 37 billion in assets, USD 16B in companies, headquartered in NYC). The firm specializes in private equity funds (buyout transactions, and purchasing distressed securities), and capital markets (with hedge funds and real estate funds, corporate restructuring, and consolidations).

The Walt Disney Company - founded in 1923, and nowadays the largest and richest media conglomerate in the world. Headquartered in Burbank CA, and owning 6 major divisions, 10 subsidiaries (almost 150,000 employees, USD 71 billion in assets, USD 38B revenue - data 2011). Amongst Disney's best-known (and priced) assets are the ABC media, the ESPN cable network, and the PIXAR Animation Studios, along with all the Disney Parks and Resorts worldwide.

P&O Princess Cruises PLC was a restructured company between 2000 and 2003. This company was the successor of "Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company" (P&O/1837-founded). P&O owned 6 line brands and 26 ships. The company merged into Carnival Corp in 2003.

NYK Line ("Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha", translated as "Japan Mail Shipping Line"), main headquarters Chiyoda (Tokyo) and regional in London, NYC, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney, Sao Paulo. Established in 1870, a core Mitsubishi company and currently the world's 10th largest cargo-container and shipping company. In the recent past, the majority of Japan's merchant fleet sailed under its flag (1900-1950). Entered the passenger cruise ship business with one of the most expensive cruise lines in the world - its newly-formed in 1989 subsidiary Crystal Cruise Lines. The NYK Line also operates the MS Asuka II (the ex MS Crystal Harmony), catering to the Japanese market exclusively. Financial data: revenue about USD 25 billion, about 55,000 employees worldwide, with 240 offices in 26 countries.

Largest cruise industry organizations

CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) - since December 17, 2012, this is a Global Trade Association (umbrella company) for 9 of the largest cruise industry associations:

• CLIA itself (world's largest, representing brands, operators, agents, port authorities, partners; engaged in training-marketing-research)
• ECC (European Cruise Council)
• ACA (Asia Cruise Association)
• PSA (Passenger Shipping Association)
• CLIA France (France, Association Francaise des Compagnies de Croisieres)
• ABREMAR (Brazil)
• NWCCA (Northwest and Canada Cruise Association)
• ACA (Alaska Cruise Association)
• ICCA (International Cruise Council Australasia)

ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations) - ICOMIA is a global (marine industry) trade association with the majority of its members being national marine industries and manufacturers. The biggest (full members) are:

• IMCI (International Marine Certification Institute)
• CCYIA (China Cruise and Yacht Industry Association)
• FIN (French Nautical Industries Federation)
• DBSV (German Boat and Shipbuilders Association)
• JBIA (Japan Boating Industry Association)
• HISWA (Dutch Boating Industry Association)
• BMF (British Marine Federation)
• NMMA (National Marine)

Now the list of all the rest large organizations:

• ACE (Association of Cruise Experts / UK)
• LCA (Leading Cruise Agents / UK)
• AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators)
• CSA (Caribbean Shipping Association)
• ECSA (European Community Shipowners Associations)
• FCCA (Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association), members list includes the brands AIDA, Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, MSC, NCL Norwegian, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, TUI.
• IG River Cruise (Europe)
• JOPA (Japan Oceangoing Passenger Ship Association)

This article is integrated with CruiseMapper's list of the world's largest shipbuilding companies .

MSC Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (Updated 2023)

MSC Cruises has an active fleet of 22 ships currently. They are currently one of the largest cruise line fleets in the world.

Their next ship, MSC World America will launch in 2025 – taking them to 23 ships.

Introduction to MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is a Swiss-Italian cruise line, founded back in 1989 in Naples, Italy.

A sibling company of the giant Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), MSC has strong roots connecting it with the sea dating back to 1675.

Since 1989, MSC Cruises has built a formidable fleet of cruise ships, with the last few years adding several brand new ships per year on average and an order book with many more lined up.

Whilst the cruise shutdown of 2020 stopped MSC from sailing briefly, they were quick to continue the building of their new ships and did not sell off any of their current vessels.

This guide will help you work out which MSC Cruises’ ship is which!

MSC Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

MSC Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all msc ships new builds.

Only two of MSC Cruises’ ships ( MSC Armonia and MSC Sinfonia ) are not new-builds for MSC Cruises. These two ships are ex-Festival Cruises ships (previously named European Vision and European Stars ).

They were acquired when Festival Cruises went bankrupt and MSC Cruises purchased them for their operations.

MSC Cruises chose to use a modified version of the European-class ships and built MSC Lirica and her twin sister, MSC Opera .

MSC Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

What is the meraviglia plus class.

The Meraviglia Plus class was built after the success of MSC Meraviglia . The Plus class is an extended version of the ship (approx 15m longer) and has slightly larger facilities, including more cabins – giving an extra passenger capacity of 679 ( MSC Grandiosa – 6,334 compared to MSC Meraviglia 5,642).

What is the Seaside EVO class?

The Seaside EVO class was built after the success of MSC Seaside . This class is 16m longer, offering bigger facilities throughout the ship and more cabins. This enables a higher passenger capacity over the existing Seaside class of 548 passengers ( MSC Seashore 5,632 compared to MSC Seaside 5,084)

Additionally, newer classes of MSC ships are more environmentally advanced, offering enhanced wastewater treatment facilities and enhanced selective catalytic reductions (i.e reduced emissions).

MSC Cruise Ships Frequently Asked Questions

Which msc cruise ship is the biggest.

Currently, the biggest MSC cruise ship is actually a trio of sister ships:  MSC Euribia, MSC Virtuosa   and  MSC Grandiosa   – all 331 metres long and 191,200 GRT with a max passenger capacity of 6,344.

Which MSC cruise ship is the smallest?

Both  MSC Sinfonia  and  MSC Armonia  are the smallest MSC cruise ships in terms of GRT (Tonnage) but  MSC Armonia  actually carries 26 passengers less, at 2,520 max capacity.

Which MSC cruise ship is the newest?

The newest MSC cruise ship that has launched is  MSC Euribia . She was handed over to MSC Cruises on 31st May 2023.

Which MSC cruise ship is the oldest?

The oldest (still at sea) MSC cruise ship is  MSC Armonia . Whilst she entered service for MSC Cruises in 2004, she was actually built as  European Vision  for Festival Cruises back in 2001.

How many classes of ships does MSC have?

MSC Cruises currently have eight classes of ships. Two are hybrid classes (Seaside EVO and Meraviglia Plus) and the rest are unique classes.

Which MSC cruise ship is the best?

Ask ten different people which is their favourite MSC ship and you’ll get ten different answers! But  MSC Seaside  and  MSC Meraviglia  have frequently come top of many polls and are widely accepted as two of the most popular MSC cruise ships.

Where are MSC cruise ships built?

MSC Cruises builds a lot of its newer ships at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique (St. Nazaire) shipyard in France. The Meraviglia and Meraviglia Plus class are some of the latest ships from there.

The Seaside and Seaside EVO ships were built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, Italy – one of the biggest cruise shipbuilders based in the Mediterranean.

How many ships does MSC have?

Twenty-two ships as of June 2023

Which MSC ships run on LNG?

Both MSC World Europa and the new MSC Euribia run on LNG fuel.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing an MSC Cruise ship for your cruise there is a vast range of ships that are perfect whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or as a family.

Look out for our detailed guide on the different MSC classes shortly!

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Disney Cruise Line Fleet

Disney cruise line ships, meet our fleet.

With their distinctive designs and gold-swirled bows, the 6 Disney Cruise Line ships inspire awe wherever they pull into port.

Disney Magic

This classic-looking vessel awash with modern conveniences is home to the high-speed AquaDunk waterslide, splash zones for little ones, Rapunzel’s Royal Table restaurant, Fathoms and Keys nightclubs for adults, and imaginative clubs for kids, tweens and teens.

Disney Wonder

Boasting immersive storytelling touches at every turn, this impressive craft is celebrated for its notable onboard dining experiences like Palo and Tiana’s Place—and such can’t-miss entertainment options as Frozen, A Musical Spectacular and our Marvel Super Hero Academy for kids.

Disney Dream

Custom-built for magical moments, this ship will captivate your senses with its one-of-kind diversions, including our Broadway-caliber rendition of Beauty and the Beast , a kids play space themed after the Millennium Falcon in Star Wars and a mouthwatering selection of French-inspired cuisine at Remy.

Disney Fantasy

You’ll be delighted to find countless activities, eateries and entertainment to match any mood on a vessel designed with longer retreats in mind—standout features include the AquaDuck water coaster, the lavish Royal Court restaurant, an array of live shows and interactive play areas like Star Wars : Command Post.

Disney Wish

Step aboard this magnificent vessel and embark on a journey that brings to life the fantastical stories you know and love. Be transported to the worlds of Frozen , Marvel and Star Wars inside wondrously themed dining and lounge spaces. Meet royalty and train alongside heroes at imaginative kids clubs, rest and play at adult-exclusive spaces, and ride the first-ever Disney attraction at sea.

Disney Treasure

Discover the Disney Treasure—the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet. The spirit of adventure awaits around every corner as you explore the bold tales behind classic Disney park attractions and films from Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars . Venture through jungles, ancient ruins and the depths of the sea. Get lost in a gilded palace or in a galaxy far, far away. And delight in dedicated spaces created especially for kids, families and adults. Sailings begin December 2024.

Protect Your Trip »

The 4 newest royal caribbean ships.

Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack for a Cruise
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• Cruise Line Drink Packages
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Disney Cruise Line began in 1998 with one ship, the Disney Magic. When all ships are completed in 2025, the cruise line will have a fleet of eight ships. Stepping aboard a Disney Cruise Line ship is such a unique experience and offers an authentic Disney experience at sea. These ships provide amenities, shows, and an ambiance that no other brand offers, so it is great to see the brand expanding its fleet in recent years.

Disney Cruise Ships: Biggest to Smallest

Below is a list of all  Disney ships  by size, ordered from largest to smallest.

List of Disney Cruise Ships By Size

Our list of Disney cruise ships by size shows gross tonnage (which is a measure of internal volume, not weight), the total guest capacity of each vessel and Length in Feet , and these other Disney cruise ship dimensions:

List of Disney Cruise Ships By Age With Photos

Disney Cruise Line has taken the once-landlocked Disney vacation to sea and elevated the family cruise vacation to a new level. It has made cruise travel fun and enjoyable for families and Disney lovers. Did you know? On a special night aboard most Disney cruises, the “Pirates IN the Caribbean” deck party features a spectacular pyrotechnics performance – fireworks at sea like only Disney can do! Their ships also use the iconic first seven notes of the “When You Wish Upon a Star” song melody as their horn signals.

We hope you enjoy our comprehensive list of Disney cruise ships. Here is a list of Disney cruise ships by size listed with photos and details from largest to smallest:

Disney Adventure

Disney Adventure is 208,000 GRTs and carries 6,000 passengers (based on two per cabin ). She is the first ship in the  Global Class *. The ship is still under construction and set to begin service in 2025. We are still waiting for more details of this new ship , which will be far the largest Disney Cruise Line ship to date. Little is known about this new class and vessel, which will be based in Singapore .

Disney Destiny

Disney Destiny is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,000 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the third ship in the  Triton Class . The ship is still under construction and set to begin service in 2025. The ship’s bow will feature the Disney Character, Captain Minnie (in hero costume).

Disney Treasure

Disney Treasure is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,000 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Triton Class . The ship is still under construction and set to begin service in 2024. The bow will feature the Disney Characters, Voyager Minnie, and Peter Pan & Hook on the aft.

Disney Wish

Disney Wish is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,000 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first ship in the  Triton Class . The ship began service in June 2022 , and its Godparents are All Make-A-Wish children. The ship’s bow features the Disney Character Captain Minnie, and Rapunzel and Pascal are on the aft.

Disney Fantasy

Disney Dream is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,000 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Dream Class . The ship began service in March 2012, and its Godmother is Mariah Carey. The bow of the ship features the Disney Character, Sorcerer Mickey, and on the aft has Dumbo and Timothy Q. Mouse.

Disney Dream

Disney Dream is 130,000 GRTs and carries 4,000 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first ship in the  Dream Class . The ship began service in January 2011, and its Godmother is Jennifer Hudson. The ship’s bow features the Disney Character Captain Mickey, and on the aft is Sorcerer Mickey.

Disney Wonder

Disney Wonder is 84,000 GRTs and carries 2,714 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the second ship in the  Magic Class . The ship began service in August 1999, and its Godmother is Tinker Bell. The ship’s bow features the Disney Character Steamboat Willie, and Donald, Huey, Dewey, and Louie on the aft.

Disney Magic

Disney Magic is 84,000 GRTs and carries 2,714 passengers (based on two per cabin). She is the first ship in the  Magic Class . The ship began service in July 1998, and its Godmother is Patricia Disney. The ship’s bow features the Disney character, Sorcerer Mickey, and Goofy is on the aft.

The Different Classes Of Disney Ships (Biggest To Smallest)

Disney Cruise Line currently has nine different classes of cruise ships. Each class has a unique architectural design, layout, and features. Most ships in a particular class have an almost identical layout with minor changes.

The table below shows the Carnival ship classes from largest to smallest, based on ship volume.

Disney Cruise Ships – FAQ

What new Disney Cruise Line ships are coming?

The new Disney Cruise Line ships scheduled to debut in the future are the Disney Treasure (2024), Disney Destiny (2025), and Disney Adventure (2025).

What is the newest Disney Cruise Line ship available for booking?

The newest Disney cruise ship currently available to book is the Disney Treasure.

What is the newest class of Disney Cruise Line ships?

The latest known class of Disney cruise ship is the Triton Class.

Do Disney Cruise Line ships have any sister ships?

Yes, Disney Cruise Line has sister ships, such as Disney Magic and Disney Wonder, that are part of the same class of ships.

Which Disney cruise ship was the first to sail in the fleet?

The first Disney cruise ship to sail was Disney Magic, setting the foundation for the line’s future success.

What attractions can be found on Disney cruise ships?

Disney cruise ships offer a variety of attractions and amenities, ensuring a magical experience at sea for guests of all ages.

Are any new ships planned to join the Disney Cruise Line fleet in 2024?

Disney Cruise Line plans to introduce the Disney Treasure in 2024 to expand their offerings.

What is the smallest Disney cruise ship available?

The Disney Magic and Disney Wonder are the two smallest Disney Cruise Line fleet ships.

Which is the biggest Disney cruise ship?

The biggest Disney cruise ship in the fleet is the Disney Adventure, which is currently being built and will begin sailing in 2025 from Singapore.

What are the different sizes of Disney cruise ships?

Disney Cruise Line offers ships of various sizes in several unique classes, including the Magic Class, Dream Class, and Dream Class. Each class has a unique size, passenger capacity, and unique amenities.

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The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

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Some cruise lines — Viking , for instance — have fleets where many of the ships have the same basic design. Norwegian Cruise Line is not one of them.

If you’re thinking of booking a Norwegian cruise,  an important thing to know is that there is a wide variation in the size and style of the vessels in the line’s fleet.

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

Four of Norwegian’s 19 ships — Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore — are among the 30 biggest ships in the world. As such, they’re loaded with huge numbers of cabins, restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top amusements.

They are, in a nutshell, floating megaresorts .

The line also operates smaller vessels that barely crack the top 100 list of biggest cruise ships. These ships generally have fewer venues and attractions than the bigger ships. However, they still offer a lot for cruisers. Norwegian is a line known for packing oodles of restaurants, bars and entertainment on its vessels — even its smaller ones.

The good news for those of you trying to get a handle on all the options within the Norwegian fleet is that the line’s 19 ships can be bunched into just eight groups of vessels with similar amenities. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

Each of these groups — known as “classes” in cruise industry lingo — is made up of ships that were constructed around the same time in the same basic design.

Related: Everything to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian ships  

An introduction to Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Smaller only than Royal Caribbean , Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises , Norwegian has become increasingly known for some of the biggest, most amenity-filled vessels at sea. As mentioned above, though, the line doesn’t just operate giant ships. More than half its fleet comprises vessels that, by today’s standards, are considered almost midsize.

Indeed, Norwegian is essentially two cruise lines in one. The line’s nine newest ships are big, bustling floating megaresorts that can carry upward of 3,000 to 4,000 passengers at double occupancy (even more with every berth filled). At around 144,000 to nearly 170,000 tons, all nine currently rank among the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world (although their rankings will shift downward as more big ships debut).

Norwegian’s 10 older ships, by contrast, are much more modest in size, measuring around 75,000 to 94,000 tons and carrying closer to 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian thus appeals both to cruisers who like a giant resort vibe and those who prefer a resort experience that is more modest. The key, depending on your tastes, is getting on the right ship in the fleet for you.

On the big-ship end of the spectrum, Norwegian’s four new Breakaway Plus vessels — Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape — are the line’s premier offerings.

One step down in size from the Breakaway Plus ships are the still-quite-large Breakaway-class ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — and the one-of-a-kind Norwegian Epic.

The smallest of the line’s big ships are the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima. They are the first two of a new series of six vessels that will transform the brand. Measuring about 143,500 tons a piece, these two new ships are about 17% smaller than Norwegian’s biggest vessels.

Norwegian’s 10 smaller vessels break down into five classes, though many are roughly the same size and offer similar amenities.

Prima class

Ships in class: Norwegian Prima (2022), Norwegian Viva (2023).

Size: 143,535 tons.

The Prima class of ships is the latest and greatest at Norwegian Cruise Line — the vessels that every NCL fan wants to book.

Only two ships in the series (Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima ) are currently in operation. Four more sister vessels are on order for delivery by 2027.

Under development since 2017, these ships mark Norwegian’s first new class of vessel in more than a decade. At 143,535 tons, they are notably smaller than the ships the line has been adding in recent years — a factor that will give them access to smaller ports around the world.

That said, Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima and their coming sisters still are relatively big ships that pack a lot of over-the-top amenities. Both Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima have ridiculously big go-kart tracks spread over three decks (a cruise industry first). The ships also boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says provides more G-force than an accelerating Formula One race car.

Additionally, the vessels each are home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, along with a list of interactive, real-life game shows, including at-sea versions of “The Price Is Right,” “Supermarket Sweep,” “Press Your Luck” and “Beat the Clock.”

Related: I’ve been on nearly every Norwegian ship afloat; here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Still, the new Prima class is about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It marks a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship, the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel and the brand’s largest-ever inside, ocean-view and balcony cabins.

The entire back of each of the ships is dedicated to an upscale, “ship-within-a-ship” private suite area called The Haven that rises eight decks high and includes 107 suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant. Other vessels feature The Haven areas, but none as big as this one.

In addition, the public areas of Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima feel more spacious than many of the other 17 ships in the Norwegian fleet. And, indeed, they are. The Prima-class ships are being built with a higher ratio of space to passengers, which itself is an upscale touch.

Norwegian Cruise Line also says the Prima-class vessels offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship — including more total pool deck space than any other ships in the brand’s fleet.

Note that the last four ships in the Prima-class series, due to debut between 2025 and 2027, are being redesigned to be bigger than the first two ships in the series.

Related: 11 venues, 32 dishes, four days: See what happened when I tried to test every dish at Prima’s new Indulge Food Hall  

Breakaway Plus class

Ships in class: Norwegian Encore (2019), Norwegian Bliss (2018), Norwegian Joy (2017), Norwegian Escape (2015).

Size: 164,600 to 169,145 tons.

These are the Norwegian ships you go on if you’re a fan of megaresorts.

While not quite as big as Royal Caribbean’s giant Oasis-class ships , Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus-class vessels are firmly in the pantheon of the world’s cruising giants. They are the Norwegian ships most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions. There are so many of these things that you won’t be able to do it all in a single, weeklong cruise.

The Breakaway Plus ships are so big, in fact, that they have room for giant go-kart tracks and laser tag areas on their top decks (on all of the vessels in the series except Norwegian Escape). There’s also plenty of room to spare for multiple pools, waterslides and a kiddie splash zone.

Each of the vessels also offers real Broadway shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters, sprawling spas, casinos that fill half a deck, dedicated children’s play zones, and more than 2,000 rooms.

In addition, the two newest ships in this series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have large gaming and virtual reality zones called the Galaxy Pavilion.

For meals, you’ll find at least 20 venues on each of these ships, including multiple main dining rooms and a buffet that come with no extra charge and such extra-charge eateries as a teppanyaki restaurant, a steakhouse, a high-end French restaurant and a Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at Sea.

With lots of family-friendly attractions such as the go-kart tracks and laser tag courses, these ships appeal heavily to families with children, particularly teens, but they draw a lot of couples, too. They are also popular with solo travelers, thanks to their unusually large complexes of cabins for one (something you’ll find on the Breakaway and Epic classes of ships, too).

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards loyalty program

All four of the Breakaway Plus ships have large, private, two-deck-high suite enclaves called The Haven that come with their own pool areas, restaurants and lounges. They’re some of the most spectacular suite complexes anywhere at sea .

The biggest of these ships, Norwegian Encore, measures 169,116 tons, making it the 18th-biggest cruise ship in the world as of this story’s publishing (it will drop in the rankings over the coming years as additional megaships debut). That’s bigger than all but one Carnival ship and every Princess Cruises ship. Only Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises have a significant number of bigger vessels.

Norwegian Encore can hold more than 5,000 passengers with all berths filled.

Breakaway class

Ships in class: Norwegian Getaway (2014), Norwegian Breakaway (2013).

Size: 145,655 tons.

These vessels are similar to the Breakaway Plus-class ships but slightly smaller. Or, put another way, the Breakaway Plus-class ships are a stretched version of the Breakaway-class ships.

You’ll find many of the same eateries, bars, lounges and entertainment venues on the Breakaway-class ships that you’ll find on the Breakaway Plus-class vessels. The slightly smaller size of these vessels means there’s just a tad less “stuff” on board.

The top decks of the Breakaway-class ships have two pool areas and water parks with waterslides, for instance — just like the Breakaway Plus-class ships. However, they don’t have go-kart tracks or laser tag courses. Instead of the latter attractions, you’ll find an adults-only pool area called Spice H2O at the back of the vessels. At night, it transforms into a dance club.

Related: Every Norwegian Cruise Line ship ranked from biggest to smallest  

The Breakaway-class ships also boast full-size ropes courses on their top decks. Indeed, they were the first cruise ships ever to have such a feature. Other deck-top features include miniature golf courses on both vessels and basketball courts that double as volleyball courts.

On the entertainment front, both ships offer Broadway shows in their main theaters and have a circuslike show in a secondary theater called “Cirque Dreams.” The latter is a dinner show that comes with an extra charge. They’re also home to “Howl at the Moon” dueling piano shows and a version of the Latin-themed dance show “Burn the Floor.”

Like the Breakaway Plus vessels, the Breakaway ships have large complexes for solo travelers, as well as large, private The Haven suite complexes.

In general, as with the Breakaway Plus ships, these vessels are best for vacationers who like a megaresort-type experience, and they appeal heavily to families with children who love all their deck-top attractions. Each of the two ships in this series — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — holds about 4,000 passengers at double occupancy.

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

Ships in class: Norwegian Epic (2010).

Size: 155,873 tons.

Norwegian Epic is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. Unveiled in 2010, it was originally supposed to be the first of a series of up to three similar vessels. However, after disagreements with the shipyard that built it, Norwegian eventually canceled an order for a second ship in the series and an option for a third ship in the series, leaving Norwegian Epic in a class of one.

While roughly comparable in size to the Breakaway Plus- and Breakaway-class ships (it’s a bit smaller than the former vessels and a bit bigger than the latter vessels), Norwegian Epic has a notably different design that includes some unique features.

Perhaps most notably, balcony cabins on the ship have an unusual design that includes curved walls, rounded bed corners, and a sink and vanity area that is in the main living space (for all to see), separate from a closed-off toilet area. The toilet area is behind a translucent door that some cruisers find less private than they had hoped.

Norwegian Epic is also home to the only tube-and-bowl waterslide at sea and has such rare-for-cruise-ships attractions as a rappelling wall and a three-lane bowling alley. It also features an ice bar where customers wear parkas while sipping drinks.

Still, Norwegian Epic also offers a lot that will be familiar to Norwegian fans, including many of the line’s signature restaurants, bars and entertainment.

Standout features on Norwegian Epic include a water park with some of the most over-the-top waterslides at sea (including the aforementioned tube-and-bowl slide). It also offers a version of the Burn the Floor dance show that played on Broadway and on the West End in London, as well as a Howl at the Moon piano bar and a recreation of the Cavern Club nightspot in Liverpool, England, where The Beatles got their start (complete with a The Beatles cover band).

In addition, Norwegian Epic has the line’s biggest solo cabin complex (with 128 rooms for one) and a giant The Haven private suite complex.

At 155,873 tons, Norwegian Epic currently ranks as the 34th biggest cruise vessel in the world. Notably, it was the world’s third-largest ship when it debuted in 2010. That tells you just how much the cruise industry has grown in recent years.

Norwegian Epic carries 4,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Jewel class

Ships in class: Norwegian Gem (2007), Norwegian Jade (2006), Norwegian Pearl (2006), Norwegian Jewel (2005).

Size: About 93,500 tons.

Are you unsure if you want to sail on a megaship with 4,000 or more people but still want a vessel with a good amount of features and activities? The Jewel-class ships may be the perfect solution.

At 93,500 tons, the four vessels in the series are nearly 50% smaller than the line’s Breakaway Plus-class ships but still big enough that they have a lot to offer.

Each of the vessels has more than a dozen food venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a steakhouse, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You’ll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, along with whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

What you won’t find on the ships, because of their smaller size, are all the gee-whiz attractions such as go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and large water-park areas that Norwegian has put on its bigger vessels. If you can’t live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Jewel class probably isn’t for you.

Note that Norwegian Gem does have a climbing wall and a single waterslide. Norwegian Pearl has a climbing wall but no waterslide. Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Jade have neither of the attractions.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line ships listed from newest to oldest

Each of the Jewel-class ships holds around 2,400 passengers at double occupancy (plus a few hundred more with every berth filled). That’s about 40% fewer passengers than you’ll find on the biggest Norwegian ships.

That makes them perfect for cruisers who want to get away from the sort of crowds that are on the biggest megaships without giving up many of the amenities that big ships have to offer.

Pride of America class

Ships in class: Pride of America (2005).

Size: 80,439 tons.

Like Norwegian Epic, Pride of America is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. In fact, it’s perhaps an even bigger outlier than the former vessel.

Sporting a patriotic U.S. theme (you’ll find venues named after Thomas Jefferson and John Adams) and a distinct array of lounges and entertainment, it’s a ship specifically designed to sail year-round in Hawaii — the only one of its kind at any line.

Pride of America notably flies a U.S. flag and operates with a mostly U.S. crew, in keeping with regulations governing cruise itineraries that only include U.S. ports. That’s a big difference from any other big cruise vessel in the world.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

It’s also the only Norwegian vessel without a casino, in keeping with local Hawaii regulations.

If you sail on Pride of America, you’ll find such one-of-a-kind eateries as the classic American car-themed Cadillac Diner. You’ll also find some of Norwegian’s signature offerings, including a Cagney’s steak house and Italian eatery La Cucina. The ship’s other onboard attractions include a showroom, lounges, bars and a top deck with extensive open-air pool and sun lounging areas.

Thanks to its ownership of Pride of America, Norwegian is the undisputed leader in Hawaii cruises. Most cruise lines that offer sailings to Hawaii only offer a limited number of such trips during a few months each year. Norwegian, by contrast, offers sailings around the Hawaiian Islands every week of the year — the only cruise line in the world to do so.

An iconic presence in Hawaii, Pride of America has been permanently dedicated to the archipelago since its debut in 2005. It offers a repeating seven-night itinerary that begins each Saturday in Honolulu and brings the chance to visit four different Hawaiian islands on a single, seven-night trip.

Beginning and ending on the island of Oahu, the itinerary includes two days each on Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. The two-day visit to Maui involves an overnight stay at the port of Kahului. The two-day visit to Kauai involves an overnight stay at the port of Nawiliwili. The two-day visit to Hawaii is split between a call at Hilo and a call at Kona.

Ships in class: Norwegian Dawn (2002), Norwegian Star (2001).

Size: 92,250 and 91,740 tons.

The Dawn-class ships are similar to the Jewel-class ships in size and amenities, with a few differences.

Like the former vessels, the Dawn-class ships have around a dozen food-serving venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a Brazilian churrascaria (barbecue) restaurant, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You’ll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

Like the Jewel-class ships, the Dawn-class vessels lack the sort of big attractions such as go-kart tracks and large water parks found on bigger Norwegian vessels. In addition, there are no Broadway musicals on Dawn-class ships, and they don’t have a private The Haven suite area (though they do have several giant suites called Garden Villas that measure more than 6,000 square feet).

If you can’t live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Dawn class probably isn’t for you.

Ships in class: Norwegian Sun (2001), Norwegian Sky (1999).

Size: 78,309 and 77,104 tons.

Dating to 2001 and 1999, respectively, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky are among the smallest ships at Norwegian. They offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line’s vessels.

In general, they appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship than what you’ll find on the big Norwegian ships. They also draw cruisers who care more about the destinations that they visit on a cruise than onboard attractions.

On each of the vessels, you’ll find more than half a dozen eateries, including several main dining rooms, a casual buffet, a diner-style pub, a steakhouse, an Italian trattoria and a French bistro.

On their top decks, the ships have pools (one on Sun, two on Sky), whirlpools, a basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court, golf driving nets and a jogging track. The ships also have casinos and theaters with nightly shows.

Unlike most bigger Norwegian ships, neither of the vessels has a private The Haven suite complex or solo cabins.

Ships in class: Norwegian Spirit (1998).

Size: 75,904 tons.

Dating to 1998, Norwegian Spirit is Norwegian’s smallest and oldest ship, and — like the line’s Sun-class ships — it generally appeals to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience than you’ll find on the big Norwegian ships.

At 75,904 tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of Norwegian’s biggest ships, and it carries just 1,966 passengers — more than 2,000 fewer than the Norwegian biggies.

It also offers fewer (but still quite a few) venues and attractions. In all, you’ll find 13 food outlets on board, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line’s signature Cagney’s steakhouse and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

Of note, Norwegian Spirit originally was built for Asia-based Star Cruises (where it was called SuperStar Leo).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

• Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels. 
• Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.
• See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

• Main content

Cruise operator Viking targets $11 billion valuation as IPO market stays hot

Viking Holdings, the European cruise line operator, is seeking to raise more than $1 billion in a public offering next week that could become the second-biggest IPO of 2024.

Viking is scheduled to price on April 30 and trade the next day, a person familiar with the deal told Fortune . The Pembroke, Bermuda–based company plans to sell 44 million shares at $21 to $25 each, according to a regulatory filing dated April 22. Viking will be offering 11 million shares with the remainder coming from shareholders, according to a statement . BofA Securities and JPMorgan are lead underwriters on the deal, which could end up valuing Viking—slated to trade under VIK on the New York Stock Exchange—at almost $11 billion.

Torstein Hagen, Viking’s chairman and CEO, founded the company in 1997. It has a fleet of 92 vessels that travel to all seven continents, including special expeditions to Antarctica and to the Arctic North.

“Looking toward the future, we believe there are a number of opportunities for growing Viking,” Hagen wrote in a letter accompanying the filing. “We have 24 new ships on order, with options for 12 more. We have also started to enter new markets, such as China and elsewhere in Asia, where we see significant growth potential over the long term.”

Revenue for Viking rose 48% to $4.7 billion in 2023. The company was profitable in 2022 but posted $1.86 billion in losses last year, and it’s highly leveraged, reporting $5.4 billion in total debt as of Dec. 31.

“We have substantial indebtedness and we may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness or to obtain additional financing if necessary,” Viking said in the regulatory filing.

The company is also backed by private equity. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and TPG likely will each have nearly 5% of the firm’s voting power after the IPO.

The IPO market is bouncing back. Last week, Ibotta rose 17% during its first day of trading after pricing at $88. Rubrik, a Microsoft-backed cloud data security provider, is scheduled to list shares on Thursday and could raise as much as $713 million . Also on Thursday, Marex Group, a U.K.-based financial services platform, is expected to trade, according to IPOScoop.com.

The year’s biggest IPO still belongs to Amer Sport, the maker of Wilson tennis racquets, which raised $1.37 billion in February, according to data from Dealogic. Viking, if it prices at the top of its range, could raise as much as $1.1 billion.

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Electric Semi Truck

Maritime transport begins electrification of trucking fleet.

One of the UK’s leading road and rail logistics companies, Maritime Transport, is making some big moves in a bid to electrify its trucking fleet – with fully 18 all-electric, three axle tractor units from Scania leading the charge.

As part of the UK’s Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator ( ZEHID ) program, Maritime Transport has put 48 battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell-powered semi trucks on order, with the initial order of 18 big Scania trucks arriving first.

“This investment places us at the forefront of our industry’s transition to sustainable operations and we are excited to initiate this phase of our environmental strategy,” says Maritime Transport Deputy Chief Executive, Tom Williams . “Our active participation in ZEHID and pioneering initiatives like eFREIGHT 2030 over the next five years is set to yield vital insights for the government’s long-term infrastructure decisions to make road freight more sustainable and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Acknowledging the variations in range and payload, we believe these vehicles will substantially contribute to our efforts in providing sustainable and efficient services to our customers, complementing our growing network of rail freight services and terminals.”

The new, three axle Scania semi trucks are rated for 42 tonnes, and offer of a range of 300-500 km (up to 310 miles), allowing them to serve Maritime Transport’s eight existing rail freight terminals from each of the major UK ports.

Maritime says the introduction of these trucks is a core component of the company’s environmental agenda, which will effectively lead to their moving more containerized product by rail with electrically-driven trucks on first and last-mile deliveries. The trucks are planned to begin arriving at Maritime’s ports later this year and into early ’20’25. High-powered EV charging stations will also be installed across the company’s network of 41 depots , terminals, and container storage sites.

Electrek’s Take

Electrifying everything at a container yard – from the biggest material handlers to smaller scissor and fork lifts – is no-brainer. In a contained, controlled environment with predictable routes and known loads, electrification is the most affordable and practical solution, and we can’t wait to see the data confirming that.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

I’ve been in and around the auto industry since the 90s, and have written for a number of well-known outlets like CleanTechnica, the Truth About Cars, Popular Mechanics, and more. You can catch me on The Heavy Equipment Podcast with Mike Switzer, the AutoHub Show with Ian and Jeff, or chasing my kids around Oak Park, IL.

Norwegian Cruise Line ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most megaresort-like, activity-packed Norwegian Cruise Line ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are, almost by definition, the Norwegian Cruise Line ships with the most "stuff" — the most pools, waterslides and other deck-top attractions ( even go-kart tracks ), as well as the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms. They have the biggest spas and casinos among vessels in the Norwegian fleet and the most cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in suite and cabin types.

With room for 4,000 or more passengers, the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are among the most massive resorts you'll find at sea from any cruise line and are comparable to some of the biggest resorts on land, too. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Norwegian Cruise Line ships for you.

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

Still, Norwegian Cruise Line doesn't just operate giant vessels. The world's fourth-biggest cruise line also has quite a few relatively small cruise ships that carry just 2,000 or so people and provide a more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are just half the size of Norwegian Cruise Line's biggest ships. These are vessels that, notably, have fewer deck-top activities and interior venues than the biggest Norwegian cruise ships.

The smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are best for vacationers who like a less crowded, more intimate resort experience.

Related: The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

To ensure you end up on the right Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you, it pays to understand which Norwegian Cruise Line ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Norwegian Cruise Line ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Norwegian Encore

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,116 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,998

2. Norwegian Bliss

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 168,028 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,004

3. Norwegian Joy

Maiden voyage: 2017 Size: 167,725 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,804

4. Norwegian Escape

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 164,998 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,266

5. Norwegian Epic

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 155,873 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,100

6. (tied) Norwegian Getaway

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

6. (tied) Norwegian Breakaway

Maiden voyage: 2013 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

8. (tied) Norwegian Viva

Maiden voyage: 2023 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

8. (tied) Norwegian Prima

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

10. Norwegian Jade

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,558 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,402

11. (tied) Norwegian Gem

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

11. (tied) Norwegian Pearl

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

13. Norwegian Jewel

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 93,502 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,376

14. Norwegian Dawn

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 92,250 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,340

15. Norwegian Star

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,740 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,348

16. Pride of America

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 80,439 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,186

17. Norwegian Sun

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 78,309 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,936

18. Norwegian Sky

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 77,104 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,004

19. Norwegian Spirit

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 75,904 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,032

What is the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore . While not quite as big as the biggest ships from rival lines Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line , Norwegian Encore is still firmly in the pantheon of the world's cruising giants.

At 169,116 tons, Norwegian Encore is bigger than all but 21 other cruise ships in the world, 15 of which are operated by the three lines mentioned above. It regularly sails with more than 4,000 passengers on board.

The biggest of four vessels in Norwegian's Breakaway Plus class of ships, Norwegian Encore is the Norwegian ship most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions. It's home to one of the biggest go-kart tracks on a cruise ship, the biggest laser tag area on a Norwegian ship and an unusually large virtual reality zone called Galaxy Pavilion, to name a few of its biggest attractions. There's also plenty of room to spare for multiple pools, waterslides and a kiddie splash zone.

Additionally, Norwegian Encore offers big-name shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters; a sprawling spa; a casino that fills half a deck; a dedicated children's play zone; and more than 2,000 rooms.

What is the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is Norwegian Spirit. At 75,904 gross tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of Norwegian Encore, the line's biggest ship. It carries just 1,966 passengers — more than 2,000 fewer than Norwegian Encore.

Unveiled in 1998, Norwegian Spirit is not only the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship but also the oldest ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. At 25 years old, it's likely to be phased out of the Norwegian fleet in the coming years.

Norwegian Spirit, notably, was not built for Norwegian Cruise Line but for Asia-based Star Cruises. Its original name was SuperStar Leo. It was transferred to Norwegian and renamed in 2004.

In part because of its smaller size, Norwegian Spirit offers fewer venues and attractions than newer Norwegian vessels, but it still offers a lot. In all, you'll find 13 food outlets on Norwegian Spirit, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line's signature Cagney's Steakhouse and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions on Norwegian Spirit include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

Are bigger Norwegian Cruise Line ships coming?

The answer isn't clear. Norwegian Cruise Line currently has four new cruise ships on order, and all were originally designed to be smaller than the biggest Norwegian ships currently at sea. However, Norwegian recently announced that some of the ships will be redesigned to be as much as 20% bigger .

Depending on how much bigger Norwegian makes these ships, they might become the biggest ships in the Norwegian fleet.

The four ships on order for Norwegian are all sister vessels to the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, which are tied as Norwegian's eighth biggest ships. The first of the four additional ships on order, Norwegian Aqua , is scheduled to begin sailing in April 2025, with the three other new vessels arriving between 2026 and 2028.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships and itineraries

The four new ships are all part of what Norwegian is calling the Prima Class of ships. The first two ships in the series, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, measure 143,535 gross tons a piece, which is about 15% smaller than Norwegian Encore, Norwegian's biggest ship.

The last four ships in the series, as noted, are being redesigned to be bigger than the first two ships in the series.

Norwegian executives said the smaller size of the new Prima Class ships would give the line more options in designing itineraries, as the vessels would be able to access smaller ports around the world than some of the bigger Norwegian ships can.

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Norwegian Cruise Line ships?

To put it simply: The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships have room for more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Norwegian's giant Breakaway Plus Class vessels (Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape), for instance, you'll find multiple pools, waterslides, a kiddie splash zone and — on most of the ships — a sprawling go-kart racing track. Each of the vessels also offers Broadway shows in giant theaters; sprawling spas; large casinos; expansive children's play zones; and more than 2,000 rooms.

Additionally, two of the biggest ships in the series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have what may be the largest and coolest gaming and virtual reality zones at sea.

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

Norwegian's smaller ships, by contrast, lack many of the above features. Because of their smaller size, they have a much more intimate feel, at least when compared to the biggest cruise ships at Norwegian and other mass-market lines, and they hold far fewer people. While Breakaway Plus Class ships can hold around 4,000 passengers, based on double occupancy, the line's smallest vessels are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian's smallest ships are a good choice for vacationers who aren't eager to travel with the huge crowds that are common on the world's biggest cruise ships. They appeal to a subset of Norwegian 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 Norwegian loyalty perks

Additionally, because of their size, the smallest ships at Norwegian 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 Norwegian Encore.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
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• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise