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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 yacht lines

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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:

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  • Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
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  • The Best Gay Cruises
  • The Best Transatlantic Cruises

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The Best New Cruises in the World: 2023 Hot List

By CNT Editors

best new cruises in the world winner Viking osiris

Nothing makes us more excited to get up and go than putting together our annual Hot List, now in its 27th year. This edition's curated collection of the best new cruises something for everyone, from expedition ships that up passengers’ access to places like Greenland and Antarctica, to an exciting new small-ship circuit of the Mediterranean. There are brand-new and classic options alike—from a luxe Nile River option to leisurely routes in the Caribbean. Here, the best new cruises in the world.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2023 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

new yacht lines

Norwegian Prima Arrow

Built in 2022, this is the first of six ships from the Prima Class, which is Norwegian’s first new class of ships in nearly ten years. As the youngest ship in a young fleet, there are many shiny—and innovative—bells and whistles throughout the Norwegian Prima , from a virtual reality arcade room to a three-tiered go-kart racing track. There are 1,586 total suites onboard—all rooms are decorated in a calm, neutral color palette with modern wall art and plenty of lights, plugs, and a large TV. The subtle decor lets the balcony view really shine. Some of my favorite parts of the ship could be lost amongst the flashier amenities—but shouldn’t be. Take a stroll along Ocean Boulevard, a walkway that wraps around the entire ship. Along the way, you can peer through viewfinders to spot birds and incoming ports, pass by the sculpture garden, and glide over the Oceanwalk: a glass walkway where you can observe the sea rolling beneath your feet. —Mercedes Bleth

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Ritz-Carlton Evrima Arrow

The Ritz-Carlton’s foray into cruising melds small-ship (or mega-yacht, depending on your past sea experience) sailing with plenty of scenery options: The European Mediterranean routes range from springtime through fall in Europe (Turkey to the Canary Islands) to winter in the Caribbean (San Juan to St. Barts). The  Evrima is the first in a fleet of three ships emerging over the next few years, and an antidote to the water-slide-strapped mega-cruises of the world. Eight of the nine deck levels open to guests hold six restaurants, 149 suite-style cabins, two pools, a cigar humidor, six bars (the interior Living Room and top-floor alfresco Observation Deck, Mistral, The Bar, The Pool House, and The Marina Terrace), a fitness center, a beauty salon and spa deck, and a water-level marina terrace with water toys. Itineraries go deep on less-explored ports, like the small French village of Sanary-sur-Mer, though greatest hits like Bridgetown in Barbados can feature, too. The clear focus on cuisine, relaxation, and small entertainment offerings like live music trios and high tea is a page right out of the Ritz-Carlton playbook, making each sailing feel like a luxury hotel that just so happens to be floating in the ocean, with views on the blues drifting past—all suites here have balconies facing out to the ocean. Not an inward-facing room on site. —Shannon McMahon

The Restaurant Silver Endeavour

Silver Endeavour Arrow

While sipping complimentary champagne in a solarium hot tub, ogle gentoo penguins standing single file atop a turquoise ice floe through two-story glass walls. One by one, they dive into Antarctic waters like some choreographed chorus line in 1930s flicks. Back in your sumptuous suite, celebrate that sighting with caviar, as a tux-clad white-gloved butler stirs a three-olive martini. Next up? A lavish lobster dinner, served here, there—well, everywhere. Just a typical day on the 200-passenger, polar-class expedition ship Silver Endeavour . The ultra-posh, all-inclusive vessel delivers unforgettable journeys; hop a chartered flight landing smackdab in Antarctica, for an adventure  before the adventure. Beyond the poles, the ship sails remote lands with a savvy, passionate expedition team leading the way. Expect private yacht-style service with a one-to-one passenger-crew ratio. Swim laps in the indoor heated swimming pool, and  absolutely  indulge in Otium spa’s 100-minute golden radiance facial and the flakiest teatime scones with double cream in Art’s Cafe.

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World Traveller Arrow

Fledgling cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages has found a sweet spot in the market: an upscale expedition experience that incorporates traditional cruise elements, such as evening performances. But at its core, a trip to Antarctica on  World Traveller is an expedition, with landings on the icy continent and its islands, Zodiac cruises around icebergs and alongside porpoising penguins, and lectures by knowledgeable expedition staff. The onboard experience is yacht-like—not in the billionaire's contemporary megayacht sense, but in the traditional yacht sense, with wood paneling and blue-and-white upholstery throughout the interior. (Think midcentury New England or Italy, with a bit of prep and  la dolce vita panache.) This may sound unusual, but the standout feature onboard is a grab-and-go café called Paula's Pantry. On most expedition ships, light bites between meals are few and far between, but on  World Traveller , there's always a salad, panini, or fresh smoothie available—seasoned expedition cruisers will know that such on-demand light fare is a gift. Perhaps more expected highlights include the SeaSpa by L'Occitane and the L'Occitane products in the staterooms. —Stefanie Waldek

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Seabourn Venture Arrow

With its yachtlike profile and forest-green hull, Seabourn’s first purpose-built expedition vessel cuts a stylish figure in the remote areas it’s designed to go to. Launched last July, the ship (along with sister Seabourn Pursuit, set to sail later this year) demonstrates the American luxury operator’s new interest in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, and while the on-board entertaining has been scaled down for these smaller sailings, Seabourn’s signature pampering has not. Each of the 132 staterooms comes with a balcony, a walk-in closet, and a separate shower and tub, and even the 355-square-foot basic suites feel spacious—as does the ship itself, even at its full capacity of 264 passengers. The four bars, two full-service restaurants, abundant caviar, and various outposts for treats like sushi and fresh pastries make indulging easy. For creatures of comfort, this is the way to do an adventure cruise, especially because designer Adam Tihany’s faux-fur-accented interiors have the warm, natural vibe of an Aspen ski chalet, creating extra coziness among the Arctic elements. —Janice Wald Henderson

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Sylvia Earle Arrow

If you’ve ever dreamed about skiing, scuba diving, or mountaineering in Antarctica or the Arctic, book a trip on Aurora Expedition’s Sylvia Earle. The 132-passenger expedition ship, dedicated to the famed marine biologist with whom it shares a name, is an upscale home base for extreme outdoor activities. Aurora was founded some three decades ago by intrepid mountaineer Greg Mortimer, so it should come as little surprise that Aurora is all about dynamic adventure led by highly experienced guides—many of whom hold doctorates, have scaled the world’s highest peaks, or have paddled rivers and seas in the world’s most remote regions. But while in the past, such expeditions were relegated to bare-bones accommodations on no-frills former research ships, a voyage on Sylvia Earle is all about creature comforts, from outdoor hot tubs to onboard restaurants and bars. The ship’s bow is even designed to minimize the effects of rough seas for smoother passage. What’s more, this is a ship that honors women—each deck is named after a pioneering female in the marine sciences. —Stefanie Waldek

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Valiant Lady Arrow

During summer, the second ship in Sir Richard Branson’s hip cruise line charts a route from Barcelona to Ibiza via lesser-known ports such as Carrara, Italy, where the marble shines as it did when Michelangelo sourced the slab that became David (in winter the ship hits the Caribbean). Virgin is all about disrupting the status quo, and the aim here is to attract the sort of passenger who wouldn’t normally consider a cruise. Does it succeed? Yes. On the inaugural voyage, the passengers were as diverse as the crew, drawn by drag queen performances and all-inclusive menus from restaurants that include a mezcal bar, a test kitchen, and a Korean barbecue joint. Peer beyond the on-brand red to encounter moments of genuinely outstanding design, such as the Roman and Williams–designed Wake Restaurant. This is a real showstopper. —Rick Jordan

best new cruises in the world winner Viking osiris

Viking Osiris Arrow

Sailing with just 82 passengers and replete with sophisticated Scandinavian design elements, Viking Osiris has the look and feel of a boutique hotel on the Nile. Cozy up with a coffee in the airy two-story atrium at the heart of the ship—a rarity for river vessels—and watch lush scenery like date palms and mango groves pass by the floor-to-ceiling windows. Elsewhere on board are brand-favorite amenities like the Aquavit Terrace and Sun Deck, where travelers can grab a quick bite alfresco in the elegant-yet-unfussy atmosphere for which the line is beloved. Throughout the ship are rare photographs of George Herbert, Lord Carnarvon—the benefactor of the archaeological dig that unearthed Tutankhamen’s tomb in the 1920s. The photos show Lord Carnarvon at work in the Valley of the Kings and evoke a strong sense of place. Purpose-built for the Nile, Viking Osiris sails to well-known highlights of the region like the Valley of the Kings, Luxor Temple, and the city of Aswan, as well as smaller riverside villages like Qena and Esna. After a long day exploring ancient sites in the Saharan sun, expect to be greeted by cheerful staff with cool hand towels and hand-squeezed juice. Once you’re feeling refreshed, head to the ship’s aft with a cocktail to laze by the plunge pool and watch the sunset or simply retire to your stateroom’s private veranda to enjoy the sound of the river gently lapping below.   —Jessica Puckett  

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MSC World Europa Arrow

The newest mega-ship at sea,  MSC World Europa  is the largest vessel in the fleet of European cruise line MSC, capable of housing nearly 7,000 guests. As you would expect from a ship of this size, the range of onboard amenities is vast, from 33 restaurants and bars to 14 hot tubs and the world’s tallest dry slide at sea. Highlights include those dining venues—particularly the Chef’s Garden Kitchen, where in-restaurant hydroponic gardens provide microgreens for the dishes, and the onboard brewery that makes beer with seawater—as well as the thermal circuit in the Aurea Spa, which includes a snow room and a salt cave.  MSC World Europa is also the fleet’s first ship to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), a fuel that emits less carbon than other fossil fuels, as well as a testing ground for a new, more efficient fuel cell—ultimately, these measures are part of MSC’s quest to become carbon neutral by 2050. —Stefanie Waldek

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Star Pride Arrow

When this all-suite ship was renovated in 2022, it was stretched to add new restaurants, a larger, refreshed spa, and refurbished staterooms. But with just 312 passengers, the new Star Pride still feels intimate enough to be categorized as a yacht. In fact, the compact ship is able to squeeze into smaller, less busy ports and through scenic waterways, like Greece’s Corinth Canal, that are typically reserved for those with private vessels. During your sailing, expect perks you’d otherwise find only on charter yachts, too, like a swim platform that unfurls on certain anchorings. Take out a paddleboard or simply take a dip in the sea. In larger ports, you’ll want to try Windstar’s Shop with the Chef shore excursion, which allows a small group of passengers to accompany the yacht’s culinary team to local markets, where they source provisions for that night’s dinner service. Local market picks notwithstanding, you won’t be left wanting for a good meal aboard Star Pride. The yacht has four restaurants, but the standout is Cuadro 44, its new Spanish tapas dining concept. Sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare dishes like charred octopus, patatas bravas, paella croquetas, and grilled chorizo and pass them directly to your plate. —Jessica Puckett

cruise ship spa lounge

Silver Dawn Arrow

A plush robe and slippers are status symbols for the passengers gliding aboard the Silver Dawn . After all, this is one of Silversea’s three ships with Otium, the line’s newly imagined wellness concept, which weaves tranquil moments into the entire onboard experience, even beyond its smashing new spa with Roman-style baths. In the rooms, guests can sink into a fig-and-cedar-scented aromatherapy bath as Bach plays softly in the background and candles flicker. Peckish? Your tux-clad magic maker can score you spa-menu favorites, like lobster brioche or truffled popcorn. Culinary venues popular on other Silversea ships—like S.A.L.T. Kitchen and upscale French La Dame—have been expanded here. Coupled with foodie-­focused shore excursions that whisk you to beloved local hangouts, they make this vessel a luxury-ship game changer. —Janice Wald-Henderson

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7 New Yachts for a New Season

  • By Kim Kavin
  • March 27, 2023

Eclipse 505 and 605

Eclipse 505 and 605: South African Stunners

The Eclipse 505 and Eclipse 605 are both Michael Peters designs that use the company’s Stepped-V Ventilated Tunnel (SVVT) hull. The Michael Peters team also contributed to naval architecture on both models, alongside Du Toit Yacht Design in South Africa. That’s where these boats are built, by Two Oceans Marine Manufacturing in Cape Town. It’s a yard that was founded in 1989 and that has specialized in custom and semi-custom catamarans from 27 to 150 feet length overall. The Eclipse 505 has two staterooms and two heads, while the Eclipse 605 has three of each. The hull drafts are minimal (2 feet, 11 inches on the Eclipse 505, and 3 feet, 3 inches on the Eclipse 605) so the boats can be used in cruising grounds like the Bahamas.

Eastbay 60

Eastbay 60: The Largest Eastbay So Far

The Eastbay brand has been on the water with many models since 1993 but has been revitalized since 2014, when GB Marine Group—the parent company of Grand Banks and Eastbay—got a new boss. He charged the team with creating the Eastbay 44, which incorporated GB Marine’s V-Warp technology. Customer demand then led to the creation of the new Eastbay 60, which has the same technology, along with an extensive use of carbon fiber, and updated accommodations with an eye toward luxury. Preliminary sea trials, according to the builder, show a 27-knot cruising speed and a 33-knot top speed with optional 900 hp Volvo Penta IPS1200s. Optional 1,000 hp Volvo Penta IPS1350s take those numbers up to 30 and 38 knots, respectively.

Apreamare Gozzo 45

Apreamare Gozzo 45: Walkaround Design

Apreamare , which has been building boats in Italy since 1849, has a new Gozzo-line flagship model: the Gozzo 45. Designer Marco Casali of Too Design, working with Cataldo Aprea and the Apreamare technical department, is primarily responsible for creating the Gozzo 45. They describe the boat as a “classy cruiser” that stands apart from other, “increasingly redundant” models of the same size in the marketplace. The cockpit table is intended for entertaining with eight to 10 guests, while the two-stateroom, two-head accommodations plan belowdecks is set up for weekends on the hook. (An optional three-stateroom, two-head layout is also available.) Engine packages can be traditional shaft-line or Volvo Penta IPS installations.

Aquila 42

Aquila 42: A Sleek Catamaran Ready to Entertain

Aquila Yachts has announced plans for a 42-foot power catamaran that is on track to make its debut in February 2023. The model will join the company’s existing lineup of power cats that go as big as 70 feet length overall. So far, Aquila has revealed that the 42 will have two staterooms available in multiple configurations, along with a utility cabin and twin 230 hp or 300 hp Volvo Penta D4 diesels. This will be a great option for someone looking for a small, yet mighty cruising boat . Guest relaxation areas will be concentrated on the flybridge, in the cockpit and on the foredeck. The new boat will be built to the standard known as CE Certification Category A, which means it will be suitable for seas up to 13 feet as well as winds above 40 knots—in other words, get ready for some serious, longer-distance cruising itineraries.

Prestige M48

Prestige M48: First Model in a New Line

The M48 is the first model in the new M-Line of catamarans from Prestige Yachts in France, which also makes three additional lines of motoryachts from 42 to 70 feet length overall. The M48’s open cockpit has seating for as many as eight people, and a nearby aft platform lowers electrically so it becomes flush with the twin transom platforms, creating a nearly 20-foot-wide space that can be used as a beach club or a tender launch. The flybridge has guest seating and dining. The master stateroom is positioned forward with a king-size berth, while owners can choose the layouts and berth sizes for guest staterooms. Prestige reports a cruising speed of 15 knots and a top-end speed of 20 knots with standard Volvo Penta engines.

Azimut Grande 26M

Azimut Grande 26M: A Low-Emission Yacht

The Azimut Grande 26M, which was presented at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September, has the Italian builder’s Large POD propulsion system. It is designed to reduce fuel consumption and carbon-dioxide emissions by 20 percent—a big selling point, according to Azimut, which reported 22 hulls sold as of early December. This is a five-stateroom yacht that includes a full-beam owners’ stateroom on the main deck. Exterior designer Alberto Mancini says one of the prime spaces on board is the oversize cockpit: “We wanted to extend to give the yacht a fully fledged dining area overlooking the water.” In terms of performance, Azimut says the 26M cruises at 24 knots with a top hop of 28 knots.

Arcadia A96

Arcadia A96: Coming This Fall

Arcadia Yachts in Italy is planning for the premiere of the Arcadia A96 at this autumn’s Cannes Yachting Festival. The power package is unusual, with four (count ’em) Volvo Penta IPS1200s, or optional IPS1350s. The setup allowed Arcadia to devote more space to guest areas forward of the powerplants, and to give skippers features at the helm such as joystick maneuvering and dynamic positioning. There is also an optional silent-mode system that uses solar panels for eight to nine hours of operations overnight without the hum of a generator. The builder says the boat has a “quiet-running” system for air conditioning too, further helping to keep the ambience for guests on board, ahem, perfectly chill.

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new yacht lines

The 22 New Cruise Ships We're Excited About For 2022

new yacht lines

The line-up of new cruise ships for 2022 is one of the most exciting exciting and robust ones we've seen in a while, with the new Disney Wish and the world's largest cruise ship -- Wonder of the Seas -- among over two dozen debuts. That number is partially due to the COVID-19 pandemic: some new cruise ships that were meant to launch in 2021 have been moved back to 2022. But the new cruise ship roster for 2022 also has a number of first-in-class builds that are likely to push the envelope on new features and attractions, as well as welcoming back some signature venues people already love.

Here's a look at 2022's best new cruise ships -- and why we're excited about them:

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The big ships we're excited about in 2022, the luxury ships we're excited about in 2022, the expedition ships we're excited about in 2022, the american river cruise ships we're excited about in 2022, wonder of the seas will be the world's largest cruise ship.

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At 6,988 passengers, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world when it debuts in early March 2022. While Wonder of the Seas is technically an Oasis-class ship and not first in its class, (there are even some major design changes between Wonder of the Seas vs. Symphony of the Seas, for example), the vessel does have some extras, including the new Suite neighborhood, where high-spenders will have access to an enhanced Suite Sun Deck, with its own plunge pool, bar and loungers.

Families will be excited by the ship's new Wonder Playscape, an underwater-themed area for kids that will include slides, climbing walls, views and an interactive mural. Finally, a new cantilevered pool bar, called The Vue, will offer fantastic sunning opportunities during the day and turn into a colorful outdoor venue after sunset.

Disney Wish Introduces AquaMouse, Star Wars and Avengers-themed Innovations

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Disney Cruise Line's first new ship in a decade will usher in a number of firsts when Disney Wish debuts in June 2022. The 4,000-passenger ship -- designed primarily around the theme of "enchantment" -- will offer new dining experiences, reimagined kids clubs (always Disney's strong-suit), and the first-ever Disney attraction at sea: the 760-foot-long waterslide known as AquaMouse, which mixes storytelling and thrills. Disney Wish deck plans reveal a world of wonders for the young and young-at-heart.

But Disney has also mindfully designed Disney Wish for parents, too. The adults-only Quiet Cove will introduce the cruise line's first infinity pool, while grown-ups will be the only ones allowed to dine at Enchante, the line's new onboard restaurant designed by three-Michelin-starred chef Arnaud Lallement. Where will Disney Wish sail from? Like its earliest fleetmates, Disney Wish will debut in the Caribbean and Bahamas, sailing from the line's flagship terminal in Port Canaveral -- a view that will be best seen from the line's massive suite inset into one of the ship's funnels.

Discovery Princess Comes to The West Coast and Alaska

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Princess Cruises has been adding to its fleet fast, and the next of its Royal Class ships -- the 3,660-passenger Discovery Princess -- has a March 2022 debut date. It's the latest ship to debut with the line's Medallion technology built right in, which allows passengers to do everything from check into the ship to open their cabin door to buy things in designated shops in some ports.

Discovery Princess will also have most of the onboard features that debuted on sister ships Majestic Princess and Enchanted Princess , including the Salty Dog Gastropub and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria with specialty pastas. If you want a fabulous suite experience, check out the Sky Suites, which have one of the best balconies at sea, with a direct view of Movies Under the Stars .

Norwegian Prima is First-in-Class with New Slides, a Race Track and Vegas-Style Nightlife

new yacht lines

With Norwegian Prima , Norwegian Cruise Line ushers in a new class of ship, with an array of accompanying new features. The Norwegian Prima deck plan includes something for everyone. Thrill seekers will love The Drop -- a dry, freefall slide that has a 10-story plunge -- as well as a new version of the popular top-deck race track. There's also The Rush, a pair of dueling dry racing slides, and the line's first Tidal Wave innertube waterslide.

Norwegian always leans into nightlife, and Norwegian Prima's theater will be able to convert into a giant Las Vegas-style nightclub. The marquee show onboard will be a version of "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical." The line is also bringing on Light Balance, a dance troupe winner from "America’s Got Talent," for a show that combines high-energy dance and aerobics with a multisensory light show.

Celebrity Beyond Brings High Design and Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop Onboard

new yacht lines

Technically, Celebrity Beyond is the third Edge Class ship from Celebrity Cruises. In reality, the 3,260-passenger ship is offering enough new onboard features that it can almost qualify as a class of its own. Also exciting: TikTok and Instagram star Capt. Kate McCue will take command of Celebrity Beyond when it launches in April 2022.

Chief among the changes is a re-imaging of Celebrity's wellness program, led by actress and lifestyle maven Gwyneth Paltrow (who is now also the line’s Well-Being Advisor). New suites are being added in AquaClass and The Retreat -- Celebrity's resort for suite passengers -- is 40 percent larger than on other ships. Celebrity Beyond will also have the first fine-dining restaurant at sea from Michelin-star chef Daniel Boulud.

Adults-Only Cruise Options Expand with Valiant Lady

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Virgin Voyages, which launched its first cruise ship Scarlet Lady for paying passengers in 2021, is coming out with a sister ship in 2022. Valiant Lady , which debuted in March 2022.

Carrying 2,770 passengers, the ship will be an adults-only cruise and have a similar design and attitude to Scarlet Lady (which won the Cruise Critic's Editors' Picks award for Best New Cruise Ship of 2021 ). Valiant Lady will sail in the Mediterranean, and we're excited to see how Virgin's hip and quirky approach to cruising works in Europe (nights in Ibiza, anyone?).

New Carnival Celebration Ship Marks Line's 50th Birthday

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Carnival Cruise Line turns 50 in 2022, and the line is leaning into the festivities with its next Excel Class ship, Carnival Celebration. Set to debut with a 14-night transatlantic cruise departing Southampton on November 6, 2022, Carnival Celebration will homeport out of Miami when it arrives Stateside.

The Bolt roller coaster aboard sister-ship Mardi Gras is one of the line's biggest hits, and Carnival Celebration will also feature Bolt, the line's popular roller coaster at sea. Carnival's new neighborhood concept will also be continued aboard Carnival Celebration, although word is that it will be different from the French Quarter aboard Mardi Gras. As for what will replace it? Stay tuned.

MSC Cruises' New MSC Seascape Offers MSC Yacht Club, Expanded Public Areas

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MSC Cruises' second Seaside EVO class ship, MSC Seascape will debut at PortMiami in November 2022 when it launches. Like sister-ship MSC Seashore, which made its U.S. debut in fall 2021, MSC Seascape will offer 2,270 individual cabins across 12 separate grades of accomodations, including balcony staterooms, suites and MSC's coveted Yacht Club luxury ship-within-a-ship concept.

An increased focus on public rooms that connect with the sea will be showcased aboard MSC Seashore, with some 70 percent of all public spaces being completely redesigned from the ship's predecessors, MSC Seaside and MSC Seaview . But, like its fleetmates, MSC Seascape will offer some of the most distinctive features of this class, including the massive Waterfront promenade and the spectacular glass-floored "Bridge of Sighs" perched 16 decks above the water.

MSC World Europa Will Be a New -- And Bigger -- Class of Cruise Ship for MSC

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As if launching MSC Seascape in 2022 wasn’t enough, MSC Cruises is dreaming even bigger with an all-new class of ship. MSC World Europa will carry 5,079 passengers (at full occupancy) and will boast 22 decks, immediately becoming the longest, tallest and largest ship in the entire fleet. The ship launches in December 2022 and is earmarked to sail in the Arabian Gulf.

On a ship this size, you’d expect a ton of fun. MSC World Europa will have several onboard “districts” divided into separate areas. An 11-deck dry slide called The Spiral will be the longest at sea, and new dining venues include Chef’s Garden Kitchen, focusing on microgreens, and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. The ship will also be powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) technology.

Silversea's Silver Dawn Debuts New Roman-Inspired Otium Spa and Wellness Program

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A sister ship to 2021's Silver Moon , the 596-passenger Silver Dawn will up the luxury cruise game even more with the line’s first Roman-inspired spa and wellness program. Called Otium, the program places luxury front and center, with special spa touches put throughout your cruise. Among the goodies: a new posh mattress; an indulgent room service menu with foie gras burgers, lobster and caviar on brioche and truffle fries; and multisensory bath soaks.

In addition, Silver Dawn will include the line’s culinary immersion program S.A.L.T. , which debuted in 2021 to rave reviews. If you’re a foodie, this deep dive into local food and drink, offered both onboard and ashore, is a can’t-miss.

Ritz-Carlton Evrima Will Appeal to Luxury Hotel Lovers -- And Offer Marriott Bonvoy Points

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People have been talking with excitement about luxury hotel brand Ritz-Carlton’s entry into cruising for the past few years -- and in 2022, the launch of the 298-passenger yacht Evrima is poised to happen. The ship will have five restaurants -- that’s a lot for a ship this size -- and the personalized service that Ritz-Carlton is known for.

Another reason that Ritz-Carlton lovers are excited -- Evrima is part of the Marriott Bonvoy program , and members will be able to redeem points for the ship’s first sailings in October 2022. The Ritz-Carlton yacht will spend its first season in the Mediterranean before heading the Caribbean.

Renovated Ship Azamara Onward Will Be First Under Line's New Ownership

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While Azamara isn’t a household name like some cruise lines, lovers of small ships have always been drawn the intimate size of their vessels -- about 702 passengers -- and the smaller ports they visit. The line left the Royal Caribbean Group in early 2021 to become an independent cruise company, and has started to introduce fun new programs while continuing the focus on great shoreside experiences.

Azamara Onward is not technically a new ship. Rather, the line has bought the former Pacific Princess -- a direct sister-ship to the line's existing fleet -- and is completely renovating it to look more like the rest of the Azamara fleet. We are excited to see what happens when you combine Azamara’s intimate service -- the crew learn the names of every single passenger and you’re greeted by name when you board -- with a fresh spin on its destinations.

Viking Mars and Viking Neptune Continue Viking Oceans' Expansion

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Viking Ocean Cruises won’t call themselves luxury. But when you’re onboard one of the line's identical oceangoing vessels, you certainly feel like you’re on a luxury cruise, with fantastic food and dining options, itineraries that stop at interesting ports, and inclusions such as Wi-Fi, a shore excursion at each port of call, and one of the best spa thermal suites at sea.

Viking has two identical 930-passenger ocean ships coming in 2022. Viking Mars will debut in May 2022 and sail itineraries in the Mediterranean and northern Europe before moving to Asia. Viking Neptune , meanwile, will debut in fall 2022 and start Viking’s 2022-23 World Cruise in December from Fort Lauderdale.

Small Emerald Azzurra Yacht Will Sail Red Sea, Med, Croatia

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With only 100 passengers, Emerald Azzurra promises an intimate yacht experience from a line that has already won accolades for its European river cruises. Emerald has always offered an inclusive type of sailing, and cruises on Emerald Azzurra include complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; onboard gratuities; some shore excursions; transfers to and from the airport; port charges and taxes.

We’re also excited by the itineraries that Emerald Azzurra will sail, which include its debut in the Red Sea in January 2022. The yacht will then move to the Mediterranean and sail into small Croatian and Greek ports, as well as itineraries that focus on Italy and France.

Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris Will Be Viking's First Adventure Cruise Ships

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Viking is jumping into expedition cruising in a big way in 2022 by adding a pair of 378-passenger ships aimed at polar adventure. Viking Octantis debuts first in January 2022, with cruises in Antarctica. It will then move to the Great Lakes for the summer, before heading back to the White Continent. Viking Polaris arrives in summer 2022 and will spend its season in Norway and the Far Arctic before heading south to Antarctica.

What makes these pair of ships so exciting is the design. Viking’s expedition ships will have an enclosed area known as The Hangar, where passengers can get on and off zodiac boats in comfort and without biting winds. The Aula panoramic auditorium is custom-designed for lectures, and we can’t wait to see the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge with comfy couches and warming lava rock faux fire pits.

Seabourn Venture Offers Submarines, Champagne For Luxury Adventure Cruises

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With Seabourn Venture, the luxury cruise line Seabourn leaps into the high-end expedition trend. The 264-passenger ship will have two custom-built submarines as well as 24 zodiacs, kayaks– you also snorkel and scuba dive – and a full expedition team to explain all the natural wonders around you. Plus you get the sumptuous suites with a built-in heated jacket wardrobe, Swarovski binoculars and the Moulton Brown amenities, upscale dining and endless Champagne that Seabourn is known for.

Seabourn Venture debuted in August 2022 with cruises in the British Isles, Norway and the Arctic before transiting to South America and Antarctic for winter 2022. On all itineraries expect adventure along the way, with stops at small ports and remote areas.

American Queen Voyages Goes To Alaska With First Expedition Ship Ocean Victory

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Previously known primarily for American river cruises, American Queen Voyages will be making its first foray into expedition cruising with the 186-passenger small ship, Ocean Victory. The ship will debut in Alaska in summer 2022, running an itinerary that includes big name marquee ports and smaller, out-of-the way locales.

Technically, Ocean Victory is a charter by SunStone, a ship management company that has focused on building small adventure ships. The ship will have a full array of expedition gear for outdoor adventure, including zodiacs, a fleet of kayaks and an onboard expedition team. The ship is small enough to dock in Alaskan ports that are off limits to larger cruise ships.

Viking Mississippi Will Bring Its Winning European-Style River Cruising to the U.S.

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In one of the most anticipated domestic launches, Viking will expand its river cruising juggernaut into the U.S market for the first time with the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi . The ship will be one of the largest constructed for the Mississippi River, and all cabins will have either French or full step-out balconies; suites are also available.

What’s exciting about Viking Mississippi is that the ship will have many of the onboard features that people already love on other Viking vessels. There will be a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area; the Aquavit Terrace outdoor dining venue; an infinity pool and sun deck. There’s also a new outdoor seating area known as The Bow, which promises excellent views of the river. Plenty of inclusions are also on offer, such as beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; a complimentary shore excursion per day; lectures; Wi-Fi and free room service.

Modern American Symphony and American Serenade Continue American Cruise Lines' Expansion

new yacht lines

In the past few years, American Cruise Lines has revamped the expectation of what riverboats on U.S. rivers should look like by introducing a more modern style of ship. These ships do not have paddlewheels; instead, the 175-passenger vessels look more like a hotel on land with a four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. ACL ships are known for having some of the largest cabins in river cruising, with most ranging from 250 to 650 square feet.

River cruising in the United States has become more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people look for sailings that are closer to home. American Cruise Lines, which owns its own shipyard in Maryland, has turned down other boat-building work so it can concentrate on cruise ships. American Symphony will debut on the Mississippi River in summer 2022 and American Serenade will launch at the end of 2022.

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Press Release

Viking announces newest ocean ship and three new itineraries, set to debut in 2023, viking saturn will sail new nordic voyages.

Los Angeles (October 13, 2021) – Viking® ( www.viking.com ) today announced its newest ocean ship, Viking Saturn ®, will join the company’s award-winning fleet in early 2023. The 930-guest sister ship will spend her maiden season sailing three new itineraries in Scandinavian and Nordic countries, including two 15-day journeys, Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada and Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer , and the 29-day Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond voyage. In addition to the three new itineraries, Viking also announced today that the company will bring back the popular 8-day Iceland’s Natural Beauty itinerary starting in August 2023.

“The thousands of guests who sailed our Welcome Back voyage in Iceland this past summer enjoyed the experience so much they provided record-level ratings,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman of Viking. “These new itineraries are ideal for curious travelers and trace routes of the early Viking explorers to Iceland and other North Atlantic destinations known for their natural beauty. We look forward to welcoming Viking Saturn to our fleet and to offering guests even more ways to explore this unique part of the world in comfort.”

New and Returning 2023 Nordic Itineraries: 

  • Iconic Iceland, Greenland & Canada (NEW) – This 15-day itinerary spans Iceland, Greenland and the Canadian provinces of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. Sailing between New York City and Reykjavik, guests will admire the volcanic landscape of the Westman Islands, enjoy the relaxed pace of life in Djúpivogur, and stroll the streets of picturesque towns like Seydisfjördur and Akureyri.
  • Iceland & Norway’s Arctic Explorer (NEW) – On this 15-day journey, guests will discover life in the far north during a voyage across the Arctic Circle and along the distant shores of Norway and Iceland. After enjoying an overnight stay in Viking Saturn’s home port of Bergen, follow the footsteps of Vikings as you visit Honningvåg’s remote North Cape and explore Longyearbyen, which is home to more polar bears than people.
  • Greenland, Iceland, Norway & Beyond (NEW) – Guests can also choose to combine these two new itineraries for an epic 29-day voyage. Departing from the former Hanseatic League city of Bergen, guests will trace the path of Vikings through the Scandinavian countries of Norway, Iceland and Greenland before making their way to Canada and concluding in New York.
  • Iceland’s Natural Beauty – Returning in 2023, this popular 8-day roundtrip journey from Reykjavik explores the majestic shores of Iceland. Sailing on Viking Star ®, guests will encounter unparalleled natural beauty, witness cascading waterfalls and pristine fjord landscapes. Follow in the footsteps of the intrepid explorer Leif Eriksson, observe the local wildlife and immerse yourself in nature. 

Viking Saturn  Viking’s ocean ships have a gross tonnage of 47,800 tons, with 465 staterooms that can host 930 guests. Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet includes Viking Star ® , Viking Sea ® , Viking Sky ® , Viking Orion ® , Viking Jupiter ® and Viking Venus ® . Viking Mars ® and Viking Neptune ® will join the fleet in 2022; Viking Saturn will join in early 2023. Classified by Cruise Critic as “small ships,” Viking’s ocean fleet features modern Scandinavian design with elegant touches, intimate spaces and attention to detail. Highlights include: 

  • All Veranda Staterooms: Guests can choose from five stateroom categories, starting from 270 sq. ft. Veranda Staterooms, all with private verandas, sweeping views of the destination and premium amenities that include king-size beds with luxury linens, generously proportioned closets, large interactive flat-screen LCD TVs with movies-on-demand, free Wi-Fi and award-winning bathrooms with large showers, premium Freyja® bath products and heated floors.
  • Explorer Suites: The ships feature 14 Explorer Suites, which are two-room suites ranging from 757 to 1,163 sq. ft. With expansive views from wraparound private verandas, as well as the most amenities and privileges of any category on board, Explorer Suites offer the ultimate sanctuary for guests.
  • Two Pool Choices: In addition to the Main Pool with a retractable roof permitting any-season swimming, the ships feature a first-of-its-kind glass-backed Infinity Pool cantilevered off the stern, allowing guests to swim surrounded by their destination. 
  • LivNordic Spa: In keeping with Viking’s Nordic heritage, The Spa on board is designed with the holistic wellness philosophy of Scandinavia in mind—from the centuries-old tradition of the sauna to a Snow Grotto where snowflakes gently descend from the ceiling through chilled air.
  • Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s: Share a cocktail with friends. Linger over a Norwegian breakfast and a nautical history book. The Explorers’ Lounge and Mamsen’s gourmet deli are thoughtful spaces located at the bow of the ship and designed to represent the Scandinavian spirit for complete relaxation and for marveling at sweeping views through double-height windows.
  • The Wintergarden: Guests looking for serenity will find it in the Wintergarden. In this elegant space under a canopy of Scandinavian trellised wood, guests can indulge in afternoon tea service.
  • Dining Choices: Viking’s ships offer eight dining options, all with no additional charge or fee—from fine dining in The Restaurant, which serves three full meals and a variety of culinary options, and the World Café, which features international fare and regional specialties including a sushi and seafood cold bar—to intimate alternative dining experiences at The Chef’s Table, which offers a multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings, and Manfredi’s, which features freshly prepared pastas and Italian favorites. The Pool Grill specializes in gourmet burgers, while afternoon tea and scones are available in the Wintergarden. Mamsen’s serves Norwegian deli-style fare, and complimentary 24-hour room service allows all guests to enjoy many signature dishes in the comfort of their stateroom. Furthermore, with multiple choices for outdoor seating during meals, Viking’s ocean ships offer the most al fresco dining at sea. Additionally, The Kitchen Table specializes in regional dishes from market to table.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Viking experiences from ship to shore are designed for unparalleled access and cultural enrichment. Viking Resident Historians deliver high-level historical and cultural education specific to the journey, offering invaluable insight into the rich history of the destination. Guest Lecturers who are experts in their fields shed light on the destination’s art, architecture, music, geopolitics, natural world and more. Destination Performances represent the most iconic cultural performing arts of the region—whether it be Italian opera or Portuguese fado. Resident Classical Musicians—pianists, guitarists, violinists and flautists—perform classical compositions throughout the ships. And Culinary Classes in The Kitchen Table, Viking’s onboard cooking school, focus on regional cuisine.
  • Nordic Inspiration: Even the smallest details take their inspiration from the exploratory spirit of the original Vikings, reflecting deeply held Nordic traditions. Light wood grains, touches of slate and teak, Swedish limestone and fragrant juniper appear throughout the public spaces and Spa. The Clinker-built design of the Viking Bar mirrors the construction style of the original Viking Longships. A Viking Heritage Center provides history and context from the Viking Age. And characters from Norse Mythology are subtly incorporated into the design, providing curious guests with inspiration to further explore Viking’s Nordic heritage.

Today’s announcement comes just following news that for the first time Viking was voted both the Best Ocean Cruise Line and River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking was the only cruise line with the top scores in two categories in the same year—a distinct honor awarded by Condé Nast Traveler readers.  

Booking Details Call Viking toll free at 1-855-8-VIKING (1-855-884-5464) or contact a travel agent for details.

Media Assets For more information, images and b-roll for Viking, contact [email protected]

About Viking Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers guests The Thinking Person’s Cruise® in contrast to mainstream cruises. With more than 250 awards to its name, Viking has been rated the #1 River Cruise Line and #1 Ocean Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in the publication’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking has also been consistently rated the #1 ocean cruise line and one of the best river cruise lines in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” Awards. For additional information, contact Viking at 1-800-2-VIKING (1-800-284-5464) or visit www.viking.com . For Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, visit www.viking.tv .

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American Cruise Lines To Build 12 New Ships

  • January 18, 2022

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American Cruise Lines has announced Project Blue, a brand new fleet of go-anywhere ships for the U.S. market, according to a press release.

The said it will build 12 identical sister ships that will more than double the nation’s current capacity for domestic coastal cruises. The first two vessels are under construction and set for a 2023 debut. 

Featuring a hybrid catamaran design, these ships will have unprecedented near-shore operating versatility, according to the company.

Project Blue Back Exterior

The new U.S. built fleet will operate exclusively in the United States, with a focus on small towns and close-to-home adventures.

Charles B. Robertson, President & CEO of American Cruise Lines, said: “Project Blue started as a design challenge to create a boat small enough for New England harbors and stable enough for the Alaska Inside Passage, with a draft shallow enough for the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. These boats can run almost anywhere, and because there will be 12 of them, they will be deployed all over the United States.”

Project Blue Forward Lounge Exterior

Like all of American’s new ships, the entire Project Blue fleet will be built by Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD.

The first two Project Blue ships are already under construction and are due for delivery in 2023.

Each boat in the Project Blue fleet will accommodate 109 passengers and 50 crew, according to the company, with interiors designed by Studio DADO.

Project Blue Restaurant Window View

They will be 241 feet long, 56 feet wide, and feature the hybrid catamaran design that enables both shallow draft access and stable sailing along lakes, rivers, bays, and America’s coastline. 

“Together with Chesapeake Shipbuilding, we built the first modern riverboats in the country. Now we are proud to introduce another new ship design for domestic exploration. American has specialized in small ship cruising for over 30 years, and continuing to innovate and expand the possibilities for cruising close to home is central to our mission,” Robertson said.

The first two ships will debut along East Coast itineraries and will be named American Eagle and American Glory—namesakes of the company’s first two small U.S.-built ships. 

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Disney Cruise Line reveals new 'Heroes and Villains' themed cruise ship coming in 2025

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Disney Cruise Line will add another new ship in 2025.

The line will take delivery of the Disney Destiny next year, the brand announced Wednesday.

The vessel will have a “Heroes and Villains” design theme, with the cruise line and Walt Disney Imagineering teams drawing inspiration from “the dynamic duality of every great Disney story, where opposing forces of light and dark drive characters to rise to their purpose,” according to a news release .

Onboard experiences will feature characters from stories such as “Hercules, “The Lion King,” and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians,” though the line has not yet shared additional specifics about the amenities or the ship's maiden voyage. An illustration on the bow will show Minnie Mouse "striking a valiant pose in a heroic ensemble, her cape waving majestically in the sea breeze as she boldly leads guests toward their vacation destinies,” the line added.

“The Disney Destiny will celebrate our most legendary Disney stories and characters, bringing them to life in new and exciting ways exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests,” Sharon Siskie, the line’s senior vice president and general manager, said in the release. “As we continue to expand our fleet, the Disney Destiny will further strengthen our position as a leader in family cruising as we offer even more ways for families to experience Disney magic and world-class service at sea.”

Are cruise drink packages worth it?: Not necessarily

The vessel will be a sister ship to the Disney Wish and the upcoming Disney Treasure, the latter of which will set sail in December. The cruise line will also add another ship, the Disney Adventure , in 2025, which will homeport in Singapore and mark the brand’s first to sail in Southeast Asia.

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

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Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam cruise ship.

Nieuw Amsterdam

936 ft. length

105.8 ft. width

The second of our Signature Class ships, Nieuw Amsterdam , celebrates historic New York City with an inspired design and art collection. While on board, rejuvenate in the tranquil Spa & Salon, play pickleball at sea, or enjoy a tantalizing meal at fine dining restaurants. When you’re in the mood for music, Billboard Onboard fills the room with chart-topping hits.

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Nieuw Amsterdam received high honors from the Travvy Awards for its ambitious design and exceptional experience on board.

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Onboard Activities

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Dining Experiences

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Explore traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan with cuisine praised by Condé Nast Traveler as rivaling the top restaurants on land.

Praised by  Condé Nast Traveler  for cuisine “that rivals the top restaurants on land,” Tamarind is the perfect place to explore the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan. The menu, which honors the elements of water, wood, fire and earth, features such exotic fare as wok-seared lobster, barramundi (Asian sea bass) in banana leaf and sushi, accompanied by chilled or heated sake. 

Meals at Tamarind are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

New York Pizza

Our poolside pizzeria has fresh Italian salads and authentic thin-crust personal pizzas with savory toppings.

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night. This venue is New York Deli & Pizza on  Koningsdam ,  Rotterdam  and  Nieuw Statendam , offering made-to-order deli sandwiches in addition to pizza.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

Dine on delectable sushi and sip Asian-inspired spirits at Nami Sushi, a sushi bar within Tamarind offering stunning ocean views.

Nami Sushi offers a tempting array of the sushi rolls he’s created. Choose from such delectable selections as Tempura Lobster Roll with soft shell crab tempura; Dragon Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi sauce and avocado; Tsutsumi Roll with snapper, green olive, caper and avocado; Futomoki Roll with crab, yamagobo, avocado and cucumber; Volcano Roll with sesame-marinated salmon and Thai chilis; Nigiri sushi with tuna, salmon and ebi shrimp; and more. The word “nami,” Japanese in origin, means “wave” and is an homage to the ocean views you’ll enjoy as you dine on the freshest, tastiest and most inventive sushi at sea.

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Suites & Staterooms

Please select your stateroom or suite type and room category from the available options.

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
  • Luxurious bathrobes
  • Generous storage
  • Fresh fruit upon request
  • Ice service
  • TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

  • Hair dryers, makeup mirrors

These expansive staterooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Signature Suite

  • Whirlpool bath

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

  • Premium bathrobes, slippers
  • Fresh flowers
  • One-Touch concierge service
  • Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
  • In-suite coffee, espresso
  • Complimentary laundry
  • Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
  • Welcome glass of sparkling wine
  • Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
  • High tea in suite on request
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With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

dining aboard Holland America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam

Nieuw Amsterdam FAQs

What entertainment options are available in my stateroom?  Each room includes a flat-screen TV with interactive menu of programming including; on-demand movies, music stations, as well as both live and pre-recorded television. Additionally, guests can access ship information, dining options, an onboard activities schedule, shore excursions, and port information through this interactive media console. There are no external inputs available such as A/V or HDMI. Does my stateroom have a mini-fridge?  A mini-fridge is included with all staterooms. Guests who need to refrigerate medication should store it in the ship’s infirmary, as mini-fridges aren’t cold enough for that purpose. What's the cost for mini-fridge rentals?  Unnecessary as all staterooms include a mini-fridge. Are the balconies partitioned?  All can be opened upon request. Does my stateroom have an alarm clock?  No, but guests can request a wake-up call. Is there a hairdryer in my room?  Yes. Is there a safe in my room?  Yes. Are there coffee makers in the room?  Only Neptune and Pinnacle Suites feature in-suite coffee and espresso machines. Does my stateroom have WiFi?  All ships are outfitted with wireless Internet. However, we cannot guarantee that each stateroom will receive a signal, as signal strength varies depending on the location of your stateroom. . Lanai Staterooms:  No. Family Rooms:  No. Single Rooms:  No.

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

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There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

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This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

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If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

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Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

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Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

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“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

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Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Disney cruise line reveals name and theme of new ship.

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Disney Cruise Line revealed the name of its next ship, the Disney Destiny, along with details about ... [+] its design theme, “Heroes and Villains.” The ship, sister to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, will draw on the legacy of beloved Disney stories, characters and theme park attractions to forge a cruise vacation that will empower guests to embrace their own calling aboard every unforgettable voyage. (Disney)

Disney Cruise Line continues its rapid expansion with the reveal of the third Triton-class ship name and theme. The ship will be called the Disney Destiny, be themed after heroes and villains and is scheduled to be delivered in 2025.

The new ship continues Disney’s commitment to its cruise line , which launched the first Triton class ship, the Disney Wish in 2022 and is getting ready to launch a second, the Disney Treasure in December 2024. The cruise line also bought and is currently renovating a partially built ship to be called the Disney Adventure, which will homeport in Singapore. Disney bought the Adventure for a reported $44 million after Genting Cruise Lines fell into administration.

Disney Cruise Line revealed the name of its next ship, the Disney Destiny, as it reached a new ... [+] construction milestone today with the keel laying ceremony at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. With the good luck garnered by this maritime tradition, this sister ship to the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure is beginning to take shape. (Omark Reyes, photographer)

About The Disney Destiny

The design theme of Disney Destiny will continue Disney’s legacy of storytelling by drawing inspiration from movies, characters and theme park attractions. According to a press release, “The Disney Cruise Line and Walt Disney Imagineering teams were inspired by the dynamic duality of every great Disney story, where opposing forces of light and dark drive characters to rise to their purpose, when developing the Disney Destiny.”

Those who take a cruise on the ship will be able to enjoy spaces, experiences and entertainment themed around stories like The Lion King , Hercules and One Hundred and One Dalmatians .

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“The Disney Destiny will celebrate our most legendary Disney stories and characters, bringing them to life in new and exciting ways exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line in a press release. “As we continue to expand our fleet, the Disney Destiny will further strengthen our position as a leader in family cruising as we offer even more ways for families to experience Disney magic and world-class service at sea.”

Home ports, cruise routes, cost and onboard activities are not yet known. Like the Disney Wish and Disney Treasure, there will be plenty of spaces for kids to play and spaces dedicated for adults to enjoy all around the ship. There will also be three main dining rooms that cruisers will rotate through during a sailing.

Cruising Is Back

According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), cruising is back in full force as of 2023. This is good news for Disney, who has three new ships debuting before the end of 2025. The 2023 State of the Cruise Industry CLIA report states that 85% of travelers who have cruised plan to cruise again, which is nine percent higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Disney Cruise Line guests can look forward to a signature island experience that celebrates nature ... [+] and the spirit and culture of The Bahamas at a new Disney port of call, which will be located on the breathtaking island of Eleuthera at a place called Lighthouse Point. (Disney)

Other Disney Cruise Projects

Along with new cruise ships, Disney Cruise Line is getting ready to welcome cruisers to an all-new private island destination in The Bahamas, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The new island is set to welcome Disney fans for the first time in June 2024. With Lighthouse Point, Disney plans to invest between $250 million and $400 million into the project.

Megan duBois

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The superyacht world is speculating that Mark Zuckerberg just bought this 118-meter boat

  • The 118-meter superyacht Launchpad made her maiden voyage last week.
  • The yacht world is speculating that her owner is Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
  • Here's what we know about the luxury vessel.

Insider Today

In the world of superyachts , privacy is the most valuable asset. It can be next to impossible to discern the details of a superyacht transaction — and that's particularly true if the vessel in question is worth nine figures.

Yet some in the boat blogging world are speculating that Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is the new owner of Launchpad, a megayacht currently moored in Fort Lauderdale, Florida after she made her maiden voyage from Gibraltar to St Maarten last week. Launchpad clocks in at 118 meters long, about nine meters shorter than Jeff Bezos' superyacht Koru .

The transaction could not be confirmed, with yacht world insiders declining to share what they know and representatives for Zuckerberg not responding to a request for comment from Business Insider. In the past, reports about Zuckerberg owning superyacht Ulysses have proven false.

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"It is Feadship's standard policy to never divulge any information about our yachts with reference to ownership, costs, or delivery, etc," Feadship, the ship's builder, wrote to BI. "Whether it is an 18-meter Feadship from the 1960s or a 118-meter Feadship from the 21st century, we do not share private information."

But Zuckerberg's name has been connected to Launchpad for a few months now, beginning in December when reports swirled that he visited Feadship's shipyard in the Netherlands.

Then, earlier in March, yachting bloggers like eSysman SuperYachts and Autoevolution started speculating that he officially snagged the boat, originally built for a sanctioned Russian businessman, at a $300 million price tag. (While that's a seemingly huge amount, it's still less than 0.2% of Zuckerberg's $177 billion net worth.)

Another clue that might point to US ownership is that the yacht bears the flag of the Marshall Islands, a US territory and commonplace for American buyers to register their ships, according to public marine tracking.

If Zuckerberg were to have bought Launchpad, he would join a cohort of superyacht-owning tech billionaires . Along with Bezos, the likes of Oracle cofounder Larry Ellison and Google cofounders Sergey Brin and Larry Page have purchased impressive boats with even more impressive amenities.

SuperYacht Times , an industry publication and intelligence platform, has some of the best images of the yacht. Photos show a swimming pool on her main deck and a large helipad.

While less is known of the interior, a vessel of her size can likely sleep dozens of guests and crew and may have amenities like an expansive gym where Zuckerberg could practice his jiu-jitsu or a spa with a massage area. We suspect there's also space for plenty of toys — which could include his viral hydrofoil foil .

Do you have any details about Launchpad or any other superyachts? Email reporter Madeline Berg at [email protected].

Watch: Walmart heiress' superyacht vandalized by activists in Ibiza

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See Mark Zuckerberg’s glossy new $300M, 287-foot superyacht ‘Launchpad’

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All aboard S.S. Facebook.

Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly gifted himself a $300 million megayacht, dubbed “Launchpad,” ahead of his 40th birthday.

The staggering 387-foot-long vessel was seen floating at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after arriving at its berth earlier this week, The Sun reported Thursday.

Mark Zuckerberg.

The multi-layered luxury ship’s sleek exterior was designed by Espen Øino International and boasts a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, according to SuperYacht Times.

Reportedly ranking as the 45th largest yacht in the world, the interiors are just as aesthetically pleasing and reportedly executed by Zuretti Interior Design company, a France-based company specializing in unique and custom yacht design.

The breathtakingly beautiful floater stands out with a navy blue theme matching an American flag perched proudly on its wood-paneled stern.

The Launchpad yacht in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

There are several outdoor areas where the social media maven will be able to relax with his family and the indoor levels feature glass paneling allowing for tons of natural light.

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There also appears to be a helipad perfect for whenever the Facebook co-founder wants to travel to his vessel by air.

The Feadship-built yacht, built in 2022, can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard, requires a crew of 48, and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com .

The Launchpad yacht in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

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Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Boatworld insiders have been buzzing with speculation that Zuckerberg is the owner of the newly minted mega-cruise ever since it made its main voyage from the Netherlands last week.

The tech titan was spotted touring the Russian-commissioned megayacht in early March, though the impressive boat didn’t arrive stateside until this week due to sanctions, according to The Sun.

The website reported that Zuckerberg purchased the pricey yacht – along with its own $30 million partner boat — most likely as an early 40th birthday present to himself.

Mark Zuckerberg on a paddle board.

The boat reportedly traveled to Florida after being granted special permission to be imported just weeks ahead of Zuckerberg’s birthday on May 14.

Zuckerberg’s yacht is just 30 feet shorter than the length of fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos’ 417-foot megayacht Koru, which the Amazon boss snagged for a whopping $500 million.

Zuckerberg’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

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The 7 most anticipated new cruise ships of 2022

Gene Sloan

Cruise lines may have canceled many of their sailings over the past two years due to the coronavirus pandemic . But they didn't cancel orders for new ships.

As 2022 begins, major cruise operators such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are moving forward with plans to unveil more than 20 new oceangoing vessels during the year. That's a big number in the cruise world — on par with the years before the pandemic.

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

The new ships are coming even as many lines have yet to resume sailings with all the vessels in their existing fleets.

In some cases, the new ships will be arriving months behind schedule due to pandemic-related construction delays at the shipyards that are building them. Thanks to such delays, the arrival of a few ships that had been scheduled for delivery in 2022 will be pushed to 2023.

But it'll be a big year for new cruise ships nevertheless.

Among the most notable newcomers will be Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , the biggest cruise ship ever built (and by big, we're talking about a ship that can hold nearly 7,000 passengers). Originally set to debut in 2021, it's now scheduled to begin sailing in March .

There also will be major new ships coming from Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and Disney Cruise Line . The latter, notably, hasn't had a new vessel debut in 10 years.

In all cases, the new ships that are on the way already are available for booking — and, indeed, booking up fast. Cruise fans always love to be on the latest and greatest.

Here, a list of the seven new ships arriving in 2022 we're most excited about:

Viking Octantis (Viking)

Maiden voyage: Jan. 12

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Fast-growing Viking has rolled out more than 70 new river cruise ships and oceangoing vessels since its founding in 1997. But there's never been one like this.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, Viking Octantis is the line's first "expedition" cruise ship — a type of cruise ship specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As is typical for expedition ships, it's a tough vessel , with a reinforced bow that lets it bump through ice in polar regions and extra tanks for fuel and food. It also has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring (the latter being something that is relatively rare on cruise vessels of any type).

Like other expedition ships, Viking Octantis also sails with a large and seasoned "expedition team" that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

But there are several new and unusual features to Viking Octantis, too. Most notable is The Hangar, an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to the ship's Zodiac landing craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

Viking Octantis also is upscale. Like all of Viking's vessels, it has an elegant Scandinavian design. Its restaurants include a version of Viking's signature Italian spot, Manfredi's, and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen's outlet. Also familiar is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge promising stunning views of passing scenery.

In another first for polar expedition cruise vessels, every cabin on the vessel has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

The details: Viking Octantis debuted in January with sailings to Antarctica out of Ushuaia, Argentina and is repositioning to the Great Lakes for the summer. Fares for 12-night Antarctica trips start at $14,995 per person, not including taxes and fees. Great Lakes sailings start at $6,495 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 855-338-4546 or visit viking.com .

Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Maiden voyage: March 4

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Royal Caribbean is going big again with its next ship — really big. The latest in the line's groundbreaking Oasis Class of vessels , Wonder of the Seas will measure 236,857 tons, making it the biggest cruise ship ever built.

That's about 4% bigger than the current size leader in the cruise world, which also is part of Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class: The 3-year-old Symphony of the Seas .

Wonder of the Seas will be similar to Symphony of the Seas and three earlier Oasis Class vessels with a few new twists that will contribute to its bigger size, including a dedicated suite area with a private lounge, restaurant and sun deck. Like the four earlier Oasis Class ships, it will be 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the equivalent of more than three football fields.

Royal Caribbean's first Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas, debuted in 2009. The line added additional Oasis Class vessels in 2010, 2016 and 2018. Each of the ships has been a little bigger than the last, and they're all more than 20% bigger than any other cruise vessels afloat.

Like the earlier Oasis Class ships, Wonder of the Seas will offer multiple main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top deck. Inside the vessel, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine, plus a huge casino, spas and theaters with real Broadway shows.

As with earlier Royal Caribbean ships, it'll even have an indoor ice-skating rink.

The details: Wonder of the Seas initially will be based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for sailings to the Caribbean, before moving to the Mediterranean for the summer. Fares for seven-night Caribbean voyages start at $763 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 866-562-7625 or visit royalcaribbean.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean ships and itineraries

Evrima (The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection)

Maiden voyage: May 6

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We feel like a broken record on this one, as we placed it on our list of the most anticipated new cruise ships of 2020 (the year it originally was scheduled to debut) and then shouted it out again on our list of the most anticipated new ships of 2021 . But after a seemingly never-ending series of delays blamed first on shipyard troubles and then on the COVID-19 pandemic, the very first ship from startup line The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , the new luxury cruise division of The Ritz-Carlton , failed to debut during either year.

Now the line is adamant that it is truly coming in May. If it does (and we're sure hoping so), it'll be a notable event in the cruise world, marking the entry of one of the luxury hotel world's most famous brands into cruising.

Holding just 298 passengers, Evrima will be a small, yacht-like vessel with an elegant, residential look (as you might expect for Ritz-Carlton). Standout features will include spacious cabins, a stylish spa and lots of deck-top lounge space for sunning, plus five separate restaurants including an à la carte venue designed by Sven Elverfeld of the three Michelin-starred Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Germany .

Fans of Ritz-Carlton, for sure, are excited about the new vessel.

The details: After a series of five delays that have resulted in the cancellation of more than two years worth of cruises, Evrima now is scheduled to debut in May in Europe before repositioning to the Caribbean for the winter. Fares start at $3,900 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night voyage in the Caribbean. For more information, call 833-999-7292 or visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com .

Disney Wish (Disney Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: July 14

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It's been a long time coming. But Disney Cruise Line finally is coming out with a new ship this year — its first in 10 years.

At 140,000-tons, Disney Wish will just be a tad bigger than Disney's last two new ships (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy). But it'll have a whole new array of trademark Disney wow on board, from a Star Wars-themed "hyperspace lounge" that offers a "window" view of passing starships to Marvel- and "Frozen"-themed restaurants.

Cabins on the ship will include seven oceanview rooms located over the bridge — a first for Disney Cruise Line. These rooms will have an extended living area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bow and out across the ocean. And if all that isn't enough, there will be four Royal Suites with a Sleeping Beauty theme — two of which feature an insane two-story floorplan.

Among other notable features will be a reimagined Oceaneers Club (the area for kids 3 to 12 on Disney ships) where children can enter via a "magical slide." The Oceaneers Club also will offer a Marvel Super Hero Academy where kids can design (and virtually fly) in their own super suit. The club also will house Rapunzel's Art Studio, Belle's Library and Anna and Elsa's Sommerhus where there will be a variety of mini-games with Olaf serving as the host.

Disney Wish is just the first of three new "Triton Class" ships that Disney Cruise Line has on order for delivery over the next few years — an expansion that will nearly double its size when measured by passenger capacity.

The details: Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night trips to the Bahamas out of Port Canaveral, Florida. Fares start at $771 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 800-951-3532 or visit disneycruise.disney.go.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Seabourn Venture (Seabourn)

Maiden voyage: July 15

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Viking isn't the only major line getting into expedition cruising in 2022. So is Seabourn. Seabourn Venture will be the 33-year-old luxury line's very first expedition ship.

Like Viking Octantis, Seabourn Venture will be a hardy vessel specifically built to travel to some of the world's most remote places, including Antarctica and the Arctic. Indeed, it's scheduled to spend much of its time each year in the polar regions, while also offering sailings to such off-the-beaten-path, warm weather places as the Amazon.

Designed to carry just 264 passengers, it'll be a ship loaded with outdoor equipment for off-ship adventure, including kayaks and bikes. It'll also boast a staggering 24 Zodiac boats for waterborne exploring and landings in remote areas — enough to get every passenger off the ship at the same time (something that isn't always the case with expedition ships). And it'll be home to 26 expedition guides including scientists, historians and naturalists who will lecture regularly on board and lead guided tours on land.

But perhaps Seabourn Venture's standout adventure feature will be its two six-person submarines. As on Viking Octantis, passengers on Seabourn Venture will be able to explore the world under the water in polar regions as well as what's above the waterline.

The ship also will have a high-definition Cineplex camera that can pick up wildlife like a polar bear up to 4 miles away, streaming the footage into the Discovery Center while leaving the wildlife undisturbed.

On the luxury side of things, every room on Seabourn Venture will be a suite and have its own balcony — something that often isn't the case with expedition ships. And the ship's restaurants will serve elegant cuisine crafted in part by leading American chef Thomas Keller.

The details: Seabourn Venture will spend much of its first summer sailing in the Arctic before repositioning to Antarctica for the winter. Fares for Arctic sailings start at $11,099 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 206-626-8351 or visit seabourn.com .

Norwegian Prima (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: Aug. 17

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For the first time in nearly 10 years, Norwegian Cruise Line is getting an entirely new class of ships. Under development since 2017, Norwegian Prima will be the first of six sister vessels scheduled to debut between 2022 and 2027 that collectively will be known as the Prima Class.

At 142,500 tons, Norwegian Prima will be notably smaller than the vessels the line has been adding in recent years, such as the 2-year-old, 169,116-ton Norwegian Encore — a factor that will allow it to access smaller ports around the world. But Norwegian Prima still will pack a lot of over-the-top amenities, including a go-kart track that spreads over three decks (a cruise industry first).

The ship also will boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says will provide more G-force than an accelerating F1 racecar. Additionally, the vessel will be home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, and a list of interactive real-life gameshows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right," "Supermarket Sweep," "Press Your Luck" and "Beat the Clock."

But Norwegian Prima will be about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It'll also mark a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian says Norwegian Prima will offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship as well as the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessels as well as the brand's largest-ever inside, oceanview and balcony cabins.

Norwegian also says Norwegian Prima will offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship including more total pool deck space than any other ship in the brand's fleet.

The details: Norwegian Prima initially will sail in Northern Europe during the summer before repositioning to North America in the fall. Fares start at $799 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a five-night trip to Mexico out of Port Canaveral, Florida. For more information, call 800-657-5773 or visit ncl.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)

Maiden voyage: Dec. 20

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It won't be quite the world's biggest cruise ship, though it will be close. At around 205,000 tons, MSC World Europa will be nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's record-size Oasis Class vessels, including the aforementioned Wonder of the Seas.

By one measure, it'll be even bigger. MSC World Europa will be 21 decks high — three decks higher than the Oasis Class ships. But it'll be less long and less wide than the Oasis Class ships, leaving it about 10% smaller in overall size.

Like the Oasis Class ships, MSC World Europa will be able to hold nearly 7,000 passengers with all berths filled — 6,762 to be exact.

As for its onboard offerings, MSC Cruises is taking a page from Royal Caribbean's playbook by breaking down the public areas of MSC World Europa into districts. They will include an adults-only "Zen district" and a separate "family district" that houses as many as 10 new kids facilities. There also will be a central interior promenade with entertainment, shops and bars.

In addition, MSC World Europa will have six pools and 14 hot tubs, making it one of the most pool-covered ships at sea. The watery offerings will include an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that will integrate virtual reality technology. There also will be a family sundeck.

MSC World Europa also will have 13 dining venues, including the new-for-the-line Chef's Garden Kitchen (an outlet focused on microgreens) and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. In a twist, the ship will have three separate buffet restaurants as well, each with its own ambiance.

Drinking spots will include an English-style pub serving beer made on board as well as a new gin bar concept, a first for MSC Cruises. Dubbed Masters of the Sea Pub, it'll span two decks.

The details: MSC World Europa initially will sail in the Persian Gulf out of Dubai before repositioning to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2023. Fares for seven-night sailings start at $559 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 877-868-8870 or visit msccruisesusa.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises

Other newcomers

In addition to the above, newcomers for 2022 also include several more small expedition ships and other small vessels from such cruise operators as Silversea Cruises , Emerald Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages. There also are two new ships debuting for start-up line Virgin Voyages and new ships coming for Princess Cruises , Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises — all sisters to previously unveiled vessels.

Viking also has several other new ships debuting in addition to Viking Octantis.

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Endorsements | Keeping up with the Bezoses: Mark Zuckerberg…

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Breaking news, endorsements | bay area, california both lose jobs in february as hiring surge halts, endorsements | keeping up with the bezoses: mark zuckerberg buys a super yacht, reports say, a report says that zuckerberg’s luxurious new $300 million vessel was originally was commissioned by a russian oligarch who was the target of sanctions imposed after that country’s invasion of ukraine.

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Given that Mark Zuckerberg enjoys a respectable 16th place on a list of the world’s richest people, he probably figured it was time for him to acquire one of the ultimate status symbols for the mega-wealthy — a super yacht.

A new report from The Sun said that Zuckerberg is now the proud owner of a $300 million vessel that he has christened “Launchpad.” The 387-foot-long vessel, which comes with a helipad and a $30 million companion boat, was seen docked this week at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with its unique chrome finish reflecting in the sun.

This purchase shows, among other things, that the Facebook and Meta founder and CEO has branched out from buying islands and building an underground complex to help him survive the apocalypse. Perhaps, he wants to cruise the Mediterranean this summer and be among the moguls who can play host to Leonardo DiCaprio.

Amazon Founder and Executive Chair Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez attend the Vanity Fair 95th Oscars Party at the The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, California on March 12, 2023. (Photo by Michael TRAN / AFP) (Photo by MICHAEL TRAN/AFP via Getty Images)

The yacht definitely grants him admission to the watery playgrounds of such multibillionaires as Jeff Bezos, Larry Ellison, Bill Gates and any of the Russian oligarchs who haven’t been the target of sanctions imposed by the United States or its allies over Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

In fact, Zuckerberg reportedly came by Launchpad due to the misfortunes of one of those oligarchs. The yacht originally was commissioned to be built by Vladimir Potanin, one of Russia’s richest men who is on multiple sanctions list, according to a report by Autoevolution.com , a transportation industry site. The yacht was known as Project 1010, and the shipbuilder in the Netherlands was legally barred from delivering it to Potanin when it was completed in 2022, though Autoevolution also said that Potanin was not the yacht’s actual owner.

The Sun reported that the yacht recently received “special permission” to be imported. It has since arrived in the United States, a couple months ahead of Zuckerberg’s 40th birthday on May 14 — which raises the question of whether he meant Launchpad as a birthday gift to himself.

It’s quite a gift: Launchpad can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard. It also requires a crew of 48 and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com . But shelling out $30 million for maintenance a year shouldn’t be a problem for Zuckerberg, who reportedly earns between $6 million and $12 million a day, The Sun said.

But as spectacular as Launchpad sounds, super yacht fans might say it’s not as spectacular as Jeff Bezos’s super yacht, Koru. The $500 million sailing vessel features very tall masts, a swimming pool, a helipad and room for a second, smaller yacht. The most noteworthy thing about Koru is that Bezos commissioned a special sculpture to decorate its prow. It’s a “curvaceous winged goddess” that is said to bear a striking resemblance to his fiancee Lauren Sanchez.

The Amazon founder, his wife-to-be and the goddess figurehead spent much of last summer sailing around the Mediterranean, cruising from Spain to Croatia and hosting such famous guests as Katy Perry, Orlando Bloom and Usher. The couple also threw a lavish engagement party off the coast of Positano on Italy’s Amalfi coast, attended by another pack of famous friends, including Kris Jenner, Wendi Murdoch and, yes, Leonardo DiCaprio.

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Huge new vessel to operate on Stena Line's Merseyside to Dublin route

Swedish ferry firm has secured Bore Song to travel on its route between Birkenhead and Dublin

  • 15:33, 22 MAR 2024

Stena Line has secured the new Bore Song vessel to operate on its Birkenhead to Dublin freight route

Stena Line has announced that a new vessel will be operating on its Merseyside to Dublin route.

The Swedish company has secured a freight only vessel, Bore Song, to operate on the route, which travels between Birkenhead and Dublin. The ship will boost freight capacity on the route by 30%.

Stena Line’s Liverpool (Birkenhead)-Dublin dedicated freight service has been operational since February 15, 2024 with Stena Horizon serving customers temporarily, whilst the company searched for a longer-term solution.

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Bore Song is now scheduled to undergo modifications and is expected to enter service in mid-April. With capacity for almost 3,000 lane metres of freight, the ship will provide significantly more space and is said to be well suited for this unaccompanied freight route.

Once Bore Song is operational, Stena line will be able to restore normal capacity and operations on its Rosslare-Fishguard and Rosslare-Cherbourg routes.

The company is also investing further in its port operations at Birkenhead to better serve freight customers. Stena Line recently broke ground on a project to significantly increase parking for freight vehicles with plans for 200 additional bays.

This follows the announcement last year that the ferry operator had signed an agreement with Peel Ports to operate at the terminal in Birkenhead until the year 2100.

Paul Grant, Trade Director Irish Sea, Stena Line said: “Since we announced our plans to launch our Dublin-Liverpool service in December, we have been searching for a long-term freight only ship solution, and we’re delighted to have secured the Bore Song to serve on the route until at least the end of the year.

“The extra capacity offered by Bore Song will be welcomed by the market. The service has had a strong start and we anticipate further growth in the coming months. Coupled with the expansion of our port operations in Birkenhead and our long-term agreement with Peel Ports, we’re investing significantly in the future of our seventh service across the Irish Sea.”

Stena Line is the largest ferry operator on the Irish Sea, with the biggest fleet providing up to 248 weekly sailings.

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‘Below Deck’ Sails Into a New Era

With a different captain at the helm and new production elements, the reality show about charter yachts is switching up its style.

A man in a crew member suit stands behind a bar and tends to flowers in a vase.

By Shivani Gonzalez

Starting a new season of “ Below Deck ” can be similar to returning to summer camp as a kid — you know it’s going to be fun and that you’ll be in the same environment, but some of the people will be different and you’re not quite sure what the vibes will be.

This time around, in particular, feels that way because for the first time in the show’s 11-season run, Captain Lee Rosbach is no longer at the helm. It’s a pivotal moment for a franchise that has become one of the most popular entities in the sprawling universe of reality TV since premiering on Bravo in 2013 . The show’s appeal was built on endless romances between various crew members (“boatmances,” as they came to be known), horrible charter guests and some sort of passive-aggressive fight about how many shackles of the anchor chain should be in the water. And there was always Rosbach presiding over the drama as he trudged around the boat, reeling off one liners like “I’m madder than a pissed-on chicken” and “we screwed the pooch so many times we should have a litter of puppies running around.”

At the center of the show now is Kerry Titheradge (the stern yet goofy captain of “Below Deck Adventure” fame), who is managing the Motor Yacht Saint David with the cheeky chief stew Fraser Olender by his side.

With that change in captain, the energy on the boat — both onscreen and off — is different, according to Olender.

“Lee has a no B.S. attitude, which I love with him,” Olender said in an interview. “With Kerry, he taught me a lot and sort of forced to me confront issues directly with my team, work them out, as opposed to making executive decisions too soon.”

This shift in management style changes the central conflict — whereas the drama once focused on the captain swiftly kicking out any unpleasant crew member (as we might have seen with Rosbach), the drama now focuses on the whole crew trying to get along (since Titheradge gives people those second chances).

Additionally, Olender noted that the captain’s relationship with the crew can also affect the drama on board.

“Captains absolutely do get involved, whether they know it or not,” Olender said, adding that for the crew, everything is about “trying to impress your captain.”

This phenomenon plays out early in the new season when the lead deckhand, Ben Willoughby, called out a fellow crew member over the radios about not wearing a life vest — something he easily could have done in private. The drama that followed became an interpersonal conflict between the two of them, both with the ultimate goal of impressing Titheradge. (Of course, the two deckhands had kissed on the previous crew night out, which is more in line with the “Below Deck” drama viewers are used to.)

For “Below Deck” showrunners, the changeovers in the cast allowed them to rethink what the show would look like.

From the season premiere, it was immediately apparent that Rosbach’s absence wasn’t the only change this season: The filming is sleeker, the daily, multicourse meals prepared by the chef are given their own glamour shots and the cameras sometimes cut to the perspectives of yachties running around on deck and through the galley.

“Our showrunner, Lauren Simms, is an avid consumer of all different kinds of media,” Noah Samton, a senior vice president of unscripted current production for NBCUniversal, said in an interview. “She pitches us different ideas on how to stylistically evoke different feelings and change the mood a little bit of ‘Below Deck’ without removing what really works.”

Moving through the rest of the season, and potentially through seasons to come, Olender is aiming to bring a cutthroat management style while also bringing affection for his stews, all with his signature British humor.

On Bravo’s side, there are changes in the works for the other “Below Deck” spinoffs — including “Sailing Yacht,” “Mediterranean” and “Down Under” — which collectively, have 26 seasons. Specifically, Samton said that “Down Under” is currently filming and that even though fans should be ready to see new things, the show will stay true to its original concept.

“These are real yachties doing a real job so you have to stay within those confines because the audience isn’t going to want anything that is too produced or fake,” Samton said. “So we have to find ways to reinvent while staying true to the original concept of the show.”

And as Olender said: “I’m sure that every year if I were to work with this franchise again, that I’ll be thrown a collection of total chaotic and disastrous stews — that’s what makes it watchable.”

An earlier version of this article misquoted Fraser Olender, the chief stew of “Below Deck.” He said, “I also feel like Kerry this season. ... Lee has a no B.S. attitude, which I love with him,” not “I feel like Kerry this season, as opposed to Lee, has a no B.S. attitude, which I love with him.”

How we handle corrections

Shivani Gonzalez is a news assistant at The Times who writes a weekly TV column and contributes to a variety of sections. More about Shivani Gonzalez

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