The year 2024 promises to bring a wave of new cruise ships to the industry, offering travelers exciting and innovative experiences on the high seas. While there may be fewer new ships compared to the previous year, these vessels are anything but boring. In fact, they are set to be bigger and more impressive than ever before. From the largest cruise ship on Earth to first-of-its-class vessels with unique features, 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for cruise enthusiasts. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the highly anticipated ships expected to debut in 2024.
One of the most highly anticipated ships of 2024 is the Icon of the Seas, the first of Royal Caribbean International’s Icon class. This massive vessel, weighing 250,800 gross tons, will claim the title of the largest cruise ship on the planet, surpassing even the Wonder of the Seas in the Oasis class. With a capacity to accommodate 5,610 guests at double occupancy (and a total guest capacity of 7,500), the Icon will introduce new and exciting concepts. These include a candy-colored neighborhood for young families and the Thrill Island neighborhood, featuring six thrilling waterslides and an aerial obstacle course. The Icon will sail year-round from Miami, offering seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.
In addition to the Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean will also debut the Utopia of the Seas, its latest Oasis-class ship. Though slightly smaller than the Icon, weighing 236,860 gross tons, the Utopia will accommodate more guests, with a capacity of 5,668 at double occupancy. This ship will feature unique spaces not found on its sister ships, including the Pesky Parrot tiki bar and an extended Ultimate Abyss slide. The Utopia will also offer an immersive specialty dining experience that replicates the ambiance of dining in a train car. The ship will set sail on short cruises from Port Canaveral starting on July 22.
Sun Princess: A Sphere of Luxury
Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess is set to be the largest ship in the fleet, weighing 175,500 gross tons. As the first of the Sphere class, this vessel will carry 4,300 guests at double occupancy and boasts lighter decor than its predecessors. The Sun Princess will feature a new sphere atrium space, a geodesic dome, and a three-deck activity zone. Additionally, it will offer eight new restaurant options, including a love-themed specialty restaurant serving aphrodisiac-inspired cuisine. The ship will make its debut on February 8, embarking on Mediterranean and European sailings before heading to Port Everglades for the winter 2024-2025 season.
Cunard will be releasing its first ship in over a decade in 2024. The Queen Anne, weighing 113,000 gross tons, will be larger than both Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. With 14 passenger decks and a capacity to carry 2,996 guests at double occupancy, this ship blends Cunard’s 182-year history with modern design trends. Notable features include a retractable dome over the pool deck, creating a unique outdoor experience, and more light-filled, open spaces throughout the ship. The Queen Anne is expected to embark on its maiden voyage on May 1, departing from Southampton, England.
Silversea Cruises’ Nova class will welcome its second ship, the Silver Ray, in June. With an asymmetrical design and 40% more glass space than the line’s Muse-Class ships, the Silver Ray aims to provide guests with a unique and immersive experience. MSC’s luxury line, Explora Journeys, will also release its second ship, the Explora II, this year. This mirror image of its predecessor will feature 461 oceanfront suites, nine culinary experiences, and a range of pools for guests to enjoy. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will debut its second ship, the Ilma, in September. With almost double the size of its sister ship, the Ilma will provide a luxurious and spacious experience for its 448 guests, offering sailings in the North and Baltic Sea.
The Disney Treasure, the second ship in the Triton Class, is set to be an adventure-themed vessel. Featuring stories from beloved films like “The Lion King,” “Aladdin,” and “Coco,” this ship will provide a magical experience for Disney fans of all ages. The ship will also house a Marvel dining experience, a Marvel Superhero Academy, and a Star Wars Cargo Bay. The Disney Treasure will offer seven-night Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, ensuring an unforgettable vacation for families and Disney enthusiasts alike.
Viking, known for its elegant river cruises, will expand its oceangoing fleet with the introduction of the Viking Vela in December. As the 10th nonexpedition ship in the Viking fleet, the Vela will accommodate approximately 60 more passengers than its sister ships. This 54,300-gross-ton vessel will embark on its inaugural season, offering Mediterranean and Northern European itineraries. American Cruise Line will also join the lineup with the release of two new catamarans, the American Liberty and the American Legend. These ships, each holding 100 guests, will sail on exciting journeys exploring the scenic wonders of New England, the Florida Gulf Coast, and the Keys.
The year 2024 is set to be a standout year for the cruise industry, with a remarkable lineup of new ships offering innovative experiences and unparalleled luxury. From the largest cruise ship on Earth to adventure-themed vessels and luxury offerings, there is something for every cruise enthusiast to look forward to. Whether it’s sailing the Caribbean on the Icon of the Seas or embarking on a Mediterranean adventure aboard the Sun Princess, these upcoming ships promise unforgettable journeys on the high seas. As the industry continues to evolve and innovate, these new additions will undoubtedly raise the bar for future cruise ship designs and experiences.
Leave a Reply