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Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Updated December 6th, 2025

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Discovering the World’s Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Cruising has never been more exciting. Imagine stepping aboard a floating resort that feels like a vibrant city at sea, complete with thrilling adventures, diverse dining, and serene spots to unwind. Today, the biggest cruise ships redefine vacation possibilities.

These mega-vessels from leading lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival Cruise Line offer something for everyone, from families chasing adrenaline to couples seeking relaxation.

Packed with innovative features and stunning destinations, they sail year-round to sunny Caribbean ports, Mediterranean gems, and beyond.

Let’s dive into the highlights of these behemoths, focusing on their classes and standout ships. Whether you’re plotting your next getaway or just dreaming big, these ships promise memories that last a lifetime.

Royal Caribbean: Pioneers of Mega-Ships

Pictured: Icon of the Seas

Oasis Class

Royal Caribbean leads the pack with the largest cruise ships afloat, thanks to their groundbreaking classes. The Oasis Class revolutionized cruising with neighborhood-style designs that divide the ship into themed areas for easy exploration.

At this point, the Oasis class includes six vessels, each around 225,000 to 236,000 gross tons and carrying up to 6,988 guests. These ships blend high-energy fun with elegant escapes, sailing mostly from Florida to the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Oasis Of The Seas

These ships start with the Oasis Class flagship, Oasis of the Seas. At 226,838 gross tons, this trailblazer debuted in 2009 and continues to wow with seven distinct neighborhoods.

Visit the bustling Royal Promenade for shopping and live music, or the open-air Central Park for a peaceful stroll amid real plants and al fresco dining.

Thrill-seekers love the zip line nine decks high and the AquaTheater’s high-diving shows. The onboard FlowRider surf simulators and rock-climbing walls keep the energy high all week long.

After a 2019 refresh, it added waterslides and the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story dry slide. Oasis of the Seas sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Fort Lauderdale, stopping at Cozumel, Mexico, and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Allure Of The Seas

Next up in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis line is Allure of the Seas, her 2010-built sister at 225,282 gross tons. Slightly refined from Oasis, it boasts the longest indoor promenade at sea and a full-size basketball court in the Sports Zone.

Families flock to the Boardwalk neighborhood for carousel rides and hot dog stands. A major amplification added the Ultimate Abyss, new dining like the disco-themed 70s Nightclub, and enhanced entertainment.

Allure sails six- and eight-night Caribbean routes from Miami, including visits to St. Thomas and CocoCay.

Other Royal Caribbean Oasis Class Ships

Harmony of the Seas weighs in at 226,963 gross tons with the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides and a suspended infinity pool. The Suite Neighborhood offers exclusive perks like a private sun deck.

Harmony repositions to Port Canaveral for seven-night Western Caribbean trips, hitting Roatan, Honduras, and Costa Maya, Mexico.

Symphony of the Seas, at 228,081 gross tons, shines with the Ultimate Family Suite, a two-story cabin with an in-suite slide. Its Boardwalk features a redesigned carousel.

Symphony sails from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, on seven-night Bahamas itineraries, perfect for East Coast cruisers.

Wonder of the Seas, the 2022 newcomer at 235,600 gross tons, was once the world’s largest before Icon’s arrival. It introduced the Suite Lounge and expanded Central Park with 20,000 plants.

The Chops Grille steakhouse and Izumi Japanese eatery stand out for foodies. Wonder shifts to Miami for three- and four-night Bahamas getaways, including CocoCay’s Thrill Waterpark.

Finally, Utopia of the Seas, debuting at 236,473 gross tons and focuses on short escapes with seven-night Western Caribbean voyages from Port Canaveral.

Its Royal Railway, a train ride through the ship, is a quirky highlight that turns dinner into an immersive journey across themed landscapes.

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class sets the standard for variety. With a seventh ship under construction for 2028, the future looks even brighter.

For Oasis Class details, visit Royal Caribbean’s Oasis page (https://www.royalcaribbean.com/oasis-of-the-seas).

The Icon Class: Royal Caribbean’s New Frontier

If Oasis Class is legendary, the Icon Class is revolutionary. These 248,663-gross-ton giants hold the title of world’s largest, accommodating 7,600 guests across 20 decks. Powered by LNG for efficiency, they emphasize sustainability without skimping on fun.

Icon of the Seas, the class pioneer, sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean routes from Miami, featuring eight neighborhoods like the adults-only Chill Island and family-focused Surfside.

Thrills include Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six record-breaking slides, and Crown’s Edge, a ropes course over the ocean. Dining spans 40 options, from free casual bites to fee-based specialties like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen.

The ship’s Aquadome, a transformative space with waterfalls by day and dazzling shows by night, feels like pure magic.

Star of the Seas mirrors Icon’s layout but with tweaks like expanded outdoor spaces and an even bigger Thrill Island. It debuts from Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean itineraries, blending adventure with chill vibes.

Legend of the Seas will arrive in 2026 for Mediterranean summers before Caribbean winters. These ships feel like a mash-up of a resort, theme park, and yacht.

Book via Royal Caribbean’s Icon page (https://www.royalcaribbean.com/icon-of-the-seas).

Take a look at what awaits you on Carnival Mardi Gras:

Visit here for more information about Carnival Cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Prima Class Thrills and Freedom

Norwegian Encore from the side while sailing in the water — Credit: ncl.com

Norwegian’s Prima Class, around 143,000 to 156,000 gross tons for 3,571 guests, prioritizes freestyle cruising with flexible dining and entertainment.

Norwegian Prima sails from Port Canaveral on seven-night Caribbean routes, featuring the 360-degree Ocean Boulevard promenade and Indulge Food Hall with 11 global kitchens.

The Drop, a 10-story free-fall slide, and Vibe Beach Club for adults add edge. The ship’s Mandara Spa spans two decks with a stunning charcoal sauna and salt room.

Norwegian Viva mirrors Prima but amps up the Galaxy Pavilion VR zone and adds the interactive Tee Time mini-golf. Viva sails the Mediterranean from Athens.

Aerial view of the Norwegian Encore, looking straight down on the top deck with pools and racetrack — Credit: ncl.com

Norwegian Aqua, a Prima Plus at 156,300 gross tons, introduces the world’s first hybrid slidecoaster and Glow Court, an interactive LED sports court that transforms for nighttime games.

It starts from Port Canaveral before Bermuda and Caribbean sails.

Norwegian Luna is the next in the Prima line. These ships feel open and innovative, with more outdoor space per guest than almost any other large vessel.

Check out what awaits you aboard the Norwegian Encore:

MSC Cruises: World Class Wonders of European Elegance

Looking at a front aerial view of MSC Grandiosa as it sails through the water — Credit: MSC Press Area

MSC Cruises brings Italian flair to mega-ships with the World Class, LNG-powered vessels around 215,000 gross tons for 6,762 guests. Emphasizing sustainability and style, they divide into districts for seamless flow.

MSC World Europa sails seven-night Mediterranean routes from Barcelona, with a 341-foot promenade under an LED sky that changes with the time of day. The Aqua Park’s seven slides and the Eataly dining partnership shine. World Europa added Northern Europe voyages featuring fjords and Baltic capitals.

MSC World America is the U.S.-focused star at 216,638 gross tons. From Miami, it offers seven-night Caribbean itineraries to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private Bahamas island that stays open until late with light shows and bonfires.

Highlights include the largest Yacht Club suite area ever, the over-water Cliffhanger swing ride, and 19 dining spots like an authentic teppanyaki grill and a craft brewery.

With two new ships in the works, World Asia and World Oceania, MSC will expand the fleet globally.

MSC’s World Class blends luxury with accessibility, ideal for multigenerational trips.

Explore at MSC Cruises’ World America page (https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/ships/msc-world-america).

Insde the Grandiosa, located in the Promenade is the cafe L'Atelier Bistrot, complete with green and white striped awning and cafe tables and chairs — Credit: MSC Press Area – L’Atelier Bistrot located in the Promenade

Take a look at what awaits you aboard the MSC Grandiosa:

Costa Cruises: Excellence Class Italian Style on a Grand Scale

Aerial view of the Costa Toscana sailing through the water — Credit: Costa Press Center

Costa Cruises delivers la dolce vita at sea with the impressive Excellence Class, also known as the Helios Class within the Costa Group.

These LNG-powered vessels measure around 185,000 gross tons and welcome up to 6,522 guests across 20 decks, combining eco-friendly innovation with unmistakable Italian design.

The standout Costa Toscana, launched as the class flagship, sails seven-night Western Mediterranean itineraries from ports like Barcelona, Rome, and Marseille.

Every detail celebrates Italy, from the Colosseo atrium spanning three decks to furnishings, lighting, and fabrics crafted entirely by Italian makers.

Guests enjoy 21 dining venues, including a true Archipelago restaurant with menus by world-class chefs, plus 19 bars and the expansive Solemio Spa with thalassotherapy pools.

Sister ship Costa Smeralda mirrors the elegant layout while focusing on Eastern Mediterranean routes. Both ships operate as floating smart cities powered by liquefied natural gas, dramatically cutting emissions.

The Excellence Class brings sustainable sophistication and joyful Italian hospitality to mega-ship cruising.

Bar and tables on the open air deck at sunset — Credit: Costa Press Center

Check out the Costa Toscana during its maiden voyage:

Visit here for more information about Costa Cruises.

AIDA Cruises: Hyperion Class – German Fun Meets Futuristic Flair

AIDA Tosca from an aerial view, sailing through the water at sunset. The ship has its signature hull art - large lips at the bow and large eyes on the side, near the bow. — Credit: AIDA

AIDA Cruises, Germany’s favorite cruise line, brings high-energy vacation vibes with the innovative Hyperion Class (also known as Excellence Class within the Carnival Corporation family).

These LNG-powered giants measure 183,900 gross tons and welcome up to 6,600 guests across 20 decks, blending eco-friendly propulsion with a playful, contemporary German-Italian design.

AIDAcosma sails vibrant seven-night Mediterranean and Canary Islands itineraries from ports like Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona.

Step aboard and you’re greeted by the friendly Pepper robots – adorable humanoid assistants that speak German, English, and Italian, read your mood, and guide you to everything from the Theatrium’s dazzling shows to the sprawling Four Elements adventure zone.

Cool off in the wide Beach Club pool under a retractable glass dome, race down the twin waterslides, or chill in the adults-only infinity pool and sea-view sauna.

With 17 restaurants (including the summery Beach House), 23 bars, a massive Body & Soul Organic Spa, rock-climbing wall, and the indoor-outdoor Fun Park for kids, the fun never stops.

Sister ship AIDAnova pioneered the class in 2018, while AIDAcosma perfects the formula. Sustainable, lively, and unmistakably AIDA – the Hyperion Class delivers a next-generation cruise experience.

Open air bar and seating on deck at sunset. — Credit: AIDA

Take a look at what awaits you onboard the AIDAcosma:

P&O Cruises: Excel Class – British Elegance Meets Modern Innovation

Aerial view of Iona cruising through the water — Credit: P&O Ship Highlights

P&O Cruises sails into the mega-ship era with the stunning Excel Class, LNG-powered vessels of 184,700 gross tons that welcome up to 5,200 guests across 19 decks.

These ships blend classic British style with contemporary design, inviting the sea and sky inside at every turn. The class leader, Iona, offers seven- to fourteen-night voyages to the Norwegian fjords, Canary Islands, and Mediterranean from Southampton.

The breathtaking SkyDome, a glass-roofed pool and entertainment venue, crowns the ship, while the three-deck Grand Atrium sparkles with light.

Clever artwork in blue (forward), grey (midship), and red (aft) helps guests navigate effortlessly. Standout features include the world’s first onboard gin distillery at Anderson’s Bar, 30 dining venues from casual to fine dining, and four pools including a spectacular infinity pool.

Relax in the expansive Oasis Spa with hydrotherapy suite, catch blockbuster films on four cinema screens, or thrill to aerial shows in the Headliners Theatre.

Sister ship Arvia has an even larger SkyDome and tropical Caribbean itineraries. The Excel Class delivers relaxed British cruising on a grand, eco-conscious scale.

Take a look at Cruise with Ben & David’s tour of the Iona:

Disney Cruise Line: Wish Class Magic at Sea

Disney Cruise Line brings storytelling to the high seas with its innovative Wish Class. These enchanting vessels measure around 144,000 gross tons and welcome up to 4,000 guests across 15 decks, blending classic Disney charm with modern elegance and LNG-powered efficiency.

The class leader, Disney Wish, sails three- and four-night Bahamas getaways from Port Canaveral, featuring the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse water coaster. Highlights include the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, Marvel dining adventures, and Broadway-style shows like Aladdin.

Disney Treasure, the sister ship, adds adventure themes with a Coco-inspired restaurant, Haunted Mansion parlor bar, and a Moana-themed stage show. It begins seven-night Caribbean voyages from Port Canaveral.

Disney Destiny embraces heroes-and-villains motifs with new dining and entertainment inspired by The Incredibles and Hercules.

All Wish Class ships visit Castaway Cay, Disney’s private Bahamas island. Though smaller than Icon or Oasis giants, the Wish Class delivers pure Disney magic in a family-focused, immersive package.

Disney To The Rescue

In a bold move that captured the imagination of cruise enthusiasts worldwide, Disney Cruise Line swooped in to rescue the unfinished Global Dream, acquiring the massive 208,000-gross-ton vessel from the ashes of Genting Hong Kong’s bankruptcy.

Originally designed for Dream Cruises as the pinnacle of Asian mega-shipping luxury, complete with plans for up to 9,000 passengers and extravagant features like the world’s longest dry slide and a sprawling casino, the ship had sat dormant at the MV Werften yard in Wismar, Germany.

The ship was about 70-75% complete when its parent company collapsed amid the pandemic’s fallout. Disney, spotting a rare opportunity to expand its fleet at a steal, partnered with trusted shipbuilder Meyer Werft—the same team behind hits like the Disney Wish—to finish the job, transforming it into a family-friendly floating wonderland with signature Disney touches.

Walt Disney Imagineering reimagined the layout, dialing back capacity to a more intimate 6,000 guests and 2,300 crew, while infusing it with rotational dining, Broadway-caliber shows, and character encounters that promise to whisk families into enchanted worlds.

The ship, Global Dream, Disney’s largest vessel ever—has emerged as a beacon of eco-innovation and storytelling magic, powered by groundbreaking green methanol fuel to slash emissions and pave the way for sustainable cruising.

Slated for international routes outside the U.S., likely eyeing Asian ports near Shanghai and Hong Kong Disneylands for seamless park-to-port adventures, it boasts 20 decks of reconfigured delights, including expansive kids’ zones, adults-only retreats, and immersive theaters that blend high-seas thrills with Pixar and Marvel flair.

This acquisition not only saved a behemoth from the scrapyard but also underscores Disney’s knack for turning potential heartbreak into happily-ever-afters, making mega-cruising accessible to even more dreamers while honoring the environment.

As it prepares for its maiden voyage, the Global Dream stands as a testament to resilience, ready to sprinkle pixie dust across the waves.

Explore more at Disney Cruise Line’s Wish Class page (https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/ships/wish/).

Why These Ships Stand Out

These classes showcase cruising’s evolution. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis and Icon Classes dominate size and spectacle, MSC’s World Class adds eco-luxury with European sophistication, Norwegian’s Prima emphasizes freedom and open-air design, and Carnival’s Excel keeps it lively with coaster thrills and nonstop entertainment.

Each offers unique perks: neighborhood immersion, LNG efficiency, freestyle flexibility, and family-first zones. They sail to idyllic spots like Perfect Day at CocoCay, Ocean Cay, Great Stirrup Cay, and the upcoming Celebration Key, often with private island perks that feel exclusive yet welcoming.

Sustainability shines too, with LNG reducing emissions by up to 25 percent and advanced water-treatment systems. Amenities cater to all ages: splash zones for toddlers, teen clubs with arcade games, serene spas with ocean views, and Broadway-caliber theaters.

Dining ranges from 24-hour pizza to chef’s table experiences, ensuring no one goes hungry. Crowds spread out thanks to clever layouts, though sea days still buzz with energy.

Planning Your Mega-Ship Adventure

Ready to book? Consider your vibe: families adore Icon’s waterparks and Carnival’s coasters, couples love MSC’s Yacht Club serenity and Norwegian’s adults-only hideaways.

Solo travelers thrive on the social scenes aboard Oasis Class ships. Check itineraries for new routes, like Star of the Seas exploring lesser-visited Eastern Caribbean gems or World America overnighting at Ocean Cay. These ships aren’t just transport; they’re the destination!

For Carnival, visit Carnival’s site (https://www.carnival.com/); Norwegian at NCL (https://www.ncl.com/); MSC at MSC Cruises (https://www.msccruisesusa.com/); and Royal Caribbean at Royal Caribbean (https://www.royalcaribbean.com/).

Your epic voyage awaits! Fair winds and following seas!

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Joy is the Co-Founder & Content Manager/Expert for CruisePortAdvisor.com and one of the founders of the site. She loves to travel, sing & bake.