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Newest Cruise Ships

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Find here the answer to which is the newest cruise ships currently under construction or on order. You can jump directly to the lists of new vessels on order / under construction (2021-2028) , as well as new riverboats (2021-2026) and new cruiseferries (2021-2027).

Here you'll find them all - from small to big to the ever-largest passenger ships from the fleets of RCG-Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation, NCLH-Norwegian and MSC. We list also all the major cruise lines' orders for building new vessels (with GT/volume between ~2000 and ~240000 tons), with information on their design , building cost , passenger capacity , and builders/yards .

Newest Cruise Ships - CruiseMapper

Newest cruise vessels on order (2021-2028 deliveries)

NEW companies and brands on the market are Resorts World Cruises (2022/Genting), Virgin Voyages (2017), Ritz-Carlton (2017), Norwegian Yacht Voyages (2017), Adora Cruises/CSSC Carnival China (2018), Alteza Cruises (2017), Anteros Cruises (2017), Zen Cruises (2018/Essel Group India), Abou Merhi Cruises Lebanon (2018), Well Star Travel Cruise China (2018), Blue World Voyages (2019), Mystic Cruises USA (2019), TUI River Cruises (2019), Cruise Retirement (2019), Style Cruise China (2019), Diamond Cruise China (2020), Ocean Residences (2020), Storylines Residences (2020), Arctic Cruise Line (2021), Aroya Cruise Saudi (2021), Selectum Blu Cruises (2021/ANEX Tours Turkey).

The largest "small ship" companies are Viking and Ponant .

The industry's estimated revenue for 2018 was USD 40 billion, with projected growth to USD 59 billion (2027). In terms of source passengers, the largest markets are North America (50+%) and Europe (30+%). The fastest-growing market is luxury cruising, with the largest companies being Viking Ocean, Viking Expeditions, Silversea, MSC Expeditions (separate fleet), Ponant, Hapag-Lloyd, RSSC-Regent.

In 2022, the ship orders with deliveries planned in 2023-2028 were 72 (units) amounting to ~USD/EUR 46 billion.

In 2023, the number of cruise vessels (ordered and scheduled for launches in 2023-2028) was 56 (~USD/EUR 39 billion, average cost per unit ~USD/EUR 680M), including 19 (2023-inaugurated), 10 (2024/30,000+ berths), 19 (2025), and 20 (2026-2028).

By 2028, the new vessels (2023-28) add to the global fleet 129000+ berths.

New MSC ships 2017-2027

On March 20, 2014, MSC and STX France signed in Paris a letter of intent for building 2 new mega-liners with scheduled deliveries in 2017 (Meraviglia) and 2019 (Bellissima), each with GT 167,600 tons (slightly smaller than Quantum-class / 167,800 GT), but with bigger passenger capacity - 4500 (vs 4180).

MSC Meraviglia-class cruise ship

In February 2016, MSC ordered two "Meraviglia Plus" liners with max capacity 6300 passengers (200 more cabins, 16 m longer compared to Meraviglia-Class). The order made MSC France's largest private foreign investor - with USD 8,6+ billion in export contracts over a 5-year period. On April 6, 2016, MSC signed with STX France for the construction of up to four World-Class vessels - LNG-powered , with GT tonnage 250,000 tons and max passenger capacity 6800.

MSC Cruises World-Class ship

In November 2017 MSC ordered 2x "Seaside EVO" class ships from Fincantieri (contract value EUR 1,8 billion). The new ships are bigger (16 m longer, 17,330 GT tons heavier, with 200 more cabins / 467 more passengers) in comparison to Seaview and Seaside. Newbuilds' deliveries were scheduled for 2021 (Seashore) and 2022 (Seascape). With Seaside EVO, MSC had a total investment of EUR 10,5 billion into 12 new vessels with scheduled deliveries by 2026. The first of four "World Class" vessels will be delivered in 2022.

In October 2018, MSC and Fincantieri signed an MoA for 4x ultra-luxury expedition (total value EUR 2+ billion). The newbuilds (EXPLORA-class/first unit delivery in 2023-Q3) have GT tonnage 64,000 and 500 cabins. The remaining 3 units are due to enter service one per year (2024-2025-2026).

MSC Explora-Class ship (Explora Journeys)

In 2023, MSC's fleet had 21 liners.

New Carnival Corporation ships 2019-2024

In March 2015 Carnival Corporation ordered 9 vessels to be built by two different companies. Fincantieri SpA (Italy) constructs 5 units (at Monfalcone and Marghera yards), while Meyer Werft BmbH constructs the other 4 units in Germany (Papenburg) and Finland (Turku).

All new liners feature next-generation designs and marine architecture and technologies, each designed accordingly to the brand it serves (Costa, AIDA, Princess, Holland America, CCL-Carnival).

In 2019 was established CSSC Carnival China/ADORA CRUISES - a Chinese-American joint venture company with a separate fleet of 2x ex-Costa ships (Atlantica, Mediterranea) plus 2 newbuilds (2023, 2024).

The next video is about Ponant's new Explorer-Class ships.

New cruise ships (2021-2028) under construction and on order

New riverboats 2021-2026, new river cruise ships 2021-2026.

This survey shows the list of the newest river cruise ships and luxury boats. These are all newbuilds, so the list excludes boats that are chartered to other companies (thus only refurbished and renamed).

new Russian river cruise ship design

For all riverboats tracked at CruiseMapper, you can visit our River Cruises hub where are listed all river shipping companies and their fleets.

European river cruise ship design

New cruiseferries (2021-2027)

Here are listed large-sized new cruise ferries built between 2010-2024. RoRo vessels as types can be ferries (car and passenger ships), cruise ferries (with passenger cabins), cargo ships and freight barges.

At the following taglink are listed all CruiseMapper's news related to new ships .

The 5 best new cruise ships of 2020 that we can't wait to try

Gene Sloan

For fans of new cruise ships, it's been the oddest of years.

More than half a dozen cruise lines have taken delivery of major new vessels in 2020. But, with a few exceptions, nobody has gotten to sail on them.

The coronavirus-caused cruising shutdown that began in March has meant that a significant number of newly completed vessels in recent months have gone straight from the shipyards that built them into long-term layups .

In other words, there are a bunch of cruise ships out there that are brand new and ready to go, but they are caught in something akin to suspended animation. They have skeleton crews that are keeping them shipshape, so to speak. But they have yet to see a single passenger.

The hottest new ships we still haven't seen

Here at The Points Guy, we're always excited about getting an early look at new ships. And there were several new vessels this year that we were particularly excited about seeing . Alas, we only have been able to visit one of the year's hottest newcomers.

In late February, we were on the very first sailing of luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises' new Seven Seas Splendor — the most expensive luxury ship ever built. As we wrote about at the time , it was — as we had expected — spectacular. It also was about to disappear. Just two weeks after we swayed to Seal at Splendor's gala christening, the ship shut down operations due to rising COVID-19 cases around the world. Nine months later, it's still not sailing.

Related: How to plan a cruise with points and miles

new cruise ships 2020

Among the most notable newcomers of which we haven't even gotten a glimpse — and that nobody, it turns out, has seen — is Celebrity Cruises' new Celebrity Apex. It's been ready to go since March. Small-ship specialist Lindblad Expeditions also has been sitting on a major new vessel since March, the highly anticipated National Geographic Endurance.

Earlier this year, we called the latter vessel the most exciting new ship of 2020 .

Other lines with new ships out that aren't sailing including Princess Cruises. Its new Enchanted Princess has been finished since September. Luxury line Silversea currently has two just-completed new ships waiting to welcome passengers, Silver Origin and Silver Moon. They've been finished since June and October, respectively.

Related: The 4 new giants of the cruise world -- and how to book them

Plus, there's Scarlet Lady, the very first vessel from start-up line Virgin Voyages. It's been waiting for its big Miami unveiling since March.

Meanwhile, the construction of several other major new ships that had been scheduled to debut in 2020, including Carnival Cruise Line 's much-ballyhooed Mardi Gras — the first cruise ship with a roller coaster — and Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas, has been delayed due to the new coronavirus. These ships are now not scheduled to debut until early 2021 . We'll take a closer look at them later in the week.

However, for today as part of Cruise Week at the 2020 TPG Awards , here are the five new vessels of 2020 that we are most excited about sailing on once we can — and that we suspect you might want to try, too.

Scarlet Lady (Virgin Voyages)

new cruise ships 2020

The very first ship from Richard Branson-backed Virgin Voyages emerged from a shipyard in Italy in February, and it was in the process of starting up service when the coronavirus brought the cruise industry to a halt . One of our editors in the U.K. did get a quick look at the vessel when it stopped for a day in Dover, England, on its way to Miami — where it was supposed to start its first "sneak-a-peek" sailings with paying passengers on March 26. But we have yet to sail a day on it.

Like a lot of cruisers, we're anxious to give it try. In the works for more than five years, the 2,770-passenger vessel is designed to shake up the industry with a new, hipper style of cruising. The ship has everything from a tattoo parlor to drag-queen brunches and a colorful karaoke lounge where you can get your Lizzo on. To ensure a proper party vibe, it's also a kid-free travel zone , with a minimum age to sail of 18.

Virgin is going after travelers who might think themselves too cool to cruise . To that end, Scarlet Lady has no buffets, no dress codes and no big Broadway-style theater shows. For entertainment, expect interactive dance parties, DJ sets and "microplays" instead, plus late-night games of dodgeball. Suites will have a rock-star theme .

The details: Scarlet Lady is now scheduled to start operations in May with four- and five-night trips out of Miami to the Bahamas and Caribbean. Fares start at $750 per person, not including taxes and fees. For additional information, call 954-488-2955 or visit virginvoyages.com .

National Geographic Endurance (Lindblad Expeditions)

new cruise ships 2020

We were all booked and ready to go on this notable new expedition ship back in March. In fact, we were getting an exclusive first look for our readers. But our well-laid plans got sidetracked with just a few days notice when the coronavirus hit the pandemic stage.

As noted above, National Geographic Endurance — a vessel specifically designed for exploring polar regions — was the new ship of 2020 that had us the most excited.

Quite a few companies have rolled out new vessels designed to operate in Antarctica and the Arctic in recent years. But there's never been anything quite like National Geographic Endurance. Billed as the world's most advanced polar expedition ship, the 126-passenger Lindblad Expeditions vessel was being built super tough for the most off-the-beaten-path exploring.

National Geographic Endurance has the highest ice class rating (PC5 Category A) ever for a purpose-built passenger ship, which means it can go deeper into polar regions than other vessels. It also has an unusual, sloping "X-bow" designed to minimize movement in the rough seas around Antarctica.

Related: Viking to offer expedition cruises to Antarctica, Arctic

Aimed at an adventure-loving crowd, National Geographic Endurance carries a fleet of Zodiac boats, kayaks, snowshoes and cross-country skis for polar exploring. It also has its very own remote-operated vehicle, just in case you want to see what's going on under the hull. An upscale Scandinavian-inspired interior rounds out the experience.

The details: National Geographic Endurance will spend its initial spring and summer sailing in the Arctic before moving to Antarctica for the winter. Fares for polar trips start at $11,750 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a 10-night trip to the Arctic's Svalbard archipelago. Thanks to a relatively new partnership between Hyatt and Lindblad, World of Hyatt members can pay for a cruise using Hyatt points — or earn 5 base points per dollar on eligible spend (excluding incidentals), plus the standard bonuses for Hyatt elite members , as well as elite-qualifying night credits. And all members — regardless of status — will enjoy a $250 onboard credit to use on incidentals. Call 800-397-3348 or visit expeditions.com for more information.

Celebrity Apex (Celebrity Cruises)

new cruise ships 2020

This is another ship that was so close to launching in March that we actually had flights booked to go see it. Celebrity canceled an unveiling event with just a few days notice due to the coronavirus.

Designed to carry 2,908 passengers at double occupancy, Celebrity Apex is the second of four new Edge Class vessels for Celebrity that boast an innovative new design.

Like the first ship in the series, the two-year-old Celebrity Edge , it features a 90-ton platform the size of a tennis court cantilevered over its side — the so-called Magic Carpet — that moves up and down to serve all sorts of functions, from tender boarding platform to 90-seat alternative restaurant. But perhaps the greatest innovation with the series are the "infinite veranda" cabins with outward-facing walls that are entirely made of glass.

Billed as an industry first, the new glass-walled cabins have balconies that are incorporated into the main cabin area.

Among other unusual features, Apex has a plant-filled relaxation area with an outdoor eatery on its top deck called the Rooftop Garden. There also is an unusual, glass-walled lounge, dining and entertainment at the back of the ship called Eden.

The details: Celebrity Apex now is scheduled to start operations in March with sailings out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Seven-night voyages to the Caribbean start at $829, not including taxes and fees. The ship will reposition to the Mediterranean for the summer. For additional information, call 888-751-7804 or visit celebritycruises.com .

Related: The best credit cards for booking cruises

Silver Origin (Silversea)

new cruise ships 2020

Ready to go since June, but now on hiatus until at least April, this new Silversea vessel has been custom-built to become the new belle of the ball in the wildlife-filled Galápagos .

Designed to carry just 100 passengers, Silver Origin is an all-suite vessel with such luxury touches as butler service with every room and the highest crew-to-passenger ratio in the Galápagos. It features wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows in most spaces to maximize nature viewing — something you just don't see with most other Galápagos ships.

In short, you can expect an intimate, boutique hotel-like experience , just one with ever-changing scenery. Amenities include two restaurants, indoor and outdoor lounges, a stargazing platform and a marina with an easy-on, easy-off tender boarding area.

The details: Silver Origin is now scheduled to start operations in The Galápagos in April, with two different seven-night itineraries that can be combined to create a 14-night trip. Fares for the seven-night sailings start at $9,000 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 877-382-7094 or visit silversea.com .

Related: Epic new Silversea itinerary hits 17 countries in 59 days

Silver Moon (Silversea)

new cruise ships 2020

Just completed in October, this 596-passenger vessel is going to be a foodie's delight.

A sister ship to Silversea's Silver Muse and Silver Spirit, it'll be the first Silversea vessel with an innovative new culinary enrichment program called S.A.L.T., an acronym of Sea and Land Taste. We got a sneak peek at this program in 2019 when visiting the ship under construction at a shipyard in Italy, and — for culinary enthusiasts, at least — it's going to be a big deal.

The program includes elaborate, food-related land activities such as visiting a small, artisanal pasta maker in Italy for a detailed explanation of the pasta-making process followed by an elegant reception and pasta tasting (we tried this excursion out ourselves during our sneak peek at the ship and — trust us — it's an amazing day).

On board, there will be three new S.A.L.T. program-related venues that will offer a foodie focus, including a S.A.L.T. Kitchen that's billed as the first large-scale regional restaurant aboard a luxury cruise ship. It'll offer a changing menu tied to the destinations that the ship visits. The second venue, the S.A.L.T. Lab, is a test kitchen where passengers can learn about local ingredients and artisanal techniques through workshops, tastings, and demonstrations. The third venue is S.A.L.T. Bar, where passengers can sample the iconic drinks of the destinations they visit.

The details: Silver Moon now is scheduled to start operations in April with sailings in the Caribbean before moving to the Mediterranean for the spring and summer. Fares start at $3,120 per person, not including taxes and fees, for an eight-night sailing. For additional information, call 877-382-7094 or visit silversea.com .

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The Best New Cruise Ships & Itineraries in the World: 2020 Hot List

By Janice Wald Henderson

The Best New Cruise Ships  Itineraries in the World 2020 Hot List

When our team of editors and contributors set off for a year of hopscotching the globe to put together Conde Nast Traveler’s 2020 Hot List, we could never have imagined that by the time we were able to announce our winners, we would be staying home for the foreseeable future. In 24 years of putting together this compendium of the latest and greatest industry openings, we’ve never published it in a year like this. Even still, we are proud to unveil this selection of 10 new cruise ships and sailings . These are the absolute best of the best; the game-changing, boundary-pushing, and vacation-making openings to get you dreaming. We know that right now you’re probably wondering when you’ll be able to take your next trip. When you do, we encourage you to use these exceptional launches as your guide. We have a feeling that, when the time comes and it's safe to travel, we’re all really going to need these cruises, and they're going to need us, too. It will be worth the wait.

Click here to view the full lineup of the year's best new hotels.

Scenic Eclipse Cruise

Scenic Eclipse

If James Bond were to choose a cruise ship on which to sip a Vesper Martini, it would be the Scenic Eclipse , where the low-lit bar is so inviting you’ll want to hop on a stool and hang out for hours. Every aspect of this suave, slick 228-passenger ship is primed for active, daring, tech-savvy cruisers. The accommodations are all butler-attended suites—the prized ones have Philippe Starck–designed double-size Jacuzzis. But it’s the two helicopters that whirl over glaciers in the Arctic and a submarine that dives nearly 1,000 feet to explore sunken ships and coral atolls in the Caribbean that make this ship truly 007-worthy. From $8,195 per person, based on double occupancy; scenicusa.com

Regent Splendor Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas Splendor

Although Seven Seas Splendor is the 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer ’s twin ship, it’s no clone. Regent understands that a true high-end experience requires a singular approach. There are the lavish details expected from the line, like more than an acre of marble, the $5 million art collection that includes several Picassos, and over 500 crystal chandeliers. But just as memorable are the more intimate touches, like the soft bathrobes, the silky sheets, the buttery smooth leather headboards. This time around the line brought in two new design houses to work alongside longtime partner Tillberg Design of Sweden. The Miami-based Studio DADO injected some whimsy to the Observation Lounge, channeling an English garden for inspiration; Total Solution Interiors designed flower-shaped coffee tables and added Art Deco accents to the Splendor and Seven Seas Suites; and Tillberg made the Regent Suite larger and swankier, with a striking floor-to-ceiling ocean-edge shower (kind of like bathing while suspended over the sea, but not in a scary way). As dignified as all this sounds, there is some drama: A colossal art installation in the form of a swirling dragon tempts even the most selfie-averse to mug for the camera. From $8,599 per person, based on double occupancy; rssc.com

Norwegian Encore Onda Cruise

Norwegian Encore

While the Norwegian Encore has just about every buzzy dining and entertainment option imaginable, what makes it feel truly special is the possibility of also finding some peace and quiet, like in the adults-only upper deck lounge, or in a suite in the Haven by Norwegian enclave , a sort of cruise within a cruise, with a private bar, restaurant, and sundeck. From $321 per person, based on double occupancy; ncl.com

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Boat Animal Bear Wildlife Mammal and Polar Bear

Silversea Silver Explorer in the Northeast Passage

The Explorer Northeast Passage itinerary, a 25-day sail aboard the 144-passenger Silver Explorer —the sibling trip to the wildly popular North-west Passage journey—feels like a mix of expedition-style travel and the glamour sailings of the early 20th century. There are black-and-white photos of legendary explorers lining the hallways and tuxedoed butlers doling out caviar and Champagne in the staterooms. But all that pampering is a blip on the radar compared with the extraordinary places this ship goes. Twenty-seven obscure ports plotted around the Arctic Circle—from Nome, Alaska, through Russia’s nine time zones—make this the cruise for travelers seeking rarely seen destinations. Part of Explorer’s objective? To go as far north as possible, through ice passageways where no other commercial cruise has ever been. Here that means sighting polar bears on Wrangel Island in far northwestern Russia or taking a Zodiac through the icy waters around Franz Josef Land, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean. This itinerary epitomizes the conceit that in so many parts of the world, the best—no, the only—way to do it is by boat. From $44,900 per person, based on double occupancy; silversea.com

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Godafoss waterfall in Iceland Regent Seven Seas Explorer Fjords of Iceland

Regent Seven Seas Explorer , Fjords of Iceland

Few itineraries merge the wild, near-haunting beauty of Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Scotland, Iceland, and Greenland like this one. Quite simply, this Copenhagen -to-Reykjavik route on 750-passenger über-opulent Seven Seas Explorer sails from one natural wonder to the next. Cruising the world’s most breathtaking fjords surrounded by unsullied snow-capped mountains and reaching Godafoss, a famed fierce waterfall that roars over a wide horseshoe-shaped cliff, are two of the many highlights. In the nutrient-rich pristine seas off Westfjords peninsula, more than 20 species of whales and porpoises feed and frolic as flocks of birds soar overhead. Ashore, glaciers, geothermal springs, and lava fields beckon, as do charming villages with tin-roofed wooden houses and welcoming locals. More must-sees, like the 14th-century Faroe Islands cathedral ruins and North Orkney’s Neolithic archaeological wonders—including the 5,000-year-old Standing Stones of Stenness, a UNESCO World Heritage Site—up the magic. On board, the all-suite, all-inclusive Seven Seas Explorer showcases a $7 million art collection, which just might take the entire 18-day cruise to fully peruse. From $16,199 per person, based on double occupancy; rssc.com

Uniworld SS Bon Voyage Cruise

Uniworld S.S. Bon Voyage

Uniworld poured millions into converting River Royale into the 124-passenger S.S. Bon Voyage. The personality of every Uniworld vessel reflects its route, and this rethink highlights the Dordogne and Garonne rivers’ wine and gastronomy traditions with restaurants that lean into the local, like Le Grand Fromage, where, come nightfall, the scent of Bordeaux-sourced truffles perfumes the air. With upgrades that go beyond dining (including an infinity pool) and wellness excursions such as yoga in the 17th-century Blaye Citadel, Uniworld has crafted a new kind of river-cruise experience. From $2,719 per person, based on double occupancy; uniworld.com

Oceania Regatta in Alaska Mendenhall Glacier

Oceania Regatta in Alaska

Consider the Alaskan Glory itinerary aboard the Regatta the trip for those who really want to engage with the 49th state. Walking tours around the mountain-rimmed town of Ketchikan with Tlingit guides stop at totem poles and historic sites, but the most spectacular excursions are those that get you out into nature, like paddling canoes around glacier-fed Mendenhall Lake and accompanying chefs into the spruce forests outside of Juneau to forage ingredients for cooking classes. The degree of connection this itinerary establishes between travelers and Alaska’s people and places makes it a standout in the region. From $2,599 per person, based on double occupancy; oceaniacruises.com

Celebrity Cruise Flora

Celebrity Flora

Celebrity Flora gets major points for delivering a Galápagos rarity—an eco-conscious, 100-passenger, all-suite sail . The ship, built for the area, has special features to protect the fragile environment, like anchorless technology, and with one designated naturalist guide for every 12 guests, there’s plenty of opportunity to ask questions about, say, the male blue-footed boobie’s elaborate courting dance. Back on board, the education continues with seminars on how to identify birds and tutorials on wildlife photography. The ship tops the growing field of cruise lines with glamping programs by letting passengers spend the night on the top deck in open-air cabanas, where it’s hard to say what’s more memorable—the utter silence or the impossibly starry sky. From $11,299 per person, based on double occupancy; celebritycruises.com

Roald Amundsen from Hurtigruten ship

Hurtigruten Roald Amundsen

Going groundbreakingly green and spotlighting science make this 530-passenger expedition ship a stark standout among competitors. The world’s first such vessel with hybrid electric power made history by sailing on battery power alone. Named after polar hero Roald Amundsen, the Antarctic ship christening was done with ice rather than Champagne, duplicating Amundsen’s gesture back in 1917. On board, the high-tech Science Center is the vessel’s heart and soul, and curious guests are encouraged to play the part, working with biologists and geologists using advanced biological and geological equipment and joining resident researchers in collecting samples in the field. Sweeping views—here and everywhere—dominate Roald Amundsen’s design, as do its clean Scandinavian lines. After days spent exploring the Poles or other remote locales, the wellness center, infinity pool, and hot tubs are just the thing. From $4,667 per person, based on double occupancy; hurtigruten.com

Greg Mortimer ship Aurora Expeditions

Aurora Expeditions Greg Mortimer

Naming a cutting-edge, activity-driven polar expedition ship after Greg Mortimer sets this vessel’s thrill-seeking tone. (The Aurora Expeditions’ legendary cofounder was one of the first two mountaineers to successfully climb Antarctica’s 13,000-foot Mount Minto.) Greg Mortimer is also the world’s first vessel in its class to sail with a fuel-efficient Ulstein X-Bow , designed to cut through swell and transit faster through waves. Not to worry. State-of-the-art Rolls-Royce dynamic stabilizers swiftly undo any sea sickness that may have otherwise struck. With 15 Zodiacs and four dedicated sea-level launching platforms, nearly all 126 passengers disembark quickly and explore simultaneously (polar regions allow 100 passengers at once). Whenever possible, skiing, climbing, diving, and kayaking outings prevail. Hydraulic viewing platforms on board allow guests more glimpses into marine life and seabirds. Bravo, also, to Greg Mortimer for slipping a sexy side into its ruggedness. The exterior vibes are sleek, not stocky. Inside, neutral tones with pops of polar blues feel appropriately cozy. Top-deck Jacuzzis allow passengers to admire extraordinary vistas in bubbly warmth—further proof this ship leans hard, yet comfortably, into nonstop nature encounters. From $12,240 per person, based on double occupancy; aurora-expeditions.com

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9 New Cruise Ships to Watch for in 2020

Scarlet Lady - rendering

Here are some of the best cruise ships debuting in 2020.

Editor’s note: This article was originally published on November of 2019. While we may not be able to travel this time, you can still book for future sailings.

There's something fantastic about walking aboard a shiny new vessel just weeks after it has sailed out from the shipyard. After all the hype and anticipation, this marvel of modern engineering and design is finally yours to enjoy as you soak up the Caribbean sun, learn about ancient cultures in the Mediterranean, or even marvel at nature’s wonders in the Arctic or Antarctica. There’s a fantastic lineup of newcomers set to sail in 2020. Here, nine must-see new ships listed chronologically by their debut dates.

Related:  10 Lavish Cruise Ship Suites

1. Scarlet Lady by Virgin Voyages

new cruise ships 2020

When: March 2020

Onboard Features: Scarlet Lady, the 2,770-passenger, adults-only ship that will mark Virgin billionaire Richard Branson’s foray into the cruise realm, ranks among the most eagerly anticipated vessels of the year — and this isn't your grandma's cruise ship. Not only does its distinctive silver hull and bold red-and-white sundeck set it apart visually, but it also features a range of cruise-ship firsts like a tattoo parlor, drag queen brunch, and on-demand champagne delivery service. Scarlet Lady might be fabulous, but she has also been engineered for sustainability (single-use plastics are banned and engine heat waste will be converted to electricity). The vessel also features teched-out staterooms with mood lighting (among them are 78 RockStar Suites that come with access to Richard’s Rooftop deck, a chic private club), and has more than a dozen dining options (all included in the cruise fare, along with gratuities, wifi, and other amenities). Fittingly, this lady will be helmed by a female captain . To learn more about the new cruise line, read our guide.

Itineraries: From its debut through April 2021, Scarlet Lady will sail from Miami on four-to-seven-night cruises to the Caribbean and Mexico. Ports of call include Bimini (where the cruise line has its own private beach club), Costa Maya, Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Plata, San Juan, and Key West. 

Related:  Everything We Know About Virgin Voyages’ Second Ship 

2. Celebrity Apex

new cruise ships 2020

When: April 2020

Onboard Features: As the sister ship of  Celebrity Edge , this 2,910-passenger vessel will feature almost identical onboard amenities and design-forward décor when it begins sailing the Mediterranean next spring. the enchanting Rooftop Garden, the multi-sensory Eden Lounge, the over-the-water Magic Carpet (a lounge/restaurant that can be positioned on several decks), and more than a dozen restaurants (among them the new Fine Cut Steakhouse and the casual Rooftop Garden Grill). Accommodations aboard Celebrity Apex will include the Infinite Veranda Staterooms , which feature floor-to-ceiling windows along with a balcony. There's also an array of Kelly Hoppen-designed suites located with The Retreat (where suite guests can also indulge in dishes by chef Daniel Boulud). Other treats: The Martini Bar located in the glamorous Grand Plaza, the Sunset Bar set on Deck 15 aft (perfect for sail-away sips), and the adults-only Solarium Pool.

Itineraries: Apex will spend her inaugural season in Europe, sailing 7-to-10-night itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe — from the Greek Islands and Italy to the Baltic capitals and Norwegian fjords — before crossing the Atlantic in late October to begin 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale. 

3. Hurtigruten’s MS Fridtjof Nansen

new cruise ships 2020

Onboard Features: The second of Norway-based Hurtgruten’s hybrid electric-powered expedition ships — MS Roald Amundsen launched in 2019 — 530-passenger MS Fridtjof Nansen, named for the Norwegian explorer, scientist, and Nobel Peace Price laureate, will also be a hybrid of adventure and luxury. Offering Scandinavian design throughout, from its modern staterooms and suites to its trio of inviting restaurants (Aune, Fredheim, and Lindstrom) serving contemporary Nordic cuisine, the ship offers an elegant setting for exploring the globe’s remotest locales led by expert guides and onboard naturalists. At its heart is the Nansen Science Center, headquarters for the expedition team. But if the weather cooperates, the aft infinity pool and hot tubs beckon.

Itineraries: Debuting in its home territory, MS Fridtjof Nansen will explore the Norwegian fjords and North Cape on 15-night itineraries through June 2020, then Iceland and Greenland before cruising Europe’s Atlantic Coastline in late September. Afterwards, the ship will cruise South America and Antarctica through March 2021.

Read More: MS Roald Amundsen Ship Review

4. Enchanted Princess

new cruise ships 2020

When: June 2020

Onboard Features: As the fifth Royal Class ship (which also includes the recently inaugurated Sky Princess as well as Discovery Princess, scheduled to debut in November 2021), the 3,660-passenger Enchanted Princess features many popular amenities — including the Italy-inspired Piazza, Movies Under the Stars, Discovery at Sea, the glass-floored SeaWalk, and the adults-only Retreat. Other features include two deep-tank pools with sunken communal seating, the Take 5 jazz theater, and specialty restaurant Bistro Sur La Mer by Michelin-starred chef Emmanuel Renaut. Accommodations-wise, Enchanted Princess also features a Sky Suite with a 1,000-square-foot balcony -- the largest at sea.

Itineraries: Enchanted Princess will cruise Europe from Athens, Rome, Barcelona, and Southampton on 7-to-11-night itineraries through October 2020. Afterwards, the vessel will cruise the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale on 7- and 13-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.

5. The Ritz-Carlton Evrima

new cruise ships 2020

Onboard Features: The luxury hotel company is embarking on a new journey with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, beginning with 298-passenger, all-inclusive Evrima, named for the Greek word for “discovery.” All suites feature modern Scandinavian-inspired decor along with private terraces. Staterooms range from 312 square feet to 1,098 square feet, including 12 airy, two-level Loft Suites. The 8-deck ship has an aft infinity pool and a watersports marina, a spa with five treatment rooms, and six dining venues: The Evrima Room for locally inspired dining, Talaat Nam for contemporary Southeast Asian cuisine, S.E.A for a tasting menu by Michelin-starred Chef Sven Elverfeld, Mistral for al fresco Mediterranean fare, the Pool House for casual à la minute dining, and The Living Room for early morning and late evening snacks. 

Itineraries: Evrima debuts with 7-to-10-night voyages in Europe, from the Mediterranean to the Baltic through September 2020 before sailing to Iceland and Atlantic Canada through October. Afterwards, the ship heads to Fort Lauderdale and will cruise the Caribbean until spring 2021. 

6. Silversea’s Silver Moon

new cruise ships 2020

When: August 2020

Onboard Features: Calling all foodies: The lookalike successor to Silver Muse, the 596-passenger Silver Moon will offer all-suite luxury to guests while upping its already elevated gastronomic game with a new immersive  Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T) program that integrates local ingredients and cuisine in a program curated by former Saveur editor Adam Sachs. Silver Moon will have seven restaurants ranging from gastronomic French and traditional Japanese to authentic Naples-style pizza and tapas-inspired dishes paired with jazz. Elegant suites range from 334 square feet to 1,389 square feet and public spaces include the Panorama Lounge, the vibrant Arts Cafe, and the clubby La Dolce Vita lounge.

Itineraries: Silver Moon will offer 7-to-11-night voyages in the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Aegean before its 24-night transatlantic voyage from Monte Carlo to Fort Lauderdale in the fall. The ship will then sail South America and the Caribbean on 7-to-23-night itineraries through March 2021 before heading back to Europe.

Related:  The World's Most Beautiful New Luxury Cruise Ships

7. Carnival Mardi Gras

new cruise ships 2020

When: September 2020

The Scoop: What’s in a name? Pretty much everything when it comes to this exuberant, no-holds-barred ship. Carnival Mardi Gras, the first in its class (although it’s named for Carnival’s first ship) creates six themed "zones" for eating, drinking, and entertainment. There's Grand Central (a three-deck atrium with floor-to-ceiling windows), French Quarter (lined with bars and eateries, including Emeril’s Bistro 1396), Summer Landing (an aft pool zone featuring Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse/Brewhouse), La Piazza (for pizza and Italian cuisine), Lido (the main pool zone lined with casual eateries such as Shaq’s Big Chicken and Blue-Iguana Cantina), and the Ultimate Playground (featuring Bolt, the first rollercoaster at sea). Plus, Mardi Gras’s updated stateroom design features contemporary décor. 

Itineraries:  In September 2020 after a transatlantic journey, Mardi Gras will cruise Canada and New England on a 6-night itinerary, along with a 14-night South Caribbean cruise (both from New York). Then, the ship heads to Port Canaveral for 7-night itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean throughout 2021.

8. Crystal Endeavor

new cruise ships 2020

Onboard Features: Luxury expedition cruising is a hot category and Crystal — which has two ocean ships, five river ships, and one yacht — is joining the fold with 200-passenger Crystal Endeavor, built to PC6 Polar Class specifications but featuring all the top-of-the-line amenities for which the cruise line is known for. Accommodations are all-suite and all-balcony (as well as butler-serviced). Endeavor will feature six dining venues (among them one by master chef Nobu Matsuhisa), a glass-enclosed solarium with a pool, and a 25-person expedition team to lead adventures ashore in some of the world’s most remote locales.

Itineraries:  Crystal Endeavor will offer three 16-night cruises throughout Asia before heading to Australia, New Zealand, and Antarctica through March 2021. At that point, the ship will head back to Asia until June 2021, when it will cruise Alaska and the Arctic. In September 2021, the ship will make its way to Europe before cruising to  South America and Antarctica.

9. Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas

new cruise ships 2020

When: November 2020

Onboard Features: Just when you thought Royal Caribbean ships couldn’t get any bolder, along comes Odyssey of the Seas. First in the cruise line’s Quantum Ultra Class, this 4,198-passenger ship will feature an extra-colorful top deck brimming with enhanced family-friendly activities — both indoors and outdoors. A re-imagined SeaPlex will be the largest indoor activity space at sea with bumper cars, trapeze classes, virtual reality games, and augmented reality walls. Quantum-class favorites — including the North Star glass capsule, RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, and SkyPad bungee trampoline — will all return. Odyssey will also have a two-level pool deck with two pools and four hot tubs, as well as a Splashaway Bay aqua park for younger kids and an adults-only Solarium retreat. Indoors, you'll find other Quantum-class favorites like Music Hall and the Two70 lounge/performance space, along with 15 restaurants and seven bars.

Itineraries: Odyssey will spend her inaugural season in the Caribbean, cruising four-to-eight-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale to the Eastern, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean (including calls on Perfect Day at Cococay ), before heading to the Mediterranean in May 2021. 

Related:  6 Tips for Your First Royal Caribbean Cruise  

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Explore > Cruise > On the Horizon: 6 New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2020

On the Horizon: 6 New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2020

The cruise industry continues to flourish in the new decade, as 32 million people are expected to cruise in 2020. To accommodate the rising interest, 24 new ships are expected to enter service this year. Here is a look at some of the most anticipated ships coming our way.

1. Celebrity Apex

Magic Carpet, the highlight of Celebrity Apex

Debuting in April (and ahead of schedule!) will be the Celebrity Apex, carrying 2,910 guests. The 15 th ship of Celebrity’s fleet has been designed to erase the boundaries between inside and outside spaces. Catching your eye right away will be the Magic Carpet – a cantilevered floating platform that serves as a tendering platform, an open-air bar, and an alfresco specialty restaurant as it traverses up and down the side of the ship.

The entire Resort Deck will carry an outward-facing design, with a terraced pool deck, a two-deck outdoor jogging track, and oceanview cabanas. Perched on the top of the ship is the Rooftop garden, an outdoor space to chill, catch a movie, or dance under the stars. No matter where you are, you will be inspired by and connected to the sea.

This connection continues with the accommodations onboard. You’ll find Edge staterooms with Infinite Veranda that transforms into an open-air living space with a touch of a button. For the ultimate in pampering, there are six categories of suite accommodations with panoramic views and luxurious furnishings. Suite guests have exclusive access to the Retreat Lounge, The Retreat Sun Deck, and a specialty restaurant serving the creations of Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud.

You won’t go hungry with 29 world-class dining venues onboard, serving many types of cuisines. And yes, you’ll dine surrounded by large windows and endless ocean views.

The Celebrity Apex will spend her inaugural season in Europe, starting with sailings to the Norwegian Fjords, followed by a series of 10- and 11-night sailings in the Mediterranean.

Find cruises for Celebrity Apex

2. Enchanted Princess

The thrilling show Rock Opera at Enchanted Princess

Arriving in June, the Enchanted Princess will be home to 3,660 guests and will continue to offer the signature Princess cruise experience with her own unique attractions.

Entertainment takes center stage with the headlining show Rock Opera, where high fashion meets rock music. This innovative production combines classic rock, opera and musical theater, featuring songs in English, Spanish, Latin, and for the first time – sign language. Jazz music fans will love Take 5, a theater delivering the cultural and musical history of jazz through live performances, dance lessons, and interactive workshops. Also onboard is the Phantom Bridge Escape Room, which will keep the entire family entertained as they solve their way out of a time-travel adventure.

In addition to dining favorites such as the Crown Grill and Sabatini’s, Enchanted Princess will also offer Bistro Sur La Mer, an authentic French bistro serving specialty dinners in a casual ambiance. For special occasions, book the Chefs Table Lumiere which includes a behind-the-scenes galley tour and a spectacular multi-course dinner.

Every stateroom will be furnished with the Princess Luxury Bed, designed with the latest research and technology for the ultimate in comfort. But the best in class will be the two-bedroom Sky Suite which measures approximately 1,873 square feet including a 270° continuous balcony that offers prime views of Movies Under The Stars screen, plus a series of exclusive perks.

Enchanted Princess will be sailing in the Central Mediterranean this summer and will reposition to Fort Lauderdale to offer Caribbean cruises in the winter.

Find cruises for Enchanted Princess

3. Carnival Mardi Gras

BOLT The top-deck roller coaster at the Mardi Gras

In November, Carnival Cruise Lines will launch the Mardi Gras, named after the first ship to sail the waters with the Carnival name in 1972. This new Carnival fun ship promises to wow fans looking for an action-packed vacation at sea. The Mardi Gras will be home-based in Port Canaveral and offer seven-day cruises to the Caribbean.

The most anticipated zone on the Mardi Gras has to be the Ultimate Playground – which will be home to the WaterWorks aqua park with twisting water slides, splash zones, a 600-foot suspended ropes course, and the first roller coaster at sea. Yes, you read that right! On an 800-foot track, BOLT will whisk you 187 feet above the air, around Carnival’s signature red funnel, traveling up to 40 miles per hour if you want it – as its speed will be controlled by a foot pedal inside each car.

The ship’s public areas will incorporate six themed zones offering a variety of entertainment and dining venues. The heartbeat of the ship will be Grand Central, a light-filled atrium that is home to specialty restaurants, relaxing bars, and lounges.

Mosey over to the French Quarter, where you’ll find bites and beverages, a Jazz bar, and the first Emeril Lagasse restaurant at sea – Emeril’s Bistro 1396. For a little bit of Italy, check out La Piazza for family-style pastas, 24-hour pizzas, and other Italian favorites.

Outside, dip in the pool, catch some rays and chill with BBQ and craft beers at Summer Landing, featuring Guy Fieri’s Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse / Brewhouse.

Accommodations will be family-friendly with staterooms that sleep up to five. New onboard will be the Carnival Excel Suites, the top of the line accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas, wraparound balconies, and exclusive access to Loft 19 – a private enclave with cabanas, infinity pool, and dedicated concierge service.

Find cruises for Carnival Mardi Gras

4. MSC Virtuosa

The ultimate guest experience with Zoe, MSC's Personal assistant

MSC Cruises’ 18th ship – and one of the largest at 6,334 capacity – will arrive in early November. The amenity-filled ship includes an expansive Galleria central promenade lined with shops and eateries under an LED dome (think Freemont Street experience in Vegas), a large pool area with a big movie screen, the MSC Aurea Spa with treatment rooms, and MSC Gym powered by Technogym cardio equipment.

Known for the variety of entertainment and activity options, MSC will not disappoint with the Virtuosa, offering a Sportsplex gaming facility, F1 race car simulators, a full-sized bowling alley, a ropes course, an extensive aqua park, and two brand new Cirque du Soleil shows performed in the custom-built theatre.

Accommodations range from staterooms for one to cabins for families up to 10. At the top level is the MSC Yacht Club with lavish suites, 24-hour butler and concierge, all-inclusive meals and beverages served in-suite or at the club’s private restaurant. Other Yacht Club perks include complimentary visits to MSC Aurea Spa’s thermal area and exclusive access to The One Sun Deck and Top Sail Lounge.

A leader in onboard technology, MSC will incorporate sustainable, emissions-reducing systems into the design of the Virtuosa, as well as enhance the guest experience through the MSC for ME app and the world’s first personal cruise assistant ZOE, found in every stateroom.

MSC Virtuosa will sail the Mediterranean starting in November and will offer flexible embarkation and debarkation points, as well as itineraries of three to seven nights.

Find cruises for MSC Virtuosa

5.  Odyssey of the Seas

Guests having fun at the Skydiving simulator

Also arriving in November will be Royal Caribbean’s second Quantum Ultra Class ship named Odyssey of the Seas. The Odyssey will feature the signature hallmarks of Quantum Class ships such as the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, FlowRider surf simulator, and the SeaPlex indoor activity complex. In addition, exciting action can be found at the Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, and the SkyPad VR bungee trampoline experience. A Solarium, pools, and whirlpools offer relaxation for the adults, and Splashaway Bay aqua park will keep the kids busy.

Dining continues to be Royal Caribbean’s strong suit, with Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Lime & Coconut cocktail bar, El Loco Fresh Mexican fare, and the robotic bartenders of the Bionic Bar taking center stage, along with classic venues like Chop’s Grille steakhouse, Windjammer Café, and whimsical Wonderland.

The Odyssey will feature accommodations for everyone from solo travelers to spa lovers and multi-gen families. The Royal Suite Class accommodations cater to discerning guests, with their own Royal Genie butler to take care of every need. Guests staying in the top suites will also have VIP access to the Suite Club with private dining rooms, an upscale Solarium, and a private sun deck.

Odyssey of the Seas will spend her inaugural season sailing to the Caribbean from Ft Lauderdale. In spring 2021 she will reposition to Rome and offer 7-12 night cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean and the Greek isles.

Find Cruises for Odyssey of the Seas

6. Scarlet Lady

The Scarlet Lady makes her debut on April 2020

Perhaps the biggest news announcement made in recent years was that Sir Richard Branson is finally getting into the cruise business. Virgin Voyages will launch with the Scarlet Lady in March and it will begin sailing in April, offering four- and five-night departures from Miami to Key West, the Mayan Riviera, and the Beach Club at Bimini.

Virgin will disrupt the market with its innovated cabin design, and that includes special mood lighting, hammock-equipped terraces, and a Seabed that transforms from couch and lounger by day to beds by night. Then there are the Rockstar Suites, outfitted with a music room, an outdoor hot tub, and come with complimentary drinks, access to the spa thermal suites, Richard’s Rooftop lounge, and even a hair and make-up team – what every celebrity needs.

The adults-only (18+) cruise line will have the first sea-going tattoo parlor (yes, real tattoos!), all complimentary dining with over 20 eateries, and included beverages such as sodas, still and sparkling waters. To reduce nickel-and-diming onboard, gratuities are also included in the fare.

Public venues will exude a hip and sexy vibe. Music and nightlife will be the main focus, with boundary-pushing performances, private karaoke rooms, a vinyl records shop, and DJs spinning tunes. For the active set, there is an outdoor running track, a fully-equipped gymnasium, and complimentary fitness classes. Afterward, indulge in treatments at the Redemption Spa, dip in the pool, or chill on one of the double daybeds at the chic Aquatic Club.

We hope to see you aboard one of these fun and exciting ships. Pack your things and get ready to make new friends and new memories.

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new cruise ships 2020

Top New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2020

new cruise ships 2020

In our 3rd annual guide to the Top New Cruise Ships (2020 Edition), we highlight 9 of the most anticipated cruise ships you’ll likely want to book for 2020.

New Cruise Ships 2020

Several of the cruise lines on our list are evolving the proven designs from existing ship classes and expanding their fleets, one luxury cruise line is entering into the expedition cruise market, two other cruise lines are launching their largest vessels ever, and a brand-new cruise line is readying their first ship for launch.

Note: This list is ordered by cruise ship launch date

Seven Seas Splendor

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: February 2020 Ship Class: 2 nd Explorer-Class Ship Home-Port: Various Ports for European and Miami for Caribbean Size: 55,254 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 750 Guests (double), 542 Crew

Famous for their all suite accommodations, Regent Seven Seas Cruises next vessel Seven Seas Splendor , will continue the lines tradition of sophisticated elegant interiors, and one of the most inclusive experiences in the luxury market. At just over 55,000 gross tons, Seven Seas Splendor is what you would call an intimate ship, and aside from her small size, the guest to crew ratio will result in an unparalleled level of service. Seven Seas Splendor will sail seasonally in Europe during the summer and fall, winters in the Caribbean and special long duration Grand Voyages.

Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: April 2020 Ship Class: 2 nd Edge-Class Ship Home-Port: Barcelona, Spain: Southampton, England; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy: Fort Lauderdale, Florida Size: 129,500 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 2,910 Guests (double), 1,320 Crew

Celebrity Apex , Celebrity Cruises second Edge class ship, features a design that envelopes guests with sea views from just about anywhere. Apex has many transformational spaces like Eden and the Magic Carpet which offer a variety of experiences and moods from day into evening. Add to that, innovative elements like the Infinite Verandahs, which bring more of outdoor living to stateroom interiors, a chic Rooftop Garden and a pool deck with one of the longest pools at sea. Celebrity Apex will sail seasonal summer itineraries from Barcelona, Spain and Civitavecchia, Italy and fall and winter departures to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale.

Scarlet Lady

Virgin Voyages

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: April 2020 Ship Class: 1 st Ship for Virgin Voyages Home-Port: Miami, Florida Size: 110,000 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 2,770 Guests (double), 1,150 Crew

Brand new cruise lines don’t enter the cruise market very often and many that do, go under the radar of most cruisers. Other new cruise line brands, however, don’t have an international presence or one of the best brand ambassadors around, like Sir Richard Branson. Scarlet Lady , the first cruise ship from Virgin Voyages will be unique in many ways. For starters, there’s no kids allowed, 18 and up only. Onboard, just about anywhere you go will scream Virgin style, with ultra-contemporary furnishings and amenities like a tattoo parlor and record shop. While there will be an emphasis on healthy cruising, with complimentary fitness classes, you’ll still be able to indulge at the over 20 included dining venues. Speaking of inclusions, how about free gratuities, Wi-Fi, filtered water and sodas. During Scarlet Lady’s inaugural year, sailors will be able to select from itineraries including 4 nights to Key West & Bimini, 5 night to Riviera Maya or Dominican Republic and 7 night special holiday sailings all departing from Miami.

P & O Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: May 2020 Ship Class : 1 st Excellence-Class Ship Home-Port: Southampton, U.K, Size: 183,900 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 5,200 Guests (double), 1,600 Crew

As the largest ship ever built for P&O Cruises, Iona will take the cruise line, which caters to the U.K. market, in a bold new direction. Built on the same platform as AIDANova, Costa Smeralda and Carnival’s Mardi Gras, sister brands of Carnival Corporation, Iona will also run on liquefied natural gas. The ship will feature over 30 dining options, the first distillery at sea and a massive glass SkyDome cascading sunshine and starry night skies to the pool and sun deck below. Iona itineraries include the Norwegian Fjords, Western Europe, Spain & Portugal and the Canary Islands, all round trip from Southampton, England.

Enchanted Princess

Princess Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: June 2020 Ship Class: 5 th Royal-Class Ship Home-Port: Barcelona, Spain,: Civitavecchia, Italy; Piraeus, Greece; Southampton  England; Fort Lauderdale, Florida Size: 141,000 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 3,660 Guests (double), 1,346 Crew

With rapid growth plans over the next several years, Princess Cruises’ Enchanted Princess will be the line’s fifth Royal-Class ship, but feature the latest evolutions found on her most recent sister ship Sky Princess. These include more hot tubs, a newly designed main pool deck with dancing fountains, retreat pool and infinity WakeView aft pool. They’ll also be new kids and teens spaces and unparalleled luxury of two Sky Suites offering tons of space for up to 5 guests with two bedrooms and bathrooms and a massive 700 square foot balcony. Enchanted Princess will debut from Southampton, and alternate Mediterranean itineraries from other ports throughout the Summer before repositioning to her winter homeport of Fort Lauderdale where she’ll cruise alternating 7 night Eastern & Western Caribbean itineraries.

Crystal Endeavor

Crystal Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: August 2020 Ship Class: 1 st Expedition Ship Home-Port: Various Ports for Alaska, Europe, Antarctica, Asia, Australia & South America Size: 20,000 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 200 Guests (double), 200 Crew

Crystal Cruises is taking their 6 star excellence to expedition cruising. With an unmatched 1 to 1 staff to guest ratio, Crystal Endeavor , the line’s first expedition ship, will keep guests pampered while on their cruise of discovery and adventure. The ship will feature six dining venues, luxurious all suite accommodations, a glass enclosed solarium, The Marina fold out platform, high end shopping, wellness spa and several lounges providing incredible views, entertainment, learning experiences and social opportunities. Crystal Endeavor will sail to adventurous locales exploring exciting destinations in Alaska, Europe, Antarctica, Asia, Australia & South America.

Carnival Cruise Line

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: August 2020 Ship Class: 1 st Excel-Class Ship Home-Port: Southampton, England; New York, New York; Port Canaveral, Florida Size: 180,800 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 5,282 Guests (double), 1,745 Crew

Carnival Cruise Line’s Mardi Gras is not only their largest ship ever, it’s also a vast departure in design, amenities and style than what we’ve seen from Carnival before. Powered by liquefied natural gas, Mardi Gras will feature the world’s first roller coaster at sea. Named Bolt, the electric ride vehicles will reach speeds up to 40mph. There’s also a totally brand-new design of Carnival WaterWorks, SportSquare and the main pool deck. Carnival favorites like BlueIguana Cantina, Guy’s Burger Joint, Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse|Brewhouse, SeaFood Shack and more are back, joined by new venues Shaq’s Big Chicken, Street Eats, RedFrog Tiki Bar and Emeril’s Bistro 1396.

There’s the new multi-level Grand Central atrium, summer landing aft pool area, reimagined Havana Bar & Pool, Al fresco dining opportunities and all-new stateroom and suite designs. You’ll also find new Carnival entertainment and show venues, spa experiences and debut of Carnival’s Excel level suites, featuring a host of amenities and perks like access to the Loft 19 pool and sun deck. After a maiden transatlantic voyage, Mardi Gras will sail two cruises from New York including one that will reposition her to Port Canaveral, Florida, where she’ll sail alternating 7 night Eastern & Western Caribbean itineraries through at least April 2022.

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: November 2020 Ship Class: 2 nd Quantum Ultra-Class Ship Home-Port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida Size: 169,379 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 4,246 Guests (double), 1,551 Crew

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas will be the first of their popular Quantum-class vessels to homeport from Florida. The ship will feature the latest technology along with several interesting interactive elements. Like sister Quantum Ultra class ship Spectrum of the Seas, Odyssey will include class-specific venues like the Music Hall, Royal Esplanade, Two70, North Star, the SeaPlex and RipCord by iFLY. Plus, the best features from around the fleet including SkyPad, Lime & Coconut Pool Bar, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Splashaway Bay, FlowRider and solarium with pool, the most popular included and specialty restaurants, kids and teen spaces and Vitality Spa & Fitness Center.

Odyssey of the Seas will debut from Fort Lauderdale, Florida in November 2020 and offer 4 to 8 night cruises through April 2021 and will reposition to Europe for the 2021 Summer/Fall cruise season.

MSC Virtuosa

MSC Cruises

New Cruise Ships 2020

Launching: November 2020 Ship Class: 2 nd Meraviglia Plus-Class Ship Home-Port: Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia, Italy; Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; Palermo, Italy Size: 181,000 Gross Tons Guests/Crew: 4,800 Guests (double), 1,700 Crew

MSC Virtuosa will share the title of largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet along with her sister MSC Grandiosa. The ship will offer the most popular features found on other Meraviglia-Class vessels, including the LED domed Promenade, with more venues to drink and dine, two all new Cirque du Soleil shows available per sailing, massive aqua park, over a dozen dining venues, F1 racing simulator and the exclusive MSC Yacht Club and Aurea Experience private areas. Guests will also be able to utilize ZOE, MSC Cruises digital cruise assistant. MSC Virtuosa will offer varying 4 to 7-night Mediterranean itineraries.

That’s our list the Top New Cruise Ships 2020. It’s going to be another exciting year for the cruise industry. Which one is your favorite? Did you see any ship you are interested in sailing on? Let us know in the comments.

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The fast-growing cruise industry always seems to have a slew of exciting new ships coming launching each year. And next year is no different, with an impressive batch of new cruise ships representing all sizes and styles. Check out these new cruise ships set to debut in 2020.  

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady  

The first ship from Richard Branson’s new cruise line features mostly balcony and oceanview  cabins  and  carr ies  2,700-plus passengers.   

The ship will be all about having fun with a stylishly casual, rock and roll vibe. The ship offers 20 dining venues but no main dining room. All meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included in your fare. The ship also is filled with  roving entertainment,  bars, lounges and spa and fitness venues.  

Captain Wendy Williams will be at the helm of the adults-only ship as it sets sail from Miami on voyages to the Caribbean. Itineraries include stops at Bimini in the Bahamas for party time at the private island oasis Bimini Beach Club.   

Scarlet Lady is the first of three ships that Virgin Voyages has in the works. The others are scheduled to debut in 2021 and 20222.   

MSC Virtuosa

MSC Cruises MSC  Virtuosa  

This MSC Cruises’ mega-ship (2,441 staterooms  and able to carry more than  6,000 passengers) will be music to the ears of cruisers. Each deck is named for an instrument, and entertainment will include two new Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows.   

The ship will offer a wide range of activities and amenities, such as the Polar Aquapark, TV Studio and Bar (for talent contests, quizzes, games and watching live sports), clubs, MSC Aurea Spa , MSC Gym, SportsPlex, central promenade and Atmosphere Pool with a big screen.  MSC  Virtuosa  is scheduled to set sail in November 2020 and take cruisers on voyages in the Mediterranean.  

Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Apex  

Celebrity Apex is set to debut in spring 2020 and will be the second in the cruise line’s Celebrity Edge Class. The ship will carry 2,900 passengers and sail Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale.   

Features include The Magic Carpet cantilevered flexible space that can be used to provide additional venues (bars, lounges, eateries) at several deck positions as it moves along the side of the ship. Celebrity Apex also will offer The Retreat for suite passengers, The Rooftop Garden oasis, staterooms that feature Infinite Veranda indoor/outdoor balcony designs and a gorgeous Resort Deck offering the main pool and lounger areas outside.  

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection Azora 

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection   

The new cruise line is set to offer luxury cruises on the first of three planned custom-built yachts from the company with a legacy in the hotel and resorts industry.  

Ritz Carlton’s first ship, a yet-to-be-named 298-passenger yacht  (due to launch in February  2020 ), features staterooms with private terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows. Passengers will be able to dine at five different restaurants, and watersports will launch from the aft sports marina, with kayaks and standup paddleboards available. The ship’s inaugural cruise will set sail from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean , and it will sail voyages around the globe in its first year.  

Mardi Gras

Carnival Cruise Line Mardi Gras  

Carnival Mardi Gras is set to debut in August 2020 as the largest ship in the fleet for the biggest cruise line. The 5,200-passenger vessel also introduces an innovative concept of “Zones,” six themed regions onboard. These spaces — Grand Central, The French Quarter, Summer Landing, La Piazza, Lido and the Ultimate Playground – will house a variety of activities, amenities and eateries.   

Eight New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2020 | 10

Also, Carnival Mardi Gras also brings the first roller-coaster at sea , Bolt, which allows riders to control their speeds as they zoom around the ship, enjoying the views from high above. The ship will be based in Port Canaveral and sail Caribbean cruises .

Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Seas  

Debuting in fall 2020, Odyssey of the Seas represents Royal Caribbean’s second Quantum Ultra class ship (Spectrum of the Seas). This is the next generation class from the ships Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.  

Odyssey of the Seas will sail from a port to be named in the United States and is set to carry more than 4,200 passengers. It will feature Royal Caribbean’s first “ship-within-a-ship” experience, meaning passengers can book suites in a special area that offers a more exclusive program of dining, concierge services, lounge and pool area.  

Silversea Silver Origin

Silversea Silver Origin  

This new ship is purpose-built for Galapagos expeditions . Silver Origin is a luxury ship that carries up to 100 passengers for adventurous exploration. The all-suite expedition ship offers butler service, two restaurants, a fleet of eight Zodiacs and an exquisite Explorer Lounge and Basecamp (staging venue to prepare for skiff launches for each adventure).   

Silver Origin is due to set sail in summer 2020 for weeklong voyages between  Baltra  and San Cristobal.  

Crystal Endeavor

Crystal Cruises Crystal Endeavor  

This is the luxury cruise line’s first expedition ship , joining its fleet of ocean and river vessels.   

Crystal Endeavor  is an all-suite, all-balcony expedition ship that promises to offer the pinnacle of all-inclusive luxury and service, sailing with just 200 passengers and a 1-to-1 passenger to crew ratio. Crystal Endeavor boasts six specialty Michelin-inspired restaurants , a  casino,  glass-enclosed solarium, Crystal Life Spa, butler service, two eight-passenger helicopters and a submarine.

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The 26 best new cruise ships for 2024.

Check out these exciting new vessels before booking your next cruise.

The Best New Cruise Ships

Water park on back end of Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas will be the world's biggest new cruise ship.

Cruising is one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, with passenger numbers projected to reach 37.2 million by 2025, according to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Cruise lines are responding to this growth by building new (and often, larger) vessels with all the bells and whistles, including technological advancements that are more environmentally friendly and create the capability to use alternative fuels.

U.S. News has compiled this roundup of new cruise ships that have just set sail or are scheduled to launch later in 2023 and in 2024, plus a preview of new ships coming in 2025 and beyond. The list includes everything from expedition and luxury yacht-style vessels to reimagined ships and megaships – plus the debut of a brand-new cruise line.

  • New ships for 2023
  • New ships for 2024
  • New ships for 2025 (and beyond)

Oceania Vista: May 2023

Oceania Cruises' Vista ship Atrium with staircase.

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Top feature: Luxurious, distinctive spaces

Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's first new ship in 10 years. The 1,200-passenger, all-veranda vessel features a fresh interior design inspired by nature. The elegant new signature spaces include the dramatic Grand Staircase, the reimagined Martinis bar, the clubby Grand Lounge and 180-degree ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Horizons.

Another highlight of the new ship is the luxurious Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Elevated dining concepts on Oceania Vista include the new venue Ember, wellness-inspired cuisine at Aquamar Kitchen and The Bakery at Baristas, which specializes in French and Italian pastries.

Book an  Oceania  cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival Venezia: May 2023

Exterior of Carnival Venezia outside St. Thomas.

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Top feature: Italian-style ship

Fares begin around: $419 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night cruise to the Bahamas

Sails to: Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Panama Canal

Originally built for the Chinese cruise market in 2019, Carnival Venezia first sailed throughout Asia under the Costa Cruises brand. It headed to Europe in 2020, then was reintroduced as a Carnival Cruise Line vessel in 2023. The rebranded ship, now homeported in the U.S., features Carnival's "Fun Italian Style" concept, with Venetian-style artwork and the Piazza San Marco atrium – not to mention Italian-inspired beverages and dishes at venues like Frizzante, Amari, Marco Polo, the Canal Grande Restaurant and La Strada Grill.

The 4,090-passenger ship has classic Carnival favorites, too, like Bonsai Teppanyaki, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, Piano Bar 88 and the Serenity Bar. Guests will also find Carnival's Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, three kids clubs, the outdoor SportSquare and onboard water park WaterWorks.

Find a  Carnival  cruise on GoToSea.

Resilient Lady: May 2023

Exterior of the Resilient Lady.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Top feature: New and exciting entertainment offerings

Fares begin around: $2,550 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to the Greek islands

Sails to: Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia and South Pacific

Virgin Voyages' third adults-only ship , Resilient Lady , debuted with its MerMaiden voyage sailing the Greek islands in May 2023. The new 2,762-passenger ship offers the same features as its sister ships, including more than 20 dining venues with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs, an impressive fitness and wellness program, and superyacht-inspired cabins.

The immersive entertainment is one highlight on the new Virgin ship, with shows like rock 'n' roll "Persephone," a concept from the Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes produced by Kaleidoscope Immersive. The Supper Club Series featuring Another Rose is a new show by Randy Weiner of theatrical performance "Sleep No More." The evening with the Supper Club includes a dining experience with cabaret and acrobatic performances in a tale of ill-fated love.

Explore  Virgin Voyages  deals on GoToSea.

MSC Euribia: June 2023

The Carousel Lounge on the MSC Euribia.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Top feature: Commitment to sustainable cruising and environmental stewardship

Fares begin around: $219 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Northern Europe cruise

Sails to: Northern and Western Europe

The LNG-powered MSC Euribia has several features that exemplify the line's commitment to sustainable cruising , including an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system and energy-saving equipment like smart heating, air conditioning and ventilation. MSC Euribia's hull, decorated with the hashtag #SaveTheSea, was designed by artist Alex Flämig and is also a symbol of MSC Cruises ' dedication to preserving our fragile marine ecosystem.

One of the most striking features on MSC's fifth (and final) Meraviglia-class ship is the two-story Galleria Euribia. The 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade – lined with shops, restaurants and bars – sits beneath the longest LED dome at sea. Another highlight is the Carousel Lounge at the aft of the ship. The new space features floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor and outdoor areas, and Big Band at Sea: a 19-piece in-house group of musicians and entertainers. MSC Euribia can accommodate up to 6,327 passengers.

Compare  MSC Cruises  on GoToSea.

Viking Saturn: June 2023

The Deluxe Veranda Stateroom aboard the Viking Star.

Courtesy of Viking

Top feature: "Residential design" (found on all Viking ocean vessels)

Fares begin around: $2,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Mainland Europe, British Isles, Iceland, Mediterranean and India

The 930-passenger Viking Saturn is the ninth ship in the Viking Ocean Cruises fleet and identical in design to its eight sister ships. The all-veranda vessel offers six categories of accommodations ranging from the 270-square-foot Veranda Stateroom to the spacious 1,448-square-foot Owner's Suite. On board, guests will enjoy the sleek, elegant Scandinavian-inspired public spaces and lounges. The line's enrichment program includes lectures with resident historians, TED Talks and sessions with world-renowned guest speakers. There are eight dining venues featuring destination-focused cuisine, the Nordic Spa with its snow grotto, two pools and hot tubs, and a sports deck.

Book a  Viking Ocean cruise on GoToSea.

Norwegian Viva: August 2023

Guests in Haven Courtyard and pool aboard the Norwegian Viva:.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Top feature: Indulge Food Hall

Fares begin around: $629 per person (double occupancy) for an eight-night Greek islands cruise

The line's second Prima-class ship, Norwegian Viva mirrors the elevated design of sister ship Norwegian Prima . The new ship features six complimentary dining venues, including globally inspired dishes at Indulge Food Hall, pub fare at The Local Bar & Grill and 270-degree ocean views at the beautifully redesigned main restaurant, Hudson's.

The Haven on Viva is the most exclusive and spacious private enclave in Norwegian Cruise Line 's fleet; it was designed by one of Italy's leading designers, Piero Lissoni. Guests will also find updated styling at Mandara Spa. There's no shortage of entertainment on Viva; it's home to the first free-fall dry slide in the world, a three-story racetrack, high-tech mini-golf and the musical "Beetlejuice." Viva has the capacity to carry up to 3,099 guests.

Find a  Norwegian Cruise Line  itinerary on GoToSea.

Explora I: August 2023

The Conservatory Pool & Bar on the Explora I.

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

Top feature: Luxury details and design, with a focus on sustainability

Fares begin around: $3,000 per person (double occupancy) for a six-night cruise to the Caribbean and Columbia

Sails to: Mediterranean and Western Europe, Caribbean and Central America, U.S. (including Hawaii) and Canada, Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

Explora I is the first of six luxury vessels for new cruise line Explora Journeys. Owned by the Aponte family and MSC Group, the elegant 922-guest ship combines Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship, offering suites and residences that are comfortable and spacious enough to be considered "homes at sea."

Guests can explore 14 decks offering nearly 27,000 square feet of outdoor space. Lounge at four pools (one with a retractable glass roof), book a rejuvenating body treatment at the spa, work out at the fitness center or browse the boutiques. There are also six dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen for culinary classes and private dining. Regional wine pairings will accompany the onboard dining experience, which includes Pan-Asian, Mediterranean and French cuisine, as well as classic steakhouse offerings.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Silver Nova: August 2023

S.A.L.T. Kitchen aboard the Silver Nova.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Top feature: Ship's asymmetrical deck plan, which offers more open spaces and higher ceilings

Fares begin around: $3,850 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Central and South America

Sails to: Caribbean, Central America, South America, U.S. West Coast, Alaska, Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Silversea Cruises' newest ship is the 728-guest Silver Nova . The 12th vessel in the fleet is ultra-luxurious and offers one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the industry. Two highlights are the ship's asymmetrical design and aft suites, which have 270-degree views. Silver Nova's nine dining options include S.A.L.T. Kitchen's destination-inspired menus, Silversea 's classic dining experience at Atlantide and French cuisine at La Dame. Silver Nova is also Silversea's most environmentally friendly vessel yet.

Explore  Silversea  cruises on GoToSea.

Seven Seas Grandeur: November 2023

Regent Suite Bathroom aboard the Seven Seas Grandeur.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Top feature: "Journey in Jewels," the first Fabergé egg at sea

Fares begin around: $3,799 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Mexico and Central America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Panama Canal

The 746-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur will be Regent Seven Seas Cruises' third Explorer-class vessel when it launches late this fall. While Grandeur is similar to its two sister ships, Explorer and Splendor , the new vessel features updated lounges, restaurants, spa spaces and suites. The line's signature Regent Suite – coming in at an impressive 4,443 square feet – has also been redesigned by Miami firm Studio DADO.

A few additional standout spaces include the art nouveau design of the Observation Lounge (located at the bow of the ship) and the reimagined Serene Spa. The stunning new Compass Rose is the ship's main dining room. Meanwhile, the onboard art collection is also notable: Seven Seas Grandeur will set sail with the first Fabergé egg at sea.

Compare  Regent Seven Seas  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Ascent: November 2023

Private dining room at Le Voyage restaurant aboard the Celebrity Ascent.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Top feature: 32 restaurants, bars and lounges, including the redesigned Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud

Fares begin around: $756 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night cruise to Puerto Rico and the Caribbean

Sails to: Europe, Caribbean

The fourth ship in Celebrity Cruises' Edge class, Celebrity Ascent , will accommodate up to 3,260 passengers and offer the same features as other ships in the series. There are 32 bars, lounges and restaurants, including the newly designed Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud.

Other favorites from the Edge-class ships will return on Ascent, such as the multideck Sunset Bar and an open-air Rooftop Garden with floating pools that are cantilevered over the edge of the ship. It's also home to Celebrity's Magic Carpet, a multipurpose 90-ton deck that moves up and down the side of the ship between Decks 2, 5, 14 and 16; it's used for everything from tendering passengers to hosting happy hours and private functions and late-night parties. Guests will also find Celebrity 's innovative Infinite Veranda staterooms and the exclusive ship-within-a ship concept of The Retreat.

Book a  Celebrity Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Carnival Jubilee: December 2023

Carnival Jubilee under construction.

Top feature: Two new ocean-themed zones, Currents and The Shores

Fares begin around: $669 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Western Caribbean

Carnival's newest ship in the Excel class, Carnival Jubilee , will offer six zones (fun themed areas) for up to 6,631 passengers. The LNG-powered vessel features two new zones: Currents and The Shores. Currents is an immersive space with innovative technology such as LED windows and a wave-shaped LED Ceiling. Located on Decks 6 and 7, the space offers new venues for imbibing, dining and listening to live music, such as casual bar Inks, Ph.D and stylish lounge The Golden Mermaid. This is also where you'll find Emeril's Bistro 717.

The Shores, located on Deck 8, features a three-deck-high art installation of a school of fish, a boardwalk, and vibrant colors throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. Dining and bar venues include Rudi's Seagrill, Cucina del Capitano and Marina Bar. Enjoy other returning Carnival favorites on Jubilee such as the BOLT sea coaster, Waterworks, SportSquare, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina.

new cruise ships 2020

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

Icon of the Seas: January 2024

The Royal Loft Suite aboard Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

Top feature: Largest cruise ship in the world, carrying up to 7,600 passengers

Fares begin around: $1,930 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is the first Icon-class vessel in the Royal Caribbean International fleet – and the first new class of ship since 2014. When the massive vessel debuts in January 2024, it will replace Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas as the largest ship at sea (Icon of the Seas is 6% larger). The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods – including the new Surfside neighborhood, a colorful space geared toward family fun with kids clubs, Splashaway Bay, themed eateries and bars, adjacent staterooms and more.

There are four additional new neighborhoods as well. Thrill Island features Category 6, the largest water park at sea, while Chill Island boasts the line's first swim-up bar and The Hideaway features the first suspended infinity pool at sea. AquaDome, the impressive glass-enclosed space at the top of the ship, is home to the AquaTheater, panoramic ocean views, a waterfall, and bars and restaurants.

Read: The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Sun Princess: February 2024

Park19 lookout and splash pad on the Sun Princess.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Top feature: Princess Cruises' largest ship and the first in the line's Sphere class

Fares begin around: $577 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean, Mediterranean

Sun Princess will have many new attractions when it launches in early 2024. It has the most balconies on any Princess Cruises ' ship, and you'll find exciting new dining, activity and entertainment offerings. One notable highlight is Park19, a top-deck space with activities for kids of all ages, including the Sea Breeze Rollglider, the first ride of its kind on a cruise ship. This new attraction soars 19 decks high and offers unparalleled views of the ocean below.

Cruisers can enjoy additional spaces like a two-story dome that is a pool during the day and a stage for shows at night; the European-inspired Piazza, which offers ocean vistas from nearly every angle; the Princess Arena, a high-tech performance space; the elegant three-story Horizons Dining Room; and the new Wake View Terrace with an infinity pool. There are also new styles of accommodations and expanded offerings for young children, tweens and teens. Sun Princess can accommodate up to 4,300 passengers.

Queen Anne: May 2024

The Bright Lights Society show bar on Cunard Line's Queen Anne.

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Top feature: The Pavilion, a glass-enclosed pool area with a retractable roof

Fares begin around: $1,199 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Canary Islands, Mediterranean, Northern and Western Europe, Iceland, British Isles, Australia, Asia, Africa and Indian Ocean

When Queen Anne launches in spring 2024, it will be Cunard Line's 249th ship since the company's inception in 1840, and the line's first new vessel in 14 years. The 3,000-passenger ship will feature a fresh, modern design, yet still give a nod to the Cunard's art deco past.

Once on board, guests will discover new entertainment venues like the Bright Lights Society show bar and more wide-open spaces throughout the ship, as well as Cunard 's first two-story theater. New international dining options include Japanese restaurant Aji Wa with sushi and omakase menus, plus Indian cuisine at Aranya. Queen Anne also offers an extensive health and wellness program in collaboration with health group Mareel that features a large thermal suite, a spa pool and a top-deck wellness studio.

Find a  Cunard  cruise on GoToSea.

Utopia of the Seas: July 2024

The Ultimate Abyss slide on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas.

Top feature: Three- and four-night ultimate weekend getaways

Fares begin around: $471 per person (double occupancy) for a three-night Bahamas cruise

Sails to: Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island)

Utopia of the Seas will be Royal Caribbean's sixth (and final) Oasis-class ship when it debuts in summer 2024. With a capacity of 5,668 passengers, the vessel will join the line's other Oasis- and Icon-class ships as the largest cruise ships sailing on the high seas. The ship will have the same eight neighborhoods as other Oasis-class ships, including Central Park, The Boardwalk and the Pool & Sports Zone.

The 40-plus food and beverage options will include new additions like the Pesky Parrot bar and a themed "mixed reality" dining experience that takes place on a train. A reimagined playscape is another addition, with nets, games, puzzles, slides and climbing walls for junior cruisers. The line's Ultimate Abyss – a dry slide with 10 stories of thrilling twists and turns – will now stretch an additional 43 feet, making it the longest dry slide at sea.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands and What They Offer

Explora II: August 2024

Top feature: Luxurious cabins

Fares begin around: $4,500 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Mediterranean cruise

Sails to: Caribbean and Central America, Mediterranean, Arabian Peninsula and Red Sea, India, Indian Ocean and Africa

As sister ship to Explora I, Explora II will offer the same transformative travel experience for 922 guests. The luxury vessel will feature 461 oceanfront suites with private terraces. Cruisers can take advantage of 11 culinary options across six dining venues, a dozen indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, and a Chef's Kitchen. Guests will also have access to four pools, 64 private cabanas and wellness facilities.

Silver Ray: Summer 2024

Exterior of the Silver Ray.

Top feature: One of the most spacious ships ever built; extraordinary space-to-guest ratio

Fares begin around: $4,000 per person (double occupancy) for a nine-night cruise to South America

Sails to: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles, South America, Caribbean and Central America

Silver Ray, Silversea's second Nova-class ship, is scheduled to set sail in summer 2024. The 728-passenger, low-emissions vessel will offer the same advanced hybrid fuel technologies as its sister ship, Silver Nova. It will also have Silver Nova's horizontal layout and asymmetrical design, creating more open public areas and providing suites with 270-degree views. In addition, guests on board the luxury vessel will have their choice of eight dining venues and a wide selection of bars and lounges, including The Marquee, a new alfresco restaurant.

Viking Vela: December 2024

Wintergarden on a Viking ship.

Top feature: Larger than Viking's other ocean vessels, carrying up to 998 passengers

Fares begin around: $4,999 per person (double occupancy) for a 12-night northern lights cruise

Sails to: Scandinavia, British Isles, Iceland

Measuring 748 feet long and 101 feet wide, Viking Vela will be the line's largest ship when it debuts at the end of 2024. It will accommodate 68 more passengers than its sister ships, but feature Viking's signature veranda staterooms, public spaces, amenities and dining venues. Seasoned Viking cruisers can look forward to favorites like The Nordic Spa, the Wintergarden, Mamsen's, the Explorers' Lounge, the Sports Deck, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant and The Chef's Table.

Disney Treasure: December 2024

The Grand Hall of the Disney Treasure.

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Top feature: Debut of new Disney Parks-inspired onboard venues

Fares begin around: $4,028 per person (double occupancy) for a seven-night Caribbean cruise

Sails to: Eastern and Western Caribbean, Castaway Cay (Disney Cruise Line's private island)

Fans of Disney Cruise Line will find many familiar venues, attractions and restaurants on the new Disney Treasure, sister ship of Disney Wish . However, there will also be plenty of new features, including the theme of the ship: adventure. The Grand Hall, inspired by the movie "Aladdin," is designed with dark shades of blue, turquoise and gold and features a golden statue of a magic carpet with Aladdin and Jasmine.

Plaza de Coco replaces Disney Wish's "Frozen" dining experience with a two-night Mexican, "Coco"-themed theatrical dinner show. Meanwhile, "Disney The Tale of Moana" – a Broadway-style production based on the film "Moana" – will be exclusive to Disney Treasure. Adults will also find new lounges, such as the Jungle Cruise-themed Skipper Society and the Periscope Pub, which is inspired by "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea." Disney Treasure can carry up to 4,000 passengers.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

MSC World America: Spring 2025

MSC's new futuristic ship – and sister ship to MSC World Europa – will be based in Miami and sail the Caribbean. The LNG-powered, 6,762-passenger ship will offer more than 420,000 square feet of public space and many of the attractions found on World Europa, such as the MSC Luna Park Arena and World Galleria. There will also be more than 30 dining venues, bars and lounges, as well as the line's private enclave, MSC Yacht Club.

Oceania Allura: June 2025

Oceania Allura will be the eighth ship in Oceania's fleet, the second vessel of the line's Allura class and the sister ship to Oceania Vista. The 1,200-passenger Allura will offer the same upscale amenities as Vista, as well as a new Chef's Studio and one of the highest space-to-guest and staff-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry. Allura is scheduled to debut in June 2025.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Star Princess: August 2025

Star Princess is scheduled to set sail in 2025 as the sister ship to Sun Princess. The 4,300-passenger, LNG-powered ship will offer the same features as Sun Princess, including the Dome, the Piazza and the line's Signature Collection Suites. The vessel will also have 29-plus restaurants and bars.

Star of the Seas: Summer 2025

Royal Caribbean plans to introduce Star of the Seas – the second Icon-class vessel and sister to Icon of the Seas – in summer 2025.

Disney Cruise Line: 2025

Disney purchased the former Global Dream from Genting's Dream Cruises in 2022, when it was still being built at the German shipyard MV Werften. Disney plans to base the ship in Singapore for at least five years, offering Disney vacations to the Southeast Asian market. When it launches in 2025, the vessel will be the line's seventh ship and is expected to carry 6,000 passengers. Another newly built, currently unnamed Disney ship is planned to debut in 2025, as well.

Norwegian Cruise Line: 2025 and beyond

The third Prima-class ship is expected to be approximately 10% larger than the first ship in the class, Norwegian Prima (143,535 gross tons). The following ships for the line are anticipated to be even larger, with the fifth and sixth Prima-class vessels (debuting in 2027 and 2028) weighing as much as 171,000 gross tons.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's fifth Edge-class ship will be more eco-friendly, thanks to the addition of a new tri-fueled engine model and the capacity to store three different kinds of fuel, including methanol. The effort toward net-zero emissions and more sustainable cruising is a partnership between Royal Caribbean, the French shipyard Chantiers de L'Atlantique and the technology firm Wärtsilä. A debut date for this ship has not yet been announced.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. She used her extensive experience with cruises to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Cruise Lines
  • Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
  • What to Wear on a Cruise
  • The Best Gay Cruises
  • The Best Transatlantic Cruises

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New cruise ships for 2020

MSC Virtuosa - MSC Cruises

We’ve seen many cruise ships set sail on their maiden voyages in 2019. As we move into 2020, this doesn’t show any signs of slowing down! There are many cruise ships on order for next year, it can be hard to keep track. So, we have compiled a list of all the cruise ships due to set sail in 2020 and join their respective fleets.

Upcoming ships for 2020

Scarlet lady virgin voyages – 1 april 2020.

Scarlet Lady - Virgin Voyages

Not just a new cruise ship, but a new cruise line! Virgin Voyages’ very first cruise ship, Scarlet Lady , will be sailing for the Caribbean as an adult-only holiday paradise. Offering unique venues such as a tattoo parlour, vegan eateries and innovative technologies in every room, Scarlet Lady is certainly one-of-a-kind.

Scarlet Lady will set sail for her inaugural  Fire and Sunset Soir ées itinerary on 1 April 2020, sailing from Miami to Key West, Virgin Voyages’ private island – The Beach Club at Bimini – then back to Miami.

View Scarlet Lady’s maiden voyage

Celebrity apex celebrity cruises – 5 april 2020.

Celebrity Apex - Celebrity Cruises

Sister-ship to the much-anticipated Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Apex will be just as extraordinary. Look forward to seeing the Magic Carpet, enjoying drinks in the brand-new multi-level venue, Eden, and exploring a ship that is designed in true modern luxury for Celebrity Cruises .

Celebrity Apex’s maiden voyage will set sail on an inaugural round-trip cruise from Southampton on 5 April 2020, visiting Bilbao and Lisbon.

View Celebrity Apex’s maiden voyage

Carnival radiance carnival cruise line – 29 april 2020.

Carnival Radiance - Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Radiance will emerge in 2020 from the former shadow of Carnival Victory. Carnival Cruise Line will be refurbishing the ship, adding many more features such as the first-ever Big Chicken restaurant, plus the latest bars and pubs, sports activities, spa amenities and more!

The ship will be setting sail from three homeports – Barcelona, New York and Port Canaveral – offering a wide range of itineraries to suit everyone. Her maiden voyage,  Europe from Barcelona,  will set sail on 29 April for 10-nights.

View Carnival Radiance’s maiden voyage

Iona p&o cruises – 23 may 2020.

Iona - P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises’ latest addition will be offering the next generation of customers the holiday of a lifetime with Iona . With a range of dining venues, innovative social spaces and an inaugural season spent sailing in the Norwegian Fjords, Iona offers the ultimate ship experience for 2020.

Iona’s maiden voyage sets sail from Southampton on a seven-night sailing to the Norwegian Fjords on 23 May 2020.

View Iona’s maiden voyage

Enchanted princess princess cruises – 19 june 2020.

Enchanted Princess - Princess Cruises

The fifth Royal Class ship set to join the Princess Cruises’ fleet in 2020, Enchanted Princess will offer a range of spectacular new attractions all on her own. With the most pools and whirlpool hot tubs ever; world-class entertainment; and the breath-taking new Sky Suite – she surely will enchant all who step aboard!

She will set sail from Rome on 19 June 2020, offering a nine-night  European Explorer Preview Voyage  to the ports of Florence, Toulon, Barcelona, Gibraltar, Lisbon and ending in Southampton.

View Enchanted Princess’ maiden voyage

Spirit of adventure saga ocean – 21 august 2020.

Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery - Saga Ships

Spirit of Adventure is Saga Ocean’s second brand new ship, following Spirit of Discovery in 2019. She will be the sister-ship to Spirit of Discovery, but with a few unique aspects of her own such as two new speciality restaurants and vibrant new cabins, all of which have a private balcony for every guest!

The maiden voyage,  The Inaugural Cruise,  will be setting sail from Dover on a 17-night cruise to ports including Copenhagen, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Stockholm and more.

View Spirit of Adventure’s maiden voyage

Mardi gras carnival cruise line – 31 august 2020.

Mardi Gras - Carnival Cruise Line

Mardi Gras is certainly a ship to get excited about, joining the Carnival Cruise Line fleet in 2020. She will be all-singing, all-dancing in true Carnival Cruise Line style, boasting the first-ever rollercoaster at sea: BOLT™! It will also feature six distinct zones for dining, drinking and all-round fun.

Her maiden voyage will be  Europe from Copenhagen, a nine-night cruise on 31 August 2020 visiting ports including Copenhagen, Kiel, Gothenburg, Oslo, Belgium and more.

View Carnival Mardi Gras’ maiden voyage

Odyssey of the seas royal caribbean – october 2020.

Odyssey of the Seas is the second Quantum Class Ultra ship for Royal Caribbean , after Spectrum of the Seas . She will be setting sail for Europe in late 2020, where she has been confirmed to visit the UK.

As Odyssey of the Seas is still under construction, her itineraries have not been fully confirmed.

MSC Virtuosa MSC Cruises – 13 November 2020

MSC Virtuosa - MSC Cruises

MSC Virtuosa will be joining in November 2020, becoming one of the two largest ships in the MSC Cruises’ fleet – alongside her sister-ship, MSC Grandiosa . Experience fantastic on-board entertainment with Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows, as well as the innovative, virtual cruise assistant – Zoe.

Her maiden voyage will be setting sail on 13 November 2020, departing from Barcelona and visiting ports including Genoa, Palermo, Valletta and more.

View MSC Virtuosa’s maiden voyage

There are plenty of cruise ships setting sail for 2020, each as exciting as the next! Which of these ships would you most like to sail on?

Have you booked your 2020 cruise yet? Read our reasons to book early to see why you should start thinking sooner rather than later to secure your next sailing! Share this:

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Crew of the giant Icon of the Seas cruise ship rescues 14 people adrift in the sea

Authorities say the crew of what is considered the world’s largest cruise ship rescued 14 people clinging to a small boat adrift on the ocean

MIAMI -- The crew of what is considered the world's largest cruise ship rescued 14 people clinging to a small boat adrift on the ocean, authorities said.

Passengers aboard the Icon of the Seas captured video of the crew using a small vessel to ferry the group to the safety of the cruise ship on Sunday. The cruise had begun in Miami, and the ship was headed for Honduras when the rescue happened, passengers said.

The cruise ship encountered the small vessel “adrift and in need of assistance," Miami-based Royal Caribbean said in a statement to The Associated Press on Thursday.

“The ship’s crew immediately launched a rescue operation, safely bringing 14 people on board,” the company said. "The crew provided them with medical attention, and is working closely with the U.S. Coast Guard.”

The crew broadcast “Code Oscar, Code Oscar, Code Oscar,” over the loudspeakers around 3 p.m., Alessandra Amodio said in a report on FoxWeather.com.

Amodio said she watched as people on the tiny craft waved a large white flag.

“The boat turned around, and we pulled up as close as we could to them and stopped,” Amodio said. The cruise ship then launched "a small zodiac-type rescue boat to investigate.”

After the rescue, Amodio said the cruise ship's captain announced that the crew had rescued 14 people stranded at sea for eight days.

The Icon of the Seas is considered by cruise industry experts to be the largest cruise ship in the world at the moment, the Miami Herald reported. It can host 5,610 guests and 2,350 crew members. The ship has 2,850 staterooms, 18 guest decks and seven swimming pools.

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Complete List: All Ships Set to Enter Service for the Royal Caribbean Group

  • March 9, 2024

Silver Ray Float Out

With the recent order of an additional Oasis Class ship , the Royal Caribbean Group is now introducing nine new cruise ships through 2028.

Here’s the complete list of vessels currently on order for all of the group’s five different brands:

Ship:  Mein Schiff 7 Brand: TUI Cruises Debut Date: June 2024 Capacity:  2,900 Tonnage:  110,000 Shipyard: Meyer Turku – Finland

TUI Cruises is welcoming the new Mein Schiff 7 to its fleet this year. Currently in final stages of construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland , the 110,000-ton vessel is scheduled to launch service in Northern Europe in late June.

Ship: Utopia of the Seas Brand: Royal Caribbean International Debut Date: July 2024 Capacity:  5,714 Tonnage:  231,000 Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique – France

The Utopia of the Seas is joining Royal Caribbean International fleet later this year. Set to offer short cruises to the Bahamas departing from Port Canaveral , the Oasis-Class ship is being built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

Ship: Silver Ray Brand: Silversea Cruises Debut Date: August 2024 Capacity:  728 Tonnage:  54,700 Shipyard: Meyer Werft – Germany

Following the 2023-built Silver Nova , the Silver Ray is debuting for Silversea Cruises in 2024. The luxury brand is introducing the LNG-powered vessel in August, with a summer program that features itineraries in the Mediterranean and the Greek Isles.

Ship:  Mein Schiff Relax Brand: TUI Cruises Debut Date: March 2025 Capacity:  4,000 Tonnage:  1 61,000 Shipyard: Fincantieri – Italy

The Mein Schiff Relax is entering service for TUI Cruises in March 2025. Under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the 161,000-ton vessel will become the largest ship in the fleet of the Germany-based cruise line .

Ship:  Star of the Seas Brand: Royal Caribbean International Debut Date: August 2025 Capacity:  5,610 Tonnage:  250 ,800 Shipyard: Meyer Turku – Finland

A sister to the Icon of the Seas, the Star of the Seas is currently being built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland . Set to enter service in August 2025 , the 250,800-ton vessel is spending its inaugural season sailing from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean.

Ship:  Celebrity Xcel Brand: Celebrity Cruises Debut Date: November 2025 Capacity:  3,260 Tonnage:  140 ,600 Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique – France

Celebrity Cruises is introducing another Edge Class ship from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in late 2025. Slightly larger than the initial ships in the series, the Celebrity Xcel is scheduled to enter service in November for an inaugural season in the Caribbean .

Ship:  Unnamed Brand: Royal Caribbean International Debut Date: 2026 Capacity:  5,610 Tonnage:  250 ,800 Shipyard: Meyer Turku – Finland

Following the Star of the Seas, a third Icon-Class ship is set to enter service for Royal Caribbean International in 2026. Details about the LNG-powered vessel and its deployment are expected to be revealed by the brand soon.

  Ship:  Unnamed Brand: TUI Cruises Debut Date: 2026 Capacity:  4,000 Tonnage:  1 61,000 Shipyard: Fincantieri – Italy

Currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, a third newbuild is set to enter service for TUI Cruises in 2026 . Details about the inaugural season of the vessel – which will be a sister of the Mein Schiff Relax – are still to be announced.

  Ship:  Unnamed Brand: Royal Caribbean International Debut Date: 2027 Capacity:  5,714 Tonnage:  231,000 Shipyard: Chantiers de l’Atlantique – France

The Royal Caribbean Group recently ordered a seventh Oasis-Class ship. To be built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France, the 231,000-ton vessel is set to be delivered to Royal Caribbean International in 2028 .

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Drugs gang jailed as cruise ship worker smuggled £2m of cocaine to UK waters near Isle of Wight

  • Isle of Wight
  • Saturday 9 March 2024 at 12:22pm

NCA

A cruise ship worker smuggled £2 million worth of cocaine to UK waters before lowering it to two accomplices on a waiting boat. The trio have now all been jailed.

Milos Bigovic, from Serbia, had hidden the 28kg of cocaine on the Marella Discovery 2 in Cartegena, Colombia, before the liner’s Caribbean voyage was abandoned in March 2020 as the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

The passengers disembarked and the ship returned to Europe, where it moored off the Isle of Wight.

It was on 25 April 2020, that Bigovic dragged the holdall containing the drugs from his cabin to a port-side deck and attached a rope to it.

He lowered it down to his accomplices, Benn Bath, 36, and Joshua Paige, 31, who were waiting in a rigid-hulled inflatable boat (Rhib) below, according to the National Crime Agency (NCA).

An NCA spokesman said: “The drugs, which were smuggled on to the cruise ship, were so heavy the rope burned the skin from Bigovic’s hand.

“Bath and Paige were experienced seamen who worked in the maritime industry."

Their movements were being observed by NCA officers.

The spokesman continued: “In the preceding days, they had sailed Bath’s own boat, the Chatham Albatross, from the River Medway in Kent to the Isle of Wight.

“They had bought the Rhib for £5,000 and towed it from the Albatross so they could get close to the Marella and accept the drugs under cover of darkness.

“The 28kg of cocaine was originally supposed to be smuggled ashore somewhere in Europe.

“But when the Marella Discovery changed course because of lockdown, the organised crime group (OCG) behind the drugs had to change their plans.”

Bigovic, of Pozarevac, near Belgrade, was jailed for 11 years in 2021 having admitted importing cocaine.

Bath from Staplehurst, Kent, was sentenced to 18 years and Paige from High Halstow, Kent, to eight years after being convicted at Winchester Crown Court of the same charge.

NCA investigators then uncovered a second conspiracy involving Bath to import another 90kg of cocaine into the UK onboard a barge from Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

Liam West, 31, of Rochford, Essex, who skippered a tug that towed the barge was jailed for 14 years and accomplices Christopher Mealey, 47, of Liverpool, and Paul Farrell, 44, of Bolton, were jailed for 22 years and 23 years respectively.

NCA operations manager Jules Harriman said: “This OCG clearly had international connections and was able to orchestrate crimes with accomplices abroad that damaged the UK.

“The NCA has the reach and capabilities to tackle such harmful crime groups that have strands overseas and we work with key partners, such as Border Force, to protect the public from the Class A drugs threat.”

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Cruise lines sailing into 2024 seeing strong demand, AAA says

The cruise industry is riding a wave of strong demand into the new year.

" Travel demand is off to a strong start, which means availability will continue to shrink in the next couple of months," Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA, said in a statement. "So, if you want a specific itinerary, ship or cabin type, act fast or you’ll have to start planning for next year instead."

The cruise industry’s "wave season," the three-month period beginning in January, is underway. AAA said this period is the best time to book a cruise due to discounted pricing, cabin upgrades, drink packages and more.

5 CRAZY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE WORLD'S LARGEST CRUISE LINER ‘ICON OF THE SEAS’

The demand is coming on the heels of what AAA described as "record-breaking booking days" notched by cruise lines in 2023.

In 2023, cruises were projected to collectively see passenger volumes of 31.5 million globally, according to a report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a trade association that counts Carnival, Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and other lines among its members.

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"We’ve seen cruise ships already sell out suites and cabins with balconies for various spring and summer itineraries," Haas said.

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AAA also observed multiple cruise trends, such as an increasing number of weekend cruises, year-round European river cruises and heightened competition for Alaskan cruises. 

People "may find more availability and competitive pricing by sailing during the fall and the period between spring break and summer" compared to the peak periods around school holidays, the group said.

U.S. travelers looking to sail to foreign countries may be relieved to hear getting a passport now takes less time. It has decreased to six to eight weeks for processing, according to AAA. It previously took eight to 11 weeks to receive a new passport.

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE INTRODUCING TONS OF SOLO ROOMS FOR TRAVELERS

Ocean-going cruises will carry 36 million passengers this year, the CLIA predicted.

The cruise industry is rebounding after facing low passenger counts and restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic that began in early 2020.

Original article source: Cruise lines sailing into 2024 seeing strong demand, AAA says

Cruise ships off the shore of Grand Cayman Island, Royal Caribbean. MyLoupe/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

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All aboard! 10 bucket-list cruise vacations to take this year

Chelle Koster Walton

February 29, 2024 // By Chelle Koster Walton

By Chelle Koster Walton Naples Local Expert February 29, 2024

Regent Seven Seas' latest Grandeur ship is full of luxurious amenities

Versace tableware in a restaurant that feels like an electrified topsy-turvy forest. A blingy atrium chandelier inspired by a tennis bracelet. Hand-blown glass cherry blossoms and wallflowers designed by Coco Chanel. And a custom-designed Fabergé egg in a nest of pearls on a seven-seas-motif pedestal. The beauty of Regent Seven Seas' Grandeur cruise ship lies in its details.

The luxury cruise line is already known for its high-end amenities, exquisite beauty, and ports of call. There's so much to discover on Grandeur, from the mesmerizing fish-bowl fantasy of the Observation Lounge to restaurants ranging from pan-Asian to French and classic steakhouse. Take a cooking class with chef John Stephano in the Culinary Arts Kitchen one day, and end the night with glam stage productions to inspire the sweetest dreams.

This all comes on a cruise ship where fewer than 750 passengers occupy 372 balcony suites, and 548 crew members are aboard to indulge every whim.

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The Grandeur is just one cruise ship that excels and elevates the cruising experience, as luxury lines continue to outdo each other with over-the-top vessels, services, and itineraries.

Here, in no particular order (impossible to rank such varied offerings), are 10 bucket-list cruise vacations not to miss this year.

Regent Seven Seas' Grandeur: Spotlight on Fabergé

The first Fabergé egg at sea is part of the Grandeur's art collection

My fascination with Fabergé and Grandeur’s first-ever Egg Objet in residence puts this 10-night, all-inclusive European cruise on my bucket radar. Departing from Rome’s Civitavecchia port on July 1, it hits such ports as Valletta, Malta; Ibiza, Spain; and Marseille, France.

It includes pre-cruise experiences, excursions, private tours, and onboard discussions tied to Fabergé. Onboard, the attraction is the ship’s godmother, Sarah Fabergé, great-granddaughter of legendary artist-jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé, and the first-ever Fabergé egg nested permanently on a cruise ship, dubbed “Journey in Jewels.”

Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas: Eastern Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas rules in the size department

When size matters, here’s a cruise ship so big, it has neighborhoods — eight of them, to be exact. Although, at 1,198 feet long, Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas isn’t just about size. One of 2024's newest cruise ships , it's now in the spotlight, thanks to the high-profile launch with international soccer star Lionel Messi.

To thrill every type of vacationer with theme park largesse, the more than 40 restaurants and entertainment options are unequaled. This Eastern Caribbean cruise departs from Miami with stops in St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and Royal Caribbean International’s private Bahama island, CocoCay.

French Country Waterways' Nenuphar: Canals of Champagne

Nenuphar plies the waterways of Champagne for bubbly and top cuisine

The ultimate in exclusive cruising, French Country Waterways' Nenuphar transports 12 guests on a gustatory voyage through the waterways of France’s most celebrated wine region. Regal staterooms with antique provincial furnishings and innovative cuisine make the onboard experience enough to celebrate. Imagine exploring grand cathedrals and gardens, touring and tasting at prestigious wine cellars, and a special Michelin-rated dinner with wine pairings.

Guests also can enjoy independent walking and bicycling excursions along the canals and into charming villages. The inclusive cruise builds in a fully stocked open bar and wines, many from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards.

Star Clippers' Royal Clipper: Barbados to Lisbon Ocean Crossing

The Royal Clipper is the largest in the Star Clippers fleet

For those enamored by square-rigged sailing ships, a 16-day ocean crossing aboard Star Clippers' Royal Clipper , a Guinness World Record-setting ship for size, is the ultimate. She boasts 42 majestic sails, plus modern amenities to balance with old-world elegance.

There's plenty to fill your days at sea, including water sports, a spa and health club with underwater portholes, social lounges, 19,000 square feet of open deck, and mast-climbing to crow’s nests 75 feet above the water. The one port of call between Barbados and Lisbon allows the opportunity to explore the Azores on the gorgeous and historic Portuguese island of San Miguel.

Scenic Eclipse II: Discover the Kimberley Coastline (Australia)

The Scenic Eclipse II has veranda suites and lots of dining options

Aboard the Scenic Eclipse II , an 11-day itinerary titled, "An Ancient Wilderness Wonderland," travels along the rugged Australian coast from Darwin to Broome. Discover waterfalls, rookery islands, reefs, and nature reserves on inflatable boat excursions, or luxuriate aboard the cruise ship that's outfitted for exploration and pampering.

With a one-to-one crew ratio, you'll want for nothing. As one of the best boutique cruise lines , the 228-passenger ship features veranda suites and 10 dining experiences. On the intellectual side, expect deep-dive lectures and educational programs from a team led by award-winning wilderness expert Mike Cusack.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Ilma: Maiden Voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome

Ilma's pool deck fits the Ritz-Carlton brand to a tee

The second luxury superyacht for the new Ritz-Carlton brand, which debuts September 2, offers a Mediterranean cruise that takes in medieval hilltop towns along the Livorno countryside, Florence, the French Riviera, and the sophisticated ports of Corsica and Porto Cervo. It sails into the Roman port Civitavecchia eight days later.

With fewer than 450 passengers aboard and a near one-to-one crew ratio, Ilma , like its predecessor Evrima (the first-ever hotel-company cruise ship), is all about personal, exclusive service. Suites with private terraces, a nice mix of fine restaurants and bars, a signature brand spa, plus an onboard marina bring its level of amenities to the Ritz standard.

Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Explorer: Antarctica Direct

Kayaking excursions get Explorer guests up-close to Antarctica wildlife

Those looking for high arctic adventure and enrichment with the most luxury and least travel time possible will find it aboard Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Explorer , which skips the slow crossing through the Drake Passage with a quick flight.

Built for polar exploration and recently refurbished to bolster its luxe adventure mission, Explorer maximizes its observation experience with high perches and a welcoming bridge. You become part of the scenery with wildlife explorations on kayaking and inflatable excursions, from onboard observation vantages, and even from staterooms outfitted with “Command Center” tools.

The eight-day itinerary begins in Puerto Natales, Chile, with a two-hour flight to King George Island to board the Explorer. Whales, penguins, elephant seals, icebergs, and glaciers headline the breathtaking views, all of which are interpreted by expert team members. Three departure dates are available during the Explorer 2024 season: Nov. 26, Dec. 1, and Dec. 15.

Silversea's Silver Nova: Panama City to Lima

Silversea's on-board S.A.L.T. lab is a foodie paradise

Food and fine dining have always beat at the heart of the cruising experience, but Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) concept takes culinary cruising to the next level. Developed by a James Beard award-winning editor, the program immerses guests into rare on-shore and on-board foodie fantasies.

On this seven-day cruise aboard the all-suites, 728-passenger Silver Nova , shore excursions visit a cacao hacienda in Ecuador and include a gala with Peruvian dinner in a colonial Lima mansion.

UnCruise's Family Wilderness Adventurer: Juneau to Juneau

Families can take the polar plunge in Glacier Bay

In an informal poll among fellow travel writers about the best Alaskan cruises , UnCruise was a clear winner. They cited its small-boat ability to go where no others have gone before them (apologies to “Star Trek”) and the fact that guests have the option to take daily off-boat excursions, from hiking to kayaking.

In the past, UnCruise excursions into Glacier Bay were age-limited. New in 2024, the cruise line offers a family-friendly itinerary. Specially tailored family activities fill the eight days in renowned Glacier Bay National Park aboard the 60-guest Adventurer . Six Family Explorer cruises are on the docket starting in June.

Viking Sky: World Voyager I

The Explorers' Lounge of the Viking Ocean Ship

Move over, Magellan and Phineas Fogg. They're not the only ones who can go around the world. You can too!

Board Viking Sky to circumnavigate the globe — the ultimate cruise. A Dec. 19 departure from Fort Lauderdale ends up in New York City three months later. In between, you’ll visit 37 countries with the possibility of 83 guided, culturally immersive tours, from Panama and Los Angeles to Tahiti, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Turkey.

Although more commonly aligned with river cruises , Viking boasts ocean liners with the same small-ship (930 guests max) nimbleness and sleek, Scandinavian design. Viking Sky’s staterooms garner praise for their private verandas and understated elegance.

Chelle Koster Walton

About Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton, a veteran travel writer, covers island, coastal and cruise exploration.

Read more about Chelle Koster Walton here.

Connect with Chelle via: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

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COMMENTS

  1. New Cruise Ships 2020

    The cruise industry keeps on growing, with 18 new cruise ships coming to the high seas in 2020, including one from a brand-new cruise line -- Virgin Voyages -- and a first-in-class ship from ...

  2. Best new cruise ships for 2020

    Dreaming of a fabulous sea getaway? A brand-new ship with the latest in innovations and enhancements may be the way to go. Check out CNN Travel's 10 best new cruise ships for 2020.

  3. The best new cruise ships of 2020

    Discover the new cruise ships that will debut in 2020, from Virgin Voyages' first vessel to Ritz-Carlton's luxury yacht. Learn about the features, itineraries and prices of these eight ships that are sure to impress cruisers.

  4. Newest cruise ships 2021-2028 on order/under construction

    Find here the answer to which is the newest cruise ships currently under construction or on order. You can jump directly to the lists of new vessels on order / under construction (2021-2028), as well as new riverboats (2021-2026) and new cruiseferries (2021-2027).. Here you'll find them all - from small to big to the ever-largest passenger ships from the fleets of RCG-Royal Caribbean, Carnival ...

  5. The 5 best new cruise ships of 2020 that we can't wait to try

    Meanwhile, the construction of several other major new ships that had been scheduled to debut in 2020, including Carnival Cruise Line's much-ballyhooed Mardi Gras — the first cruise ship with a roller coaster — and Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas, has been delayed due to the new coronavirus.

  6. New Cruise Ships Debuting in 2020

    Find out the latest news and updates on the new cruise ships that will be launched in 2020, from the first roller coaster at sea to the largest ship ever for Carnival and the first Korean barbecue restaurant at sea. Learn about the features, highlights, and deals of each new ship, and how they have been affected by COVID-19 and shipyard delays.

  7. New Cruise Ships 2020

    The new Odyssey of the Seas is fitting to be one of the most exciting new cruise ships launching in 2020. She is taking the term 'fun at sea' to a whole new level with new activities like glow in the dark laser tag, a virtual-reality skypad, bumper cars, and old favorites like FlowRider and iFly.

  8. The Best New Cruise Ships & Itineraries in the World: 2020 Hot List

    For the 24th edition of the Hot List—our picks of the year's top hotel and cruise openings—these 10 winners represent the best new ships and itineraries in the world. When our team of editors ...

  9. New Luxury and Expedition Ships Coming in 2020

    Crystal Cruises. Crystal steps into a new world in 2020 with the debut of the 200-passenger luxury expedition ship, Crystal Endeavor. Offering a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1:1 and an unheard-of ...

  10. 25 New Cruise Ships to Debut in 2020

    A record 25 new cruise ships will debut into service in 2020, ranging from expedition and luxury vessels to large contemporary megaships. The Class of 2020: Fridtjof Nansen Hurtigruten | 20,000 Tons | 530 Guests Seven Seas Splendor Regent | 54,000 Tons | 750 Guests Note: Download a full listing of all…

  11. Best New Cruise Ships for 2020

    Itineraries: In September 2020 after a transatlantic journey, Mardi Gras will cruise Canada and New England on a 6-night itinerary, along with a 14-night South Caribbean cruise (both from New York). Then, the ship heads to Port Canaveral for 7-night itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean throughout 2021. 8. Crystal Endeavor

  12. New Cruise Ships on Order

    Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady. Launch Date: TBA 2024. Tonnage: 110,000. Berths: 2,770. Richard Branson's adults-only (18+) cruise line will launch its fourth "Lady Ship" sometime in 2024 ...

  13. New Cruise Ships for 2020

    Iona is an Excellence-Class ship and is the largest newbuild for P&O, the Southampton-based subsidiary of Carnival Corporation.Other Excellence-Class cruise ships (and therefore Iona's sister ships) are Carnival Mardi Gras (2020), Costa Smeralda (2019), with several others on order.

  14. New Cruise Ships Debuting in 2020

    North Star: A powerful telescoping arm raises guests 300 feet above sea level for the best views at sea. Odyssey of the Seas' journey begins in the Bahamas in November 2020, and she'll continue sailing the Caribbean from Ft. Lauderdale until April 2021. Call 1-800-377-9383 to plan your cruise aboard Odyssey of the Seas.

  15. On the Horizon: 6 New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2020

    The cruise industry continues to flourish in the new decade, as 32 million people are expected to cruise in 2020. To accommodate the rising interest, 24 new ships are expected to enter service this year. Here is a look at some of the most anticipated ships coming our way. 1. Celebrity Apex. Source: Celebrity Cruises; The Magic Carpet of ...

  16. Carnival Will Launch Four New Cruise Ships in 2020

    The introduction of the four new ships in 2020 is part of Carnival Corporation's ongoing fleet enhancement strategy, with 16 new ships scheduled to be delivered through 2025, designed to ...

  17. Top New Cruise Ships Arriving in 2020

    New Cruise Ships 2020. Several of the cruise lines on our list are evolving the proven designs from existing ship classes and expanding their fleets, one luxury cruise line is entering into the expedition cruise market, two other cruise lines are launching their largest vessels ever, and a brand-new cruise line is readying their first ship for ...

  18. Eight New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2020

    Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection Azora Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection The new cruise line is set to offer luxury cruises on the first of three planned custom-built yachts from the company with a legacy in the hotel and resorts industry.. Ritz Carlton's first ship, a yet-to-be-named 298-passenger yacht (due to launch in February 2020), features staterooms with private terraces and floor-to ...

  19. The 26 Best New Cruise Ships for 2024

    Fares begin around: $2,899 per person (double occupancy) for a 10-night Caribbean cruise. Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Vista is the first ship in Oceania Cruises ' new Allura class and the line's ...

  20. Mardi Gras Cruise Guide

    By Cruiseline.com Staff - Updated Mar. 9, 2020. With a maiden voyage scheduled for summer 2020, Mardi Gras will be Carnival's newest and largest-ever ship. Sharing a name with Carnival's first vessel launched back in 1972, Mardi Gras will continue the cruise line's reputation for laidback fun with revolutionary new amenities, including ...

  21. New Cruise Ships For 2020

    Enchanted PrincessPrincess Cruises - 19 June 2020. The fifth Royal Class ship set to join the Princess Cruises' fleet in 2020, Enchanted Princess will offer a range of spectacular new attractions all on her own. With the most pools and whirlpool hot tubs ever; world-class entertainment; and the breath-taking new Sky Suite - she surely ...

  22. Crew of the giant Icon of the Seas cruise ship rescues 14 ...

    MIAMI -- The crew of what is considered the world's largest cruise ship rescued 14 people clinging to a small boat adrift on the ocean, authorities said. Passengers aboard the Icon of the Seas ...

  23. The Most Exciting Ship Launches in 2020

    Ship: Iona Line: P&O Cruises Maiden Voyage: May 14, 2020. New ship Iona is designed to bring the outside in with features such as its SkyDome, which creates a space flooded with natural light; The ...

  24. Complete List: All Ships Set to Enter Service for the Royal Caribbean

    With the recent order of an additional Oasis Class ship, the Royal Caribbean Group is now introducing nine new cruise ships through 2028. Here's the complete list of vessels currently on order for all of the group's five different brands: Ship: Mein Schiff 7 Brand: TUI Cruises Debut Date: June 2024…

  25. New Cruise Ships 2020

    The cruise industry keeps on growing, with 19 new cruise ships coming to the high seas in 2020, including two from brand-new cruise lines -- Virgin Voyages and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection -- and a first-in-class ship from Carnival Cruise Line that will boast the first rollercoaster at sea.

  26. Oceania Cruises to Offer 2026 World Cruise Onboard Its Newest Ship

    Opening up the world to a new era of global exploration, Oceania Cruises, the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused cruise line, welcomes guests on board its newest ship, Vista, for its highly anticipated inaugural 180-day 2026 Around the World voyage. Having set the standard for ...

  27. Cruise ship worker smuggled £2m of cocaine to UK waters

    Benn Bath, 36, has been jailed for his part in a drug smuggling gang that smuggled £2 million of cocaine aboard a cruise ship to UK waters. Credit: NCA Bath from Staplehurst, Kent, was sentenced ...

  28. Cruise ship worker smuggles £2m of cocaine across ship ...

    Newly-released footage reveals how a cruise ship worker smuggled £2 million worth of cocaine to UK waters. Milos Bigovic, from Serbia, hid 28kg of the drug on the Marella Discovery 2 in Cartegena, Colombia, before its journey to the Caribbean was abandoned in March 2020 in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Passengers disembarked and the ship moored off the Isle of Wight.

  29. Cruise lines sailing into 2024 seeing strong demand, AAA says

    The cruise industry is rebounding after facing low passenger counts and restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic that began in early 2020. Original article source: Cruise lines sailing ...

  30. 10 cruise vacations to take in 2024: best ships and itineraries

    When size matters, here's a cruise ship so big, it has neighborhoods — eight of them, to be exact. Although, at 1,198 feet long, Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas isn't just about size. One of 2024's newest cruise ships, it's now in the spotlight, thanks to the high-profile launch with international soccer star Lionel Messi.