Cruising has evolved far beyond its traditional image. Today’s largest cruise ships are floating cities, offering an incredible range of experiences that rival the best resorts on land. From gourmet dining and Broadway-caliber entertainment to waterparks, sky-high observation decks, and even entire neighborhoods, these ships are designed to provide an unforgettable journey before passengers even reach their destinations.
Compared to some of history’s most famous ocean liners, these modern cruise ships are in a league of their own — Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is more than five times the gross tonnage of the Titanic, nearly three times the size of the Queen Mary, and over twice as large as the Queen Elizabeth II. In terms of length, these ships are equally impressive — many stretch well over 1,100 feet, making them longer than three Statues of Liberty stacked end to end, nearly as long as the Empire State Building is tall, and about a third the height of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
As cruise lines continue pushing the limits of size and innovation, travelers can now enjoy bigger and bolder experiences at sea. These massive vessels accommodate thousands of guests while offering cutting-edge technology, sustainable features, and an abundance of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or world-class entertainment, the largest cruise ships provide a one-of-a-kind vacation experience.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas by Corey Seeman licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
Icon of the Seas – Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean has long been a pioneer in building the world’s biggest cruise ships, constantly pushing the boundaries of size, design, and entertainment. The record-holder as of 2025, Icon of the Seas, is the largest cruise ship ever built. Launched in 2024, it can accommodate over 7,000 passengers and brings a new level of excitement to the industry with its innovative neighborhoods, massive onboard waterpark, and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. Based in Miami, the ship primarily sails Caribbean itineraries.
Before Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean held the title with Wonder of the Seas, which debuted in 2022. Part of the Oasis Class, Wonder introduced new design elements while maintaining favorite features like Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the ship’s signature AquaTheater. Another standout from the fleet is Symphony of the Seas, which was once the largest cruise ship in the world when it launched in 2018. Known for its thrilling Ultimate Abyss slide and impressive entertainment offerings, it continues to be a favorite among cruisers.
MSC World Europa — MSC Cruises
MSC World Europa is the largest ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet, designed with both innovation and sustainability in mind. This massive vessel, which can accommodate over 6,700 passengers, stands out with its futuristic design and eco-friendly features, including being powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to reduce emissions. Based in Doha during the winter and Barcelona in the summer, it primarily sails Middle East and Mediterranean itineraries.
One of its most distinctive attractions is the Venom Drop @ The Spiral, an 11-deck dry slide that offers a thrilling way to descend through the ship. MSC World Europa also features an expansive outdoor promenade lined with restaurants, bars, and shops, creating a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a bustling city street. With a blend of high-tech entertainment, diverse dining options, and luxurious accommodations, the ship offers a modern cruising experience tailored to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Costa Smeralda in Savona by Eustace Bagge licensed under CC BY 3.0
Costa Smeralda — Costa Cruises
Costa Smeralda is the largest ship in Costa Cruises’ fleet, bringing Italian elegance and modern design to the seas. Accommodating more than 6,500 passengers, it was built with sustainability in mind and is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to reduce emissions. Operating mainly from Savona and Barcelona, it offers Mediterranean itineraries that showcase Italy, France, and Spain.
The ship’s design celebrates Italy, with decks named after famous Italian cities and a central atrium inspired by Rome’s iconic Piazza di Spagna. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options featuring authentic Italian cuisine, from traditional trattorias to contemporary fine dining. Entertainment includes live performances, themed lounges, and an onboard museum dedicated to the history of Italian design. One of Costa Smeralda’s standout features is the Colosseo, a three-level entertainment hub with panoramic LED screens and live shows. The ship also boasts an open-air promenade, beachfront-style pools, and the Solemio Spa, offering a relaxing escape at sea.
AIDAnova — AIDA Cruises
AIDAnova is the largest ship in AIDA Cruises’ fleet and one of the first in the industry to be fully powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), reducing emissions and setting new environmental standards for cruising. With a capacity of more than 6,600 passengers, the ship offers a wide range of activities, entertainment, and dining options designed to appeal to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. It primarily sails from Hamburg and the Canary Islands, offering Northern Europe and Mediterranean routes.
The ship’s design emphasizes a casual, resort-style atmosphere, with colorful interiors and a relaxed approach to cruising. AIDAnova features over 20 dining venues, including international buffets, specialty restaurants, and a variety of bars and lounges. Entertainment includes live performances, a state-of-the-art theater, and a spacious activity deck featuring pools, waterslides, and a rock-climbing wall. A standout feature is the Beach Club, a glass-roofed retreat designed for relaxation with palm trees, lounge spaces, and live music. The ship also emphasizes wellness, with a large spa and fitness center offering panoramic ocean views.
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IONA by kees torn licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
P&O Iona — P&O Cruises
P&O Iona is the largest ship in P&O Cruises’ fleet, designed to offer a relaxed yet contemporary cruising experience. With a capacity of over 5,200 passengers, it is also one of the largest ships catering to the British market. Like many of the newest mega-ships, Iona is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency. Departing from Southampton, it primarily sails to the fjords of Norway and other European destinations.
One of its most distinctive features is the SkyDome, a glass-enclosed entertainment and relaxation space that transforms throughout the day—from a peaceful retreat with a pool and loungers to a lively venue for performances and late-night shows. The ship also features an outdoor promenade stretching around its entire length, providing uninterrupted ocean views and alfresco dining options.
Iona offers a strong focus on dining, with menus inspired by British and international flavors. Passengers can choose from a variety of casual and fine-dining experiences, including restaurants curated by renowned chefs. Entertainment options span live music venues, theaters, and activity spaces designed for all ages.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time of year to cruise on these large ships?
A: The best time depends on the destination. Caribbean cruises are popular year-round, though winter offers cooler temperatures. European cruises are best in spring and summer, while Alaska cruises run from May to September. Shoulder seasons often provide fewer crowds and lower prices.
Q: Do large cruise ships feel crowded?
A: Despite their size, these ships are designed to handle large crowds efficiently. With multiple decks, numerous entertainment venues, and dedicated spaces for various activities, passengers can typically find quiet areas even on a full sailing.
Q: What types of cabins are available on these ships?
A: Cabins range from budget-friendly interior staterooms to ocean-view and balcony rooms, as well as luxurious suites with exclusive perks. Some ships also offer unique options like virtual balconies, family suites, and multi-story lofts.
Q: Do I need to book activities and dining in advance?
A: It’s highly recommended, especially for specialty restaurants, popular shows, and excursions. Many cruise lines allow bookings months in advance through their apps or websites.
Q: Are these large ships good for families?
A: Yes, they are designed with families in mind, offering kid-friendly pools, entertainment, kids’ clubs, and family-friendly dining options. Some have waterparks, zip lines, and interactive play areas for all ages.
Q: How does the size of the ship affect motion sickness?
A: Larger ships tend to be more stable due to advanced stabilizers and sheer weight, making them less prone to motion compared to smaller vessels. Choosing a midship cabin on a lower deck can further reduce motion sensitivity.
Q: What should I pack for a cruise on one of these large ships?
A: Essentials include comfortable clothing, swimwear, formal attire for dress-code nights, sunscreen, and any necessary travel documents. Some areas may require reservations or specific attire, so checking the cruise line’s guidelines before packing is a good idea.
Have you ever cruised on any of these ships? Tell us about it in the comments below!
