Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Cruise ships have become marvels of engineering, growing larger and more luxurious with every passing year. From groundbreaking designs to record-breaking sizes, these ships redefine the limits of maritime innovation. This list explores the ten largest cruise ships globally by gross tonnage, showcasing their features, capacities, and unique contributions to modern cruising.

10. P&O Cruises – MS Arvia: 185,581 Gross Tonnes

The MS Arvia is P&O Cruises’ largest ship, designed with British travelers in mind. Weighing 185,581 gross tonnes and spanning 345 meters in length, this vessel can host up to 6,264 passengers and 1,800 crew. Powered by an LNG drive system, the MS Arvia operates with an eco-friendly propulsion system, offering a maximum speed of 21.5 knots.

Launched in 2022, the ship primarily sails through the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, offering state-of-the-art amenities, luxurious cabins, and environmentally conscious operations.

9. Costa Cruises – Costa Smeralda: 185,010 Gross Tonnes

Named after Sardinia’s Emerald Coast, the Costa Smeralda represents elegance and cutting-edge technology. Weighing 185,010 gross tonnes and 337 meters in length, it accommodates 6,554 passengers and 1,646 crew members.

This LNG-powered ship, which entered service in 2019, features world-class dining, a breathtaking central promenade, and sustainable engineering. Costa Smeralda predominantly cruises the Mediterranean, offering a blend of luxury and cultural exploration.

8. Costa Cruises – Costa Toscana: 186,364 Gross Tonnes

A sister ship to the Costa Smeralda, the Costa Toscana weighs 186,364 gross tonnes and spans 337 meters. This vessel boasts a passenger capacity of 6,338 and a crew complement of 1,678. Like her sibling, she’s powered by LNG engines, prioritizing sustainability.

The Costa Toscana, launched in 2021, is named after Tuscany, Italy. She operates in the Mediterranean, occasionally venturing to destinations like Brazil and the UAE.

7. MSC Cruises – MSC World Europa: 215,863 Gross Tonnes

As MSC Cruises’ flagship, the MSC World Europa stands out with its 215,863 gross tonnes and 333-meter length. Accommodating 6,762 passengers and 2,138 crew, it boasts futuristic designs, luxurious cabins, and extensive dining options.

This LNG-powered vessel entered service in 2021, initially serving as an accommodation ship during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. It now operates routes in the Mediterranean and UAE.

6. Royal Caribbean – Allure of the Seas: 225,282 Gross Tonnes

The Allure of the Seas, an Oasis-class ship, remains a marvel despite being over a decade old. At 362 meters long and weighing 225,282 gross tonnes, it hosts 6,780 passengers and 2,200 crew.

Powered by six diesel engines and Azipod thrusters, this vessel offers a cruising speed of 22 knots. The Allure typically sails the Caribbean but is scheduled to reposition for Mediterranean itineraries in 2025.

5. Royal Caribbean – Oasis of the Seas: 226,838 Gross Tonnes

Launched in 2009, the Oasis of the Seas redefined cruising as the largest ship of her time. At 360 meters long and weighing 226,838 gross tonnes, it accommodates 6,699 passengers and 2,181 crew across 18 decks.

This ship operates primarily in the Caribbean, offering thrilling activities, such as zip-lining and a FlowRider surf simulator, and a range of entertainment options.

4. Royal Caribbean – Harmony of the Seas: 226,963 Gross Tonnes

The Harmony of the Seas surpassed her predecessors upon launch in 2016, weighing 226,963 gross tonnes. Spanning 362 meters and accommodating 6,780 passengers and 2,300 crew, this ship features robotic bartenders, the Ultimate Abyss slide, and Broadway-caliber shows.

It operates Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston, Texas, and occasionally sails the Mediterranean.

3. Royal Caribbean – Symphony of the Seas: 228,081 Gross Tonnes

Launched in 2018, the Symphony of the Seas became the world’s largest cruise ship. With a gross tonnage of 228,081, she measures 361 meters and can carry 6,680 passengers and 2,200 crew.

This ship is renowned for its innovations, including a revolutionary muster drill process and diverse onboard activities. She operates primarily in the Caribbean.

2. Royal Caribbean – Wonder of the Seas: 235,600 Gross Tonnes

The Wonder of the Seas was the world’s largest ship upon completion in 2022. At 235,600 gross tonnes and 362 meters long, this vessel accommodates 7,084 passengers and 2,369 crew.

Built in France, the Wonder is an engineering marvel with Azipod propulsion and efficient LNG engines. It offers Caribbean itineraries from Miami and Cape Canaveral, Florida.

1. Royal Caribbean – Icon of the Seas: 248,663 Gross Tonnes

The Icon of the Seas, launched in 2024, holds the title of the largest cruise ship ever. Weighing 248,663 gross tonnes and stretching 365 meters, this Icon-class flagship accommodates 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew across 20 decks.

Built by Meyer Turku in Finland, it features groundbreaking sustainability measures and world-class amenities. Sailing year-round from Miami, it promises unforgettable Caribbean adventures.

Conclusion

Cruise ships are no longer just vessels; they are floating cities offering unparalleled luxury, innovation, and sustainability. From the eco-conscious Costa Toscana to the record-breaking Icon of the Seas, these ships represent the pinnacle of maritime engineering and hospitality. Whether you’re an avid cruiser or a maritime enthusiast, these giants of the sea capture the imagination and spirit of modern travel.