Heidi BucoloThere’s nothing we love more than new cruise ships and discovering the latest innovations at sea. From the world’s largest cruise ships to intimate luxury yachts, the 2026 lineup brings an impressive array of vessels. These include Royal Caribbean’s third Icon-class megaship, Norwegian’s second Prima Plus vessel, Four Seasons’ entry into luxury yachting, and Virgin Voyages’ first Alaska sailings. Here are our picks for the 10 most exciting new cruise ships debuting in late 2025 and throughout 2026.
Best New Cruise Ships at a Glance (2026)
| Ship Name | Cruise Line | Debut Date | Ship Class | Passenger Capacity | Gross Tonnage | 2026 Destinations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brilliant Lady | Virgin Voyages | September 2025 | – | 2,770 | 110,000 GT | Caribbean, Alaska |
| Star Princess | Princess Cruises | October 2025 | Sphere Class | 4,300 | 178,000 GT | Caribbean, Alaska |
| Celebrity Xcel | Celebrity Cruises | November 2025 | Edge Class | 3,260 | 141,420 GT | Caribbean, Europe |
| Disney Destiny | Disney Cruise Line | November 2025 | Wish Class | 2,508 | 144,000 GT | Caribbean, Bahamas |
| Windstar’s Star Seeker | Windstar Cruises | January 2026 | Star Class | 224 | 9,315 GT | Caribbean, Alaska, Asia |
| Four Seasons Yacht I | Four Seasons Yachts | March 2026 | – | 190 | 34,000 GT | Mediterranean, Caribbean |
| Disney Adventure | Disney Cruise Line | March 2026 | Global Class | 6,700 | 208,000 GT | Southeast Asia |
| Norwegian Luna | Norwegian Cruise Line | April 2026 | Prima Plus Class | 3,550 | 156,300 GT | Caribbean |
| Legend of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | August 2026 | Icon Class | 5,610 | 250,800 GT | Mediterranean, Caribbean |
| MSC World Asia | MSC Cruises | December 2026 | World Class | 6,762 | 215,863 GT | Mediterranean |
1. Legend of the Seas
Scheduled debut date: August 2026
Line / ship class: Royal Caribbean International / Icon Class
Size: 250,800 gross tons / 5,610 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
As part of the ground-breaking Icon class, Legend of the Seas features many of the same venues and amenities as sisters Icon and Star, including Category 6 waterpark, Crown’s Edge, Absolute Zero ice rink, the AquaDome with indoor AquaTheater, and The Hideaway adults-only deck with a suspended infinity pool. Legend of the Seas also features the family-friendly Surfside neighborhood complete with a carousel and the plant-filled Central Park area.
Signature new experiences like Royal Railway – Legend Station, a train-car dining journey steeped in Silk Route legend, debut exclusively on this ship. Not to mention, Royal Caribbean continues to innovate when it comes to dining and entertainment.
And on a personal note, the original Legend of the Seas was the first ship we ever sailed on together back in 2007!
Dining & Entertainment
While The Royal Railway – Legend Station offers a five-course interactive dining experience with flavors from China, India, Italy, and more, you’ll also find the most dining at sea with 28 different options. Returning favorites include Chops Grille, Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, an enhanced AquaDome Market food hall, and family options like Basecamp and Surfside Eatery.
Legend’s entertainment continues to bring cutting-edge shows to the stage with the Broadway musical “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, along with all-new AquaTheater and Absolute Zero productions. The ship also features an amped-up Lost Dunes mini golf course, 7 total pools, and over 20 bars, lounges, and live music spots including the return of the very popular Dueling Pianos.
Accommodations
Similar to Icon and Star of the Seas, Legend features a huge variety of accommodations from spacious suites, family staterooms, and interiors. Both traditional and infinite balcony cabins are also available. The massive and newly redesigned three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse is the ultimate family accommodation with direct access to the Surfside neighborhood.
Itineraries
Legend launches summer 2026 in Europe (mostly Western Mediterranean) sailing from Barcelona and Rome, shifting to Florida for Southern Caribbean itineraries from Port Everglades in late 2026. The blend of European and Caribbean options will allow guests to sample diverse ports and cultures.
Best for: Multi-generational families seeking the ultimate mega-ship experience with Broadway entertainment, thrilling waterslides, and diverse dining options.
2. Norwegian Luna
Scheduled debut date: April 2026
Line / ship class: Norwegian Cruise Line / Prima Plus Class
Size: 156,300 gross tons / 3,550 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
Sister to Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna shines with very similar amenities, entertainment, and dining options. The ship features the Aqua Slidecoaster (a first-at-sea hybrid roller coaster and waterslide), the 10-story Drop slide, an expanded Stadium with complimentary games, and a Glow Court.
Norwegian Luna features a variety of complimentary and specialty restaurants including Sukhothai, as well as other favorite spaces like the luxe Ocean Boulevard, adults-only Vibe Beach Club, and the Observation Lounge.
Dining & Entertainment
Norwegian Luna boasts NCL’s trademark “Freestyle” approach to dining with a wide selection of specialty restaurants along with complimentary options like the Indulge Food Hall and The Local Bar & Grill. Aside from Sukhothai, Luna features familar favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Hasuki (the teppanyaki experience). Not to mention, guests can enjoy beverages as part of the cruise line’s More at Sea at a variety of bars including the Metropolitan Bar, Whiskey Bar, and Belvedere Bar.
Each evening, the ship comes alive with main theater productions which have yet to be announced, comedy shows in the Improv at Sea, and live rock shows in the ever-popular Syd Norman’s Pour House. The ship’s theater boasts a transformational design allowing for immersive shows and dance club experiences.
Accommodations
Norwegian Luna features The Haven, a luxury ship-within-a-ship complex, with a massive three-bedroom duplex suite for the ultimate splurge. The Haven guests have access to butler service, an exclusive sundeck, pool, restaurant, and lounge. Also on the ship are NCL’s famous studio staterooms for solo travelers, complete with an exclusive lounge.
Itineraries
Norwegian Luna debuts from Miami in April 2026, offering itineraries to the Caribbean. Destinations and voyage lengths are designed for fun-seeking families and adult lounge-lovers alike.
Best for: Active cruisers who love a variety of top deck attractions and nightlife, those wanting flexible dining options with plenty of choice, and those seeking the best of both luxury and big ship cruising.
3. Disney Adventure
Scheduled debut date: March 2026
Line / ship class: Disney Cruise Line / Global Class
Size: 208,000 gross tons / ~6,700 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
Originally the “Global Dream”, Disney Adventure—after significant Disney reimagining—features the largest passenger capacity (about 6,700) of the Disney fleet. It’s also the most unique and immersive with seven themed environments inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. Also a first for Disney, the ship’s hull features dual stern sculptures of Captain Mickey and Captain Minnie.
Disney Adventure features DCL’s signature rotational dining, including six main dining rooms instead of three, along with a variety of themed bars and lounges. Perhaps what makes the ship most unique though is it features TWO amusement park-style attractions. Ironcycle Test Run is Disney’s first-ever rollercoaster at sea, and Groot Galaxy Spin is a ride that’s very similar to Dumbo The Flying Elephant at the Disney Parks.
Dining & Entertainment
Dining spans signature character meals and global offerings, with Asian influences throughout. From Frozen and Tangled themed main dining rooms, to Mike & Sulley’s Japanese steakhouse, Mowgli’s Eatery serving Indian-inspired cuisine, Gramma Tala’s Kitchen serving a menu of Pacific and Asian flavors, and Stitch’s ‘Ohana Grill, there’s something for every palette.
When it comes to themed neighborhoods, Toy Story Place is home to the biggest and best pools and water slides. Marvel Landing is Disney Cruise Line’s first “theme park at sea”, and San Fransokyo Street is filled with interactive games, activities, and more. There’s also Disney Imagination Garden, Disney Discovery Reef, Wayfinder Bay, and Town Square with their own distinct theming and amenities.
Cutting-edge theaters offer an array of Disney productions, including the new stage show “Remember”, shows in the Imagination Garden like Duffy and The Friend Ship, and “Moana: Call of the Sea” in Wayfinder Bay, among many others.
Accommodations
Staterooms on Disney Adventure are family-focused, packed with storage and flexible configurations to maximize comfort for large and multi-generational groups. The ship’s scale allows for broader suite options and more connecting cabins. In addition to traditional ocean view verandah staterooms, some have a garden view or a reef view.
Itineraries
Sailing from Singapore from March 2026, Disney Adventure offers three- and four-night cruises to nowhere, making it perfect for back-to-back sailings or a combined land visit to Singapore.
Best for: Disney-loving families who want to visit Asia, and those seeking the immersive and unique themed entertainment not available anywhere else at sea.
4. Windstar’s Star Seeker
Debut date: January 2026
Line / ship class: Windstar Cruises / Star Class
Size: 9,315 gross tons / 224 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
Star Seeker marks a major milestone as Windstar’s first purpose-built Star Class yacht, designed from the keel up for this small-ship cruise line. With an exceptional staff-to-guest ratio of 1:2, the ship ensures an intimate atmosphere with highly personalized service. The vessel debuts innovative Infinity Suites—a first for Windstar that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces.
As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Star Seeker continues Windstar’s culinary excellence, from multi-course meals in the main dining room to a new specialty restaurant. Star Seeker also debuts an evolution of the brand’s iconic Watersports Platform, along with a full-service spa and modern fitness center for wellness-focused travelers.
Dining & Entertainment
Star Seeker offers five dining venues, all included in the cruise fare. Amphora Restaurant serves as the main dining venue, transforming from a casual buffet with live cooking stations by day to an upscale multi-course dinner experience in the evenings. The new Basil + Bamboo specialty restaurant blends Mediterranean and Asian flavors in creative fusion dishes. While complimentary, reservations are recommended for this intimate venue.
Entertainment centers around the Yacht Club and Main Lounge—elegant gathering spaces offering cocktails, live music performances, and enrichment programming. A highlight for many guests is the popular crew talent show, showcasing the personalities behind the exceptional service. And the Watersports Platform allows direct ocean access for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, bringing guests closer to the water in a way that larger ships can’t.
Accommodations
All 112 suites are ocean-facing with no interior cabins, spread across 12 different accommodation types to suit various preferences. The new Infinity Suites feature innovative floor-to-ceiling windows that slide halfway down, creating an open-air feel that’s perfect for enjoying sea breezes.
Itineraries
Star Seeker’s initial sailings visit the Caribbean before repositioning to Alaska for the summer season, sailing one-way interaries from Vancouver to Juneau. The ship will then cross the Pacific to Japan in September.
Best for: Couples and small groups seeking intimate yacht-style luxury, all-suite accommodations, and access to smaller ports unavailable to larger ships.
5. Four Seasons I
Scheduled debut date: March 2026
Line: Four Seasons Yachts
Size: 34,000 gross tons / 190 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
With just 190 guests and a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, this ship is about space, service, and private yachting. This new ultra-luxury line sets out to redefine upscale travel by merging Four Seasons hospitality with cruising. Though, it’s not as all-inclusive as you might think. Lunch and dinner, alcoholic beverages, nor shore excursions are included in the cruise fare.
Other highlights include The Marina, an all-day waterfront retreat featuring morning yoga, water sports on marina days, al fresco lunches, and an evening venue with music and light bites.
Dining & Entertainment
Dining on Four Seasons I is globally inspired and highly personalized. Four Seasons Yachts will offer 11 distinct restaurant and bar concepts ranging from fresh Mediterranean fare to omakase experiences, with a Chef-in-Residence program bringing abroad unique flavors.
The marina lets guests swim, kayak, or board private tenders directly off the ship, a unique yachting-style amenity. There’s also the L’Oceana Spa offering holistic treatments, a fitness center, pool, and intimate theater for enrichment sessions, culinary workshops, and live entertainment in the evenings.
Accommodations
Four Seasons I features all-suite accommodations start at nearly 500 square feet, with the exclusive Funnel Suite boasting over 5,000 square feet of living space, 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a gym, steam room, and personal kitchen.
Itineraries
With Captain Kate McCue at the helm, Four Seasons’ inaugural year covers over 130 destinations across the Caribbean and Mediterranean, with access to secluded ports unreachable by larger ships.
Best for: Affluent travelers seeking ultra-luxury yachting with Five-Star service, Michelin-starred dining, and exclusive port access.
6. MSC World Asia
Scheduled debut date: December 2026
Line / ship class: MSC Cruises / World Class
Size: 215,863 gross tons / 6,762 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
As the third World Class ship, MSC World Asia features many of the same innovative features as her sister ships MSC World Europa and MSC World America. The mega-ship features seven districts, an 11-story dry slide (The Tree of Life @The Spiral), the Cliffhanger over-water swing, a comedy club, and over 40 different restaurants, bars, and lounges.
With sleek design nods to Asian landscapes and culture, World Asia brings the natural beauty of this continent to the Mediterranean.
Dining & Entertainment
Favorites like Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Teppanyaki, and Butcher’s Cut steakhouse return on MSC World Asia, but the ship will also feature two yet-to-be-announced Pan-Asian specialty restaurants. These culinary options will likely replace Paxos and Eataly currently on MSC World America. Guests can also grab a beverage at the Coffee Emporium, All-Stars Sports Bar, and Masters of the Seas British-style pub, among other bars and lounges.
When it comes to entertainment, The Clubhouse is a brand-new dedicated family zone with LEGO play, bumper cars, and night events. The Luna Park Arena and The Harbour also have new designs. Luna Park hosts themed Asia-inspired shows, while the Harbour is re-envisioned as a multi-use outdoor deck with Asian touches. Additionally, guests can enjoy cabaret-style shows in the Panorama Lounge, stage productions in the World Theatre, and family-fun on the outdoor World Promenade.
Accommodations
Accommodation options on MSC World Asia are extensive, including the standard interior, oceanview, and balcony cabins, along with the largest variety of MSC Yacht Club suites. This luxury ship-within-a-ship retreat spans more than 106,000 square feet and features a two-level private sundeck along with butler service and an exclusive restaurant.
Itineraries
World Asia launches with seven-night Mediterranean voyages visiting European ports like Barcelona, Rome, Marseille, Malta, and more through summer 2027, likely expanding to Asia later.
Best for: European cruisers seeking value-packed mega-ship experiences with Asian-inspired design, families wanting diverse entertainment, and Yacht Club luxury seekers.
7. Celebrity Xcel
Debut date: November 2025
Line / ship class: Celebrity Cruises / Edge Class
Size: 141,420 gross tons / 3,260 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
Celebrity Xcel sets a new benchmark for the brand with innovation and immersive experiences at sea. The most striking new venue, The Bazaar, reimagines Eden’s former three-deck footprint into a destination-centric marketplace, lounge, and entertainment zone that transforms throughout the cruise.
There’s also new dining experiences, new entertainment, an elevated Pool Club, and Spa enhancements. Guest favorites like the grand Martini Bar, the multi-terraced Sunset Bar, and Daniel Boulud’s Le Voyage fine-dining venue return to this ship as well.
Dining & Entertainment
Celebrity Xcel elevates the culinary landscape with three all-new dining experiences. Mosaic introduces a sophisticated new restaurant in place of Eden, and Spice debuts in place of Eden Café, while Bora reinvents the Rooftop Garden Grill with fresh menus inspired by the Mediterranean along with an upscale brunch option. The new Chef’s Studio also offers interactive culinary events for true food enthusiasts.
Entertainment gets an upgrade too with dynamic theater productions—Mainstage, Between Takes, and Chapters—plus immersive shows at The Club, including HOTEL and 254 West. The Bazaar hosts ever-changing festivals, and there’s plenty of new games, game shows, and even the Attic at The Club with retro arcade games. Not to mention, guests shouldn’t miss the “Poolest Day Ever”, an exclusive event on the last sea day during Caribbean sailings.
Accommodations
When it comes to accommodations, Celebrity Xcel continues to offer Edge-class Infinite Veranda cabins and suites with private spaces and access to The Retreat Sundeck. The ship also elevates its AquaClass staterooms with more spa-like amenities and adds more cabins for solo travelers.
Itineraries
Celebrity Xcel begins her inaugural season with seven-night Caribbean voyages from Fort Lauderdale, alternating between Bahamas, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten, then moving to Europe for summer 2026 sailings.
Best for: Sophisticated travelers who appreciate modern luxury, culinary excellence, and a connection to their Caribbean and European ports of call.
8. Star Princess
Debut date: October 2025
Line / ship class: Princess Cruises / Sphere Class
Size: 178,000 gross tons / 4,300 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
As the second ship in Princess’ Sphere class, Star Princess offers many of the same features aboard Sun Princess. Highlights include The Dome, a glass-paneled venue that serves as both a solarium and entertainment space. The ship’s Piazza also features a large glass spherical structure, ensuring guests enjoy breathtaking views from virtually anywhere.
This next-generation Love Boat showcases enhancements like expanded dining venues, a new SkyDeck sports court, and non-smoking casino areas. Not to mention, an all-new Spellbound by Magic Castle is found exclusively on Star Princess.
Dining & Entertainment
Similar to Sun Princess, Star Princess features 30+ restaurants and bars, spanning international cuisine with new partnerships and celebrity collaborations. Highlights include Love by Britto, an artistic dining experience celebrating love; The Butcher’s Block by Dario, in partnership with “the world’s most famous butcher”; Makoto Ocean; and Umai Teppanyaki. There’s also a variety of casual dining options from the pool deck to the promenade.
When it comes to entertainment, Star Princess offers a diverse mix of new shows and returning favorites. The Princess Arena Theater features two new productions, Meridian and Illuminate: A Spectacle of Joy, and The Dome features an all-new Candlelight Concert Series, in addition to all the other game shows and live musical performances happening around the ship.
Accommodations
Star Princess offers diverse accommodations to suit every preference, with more than 1,500 balcony staterooms, 100 connecting staterooms, and the exclusive Sanctuary Collection. This exclusive retreat features a private sundeck, restaurant, and a touch of luxury.
Itineraries
Star Princess sails from Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean during its inaugural winter season. The ship will then reposition to Alaska to make her debut in summer 2026 as Princess Cruises newest ship in the region.
Best for: Travelers who want Princess’ classic cruise experience with MedallionClass technology, upscale specialty dining, and diverse itineraries from the Caribbean to Alaska.
9. Disney Destiny
Debut date: November 2025
Line / ship class: Disney Cruise Line / Wish Class
Size: 144,000 gross tons / ~2,508 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
As the third Triton-class (or Wish-class) ship, Disney Destiny showcases some of the best at-sea entertainment facilities and sports new stern art with Spider-Man and Spider-Bots. Inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel, it creates an all-new immersive world for families.
With a heroes and villains theme, the ship features a Black Panther-inspired Grand Hall as well as an all-new lounge inspired by Doctor Strange and a piano bar inspired by Cruella DeVil. There’s also a new Lion King-themed dining venue and a Disney Hercules stage show. Not to mention, the Haunted Mansion Parlor returns along with an new Pirates in the Caribbean themed bar.
Dining & Entertainment
Disney Destiny continues DCL’s signature rotational dining with Worlds of Marvel, 1923, and Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King. As guests eat, they’ll enjoy a musical journey through this iconic movie’s soundtrack. Disney Destiny’s confectionery is themed to Edna Mode from Incredibles, and the ship also features two cafes inspired by Megara from Hercules and Merida from Brave. Adults can indulge at two signature dining venues as well, Palo Steakhouse and Enchante, or sip cocktails at The Sanctum and DeVil’s Piano Lounge.
Focused on families, Disney Destiny offers cutting-edge entertainment, themed venues, and interactive spaces inspired by classic Disney tales. From the AquaMouse water attraction, to the Oceaneer Club for kids — with themes including Marvel Super Heroes, Star Wars, and Disney Princesses — and Pirate Night with the only fireworks at sea, there’s something for everyone. The Walt Disney Theater features three production shows: Disney Seas the Adventure; Frozen, A Musical Spectacular; and Disney Hercules.
Accommodations
Staterooms on the ship include the exclusive Destiny Tower Suite — a one-of-a-kind accommodation in the funnel themed to Iron Man. Disney Destiny also offers suites inspired by Hercules and The Incredibles. Most other staterooms feature Disney’s signature split-bathroom concept, along with decor inspired by Hercules, Mulan, Brave, Raya, Incredibles, Big Hero 6, and Fantasia.
Itineraries
Disney Destiny’s first voyages depart from Fort Lauderdale for Bahamas and Caribbean ports, including Disney’s private islands of Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.
Best for: Disney and Marvel fans, families with young children seeking character experiences, and those wanting some of the best heroes-and-villains themed immersive entertainment and dining.
10. Brilliant Lady
Debut date: September 2025
Line: Virgin Voyages
Size: 110,000 gross tons / 2,770 guests
Why This Ship Stands Out
As the fourth lady ship from Virgin Voyages, Brilliant Lady introduces subtle but important enhancements like optimized interiors and structural tweaks allowing Alaska and Panama Canal cruises, plus exclusive culinary and entertainment options. The central Roundabout has been reimagined with more outward facing views and more space to chill, while the Athletic Club features more shaded areas.
While this ship technically set sail in 2025, we’re including it in our round-up as 2026 will be Virgin Voyages debut in Alaska with her MerMaiden voyage from Seattle on May 21, 2026.
Dining & Entertainment
With all-inclusive dining, guests can continue to enjoy enhanced menus at The Wake steakhouse, Pink Agave, Extra Virgin, Test Kitchen, and Gunbae Korean BBQ. However, Brilliant Lady debuts Rojo by Razzle Dazzle with Spanish-inspired decor, sangria, and tapas.
When it comes to entertainment, Brilliant Lady shines with more comedy, live music, and seven new production shows. Red Room shows include Red Hot, tracing Virgin’s 50-year history, and Out of Time. The Manor debuts five new interactive shows and experiences including Murder in the Manor, inspired by 1980’s murder mystery novels. And one of our personal favorites, Duel Reality returns on Brilliant Lady, and the iconic Scarlet Night party is reworked for indoors given the ship will be sailing in Alaska.
Accommodations
The ship features the cabins that guests have come to know and love, including interior (Insider), oceanview (Sea View), and balcony (Sea Terrace) staterooms that feature a hammock. However, new to Brilliant Lady is a new Sea Terrace category that features two hammocks on the balcony. The suite categories RockStar Quarters and Mega RockStar Quarters also return.
Itineraries
After debuting in September 2025, Brilliant Lady spends the winter in Miami before beginning her journey through the Panama Canal and to the West Coast in time for the Alaska season in summer 2026. These exclusive Alaska itineraries include immersive exploration and new ports for the brand.
Best for: Adults-only travelers (18+) seeking unique entertainment, trendy dining experiences, and Virgin Voyages’ first-ever Alaska season with a party-cruise vibe.
Which New Cruise Ship Is Right for You?
Choosing between these 10 exceptional new ships depends on your travel style. Families will find endless entertainment on Legend of the Seas and Disney Cruise Line, while Norwegian Luna’s Aqua Slidecoaster and spacious Haven suites appeal to multigenerational groups. Couples seeking romance and luxury might gravitate toward Four Seasons I or Star Seeker, while value-conscious cruisers can enjoy MSC World Asia’s Mediterranean itineraries with innovative Asian touches. Adults-only travelers will appreciate Brilliant Lady’s edgy Alaska debut. And those wanting modern design and premium experiences will love Celebrity Xcel and Star Princess.
From mega-ships carrying 7,000 guests to intimate yachts hosting just 190, from Disney’s Asian adventure to Norwegian’s Caribbean thrills, these 10 vessels showcase the future of cruising. Each brings breakthrough features, expertly designed experiences, and diverse itineraries.
The 2026 cruise season promises unforgettable voyages. In fact, there’s never been a better time to book a new cruise ship experience—so which will you choose?
Frequently Asked Questions About New Cruise Ships in 2026
What is the largest cruise ship launching in 2026?
Legend of the Seas, debuting in August 2026, will be the largest cruise ship in the world at 250,800 gross tons with capacity for 5,610 guests at double occupancy (up to 7,000 maximum). This Royal Caribbean Icon-class ship surpasses even its sister ships Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas.
Which cruise lines are launching new ships in 2026?
Six major cruise lines are debuting new ships in 2026: Royal Caribbean (Legend of the Seas), Norwegian Cruise Line (Norwegian Luna), Disney Cruise Line (Disney Adventure), MSC Cruises (MSC World Asia), Four Seasons Yachts (Four Seasons Yacht I), and Windstar Cruises (Star Seeker). Additionally, four ships launching in late 2025—Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady, Princess’ Star Princess, Celebrity’s Xcel, and Disney’s Destiny—will sail full seasons in 2026.
What new cruise ships are going to Alaska in 2026?
Three new ships will sail Alaska in 2026. Brilliant Lady becomes Virgin Voyages’ first ship to cruise Alaska starting in May 2026 from Seattle, and Star Princess will offer Alaska cruises from Seattle in summer 2026. Windstar’s Star Seeker will also visit Alaska as part of its diverse 2026 itinerary.
What is the best new cruise ship for families in 2026?
Legend of the Seas stands out for families with its massive size, eight themed neighborhoods including Surfside for young kids, the largest waterpark at sea, Broadway shows like “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and diverse dining options. Disney Adventure, Disney Destiny, and MSC World Asia are also excellent choices at varying price points. While not as family-focused, multi-generational groups will also love Norwegian Luna and Star Princess.
Are there any luxury cruise ships debuting in 2026?
Yes, Four Seasons I represents the most luxurious debut, offering just 95 suites for 190 guests with a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio, Michelin-starred chef partnerships, and all-suite accommodations. Windstar’s Star Seeker also offers intimate luxury with 224 guests in 112 ocean-view suites.
When should I book a new cruise ship for 2026?
Bookings are already open for ships debuting in 2026. New ships typically fill up quickly, especially for inaugural sailings and peak season dates. For the best cabin selection and early booking promotions, it’s recommended to book 6-12 months in advance, or as soon as itineraries are released.
Comments
Do you agree with our list of the best cruise ships for 2026? Do you have plans to sail on any of these new vessels? Drop us an anchor below to share your upcoming 2026 cruise plans.
