New ships aren’t just steel and stats; they change how we travel. This season’s launches range from quiet, design-led small ships to full-throttle family resorts at sea, with smarter spaces, cleaner tech and a few headline-grabbing thrills. Here’s what’s new, and why it matters for your next voyage.
New ships to watch: quick compare
For a quicker rundown, simply use the table below to compare all of the most exciting new launches for the coming year or, read on to find out which ships should make it onto your future-voyage bucket list...
MSC World America: the big Miami launch
Already launched and named in April (and already sailing Caribbean itineraries from the brand new PortMiami terminal), MSC’s LNG-powered flagship brings seven distinct “districts,” a Cliffhanger swing ride and a built-in call at Ocean Cay. Essentially what MSC is aiming for here is European style cruising but tuned for the U.S. market.
Why it matters: A serious new option for families who’ve done the usual suspects and want all the big-ship bells and whistles with a slightly different flavour.
Norwegian Aqua: the one with the slidecoaster
NCL’s newest Prima-Plus ship arrived in spring. Headline features include the world’s first Aqua Slidecoaster, a glowing digital sports court that flips to become a nightclub after dark, and expanded Haven suites (including the line’s first three-bedroom duplex). Caribbean programmes roll through 2025–26.
Why it matters: Big fun without losing the grown-up design, Norwegian Aqua is catnip for style-minded families and friend groups.
Viking Vesta: small ship, big intent
Viking’s latest 998-guest ocean ship was delivered in early summer and is already plying the Med and Northern Europe. It keeps Viking’s all-veranda, adults-leaning formula with understated Nordic design and strong destination days.
Why it matters: For readers who prefer culture over waterparks, this is the new “quiet luxury” ticket.
Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas: Icon, chapter two
Arriving August from Port Canaveral, the second Icon-class megaship repeats the record-breaking family playbook: neighbourhoods for every mood, headline entertainment, and easy runs to Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Why it matters: Families who loved Icon of the Seas but want newer dates and different itineraries get a fresh canvas.
Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady: adults only goes long-haul
Virgin’s fourth ship finally joins the fleet in September with North America deployments (think New England in autumn, Caribbean sunshine and more). Same adults-only vibe, later stays and live-music-meets-club energy.
Why it matters: A new option for kid-free travellers who want nightlife and design, not buffet marathons.
Princess Star Princess: Sphere-class, take two
Launching 4 October in the Mediterranean, Star Princess scales up the Sun/Star “Sphere” look with a glass-enclosed piazza and The Dome for shows and stargazing concerts, before heading for the Caribbean, the panama Canal and Alaska.
Why it matters: For readers who like classic Princess with a contemporary architectural twist.
Celebrity Xcel: even more edge-class cool
Debuting in November in the Caribbean, Xcel introduces The Bazaar, a multilevel, festival-style space that shifts its food, music and makers to match the destination, plus a unique “Dream Makers” programme that let fans vote on onboard experiences ahead of launch.
Why it matters: Destination energy brought onboard, and a fresh Edge-series spin for design-minded travellers.
Disney Adventure: Asia’s mega debut
Sailing from Singapore from 15 December 2025, (so new there aren't even any photographs of it yet) Disney’s largest ship adds seven themed areas (from Marvel Landing to Wayfinder Bay) and a first-of-its-kind sea-going roller coaster for the region. Short 3–4 night runs make it easy to pair with city breaks.
Why it matters: A new family magnet in Southeast Asia and a very different flavour of “resort at sea.”
How to use this list
- First-timers: book Norwegian Aqua or Star of the Seas for maximal “wow” and easy Caribbean planning.
- Adults only: Virgin’s Brilliant Lady keeps the kid-free promise with late nights and savvy dining.
- Culture fans: Viking Vesta for compact ships and big days ashore; Princess or Celebrity for polished mainstream with strong dining and shows.
- Families in Asia: keep an eye on Disney Adventure’s early runs out of Singapore for simple, high-impact short breaks.