The ever growing cruise industry will see 15 new cruise ships entering service. Among them, Star of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship and other mega ships like Star Princess and two Disney ships. The luxury market will also see some interesting vessels coming online like Luminara, Viking Vesta, Allura and Four Seaons I.
Until 2036, over 60 vessels are in the orderbooks, adding around 170,000 berths to the world’s cruise ship fleet. With 39.5 mio passengers in 2024 and rapidly rising numbers expected in the coming years, cruising is booming like never before.
Ship’s name, owner, gross tonnage and yard are shown
Vessels with a planned delivery in Q1
Mein Schiff Relax, Aida Kreuzfahrten, 160,000GT, 4000 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
She will be the eight ship in the TUI Cruises fleet. Mein Schiff Relax, not to be named Mein Schiff 8 as could be expected will be the first of the new TUItion-class ships with a sister ship planned. TUI Cruises state she offers ‘a new experience of well-being’. For the first time, the company will focus more on international guests with this ship and to emphasize this world famous star, Robbie Williams will name Mein Schiff Relax. The ships of the new TUItion-class will be very innovative in the field of sustainability. Dual-fuel engines for these new ships will be used, in addition to marine diesel, these can also run on liquid gas – also on low-emission and climate-friendly bio- and E-LNG which will offer the greatest possible flexibility which in the future, being an important development towards climate-neutral cruises.
Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Cruise Line, 156,000GT, 3570 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
Norwegian Aqua already is the third of a total of six ships in the new Prima-class. Being 322 meters long and with a gross tonnage of 156,300 tons she can accommodate approximately 3,570 guests. The ship is 10 percent larger and has more capacity than the previous ships in the Prima-class. In addition to the impressive Aqua Slide Coaster, the first hybrid water ride and roller coaster to appear on Norwegian Aqua, there are many other attractions. Gueasts can enjoy a stroll along Ocean Boulevard, whith its glass bridge giving passengers the sensation of walking directly over the sea. Her outdoor lounges are a great place for cruisers to relax, while sports enthusiasts will love the high-tech Glow Curt LED sports complex. Passengers will be thrilled when they use The Drop, a slide that spirals down ten decks. Culinary delights from around the world are available in numerous restaurants. Whether it’s steak, sushi or Thai cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Norwegian Aqua will have areas on board designed for specific passengers and their needs. For example, the well-known Haven is a spacious area that is only available to suite guests. There is a separate sun deck with its own infinity pool and outdoor sauna. Also, there is a special studio lounge for solo travelers. Adults can relax in the Vibe Beach Club, for example in one of the infinity whirlpools. Guppies is an area where parents can have fun with their youngest while the Aqua Park is a perfect family area.
MSC World America, MSC Cruises, 205,000GT, 5400 passenengers, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
She is the second new cruise ship in the World-class of MSC Cruises. The name already indicates where the ship will sail: in American regions. With her 205,000 tons, she will have a capacity of 2,760 cabins and a maximum occupancy of 6,850 guests. The MSC World America will be 330 meters long and 47 meters wide. This is also a ship that will sail on LNG to minimise its impact on the environment. The public areas cover over 40,000 m² and offer an extensive range of facilities. New on this ship are among others The Harbour, an outdoor area for families, the Cliff Hanger Swing, a large swing over the side of the ship, and the only Eataly restaurant at sea. And then there is the arcade running along the lenghth of the ship, the World Promenade with its shops and restaurants all under a continously changing LED ceiling. She also offers her passengers over 20 dining options, including international cuisines, and a wide variety of bars and cafés. The 24 different accommodation options offer plenty of choice to suit different needs, with six of these being exclusive to MSC Yacht Club members.
Vessels with a planned delivery in Q2
Asuka III, NYK Cruises, 52,000GT, 740 passengers, Meyer Werft, Germany
Meyer Werft in Germany builds this special cruise ship tailored for the Japanese market. Its unique design meets the needs and requirements of Japanese passengers. According to Managing Director Jan Meyer: ‘we are working very closely and passionately with the NYK Cruises team to achieve this”. MEYER WERFT will use numerous solutions customised for the Japanese market for the new cruise ship. These include, among others, the spa areas, which will be specially developed according to Japanese wishes and customs. ASUKA III is the first passenger ship to be built under the supervision of the Japanese flag state in around 30 years. She is powered by liquified natural gas (LNG) which means that In addition to reducing CO2 emissions, emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter can be almost completely eliminated and sulphur oxides totally avoided. Delivery of the abt. 52,000 GT ship is planned for 2025. With a length of 230,2 metres and a width of 29.8 metres, she will offer space for around 740 passengers.
Viking Vesta, Viking Ocean Cruises, 54,300GT, 1000 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
Viking Vesta is the next new vessel in this endless series of 930-passenger ships (the 11th in a series of 19 vessels) which continue to bring Viking Cruises success. The last 10 ships are 10 m longer and have a bigger passenger capacity of 998 vs 928. The Scandinavian décor and stylish onboard service combined with specialty dining (drinks included) make cruising with this line very popular. Her spa and at least one excursion in each port of call as well as wifi are included in the cruise fare. These adult-only vessels sail enriching destination oriented cruises. The Viking Vesta-like her sisters- will not have art auctions, a casino or photographers following you around, as these ships offer quiet surroundings for travelling in comfort.
Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Int., 250,800GT, Meyer Werft, Finland
At 250,800 gross tons, Star of the Seas will be slightly larger than the first ship in the Icon-class, Icon of the Seas – currently the world’s largest cruise ships. Star of the Seas offers entertainment for the whole family, spread across four exciting themed areas each having heir own breathtaking live shows. The ship features a “Splash Away Bay” and also a “Category 6” water park with a total of six slides, including a free-fall slide. The water park is one of the largest at sea. This Icon class ship is also suitable for adventurous guests, as they can reach spectacular heights with the “Crown’s Edge”, a skywalk with cable car or the “Adrenaline Peak”, a climbing experience that leads to the highest viewpoint on the entire ship. But three of the seven swimming pools on board provide a calm and relaxing atmosphere. In addition to “Cloud 17” and the pool bar “Swim & Tonic”, where you can sit comfortably in the water at the bar and enjoy a drink, “The Hideaway” is the place where guests find absolute relaxation as this infinity pool features calm background music. Also, passengers can indulge themselvers in a high-quality culinary experience in one of the 40 restaurants or bars.
Allura, Oceania Cruises, 67,000GT, 1200 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
Allura is the eighth vessel for Oceania Cruises and the line’s second 1,200-guest Allura-class ship. 1,200 guests are served by 800 crew members, two crew members for every three guests. Also, there is one chef for every 10 guests, and 50% of her crew members are dedicated to culinary experiences for example the expansive hands-on Culinary Center and accompanying Chef’s Studio, where epicurean secrets will be shared by the talented onboard chef instructors. Allura features five specialty dining venues, including Oceania’s newest signature restaurants, Ember and Aquamar Kitchen, at no extra cost. She has a luxurious library, featuring walls of floor-to-ceiling glass and ultra-comfortable furnishings. She also has the most spacious standard staterooms at sea, at 291 square feet. Onboard enrichment consists of art classes, numerous guest speakers and sommelier demonstrations during exclusive Sommelier’s Choice and Cellar Master’s classic wine pairing luncheons.
Vessels with a planned delivery in Q3
Luminara, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, 37,000GT, 450 passengers, Chaniers de l’Atlantique, France
Ritz-Carlton is launching a third luxury cruise liner called Luminara in the summer of 2025. The Ritz-Carlton fleet already includes 190-meter Evrima and 240-meter Ilma, which were launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Spanning 242 meters, the newest fleet member is again a bit bigger than her predecessors. “With Luminara, we are not just adding another superyacht to our fleet, we are expanding the horizons of ultra-luxury travel,” according to Jim Murren, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection CEO. Luminara features 226 suites with private terraces and yet unseen space ratios for guests at sea while two new top suite categories measure 1,000 square feet of sophisticated ambiance. With exclusive dining in five restaurants, six bars, a wine cellar, an expanded marina and the Ritz-Carlton Spa, the line delivers yet another outside category luxury cruise yacht.
Douglas Mawson, Sunstone, 8,000GT,186 passengers, CMIH, China
These 104.4m long vessels have a capacity for 120 to 160 passengers in 93 suites, 68 with balconies, 9 with French balconies and 16 with panoramic windows. They are of revolutionary design, of the X-bow type and have Polar Code 6, Ice Class 1A, allowing them to sail virtually all waters in the polar regions. Although they are sister vessels,, there are some differences as the flexibility of this series makes it possible to adapt the vessels to the needs of the charterers. Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, this new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is custom designed for polar exploration and global discovery. Douglas Mawson boasts the fleet’s most extensive range of cabins yet, including single and interconnectable cabins as well as two cabins which can accommodate a third person. 79% f her cabins also include a private balcony with large floor-to-ceiling glass doors offering great views around the globe.
Star Princess, Princess Cruises, 175,000GT, 4,300 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
This 21-deck vessel has an innovative design, her glass dome being the focal point of the ship, during daytime it is a place to relax, but at night the mood changes and this multifunctional space will feature spectacular entertainment. Also impressive is the “glass square” situated midsships offering spectacular views. On Star Princess, as seen on many large cruise ships today, the ship-within-a-ship concept is implemented, where exclusive suites, dedicated lounges, restuarants and impressive deck-space are available. She is the second ship in the Princess Cruises fleet to be powered by LNG, lowering the emission of toxic gasses thus saving the environment by diminishing the footprint of cruising.
Vessels with a planned delivery in Q4
Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises, 140,600GT, 3200 passengers, Chantiers de l Atlantique, France
Another Edge-class vessel, Celebrity Xcel will join her sisters Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond. All of the popular features will again be present like the moveable deck Magic Carpet which can be used as embarkation platform, restaurant and bar. Her Edge Villas will even have private plunge pools! Celebrity Xcel like her sisters features the three-deck high Eden Lounge surrounded by 7000 square meters of glass, the top deck garden and the revoltionary Infnity balconies which will enlarge staterooms when closed off.
Four Seasons I, Four Seasons Cruises, 20,000GT, 180 passengers, Fincantieri, Italy
The vessel will be built around “immersive luxury experiences,” Four Seasons’ president and CEO Alejandro Reynal said in a statement. There will be 95 suites, the “crown jewel” of which as the line states will be The Funnel Suite: an expansive, four-story penthouse space, one of the largest suites available on any cruise ship. With its four levels and its huge outdoor terrace, it will offer more than 9,500 square feet of private space for up to six guests. The Funnel Suite will be located on the ship’s highest decks where a traditional funnel would be. The suite’s main design feature is its curved, wraparound glass window that will stretch from floor to ceiling and offer incredible 280-degree views of the sea. This curved glass is true design marvel, according to Four Seasons it is the largest piece of contiguous glass at sea and cost $4.5 million to build and install.
Disney Adventure, Disney Cruises, 208,000GT, 6000 passengers, MV Werften, Germany
Debuting in Singapore on December 15, 2025. Disney Cruise Line’s first ship for the Asian market will bring the characters and stories of Disney, Pixar and Marvel to life through a variety of innovative features and activities She will feature seven themed areas: Disney Imagination Garden, Toy Story Place, San Fransokyo Street, Town Square, Wayfinder Bay, Disney Discovery Reef and Marvel Landing. The latter area will feature three brand-new attractions that focus on Marvel heroes. There’s the nearly 820-foot-long Ironcycle Test Run, the longest roller coaster at sea, Pym Quantum Racers and Groot Galaxy Spin, which are inspired by the Marvel Universe. The state-of-the-art Garden Stage will host a variety of shows, including “Remember,” a musical created exclusively for the ship and inspired by Disney-Pixar’s “Wall-E” as well as the show “Disney Seas the Adventure”. Disney Adventure’s restaurants will focus primarily on Asian and international cuisine, ranging from fine dining to quick-service dining options. Guests will be entertained during dinner for example in the Navigator’s Club and Hollywood Spotlight Club, featuring performances by characters such as Mickey and Minnie. There are also two animated restaurants that transform during dinner, including artwork from popular Disney films and lighting effects. Disney Adventure will be able to accommodate up to 6,700 passengers max and will also feature a fitness center, multiple kids’ clubs but also features adults-only bars and lounges, a daycare center, a spa and salon and will offer many other family-friendly amenities.
Disney Destiny, Disney Cruises, 140,000GT, 2,500 passengers, Meyer Werft, Germany
Disney Destiny offers 1,250 comfortable staterooms, numerous dining options and of course entertainment for all ages. She is of the same ship class as the Disney Wish. All accommodations on board are inspired by the enchanting Disney Characters. This is especially reflected in the artwork that adorns the staterooms and suites. The choice of accommodations ranges from spacious interior staterooms to multi-level suites. Some categories also have a concierge service. Disney Cruises is known for its high-class entertainment. Unique musicals based on Disney works, encounters with iconic heroes and villains and much more await passengers on the ship. Travellers can soak up nostalgia in one of the two cinemas, where Alice in Wonderland or Peter Pan take center stage. Disney Destiny also features 10 swimming pools and water playgrounds. Adult visitors can relax in an adults-only pool with an adjacent bar, while the little ones get to know their personal Disney, Pixar and Marvel heroes in their own programs. Dining on board this Disney ship is an experience in itself. The restaurants are designed in the style of various Disney films and offer as much variety as the heroes’ adventures. While dining, cruisers can enjoy a musical version of The Lion King or experience the world of Marvel up close.
Star Seeker, Windstar Cruises, 10,000GT, 224 passengers, West Sea yard, Portugal
Set to launch in December 2025, Star Seeker will offer a luxury cruise experience with five dining options, a full-service spa, fitness center, and an innovative water sports platform that will give guests direct access to the sea. She will accommodate 224 cruisers, ensuring Windstar’s intimate and personalized service, with a 1:2 crew-to-guest ratio. In addition to Star Seeker, Windstar will introduce a sister ship, Star Explorer, in December 2026. Both ships feature ice-strengthened hulls, advanced safety technology and a focus on sustainability, with energy-efficient engines and other technical systems that will minimize environmental impact.
2026
Explora III, MSC Explora Journeys, 64,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Mein Schiff 9, TUI, 161,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Adora Cruises, 135.000GT, CSSC, China
Unnamed, Royal Caribbean Int, 250,800GT, Meyer Turku, Finland, Italy
Corinthian, Orient Express, 30,000GT, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
World Asia, MSC, 205,000GT, Chantiers de l’Attlantique, France
World Adventurer, Mystic – Atlas, 10,000GT, West Sea shipyard Portugal
Unnamed, Viking Ocean, 454,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Viking Ocean, 54,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Narrative, Storylines, 62,000GT, Brodosplit, Croatia
Foor Seasons II, Four Seasons, 20,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, NCL, 156,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Project Sama, 2,300GT, T. Mariotti, Italy
Unnamed, Northern Xplorer, 20,000GT, West Sea Shipyard, Portugal
Seven Seas Prestige, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 77,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
2027
Explora IV, MSC Explora Journeys, 64,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Explora V, MSC Explora Journeys, 64,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
World Discoverer, Mystic-Atlas, 10,000GT, West Sea shipyard, Portugal
Unnamed, NCL, 169,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, MSC, 205,000GT, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
Unnamed, Viking Ocean Cruises, 47,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Orient Express, 30,000GT, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
Unnamed, Carnival Cruises, 184,000GT, Meyer Werft, Germany
Unnamed, Disney Cruises, 160,000GT, Meyer Werft, Germany
Unnamed, Royal Caribbean Int., 250,800GT, Meyer Turku
Unnamed, Oceania Cruises, 86,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Ryobi Holdings, 20,000GT, West Sea Shipyard, Portugal
2028
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, Viking Ocean Cruises, 54,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Crystal Cruises, 61,700GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Explora VI, MSC Explora Journeys, 64,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, NCL, 169,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Carnival Cruises, 184,000GT, Meyer Werft, Germany
Unnamed, Royal Caribbean Int, 230,000GT, Chantier de l’Atlantique, France
Unnamed, Disney Cruises, 140,000GT, Meyer Werft, Germany
2029
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, Viking Ocean Cruises, 54,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Viking Ocean Cruises, 54,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Carnival Cruises, 230,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 77,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Oceania Cruises, 86,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Disney Cruises, 160,000GT, Meyer Werft,
2030
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, Crystal Cruises, 61,700GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Disney Cruises, 160,000GT, Meyer Werft, Germany
Unnamed, NCL, 225,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
2031
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, Carnival Cruises, 230,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
Unnamed, Disney Cruises, 160,000T, Fincantieri, Italy
2032
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, NCL, 225,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
2033
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, Carnival Cruises, 230,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
2034
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, NCL, 225,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
2036
Delivery to be advised
Unnamed, NCL, 225,000GT, Fincantieri, Italy
