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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

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Length: 1,198 feet

Width: 213 feet

Gross tons: 250,800

Maximum number of passengers: 7,600

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

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

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 211 feet

Gross tons: 236,860

Maximum passengers: 6,788

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

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

Read: The Top New Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Gross tons: 235,600

Maximum passengers: 7,084

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

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

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

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Width: 215.5 feet

Gross tons: 228,081

Maximum passengers: 6,680

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

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

Read:  Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Gross tons: 226,963

Maximum passengers: 6,687

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

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

Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Simon Brooke | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Length: 1,187 feet

Width: 215 feet

Gross tons: 226,838

Maximum passengers: 6,771

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

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

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Gross tons: 225,282

Maximum passengers: 6,826

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

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

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

MSC World Europa

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Gross tons: 215,863

Maximum passengers: 6,762

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

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

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

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

Costa Smeralda

Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Length: 1,106 feet

Width: 138 feet

Gross tons: 185,000

Maximum passengers: 6,554

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

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

Costa Toscana

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

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

Explore Costa Cruises deals on GoToSea.

P&O Cruises Arvia

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Maximum passengers: 5,200

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

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

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Courtesy of AIDA Cruises

Gross tons: 184,600

Maximum passengers: 6,654

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

P&O Cruises Iona

Length: 1,129 feet

Gross tons: 184,000

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

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

Gross tons: 183,900

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

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

Carnival Jubilee

Width: 137 feet

Gross tons: 183,521

Maximum passengers: 6,631

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

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

Carnival Celebration

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

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

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

Compare Carnival Cruises on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia

Length: 1,087 feet

Width: 141 feet

Gross tons: 181,541

Maximum passengers: 6,327

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

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

MSC Virtuosa

Maximum passengers: 6,334

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

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

Book an MSC Cruise on GoToSea.

Carnival Mardi Gras

Gross tons: 180,000

Maximum passengers: 6,465

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

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

Read: The Top Themed Cruises

MSC Meraviglia

Courtesy of Port Miami for MSC Cruises

Length: 1,036 feet

Gross tons: 171,598

Maximum passengers: 5,655

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

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

Norwegian Encore

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Gross tons: 169,116

Maximum passengers: 3,998 (double occupancy)

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

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

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

Find a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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

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

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

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

Why Are Cruise Ships So Big?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Icon of the Seas

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

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

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

Wonder of the Seas

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

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

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

Symphony of the Seas

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

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

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

Harmony of the Seas

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

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

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

Oasis of the Seas

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

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

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

Allure of the Seas

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

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

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

MSC World Europa

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

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

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

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

Costa Smeralda/Costa Toscana (Tie)

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

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

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

P&O Arvia

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

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

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

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

More on Large Ships:

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

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The 30 Largest Cruise Ships in the World Ranked

Wondering what the largest cruise ship in the world is? You're not alone. These vacation-ready giants of the sea seem to push the boundaries of size year after year. With the biggest ships at sea, though, you're getting way more than just crowds of fellow passengers. Water parks , huge entertainment spaces, dizzying restaurant options, and a wider variety of cabins are all part of how the largest cruise ships are filling all that space.

To help you compare the sizes, we've rounded up and ranked the 30 largest cruise ships in the world by gross tonnage (which is a measure of volume, not weight). We've included other stats, such as passenger capacity (both double occupancy and max occupancy) plus length and beam (the width at the widest point of the vessel).

Keep in mind that this list of biggest cruise ships in the world changes annually, as cruise lines update their fleets. While Royal Caribbean continues to dominate the top (and the bottom) of the list, new entries may surprise you. For example, Princess Cruises has a new ship on the list (the largest ever for that fleet), barely missing the top twenty.

See how your favorite cruise lines and ships measure up this year with our list below.

1. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Besides taking on the mantle of largest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas is yet another game changer for Royal Caribbean. Its launch in January 2024 heralds a new ship class loaded with new attractions and iconic spaces. It features 20 decks (18 guest-accessible decks), a record-setting six water slides and the largest swimming pool at sea.

The second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas , is set to sail in 2025.

Icon of the Seas Gross Tonnage : 250,800 GTs

Icon of the Seas Length : 1,198 feet

Icon of the Seas Beam (Maximum) : 213 feet

Icon of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 5,610/7,600

2. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas Gross Tonnage : 236,860 GTs

Utopia of the Seas Length : 1,188 feet

Utopia of the Seas Beam (Maximum) : 211 feet

Utopia of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 5,668/6,509

3. Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas was previously the world's largest cruise ship, starting in January 2022. Its first voyage was in March 2022, becoming the fifth member of Royal's Oasis-class ships. The aptly named Wonder of the Seas has 18 decks (16 guest-accessible decks), 2,867 staterooms and 19 pools.

Wonder of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 235,600 tons

Wonder of the Seas Length: 1,188 feet

Wonder of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 215 feet

Wonder of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,734/7,084

4. Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas slips to the fourth position this year, having been the biggest cruise ship in the world from 2018 to 2022. It has 16 guest decks (18 total decks) along with 2,759 staterooms.

Symphony of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 228,081 tons

Symphony of the Seas Length: 1,188 feet

Symphony of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 215.5 feet

Symphony of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,518/6,680

5. Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas , now the fifth-largest cruise ship in the world, was actually the largest cruise ship from 2016 to 2018. Onboard, passengers can find 16 guest decks, 2,747 staterooms and suites and 23 pools and whirlpools.

Harmony of the Seas Gross Tonnage : 226,963 GTs

Harmony of the Seas Length : 1,188 feet

Harmony of the Seas Beam (Maximum) : 215.5 feet

Harmony of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 5,479/6,687

6. Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas is the flagship of the Oasis class. It made its maiden voyage in 2009, offering 18 total decks (16 guest decks) along with 2,801 staterooms, almost 2,000 of which have balconies.

Oasis of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 226,838 tons

Oasis of the Seas Length: 1,187 feet

Oasis of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 215 feet

Oasis of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,602/6,771

7. Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas made its maiden voyage in December 2010. Allure of the Seas has 18 total decks, 16 of which are guest-accessible, and 2,742 staterooms (including 1,796 balcony suites).

Allure of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 225,282 tons

Allure of the Seas Length: 1,187 feet

Allure of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 215 feet

Allure of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,484/6,780

8. MSC World Europa

MSC entered the top ten in 2022 when World Europa made its maiden voyage in December of that year. It has 2,700 staterooms, 430,000 square feet of public space, 16 total decks and even an 11-foot dry slide called the Spiral, among the longest dry slide at sea. World Europa is the first of four total ships in MSC's World-class fleet, with the second ship World America set to launch in 2025.

World Europa Gross Tonnage: 215,863 tons

World Europa Length: 1,093 feet

World Europa Beam (Maximum): 151 feet

World Europa Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,400/6,762

9. P&O Arvia

P&O Cruises held its spot on the top ten list of largest cruise ships in the world with an aptly named ship. Arvia is Latin for “from the seashore.” Arvia was launched in 2022 and features 19 decks (15 passenger-accessible decks).

P&O Arvia Gross Tonnage : 185,581 GTs

P&O Arvia Length : 1,132 feet

P&O Arvia Beam (Maximum) : 137 feet

P&O Arvia Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 5,200/6,264

10. Costa Cruises Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda is the first ship in Costa Cruises' Excellence-class fleet. This premier ship has 20 decks along with 2,614 staterooms and suites onboard. Costa Smeralda was named after a popular tourist destination in Sardinia.

Costa Smeralda Gross Tonnage: 185,010 tons

Costa Smeralda Length: 1,106 feet

Costa Smeralda Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

Costa Smeralda Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,224/6,554

11. Costa Cruises Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana is Costa Smeralda's sister ship, meaning the two ships are identical in size. Toscano launched in March of 2022.

Costa Toscana Gross Tonnage: 185,010 tons

Costa Toscana Length: 1,106 feet

Costa Toscana Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

Costa Toscana Passengers (Double/Max): 5,224/6,554

12. P&O Cruises Iona

P&O Cruises Iona was the first in the line's Excel-class. Iona includes 2,614 cabins and 15 decks accessible to guests.

Iona Gross Tonnage: 184,700 tons

Iona Length: 1,130 feet

Iona Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

Iona Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,200/6,600

13. MSC Euribia

Launched in 2023, MSC Euribia is among the list of LNG-powered ships that are revolutionizing the industry with cleaner operations as it cruises to mostly European ports of call.

MSC Euribia Gross Tonnage: 181,541 GTs

MSC Euribia Length : 1,087 feet

MSC Euribia Beam (Maximum) : 141 feet

MSC Euribia Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 4,842/6,334

14. AIDA Cruises AIDAnova

AIDA Cruises AIDAnova is the first launched in the Excellence-class, which also has sister ship AIDAcosma. AIDAnova was built in 2018 and has 16 decks with 2,600 cabins. It was the first ship to be awarded the "Blauer Engel," which is a German environmental label given to green-friendly products and services .

AIDAnova Gross Tonnage: 183,858 tons

AIDAnova Length: 1,106 feet

AIDAnova Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

AIDAnova Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,252/6,654

15. Carnival Jubilee

When Carnival Jubilee arrived in Galveston late in 2023, it became the largest and newest ship Carnival has ever cruised from that port. The ship even features a Texas-style livery. Attractions include the Bolt rollercoaster and a whopping 22 dining options, many of which are included in the cruise fare.

Carnival Jubilee Gross Tonnage : 183,521 GTs

Carnival Jubilee Length : 1,130 feet

Carnival Jubilee Beam (Maximum) : 137 feet

Carnival Jubilee Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 5,374/6,631

16. Carnival Celebration

Carnival's Celebration , which launched in November 2022, is a sister ship to the famed Mardi Gras and a "celebration" for the cruise line's 50th birthday year. The Celebration cruise ship, which is fueled by cleaner burning LNG, has 20 decks and 2,687 staterooms and suites.

Carnival Celebration Gross Tonnage: 180,800 tons

Carnival Celebration Length: 1,130 feet

Carnival Celebration Beam: 138 feet

Carnival Celebration Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,282/6,500

17. AIDA Cruises AIDAcosma

AIDA Cruises AIDAcosma, the second in the Excellence-class, was first released in December 2021. It has 20 decks and 2,626 passenger cabins, which includes suites.

AIDAcosma Gross Tonnage: 183,200 tons

AIDAcosma Length: 1,105 feet

AIDAcosma Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

AIDAcosma Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,228/6,600

18. MSC Grandiosa

MSC Grandiosa is a part of the Meraviglia Plus-class, which currently has five sailing ships. Onboard, there are 18 decks (15 of which are passenger-accessible) and 2,405 staterooms onboard.

MSC Grandiosa Gross Tonnage: 181,541 tons

MSC Grandiosa Length: 1,087 feet

MSC Grandiosa Beam (Maximum): 141 feet

MSC Grandiosa Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,842/6,334

19. MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa , which is another member of the Meraviglia-Plus class, first set sail in May 2021. It is easily one of the largest in MSC's fleet (along with sister ship Grandiosa), having 2,421 cabins on 15 passenger-accessible decks (18 decks total).

MSC Virtuosa Gross Tonnage: 181,000 tons

MSC Virtuosa Length: 1,092 feet

MSC Virtuosa Beam: 141 feet

MSC Virtuosa Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,842/6,334

20. Carnival Mardi Gras

Carnival Mardi Gras first debuted in 1972 and was a trailblazing ship. Its preliminary focus was on festive fun for all guests (hence the name), which was unlike any other cruise ship at the time. The unique onboard ambiance continues today on the most recent Mardis Gras, which was launched in 2021, and has 17 passenger decks, 2,641 staterooms and a rollercoaster.

Carnival Mardi Gras Gross Tonnage: 181,800 tons

Carnival Mardi Gras Length: 1,130 feet

Carnival Mardi Gras Beam (Maximum): 138 feet

Carnival Mardi Gras Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 5,282/6,631

21. Sun Princess

Until Utopia of the Seas launches in 2024, Sun Princess will be among the twenty largest cruise ships afloat on the world’s oceans. The ship’s first cruise is set for February 2024, and will debut Princess Cruises ' largest number of dining options , offering guests 29 choices.

Sun Princess Gross Tonnage : 175,500 GTs

Sun Princess Length : 1,133 feet

Sun Princess Beam (Maximum) : 155 feet

Sun Princess Passenger Capacity (Double/Max) : 4,324/5,189

22. MSC Meraviglia

MSC Meraviglia is the first ship in MSC's Meraviglia-class and received the "8 Golden Pearls" award, which recognizes sustainable and environmental stewardship. This meritable ship has 18 decks, 15 of which are accessible to guests, and 2,244 total staterooms. Look for her at port at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve .

MSC Meraviglia Gross Tonnage: 171,598 tons

MSC Meraviglia Length: 1,036 feet

MSC Meraviglia Beam (Maximum): 141 feet

MSC Meraviglia Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,500/5,714

23. MSC Bellissima

MSC Bellissima is yet another member of MSC's Meraviglia-class to make our list. It first set sail in 2019 and has 18 decks (15 available to guests) and 2,217 cabins.

MSC Bellissima Gross Tonnage: 171,598 tons

MSC Bellissima Length: 1,036 feet MSC

Bellissima Beam (Maximum): 141 feet

MSC Bellissima Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,500/5,686

24. MSC Seashore

MSC Seashore first debuted in August 2020 and is one of only two ships in the Seaside EVO-class. Onboard, there are 2,270 staterooms and 15 public-accessible decks.

MSC Seashore Gross Tonnage: 170,412 tons

MSC Seashore Length: 1,112 feet

MSC Seashore Beam (Maximum): 135 feet

MSC Seashore Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,540/5,877

25. MSC Seascape

MSC Seascape debuted in December 2022 easily making our list of the biggest cruise ships in the world. This impressive ship has 20 decks with 2,270 staterooms in 12 different categories. The ship has its own unique experience called Robotron , the first robotic arm thrill ride on the sea. Seascape currently sails from Miami , and in 2025 will offer MSC cruises from Galveston for the first time.

MSC Seascape Gross Tonnage: 169,400 tons

MSC Seascape Length: 1,060 feet

MSC Seascape Beam (Maximum): 135 feet

MSC Seascape Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,560/5,877

26. Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas is the first ship in the Quantum Ultra-class, which is a subset of Royal's Quantum-class . Spectrum of the Seas has 16 total decks (14 guest decks) and 2,137 staterooms.

Spectrum of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 169,379 tons

Spectrum of the Seas Length: 1,139 feet

Spectrum of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 161.5 feet

Spectrum of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,246/5,622

27. Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Encore is a part of the four-ship Breakaway Plus-class , a class known for mimicking small cities with numerous outdoor activities. NCL Encore has a total of 20 decks and 2,043 staterooms.

Norwegian Encore Gross Tonnage: 169,116 tons

Norwegian Encore Length: 1,094 feet

Norwegian Encore Beam (Maximum): 157.9 feet

Norwegian Encore Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 3,998/N/A

28. Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas is the flagship of the Quantum class cruising Asia and the South Pacific half the year, before spending summer in Alaska . It made its maiden voyage in 2014 and holds 16 total decks (14 guest decks) and 2,094 staterooms.

Quantum of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 168,666 tons

Quantum of the Seas Length: 1,141 feet

Quantum of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 162 feet

Quantum of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,180/4,905

29. Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas is the second ship in the five-ship Quantum-class. Anthem of the Seas debuted in 2015 and has 16 decks (14 guest decks) along with 2,090 staterooms.

Anthem of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 168,666 tons

Anthem of the Seas Length: 1,141 feet

Anthem of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 162 feet

Anthem of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,180/4,905

30. Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas made its first voyage in 2016, which made it the third ship in the Quantum-class. This ship has 16 decks (14 guest decks) and 2,091 staterooms.

Ovation of the Seas Gross Tonnage: 168,666 tons

Ovation of the Seas Length: 1,138 feet

Ovation of the Seas Beam (Maximum): 160 feet

Ovation of the Seas Passenger Capacity (Double/Max): 4,180/4,905

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Largest Cruise Ships

See here the world's largest cruise ships list (including vessels under construction ) owned by the best cruise line companies . This article is also integrated with our ship dimensions , passenger capacity , and old cruise ships surveys.

CruiseMapper's list of biggest cruise ships includes all vessels with gross tonnage/volume over 150,000 GT-tons .

Each one of these behemoth ships is an engineering marvel produced by our contemporary age of fun and super technologies. Kudos to their builders and double kudos to their proud owners who have invested so much in these newbuild projects!

Note: In the following table, all links are internal (CruiseMapper) and redirect to the liner's itinerary schedule where you can compare dates and prices per person (double occupancy cabin rates).

The world's largest river cruise ship is Victoria Sabrina . The 2020-launched riverboat is China-built, owned by Victoria Cruises China and deployed year-round on Yangtze River. The vessel has the impressive volume of 17000 GT-tons, LOA length 150 m (492 ft), width 22 m (72 ft), 7 decks (5 with cabins), 270 staterooms, max capacity 690 passengers plus 195 crew/staff.

Oasis-class - biggest cruise ship in the world ever built

World's currently largest cruise ship class is produced exclusively for RCI-Royal Caribbean andin 2 sub-series - Oasis-Class (Allure OTS, Oasis OTS) and Oasis-Plus (Harmony OTS, Symphony OTS, Wonder OTS). These are sisterships from the fleet of the second- largest cruise shipping company in the world - RCCL-Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (as shipowner) that follows only Carnival Corporation (as shipowner).

As to vessels' dimensions, each boasts the unimaginable weight of 227,000-230,000 GT / gross tons, LOA length 362 m (1187 ft) and waterline width 47 m (154 ft). The extreme breadth is over 60 m (198 ft). As the GT is a volume measurement, the ship's actual mass (called displacement) is approx 100,000 tons (the hull alone weighs about 54,000 tons). Surpassing all passenger ship standards, building cost and all previous ship travel vacation concepts, the Oasis-class ships are currently the only passenger shipping vessels of such immense size.

Other interesting numbers are the above waterline height (72 m / 236 ft), depth (23 m / 74 ft below waterline), 16 passenger decks, draft/draught (9,3 m / 31 ft), cruising/service speed 23 knots (26 mph / 42 kph), capacity 5400 passengers at double occupancy (max 6296 / 6870) and officers+crew capacity 2165.

The world's biggest cruise ship propulsion system guarantees the perfect maneuverability by 3 rotatable Azipod thrusters (suspended under the ship's stern), each with a huge electric motor and a 6 m (20 ft) propeller. The ship offers great stability due to its enormous size. And in times of need - there are 18 lifeboats, each with a capacity of 370 people.

Oasis-Plus class is also currently the world's most technologically advanced and energy-efficient cruise vessel ever built. It is equipped with a new-generation exhaust gas cleaning system (multi-stream scrubbers) and with a hull lubrication system allowing the ship to float on air bubbles (created around the hull) thus reducing drag and increasing fuel efficiency.

Regarding cruise accommodations , this class of vessels has some of the largest suites at sea - measuring 150 m2 (over 1600 ft2, balcony included). Another signature feature is the 7 "neighborhoods" (theme-park-like areas), 5 large swimming pools, a huge casino, a full-size volleyball/basketball court, large-capacity bars, and lounges. Oasis-Plus ships additionally have waterslides (created by Aquatic Design & Engineering) and a total of 23 "water fun" areas (swimming pools, large-size outdoor jacuzzies, waterslides, flowriders/surf simulators). The stern-located Ultimate Abyss water slide is 150 ft (45,70 m) above sea level. It features 31 sections, two 360-degree circles, 27-degree slide incline, 28 m (92 ft) serpentine-like drop, 13,14 seconds average sliding time (top to bottom), around 300 small LED lights and graffiti artworks throughout.

These phenomenal ships were manufactured by STX Europe (shipyard Turku Finland / Oasis-class) and in by STX France (shipyard Saint-Nazaire France / Oasis-Plus). The new Oasis ships are 2,15 m (7 ft) longer.

Biggest Carnival cruise ship - "Carnival Pinnacle" class

Watch this amazing YouTube video about the "Carnival Pinnacle cruise ship". The project was designed by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri as their biggest ever passenger ship - GT tonnage 200,000 tons, capacity 6000 passengers, length 380 m (1246 ft), The "Pinnacle Project" was initiated by Carnival Corporation in 2004 to tip the scales in the "Carnival vs Royal Caribbean" competition.

Carnival Pinnacle was never built as the project was officially canceled (mainly due to the vessel's incredible cost at that time). However, many of the project's elements and innovative design features were later adapted for other large-sized cruise liners built for rival companies.

What is the largest cruise ship in the world?

Does size really matter? The cruise industry thinks so. For more than a century, cruise lines have competed to claim the title of world's largest cruise ship.

When it set sail in 1912, the ill-fated Titanic was the largest and grandest passenger vessel of its time. But, as of 2009, when Royal Caribbean debuted its first Oasis-class ship , the superlative applies to vessels more than five times Titanic's size.

So, what is the largest cruise ship in the world? At the time of publication, it's Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas . At 250,800 gross registered tons and carrying up to 7,600 passengers (plus 2,350 crew members), it's a true behemoth. It boasts eight neighborhoods that feature everything from water slides, an indoor AquaTheater, a carousel and an adults-only sun deck to lavish suites, retail shops, thousands of live plants and more than two dozen bars and restaurants.

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

But where do other cruise ships fall? Here's a quick rundown of the world's biggest cruise ships by gross registered tons and maximum passenger capacity. Unsurprisingly, Royal Caribbean's Icon Class and Oasis Class dominate the top five in both categories. Perhaps more surprisingly, only two other lines join it on the winner's podium.

Note: This article excludes ships from lines like Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises and Aida, which do not cater to the North American market.

Biggest cruise ships by tonnage

• Icon of the Seas: 250,800 GRT
• Wonder of the Seas: 236,857 GRT
• Symphony of the Seas: 228,081 GRT
• Harmony of the Seas: 226,963 GRT
• Oasis of the Seas: 226,838 GRT
• Allure of the Seas: 225,282 GRT
• MSC World Europa: 205,700 GRT
• Carnival Celebration: 183,521 GRT
• Carnival Jubilee: 183,521 GRT
• MSC Grandiosa: 181,541 GRT
• MSC Virtuosa: 181,541 GRT
• Carnival's Mardi Gras: 180,000 GRT

Biggest cruise ships by passenger capacity

• Icon of the Seas: 7,600 passengers
• Wonder of the Seas: 6,988 passengers
• Allure of the Seas: 6,780 passengers
• Oasis of the Seas: 6,771 passengers
• MSC World Europa: 6,762 passengers
• Harmony of the Seas: 6,687 passengers
• Symphony of the Seas: 6,680 passengers
• Carnival's Mardi Gras: 6,631 passengers
• Carnival Celebration: 6,631 passengers
• Carnival Jubilee: 6,631 passengers
• MSC Grandiosa: 6,334 passengers
• MSC Virtuosa: 6,334 passengers
• MSC Bellissima: 5,686 passengers

What is the biggest cruise ship in the world today (2024)?

Currently, the largest cruise ship in the world by both tonnage and passenger capacity is Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas .

What cruise ship is 5 times bigger than Titanic?

All of the ships in Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class are at least five times larger than Titanic was.

What is the largest cruise ship capacity?

Icon of the Seas can hold up to 7,600 guests at capacity or 5,610 guests on a double occupancy basis (two people per cabin). The ship also employs more than 2,300 crew members.

Got more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

The World’s 10 Biggest Cruise Ships

• February 7, 2021

Cruise ships, over the last few decades, haven’t just grown in number, but also in size. Today’s biggest ships are nearly three times bigger than the 1988-built Sovereign of the Seas, considered the world’s first mega cruise ship.

1. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 227,625 tons Capacity: 5,400 passengers Built: 2018 Length: 362.1 meters Beam: 47.4 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Caribbean

2. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 227,625 tons Capacity: 5,400 passengers Built: 2016 Length: 362.1 meters Beam: 47.4 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Caribbean and Mediterranean

3. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 220,000 tons Capacity: 5,400 passengers Built: 2010 Length: 362 meters Beam: 47 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Caribbean

4. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 220,000 tons Capacity: 5,400 passengers Built: 2008 Length: 361.6 meters Beam: 47 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Caribbean, Bahamas, and East Coast

5. Mardi Gras (Carnival Cruise Line)

Tonnage: 183,900 Capacity: 5,200 passengers Built: 2021 Length: 337 meters Beam: 42 meters

6. Iona (P&O Cruises)

Tonnage: 183,900 tons Capacity: 5,200 passengers Built: 2020 Length: 337 meters Beam: 42 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Northern Europe and the Canaries

7. AIDAnova (AIDA Cruises)

Tonnage: 183,900 tons Capacity: 5,000 passengers Built: 2018 Length: 337 meters Beam: 42 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Mediterranean and the Canaries

8. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)

Tonnage: 182,700 tons Capacity: 5,224 passengers Built: 2019 Length: 337 meters Beam: 42 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Mediterranean

9. MSC Grandiosa (MSC Cruises)

Tonnage: 177,100 tons Capacity: 4,888 passengers Built: 2019 Length: 331 meters Beam: 43 meters Sailing regions in 2021: Mediterranean

10. Spectrum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 168,666 tons Capacity: 4,100 passengers Built: 2019 Length: 347 meters Beam: 41.4 meters Sailing regions in 2021: China and Southeast Asia

Coming Soon…

The ranking is slated for major changes in the next few years, with large cruise ships entering service for several brands.

1. Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 227,625 tons Capacity: 5,448 passengers Built: 2022 Length: 362.1 meters Beam: 47.4 meters

2. Global Dream (Genting Cruise Lines/Dream Cruises)

Tonnage: 208,000 tons Capacity: 5,000 passengers Built: 2022 Length: 342 meters Beam: 46.4 meters

3. MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)

Tonnage: 205,700 tons Capacity: 5,400 passengers Built: 2022 Length: 330 meters Beam: 47 meters

4. Icon Class I (Royal Caribbean International)

Tonnage: 200,000 Capacity: 5,000 passengers Built: 2022 Length: TBD Beam: TBD

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

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

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

What’s the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?

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

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

1.  Wonder of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

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

Wonder of the Seas  Stats

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

2.  Symphony of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

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

Symphony of the Seas Stats

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

3.  Harmony of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

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

Harmony of the Seas Stats

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

4.  Oasis of the Seas  (Royal Caribbean)

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

Oasis of the Seas Stats

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

5. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

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

Allure of the Seas  Stats

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

6.  MSC World Europa  (MSC Cruises)

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

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

MSC World Europa Stats

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

7. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)

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

Costa Smeralda Stats

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

8.  Costa Toscana  (Costa Cruises)

Costa Toscana Stats

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

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

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

P&O Iona Stats

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

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

10.  P&O Arvia  (P&O Cruises)

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

P&O Arvia Stats

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

Looking Ahead at  Icon of the Seas

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

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

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Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World (2022)

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 is constantly changing 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 full top biggest cruise ships in the list below.

In This Article…

1. wonder of the seas (royal caribbean).

Wonder of the Seas , the fifth Oasis-class vessel took the title of world’s largest cruise ship from her sister ship 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. Wonder of the Seas is offering seven-night cruises to the Caribbean before heading to Barcelona, Spain and Rome in Italy with cruises in the Mediterranean in the summer.

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. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This ship is just huge and is 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 a totally different design to other large ships in the cruise industry and also 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
• Passengers:  5,400
• Crew:  2,384

5. 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 it 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.

Oasis of the Seas Stats

• Entered Service:  Dec 2009
• Length:  1,186.5 ft
• Crew:  2,394

6. 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

7. 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 shipyard.

Even though  Iona  has been delivered she spent many months on hold as the cruise industry suspended operations including P&O Cruises. The vessel is based out of Southampton, UK and will begin sailing on August 7, 2021.

P&O Iona Stats

• Cruise Line:  P&O Cruises
• Entered Service:  2020
• Gross Tonnage:  184,700
• Length:  344 Meters
• Passengers:  5,200
• Crew:  1,800
• Guest Decks:  15

8. AIDAnova (AIDA Cruises)

The cruise ship which is operated by German-based Aida Cruises is the very first new-generation class ordered by parent company Carnival Corporation.  AIDAnova  entered service in December 2018 and has taken the cruise line into a new era of cruise ship design.

The ship is fully powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and was built at the popular Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. Sister cruise lines including Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises all have similar class ships.

AIDAnova Stats

• Cruise Line:  Aida Cruises
• Entered Service:  Dec 2018
• Gross Tonnage:  183,900

9. MSC Grandiosa & MSC Virtuosa (MSC Cruises)

MSC Grandiosa  and  MSC Virtuosa  are both part of the huge Meraviglia-class making them jointly the ninth biggest cruise ships in the world.

MSC Virtuosa  was delivered  on February 1, 2021, and is set to begin cruising in the Mediterranean in April 2021. She features the world’s first Humanoid Robotic Bartender at Sea!

The ship is the first Meraviglia-Plus class and was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France and  delivered at the end of October 2019 . She was christened in Hamburg, Germany and has been sailings since November 10, 2019, excluding the 2020 industry shutdown.

MSC Grandiosa & MSC Virtuosa Stats

• Cruise Line:  MSC Cruises
• MSC Grandiosa Entered Service:  Nov 2019
• MSC Virtuosa Entered Service:  Feb 2021
• Gross Tonnage:  181,541
• Length:  331 Meters
• Passengers:  6,334
• Crew:  1,704

10. Carnival Mardi Gras (Carnival Cruise Line)

Mardi Gras  is the first XL-class ship in the fleet and takes Carnival Cruise Line into the LNG era. The cruise line  took virtual delivery from the Meyer Turku shipyard  in Finland in December 2020 after several delays.

She brings one of the most anticipated new features in years to the industry, the BOLT roller coaster. The first roller coaster at sea is just one of many new features included across six themed zones.

Mardi Gras  will finally begin cruises on July 31, 2021 out of Carnival’s new Terminal 3 at Port Canaveral, Florida. She was originally scheduled to debut at the end of August 2020 but the pandemic hit and we know all the rest!

Mari Gras Stats

• Cruise Line:  Carnival Cruise Line
• Entered Service:  Dec 2020
• Gross Tonnage:  180,800
• Length:  1,130 Feet
• Passengers:  5,282
• Crew:  1,735

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The Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

22 March 2024

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The size and guest capacity of a cruise ship is often one of the first things that people research, whether they are a cruise enthusiast or new to the cruising world. And with cruise ships getting bigger, constantly adding new attractions and competing to offer the best amenities on the market, it’s clear that they will continue to expand as the years go by. 

So what is the biggest cruise ship in the world? In this top 10 list, you’ll discover what the largest cruise ship in the world is, along with other large cruise ships that also offer a myriad of amenities that are bound to have you in awe! From huge guest capacities to extraordinary water parks at sea, spacious accommodation and more, these incredible cruise ships have so much to offer guests. 

Keep reading to find out more about the largest cruise ships in the world!

Sun Princess

First up is Sun Princess . One of the newest ships in Princess Cruises ’ fleet, it’s setting sail in 2024 and offers sailings to a myriad of destinations including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Greek islands. 

With an extraordinary design, Sun Princess has a plethora of innovative onboard amenities from the expansive Park19 Family Activity Zone to unforgettable entertainment in the multifunctional Dome and Princess Arena, 29 dining/bar options, the breathtaking Wake View Terrace and more. 

Find out more about Sun Princess’ fantastic onboard attractions in our blog - Top 10 Things to do Aboard Sun Princess .

Sun Princess Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 177,882
• Capacity: 4,300 guests
• Length: 1,133 ft
• Passenger decks: 16 

Carnival Celebration 

Second on the list is Carnival Celebration . Built to celebrate Carnival’s 50 years of sailing, it boasts the fun and playful Carnival Cruises’ spirit that guests love. Offering sailings to destinations including the likes of the Caribbean, the Bahamas and North America, this family-friendly cruise ship has a formidable capacity of 6,500 passengers. 

Carnival Celebration is split into six zones, each with their own unique themes including Celebration Central, with Center Stage that offers an array of live entertainment, bars, the Bonsai Sushi and Bonsai Teppanyaki restaurants and the Punchliner Comedy Club, the Gateway zone that’s home to several fun themed nights, including Mexico Lindo and Abroad in Europe, Emeril’s Bistro 1397 restaurant, a selection of bars and Summer Landing, with Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse, the Heroes Tribute Lounge and more!

Carnival Celebration Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 180, 000
• Capacity: 6,500 guests
• Length: 1,130 ft
• Passenger decks: 18

MSC Virtuosa 

Setting sail in 2021, MSC Virtuosa is a popular MSC Cruises’ ship that has an impressive passenger capacity of 6,334, 10 dining venues, the futuristic MSC Starship Club (featuring Rob, the first ever robotic bartender at sea!), 5 pools, and Carousel Production at Sea; an extraordinary entertainment concept that combines awe-inspiring acrobatics with live music and dance. 

Families will also love the MSC F1 simulator, high ropes course, bowling alley and 4D cinema. With sailings to a range of destinations, including Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and beyond, it’s a great option for those travelling with kids, their partner or solo due to the variety of itineraries and things to do onboard. 

MSC Virtuosa Key Stats:

• Gross Tonnage: 181,541
• Capacity: 6,334 guests
• Length: 1,085 ft
• Passenger decks: 19

MSC Euribia 

Second up on the list is MSC Euribia ; a ship that sits within MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia Class, is powered by LNG and has a unique hull design (created by artists Alex Flamig) that makes it stand out from the crowd. 

Onboard, you’ll find 5 swimming pools (that can accommodate over 1000 guests),  an impressive waterpark, the longest LED Dome at Sea - the Galleria Euribia, 10 dining venues, 21 bars and lots of entertainment options from Broadway-style shows to big band performances in the Carousel Lounge.

MSC Euribia Stats:

• Gross Tonnage: 184,011
• Capacity: 6,327 guests

P&O Arvia 

One of the most popular cruise ships within P&O Cruises fleet, P&O Arvia has been providing multi-generational families, couples and other travel parties unforgettable cruise getaways since setting sail in 2022.

Sailing to a wealth of destinations, from the Caribbean to Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, whilst P&O Arvia is one of the biggest cruise ships in the world and has plenty to do onboard, it still maintains the warm and welcoming atmosphere that’s beloved by all that sail with P&O Cruises.

Not only does P&O Arvia boast impressive spaces, like the SkyDome with decadent dining options, entertainment and more, but the thrilling Altitude Skywalk, a variety of accommodation options, the Mission Control Escape Room and a range of wellness venues including the Oasis Spa & Health Club amongst others. 

P&O Arvia Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 184,700
• Capacity: 5,200 guests 
• Length: 1,128 ft
• Passenger decks: 16

MSC World Europa  

Another MSC Cruises ship to make the top 10 is MSC World Europa . The first ship to sit within MSC Cruises’ new World Class, it set sail in 2022 and boasts a futuristic design.

Onboard, you can find a variety of restaurants (including 6 speciality restaurants), 7 swimming pools, the Venom Drop @ The Spiral (the longest dry slide at sea that spans an incredible 11 decks!), a waterpark that features VR technology and more. 

MSC World Europa Key Stats:

• Gross tonnage: 215,663
• Capacity: 6,762 guests
• Length: 1,092 ft
• Passenger decks: 21

Harmony of the Seas

Royal Caribbean have always been known for their awe-inspiring cruise ships, that are full to the brim with spectacular facilities, from family-friendly delights to adults-only offerings. Some of the biggest cruise ships in the world, the cruise line is constantly evolving and constructing remarkable cruise ships each year. 

And when Harmony of the Seas set sail on its maiden voyage in 2016, it was clear that not only did it have a large variety of facilities throughout the 16 guest decks, but new extraordinary highlights that are guaranteed to impress! 

The largest cruise ship in the world when it set sail in 2016, Harmony of the Seas is divided into seven neighbourhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk, the Royal Promenade, the Pool and Sports Zone, the wellness zone, Entertainment Place and the Youth Zone. Standout features include the Ultimate Abyss 10-storey dry slide, Perfect Storm waterslides, Splashaway Bay waterpark and its vast selection of complimentary and speciality dining options. 

Read all about Harmony of the Seas on our blog - The World's Largest Cruise Ship: Harmony of the Seas (2016) .

Harmony of the Seas Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 226,963 
• Capacity: 6,687 guests
• Length: 1,188 ft

Wonder of the Seas

The cruise industry was in a buzz when Wonder of the Seas was announced. Setting sail in 2022, it held the title of the world’s biggest cruise ship, with an impressive 7,084 guest capacity, 21 dining options, 11 bars and lounges and 8 different neighbourhoods.

Top highlights onboard Wonder of the Seas include the awe-inspiring performances in the AquaTheater, live music shows in the Music Hall, the FlowRider surf simulator, Ultimate Abyss dry slide and the exhilarating zip line. Sailing to destinations including the Caribbean islands (such as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private islands resort ), North America, Mexico and beyond, you’re guaranteed a wonderful cruise holiday on Wonder of the Seas. 

Wonder of the Seas Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 235, 600
• Capacity: 7,084 guests

Utopia of the Seas

Launching in 2024, Utopia of the Seas  is an exciting addition to Royal Caribbean’s fleet, with over 40 ways to dine and drink, 17 slides, 2 rock climbing walls, 5 pools, an escape room and so many more extraordinary features to look forward to.

Whilst Utopia won’t be the biggest cruise ship in the world, it’s not far behind Icon of the Seas, with a myriad of accommodation options and amenities to take advantage of. Visiting destinations including the Bahamas, the Caribbean islands and more, you’ll have a blast onboard Utopia of the Seas. 

Utopia of the Seas Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 236,860
• Capacity: 5,668 guests

Icon of the Seas

This probably won’t come as a surprise, but in 2024, the biggest cruise ship in the world is Icon of the Seas ! A behemoth of the ocean, Icon of the Seas has caused quite a stir throughout the cruising world with a breathtaking design and a range of facilities that will appeal to cruisers of all ages; well deserving of it's new world's largest cruise ship title.

Highlights onboard Icon of the Seas include Category 6 (the largest waterpark at sea), the Absolute Zero ice arena, the remarkable AquaDome multi-functional space, Crown’s edge ropes course/skywalk, West End-calibre shows in the Royal Theater (such as the beloved Wizard of Oz) and more! 

The largest cruise ship in the world's passenger capacity is an incredible 7,600, with 2,350 international crew members.

Icon of the Seas Key Stats:

• Gross tons: 248, 663
• Capacity: 7,600 guests
• Length: 1,196 ft

Book Your Cruise on One of the Biggest Cruise Ships in the World with Iglu Cruise Today 

Want to experience one of the largest cruise ships in the world yourself? Book your cruise getaway with Iglu Cruise today and look forward to a holiday you never forget. With so many different cruise deals to choose from, you’ll find the best cruise escape for your budget and taste with ease.

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Discover the World’s Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships

Valiant Lady – Day 2 – Irresistible Med – Toulon

Cruising has always been an enchanting and luxurious way to travel, and over the years, cruise ships have evolved into magnificent floating cities, offering an unparalleled experience for travellers.

In this blog, we take you on a journey to explore the top 10 largest cruise ships in the world. From breathtaking views to world-class entertainment and dining options, these ships promise an unforgettable lifetime voyage.

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10. p&o arvia – the british elegance.

Number 10 on our list is the P&O Arvia, an excellence-class cruise ship in service for P&O Cruises UK, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation and PLC.

Built by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft in Papenburg, the ship is aimed at British travellers with high service standards and exciting itineraries.

P&O Arvia is a dream destination for first-time cruisers and seasoned sailors, offering enticing restaurants, exceptional live shows, and everything in between. Embark on a voyage with P&O Arvia and create unforgettable memories.

She tends to sail on longer voyages and heads to the sun. You can usually find her sailing to the Med from the UK in the summer, then the Caribbean from Barbados during the colder winter months.

9. Costa Toscana – An Italian Tribute

At number 9, we have the Costa Toscana, built in the Mayer Turku Shipyard and operated by Costa Cruises, another cruise line that runs under the Carnival group of companies.

This sister ship of Costa Smeralda showcases the warmth of Italian hospitality, offering an unforgettable holiday adventure. Costa Toscana promises a blissful experience for up to 6,218 passengers with various pools, whirlpools, and exclusive services.

Indulge in a delightful culinary journey, exploring a mix of Italian classics and global flavours inspired by your holiday destinations.

8. MSC World Europa – MSC’s World-Class Wonder

At number 8, we have the MSC World Europa, a World-Class cruise ship delivered for MSC Cruises.

Originally, she served as a hotel ship during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, it then joined the MSC fleet to provide an unforgettable holiday adventure suitable for the whole family.

With endless entertainment options, a family zone, and various pools, MSC World Europa caters to guests of all ages.

She can be found sailing in the Med during the summer months on a range of itineraries.

7. Allure of the Seas – Oasis-Class Elegance

Number 7 brings us to the Allure of the Seas, an Oasis-class cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean International . The first of many on this list, as they are the leaders in building outstanding ships.

With an array of pools, water slides, and sports facilities, this ship ensures non-stop fun for passengers. Indulge in diverse dining options, including speciality restaurants and casual eateries, offering delicious meals for everyone.

6. Oasis of the Seas – A Pioneering Mega-Ship

At number 6, we encounter Oasis of the Seas, the first Oasis-class ship by Royal Caribbean International and the one that pioneered the whole series and imitators to follow in their trail.

Setting a new capacity record of carrying over 6,000 passengers at her launch, this ship offers many activities, including rock climbing, ice skating, and various pools. With numerous dining venues, Oasis of the Seas satisfies every palate.

5. Harmony of the Seas – A Symphony of Luxury

Number 5 takes us to the Harmony of the Seas, another Oasis-class cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean International. Harmony of the Seas is the world’s longest cruise ship and offers thrilling experiences, such as ziplining and laser tag.

The ship’s diverse dining options cater to all tastes, ensuring a gastronomic delight for all guests.

4. Symphony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean’s Crown Jewel

At number 4, we have Symphony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s flagship Oasis-class cruise ship. Boasting over 20 dining venues, including signature and innovative options, this ship caters to every culinary desire. Enjoy the largest pool at sea and various entertainment options for an unforgettable vacation.

3. Utopia of the Seas – The Ultimate weekend away

Number 3 introduces Royal Caribbean’s next ship, Utopia of the Seas. She will be setting sail in the summer of 2024, introducing a host of exclusive and new features to the Royal Caribbean Fleet, including the largest complementary ice cream parlour of any Royal Ship and the first Tiki bar on any Royal Ship.

Once completed, Utopia of the Seas will measure 236,860 gross registered tons and 1,188 ft. in length, making her comparable to her slightly older sister, Wonder of the Seas.

She will be sailing three and 4-night sailings from Port Canaveral when she launches, with each sailing calling at Perfect Day Coco Cay and Nassau.

2. Wonder of the Seas – The Ultimate Luxury

Number 2 brings us to Wonder of the Seas, the flagship of Royal Caribbean International and the largest cruise ship globally.

With The Hideaway, the world’s largest water park at sea at its time of construction, and numerous dining options, Wonder of the Seas promises an unparalleled and luxurious vacation.

She can be found sailing from Port Canaveral year-round on east and west Caribbean itineraries, each calling at their Private Island Perfect Day Coco cay.

1. Icon of the Seas – The world’s Largest Ship Breaking Barriers

Finally, at the top of our list at number 1, we have the Icon of the Seas. Scheduled to enter service in 2024, this cruise ship will be the largest in the world, offering an incredible variety of first-time experiences. With innovative dining options, flexible cabins, and unparalleled views, the Icon of the Seas will redefine luxury cruising.

Royal Caribean is looking to innovate on their already world-class Oasis Series with the Icon class of ships by adding the largest waterpark at sea, a new world-class entertainment complex, and so much more.

Icon of the Seas will be sailing from Miami on 7-night Caribbean itineraries when she is on sale in early 2024.

Which is your favourite of these Largest Cruise Ships?

Embark aboard these magnificent cruise ships, promising unforgettable experiences, top-notch entertainment, and delectable dining options.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a family traveler, or a couple seeking relaxation, these top 10 largest and luxurious cruise ships in the world will cater to your every desire.

This summer, set sail on a voyage of discovery and enchantment with Disney Cruise Line. From the historic shores of ...

As the brisk winds begin to sweep across the United Kingdom, the inviting warmth of the Mediterranean becomes increasingly appealing. ...

Have you ever fancied changing your standard desk view for the mesmerizing blues of the Mediterranean Sea? Imagine this summer ...

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best large cruise ships, according to readers

Best Large Cruise Ship (2023) March 24, 2023

If you believe the journey is more important than the destination, these ships are the perfect getaway. These 10 cruise ships, voted as the best by readers, represent some of the biggest and newest at sea. And with such size comes loads of onboard activities, entertainment options and dining venues. 

No. 10: Norwegian Bliss - Norwegian Cruise Line

Sailing the waters of Alaska and the Caribbean, the 4,004-passenger Norwegian Bliss was designed for wildlife viewing, complete with an observation lounge. Guests can choose from several dining options and numerous other bars and lounges, watch Broadway-style shows, listen to live music or play a round of laser tag.

No. 9: Disney Fantasy - Disney Cruise Line

Disney Fantasy carries up to 4,000 passengers, with 1,250 innovative staterooms designed especially for families which ensure that guests of all ages enjoy comfort and relaxation. The AquaDuck water coaster features a twisting transparent tube for family fun, while the 18-and-older Quiet Cove Pool or Satellite Falls offers a more tranquil setting. Dining opportunities include a dinner show, a café for more informal meals or an adults-only restaurants for a romantic night at sea.

No. 8: Celebrity Beyond - Celebrity Cruises

The beautiful Beyond promises more of everything cruisers love: more bars (with included beverages), more space at popular venues, Infinite Veranda staterooms with king-size beds, free Wi-fi, a rooftop garden with cantilevered float pools, and more than 30 restaurants and bars - including Le Voyage from Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud. Celebrity Beyond is an adult-focused experience with solid entertainment that repeat cruisers praise. 

No. 7: Disney Wish - Disney Cruise Line

The largest ship in the fleet, Disney Wish sails to Nassau, Bahamas and Disney's private island, Castaway Cay, with itineraries alternating between three and four nights. It's paradise for kids, to be sure, with six family pools, AquaMouse slide (Disney's first themed attraction at sea), a Marvel dining adventure and high-tech kids' clubs. The 4,000-passenger ship also offers more adults-only oases than other ships. For example, there's a piano bar, larger spa, a hidden bourbon bar in the barber shop, adults-only pool and nooks to sip espresso and nibble small bites. 

No. 6: Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

The 6,780-passenger Allure of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world for several years. With 18 decks, this giant is packed with activities, making sea days a big plus. Options include glitzy productions at the AquaTheater, a zip-line over the Boardwalk, well over a dozen dining options, four pools, a rock climbing wall, ice skating rink and several shops.

No. 5: MSC Seascape - MSC Cruises

Whereas many cruise ships sport a tropical aesthetic, the MSC Seascape pays homage to New York City in design features and venue names. The 19-deck colossus offers the first robotic thrill ride at sea, several pools and a high-tech interactive Aquapark with virtual reality features. For the well-heeled, there's the MSC Yacht Club with 131 suites, 24-hour butler service, an exclusive bar with afternoon tea service and evening entertainment and a dedicated restaurant – and someone will even unpack and pack your luggage. 

No. 4: Symphony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International

There’s a lot happening on the 6,680-passenger Symphony of the Seas, one of the world’s largest cruise ships. The 16 guest decks are divided into seven “neighborhoods” where passengers can slide down the 10-story Ultimate Abyss, play laser tag at Battle for Planet Z, dine at 20 different restaurant concepts or watch a Broadway-style production of "Hairspray."

No. 3: Enchanted Princess - Princess Cruises

Enchanted Princess accommodates over 3,600 passengers, with more than 80% of its cabins including balconies. The ship features next-level Wi-Fi technology, numerous entertainment venues and unique dining experiences, including Chocolate Journeys and the Salty Dog Grill. Passengers can enjoy the multi-story Piazza atrium and glass SeaWalk that extends from the top deck over the water.

No. 2: Mardi Gras - Carnival Cruise Line

Mardi Gras, which carries up to 6,500 passengers, is one of the largest of Carnival’s cruises. Their staterooms include innovative features designed to maximize passengers’ comfort and enjoyment. The ship is divided into six zones, each with a unique theme with shopping, entertainment and dining – featuring restaurants developed by Emeril Lagasse and Guy Fieri. Family members of all ages will enjoy the Ultimate Playground on the top deck, with BOLT, the first shipboard roller coaster, plus a water park and miniature golf course among other attractions.

No. 1: Sky Princess - Princess Cruises

Sky Princess carries up to 3,660 passengers on itineraries around Europe and the Caribbean. Cabins include some of the largest balconies at sea, while dining options cater to every taste. Ship highlights include a European-style Piazza atrium, a dedicated jazz theater and one of the best wine bars on a cruise ship.

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The Experts

Danielle fear.

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized...   Read More

Danielle Fear is one of the UK’s most recognized and trusted cruise bloggers and is better known to her audience as CruiseMiss. As well as maintaining an award-winning cruise blog, she also works as a freelance writer, content manager and social media professional covering all aspects of sea travel. Having embarked on more than 75 sailings, including 2 world cruises, it’s fair to say that Danielle knows a thing or two about cruising.  

Jason Leppert

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert...   Read More

Jason Leppert is a San Diego-based cruising expert with more than 140 sailings under his belt and a fresh, millennial perspective on the industry. He has been cruising since before he was two years old, thanks to his parents' shared passion for traveling and their desire to experience all journeys together as a family. Now, he regularly sails and writes "he said, she said" cruise columns with his wife Heidi. He is the founding editor of Popular Cruising , producer of the successful Popular Cruising YouTube channel  and Cruise Editor for TravelAge West.

Ming Tappin

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been...   Read More

Residing in New Brunswick, Canada, Ming has been in the cruise industry since 1994. Ming spent over 20 years in the retail travel sector, working with travel agencies in marketing initiatives, cruise training, and promoting cruise vacations to their clients. In 2015, Ming created  Your Cruise Coach  and transitioned into travel writing, preaching the merits of cruising via her partnerships with Canadian and American travel trade publications as well as consumer media outlets. An avid cruiser since 1991, Ming has sailed on over 70 cruises and has experienced over 25 ocean, river, and expedition cruise lines combined.

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Readers' Choice Awards Production Manager and Social Media Director for USA TODAY 10Best, has a special interest in unique culinary experiences and  off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of  Her Bags Were Packed  where she focuses on helping  women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

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USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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The world’s biggest cruise ships, as newcomer takes top spot

Record breaking vessel sets sail on its first voyage this afternoon, article bookmarked.

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As the newly crowned world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas, prepares to take its first voyage on Friday afternoon, the league table of mega-ships has once again shifted.

But you may be surprised to know that the whole top five - in terms of size and weight - is now dominated by the same operator, Royal Caribbean .

The 18-deck Wonder of the Seas departs Florida’s Fort Lauderdale this afternoon for its inaugural sailing, travelling to Labadee, Haiti, San Juan, Puerto Rico, Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay - a private island in the Bahamas - over a seven-day itinerary.

It is followed in the size stakes by four of its RC siblings - and will be overtaken in 2024 by another “Oasis-class” ship from the brand, which is yet to be named.

Here’s the lowdown on the Big 10 when it comes to cruising, and their larger-than-life features - from onboard surfing lessons to ziplines.

The world’s top 10 biggest cruise ships

1. wonder of the seas.

Operated by: Royal Caribbean

Weighing in at 236,857 gross tonnes and measuring 362m long and 64m wide, this hulking liner has capacity for 6,988 passengers, with more than 20 dining venues and 11 bars catering to them. Its mind-boggling facilities include the tallest waterslide at sea (the Ultimate Abyss), a casino, a carousel, a Flowrider surf machine, jogging track, zipline and outdoor cinema. The fifth in the operator’s “Oasis class” series of mega-ships has eight “neighbourhoods” or leisure zones, while all other Oasis ships have seven. The new ’hood is the “Suite Class” zone - essentially a lavish VIP area over three decks, where suite-class guests can bask on their own sundeck, plunge pool, bar and lounge.

2. Symphony of the Seas

This 362m-long vessel weighs in at 228,081 gross tonnes - 8,776 less than its gigantic new sibling. It has capacity for 6,680 passengers, to Wonder’s 6,988. But its facilities are no less showy: a laser-tag attraction, an ice-skating rink and AquaTheatre, rock-climbing walls, a FlowRider, an escape room and 21 food and drink outlets. Symphony also made a splash with its Ultimate Family Suite, which was deemed “cool” but also incredibly expensive by critics. Costing from $25,492 (£19,210) for a seven-night cruise for four, this multi-level candyland stateroom has its own tube slide, cinema, gaming tables and “genie” butler.

3. Harmony of the Seas

Only a metre shorter in size than both Wonder and Symphony (361m), Harmony weighs in at 227,000 gross tonnes and can accommodate 6,780 guests. It has many of the same headline features of its bigger siblings: the Ultimate Abyss waterslide, the FlowRider, zipline, and seven distinct “neighbourhoods”. Of the diverse crew, RC says: “there is one ice skate sharpener, a face painter, seven high divers, and two tight-rope walkers - not to mention two robots who staff the Bionic Bar.”

4. Oasis of the Seas

Getting marginally smaller at this stage, Oasis is 362m long and weighs 226,838 gross tonnes, with room for “just” 5,400 passengers. There are plenty of places to take a dip onboard, with four pools and 10 whirlpools, while its full-service spa, basketball court, ice rink and climbing walls all stack up to the top three’s facilities. The ship underwent a refurbishment in late 2019, with the cruise line’s first barbecue restaurant, Portside BBQ, added, along with the Ultimate Abyss slide and Music Hall theatre.

5. Allure of the Seas

The 16-deck Allure is 362m long and weighs 225,282 gross tonnes, hosting 6,780 passengers. It held the title of world’s largest cruise ship for six years, before its hefty siblings set sail. It delighted fans with its world-beating kids’ club and also has the seven “neighbourhood” zones shared by all Oasis-class ships, including a youth zone and a Coney Island-style boardwalk. Its swish 150 Central Park restaurant (a premium add-on) has a six-course tasting menu, but there are 10 food outlets included in your cruise price.

6. Costa Smeralda/Costa Toscana

Operated by: Costa Cruises

Costa Smeralda (337m long, 180,000 gross tonnes) was christened in February 2020, with Rome-inspired features such as a “Trastevere” area and “Piazza di Spagna” steps. Costa ships tend to have a more muted, traditional and grown-up look than RC’s “colour explosion” vibes - Smeralda also has a waterpark, spa and swanky restaurant with menus by top global chefs Bruno Barbieri, Hélène Darroze and Ángel León. It was awarded Green Plus status by certification body RINA for its compliance with sustainability measures, including the use of LNG (liquefied natural gas) and onboard desalination for water use. Twin ship the Costa Toscana - the same length, with just 5 more gross tonnes to its name - will set sail later this month.

Operated by: P&O Cruises

The 344m-long, 184,700 gross tonne Iona launched in February 2020, with room for 5,200 guests. It’s double-height “Sky Dome” area serves as a pool, bar and leisure area by day, and is used for entertainment at night. The vessel’s new “Conservatory mini suites” also added an affordable suite option for passengers. The greenest member of P&O’s fleet, and the first British cruise ship to be powered by LNG, it has a four-screen cinema, a teen “Scene” area, spa and 30 restaurants. Iona will depart on many European itineraries this year, including the Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe, Spain and Portugal, and the Canary Islands.

8. AIDAnova

Operated by: Aida Cruises

The first of seven next-generation LNG-powered cruise ships ordered by Carnival Corporation - to sail under its German Aida brand - AIDAnova is 337m long and weighs in at 183,900 gross tonnes. Mostly serving itineraries around the Canary Islands, Germany, Norway and Madeira, she has specially designed single occupancy cabins and a “time travel” dinner experience. An onboard TV studio can produce its own quiz or game shows, with guests as the audience, while its foodie streak extends across 17 restaurants, including a teppanyaki bar and “Street Food Mile” serving global bites.

9. AIDAcosma

At 337m long, 183,200 GT heavy and 20 decks high, accommodating 5,200, Cosma is the only-marginally little sister to Nova. This cruiser launched on 26 February with a climbing wall and running track for fitness devotees, a waterpark area with slide that families love, and a sea-view sauna. It’s the second sustainable, LNG-run vessel in the series, with a pampering Body & Soul organic spa as well as lots of kid-friendly restaurants. Its standout “Ocean Deck” zone is a wraparound area of pools and sun terraces spread over four decks.

10. Mardi Gras

Operated by: Carnival

At 181,808 gross tonnes and 340m long, Mardi Gras is a mere minnow compared to some of the new-generation megaships. But she packs a lot into that size: housing 6,500 passengers, she has a spa and casino, six themed areas - including one zone inspired by New Orleans’ French Quarter, and a high-ceilinged, glassy atrium known as Grand Central - plus the first-ever rollercoaster at sea. She was North America’s first ship to be powered by LNG, and has the largest water park of Carnival’s fleet.

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I sailed on Royal Caribbean's 2 largest cruise ships. They were shockingly similar for the $1,000 difference

• Royal Caribbean operates many of the cruise industry's biggest ships.
• Icon of the Seas  launched in January, dethroning its predecessor, Wonder of the Seas, as the world's largest.
• Here's how the two mega-ships compare in size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship darling, was deemed a success before it was even built.

In January, the highly anticipated vessel — complete with more than 40 bars and restaurants, a six-slide waterpark, and a waterfall — set sail, dethroning its less than two-year-old precursor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's largest cruise ship.

Before its debut, Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, had already repeatedly called Icon its "best-selling product" yet. The company experienced its largest booking day ever when reservations opened for Icon of the Seas more than a year before its launch, it said

Despite all of this fanfare, you might be surprised by how similar it is to its predecessor.

I've sailed on both ships. Let's see how Icon and Wonder compare in six categories: size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Both ships stunt the size of their competitors.

Wonder of the Seas debuted in 2022 as the then-world's largest cruise liner, measuring 235,600 gross-tons, 1,188 feet-long, and 18 decks-tall. The ship can accommodate up to 9,288 people, including 2,204 crew.

Icon of the Seas is, comparatively, 13,063 gross-tons heavier, eight feet longer, and two decks taller. It can sail up to 9,950 people, including 2,350 crew, although it's 52 feet less wide than its predecessor.

Both vessels feel more like amusement parks than traditional cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean invited me on complimentary, non-revenue sailings on both ships: two nights on Wonder in late 2022 and three nights on Icon in January.

I spent most of my time lost, overwhelmed, and exhausted.

It's no surprise both ships are operating weeklong itineraries this year. Any less, and you might not have time to experience all the activities and restaurants on your list.

Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Wonder and Icon have eight 'neighborhoods' that serve separate purposes.

The new ship shares three of Wonder of the Seas' neighborhoods : Central Park, Royal Promenade, and Suite.

Icon's other five — Thrill Island , Surfside, Hideaway, Chill Island, and AquaDome — are a first for the cruise line.

Many of the ships' amenities overlap, but in differing quantities.

Wonder has three waterslides. Icon has a six-slide waterpark complete with rafting and racing options.

Both have increasingly popular cruise amenities like decks-long dry slides, mini-golf courses, rock climbing walls, and playgrounds.

But instead of Wonder of the Seas' zipline , Icon of the Seas has Crown's Edge, a thrilling agility course with a small zipline that leaves travelers dangling 154 feet above the ocean.

Wonder’s Boardwalk neighborhood was my go-to.

Boardwalk delivered exactly as it had promised: an open-air space grounded by wood-planked floors, a hot dog stand, a sweets store, and kitschy, colorful decor.

Icon of the Seas' Surfside , designed for families with young children, felt like its closest dupe.

Both neighborhoods had a carousel, an outdoor playground, and family-friendly dining. But Surfside was more toddler-friendly, as suggested by the children's water play area and nighttime story readings.

On to entertainment: Both mega-ships have ice skating performances and exciting multi-disciplinary shows at the AquaTheater.

But travelers who enjoy musicals at sea will want to stick to Icon.

Unlike its predecessor, the new ship shows a rendition of Broadway hit "The Wizard of Oz" — Munchkins, a puppet Toto, and a 16-piece live band included.

The layout of Icon's amenities were better than its cousin.

Some of Wonder of the Seas' enticing outdoor amenities — like the surf simulator, zipline, and mini-golf course — are clustered on the deck above and away from the pools and water slides.

This layout might be difficult for parents with children who bounce from one activity to the next. Wouldn't it be easier to have all of these outdoor extras near each other, or at least on the same deck, for parental supervision purposes?

This is where Icon of the Seas excelled: All its exciting open-air activities were adjacent.

The rows of pools flowed perfectly into Thrill Island's waterpark , rock climbing walls, mini-golf course, and Crown's Edge.

The best part? The adult-only Hideaway — which flexes an infinity pool club with a DJ — is right behind Thrill Island, creating a clear separation between parents and their children without being too far from each other.

'Free' options like the buffet and build-your-own tacos and burritos bar are available on both ships.

But you won't find the larger vessel's five-stall food hall or mini-golf-adjacent finger food stand on Wonder.

As expected, Icon of the Seas has more dining options than its predecessor, although there are some overlaps.

Wonder of the Seas has 11 bars and 21 dining venues (9 complimentary and 12 upcharged).

Icon of the Seas has eight more bars, four more complimentary restaurants, and three more specialty dining choices.

Nor will you find the new ship’s plush $200-a-person Empire Supper Club on any other cruise liner.

The multi-course dinner, paired with cocktails and live music, stunts the cost of either vessel's other dinner options.

But if you love Johnny Rockets, you’ll be disappointed by Icon of the Seas.

Restaurants like the popular burger chain and Southern comfort-inspired Mason Jar are only on Wonder of the Seas. Fine by me: My fried chicken at Mason Jar was as dry as a desert.

The younger ship doesn't have Wonder's robot bartender-armed bar either. It does, however, have new watering holes with dueling pianos and live jazz.

Surprisingly, Wonder of the Seas has 65 more cabins than its new cousin.

But several of Icon's 28 stateroom categories are a first for the cruise line.

This includes the new family infinite balcony cabin, which has a small bunk bed nook for children.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony stateroom on both ships.

My Wonder of the Seas' cabin was 20 square-feet smaller than the one on Icon. But my bathroom on the latter was so tiny, I accidentally elbowed the walls at almost every turn.

Sailing on the world's largest cruise ship doesn't mean you'll have the world's largest cabin after all.

Wonder and Icon are both operating seven-night roundtrip itineraries from Florida to the Caribbean.

In 2024, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for year-round sailings from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , starting at $700 per person.

Icon of the Seas is spending its first year in service operating nearly identical itineraries but from Miami instead. The cheapest 2024 option is $1,786 per person.

That's a difference of more than $125 per person per day.

"Bookings and pricing for Icon of the Seas can only be described as 'iconic,'" Naftali Holtz, the CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in February.

Icon of the Seas’ name speaks for itself.

If your family is looking for a jam-packed kid-friendly cruise with enough amenities to stay entertained for a week, both ships are a great option.

But if you're a seasoned mega-ship-cruiser looking to experience something new, Icon of the Seas is your best bet.

They may be similar, but no other behemoth cruise liner has a waterpark for children and a pool club for adults just dozens of feet from each other.

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Earth and World 2024

Top 10 largest cruise ships.

It feels like every few years engineers who are responsible for building and coming up with cruise ships prime their last effort in size. Thus we are set to share a cohesive list of the 10 Most Largest Cruise Ships ever engineered. These ships are so huge, that to a traditional person, you aren’t quite certain how they float so majestically on the water. They really are a number of the best engineering feats that typically goes heavily unnoticed. After all whenever a brand new cruise liner is formed it’s considered not simply larger however higher than its forerunner. What people who venture into these vacations stumped ought to appreciate is the proven fact that safety is an all-time high for these ships. Cruise can carry a large number of passengers, however, largest cruise ships can be decided by parameters such as internal volume, bigger than many cargo ships. The following list we have prepared for largest cruise ships in the world depends on gross tonnage (Nonlinear measure of a ship’s overall internal volume) There are all types of errors that might occur however safety is often taken to succeeding level when a brand new style is formed. Let us list down some of the largest cruise ships in the world,

World’s Largest Cruise Ships

1.) symphony of the seas- 228,081 gross tonnage.

It is an Oasis-class cruise liner owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. As of 9th July 2017, she is the largest ship within the world by gross tonnage duty, at 228,021 GT, surpassing her sister Harmony of the Seas. Symphony of the Seas was built in the Chantiers de l’Atlantique workplace in Saint Nazaire, France. She is that the fourth ship in its Oasis-class series. Symphony of the Seas measures 361.011 metres (1,184.42 ft.) long and encompasses a gross tonnage duty of 228,081 across eighteen decks. She is in a position to accommodate 5,518 passengers at double occupancy up to the most capability of 6,680 passengers, also as a 2,200-person crew.

Facilities embody a children’s water park, a life-sized basketball court, ice rink, and two 43-foot rock-climbing walls. There’s additionally a ‘central park’ that contains over 20,000 tropical plants. Alexa, Carlos and Ocean Pena Vega were chosen because the “God family” of the ship, marking the primary time within the trade that a family was a ship sponsor. The baptism ceremony took place in Miami in November 2018.

Related: Top 10 Most Expensive Yachts in the World

Image Source: Wikimedia

2.) Harmony of the Seas- 226,963 Gross Tonnage

Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis-class cruise liner engineered by STX France at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique workplace in Saint-Nazaire, France for Royal Caribbean International. With a gross tonnage duty of 226,963 GT, she is that the second largest ship within the world, surpassing her older sisters Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, however, surpassed by her newer sister Symphony of the Seas.

Harmony of the Seas has 2,747 staterooms, of varied sizes, to accommodate (at double occupancy) 5,479 guests. Harmony of the Seas includes a range of water based mostly attractions together with an oversized dry slide complicated, 2 surf simulators and twenty-three swimming pools.

Harmony of the Seas is 200th additional energy economical than her sister ships Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. Little air bubbles from the keel scale back drag and therefore fuel consumption by 7-8% and a swish hull surface additional reduces resistance. The bubble system conjointly reduces propeller noise and is employed on Celebrity Reflection and Quantum of the Seas. It conjointly has what Royal Caribbean claims to be the primary water slides on an ocean liner. She conjointly has twenty feeding venues, a 1400 seat theatre and 11,252 works of art.

The Harmony of the Seas is an Oasis-class Royal Caribbean International cruise ship. She is the second largest passenger ship in the world surpassing her older sisters Oasis of the Seas and the Allure of the Seas. It was ordered on 27 December 2012. It is worth $1.35 billion. It is in service since 15 May 2016. It took a time of 32 months to complete the construction of the ship. There are robotic bartenders in the Bionic bar on the cruise. Outside entertainment includes water slides, zip line and surf simulators. The ‘Ultimate Abyss’ slides are so large that they are visible from outside also. The ship’s length is 362.12m.

Also Read: Top 10 Futuristic Transport Inventions

3.) Allure of the Seas- 225,282 Gross Tonnage

The allure of the Seas is an Oasis-class liner owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. As of 2018, the Oasis categories were the biggest rider ships ever in commission, and allure is fifty millimetres (2.0 in) longer than her sister ship Oasis of the Seas, although each was designed to identical specifications. Designed underneath the name “Project Genesis”, she was ordered from Aker Finn yards in Feb 2006 and her construction began at the Perno workplace, Turku, Finland, in Feb 2008. She was named in May 2008 when a contest was held to name her and her sister. The keel of Allure of the Seas was arranged on 2 December 2008, shortly when the work had been acquired by STX Europe.

The classified length of Allure of the Seas is that the same as that of her sister, 360 metres (1,181 ft.), though she is reportable to be fifty millimetres (2 in) longer than Oasis of the Seas. In line with the work, this can be not intentional and such little variations in length might occur merely because of the temperature of the steel in an exceedingly ship as massive as this. The gross tonnage duty of Allure of the Seas is 225,282 and her displacement is up to that of Oasis of the Seas that is calculable to be around 100,000 metric tons, slightly less than that of an American Nimitz-class war vessel her steel hull alone weighs roughly 54,000 tons. The ship options a two-deck room, a theatre with 1,380 seats, a skating edifice, seven distinct “neighbourhoods”, and twenty-five eating choices, together with a Starbucks restaurant at sea. Several of the ship’s interiors were extensively embellished by painter Clarissa Parish.

To conclude, The Allure of the Seas is an Oasis-class1 of cruise ships which is owned and operated by the Royal Caribbean International. Her construction began at the Perno shipyard, Turku in Finland, in February 2008. She is 50 millimetres longer than her sister cruise ship the Oasis of the seas. Her cost is USD $1.2 million as of 2006. She is 362m in length and 72m in height. She has 16 passenger decks. She also features a 2 deck long dance hall, a Starbucks coffee shop at sea, an ice-skating rink and 25 dining options. Her homeport is in Miami, Florida, USA.

Also Read: Top 10 Tourist attractions In Miami

4.) Oasis of The Seas- 225,282 Gross Tonnage

Oasis of the Seas is an Oasis-class cruise ship whose hull was laid down in November 2007 and later it was completed and delivered to Royal Caribbean in October 2009. The cruise ships take the Caribbean from her homeport of Port Canaveral in Cape Canaveral, Florida. It was constructed in STXEurope shipyard in the Finnish city of Turku with an approximate cost of 1.4 bln dollars making it one of the costliest and largest cruise ships in the world ever built. The cruise ship has been floated out on 11/21/2008 and has 7 godmothers namely Gloria Estefan, Dara Torres, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Jane Seymour and other beautiful ladies among them. The cruise ship has 2 drydocks and after numerous innovations, it has got new dining venues and other onboard amenities.

One of the largest cruise ships in the world has some mindblowing records. She was the cruise ship with a record capacity of 6,296 travellers and also the vessel became the largest at that time with a tonnage of 225,282 GT, however, this record has been broken by her sister Allure of the Seas. Total, 16 desks has been opened for guests and a total crew of the ship includes 2,400 members. The ship has a luxurious dining and entertainment options and numerous exciting Oasis of the Seas attractions are waiting for the liner’s guests that includes AquaTheater, Central Park with exotic plants, Center Ice Rink, Zip Line and list goes on.

5.) AIDAnova- 183,990 Gross Tonnage

The ship is that the 1st cruise liner within the world, which will operate utterly using, liquefied natural gas (LNG). Several November cruises were off and conjointly the Hamburg trip to South on 2 December was off due to delayed delivery of Ship, primarily as a result of the build of some cabins that caught fire after the transfer from yard to the ocean. The ship was delivered on 12 December 2018 and began the first cruise on 19 December 2018 from Tenerife.

The delay was understood by ships’ owner due to the complicated model LNG gas new idea and this had ordered a second project of the same look and thought to branch Carnival Cruises to be delivered on 2024, the same project to attenuate prices. AIDAnova is an ocean liner engineered by Meyer Werft GmbH in Papen burg, Federal Republic of Germany beneath contract from Carnival Corporation for AIDA Cruises. The primary of the new Excellence-class ships, she was launched on 21 August 2018 and was undergoing final fit out and ocean trials throughout November 2018.

6.) MSC Meraviglia- 171,598 Gross Tonnage

MSC Meraviglia is a cruise liner owned and operated by MSC Cruises, designed at the Chantiers First State l’Atlantique work in St. Nazaire, France, by STX France. Meraviglia is that the lead ship of MSC’s new “Vista Project” vessels, with the MSC Bellissima, planned to follow in 2019, every of which can have a traveller capability of 4,500. Once it entered service in June 2017, it absolutely was the fourth largest liner within the world, behind Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. The ship at the start operated within the western Mediterranean however in the fall of 2019 it is meant that she is going to reposition to Miami, sailing to the Caribbean as a part of a North American enlargement program by MSC.

The ships facilities embody a promenade with an extended LED roof, a water park with water slides, a rope course and a theatre. The ship additionally has over ten eating areas and a spa. The vessel’s name was proclaimed, and her initial steel was cut, at a ceremony command at St Nazaire on 20 April 2015. The ship was formally named on 3 June 2017 by her godparent, Italian actress Sophia Loren at a ceremony in Le Havre additionally that includes French actor Patrick Bruel, musical organization kids United, and comedian Gad Elmaleh. The building of Meraviglia was shown within the second episode of the Science Channel series Building Giants, titled “Monster Cruise Ship”.

MSC Meraviglia

7.) Quantum of the Seas- 168,666 Gross Tonnage

Quantum of the Seas is a Quantum-class cruise liner owned by Royal Caribbean International (RCI) and therefore the lead ship of her category. The Quantum category is that the third largest category of cruise ships behind MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia class and Royal Caribbean International’s Oasis category by gross tonnage duty. Quantum of the Seas was delivered to RCI on 28 October 2014 and is sailing from Shanghai, China.

Quantum of the Seas spent its inaugural 2014–2015 season sailing from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, U.S., before positioning to China in May 2015. In June 2015, the ship commenced controlling cruises from Shanghai to Japan and Korea. On 20 June 2015, the ship visited Hong Kong. Its baptism ceremony occurred on 14 November 2014; the ship’s godparent is American actor and singer Kristin Chenoweth.

8.) Anthem of the Seas- 168,666 Gross Tonnage

The world’s newest and one of the largest cruise ships in the world was constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. It can carry around 4,900 guests in approximately 2,100 staterooms with a crew of 1,500. The cruise ship is owned by Royal Caribbean International (RCI) and this is second cruise ship of her class. The Quantum-class cruise ship with an estimated cost of $940m dollars is one of the costliest cruise ships in the world. The ship is around 348m long and has a moulded breadth of 41m with an operating draft of 8.6m and weighs approximately 167,800t.

The ship has 16 passengers decks and fitted with 14 elevators for the movement of passengers between the decks. There are numerous facilities for the passengers that include glass-canopied solarium pool for adults, an outdoor pool, a new indoor pool with operable roof and a children’s aqua park called the H2O Zone. Also, it features a 40ft-long surf simulator and a rock-climbing wall measuring 40ft above the deck. The passengers can also find a library, a workshop area for holding lecturers, demonstrations, arts and crafts, a music hall, a casino, bars and billiards.

To conclude, It is a Quantum-class type of cruise ship. The Quantum class is the third largest class of the cruise ships behind Meravigilia and Oasis class. It was ordered by the Royal Caribbean International on 14th February 2011. Its construction was completed on 10th April 2015 and is in service since 22nd April 2015. It’s got a speed of 22 knots. It has a capacity of carrying 4,905 passengers. It also includes 16 passenger accessible decks with a total of 2090 passenger cabins. This cruise ship provides facilities like surf simulator, rock-climbing, swimming pools, a solarium, a Spa and Fitness centre, skydiving simulator, a theatre and a casino.

9.) Ovation of the Seas- 168,666 Gross Tonnage

Ovation of the Seas is a Quantum-class cruise ship and one of the largest cruise ships floating on Australian water. It is owned by Royal Caribbean International (RCI) and can host to 5000 guests and 1500 crew. She was built in the Meyer Werft river-locked shipyard in Papenburg and floated out down the River Ems. The ship starts sailing in 2016 and registered in Nassau, Bahamas. It has 2098 cabins and 75% of the total staterooms have balconies. The ship has the fastest internet at sea, VOOM, as fast as you’re used to on land.

One of the largest cruise ships in the world has a live global video gaming suite with Xbox Live where gamers can compete with others around the world. The cruise ship has an onboard viewing capsule known as the North Star that transport guest to more than 90m above the sea to deliver awe-inspiring 360-degree views. It has four bow thrusters produce 4694 horsepower each and more than double the horsepower of a five-car city train. The ship is built with air lubrication systems on the hull to reduce fuel consumption and hence is one of the greenest ships to ever visit Australian shores.

10.) Norwegian Bliss- 168,028 Gross Tonnage

Norwegian bliss is a cruise liner for Norwegian Cruise Line that entered service on April 21, 2018. The ship was engineered by Meyer Werft in Papen burg, Germany. The ship has a schedule of debuting in Alaska in June 2018 and is meant for improved energy potency to satisfy Alaska’s environmental laws. This is the primary mega ship to debut in Alaska, and it’s designed to form the foremost of the scenery, with 2beautiful observation lounges providing 180-degree views of the giving birth glaciers and breaching Humpbacks. Plus, Norwegian bliss has the line’s latest family-friendly options.

For the active folks and youngsters this ship attracts, one in all the good new options is the laser tag arena. Set on the highest deck, it permits you to romp an outside course that’s designed to seem like an intergalactic bunker, taking part in against your family or friends. It’s quick however fun and an excellent break from whale-watching. Norwegian’s kid-friendly activities are spectacular — waterparks! Ropes courses! All-ages comedy shows! — And also the new go-kart raceway is equally memorable. The ride takes eight minutes as you race around the two-story course and rankings are displayed on a board for correct bragging rights. The road additionally offers unlimited full-day and week-long passes.

These are the largest cruise ships in the world. Do post your comments.

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Business Insider

Ultrawealthy cruising: See inside Royal Caribbean's most extravagant upgrades and a $100,000-a-week cabin on its Icon of the Seas

Posted: April 9, 2024 | Last updated: April 10, 2024

• Cruise giants are putting more "pay-to-play" amenities on their new ships.
• Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas has high-end upcharge options like a $200-per-person dinner. 
• See what a vacation on the world's largest cruise ship is like for affluent travelers.

Are you looking to ball out on your weeklong vacation aboard the world's largest cruise ship ? Get ready to pay $200 for dinner and $100,000 for a cabin.

Vacations-at-sea can be a fairly affordable vacation option. With most cruise lines, your base fare already includes accommodations, unlimited food, endless activities, and the opportunity to see several destinations in one go.

But as more " pay-to-play " amenities show up on board, the more pricey these floating vacations could become. And there's likely no better example of this than Royal Caribbean's new world's largest cruise ship.

Forget tiny interior cabins and dinners at the buffet. On the 9,950-person Icon of the Seas, affluent travelers could have a vacation that rivals even the most luxurious small-ship cruise .

Guests interested in luxuriating in one of Icon’s 179 suites will be paying a minimum of $4,614 per person for a weeklong sailing.

The mega-ship's high-end suites range from 402 to 2,523 square feet, balconies included.

Some come with sweeping views of the AquaTheater . No need to scramble for the best seats when you can watch the show's divers, synchronized swimmers, and aerialists from your couch.

Others, like the floor-to-ceiling window-lined Icon Loft, are spread across two floors.

Guests in the most luxurious suites also get Starlink WiFi, laundry services, the best seats for on board shows, and a "Royal Genie" to help plan their trip.

But few compare to Icon’s most expensive cabin, the 2,523-square-foot Ultimate Family Townhouse.

Guests in the three-floor floating mansion get to wake up to sweeping ocean views and coffee on one of the three balconies.

The bottom floor has an open-air patio that opens into Icon's Surfside neighborhood.

The two bedrooms — one with a bunk bed — are back inside on the top floor.

Looking to watch a movie or flex your karaoke skills? Slide down to the second floor, where you can do just that at one of the several lounges.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean told Business Insider that travelers have been 'quickly' reserving the giant cabin for an average of $100,000 a week.

But a cruise ship worker stationed at the Ultimate Family Townhouse in January told BI that some guests have been snatching up the multilevel townhouse for a whopping $200,000 a week, noting that the playground-like cabin was mostly booked for 2024.

The keycards to these plush suites also open up another exclusive side of the ship: the Suite Neighborhood.

Only guests staying in suites can access the 60,924-square-foot retreat and its two restaurants, sundeck, hot tub, pool, and bar.

The list of exclusive restaurants doesn’t end there, of course.

More than half of the Icon of the Seas' 28 eateries come at an extra cost.

Some are more affordable, like Izumi at the Park's grab-and-go sushi window. For $10, hungry travelers can pick between seaweed salad and edamame, plus two choices of sashimi, nigiri, and rolls.

Cruisers craving a formal, upscale dinner could instead reserve the rabbit-slinging $200-per-person Empire Supper Club.

The price is comparable to high-end, on-land Michelin-starred restaurants.

Empire Supper Club's American fare dinner flexes eight courses, a cocktail pairing, and live jazz. Appetizer options include butter-poached langoustine with Osetra caviar. For the main course, the aforementioned rabbit leg and loin could be a bun-tastic choice.

The latter will be paired with a New York Sour — not a hoppy beer.

There are 18 other places to drink on the ship. As usual, none are complimentary.

Expect to front New York City prices without a beverage package: The popular Rye and Bean bar serves coffee and tea-infused cocktails ranging from $12 to $14.

Looking for a pampering? Like alcohol, spa treatments are rarely complimentary on cruise ships.

Vacationing can be stressful. At the mega-ship's spa, guests can unwind with an almost $150 25-minute facial or a nearly $180 50-minute Swedish massage.

Or, book one of the exclusive casitas to relax with unobstructed ocean views.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean did not immediately respond to BI's request for casita pricing on Icon of the Seas. But for context, a casita on the cruise line's older Symphony of the Seas mega-ship can cost about $360 per day during a sea day.

Amenities like the six-slide waterpark and mini-golf course are complimentary to all guests.

But the same can't be said for Crown's Edge , one of the ship's most distinctive amenities.

Travelers must don a bulky jumpsuit and harness before they face their fear of heights at the thrilling agility course.

The half-walking, half-ziplining route, which leaves its sweaty-palmed participants dangling 154 feet above the ocean, could be completed in a minute or so.

That's $49 down the drain in one minute.

And why stop there when you can splurge during port days too?

Icon of the Seas will dock at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island for all 2024 sailings.

As expected, the Caribbean getaway is full of upcharged activities.

Travelers with young children might want to drop $100 per head for an afternoon at the waterpark.

Meanwhile, those without kids can pay between $39 to $89 per person for a boozy day at the adult-only Hideaway Beach .

Nearby, the more exclusive beach club could be almost triple that cost.

A weeklong trip on the new world's largest cruise ship could quickly become an ultra-luxurious vacation.

But even travelers looking to spend modestly might be shocked by the new ship's prices.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told investors in 2023 that Icon's inaugural season had commanded more bookings at "materially higher rates" than any of its previous ship launches.

Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told BI in late 2023 that new cruise liners generally command a 20% to 50% pricing premium.

Three months before Icon of the Seas' launch , he estimated the new vessel was priced at a premium of "at least 50% if not more."

At the time, the least expensive 2024 itinerary had started at $1,820 per person for an interior cabin.

Pricing has since increased by $17. That's $262 per person, per day, for a windowless stateroom.

And no, it doesn't come with access to the Suite Neighborhood.

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Woman dead after bus crashes into pedestrians at Honolulu cruise ship terminal

Five pedestrians were taken to the hospital, police said.

One woman has died and 10 others were injured after a shuttle bus crashed into the transportation area outside a Honolulu cruise terminal Friday, according to police.

The ship, Carnival Miracle, was on a 15-day journey, departing Long Beach, California, on April 6, according to Carnival Cruise Line. Nine of the people hit by the vehicle were cruise ship passengers.

"Sadly, one guest has died from her injuries. She was traveling with her husband, who was also injured and is expected to recover. Members of the Carnival Care Team are assisting the guests. Our thoughts are with the guests affected and their loved ones," Carnival Cruise Line said in a statement to ABC News.

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A 57-year-old man was dropping off customers at pier 2 when a bystander told him that his vehicle was moving forward. He then jumped into the drivers seat, trying to stop the vehicle, but he accidentally pressed the gas pedal instead of the brakes, colliding with two concrete barriers and eleven pedestrians, according to the Honolulu Police Department.

Five pedestrians were transported to the hospital -- one of whom was later pronounced dead and four others are in good condition. Six other pedestrians refused treatment on the scene, police said.

According to police, speed does not appear to be a contributing factor in the collision and it is unknown if drugs or alcohol were contributing factors.

The investigation is ongoing.