Carnival Cruise Line has recreated one of its most iconic advertising moments with a modern twist, enlisting Hallmark star Jonathan Bennett to pay tribute to Kathie Lee Gifford’s popular 1984 television commercial.
The new video is a scene-by-scene homage to the original “Fun Ships” ad, in which Gifford famously sang “Ain’t We Got Fun.”
Bennett follows the same choreography and dons updated costumes inspired by the original, while singing his own rendition of the catchy tune.
Honouring Kathie Lee Gifford’s legacy
The remake, shared on Carnival and Bennett’s Instagram accounts on 2nd January 2025, quickly garnered thousands of likes.
Fans celebrated the tribute as a nod to both Gifford’s enduring legacy with Carnival and the cruise line’s commitment to fun-filled vacations.
Jonathan Bennett holds a special connection to Carnival as the godfather of Carnival Firenze, which debuted in April 2024.
Alongside his husband, Jaymes Vaughan, the actor also celebrates their anniversary annually on a Carnival cruise.
Kathie Lee Gifford’s association with Carnival began with her 1984 commercial, the first national TV advertisement in the cruise industry.
She became a defining spokesperson for the brand throughout the 1980s and 1990s, serving as godmother to the original Celebration and Carnival Ecstasy.
While Gifford hasn’t reprised the role of godmother recently, she participated in the naming ceremony of Carnival Sunrise in 2019 and passed on the tradition to her daughter, Cassidy Gifford, who became godmother to Carnival Celebration in 2022.
Gifford’s GIFFT Wines, launched in partnership with Scheid Family Wines, are another lasting mark of her involvement with Carnival.
Introduced in 2015, the wines remain available across the fleet in main dining rooms, bars, and as part of beverage packages.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Carnival cruise offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Cunard is set to showcase its musical pedigree in 2025, with globally acclaimed jazz artists Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum headlining exclusive performances aboard Queen Victoria. The luxury cruise…
TUI Cruises is set to host a remarkable christening event for its newest vessel, Mein Schiff Relax, featuring an exclusive performance by British pop icon Robbie Williams. Not only that,…
A dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard…
The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…
Cunard is set to showcase its musical pedigree in 2025, with globally acclaimed jazz artists Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum headlining exclusive performances aboard Queen Victoria.
The luxury cruise line has revealed that celebrated musician and host of Later… with Jools Holland, Jools Holland, will perform two exclusive shows on Queen Victoria’s eight-night Spain and Italy voyage, departing Southampton on 4 May and concluding in Civitavecchia on 12 May.
Holland, known for his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and five-decade career, promises a captivating repertoire for music lovers on board.
Ports of call include Cadiz, Malaga, and Majorca, with the itinerary blending vibrant cultural experiences and culinary delights.
Prices start from £899 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.
In April, Britain’s best-selling jazz artist and BBC Radio 2 presenter Jamie Cullum will bring his talents to Queen Victoria during a 13-night roundtrip Atlantic Islands voyage departing Southampton on 21 April.
The award-winning artist will perform hits from his celebrated career, including tracks from his breakthrough album Twentysomething.
This sailing features stops in Madeira, Tenerife, La Palma, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Cadiz. Prices start from £1,699 per person based on two sharing a Britannia Balcony stateroom.
Cunard’s tradition of musical excellence
Cunard has a long-standing reputation for collaborating with world-renowned artists.
In 2024, legendary Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli headlined Queen Anne’s naming ceremony in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone for the cruise line.
Cunard President Katie McAlister expressed excitement about the upcoming performances aboard Queen Victoria.
“At Cunard, we take pride in curating unique and unforgettable experiences for our guests, and we can’t wait to welcome the extraordinary Jools Holland OBE and Jamie Cullum aboard Queen Victoria in 2025. Their incredible talent, showcased in the elegant surroundings of the Royal Court Theatre, will make these sailings truly unforgettable.”
Cunard President Katie McAlister
Jools Holland shared his enthusiasm for the May sailing too, saying that he was excited to play a luxury cruise ship for the first time and see a “beautiful part of the world”. He said that he aimed to make sure his shows were uplifting events that would renew guests’ love for jazz music.
Jamie Cullum shared similar sentiments:
“I’m very much looking forward to performing for guests on board Queen Victoria in the spring. It’s been many years since I performed on a cruise ship – it’s a time that holds many great memories. There’s something unique about the whole experience, playing music whilst at sea. My band and I promise everyone a fantastic night.”
Jamie Cullum
The sailings all still have availability but it’s expected that staterooms will sell much faster following these announcements.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Cunard offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Carnival Cruise Line has recreated one of its most iconic advertising moments with a modern twist, enlisting Hallmark star Jonathan Bennett to pay tribute to Kathie Lee Gifford’s popular 1984…
TUI Cruises is set to host a remarkable christening event for its newest vessel, Mein Schiff Relax, featuring an exclusive performance by British pop icon Robbie Williams. Not only that,…
A dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard…
The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…
TUI Cruises is set to host a remarkable christening event for its newest vessel, Mein Schiff Relax, featuring an exclusive performance by British pop icon Robbie Williams.
Not only that, but the event will see participation from two sister ships, Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7, which are (rather unusually) serving as godmothers for the new ship.
The highly anticipated event will take place on 9th April 2025 at the Port of Malaga, Spain, as part of a grand celebration for the 4,100-guest ship under construction at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard in Italy.
Robbie Williams, famed for his solo career and time with the group Take That, will deliver a live outdoor concert as the centerpiece of the event, attended by some 15,000 cruise guests aboard Mein Schiff Relax, Mein Schiff 5, and Mein Schiff 7.
The celebration will also include the traditional champagne bottle-breaking ceremony and a dazzling light show.
Guests sailing aboard Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 7 will be able to witness the festivities as part of their specially designed itineraries.
The 10-day “Atlantic Islands & Christening Event Mein Schiff Relax in Málaga” cruise aboard Mein Schiff 5 departs Santa Cruz on 3rd April 2025.
The 14-day “Canary Islands & Christening Event Mein Schiff Relax in Málaga” aboard Mein Schiff 7 begins on 30th March 2025.
Innovative features and sustainable design
Mein Schiff Relax is the first of TUI Cruises’ new InTUItion class, marking a departure from the line’s numeric ship naming tradition.
The LNG-powered ship incorporates advanced emissions-reducing technology, wastewater treatment systems, and shore power connectivity.
Construction of the ship began in 2022, with successful sea trials completed in October and December 2024, testing propulsion, safety, and maneuverability.
The vessel is set to offer a range of modern amenities, including a two-story theatre, diverse dining venues such as the Japanese-inspired Fugu and the French Sur-mer-Bistro, and expansive indoor and outdoor fitness facilities.
Following her christening, Mein Schiff Relax will operate 7- to 10-night Western Mediterranean cruises, sailing between Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, and roundtrip from Palma de Mallorca.
TUI Cruises is primarily aimed at the German market but welcomes guests from around Europe and further afield. The cruise line is part-owned by the TUI Group and by Royal Caribbean. It is separate from Marella Cruises, also owned (solely) by the TUI Group.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss these hot cruise offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard…
The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…
Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week. Bug died following complications from a routine…
A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard…
Royal Caribbean is not only the world’s largest cruise line with more ships in service than anyone else, but they are also building new private destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas just for their passengers.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest news and deals: Sign Up
The first of these new private destinations from Royal Caribbean is opening later this year on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas.
The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be an all-inclusive beach/pool day that will have the world’s largest swim-up bar.
The cruise line recently released the following sneak peek video giving us a glimpse of this new club that is currently under construction.
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be divided up into three zones: Family Beach, Chill Beach and Party Cove.
The entry fee to this 17-acre paradise will include all food and drinks. Royal Caribbean will run a short water shuttle from the cruise pier to the beach club.
Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is scheduled to open in December 2025 and is the first of three new port projects from Royal Caribbean.
Following the opening the club in Nassau, the cruise line will open Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in 2027.
The Smoky Mountains are a paradise for photographers. With their rolling mist, towering peaks, and diverse wildlife, every corner offers a unique shot waiting to be captured. Whether you’re an amateur with a smartphone or a seasoned professional with a high-end DSLR, the Smokies promise moments you’ll want to frame forever. From golden hour landscapes to intimate wildlife encounters, every scene tells a story. But knowing where to go, when to shoot, and how to make the most of your time is essential. This guide offers insight into the best techniques, locations, and tips to ensure you leave with stunning shots and unforgettable memories.
1. Best Time of Year for Photography in the Smoky Mountains
Each season in the Smoky Mountains offers something special for photographers. Spring brings vibrant wildflowers and cascading waterfalls, perfect for macro and long-exposure shots. Summer fills the forests with lush greenery, creating rich, moody frames. Autumn is arguably the most photogenic season, with fiery reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows painting the landscape. Winter, though quieter, offers serene snow-draped peaks and crystal-clear skies. Plan your visit based on the mood and palette you want to capture. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the soft, warm lighting that enhances your photos. No matter the season, patience and preparation are key to getting the shot you envision.
2. Scenic Spots for Landscape Photography
The Smoky Mountains boast an abundance of stunning landscapes. Kuwohi, the highest peak in the Smokies, offers panoramic views perfect for sunrise and sunset shots. Cades Cove provides sprawling meadows, rustic barns, and abundant wildlife for diverse compositions. For a misty, dream-like aesthetic, head to Newfound Gap early in the morning. Staying in luxury cabins in the Smoky Mountains can also offer unique vantage points. Many cabins are perched on hillsides, providing uninterrupted views of the surrounding peaks. These locations allow photographers to experiment with foreground elements, framing, and lighting, ensuring every shot feels intentional and artistic.
3. Capturing Wildlife in Their Natural Habitat
Wildlife photography in the Smoky Mountains requires a mix of patience, respect, and sharp observation skills. Black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and elk are common sights, but capturing them in their natural behavior takes effort. Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valley are hotspots for wildlife enthusiasts. Early mornings and dusk offer the best chances for sightings, as animals are most active during these hours. Use a telephoto lens to maintain a safe distance while capturing intricate details. Always prioritize the safety of both yourself and the animals. A calm demeanor and readiness to click the shutter at the right moment can result in truly captivating shots.
4. Tips for Photographing Waterfalls and Streams
Waterfalls and streams are iconic subjects in the Smoky Mountains. Locations like Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, and Grotto Falls provide endless opportunities for long-exposure photography. To achieve that silky water effect, use a tripod and slow down your shutter speed. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare from the water’s surface and make the colors pop. Pay attention to your composition—include rocks, moss, or tree branches in the foreground for added depth. Early mornings, when the light is soft, are ideal for photographing waterfalls. With patience and experimentation, you can capture the mesmerizing beauty of moving water.
Golden hour, the time just after sunrise and before sunset, offers warm, soft light that can transform ordinary landscapes into stunning works of art. Blue hour, which occurs just before sunrise and after sunset, provides a cooler, moody atmosphere perfect for dramatic shots. Locations like Morton Overlook and Kuwohi are particularly breathtaking during these hours. To make the most of this light, plan your shoot in advance and arrive early. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera, especially in low-light conditions. Both golden and blue hours reward photographers with magical lighting that enhances the natural beauty of the Smokies.
6. Night Photography: Capturing the Stars
The Smoky Mountains offer excellent opportunities for night photography, with minimal light pollution in certain areas. Clear nights reveal an awe-inspiring view of the Milky Way and countless stars. Cades Cove and Kuwohi provide ideal dark skies. Use a wide-angle lens with a low aperture and set your camera to a longer exposure time. Bring a sturdy tripod to keep your camera stable. Experiment with light painting or silhouettes against the starry backdrop for creative effects. With preparation and clear skies, the results can be nothing short of breathtaking.
7. Macro Photography: Finding Beauty in the Details
Macro photography allows you to explore the smaller wonders of the Smoky Mountains. Wildflowers, dewdrops, moss-covered rocks, and tiny insects offer fascinating subjects. Early mornings often provide soft light and fresh dew, making details stand out beautifully. Use a macro lens to get up close and experiment with shallow depth of field to create dreamy, blurred backgrounds. Pay attention to lighting and use reflectors if needed. Patience and observation are essential for finding unique macro shots in the vast landscape.
8. Essential Photography Gear for the Smoky Mountains
Packing the right gear can make or break your photography trip. A sturdy tripod, a variety of lenses (wide-angle, telephoto, and macro), extra batteries, and memory cards are essential. Neutral density and polarizing filters can enhance landscape and waterfall shots. Weather in the Smokies can change rapidly, so bring protective gear for your camera and yourself. Lightweight yet durable camera bags are ideal for hiking to remote spots. Investing in the right equipment ensures you’re prepared for every photographic opportunity.
9. Ethical Photography Practices in the Smoky Mountains
Responsible photography is crucial when exploring natural landscapes. Stick to designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Avoid disturbing wildlife, and always maintain a safe distance. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking paths or overcrowding popular photography spots. Respect the natural beauty of the Smokies, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations of photographers.
The Smoky Mountains offer endless opportunities for photographers to capture nature’s magic. From sweeping landscapes to intricate macro shots, every moment in the Smokies holds the potential for an unforgettable image. With the right preparation, gear, and respect for nature, you’ll leave with a portfolio full of stunning shots and a heart full of memories. Whether you’re photographing golden hour vistas, wildlife encounters, or star-filled skies, the Smokies are a destination where every click of the shutter tells a story.
AmaWaterways has made over 20 land packages complimentary on hundreds of river cruises that depart in 2025 and 2026.
Our free cruise newsletter offers the latest news and deals: Sign Up
The complimentary land package can be added on pre- or post-cruise on river cruises in Europe. They range from two-, three-, and four-nights long and allow guests a deeper connection to the destinations that they visit.
Cruisers who are unable to add on a free land package can chose to take up to $2,000 off the price of their cabin.
This new offer from AmaWaterways runs from January 1 through March 31, 2025. It’s good on 69 different itineraries on 230 cruises in 2025 and 460 cruises in 2026.
Four of the land packages that are available are:
Brittany, France – available on Impressions of the Seine & Paris
Lisbon, Portugal – available on Enticing Douro and Flavors of Portugal & Spain
Prague, Czech Republic – available on several Danube, Main and Moselle itineraries
Amsterdam, Netherlands – available on several Dutch, Rhine and Moselle itineraries
The land packages include a stay at a world-class 4- or 5-star hotel in the heart of the city, enabling cruisers to explore locally during tours as well as shop and dine during their own leisure time.
In addition, every AmaWaterways land package includes daily breakfast at the hotel and enriching city tours and excursions, convenient transfers and luggage service between guests’ hotel and river cruise ship.
This offer from AmaWaterways is combinable with AirPlus, the cruise line’s fixed-price airfare offer, allowing travelers to enjoy Economy Air starting at $899, Premium Economy Air at $2,299 or Business Class Air at $4,299 per person from all major U.S. gateways.
Princess Cruises from Southampton are an incredibly popular choice for couples and families who are booking cruises for 2025.
Whether it’s your first time sailing with Princess Cruises, or you’re already a loyal member of the Captain’s Circle, there are some great sailings to choose from – especially if you don’t want the hassle of flying out to your embarkation port.
Sky Princess is one of four Princess ships sailing from the UK in 2025
Princess Cruises certainly have one of the best offerings when it comes to cruising from the UK, but it’s still important to make sure you know what to expect to make sure that this cruise line is right for you.
Read on for everything you need to know if you’re thinking of booking a cruise from the UK with Princess Cruises.
Plenty of dates to choose from!
Princess Cruises from Southampton are available for departures between March and November. The summer is generally the best time of year to cruise from the UK as the weather isn’t too cold and, if you’re lucky, you’ll also see some sunshine.
Princess Cruises destinations from Southampton
The most popular cruise destinations from Southampton with Princess Cruises are:
British Isles Cruises – See the best bits of England, Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland on a cruise around the UK
Norway Cruises – Sail to the top of Norway, where you’ll have the best chance of seeing the incredible Northern Lights
MediterraneanCruises – Take a 14-night cruise from Southampton to Florence, Pisa, Rome, Seville and Sardinia
Northern Europe Cruises – Explore the exciting cities of Northern Europe, including Copenhagen, Stockholm and Tallinn.
Transatlantic Cruises – Take your pick from some epic itineraries that cross the Atlantic Ocean via the Caribbean, the Canary Islands or ports in Norway.
Take your pick from these stunning ships…
There are four Princess Cruises’ ships cruising from Southampton in 2025. They are:
Emerald Princess
Majestic Princess
Regal Princess
Sky Princess
Of these, Sky Princess is the newer ship, and the biggest too. There are 27 cruises available for 2025 on this ship.
Why choose Princess Cruises?
There are several cruise lines offering cruises from the UK, but Princess Cruises is one of the best, with wonderfully luxurious cruise experiences at reasonable prices.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Princess Cruises offers…
Here’s what you can expect on a cruise with Princess Cruises…
Entertainment
On a cruise from the UK, most passengers will be British. Despite being an American-owned cruise line, Princess Cruises do a great job of tailoring the onboard experience to make us Brits feel at home!
Princess ships feature special guest entertainers and guest speakers as part of Princess Cruises’ Discovery at SEA program. Past guests have included Harry Redknapp, Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards, John Virgo and Gareth Gates.
Outdoors, you’ll be able to snuggle under a blanket and watch movies under the stars. This poolside big screen also shows premiership football, Wimbledon, international rugby and other sporting events.
Royal Princess in Liverpool with Wimbledon on the big screen
Dining
On a cruise with Princess, you can discover the unique flavours of each of the places you visit as well as enjoying some traditional home comforts.
You’ll find pub lunches on sea days, classic whiskeys from Scotland and Ireland in the bars and a daily afternoon tea.
Princess Cruises has the best pizza at sea
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Princess Cruises offers…
Cruising from the UK in 2025
For Brits, cruising from the UK has always been the most convenient way to travel.
Here are four reasons why a cruise from the UK is better than a fly-cruise for 2025:
1. Rearranging travel Is easier
If you have to rely on flights, we know that airports are sometimes struggling with staffing levels, and it could mess up your plans for getting to your ship on time.
If you’re cruising from the UK, you don’t need to worry about that. And even if something did happen to cause you to cancel your cruise, then Princess Cruises have a ‘Cruise with Confidence’ policy which means that you can delay the final payment on your cruise or cancel and receive a Future Cruise Credit. You’ll find more info about this on the Princess Cruises website.
2. Your holiday begins the moment you step onboard
Avoid all the hassle of airports, cramped flights and transfers to the port. As soon as you step on the ship, your holiday begins.
Checking in at a cruise port is so much quicker and easier than navigating an airport. Your luggage will be taken from you at your car and you won’t see it again until you reach your cabin.
As those with young children will testify, being able to walk from your car, straight on to the ship with no hold-ups is incredibly valuable.
3. No luggage restrictions
Princess Cruises have no luggage limits so you’re free to bring as much as you like, making packing for your cruise so much easier.
If you’re cruising with a baby, you’ll be free to bring lots of things that you wouldn’t be able to if you had to take a flight. Take a look at this printable baby cruise packing list to know what to bring and what you can get on the ship.
4. Enjoy a pre-cruise stay
Southampton is a fantastic place to stay for a day or two before or after your cruise. Make the most of your time with a trip to Paulton’s Park (the home of Peppa Pig World), historic Stonehenge or the beautiful New Forest.
Pre-cruise stays aren’t just for exotic places, you’ll find lots to see and do in Southampton, Portsmouth and other nearby cities.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
See the latest Princess Cruises offers…
To conclude
Anyone planning a cruise from the UK in summer 2025 should certainly consider a Princess cruise from Southampton. With a choice of four ships, destinations across Europe and the Mediterranean and durations from short breaks to several weeks, there’s something for everyone.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
In the last few years, we’ve seen some amazing new ships launch, including many of the biggest cruise ships in the world. And that’s not changing – over the next few years even bigger ships are on the way.
In this guide, we’ll look at the world’s largest cruise ships that are sailing in 2025, as well as looking at a quick list of the largest cruise ships on the horizon.
Rank
Ship name
Cruise line
Year built
Guest capacity
Gross tonnage
1
Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2024
7,600
250,800
2
Utopia of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2024
6,988
236,860
3
Wonder of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2022
6,988
236,857
4
Symphony of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2018
6,680
228,081
5
Harmony of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2016
6,687
226,963
6
Oasis of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2009
6,771
226,838
7
Allure of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2010
6,780
225,282
8
MSC World Europa
MSC Cruises
2022
6,762
215,863
9
Arvia
P&O Cruises
2022
6,685
185,581
10
Costa Toscana
Costa Cruises
2021
6,554
185,010
1. Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Launch: January 2024
Guest capacity: 7,600
Crew capacity: 2,350
Gross tonnage: 250,800
Length: 1,197 feet
Launching in January 2024, Icon of the Seas took on the mantle of being the largest cruise ship in the world, helping to strengthen Royal Caribbean’s grip on being the line with the biggest cruise ships.
Icon of the Seas offers something for everyone – on a ship that size, how could she not? But particular highlights are aimed at young families, including brand-new neighborhoods designed for maximum family fun, new accommodation choices that give direct access to some of the most fun areas of the ship, and new dining venues.
Old favourites return too, such as the AquaTheater and waterslides, but with some serious revamps to take them to the next level. Icon of the Seas is going to be truly special.
So far, two more Icon-class ships are also expected – Star of the Seas in 2025, and an as-yet unnamed ship in 2026.
2. Utopia of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Launched: July 2024
Guest capacity: 6,788
Crew capacity: 2,300
Gross tonnage: 236,860
Length: 1,187 feet
Utopia of the Seas launched in 2024 and became the sixth ship in the Oasis Class.
Utopia of the Seas is designed to be the ultimate “weekend destination” ship, offering short 3- and 4-night cruises to Royal Caribbean’s private resorts.
She shares a lot of similarities with sister ships such as Wonder of the Seas but also added some exciting new features, especially the Royal Railway – an immersive dining experience that takes place inside a train carriage with digital screens.
The Oasis Class has been extremely important to the global cruise industry and with Utopia of the Seas there is one more ship to add to the class, and make sure that it endures in popularity even when larger ships are launching. Another is also coming in 2028!
She’s an incredible ship packed with the very best that Royal Caribbean has to offer. There are 8 distinct neighborhoods, including Central Park – a lush public space filled with live greenery, upscale dining options, and high-end shops.
She has 25 different restaurants, two FlowRider surf simulators, two rock climbing walls, four pools and a whole host of other entertainment features, including the most immersive AquaTheater for stunning live shows.
Wonder of the Seas is based out of Orlando for the summer season. In the winter she’s based out of Miami.
4. Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Guest capacity: 6,680
Crew capacity: 2,200
Gross tonnage: 228,081
Length: 1,184 feet
Symphony of the Seas is another Oasis-class ship, and she’s very similar to Wonder of the Seas in terms of on-board entertainment, dining choices and the iconic Central Park in the middle of the ship.
There are some differences though, particularly with the restaurants – Symphony has Jamie’s Italian and Vintages Wine Bar, while Wonder of the Seas has Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and The Mason Jar.
Symphony has more of a musical theme to her, and that’s reflected in her biggest USP – she has a live orchestra playing in the theatre. There are no recorded tracks used during the shows, everything is orchestral-backed, which is pretty spectacular.
Symphony of the Seas offers similar itineraries to Wonder of the Seas, but she is based out of Miami, Galveston, and New York.
4. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Guest capacity: 6,687
Crew capacity: 2,300
Gross tonnage: 226,963
Length: 1,188 feet
If you’re noticing a theme to this list, then well done – the third Oasis-class ship to launch is the fifth-biggest ship sailing the waves in 2025. Harmony of the Seas is actually very slightly longer than Wonder of the Seas, but her overall interval volume is lower.
As a result, she is slightly more limited in her entertainment and dining scope, but it’s fine margins – she still has two FlowRiders for example, but she only has three pools. She has 24 dining venues, instead of 25 – like I say, minor differences.
One of the biggest differences with Harmony isn’t the ship but the itineraries she offers – she is based out of Galveston in the winter but will be sailing Europe from Barcelona during the summer.
6. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Guest capacity: 6,771
Crew capacity: 2,181
Gross tonnage: 226,838
Length: 1,180 feet
The first Oasis-class ship to launch, it’s a sign of just how groundbreaking she was that her debut was in 2009 and she remains within the top 10 largest cruise ships ever built, for now at least. Oasis of the Seas really caused waves (pun intended) with just how spectacular she was.
To be fair, she has been expanded since she first launched, but the new cabins in 2019 only added around 1,000 gross tonnes.
Oasis of the Seas sails from Fort Lauderdale and New York.
7. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Guest capacity: 6,780
Crew capacity: 2,200
Gross tonnage: 225,282
Length: 1,180 feet
Launching one year after her sister ship, Allure of the Seas was the second Oasis-class ship and at the time, she was marginally bigger. However, the 2019 revamp and expansion of Oasis of the Seas has dropped Allure by a single place.
She sails from Fort Lauderdale, Miami and Galveston in the winter months but during summer 2025 she’s sailing the Mediterranean from Barcelona and Rome.
8. MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)
Guest capacity: 6,762
Crew capacity: 2,138
Gross tonnage: 215,863 feet
Length: 1,094 feet
While we may have to wait until the bottom half of this list for a non-Royal Caribbean ship, MSC World Europa is worth it.
A very modern ship, she was the first LNG-propelled ship for MSC Cruises and she is packed with other eco-friendly technologies too.
The entertainment and public spaces are very futuristic as well, including the stunning Kinetic Dome and the Luna Park Arena where various activities take place. She has 13 different dining options and some great kids’ activities, along with adults-only spaces.
MSC World Europa, as per her name, sails around Europe throughout the year, with departures from various Mediterranean ports.
9. Arvia (P&O Cruises)
Guest capacity: 6,685
Crew capacity: 1,800
Gross tonnage: 185,581
Length: 1,130 feet
Arvia is the newest cruise ship from P&O Cruises and arguably the ultimate flagship of British cruising. She’s packed with things to see and do, including over 30 dining venues and bars, six theatres and lounges with live entertainment, and five swimming pools.
One of the highlights is Green & Co, a plant-based restaurant with fantastic vegetarian and vegan options. There’s also The Limelight Club, serving supper bites with a live house band.
Arvia sails around the Mediterranean and offers longer sailings to the Caribbean.
10. Costa Toscana (Costa Cruises)
Guest capacity: 6,554
Crew capacity: 1,646
Gross tonnage: 180,010
Length: 1,106 feet
The Costa Toscana is the biggest ship in the Costa Cruises fleet, and she is built to the same template as Arvia – after all, Costa Cruises and P&O Cruises all fall under the umbrella of the Carnival Corporation.
Obviously, the on-board vibe is very different. The ship still has 30 dining and drinking venues though – 11 places to eat and 19 bars or lounges, so plenty of space to unwind. But the ship is much more European in style, with Mediterranean-themed restaurants.
Ships no longer making the top 10
11. Costa Smeralda (Costa Cruises)
Guest capacity: 6,554
Crew capacity: 1,646
Gross tonnage: 180,010
Length: 1,106 feet
Costa Smeralda is an almost twin sister of Costa Toscana, giving a very similar experience – the best in Italian and international cuisine, plenty of spaces to relax, and some fantastic facilities for the kids.
Sister ship to Arvia, Iona is another magnificent ship from P&O Cruises that will remain one of the biggest British cruise ships for many years to come. However, in 2024 she fell out of the top 10 larger ships list due to the launch of Icon of the Seas.
She is modern, spacious and ideal for couples or families – she might not have the same incredible selection of rock climbing walls, surfing simulators etc. that a Royal Caribbean ship has but her kids’ clubs are excellent, with tonnes of variety.
Iona sails throughout Europe, including the Fjords, the Canary Islands and to Spain and Portugal.
Bigger ships are coming…
13. MSC World America (MSC Cruises)
Launch: 2025
Guest capacity: 6,774
Crew capacity:
Gross tonnage: 215,863
Length: 1,094 feet
MSC World America is not the next ship that MSC Cruises is launching, but she is the next ship due that will be over 200,000 Gross Tonnes and therefore will qualify for this list.
She’s another ship where details are sparse, but we do expect her to be very similar to the MSC World Europa.
She’s expected to sail the Caribbean from ports in America, so there will no doubt be some changes made to accommodate American guests. Expect beautiful artworks, thrilling children’s activities and the very latest in sustainability tech.
So far, two more World-class ships are also expected – in 2025 and 2027.
14. Disney Adventure (Disney Cruise Line)
Launch: 2025
Guest capacity: 6,700 TBC
Crew capacity: 2,500
Gross tonnage: 208,000
Length: 1,122 feet
Disney Cruise Line has already ordered a new ship for 2025 as a sister ship to the Disney Wish, which launched in 2022, and Disney Treasure, which launched in 2024.
However, when Genting Hong Kong, a Chinese cruise line, went bankrupt in 2022 they already had a large Global-class ship in development, and Disney Cruise Line bought it at a bargain price.
While the ship was originally planned to sleep as many as 9,000 (!) guests, the plans have now reverted to a more reasonable 6,700 guest level.
15. Star of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Launch: 2025
Guest capacity: 7,600
Crew capacity: 2,350
Gross tonnage: 250,080
Length: 1,198 feet
Star of the Seas, set to debut in August 2025, is Royal Caribbean’s second Icon-class cruise ship, following the highly anticipated Icon of the Seas.
This impressive vessel will be homeported at Port Canaveral, Florida, offering seven-night Caribbean itineraries that include stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
While sharing many features with her sister ship, Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas will introduce several enhancements to elevate the guest experience. The Surfside neighborhood, initially designed for families with children aged 0-6, will expand its appeal to include kids up to 10 years old, with updated attractions like Splashaway Bay and Playscape.
Dining options will see the addition of the Lincoln Park Supper Club, offering a Chicago-themed fine dining experience, and a revamped restaurant in the Surfside area, replacing Pier 7.
Final word
There are some seriously impressive cruise ships coming in the next couple of years, but already in 2025 we have some epic ships sailing the oceans.
By the end of 2025 the top-10 list will all be ships with a gross tonnage over 200,000 which is pretty spectacular, with more exciting ships in the pipeline.
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
A dozen passengers have filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean International and a former cabin steward, Arvin Joseph Mirasol, who was convicted of secretly recording guests in their staterooms aboard Symphony of the Seas.
The legal action comes nearly a year after the shocking video voyeurism case came to light.
The lawsuit, filed on 30th December 2024 in Florida, represents 12 passengers who sailed on multiple voyages between December 2023 and January 2024.
The plaintiffs allege that Mirasol placed hidden cameras in their stateroom bathrooms, filming both adults and minors.
Mirasol, a 34-year-old stateroom attendant from the Philippines, was arrested in March after a passenger discovered a camera under her bathroom sink and alerted ship security.
Following his arrest, he pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison in August.
Attorney Spencer Aronfeld, representing the plaintiffs, expressed concern over the long-term impact on victims:
“The fact that many of the victims we represent still do not know if and how their images have been used or circulated is incredibly disturbing. Some of the plaintiffs are children – and once an image is on the internet, it is there forever.”
Spencer Aronfeld, attorney for the plaintiffs
The lawsuit accuses Royal Caribbean of negligence and failing to properly screen and monitor its crew.
It also charges the cruise line with a breach of faith for allegedly withholding information about the incident from affected guests, a move plaintiffs argue was financially motivated.
The filing states that the affected guests suffered “mental anguish, post-traumatic stress disorder, and loss of enjoyment of life,” with injuries described as “permanent and continuing.” The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial and financial compensation for damages and punitive damages.
Hundreds of potential victims
Court documents indicate that Mirasol’s actions may have impacted guests across multiple voyages, departing on 24th December 2023 as well as throughout January and February 2024.
With Mirasol responsible for servicing up to 20 staterooms per voyage, each accommodating up to four guests, the potential number of victims could exceed 900.
Despite this, Royal Caribbean has not issued notifications to affected guests, according to the lawsuit. The plaintiffs argue this was an intentional effort by the cruise line to avoid legal claims within the company’s contractually-shortened statute of limitations.
Unsurprisingly, Royal Caribbean has not commented on the lawsuit, adhering to its policy of not discussing ongoing legal matters.
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…
Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week. Bug died following complications from a routine…
A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard…
2024 gave us a lot to be excited about in the world of cruising, including some brand-new cruise ships! I mean you can tell from the title – we had…
A content creator has created a wave of controversy online after sharing a video to TikTok where they told a member of the crew that they planned to jump overboard “for fun”.
Megan Million, who has over 130,000 followers on TikTok and over 24 million likes, shared several videos from her latest cruise.
In one of them, she approached a member of the crew and told them that she planned to jump overboard that night, but that she was doing it for fun.
The crew member is clearly caught off guard, at first showing concern but then smiling along with Megan as they try to gauge what her real intentions are.
Megan faced an initial backlash from some in her TikTok comments, defending herself by claiming that she had told the crew member she was joking at the “next dinner”.
But the backlash has spread further, with cruisers around social media condemning the “prank” for the distress it could’ve caused the crew member.
And it appears from this screenshot circulated online that NCL, the cruise line that Megan was sailing with, has been made aware of the video and is taking further action. Credit to content creator and cruise fan Alex Roberson for bringing it to their attention.
It wouldn’t be surprising if she was banned from the cruise line, as they take these matters extremely seriously.
Of course, anyone jumping overboard from a cruise ship is likely to lose their life, even if they jump from a lower deck. It’s not really something you would ever do for “fun”.
And there are some incidents even within the past few months of people going overboard and being lost at sea, or rescued but still dying, which renders Megan’s video even more tasteless.
Megan’s TikTok channel claims to offer pranks and “good vibes” but it could definitely be argued that this isn’t a good vibe video!
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest NCL offers…
Related posts
If you found this interesting, please share!
Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
The cruise industry continues its remarkable growth trajectory with over 35 new ships ordered in 2024, ranging from intimate expedition vessels to massive megaships for top-tier brands like Carnival, Royal…
Kate McCue, the popular cruise ship captain, has shared the sad news that her iconic sphynx cat Bug Naked passed away last week. Bug died following complications from a routine…
2024 gave us a lot to be excited about in the world of cruising, including some brand-new cruise ships! I mean you can tell from the title – we had…
Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at the Mexican port of Manzanillo following the US State Department’s issuance of a level 4 “do not travel” advisory for Colima, the state where…
