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- These Cruise Ships Just Keep Getting Bigger!
Summary
- Cruise ships are growing larger and larger, with some of the newest ships in 2022, 2023, and 2024 being the largest in the world.
- Royal Caribbean dominates the cruising sector and has recently launched Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, which are breaking size and tonnage records.
- These massive cruise ships are like floating cities, with numerous decks, amenities, and activities to accommodate thousands of passengers.
Since the first trans-Atlantic cruises launched over a century ago, cruise ships have grown steadily. It is not just about the number of passengers and the crew's quarters (and their lives on board the ship) but also the vessel's size. Today's cruise ships are so large that they can be considered floating cities—some even come with their own private islands!
Love the idea of starting a new adventure at every destination or just craving a relaxing getaway in the lap of luxury? While there are no disappointments on the largest cruise ships in the world as of 2022, 2023, and 2024 promise even bigger and amenity-packed vessels.
UPDATE: 2023/11/29 10:22 EST BY NOAH STAATS
These Cruise Ships Just Keep Getting Bigger!
This article has been refreshed with two of the newest 'big' ships in the water this year, including two new monoliths from Royal Caribbean. Whether it's the Icon or Utopia of the Seas, remember to book a room with a view. These are mini-cities!
1 Icon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship
One of the more exciting announcements from Royal Caribbean has been the creation of its largest ship ever: Icon of the Seas. This mega-ship boasts the title of largest in the world, as well as being a new flagship design from the brand. Royal Caribbean has always dominated the cruising sector, but with Icon of the Seas, they bring that title to a new extreme. The ship will have 20 decks, be 1,200 feet long, and weigh 250,800 gross tons. That makes it more of a mini city than a typical cruise liner, with Icon of the Seas breaking all records.
Regarding itinerary, this ship will travel to Royal Caribbean's private island, 'Perfect Day' at CocoCay, Puerto Plata, the Dominican Republic, and San Juan, Puerto Rico. This will be an island-focused route, as well as the interior and exterior of the ship feel rather festive. Its departure date is slated for January 27th, 2024.
The next largest ship also comes from Royal Caribbean and will embark on its first journey in 2024. Much like Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas boasts the title of the second largest cruise ship on Earth, alongside its other Royal Caribbean fleet. This ship focuses on extended and expanded passenger space, room upgrades, and activities, beating out its sister ship, Wonder of the Seas, at 236,860 gross tons. Utopia of the Seas should also see between 5660 to 6509 passengers per sailing, making it one of the more populated options for cruises. Again, this company has long been after the best, biggest, and nicest titles in the industry, and with Icon and Utopia of the Seas, that shouldn't be too difficult.
Spec-wise, Utopia of the Seas offers an expansive size, totaling 1,188 feet long and 211 feet wide, with a draft of 30 feet and a gross tonnage of 236,860. It's a massive ship.
With 30+ dining and bars, six theaters and lounges, and five pools, P&O's newest cruise ship, Arvia, promises a trip full of exciting adventures, lovely dining experiences, immersive entertainment, and relaxing sessions. Launched in December 2022, this LNG-powered vessel has 2,610 cabins and can accommodate up to 6264 passengers and 1,800 crew. Its main draw is its many firsts, including Altitude, an activity area; Mission Control, an escape room; Skywalk, a high-ropes adventure; Splash Valley; a sports arena; a swim-up bar; and mini-golf. This P&O ship is slightly bigger than sister IONA, making it its biggest cruise ship as of 2023.
MSC World Europa was introduced in November 2022 as the company's first LNG-propelled cruise ship. With a 295-foot-long promenade partially covered in Meraviglia-class LED sky screens and partially open, its futuristic design takes the pleasures of a traditional cruise ship to entirely new heights. It has 2,626 staterooms with a capacity for 6,762 passengers, 13 dining options, and various exhilarating entertainment options, all ensuring a unique onboard experience. This vessel is the largest cruise ship as of 2023 in the MSC fleet and one of the largest cruise ships ever to sail the oceans.
Launched in 2020 but upgraded and modernized over the past years, Wonder of the Seas is proudly ranked as the largest cruise ship in the world as of 2023.
It has a total capacity of 6,998 guests with 18 decks to explore, thanks to its total length of 1,118 feet and 236,857 registered tonnage.
Some of the most popular amenities include the RC Adventure Ocean kids' club and the Windjammer buffet, as well as a rock climbing wall, water slides, and Broadway musicals.
This mammoth Royal Caribbean ship was built in 2018 and also holds the title of being one of the world's biggest and coolest cruise ships. It has a total length of 1,188 feet, holding up to 5,400 passengers and 2,394 crew members simultaneously. With a registered tonnage of 230,000 tons and 16 decks to explore, guests will find plenty of places to relax, recharge, play, and indulge.
Enjoy the water park, onboard skating rink, surf simulator, rock climbing wall, and zip line suspended ten decks above sea level.
Let's talk about Harmony of the Seas, another Royal Caribbean cruise ship that can accommodate 6,687 guests on 16 decks. One of the unique features is the Ultimate Abyss, where riders can plummet ten stories down an enclosed slide. Harmony of the Seas measures 1,188 feet long and has a total tonnage of 226,963 tons. With so much space and amenities, including a wide range of dining options and water slides, this is one of the biggest cruise ships as of 2023, perfect for families or anyone who wants to explore the open seas in luxury and comfort.
The sister ship to Symphony of the Seas, Allure, has a capacity of up to 6,780 passengers. This Royal Caribbean cruise ship measures 1,187 feet long and has a registered tonnage of 225,282 tons. Onboard passengers will find a Caribbean-themed Boardwalk, an Aqua Theater with high dive shows, and over 20 restaurants. Guests can also choose from various activities, including daring water slides, an ice skating rink, and a full Broadway musical.
This Royal Caribbean cruise ship was the largest in the world when it first debuted in 2009 and continues to be a crowd favorite. Like its sister, the Allure of the Seas, Oasis boasts a length of 1,187 feet, a registered tonnage of 225,282 tons, and a capacity of 6,780 guests and 2,100 crew members. In addition to dozens of onboard dining options, water slides, and Broadway shows, the ship also features an Apple computer store where guests can test out the latest technology.
P&O Iona is the company's newest and largest cruise ship, having a gross tonnage of 184,700 tons and 16 decks. Up to 5,200 guests can set sail on this impressive ship—and there is something for every type of traveler onboard. Kids and adults will enjoy many activity spaces, including a spa, gym, rock-climbing facility, and even an indoor surfing simulator. Love adventure but hate crowds? P&O Iona also features an onboard nature reserve where travelers can go for a walk or have some quiet time.
AIDA has been a pioneer in the cruise ship market since its founding in the early 1960s—with AIDA Nova the latest addition to its German fleet. At 1,106 feet long with a registered tonnage of 183,858 tons, this ship can comfortably accommodate 6,654 passengers and has been well-received by travelers since its release. One of the best features of the AIDA Nova is its “signature pools,” which offer a variety of experiences, from quiet relaxation areas to an artificial beach and even a pool that uses live sea creatures as its design! There are a few rules all passengers should follow on cruise ships, and AIDA Nova provides specific guidelines for each of the pools onboard.
Another newcomer and one of the most environmentally advanced cruise ships in the market, MSC Grandiosa, was introduced in 2019. It is the first ship in the MSC fleet to feature a drivable carousel, an infinity pool, and two surfing simulators. It measures 1,092 feet long with an 181,000 gross tonnage. With a capacity of 6,300 guests and staterooms and cabins, MSC Grandiosa is a favorite among families and couples who want to experience all the best amenities in one luxurious ship. There are many free amenities on cruise ships for passengers, including pools, fitness centers, sports courts, and more.
While Costa Smeralda has only been on the market since November 2019, it is already one of the most popular cruise ships in the world. Fincantieri created the new ship in partnership with Costa Cruises and can hold up to 6,600 passengers with a registered tonnage of 180,000 tons.
Onboard travelers find a go-kart track, rock-climbing wall, virtual reality experiences, and a 1.3-mile waterslide that begins in the ship's hull and ends on the top deck!
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its innovative ships and spectacular amenities, including the largest racetrack at sea. With a gross tonnage of 168,028 tons and a total length of 1,094 feet, this cruise ship can have more than 4,000 guests. Indulge in many activities and entertainment onboard, including a go-kart track that sails through the middle of the ship. This is definitely a must-try for adrenaline junkies! Many cruise ships have hidden decks, but Norwegian Bliss provides easy access to the ship's bowling alley and an escape room, as well as a brewery where passengers can try beer from several ports along the way.
The Queen Mary 2 is actually not a cruise ship, but the last operating ocean liner in the world. She offers the chance to relive the romantic days of the ocean liners crossing the Atlantic. She has been the last ocean liner in the world since Queen Elizabeth 2 retired in 2008. Today, she is the flagship of the Cunard Line. She is massive, being 1,132 feet (345 meters) long, and has a gross tonnage of 148,528.
Queen Elizabeth 2 (called QE2) gets an honorable mention here on account of being such an iconic vessel - even though she has been retired for 15 years. She still gets to get a listing in the list for 2023 as she was never scrapped, instead, she found a new life after spending her career running from Southampton in England to New York.
The Viking Octantis is one of the smaller vessels among this list of ocean-going giants. The Viking Octantis gets into the list as she is the largest or one of the largest purpose-built expedition ships (intended for the Arctic and Antarctic regions). She was completed for Viking Expeditions in December 2021 and has a capacity for 378 passengers in 189 staterooms.
The Viking Polaris is the sister expedition ship identical to the Viking Octantis (both are Polar Class 6 ships). She is brand-spanking new, having only been built in 2022. She comes with all the comfort and elegance anyone should hope for on an Arctic expedition.
The Carnival Mardi Gras is an exquisite package from Carnival Cruise Lines. She was constructed by Meuer Turku Shipyard during the pandemic and launched towards the end of 2020, ranking among the world's largest cruise ships with 180,000 gross tonnages. Inspired by the circumstances she was built in, the Mardi Gras features a state-of-the-art pandemic-proof medical center.
Nevertheless, numerous fun amenities keep her over 6600 passengers entertained during the cruise. Highlights include The French Quarter, Summer Landing, and The Ultimate Playground, which boasts the first-ever rollercoaster on a cruise ship.
Royal Caribbean International has produced some of the top cruise ships in the world, and the Spectrum of The Seas is among its impressive fleet. This beauty is dedicated to the East African Region, and with a 169,379 gross tonnage, she is among the biggest in the cruiser line's portfolio.
The Spectrum of the Seas has an exquisite range of fun amenities, guaranteeing passengers a once-in-a-lifetime cruise experience. These include a sky pad with a unique virtual experience, a movie screen, and a glass capsule that takes guests on an incredible ride 300 ft above sea level.
- Gross tons: 250,800
- Length: 1,200 ft
- Width: 213 ft
Upon its first journey, Icon of the Seas will become the world's largest-ever cruise ship. Royal Caribbean has long been known for pushing the limit, but with the ship, it breaks all previously-held size and tonnage records.
Utopia of the Seas
The next largest ship also comes from Royal Caribbean and will embark on its first journey in 2024. Much like Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas boasts the title of the second largest cruise ship on Earth, alongside its other Royal Caribbean fleet. This ship focuses on extended and expanded passenger space, room upgrades, and activities, beating out its sister ship, Wonder of the Seas, at 236,860 gross tons. Utopia of the Seas should also see between 5660 to 6509 passengers per sailing, making it one of the more populated options for cruises. Again, this company has long been after the best, biggest, and nicest titles in the industry, and with Icon and Utopia of the Seas, that shouldn't be too difficult.
Spec-wise, Utopia of the Seas offers an expansive size, totaling 1,188 feet long and 211 feet wide, with a draft of 30 feet and a gross tonnage of 236,860. It's a massive ship.
- Gross tons: 236,860
- Length: 1,188 ft
- Width: 211 ft
P&O Arvia
With 30+ dining and bars, six theaters and lounges, and five pools, P&O's newest cruise ship, Arvia, promises a trip full of exciting adventures, lovely dining experiences, immersive entertainment, and relaxing sessions. Launched in December 2022, this LNG-powered vessel has 2,610 cabins and can accommodate up to 6264 passengers and 1,800 crew. Its main draw is its many firsts, including Altitude, an activity area; Mission Control, an escape room; Skywalk, a high-ropes adventure; Splash Valley; a sports arena; a swim-up bar; and mini-golf. This P&O ship is slightly bigger than sister IONA, making it its biggest cruise ship as of 2023.
- Gross tons: 185,000
- Length: 1,132 ft
- Width: 138 ft
Unlike its sibling Iona (dedicated to family-friendly cruises), Arvia is designed to appeal to all age groups with its numerous entertainment facilities, making it ideal for solo, couple, group, and family rendezvous.
MSC World Europa
MSC World Europa was introduced in November 2022 as the company's first LNG-propelled cruise ship. With a 295-foot-long promenade partially covered in Meraviglia-class LED sky screens and partially open, its futuristic design takes the pleasures of a traditional cruise ship to entirely new heights. It has 2,626 staterooms with a capacity for 6,762 passengers, 13 dining options, and various exhilarating entertainment options, all ensuring a unique onboard experience. This vessel is the largest cruise ship as of 2023 in the MSC fleet and one of the largest cruise ships ever to sail the oceans.
- Gross tons: 215,863
- Length: 1,092 ft
- Width: 154 ft
While World Europa is the largest ship on the MSC fleet, the company is working on an even bigger cruise ship, the MSC World America, set to launch in 2025.
Wonder Of The Seas
Launched in 2020 but upgraded and modernized over the past years, Wonder of the Seas is proudly ranked as the largest cruise ship in the world as of 2023.
It has a total capacity of 6,998 guests with 18 decks to explore, thanks to its total length of 1,118 feet and 236,857 registered tonnage.
Some of the most popular amenities include the RC Adventure Ocean kids' club and the Windjammer buffet, as well as a rock climbing wall, water slides, and Broadway musicals.
- Gross tons: 235,600
- Length: 1,188 ft
- Width: 215 ft
By the start of 2024, there will be a new entrant to knock Wonder of the Seas off the title of the world's largest cruise ship; the Icon of the Sea's unique construction features a weight of over 250,000 gross tons and more entertainment options.
Symphony Of The Seas
This mammoth Royal Caribbean ship was built in 2018 and also holds the title of being one of the world's biggest and coolest cruise ships. It has a total length of 1,188 feet, holding up to 5,400 passengers and 2,394 crew members simultaneously. With a registered tonnage of 230,000 tons and 16 decks to explore, guests will find plenty of places to relax, recharge, play, and indulge.
Enjoy the water park, onboard skating rink, surf simulator, rock climbing wall, and zip line suspended ten decks above sea level.
- Gross tons: 228,081
- Length: 1,188 ft
- Width: 215.5 ft
Harmony Of The Seas
Let's talk about Harmony of the Seas, another Royal Caribbean cruise ship that can accommodate 6,687 guests on 16 decks. One of the unique features is the Ultimate Abyss, where riders can plummet ten stories down an enclosed slide. Harmony of the Seas measures 1,188 feet long and has a total tonnage of 226,963 tons. With so much space and amenities, including a wide range of dining options and water slides, this is one of the biggest cruise ships as of 2023, perfect for families or anyone who wants to explore the open seas in luxury and comfort.
- Gross tons: 226,963
- Length: 1,188 ft
- Width: 215.5 ft
Allure Of The Seas
The sister ship to Symphony of the Seas, Allure, has a capacity of up to 6,780 passengers. This Royal Caribbean cruise ship measures 1,187 feet long and has a registered tonnage of 225,282 tons. Onboard passengers will find a Caribbean-themed Boardwalk, an Aqua Theater with high dive shows, and over 20 restaurants. Guests can also choose from various activities, including daring water slides, an ice skating rink, and a full Broadway musical.
- Gross tons: 225,282
- Length: 1,187 ft
- Width: 215 ft
Oasis Of The Seas
This Royal Caribbean cruise ship was the largest in the world when it first debuted in 2009 and continues to be a crowd favorite. Like its sister, the Allure of the Seas, Oasis boasts a length of 1,187 feet, a registered tonnage of 225,282 tons, and a capacity of 6,780 guests and 2,100 crew members. In addition to dozens of onboard dining options, water slides, and Broadway shows, the ship also features an Apple computer store where guests can test out the latest technology.
- Gross tons: 226,838
- Length: 1,180 ft
- Width: 198 ft
P&O Iona
P&O Iona is the company's newest and largest cruise ship, having a gross tonnage of 184,700 tons and 16 decks. Up to 5,200 guests can set sail on this impressive ship—and there is something for every type of traveler onboard. Kids and adults will enjoy many activity spaces, including a spa, gym, rock-climbing facility, and even an indoor surfing simulator. Love adventure but hate crowds? P&O Iona also features an onboard nature reserve where travelers can go for a walk or have some quiet time.
- Gross tons: 184,700
- Length: 1,129 ft
- Width: 138 ft
AIDA Nova
AIDA has been a pioneer in the cruise ship market since its founding in the early 1960s—with AIDA Nova the latest addition to its German fleet. At 1,106 feet long with a registered tonnage of 183,858 tons, this ship can comfortably accommodate 6,654 passengers and has been well-received by travelers since its release. One of the best features of the AIDA Nova is its “signature pools,” which offer a variety of experiences, from quiet relaxation areas to an artificial beach and even a pool that uses live sea creatures as its design! There are a few rules all passengers should follow on cruise ships, and AIDA Nova provides specific guidelines for each of the pools onboard.
- Gross tons: 183,900
- Length: 1,106 ft
- Width: 138 ft
MSC Grandiosa
Another newcomer and one of the most environmentally advanced cruise ships in the market, MSC Grandiosa, was introduced in 2019. It is the first ship in the MSC fleet to feature a drivable carousel, an infinity pool, and two surfing simulators. It measures 1,092 feet long with an 181,000 gross tonnage. With a capacity of 6,300 guests and staterooms and cabins, MSC Grandiosa is a favorite among families and couples who want to experience all the best amenities in one luxurious ship. There are many free amenities on cruise ships for passengers, including pools, fitness centers, sports courts, and more.
- Gross tons: 181,541
- Length: 1,087 ft
- Width: 141 ft
Costa Smeralda
While Costa Smeralda has only been on the market since November 2019, it is already one of the most popular cruise ships in the world. Fincantieri created the new ship in partnership with Costa Cruises and can hold up to 6,600 passengers with a registered tonnage of 180,000 tons.
Onboard travelers find a go-kart track, rock-climbing wall, virtual reality experiences, and a 1.3-mile waterslide that begins in the ship's hull and ends on the top deck!
- Gross tons: 185,000
- Length: 1106 ft
- Width: 138 ft
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its innovative ships and spectacular amenities, including the largest racetrack at sea. With a gross tonnage of 168,028 tons and a total length of 1,094 feet, this cruise ship can have more than 4,000 guests. Indulge in many activities and entertainment onboard, including a go-kart track that sails through the middle of the ship. This is definitely a must-try for adrenaline junkies! Many cruise ships have hidden decks, but Norwegian Bliss provides easy access to the ship's bowling alley and an escape room, as well as a brewery where passengers can try beer from several ports along the way.
- Gross tons: 168,02
- Length: 1,094 ft
- Width: 136 ft
Queen Mary 2
The Queen Mary 2 is actually not a cruise ship, but the last operating ocean liner in the world. She offers the chance to relive the romantic days of the ocean liners crossing the Atlantic. She has been the last ocean liner in the world since Queen Elizabeth 2 retired in 2008. Today, she is the flagship of the Cunard Line. She is massive, being 1,132 feet (345 meters) long, and has a gross tonnage of 148,528.
- Gross tons: 149,215
- Length: 1,132 ft
- Width: 134 ft
Queen Elizabeth 2
Queen Elizabeth 2 (called QE2) gets an honorable mention here on account of being such an iconic vessel - even though she has been retired for 15 years. She still gets to get a listing in the list for 2023 as she was never scrapped, instead, she found a new life after spending her career running from Southampton in England to New York.
- Displacement: 49,738
- Gross tons: 70,327
- Length: 963 ft
- Width: 105 ft
Today, Queen Elizabeth 2 is a luxury floating hotel in Dubai. So next time in Dubai, take the time to spend the night on the iconic ocean liner.
Viking Octantis
The Viking Octantis is one of the smaller vessels among this list of ocean-going giants. The Viking Octantis gets into the list as she is the largest or one of the largest purpose-built expedition ships (intended for the Arctic and Antarctic regions). She was completed for Viking Expeditions in December 2021 and has a capacity for 378 passengers in 189 staterooms.
- Gross tons: 30,150
- Length: 665 ft
- Width: 77 ft
Viking Polaris
The Viking Polaris is the sister expedition ship identical to the Viking Octantis (both are Polar Class 6 ships). She is brand-spanking new, having only been built in 2022. She comes with all the comfort and elegance anyone should hope for on an Arctic expedition.
- Gross tons: 30,150
- Length: 665 ft
- Width: 77 ft
Carnival Mardi Gras
The Carnival Mardi Gras is an exquisite package from Carnival Cruise Lines. She was constructed by Meuer Turku Shipyard during the pandemic and launched towards the end of 2020, ranking among the world's largest cruise ships with 180,000 gross tonnages. Inspired by the circumstances she was built in, the Mardi Gras features a state-of-the-art pandemic-proof medical center.
Nevertheless, numerous fun amenities keep her over 6600 passengers entertained during the cruise. Highlights include The French Quarter, Summer Landing, and The Ultimate Playground, which boasts the first-ever rollercoaster on a cruise ship.
- Gross tons: 180,000
- Length: 1129 ft
- Width: 138 ft
Spectrum Of The Seas
Royal Caribbean International has produced some of the top cruise ships in the world, and the Spectrum of The Seas is among its impressive fleet. This beauty is dedicated to the East African Region, and with a 169,379 gross tonnage, she is among the biggest in the cruiser line's portfolio.
The Spectrum of the Seas has an exquisite range of fun amenities, guaranteeing passengers a once-in-a-lifetime cruise experience. These include a sky pad with a unique virtual experience, a movie screen, and a glass capsule that takes guests on an incredible ride 300 ft above sea level.
- Gross tons: 169,379
- Length: 1138 ft
- Width: 134 ft