In 2025, cruise travelers will have exciting new options for their vacations. Cruise companies are introducing a range of ships over the upcoming year, including massive vessels with state-of-the-art features and smaller ships that offer a more relaxed sailing experience.

This influx of new ships is happening due to a rapid increase in cruise demand. According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s State of the Cruise Industry Report, about 37.1 million ocean-going travelers are anticipated to embark on cruises in 2025, compared to approximately 34.7 million this year.

Below, we highlight some of the most significant new cruise ships set to launch next year, showcasing what future travelers can look forward to.

Norwegian Aqua

• First sailing: March 28, 2025
• Capacity: Approximately 3,600 guests at full occupancy
• Highlights: The Norwegian Aqua marks the brand’s first ship in the Prima Plus Class, which is 10% larger than previous Prima Class ships. Unique features include the Aqua Slidecoaster, a blend of waterslide and roller coaster, and Planterie, a fully plant-based dining venue.

MSC World America

• First sailing: April 12, 2025
• Capacity: About 5,200 guests at full occupancy
• Highlights: Designed specifically for the U.S. market, MSC World America features amenities such as a comedy club and the largest sports bar found on any of its World Class ships. Guests can also experience the Cliffhanger ride, soaring 160 feet over the ocean.

Oceania Allura

• First sailing: July 18, 2025
• Capacity: 1,200 guests at full occupancy
• Highlights: Allura is the sequel to Oceania Cruises’ Allura Class, following the launch of Vista in 2023. The ship will focus heavily on culinary experiences, boasting a new crêperie, five specialty dining options, and a highly attentive staff ratio of one chef for every ten guests.

Star of the Seas

• First sailing: August 31, 2025
• Capacity: Roughly 5,600 guests at full occupancy
• Highlights: Following the Icon of the Seas, which broke records, Royal Caribbean International is introducing this new ship with unique offerings, including the Lincoln Park Supper Club, which is inspired by 1930s Chicago. This ship will also have an expanded age range for its family-friendly Surfside area.

Brilliant Lady

• First sailing: September 5, 2025
• Capacity: Approximately 2,750 guests

• Passenger capacity: 4,300 passengers at double occupancy
• What to expect: Following some delays, Virgin Voyages is set to launch its fourth ship next year. This latest addition to the adults-only cruise line will resemble its predecessors but will have a modified design to accommodate voyages through locations such as the Panama Canal and Alaska.

Star Princess

• • • Maiden voyage: October 4, 2025
    • Capacity: 4,300 passengers at double occupancy
    • What to expect: Star Princess, the follow-up to Star of the Seas, is the next addition to Princess Cruises’ Sphere Class. It will include an expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub, along with a new sports court for activities like pickleball and basketball.

Celebrity Xcel

• • • Maiden voyage: November 18, 2025
    • Capacity: Approximately 3,250 passengers at double occupancy
    • What to expect: Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship in the Edge Series will enhance the legacy of its predecessors by introducing innovative experiences on board, details of which will be announced at a later date.

Disney Destiny

• • • Maiden voyage: November 20, 2025
    • Capacity: About 2,500 passengers at double occupancy
    • What to expect: Following the recent introduction of Disney Treasure, Disney Cruise Line will launch the villain-and-hero themed Disney Destiny. Key features will include De Vil’s piano lounge, inspired by the villain from “One Hundred and One Dalmatians,” and a Grand Hall inspired by “Black Panther.” This ship is part of Disney’s plan to expand its fleet, which also includes Disney Adventure, set to commence operations from Singapore in December 2025.