p&o cruises new ship 2022

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Your guide to the newest P&O Cruises ship Arvia, including Caribbean sailings

On 22nd February, the first piece of steel was cut for the newest addition to the P&O Cruises fleet – Arvia. The 184,700-tonne sister to ship to Iona, is being built in Papenburg, Germany. She is due to join the fleet in December 2022, and will be the cruise line’s second LNG powered Excel class ship.

The name Arvia means ‘from the seashore.’ P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “Arvia will join Iona as an innovative and future-focused ship offering an outstanding, varied and contemporary holiday. Arvia has been designed to travel to the sun year-round and to maximise views of the ocean and the seashore from everywhere on board, so it seemed a very fitting name and one which will reflect the experience for guests on board. 

“The seashore is known for its relaxing properties and tranquillity and a holiday on Arvia will, indeed, celebrate this and have relaxation at its heart. The rejuvenating and restorative qualities of a walk on the beach and invigorating sea air will be reflected in the experiences both on board and on shore as well as the vast space on board which has enabled us to include a number of new and extraordinary features.”

Itineraries

Arvia will offer a Caribbean maiden season of fly/cruise holidays from home port Barbados and Antigua from January to March 2023.  The new Caribbean itineraries will also feature La Romana in the Dominican Republic – a maiden port of call for P&O Cruises; Curaçao; Martinique; St Kitts; St Lucia and St Maarten. 

Arvia’s seven and 14-night fly/cruises from the UK also all include an overnight call in Barbados. 22-night holidays departing from or returning to Southampton with UK flights are also available.  

Paul Ludlow said: “Arvia holidays, alongside the rest of our winter 2022 season, will be on sale very shortly. We cannot wait to bring our newest ship to our glorious home port of Barbados and also to Antigua, which will be a first-time turnaround port for P&O Cruises.  

“The Caribbean is the optimal maiden season destination for Arvia; a ship where every facet, including unique retractable roof SkyDome and Altitude Skywalk high ropes, is designed to provide exceptional views of the ocean, seashore and surrounding destinations. 

“From the very initial concept Arvia has been created to be the epitome of a sunshine resort, developed to be an ideal way to enjoy the Caribbean’s turquoise waters and white sandy beaches like never before.” 

Arvia’s attractions

P&O Cruises released series of images describing Arvia as the “epitome of a sunshine resort.”

Designed to appeal to all ages, guests will be able to choose two different adventurous Altitude Skywalk high rope courses while 54m above the ocean. Altitude Minigolf comprising of nine mini golf challenges, another P&O Cruises first, will be located below Altitude Skywalk. 

A swim-up bar and stunning infinity pool with uninterrupted views of the ship’s wake will also be part of the on deck experience. 

SkyDome is a relaxed pool environment by day with dining and entertainment by night, including stunning aerial performances, theatre productions and blockbuster movies al fresco on SeaScreen. This area will feature the cruise line’s first-ever retractable SkyDome roof.

Arvia Dining

As well as these contemporary entertainment experiences Arvia will feature twelve restaurants joined by eight more casual places to eat. 

Green & Co featuring Mizuhana, with a plant and fish-led menu, served in chic and elegant surroundings, has been especially developed for Arvia.  Mizuhana sushi bar will be within Green & Co, where guests can watch expert chefs at work while taking in sea views. Expert food-pairing advice and vibrant cocktails complete the experience.    

Also on board is 6 th  Street Diner, informal by day with a sophisticated night-time vibe, featuring retro seating, atmospheric lighting and juke box and serving all-American flavours including speciality fried chicken and waffles with bourbon mascarpone. P&O Cruises distinctive signature restaurants Epicurean, Sindhu, The Glass House, The Keel & Cow and The Olive Grove, already across the fleet, will feature on Arvia. 

Arvia Accommodation

It looks like the accommodation on board Arvia will be similar to Iona’s, with conservatory style suites and modern, stylish furnishings. You can find a selection of stateroom images below.

Paul Ludlow, said: “Arvia is the latest evolution in the P&O Cruises experience, embodying the newest trends in travel, dining and entertainment, and will be the epitome of a sunshine resort sailing year-round to the warmest climates. 

“New restaurant Green & Co featuring Mizuhana will have a plant-led menu reflecting the latest trends in vegan, vegetarian and flexitarian dining while Altitude Skywalk and SeaScreen will entertain all ages.” 

The ship, 345m in length, with 16 guest decks will also be home to Ocean Studios cinema, 1,300sqm of shopping and the Oasis Spa and Health Club. 

The Oasis Spa boasts new treatments exclusive to Arvia – two couples suites each with a hammam and steam room, a therapeutic cool room, a restorative salt sauna and an invigorating Kneipp Walk which combines a pebble foot massage with hot and cold water treatments to stimulate circulation and boost vitality.  

Similar to sister ship Iona, Arvia will be powered by liquefied natural gas as part of P&O Cruises ongoing commitment to sustainable travel. Building of the ship is already underway at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany. 

More information can be found on the P&O Cruises website.

One comment

Well I am on the maiden Christmas Southampton to Canaries, what an absolutely appalling mess, Christmas ruined for 1000’s quite literally, summed up with Captain’s thought for the day over the tannoy on Boxing Day, in a derogatory tone “before you criticise anyone you should try walking a mile in their shoes” he did apologise on tannoy the following day, too little too late, I have a huge list of issues, stand up and be counted and make it right!!!!!

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P&O Cruises New Ship Arvia Arrives in Southampton

• December 18, 2022

P&O Cruises newest ship Arvia arrived into its homeport of Southampton on Sunday, prior to its maiden voyage to the Canary Islands on Friday.

The 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, the company said in a statement.

P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow, who was on board for the arrival as Arvia sailed up Southampton Water earlier this morning after the journey from the shipyard in Germany, said:

“It was a truly remarkable moment as, after the years of design and build, Arvia arrived into Southampton ahead of the maiden voyage and then departure for the Caribbean season.

“As the latest evolution in the P&O Cruises experience, embodies the newest trends in travel, dining and entertainment and is the epitome of a sunshine resort sailing year-round to the warmest climates. It takes its sister ship Iona’s design aesthetic and general arrangement but provides new and exciting outside and inside spaces which make the most of Arvia’s deployment to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

“We cannot wait for our first guests to be on board this week to see the extraordinary attention to detail, design of the restaurants and bars, scale of the theatre, the layout and new brands in the retail area and the exhilarating top deck activities. We are seeing a new generation recognizing the value for money and individuality of a holiday at sea.”

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P&O Cruises Ships by Size, Age and Class (2022)

P&O Cruises has an active fleet of seven ships currently. They plan to launch a further ship in late 2022 ( Arvia ).

The fleet is primarily based in Southampton but during certain periods of the year they homeport in the Caribbean or perform World Cruises.

Introduction to P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises is a British cruise line and part of the biggest cruise company – Carnival Corporation. They are based in Southampton and were originally a subsidiary of the shipping company, P&O.

In 1977 they split from the parent company, along with sister line P&O Cruises Australia to form P&O Cruises.

P&O Cruises is one of the oldest cruise lines in the world, dating back to 1837 – which is even before Cunard Line .

This guide will help you work out which P&O Cruises’ ship is which!

P&O Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

Which p&o ships are adults only.

Both  Arcadia  and  Aurora  are adult-only ships in the P&O Cruises fleet.

Which P&O Ship is the best?

This would depend on the type of cruise you wish to have and the region.  Britannia ,  Azura  and  Ventura  are very popular family ships. Whereas  Iona  caters for families too but specialises in Norwegian / Northern Europe cruises – which are usually for the more mature passenger.

What ships have P&O sold?

P&O Cruises have sold three ships in the last five years.  Adonia  was sold in 2018,  Oriana  was sold in 2019 and  Oceana  was sold in 2020.

Which is the biggest P&O Ship?

The biggest P&O Cruise ship to date is  Iona , she can carry over 5,200 passengers and is also the longest ship in the fleet at 344 metres.

Which is the smallest P&O Ship?

Currently,   Aurora  is the smallest ship in the P&O Cruises fleet at 270 metres long and carrying 1,950 passengers.

Are P&O Ferries the same as P&O Cruises?

No! They are totally different companies (only sharing the same name!) Back in 1977 P&O Cruises separated from its parent company P&O Shipping.

They are now two totally different entities, with Carnival Corporation owning P&O Cruises.

P&O Cruises Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

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

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

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

P&O Cruises Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all p&o cruises ships new builds.

Yes, although almost all P&O Cruises’ ships are sister ships ‘in class’ with other ships from other Carnival brands.

Examples of this are:

• Britannia (Royal-class – like Royal Princess )
• Ventura/Azura (Grand-class – like Diamond Princess )
• Arcadia (Vista-class – like Queen Victoria )

P&O Cruises Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

Final thoughts.

When it comes to picking one of the P&O Cruises’ fleet to cruise on – you have a wealth of choices between adult-only and family-friendly ships with some in-between too!

New to the fleet flagship, Iona has proved very popular with UK cruisers and when her sister, Arvia sets sail in late 2022 cruisers will have even more choice of cruises from Southampton on P&O Cruises .

Enjoyed this article? Check out our other guides on MSC Cruises , Royal Caribbean and Holland America Line .

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• Wednesday, May 1, 2024

CruiseToTravel

P&o cruises officially welcomes new ship arvia to its fleet.

P&O Cruises has officially welcomed new ship Arvia to its fleet, calling it a symbol of optimism for the future of the industry .

At an official handover ceremony with the Meyer Werft shipyard on Thursday December 15, 2022, P&O Cruises took ownership of Arvia , the latest addition to its fleet and, similar to its sister ship Iona, the largest cruise ship ever built for the UK market.

At 185,000 tonnes, 345m in length with 16 guest decks and setting new ground for guest experience, 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 Cruises president, Paul Ludlow , who was present at the event in Bremerhaven and signed the Protocol for Delivery and Acceptance said: “Arvia, as the latest evolution in the P&O Cruises experience, embodies the newest trends in travel, dining and entertainment and is the epitome of a sunshine resort sailing year-round to the warmest climates. It takes its sister ship Iona’s design aesthetic and general arrangement but provides new and exciting outside and inside spaces which make the most of Arvia’s deployment to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

“Arvia is a very evident symbol of optimism for the future of the cruise industry as we see a new generation recognising the value for money and individuality of a holiday at sea.

“The ship is now officially part of the P&O Cruises fleet and we are focused on readying her to welcome guests for the maiden cruise on December 23 before departure to the Caribbean on January 6, 2023 for a winter season from Barbados.

Also read : P&O Cruises new ship Arvia to feature more than 30 bars and restaurants

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New cruise ships 2022 - full list of ocean ships sailing their maiden voyage this year

Author: Vicky Mayer

Published on: 14 January 2022

Updated on: 11 May 2022

New cruise ships for 2022 are set to be very exciting indeed - and there are certainly plenty of them! These are all the new ocean cruise ships sailing this year.

The Covid pandemic bought the cruise world to a juddering halt in the latter part of 2019 and for most of 2020.

But in 2021, the industry began to get its mojo back – and looking into our crystal ball, it’s clear that 2022 will be a truly exciting year, packed full of new ships offering exciting ways to see the world on a dream ocean or river cruise.

There are some seriously impressive Ocean ships on the horizon, including P&O’s Arvia, MSC’s World Europa and the biggest ship in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas.

We also welcome the arrival of a new British cruise company, Essex-based Ambassador Cruise Line.

Here’s our pick of the most exciting new ocean cruise ships arriving in 2022.

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The first ship for new cruise company Ambassador Cruise Line , Ambience will launch on April 6, 2022, offering British over-50s the chance to enjoy a wide range of no-fly traditional cruises. Setting sail from her home port of Tilbury, she will make her maiden voyage to Hamburg.

This mid-sized ship (1,400 passengers) offers nine lounges, five restaurants and a generously sized pool. There will be plenty of entertainment onboard, with guest speakers in The Observatory and musicians and comedians at The Palladium.

You can also enjoy a nightcap at Raffles Bar, where the band will play top tunes from the 60s and 70s. In terms of decor, expect smart interiors with the look of a city hotel. In her first season, Ambience will make 33 trips, including cruises to the Baltics, Iceland, the Arctic and the Caribbean.

- READ MORE: Ambassador boss on Ambience's 'luxury' space & no 'gimmicks' -

Azamara: Azamara Onward

Launching: may 2022.

New ship Azamara Onward will make her debut on May 22 when she sails from Monte Carlo, heading around the Mediterranean. Like her sister ships, Quest, Journey and Pursuit, she will offer her 702 passengers a luxurious way to travel at sea.

Azamara is known for its culturally immersive experiences, and guests can choose from a wide range of activities onboard and ashore, with some sailings offering overnight stays in selected destinations.

Guests staying in a luxury stateroom or suite get five-star butler service, and everyone on board has the chance to dine at the ship’s speciality restaurants, relax at the spa and enjoy first-class entertainment.

Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Celebration

Launching: november 2022.

With the line having its 50th birthday in 2022, it’s fitting that Carnival’s new ship is called Celebration. Featuring BOLT – the famous rollercoaster at sea – as well as the popular Piano Bar 88, Punchliner Comedy Club and new eaterie Shaq’s Big Chicken, the 5,282-passenger ship promises to be a fun-filled ride for all the family.

Carnival Celebration will make her maiden voyage on November 6, departing from her home port of Miami.

- READ MORE: What to expect from new Celebrity Beyond -

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Beyond

Making her maiden voyage from Southampton on April 27, Celebrity Beyond will be the third of the line’s luxurious Edge-class ships. At 17 decks high and 21 metres longer than her sisters, Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex, she will be the largest in the fleet.

Celebrity guests will be able to choose from 18 restaurants, five cafes and 12 bars and lounges including Le Voyage, Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud’s first restaurant at sea.

There will also be spectacular new accommodation, ranging from modern two-storey villas with plunge pools to staterooms with ‘infinite’ verandas – not to mention an expanded Rooftop Garden that features cantilevered float pools and a redesigned Grand Plaza that spans three decks, creating a dramatic public area on the ship. And don’t miss the new World Class Bar, where cocktails will be curated by drinks experts Diageo.

Celebrity Beyond will offer trips around the Mediterranean in the summer of 2022 before she heads to the Caribbean.

Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wish

Launching: june 2022.

Joining her four sister ships, Disney Wish will make her debut on June 9. Onboard you’ll find many favourite venues and attractions and some fun new stuff too – not least AquaMouse, a waterslide that sends those brave enough to try it on a 760ft animated experience with Mickey and Minnie.

Other attractions include a Toy Story-themed waterpark, a Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, an interactive game called Disney Uncharted Adventure that you can play on your phone, and the Pool District, which boasts no fewer than six pools. Even the food onboard is Disney themed (we like the sound of The Rose, a fun lounge inspired by the story of Beauty and the Beast).

- READ MORE: Where to go and who to cruise with in 2022 -

Hebridean Island Cruises: Lord of the Highlands

Hebridean’s new four-deck Lord of the Highlands will be making her debut on 8 April. At 45 metres long, she will carry up to 40 guests in style. Onboard you’ll find elegant public areas and 20 cabins inspired by the look of luxury railway carriages.

Literature fans will also love the fact that her three passenger decks have names inspired by John Buchan’s classic adventure yarn The 39 Steps. As a small ship, she will be able to cruise through the spectacular Scottish lochs and around the Orkney Islands.

MSC Cruises: MSC Seascape & World Europa

Launching: nov and dec 2022.

Next year looks set to be a bumper one for MSC , with the launch of two exciting new ocean ships. First up will be MSC Seascape, making her maiden voyage from the US in November. The 4,132- passenger giant will feature some 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, six pools and a whopping 1,772ft waterfront promenade. Even more intriguing is the so-called RoboCoaster, a new type of onboard entertainment that MSC is keeping under wraps for now.

If Seascape isn’t big enough for you, watch out for the December launch of eagerly awaited megaship MSC World Europa. At 22 decks high and 1,093ft long, she will be the largest MSC cruise ship ever built, offering her 5,520 guests the choice of six pools, an Aquapark, 13 dining venues and a super-scary 11-deck dry slide called The Spiral.

Wondering how you’ll find your way around? To make life easier, the ship will be divided into clearly defined zones, including an adults-only district and one designed for families.

As you’d expect from an MSC ship, the promenade will be big and bold. Measuring 341ft long, it will be half covered and half open, and will feature a huge LED ‘Sky Screen’.

Foodies will love the ship’s two new culinary venues – the vegan-friendly Chef’s Garden Kitchen, and outdoor seafood grill La Pescaderia. New craft-beer destination Masters of the Sea Pub spans two decks and is bound to be another big hit.

As for accommodation, you’ll be spoiled for choice, with 19 different cabin styles on offer, including duplex suites in the exclusive MSC Yacht Club. MSC World Europa will also be the first LNG-propelled ship in the MSC fleet, and will feature a new waste-water treatment system as well as other new environmental technology. The ship will make her maiden voyage from Doha in Qatar, taking passengers on a four-night Middle East cruise.

- READ MORE: Best around-the-world cruises -

Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Prima

Launching: august 2022.

The first of NCL’s new Prima-class, Norwegian Prima will accommodate 3,215 guests and make her maiden voyage from Amsterdam, sailing around Northern Europe. On board she offers more outdoor space than her sister ships, including a huge wraparound Ocean Boulevard.

There are new restaurants and bars, plus The Concourse – an outdoor sculpture garden – and Infinity Beach, two infinity pools each side of the ship. On Deck 8 the new Indulge food hall is bound to be a big hit with its 11 different styles of cuisine including Seaside Rotisserie and Eastern fast-food joint Nudls.

Those who enjoy the finer things in life should head to The Haven, NCL’s luxury ship-within-a-ship. Here you’ll find 107 suites, an infinity pool, a private sundeck, an outdoor spa and private butlers to look after your every need.

P&O: Arvia

Launching: december 2022.

The biggest cruise ship ever launched for the British market, Iona made quite a splash in 2021 – and her sister ship Arvia looks sure to do the same when she sets sail on her maiden voyage to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands in December 2022.

Like Iona, the newcomer will be another Excel-class ship, powered by liquefied natural gas, which can significantly reduce carbon emissions. Onboard, her 5,200 guests will enjoy spending time under the ship’s unique retractable SkyDome, relaxing at the swim-up bar and infinity pool, and testing their nerves – 54 metres above the ocean – on the aptly named Altitude Skywalk, P&O’s first high-ropes experience at sea.

Foodies will have the choice of 13 restaurants and eight casual eateries, and even carnivores will be tempted by Green & Co, which focuses on plant and fish-based dishes. Look out too for Mizuhana, a new sushi bar where you can watch expert chefs prepare dishes before your eyes.

- READ MORE: P&O Cruises reveals incredible activities onboard new ship Arvia -

Princess Cruises: Discovery Princess

Launching: march 2022.

Discovery Princess will set sail in March 2022, leaving Los Angeles for an inaugural season of cruises along the Mexican Riviera and California coast. This will be the line’s sixth and final Royal-class ship and will closely resemble her older sisters, offering 3,660 guests the chance to see the world in style and comfort.

Onboard there will be a wide range of places to eat and drink, including popular steak joint Crown Grill and art deco jazz bar Take Five. And like her sister ships, Discovery Princess will provide all the benefits of travelling with a personal Princess Medallion, which allows touchless embarkation and disembarkation, as well as keyless stateroom entry. It even helps you to locate your friends and family.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Evrima

All eyes are on luxury hotel operator Ritz-Carlton’s debut in the superyacht sector of the cruise market. Delayed for almost two years by the pandemic, the group’s first ship will now make her maiden voyage on 6 May 2022, sailing from Lisbon, Portugal.

Evrima is a sleek, streamlined ship, featuring an infinity pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a huge marina deck and lots of fun water toys, including jet skis. As you’d expect, the suites offer supreme luxury, with heavenly beds and private terraces. With a maximum of 298 guests and 246 crew, you’ll be treated like a prince (or princess).

- READ MORE: World's largest ship Wonder of the Seas coming to Europe -

Royal Caribbean: Wonder of the Seas

Bigger means better for Royal Caribbean , and when new Wonder of the Seas sets sail from its home port of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on 4 March next year, it will be the world’s largest cruise ship. Heading east, this 5,518-guest, 18-deck giant will sail a European summer season from May.

Worried you’ll get lost on board? Don’t be, because the ship has been very cleverly designed with eight distinctive ‘neighbourhoods’. These include the Suite Neighbourhood for Royal Suite Class guests, a trendy pool bar called The View, the reimagined AquaTheater and an underwater-themed kids’ area called Wonder Playscape.

Guests can also enjoy Royal Caribbean favourites including The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; Central Park, the ship’s fine-dining neighbourhood; and a Caribbean-inspired pool deck.

Silversea: Silver Dawn

The launch of Silversea’s 10th new ultra-luxury ship, Silver Dawn, was delayed by the pandemic but now it’s set to sail next spring. With a passenger complement of just 596, looked after by 411 crew, the ship will be an all-suite, all-balcony vessel, where every cabin comes with a butler.

Silver Dawn will offer the opportunity to dine in no fewer than eight speciality restaurants including Indochine (Asian fusion).

Guests will also experience the line’s new Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) programme, which is all about total immersion in the cuisine of the destinations you are visiting. Fancy a spot of pampering too? Spa lovers can enjoy spending time at the Zagara Spa with its lavishly appointed thermal suite and private sun deck.

- READ MORE: Viking ship Captain on 'best job in the world' -

Viking: Viking Mars & Neptune

Launching: may & december 2022.

As it celebrates its 25th year in the cruise business, Viking will be busy with the launch of an extraordinary six new ships. Two of these are ocean vessels – Viking Mars and Viking Neptune – and, in similar fashion to their eight sisters, they will be distinguished by Scandi-chic interiors and all-balcony staterooms.

The new ships will also feature the line’s signature complimentary eateries – Manfredi’s, The Restaurant, The Chef’s Table and The Kitchen Table. And when you’re not tucking into fine food, you can enjoy onboard lectures and presentations from experts in their field, plus jazz at Torshavn nightclub.

Viking Mars will make her maiden voyage from Stockholm, with 2022 itineraries including journeys to Iceland, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. At the end of the year Viking Neptune will debut in style as she hosts a 138-day World Cruise, departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

- READ MORE: Discover Virgin Voyages sailings -

Virgin Voyages: Resilient Lady

Launching: july 2022.

Resilient Lady will become Virgin Voyages ’ third ship when she launches on 1 July 2022. Joining sister ships Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady, the 2,770-passenger vessel will make her maiden voyage from Piraeus (Athens) before visiting some of Greece’s favourite cruise destinations, including Santorini, Rhodes, Crete and Mykonos, where the adults-only ship will anchor till morning so guests can enjoy the famous nightlife.

The ship will offer more than 20 places to eat on board, among them popular Mexican joint Pink Agave and veggie favourite Razzle Dazzle. Most cabins feature a smart day lounger that converts into a bed at night, and a cool balcony hammock. And if you love partying at sea, you’ve come to the right place – Virgin Voyages’ onboard clubs are already legendary.

Gloria Gaynor to join Crystal Serenity cruise

Riviera travel unveils new 2024 themed river cruises, carnival firenze christened in long beach, first celebrity cruises passengers visit perfect day at cococay, ncl marks milestone with float out of norwegian aqua, hannah waddingham christens sun princess, heaven on the high seas: tom parker bowles on his p&o cruises' voyage, atlas ocean voyages announces 2025-26 antarctica season, cunard takes delivery of new ship queen anne, australian traditional owners announced as godparents of seabourn pursuit, about vicky mayer.

Vicky began her career working on young women’s magazines before moving on to TV and entertainment titles. Her passion, though, has always been travel, so as Editor of World of Cruising, she combines her love of magazines with the chance to shout about cruise holidays around the world.

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• Cruise Advice , Cruise News

18 New Cruise Ships Debuting in 2022

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• July 20, 2021

The order book for new vessels in 2022 is looking full; lots of cruise lines have new ships on the horizon that we can’t wait to experience. Yes, it’s only a little over halfway through 2021 right now, but we couldn’t resist putting together this piece a little early this year.

Here is our overview on 18 new cruise ships scheduled to launch in 2022.

• Scheduled Debut Date:  December 2022
• Line/Class:  P&O Cruises / Excel Class
• Size:  184,700 gross tons / 5,200 passengers
• Itineraries:  Caribbean and Canary Islands

Highlights:

• SkyDome with retractable glass roof
• Grand Atrium with aerial shows
• Infinity pool
• Green & Co restaurant with sushi bar
• Skywalk ropes course
• Altitude Splash Valley water play area
• Oasis Spa with thermal suite

Carnival Celebration

• Scheduled Debut Date:  November 2022
• Line/Class:  Carnival Cruise Line / Excel Class
• Size:  180,000 gross tons / 6,500 passengers
• Itineraries:  Caribbean
• BOLT roller coaster
• Two-story RedFrog Tiki Bar
• Family Feud Live game show
• Carnival Excel Suites
• WaterWorks aqua park
• Serenity adults-only sundeck
• Chibang! Chinese and Mexican restaurant
• Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse

Celebrity Beyond

• Scheduled Debut Date:  April 2022
• Line/Class:  Celebrity Cruises / Edge Class
• Size:  140,600 gross tons / 3,260 passengers
• Itineraries:  Caribbean and Mediterranean
• AquaClass Sky Suites with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Two-story Edge Villas with outdoor plunge pools
• SEA Thermal Suite in the spa
• Two pools that cantilever over the side of the ship
• Rooftop Garden
• Magic Carpet moving platform
• Le Voyage specialty restaurant
• A much larger Sunset Bar space

Discovery Princess

• Scheduled Debut Date:  March 2022
• Line/Class:  Princess Cruises / Royal Class
• Size:  145,000 gross tons / 3,660 passengers
• Itineraries:  Alaska, Mexican Riviera, and California Coast
• Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria specialty restaurant
• Two deep-tank pools
• Princess Live! Café
• Gigi’s Pizzeria sit-down restaurant
• The Salty Dog Gastropub
• The Enclave at Lotus Spa thermal suite

Disney Wish

• Scheduled Debut Date: Summer 2022
• Line/Class:  Disney Cruise Line / Triton Class
• Size:  144,000 gross tons / 4,000 passengers
• Itineraries:  Bahamas
• Worlds of Marvel restaurant
• Moana-themed Wish Tower Suite in the funnel
• AquaMouse upper deck water attraction
• Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure restaurant
• Enchanté specialty restaurant
• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge
• Adults-only Quiet Cove sundeck with infinity pool
• Walt Disney Imagineering Lab for kids

READ MORE:  5 Things We Can’t Wait to Experience on Disney Wish

• Line:  A’Rosa Cruises
• Size:  280 passengers
• Itineraries:  European rivers
• Separate adults’ and kids’ pools
• Spa & wellness area with sauna
• Steakhouse restaurant
• Indoor and outdoor lounges

MSC Seascape

• Line/Class:  MSC Cruises / Seaside EVO Class
• Size:  169,380 gross tons / 5,877 passengers
• Itineraries:  Not yet announced
• Six swimming pools, including an infinity pool
• Largest MSC Yacht Club in the fleet
• Glass-floored Bridge of Sighs
• 1,772 foot long waterfront promenade
• 11 dining venues and 19 bars and lounges

MSC World Europa

• Line/Class:  MSC Cruises / World Class
• Size:  205,700 gross tons / 6,850 passengers
• Itineraries:  Mediterranean and Middle East
• 11 deck tall “The Spiral” slide
• The partially enclosed Europa Promenade
• Chef’s Garden Kitchen
• Kaito Teppanyaki Grill and Sushi Bar
• Masters of the Sea Pub, a two-story craft brewery
• Six pools and 14 hot tubs
• The MSC Yacht Club complex

Norwegian Prima

• Scheduled Debut Date:  August 2022
• Line/Class:  Norwegian Cruise Line / Prima Class
• Size:  142,500 gross tons / 3,215 passengers
• Itineraries:  Northern Europe, Caribbean, Bermuda, and Iceland
• Multiple infinity pools
• Indulge Food Hall with 11 venues including Nudls noodle bar, Tamara serving Indian dishes, Seaside Rotisserie, Q Texas Smokehouse, Garden Kitchen serving salads, and a Starbucks
• Onda by Scarpetta Italian restaurant
• The Concourse sculpture garden
• Oceanwalk glass bridges
• The Haven, which has been relocated to the aft with its own elevators, sundeck, infinity pool, and outdoor spa

Resilient Lady

• Line/Class:  Virgin Voyages / Lady Ships
• Size:  110,000 gross tons / 2,700 passengers
• Itineraries:  Mediterranean and Caribbean
• Pink Agave Mexican restaurant
• Gunbae Korean barbecue restaurant
• The Loose Cannon nautical-themed bar
• The Manor nightclub
• Squid Ink tattoo studio
• The Athletic Club outdoor playground
• Spa thermal suite with a mud room, salt room, sauna, hot and cold plunge pools, and more

Viking Mars

• Scheduled Debut Date:  Early 2022
• Line:  Viking
• Size:  47,842 gross tons / 930 passengers
• Itineraries:  Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, and Australia
• Thermal suite with thalassotherapy pool, snow room, sauna, steam room, and more
• Two-story Explorer’s Lounge at the front of the ship
• All-balcony cabins featuring heated bathroom floors
• Manfredi’s Italian restaurant
• Wintergarden space with glass roof
• Torshaven lounge with live music

Viking Mississippi

• Size:  450 feet long / 386 passengers
• Itineraries:  Mississippi River
• All-outside staterooms
• Infinity plunge pool
• River Café serving American specialties and Mamsen’s Norwegian specialties
• Two-story Explorers’ Lounge and Bar
• The Bow sitting area at the front of the ship
• Aquavit Terrace for al fresco dining

READ MORE:  Viking Launches Mississippi River Cruises

Viking Neptune

• Itineraries:  World Cruise

Viking Octantis & Polaris

• Scheduled Debut Dates:  Octantis — January 2022, Polaris — August 2022
• Line/Class:  Viking / Polar Class 6 expedition ships
• Size:  30,150 gross tons / 378 passengers
• Itineraries:  Arctic, Antarctica, Canada/New England, and Great Lakes
• The Hanger, an in-ship marina with launch platforms and a submarine
• The Laboratory, a working scientific research center with resident scientists
• Pool with a retractable dome
• Staterooms with floor to ceiling glass retractable windows
• The Nordic Spa with thermal suite

Wonder of the Seas

• Line/Class:  Royal Caribbean International / Oasis Class
• Size:  236,857 gross tons / 6,988 passengers
• Itineraries:  Asia
• Reimagined aft AquaTheater
• Open-air Central Park neighborhood
• All-new Suite Neighborhood
• Ten-story Ultimate Abyss spiral slide
• Chops Grille steakhouse
• FlowRider surfing simulators
• The Vitality Spa & Fitness Center
• Ice skating rink

World Traveller & World Seeker

• Scheduled Debut Dates:  2022, exact months unknown
• Line/Class:  Atlas Ocean Voyages / Explorer Class
• Size:  9,300 gross tons / 196 passengers
• Itineraries:  Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Antarctica, and Arctic
• All-suite cabins with 90 percent featuring step-out balconies and 10 percent featuring French balconies
• Glass-domed observation lounge
• Polar Library open 24 hours a day
• Spa treatments and a sauna
• Heated saltwater plunge pool
• Kayaks, paddle boards, and Zodiac boats

BONUS: Azamara Onward

We’re including  Azamara Onward  as a bonus because it’s not actually a new ship, in fact, it debuted in 1999. Most recently, you might recognize it as Princess Cruises’  Pacific Princess.  In 2021, Carnival Corporation (Princess Cruises’ parent company) announced that it had sold the vessel to Sycamore Partners, which owns Azamara.

• Scheduled Debut Date:  May 2022
• Line/Class:  Azamara / R Class
• Size:  30,277 gross tons / 670 passengers
• Itineraries:  Mediterranean
• Aft sunset veranda
• Aqualina specialty restaurant
• Prime C steakhouse
• The Living Room forward lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows
• The Sanctum Spa
• Fitness Center
• Mosaic Café
• Cabaret Lounge theater

If you want to see the ships that have/are set to launch in 2021, head over here .

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• P&O Cruises ( UK )

New P & O ship for 2022

By Brumken , November 8, 2019 in P&O Cruises ( UK )

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Have I imagined it or did  P & O announce that in addition to Iona in 2020 there would be another new ship in 2022?  The reason I am questioning it is that at the Peninsular Cocktail Party on a recent cruise the captain mentioned Iona and a new Cunard ship for 2022 but made no mention of another P & O ship. 

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12 minutes ago, Brumken said: Have I imagined it or did  P & O announce that in addition to Iona in 2020 there would be another new ship in 2022?  The reason I am questioning it is that at the Peninsular Cocktail Party on a recent cruise the captain mentioned Iona and a new Cunard ship for 2022 but made no mention of another P & O ship.   

Yes, there will be another addition to the P&O fleet in 2022.

Brand new ship - Arriving 2022

Exciting news! A second new P&O Cruises ship will be joining the fleet, arriving in 2022. To be created in the image of her sister ship (arriving 2020), she will share the title of 'the largest cruise ship to be built exclusively for the British cruise market'. A next generation ship, guests will be treated to a range of innovative new features and experiences on board.   Stylish interiors, the very latest dining trends and ground-breaking entertainment; our teams are busy plotting and planning it all at this very moment. We will, of course, keep you updated so watch this space for all the latest updates.

Oh God, I can see the end of my cruising.  They will sell Aurora and Arcadia and that will be that 😞

can see all future new builds being in excess of 5000 passengers not good news for the majority on here myself included

3 minutes ago, jeanlyon said: Oh God, I can see the end of my cruising.  They will sell Aurora and Arcadia and that will be that 😞

Aurora happens to be one of our favourite ships and hopefully it will be around for quite a while yet.

Having said that we are booked on Iona next year so we will see how that goes.

Although, the apparent reduction in formal nights and possibly no opportunities for Dancing my put us off.

terrierjohn

I am quite looking forward to Iona and her sister, Iona looks to have lots of new features that will make for more interesting cruising. The RCI forums rarely complain that their big ships feel overcrowded, so I hope that the Excellence class will follow suit.

22 minutes ago, terrierjohn said: I am quite looking forward to Iona and her sister, Iona looks to have lots of new features that will make for more interesting cruising. The RCI forums rarely complain that their big ships feel overcrowded, so I hope that the Excellence class will follow suit.

I am with you on this John.

34 minutes ago, philred said: can see all future new builds being in excess of 5000 passengers not good news for the majority on here myself included

Agreed. I suspect that the majority of long standing P&O passengers prefer the smaller ships and for many Iona is a step to far. This was brought home on a recent cruise on Oceana (3 Oct, Canaries) when at the Peninsular coctail party the anouncements re Iona were met with an obvious lack of enthusiasm. So much so that the officer making the announcements actually commented on the fact! It is interesting that the new Cunard ship being introduced in 2022 is roughly the size of Azura and Ventura; 113K tonnes and 3000 passengers.

Host Sharon

1 hour ago, jeanlyon said: Oh God, I can see the end of my cruising.  They will sell Aurora and Arcadia and that will be that 😞

So switch lines. Some are still building small(er) ships. After my recent cruise of Spirit of Discovery, going back to P&O is going to feel like a big let down I suspect.

I am going on Silversea next month. I have 5 further cruises booked with P and O in 2020 and 2021, all but one on Aurora or Arcadia (one is on Azura but that was because of the itinerary only though I quite like Azura). I strongly suspect that I am going to be spoiled for the larger lines and ships. The pattern for 2021 onwards will probably be fewer cruises with the more expensive lines. I'll very likely try Viking.

Monorail Orange

18 hours ago, jeanlyon said: Oh God, I can see the end of my cruising.  They will sell Aurora and Arcadia and that will be that 😞

Agreed. Although I think that both of those will be around for five if not ten years.

The sister doesn't launch for another three years, so even if they do get rid of another ship to make way, there are three contenders. Meaning that the other two might stay.

Oceana and Aurora are both coming up for 20 - so they are the likely front runners. (Arcadia isn't 20 until 2025 and Ventura in '26).

Still rubbish though - for those of us who prefer small to mid-size ships.

18 hours ago, philred said: can see all future new builds being in excess of 5000 passengers not good news for the majority on here myself included

Yep. I can see Ventura and Azura being classed as "small" ships of the P&O fleet in the future.

The really ought to convert one of those to adults only at some point too.

Son of Anarchy

Generally I prefer the "smaller" ships ie Oriana/Aurora, though I really like Arcadia.  However, I must admit to having a soft spot for both Azura and Ventura.  As long as there's something no bigger than those two, I'd like to think that there will be itineries that continue to appeal to us.

So, does this mean when the next brochure comes out, March?, we will be able to book for two ships which no one has seen?

I think this brochure covers both summer 2021 and winter 21/22, so there will not be another until next September.

I thought it just meant they wanted us to book even further in advance now, and they would carry on still bringing one out every six months.

3 hours ago, happy v said: I thought it just meant they wanted us to book even further in advance now, and they would carry on still bringing one out every six months.

I assumed that because there were 12 months of new cruises available, rather than the usual 6. then the next launch would be in 12 months, we need to wait and see who guessed correctly.

We tried Azura and did not like her at all.  As for trying smaller ships, Fred is so-so and the others are far too expensive.

23 minutes ago, jeanlyon said: We tried Azura and did not like her at all.  As for trying smaller ships, Fred is so-so and the others are far too expensive.

We will get you to try Iona yet Jean.

AndyMichelle

8 hours ago, jeanlyon said: We tried Azura and did not like her at all.  As for trying smaller ships, Fred is so-so and the others are far too expensive.

Like you Jean, we love Aurora, but were pleasantly surprised by Britannia. The experience is very different to Azura/Ventura. Although more passengers, it doesn't feel crowded with plenty of quiet places and is very elegant. 

It opened our eyes and we are now looking forward to Iona. 

Must dash, off to pay my respects to our heroes then down to Ocean terminal to board Oceana.. 

Did I mention I was going on a cruise today 😊

42 minutes ago, AndyMichelle said: Did I mention I was going on a cruise today Andy   

Have a fantastic cruise Andy, only 7 months for me.

1 hour ago, AndyMichelle said:   Did I mention I was going on a cruise today 😊 Andy   

Enjoy your cruise Andy & Michelle 😀

11 hours ago, jeanlyon said: We tried Azura and did not like her at all.  As for trying smaller ships, Fred is so-so and the others are far too expensive.

I wouldn’t rule out all the large ships based on one experience on Azura Jean. We have cruised on every ship in the P&O fleet (most of them more than once) and Azura was our least favourite. Our favourite ship is Aurora but Britannia runs her a very close second. Cabins, facilities and Select Dining restaurants are far superior on Britannia but we prefer the passenger profile on Aurora.  

We loved Oriana and Oceana but had to stop cruising on them as they don’t have  any accessible balcony cabins with wet rooms. We didn’t like Arcadia at all, for many reasons, but we did have a lovely corner wrap aft suite (prior to my wife needing a wet room). Ventura and Azura are our least favourite ships as they have a similar passenger profile to Britannia but lack the modern facilities and don’t have a Crows Nest.  

We are going on Iona with an open mind, but it will be the Maiden Cruise, which we think is likely to have a slightly different passenger mix to an in-season cruise. Although we prefer the adult only and traditional cruising aspects of Aurora, when we are on her we miss the modern cabin facilities, Select Dining restaurants, Limelight Club and vastly improved accessibility aspects of Britannia. As an aside, much is said of passenger to space ratios, but we have never found Britannia to feel any more crowded than Aurora. We find that you can always find quiet spots on all the ships. 

1 hour ago, SarahHben said: Enjoy your cruise Andy & Michelle 😀

Thank you Sarah 😊

2 hours ago, Les_ldh said: Have a fantastic cruise Andy, only 7 months for me. Les.

Thanks Les. 

I think we got a bit carried away with the cheap deals... 

Had an email from P&O the other day saying 'only 23 weeks until your cruise' then realised that is our third upcoming one!! 

Little and often suits us at the minute. 

7 months will fly by. 

2 minutes ago, AndyMichelle said: Thank you Sarah 😊

Are you going on a cruise today Andy? You have kept that very quiet 😴 ☺️

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The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world

M odern cruise ships continue to grow in size, with the biggest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas , launching at the start of this year, and her sister ship the Star of the Seas expected to surpass her in size.

Both of these ships are operated by Royal Caribbean International, which operates five of the ten largest cruise ships in the world. Carnival Corporation, arguably the biggest cruise company in the world, features three times on the list through its subsidiaries P&O Cruises and Costa Cruises.

All of the heaviest cruise ships in the world were built within the last 20 years, although the majority – six of the ten – were built within the last five years.

So, here are the top ten biggest cruise ships in the world, by gross tonnage. 

10. P&O Cruises MS Arvia : 185,581 gross tonnes

The MS Arvia is P&O Cruises’ fourth ship to be built by German shipyard Meyer Werft. Weighing in at 185,581 gross tonnes, the 345m (1,130-foot) Arvia is slightly larger than her sister ship, the MS Iona . The 20-deck ship is the largest ship commissioned for the British cruise market and has a maximum passenger capacity of 6,264 passengers, with 1,800 crew onboard. 

The ship is the second liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered Excellence-class vessel for P&O, following the Iona . Arvia is powered by a 61,760kW LNG drive system, with a propulsion power of 37 megawatts. The LNG-powered propulsion system allows the vessel to sail at a maximum speed of 21.5 knots.

After being floated out in August 2022, the Arvia mainly operates itineraries around the Caribbean or the Mediterranean.

9. Costa Cruises – Costa Smeralda : 185,010 gross tonnes

The Costa Smeralda is the first LNG-powered vessel in the Costa Cruises fleet. With a gross tonnage of 185,010gt, the 20-deck Excellence-class ship measures 337m (1,106 feet) in length. The second LNG-powered cruise ship to enter operation in the world, she has a maximum capacity of 6,554 passengers with 1,646 crew and a service speed of 21.5 knots.

Construction of the Costa Smeralda began at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, in September 2017. Meyer Turku collaborated with the Meyer Werft Papenburg shipyard to develop and integrate the LNG propulsion plant for the ship. She is fitted with four 16-cylinder, Caterpillar MaK 16VM46DF engines, with 15.4 megawatts (20,710 horsepower) output per engine, resulting in a maximum power of  37 megawatts (50,000 horsepower).

The ship, which was named after the Emerald Coast of Sardinia, entered service in December 2019 , departing Savona on its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean, where it has sailed since.

8. Costa Cruises – Costa Toscana : 186,364 gross tonnes

The Costa Toscana is the sister ship of the Costa Smeralda and is also powered by LNG . measuring 337m (1,106 feet) long and weighing in at 186,364 gross tonnes, the Toscana has a maximum capacity of 6,338 passengers and 1,678 staff across her 20 decks.

Like her sister ship, the Toscana was also built at the Meyer shipyard in Finland, with construction completed in 2021. She is also powered by four MaK-Caterpillar engines, with a total power of 57.2 megawatts (76,706 horsepower), and two ABB Azipod motors , resulting in a service speed of 17 knots.

Named in homage to the Tuscany region of Italy, Costa Toscana mainly sails around the Mediterranean Sea but Costa Cruises has also used the ship to sail itineraries further afield, such as around Brazil and the UAE.

7. MSC Cruises – MSC World Europa : 215,863 gross tonnes

The only entry in the top ten from MSC Cruises, MSC World Europa measures 333m (1,094 feet) in length. With 215,863 gross tonnage, she can house more people than any other ship in the MSC fleet: up to 6,762 passengers across 2,633 cabins spread over 22 decks, in addition to 2,138 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, the World Europa ’s LNG-power propulsion system was subcontracted to Finland-based Wärtsilä. Five LNG-powered, 14-cylinder Wartsila 46DF dual-fuel engines power the vessel, with a propulsion power of 44 megawatts ( 59,005 horsepower). She also features nitrogen oxide reduction (NOR) units, two Wartsila LNGPac fuel storage and supply systems, seven thrusters, and two fixed-pitch propellers. 

The MSC World Europa was floated out at the end of 2021 and was initially used as an accommodation vessel for fans attending the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with the ship berthed at Doha Port in Qatar during the tournament. Following the competition, the ship subsequently travelled several routes around the UAE, before sailing to the Mediterranean, where it has sailed itineraries since.

6. Royal Caribbean International – Allure of the Seas : 225,282 gross tonnes

The first of many entries on this list operated by Royal Caribbean, Allure of the Seas weighs in at 225,282 gross tonnes. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet), she is only 50mm (2 inches) longer than her sister ship the Oasis of the Seas . The Allure has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,200 crew across 18 decks.

Built at the Turku Shipyard in Finland, the Allure took two years to build , floating out in 2010. She features six Wärtsilä 46 diesel engines with a total power output of 97 megawatts (130,053 horsepower). It is propelled by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters. The ship can travel at a cruising speed of 22 knots.

With a homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US, the Allure mainly serves itineraries around the Bahamas but she is scheduled to sail routes around the Mediterranean in 2025.

5. Royal Caribbean International – Oasis of the Seas : 226,838 gross tonnes

The oldest ship on this list, the Oasis of the Seas has been in service for over a decade. She was the biggest cruise ship at the time when floated out in 2009, with a gross tonnage of 226,838gt and a length of 360m (1,181 feet). The Oasis has a maximum capacity of 6,699 passengers and 2,181 staff across 18 decks.

The Oasis took two years to build at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, with the keel laid on 12 November 2007 and the ship arriving at her homeport of Port Everglades in Florida, US, on 13 November 2009.

The Oasis is powered by eight Wärtsilä V12 diesel engines, which generate 5.6 megawatts (7,500 horsepower) each, alongside four bow thrusters. The main propulsion system consists of three 20-megawatt (26,820 horsepower) electric Azipod motors, resulting in a combined propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and a standard cruising speed of 23 knots.

The Oasis mainly operates routes around the Caribbean, but occasionally repositions to offer itineraries in the Mediterranean.

4. Royal Caribbean International – Harmony of the Seas : 226,963 gross tonnes

The third Oasis-class ship built by Royal Caribbean, Harmony of the Seas weighed in bigger than her existing sister ships at launch in 2016, with 226,963 gross tonnage, but she has since been surpassed by newer vessels. With a total length of 362m (1,188 feet), Harmony has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,300 staff across 18 decks.

Royal Caribbean placed an order with STX France for the construction of Harmony of the Seas in December 2012. The first steel for the ship was cut at STX France’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in September 2013, while the keel-laying ceremony was held in May 2014.

The Harmony is powered by three 18.9-megawatt Wärtsilä 16V46 16-cylinder main generator diesel engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46 12-cylinder engines producing 13.9 megawatts each. The propulsion power is provided by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters and manoeuvring is assisted by four 5.5-megawatt Wärtsilä CT 3500 tunnel thrusters. The propulsion system results in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and enables the ship to sail at a standard speed of 23 knots.

Harmony of the Seas embarked on her inaugural seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, Spain, in June 2016, and currently operates itineraries around the Western Caribbean from her homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US.

3. Royal Caribbean International – Symphony of the Seas : 228,081 gross tonnes

At launch in 2018, the Symphony of the Seas surpassed the Harmony as the biggest cruise ship, weighing in at 228,081 gross tonnes. Measuring 361m (1,185 feet), the Symphony has a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers and 2,200 staff across 18 decks and was the testing ground for Royal Caribbean's new muster drill . With a total length of 361m (1,185 feet), She is roughly 30 metres (98 feet) longer than the largest military ships , the US Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and the USS Gerald R. Ford .

The keel-laying ceremony for the Symphony of the Seas was held in October 2015 at STX’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in France, and the ship sailed out in June 2017. She is powered by six diesel sets, each composed of three Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46D engines, as well as three 20-megawatt electric Azipod main engines – resulting in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) of propulsion power and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Symphony commenced her seven-day maiden voyage from Barcelona in April 2018, and since then has mainly operated itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.

2. Royal Caribbean International – Wonder of the Seas : 235,600 gross tonnes

Royal Caribbean's flagship, Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis-class cruise ship built for the cruise company. Weighing in at 235,600 gross tonnes, the Wonder was the largest ship in the world when she was completed in January 2022. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet) in length, the 18-deck Wonder has a maximum capacity of 7,084 guests across its 2,867 staterooms, as well as housing 2,369 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, Wonder is powered by two Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and four Wärtsilä 12V46D engines; and uses three 20-megawatt electric Azipod engines for propulsion, combining for a propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Wonder sailed her maiden voyage in March 2022 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and has since served itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami and Cape Canaveral.

1. Royal Caribbean International – Icon of the Seas : 248,663 gross tonnes

Weighing 248,663 gross tonnes and measuring 365 metres (1,1967 feet), the Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world. Christened on 23 January 2024, the Icon has a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew across 20 decks. She is the lead ship of the new Icon-class, with a sister ship the Star of the Seas due to be delivered in 2025 and another ship planned for delivery in 2026.

Built by Meyer Turku in Finland, the Icon is the first ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet that can be powered by LNG. It uses three Wärtsilä 14V46DF and three Wärtsilä 12V46DF for its main generator engines, which provide 67.5 megawatts of energy to run the ship. She is propelled by three 20-megawatt Azipod thrusters as well as five 4.8-megawatt Wärtsilä WTT-45 CP bow thrusters, with a cruising speed of 22 knots.

After sailing her maiden voyage on 27 January 2024, the Icon now sails year-round itineraries of seven-night trips around the Eastern and Western Caribbean from her homeport of Miami, Florida.

"The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world" was originally created and published by Ship Technology , a GlobalData owned brand.

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