World’s biggest cruise ship to get three giant sister ships

The world’s largest cruise ship is about to gain three equally massive sister ships, expanding an already record-breaking fleet. These new vessels promise even more luxury, advanced design, and cutting-edge sustainability features, setting a new standard for modern cruising. Together, the four ships will redefine what it means to travel at sea, offering passengers unparalleled experiences, comfort, and scale while solidifying the cruise line’s place as a leader in innovation and global maritime tourism.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has become the company’s most successful launch to date, according to its CEO in an interview with CNN’s Terry Ward earlier this year. The line is now expanding the Icon Class with three additional ships of similar scale.

The Star of the Seas began sailing in August, offering Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages that include stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the company’s private island. Earlier this month, the Legend of the Seas touched water for the first time. Scheduled to debut in August 2026, the ship will showcase Category 6, which will be the world’s largest waterpark at sea.

Construction has also commenced on the fourth Icon Class vessel. This ship, still awaiting its name, will stretch over 1,000 feet, accommodate roughly 5,610 passengers, and is set for a 2027 launch following its keel-laying ceremony at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard on September 8. Industry forecasts suggest that more than 37 million people will take a cruise in 2025. A spokesperson for Cruise Lines International Association noted that ship orders are hitting record levels.

To stand out in a crowded sector, major operators are focusing on making their vessels as appealing as the ports they visit. These massive floating resorts, packed with dining, entertainment, and attractions like cinemas and waterslides are proving highly profitable. Norwegian Cruise Line introduced its newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, from Port Canaveral, Florida, in April, carrying 3,600 guests. The company has commissioned four even larger ships, each designed to host 5,000 passengers, slated for delivery beginning in 2030.

That same month, MSC Cruises launched MSC World America, a vessel with space for 6,762 travelers, sailing Caribbean routes from Miami’s MSC Cruise Terminal, the biggest cruise terminal in North America. Carnival Cruise Line is also embracing scale, announcing plans for its largest-ever class of ships. The first of these three vessels, each able to welcome nearly 8,000 passengers, is due for delivery in 2029.

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Source: CNN‍