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The 21 largest cruise ships in the world.

Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts.

The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Aerial of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

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

Thrill Island water park on 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

The Ultimate Abyss slide on Royal Caribbean's 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

Side of Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas at sea.

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

Aerial of 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

Aerial of 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

Central Park neighborhood on 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

Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas leaving Fort Lauderdale.

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

Zen Pool on 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

Pool inside the 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

Deck at sunset on the 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

Grand Atrium on the 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.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

AIDAcosma at sea.

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

SkyDome on the 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.

AIDAnova at sea.

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

Carnival Celebration in Caribbean waters.

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

MSC Euribia at sea.

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

Le Grand Théâtre on the 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

Carnival Mardi Gras at sea.

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

MSC Meraviglia at Port Miami.

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.

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The World’s Largest Cruise Ships Sailing For Each Line (With Photos)

Over roughly the past decade cruise ships have gotten big… real big. As one line makes a ship that’s larger, carries more passengers, and offers eye-catching activities, others then play catch-up in the “arms race” to build ships that everyone is talking about.

Large ships offer several advantages over smaller ones. For one, larger ships carrying more passengers mean that each trip can generate more revenue for the cruise line.

And it’s not just cruise fare. With larger ships also packing more onboard, there is an opportunity to increase the spending of those passengers on the ships with more restaurants and for-pay activities.

Today’s mega ships also can increase the economies of scale, creating more efficiency for the cruise line. Last but not least, rolling out a ground-breaking new ship also serves as a marketing device as the vessels get major coverage, which can lead to increased buzz and bookings.

So it’s no surprise that in recent years ships have only gotten larger. Of the major cruise lines listed below, all of their largest ships were built within the last three years. With that in mind, here are the current largest ships in each fleet, as of the time of this writing.

Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Celebration

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Officially listed by Carnival Cruise Line at 183,521 gross tons, Carnival Celebration — built in 2022 — takes the crown as the largest ship in the fleet. It is just slightly larger than sister-ship Mardi Gras, which comes in at 180,800 gross tons.

So what do you get for that sort of size? Carnival Celebration measures 1,130 feet long and carries 2,687 staterooms. That gives a capacity of 6,631 passengers when at full occupancy.

Across the 15 passenger decks there are nearly 20 different places to grab a bite to eat. Activities include a complete waterpark with three slides, sport court, and even an 800′ long roller coaster that goes up to 40 mph. There are also live versions of game show classics like Deal or No Deal and Family Feud.

  • Year Built: 2022
  • Gross Tonnage: 183,521
  • Length: 1,130 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,631

Royal Caribbean: Wonder of the Seas

biggest cruise in the world 2022

When it comes to the largest cruise ships, Royal Caribbean takes the crown. Their Oasis-class ships are currently the biggest on the planet, with all five of the largest cruise ships in the world being part of that group.

While these ships are similar, the largest of the class (and therefore the world) is Wonder of the Seas, which first began sailing in 2022. Coming in at 235,600 gross tons and measuring 1,188 feet, the ship is about 28% larger than Carnival Celebration.

As for passengers, Wonder of the Seas can carry a staggering 7,084 when completely full in all of its 2,867 cabins. And those passengers have no shortage of things to see, do, and eat. Wonder of the Seas has more than 20 places to eat, features activities like the Flowrider standing wave, multiple pools, an AquaTheater for performances utilizing high-divers, and even a zipline across the back of the ship.

Note: When Royal Caribbean debuts Icon of the Seas in late 2023, it will take the title of world’s largest cruise ship.

  • Gross Tonnage: 235,600
  • Length: 1,188 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 7,084

Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Encore

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Norwegian Cruise Line is an outlier of the major cruise lines in that its newest ships are actually going smaller. The current newest ship is Norwegian Prima, which first started sailing in 2022. But the largest ship in the fleet is Norwegian Encore, which debuted in 2019.

Encore is part of the cruise line’s Breakaway-Plus class. The ship measures 169,116 gross tons, or about 70% of the tonnage of Wonder of the Seas from Royal Caribbean. The ship measures 1,094 feet and carries 3,998 at double occupancy. (Note that NCL provides a double occupancy figure, which is typically smaller than a full capacity figure.)

While the ship may not be the biggest in the world, it does stand out when it comes to amenities onboard. For one, it’s built with an outdoor focus, including The Waterfront — a quarter-mile outdoor promenade that brings you closer to the ocean.

Then there is Ocean Loops, an intense waterslide that takes you out over the edge of the ship (complete with clear tubes) before bringing you back in. Perhaps the most eye-catching feature is the Encore Speedway, an actual go-karting track at the top of the ship.

  • Year Built: 2019
  • Gross Tonnage: 169,116
  • Length: 1,094 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 3,998 (double occupancy)

Princess: Discovery Princess/Enchanted Princess

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Princess is well-known for offering a more luxurious experience than mass-market lines, and that typically means smaller ships. In fact, the largest ships in the fleet are smaller than what you see from other major cruise lines but are still substantial.

In this case, Discovery Princess comes in at 145,000 gross tons, which is actually a tie with sister-ship Enchanted Princess. Discovery is 1,083 feet long and boasts 1,830 cabins. At double occupancy, the ship carries 3,660 passengers, although that figure would rise when three or more are put in a cabin.

Perhaps surprisingly, the size of Princess ships hasn’t increased as drastically as seen with other lines. While Discovery and Enchanted take the crown, they aren’t that much longer as other ships in the cruise line’s Royal class. This class of ships debuted in 2013 with Royal Princess, which is just slightly smaller at 142,229 gross tons.

That said, the cruise line will welcome a new class of ship when Sun Princess debuts in 2024. This ship will measure nearly 180,000 gross tons and carry 4,300 passengers at double occupancy.

  • Gross Tonnage: 145,000
  • Length: 1,083 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 3,660 (double occupancy)

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Beyond

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Celebrity is known for being a mix of luxury combined with still offering up a mega-ship with lots to experience. Case in point — its largest ship, Celebrity Beyond, ranks as one of the top 50 largest cruise ships on the planet.

This vessel, part of the cruise line’s Edge class, measures 140,600 gross tons according to the cruise line. It also boasts a length of 1,073 feet. Onboard, Beyond can hold 3,260 guests at double occupancy in its 1,646 cabins.

To give some sense of just how large cruise ships are today, Celebrity Beyond would have to increase in tonnage by about 67% to match Wonder of the Seas — the largest cruise ship at the moment.

  • Gross Tonnage: 140,600
  • Length: 1,073 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 3,260 (double occupancy)

MSC Cruises: MSC World Europa

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Stateside, MSC is still making inroads, but it’s a major brand globally. And it also takes a special position in having the largest cruise ship in the world outside of Royal Caribbean.

The title of MSC’s largest ship goes to MSC World Europa. This massive vessel comes in at a staggering 215,863 gross tons and was launched in late 2022. It features 2,626 staterooms onboard across its 1,093 feet of length.

At full occupancy, World Europa can carry 6,762 passengers, putting it just shy of the 7,000 guest mark.

Of course, on a ship that large there can be no shortage of things to do. Surprisingly, the ship has “only” 13 dining venues but has a 340-foot promenade indoors, an 11-deck slide that takes passengers spinning down on a thrill ride, bumper cars, and seven different swimming pools.

  • Gross Tonnage: 215,863
  • Length: 1,093 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,762

Costa Cruises: Costa Toscana

biggest cruise in the world 2022

A sister to Carnival, Costa is a popular cruise line in Europe and the Middle East. In fact, the largest ship in Costa’s fleet shares similarities with Carnival’s largest class of ships that include Celebration and Mardi Gras.

In this case, the LNG-powered Costa Toscana is roughly the same size as Costa Smeralda. The ship was built in 2021 by Meyer Werft, coming in a 185,010 gross tons. That’s roughly the same size as Carnival Celebration. 

All told the ship measures 1,105 feet (337 meters) and can carry up to 6,554 passengers when completely full. Those passengers stay in a staggering 2,612 cabins. 

  • Year Built: 2021
  • Gross Tonnage: 185,010 
  • Length: 1,105 feet
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,554

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Royal Caribbean debuts Wonder of the Seas; World’s largest cruise ship sets sail on first voyage

Briana Edwards , Digital Contributor

For the second time in four years, Royal Caribbean debuted the world’s largest cruise ship.

The massive vessel set sail on its first voyage out of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Friday.

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Royal Caribbean’s new Wonder of the Seas ship made its debut on March 4 at Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades where it set sail to the Caribbean and two private island destinations.

According to Business Insider , the 1,188-foot long cruise ship can accommodate nearly 6,990 guests and 2,300 crew across its 18 decks. Prior to the Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean debuted Symphony of the Seas, accommodating 6,680 guests, in 2018.

Wonder of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis Class cruise ship, boasting impressive amenities dedicated suite class neighborhoods, an elevated Suite Sun Deck and plunge pool, private restaurant, and more.

The ship also features a Central Park neighborhood featuring of live plants, shopping, and restaurants, and more and a Coney Island-inspired Boardwalk neighborhood with a carousel and outdoor theater.

Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for Mediterranean sailing in May 2022.

The world’s largest cruise ship returns to Port Canaveral to set out on Caribbean voyages in November 2022.

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17 biggest cruise ships in the world

From ships with rollercoasters to eighteen-deckers with eight ‘neighbourhoods’, here are the biggest cruise ships on the planet.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

T he past decade has seen a massive growth in cruise ships. Vessels are getting bigger and bigger, with mega-ships now able to accommodate more than 7,000 passengers and 2,300 crew members. And, as well as carrying more guests, cruise lines are now adding amazing attractions such as theme parks, race tracks, waterslides and even a rollercoaster, which take up a lot more space than the deck quoits of old. We’ve taken a look at some of the biggest cruise ships in the world — including a couple of unusual ones — and their maximum passenger capacity.

Main photo: MSC Virtuosa

Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

1. Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 7,600 Royal Caribbean’s largest ship to date, Icon of the Seas will have capacity for up to 7,600 passengers — plus 2,350 staff — when it officially sets sail in January 2024. The 20-deck vessel will be a great one for families — in addition to the seven pools and nine whirlpools on board, there’s a waterpark with six waterslides.

Wonder of the Seas

2. Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,988 Royal Caribbean’s whopping Wonder of the Seas made waves when it set sail in March 2022 to take over the title of the “biggest cruise ship in the world” with a gross tonnage of 236,857. Eighteen decks are divided into eight distinct “neighbourhoods” with the all-new underwater-themed Playscape for youngsters. Entertainment includes the AquaTheatre, where performers take the plunge from 30ft diving platforms.

Harmony of the Seas

3. Harmony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,780 Harmony of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships, is a floating resort. Oasis features include the Royal Promenade packed with shops and restaurants; the Boardwalk, with a fairground carousel; and the ten-deck Ultimate Abyss slide for thrill-seekers. Outside there are waterslides, surf simulators, rock-climbing walls and Splashaway Bay for children.

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Symphony of the Seas

4. Symphony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Capacity 6,680 Another that was the world’s largest passenger ship when it was launched in 2018, Royal Caribbean’s all-singing, all-dancing Symphony of the Seas has 22 restaurants, 42 bars and lounges, a zip line and ice rink. A stateroom highlight is the incredible private playground that is the two-storey, 1,346 sq ft family suite where there’s a slide from the children’s bedroom to the living room, a climbing wall and 3D cinema.

The SkyDome on Iona

5. Iona, P&O Cruises

Capacity 5,200 The largest cruise ship built for the UK market when it launched in 2021, P&O Cruises’ Iona is also one of the first ships in the world to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a greener alternative to diesel. Iona also has the first gin distillery at sea, plus the huge glass SkyDome — a pool, lounge and dining area by day and a spectacular entertainment venue under the stars at night.

Carnival’s Mardi Gras

6. Mardi Gras, Carnival Cruise Line

Capacity 6,500 Named after the first Carnival ship launched in 1972, which carried just over 1,000 passengers, the Mardi Gras is the biggest in the Carnival fleet. The headline feature is Bolt, the first rollercoaster at sea. Mardi Gras is also the first Carnival ship to be divided into themed zones, such as the New Orleans French Quarter and Italian-inspired La Piazza.

A cabin on MSC Virtuosa

7. MSC Virtuosa, MSC Cruises

Capacity 6,334 Billed as MSC Cruises’ most environmentally advanced ship to date, MSC Virtuosa is, with sister ship MSC Grandiosa, one of the two biggest cruise ships in the MSC fleet. The central promenade running through the heart of the vessel has the longest LED ceiling at sea, which is used for spectacular music and light shows. A newly recruited crew member is Rob, a humanoid robotic bartender to shake and stir drinks on the waves.

8. Panorama, Carnival Cruise Line

Capacity 5,146 When Carnival Panorama launched it made history as the first new Carnival Cruise Lines’ ship in 20 years to sail from Long Beach, California. Highlights are SkyZone, an indoor trampoline park, and SkyRide, where passengers pedal around a two-lane bike course suspended high above deck. Guests can also brush up their culinary skills at the Carnival Kitchen cookery school.

Norwegian Bliss

9. Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Cruise Line

Capacity 4,903 Norwegian Bliss incorporates the thrills and entertainment that are synonymous with Norwegian Cruise Lines and an Observation Lounge that comes into its own during Alaska sailings. Then there’s the exhilarating Aqua Racer: a two-level electric car racing track located at the top of the ship on deck 19. Always a hit after dark is the Cavern Club that pays homage to the Fab Four with Beatles tribute bands.

The Piazza on the Sky Princess (Christopher Ison)

10. Discovery Princess, Princess Cruises

Capacity 3,660 Sky Discovery has many of the features that were debuted on its predecessor Sky Princess, including the art deco-style live jazz lounge Take Five and WakeView bar, and pool overlooking the back of the ship for drinks and dips with sweeping views. Staterooms include the pair of swish Sky Suites that sleep up to five and have 1,000 sq ft wraparound balconies, which are the largest in the fleet.

11. MSC Meraviglia, MSC Cruises

Capacity 4,500 MSC Meraviglia is one of the four MSC ships that sail to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. The line’s private Bahamian island has two miles of white sandy beaches where passengers can take part in a variety of activities and watersports, chill out in a cabana or enjoy spa treatments. Back on board, standout features include the exclusive Yacht Club, a ship-within-a-ship concept with its own suites, restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

The Queen Mary 2 in New York

12. Queen Mary 2, Cunard

Capacity 2,695 The QM2 might have been launched back in 2004 but Cunard’s flagship, which is the only true transatlantic liner currently in service, remains one of the world’s record-breaking passenger ships. It is one of the biggest, fastest and most expensive ocean liners ever built and at 1,132ft is one of the world’s longest cruise ships. Upholding Cunard traditions, the ship encapsulates old-style cruising glamour with afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters and cocktail parties.

13. Arvia, P&O Cruises

Capacity 5,200 Identical in structure to sister ship Iona, P&O Cruises’ second Excel-class ship showcased a raft of new features when it launched at the end of 2022. Thrill-seeking passengers can step out on the line’s first-ever Altitude Skywalk high ropes course while those in search of gentler pursuits can test out their skills on the nine-hole mini golf course or relax with a drink at the swim-up bar.

14. MSC Seashore, MSC Cruises

Passengers 5,632 Measuring 1,112ft from bow to stern, MSC Cruises’ flagship MSC Seashore has plenty of bragging rights. It’s the longest ship in the fleet and the largest cruise ship built in Italy. It’s got the biggest children’s club and MSC Yacht Club, the line’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship enclave. Topping the interior decor is a Statue of Liberty and four-deck high LED wall with images of the New York skyline.

15. Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Cruises

Capacity 3,260 Celebrity Beyond is the newest and biggest ship in Celebrity Cruises’ innovative Edge class, notable for the Magic Carpet bar and restaurant platform that moves up and down the outside of the ship. Larger than its two sibling vessels, Celebrity Beyond has 179 extra cabins, including two-storey villas that are the biggest in the fleet, and 40 per cent more outside deck space.

Costa Smeralda

16. Costa Smeralda, Costa Cruises

Capacity 6,554 Another LNG-powered ship, Costa Smeralda is the flagship of Italian cruise line Costa Cruises. With decor influenced by the Italian region of Tuscany, the heart of the ship is the three-deck-high Colosseo atrium. An open-air balcony at the back of the ship has a glass floor to create the sensation of flying over water.

costacruises.com

The Grand Hall on Disney Wish

17. Disney Wish, Disney Cruise Line

Capacity 4,000 Feel the magic on Disney Wish , the biggest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, which launched in summer 2022. The ship showcases AquaMouse, the first Disney attraction at sea combining a ride with water effects and cartoon animation. There’s also the first Frozen-themed dining experience and a nostalgic 1923 restaurant named after the year Walt Disney Studios was founded. Disney Wish also has the line’s first Royal Suites spanning two storeys.

disneycruise.disney.go.com

• What it’s really like to go on a round-the-world cruise • Best cruise lines for first-timers • How safe is a cruise ship in a storm?

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

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Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World (2022)

Cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger and by the time a new world’s largest cruise ship is built an even bigger ship is already being planned. Cruise Hive looks at the top ten biggest cruise ships in the world by gross tons.

What’s the Largest Cruise Ship in the World?

The list is constantly changing as new mega-ships enter service from different cruise lines. So, what’s the largest cruise ship in the world right now?

The largest cruise ship currently in service is Wonder of the Seas , an Oasis-class vessel operated by Royal Caribbean. The ship is similar in design to her sister ships but adds some additional features and evolves the class. Wonder of the Seas is a massive 236,857 gross tons with a guest capacity of 5,734 at double occupancy. You can check the full top biggest cruise ships in the list below.

In This Article…

1. wonder of the seas (royal caribbean).

Wonder of the Seas , the fifth Oasis-class vessel took the title of world’s largest cruise ship from her sister ship Symphony of the Seas . The new vessel was built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, and delivered to the cruise line on January 27, 2022.

Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas

Just like her sister ships, Wonder of the Seas is divided into themed neighborhoods, but this ship has the addition of a new Suite Neighborhood. The eighth neighborhood offers Royal Suite Guest a Suite Sun Deck with a plunge pool, private restaurant, deck bar, and lounges. The area also has the largest Ultimate Family Suite.

Worth Reading: Wonder of the Seas vs. Titanic – A Giant Comparison

Other new features include a new southern restaurant named the Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, Wonder Playscape, and The Vue Bar. The world’s largest cruise ship departs on her maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 4, 2022. Wonder of the Seas is offering seven-night cruises to the Caribbean before heading to Barcelona, Spain and Rome in Italy with cruises in the Mediterranean in the summer.

Wonder of the Seas Stats

  • Cruise Line:  Royal Caribbean
  • Entered Service:  March 2022
  • Gross Tonnage:  236,857
  • Length:  1,188 ft
  • Passenger Decks: 16
  • Staterooms: 2,867
  • Passenger Capacity:  5,734
  • Crew Capacity:  2,300

2. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Symphony of the Seas  is the fourth Oasis-class and 25th cruise ship from Royal Caribbean and is slightly larger than her sister ships making her the world’s biggest cruise ship.

Symphony of the Seas in Miami, Florida

Symphony of the Seas  was built at the then-named STX France shipyard and was delivered to the cruise line on March 23, 2018. The vessel departed on its first one-time special preview sailing on March 31, 2018.

The first official maiden voyage departed on April 7, 2018, on a 7-night Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona, Spain.  Symphony of the Seas  has been based in  PortMiami, Florida  since November 10, 2018.

Symphony of the Seas Stats

  • Entered Service:  March 2018
  • Gross Tonnage:  228,081
  • Passengers:  5,518
  • Crew:  2,100

3. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Harmony of the Seas  overtakes the other Oasis-class ships just slightly, making her the second largest cruise ship in the world. The vessel is the first of two new orders from STX France to expand the large class ships to four.

Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas  was the first in the class to feature the 10-Story Ultimate Abyss slide, which is located aft of the ship above the AquaTheater. The slide has since been a major feature on new Oasis-class vessels and added during refurbishments.

Harmony of the Seas Stats

  • Entered Service:  May 2016
  • Gross Tonnage:  227,500
  • Length:  155.6 ft
  • Passengers:  5,480

4. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This ship is just huge and is the second in the record-breaking Oasis class for Royal Caribbean.  Allure of the Seas  has seven distinct neighborhoods and too many dining spaces to count!

Allure of the Seas Cruise Ship at Sea

The vessel is a totally different design to other large ships in the cruise industry and also boasts features like the Zipline and the AquaTheater.

Allure of the Seas Stats

  • Entered Service:  Oct 2010
  • Gross Tonnage:  225,282
  • Length:  1,187 ft
  • Passengers:  5,400
  • Crew:  2,384

5. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

This is the ship that helped push the cruise industry to new heights.  Oasis of the Seas  was the first of its kind when it arrived at the end of 2009.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

The groundbreaking vessel was built at the STX shipyard in Turku, Finland.  Oasis of the Seas  also boasts features like the Zip-line and the AquaTheater.

Oasis of the Seas Stats

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

6. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)

Costa Smeralda  is the cruise line’s first-ever cruise ship powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG). She’s also the largest vessel ever constructed for the Italian-based cruise operator.

Costa Smeralda Cruise Ship

The ship  was finally delivered  from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland after a delay on December 5, 2019. Her first regular voyage departed Savona on December 31, 2019 however there was a special voyage for travel agents that departed Barcelona, Spain on December 18, 2019.

Costa Smeralda Stats

  • Cruise Line:  Costa Cruises
  • Entered Service:  Dec 2019
  • Gross Tonnage:  185,000
  • Length:  337 Meters
  • Passengers:  6,600
  • Crew:  1,500
  • Guest Cabins:  2,600

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

British-based P&O Cruises  took delivery of its largest-ever cruise ship  and first to be powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) in October 2020. This came after delays due to the global pandemic and the impact on the shipyard.

P&O Iona Cruise Ship

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

P&O Iona Stats

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

8. AIDAnova (AIDA Cruises)

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

Aidanova Cruise Ship at Sea

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

AIDAnova Stats

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

9. MSC Grandiosa & MSC Virtuosa (MSC Cruises)

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

MSC Virtuosa Cruise Ship

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

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

MSC Grandiosa & MSC Virtuosa Stats

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

10. Carnival Mardi Gras (Carnival Cruise Line)

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

Carnival Mardi Gras Cruise Ship

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

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

Mari Gras Stats

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

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'Wonder of the Seas': world's largest cruise ship to sail with passengers for first time

The 362-metre ship is 8,700 gross tonnes heavier than its sister vessel.

The mega 'Wonder of the Seas' has officially joined Royal Caribbean International’s award-winning lineup of ships. Photo: Royal Caribbean International

The mega 'Wonder of the Seas' has officially joined Royal Caribbean International’s award-winning lineup of ships. Photo: Royal Caribbean International

Jamie Goodwin author image

The world’s largest cruise ship is to welcome passengers aboard for the first time.

The bow of the 362-metre Wonder of the Seas would reach the top of New York's Empire State Building if the vessel was standing vertically.

The cruise ship, which can host 6,988 guests and 2,300 crew members, is set to take its maiden voyage from Florida to the Caribbean on Friday, March 4.

Weighing more than 237,000 gross tonnes, Wonder of the Seas surpasses its 2018 sister Symphony of the Seas by more than 8,700 gross tonnes.

Wonder of the Seas will operate five to seven-night cruises from Fort Lauderdale in Florida to the Caribbean from March until April. It will then sail to Barcelona and Rome in May for the summer season.

Royal Caribbean began construction of the vessel in France in 2019. The 18-deck ship arrived in Florida on February 20.

It features eight distinct neighbourhoods, including Central Park, which is filled with real plants from one end of the deck to the other.

The 'Wonder of the Seas' can host 6,988 guests and 2,300 crew members. AFP

Another deck features a slide called The Ultimate Abyss, which the company says is the tallest at sea.

Michael Bayley, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean International, said: “With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we're seeing. These regions are in the position to welcome a brand-new, innovative ship like Wonder of the Seas ."

The mega cruise ship had been scheduled to sail to Dubai in 2021 as part of its initial season at sea, but the plans were shelved because of the coronavirus pandemic.

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These Are The Largest Cruise Ships In The World As Of 2022

Thinking of going on a cruise? Go big or go home; these international cruise lines are the biggest ones in 2022.

Backpacking through Europe on a budget is fun , and so is embarking on a road trip to America's Southwest . These kinds of vacations are enjoyable, jam-packed, and memorable. However, on the other hand, cruising is another mode of travel and vacationing that’s worth looking into, as today’s cruise ships offer an eclectic mix of relaxation, thrills, international cuisines, and world-class entertainment, all under one roof! Whether people are traveling with family, friends, or even by themselves, cruising is another great option to see the world, especially on these massive ships. From Carnival’s Mardi Gras to Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, these behemoth cruise ships give new meaning to the phrase "living large"!

10 Mardis Gras

  • Cruise Line: Carnival Cruises
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,630
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,641

Named after Carnival’s first cruise ship, the TSS Mardis Gras, this modern-day cruise ship is chalked to the brim with fun. Mardis Gras is so much fun; it’s even got a roller coaster attached to it, which is the first ever to be built on a ship! For more fun, guests can participate in a game of Family Feud live or catch a world-class theater show at sea.

9 AIDAcosma

  • Cruise Line: AIDA Cruises
  • Passenger Capacity: Between 5,400 to 6,600
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,626

Nicknamed “the cruise ship of the future,” AIDAcosma is a behemoth of a ship! Weighing at 183,200 GT , this German cruise ship runs on environmentally friendly fuel while offering a host of amenities to its guests. On board, guests can choose from 17 restaurants and 23 bars while enjoying activities like their on-site spa, casino, and comfortable lounges.

  • Passenger Capacity: 6,654

Much like AIDAcosma, AIDAnova is leading the cruise line industry to an environmentally-friendly future thanks to its use of liquefied natural gas (LNG), a relatively clean fossil fuel. Thus, eco-conscious tourists can be proud of their stay at AIDAnova while enjoying their onboard activities like a climbing garden, the ship’s television studio, and their topsy curvy water slides.

7 Costa Toscana

  • Cruise Line: Costa Cruises
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,554
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,612

Boasting 13 swimming pools, 11 restaurants, and 19 bars or lounge areas , Costa Toscana offers modern-day luxury with simple comforts. While staying at Costa Toscana, travelers can dance the night away, partake in a sushi-making class at the Food LAB, or catch a thrilling show at Colosseo, all under one roof! There are also abundant shopping options for memorable souvenirs and goodies to take back home.

RELATED: Why The Chateau Frontenac Is Quebec's Most Romantic Hotel

  • Cruise Line: P&O Cruises
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,600
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,614

Thinking of traveling to the Canary Islands? How about a mystical vacation to the Norwegian Fjords? R&O Cruise's newest ship, Iona, takes passengers on a journey to these destinations while offering a luxurious stay. This family-friendly cruise ship has it all: 33 dining options, kid-specific activity clubs, and an array of entertainment at their Grand Atrium (among other places).

5 Allure Of The Seas

  • Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International
  • Passenger Capacity: 6,780
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,742

Allure of the Seas will transport passengers from Texas to the Caribbean, all while providing a multitude of fun and relaxation for its passengers. This award-winning Royal Caribbean ship has no shortage of entertainment, eateries, and epic experiences, perfect for the whole family. Cool off at the H2O Zone Water Park or go zip-lining across the Boardwalk. At night, go bar hopping or dance the night away at Boleros, Allure’s Latin club!

4 Oasis Of The Seas

  • Number of Staterooms: 5,484

The Oasis of the Seas offers a mix of thrills and chills while guests embark on their journey around the Caribbean. This behemoth of a cruise ship is large enough for epic family vacations, offering fun activities like glow-in-the-dark laser tag, the Splashaway Water Park, and hangout areas for toddlers, kids, and of course, traveling teens!

RELATED: Is It Cheaper To Travel In The Fall? Let's Weigh The Facts

3 Harmony Of The Seas

  • Passenger Capacity: 6,687
  • Number of Staterooms : 2,747

Harmony of the Seas is so huge that it might as well be a city at sea. This massive ship hosts the largest slide on a cruise ship, which takes riders down ten stories ! Otherwise, there’s no shortage of fun to have at Harmony, with onboard recreational activities like a splash pad, ziplining, and rock climbing. Plus, adult travelers can check out their array of bar options, including the futuristic Bionic Bar, operated by robotic arms.

2 Symphony Of The Seas

  • Passenger Capacity: 6,680
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,759

Cruising isn’t all about relaxing and chilling out under the sun. Thrill seekers who find themselves on Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas can get their adrenaline fix by riding the surf simulator, playing laser tag, or plunging down the cruise’s massive water slides. On top of that, guests can partake in catching a Broadway-worthy show after enjoying an exquisite meal in dozens of restaurants or lounges.

1 Wonder Of The Seas

  • Passenger Capacity: About 7,000
  • Number of Staterooms: 2,867

As its name suggests, this Royal Caribbean cruise ship is a floating wonder due to its sheer size. Complete with 18 decks , Wonder of the Seas is a family-friendly ship that may very likely change the way people view family vacations. Enjoy a range of thrilling shows, whether it’s enjoying an ice skating show or catching a stunt at the Aquatheater. Wonder of the Seas is also fully equipped with incredible waterslides, sports recreational facilities, an arcade, a karaoke bar, and much more. To top everything off, guests can take their pick and indulge in over 30 restaurants, bars, and lounge options!

Should Be Cruising

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

The 20 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World in 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.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

MSC Virtuosa, one of the largest cruise ships

  • 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

MSC Grandiosa, one of the world's biggest cruise ships

  • 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

world's biggest cruise ships: Carnival 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

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.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

biggest cruise in the world 2022

  • 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

Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparing the 20 biggest cruise ships in the world

Largest cruise ships faq.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Onlookers wave as Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, now the world's largest cruise ship, departs port in Miami.

With room for nearly 8,000 people on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, there are wild water rides, 40 dining and entertainment choices and, surprisingly, spaces for some actual peace and quiet

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One man got down on his knees and kissed the rug emblazoned with the ship’s logo. Another lifted his wife and swung her around, ecstatic to be among the roughly 5,000 passengers to embark on the inaugural sailing of the world’s largest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas.

For months, the 250,800-ton ship, which can carry nearly 8,000 people, has been making headlines — including some that have criticized its size and potential to damage the environment. But the passengers who plunked down $1,800 to $100,000 and boarded the ship at Port Miami in Florida on Jan. 27, said nothing could have prepared them for the vessel’s sheer scale.

“It’s stunning,” said Christina Carvalho, a 43-year-old accountant from Oakland, as she stood on the ship’s Royal Promenade, gaping up at “The Pearl,” a gigantic kinetic art installation. “It feels even bigger than I expected.”

Guests pose for photos by a floral display in "Icon" letter shapes on the promenade of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

While Royal Caribbean has packed the ship with amenities to craft “the ultimate family vacation,” the company’s design team has tried to defy negative stereotypes like crowded decks and long lines. Instead of steel walls, the interior is open and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows to bring passengers closer to the water and make the central thoroughfare feel less like a shopping mall.

“Over the years our customers told us that despite being on the ocean, they did not feel connected to it, so with Icon we wanted to bring water everywhere,” said Jennifer Goswami, the director of product development at Royal Caribbean International.

I was on board the Icon of the Seas for five days of its seven-night inaugural sailing to the eastern Caribbean. Here are some of my takeaways:

Passengers board the ship at the port.

Embarkation

Embarkation starts through Royal Caribbean’s app. After some glitches, it took me 10 minutes to scan identification documents, fill out a health form and pick a time slot for boarding.

On the day of the sailing, I headed to Port Miami expecting chaos, but as I got out of the taxi, I was greeted by a porter who took my bag and ushered me to the terminal. I scanned my app, showed my passport and went through security in less than 10 minutes. I lingered, waiting to see if others had as smooth an experience as I did, but there was just a steady flow of passengers ascending the gangway.

A female passenger gazes out at the view from the deck of The Icon of the Seas.

The ship has the feel of a city, with eight distinct “neighborhoods.” My favorite, Central Park, was filled with more than 33,000 plants; it was the perfect place to stroll or read on a bench. The Royal Promenade, with karaoke and a piano bar, could get crowded and noisy at peak times.

The seven swimming pools are designed for different vibes and demographics: The Hideaway is an adults-only infinity pool, with DJ sets and cocktails; another adult pool has an adjacent children’s splash pool. Empty lounge chairs were plentiful for sunbathers across the ship.

The view from an upper deck of the Icon of the Seas cruise ship’s Central Park neighborhood.

On our first sea day, I was so surprised by the relative absence of crowds that I walked the ship trying to find them. But with so many venues, including 40 restaurants, bars and entertainment spaces, passengers were constantly moving around.

Seeking a quiet space one afternoon, I found the Aquadome , a tranquil lounging area with wraparound windows. Fellow passengers napped there.

Strolling through Central Park, one of the writer’s favorite neighborhoods on the ship.

Entertainment and activities

From a sunrise surf simulator lesson to late-night dancing in the nightclub, the ship seems to offer something for everyone, most of it free. The water park with six slides was a big draw. One ride, the Crown’s Edge, is not complimentary: Starting at $49, it tosses you (in a harness) above the sea, leaving you dangling.

Guests at a swim-up bar aboard Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

There is a fitness center, jogging track, a basketball and soccer court, a putt-putt course, pickleball, rock climbing and dancing. A wellness center and spa offers treatments for an additional cost. All can be reserved on the app; for popular attractions like the Crown’s Edge it’s helpful to book ahead because places fill up fast.

A water slide on Thrill Island, the ship’s water park, is one of the main attractions.

For nightly entertainment, “Aqua Action” was a standout, with aquatic entertainers performing under a 55-foot waterfall, as was the comedy club.

A guest takes a spin on the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf simulator.

Not surprisingly, some passengers felt overprogrammed. “There’s almost too much to do,” said Nancy Carter, 54, a nurse from Brighton, England. “It’s hard to plan your day and even when you are busy doing something, you feel like you are missing out on something else.”

At the Surfside neighborhood, there are pools and restaurants for both adults and children so that families can spend time together. For parents wanting alone time, the Adventure Ocean child-care facility has play areas and programs for ages 6 months to 12 years that is included in the fare.

Surfside is the ship’s neighborhood for families, with restaurants, swimming pools and other diversions.

There’s a social center for teenagers, too, with games and music. “It’s a great place to meet new people and make friends,” said Madison Foxx, 14, from Morrisville, N.C. Her mother, Ashley, a 38-year-old federal prosecutor, said the ship kept her two children entertained and allowed her both alone time and quality family time.

“I can relax and the kids are happy and busy all day,” she said. “Then we have many special moments together.”

One of the biggest surprises was the array of dining choices.

The main dining room of the Icon of the Seas.

The Windjammer Cafe and the main dining room were the busiest all-inclusive options. My daily go-to was the Aquadome food hall, with crepes made-to-order and a Greek food stand. Another favorite of mine was Pier 7, a restaurant in Surfside that served raw-tuna Buddha bowls, mango-lime shrimp tostadas and other dishes.

Meals at specialty restaurants, such as Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Hooked Seafood, come at an additional cost, or are included in some food and beverages packages that range from $9.99 to $115 per day. Reservations are recommended.

The Empire Supper Club offers an eight-course meal paired with cocktails. At $200, the tasting menu included wagyu rib-eye, rabbit and sea bass topped with parsnip and red beets.

Cabin balconies on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

Cabin prices — which recently increased, because of high demand — range from $2,699 per person for an interior cabin to more than $100,000 for a three-story town house with an indoor slide and backyard. Some family accommodations have connecting rooms and large terraces.

Though only 204 square feet, my ocean balcony room did not feel cramped thanks to minimalist design and the views.

Environment

Royal Caribbean says it set a new standard for sustainability with this ship, installing advanced water-treatment and waste systems, among other features. But some environmental groups say that building a vessel this size is not compatible with the cruise industry’s long-term sustainability goals.

On board, I saw staff sorting through the trash to take out misplaced items to recycle, and single-use plastic appeared to be minimal; passengers were given reusable cups at drinking stations.

Passengers ascend a stairway within “The Pearl,” a five-deck-tall functional sculpture.

That the waterslides remained on, even after they were closed to passengers, caught me by surprise. It seemed like an unnecessary waste of energy. (Royal Caribbean did not respond to a request for comment.)

Passengers I spoke to did not seem too concerned about the ship’s potential to harm the environment, with some arguing that land and air travel are not climate-friendly either.

Our seven-night itinerary started with two days at sea. The first stop was on Day 4 at Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis. Excursions ranged from a hike up Mount Liamuiga to a food-and-rum tour, with prices from $39 to $249. I chose a sailing and snorkeling excursion ($155) and enjoyed the secluded bay, but the beach was crowded and touristy.

An anticipated excursion for Foxx, the federal prosecutor, and others was Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. When I asked about her visit — I called later, having to disembark before the excursion — Foxx said her children loved the slides and snorkeling.

And would she sail on the Icon of the Seas again?

“Yes, but I might wait a bit,” she replied. “I want everyone to get a chance to try it out.”

Yeğinsu writes for The New York Times.

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Oceania wants travelers to live on its new luxury cruise ship for 6 months while it sails to 43 countries. A trip starts at $60K — see what it'll be like.

  • Oceania announced a 180-day 2026 world cruise from Miami to 101 ports, starting at $59,700 a person.
  • The premium cruise brand tapped its new luxury ship, Vista , for the 43-country itinerary.
  • Oceania's 2024 world cruise set sail in January after it sold out in 30 minutes.

Insider Today

Oceania Cruises wants you to spend at least $59,700 — and 180 days — living on its newest cruise ship while it sails 360 degrees around the globe.

And if the itinerary's bookings are anything like the company's previous global sailings , this six-month cruise could sell out — fast. Bookings for this cruise officially open on March 13.

The brand's around-the-world itineraries have become wildly hyped over the last few years. In January, its most recent world cruise on the fully booked Insignia departed from Los Angeles on a similar 180-day, 96-port journey.

When reservations opened two years prior, that ship was sold out in 30 minutes. Oceania is a high-end brand of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Looking ahead, Oceania’s 2026 global itinerary is set to be bigger, better, and on a newer ship.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

The premium cruise line has frequently picked the 684-guest Insignia as its world cruise vessel of choice.

But this time, it's switching "ship" up: The company has tapped its newest vessel, the 1,200-guest Vista, for its 2026 itinerary. And it won't be a light trial run: The sailing is set to include 101 ports across 43 countries — and the cruise line says tours will hit 81 UNESCO World Heritage sites .

On January 6, 2026, Oceania says the Vista will depart Miami and spend the first six weeks sailing to destinations along the coast of South America.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

The ship would then head back north to ports in Mexico, Southern California, and Hawaii before chugging along to South Pacific islands like Bora Bora.

From there, the itinerary includes several ports in Australia.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

After these stops, the ship would head north and west, continuing to destinations like Singapore and Mumbai as it sails from Southeast Asia to India.

From the world’s most populous country, the Vista would then journey to Middle East destinations like Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Muscat, Oman.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

After sailing through the Suez Canal, the ship would begin hitting a series of ports throughout the Mediterranean, Europe, and the British Isles.

And following a few stops in Iceland, the Vista would finally begin its journey back to North America.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

After pit stops in Halifax, Canada, New York, and Charleston, South Carolina, the half-year journey would finally conclude where it started: in sunny Miami.

Whew, what a journey!

Throughout these six months, travelers would get to live out their “Suite Life on Deck” dreams.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

The new 791-foot-long Vista flexes cabins that start at 240 square feet.

Seafaring guests could spend their days at sea luxuriating in the ship's spa and library.

Folks who prefer to occupy their time with more hands-on activities can instead take cooking and art classes.

Oceania says its culinary program and “destination-focused” itineraries are its bread-and-butter.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

The latter has already been covered: The 2026 world cruise is set to hit 101 ports, after all.

As for the former, Oceania's Vista could have enough restaurants to satisfy even the pickiest of foodies.

The almost one-year-old ship has 11 dining options, from afternoon tea to dishes created by the ship's godmother, celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis.

Guests could spend their mornings grabbing an espresso at the coffee shop.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

And at night (or any time: it's five o'clock "somewhere" when you sail through every time zone, right?), guests can sip on flashy bourbon and rye-based cocktails at the Founders Bar.

Six months at sea isn’t for everyone. But for some travelers, the itinerary’s starting cost of $59,700 per person could be an absolute steal.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Planning a multi-country trip can be complex: Think of all the hotels, flights, and land transportation you'd have to coordinate.

But on a world cruise, these logistics are all planned for you. Oceania's fare also includes first-class roundtrip flights and transfers, internet, and laundry.

The best part?

biggest cruise in the world 2022

You'll probably lose fewer pairs of socks on a world cruise versus a do-it-yourself vacation: No need to unpack and repack every few days when you'll be living in the same cabin for the entire vacation.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

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biggest cruise in the world 2022

The 21 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

J ust 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.

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Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - MSC World Europa

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Costa Smeralda

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - 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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - P&O Cruises Arvia

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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Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - AIDAcosma

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - P&O Cruises Iona

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.

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - AIDANova

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Carnival Jubilee

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Carnival Celebration

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - MSC Euribia

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - MSC Virtuosa

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Carnival Mardi Gras

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - MSC Meraviglia

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

Pros And Cons Enhancement : Travel - Largest Cruise Ships - Norwegian Encore

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.

FAQ Module : FAQs - Travel - Biggest Cruise Ships

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.

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Aerial of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

This epic new luxury cruise costs up to $550,000 per cabin — and might be worth it

Gene Sloan

Uber-luxury line Crystal is out with a new world cruise itinerary that might be its most epic ever. It comes with an epic price tag, too.

The recently relaunched brand on Tuesday began taking reservations for a 135-night voyage from Los Angeles to Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), that will bring the wealthy set to a stunning 72 destinations in 27 countries across five continents.

Kicking off Jan. 11, 2026, and taking place on Crystal's 740-passenger Crystal Serenity, the sailing starts at a sky-high $168,000 per cabin for two people.

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

Top suites on the ship will cost up to $550,000 for two passengers.

For that lofty price, well-heeled travelers can experience a once-in-a-lifetime trip that includes visits to many of the world's most famous destinations, from Bora Bora in French Polynesia to the pyramids of Egypt — all while living in the lap of luxury.

Crystal Serenity, which TPG has called the queen of luxury cruising , underwent a massive overhaul in 2023 that gave it more space per passenger than any other luxury ship afloat. The overhaul included a significant enlargement of many of its accommodations and a reduction in the number of passengers that will sail on any given voyage.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

Additionally, Crystal's crew-to-passenger ratio — a top measure of luxury on any ship — was increased to roughly 1:1, an astounding level.

The net result makes Crystal Serenity one of the most luxurious cruise vessels afloat.

Related: Luxury line Crystal is back

A longer world cruise

Crystal typically offers one world cruise a year, and it's always lengthy and destination-packed. But the newly announced 2026 world sailing is longer than those the line has offered in recent years, coming in at 135 days long.

In comparison, the single world cruise Crystal offers this year is 125 nights long, while a world cruise planned for 2025 will be 123 nights long.

The new sailing for 2026 is also pricier than Crystal world cruises in the past. Starting rates are $35,000 more per couple than the starting rates for Crystal's 2025 world cruise. That sailing starts at $133,000 per cabin for two.

Crystal Serenity's most luxurious accommodation, the Penthouse Suite, costs $71,600 more on the 2026 world cruise than it costs on the 2025 world cruise.

An epic itinerary to five continents

The 135-night world cruise for 2026 will begin with a westward crossing of the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii and French Polynesia on the way to New Zealand and Australia.

From there, the vessel will head to various countries across Asia, including Indonesia and India, before sailing through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean.

biggest cruise in the world 2022

In the Mediterranean, the ship will visit multiple ports in Greece, Italy and France before the trip ends in Civitavecchia May 26, 2026.

Unlike some previous Crystal world cruises, the trip doesn't offer a full circumnavigation of the world. That allows the ship to spend more time in the regions it does visit, with a particularly large number of stops in the South Pacific, Australia and Asia.

The new world cruise will be just the third at Crystal in the past eight years, as the line stopped sailing world cruises during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Crystal ship

In addition to on-ship accommodations, meals and drinks, passengers who book the world voyage will be entitled to such extra perks as:

  • A $1,500 per person shipboard credit
  • An allowance of up to $5,000 per person for business-class flights to and from the ship or a $4,000 credit toward the cruise cost for those booking their own flights
  • Private transfers to and from the ship
  • Unlimited dining at the ship's upscale Osteria d'Ovidio and Umi Uma restaurants (reservations required)
  • Invitations to themed onboard events
  • Luggage valet service

More information is available as of Tuesday on Crystal's website .

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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COMMENTS

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  26. Oceania Set to Open Booking for $60K, 180-Day Around-the-World Cruise

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  28. This epic new luxury cruise costs up to $550,000 per cabin

    Uber-luxury line Crystal is out with a new world cruise itinerary that might be its most epic ever. It comes with an epic price tag, too. The recently relaunched brand on Tuesday began taking reservations for a 135-night voyage from Los Angeles to Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), that will bring the wealthy set to a stunning 72 destinations in 27 countries across five continents.