Looking for info on the latest ships to check out for your future cruise holiday? Take a look at our up-to-date guide on new cruise ships and see which is best for you!
2018 is set to be one exciting year when it comes to cruise. After learning last year about some fascinating new innovations that can be expected in the world of cruise ships, it should come as no surprise to learn that this year’s additions will be stock full of exciting and even astounding features. Find out more about some of the new ships that will be gracing the seas this year.
Scenic Eclipse – Scenic Ocean Cruises
Scenic’s next addition is a truly exciting and innovative creation, being hailed the world’s first discovery yacht: Scenic Eclipse. She will be embarking on incredible expedition cruises from August, in destinations like the Arctic, Norwegian Fjords, Antarctica and The Americas. Cruisers who seek a unique and special adventure will find Scenic Eclipse ticks all the boxes, not only because of the itineraries she offers, but also her onboard features. With the luxurious Spa Sanctuary, array of delectable dining options, and beautiful choice of suites, all guests will bask in the simplicity and splendour of the ship. There will also be a selection of fascinating experiences to choose from with the Discovery Team.
Symphony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean
Expected to launch in March, fans of Royal Caribbean’s fun and thrilling style of cruising will be eagerly anticipating holidays onboard Symphony of the Seas. The impressive ship will boast Royal Caribbean favourites like rock-climbing and the ‘Flowrider’ surf simulator, as well as a number of exciting new features. Other activities include Splashaway Bay Water Park, Perfect Storm slides, the Ultimate Abyss slide, and a zip–line. There will also be some fantastic onboard shows such as the popular Hairspray, and wonderful eateries like Hooked Seafood, and El Loco Fresh which offers tasty Mexican fare.
Carnival Horizon – Carnival Cruises
The stunning Carnival Horizon will begin hosting passengers from April. She will boast some impressive amenities covering dining venues, entertainment, and activities, which are sure to enhance the cruiser experience by a mile. One of our favourites is Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse, where you’ll find not only delicious American food, but also an in-house brewery where four exclusive beers are created onboard! Other fantastic features include the onboard Lip-Sync Battle game, the SkyRide, a ropes course, Dr Seuss Waterworks, and the stunning Cloud 9 Spa.
Nieuw Statendam – Holland America Line
Holland America Line took suggestions and advice from guests, and used this to help create their latest ship – Nieuw Statendam. With inaugural sailing scheduled for December, the ship will have helpful features such as bedside USB ports, and more solo and family rooms - accounting for the diverse range of travellers who cruise. Exciting onboard activities will include America’s Test Kitchen - an entertaining live cookery show – wine-blending and tasting sessions, video-editing workshops, and the superb Greenhouse Spa facilities. There will also be destination-focussed pastimes such as film, trivia, and musical performances, thanks to a collaboration with BBC Earth Experiences.
Norwegian Bliss – Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Bliss has been designed with a focus on destination and immersion into new places. Due to be launched in April, those who sail on her will enjoy an amazing Observation Lounge, which enables guests to soak in all angles of the views they pass. Onboard activities will include laser tag, karting on the race track, and shows such as the fabulous Jersey Boys. There will also be some superb dining options, including Teppanyaki, Texas Smokehouse, CoCo’s chocolate-centred café, and Dolce Gelato for incredible ice cream. You can also get your favourite Starbuck’s coffee in their onboard venue!
MSC Seaview – MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises have opted to create their beautiful MSC Seaview with extra-attention on the very essence of being at sea. They have made an effort to provide guests with more outdoor space, from al fresco dining opportunities to more balcony cabins. There is also a fantastic 360° promenade which continues all the way around the ship. To help passengers at every stage of their cruise, the innovative MSC for Me will also be available onboard. Use a personal bracelet, interactive screens, or an app on your phone or tablet to make use of this helpful, cutting edge technology. MSC Seaview is expected to launch in May.
Celebrity Edge – Celebrity Cruises
The new Celebrity Edge is due to sail in December, and it’s brilliant, innovative features will undoubtedly delight both seasoned and new cruisers. The rooftop garden, two-storey hot tubs, adult-only solarium, private cabanas, and pool bar will help to ensure holidaymakers have a truly relaxed and rejuvenating break, as will the classy and comfortable variety of staterooms. The Magic Carpet is a great, novel space which sits cantilevered at the side of the ship, and Eden is a marvellous area where guests can appreciate and absorb nature in the form of art, design, food, sounds, and of course – views.
