New Cruise Ships

29 Jul 2019 | by Kyle Wilson

This blog is updated annually, with the last update made in 2025.

If you love cruising and you’re looking forward to heading off on an adventure in the future, you’ll be pleased to know that 2026 is going to be a fantastic year for new cruise ships – some of the best cruise lines sailing the seven seas are debuting new vessels!

So, while you browse the latest cruise deals ahead of your next cruise getaway, check out more information on some of the most exciting upcoming cruise ships starting to sail throughout 2026 and beyond.

New Cruise Ships for 2026

Below, you’ll find a brief overview of some new cruise ships, what you can expect when you embark on an adventure aboard them, and some key stats.

Norwegian Luna

Norwegian Luna

Joining Norwegian Cruise Line’s impressive fleet in 2026, Norwegian Luna is one new cruise ship you’ll want to make sure you book yourself onto. Featuring a host of modern amenities and exciting activities for the whole family to enjoy, you’ll find all your Norwegian Cruise Line favourites onboard – from Nama Sushi & Sashimi and the Indulge Food Hall to the thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster and sumptuous Mandara Spa & Salon. Initially offering sailings to the Caribbean, Norwegian Luna is around 10% larger than Norwegian Cruise Line’s latest Prima Class cruise ship, and it really embodies the sentiment of ‘bigger and better’. No matter what type of cruise holiday you’re after, you’ll have a fantastic time aboard Norwegian Luna.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 156,300
  • Guest Capacity: 3,550
  • Crew: 1,338
  • Total Cabins: 1,760 (~ 1,230 balcony cabins)*


*Some details are educated estimations and will be updated with confirmed numbers when available

Star Explorer

Windstar Star Explorer

Windstar Cruises’ stylish Star Explorer is a small luxury ship scheduled to set sail in 2026; practically overflowing with opulence and elegance, you won’t want to miss out on an exciting itinerary aboard this stunning cruise ship. With all-suite accommodation alongside a selection of popular Windstar amenities and brand new onboard experiences, Star Explorer is starting its life with a season sailing the Mediterranean – so, stunning coastlines and sparkling sunshine await! A modern take on Windstar Cruises’ Star Class cruise ships, the onboard experience will be fresh, yet familiar; that means it’s going to be elegant, with exquisite cuisine and attentive service.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 9,315
  • Guest Capacity: 224
  • Crew: 136
  • Total Cabins: 112

MSC World Asia

MSC World Asia

MSC World Asia, the third entry in MSC Cruises’ impressive World Class fleet, is a cruise ship that continues to showcase the very best of what this cruise line has to offer holidaymakers, boasting stylish venues, modern technologies, comfortable accommodation, and innovation everywhere you look. One of the larger cruise ships setting sail in 2026, this ship boasts over 30 bars, lounges, and restaurants alongside several swimming pools, impressive spa facilities, and a real abundance of family-friendly activities and entertainment. Cruising through the Mediterranean, and to ports of call in southern Europe, MSC World Asia is the perfect ship for UK-based cruisers looking for some fun in the sunshine.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 215,863
  • Guest Capacity: 6,758
  • Crew: 2,142
  • Total Cabins: 2,582

Legend of the Seas

legend of the seas


Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, is set to join the remarkable Royal Caribbean fleet in 2026, and you’re in for an unforgettable adventure when you set sail aboard this impressive ship. Home to a wide variety of iconic Royal Caribbean cruise amenities and experiences – such as the Absolute Zero ice rink, the AquaTheater, the FlowRider surf simulator, and the Category 6 Waterpark – this cruise ship is ideal for families, and will be Royal Caribbean at its absolute best. Sailing through the Mediterranean in its first season, your onboard experience here will be as much of an adventure as your time ashore; so, no matter what type of cruise adventure you’re looking for, a holiday with Royal Caribbean aboard Legend of the Seas is going to be something truly special.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 250,800
  • Guest Capacity: 7,600
  • Crew: 2,350
  • Total Cabins: 2,805 (~ 1,900 balcony cabins)*

*Some details are educated estimations and will be updated with confirmed numbers when available

Regent Seven Seas Prestige

legend of the seas


A cruise line with a reputation for delivering ultra-luxury cruise experiences around the world, Regent Seven Seas’ newest cruise ship, Seven Seas Prestige, is set to continue that impressive legacy in 2026. Featuring an elevated design that highlights the stylish accommodation, attentive service, and sublime cuisine available onboard, with the bright Starlight Atrium at the heart of the impressive designs, Seven Seas Prestige is home to everything you could ever want on a luxurious cruise adventure. With an impressive selection of entertainment options, comfortable lounge spaces, and a sumptuous spa, you’re in for a treat when you set sail aboard Seven Seas Prestige – whether you embark on cruises from Southampton or sailings to the Caribbean.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 77,000
  • Guest Capacity: 850
  • Crew: 630
  • Total Cabins: 411

Emerald Kaia

Emerald Kaia


Sailing to the Mediterranean and the Seychelles in 2026 and beyond, Emerald Cruises’ Emerald Kaia is going to be one luxury cruise ship you want to make sure you’re sailing aboard. A superyacht-style vessel, Emerald Kaia comes complete with elegant interiors, opulent menus, attentive service, and everything you could possibly need to unwind during your holiday. It also features a decadent dining experience with space for just eight guests an evening, alongside plenty of places to lounge and soak up the sunshine during sea days; promising a more laid-back, luxury cruise experience, Emerald Kaia is one cruise ship you’ll want to experience in 2026 and beyond.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 5,755
  • Guest Capacity: 128
  • Crew: 92
  • Total Cabins: 64

Explora III

Explora III


Explora III, the next luxurious cruise ship to join Explora Journeys’ growing fleet, is coming in 2026 – and you’re not going to want to miss an adventure aboard this impressive vessel. Sailing through Europe, before spending a season in the Caribbean in 2027, Explora III is home to stylish dining venues like Sakura and Anthology, comfortable lounge spaces, and more amenities Explora Journeys’ fans will know and love. The Ocean Wellness Spa, in particular, is among the best at sea; so, you can expect a fine range of sumptuous services available onboard. However you want to spend your time at sea with Explora Journeys, though, Explora III will deliver an unforgettable cruise experience.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 63,900
  • Guest Capacity: 926
  • Crew: 640
  • Total Cabins: 461

Cruise Ships Sailing From 2025

That’s not all, though! If you want to learn more about all the new cruise ships that have set sail throughout 2025, we have a run-down of some of the most exciting below. So, keep reading to learn about all the new cruise experiences available ahead of 2026 right here.

MSC World America

msc world america



Sailing from Summer 2025, MSC Cruises' MSC World America is whisking cruisers off to the Caribbean with a thrilling selection of exciting itineraries for you to enjoy.

An incredible addition to MSC Cruises' fleet, you'll find yourself with an abundance of activities to enjoy while onboard; from the impressive Sportplex (offering a tennis court, a basketball court, and more) to the thrilling Cliffhanger (the world's first over-the-water swing ride at sea), there's excitement everywhere on MSC World America. And, with seven unique districts to discover, each with its own selection of restaurants, bars, and lounges, you'll be faced with a wealth of options when it comes to places to eat and drink.

If you're looking forward to setting sail on MSC World America already, you can find out more about what to wear on a cruise right here; you may be surprised to learn that every cruise line has it's own specific dress code and special event evenings!

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 215,863
  • Guest Capacity: 6,762
  • Crew: 2,126
  • Total Cabins: 2,614 (~1,699 balcony cabins)

Oceania Allura

oceania allura



Oceania Cruises' newest cruise ship, Allura, is easily one of the most exciting on this list. With opulence at the forefront of every experience Oceania offers, you'll find all of this cruise line's firm favourites on this truly remarkable vessel.

Ember and Toscana, popular Oceania Cruises' restaurants, compliment the exceptional main dining venue onboard. And, panoramic sea views provide a sensational backdrop for comfortable lounges like Horizons. If that isn't enough, you'll be able to try your hand at cooking in the Culinary Center and try your luck at table games in the Casino. It might be a small ship, but you'll still find yourself with more than enough to do during sea days.

We know you might not need five reasons to cruise in luxury, but you can find just that right here (if you're on the fence about booking with Oceania).

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 67,000
  • Guest Capacity: 1,200
  • Crew: 800
  • Total Cabins: 612 (~593 balcony cabins)

Star of the Seas

star of the seas



The new Royal Caribbean ship really is a Star of the Seas, as its name suggests. You're not going to want to miss out on a sensational sailing aboard this incredible vessel when it embarks on its maiden voyage in Summer 2025.

Boasting an excellent array of onboard activities, such as the Flowrider surf machine and Adrenaline Peak climbing wall alongside the Absolute Zero ice arena and daring Crown's Edge open-air adventure, you'll find yourself with plenty to do during sea days. And, with more than 40 ways to dine (including Royal Caribbean favourites like Chops Grille and El Loco Fresh), you'll definitely find more than a few things you'll like when it comes to sensational snacks and delicious dishes.

If you want to get a taste of what you can expect beyond this, you can find out more about the top 10 Royal Caribbean cruise highlights right here.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 250,000
  • Guest Capacity: 7,600
  • Crew: 2,350
  • Total Cabins: 2,805 (~1,963 balcony cabins)

Norwegian Aqua

norwegian aqua



Norwegian Cruise Line's third Prima Class ship, Norwegian Aqua promises every guest an unforgettable getaway (and it certainly looks like it's going to deliver just that)! You'll find a wonderful selection of Caribbean cruises and transatlantic itineraries among the first few voyages on this cruise ship.

With Norwegian Aqua home to the cruise line's first specialty Thai restaurant (Sukhothai) and first fully plant-based menu (Planterie), even Norwegian Cruise Line veterans will find something fresh when they set sail on this remarkable vessel. When you're not eating and drinking, you'll find recreation and relaxation in equal measures. The Glow Court (a futuristic sports spot) is the perfect place to compete with friends and family, or you could always take a dip in the infinity pools at Infinity Beach (a great place to watch the sun set in the evenings. Whatever type of day you want to have, you'll have plenty of options to choose from on Norwegian Aqua.

If you're wondering why you should think about sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line and Norwegian Aqua (eventually), you can read more on 10 unmissable natural wonders to see on a cruise right here.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 156,300
  • Guest Capacity: 3,571
  • Crew: 1,388
  • Total Cabins: 1,760 (~1,232 balcony cabins)

Celebrity Xcel

celebrity xcel



Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Cruises' newest Edge Class ship, is set to start sailing in late 2025 and you won't want to miss an exciting itinerary aboard this sensational ship.

With Celebrity Cruises' famous Magic Carpet on the starboard size and an expanded Rooftop Garden, there's going to be plenty of places to grab a delicious drink and marvel at some spectacular sea views on Celebrity Xcel. When it comes to dining options, Celebrity Cruises classics like Raw on 5 and Normandie make a return with refreshing menus of sensational cuisine. And, you'll also find the Grand Plaza and Celebrity Theater among the live entertainment venues on Celebrity Xcel; so, you'll find yourself with plenty to enjoy in your evenings onboard.

Wondering what that live entertainment might entail? Well, get a taste of performances gone by with our article on cruise ship entertainment here; what you'll see on Celebrity Xcel will be even more impressive, but this will give you a sense of the sort of thing to expect.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 140,600
  • Guest Capacity: 3,260
  • Crew: 1,440
  • Total Cabins: 1,646 (~1,333 balcony cabins)

Disney Destiny

disney destiny



Disney Destiny is the latest cruise ship to join Disney Cruise Line's magical fleet and it promises to dazzle and delight with fun for all the family and Disney-themed venues and attractions (just like the other incredible Disney Cruise Line ships)!

With three main themed dining rooms and a selection of sensational spots for light bites and drinks, every mealtime will be just as magical as the rest of your experience onboard. Not only this, but you'll be able to enjoy all the latest Disney (and Pixar) movies onboard alongside incredible West End-calibre theatrical performances. Oh, and if you're lucky, you may even have the chance to meet Captain Mickey and more of your favourite Disney characters (new and old) onboard. So, no matter what you end up doing, you're certain to have an absolute blast while aboard Disney Destiny.

While you're here, why not read up on the top 10 Disney Cruise Line highlights right here!

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 144,000
  • Guest Capacity: 4,000
  • Crew: 1,555
  • Total Cabins: 1,256 (~880 balcony cabins)

Disney Adventure

disney adventure



Another new Disney Cruise Line ship is on the way! Disney Adventure, as the name suggests, promises to take everyone aboard on an adventure to some exciting destinations in Asia when it starts sailing in 2025.

In a similar fashion to the rest of Disney Cruise Line's fleet, you can expect to enjoy a fantastic array of themed venues (including restaurants, bars, lounges, and lunch spots) on Disney Adventure. You'll also be able to enjoy enchanting entertainment in the form of live theatrical performances, character meet-and-greets, and cinema showings of Disney movies new and classic. And, with several stunning swimming pools to enjoy, you can sun-soak and splash to your heart's content — all while sailing to some spectacular spots in Asia and beyond.

Want to cruise during spooky season? Who doesn't! You can find out what to expect when it comes to Halloween onboard with Disney Cruise Line right here.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 208,000
  • Guest Capacity: 6,000
  • Crew: 2,300
  • Total Cabins: 2,350 (~1,645 balcony cabins)

Brilliant Lady

brilliant lady



Virgin Voyages' Brilliant Lady is shaping up to be a brilliant cruise ship for holidaymakers to set sail on when it debuts in 2025. Offering up some exciting North America cruise itineraries, you'll have a getaway packed with excitement from start to finish onboard this vessel.

An adults-only cruise ship, you'll be able to enjoy more than 20 dining destinations onboard (like the Razzle Dazzle Restaurant and Bento Baby), a wonderful selection of bars and lounges (with The Manor and The Dock House among those offering live entertainment), and everything else you would expect from a modern cruise ship from Virgin Voyages (like The Groupie, a private karaoke spot, and an outdoor gym)! Whether you're looking for rest and relaxation, a little recreation, or even a blend of both, you'll be spoilt for choice on Brilliant Lady.

If you're reading this and you've decided that you want to head to the Big Apple on your cruise holiday, you can find out more on how to see New York in 24 hours (or, at least, as much of it as possible) right here.

Key Stats:

  • Gross Tonnage: 110,000
  • Guest Capacity: 2,860
  • Crew: 1,160
  • Total Cabins: 1,408 (~1,210 balcony cabins)

Other New Cruise Ships in 2025

New Cruise Ships 2026, 2027, and 2028

New Cruise Ships 2024


celebrity cruises, royal caribbean, p&o cruises, carnival cruise line, princess cruises, msc cruises, royal caribbean cruise ships, cruise news, new ships More on:
Back to cruise guides and features Go