The last few years have seen some record-breaking cruise ships hit the seas, and 2025 is no different. The world’s biggest cruise lines are competing to build even larger, more innovative ships packed with jaw-dropping features.
In this guide, we’ll rank the largest cruise ships in the world for 2025 and share a sneak peek at the mega-ships launching over the next few years.
| Rank | Ship name | Cruise line | Launched | Guest capacity | Gross tonnage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1= | Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2024 | 7,600 | 250,800 |
| 1= | Star of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2025 | 7,600 | 250,800 |
| 3 | Utopia of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2024 | 6,988 | 236,860 |
| 4 | Wonder of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2022 | 6,988 | 236,857 |
| 5 | Symphony of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2018 | 6,680 | 228,081 |
| 6 | Harmony of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2016 | 6,687 | 226,963 |
| 7 | Oasis of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2009 | 6,771 | 226,838 |
| 8 | Allure of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 2010 | 6,780 | 225,282 |
| 9 | MSC World America | MSC Cruises | 2025 | 6,762 | 216,638 |
| 10 | MSC World Europa | MSC Cruises | 2022 | 6,762 | 215,863 |
| 11 | Arvia | P&O Cruises | 2022 | 6,685 | 185,581 |
| 12= | Costa Toscana | Costa Cruises | 2021 | 6,554 | 185,010 |
| 12= | Costa Smeralda | Costa Cruises | 2019 | 6,554 | 185,010 |
| 14 | Iona | P&O Cruises | 2021 | 6,600 | 184,089 |
1. Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) – Tied
- Launch: January 2024
- Guest capacity: 7,600
- Crew capacity: 2,350
- Gross tonnage: 250,800
- Length: 1,196 feet
Launching in January 2024, Icon of the Seas took on the mantle of being the largest cruise ship in the world, helping to strengthen Royal Caribbean’s grip on being the line with the biggest cruise ships.
Icon of the Seas offers something for everyone – on a ship that size, how could she not? But particular highlights are aimed at young families, including brand-new neighborhoods designed for maximum family fun, new accommodation choices that give direct access to some of the most fun areas of the ship, and new dining venues.
Old favourites return too, such as the AquaTheater and waterslides, but with some serious revamps to take them to the next level. Icon of the Seas is going to be truly special.
You can see details of Icon of the Seas’ itineraries here.
1. Star of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) – Tied
- Launch: August 2025
- Guest capacity: 7,600
- Crew capacity: 2,350
- Gross tonnage: 250,800
- Length: 1,196 feet
Launched in August 2025, Star of the Seas now shares the crown as the largest cruise ship in the world with her sister, Icon of the Seas. According to Royal Caribbean, both ships are identical in gross tonnage, passenger capacity, crew numbers, and length.
Star of the Seas packs in the same wow-factor as Icon, with record-breaking water slides, seven pools, over 40 bars and restaurants, and entire neighbourhoods designed for different holiday vibes. Highlights include Surfside, the ultimate family-friendly zone, and The Hideaway, an adults-only retreat with an infinity pool suspended 135 feet above the ocean.
The ship also features revamped favourites like the AquaTheater and next-level entertainment venues, along with new dining concepts exclusive to the Icon Class. If you thought Icon set the bar high, Star raises it with a few clever tweaks based on guest feedback from her sister ship. You can read more about how the two ships compare here.
Don’t worry, Royal Caribbean isn’t stopping there – a third Icon-class ship, Legend of the Seas, is scheduled to debut in 2026.
3. Utopia of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Launched: July 2024
- Guest capacity: 6,788
- Crew capacity: 2,300
- Gross tonnage: 236,860
- Length: 1,187 feet
Utopia of the Seas launched in 2024 and became the sixth ship in the Oasis Class.
Utopia of the Seas is designed to be the ultimate “weekend destination” ship, offering short 3- and 4-night cruises to Royal Caribbean’s private resorts.
She shares a lot of similarities with sister ships such as Wonder of the Seas, but also added some exciting new features, especially the Royal Railway – an immersive dining experience that takes place inside a train carriage with digital screens.
The Oasis Class has been extremely important to the global cruise industry, and with Utopia of the Seas, there is one more ship to add to the class, and make sure that it endures in popularity even when larger ships are launching. Another is also coming in 2028!
4. Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 6,988
- Crew capacity: 2,300
- Gross tonnage: 236,857
- Length: 1,187 feet
Wonder of the Seas was the biggest cruise ship in the world until 2024, and the second-most recent of the Oasis-class ships to have launched.
She’s an incredible ship packed with the very best that Royal Caribbean has to offer. There are 8 distinct neighbourhoods, including Central Park – a lush public space filled with live greenery, upscale dining options, and high-end shops.
She has 25 different restaurants, two FlowRider surf simulators, two rock climbing walls, four pools and a whole host of other entertainment features, including the most immersive AquaTheater for stunning live shows.
Wonder of the Seas is based out of Orlando for the summer season. In the winter she’s based out of Miami.
5. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 6,680
- Crew capacity: 2,200
- Gross tonnage: 228,081
- Length: 1,184 feet
Symphony of the Seas is another Oasis-class ship, and she’s very similar to Wonder of the Seas in terms of onboard entertainment, dining choices and the iconic Central Park in the middle of the ship.
There are some differences, though, particularly with the restaurants – Symphony has Jamie’s Italian and Vintages Wine Bar, while Wonder of the Seas has Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and The Mason Jar.
Symphony has more of a musical theme to her, and that’s reflected in her biggest USP – she has a live orchestra playing in the theatre. There are no recorded tracks used during the shows; everything is orchestral-backed, which is pretty spectacular.
Symphony of the Seas offers similar itineraries to Wonder of the Seas, but she is based out of Miami, Galveston, and New York.
6. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 6,687
- Crew capacity: 2,300
- Gross tonnage: 226,963
- Length: 1,188 feet
If you’re noticing a theme to this list, then well done – the third Oasis-class ship to launch is the fifth-biggest ship sailing the waves in 2025. Harmony of the Seas is actually very slightly longer than Wonder of the Seas, but her overall interval volume is lower.
As a result, she is slightly more limited in her entertainment and dining scope, but it’s a fine margin – she still has two FlowRiders, for example, but she only has three pools. She has 24 dining venues, instead of 25 – like I say, minor differences.
One of the biggest differences with Harmony isn’t the ship but the itineraries she offers – she is based out of Galveston in the winter but will be sailing Europe from Barcelona during the summer.
7. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 6,771
- Crew capacity: 2,181
- Gross tonnage: 226,838
- Length: 1,180 feet
The first Oasis-class ship to launch, it’s a sign of just how groundbreaking she was that her debut was in 2009, and she remains within the top 10 largest cruise ships ever built, for now at least. Oasis of the Seas really caused waves (pun intended) with just how spectacular she was.
To be fair, she has been expanded since she first launched, but the new cabins in 2019 only added around 1,000 gross tonnes.
Oasis of the Seas sails from Fort Lauderdale and New York.
8. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 6,780
- Crew capacity: 2,200
- Gross tonnage: 225,282
- Length: 1,180 feet
Launching one year after her sister ship, Allure of the Seas was the second Oasis-class ship and at the time, she was marginally bigger. However, the 2019 revamp and expansion of Oasis of the Seas has dropped Allure by a single place.
She was also missing some of the key features of Oasis of the Seas, including the Ultimate Abyss slide, for a number of years, but a drydock renovation at the start of 2025 is seeing her get a new lease of life.
She sails from Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Galveston in the winter months but during summer 2025 she’s sailing the Mediterranean from Barcelona and Rome.
9. MSC World America (MSC Cruises)
- Guest capacity: 6,762
- Crew capacity: 2,138
- Gross tonnage: 216,638
- Length: 1,093 feet
Launching in April 2025, MSC World America is MSC Cruises’ biggest and boldest ship yet.
Highlights include The Harbor, a brand-new family zone with splash areas and fun activities for kids, and the World Promenade, a stunning open-air deck lined with restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, all overlooking the ocean. There’s also the Aurora Borealis – a dazzling LED dome creating immersive light shows above the promenade – and seven unique onboard districts to explore.
World America is also the first MSC ship designed specifically for the U.S. market, with an even bigger focus on family-friendly experiences, dining choices, and American-style entertainment than her sister, MSC World Europa.
10. MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)
- Guest capacity: 6,762
- Crew capacity: 2,138
- Gross tonnage: 215,863 feet
- Length: 1,094 feet
MSC World Europa made waves when she launched in December 2022 as MSC Cruises’ first LNG-propelled leading the way in greener cruising with a range of eco-friendly technologies.
She’s got a seriously sleek, futuristic vibe throughout, from the stunning Kinetic Dome with its incredible light shows to the versatile Luna Park Arena, where you’ll find everything from game shows to interactive family activities. With 13 dining options, some amazing kids’ clubs, and plenty of adults-only spaces, there’s something onboard for everyone.
As her name suggests, MSC World Europa spends most of the year sailing the Mediterranean, with departures from a range of popular ports – making her a stylish choice for sun-soaked European getaways.
11. Arvia (P&O Cruises)
- Guest capacity: 6,685
- Crew capacity: 1,800
- Gross tonnage: 185,581
- Length: 1,130 feet
Arvia is the newest cruise ship from P&O Cruises and arguably the ultimate flagship of British cruising. She’s packed with things to see and do, including over 30 dining venues and bars, six theatres and lounges with live entertainment, and five swimming pools.
One of the highlights is Green & Co., a plant-based restaurant with fantastic vegetarian and vegan options. There’s also The Limelight Club, serving supper bites with a live house band.
Arvia sails around the Mediterranean and offers longer sailings to the Caribbean.
12. Costa Toscana (Costa Cruises) – Tied
- Guest capacity: 6,554
- Crew capacity: 1,646
- Gross tonnage: 185,010
- Length: 1,106 feet
The Costa Toscana is the biggest ship in the Costa Cruises fleet, and she is built to the same template as Arvia – after all, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises all fall under the umbrella of the Carnival Corporation.
Obviously, the on-board vibe is very different. The ship still has 30 dining and drinking venues, though – 11 places to eat and 19 bars or lounges, so plenty of space to unwind. But the ship is much more European in style, with Mediterranean-themed restaurants.
12. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises) – Tied
- Guest capacity: 6,554
- Crew capacity: 1,646
- Gross tonnage: 185,010
- Length: 1,106 feet
Costa Smeralda is an almost twin sister of Costa Toscana, giving a very similar experience – the best in Italian and international cuisine, plenty of spaces to relax, and some fantastic facilities for the kids.
Suggested read: Costa Smeralda Review
14. Iona (P&O Cruises)
- Guest capacity: 6,600
- Crew capacity: 1,762
- Gross tonnage: 184,089
- Length: 1,130 feet
Sister ship to Arvia, Iona is another magnificent ship from P&O Cruises that will remain one of the biggest British cruise ships for many years to come.
Arvia and Iona are very similar, with just eight key differences.
She is modern, spacious and ideal for couples or families – she might not have the same incredible selection of rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, etc. that a Royal Caribbean ship has but her kids’ clubs are excellent, with tonnes of variety.
Iona sails throughout Europe, including the Fjords, the Canary Islands and to Spain and Portugal.
Bigger Ships Are Coming…
Legend of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
- Guest capacity: 7,000
- Crew capacity: 2,350
- Gross tonnage: 250,800
- Length: 1,198 feet
Speculated to weigh in at a colossal 250,800 gross tons, Legend of the Seas will officially outsize both Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, making her the largest cruise ship in the world when she launches in summer 2026.
Legend of the Seas will feature the biggest Thrill Island waterpark at sea, packed with record-breaking slides and a free-fall drop that’s definitely not for the faint-hearted. There’s also a sky-high walkway, a daring ropes course, a full-sized ice rink, and even an infinity pool hanging right over the waves. Plus, all your Icon-class favourites are back – just bigger, bolder, and better than ever.
MSC World Asia (MSC Cruises)
- Guest capacity: 6,762
- Crew capacity: 2,126
- Gross tonnage: 215,863
- Length: 1,092 feet
Set to debut in December 2026, MSC World Asia will be the third LNG-powered ship in MSC’s innovative World-class lineup, continuing the brand’s focus on greener, more sustainable cruising. She’ll feature The Harbour, a dedicated family zone with splash areas, activities, and space to relax – perfect for little ones (and parents who need a break!).
Foodies are in for a treat too, with a huge choice of international dining designed to reflect MSC’s growing global audience. Expect everything from authentic Asian flavours to Mediterranean favourites, along with plenty of grab-and-go casual spots and elegant fine dining options. With new menus, stylish venues, and an emphasis on variety, there’ll be something to suit every craving.
At around 215,863 GT and with space for roughly 6,762 passengers, she’ll be one of the largest non‑Royal‑Caribbean ships on the horizon.
Disney Adventure (Disney Cruise Line)
- Guest capacity: 6,700 TBC
- Crew capacity: 2,500
- Gross tonnage: 208,000
- Length: 1,122 feet
Disney Cruise Line isn’t slowing down when it comes to growing its fleet. After welcoming Disney Wish in 2022 and Disney Treasure in 2024, the line has two more ships arriving in 2025 – the Disney Destiny and the Disney Adventure. While both promise plenty of Disney magic, Disney Adventure will be the largest Disney ship ever and the only one big enough to make this list.
The story behind Disney Adventure is a fascinating one. When Genting Hong Kong went bankrupt in 2022, they already had a huge Global-class ship under construction. Disney swooped in and bought it at a bargain price, giving the unfinished vessel a full Disney makeover.
Originally designed to carry a staggering 9,000 guests (yes, really!), plans have now been scaled back to a more manageable 6,700 passengers – still making it Disney’s biggest ship ever when she launches from Singapore in December 2025.
Carnival Festivale (Carnival Cruise Line)
- Guest capacity: 6,631
- Crew capacity: 1,735
- Gross tonnage: 182,015
- Length: 1,133 feet
Whilst nowhere near on par with the Royal Caribbean ships, Carnival Festivale will be the biggest ship ever built for Carnival and the first from the line to earn a spot on this list. Launching in spring 2027, she’s part of Carnival’s Excel Class and promises plenty of space for fun, relaxation, and family time.
One of her standout features is Sunsation, a three-deck family zone with splash areas, pools, and activities for all ages. There’s also WaterWorks Ultra, a brand-new waterpark with six slides ranging from gentle racers to proper thrill rides. For entertainment, you’ll find The Festival – a lively promenade with food, bars, and music – plus an arcade, a treehouse-style adventure trail, and plenty of quiet corners if you’d prefer to take things easy.
With more restaurants, a wider choice of cabins, and upgraded facilities throughout, Carnival Festivale will be a welcome step up for Carnival fans – and a strong contender in the world of big-ship cruising.
Final Word
There are some seriously impressive cruise ships coming over the next couple of years, with even bigger, bolder, and more innovative designs on the horizon.
But already in 2025, we’ve got some epic ships sailing the oceans – and whether you’re into record-breaking waterparks, cutting-edge entertainment, or simply relaxing by the pool with a cocktail in hand, there’s never been a better time to set sail.
Of course, bigger isn’t always better. If you prefer a more intimate experience with fewer crowds, cosier spaces, and a slower pace, you might want to check out my guide to the smallest cruise ships in the world – proof that incredible adventures also come in much smaller packages.
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- Why Small-Ship Cruisers Avoid Bigger Cruise Ships
Not yet. These ships are absolutely amazing.