Cruise fans are buzzing with excitement about the newest ships launching soon, and we wanted to know which ones are creating the biggest waves.
So we asked our Life Well Cruised Facebook community: Which upcoming cruise ship are you most excited about?
With more than 1,500 votes and nearly 200 comments, the results were clear. However, even more interesting were the passionate opinions and cruise line loyalties shared in the comments.
Let’s take a look at the top five new cruise ships cruisers are most excited for in 2025.
Top 5 Most Anticipated Cruise Ships
Based on the Life Well Cruised Facebook community votes, here’s how the top contenders ranked:
- 1. MSC World America – 29% (443 votes)
- 2. Norwegian Aqua – 21% (334 votes)
- 3. Star Princess – 19% (300 votes)
- 4. Celebrity Xcel – 15% (242 votes)
- 5. Star of the Seas – 13% (210 votes)
Each of these ships offers something unique, from thrilling onboard attractions to next-gen design. Here’s what cruisers are saying about each one.
MSC World America – Leading the Pack
MSC World America came out on top with nearly a third of the total votes. This innovative mega ship is generating major buzz, especially from cruisers who’ve recently sailed with MSC and are eager to see what’s next.
One member of the Life Well Cruised community shared: “I’m booked on MSC. Cannot wait for November.”
While another said: “Norwegian Aqua looks awesome, but we’ve become MSC fans lately, so I want to see what World America is all about.”
As MSC continues to expand in the North American market, it’s clear that more travelers are paying attention to what this cruise line has to offer.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About MSC World America
Norwegian Aqua – Innovation and Style
Norwegian Aqua earned second place, with many cruisers excited about its bold design and the debut of the Aqua Slidecoaster. This new ship marks a fresh evolution for Norwegian Cruise Line, and it’s turning heads.
One cruiser commented: “Sailing on Aqua in Sept to Bermuda.” While another member of the Life Well Cruised community added: “Looks awesome.”
This ship is a top pick among NCL loyalists and newcomers alike who are ready for a mix of relaxation and high-energy fun at sea.
Related: Best New Cruise Ships Debuting in 2025 (Popular, Luxury & River Cruises)
Star Princess – A New Era for Princess Cruises
Star Princess came in third, and it’s clear that Princess fans are excited for this next-generation Sphere Class ship!
One excited community member shared: “Just booked Star Princess – can’t wait to see the new ship.” And another added, “I’m weird, only cruise Princess.” Showing that she is loyal to the Princess Cruises brand!
With a strong following of loyal cruisers, Princess continues to deliver the refined and elegant cruise experience its fans love.
Star of the Seas – Royal Caribbean’s Iconic Follow-Up
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas landed in fourth place. As the sister ship to Icon of the Seas, Star is expected to bring even more thrills, adventure, and wow-factor to the high seas.
One member of our community said, “In all fairness I just wanna play with the Star of the Seas Chief Dog Officer, Sailor.” Another shared: “I’m loyal to Royal so I’d have to say Star of the Seas.”
Whether it’s the epic entertainment or the adorable Chief Dog Operator Sailor, Royal fans are excited to set sail on this next-level ship.
Celebrity Xcel – Modern Luxury at Sea
Celebrity Xcel rounded out the top five. While it didn’t dominate the discussion, the voters who chose Xcel were clearly excited, especially those already booked on upcoming sailings.
As one cruiser simply put it, “Excited for the Xcel maiden voyage.”
Celebrity’s modern, design-forward ships continue to attract cruisers who prefer a more elevated and laid-back experience at sea.
Honorable Mentions and Carnival Devotion
Not every voter was focused on this year’s launch list. A few Carnival fans made it clear they’re looking forward to ships that aren’t debuting just yet, showing just how deep cruise loyalty can run.
One Carnival fan chimed in with: “None of those. Looking forward to Carnival Tropicale, Festivale, and the 3 ACE class ships.”
While these ships aren’t launching in 2025, the anticipation is still real.
Related: Carnival Cruise Line Unveils Newest Excel-Class Ship: Carnival Festivale
A Push for Smaller Ships
Among the excitement, another trend emerged. A number of cruisers expressed a strong preference for smaller ships and a desire to move away from the mega-ship experience.
One member of the community said: “We don’t like big ships. Wish they would make smaller ships again.” While another cruiser added: “Small ships for me. I don’t want to vacation in a shopping mall.” One more shared: “None of them… I hate big ships.”
While large, innovative ships generate buzz, there’s clearly a segment of cruisers who still prefer the simpler, more intimate cruise experience.
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Which ship are you most excited about? Please let me know in the comments below.
Also, join the conversation in the comments or connect with us in the Life Well Cruised Facebook community.
Happy cruising!
Ethan
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Ethan Schattauer, a seasoned cruiser since the age of four, has gone on over 40 cruises with his family. Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Ethan offers a fresh and youthful perspective on the world of cruising. He also writes about cruise cuisine, onboard experiences, and practical tips, providing valuable insights for cruise travelers worldwide.