Cruising is no longer just about shuffleboard, cocktails, and sun decks. Today’s largest cruise ships are floating cities packed with adventure, entertainment, and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. For some travelers, cruises are a chance to combine bucket-list destinations with Instagram-worthy thrills. Think rooftop pools, massive waterslides, theaters bigger than some on Broadway, and even zip-lines that soar over open decks.
But when ships get bigger, the stakes get higher. You’ll want smooth logistics, exciting itineraries, and plenty of onboard options. The biggest cruise ships in the world deliver all that, and more. Just remember: no matter how impressive the ship, you should never travel without good travel insurance. It’s the safety net you need when things don’t go as planned.
Index
What are the 10 largest ships in the world?
Here is a compiled list of the largest cruises, with capacity, route, and highlights.
Icon of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Icon Class)
- Maiden Voyage: January 2024
- Gross Tonnage: ~250,800 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~7,600
- Routes: Caribbean itineraries from Miami
- Highlights: The largest cruise ship ever built, 20 decks, record-breaking waterpark, multiple “neighborhoods”
Icon of the Seas is more than just a ship, it’s a floating theme park. With seven pools, six waterslides, and the Aquadome theater, it’s built for fun-seekers of all ages. Sailing mostly in the Caribbean, it’s the ultimate choice if you want warm beaches by day and Broadway-caliber shows by night.
Utopia of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: July 2024
- Gross Tonnage: ~236,860 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,988
- Routes: Short Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral
- Highlights: Newest Oasis Class ship, dual-fuel LNG technology, vibrant nightlife
Utopia of the Seas was designed with energy and social life in mind. With weekend-friendly itineraries, it’s perfect for younger travelers or groups looking for a short getaway that still feels huge. Expect big parties, bold dining options, and plenty of bars to hop between. It’s like Vegas meets the ocean—ideal for friends’ trips or couples who want high-energy fun.
Wonder of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: March 2022
- Gross Tonnage: ~235,600 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~7,084
- Routes: Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries
- Highlights: Neighborhood design, Central Park with real trees, family-friendly zones
Wonder of the Seas ranks among the largest ships in the world. It raised the bar when it launched, offering neighborhoods for families, kids, and adults. Multigenerational groups love it, kids splash in the water play areas, parents enjoy the dining variety, and grandparents retreat to quieter decks. The Central Park neighborhood, with its live trees and cafes, feels like a city at sea.
Symphony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2018
- Gross Tonnage: ~228,081 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,680
- Routes: Caribbean and European itineraries
- Highlights: AquaTheater shows, Ultimate Abyss slide, vibrant nightlife
Symphony of the Seas, an Oasis Class ship by Royal Caribbean International, remains one of the most balanced mega-ships. It offers everything from adrenaline rushes on the Ultimate Abyss slide to relaxing shows under the stars. Nightlife options like Latin clubs, piano bars, and a silent disco make it especially appealing to younger adults and couples.
Harmony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2016
- Gross Tonnage: ~226,963 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,687
- Routes: Caribbean, Mediterranean
- Highlights: Entertainment Place neighborhood, 10-story slide, multiple pools
Harmony of the Seas helped define the modern mega-cruise. With thrill rides, Broadway musicals, a multi-story promenade, and even robot bartenders, it’s ideal for first-time cruisers who want the full Oasis experience. Travelers in particular love its mix of adventure and tech-forward entertainment.
Oasis of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2009
- Gross Tonnage: ~226,838 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,771
- Routes: Caribbean and European cruises
- Highlights: The original Oasis Class ship, Central Park, ice rink
Oasis of the Seas changed cruising forever when it debuted as the first true floating city. Refurbished in recent years, it still feels modern and innovative. Loyal fans of Royal Caribbean International love its pioneering design and iconic features, from ice-skating rinks to high-diving shows.
Allure of the Seas – Royal Caribbean (Oasis Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2010
- Gross Tonnage: ~226,637 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,780
- Routes: Caribbean and Mediterranean
- Highlights: Outdoor Boardwalk, DreamWorks entertainment, spectacular water shows
Allure of the Seas, another Oasis Class giant, remains a favorite for families. Younger kids love the character meet-and-greets, while adults enjoy the comedy clubs and jazz bars. It’s a ship that balances family fun with adult escapes.
MSC World America – MSC Cruises (World Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2025
- Gross Tonnage: ~216,638 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,762
- Routes: Caribbean itineraries from Miami
- Highlights: LNG-powered, European design flair, eco-friendly technology
MSC World America represents MSC Cruises’ push into the U.S. market with World Class ships. Travelers who want a cosmopolitan vibe, European-style dining, and eco-conscious design will feel right at home. It’s perfect for eco-minded travelers looking for a fresh alternative to U.S.-centric cruise lines.
MSC World Europa – MSC Cruises (World Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: 2022
- Gross Tonnage: ~215,863 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,762
- Routes: Mediterranean and Middle East itineraries
- Highlights: Futuristic design, long outdoor promenade, Mediterranean flair
World Europa is MSC’s first World Class ship and one of the largest cruise ships in the world by passenger capacity. With sleek design and Mediterranean-inspired dining, it attracts travelers eager to explore beyond the Caribbean. It’s perfect for those who love culture, food, and a stylish European atmosphere.
Costa Toscana – Costa Cruises (Excellence Class ship)
- Maiden Voyage: December 2021
- Gross Tonnage: ~186,364 GT
- Passenger Capacity: ~6,554
- Routes: Mediterranean itineraries
- Highlights: Italian design, LNG-powered, focus on gastronomy and culture
Costa Toscana, operated by Costa Cruises, feels like an Italian piazza at sea. With menus designed by Michelin-starred chefs, it’s a foodie’s dream. This Excellence Class ship is perfect for travelers seeking style, culture, and authentic Mediterranean itineraries. Along with Costa Smeralda, it showcases the European approach to mega-cruising.
What is the largest cruise ship in the world today?
As of 2025, the largest cruise ship in the world by gross tonnage is Icon of the Seas, the flagship of Royal Caribbean International’s Icon Class. With its 20 decks and space for nearly 8,000 people including crew, it’s not just the biggest cruise ship, it’s a destination in itself.
What are the largest cruise lines in order?
When ranked by fleet size, global reach, and passenger capacity, the top cruise lines are:
- Royal Caribbean International
- MSC Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
What are the top 3 cruise lines?
Royal Caribbean International
Known for groundbreaking ship designs, Royal Caribbean International is the leader in mega-cruises. From Oasis Class to Icon Class, they keep pushing boundaries with passenger capacity and onboard innovation.
MSC Cruises
Europe’s largest cruise brand, now expanding fast into North America. With World Class ships like MSC World America and MSC World Europa, MSC combines European design with global itineraries.
Carnival Corporation
Operating multiple cruise brands, Carnival remains a global giant. Its variety of ships means there’s something for every type of traveler, from casual family vacations to longer international itineraries.
What is the most exclusive cruise line?
When exclusivity matters more than size, look beyond the mega-ships. Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Seabourn are considered the most exclusive cruise lines. Their smaller ships focus on ultra-luxury service, intimate itineraries, and premium experiences that mega-ships simply can’t match.
Travel insurance
When you’re sailing on the largest cruise ships in the world, you’ll likely be visiting several countries in one trip. That means different healthcare systems, long distances from hospitals, and possible delays due to weather or logistics. Even the smoothest cruise experience can hit unexpected bumps.
That’s why comprehensive travel insurance isn’t optional, it’s essential. With Heymondo travel insurance, you’re covered for:
- Up to $10,000,000 USD in medical assistance, including emergencies at sea
- Protection for luggage loss or theft
- Trip delays and cancellations
- 24/7 emergency medical support via the Heymondo App
Having reliable coverage gives you peace of mind to fully enjoy your cruise. Don’t leave your adventure to chance. Choose Heymondo and cruise with confidence.
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