Large modern cruise ship sailing on open blue water, like the newest Carnival ships

Newest Carnival Ships in Order (2026): Every Ship Plus What’s Coming

by CarnivalCruise LinesCruise News

Carnival Jubilee, which debuted from Galveston in December 2023, is still the newest Carnival ship built from scratch. Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter are the newest ships to join the fleet: both arrived in March 2025 when P&O Cruises Australia was folded into Carnival. Coming next are Carnival Festivale (May 2027, Port Canaveral), Carnival Tropicale (April 2028, Galveston) and Carnival Destiny, the first of the much bigger Ace class, in summer 2029.

This guide lists the newest Carnival ships in order as of late 2026, with class, size and homeport for each. It also covers the renamed ships that can make the fleet look newer than it is, and what to think about if you want a newer ship without paying top dollar.

Newest Carnival Ships at a Glance (2026)

Carnival lists 31 ships on its fleet page, counting the two still under construction. The table runs from the most recent arrival back through the last ten years. “Joined Carnival” is the year the ship started sailing for Carnival, which is not always the year it was built.

Ship Class Joined Carnival Approx. GT / guests Homeport (2026)
Carnival Adventure Grand (ex-Princess) 2025 (built 2001) 108,700 / about 2,600 Sydney
Carnival Encounter Grand (ex-Princess) 2025 (built 2002) about 109,000 / about 2,600 Brisbane
Carnival Firenze Venice (ex-Costa) 2024 (built 2021) 135,500 / about 4,100 Long Beach
Carnival Jubilee Excel 2023 (new build) 183,500 / about 5,400 Galveston
Carnival Venezia Venice (ex-Costa) 2023 (built 2019) 135,200 / about 4,200 Port Canaveral
Carnival Celebration Excel 2022 (new build) 183,500 / about 5,400 Miami
Carnival Luminosa Spirit-based (ex-Costa) 2022 (built 2009) 92,700 / about 2,300 Brisbane
Mardi Gras Excel 2021 (new build) 181,800 / about 5,300 Port Canaveral
Carnival Panorama Vista 2019 (new build) 133,900 / about 4,000 Long Beach
Carnival Horizon Vista 2018 (new build) 133,600 / about 4,000 Miami

Guest figures are double occupancy and rounded. Homeports change with the seasons, so check the individual ship page on Carnival’s fleet site for your sailing date.

Newest Carnival Ships in Order of Debut

If you only want ships that Carnival built for itself, the order from newest to oldest is:

  1. Carnival Jubilee (December 2023): the third Excel-class ship, sailing seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Galveston.
  2. Carnival Celebration (November 2022): the second Excel ship, sailing from Miami. It has the Excel features, including the BOLT roller coaster and themed zones.
  3. Mardi Gras (July 2021): the first Excel ship and the first in North America to run on LNG. It was also the first cruise ship with a roller coaster. If you’re thinking of booking one of its suites, our guide to every suite on Carnival Mardi Gras compares them.
  4. Carnival Panorama (December 2019): the third Vista-class ship and the first Carnival new build on the West Coast in two decades. It has Sky Zone trampolines and SkyRide.
  5. Carnival Horizon (April 2018): the second Vista-class ship, with Dr. Seuss WaterWorks and the Havana area.

Adventure, Encounter, Firenze, Venezia and Luminosa joined later than some of these, but they were built for other Carnival Corporation brands. That is why “newest Carnival ship” means different ships on different websites.

Large cruise ship under construction in a covered shipyard dock
Carnival's next three ships are being built in shipyards in Germany and Italy. Photo: SamFoll SF on Pexels

Future Carnival Ships: 2027, 2028 and 2029

Carnival has three new ships confirmed and two more planned. Here is the timeline as of October 2026.

Carnival Festivale (May 2027, Port Canaveral)

Festivale is the fourth Excel-class ship. It is being built at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, and floated out of its building dock in late September 2026. It will sail six- to eight-night Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral starting in May 2027, alongside Mardi Gras. Many of these cruises will call at Celebration Key. Festivale will carry about 5,200 guests and runs on LNG. Its main new feature is Sunsation Point, a family zone with Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, a six-slide waterpark that Carnival calls its biggest yet.

Carnival Tropicale (April 2028, Galveston)

Tropicale is the fifth and final Excel-class ship. Steel cutting took place in September 2026, and bookings opened that same month. Its first sailing is scheduled from Galveston on 15 April 2028, on 4- to 8-day Caribbean cruises. New dining concepts include Uku Lei Lei (Hawaiian and Asian), Fetaccine (Greek and Italian) and Emeril’s Coastal Seafood. The ship also gets a Route 66-themed Fairway 66 mini-golf course and the same WaterWorks Ultra waterpark as Festivale.

Carnival Destiny and the Ace Class (2029, 2031, 2033)

In 2024 Carnival Corporation ordered three ships of almost 230,000 gross tons from Fincantieri, each designed for about 8,000 guests. The first was named Carnival Destiny at its steel cutting in Monfalcone, Italy, on 10 July 2026. It is due in summer 2029 and will be the first of the new Ace class. Carnival says it will have the most outward-facing design at sea, more than 4.5 acres of glass and more balcony cabins than any other ship. More than 70% of its venues will be new to Carnival. Sister ships are planned for 2031 and 2033. Homeports, deck plans and pricing have not been announced.

Ships That Joined Carnival From Other Brands

Several of the newest Carnival cruise ships were transferred from other brands rather than built new. Keep this in mind when comparing them with a true new build.

  • Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter (2025): formerly P&O Australia’s Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter, and before that Golden Princess and Star Princess. They began sailing for Carnival at the end of March 2025, when P&O Cruises Australia was absorbed into Carnival. Adventure sails from Sydney and Encounter from Brisbane. Both are mainly for the Australian market.
  • Carnival Firenze (2024): the former Costa Firenze, with “Carnival Fun Italian Style” theming. It currently sails from Long Beach. Carnival plans to move it to Miami in spring 2027 and to New York for summer 2027.
  • Carnival Venezia (2023): the former Costa Venezia, which first sailed from New York and now sails from Central Florida. It is set to move to year-round Miami sailings from late May 2027.
  • Carnival Luminosa (2022): the former Costa Luminosa, mainly based in Australia.
Empty cruise ship balcony with two chairs looking out over a calm blue ocean
Older ships often have cheaper balcony fares than the newest Carnival ships. Photo: Diego F. Parra on Pexels

Renamed Carnival Ships: Sunshine, Sunrise and Radiance

Three older ships were rebuilt in big dry docks and given new names. They can show up on “new ship” lists, but their hulls are much older:

  • Carnival Sunshine: the original Carnival Destiny (1996), renamed in 2013. The name Destiny is now going to the 2029 Ace-class ship, so look at the year when you search.
  • Carnival Sunrise: the former Carnival Triumph (1999), renamed in 2019 after a refit of about $200 million.
  • Carnival Radiance: the former Carnival Victory (2000), renamed in late 2021 after a similar refit.

These ships have updated bars, dining and water areas, but cabin layouts and public spaces are still those of their original class. Older ships have more cabins with tricky locations, so it’s worth reading our list of Carnival cruise cabins to avoid before you pick one.

Is the Newest Carnival Ship Worth Paying Extra For?

Most comparison lists skip this question. The answer depends on what you want from the trip:

  • Choose an Excel ship (Mardi Gras, Celebration, Jubilee and later Festivale) for the roller coaster, the most dining options and the newest cabins. Fares are usually the highest in the fleet, especially during school holidays.
  • Choose Venezia or Firenze if you want a fairly new ship that feels calmer and has an Italian theme. They are often cheaper than an Excel sailing of the same length.
  • Choose a Vista-class ship (Vista, Horizon, Panorama) if you want a ship about half the size of an Excel with plenty of family activities. Havana cabins and Cloud 9 spa cabins are good value upgrades. Our guide to Carnival Cloud 9 spa rooms explains whether they’re worth it.
  • Wait for Festivale if you sail from Florida with children and the waterpark matters most. Inaugural-season fares are often high, and some sailings sell out early.

One more tip: the year a ship joined the fleet only tells you so much. A recent dry dock matters too. Carnival refreshes older ships regularly, and a recently refurbished Dream-class ship can feel more up to date than a ship that hasn’t had work done in years. If you’d like to compare with another big line, see our guide to Royal Caribbean ships by age.

Still deciding on a cruise line? See how Carnival compares with Norwegian Cruise Line on fares, drinks packages and private islands.

Whichever ship you choose, it is worth checking which of the popular Carnival cruise directors is scheduled on board for your sail date.

Once you have picked a ship, you can trim the fare by paying with discounted Carnival gift cards bought through retailer and rewards offers.

FAQs

What is Carnival’s newest ship in 2026?

The newest ship Carnival built itself is Carnival Jubilee (December 2023). The newest ships to join the fleet are Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, which moved over from P&O Australia in March 2025. No brand-new Carnival ship debuts in 2026.

What is Carnival’s newest ship for 2027?

Carnival Festivale, the fourth Excel-class ship, starts sailing from Port Canaveral in May 2027 with about 5,200 guests and the new WaterWorks Ultra waterpark.

What is the biggest Carnival ship?

The Excel-class ships are currently the biggest, at around 180,000 to 183,500 gross tons. Carnival Destiny, due in summer 2029, will be bigger still at close to 230,000 gross tons and about 8,000 guests.

Which Carnival ships are the oldest?

The oldest ships still sailing are the Fantasy-class Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation from the late 1990s, plus Carnival Sunshine, which was originally built in 1996 as Carnival Destiny.

Is Carnival Destiny a new ship or an old one?

Both, depending on the date. The original Carnival Destiny (1996) is now Carnival Sunshine. The new Carnival Destiny is the first Ace-class ship and is due in summer 2029.

Large modern cruise ship docked at a sunny port, illustrating Royal Caribbean ships by age

Royal Caribbean Ships by Age: Newest to Oldest (2026 Fleet List)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsRoyal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean ships by age run from Legend of the Seas, the newest ship (July 2026), back to Grandeur of the Seas, the oldest (December 1996). That makes 30 ships in service in October 2026, spread across seven ship classes. Age alone does not tell the whole story, though, because many older ships have had big upgrades.

Below you will find the full fleet in order from newest to oldest, with the class, the year each ship entered service, its last major upgrade, its size and how many guests it holds. After that we look at the newest and oldest ships, the new ships coming next, and how much a ship’s age should affect your choice.

Royal Caribbean ships by age: full fleet list (newest to oldest)

The years show when each ship began sailing with guests. Gross tonnage (GT) is a measure of a ship’s internal volume, and the guest numbers assume two people per cabin, so the real number on board can be higher when families fill third and fourth berths. “Royal Amplified” is the cruise line’s name for its large refurbishment program, which adds new restaurants, bars, slides and cabins to older ships.

Ship Class Entered service Last major upgrade Gross tonnage Guests (double occupancy)
Legend of the Seas Icon 2026 (July) New build 250,800 5,628
Star of the Seas Icon 2025 (August) New build 248,663 5,610
Utopia of the Seas Oasis 2024 (July) New build 236,473 5,668
Icon of the Seas Icon 2024 (January) New build 248,663 5,610
Wonder of the Seas Oasis 2022 None yet 235,600 5,734
Odyssey of the Seas Quantum Ultra 2021 None yet 167,704 4,198
Spectrum of the Seas Quantum Ultra 2019 None yet 169,379 4,246
Symphony of the Seas Oasis 2018 None yet 228,081 5,518
Harmony of the Seas Oasis 2016 Royal Amplified 2026 226,963 5,479
Ovation of the Seas Quantum 2016 Royal Amplified 2026 168,666 4,182
Anthem of the Seas Quantum 2015 Not verified 168,666 4,180
Quantum of the Seas Quantum 2014 Not verified 168,666 4,180
Allure of the Seas Oasis 2010 Royal Amplified 2025 225,282 5,718
Oasis of the Seas Oasis 2009 Royal Amplified 2019 226,838 5,602
Independence of the Seas Freedom 2008 Royal Amplified 2018 154,407 3,858
Liberty of the Seas Freedom 2007 Royal Amplified 2026 154,407 3,798
Freedom of the Seas Freedom 2006 Royal Amplified 2020 156,271 3,926
Jewel of the Seas Radiance 2004 Refit 2016 90,090 2,191
Mariner of the Seas Voyager 2003 Royal Amplified 2018 139,863 3,344
Serenade of the Seas Radiance 2003 Refit 2012 90,090 2,143
Navigator of the Seas Voyager 2002 Royal Amplified 2019 139,999 3,368
Brilliance of the Seas Radiance 2002 Refit 2013 90,090 2,142
Adventure of the Seas Voyager 2001 Not verified 137,276 3,114
Radiance of the Seas Radiance 2001 Refit 2011 90,090 2,143
Explorer of the Seas Voyager 2000 Not verified 137,308 3,286
Voyager of the Seas Voyager 1999 Royal Amplified 2019 137,276 3,602
Vision of the Seas Vision 1998 Refit 2013 78,340 2,050
Enchantment of the Seas Vision 1997 Lengthened 2005; refit 2013 82,910 2,252
Rhapsody of the Seas Vision 1997 Refit 2012 78,878 2,040
Grandeur of the Seas Vision 1996 (December) Refit 2012 73,817 1,992

Figures are taken from Royal Caribbean’s fleet information and other fleet records, and they may vary slightly between sources. “Not verified” means we could not confirm the date of a recent major refit from reliable sources. Every ship also goes into routine dry dock every few years for maintenance and smaller updates, so a ship with no recent amplification is not necessarily run down.

If you want to compare the ships by class instead of by age, our guide to Royal Caribbean ship classes compared sets out what each class offers side by side.

The newest Royal Caribbean ships

The five newest Royal Caribbean ships are all Icon or Oasis class giants, and they are where the cruise line puts its newest ideas.

Legend of the Seas (2026)

Legend of the Seas is the newest Royal Caribbean ship. The third Icon class ship was delivered in June 2026 and began her first cruise on 4 July 2026 in the Western Mediterranean. She later moves to Fort Lauderdale for Caribbean sailings. Like her sisters, she has eight “neighborhoods”, the Category 6 water park, the Crown’s Edge ropes course and plenty of family suites. She is the second Royal Caribbean ship to carry the name: the first Legend of the Seas was a Vision class ship that left the fleet in 2017.

Star of the Seas (2025)

Star of the Seas began sailing from Port Canaveral in August 2025. She is almost a twin of Icon of the Seas, with a few changes to dining and entertainment.

Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas (2024)

Icon of the Seas started sailing from Miami in January 2024 and was the first ship in the fleet to run on liquefied natural gas (LNG). Utopia of the Seas joined in July 2024 as the sixth Oasis class ship and the first in that class to use LNG. She mainly sails short three and four night cruises from Port Canaveral. For a closer look at how these two designs differ, see our Icon class vs Oasis class comparison.

Upcoming Royal Caribbean ships

Royal Caribbean has seven more new ships on order. None has been announced to replace an existing ship, so the fleet should keep growing.

  • Hero of the Seas (2027): the fourth Icon class ship. She was floated out at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland in September 2026.
  • Oasis class ship number seven (2028): not yet named. Her keel was laid in June 2026.
  • Icon class ship number five (2028): not yet named. Her keel was laid in September 2026.
  • Discovery class (2029 and 2032): a completely new class of ship. Royal Caribbean has shared few details so far.
  • Icon class ships six and seven (2029 and 2030): ordered, with no names announced yet.

Delivery dates for ships still being built can move, so check the latest sailing dates before you plan a trip around a debut.

Older mid-sized cruise ship sailing on calm blue water, typical of the oldest Royal Caribbean ships
Smaller, older ships can reach ports that the largest ships cannot. Photo: fotovegraf on Pexels

The oldest Royal Caribbean ships

The oldest Royal Caribbean ships belong to the Vision class, built between 1996 and 1998. Four remain in the fleet: Grandeur, Rhapsody, Enchantment and Vision of the Seas. The other two Vision class ships, the original Legend and Splendour of the Seas, were sold to another cruise line years ago.

Grandeur of the Seas (1996)

Grandeur of the Seas is the oldest and smallest ship in the fleet. She took her first guests in December 1996, so she turns 30 in December 2026. In 2019 Royal Caribbean planned to transfer her to its former Spanish brand, Pullmantur, but that plan was cancelled in 2020 and she has stayed with Royal Caribbean. At about 73,800 gross tons and fewer than 2,000 guests at double occupancy, she is around a third of the size of an Icon class ship.

Rhapsody, Enchantment and Vision of the Seas (1997 to 1998)

These ships are known for lots of glass, including the Viking Crown Lounge and the glass-roofed Solarium. Enchantment of the Seas was cut in half and lengthened in 2005, which is why she is a little bigger than her sisters. All three are mainly used for shorter cruises and itineraries to smaller ports.

The Voyager and Radiance classes (1999 to 2004)

Voyager of the Seas (1999) introduced the Royal Promenade, the indoor ice rink and the rock-climbing wall, which are now standard on the larger ships. The four Radiance class ships (2001 to 2004) are about the same size as the Vision class but use more glass and have more balcony cabins. They are popular for Alaska, Australia and longer voyages.

Does a ship’s age really matter?

Less than you might think. Year of build tells you a ship’s basic layout and size, but the Royal Amplified program has changed what many older ships offer. Navigator of the Seas (2002) and Voyager of the Seas (1999) got new waterslides, restaurants and bars in 2019. Freedom of the Seas (2006) was amplified in 2020, and Allure of the Seas (2010) in 2025.

In 2026 Royal Caribbean upgraded three more ships: Ovation, Harmony and Liberty of the Seas. Ovation got a redesigned pool deck with casitas and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, and Harmony got a Caribbean-style pool deck and the Samba Grill Brazilian steakhouse. Liberty added a Royal Escape Room, Izumi Teppanyaki and a Starbucks.

What an upgrade cannot change is the ship’s size and basic structure. A 1990s ship will never have a Central Park or an AquaTheater, and older ships often have smaller standard cabins and fewer balconies. On the other hand, they rarely feel crowded, lines tend to be shorter and fares are usually lower.

One useful check that most “by age” lists leave out is to compare the year of the last major upgrade, not just the year the ship was built. A ship built in 2003 and amplified in 2018 may feel fresher than one built in 2014 that has had only routine maintenance since.

Busy cruise ship pool deck with loungers and waterslides under a sunny sky
Newer and upgraded ships tend to have the most water attractions. Photo: Jatinder Singh Kang on Pexels

How to choose the right ship for you

Use the ship’s age as one piece of information, alongside these questions:

  1. Who is travelling? Families with children who want water parks, surf simulators and lots of activities will get the most from the Icon, Oasis and Quantum Ultra classes, or from an amplified Voyager or Freedom class ship.
  2. What is your budget? The newest ships usually cost the most. Older and mid-sized ships often give you the same itinerary for less.
  3. Where do you want to go? The largest ships sail mostly from Florida and Texas and visit large ports and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Smaller, older ships can reach a wider range of ports.
  4. Do you like crowds? An Icon class ship can carry more than 7,000 guests when full. If you prefer a quieter feel, look at the Radiance or Vision class.
  5. When was it last upgraded? Use the table above to check, then look at the deck plans and current features on Royal Caribbean’s official ship pages.

If you are deciding between two of the biggest ships, our comparison of Icon of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas sets out the differences in detail.

If you are choosing between two of the older ships, see Liberty of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas compared.

For the wider picture of that year across all lines, see our roundup of the new cruise ships of 2024 and where they sail now.

Age is only half the story; our guide to Royal Caribbean amplified ships shows which older ships have been refurbished and when.

FAQs

What is the newest Royal Caribbean ship?

Legend of the Seas is the newest Royal Caribbean ship. The third Icon class ship was delivered in June 2026 and began sailing in the Western Mediterranean in July 2026. Hero of the Seas, the fourth Icon class ship, is due in 2027.

What is the oldest Royal Caribbean ship?

Grandeur of the Seas is the oldest Royal Caribbean ship still in the fleet. She began sailing in December 1996, so she turns 30 in December 2026. She is also the smallest ship in the fleet, at about 73,800 gross tons.

How old is Quantum of the Seas?

Quantum of the Seas entered service in 2014, so she is about 12 years old in 2026. She was the first of the Quantum class, which introduced the North Star observation capsule and RipCord by iFLY.

How many ships does Royal Caribbean have?

As of October 2026, Royal Caribbean International has 30 ships in service, from Grandeur of the Seas (1996) to Legend of the Seas (2026). No ship has been announced to leave the fleet, and seven more new ships are on order up to 2032.

Are older Royal Caribbean ships worth sailing?

Often, yes. Older ships are usually cheaper, less crowded and visit smaller ports, and many have been upgraded through the Royal Amplified program. Check when a ship was last refurbished and compare its features before you book.

Large modern cruise ship at sea, like the newest MSC ship designs with tall decks and balconies

Newest MSC Ship: Every MSC Cruises Ship in Order, Newest First (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsMSC Cruises

As of late October 2026, the newest MSC ship sailing with guests is MSC World America, which started cruising from Miami in April 2025. That changes very soon: MSC World Asia is due to be delivered on November 25, 2026 and starts its first cruise from Barcelona on December 4, 2026, which will make it the line’s newest ship. After that, MSC World Atlantic arrives at Port Canaveral in 2027, with more World Class and a new class of ships ordered for 2029 to 2033.

This guide lists MSC Cruises’ newest ships in order, newest first, with each ship’s class, size, capacity and where it sails. It then covers what is on order and how MSC Group’s luxury brand, Explora Journeys, fits in. If you want to know which ships passengers like best rather than which are newest, see our MSC cruise ships ranked from best to worst.

The newest MSC ship right now (and the one arriving next)

Two ships share the title of “newest” this autumn, depending on how you count:

  • Newest ship in service: MSC World America. MSC took delivery in March 2025, named it in Miami in April 2025, and it now sails 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from PortMiami all year.
  • Newest ship built: MSC World Asia. The ship finished its final sea trials off the west coast of France in September 2026. MSC is due to take delivery at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire on November 25, 2026, name it in Le Havre a few days later, and start its first cruise on December 4, 2026.

If you’re booking for 2027, MSC World Asia is the newest MSC ship you can sail on. MSC World Atlantic takes over the title later in 2027.

Newest MSC ships in order (newest first)

The table below lists the eight newest ships in the MSC Cruises fleet, from newest to oldest. “Guests” is the usual double-occupancy figure. The World Class ships can take up to about 6,760 people when every berth is full. Deployments are for winter 2026–2027 and can change, so check the current schedule before you book.

Ship First cruise Class Gross tons Guests (approx.) Where it sails
MSC World Asia December 2026 World 216,638 5,400 Barcelona, 7-night Western Mediterranean (Caribbean from late 2027)
MSC World America April 2025 World 216,638 5,400 Miami, 7-night Caribbean, year-round
MSC Euribia June 2023 Meraviglia-Plus 184,011 4,800 Europe
MSC World Europa December 2022 World 215,863 5,200 Mediterranean
MSC Seascape December 2022 Seaside EVO about 170,000 4,500 Galveston, 7-night Western Caribbean (winter 2026–27)
MSC Seashore August 2021 Seaside EVO about 170,000 4,500 Port Canaveral, 3- and 4-night Bahamas (winter 2026–27)
MSC Virtuosa May 2021 Meraviglia-Plus 181,541 4,800 Europe
MSC Grandiosa November 2019 Meraviglia-Plus 181,541 4,800 Port Canaveral, 7-night Caribbean (winter 2026–27)

Older ships come after these. MSC Bellissima (2019), MSC Seaview (2018), MSC Seaside and MSC Meraviglia (both 2017) are fairly modern. The Fantasia, Musica and Lirica class ships date from 2001 to 2013.

MSC World Asia (2026)

World Asia is the third World Class ship. It runs on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and has about 2,600 cabins. Like its sisters, it is divided into themed districts, but the design takes its cues from Asian cities and art. Its signature features are a Tree of Life structure in the family-focused Harbour area, inspired by Singapore’s Supertrees, and a 39-foot illuminated steel dragon above the promenade. The Tree of Life is also the entrance to a dry slide that drops 12 decks. In its first season it sails 7-night round trips from Barcelona to Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Messina and Valletta. Most of these ports also work as embarkation points. MSC has said the ship will reposition to the Caribbean in late 2027.

MSC World America (2025)

World America was the first World Class ship built for North American cruisers. It has seven neighborhoods, including the open-air World Promenade, and family features such as the Cliffhanger swing that hangs out over the side of the ship and an 11-deck dry slide. Most itineraries include a day at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the line’s private island in the Bahamas. If you sail from the US and want the newest MSC ship you can board from home today, this is it.

MSC Euribia (2023)

Euribia is the newest of the Meraviglia-Plus ships and the second MSC ship to run on LNG. It has an indoor promenade under an LED dome and mostly sails in Europe, so it is a good choice if you want a recent ship without the size of a World Class vessel.

MSC World Europa (2022)

World Europa introduced the World Class design and was MSC’s first LNG-powered ship. It is the oldest of the “World” ships, but it is still one of the largest cruise ships in the world. It is based mainly in the Mediterranean.

MSC Seascape (2022) and MSC Seashore (2021)

These two Seaside EVO ships are built for warm-weather cruising. They have wide outdoor promenades close to the water, big pool decks, and a glass bridge walkway. For winter 2026–2027, Seascape sails from Galveston and Seashore runs short Bahamas trips from Port Canaveral. Both are good choices if you want a fairly new MSC ship on a US itinerary for less than World America usually costs.

MSC Virtuosa (2021) and MSC Grandiosa (2019)

Both are Meraviglia-Plus ships with a long indoor Galleria promenade under an LED ceiling. Virtuosa mainly sails in Europe. Grandiosa spends winter 2026–2027 at Port Canaveral on week-long Caribbean cruises.

Large cruise ship hull under construction in a shipyard dry dock
New ships for the MSC fleet are being built in shipyards in France and Germany. Photo: Diana ✨ on Pexels

MSC ships on order: what comes after World Asia

MSC has one of the largest orderbooks in the cruise industry. With World Asia, the fleet reaches 24 ships, and roughly ten more are due by the early 2030s. Here is what is confirmed so far.

  1. MSC World Atlantic (2027). The fourth World Class ship. It will sail Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral starting in winter 2027, with calls at Ocean Cay and Grand Turk. MSC has already shown some of its features, including a two-story Grand Hamptons Villa for families that sleeps up to eight people.
  2. World Class ships five to eight (about 2029–2031). MSC has ordered four more World Class ships from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. Two of them were announced in late 2025. Delivery dates differ slightly between sources, but they are expected roughly once a year from 2029 to 2031. None of them has a name yet.
  3. New Frontier class (from 2030). In December 2025, MSC ordered four ships from Meyer Werft in Germany, with options for two more. It is the first time MSC has worked with that shipyard. Each ship is planned at about 180,000 gross tons and 5,400 guests, with one ship a year from 2030. MSC has released few design details so far.

Construction dates often slip by a few months, so treat anything after 2027 as a plan rather than a promise. If being on a ship’s first season matters to you, book once itineraries open. Inaugural sailings usually cost more, and you can expect a few early operational issues.

Does sailing on the newest MSC cruise ship matter?

Most articles about the newest cruise ships skip this question, but it affects what you pay. Here are a few points worth weighing:

  • Size and features often matter more than age. The three World Class ships launched between 2022 and 2026 are very similar inside. Apart from the themed decor, MSC World Europa (2022) gives you much the same experience as MSC World Asia.
  • Newer usually means pricier. New ships charge more, especially in their first year. A ship that is three or four years old, such as Seascape or Seashore, often costs much less and still feels modern.
  • LNG matters to some travelers. World Europa, Euribia, World America and World Asia run on LNG, which cuts some local emissions compared with conventional marine fuel. If lower emissions matter to you, look at these ships first.
  • Location often decides it. For US cruisers, the real choice is usually between World America (Miami), Seascape (Galveston) and Seashore or Grandiosa (Port Canaveral), and from 2027 World Atlantic (Port Canaveral). World Asia is only an option if you’re happy to fly to Europe.

If you’re comparing new ships across cruise lines, our guide to Royal Caribbean ships by age uses the same newest-first layout.

Elegant open deck of a small luxury ship with loungers facing the sea
Explora Journeys offers MSC Group's upscale take on ocean travel. Photo: Tolga Aslantürk on Pexels

Explora Journeys: MSC Group’s luxury brand

MSC Group also owns Explora Journeys, a separate luxury brand with small ships, all-suite accommodation and a much higher price. Each ship carries fewer than 1,000 guests, so the experience is very different from the large MSC resort ships.

Explora’s newest ship is EXPLORA III. It was delivered in Genoa in July 2026, named in Barcelona in August 2026, and is the brand’s first LNG-powered ship. It is also slightly longer than EXPLORA I and II. Three more are planned: EXPLORA IV in 2027, then EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI over roughly 2027–2028. If you want a new ship from MSC Group but prefer a quieter, more upscale trip, Explora is the brand to look at.

Planning further ahead? Our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 can help you time a booking on one of these new ships.

For comparison with another fast-growing fleet, see the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

Once you have chosen a ship, our guide to MSC cabins to avoid helps you pick the right room on board.

FAQs

What is the newest MSC ship?

As of October 2026, MSC World America (in service since April 2025) is the newest MSC ship carrying guests. MSC World Asia becomes the newest when it starts its first cruise from Barcelona on December 4, 2026.

What is MSC’s newest ship sailing from the US?

MSC World America, which sails 7-night Caribbean cruises from Miami all year. MSC World Atlantic will join it in 2027, sailing from Port Canaveral.

What is the MSC World Atlantic ship?

MSC World Atlantic is the fourth World Class ship, due in 2027. It will sail Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, with calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and Grand Turk.

What are the sizes of MSC ships?

They range from about 65,000 gross tons for the older Lirica class to about 216,000 gross tons for the World Class. The biggest ships carry around 5,400 guests at double occupancy and up to about 6,760 when every berth is full.

How many new ships does MSC Cruises have on order?

After World Asia, MSC has World Atlantic (2027), four more World Class ships (around 2029–2031) and four New Frontier class ships from 2030, with options for two more.

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P&O Cruises Launches ‘Talent Of Tomorrow’ Competition With Gary Barlow

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

P&O Cruises is offering any talented musicians the chance to win a cruise and a performing slot onboard with their new Talent of Tomorrow competition.

P&O Cruises Talent of Tomorrow Gary Barlow

The winner won’t just get the opportunity to sing on a ship – they’ll also be mentored by Gary Barlow, one of Britain’s most popular singer/songwriters.

Anyone can enter the competition, but they’ll need to provide a YouTube video audition which includes them singing a song and playing an instrument – backing tracks are not allowed.

The song can be an original or a cover, but the YouTube video has to be recent – any uploads prior to 1st June 2024 will not be accepted.

From the applicants, a shortlist of 10 will be chosen to perform in front of a panel of experts, who will select the final three.

Those three will get to enjoy a visit to the ship Iona to be mentored by Gary Barlow, where they’ll be filmed for a final performance. That performance will go to a public vote, with the winner getting to enjoy a cruise of at least 7 nights on either Arvia or Iona.

During that cruise, the winner will get to perform in the ship’s 710 Club in a series of gigs.

Full details of the competition, and the entry form, are all available on the P&O Cruises website. The final day for entries is 11th August 2024.

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Turquoise water and sandy beach on a Caribbean island, a common Princess vs Carnival destination

Princess vs Carnival: Which Cruise Line Is Better in 2026?

by CarnivalCruise LinesCruise NewsPrincess Cruises

In the Princess vs Carnival debate, the short answer is this: choose Carnival if you want a lively, budget-friendly getaway with water slides, comedy clubs and casual food, and choose Princess if you want a calmer, more polished cruise with better long-haul itineraries, more enrichment and stronger Alaska programs. Both lines belong to Carnival Corporation, but they are built for very different vacations.

Below we compare the ships, destinations, food, entertainment, kids clubs, packages and typical prices as they stand in late 2026, so you can match the line to the trip you actually want.

Princess vs Carnival at a Glance

Feature Princess Cruises Carnival Cruise Line
Atmosphere Relaxed, refined, hotel-like High-energy, playful, social
Fleet size (late 2026) 17 ships About 29 ships
Newest ships Sun Princess (2024), Star Princess (2025) Carnival Jubilee (2023); Carnival Festivale due 2027
Typical cruise length 7 to 14+ nights 3 to 8 nights
Signature destination Alaska with cruisetours and lodges Caribbean, Bahamas and Celebration Key
All-in package Princess Plus / Princess Premier CHEERS! drinks package (add-ons sold separately)
Daily gratuities (standard cabin) $18 per person $17 per person
Best for Couples, older travelers, multi-generational trips Families, groups of friends, first-timers on a budget

The Ships: Big Fun vs Quiet Elegance

Carnival’s fleet

Carnival runs the largest fleet in its history, at around 29 ships. The headline vessels are the Excel-class trio of Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee, each around 180,000 gross tons and carrying well over 5,000 guests. They feature BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, themed zones and a huge choice of casual eateries. Two more Excel-class ships are on the way: Carnival Festivale is scheduled for spring 2027 from Port Canaveral, followed by Carnival Tropicale in 2028.

The fleet also grew in 2025 when two former P&O Australia ships joined as Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter after P&O Cruises Australia was folded into Carnival. Carnival has since said Carnival Adventure will leave year-round Australian service in March 2028 and move to seasonal North American sailings, while Carnival Encounter stays Down Under. Older ships in the Fantasy, Spirit and Conquest classes are smaller and simpler, and often carry the lowest fares.

Princess’s fleet

Princess has 17 ships, and the stars are the Sphere-class Sun Princess (2024) and Star Princess, which debuted in October 2025. Star Princess measures about 177,800 gross tons, carries up to 4,300 guests, and offers more than 1,500 balcony cabins, The Dome entertainment space, a three-level Piazza and The Sanctuary Collection, an adults-only retreat with its own restaurant. The Royal-class ships (Royal, Regal, Majestic, Sky, Enchanted and Discovery Princess) are the backbone of the fleet, and older Grand- and Coral-class ships handle many longer and more exotic voyages.

Even the biggest Princess ships feel less hectic than Carnival’s, with more quiet corners, more wood and marble, and far fewer loud deck parties. If you want to see how Princess keeps refreshing older tonnage, read about Royal Princess’s drydock and new Sanctuary Collection.

Destinations and Itineraries

This is where the two lines differ most. Carnival sails from more US homeports than almost any other line, including Galveston, Miami, Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, New Orleans, Long Beach, Seattle, Baltimore and New York. Most of its trips are 3- to 8-night sailings to the Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico, which makes it easy to drive to the port and cruise over a long weekend.

Carnival’s biggest new draw is Celebration Key, its private destination on Grand Bahama, which opened in July 2025. It sits alongside RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay and Isla Tropicale in Roatan in what Carnival calls its Paradise Collection. Carnival also offers Alaska, Hawaii from Long Beach, some Europe seasons and longer Carnival Journeys sailings, but those are a smaller part of the program.

Princess is a global line. It is widely seen as one of the strongest choices for Alaska, where it combines cruises with land tours and its own wilderness lodges, and it also sails extensively in Europe, Japan, Australia, the Panama Canal and on full world cruises. Typical voyages run 7 to 14 nights or more, with more sea days and more ports per trip. If you are comparing Princess with a British-style alternative for Europe, our P&O Cruises vs Princess Cruises comparison is worth a look.

Plated dishes and fresh food laid out at a restaurant buffet counter
Dining is one of the clearest differences between the two lines. Photo: Bulat Khamitov on Pexels

Food and Dining

Carnival: casual favorites done well

Carnival’s complimentary food is a big part of its appeal. Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina for tacos and burritos, deli counters, pizza and a solid Lido buffet keep everyone fed around the clock. Main dining rooms serve multi-course dinners, and the 2026 “Next Course” refresh brought updated menus, pop-up concepts and mobile coffee ordering. Paid options include Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Bonsai Teppanyaki, JiJi Asian Kitchen and Cucina del Capitano.

Princess: more refined, more traditional

Princess puts more emphasis on the main dining room, with traditional multi-course dinners and the option of fixed-time or flexible dining. Free favorites include Alfredo’s Pizzeria, the International Cafe in the Piazza and the World Fresh Marketplace buffet. Specialty restaurants include Crown Grill steakhouse and Sabatini’s Italian, while the Sphere-class ships add extra venues such as Umai Teppanyaki and more Sanctuary Collection dining for suite guests. Many cruisers rate Princess’s ingredients and presentation a step above Carnival’s, though Carnival tends to win on fun, fast casual food.

Activities and Entertainment

Carnival is built for action. Expect WaterWorks water parks, SkyRide on some ships, mini golf, ropes courses, the Punchliner Comedy Club, Playlist Productions shows, karaoke, deck parties and themed events like the Dr. Seuss Green Eggs and Ham breakfast. The ships stay busy late into the night, and the casinos and bars are central to the experience.

Princess focuses on quality over quantity. Highlights include production shows in the Princess Theater, Movies Under the Stars on giant poolside screens, live jazz and string trios in the Piazza, enrichment talks, and Discovery at Sea programming with Discovery and BBC Earth. On Sun Princess and Star Princess, The Dome hosts acrobatic shows, while Spellbound by Magic Castle offers close-up magic. You will find a casino and nightlife, but they are not the focus.

Kids Clubs and Family Facilities

Both lines welcome children, but Carnival is more family-focused. Camp Ocean caters to ages 2 to 11 in three groups, Circle “C” is for ages 12 to 14 and Club O2 for 15 to 17. Night Owls offers late-evening group babysitting for a fee, and the water slides, Dr. Seuss activities and casual food keep children busy.

Princess runs Camp Discovery, split into The Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Shockwaves (8 to 12) and Remix (13 to 17). Activities lean towards science, nature and outdoor learning, including Junior Ranger programs in Alaska. Princess ships have fewer slides and thrill features, so active kids and teens may prefer Carnival, while families traveling with grandparents often find Princess a happier middle ground.

Children and parents splashing in an outdoor swimming pool on a sunny holiday
Families often weigh price and kids facilities above all else. Photo: Atlantic Ambience on Pexels

Price and Packages: Is Princess More Expensive Than Carnival?

On base fares, Carnival is usually cheaper. Short Bahamas trips can start from a few hundred dollars per person, and 7-night Caribbean cruises in an interior cabin are often among the lowest prices at sea; see our guide to the cheapest 7-day cruises out of Florida. Princess fares for a similar week typically start higher, and Alaska or Europe pricing rises further in peak season. Prices change constantly, so treat these as ballpark guides rather than quotes.

The gap narrows once extras are added. Here is how the main add-ons compare as of November 2026:

  • Princess Plus: $70 per person per day ($75 on Sun and Star Princess). Includes up to 15 drinks a day valued up to $15 each, four casual specialty meals, crew appreciation (gratuities) and Wi-Fi for one device.
  • Princess Premier: $105 per person per day ($110 on Sun and Star Princess). Adds unlimited drinks up to $20 each, unrestricted specialty dining, Wi-Fi for up to four devices and up to $300 in shore excursion credit.
  • Carnival CHEERS!: around $69.95 per person per day pre-cruise plus a 20% service charge, covering alcoholic drinks only. Gratuities ($17 per person per day in standard cabins) and Wi-Fi are extra. From December 1, 2026, Carnival is moving to dynamic pricing for drinks packages and Wi-Fi, so prices will vary by sailing length, itinerary and season.

The useful takeaway many comparisons miss: if you plan to drink, use Wi-Fi and want gratuities covered, a Princess Plus fare can end up closer to a Carnival fare than the brochure prices suggest. If you drink little and skip specialty dining, Carnival is almost always the better value.

Princess or Carnival: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Carnival if you:

  • Want a short, affordable break from a nearby US port
  • Are traveling with active kids, teens or a group of friends
  • Love water slides, comedy, deck parties and casual food
  • Want to visit Celebration Key

Choose Princess if you:

  • Are planning Alaska, Europe, Asia or a longer voyage
  • Prefer a quieter ship, traditional dining and enrichment
  • Like the idea of bundling drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities into one package
  • Are cruising as a couple or with several generations

Whichever line suits you, compare current fares before you book. Our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 is a good place to start, and you can check live itineraries on the Princess Cruises and Carnival websites.

FAQs

Is Princess better than Carnival?

Neither is better overall. Princess suits travelers who want a calmer, more refined cruise and longer itineraries, while Carnival is better for budget-friendly, high-energy trips with plenty for kids.

Is Princess more expensive than Carnival?

Usually, yes, on base fares. However, Princess Plus bundles drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities, so the total cost difference can be smaller than it first appears.

Are Princess and Carnival owned by the same company?

Yes. Both are brands of Carnival Corporation, along with Holland America Line, Cunard, P&O Cruises, Costa, AIDA and Seabourn.

Which line is better for families with kids?

Carnival generally wins for families thanks to water parks, Camp Ocean, teen clubs and casual dining. Princess’s Camp Discovery is good for younger children and multi-generational groups who want a quieter ship.

What are the newest Princess cruise ships?

The newest Princess cruise ships are the Sphere-class Sun Princess, launched in 2024, and Star Princess, which entered service in October 2025.

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Passengers Left At The Port Due To Incomplete Documentation

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

Two passengers were unable to board Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 last week after failing to complete all of the necessary documentation in time.

Queen Mary 2 New York

Anne Conway was planning to board the ship with her 15-year-old granddaughter Leila, but was under the misconception that she only needed an ESTA for herself.

This was incorrect, and so the pair were unable to board their ship for the return cruise to New York.

“I knew I needed an ESTA but I thought I read somewhere that children under 16 didn’t need one if they’re traveling with an adult. But I obviously got that wrong… Both of us were just sobbing. I was so disappointed for Leila. She was so excited… To get within yards of the boat, it was devastating. I cried all the way home and all night,“

Anne Conway

It is possible to get an ESTA within a few hours, but there’s no guarantee and it’s recommended to do it as soon as possible.

Once the duo realised they couldn’t board, they did try to get Leila’s ESTA processed in time, but confirmation only came through at 5.04 pm, which was a few minutes after the ship had set sail.

While there was no way for the pair to immediately fly out to the ship – the cruise was a Transatlantic one – they have been able to raise funds through a GoFundMe which means they’re able to fly out to New York and at least join the ship for the return leg home.

ESTAs are visas that UK residents can use to visit the US for periods of up to 90 days, avoiding the need for a full visa. Most UK residents are eligible, but they are required for all travellers, including children.

Guests will be notified of any travel documents they need to arrange when they book a cruise, and are advised to carefully check well before the sailing date.

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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.

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Cruise Holidays For Students: Unforgettable Ideas

by Cruise LinesCruise Tips

Students who want to relax, discover new places, and have unforgettable experiences enjoy cruise holidays. Cruising offers young people a unique blend of entertainment, comfort, and social opportunities. This article will provide several ideas for creating an unforgettable cruise vacation for students.

1. Selecting the Route and Cruise Line

First, you need to decide on the cruise line and route. Consider cruises to the Mediterranean, Caribbean or Northern countries. Each of these destinations has its unique attractions and experiences.

  • Mediterranean Sea Greece is one of the many countries you can visit during a Mediterranean Cruise. Students can visit beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and delicious local food.
  • Caribbean Sea White sand beaches, turquoise water, and rich cultures await students on Caribbean cruises. Some routes include stops in islands like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Cuba.
  • Northern Countries Cruising through the Norwegian Fjords, Baltic Sea, or Iceland offers breathtaking landscapes and unique natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights.

2. Budget Savings Tips

The cost of the trip can be a significant factor for students. You can save money on a cruise without compromising quality.

  • Book Early: Booking early allows you to save money and select the best cabins.
  • Group Discounts Organise your trip with friends. Many cruise lines offer group discounts.
  • Watch for Sales and Promotions: Be on the lookout for sales and promotions often held during the off-season. If you need help crafting a professional admission essay to apply to university, check out these admission writing services.
  • Compare Cruise Prices: Use websites that aggregate cruise prices to compare the rates of different companies.

3. Onboard Entertainment

Students can enjoy various activities on cruise ships to make the most of their vacation.

  • Pools & Water Parks Swim in the pool or water park and enjoy the sun.
  • Sports Facilities Basketball, volleyball, rock climbing, mini-golf, and more are all available on cruise ships.
  • Bars and Nightclubs: Relax with friends or dance the night in the bars. And if you suddenly don’t have time to write some university work. You can check out this review of a service that can help you out.
  • Themed parties: Attend pirate parties, white nights, and other events often organized onboard.

4. Excursions, Active Leisure and Active Leisure

Students can enjoy a cruise to discover new places while engaging in leisure.

  • History Tours: Visit museums, ancient castles, and historical landmarks to learn more about the cultures and histories of the countries included on the cruise route.
  • National Parks and Nature Reserves: Walking in nature parks and reserves allows you to take beautiful photographs and enjoy the beauty of nature.
  • Water Sports: Take up diving, snorkeling, or kayaking in coastal waters.
  • Hiking or Biking: You can arrange hiking or cycling tours along scenic routes in specific ports.

5. Make New Friends and Learn Useful Skills

Students can learn new skills and make valuable connections on a cruise holiday.

  • International Communications: Cruise ships bring together people worldwide, allowing them to learn foreign languages and make new friends.
  • Creative Workshops Many cruise ships offer a variety of workshops, from cooking to dancing and painting.
  • Lectures and Seminars: Onboard seminars and lectures on different topics can be useful and exciting for students.

The conclusion of the article is:

Students can enjoy a cruise holiday that combines entertainment, cultural enrichment, and active leisure. Cruises are an excellent option for young travelers because they offer a wide range of entertainment on board and budget-saving tips. They also provide exciting excursions in port. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy a voyage and discover new experiences!

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Princess Cruises Announces Exclusive Packages For Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise

by Cruise Lines

In collaboration with Hollywood’s legendary Magic Castle™, Princess Cruises has unveiled three exclusive packages for its second Conjurer’s Cruise onboard the brand-new Sun Princess. Sailing November 9-16, 2024, roundtrip from Ft. Lauderdale, this magical journey will feature headline performances by acclaimed actor and magician Michael Carbonaro.

Magic Castle™ Conjurer’s Cruise

Guests will have the opportunity to be mesmerized by Spellbound, the newly launched “Extraordinary Experience.” The Conjurer’s Cruise will feature a series of ship-wide, custom-curated magical events and activities, making this a once-in-a-lifetime voyage of wonder and illusion. In addition to the magic onboard available to all registrants, three magical enhancements are now available for guests to purchase to enhance their onboard experience.

The “Apprentice” Package, priced at $275 per person, includes an exclusive “Meet the Magicians” welcome reception and fun-filled farewell social. Guests will also receive a guided tour of Spellbound with Erika Larsen, president of Magic Castle Enterprises and member of the famed Larsen family of magicians. Apprentices will also be granted early access to seating for performances in the Princess Arena and will receive special commemorative merchandise.

For $545 per person, the “Enchanter” Package includes all Apprentice benefits plus a special breakfast event featuring the Conjurer’s Cruise magicians and members of the Larsen family. Guests will also enjoy the full Spellbound experience, including dinner, reserved seating for all magic lectures and performances in the Princess Arena, and a special late-night cocktail party and magic show featuring surprises galore.

The top-tier “Conjurer” Package is available for $795 per person. In addition to all Apprentice and Enchanter benefits, this package offers a magic class for beginning, intermediate, or advanced students taught by a world-renowned magician. Guests will receive a coveted invitation to attend an intimate Spellbound cocktail soirée with Michael Carbonaro, the entire cast of Conjurer’s Cruise, and a Bridge tour with the Captain of Sun Princess. Additional perks include exclusive merchandise, a signed photo of the magicians, and a welcome gift in their stateroom.

With limited spots available, these packages can be reserved through a Travel Agent or by calling 1-800-Princess and referencing Magical Enhancement Packages.

This spectacular seven-day cruise will allow all participants to lift The Magic Castle’s veil. Top magicians will astound guests throughout the ship, and the art of magic will be featured in ways never before seen on a Princess ship, including:

  • Dynamic Piazza magic showcases, Princess Arena magical revues, recurring Princess Theater magic shows, uniquely tailored talks and lectures, and lively pop-up magic gatherings
  • Magic Castle countdown to midnight-themed event
  • Kid-friendly magic shows and activities
  • Magic-themed Movies Under the Stars
  • Curios and artifacts from magic’s rich history are on display
  • Magic jam sessions

Exclusive to the stunning and newest Love Boat, Sun Princess, Spellbound by Magic Castle is the latest in Princess Cruises’ new category of “Extraordinary Experiences,” blending the captivating world of magic with the art of culinary and mixology to create an innovative, immersive experience. Guests enjoy dinner featuring a specially-designed menu, followed by an evening in Spellbound, a specially-themed and immersive venue steeped in magic and adventure featuring talented Magic Castle-sponsored magicians performing incredible feats of illusion and theatrical cocktails that sleight-of-hand bartenders conjure.

Hollywood’s world-famous Magic Castle is known as the mecca of magic and the legendary home to the Academy of Magical Arts. The Victorian mansion in the Hollywood Hills is a private clubhouse accessible only to members and their guests. For over 60 years, it has championed the art of magic and cultivated the careers of magicians and illusionists, offering close-up performances and full-stage illusion shows.

“After the huge success of our first Conjurer’s Cruise in 2023, our second themed cruise is sure to be another celebration of the magical arts, connecting the astounding amazement of the mysterious world of magic to guests,” said Erika Larsen, president of Magic Castle Enterprises. “This voyage sets sail on the beautiful Sun Princess where Spellbound made its official debut at sea, presenting the world’s only alternative authentic experience of our beloved and exclusive Magic Castle.”

Sun Princess

The 177,500-ton, 4,300-guest Sun Princess offers an array of exciting new culinary and entertainment offerings and luxurious staterooms and suites across a broad spectrum of categories. With the most balconies and sun decks on any Princess ship, guests can take in the sunshine and crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean from the comfort of their stateroom. Plus, Princess delivers a premium vacation with the line’s award-winning, signature Princess Medallion Class experience, which offers unparalleled service and personalization.

To sign up for this captivating vacation experience, visit princess.com or click here to see the voyage.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com.

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Cruisers Reveal The 8 Cruise Lines They Would NEVER Go With

by Choosing a cruiseCruise LinesCruise News

I really believe that there is a cruise line – and a cruise ship – for everyone.

Cruise Lines To Avoid

There’s no such thing as an average cruise holiday, because ships like Explorer of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) offer a completely different experience to Seven Seas Explorer (Regent).

Even within cruise lines, there’s a huge difference between MSC Armonia and MSC World Europa.

But, cruise guests are getting more savvy and are spending a lot of time researching cruises – as you should. This means they’re often picking up on the reputations of certain cruise lines and making pre-judgements, deciding that they’d never cruise with some companies based on the reviews.

I wanted to know which cruise lines were the ones people were most likely to avoid, so I asked my Facebook audience of over 60,000 cruisers.

I must admit, I was surprised by the results! So, let’s take a look at the cruise lines that people say they would NEVER book with…

1. Carnival Cruise Line

A Carnival Dream cruise ship gliding through the ocean waters.

Carnival is one of the biggest cruise lines in the world, but I guess this one isn’t a huge surprise for coming top of the list.

That’s because it is not a cruise line that’s vague about what it offers – it’s a fun cruise, where everything is bold, loud, energetic and exciting.

Seuss-a-Palooza Storytime and Parade on the Carnival Dream, featuring performers dressed as classic Dr. Seuss characters, including the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2, entertaining guests against a whimsical Seuss-themed backdrop.

This is perfect for a huge number of people – but also very off-putting for others, who want a more relaxing experience.

Carnival cruise lines, every travel agent that I’ve spoken to steers me against traveling with carnival🤣 I’m pretty sure they know I’m loyal to Royal

Carnival doesn’t try to please everyone. It may have Serenity Decks that offer a more peaceful, adults-only space, but those aren’t going to replicate the feel of other cruise lines that are aimed less at families and party cruisers.

2. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Wish

This one did come as a bit of a shock, that so many people chose Disney as the one cruise line they would avoid.

But then I thought about it.

Of all the cruise lines, there’s one that primarily targets families rather than couples or solo travellers, and that’s Disney. So, it makes sense that any people falling into the latter groups might suggest this as the one cruise line they wouldn’t want to travel on.

Disney. I don't want to listen to 1000 screaming kids on my vacation

Of course, many couples or solo travellers do go on a Disney cruise without kids. But they are typically Disney fans, rather than cruise fans.

And there’s another reason people would avoid Disney too, which is cost – when you ignore the ultra-luxury cruise lines, Disney is probably the most expensive of all cruise lines by some distance.

Read more: How Much is a Disney Cruise Compared to Other Cruises?

Disney Cruise Line

It’s not a bad cruise line by any means, and families (with the budget for it) will typically have an incredible time. But for a lot of people, it represents all the worst parts of cruising for them.

3. Costa Cruises

The Costa Magica cruise ship embarks on a voyage, its white and yellow colors standing out against a dramatic sky with a faint rainbow visible in the distance.

From one of the most expensive cruise lines to one of the cheapest, and therein lies the reason why a lot of people said they wouldn’t cruise with Costa.

It’s definitely a cruise line with a reputation for being budget-friendly, but that also has negative connotations too when you consider the quality of the experience.

Costa, absolutely the worst cruise line we have ever been with! Almost everything awful, cabin was very nice though!

I’ve always felt that a bad cruise is better than no cruise at all, but a few people did say they would rather avoid Costa altogether considering what they’d read about the food, or the rudeness of (some of) the crew.

A woman with sunglasses is smiling in the foreground, with the large Costa cruise ship in the background, docked at a port under a partly cloudy sky with ample sunlight.

I’ve tried it, and felt that while there were things that could be improved, it was still worth the cost. If there was a particularly cheap deal, I’d have no issues booking.

But it’s not my favourite, so I do see where others are coming from as well, and so Costa appearing high up on this list wasn’t a surprise really.

4. MSC Cruises

A smiling woman in a leopard print dress with sunglasses on her head, extends her arms joyfully on a sandy beach with the MSC cruise ship in the background, floating on calm turquoise waters under a partly cloudy sky.

MSC Cruises is another that I thought might appear on this list, as it’s another cruise line with a reputation for being cheap in more ways than one.

You can get some great deals on an MSC cruise, but a lot of people believe that means you won’t get a very good cruise either. And there are some people who find that the food’s not as good as on other cruise lines, or the range of entertainment isn’t as varied and polished.

Read more: Why Are MSC Cruises So Cheap?

MSC, very, very low budget. This is reflected in the poor service, the almost inedible food and the cleanliness of the ship.

This is another cruise line that I’ve sailed with on a mega-cheap deal and in my review I described it as a 10/10.

This was the cruise that made me realise you really can’t write off a cruise line based on reputation or on one bad experience (I’d cruised with MSC before in the aftermath of the global shutdown and it wasn’t great).

kids splashpark on MSC cruise ship

Again, I’m sure many people would prefer to pay more for other cruise lines, but MSC still offers a good option for lots of people who have to budget carefully for their cruises.

5. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Viva

NCL was mentioned a few times as a cruise line people would avoid, and this was based more on past experiences rather than reputation.

The cruise line often gets a lot of positive mention for its variety of speciality dining restaurants in particular, but the food was one thing that a lot of people found to be lacking in quality.

Ncl, went once and it was the worst experience I ever had on a cruise! I’ve cruised many times before and have never had a bad cruise before that one! I bid for an upgraded their upgrade was moving me to deck 4 forward with a porthole, I bid for an oceanview. Just horrible all around! I’ll stick to Royal and carnival!

The older ships could definitely do with some renovations too, according to some of the comments, and there have been some issues with service – not necessarily the onboard crew, but dealing with the cruise line and problems with unwanted upgrades, that sort of thing.

NCL does appeal to a lot of younger cruisers and the modern ships have some fun features to enjoy, but definitely read the reviews of the ship you’re looking at before you book with the cruise line.

Suggested read: Norwegian Cruise Line Ships Ranked Best To Worst

6. Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean cruise ships docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private island, where guests can enjoy exclusive beach activities, with the vibrant colors of the aqua park and island attractions highlighting the ultimate vacation experience.

What’s interesting about Royal Caribbean is how balanced the responses were. For everyone saying they would “never” cruise Royal Caribbean, there was one where someone was saying they would “stick to Royal” or would remain loyal to the brand.

So, what’s putting some people off?

A few people mentioned some problems they’d had, such as poor service onboard or a problem with their booking, which are individual and so don’t apply widely.

Some comments focussed on the family-friendly nature of the ships and the fact they had a lot of kids onboard, which is definitely true of the newer ships. But some older, smaller Royal ships tend to have fewer families onboard.

Royal Caribbean ! I went on one cruise with them and it was a complete nightmare !!!! My loyalties will always be with Carnival !!!!

The main comment that was definitely bespoke to Royal was about the size of the ships – too big, and too overwhelming for some.

Aerial view of the 'ICON of the SEAS' cruise ship, docked in a harbor with the city skyline in the background. The ship is adorned with colorful waterslides and an elaborate aqua park visible on the upper decks, highlighting its family-friendly amenities.

Royal Caribbean has the biggest ships in the world – and not everyone wants that experience. If you don’t need something different to do every couple of hours, and you hate crowds, it might be better to look at other cruise lines.

7. Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Lady

Some of the cruise lines I’ve covered already are ones people want to avoid because of their family-friendly nature.

Virgin’s the opposite. It’s an adults-only cruise line, but definitely with more of an aim towards a younger adult audience.

Many people don’t like the atmosphere that’s tailored more towards drinking and partying, and some even described elements as “tacky”.

Virgin because it just comes across as tacky and sleazy. I mean, the ice cream parlour is called "Lick me till Ice Cream". Also the pool is tiny and there's no storage in cabins. Pity though - I understand the food is excellent.

One person said that, having tried Virgin and spoken to others onboard, it seemed to be really popular with new cruisers and less so with people who’d cruised with other lines previously.

If you want a peaceful, relaxed and more traditional cruise experience, Virgin’s probably not for you.

8. P&O Cruises

Arvia

The comments that mentioned P&O were more about bad experiences they’d had onboard, rather than the reputation of the cruise line.

P&O is generally seen as one of the better choices for UK cruisers, especially on the newer ships such as Iona and Arvia.

Iona Sky Dome

They’re family-friendly, but not packed with massive kid-friendly features. They have a relaxed vibe.

But because so many people like to cruise with P&O, there’ll always be some bad experiences for a handful of people, and those are what were mentioned in this discussion.

P&O - horrendous bad food bad service bad everything - I would say it’s like Butlins on sea but quite frankly that would be an insult to Butlins!

Suggested read: 20 Things That P&O Cruises Used To Offer That They No Longer Do

Other mentions

A handful of other cruise lines were mentioned but not as frequently as those above. Marella got a couple of mentions due to some poor service that was mentioned, although a couple of people said they’d always found the crew to be “fab”.

Some luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Azamara were mentioned but purely from a budget perspective – with one person saying it wasn’t a case of not wanting to, but they would never be able to afford them!

Overall though, I personally loved this response:

There are definitely ones, I would think twice about, but tbf I would try any cruise for the right price and itinerary, just for the experience. Life is too short!

Remember that just because a cruise line appears on this list, that doesn’t mean it’s a bad cruise line. It’s just one that has a very particular market, and that might not be the right fit for you.

But you might be exactly the right person for a Carnival or a Disney cruise, or a Virgin voyage could be just what you need as a younger adult looking to have fun and cut loose.

This just reiterates why it’s so important to do your own research, read up on what each cruise line and each ship has to offer, and then try a ship to see what you think.

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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.

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Royal-Caribbean-Dining-Diet.jpg

Viral TikTok Showcases A Teenager’s Epic Eating Day On A Cruise

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsUncategorised

A TikTok video from a creator showcasing how much food her 17-year-old brother ate on a Royal Caribbean cruise has gone viral, with many guests impressed by his metabolism.

Royal Caribbean Dining Diet TikTok

TikTok user kyleigh.pate shared the video of their cruise from Galveston, highlighting her brother Ryan’s daily diet.

It rapidly gathered a huge amount of attention, with almost 5 million views and 500,000 likes at the time of writing, along with over 9,000 comments.

@kyleigh.pate just making this video made me nauseous #cruise #familyvacation #littlebrother #foodie @Brayden Pate ♬ Cooking, bossa nova, adults, light(950693) – Kids Sound

Many of those comments are from impressed guests who praised the teen for enjoying himself and getting his money’s worth – and rightly so!

A lot of viewers said that they wished they still had the metabolism of a teenager, and that they would love to be able to enjoy themselves without the consequences.

In the day, Ryan ate a breakfast of:

  • 6 slices of French toast
  • 3 donuts
  • A plate of bacon
  • Hash browns
  • 2 sausages
  • A chocolate croissant
  • 2 glasses of apple juice

Mid-morning he had his first ice cream cone, before lunch at Sorrentos with six slices of pizza. Then two more ice cream cones followed before dinner, which was:

  • 3 cheddar bread rolls (with butter)
  • Arancini for starters
  • Two steaks (turf-and-turf) with a baked potato and broccoli
  • A chocolate dessert with ice cream
  • A lemon tart

And then to end the day, Ryan returned to Sorrentos for three more slices of pizza.

All of this food was included in the cruise fare, with many more complimentary options Ryan could’ve enjoyed, along with several speciality restaurants that have an additional charge, too.

If you’ve never cruised before, they really do let you enjoy plenty of variety in your food, and plenty of food while you’re at it too! If you want double steaks with your dinner, you just need to ask.

Fair play to Ryan! How does your typical cruise diet compare?

And it just goes to show that you can go viral on TikTok for just about anything!

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Cruise Mummy

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.

Read more about me

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