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How much it costs to sail aboard the world’s largest cruise ship.

This fall, Royal Caribbean opened up bookings for its newest, super-sized cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, which will set sail in January 2024 .

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The record-breaking ship weighs 250,800 tons — 6% more than the current size leader among cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, The Points Guy reported. The massive ship will be able to hold up to 7,600 passengers — also setting a record with the number of passengers it can accommodate on board. In addition, with six waterslides, it has the most of any cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean is touting its new ship as the “Icon of Vacations,” offering a first-of-its-kind combination of the “best of every vacation,” from a beach retreat to a theme park adventure. But does cruising on this super-sized ship come with a super-sized cost?

Here’s a look at how much it costs to sail aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, plus what you can anticipate getting to experience on board.

How Much It Costs To Cruise on the Icon of the Seas

The Icon of the Seas will offer four different seven-night routes, with starting prices ranging from an average of $998 to $1,409 per person.

A seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing from Miami with stops in Roatan, Honduras; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and CocoCay, Bahamas, starts at $998 per person for an interior cabin, with suites costing as much as $4,848 ($2,424 per person based on two people per suite). Cruises departing in February 2024 and traveling to the Western Caribbean start at $1,409 per person.

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The Icon also will be making two Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruises, both departing from Miami. One will make stops in Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas; the other will make stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas. Prices for both of these routes start at $1,058 per person, with suites costing as much as $5,665 ($2,832.50 per person based on two people per suite).

What Cruisers Can Expect Aboard the Ship

The sheer scope of the Icon of the Seas may be hard to fathom. It features 18 guest decks, 2,805 staterooms, seven pools, nine whirlpools and six waterslides. It also features eight “neighborhoods” including the club-like AquaDome, an on-board park dubbed Central Park, a beach club called The Hideaway and the family-friendly Surfside, which includes an aquapark and an adults-only pool.

It’s also home to Category 6, the largest water park at sea, and the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. There’s also plenty to eat (and drink), as it features 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options.

“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said in a press release. “From the moment they step on board, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com : How Much It Costs To Sail Aboard the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Watch CBS News

A look inside the Icon of the Seas, the world's biggest cruise ship, as it prepares for voyage

By Kris Van Cleave , Analisa Novak

January 18, 2024 / 12:14 PM EST / CBS News

Royal Caribbean is redefining the cruise industry with its latest ship, the Icon of the Seas. This $2 billion floating resort is largely booked until 2026.

Spanning nearly 1,200 feet, the cruise ship has 20 decks, which makes the Icon of the Seas the world's largest cruise ship.

It's a city at sea, accommodating up to 7,600 passengers in 2,805 staterooms and nearly 10,000 people, including the crew. The ship offers different experiences that include seven pools — one is the largest on any ship — the world's first onboard water park with six water slides, theaters, a casino and over 40 dining and drinking spots.

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Chief Product Innovation Officer, says the cruise ship is more than just its amenities.

"It's really about iconic experiences," he said.

And despite its massive size, Schneider said the ship is designed to avoid feeling overcrowded.

"We have purposely designed the ship to give more space for people," he said. "We believe, even at 7,500 guests, it won't feel to you like your entire hometown has joined the ship," said Schneider.    

Luxury comes at a price on the Icon. A weeklong Caribbean cruise costs about $3,500 for two people in an average stateroom. For those seeking more luxury, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – a three-story suite complete with touchscreen tables and a slide – can go for up to $100,000 per trip. The Royal Loft, aimed at high-rolling adults, offers two bedrooms, a private hot tub, and a spacious balcony starting at $40,000.

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, said that bigger ships benefit both passengers and cruise lines.

"It means more people can experience something. It means that there's a lot more amenities and activities onboard the cruise ship," McDaniel said. "The more people they can put on a cruise ship, of course, the better business they do, the more money they make."

Kevin Curran says the Icon took his breath away. Having followed the ship's construction for over a year, the Oregon resident said he's thrilled to be on its inaugural cruise from Miami.

"The more I watched the videos, the more I understood this was something special," he said.

Cruising is surging in popularity. Last year, passenger volume outpaced pre-pandemic numbers, and this year is expected to hit a new high of 36 million as spending on experiences has climbed 65% since 2019.

From the bridge, Captain Hendrik Loy is overseeing what amounts to a three-day test drive to the Bahamas.

"There is still fine-tuning that needs to take place," said Loy.

The Icon also champions environmental responsibility. It's powered by liquefied natural gas, treats its own waste, and produces its own water.

Emmy Award-winning journalist Kris Van Cleave is the senior transportation correspondent for CBS News based in Phoenix, Arizona, where he also serves as a national correspondent reporting for all CBS News broadcasts and platforms.

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Icon of the Seas: Everything you need to know about the largest cruise ship in the world

The world's largest cruise ship, complete with 20 decks and six waterslides, is getting ready to set sail for the first time.

Royal Caribbean's "Icon of the Seas" is in Port Miami getting ready for its maiden voyage into the Caribbean. NBC News correspondent Sam Brock got a firsthand look at the breathtaking ship on TODAY on before it heads out to sea.

Here's what to know about the record-setting cruise ship.

How big is the Icon of the Seas ship?

A seven-year building process in Finland resulted in a ship that's 1,198 feet long and features 20 decks. It can carry more than 7,000 passengers, and combined with the crew, will hold nearly 10,000 people — the size of a small city.

At 250,800 gross tons and nearly 1,200 feet long, it makes the Titanic look like a tugboat. For comparison, the Titanic was 882.9 feet long and 46,328 gross tons.

What are some of the amenities on the Icon of the Seas?

There are eight "neighborhoods" geared to all different experiences, from the shopping area of "Central Park" to the pools and cabanas of "Chill Island."

They also are in proximity to one another so parents can relax in the pool while the kids go flying down one of the six slides in the nearby water park area of "Thrill Island."

“You’re not competing with another cruise, you’re competing with any other vacation a family would want to do," Royal Caribbean senior vice president Jay Schneider told Brock on TODAY.

"So we purposely put a more adult-centric pool next to the slide structure so you know mom, dad can sit and immerse in the water while the kid goes on like 50 slides."

In keeping with the theme of the ship, a bar named "Swim & Tonic" is the largest swim-up bar ever put on a cruise ship, according to Schneider.

There also is a three-story glass structure known as "The Pearl," which Schneider said is the world's largest "kinetic" art sculpture.

The vessel also includes a theater that features performances of Broadway's "Wizard of Oz."

For the more adventurous, there's the "Crown's Edge" walk, which Brock tested out on TODAY. He strapped into a harness that took him along a zipline that allows passengers to dangle along the side of the ship, 150 feet above the water.

How much does a trip on the Icon of the Seas cost?

A seven-night round trip from Miami to the eastern Caribbean that includes a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas costs an average of $2,019 per person, according to the cruise line's website . It's an average of $1,809 for the package without the stop at the island.

That package also includes stops in St. Thomas and San Juan, Puerto Rico. The demand for that journey is so overwhelming that the earliest trip currently being booked is for Oct. 11, 2025.

There's also a trip to the western Caribbean for $1,759 per person with a stop at the island, which is called Perfect Day at Coco Cay.

When is the Icon of the Sea's release date?

The maiden voyage for the gargantuan vessel is coming up on Jan. 27, leaving out of Port Miami.

Royal Caribbean is taking bookings for the alternating trips to the eastern and western Caribbean, with the earliest available being a seven-night trip that departs on Feb. 24 and costs an average of $2,297 per person, according to its website.

Scott Stump is a trending reporter and the writer of the daily newsletter This is TODAY (which you should subscribe to here! ) that brings the day's news, health tips, parenting stories, recipes and a daily delight right to your inbox. He has been a regular contributor for TODAY.com since 2011, producing features and news for pop culture, parents, politics, health, style, food and pretty much everything else. 

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How Much It Costs To Sail Aboard the World’s Largest Cruise Ship

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This fall, Royal Caribbean opened up bookings for its newest, super-sized cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas, which will set sail in January 2024 .

The record-breaking ship weighs 250,800 tons — 6% more than the current size leader among cruise ships, Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, The Points Guy reported. The massive ship will be able to hold up to 7,600 passengers — also setting a record with the number of passengers it can accommodate on board. In addition, with six waterslides, it has the most of any cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean is touting its new ship as the “Icon of Vacations,” offering a first-of-its-kind combination of the “best of every vacation,” from a beach retreat to a theme park adventure. But does cruising on this super-sized ship come with a super-sized cost?

Here’s a look at how much it costs to sail aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, plus what you can anticipate getting to experience on board.

How Much It Costs To Cruise on the Icon of the Seas

The Icon of the Seas will offer four different seven-night routes, with starting prices ranging from an average of $998 to $1,409 per person.

A seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing from Miami with stops in Roatan, Honduras; Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Cozumel, Mexico; and CocoCay, Bahamas, starts at $998 per person for an interior cabin, with suites costing as much as $4,848 ($2,424 per person based on two people per suite). Cruises departing in February 2024 and traveling to the Western Caribbean start at $1,409 per person.

The Icon also will be making two Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruises, both departing from Miami. One will make stops in Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas; the other will make stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and CocoCay, Bahamas. Prices for both of these routes start at $1,058 per person, with suites costing as much as $5,665 ($2,832.50 per person based on two people per suite).

What Cruisers Can Expect Aboard the Ship

The sheer scope of the Icon of the Seas may be hard to fathom. It features 18 guest decks, 2,805 staterooms, seven pools, nine whirlpools and six waterslides. It also features eight “neighborhoods” including the club-like AquaDome, an on-board park dubbed Central Park, a beach club called The Hideaway and the family-friendly Surfside, which includes an aquapark and an adults-only pool.

It’s also home to Category 6, the largest water park at sea, and the Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea. There’s also plenty to eat (and drink), as it features 40 new and returning dining, bar and nightlife options.

“With each new ship, we raise the bar in the travel industry while enhancing what our guests know and love,” Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said in a press release. “From the moment they step on board, every experience is specifically designed to give them the best vacation anywhere on land and at sea. With Icon of the Seas, we’ve taken this to a new level and made the ultimate family vacation.”

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World's largest cruise ship embarks on first voyage. What is cost of a trip?

Passengers can enjoy six waterslides at category 6 and the crown’s edge experience at 47 meters above the ocean..

The world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas by Royal Caribbean, is embarking on its first journey from the Port of Miami on Sunday.

Spanning nearly 365 meters from bow to stern, the ship will embark on a seven-day island-hopping voyage through the tropics.

The cruise christened on Tuesday with the presence of soccer legend Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates, is organised into eight neighbourhoods across 20 decks.

What inside ‘Icon of the Seas’ | 10 points

1. 'Icon of the Seas' offers a lineup of vacation experiences, combining beach retreats, resort escapes, and theme park adventures.

2. The cruise ship features eight distinct neighbourhoods, each offering unique experiences day and night. It has a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members.

3. Passengers can enjoy six waterslides at Category 6 and the Crown’s Edge experience at 47 meters above the ocean.

4. Icon of the Seas has seven pools, including the first suspended infinity pool at sea, providing ways to relax and chill.

5. Families with young kids can enjoy a stay-all-day neighbourhood designed specifically for them, offering family-friendly activities.

6. The cruise ship features more than 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges, providing a diverse culinary experience for passengers.

7. Deck-defying entertainment includes performances across air, ice, water, and theatre, ensuring a variety of shows for passengers.

8. On January 27, vacationers will embark on the inaugural 7-night Eastern or Western Caribbean adventure from Miami, visiting destinations in the Caribbean.

9. The itineraries include a day at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, known for its activities.

10. It includes the private island’s first adults-only escape, Hideaway Beach, offering a secluded beach, pools, exclusive cabanas, live music, and more.

What is the cost of a trip on the world's largest cruise ship?R

The trip's price, as listed on its website, ranges from USD 1,723 (approximately ₹ 1.4 lakh) to USD 14,205 ( ₹ 11.8 lakh) per person. Prices vary depending on the itineraries, locations, and dates. The company highlights a prolonged waiting period for booking.

When the Icon of the Seas was unveiled in October 2022, it led to the single largest booking day and the highest volume booking week in Royal Caribbean's then 53-year history, according to the cruise line.

“Icon of the Seas is the culmination of more than 50 years of dreaming, innovating and living our mission – to deliver the world's best vacation experiences responsibly," Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty said earlier this week. “She is the ultimate multigenerational family vacation, forever changing the status quo in family travel and fulfilling vacation dreams for all ages on board.”

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Icon of the Seas is finally here. Here's what passengers can expect on board.

The world's largest cruise ship is ready to welcome passengers.

Royal Caribbean International’s much-buzzed-about Icon of the Seas will sail its maiden voyage this weekend, beginning cruises to the Caribbean. But the ship is a destination of its own.

The vessel features a stacked lineup of attractions for every member of the family. The first in the new Icon Class, it made waves even before leaving the shipyard, generating record bookings for the brand – and hot takes online .

“We designed a ship that really hits squarely in what the consumer is looking for, especially the family, multi-generational consumer,” Jason Liberty, president and CEO of the line’s parent company Royal Caribbean Group, told USA TODAY during a preview cruise on Icon over the weekend.

Where will Icon of the Seas sail?

The ship will sail seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami. Each cruise will visit the line’s private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay , which also has a new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach .

Icon’s maiden voyage on Saturday will also visit Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and St. Thomas.

How big is Icon of the Seas?

Icon is 20 decks high, nearly 1,200 feet long, and 250,800 gross tons. The ship can accommodate 5,610 guests at double occupancy.

What activities does Icon have?

Icon is divided into eight distinct neighborhoods – five of which are new – each with its own offerings.

The aptly named Thrill Island features the Category 6 water park, which the line bills as the largest water park at sea, and Crown’s Edge, where guests can walk 154 feet above the ocean along the brand’s massive logo. Other options include the FlowRider surf simulator, mini golf and rock climbing.

The three-deck Chill Island, meanwhile, is home to four of Icon’s seven pools along with ample loungers to catch some sun (or chill in the shade).

A towering pink flamingo statue stands at the entrance to Surfside, the line’s first neighborhood designed for young families. Parents can kick back at Water’s Edge Pool while supervising kids at Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay. There’s also an arcade, a carousel (with figurines that kids the line consulted helped choose) and more. If your feet are tired, you can also ride a slide down as you come from another neighborhood, Central Park, one deck above.

By contrast, the Hideaway on Deck 15 is a child-free zone, like the CocoCay area of a similar name. Passengers 18 and over can take in views from a suspended infinity pool at the ship’s aft or relax in whirlpools while a DJ supplies a soundtrack. Remixes of Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” and Dua Lipa’s “Don’t Start Now” both made the cut during the preview cruise.

“It’s almost like urban planning,” Liberty said. “Like, how do you create that perfect city that can cater to all different generations and demographics?”

The AquaTheater in the striking new AquaDome – an enclosed steel and glass structure at the front of the ship – will host the “Aqua Action!: Range of Emotion” show, which combines high diving with aerial dance, skateboarding and more. Other shows include “The Wizard of Oz” in the Royal Theater and “Starburst: Elemental Beauty” in the Absolute Zero ice arena.

What is the food like?

The ship has more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, around half of which are new to the line. Those include AquaDome Market, the line’s first food hall serving Mediterranean fare, sweet and savory crepes and more; sushi and street food walk-up window Izumi in the Park; and Empire Supper Club, a 38-seat venue with a multi-course meal, cocktail pairings and live jazz.

Guests will also find new cocktails and mocktails throughout the ship, making their debut at venues like 1400 Lobby Bar in the ship’s Royal Promenade; Rye & Bean, which serves coffee and coffee-infused cocktails; and Swim & Tonic, the line’s first swim-up bar at sea.

Icon features familiar eateries like the Windjammer buffet, steakhouse Chops Grille and Izumi in the Park’s sit-down predecessor, Izumi, as well.

What stood out on board?

Icon’s scale was clear as soon as I arrived at PortMiami, and that translated to many spacious interiors. 

The elevator banks felt roomy even by land-based standards, and the ship’s Royal Promenade offered ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Helping to open up the space, The Pearl serves as part support structure, part art piece lined with thousands of kinetic tiles.

At one point, as I exited Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues and walked out into the open-air Central Park – with its more than 30,500 plants and walking paths – I briefly forgot I was on a cruise ship.

How much does Icon of the Seas cost?

Amid high demand, Icon commanded higher fares in the run-up to its debut, but prices vary by sailing date, stateroom category and other factors. A seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise departing Sept. 7 starts at $2,989 per person based on double occupancy for an interior stateroom, according to the line’s website .

The fare includes most food on board, drinks like lemonade and iced tea and more.

Editor’s note: The reporter on this story received access to this cruise from Royal Caribbean International, which is owned by Royal Caribbean Group. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.

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

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Inside the Most Expensive Suite on the World's Most Expensive Cruise Ship (Video)

Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas — the biggest and most expensive ( $1.35 billion ) cruise ship ever created — will set sail from Barcelona on Friday.

After accepting the new ship last week , Royal Caribbean took back the record for world’s largest cruise ship. Ahead of the ship’s maiden voyage, the cruise line is revealing what passengers can expect onboard.

Families who rent out the most expensive room on the world’s most expensive cruise ship will be treated to a superlative experience. The Ultimate Family Suite is spread across two levels of the ship and takes up 1,346 square feet.

Although there is plenty to do on the rest of the ship, guests in the suite won’t ever have to leave their quarters. The accommodation features a ping-pong table, an air hockey table, and a slide to get from the top floor to the bottom. There’s also a full-size whirlpool hot tub on the balcony — complete with unobstructed views of the water.

Kids will be delighted by the suite’s Lego wall, 3-D cinema room and popcorn machine. The Family Suite can sleep up to eight people, all of whom have access to a personal butler.

Throughout the summer, the ship will sail across the Mediterranean, making stops in Spain, France and Italy. In November, the Symphony of the Seas will make its way to Miami, from where it will depart on trips through the Caribbean. But the “ultimate” family experience doesn’t come cheap. A family of four can book the suite for a seven-day cruise starting at $50,000 .

Related Articles

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost? [SOLVED] Ranked by Ship & Line

How much does a cruise ship cost? We love this question! Below, you'll find a deep dive into cruise ships by cost . From the most expensive cruise ship in the world, to the cheapest.

We've analyzed cruise lines to find how much a cruise ship costs based on multiple criteria.

Included, you'll find ship cost by brand and per cabin to account for difference in ship size. We also explore the difference in the cost to build a cruise ship over time.

There's a clear trend in increasing ship cost by decade ! Additionally, we look at the total asset value by fleet and by holding company . It's truly amazing how the industry is so very consolidated!

To skip to any of the above mentioned analysis, feel free to use our quick links below.

• 1) Cruise Ship Cost to Build by Cruise Line
• 2) Average Cruise Ship Cost by Cabin
• 3) Cruise Ship Cost Increase Over Time
• 4) Cruise Ship Total Value by Cruise Company
• 5) All Cruise Ships Cost to Build

Don't get us wrong. A ship's price tag is just one consideration.

There are plenty of factors that come into play when searching for the perfect cruise. How new is the vessel? How big is it? What class does it belong to? What features does it have? And, of course, how much does a cruise ship cost ? We cover all of these in other blog posts. For now, we'll explore ship cost in depth.

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost to Build... by Line

Above, you'll find a graph showing the average cruise ship cost by cruise line . The chart shown represents the actual cost to build a cruise ship for the specific brands shown.

Which company spends the most per vessel? That would be Royal Caribbean! On average, RCCL writes a check for $669 million for each new ship!

This graph above gives us an idea of not just "cost," but also grandiosity. Royal's ships are the biggest and most costly.

To get a better idea of "value" as opposed to "price tag," you'll want to consider ship size . We're one step ahead! Check out the infographic below for average cost to build a cruise ship based on size. Specifically, we analyze cost verse number of staterooms.

How Much Does a Cruise Ship Cost to Build... by Cabin

This chart shows average cost by cruise cabin. That allows us to account for ship size and "normalize" the cost data. When buying an apartment building, you'd mostly like value it based on total number of units. Each apartment will command $X in rent. Similarly, each cruise cabin generates $Y in revenue.

It's no surprise that the smaller ships rise to the top. These brands are considered "premium lines." The drastic differences in price are obvious. Seabourn ships have cruise staterooms valued at more than 5x the cost of cabins on Pullmantur!

Why did we use cabins as a proxy for size ?

To get the most of this analysis, you'll want to compare ships with a similar quantity of cabins. Compare SAGA and Fred Olsen ships. The average roughly the same number of cabins per ship. SAGA spends over 2x the amount on a per cabin basis!

The data won't completely represent the full picture. Celebrity has massive ships carrying over 3k passengers and also the Xploration with a capacity of 16 cruisers! To avoid this issue you'll want to check out our complete list of ships by cost below.

Cruise Ship Cost Increase Over Time

We also looked at how much does a cruise ship cost to build today vs. in the past ? We expected an increase and were not disappointed! The chart below shows the average price tag of ships throughout the decades.

The blue bars show actual dollars spent. The green line depicts "cost in today's dollars." These figures were derived using an average inflation rate of 3.22%.

It's clear that prices have grown significantly ! Both in terms of actual dollars and inflation-adjusted costs.

Even with the current speed bump in the industry, we expect this to continue. Vessels are continuously adding capacity and extravagant (read "expensive") features. The average cost per cruise ship is quickly approaching one billion dollars !

Cruise Ship Total Value by Cruise Company

You may have counted almost 30 cruise brands included above. Don't be fooled . There aren't that many big cruise companies out there. The chart below is likely to surprise you. The list of cruise companies is much smaller. Two companies (Carnival & Royal Caribbean) own nearly 75% of the entire industry !

Many passengers have sailed Oceania or Cunard and had no clue they were owned by NCL or Carnival. It's always entertaining to hear a passenger make fun of "Carnival" as they proudly book their next Seabourn vacation. Carnival Corp. owns both brands!

These major cruise lines know what they're doing. They want to own every cruise passenger , whether they're cruise budget is $1,000 or $10,000!

Most Expensive Cruise Ships

Of course we had to include a list of the most expensive cruise ships ever built . Here are the Top 25 biggest price tags ever commanded by cruise ships. The "billion+ dollar club" is a significant portion of the list.

We also include the owning cruise line. You'll find one cruise line in particular is writing the biggest checks!

#1 - Allure of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Allure of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.5 Billion for the ship in 2010.

The ship measures 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Allure of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $6,658 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Allure of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,742 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $547k per cabin for this ship.

The Allure of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Royal Caribbean
• Cruise Ship : Allure of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,500,000,000
• Year Built : 2010
• Gross Tonnage : 225,282
• Total Staterooms : 2,742 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $2.06 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $6,658 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $547k per cabin
• Current Status : active

#2 - Wonder of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Wonder of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Wonder of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,919 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Wonder of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Wonder of the Seas has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : Wonder of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,350,000,000
• Year Built : 2021
• Gross Tonnage : 228,081
• Total Staterooms : 2,745 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.31 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,919 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $492k per cabin
• Current Status : future ship

#3 - Harmony of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Harmony of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2016.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Harmony of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,929 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Harmony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Harmony of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Harmony of the Seas
• Year Built : 2016
• Gross Tonnage : 227,700
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.53 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,929 per GT

#4 - Symphony of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Symphony of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.35 Billion for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 228k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Symphony of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,919 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Symphony of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,745 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $492k per cabin for this ship.

The Symphony of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Symphony of the Seas
• Year Built : 2018
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.44 Billion

#5 - Oasis of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Oasis of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.3 Billion for the ship in 2009.

The ship measures 225k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Oasis of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,771 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Oasis of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,137 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $608k per cabin for this ship.

The Oasis of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Oasis of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,300,000,000
• Year Built : 2009
• Total Staterooms : 2,137 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.84 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,771 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $608k per cabin

#6 - Norwegian Epic Cost to Build

How much did the Norwegian Epic cost to build? Norwegian spent $1.2 Billion for the ship in 2010.

The ship measures 156k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Norwegian Epic cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,699 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Norwegian Epic cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,122 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Norwegian paid roughly $566k per cabin for this ship.

The Norwegian Epic has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Norwegian
• Cruise Ship : Norwegian Epic
• Cost to Build : $1,200,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 155,873
• Total Staterooms : 2,122 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.65 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,699 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $566k per cabin

#7 - MSC World Europa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC World Europa cost to build? MSC spent $1.15 Billion for the ship in 2023.

The ship measures 206k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC World Europa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,591 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC World Europa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,700 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $426k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC World Europa has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : MSC
• Cruise Ship : MSC World Europa
• Cost to Build : $1,150,000,000
• Year Built : 2023
• Gross Tonnage : 205,700
• Total Staterooms : 2,700 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.05 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,591 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $426k per cabin

#8 - MSC Seashore Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Seashore cost to build? MSC spent $1.15 Billion for the ship in 2022.

The ship measures 154k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Seashore cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,468 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Seashore cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,066 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $557k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Seashore has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : MSC Seashore
• Year Built : 2022
• Gross Tonnage : 154,000
• Total Staterooms : 2,066 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.08 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,468 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $557k per cabin

#9 - Ovation of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Ovation of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $1.1 Billion for the ship in 2016.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Ovation of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $6,522 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Ovation of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,918 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $574k per cabin for this ship.

The Ovation of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Ovation of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $1,100,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 168,666
• Total Staterooms : 1,918 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.25 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $6,522 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $574k per cabin

#10 - Celebration Cost to Build

How much did the Celebration cost to build? Carnival spent $1 Billion for the ship in 2022.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Celebration cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,438 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Celebration cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,641 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Carnival paid roughly $379k per cabin for this ship.

The Celebration has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : Carnival
• Cruise Ship : Celebration
• Cost to Build : $1,000,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 183,900
• Total Staterooms : 2,641 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $938 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,438 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $379k per cabin

#11 - Celebrity Edge Cost to Build

How much did the Celebrity Edge cost to build? Celebrity spent $1 Billion for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 131k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Celebrity Edge cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,644 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Celebrity Edge cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,467 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Celebrity paid roughly $682k per cabin for this ship.

The Celebrity Edge has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Celebrity
• Cruise Ship : Celebrity Edge
• Gross Tonnage : 130,818
• Total Staterooms : 1,467 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.07 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,644 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $682k per cabin

#12 - Mardi Gras Cost to Build

How much did the Mardi Gras cost to build? Carnival spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Mardi Gras cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,166 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Mardi Gras cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,641 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Carnival paid roughly $360k per cabin for this ship.

The Mardi Gras has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Mardi Gras
• Cost to Build : $950,000,000
• Year Built : 2020
• Cost in Today Dollars : $950 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,166 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $360k per cabin

#13 - Costa Firenze Cost to Build

How much did the Costa Firenze cost to build? Costa spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 136k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Costa Firenze cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,011 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Costa Firenze cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,116 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Costa paid roughly $449k per cabin for this ship.

The Costa Firenze has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Costa
• Cruise Ship : Costa Firenze
• Gross Tonnage : 135,500
• Total Staterooms : 2,116 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,011 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $449k per cabin

#14 - MV Iona Cost to Build

How much did the MV Iona cost to build? P&O UK spent $950 Million for the ship in 2020.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MV Iona cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,163 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MV Iona cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,610 staterooms . Some quick math shows that P&O UK paid roughly $364k per cabin for this ship.

The MV Iona has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Line : P&O UK
• Cruise Ship : MV Iona
• Gross Tonnage : 184,000
• Total Staterooms : 2,610 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,163 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $364k per cabin

#15 - Quantum of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Quantum of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $950 Million for the ship in 2014.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Quantum of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,632 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Quantum of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,839 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $517k per cabin for this ship.

The Quantum of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Quantum of the Seas
• Year Built : 2014
• Total Staterooms : 1,839 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.15 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,632 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $517k per cabin

#16 - Costa Smeralda Cost to Build

How much did the Costa Smeralda cost to build? Costa spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 185k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Costa Smeralda cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,135 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Costa Smeralda cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,612 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Costa paid roughly $364k per cabin for this ship.

The Costa Smeralda has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Costa Smeralda
• Year Built : 2019
• Gross Tonnage : 185,010
• Total Staterooms : 2,612 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $980 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,135 per GT

#17 - Disney Fantasy Cost to Build

How much did the Disney Fantasy cost to build? Disney spent $950 Million for the ship in 2012.

The ship measures 130k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Disney Fantasy cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $7,325 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Disney Fantasy cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 1,250 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Disney paid roughly $760k per cabin for this ship.

The Disney Fantasy has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : Disney
• Cruise Ship : Disney Fantasy
• Year Built : 2012
• Gross Tonnage : 129,690
• Total Staterooms : 1,250 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.22 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $7,325 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $760k per cabin

#18 - Anthem of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Anthem of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $950 Million for the ship in 2015.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Anthem of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,632 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Anthem of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,095 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $453k per cabin for this ship.

The Anthem of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Anthem of the Seas
• Year Built : 2015
• Total Staterooms : 2,095 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.11 Billion
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $453k per cabin

#19 - AIDAnova Cost to Build

How much did the AIDAnova cost to build? AIDA spent $950 Million for the ship in 2018.

The ship measures 184k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the AIDAnova cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,166 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the AIDAnova cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,626 staterooms . Some quick math shows that AIDA paid roughly $362k per cabin for this ship.

The AIDAnova has a current status of: active

• Cruise Line : AIDA
• Cruise Ship : AIDAnova
• Total Staterooms : 2,626 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.01 Billion
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $362k per cabin

#20 - MSC Grandiosa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Grandiosa cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 182k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Grandiosa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,233 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Grandiosa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,421 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $392k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Grandiosa has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Grandiosa
• Gross Tonnage : 181,541
• Total Staterooms : 2,421 cabins
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,233 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $392k per cabin

#21 - MSC Meraviglia Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Meraviglia cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2017.

The ship measures 172k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Meraviglia cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,536 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Meraviglia cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,244 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $423k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Meraviglia has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Meraviglia
• Year Built : 2017
• Gross Tonnage : 171,598
• Total Staterooms : 2,244 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $1.04 Billion
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,536 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $423k per cabin

#22 - MSC Bellissima Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Bellissima cost to build? MSC spent $950 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 172k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Bellissima cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,536 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Bellissima cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,217 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $429k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Bellissima has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : MSC Bellissima
• Total Staterooms : 2,217 cabins
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $429k per cabin

#23 - Spectrum of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Spectrum of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $940 Million for the ship in 2019.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Spectrum of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,569 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Spectrum of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,098 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $448k per cabin for this ship.

The Spectrum of the Seas has a current status of: active

• Cruise Ship : Spectrum of the Seas
• Cost to Build : $940,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 168,800
• Total Staterooms : 2,098 cabins
• Cost in Today Dollars : $970 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,569 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $448k per cabin

#24 - Odyssey of the Seas Cost to Build

How much did the Odyssey of the Seas cost to build? Royal Caribbean spent $940 Million for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 169k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the Odyssey of the Seas cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,550 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the Odyssey of the Seas cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,098 staterooms . Some quick math shows that Royal Caribbean paid roughly $448k per cabin for this ship.

The Odyssey of the Seas has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : Odyssey of the Seas
• Gross Tonnage : 169,379
• Cost in Today Dollars : $910 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,550 per GT

#25 - MSC Virtuosa Cost to Build

How much did the MSC Virtuosa cost to build? MSC spent $937 Million for the ship in 2021.

The ship measures 181k gross tons and is one of the largest in the fleet. If we look at the MSC Virtuosa cruise ship cost per tonnage, we get a price tag showing $5,177 per GT .

It's also interesting to look at the MSC Virtuosa cost per cabin. The ship has a total of 2,421 staterooms . Some quick math shows that MSC paid roughly $387k per cabin for this ship.

The MSC Virtuosa has a current status of: future ship

• Cruise Ship : MSC Virtuosa
• Cost to Build : $937,000,000
• Gross Tonnage : 181,000
• Cost in Today Dollars : $907 Million
• Ship Cost by GT : $5,177 per GT
• Ship Cost by Cabin : $387k per cabin

All Cruise Ships Cost to Build

Finally, here's the hard data. The spreadsheet below shows hundreds of ships ranked by total cost to build. Also included are cost today, cost per ton, and cost by cabin.

How much does a cruise ship cost to build - FAQs

How much does a cruise ship cost to build? On average, a cruise ship costs $506 million. To get this approximated cost to build a cruise ship, we analyzed 231 active and ordered vessels. In the charts above, we show all ships by cost, cruise line, and size.

What is the most expensive cruise ship ever built? The Allure of the Seas is the most expensive ship ever built at a price tag of $1.5 billion dollars. The ship was constructed in constructed by Royal Caribbean in 2010. It has a gross tonnage of 225k GT and a total cabin count of 2,742 staterooms.

What cruise line has the most expensive cruise ships? Royal Caribbean leads the cruise industry with the most expensive ships. On average, RCCL spends $669 million per new vessel. Next in line is Disney followed by Costa than NCL. The entire ranking chart can be seen above.

What cruise line has the cheapest ships? Seadream Yachts has the least expensive cruise ships. Yet, the cruise line has a much smaller capacity and relatively high cost per stateroom. When accounting for size, the cheapest cruise ships are owned by Pullmantur.

How much have cruise ship costs increased over time? In actual dollars, ships have increased based on the following costs per decade: 1970 - $43M; 1980 - $37M; 1990: $119M; 2000: $276M; 2010: $433M; 2020: $697M; 2020+ - $870M. Our graph also shows this increase in normalized dollars spent.

How much are Carnival Cruise Ships worth? Carnival Corporation owns nine cruise brands and a combined 94 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $74.2 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

How much are Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships worth? Royal Caribbean Corporation owns or partially owns seven cruise brands and a combined 62 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $47.9 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

How much are Norwegian Cruise Ships worth? Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings owns three cruise brands and a combined 28 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $19.1 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

What is the biggest cruise line company? Carnival Corporation is by far the largest with 45% of the cruise industry in terms of ships owned. The company owns nine cruise brands and a combined 94 ships. The total asset value of these based on actual dollars spent is $74.2 billion. The chart above shows the owned brands and this line compared to others.

We hope that the above is extremely helpful in answering, how much does a cruise ship cost to build?

If you enjoyed learning about the most expensive cruise ships in the world, you'll love to explore the largest cruise vessels ever built. Please check out our post, Largest Cruise Ships in the World .

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10 largest cruise ships in the world and who owns them

Consider Gold List the answer to the question our editors get asked more than any other: What are your favorite places to stay? Our 30th annual iteration of the world’s greatest hotels and cruises captures nearly a year’s worth of work: This collection represents hundreds of hours of researching, scouting, and impassioned debating by our team of editors in seven cities across the globe. But more than that, it reflects our ongoing love affair with the places where we stay, which often become our gateways to entire destinations. Read on to inspire your next cruise.

See the full Gold List here .

Oceania Cruises' Marina is one of 12 ships chosen by our editors for 2024.

Celebrity Beyond Arrow

Cruise ships often get compared to floating hotels or resorts, but here’s one that feels like a floating Vegas show. Applause, please, for the glittering peacock made from Swarovski crystals and the Magic Carpet platform that shimmies up and down the ship, cantilevered over the water for some of the best seats in the house, while in the Martini Bar, a troupe of bartenders juggle shakers to the sound of “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” Beyond is one of the largest ships in Celebrity’s Edge class, and all that space is used to maximize the drama. A whole corridor is filled with a glowing installation of bronze sculptures reflected in infinity mirrors; a favorite anchorage was Eden, a beautiful, biophiliac bubble for hiding away in, watching the ship’s wake through triple-height windows and dawdling in swivel chairs that resemble green carnations. As for the cast, there are some stellar performers: Kelly Hoppen designed most of the interiors; Daniel Boulud’s debut signature restaurant at sea, Le Voyage, has an impeccable, globe-trotting menu alighting on Brazilian moqueca and tamarind prawns. But top of the bill is Captain Kate McCue, the first American woman to captain a cruise ship. A captain hasn’t been this synonymous with their ship since the days of Merrill Stubing; follow her social media for a glimpse into the art of ship navigation. During our short, prelaunch cruise, we had an itinerary that involved looping round and round the Isle of Wight—a short trip, but one that was big on sheer spectacle. Three-night sailings from $300 per person. —Rick Jordan

Delfin II Arrow

The Amazon River has the opacity of chocolate milk and is almost deathlike in its stillness—which is wild when you consider how much life thrives there. It was on a nine-day journey through Peru with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic that I learned this, as we spent five of those days exploring the jungle by boat. Our chariot: the Delfin II , a Relais & Châteaux vessel with 14 thoughtfully appointed staterooms.

Most days began with a crack-of-dawn skiff ride soundtracked by the squall of jewel-winged, dusky-headed parakeets. The photographers pulled out their football lenses and the birders gasped from behind their binoculars as naturalists pointed out an elegant snowy egret picking its way through a mudbank, a neotropic cormorant spreading its gothy black wings like a vampire, and the somber Jabiru stork, the largest flying bird in South America, standing like a dour English butler on a naked tree limb. Also flagged were capuchin monkeys, giant river otters, flamboyant bromeliads, and—after dark—scores of caimans and capybaras.

We spent one muggy morning in a Kukama village, where indigenous women wove raffia bowls and cooked catfish, and another morning paddling the river—an outing which culminated with a pod of pink river dolphins leaping from the water mere feet from our kayaks. (Even our seen-it-all naturalist, Sandro, clapped like a schoolgirl.)

This deep in the Amazon jungle, there were no other tourists. When we did see signs of human life, they were usually fishermen or park rangers. And because there was no Wi-Fi on the Delfin II and a near total blackout on cell reception, downtime was spent attending lectures on Amazonian ecology, sampling native fruits (how the aptly named ice cream bean hasn’t been pitched on Shark Tank yet, I’ll never know), and buddying up to the ship bar, where I made fast friends of fellow guests. (Expedition cruises always draw a fascinating lot; my cohort included a microbiologist, metaphysical transcendentalist, and one of the earliest Apple employees.)

The highlight of the trip, however, was hiking through the jungle with a local tracker who showed us a brown-throated three-toed sloth, Goliath bird-eating tarantula, junior anaconda, and a century-old strangler fig. When we finally emerged from the bush, we were treated to a spectacular tangerine-and-charcoal sunset punctured by bolts of lighting. It was surreal and intense, just like everything else in this untouched corner of the world. Eight-day sailings from $5,730 per person. —Ashlea Halpern

Ritz-Carlton Evrima Arrow

Ritz-Carlton’s first foray into cruising, the Evrima is a hotel-at-sea experience that might just be the antidote to all the big ship itineraries. Think ultra-small ship luxury (at half the capacity of the Seabourns and Regents) with plenty of scenery options to choose from—the European Mediterranean (routes from Turkey to the Canary Islands) from spring through fall, and the Caribbean (San Juan to St. Barts) in winter—and a younger crowd than most of the luxury cruise market; mostly culture lovers with a dearth of cruising experience who can't wait to get ashore to the Côte d’Azur village restaurants. The 624-foot ship is the first in a fleet of three emerging over the next few years, and it still feels spacious with 149 suites, two pools, a cigar humidor, six bars (the interior Living Room and top-floor Observation Lounge, The Bar, and bars located at the Marina Terrace, the Pool House, and Mistral), a beauty salon and spa deck, water-level marina terrace with water toys, and a fitness center. The 246 staff range from deck crew to your cabin’s personal concierge, all of whom are dubbed the ship’s Ladies and Gentlemen—but titles feel almost superfluous aboard Evrima , where everyone from the tender drivers to dining leads will pause to actually get to know you and recall your name and story (and even your drink order) to make the entire experience feel organic and warm. It’s almost like you’re spending the night in someone’s home, which just so happens to be a 624-foot mega-yacht. And the Evrima itinerary has plenty of free time and overnight ports of call in its sailings, so you can head ashore for a day, or even an entire evening late into the night—gallivanting, dining, and imbibing with the new friends you'll no doubt meet onboard. Seven-night sailings from $5,800 per person. —Shannon McMahon

Oceania Marina Arrow

Is there any Marina passenger who doesn’t wish—even for a second—to confine himself to his stateroom on debarkation day? Perhaps only the smarty pants who booked their next cruise before this one ends. Otherwise, how can an epicurean cruiser (that’s Marina ’s crowd) not pine for another shot at the new wine list starring 80 highly coveted, hard-to-snag labels, including swoon-worthy Super Tuscans? You’ll long for one more brag-worthy chance to sip The Mascot, a label from Harlan family pedigree (think cult fave Harlan Estate); the Polo Grill’s deft sommelier knows exactly which prime steak pairs best. Despite eight compelling complimentary restaurants (Red Ginger’s signature lobster pad thai is still a must-devour), Marina vibes far more than great meals. Work up a sweat storm playing pickleball on deck 16 or braving core conditioning in the gym. Melt into a marine detox wrap (I love the juniper and lemon scent) at Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, then sink into the spa terrace’s bubbling hot tub. Get down and dirty in the artist loft by painting a Venetian mask and playing Impressionist. In the hands-on culinary center, learn to cure a fish or preserve a lemon. Come May 2024, Marina debuts a splashy redo. Fall in love again with revamped avocado toast—bravo to the taco-spiced shrimp topping—in the new wellness-driven Aquamar kitchen. Where you lie your head hardly matters. An entry 291-square-foot stateroom starring a four-pillow, soft-sheet bed feels mighty spacious and sports Bulgari shampoo. That said, the top-to-bottom penthouse suites’ glam reno is beyond covetable, from the expanded bath to a boatload of enviable perks. Ten-day sailings from $1,999 per person. —Janice Wald Henderson

Jessica Chapel

Emily Pennington

Charlie Hobbs

Kaitlin Menza

Trollfjord Arrow

Who better to guide you through Norway’s most remote reaches—including the Svalbard archipelago, the northernmost inhabited islands on the planet—than a Norwegian cruise company that knows the area’s every crag and fjord? Hurtigruten is an Oslo-based line whose ships have traversed these waters since 1893, ferrying freight, mail, and passengers to the communities along the rugged coast. In 2023, to celebrate its 130th anniversary, the company’s flagship, the newly refurbished, 500-passenger MS Trollfjord (named for a fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago) began sailing two hybrids of its original 34-port Norwegian Coastal Express, calling at several of the towns and villages on the original route. From September through April, the North Cape Express (a 13-day, 16-port itinerary) sails from Oslo to the North Cape and then south to Bergen. In the summertime, the Svalbard Express’s eight-day journey begins in Bergen and progresses north, with extended port calls and excursions in seven towns before entering the Arctic Circle and pulling into Longyearbyen, a mining town on Spitsbergen, Svalbard’s main island. On both routes Trollfjord offers its (mostly European) passengers an uncommon way to explore the region, with uniquely Nordic cultural touches to connect them to the country. There’s a pre-boarding spread of Norwegian fare in the ship’s departure lounge, and Trollfjord ’s three restaurants prioritize Scandinavian cuisine (salmon, reindeer, and lingonberries, oh my!) and the food culture of the indigenous Sámi people. The ship’s 277 staterooms and 12 suites (with walk-in closets, corner bathtubs and floor-to-ceiling windows) offer a cozy retreat from the sometimes-harsh weather. And typically Nordic diversions such as aquavit tastings, oceanview saunas and polar plunges leave you in no doubt about where you are and who you’re sailing with. 10-day sailings from $3,082 per person. —Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Seven Seas Navigator Arrow

Imagine the most luxurious hotel you’ve ever stayed in. That’s precisely what stepping onboard the Regent Seven Seas Cruises Navigator feels like. And while the opulence and grandeur shine through every square inch of space, it’s worth mentioning that the staff are what make the experience memorable, remembering your name, preferences, likes, and dislikes from the second you step afoot the eight-deck vessel.

The 248 ultraluxe all-suite accommodations feel like your home away from home—despite their capacious interiors—and your personalized steward makes sure of that with thoughtful touches from the moment you check in. Thanks to a revamp in 2019, the ship feels pristine with a new library—complete with a faux fireplace—and sleek state-of-the-art furnishings (including the cruise line’s bespoke mattresses and bed linens) in each of the rooms. However, what makes the Navigator stand out from its counterparts is its intimate size, as it’s the smallest in Regent’s fleet. Everything onboard feels just an arm’s reach away, and you’ll quickly bond with fellow passengers after spending the day together on one of the complimentary shore excursions, such as tours by local guides, cooking classes, and other intimate adventures.

During my Mediterranean voyage, days were spent immersing ourselves in new cities, whereas nights began with a freshly shaken ice-cold martini followed by an exuberant dinner, with a stop in the Seven Seas Lounge for whatever was on tap that night, ranging from cabaret to karaoke. At the end of the journey, I left wanting more and with a suitcase full of clean clothes, thanks to one of the many attentive touches onboard: the included laundry service. 10-night sailings from $3,360 per person. —Rachel Dube

Seabourn Ovation Arrow

“We are not the Rat Pack,” quips Andrew Pedder, the witty Yorkshire-born captain of Seabourn Ovation. He's referring to himself and the other senior officers, for any guests who may have wandered into their impromptu panel session instead of the musical show taking place later that evening. The Q&A—which covers everything from the prettiest ports to the number of Champagne bottles typically consumed during a seven-day voyage—is part of a last-minute program of activities arranged for an unexpected sea day when it’s too windy to dock in the South of France. This is mid-October, on one of the ship’s jaunts around the Mediterranean for the season, and no one seems to mind the change of plan (although when we do explore, all the islands we visit—Menorca, Corsica, Elba—are blissfully tourist-free). It simply means more time for spa treatments, soaks in the outdoor hot tubs, and afternoon tea in the observation bar. Even then, it only feels like there are 60 passengers onboard, rather than 600. The restaurants are excellent, from Sushi, where you can sit at the counter watching the Japanese chefs at work, to poolside Earth & Ocean for Tandoori-style rotisserie chicken and Madras-style white bean cassoulet. Suites are spacious, each one with a balcony. West End–standard entertainment includes a magician and a chart-topping classical singer. But what makes this ultraluxe ship really memorable is the relaxed, on-point service by staff who remember your name and coffee order, or even a familiar face from a sailing five years ago. Seven-day sailings from $2,649 per person. —Emma Love

Silver Endeavour Arrow

Silversea is defined by its far-flung itineraries and exceptional onboard service (think Moët Champagne as you take in an iceberg calving in Antarctica). But the 220-passenger Silver Endeavour, new to the fleet and already a classic, raises every bar. Rooms start at a spacious 356 square feet and have luxury perks like pillow menus and a personalized bar, making them the best in all of Silversea’s array of ships. As far as food goes, premium Ars Italica Osetra caviar is complimentary and around-the-clock, though the Dover sole paired with a label from the rare wine menu at La Dame would have you believing you were in Paris. And the signature Otium spa celebrates pampering as much as it does wellness—don’t skip on the oxygen-boosting Golden Radiance facial. You may find yourself at any given hour glimpsing ice walls through the Drake Passage and remembering that the best part about this ship is the awe-inspiring places it dares to take you. 10-day sailings from $13,150. —Janice Wald Henderson

Scarlet Lady Arrow

Although new to the cruise industry, Virgin Voyages has already begun to set itself apart from its predecessors. When first stepping on the Scarlet Lady, cruisers are met with a rousing, upbeat staff that serve as gurus around the ship and are experts on everything from beauty to juicing. While the Scarlet Lady takes you on a familiar route around the Caribbean, the on-shore excursions available are what make this sail memorable. Take a leap of faith on daring outings such as the Waterfalls of Damajagua in Puerto Plata, where guests make their way down seven of the 27 natural slides and waterfalls. After the exhilarating experience, travelers can sit down with locals and come together over Dominican staples such as pollo guisado, tostones, and mangú. You can always get local delicacies while docked, but while onboard, you must snag a reservation at the Test Kitchen. It’s an experimental dining experience where the menu always evolves. You go in only seeing a small card with ingredients listed for the night’s meal, but everything else is up to the imagination. One might find cucumbers puréed and frozen into ice cream as dessert, or beets formed and prepared like steak. While en route to the next port, the hard reset one does at the Redemption Spa leaves your body feeling anew; it’s impossible to come back from vacation feeling the same as when you departed. On any Virgin Voyages ship, you’ll love the indulgent atmosphere, whether you’re catering to your sweet tooth by narrowing down your favorite gelato of the day, grabbing a drink at one of the five bars that stake claim to having the largest tequila supply on the seven seas, or finally getting that tattoo you’ve been thinking about for ages after visiting the ship’s tattoo parlor, Squid Ink. Seven-day sailings from $2,100 per person. —Paris Wilson

Queen Mary 2 Arrow

Six days sailing from England to New York across the vast Atlantic had the potential to bore me to stupefaction, but it turned out I had nothing to fear. “The ship is the destination,” said an entertainment director for Queen Mary 2 , who oversees a program that makes this cruise liner the undisputed hub of creative and intellectual stimulation on the high seas. Where else can you attend the annual Literature Festival At Sea, meeting top fiction and nonfiction authors like the late PJ O’Rourke, Bernadine Evaristo, and Louis de Bernières? And where else can you visit a planetarium, watch a Royal Shakespeare theater production, or hear guest speakers discuss artwork investments and the history of airport drug mules?

In between spa massages and table tennis rallies, I nourished my mind in the mahogany library before nourishing my body at the Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants, scarfing dishes like croquette of suckling pig, paired with excellent vintages and followed by mango panna cotta. On the final stretch of the journey, as dolphins leapt over the horizon and the Statue of Liberty loomed into view, my heart sank a little—New York City awaited, yet I didn’t want to disembark. That’s quite an achievement. Seven-day sailings from $1,389 per person. —Noo Saro-Wiwa

World Navigator Arrow

During my first few hours aboard the Atlas Ocean Voyages World Navigator, I felt a bit like I had inadvertently crashed a family reunion: Seemingly everyone else aboard this Arctic expedition had just sailed to Antarctica on the Navigator six months before, so several crew members and guests spent much of embarkation day hugging and catching up. With a maximum occupancy of 196, it’s already an intimate ship, but the fact that the relatively young brand, which debuted in 2019, could develop such an impressive number of repeat travelers in such a short spell speaks volumes. Many told me they were drawn to Atlas because of its eco-friendly bona fides (the new-build ship makes use of hybrid engines from Rolls-Royce designed to leave minimal impact), but the creature comforts on board certainly help. While the star attraction of such an expedition voyage is what lies beyond the decks—access to remote Antarctic fjords that larger vessels can’t dream of traversing, or spotting polar bears loping along pearly glaciers in the Arctic—I made the most of my time in between Zodiac expeditions. The multi-jet shower in my stateroom was sublime after damp and rigorous treks, the heated massage beds in the only L’Occitane Spa at sea are a dream, and the Arctic summer’s 24 hours of sunshine made the Dome observation deck a prime perch to cozy up with a book at any time of day or night. There was neither internet nor cell phone connectivity during my entire eight-day journey sailing thanks to the remote latitudes (though Atlas guests now have access to full Starlink satellite coverage), which meant this was the longest I’d been offline since the 1990s—and yet somehow, drifting through the surreal landscape in this cosseting bubble, I didn’t miss scrolling or chatting with the outside world one bit. Seven-night sailings from $4,749 per person. —Sarah Khan

Westerdam Arrow

A passenger who is well below senior age dances the robot to classic rock, to R&B, to country music, and to disco hits as talented singers and a live band perform most nights in the Rolling Stone Lounge, on Holland America Line’s Westerdam . His mechanical movements are a source of amusement and encouragement; if he can take over the dance floor, so can we with our own moves. The 1,916-passenger Westerdam is beloved as a traditional cruise ship, with its smaller-than-mega-ship size, deep blue hull, wraparound outdoor promenade deck, and details such as fresh flowers all around, celebrating the 150-year-old cruise line’s Dutch roots. Tradition does not mean staid. There’s rock and roll. There’s a trendy top-of-ship pickleball court.

On an Alaska cruise, my husband and I start our days with a jolt of caffeine via the baristas at Explorations Central, the ship’s cushy, contemporary, forward-facing observation lounge, before heading off on adventures such as joining other passengers in synchronized paddling a large canoe to see the ancient yet diminishing ice of Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier. Back on the ship, we indulge in excellent burgers, topped with Gouda and applewood-smoked bacon and served in fast-food wrapping from a stand at the covered Lido pool. We enjoy sustainable Alaska seafood—grilled salmon, fennel-crusted halibut, fried cod—in between cocktails made with local gin, served on real glacial ice. From the veranda of our classic aft cabin, mesmerizing views of the ship’s wake, seemingly endless forest, and a distant, blue-tinged glacier clear our brain. We’re ready for more of the dancing man. Seven-day sailings from $379 per person. —Fran Golden

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21 Facts About The World's Biggest Cruise Ship You Won't BELIEVE

Posted: June 7, 2024 | Last updated: June 7, 2024

Onboard the world's largest cruise ship

Royal Caribbean's latest marvel,  Icon of the Seas , set sail on its maiden voyage in January. The mammoth vessel currently holds the record as the world's largest cruise ship and has captured the imagination due not only to its sheer size but also its outrageous opulence.

Read on to explore the staggering numbers behind the super-sized ship and discover the fantastic facilities passengers enjoy. 

All dollar amounts in US dollars. 

The size, scale, and staggering cost

Construction on Icon of the Seas began in 2021 at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.

The juggernaut vessel is almost 1,200 feet long and weighs a staggering 250,800 gross tons, surpassing the measurements of all other cruise ships to date. To put that into some kind of perspective,  Icon is around five times larger than the Titanic .

Unsurprisingly, its construction price tag was a dizzying $2 billion.

Incredible capacity of 9,950

Icon is effectively a floating town and can accommodate close to 10,000 people when at maximum capacity, including 7,600 guests and a dedicated crew of 2,350.

Its diverse team of workers hail from 80 different countries around the world, including the United States, United Kingdom, the Philippines, Jamaica, and Australia. Their roles range from hospitality and performing arts to gardening and maintenance, with the overarching goal of ensuring a seamless experience for guests at all times. 

Breaking booking records

In October 2023, tickets went on sale for seven-day voyages to the Caribbean aboard the boat, with prices starting at around $1,537 per person.

The sales resulted in Royal Caribbean achieving its "single largest booking day in the company's 53-year history," neatly underscoring the excitement surrounding this gigantic new cruise ship.

Room prices start at $1,851

While room prices have since increased for week-long voyages, you don't need to be super-rich to board this super-sized ship. Icon offers 28 different room types, giving guests options to suit all needs, whether they're looking for affordability, stunning sea views, or a family-oriented vacation experience.

According to  Forbes , interior rooms now range between $1,851 and $3,300, while exterior rooms span from $2,061 to $4,119. Balcony rooms, which offer a more premium guest experience, start at $2,249 and can reach up to $5,245.

Meanwhile, luxury Sunset Suites (pictured) cost a staggering $10,864 per week per person for those looking to splurge. Costs vary depending on the time of the year, with March to September the peak time to travel. 

The most expensive suite costs $75,000

The most expensive accommodation is the all-new Ultimate Family Townhouse (pictured). The spacious pad, which can accommodate eight guests, spans 2,523 square feet across three levels.

Perfect for families with young kids to entertain, it features a multilevel slide, a movie and karaoke area, two private balconies, a whirlpool, and an outdoor dining area.

However, renting out this fun-filled suite for one week is far from cheap and will cost you an eye-watering $75,000, according to  Business Insider.

20 fun-filled decks

Icon boasts 20 decks brimming over with activities and attractions to keep guests entertained. 

Highlights include an adrenaline-pumping surf simulator, a rock climbing wall that offers stunning sea views, a family-friendly mini-golf course, laser tag, arcades, a sports court, a luxurious casino, and a water park.

Eight unique neighborhoods

Across the 20 decks, the ship is divided into eight unique "neighborhoods," each offering guests a different experience. Let's delve into each neighborhood and their standout features...

First up, the Thrill Island neighborhood, spanning decks 16 and 17, is designed for daredevils. It includes a pulse-racing waterpark (more on that soon) and Crown's Edge (pictured), a heart-pounding ride that allows brave passengers to swing 154 feet above the ocean.

Surfside neighborhood

The colorful Surfside neighborhood (pictured) is the ultimate hotspot for families.

Located on deck seven, activities include swimming areas appropriate for both babies and children, as well as a charming beach-themed carousel, arcades, and family-friendly events and eateries.

The Hideaway

The Hideaway neighborhood, situated on deck 15, is a designated adult-only area and offers guests an exclusive beach club vibe. 

It features the first-ever suspended infinity pool at sea (just one of the record-breaking pools aboard the ship, but more on that soon), a dedicated bar, and a DJ. 

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Central Park

The open-air Central Park neighborhood, located on deck eight, is packed with restaurants and nightlife, including numerous live music spots and trendy jazz bars.

But the most impressive feature of this lush area is the four living plant walls, boasting more than 30,550 plants in total.

Chill Island

The sprawling Chill Island neighborhood spans decks 15, 16, and 17 and is filled with spots where guests can sit back and bask in the sunshine, complete with breathtaking ocean views.

Stand-out features include the Royal Bay, which, at 5,813 square feet, is the largest pool at sea, and Swim & Tonic, Royal Caribbean's first-ever swim-up bar at sea.

The AquaDome

The most visually jaw-dropping neighborhood is arguably the AquaDome, located on decks 14 and 15. This section of the ship boasts wraparound ocean views and features a show-stopping 55-foot-tall waterfall. 

AquaDome is also home to Royal Caribbean's first food hall and provides guests with the opportunity to watch fantastic water shows at the AquaTheater.

Royal Promenade

Located on decks five and six, the Royal Promenade neighborhood is the first to feature floor-to-ceiling ocean views.

The area is positively buzzing with bars and restaurants, but its most impressive feature is Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena at sea. Here, guests can watch dazzling live performances or take to the ice themselves. 

The Suite neighborhood

Last but by no means least, the Suite neighborhood is reserved purely for passengers staying in the Royal Suite Class. Spanning decks 16 to 19, it offers high-paying guests an additional slice of luxury during their time aboard.

The area is equipped with a multi-level sun deck with its own pool and whirlpool, while the VIP guests can enjoy a range of exclusive bars and dining options.

40 bars, restaurants, and lounges

Neighborhoods aside, the cruise ship caters to all appetites, with more than 40 bars, restaurants, and lounges to choose from.

Among them are the likes of Pier 7, which offers beachside brunches; Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, serving up classic Italian-style favorites; and SurfSide Bites, which provides family-friendly options like hotdogs and popcorn chicken.

One truly wow-worthy dining spot is the opulent Empire Supper Club (pictured), where guests can devour dishes such as oysters and Wagyu beef with shaved truffle while sipping on premium cocktails and enjoying live jazz.

50 entertainers aboard

Icon sails with a cast of 50 musicians, actors, and comedians who keep passengers entertained with live shows.

Among the entertainment headline acts is a 16-piece orchestra and the first-ever at-sea performance of  The Wizard of Oz .

Seven incredible swimming pools

Icon boasts seven different pools, each designed with its own unique vibe. As mentioned,  Icon  is home to the Royal Bay (pictured), which is currently the largest pool at sea. There's also the Hideaway Pool, the first-ever suspended infinity pool at sea, and Swim and Tonic, the first-ever swim-up bar at sea. So what about the incredible pools we haven't covered yet?

The Water's Edge Pool is a family-friendly swim spot, Cloud 17 offers a super-chilled atmosphere, while Cove Pool is located portside, providing stunning views. And finally, there's The Grove, located in the Suite Neighborhood, which is exclusive to Royal Suite Class guests.

In addition to the seven swimming pools, guests also have access to nine whirlpools. 

Six record-breaking slides

A key attraction aboard Icon is the Category 6 waterpark. With six record-breaking waterslides (pictured), it's – you guessed it – the largest at sea.

The adrenaline-pumping Frightening Bolt is the tallest slide at sea at 46 feet tall, while the daring Pressure Drop is the first freefall waterslide to set sail. What's more, the waterpark features two family raft slides, as well as two exhilarating mat racer slides.

The Wonder of the Seas

Prior to the launch of  Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean's fleet already boasted the world's largest cruise ship.

Wonder of the Seas (pictured) first set sail in 2022 and is only fractionally shorter than Icon . It can carry a total of 7,084 guests, with an international crew of 2,204 people. The vessel boasts 18 decks, just two fewer than its larger (yet younger) sister.

Environmental credentials

Royal Caribbean claims Icon  is 24% more energy efficient than required standards, making it the company's most sustainable ship yet. It's powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), and the dual-fuel engines work alongside various energy efficiency initiatives and industry-leading environmental programs, such as the first waste-to-energy system at sea.

The ship also produces 93% of its fresh water onboard via a reverse osmosis/desalination plant and is landfill-free. The company has plans to introduce a net-zero cruise ship by 2035.

A negative impact?

However, critics have argued that using LNG as fuel contributes to emissions of methane, a harmful greenhouse gas.

Bryan Comer, director of the International Council on Clean Transportation’s marine program, told The Guardian : "[Royal Caribbean] is doubling down by calling LNG a green fuel when the engine is emitting 70 to 80% more greenhouse gas emissions per trip than if it used regular marine fuel. Icon has the largest LNG tanks ever installed in a ship. It is greenwashing.”

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Princess Cruises ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most venue-packed, resort-like Princess Cruises ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Princess cruise ships.

The biggest Princess cruise ships are, by their very nature, the Princess ships with the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms, as well as the most sprawling decktop pool and lounge areas. The biggest Princess ships have the biggest casinos and spas among ships in the Princess fleet and the most cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in cabin and suite types.

With room for 4,000 passengers or more, the biggest Princess ships are truly large resorts of the sort you find at the biggest vacation destination on land. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Princess ships for you.

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

Still, Princess doesn't just operate large vessels. The Los Angeles-based cruise giant — the fifth largest cruise line in the world — also has several relatively small cruise ships in its fleet that carry just 2,000 or 3,000 people and have a more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are nearly 50% smaller than the size of Princess Cruises' biggest ships. These smaller ships, notably, have less deck-top pool space and fewer interior venues than the biggest Princess cruise ships. However, with fewer people on board, that's not necessarily a bad thing.

The smallest Princess cruise ships are best for vacationers who like a more intimate, less crowded resort experience.

Related: The 4 types of Princess Cruises ships, explained

To make sure you end up on the right Princess ship for you, it pays to study which Princess ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Princess ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Sun Princess

Maiden voyage: 2024 Size: 177,882 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,300

2. Discovery Princess

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 145,000 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,660

3 (tied). Enchanted Princess

Maiden voyage: 2020 Size: 144,650 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,660

3 (tied). Sky Princess

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 144,650 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,660

5. Majestic Princess

Maiden voyage: 2017 Size: 143,700 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,560

6 (tied). Regal Princess

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 142,229 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,560

6 (tied). Royal Princess

Maiden voyage: 2013 Size: 142,229 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,560

8 (tied). Ruby Princess

Maiden voyage: 2008 Size: 113,561 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,080

8 (tied). Emerald Princess

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 113,561 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,080

8 (tied). Crown Princess

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 113,561 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,080

11 (tied). Sapphire Princess

Maiden voyage: 2004 Size: 115,875 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,670

11 (tied). Diamond Princess

13. Caribbean Princess

Maiden voyage: 2004 Size: 112,894 gross tons Passenger capacity : 3,149

14. Grand Princess

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 107,517 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,600

15. Island Princess

Maiden voyage: 2003 Size: 92,822 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,200

16. Coral Princess

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 91,627 gross tons Passenger capacity : 2,000

What is the biggest Princess cruise ship?

The biggest Princess cruise ship is the 4,300-passenger Sun Princess , which is also the line's newest vessel. It just debuted in February.

Sun Princess is the first vessel in Princess Cruises' new Sphere Class of ships, which have been designed to be much bigger and more venue-packed than the vessels in the line's last new series of ships, the Royal Class.

Sun Princess measures 177,882 gross tons, which is about 22% bigger than the biggest ship in the Royal Class (the 145,000-ton Discovery Princess). Royal Class ships range in size from 142,229 to 145,000 gross tons.

Note that gross tons is a size measurement referring to interior space, not weight.

A second ship in the Sphere Class series, Star Princess, is under construction at a shipyard in Italy and will debut in October 2025 .

For more details on Sun Princess, including what venues are on board and what it's like to sail on the vessel, see TPG's comprehensive first look at Sun Princess after an early sailing.

What is the smallest Princess cruise ship?

The smallest Princess cruise ship is the 2,000-passenger Coral Princess. Measuring just 91,267 gross tons, it's about 36% smaller than Discovery Princess, making it a significantly smaller vessel.

Coral Princess dates to 2002, a time when cruise ships were built far smaller than they are today and with far fewer venues. At 21 years old, it's also one of the two oldest vessels in the Princess fleet and will probably be phased out sometime in the next decade.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

While significantly smaller than the newest Princess ships, Coral Princess still has many of the signature spaces and venues found on new Princess vessels, including an Italian eatery called Sabatini's and a steakhouse.

Entertainment venues on Coral Princess include a relatively large main theater for production shows, a secondary lounge that offers comedy shows and other entertainment, and a casino. Like other Princess ships, the top deck of the vessel is mostly devoted to pool areas with hot tubs and lounge chairs. There's also a spa.

While smaller and older than the typical Princess ship, Coral Princess has a loyal following among Princess fans who prefer smaller and more intimate ships.

Are bigger Princess cruise ships coming?

It's not clear yet. Princess currently has one new ship on order, Star Princess. But the final size of Star Princess won't be known until the vessel debuts in late 2025.

Star Princess will be the second vessel in the new Sphere Class of ships at Princess. It's likely to be very similar in size to the first vessel in the series, the new Sun Princess. But it's not uncommon for each new vessel in a series to be slightly bigger than the one before.

Star Princess is currently under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard near Monfalcone, Italy.

Note that this isn't the first time Princess has named a ship Sun Princess or Star Princess. Both are recycled names from past Princess ships. Princess operated smaller vessels under the Sun Princess and Star Princess names up until 2020.

Related: Everything to know about Princess cabins and suites

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Princess ships?

The biggest Princess cruise ships have room for more onboard venues and attractions than smaller Princess ships. That makes them more alluring for vacationers who prefer a big resort experience with lots of options as compared to a stay at a smaller resort.

On the biggest Princess vessels, the Sphere Class and Royal Class vessels, you'll find the largest piazza-like central atriums in the Princess fleet surrounded by lots of bars and restaurants; multiple entertainment venues for live shows, comedy acts and more; and expansive pool decks with more space for sunning than you'll find on smaller Princess vessels.

You'll also find some only-on-the-Royal-class-ships extras, including, on some of the Royal Class ships, a glass-floored "SeaWalk" that extends over the side of the vessel.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess ship

Princess' smaller cruise ships also are generally its older cruise ships and lack some of the above features, which are more typical of newer ships. These smaller Princess ships have a more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold fewer people.

While Sphere Class and Royal Class ships can hold more than 4,500 passengers with every berth full, the line's smaller vessels (particularly the relatively small Island Princess and Coral Princess) often sail with just 2,000 or so passengers on board.

That makes the smaller Princess ships a good choice for someone who wants to try Princess but isn't eager to travel with huge crowds. The smallest ships in the Princess fleet thus appeal to a subset of Princess fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Princess loyalty perks

In addition, because of their size, the smallest ships at Princess Cruises are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Sun Princess.

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