Cruise ships are some of the most luxurious and impressive vessels on the planet. With massive sizes, innovative designs, and top-of-the-line amenities, these ships offer travelers the chance to experience a floating city. Whether they are equipped with water parks, theaters, spas, or fine dining restaurants, cruise ships are built to provide the ultimate vacation experience.
In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 largest cruise ships in the world. These ships are measured by gross tonnage, length, and passenger capacity. Let’s explore the giants of the sea that have set new standards in the cruise industry.
1. Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 236,857 GT
Length: 362 meters (1,188 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,988 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 2,300
The Wonder of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, belonging to Royal Caribbean International. This ship made its debut in 2022, and it is part of the Oasis Class, a series of ships known for their enormous size and advanced features. The Wonder of the Seas offers a wide range of amenities including 20 dining venues, multiple swimming pools, a giant water park, and even a dedicated Central Park with real trees.
The ship’s entertainment options are equally impressive, with a variety of shows, live music, and even ice skating performances. It can accommodate nearly 7,000 passengers, making it one of the most crowded yet exciting vessels on the water. It sails to destinations such as the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond.
2. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 228,081 GT
Length: 361 meters (1,184 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,680 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 2,300
Following closely behind the Wonder of the Seas is the Symphony of the Seas. This ship also belongs to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class and debuted in 2018. At the time of its launch, it was the largest cruise ship in the world, before being surpassed by the Wonder of the Seas in 2022.
Symphony of the Seas is packed with luxury and family-friendly amenities. The ship offers seven distinct neighborhoods, including an outdoor boardwalk with a carousel, a sports deck with a zip line, and a Central Park featuring over 20,000 plants. Symphony of the Seas also boasts impressive dining options, a variety of bars and lounges, and world-class entertainment, including Broadway-style shows and comedy acts.
This ship has a passenger capacity of over 6,600 people and travels to popular destinations in the Caribbean and Mediterranean.
3. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 226,838 GT
Length: 360 meters (1,181 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,780 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 2,200
The Oasis of the Seas was the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, which redefined the concept of cruise ship design. Launched in 2009, Oasis of the Seas was groundbreaking in its size and features. It was the largest cruise ship in the world at the time and set the bar for luxury cruise experiences.
Notable features of Oasis of the Seas include a theater with over 1,300 seats, multiple pools, a rock climbing wall, an ice skating rink, and a full-sized basketball court. The ship offers a variety of dining options, including the exclusive Giovanni’s Table and 150 Central Park. With a passenger capacity of over 6,700 and a crew of around 2,200, Oasis of the Seas continues to be a top contender in the world of luxury cruising.
4. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 226,963 GT
Length: 362 meters (1,181 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,687 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 2,300
The Harmony of the Seas, launched in 2016, is another giant in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. With a length of 362 meters, it is one of the longest cruise ships in the world, offering a smooth and stable journey for its passengers. Like other Oasis-class ships, Harmony of the Seas features a variety of entertainment and dining options, including Broadway shows, a water park, and multiple swimming pools.
One of the ship’s standout features is its innovative design that includes seven different “neighborhoods,” such as the AquaTheater, the Royal Promenade, and the Vitality at Sea Spa. Harmony of the Seas can accommodate nearly 6,700 passengers and boasts a wide range of activities for all ages, from rock climbing to ice skating and zip-lining.
5. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 226,838 GT
Length: 360 meters (1,181 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,780 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 2,200
Oasis of the Seas, which debuted in 2009, is another massive ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. It was the world’s largest cruise ship when it was launched, and its size continues to impress travelers. The ship offers a number of on-board features, such as a full-sized ice skating rink, a two-story library, and the AquaTheater—a large outdoor theater for performances and shows.
The ship has over 20 restaurants and bars, offering a variety of cuisines, from Italian and Asian to traditional American. Oasis of the Seas also offers a range of activities for guests to enjoy, from swimming in the pools to shopping along the promenade. The ship can carry up to 6,700 passengers at full capacity and is crewed by around 2,200.
6. Spectrum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 169,379 GT
Length: 347 meters (1,141 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 4,246 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 1,551
The Spectrum of the Seas, launched in 2019, is part of the Quantum Ultra Class from Royal Caribbean. This ship offers a more refined cruising experience, with a focus on luxury and technology. Its features include a Sky Pad (virtual reality bungee trampoline experience), a robotic bartender, and the two-level SeaPlex activity zone with bumper cars and roller skating.
The ship also boasts some of the most advanced smart technologies available, including the Bionic Bar, where guests can order drinks made by robots. Spectrum of the Seas is a smaller ship compared to some of the Oasis Class vessels, but it still offers a world-class experience with a focus on innovation.
7. Anthem of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)
Gross Tonnage: 168,666 GT
Length: 348 meters (1,146 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 4,180 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 1,500
The Anthem of the Seas is another ship from the Quantum Class, known for its high-tech amenities and unique experiences. Launched in 2015, the Anthem of the Seas is famous for its North Star observation pod, which offers breathtaking views 300 feet above sea level. The ship also features a 270-degree multimedia theater, which hosts incredible performances and shows.
Guests on Anthem of the Seas can enjoy a variety of dining options, from the elegant Wonderland restaurant to the more casual eateries. The ship also offers a number of family-friendly activities, including a huge indoor pool and a sports deck for basketball, mini-golf, and more.
8. Norwegian Encore (Norwegian Cruise Line)
Gross Tonnage: 169,116 GT
Length: 334 meters (1,099 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 4,000 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 1,800
Norwegian Encore is one of the largest ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, launched in 2019. This ship is known for its modern design and array of activities, such as a two-level go-kart track, a virtual reality arcade, and an incredible water park with a free-fall water slide. Norwegian Encore offers a variety of dining experiences, ranging from specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse to buffet-style dining.
The ship can accommodate up to 4,000 passengers, with a crew of around 1,800. Norwegian Encore is also known for its vibrant entertainment offerings, including Broadway shows and comedy performances. It sails primarily to destinations in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Alaska.
9. MSC Meraviglia (MSC Cruises)
Gross Tonnage: 171,598 GT
Length: 316 meters (1,033 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 5,714 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 1,536
MSC Meraviglia, launched in 2017, is one of the largest and most modern ships in the MSC Cruises fleet. The ship is known for its stunning design, including a promenade that stretches the length of the ship and features a large LED dome ceiling. It also offers a wide range of dining options, luxury shops, and entertainment, such as Cirque du Soleil at Sea.
The ship’s amenities include an indoor water park, a full-service spa, and multiple swimming pools. MSC Meraviglia is capable of accommodating over 5,700 passengers and carries a crew of 1,500. It primarily offers Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Northern European itineraries.
10. MSC Grandiosa (MSC Cruises)
Gross Tonnage: 181,541 GT
Length: 331 meters (1,090 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 6,334 passengers (at maximum occupancy)
Crew Capacity: 1,704
MSC Grandiosa, launched in 2019, is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. It is part of MSC Cruises’ Meraviglia Plus Class, and like its sister ship MSC Meraviglia, it offers an unforgettable cruising experience. The ship features an innovative promenade with a stunning LED ceiling, multiple dining venues, and diverse entertainment options.
MSC Grandiosa can accommodate over 6,300 passengers and offers family-friendly features such as a kids’ water park and a large play area. The ship also offers sophisticated dining options, luxury shops, and a full-service wellness center. The ship primarily sails on Mediterranean itineraries.
Conclusion
These top 10 largest cruise ships in the world are a testament to the luxury and innovation found in modern cruise travel. From Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class to the sleek and technologically advanced ships of Norwegian and MSC Cruises, each of these vessels offers a unique and luxurious experience for its passengers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or entertainment, these floating giants provide everything you need for the ultimate cruise vacation.
The scale of these ships, the amenities they offer, and their sheer size all contribute to the growing trend of luxury cruising. As the cruise industry continues to grow, we can expect even larger ships with more cutting-edge technology and enhanced experiences for travelers to enjoy.
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