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The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

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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:

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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 top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world

Cruise ships have evolved into giant vessels, even eclipsing aircraft carriers. So, what are the top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world?

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The Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Modern 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

The 20 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World in 2023

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The world’s 20 largest cruise ships in 2023

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

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

16. (tie) MSC Seascape

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: MSC Cruises Launches MSC Seascape in New York City

16. (tie) MSC Seashore

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

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

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

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

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

15. (tie) MSC Bellissima

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

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

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

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

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

15. (tie) MSC Meraviglia

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

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

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

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

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

14. (tie) MSC Virtuosa

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

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

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

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

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

14. (tie) MSC Grandiosa

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

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

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

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

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

13. Mardi Gras

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. AIDAcosma

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

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

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

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

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

11. Carnival Celebration

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

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Cassidy Gifford Becomes Godmother of Carnival Celebration in Miami

10. AIDAnova

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. (tie) Costa Toscana

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

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

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

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

8. (tie) Costa Smeralda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. MSC World Europa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Allure of the Seas

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

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

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

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

4. Oasis of the Seas

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

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

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

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

3. Harmony of the Seas

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

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

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

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

2. Symphony of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

1. Wonder of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparing the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world

Largest cruise ships faq.

How is the size of a cruise ship measured?

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

What does maximum beam mean on a ship?

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

Which cruise ship is the biggest?

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

Which cruise ship is the longest?

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

Which cruise ship can hold the most passengers?

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

Which cruise ship has the most staterooms?

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

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

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25 Largest Cruise Ships in the World: Grand Scale Adventure

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Cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger all the time. The largest cruise ship in the world is currently Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. At 250,80 gross tons, the vessel is almost five times larger than the famous Titanic !

The list of ships changes as new vessels enter service in the fast-paced cruise industry. We will do our best to keep the list up to date with accurate information on these behemoth ships.

Table of Contents

Top 25 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

There are many different ways to measure the size of cruise ships. For instance, the size of ships can be based on length, passenger capacity, or gross tonnage. We will be using gross tonnage as a measure for ship size for our list.

Gross tonnage (GT) is defined as the total volume of a vessel, expressed in units of 100 cubic feet, excluding specific open structures such as deckhouses.

1. Icon Of The Seas

Royal Caribbean’s new  Icon of the Seas  is set to become the largest cruise ship in the world, with an anticipated internal volume of 250,800 GT, a length of 1,198 ft, and accommodations for 5,610 guests at double occupancy and 7,600 at maximum occupancy.

The completed cruise ship will boast 20 total decks, seven pools, nine whirlpools, eight neighborhoods, 2,350 international crew members, and 2,805 guest staterooms.

“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” said Jason Liberty, president, and CEO, of Royal Caribbean Group. “From the moment they step on board, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With  Icon of the Seas,  we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.” 

• Length: 365 m
• Gross Tonnage: 250800 GT
• Passengers: 5610
• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

2. Wonder Of The Seas

Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis-class vessel from Royal Caribbean. On her debut in 2022, Wonder of the Seas become the largest cruise ship in the world, overtaking her sister ship, Symphony of the Seas . The ship has one additional neighborhood than previous Oasis-class ships, with eight distinct zones around the ship.

The new zone, Suite Neighborhood, is an exclusive area on the ship for guests booked in Suite cabins. Additionally, the ship features a revamped Aquatheatre, ten-foot Ultimate Abyss slide, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar specialty restaurant, The Perfect Storm, aqua park Splashaway Bay, and the Wonder Playscape.

• Length: 362 m
• Gross Tonnage: 236857 GT
• Passengers: 5734

3. Utopia Of The Seas

Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s seventh Oasis-class cruise ship. The massive ship debuted in July 2024 and offers an unforgettable experience for its passengers. The ship can carry up to 6,788 guests and is the first Oasis-class cruise ship powered by environmentally friendly liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Utopia of the Seas features multiple pools, including the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool and the exciting Perfect Storm waterslides. For kids, there’s Splashaway Bay, which is filled with slides and water activities.

When it comes to dining, Utopia of the Seas has over 20 different options. You can enjoy everything from soul food and sushi to Italian favorites and quick bites from a poolside food truck. There are also many bars and lounges where you can relax and enjoy live music or craft cocktails.

Entertainment on Utopia of the Seas is top-notch. You can watch spectacular shows in the AquaTheater, enjoy live music in various venues, or even try karaoke. There are also thrilling activities like the Ultimate Abyss slide and a FlowRider surf simulator.

• Passengers: 5634

4. Symphony Of The Seas

Symphony of the Seas is the 25th ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet and the fourth Oasis-class vessel. It is currently the world’s largest cruise ship at 228,081 gross tons and measures 1,188 feet in length. The ship was built at STX France shipyard and departed on its official maiden voyage on April 7, 2018, on a 7-night Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, Spain.

The ship was built at STX France shipyard and departed on its official maiden voyage on April 7, 2018, on a 7-night Mediterranean trip from Barcelona, Spain.

• Gross Tonnage: 228081 GT
• Passengers: 5518

5. Harmony Of The Seas

Harmony of the Seas is the third Oasis-class ship, slightly overtaking her two previous sister ships. The vessel is the first ship to feature the 10-story Ultimate Abyss – the tallest slide at sea.

• Gross Tonnage: 226963 GT
• Passengers: 5497

6. Allure Of The Seas

Measuring 50 millimeters longer than Oasis, Allure of the Seas is the second record-breaking Oasis-class ship from Royal Caribbean. The ship features many familiar Oasis-class amenities, including ice rinks, a two-deck dance hall, a theatre with 1,380 seats, an ice skating rink, a concierge club, a spa, and fitness facilities.

The ship also has 25 dining options, including the first Starbucks on a cruise ship.

• Length: 360 m
• Gross Tonnage: 225282 GT
• Passengers: 5492

7. Oasis Of The Seas

The first vessel in the Oasis-class of cruise ships, Oasis of the Seas was the biggest cruise ship in the world when it entered service in 2009.

With 16 passenger decks and 2,742 guest cabins, the ship can accommodate 6,296 passengers. The ship introduced many new amenities that were firsts for the cruise industry, including an outdoor Aqua Theater and an open-air corridor cared out along the vessel’s center, which includes the fan-favorite central park.

In addition, Oasis of the Seas features seven distinct themed zones, two surf simulators, a 10-story high zip line, rock climbing walls, five swimming pools, and much more.

• Length: 311 m
• Passengers: 5592

8. World Europa

It won’t be the world’s biggest cruise ship, but it will be close. At around 205,000 gross tons,  MSC World Europa  will be nearly as big as Royal Caribbean’s record-size Oasis-class vessels, including the previously mentioned  Wonder of the Seas .

There is one measurement that  MSC World Europa  outshines the Oasis-class ships, and that’s its height. At 21 decks high, the ship is not only three decks taller than the Oasis-class ships, but it will be the tallest cruise ship in the world.

The ship can hold 6,762 passengers in its 2,366 staterooms at maximum capacity.

In addition,  MSC World Europa  will have six pools, fourteen hot tubs, an 11-story slide, and an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that integrate with virtual reality technology.

• Length: 333 m
• Gross Tonnage: 215863 GT
• Passengers: 5240
• Cruise Line: MSC Cruises

The MS Arvia is an Excellence-class cruise ship operating for P&O Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc.

The ship was constructed by Meyer Werft, a German shipbuilder, and was delivered to P&O Cruises on 9 December 2022. P&O Arvia, with a gross tonnage of approximately 184,700, is the largest ship ever commissioned for the British cruise market.

The Arvia’s normal passenger capacity is 5,200, but this can be expanded to 6,264 if every bed is filled. The ship’s maiden voyage was originally scheduled for 9 December 2022 but was delayed to 23 December 2022. Arvia’s maiden voyage was a 14-night Canary Islands cruise from Southampton. On 2 March 2023, it was announced that Nicole Scherzinger would be Arvia’s godmother.

• Length: 345 m
• Gross Tonnage: 184700 GT
• Passengers: 5206
• Cruise Line: P&O Cruises

Another LNG-powered cruise ship on our list comes from British-based P&O Cruises.  Iona  was initially scheduled to begin service in May 2020; however, the Coronavirus pandemic delayed its delivery was to October 2020.

Once delivered, the ship spent many months on hold as the cruise industry suspended sailing operations.  Iona’s  maiden voyage sailed on August 7, 2021, which anchored at the ship’s namesake island for a spectacular kaleidoscopic firework display.

• Gross Tonnage: 184089 GT

11. Carnival Celebration

Carnival Celebration holds the title of being the largest vessel of the Carnival Cruise Line fleet . Celebration marks the second addition to Carnival’s Excel class fleet, a specialized subclass under Carnival Corporation & plc’s Excellence class.

With an impressive gross tonnage of 183,900 GT, Carnival Celebration provides plenty of entertainment and dining venue for over 5,347 passengers.

• Length: 344 m
• Gross Tonnage: 183900 GT
• Passengers: 5374
• Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line

12. Carnival Jubilee

Carnival Jubilee is set to be the third vessel in Carnival Cruise Line’s Excel class, joining the ranks of her sister ships, Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration.

With an imposing size of 183,900 gross tons, the ship can host 5,374 guests under double occupancy and up to 6,631 passengers when fully occupied. Despite a delay in her original launch date, Carnival Jubilee is now gearing up to greet guests on her maiden voyage scheduled for December 23, 2023.

• Passengers: 5347

13. Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras  is the first XL-class cruise ship operated by the world’s largest cruise ship operator, Carnival Cruise Lines. The 180,000 Gross Ton LNG-powered ship is a tribute to Carnival’s first-ever cruise ship, the  TSS Mardi Gras.

Mardi Gras  brought new features to the cruise industry, including BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea. In addition, the cruise ship is divided into six distinct themed zones for guests to explore.

• Passengers: 5282

14. AIDAcosma

AIDAcosma is an Excellence-class vessel designed to provide luxurious and environmentally friendly cruise experiences. The cruise ship is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which reduces emissions by up to 20%.

AIDAcosma was designed with numerous amenities and unique features to enhance the cruising experience for its passengers. These features often include a variety of dining options, spacious cabins, recreational facilities, entertainment venues, and even wellness areas.

• Length: 337 m
• Passengers: 5400
• Cruise Line: AIDA Cruises

15. AIDAnova

AIDAnova  is operated by the German-based and Carnival-owned Aida Cruises. It is the first new-generation class of ships ordered by any Carnival-owned cruise line and officially entered into service in December 2018.

The ship was built at the famous Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, and is powered by LNG technology.

16. Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda  is the cruise line’s largest vessel and its first ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). LNG technology allows for a significant reduction in the ship’s greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional diesel engines, which is a good thing considering the amount of fuel required to operate such a large vessel.

The ship was built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and was delivered on December 5, 2019.

As previously mentioned,  Costa Smeralda  is the largest cruise ship commissioned by Italian cruise line Costa Cruises with 185,100GT and a maximum capacity of 6554 passengers and 1646 crew members.

• Cruise Line: Costa Cruises

17. Costa Toscana

Costa Toscana  is the third ship of the Carnival-owned Italian cruise line Costa Cruises fleet. Just like its sister ship,  Costa Smeralda , the ship is powered by LNG. In a press release upon the ship’s delivery, Costa Cruises stated that the ship represents a tribute to the Tuscany region in Italy.

• Passengers: 5322

18. MSC Euribia

MSC Euribia is the 22nd vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet. It stands out as one of the most energy-efficient cruise ship designs to date and is the second ship in MSC Cruises’ lineup to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). The ship was officially delivered on May 3, 2023 during a ceremony held at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

What sets MSC Euribia apart is its incorporation of state-of-the-art sustainable technologies. These advancements include advanced onboard water and waste treatment facilities, which contribute to the ship’s environmentally friendly operations. Additionally, the vessel boasts cutting-edge heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, ensuring optimal energy efficiency throughout its operation. Furthermore, MSC Euribia is equipped with an underwater radiated noise management system, enhancing the ship’s environmental performance by reducing its impact on marine life.

With its emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, MSC Euribia represents MSC Cruises’ commitment to responsible and eco-conscious cruising. By leveraging LNG as a fuel source and implementing innovative technologies, the company aims to minimize its environmental footprint and provide passengers with an environmentally friendly cruise experience.

• Length: 331 m
• Gross Tonnage: 181541 GT
• Passengers: 4828

19. MSC Grandiosa

MSC Grandiosa  launched in November 2019 and is the first Meraviglia Pluss-class cruise ship for MSC Cruises. The vessel features the world’s first Humanoid Robotic Bartender at Sea!

• Passengers: 4888

20. MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa  is the second Meraviglia Pluss-class cruise ship built by MSC Cruises. She was delivered on February 1, 2021, but due to a pause in cruise ship operations due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the ship’s maiden voyage didn’t occur until November 2021.

• Passengers: 4810

21. Sun Princess

• Gross Tonnage: 175499 GT
• Passengers: 4320
• Cruise Line: Princess Cruises

22. MSC Bellissima

MSC Cruises launched MSC Bellissima in 2019. The technologically advanced cruise ship offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for guests with a wide range of amenities and entertainment options.

MSC Bellissima features multiple dining venues, including specialty restaurants, and offers a variety of culinary experiences. Passengers can enjoy entertainment options such as a breathtaking LED sky screen, exclusive Cirque du Soleil at Sea performances, bars, lounges, and theaters. The ship also has a spa, wellness center, pools, water park, and sports area for relaxation and activities. The staterooms are stylish and comfortable, catering to various needs. MSC Bellissima incorporates eco-friendly technologies and practices to minimize its ecological impact.

• Length: 315 m
• Gross Tonnage: 171598 GT
• Passengers: 4488

23. MSC Meraviglia

MSC Meraviglia  joined the MSC Cruises fleet in June 2017. One of this first-in-class vessel’s biggest highlights is the large LED roof display along the promenade. 

The ship is recognized for bringing some of the latest advances in customer-centric technology and digital innovations to the high seas. This ship is a fantastic choice for families and food lovers alike.

24. MSC Seascape

MSC Seascape is part of the Seaside EVO class, an evolution of the Seaside class, which includes the MSC Seashore. This class of ships is known for its environmentally friendly technologies and design enhancements that enhance guest comfort and provide even more significant connections with the sea.

The Seaside EVO class vessels feature cutting-edge technologies for energy efficiency, environmental performance, and guest-centric enhancements. Passengers are provided with multiple dining options, numerous entertainment offerings, panoramic public areas for impressive sea views, and comfortable cabins and suites.

• Length: 339 m
• Gross Tonnage: 170412 GT
• Passengers: 4540

25. MSC Seashore

MSC Seashore was constructed by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, and it’s a part of MSC Cruises’ Seaside EVO class. The Seaside Evo class is a further evolution of the Seaside class of ships, providing cruisers with an upgraded vacation experience.

Launched in 2021, MSC Seashore spans 339 meters in length and has a maximum capacity of 5,877 passengers and 1,648 crew members.

Designed with a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, MSC Seashore boasts state-of-the-art technologies that minimize its environmental footprint. It features a selective catalytic reduction system to decrease nitrogen oxide, exhaust gas cleaning systems to cut sulfur oxide emissions, and an advanced wastewater treatment system.

The ship is designed to provide guests with more open-air space with more deck space per passenger than any other ship in the MSC Cruises fleet. Seashore offers a variety of amenities for passengers, including multiple dining options, extensive entertainment offerings, an outdoor water park, spacious cabins and suites, and panoramic public areas to provide stunning sea views.

• Passengers: 4560

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Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

1. Harmony of the Seas:  The largest cruise ship in the world made her debut this past week and comes in at 226,963 gross tons. Royal Caribbean’s newest ship carries up to 6,360 passengers in 2,747 staterooms and is one foot longer than her sister ships, Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas.

2. Allure of the Seas: The 2nd largest cruise ship in the world is Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas coming in at 225,282 gross tons.  Allure went into service in 2010 and held the title as world’s biggest ship until this past week. The ship is 1,187 feet long and is able to hold over 6,000 passengers.

3. Oasis of the Seas: The 3rd largest cruise ship in the world is the Oasis of the Seas, the sister ship to the Allure.  Although the Oasis is technically the same size as the Allure, the Allure is a couple inches longer.

4-6. Quantum of the Seas/Anthem of the Seas/Ovation of the Seas:   Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Ovation of the Seas are the most technologically advanced cruise ships ever built and come in at 168,000 gross tons in size.  Features included on the Quantum class ships include virtual balconies on all inside staterooms, robotic bartenders, a wave pool, and a skydiving simulator.

7. Norwegian Escape:  The first Breakaway Plus class ship from Norwegian Cruise Line, Norwegian Escape comes in at 164,600 gross tons and can carry 4,248 passengers.

8. Liberty of the Seas: Liberty of the Seas recently came out of dry dock and was the first Royal Caribbean ship to feature waterslides.  After the drydock, Liberty of the Seas now comes in at 155,889 gross tons, slightly larger than her two sister ships and Norwegian Epic.

9. Norwegian Epic: Coming in 9th is Norwegian Epic at 155,573 gross tons.  This was the first 4,000+ passenger ship from Norwegian Cruise Line and is 1,081 feet long.

10 (tie). Freedom of the Seas/Independence of the Seas:    The two Freedom Class ships from Royal Caribbean are tied for the 10th spot and come in at 154,407 gross tons.  Freedom of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in the world when she was completed in 2006.  The ships are 1,112 feet long and can carry up to 4,375 passengers.

Cruise Ships Under Construction/Ordered

1. 4th Oasis class ship from Royal Caribbean (227,700 GT) 2. Two ships from Star Cruises will be 201,000 GT (2019, 2020) 3. Two World class ships from MSC Cruises will be 200,000 GT (2022, 2024) 4. Carnival Corp. has four ships on order (two each for Costa and AIDA) that will be 183,200 GT. These ships will carry 6,600 passengers, the highest capacity passenger ships in the world.

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• Experience the ultimate luxury on the largest cruise ships in the world, complete with fine dining, entertainment, and world-class amenities.
• Cruise with Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda for unforgettable vacations in LNG-powered vessels with 6,554 passengers and luxurious features.
• Unwind on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship with electrifying water slides, pools, dining options, and entertainment.

Picture this: On a nice weather day, a dip in a suspended infinity pool or a swim-up bar on the largest cruise ship in the world with a delicious handcrafted Bloody Mary (or perhaps, a Margarita) while feasting on the immaculate views of the seas. Sounds rewarding, right? While big cruise ships cannot guarantee intimate cruises, megaresort fans will have their time of life with these large vessels that are twice or three times larger than a football field, and more often than not, they're also the best options for travelers looking for great experiences on a cruise ship .

Wondering how massive these vessels can be? Here are the ten largest cruise ships in the world, ranked by their gross tonnage.

10 Tips For Minimalist Packing Before Taking A Cruise

Don't fall into the trap of over-packing for a cruise. Follow these practices for intentional cruise ship packing that keep the suitcase light.

10 Costa Toscana

Gross tonnage: 185,010.

Launched in 2021, Costa Toscana spoils its guests with mouthwatering gastronomy, featuring Italian and international restaurants on board and spectacular entertainment like no other. With a gross tonnage of 185,010, Toscana carries a maximum of 6,554 passengers and is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which makes it sustainable and environmentally friendly. Guests can find themselves taking a dip in one of the ship's 13 swimming pools and hot tubs while enjoying some drinks or watching world-class performances at the Colosseo, Toscana's centerpiece. Costa Toscana is the newest vessel of Italian-owned Costa Cruises, one of the best luxury cruise lines in the U.S. and Europe.

• Cruise Line: Costa Cruises
• Amenities: Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs, Restaurants & Snack Bars, Bars & Lounges, Starlink Internet
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 9

9 Costa Smeralda

One of the biggest cruise ships in the world , Costa Smeralda is Costa Cruises' another LNG-powered vessel, carrying a maximum of 6,554 passengers, and is as large as Costa Toscana with a gross tonnage of 185,010. Just like Toscana, Smeralda's centerpiece is Colosseo, where guests can witness top-in-class live performances, as well as themed lounge bars. Those who want to get a fill of their active lifestyle can have their time of life at the ship's aquapark, work up a sweat at the gym, or get pampered at the spa.

Those who play golf can book a Golf Package with Costa Smeralda, which will take them to the beautiful and world-class golf clubs in Italy, France, and Spain.

8 MSC World Europa

Gross tonnage: 215,863.

Sporting a futuristic exterior and interior design, MSC World Europa is the first vessel of MSC Cruises, one of the cheapest cruise lines in the world , that's LNG-powered and the first of its world-class fleet. Featuring a waterpark (the largest in its fleet), seven swimming pools, a world-class spa, and other state-of-the-art features, MSC World Europa can carry up to 6,762 passengers. Its underwater noise is also toned down to avoid disturbance to marine life. Launched in 2022, MSC World Europa served as a hotel ship during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Doha, Qatar.

• Cruise Line: MSC Cruises
• Amenities: Restaurants & Buffet, Bars & Lounges, Spa
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 23

The MSC Yacht Club is an exclusive club for the members aboard all MSC ships with a 24-hour butler service, a private pool, and dedicated areas, including VIP access to the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas, the Ocean House Beach on Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

7 Allure of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 225,282.

Every Royal Caribbean ship offers passengers something different , including the Allure of the Seas , which features seven distinct neighborhoods: the Royal Promenade, Central Park, the Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Boardwalk, Entertainment Place, and Youth Zone . Each has unique themes for every type of traveler on board. Launched in 2009, the award-winning Allure of the Seas can take 6,826 passengers with 2,748 staterooms, 20 international dining options, 12 bars & lounges, world-class entertainment, heart-soaring activities, and all things allure!

• Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
• Amenities: Restaurants, Bars & Lounges, Swimming Pools, Waterpark
• Number of Ships in Fleet: 32

6 Oasis of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 226,838.

Oasis of the Seas was the world's largest cruise ship, with a gross tonnage of 226,838 when it made its first blush in 2009. Sporting 2,801 staterooms, the vessel can take up to 6,771 passengers. In 2019, it was reimagined with additional unique amenities, including the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, as well as the Perfect Storm waterslides, FlowRider simulators, and the Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. But most of all, Oasis of the Seas offers world-class cuisine with lots of dining options to choose from, including a buffet, which is always included when travelers book a Royal Caribbean cruise .

• Amenities: Waterpark & Waterslides, Restaurants, Bars & Lounges, Swimming Pools

Royal Caribbean VOOM is the fastest internet connection at sea among other cruise ships. It's available on all RC cruise ships in the VOOM Surf + Stream Internet Package.

5 Harmony of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 226,963.

At 226,963 gross tonnage, Harmony of the Seas boasts wow-worthy, family-friendly adventures, perfect for cruising families with kids in tow. Many of its Caribbean cruises include fun-filled excursions on CocoCay in the Bahamas, Royal Caribbean's private island . Featuring 2,747 staterooms, Harmony of the Seas can take a maximum of 6,687 passengers. One of its seven neighborhoods, the Boardwalk, is a popular feature among its guests for its unique and charming eateries, quaint shops, and fun carnival games. All these features are included in the package!

• Amenities: Restaurants, Waterpark & Waterslides, Swimming Pools, Bars & Lounges

10 Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

Looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime luxury cruise and venture around the world? Consider these luxury cruise lines ranked by reviews.

4 Symphony of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 228,081.

Another Oasis Class cruise ship by Royal Caribbean, Symphony of the Seas , features 2,759 staterooms and can accommodate up to 6,680 passengers. It was launched in 2018 and was the world's largest cruise ship until 2022, with a gross tonnage of 228,081. Just like its sister cruise ships, Symphony of the Seas boasts revolutionary activities for all types of travelers, ranging from the tallest slide at sea—the Ultimate Abyss, to its glow-in-the-dark laser tag. Its onboard dining options are also unparalleled, catering to every palate, and its entertainment is world-class with heart-soaring live performances.

• Amenities: Restaurants, Bars & Lounges, Swimming Pools, Waterpark & Waterslides

3 Wonder of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 236,857.

Sailing from Cape Canaveral, Wonder of the Seas offers its guests exciting adventures onboard with larger-than-life thrills for all ages. Boasting 236,857 gross tonnage, the vessel can have a total of 7,084 passengers, featuring 2,867 staterooms. Its epic activities are great for adults and kids alike, but its size is quite massive, and there are numerous features perfect for adults, including high diving platforms at the AquaTheater and the Vue Bar outside the Solarium. With these features, Wonder of the Seas is counted as one of the best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for adults .

• Amenities: Restaurants, Swimming Pools, Waterpark & Waterslides, Bars & Lounges

2 Utopia of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 236,860.

Slated to sail in July 2024, Utopia of the Seas is one of the newest cruise ships in the world and is the sixth vessel on Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships. It's the cruise line's first LNG-powered cruise ship among its Oasis Class ships, with a gross tonnage of 236,860 with 2,834 staterooms and can cater to up to 6,788 passengers. Unique from its sister cruise ships with seven neighborhoods, Utopia of the Seas will have eight. Passengers will enjoy record-breaking waterslide thrills, swim-up bars, gastronomic dining options, and a lot more. Utopia of the Seas will sail out of Port Canaveral in Florida and will offer a quick three to four-day cruise to the Bahamas, including CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island.

• Amenities: Swimming Pools, Restaurants, Bars & Lounges, Casinos

The Ultimate World Cruise: The Pros Vs. Cons Now That This Nine-Month Cruise Is Well Underway

The Serenade of the Seas takes travelers to more than 60 countries, and there's a lot to know about Royal Caribbean's nine-month world cruise.

1 Icon of the Seas

Gross tonnage: 250,800.

Icon of the Seas sailed out of the Port of Miami in January 2024, running on liquefied natural gas (LNG), and is the first vessel in the Icon Class of the Royal Caribbean. At 250,800, Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world , featuring 2,805 staterooms and can cater to up to 7,600 passengers. Boasting electrifying features for all ages, the vessel is gleaming with Category 6 Waterpark, the largest at sea with six record-breaking waterslides, including the tallest slide, the Frightening Bolt, as well as the freefall waterslide, the Pressure Drop, which is the first on a cruise. For pool lovers, Icon of the Seas features Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. It has features that cater to every mood, with next-level nightlife and showstopping performances rolled into one spectacular vessel.

• Amenities: Restaurants, Bars & Loungers, Swimming Pools, Waterpark & Waterslides

Icon of the Seas also features the AquaDome Market, which is Royal Caribbean's first food hall.

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Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World 2024

Welcome to the world of the Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships – where size truly does matter! These magnificent vessels are engineering marvels, each one boasting an impressive array of amenities that cater to every whim and fancy of their passengers.

From towering water slides and sprawling sun decks to elegant theaters and world-class spas, these floating behemoths redefine luxury at sea. Join us as we explore these maritime giants’ grandeur and sheer scale that promises an unforgettable vacation experience like no other.

Table of Contents

What is the Largest Cruise Ships in the World?

Icon of the Seas has taken the world by storm since its launch, claiming the title of the largest cruise ship in the world with its jaw-dropping size and capacity. Surpassing Wonder of the Seas, this new-class giant is a true marvel of engineering and luxury on the seas.

Meyer Turku’s creation stands tall at 250,800 gross tons, accommodating over 5,610 passengers alongside a crew of 2,350 .

Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Here is the list of the world’s largest Cruise Ships in the World:

• Icon of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas

Wonder of the seas, symphony of the seas, harmony of the seas, oasis of the seas, allure of the seas, msc world europa, costa smeralda, icon of the seas .

Icon of the Seas, powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), revolutionizes the cruise industry with its impressive features and groundbreaking design. From record-breaking slides to unique dining experiences, this ship offers a one-of-a-kind journey for all guests.

The first swim-up bar at sea and the suspended infinity pool bring luxury and relaxation to a new level, creating unforgettable moments on board. Icon of the Seas introduces new concepts like the AquaDome venue and the three-level Ultimate Family Townhouse.

With more than 40 dining and drinking options, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights while enjoying stunning ocean views. This ship sets a new standard for cruise vacations, combining luxury, entertainment, and technology in ways that redefine modern travel experiences.

Utopia of the Seas marks a new chapter in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, bringing an unparalleled level of luxury and innovation to the cruise industry.

With a slightly larger gross tonnage than its sister ship, Wonder of the Seas, this majestic vessel promises an even more extraordinary experience for passengers seeking adventure on the high seas. 

The addition of Utopia of the Seas not only expands Royal Caribbean’s capacity to accommodate more guests but also signifies their commitment to pushing boundaries in maritime engineering and design.

The Wonder of the Seas stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. This mammoth cruise ship is not merely a vessel but a floating city, complete with an array of amenities that cater to every whimsical desire.

From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining options, this floating marvel truly offers an unparalleled experience like no other.

One cannot help but be awestruck by the sheer size and grandeur of it. The Wonder of the Seas has multiple decks and boasts a plethora of entertainment options, this ship beckons adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. 

Symphony of the Seas is not just a cruise ship, it’s a floating masterpiece that offers an unparalleled experience in luxury and entertainment.

From the jaw-dropping Central Park with over 12,000 individual plants to the awe-inspiring Ultimate Abyss slide that plunges guests down ten decks, this ship redefines what it means to sail in style. 

With seven distinct neighborhoods onboard, there’s always something new to explore – whether you’re indulging in a gourmet meal at one of the 18 dining options or taking in a Broadway-caliber show at the Royal Theater.

Harmony of the Seas offers passengers an unforgettable experience that transcends traditional notions of cruising. From its expansive decks to its lavish staterooms, Harmony of the Seas embodies sophistication and elegance at every turn.

The ship’s innovative features, including a thrilling water slide complex and a captivating entertainment lineup, cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

As part of STX France’s ambitious plan to expand their large class ships, Harmony of the Seas sets the stage for future advancements in maritime travel while continuing to redefine industry standards.

The Oasis of the Seas stands as a testament to innovation in the cruise industry, setting a new standard for luxury and entertainment at sea.

The addition of features like the Zip-line and AquaTheater offered guests unparalleled experiences, redefining the concept of onboard activities. 

Its recent $165 million upgrade elevated its status even further, showcasing Royal Caribbean’s commitment to pushing boundaries in ship design and amenities.

With its increased gross tonnage post-amplification, the Oasis of the Seas now solidifies its place among the world’s top 10 largest cruise ships, surpassing even its sister ship Allure of the Seas. 

Allure of the Seas stands as a beacon of innovation in the world of cruising, offering passengers an experience that transcends traditional expectations.

Its seven distinctive neighborhoods create a vibrant microcosm at sea, each with its charm and allure. What truly sets Allure apart is its extensive range of dining options, which cater to every palate imaginable. From fine dining experiences to casual bites, this ship leaves no culinary desire unfulfilled.

MSC World Europa, the latest masterpiece from MSC Cruises , is a shining example of innovation and sustainability in the world of cruising.

As the second-largest cruise ship powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), it not only offers luxurious experiences but also demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact. With more than 30 diverse dining options onboard, guests are treated to a culinary journey like no other.

One standout feature of MSC World Europa is the thrilling 250-foot Drop slide located at the aft of the ship. This heart-pounding attraction adds an extra element of excitement for passengers seeking an adrenaline rush while at sea.

Set to redefine standards in luxury cruising, MSC World Europa sets a new benchmark for future ships in terms of both size and sustainability.

Arvia, the newest addition to P&O Cruises’ fleet, represents a significant leap forward in luxury and innovation.

Standing proudly as the largest ship constructed specifically for the British market, Arvia promises an unmatched experience for passengers seeking to explore the high seas in style. 

From its sleek design crafted at the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany to its impressive range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, pools, and entertainment venues, this vessel is a gateway to an unforgettable adventure.

The introduction of Costa Smeralda marks a significant milestone in the cruise industry, being the first-ever cruise ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).

This innovative technology not only reduces emissions but also sets a new standard for sustainability in maritime transportation. The ship’s delivery from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland, albeit delayed, signified a triumph of engineering and design on December 5, 2019.

As the largest vessel ever constructed for the Italian-based cruise operator, Costa Smeralda represents a bold leap forward in luxury cruising. Her maiden voyage on December 31, 2019, from Savona symbolized a new era of eco-friendly travel and opulent experiences. 

The special voyage for travel agents departing Barcelona on December 18, 2019, showcased the ship’s state-of-the-art amenities and unrivaled hospitality that promised unforgettable journeys on the high seas.

The Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World offer an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking luxury and adventure on the high seas. From state-of-the-art amenities to world-class dining options, these mega-ships redefine the concept of cruising. 

With their impressive size and capacity, these vessels provide a range of entertainment and activities for guests of all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool or explore exotic destinations, these massive ships cater to every preference. 

Which is the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?

The incident of Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship catching fire during docking in Mexico, has left many questioning the safety measures and protocols in place for such massive vessels.

Which is the Largest Cruise Route in the World?

The MV Ganga Vilas offers a unique and unparalleled experience as it cruises along the world’s largest cruise route from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, passing through Bangladesh. With a capacity of carrying only 36 passengers, this exclusive journey promises an intimate and personalized adventure unlike any other. 

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The 15 Largest Cruise Lines In The World

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Largest Cruise Lines Research Summary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diving Deeper into the Top 15 Cruise Lines in the World

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)

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

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

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

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

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Carnival Corporation

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

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

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

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

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Royal Caribbean Group

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

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

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

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NCLH-Norweigan

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

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

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

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Viking Cruises

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

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

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Disney Cruise Line (DCL)

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

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

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TUI Cruises

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

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

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

Virgin Cruises

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

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

Genting Hong Kong: Dream Cruises

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

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

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

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

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

Hurtigruten AS

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

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

Marella Cruises

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

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

Ponant/Paul Gauguin Cruises

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

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

Star Cruises

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

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

Celestyal Cruises

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

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

Largest Cruise Lines FAQ

How much does the average person spend on a cruise?

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

What is the most popular cruise line?

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

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

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Top 10 List of World’s Largest Cruise Ships in 2024

Workshop insider.

• May 25, 2021

Cruise ships are luxurious large passenger ships designed to provide holidays and vacationing afloat. The ships are designed as a hotel accommodation fitted inside a ship, where public spaces and leisure areas demand larger space. The cruise ship operates with the usual ship’s crew to operate the ship’s various machinery and equipment and navigate the ship. Besides, complete hospitality staff to service the guests and visitors.

The Mega Cruise Ships do not only provide spacious public spaces and leisure areas but feature amenities such as fine-dining restaurants, sports facilities, fitness centers, spas, simulators, onboard zip lining and rock climbing, snow room, amusement park, casinos, theaters, and much more. Cruise ship passengers typically embark on round-trip voyages to various ports where they may go on tours on each port-of-call; these tours are known as “ Shore Excursions .”

Cruise ship size and capacity development

Cruise ships are ranked as the largest ships in the world by gross tonnage (GT), more significant than many cargo ships. These ships are designed and built to carry thousands of passengers on a single trip. In the last two decades, the cruise ships grew in length from 268 m, the longest ship at that time to 362 m as of today, doubled their widths from 32.2 m to 65.7 m, doubled the total passengers from 2,744 to 6,780, and tripled in volume from 73,000 GT to 228,000 GT. The world’s largest cruise ship, Symphony of the Seas, has a gross tonnage of 228,081, is 361 meters long, 65.7 meters wide, and holds up to 6,680 passengers.

List of the 10 largest cruise ships

The following is a list of the ten largest cruise ships worldwide, ranked in order of their gross tonnage.

1. Symphony of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas was built in 2018 by Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France; the ship is owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. Symphony of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world by gross tonnage at 228,081 GT.

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including a park, a zip line that is ten decks high, an indoor theater with 1400-seat, an outdoor aquatic theater, a children’s water park, an ice-skating rink, 13 m rock-climbing walls, and a full-size basketball court.

Symphony of the Seas is powered by six marine-diesel generating sets, three 16-cylinder engines (Wärtsilä 16V46D) and three 12-cylinder engines (Wärtsilä 12V46D). The ship is fitted with a 2 MW steam turbine to recover waste heat from the engines and converting it into energy to power a portion of the onboard hotel load. The ship uses three Azipod thrusters, which are electric. In addition to the three Azipod thrusters, there are four bow thrusters used for ship maneuvering, each with 5,500 kilowatts of power or 7,380 horsepower.

Symphony of the Seas uses 25% less fuel compared with her similar class ships due to the implementation air bubble system that releases tiny air bubbles under the hull to enable the vessel to glide more smoothly through the water and reduces excitation from the propellers, which cuts noise and vibration levels in the aft part of the ship.

Ship particulars

Capacity: 6,680 passengers. Length: 361 meters. Beam (Width): 65.7 meters. Built: 2018. Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International.

2. Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas was built in 2016 by Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France; the ship is owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. Harmony of the Seas is the second-largest cruise ship in the world by gross tonnage at 226,963 GT.

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including a central park, boardwalk, several water-based attractions, including a large dry slide complex, two surf simulators, and 23 swimming pools, 20 dining venues, a 1,400-seat theatre, and 11,252 works of art.

Harmony of the Seas uses a waste heat recovery system utilizing steam turbines and drives three Azipod propellers from the recovered energy. Harmony of the Seas uses 20% less fuel compared with her similar class ships due to the implementation air bubble system that releases small air bubbles under the hull to reduce drag and glide more smoothly through the water and reduces excitation from the propellers, which cuts noise and vibration levels in the aft part of the ship.

Capacity: 6,687 passengers. Length: 362.1 meters. Beam (Width): 65.7 meters. Built: 2016. Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International.

3. Oasis of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas was built in 2009 by STX Europe Turku Shipyard, Finland; the ship is owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. Oasis of the Seas, at the time of construction, set a new capacity record of carrying over 6,000 passengers. Oasis of the Sea’s gross tonnage (GT) was 225,282 at the ship’s launch, but it was expanded to 226,838 GT when additional cabins were added to Deck 14 in 2019.

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including a zip-line, an ice-skating rink, a surf simulator, an aquatic amphitheater, a moving bar, a casino, a miniature golf course, multiple nightclubs, several bars and lounges, a karaoke club, comedy club, five swimming pools, volleyball and basketball courts, youth zones, and nurseries for children.

Oasis of the Seas is powered by six marine-diesel generating sets, three 16-cylinder engines (Wärtsilä 16V46D) and three 12-cylinder engines (Wärtsilä 12V46D). The ship is fitted with additional power that comes from solar panels, which provide energy for lighting in the promenade and central park areas. The ship uses three Azipod thrusters, which are electric. In addition to the three Azipod thrusters, there are four bow thrusters used for ship maneuvering, each with 5,500 kilowatts of power or 7,380 horsepower.

Capacity: 6,780 passengers. Built: 2009. Length: 360 meters. Beam (Width): 60.5 meters. Royal Caribbean International.

4. Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas was built in 2009 by STX Europe Turku Shipyard, Finland; the ship is owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International. Upon her launch in November 2009, she became the world’s largest passenger ship. The gross tonnage of Allure of the Seas is 225,282, and her displacement is equal to that of Oasis of the Seas, which is estimated to be around 100,000 metric tons.

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including a two-deck dance hall, a theatre with 1,380 seats, an ice skating rink, seven distinct “neighborhoods,” and 25 dining options, including a Starbucks coffee shop at sea.

Capacity: 6,780 passengers. Length: 360 meters. Beam (Width): 60.5 meters. Built: 2010. Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International.

5. Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda was built in 2019 by Meyer Turku Oy Shipyard, Finland; the ship is owned and operated by Costa Cruises, a Carnival Corporation & plc subsidiary. Costa Smeralda is the largest ship commissioned for and to ever operate for Costa and is the fifth-largest cruise ship globally, with a gross tonnage of 185,010 (GT).

Costa Smeralda is the second cruise ship in the world to be fully powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), after sister brand AIDA Cruises became the first in 2018. The ship is fitted with four 16-cylinder dual-fuel hybrid engines (MaK 16VM46DF Model).

Capacity: 6,554 passengers. Length: 337 meters. Beam (Width): 42 meters. Built: 2019. Cruise Line: Costa Cruises.

MS Iona was built in 2020 by Meyer Werft GmbH shipyards, Germany; the ship is owned and operated by P&O Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc. MS Iona is the sixth-largest cruise ship globally, with a gross tonnage of 184,089 (GT).

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including 17 different eateries, including eight restaurants designated as ‘select dining,’ and 12 different bars, 16 whirlpools, and four swimming pools, an entertainment venue topped by a 105-ton, 340-pane, 970-square-meter glass dome with a retractable stage for shows, and a three-deck atrium flanked by triple-deck glass panels projecting outwards.

Capacity: 6,600 passengers. Length: 334.5 meters. Beam (Width): 42 meters. Built: 2020. Cruise Line: P&O Cruises.

7. AIDAnova

AIDAnova was built in 2018 by Meyer Werft GmbH in Papenburg, Germany; the ship is owned and operated by AIDA Cruises. AIDAnova is the seventh-largest cruise ship globally, with a gross tonnage of 183,858 (GT).

AIDAnova is the first cruise ship in the world that operates completely using liquefied natural gas (LNG); the ship has four dual-fuel hybrid engines, which can use either LNG or traditional fuel oil.

Capacity: 6,654 passengers. Length: 337 meters. Beam (Width): 42 meters. Built: 2018. Cruise Line: AIDA Cruises.

8. Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras was built in 2020 by Meyer Turku Oy Shipyard, Finland; the ship is owned and operated by Carnival Cruise Line. Mardi Gras is the world’s eighth-largest cruise ship, with a gross tonnage of 181,808 (GT).

The ship features various facilities and amenities, including six zones incorporating themed elements and spaces that host activities and events and also house various dining and shopping outlets, an “Ultimate Playground” zone, the world’s first shipboard roller coaster, self-propelled cars that ride on an 800-foot track, an extensive water park, and sports center.

Capacity: 6,630 passengers. Length: 344 meters. Beam (Width): 42 meters. Built: 2020. Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line.

9. MSC Grandiosa

MSC Grandiosa was built in 2019 by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France; the ship is owned and operated by MSC Cruises. MSC Grandiosa is the ninth-largest cruise ship globally, with a gross tonnage of 181,541 (GT).

Capacity: 6,761 passengers. Length: 331.4 meters. Beam (Width): 43 meters. Built: 2019. Cruise Line: MSC Cruises.

10. MSC Virtuosa

MSC Virtuosa was built in 2021 by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France; the ship is owned and operated by MSC Cruises. MSC Virtuosa is the tenth-largest cruise ship globally, with a gross tonnage of 181,541 (GT).

Capacity: 6,334 passengers. Length: 331.4 meters. Beam (Width): 50 meters. Built: 2020. Cruise Line: MSC Cruises.

Related Article: Top 10 List of World’s Largest Container Ships.

Images Credits: Wikimedia Commons .

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Floating resorts vs yacht-like vessels: How to pick between big and small cruise ships

• Small ships are more like quaint towns, with easier navigation and more personalized service.
• Large ships offer a wide range of eateries, bars and entertainment.

The right ship comes down to the type of vacation experience you want.

I took two cruises in July, and they couldn’t have been more different.

After spending 10 days on Seabourn Pursuit, the cruise line’s 264-guest expedition vessel, I returned home for a few days before boarding Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas , which can accommodate over 20 times that.

Cruise ships range in size from yacht-like vessels to mega-ships that are more like floating resorts. And as much as cruises may be about the ports they visit, the ship you pick can shape the destination you can access and ultimately, the kind of trip you have. Here’s how they differ and how to know which is right for you.

What are small-ship cruises like?

If mega-ships can feel like cities at sea, small ships are perhaps more like quaint towns. It’s easier to find your way around, faces become familiar quickly and the server at the nearby eatery knows how you like your eggs.

“The service is just 100% going to be much more intense than any other type of sailing,” said Joanna Kuther, a New York City-based travel agent and owner of Port Side Travel Consultants. The majority of cruise lines sailing ships with capacities in the 200 to 700 range are luxury brands that already put a premium on service – though that can vary by operator – but there are practical reasons too.

Many of those ships have higher crew-to-guest ratios, making it easier to give customers a personalized experience. “We want people to feel that it’s (a) yacht-like atmosphere,” Natalya Leahy, president of Seabourn, told USA TODAY on board.

Small-ship cruises generally bundle more in their fares than those on larger vessels, from food to drinks like wine and spirits, select excursions and more. Some inclusions can be particularly extravagant.

On Seabourn, for example, guests can order caviar for delivery any time of day at no additional cost (I had to try it out for research purposes during an expedition through Western Australia’s Kimberley region ).

That doesn’t necessarily mean the price tags will be higher, though. While the upfront fare may cost more, by the time guests add up drink packages , specialty dining, Wi-Fi and other extras that are typically charged separately on large mainstream ships, their expenses may not be so different.

“Don't worry about what you're paying when you go on,” Kuther said. “It's what you pay when you come off.”

If the prospect of thousands of cabins and fellow guests seems overwhelming, a small ship can also offer a more manageable experience. Lines and crowds are a relative rarity and there’s less chance of getting lost trying to find your room (a situation I’ve encountered more than once on large ships).

Getting on and off is easier, Kuther added, with the vessels often docking closer to the city center or in ports that can’t accommodate larger vessels. They also stay overnight more frequently, relieving the pressure of packing sightseeing into a shorter window.

“That is amazing because if you've ever gotten off of a mega-ship tendering into Santorini, it's like the most insane thing,” she said. “Like, you're fighting for your life to get into the funicular. So, it’s definitely an elevated experience.”

While many are well-appointed, they do have a more limited number of amenities and dining options. On an Aurora Expeditions Antarctica cruise in December, the Sylvia Earle ship had only two restaurants. I enjoyed the food and some offerings rotated, but by the end of the 11-day trip I was ready to change it up.

Travelers with children may find the ships lacking in kid-friendly activities, too.

What are big-ship cruises like?

By contrast, guests on big ships are spoiled for choice. “You can't beat the variety if that's what you're looking for,” said Kuther.

Larger ships offer a wide range of eateries, bars and entertainment. Carnival Cruise Line’s Jubilee ship, for example, has more than 20 dining options, from Guy’s Burger Joint to tacos and burritos at BlueIguana Cantina and Coastal Slice pizza – not to mention the BOLT: Ultimate Sea Coaster , a water park, and Loft 19, a quieter retreat at the top of the vessel.

Those kinds of ships can be particularly well-suited to families or large groups who want options. Royal Caribbean divided its Oasis Class – and later Icon Class – into neighborhoods with that in mind.

“Everyone has got something to do and are excited to do during the day … And then in the evening, everybody can come together in one of I don’t know how many restaurants and have a great family meal or a date night or just a burger, and then they have a fantastic show,” president and CEO Michael Bayley said in a media briefing on board Utopia.

Large ships have more to offer passengers “who really want to party” as well, Kuther noted.

The scale also allows cruise lines to create more immersive experiences. On Utopia, the second-largest cruise ship in the world , I had dinner outside one night at the Chops Grille steakhouse in the vessel’s Central Park neighborhood. With a breeze blowing through the open-air walkway and the sound of crickets in the background – which the cruise line pipes in – I could’ve been convinced I wasn’t on a ship. 

Guests are less likely to feel the movement of the waves at that size, which also can be helpful for passengers who are fearful of water or prone to seasickness , Kuther said.

A number of cruise lines have ship-within-a-ship concepts , too, that allow guests to escape the crowds in exclusive accommodations, restaurants and sun decks, while still having access to the wider range of onboard offerings (though some offer a greater degree of separation than others).

It’s worth noting, however, that “small” and “big” are relative terms, and many mainstream cruise lines operate ships in the 1,500-to-2,500-passenger range. Those can offer a kind of middle ground, with a more intimate experience often at a lower price point (though Kuther noted that’s partly because those ships tend to be older).

Still, the overall experience of a bigger ship may cause sensory overload for some travelers.

Which is right for me?

• If you’re looking for adventure on an expedition or want to be pampered on a quiet, lower-key vessel, small ships are the way to go.
• If you want lots of things to do, places to eat and ways to party, consider a bigger ship . But there’s sure to be one that suits you.

As Kuther put it, “(If) people say they don't like cruising, I will always 100% say, ‘You just weren't on the right cruise.’”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

21 fascinating facts about the world's biggest cruise ships

Ukraine war latest: Russia takes 'strategically important' town - as it creeps towards major population centres

Russia claims to have taken control of the Donetsk town of Niu-York, calling it a strategically important logistics hub. It comes as civilians are fleeing the city of Pokrovsk in Donetsk amid heightened attacks. Leave a question for our military analysts in the box below.

Tuesday 20 August 2024 18:40, UK

• Zelenskyy says situation in the east is 'difficult'
• Russia claims to have taken control of Donetsk town of Niu-York - and say it's strategically important
• Civilians flee Ukrainian city as Russian attacks intensify
• Firefighters in Ternopil grapple with blaze after strike
• Michael Clarke : Battle of bridges is about to begin
• Putin 'in a position he never dreamt of in his worst nightmares'  
• Your questions answered: What is Ukraine hoping to achieve with invasion of Russia?
• Live reporting by Kieren Williams 

Ask a question or make a comment

Later this week military analysts Sean Bell and Michael Clarke will answer your questions on Ukraine's invasion of the Russian region of Kursk - and the wider war.

What does the incursion mean for the conflict and, on the opposite side, how quickly is Russia advancing inside Ukraine?

Submit your question in the box at the top of this page.

That's all our live coverage on the war in Ukraine for now.

We will be back if there are any major developments this evening. 

If not, we'll be back tomorrow with all the latest updates.

Before we go, here's a reminder of today's key events:

• Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that the situation in the east is 'difficult' as Ukraine warns Russia has redirected troops into the region to continue their advance there;
• Moscow claims to have taken the strategically important town of Niu-York as it attempts to continue across the region;
• While Ukraine is ceding ground to Russia in the east, it has an opportunity in Kursk to seize more territory, Sky News' military analyst Professor Michael Clarke has said;
• A fire continues to rage for a third day at a Russian oil depot hit by a Ukrainian drone attack;
• Meanwhile, firefighters in the Ukrainian city of Ternopil are also battling a fire after a fuel reservoir was hit;
• The US are insisting their policy on the use of American weapons in Russia has "not changed" - even in light of recent pressure from Mr Zelenskyy.

Ukraine is said to be making "marginal advances" in the Kursk region as fighting continues, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has said.

We've brought you news on Ukraine's struggles in the east of Ukraine (see 14.35 post) but further north, Kyiv's incursion into Russia continues.

On 6 August, Ukraine threw a surprise counterpunch that saw their troops surge across the border into Russia.

Ukraine has previously claimed to have captured 1,250sq/km (480 square miles) and 92 settlements in Kursk, forcing tens of thousands to flee (see 12.53 post).

Today, Ukraine's army chief said that its forces had advanced 28-35km (17-21 miles) into Kursk.

But the US-based thinktank said that, while still making progress, Ukraine was no longer eating up Russian territory as fast as it once was.

Using geolocated footage from 19 August, Ukrainian forces were confirmed to be in Vishnevka, the ISW said, around 14km (8.5 miles) from the border.

The Russian defence ministry said that they had struck forces operating in that area - potentially tacitly acknowledging the progress Kyiv had made.

It is known that Ukraine has targeted bridges in the region, perhaps as an effort to stifle Russian attempts to counter their incursion.

But Kyiv's army chief said that Russia was moving troops from other directions to Kursk, to strengthen its positions there.

Even facing losses further east, Sky News' military analyst Professor Michael Clarke said there were still opportunities from Kyiv in Kursk nonetheless (see 12.39 post).

These pictures show Kyiv's forces on the frontline in the Donetsk region.

Russian forces have been advancing in recent days and threaten to seize key settlements, including Pokrovsk.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has described the situation in the east as "difficult".

Vladimir Putin's recent trip to Azerbaijan was an "effort to shift focus away" from Ukraine's Kursk attack, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) has said.

The Russian president recently spent two days in the country where he tried to present himself as an "effective diplomat", the research group said.

The content and presentation of the visit did not stray beyond the usual, but...

"The timing of this visit is noteworthy given the ongoing situation in Kursk Oblast and the Kremlin's continued efforts to downplay the Ukrainian incursion's magnitude and impact," ISW said.

They added: "Russian state media focused on Putin's trip to Azerbaijan, amplifying minute details, likely in part to divert attention from the uncomfortable situation in Russia by saturating the information space with a showcase of the Kremlin's global diplomatic engagement and alleged successes."

Away from the battlefield, Ukraine has passed a law paving the way to ban the Russia-linked minority Ukrainian Orthodox Church (UOC) in the country.

Kyiv has cast the UOC as complicit in the Kremlin's invasion.

They have accused it of aiding Moscow's 30-month assault by spreading pro-Russian propaganda and housing spies.

A new bill passed in parliament bans the Russian Orthodox Church and the government will assemble a list of "affiliated" groups who will face similar treatment.

Russian security services (FSB) have detained a scientist over suspected treason, according to reports.

A scientist in Moscow allegedly carried out suspected cyberattacks on behalf of Ukraine, Interfax news agency has said.

The distributed denial-of-service attacks were said to have been carried out on critical infrastructure on behalf of Ukrainian security services, it quoted the FSB as saying.

It was added that the scientist sent money to the Ukrainian military, as well as gathering information on Russian armed forces.

The suspect, the FSB claimed, had confessed, although it was not immediately clear when the arrest was made.

Russian media outlets published what they claimed was footage of the scientist's detention.

Footage also shows a man arrested in a snow-covered city, suggesting they had been detained some time ago.

 Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said the situation in the east, near Toretsk, is "difficult", amid Russian advances in the region.

There have been 14 combat clashes reported in the Toretsk area and 34 in the Pokrovsk sector since the start of the day, Ukraine's general staff said.

Russia has sent more troops to Pokrovsk today, according to the Ukrainian army, to support the offensive there - seemingly in an effort to capitalise on momentum.

In our 13.37 post we mentioned that Russia had taken Niu-York, which is less than six miles (10km) from Toretsk, and this morning we reported on the evacuation of the nearby Pokrovsk (8.05am post).

Despite successes in its Kursk invasion, Kyiv has struggled in its east, losing ground to Russian forces.

"The Ukrainians have been under tremendous pressure [there] for several months, but it's becoming intolerable now at Toretsk - which is quite a small place but it's important because it's close to Pokrovsk and Chasiv Yar," Sky News' military analyst Professor Michael Clarke said.

The latter, Prof Clarke said, is important because it is high ground that controls movement towards Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, and Pokrovsk is important because it is a transport hub and controls movements north and westwards.

Prof Clarke added: "They're struggling to maintain their hold on the area. 

"And that's the problem here... Kramatorsk and Sloviansk are the really important places, if Russia gets them, it gets the whole of the Donbas."

Russia has summoned a senior US diplomat to protest the presence of American journalists in Kursk.

Moscow has complained about the "provocative actions" of journalists in the region.

On 6 August, Ukraine launched an incursion into Russia, taking many by surprise.

Now, the Russian foreign ministry has said it told US Charge d'Affaires Stephanie Holmes that reporters had illegally crossed into the region too.

It added that Russia intended to prosecute them.

Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was recently freed in a historic prison swap - after being jailed on alleged espionage charges.

Russia has claimed to have taken control of the Donetsk town of Niu-York.

Moscow described the town as a strategically important logistics hub, in eastern Ukraine.

While Russia refers to Niu-York as Novgorodskoye - the Russian spelling of the settlement's Soviet-era name - Ukraine gave it back its original name in 2021.

In a statement, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have "liberated" the town.

Earlier in the day, the Ukrainian military said that heavy fighting was under way in the Toretsk sector, including in Niu-York.

Sky News has not verified Russia's claims, but if true it would show Moscow is creeping ever closer to the larger population centres in the region.

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