top 20 largest cruise ship in the world 2023

20 Biggest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2023

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These Cruise Ships Just Keep Getting Bigger!

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 Icon of the Seas

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

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

Utopia of the Seas

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

P&O Arvia

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

MSC World Europa

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

Wonder Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 235,600
• Width: 215 ft

Symphony Of The Seas

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

Harmony Of The Seas

• Gross tons: 226,963

Allure Of The Seas

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

Oasis Of The Seas

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

P&O Iona

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

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

MSC Grandiosa

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

Costa Smeralda

• Length: 1106 ft

Norwegian Bliss

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

Queen Mary 2

• Gross tons: 149,215
• Width: 134 ft

Queen Elizabeth 2

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

Viking Octantis

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

Viking Polaris

Carnival Mardi Gras

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

Spectrum Of The Seas

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

The 20 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World in 2023

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The world’s 20 largest cruise ships in 2023

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

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

16. (tie) MSC Seascape

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: MSC Cruises Launches MSC Seascape in New York City

16. (tie) MSC Seashore

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

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

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

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

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

15. (tie) MSC Bellissima

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

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

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

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

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

15. (tie) MSC Meraviglia

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

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

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

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

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

14. (tie) MSC Virtuosa

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

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

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

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

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

14. (tie) MSC Grandiosa

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

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

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

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

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

13. Mardi Gras

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. AIDAcosma

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

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

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

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

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

11. Carnival Celebration

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Cassidy Gifford Becomes Godmother of Carnival Celebration in Miami

10. AIDAnova

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. (tie) Costa Toscana

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

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

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

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

8. (tie) Costa Smeralda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. MSC World Europa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Allure of the Seas

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

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

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

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

4. Oasis of the Seas

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

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

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

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

3. Harmony of the Seas

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

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

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

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

2. Symphony of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

1. Wonder of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparing the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world

Largest cruise ships faq.

How is the size of a cruise ship measured?

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

What does maximum beam mean on a ship?

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

Which cruise ship is the biggest?

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

Which cruise ship is the longest?

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

Which cruise ship can hold the most passengers?

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

Which cruise ship has the most staterooms?

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

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

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

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

Daily Correspondent

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sarah Kuta | READ MORE

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

Protect Your Trip »

The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts.

The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

With every year comes bigger and grander cruise ships.

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

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

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

Find your perfect cruise

Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Length: 1,198 feet

Width: 213 feet

Gross tons: 250,800

Maximum number of passengers: 7,600

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

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

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 211 feet

Gross tons: 236,860

Maximum passengers: 6,788

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

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

Read: The Top New Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Gross tons: 235,600

Maximum passengers: 7,084

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

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

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

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Width: 215.5 feet

Gross tons: 228,081

Maximum passengers: 6,680

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

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

Read:  Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Gross tons: 226,963

Maximum passengers: 6,687

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

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

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Simon Brooke | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Length: 1,187 feet

Width: 215 feet

Gross tons: 226,838

Maximum passengers: 6,771

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

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

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Gross tons: 225,282

Maximum passengers: 6,826

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

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

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

MSC World Europa

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Gross tons: 215,863

Maximum passengers: 6,762

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

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

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

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

Costa Smeralda

Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Length: 1,106 feet

Width: 138 feet

Gross tons: 185,000

Maximum passengers: 6,554

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

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

Costa Toscana

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

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

Explore Costa Cruises deals on GoToSea.

P&O Cruises Arvia

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Maximum passengers: 5,200

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

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

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Courtesy of AIDA Cruises

Gross tons: 184,600

Maximum passengers: 6,654

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

P&O Cruises Iona

Length: 1,129 feet

Gross tons: 184,000

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

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

Gross tons: 183,900

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

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

Carnival Jubilee

Width: 137 feet

Gross tons: 183,521

Maximum passengers: 6,631

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

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

Carnival Celebration

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

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

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

Compare Carnival Cruises on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia

Length: 1,087 feet

Width: 141 feet

Gross tons: 181,541

Maximum passengers: 6,327

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

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

MSC Virtuosa

Maximum passengers: 6,334

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

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

Book an MSC Cruise on GoToSea.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Gross tons: 180,000

Maximum passengers: 6,465

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

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

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of Port Miami for MSC Cruises

Length: 1,036 feet

Gross tons: 171,598

Maximum passengers: 5,655

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

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

Norwegian Encore

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Gross tons: 169,116

Maximum passengers: 3,998 (double occupancy)

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

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

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

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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Things to Know Before You Cruise

Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships For 2023: Get Ready To Set Sail On These Giant Vessels!

Are you ready to experience the ultimate luxury of cruising on the largest ships in the world? As an AI language model, I may not have the physical ability to sail on these giant vessels, but I am excited to share all the details about the top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023.

With the cruise industry constantly expanding, these ships are set to offer unparalleled experiences for guests. From the current largest ship, Wonder of the Seas, to the upcoming Icon of the Seas, each ship has its own unique features that make it a must-see destination.

Imagine sipping a cocktail on a deck overlooking the vast ocean, indulging in gourmet cuisine, and enjoying world-class entertainment – all while cruising on a massive ship. If you have a subconscious desire for freedom and love to explore new places, then these ships are the perfect vacation option for you.

Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, these ships offer an array of activities and amenities that cater to all ages and interests. Get ready to set sail on these giant vessels and create unforgettable memories on your next vacation.

• Wonder of the Seas is currently the largest cruise ship in the world, but even larger ships are on the horizon.
• Icon of the Seas is set to launch in late 2023 and will be the largest cruise ship in the world with a guest capacity of 7,600 and a gross tonnage of 250,800.
• The top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023 include ships from several different cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, MSC, Costa, and P&O.
• In addition to providing information on the size and itineraries of each ship, the article includes details on entertainment, dining options, and upcoming ships expected to launch in the coming years.

Wonder of the Seas

I can’t wait to set sail on the Wonder of the Seas, the current largest cruise ship in the world. This massive vessel boasts a guest capacity of 6,988, a crew capacity of 2,200, a gross tonnage of 236,857, and a length of 1,188 feet.

But it’s not just the size that’s impressive – the onboard amenities and design features are equally impressive. The Wonder of the Seas has a wide variety of entertainment options, including a casino, a theater with live shows, and a water park with thrilling water slides.

Dining options are also plentiful, with over 20 restaurants and bars to choose from. And if you’re looking to relax and unwind, you can head to the spa or one of the many pools on board.

With so much to do and see, I’m excited to experience all that the Wonder of the Seas has to offer.

Oasis-Class Ships

Sailing on the Oasis-class ships is like exploring a floating city, with endless possibilities for entertainment and dining. These ships are among the largest in the world, with guest capacities exceeding 5,000 and gross tonnages over 225,000.

The Oasis-class ships, including the Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas, are known for their size, but also for their sustainability measures. These ships have advanced wastewater treatment systems, energy-efficient lighting, and advanced hull designs to reduce fuel consumption.

In addition to their environmental efforts, the Oasis-class ships offer an incredible range of activities and dining options. Passengers can experience Broadway-style shows, zip lines, and even ice skating rinks. Dining venues range from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, offering something for every taste and budget.

With their massive size and impressive amenities, the Oasis-class ships are sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable cruising experience.

MSC World Europa and Arvia

Exploring the MSC World Europa and Arvia ships is a must for anyone looking for a luxurious and unique cruising experience. The MSC World Europa is a next-generation ship set to sail in 2023. It boasts sustainable design features and state-of-the-art technology. With a gross tonnage of 205,700 and a guest capacity of 5,400, it is one of the largest ships in the world.

The ship features an impressive range of onboard amenities. These include a two-deck promenade, a Himalayan Bridge, and a glass-floored catwalk. Guests can also indulge in the ship’s luxurious spa, which offers a range of treatments and therapies. The MSC World Europa also offers a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants. With its innovative design and top-of-the-line amenities, the MSC World Europa is sure to impress even the most discerning travelers.

Arvia is another ship set to sail in 2023 and is equally impressive. With a gross tonnage of 184,700 and a guest capacity of 5,200, it offers a range of design features that make it a unique and exciting cruising option. The ship features a stunning glass SkyDome, which offers panoramic views of the sea and sky. It also boasts a range of onboard amenities, including a luxurious spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and a range of dining options.

Overall, the MSC World Europa and Arvia offer an unforgettable cruising experience that is sure to delight even the most discerning travelers.

Costa Smeralda, Costa Toscana, and Iona

Let’s take a closer look at the unique features and itineraries offered on the Costa Smeralda, Costa Toscana, and Iona ships.

The Costa Smeralda, which has a guest capacity of 6,554 and a gross tonnage of 185,010, is a beautiful ship with a focus on sustainability. This ship features a stunning three-deck atrium, a water park, and a plethora of dining options. One of the most unique design features of the Costa Smeralda is the Colosseo, which is a two-story entertainment venue that can seat up to 1,700 guests.

This ship offers Mediterranean itineraries with various departure ports, including Barcelona, Marseille, and Civitavecchia.

The Costa Toscana, which is set to launch in December 2021, has a guest capacity of 5,200 and a gross tonnage of 185,010. This ship is inspired by the beauty of Tuscany and features a stunning concept called the Piazza della Signoria, which is a public square with a glass dome roof. The Costa Toscana also offers a variety of dining options, including a special restaurant that serves traditional Tuscan cuisine.

This ship sails mostly in the Mediterranean, but it also offers cruises to the Middle East from Dubai. With its impressive design features and various departure ports, the Costa Toscana is sure to provide an unforgettable cruise experience.

Entertainment and Dining Options

I was impressed by the plethora of dining options and entertainment venues offered on the Costa Smeralda, Costa Toscana, and Iona ships. These top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023 have truly raised the bar when it comes to onboard experiences. From specialty restaurants to Broadway-style shows, there’s something for everyone on these ships.

When it comes to dining, guests can indulge in a variety of cuisines, from Italian to Japanese and everything in between. The Costa Smeralda and Costa Toscana even feature Slow Food certified restaurants, which highlight local ingredients and sustainable practices. As for entertainment, the Iona boasts a 710-seat theater and the first-ever gin distillery at sea. And all three ships offer unique experiences, such as the Costa Smeralda’s onboard museum and the Iona’s aerial entertainment venue. It’s clear that the trends in 2023 are all about providing guests with the latest innovations and must-try experiences, making these ships a must-sail for anyone seeking the ultimate vacation.

Nightlife and activities are also top picks on these ships, with options ranging from dance clubs to rock climbing walls. The Costa Smeralda even has a 4D cinema and the Iona features a glass-walled sky dome for stunning views. Whether guests want to dance the night away or try their hand at a new activity, there’s no shortage of things to do on these ships. Overall, the top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023 are setting the standard for onboard experiences, with the latest innovations and must-try experiences that are sure to make for an unforgettable vacation.

The Costa Smeralda, Costa Toscana, and Iona are just a few examples of the incredible entertainment and dining options available on these massive cruise ships. With unique experiences, top picks for nightlife and activities, and the latest trends in 2023, guests are sure to have the time of their lives onboard. So why not set sail and experience it for yourself? It’s time to embrace that subconscious desire for freedom and enjoy the ultimate vacation.

Icon of the Seas

I’m excited to learn more about the Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship set to launch in late 2023. With a guest capacity of 7,600 and a gross tonnage of 250,800, it will be a massive vessel that offers an unparalleled cruising experience.

The ship will have new neighborhoods designed for family fun, including a dedicated area for younger guests, complete with water slides and other exciting features. Apart from its family-friendly amenities, Icon of the Seas will boast of new accommodation choices and dining venues that will cater to all types of travelers.

The ship’s design features the latest technology and state-of-the-art facilities, including a revamped AquaTheater, which is bound to impress guests of all ages. Overall, the Icon of the Seas is shaping up to be a game-changer in the cruise industry, offering an unforgettable experience for those who are looking for a truly spectacular vacation on the high seas.

Specific Ships and Itineraries

Moving on from the upcoming Icon of the Seas, let’s take a closer look at the specific ships and their itineraries. As mentioned earlier, each of the top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023 offers unique entertainment, dining options, and itineraries.

And with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ship and itinerary to book. Here are some tips for planning a cruise vacation on a large ship:

Consider your interests: Each ship has its own theme and entertainment options. For example, Wonder of the Seas offers a Bionic Bar with robotic bartenders and a Central Park neighborhood, while Iona has a gin distillery and a 93-meter-long SkyDome.

Look at the itinerary: Comparison of cruise itineraries between specific ships is important as it can affect what ports of call you’ll be visiting and how many sea days you’ll have.

Book early: Large ships tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Booking early can help secure your preferred cabin and itinerary.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can plan a memorable cruise vacation on one of the top 10 largest cruise ships for 2023.

Upcoming Ships

As we look to the future of the cruise industry, new and exciting ships are on the horizon. These upcoming vessels will not only be larger and more luxurious than ever before, but they will also offer innovative features and amenities that will set them apart from their predecessors. The table below provides a glimpse of some of the upcoming ships and their respective features.

These upcoming ships are sure to have a significant impact on the cruise industry. Not only will they attract new passengers, but they will also push existing cruise lines to up their game in terms of amenities and experiences. The Icon of the Seas, for example, will be the largest cruise ship in the world when it launches in late 2023. Its innovative features, such as new neighborhoods and revamped AquaTheater, will set a new standard for the industry. As cruise lines continue to compete for passengers, we can expect to see more and more ships with similar features and amenities in the years to come.

How long does it take to build a cruise ship of this size?

The construction timeline of a cruise ship this size can vary, but generally takes around 2-3 years. Shipyard capacity is crucial, with larger yards being able to build multiple ships simultaneously.

What is the average cost of a cruise on one of these top 10 largest ships?

The average cost of a cruise on one of the top 10 largest ships varies based on amenities and itinerary. Booking tips include using a travel agent and booking early for the best deals.

How do these cruise ships compare in terms of sustainability and environmental impact?

Sustainability initiatives and environmental impact mitigation are important considerations for cruise ships. Many of the top 10 largest ships for 2023 employ energy-saving technologies, waste reduction programs, and use cleaner fuels. However, more can be done to reduce their environmental footprint.

Are there any age restrictions or requirements for certain onboard activities or amenities?

Navigating the age restrictions and accessibility options for onboard activities can be a bit like charting a course through choppy waters. But fear not, as the entertainment offerings and dining options are plentiful and cater to all ages and abilities.

How do these ships handle medical emergencies or illnesses while at sea?

Onboard medical staff are available 24/7 for medical emergencies or illnesses while at sea. In the event of a serious emergency, emergency evacuation procedures are in place to transport passengers to the nearest medical facility on land.

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

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

Why choose to cruise with a large vessel?

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

Largest vessels have numerous qualities:

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

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

Top 20 large cruise ships you should try at least once

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

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

How big are the biggest cruise ships?

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

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

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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

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World 2023

Book Your Next Amazing Cruise with Travel Leader, Jeffrey Cleary

Cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger, and by the time a new world’s largest cruise ship is built, an even bigger ship is already being planned. Cruise Hive looks at the top ten biggest cruise ships in the world by gross tons.

What’s the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?

The list constantly changes as new mega-ships enter service from different cruise lines. So, what’s the largest cruise ship in the world right now?

The largest cruise ship currently in service is Wonder of the Seas , an Oasis-class vessel operated by Royal Caribbean. The ship is similar in design to her sister ships but adds some additional features and evolves the class. Wonder of the Seas is a massive 236,857 gross tons with a guest capacity of 5,734 at double occupancy. You can check the top biggest cruise ships in the list below.

1. Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Wonder of the Seas , the fifth Oasis-class vessel , took the world’s largest cruise ship title from her sister Symphony of the Seas . The new vessel was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, and delivered to the cruise line on January 27, 2022.

Just like her sister ships, Wonder of the Seas is divided into themed neighborhoods, but this ship has the addition of a new Suite Neighborhood. The eighth neighborhood offers Royal Suite Guest a Suite Sun Deck with a plunge pool, private restaurant, deck bar, and lounges. The area also has the largest Ultimate Family Suite.

Worth Reading: Wonder of the Seas vs. Titanic – A Giant Comparison

Other new features include a new southern restaurant named the Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, Wonder Playscape, and The Vue Bar. The world’s largest cruise ship departs on her maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 4, 2022.

In January 2024, Royal Caribbean will take delivery of the new LNG-powered Icon of the Seas , which will become the new largest cruise ship in the world, shifting Wonder of the Seas to no.2 on the list.

Wonder of the Seas Stats

• Cruise Line:  Royal Caribbean
• Entered Service:  March 2022
• Gross Tonnage:  236,857
• Length:  1,188 ft
• Passenger Decks: 16
• Staterooms: 2,867
• Passenger Capacity:  5,734
• Crew Capacity:  2,300

2. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Symphony of the Seas  is the fourth Oasis-class and 25th cruise ship from Royal Caribbean and is slightly larger than her sister ships making her the world’s biggest cruise ship.

Symphony of the Seas  was built at the then-named STX France shipyard and was delivered to the cruise line on March 23, 2018. The vessel departed on its first one-time special preview sailing on March 31, 2018.

The first official maiden voyage departed on April 7, 2018, on a 7-night Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona, Spain.  Symphony of the Seas  has been based in  PortMiami, Florida  since November 10, 2018.

Symphony of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  March 2018
• Gross Tonnage:  228,081
• Passengers:  5,518
• Crew:  2,100

3. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Harmony of the Seas  overtakes the other Oasis-class ships just slightly, making her the second largest cruise ship in the world. The vessel is the first of two new orders from STX France to expand the large class ships to four.

Harmony of the Seas  was the first in the class to feature the 10-Story Ultimate Abyss slide, which is located aft of the ship above the AquaTheater. The slide has since been a major feature on new Oasis-class vessels and added during refurbishments.

Harmony of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  May 2016
• Gross Tonnage:  227,500
• Length:  155.6 ft
• Passengers:  5,480

4. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This is the ship that helped push the cruise industry to new heights.  Oasis of the Seas  was the first of its kind when she arrived at the end of 2009. The groundbreaking vessel was built at the STX shipyard in Turku, Finland.  Oasis of the Seas  also boasts features like the Zip-line and the AquaTheater.

In 2019, The Royal Caribbean cruise ship underwent a massive $165 million upgrade , which did not just add new water slides, but also The Ultimate Abyss aft slide, new dining venues, and a refreshed look. The amplification increased the ship’s gross tonnage, and she now overtakes sister ship Allure of the Seas in the list of the world’s top 10 largest cruise ships.

Oasis of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  Dec 2009
• Gross Tonnage:  226,838
• Length:  1,186.5 ft
• Passengers:  5,400
• Crew:  2,394

5. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This ship is huge and the second in the record-breaking Oasis class for Royal Caribbean.  Allure of the Seas  has seven distinct neighborhoods and too many dining spaces to count!

The vessel is different from other large ships in the cruise industry and boasts features like the Zipline and the AquaTheater.

Allure of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  Oct 2010
• Gross Tonnage:  225,282
• Length:  1,187 ft
• Crew:  2,384

6. MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)

This is the first World class vessel from the fast-growing MSC Cruises and was built at the popular Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France. Since her delivery in October 2022 , she has been the largest MSC cruise ship ever. That will be until the sister ship MSC World America arrives in 2025.

MSc World Europa is the largest cruise ship powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and takes the cruise line into a new era of sustainability, which it’s taking very seriously. The 6th world’s biggest cruise ship features more than 30 different dining venues and a new thrilling 250-foot Drop slide located aft of the ship.

MSC World Europa Stats

• Cruise Line: MSC Cruises
• Entered Service: 2022
• Gross Tonnage: 215,863
• Length: 1,094 ft
• Passenger Capacity: 6,762
• Crew Capacity: 2,138

7. Arvia (P&O Cruises)

Arvia is the second Excel class cruise ship for British-based P&O Cruises. The vessel is slightly larger than its sister ship Iona and was constructed at the popular Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. She is currently the largest in the P&O fleet and is the largest ever constructed vessel purposely for the British market.

Arvia Stats

• Cruise Line: P&O Cruises
• Gross Tonnage: 184,700
• Length: 1,130 ft
• Passenger Capacity: 5,200
• Crew Capacity 1,800

8. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)

Costa Smeralda  is the cruise line’s first-ever cruise ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). She’s also the largest vessel ever constructed for the Italian-based cruise operator.

The ship  was finally delivered  from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland after a delay on December 5, 2019. Her first regular voyage departed Savona on December 31, 2019; however, there was a special voyage for travel agents that departed Barcelona, Spain on December 18, 2019.

Costa Smeralda Stats

• Cruise Line:  Costa Cruises
• Entered Service:  Dec 2019
• Gross Tonnage:  185,000
• Length:  337 Meters
• Passengers:  6,600
• Crew:  1,500
• Guest Cabins:  2,600

9. Costa Toscana (Costa Cruises)

Costa Toscana is the second Excel class vessel built for Carnival-owned Costa Cruises. The LNG-powered cruise ship is the flagship of the fleet and was constructed at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. She’s almost identical to the Costa Smeralda , including gross tonnage and size. The only reason she is lower than her sister ship in the largest cruise ships in the world is that she entered service in 2021 .

Costa Toscana Stats

• Cruise Line: Costa Cruises
• Entered Service: 2021
• Gross Tonnage: 185,010
• Length: 1,106 ft
• Passenger Capacity: 5,224
• Crew Capacity: 1,678

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

British-based P&O Cruises  took delivery of its largest-ever cruise ship  and first to be powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) in October 2020. This came after delays due to the global pandemic and the impact on the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papengburg, Germany, which is where the vessel was constructed.

P&O Iona Stats

• Cruise Line:  P&O Cruises
• Entered Service:  2020
• Gross Tonnage:  184,089
• Length:  344 Meters
• Passengers:  5,200
• Crew:  1,800
• Guest Decks:  15

FAQ on Largest Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas is the world’s largest cruise ship in 2023. The Oasis class vessel is 236,857 gross tons and has a passenger capacity of 5,734 at double occupancy, but that goes up to 7,084 at maximum capacity. The giant cruise ship also has a crew capacity of 2,204, and there are a total of 18 decks.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas will become the new world’s largest cruise ship when she enters service in January 2024 at a massive 250,800 gross tons and a length of 1,198 feet. The LNG-powered vessel will also have a guest capacity of 5,610 at double occupancy, which can reach a maximum of 7,600. There will be a capacity for 2,350 crew members.

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Jeffrey Cleary is an experienced travel advisor and cruise specialist with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in Caribbean and World cruises. With over a decade of experience in the travel industry, Jeffrey has developed a reputation as a trusted advisor for those seeking unforgettable Caribbean and/or World cruise experiences. "I bring a wealth of experience and knowledge in the cruise industry, along with real-world experience on many of the finest ships at sea. I love cruising myself, so I am often sailing (and reachable by clients) and experiencing the cruise lines first hand. I'll get to know you, your style, your ideal vacation and recommend an Amazing Cruise experience."

The World's Largest Cruise Ship Has 20 Decks, 7 Pools and Would Cover Almost 4 City Blocks

The world’s largest cruise ship is set to begin its maiden voyage from the Port of Miami

The World's Largest Cruise Ship Has 20 Decks, 7 Pools and Would Cover Almost 4 City Blocks

Rebecca Blackwell

FILE - The Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, sits docked after arriving to its home port in Miami, Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is leaving South Florida on Saturday, Jan. 27, for its first seven-day island-hopping voyage through the tropics. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)

MIAMI (AP) — The world's largest cruise ship — the size of almost four city blocks — is set to begin its maiden voyage Saturday as it leaves from the Port of Miami.

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas runs nearly 1,200 feet (365 meters) from bow to stern.

The ship, which is leaving South Florida for its first seven-day island-hopping voyage through the tropics, was officially christened Tuesday with help from soccer legend Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates.

“Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of dreaming, innovating and living our mission – to deliver the world’s best vacation experiences responsibly," Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty said earlier this week. “She is the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, forever changing the status quo in family travel and fulfilling vacation dreams for all ages on board.”

The ship sets sail as Royal Caribbean’s cruises are having a moment online. Since December, the company’s 9-month “Ultimate World Cruise” has captivated — and confused — a following of avid watchers on social media.

Millions are following the journey through the eyes of the passengers, as they live and post their lives aboard a vessel they’ll be on for nearly a year. If it sounds like a reality show, that’s exactly what some watchers have turned it into.

When the Icon of the Seas was first revealed in October 2022, the ship spurred the single largest booking day and the highest volume booking week in Royal Caribbean’s then 53-year history, according to the cruise line.

The Icon of the Seas is divided into eight neighborhoods across 20 decks. The ship includes six waterslides, seven swimming pools, an ice skating rink, a theater and more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges. The ship can carry up to 7,600 passengers at maximum capacity, along with 2,350 crew members.

It is powered by six dual-fuel engines, which can be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a fuel alternative that the Cruise Lines International Association says reduces sulfur and greenhouse gas emissions. However, some environmentalists worry LNG-powered ships increase methane emissions . Other say that vacationers generate eight times more carbon on a cruise than they do on land.

Royal Caribbean says every kilowatt used on the Icon of the Seas “is scrutinized for energy efficiencies and emission reductions.”

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The best cruise lines in the world 2023

Mega ships (More than 4,000 passengers)

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

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

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

Medium ships (500 to 2,500 passengers)

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

Small ships (Fewer than 500 passengers)

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

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

Expedition ships

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

Largest Cruise Ships In the World

What are the world’s largest cruise ships? Let’s discover the World’s Top 11 Current Largest Cruise Ships In the World. If you’re searching for information on the biggest cruise ships in the world , you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual journey to discover the most massive and luxurious vessels that grace our oceans. These ships have breathtaking amenities,  awe-inspiring dimensions and carry a huge amount of passengers. We will delve into the fascinating world of these floating cities, ensuring you’re well-equipped with all the knowledge and stats about the world’s most colossal cruise ships just in case you want to sail on one.

 Join us as we set sail on an adventure to uncover the giants of the sea, making waves in the cruise industry. We are embarking on an exciting voyage to explore the world’s top 11 largest cruise ships in the world. Let our  guide  help you to decide which is the best cruise ship for you and your cruise vacation.

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What Are The World’s Top 12 Current Largest Cruise Ships In 2024?

How big is a cruise ship.

Cruise ships are HUGE, and of course; they come in all shapes and sizes. No one is prepared for just how big they are when they are when they first see them. The current largest cruise ship in the world has 18 decks and 24 guest elevators, weighs 236,857 gross tons and is 1,188 ft long

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 What is so special about a large cruise ship?

Cruise ships are floating cities with bars , restaurants, water slides, boardwalks and some even Go cart tracks. This and the added fun of exploring a new city every day can lead to the ultimate family vacation.

As Cruise ships are so large our advice is to spend the first day getting your bearings and working out where things are. Set up a meeting point so you can find friends and most important of all have fun!

Current List of Largest Cruise Ships in the world In 2024

Here are the Top 12 Current Largest Cruise Ships In 2024:

• Icon of the Seas
• Wonder Of The Seas (Icon of the Seas launches in 2024)

Symphony  of the Seas

• Harmony of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas

Allure of the seas.

• MSC World Europa

Costa Smeralda

Costa toscana, p&o arvia, p&o iona, the biggest ship in the world is icon of the seas.

The most gian and biggestt cruise ship in the world in 2024 is Icon of the Seas, an icon-class Royal Caribbean ship that has just launched, and the reviews are excellent. Icon of the Seas is HUGE, at 250,800 GT, which also makes it the heaviest  passenger cruise ship  in the world. Additionally, she holds over 7000 passengers; this again is a world-beating number.

Royal Caribbean has also created one of the best-dedicated suite areas at sea, thus creating a ship within a ship feel plus a new reimagined Aqua Dome. Icon of the Seas has something to suit everyone, from dining bars to family activities and pools.

Wonder Of The Seas

As of 2022,  Wonder Of The Seas , an Oasis-Class Ship, was the biggest   Royal Caribbean cruise Ship , a whopping 236,857 tonnes and 1,188 feet long and holding 6,988 at total capacity. She also has 2300 crew members, a ratio of 3 passengers to each crew member. She has 7 neighbourhoods to explore with an indoor Central Park and even a Boardwalk with full size carousel on it. However, she will lose her crown in 2023 when the new ship Icon of the Seas launches.

The Royal Caribbean international ship Symphony of the Seas closely follows Wonder of the Seas  as the second largest ship. At 228,081 Gross Tons and1,188 feet long. This ship is simply packed with a whole host of activities and facilities. On Symphony you can experience a full 10 story dry slide called the , a surf simulater machine called the flo rider and even a mini golf course to name but a few activities. It also has plenty of restaurants to choose from such as the Playmakers lounge and the magical Wonderland restaurant.

Royal Caribbeans Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas was the second ship in the Royals Oasis class. Harmony of the Seas was the first in the Oasis class to feature the 10-Story Ultimate Abyss slide , which is located at the aft of the ship. Since then the slide has featured on new Oasis-class vessels and also been added to Oasis of the Seas during her refurbishment.

Harmony of the Seas can carry a whopping 6,687 passengers and weighs 226,963 tons! She continues in the Oasis Class line of Royal Carribbean class ships that have so far been taking the crown of the worlds largest cruise ships.

Oasis of the Seas was the first ship in the Royal Caribbean Oasis class and once took the crown of the worlds Largest ship. The Oasis of the Seas ship was the first ship in the Royal Caribbean Oasis class and once took the crown of the worlds Largest ship and pushed the cruise industry to new heights never seen before. In 2019, Oasis of the Seas underwent a refurbishment, adding amenities found on newer Oasis-class ships. These included the FlowRider simulators, Perfect Storm waterslides, Ultimate Abyss, and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Across the ship’s seven neighborhoods, you’ll also encounter cutting-edge technology like video walls, touchscreen signage, and VOOM, known as the fastest internet at sea.

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, which first set sail in 2010 is the cruise line’s second Oasis-class vessel, which underwent refurbishment in 2015. It accommodates 6,780 passengers and 2,200 crew members, offering 2,742 staterooms, seven neighborhoods, four pools, six whirlpools, 19 dining venues, and numerous bars and lounges. Entertainment options include an ice skating rink, a basketball court, a 10-deck-high zip line, two rock climbing walls, and two beloved FlowRider simulators. The ship also boasts the interactive H2O Zone Water Park for kids and Broadway productions like “Mamma Mia!” and aerial acrobatic performances in Oceanaria for adults . Additionally, conference facilities can host up to 1,394 guests for business purposes.

MSC World Europa 

MSC World Europa, the inaugural vessel of MSC Cruises’ MSC World-class fleet , made its highly anticipated debut in November 2022 . Remarkably, it represents MSC Cruises’ pioneering foray into LNG propulsion, capable of attaining a top cruising speed of 22.7 knots.

Distinguished by its futuristic design, both inside and out, the ship boasts a sprawling 295-foot-long promenade. This promenade is a unique blend of innovation, with half of it sheltered beneath the Meraviglia-class LED sky screens, while the other half provides open-air spaces offering stunning ocean vistas. MSC World Europa offers a total of 2,626 staterooms, accommodating up to 6,762 passengers, and is staffed by a dedicated team of 2,138 crew members. Adding a delightful touch, each passenger deck is named after a renowned international city, such as London, Paris, Lisbon, and Rome .

Noteworthy highlights encompass distinct themed zones, a serene Zen area featuring an adults-only pool, a lively family zone complete with bumper cars and rollerblading, and the fleet’s most extensive onboard water park. Younger cruisers can revel in the exhilarating 11-deck-high stainless steel tunnel slide at the ship’s core. To accommodate a wide array of performances and events, Luna Park Studio, the ship’s 300-seat multifunctional entertainment venue, stands ready to impress. The Europa sails around Europe throughout the year, with departures from various Mediterranean ports. Other notable large ships from MSC include the MSC Bellissima and the MSC Grandiosa which are part of MSC Meraviglia class ships.

Costa Cruises’ largest cruise ship is the Smeralda. The Costa Smeralda, takes its name from Sardinia’s captivating Emerald Coast, stands as a remarkable achievement in modern cruise ship technology. Operated by the esteemed Italian cruise line Costa Cruises, this vessel represents the pinnacle of their fleet. It boasts an impressive 185,100 gross tonnage and dimensions measuring 337 meters in length and 42 meters in width. With a capacity to accommodate up to 6,554 passengers and a dedicated crew of 1,646 members, Costa Smeralda embarked on its inaugural voyage in December 2019, exclusively navigating the Mediterranean Sea.

This extraordinary ship has been meticulously designed, incorporating various sustainable technologies, transforming it into a veritable “Smart Floating City.” In addition to providing luxurious accommodations for its passengers, Costa Smeralda also champions environmental conservation by significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

Following the by Costa Smerelda is the Costa  Toscana, the newest cruise ship for Costa, which is 180,000 and has a length of 1,105ft. 

In 2022, the Costa Toscana, powered by LNG, assumed its role as the flagship vessel for the Italian cruise line. It marked a departure from the initial Costa ships that emerged when Carnival Corporation acquired the line in 2000, emphasizing a distinctly European and exceedingly luxurious ambiance.

One striking feature of the Costa Toscana is the clever utilization of color to distinguish its public spaces. For instance, one can readily discern the rich forest greens of the Kartell Caffe on Deck 8, situated amidships, or the vibrant fire-engine red of the aptly-named Campari Bar on Deck 7. Roaming the decks of the Costa Toscana is not just an exploration of the ship itself; it’s a voyage of discovery, unveiling the essence of Europe and Italy. On Deck 17, you’ll find the lively orange-themed Aperol Spritz bar, a collaboration with the iconic Italian brand that originated the famous drink in Venice during the 1920s.

P&O Arvia holds 5200 guests and have a crew of 1800. Arvia has a top deck mini golf and high-ropes course, pool and an swim-up bar. This revolutionary new ship Arvia even has its own distillery onboard. When the cruise ship is in the Caribbean it makes rum and whilst in the Mediterranean it distills gin! In fact It has many firsts! 

The primary attraction of this cruise ship lies in its numerous pioneering features, such as Altitude, an engaging activity area; Mission Control, an immersive escape room experience; Skywalk, a thrilling high-ropes adventure. Not to mention the Splash Valley, a water-based attraction; a dynamic sports arena; a swim-up bar for aquatic relaxation; and a mini-golf course. Notably, among P&O’s fleet, this ship surpasses its sister, IONA, in size, thus earning the distinction of being the largest cruise ship as of 2023.

P&O Iona also holds 5200 guests and has a crew of 1800 Making it one of P&O’s largest cruise ships. As the sibling vessel to Arvia, Iona stands proudly as another splendid offering from P&O Cruises. She solidifies its position as one of the largest British cruise ships for the foreseeable future. Arvia and Iona share striking similarities, both epitomizing modernity and spaciousness, making them perfect choices for couples or families . While Iona may not offer the extensive array of features like rock climbing walls and surfing simulators found on Royal Caribbean ships, it excels in providing excellent kids’ clubs with a wealth of diverse activities.

AIDA is a German brand under the Carnival umbrella. The largest AIDA cruise ship the Aida Nova, has 6,654 passengers and 1646 crew. And Aida Cosma Holds 6,600 passengers and 1646 crew.

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Donna loves cruising with her husband and two teenage boys. Having cruised with the children from a young age she feels it is the perfect way to experience the world safely. Her boys are social butterfly’s and love meeting other children their own age whilst onboard some of the most extraordinary floating ships. She also writes over at Like Love Do, a travel memoir of her trips, from London to far off beaches. She has an eye for the unusual and like to go off of the beaten track just to find the perfect photo. With a passion for photography and exploring cruising has become the perfect holiday choice.

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