The cruise industry continues to evolve and grow, and 2024 will be no different. There are many new ships for cruisers to get excited about being released this year!
For instance, this year’s newest cruise ships include first-in-class vessels from Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises, which are much-anticipated. Disney is also releasing a brand new cruise ship, which will surely popular among families with children and Disney lovers alike.
One of the most anticipated new cruise ships this year is from Cunard. For the first time in 12 years, Cunard is releasing the Queen Anne, which will follow in the footsteps of the iconic Queen Mary 2.
For luxury cruisers, Explora Journeys and Silversea Cruises will release sister ships to those debuted in 2023. Furthermore, Viking and Ritz Carlton have new cruise ships coming this year with minor tweaks from the original blueprints they’ve used on previous vessels.
If you’re a cruise lover, there are some amazing brand new cruises to look forward to! With that being said, here are the best new cruise ships of 2024, along with videos highlighting each ship’s features.
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Best New Cruises Launching in 2024
1. Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
There is a ton of excitement around Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Not only will this be the largest cruise ship at sea, but it will also have all-new, never-before-seen features.
The Icon of the Seas will feature 20 decks and eight different neighborhoods, including Thrill Island, Chill Island, Central Park, Royal Promenade, and The Hideaway. Each neighborhood will have a different theme and be designed to cater to every type of cruiser.
Instead of a solarium, Royal Caribbean will have the AquaDome, which is made of 600 panes of glass and contains the signature AquaTheatre. The 7600 passenger vessel also features an infinity pool suspended 135 feet above the ocean, and the largest waterpark at sea.
Coming in at over 250,000 tons, the Icon of the Seas will be a showstopper. Furthermore, this brand-new Royal Caribbean cruise ship is powered by LNG Fuel, which is better for the environment than traditional fuels.
- Release Date: January 27th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 250,800 GT
- Guest Capacity: 7,600
2. Princess Sun Princess
Launching in 2024, the Sun Princess is a brand new ship launching in an entirely new class (Sphere Class)! This ship is absolutely stunning and has some features that have never been seen on a Princess cruise ship.
Once released, the Sun Princess will become the largest Princes cruise ship in the cruise line’s history. With a guest capacity of 5,189 and a gross tonnage of 175,500, the Sun Princess will be quite a bit larger than the Royal-class cruise ships.
This brand-new Princess cruise features 29 bars and restaurants for passengers to enjoy. The Dome is a brand new addition to the Sun Princess, where acrobatic performances will take place.
Princess has done a great job at incorporating fun activities for kids and teens in Park19 on their brand-new cruise ship. This includes Coastal Climb, which is a two-story ropes and ladder course.
The Sun Princess will also feature the Sea Breeze, a brand-new attraction to Princess Cruises. This will be the first rollglider at sea and is meant for all ages.
If you’re looking to book a cruise ship that blends classic cruising and fun for the whole family, then check out the Sun Princess. The Sun Princess is one of the brand-new cruises that we are most excited about this year!
- Release Date: February 8th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 175,500 GT
- Guest Capacity: 5,189
3. Cunard Queen Anne
After 12 years, Cunard is finally introducing a brand new cruise ship in 2024. The Queen Anne will still offer the same elegance and traditional cruising experience as its sister ships. However, it will include a few modern updates.
Cunard’s Queen Anne has exciting changes coming to their culinary front. The cruise line has partnered with Michel Roux, a two-Michelle-starred chef.
Michel Roux will develop a brand new menu for the Golden Lion Pub and Queen’s Grill. The Queen Anne will also feature Tramonto, an all-new restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu.
The Queen Anne will also be home to three new specialty restaurants: Aranya, which will serve Indian food, Sir Samuels, a high-end steakhouse, and Aji Wa, a Japanese dining venue that serves sushi and has an omakase tasting menu.
A new addition coming to the Queen Anne is The Bright Lights Society. This is an entertainment venue that has a luxurious and elegant look.
On the Cunard Queen Anne, you can expect two swimming pools and the fan-favorite afternoon tea!
- Release Date: May 10th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 113,000
- Guest Capacity: 3,000
4. Disney Treasure
The Disney Treasure is the sister ship to the Disney Wish. This 4,000-passenger vessel is adventure-themed and shines a spotlight on Aladin, one of Disney’s most iconic characters.
On the brand-new Disney cruise ship, there will be an interactive dining experience called Plaza de Coco, which is based on the movie “Coco.” You will also find Jumbeaux’s Sweet Shop, which takes inspiration from the hit movie “Zootopia.”
Disney cruise line has also added two new cafes named after the princesses Mulan and Moana. Furthermore, the cruise ship is Aladin-themed, so expect gold accents, rich tapestry colors, and geometric motifs around the vessel.
If you want to experience that world-famous Disney magic with your family, this is one of the most exciting new cruise ships to set sail in 2024.
- Release Date: December 21st, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 144,000 GT
- Guest Capacity: 4,000
5. Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas (Oasis Class)
Although all the attention is on the Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean is releasing a new Oasis Class ship in 2024. The Utopia of the Seas will fit 6,700 passengers, featuring the signature Boardwalk and Central Park neighborhoods and the ultimate Abyss slide.
One of the main differences between the Utopia of the Seas and its sister ships is its all-new immersive restaurant. The immersive train car experience is a culinary adventure that is very unique.
One of the unique things about this brand new Royal Caribbean ship is that it mainly does three and four-day itineraries from Port Canaveral. Typically, the three and 4-day itineraries will stop in Nassau, Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Cococay.
- Release Date: July 22nd, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 236,860 GT
- Guest Capacity: 5,668
6. Carnival Firenze
Last year, Carnival cruise line introduced its “Fun Italian Style” with the Carnival Venezia. The cruise line is now introducing the Carnival Firenze, a former Costa ship.
Constructed in 2021, the Carnival Firenze has a gross tonnage of 135,000 and fits over 4,000 cruise passengers. This vessel features Renaissance-style decor and Italian sculptures.
With over 13 different restaurants, this cruise ship has plenty of food options. Furthermore, there is an Aperol Spritz Bar, which serves the famous Italian cocktail.
When it comes to activities, there are plenty of great options. The Carnival Firenze has a ropes course, two waterslides, mini golf, and a sports court.
- Release Date: April 25th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 135,156 GT
- Guest Capacity: 4,126
7. TUI Cruises Mein Schiff 7
The Mein Schiff 7 is the 7th cruise ship sailing for TUI cruises. For those who aren’t familiar, Mein Schiff translates to “my ship,” and they are a German cruise line who targets the German-speaking market.
The Mein Schiff 7 is similar to previous ships. However, it will feature a brand-new casino and cabins for single travelers. Furthermore, there is a new Asian and Mediterranean restaurant.
Although most North American cruisers won’t try the Mein Schiff 7, this new ship is exciting for the European market.
- Release Date: June 23rd, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 111,500 GT
- Guest Capacity: 2,894
8. TUI Cruises Mein Schiff RELAX (Mein Schiff 8)
In 2024, TUI Cruises is launching its largest ship to date, the Mein Schiff RELAX. The German cruise line has done a great job creating an innovative vessel with a highly modern design.
This 18-deck ship is equipped with multiple luxurious pool areas, spacious wellness areas, and a massive deck canopy that will provide shade and airflow while not feeling restrictive.
Information on the all-new Mein Schiff RELAX is still limited. However, we are excited to see what’s to come, as the renderings are unbelievable.
- Expected Release Date: Late 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 161,000 GT
- Guest Capacity: 4,000
9. Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady
Virgin’s Brilliant Lady was supposed to set sail in December 2023. However, due to supply chain issues, construction delays, and staffing issues, Virgin delayed the launch of Brilliant Lady’s MerMaiden voyage.
At this time, Virgin Voyages new ship’s release date is not confirmed.
On the Brilliant Lady, you will find over 20 dining options, from casual snacks to Michelin-style dining. On Virgin, there are plenty of things to do, like going to the bar, nightclubs, or even getting a Tattoo at Squid Ink!
The Brilliant Lady is the sister ship to the Valiant Lady and the Resilient Lady, so the layout is pretty much identical.
- Release Date: TBD (delayed from December, 23rd 2023)
- Gross Tonnage: 110,000 GT
- Guest Capacity: 2,770
10. Carnival Jubilee
Although the Carnival Jubilee is setting sail in 2023, its maiden voyage is incredibly close to the start of 2024. This vessel is the sister ship to the Mardi Gras and the Carnival Celebration, which has made waves in the cruising world for its Roller Coasters and colossal size.
The Carnival Jubilee will weigh over 183,000 tons, making it the 13th largest cruise ship in the world. This cruise ship also has a capacity of 6,500 guests.
The main attraction on the Carnival Jubilee is Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster. The 800-foot-long roller coaster can reach speeds of 40 mph, which is truly incredible.
Furthermore, the Carnival Jubilee has over 20 dining venues, including Shaq’s Big Chicken, Guy’s Burger Joint, and Rudi’s Seagrill.
Onboard the Carnival Jubilee, there is also no shortage of entertainment venues. Whether you want to watch live music at the Limelight Lounge, enjoy a unique cocktail at the Alchemy Bar, or watch a sports game at the Hero’s Tribute Lounge, there is something for everyone on this Carnival cruise.
- Release Date: December 23, 2023
- Gross Tonnage: 182,800 GT
- Guest Capacity: 6,500
11. Celebrity Ascent
Celebrity Ascent sets sail in December 2023. However, we’ve included it on this list as most cruisers won’t get the chance to try the Celebrity Ascent until 2024.
Celebrity Cruises’ newest vessel is the sister ship to Celebrity Beyond, which has its maiden voyage in 2022.
In early 2023, we had the chance to sail on the Celebrity Beyond, which became one of our favorite cruise ships!
When it comes to ship design, it’s hard to top the Celebrity Ascent and Beyond. These Edge class ships have a modern look, and every inch of the cruise is beautiful.
The Celebrity Ascent features Eden, The Magic Carpet, and the Resort Deck, which has champagne-style hot tubs. Furthermore, the solarium has an indoor pool and cushioned lounge chairs.
In the evening, you can watch a show in The Theatre, grab a drink at the Martini Bar, or dance the night away in The Club.
Cruising on the Celebrity Ascent will make you feel like you’re at a 5-star luxury resort. The Celebiry Ascent is one of the cruises we are most excited to try in 2024!
- Release Date: December 3rd, 2023
- Gross Tonnage: 140,600 GT
- Guest Capacity: 3,260 Guests
12. Silversea Silver Ray
The Silver Ray is the second Nova-class ship for the luxury cruise line Silversea. This brand-new vessel is following the footsteps of the Silver Nova, which launched in 2023.
The Silver Ray and Silver Nova are the biggest ships in the cruise line’s history. However, even the largest Silversea cruise ships are still quite small.
The Silver Ray has a gross tonnage of 54,700 and a capacity of 728 guests. This means that the Silver Ray is nearly one-fifth of the size of the Icon of the Seas!
The ship design on the Silver Ray is different from that of most cruise ships. The public areas are spacious, making the ship feel extremely open.
Since Silversea is a luxury cruise line, you can expect top-notch service. In fact, the Silver Ray has a 1:1.3-passenger-to-crew ratio.
Even though the Silver Ray is quite a small cruise ship, there are still eight restaurants and a bar for passengers.
When the Silver Ray launches, she will primarily be doing Mediterranean itineraries. Eventually, the Silver Ray will cross the Atlantic to explore South America.
- Release Date: June 27th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 54,700 GT
- Guest Capacity: 728
13. Explora Journeys Explora II
Explora Journeys is a luxury cruise line owned by MSC Group. However, there could not be more differences between Explora and MSC cruises.
Originally launching in 2023, Explora Journeys will launch its second luxury cruise ship, the Explora II, in August 2024. This luxury vessel fits 922 passengers and has a gross tonnage of 63,900.
Onboard the Explora II, you can expect luxurious pools, a stunning lobby bar, and a wide range of delicious dining options.
Explora Journeys takes pride in providing an upscale experience on and off the cruise ship. Instead of excursions, Explora calls them “experiences,” they go above and beyond to give each guest a unique experience when they’re in port.
Furthermore, Explora Journeys is a family-friendly cruise line, which is rare for luxury lines.
- Release Date: August 19th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 63,900 GT
- Guest Capacity: 922
14. Ritz Carlton Ilma
In 2022, luxury hotel brand Ritz-Carlton entered the cruising market with its first-ever cruise ship, Evrima. The Ritz-Carlton Evrima is considered to be a mega-yacht, and it only holds 298 guests.
Ritz-Carlton has announced that their new mega-yacht, Ilma, will set sail in September 2024. Ilma has 224 suites, and it can hold up to 448 guests. Furthermore, this vessel will have the highest guest-to-passenger ratio at sea.
When sailing with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, you can expect a yacht-like atmosphere with various fine dining options. Ritz-Carlton is family-friendly and has the Ritz Kids program. However, it does cost extra.
- Release Date: September 19th, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 46,750
- Guest Capacity: 448
15. Viking Vela
Since launching in 2015, Viking has had an award-winning formula for its ship designs. However, the Viking Vela will break the mold, as it will be slightly larger and carry 998 guests.
The extra space on the Viking Vela is dedicated to 17 additional cabins. On Viking, every stateroom has a balcony and a great view.
You can expect amazing service, dining options, and unique itineraries on the Viking Vela. This is one of the luxury cruise ships we are most excited about in the upcoming year!
- Release Date: December, 2024
- Gross Tonnage: 48,900 GT
- Guest Capacity: 998
New Cruise Ships Coming in 2025:
Beyond 2024, there are some amazing new ships coming in 2025! If you want to book these inaugural cruises, it’s a good idea to reach out to your travel agent or favorite cruise line.
Brand new cruise ships coming in 2025:
- Celebrity Excel
- Norwegian Aqua
- MSC World America
- Princess Star Princess
- Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas
- Oceania Allura
- Disney (still not named)
- Viking (still not named)
- Ritz-Carlton Luminara
- Four Seasons Yacht
Cruise Ships that Set Sail in 2023
Here are some of the best cruise ships that set sail in 2023!
- Norwegian Viva
- Oceania Vista
- MSC World Europa
- Virgin Resilient Lady
- Explora 1
- Silversea Silver Nova
- Regent Seven Seas Grandeur
- Viking Osiris
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Final Thoughts On The Best New Cruises in 2024
Well, there it is, everything you need to know about the exciting cruise ships that will set sail in 2024!
Whether you’re looking for a family cruise, a relaxing cruise, or a luxury cruise experience, there is something for everyone. Various new cruises set sail this year that offer exciting and unique experiences.
In this post, I shared the best new cruises that are coming out this year.
What new cruise are you most excited about? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy cruising!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising since he was in preschool! As a frequent cruiser, Ethan now shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults. Ethan is a freelance writer and also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.