The scale of modern cruising has reached extraordinary new heights, with today's cruise ships more akin to floating cities than traditional vessels being jam packed with entertainment, exclusive dining experiences and on-board activities with something to appeal to all kinds of holiday makers.
For first time cruisers, the realisation of the sheer size and innovation behind these modern cruise ships is perhaps the most startling part of the journey. In this guide, we'll aim to give you a little preview of what you can expect on a cruise holiday by providing a run down of the top 10 largest cruise ships in the world. From ground breaking new builds to iconic vessels that redefined the industry, these ships represent the pinnacle of ocean travel.
1. Icon of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
Currently holding the title of the world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas is a remarkable feat of engineering. With a gross tonnage of over 250,000 and a maximum capacity of around 7,600 guests alongside approximately 2,350 crew, it is truly vast.
Built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland at an estimated cost of around £2 billion, it represents one of the most expensive cruise ship projects ever undertaken. Sailing primarily around the Caribbean from Miami, it offers itineraries that combine tropical destinations with an unmatched onboard luxury cruise holiday experience.
2. Star of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
A sister ship to Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas mirrors its size at around 250,000 gross tons and accommodates a similar number of guests, placing it firmly among the largest cruise ships in the world.
Offering Caribbean itineraries, this vessel continues Royal Caribbean's push into providing larger, more immersive ships. Construction costs are believed to be comparable to Icon of the Seas, reflecting the scale and complexity of this incredible design.
3. Utopia of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
With a gross tonnage of over 236,000 and capacity for more than 5,600 guests, Utopia of the Seas is another standout large cruise ship from Royal Caribbean.
Built in France and costing well over £1 billion, it focuses on shorter Caribbean itineraries, offering a high-energy onboard atmosphere combined with the signature neighbourhood concept seen across Royal Caribbean's fleet.
4. Wonder of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
Once the world's largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas remains one of the most impressive vessels in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It accommodates close to 7,000 guests and more than 2,300 crew members.
Constructed at a cost exceeding £1.3 billion, it sails predominantly in the Caribbean, delivering a blend of entertainment, dining and family friendly on-board attractions which once set new standards for large cruise ships. In many ways, Wonder of the Seas can be credited as the vessel which set the template which has subsequently been followed by its larger sister ships.
5. Symphony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
Symphony of the Seas is another giant within the Oasis Class from Royal Carribean, boasting a gross tonnage of over 228,000 and capacity for around 6,600 passengers.
Built in France at a cost estimated around £1.35 billion, it operates itineraries in both the Caribbean and Mediterranean, offering guests the chance to explore iconic destinations alongside providing expansive onboard facilities.
6. Harmony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
With space for approximately 6,600 guests and over 2,000 crew, Harmony of the Seas continues to rank among the largest cruise ships in the world.
It was constructed at a cost of around £1 billion and sails mainly in the Caribbean, combining thrilling attractions such as water slides and zip lines with refined dining and entertainment options.
7. Oasis of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
A true pioneer, Oasis of the Seas was once the biggest cruise liner in the world and helped redefine the industry. It accommodates around 6,700 guests and remains one of the most recognisable ships at sea.
Costing roughly £1.4 billion to construct, it continues to operate Caribbean itineraries to this day, offering a balance of innovation and classic cruise holiday experiences.
8. Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean Cruises
Closely related to Oasis, Allure of the Seas also carries nearly 6,800 passengers, maintaining its position among the world's largest cruise ships.
With a similar build cost of over £1 billion, it sails Caribbean routes, featuring expansive entertainment districts, multiple restaurants and a vibrant onboard atmosphere.
9. MSC World Europa - MSC Cruises
Finally breaking Royal Caribbean's dominance, MSC World Europa is one of the largest cruise ships in the world outside the Oasis and Icon classes. It accommodates around 6,700 guests alongside over 2,000 crew.
Built at a cost of approximately £1.1 billion, it sails across the Mediterranean and Middle East, offering a more European style of cruising with cutting-edge environmental technology and a modern interior design.
10. MSC World America - MSC Cruises
Completing the top ten, MSC World America is another mega ship with capacity for more than 6,700 passengers.
Designed for Caribbean holiday itineraries, it reflects MSC Cruises' ambition to compete with the largest cruise ships in the world, following the template of combining size with a strong focus on international dining, entertainment and family friendly experiences.
The Future of Large Cruise Ships
The continued growth of these vessels highlights how the cruise industry is evolving. Ships are becoming larger, more technologically advanced and increasingly focused on delivering a diverse array of experiences for guests staying on-board. With capacities exceeding 7,000 passengers and costs reaching billions of dollars, these floating resorts represent a significant investment in the future of travel.
For travellers, this means greater choice than ever before, whether you're seeking family-friendly adventure, world-class entertainment or refined luxury accommodation that was historically reserved only for the most exclusive land-based hotels. .
Plan Your Perfect Cruise Holiday
Our overview of the top 10 largest cruise ships in the world should serve as an indication as to the type of experience you can expect when you step aboard a modern day cruise ship. Each ship delivers a unique experience, shaped by its design, destinations and onboard facilities.
To ensure you find the perfect match for your next cruise holiday, speak to the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts. With their expert insights and industry connections, they can create a personalised cruise holiday tailored to your preferences, helping you experience the very best of life at sea.