Britons considering booking cruise vacations for the upcoming year will have a wide array of new ships to choose from, as major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and TUI Cruises are expanding their fleets.
In 2025, Royal Caribbean introduced one of the world’s largest cruise ships, Star of the Seas, offering passengers an array of amenities such as pools, thrilling waterslides, a vast ‘Central Park’, and multiple dining options. Additionally, the highly anticipated launches in the same year include Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Destiny and Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady.
Looking ahead to 2026, several new ships are on the horizon. Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, the third in the Icon Class series, is set to embark on voyages from Barcelona in summer and Fort Lauderdale in winter, featuring exciting attractions like the largest waterpark at sea and a 40ft-long FlowRider surf simulator.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Luna, part of the Prima Class ships, will join the fleet in March 2026, offering Caribbean cruises from Miami with highlights including a thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster and The Drop, a free-fall slide experience.
In July 2026, TUI Cruises will welcome Mein Schiff Flow, the second ship in the InTUItion class, boasting facilities like a spa, gym, multiple bars and lounges, and a 25m-long outdoor pool with whirlpools. The family-friendly ship will also feature kids’ clubs, sports programs, and dazzling theatre shows.
MSC Cruises’ World Class ship is anticipated to debut in December 2026, hosting up to 6,758 passengers with over 40 bars, lounges, dining venues, and entertainment options like a large theatre, roller skating arena, bumper cars, and water parks.
Looking further ahead, cruise enthusiasts can expect new ship launches in 2027 from Disney Cruise Line, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. While specific details are yet to be confirmed, these additions promise exciting experiences for passengers.
For more information on these upcoming ships, visit the respective cruise line websites.