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Disney Cruise Line Creating Ultimate Vacation Destination Onboard The Disney Adventure

by Cruise Lines

Sailing from Singapore in 2025, the one-of-a-kind Disney Adventure will offer families throughout the region the ultimate vacation at sea. The first Disney Cruise Line ship to homeport in Asia will be a destination itself, sailing on three- and four-night voyages designed with magical days at sea and filled with immersive storytelling and captivating entertainment like only Disney can do.

Sailing from Singapore in 2025

“We’re bringing the magic of Disney Cruise Line to Asia for the first time ever, and we want to give our guests the cruise relaxation and Disney fun they can only experience aboard one of our ships,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager, Disney Cruise Line. “When they set sail on the Disney Adventure, guests will find incredible, immersive areas that bring the worlds of Disney, Pixar and Marvel to life in ways like never before – and these uniquely Disney experiences will inspire families to reconnect, recharge and make unforgettable memories that they’ll cherish forever.”

New Areas to Discover Aboard the Disney Adventure

The Disney Adventure will be both a journey and a destination, a voyage of limitless possibilities that brings to vibrant life the core pillars of Disney storytelling. Through the magic of imagination, discovery, fantasy and — of course — adventure, guests will embark on voyages to seven uniquely themed areas, each teeming with dozens of incredible characters and unforgettable experiences, without ever leaving the ship.

The power of imagination, which opens doors to new adventures and emboldens dreamers to create magic of their own, will captivate guests from the moment they enter Disney Imagination Garden.

  • Disney Imagination Garden will be the emotional heart of the Disney Adventure, an enchanted valley, charming garden and open-air performance venue all in one. Inspired by 100 years of heroic and heartwarming Disney adventures — from Moana on the high seas to Mowgli in the jungle — this imaginative gathering space will be guests’ gateway to an unforgettable journey all their own.

The spirit of discovery will inspire guests to chase the horizon, to see how far they can go, and to encounter surprising worlds beyond their own in the dynamic realms of Disney Discovery Reef, San Fransokyo Street and Wayfinder Bay.

  • At Disney Discovery Reef, families will shop and dine in an ethereal and ever-changing retreat evoking favorite aquatic characters and nautical stories from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, including “The Little Mermaid,” “Lilo & Stitch,” “Finding Nemo” and “Luca.”
  • Inspired by the eclectic world of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Big Hero 6,” San Fransokyo Street will be a family entertainment area pulsing with the energy and atmosphere of a vibrant street market and boasting an assortment of interactive games and activities, shops, cinemas and more.
  • At Wayfinder Bay, guests will be called by “the line where the sky meets the sea” to an open-air oasis under the sun, where relaxation and exclusive entertainment await. The sophisticated yet casual poolside retreat will reflect the Pacific Islands-inspired artistry of Disney Animation’s “Moana,” offering some of the most stunning views of the sea and sky aboard the Disney Adventure.

The magic of fantasy draws on hopes, dreams and wishes to create whimsical new worlds from many of Disney’s most beloved and timeless stories, with fairytales made real in the enchanting and expansive Town Square.

  • Town Square will be a celebration of Disney royals — a magical land dedicated to those who wish upon a star hoping their dreams will come true. This fantastical forest filled with shops, lounges, cafes, restaurants and entertainment venues will exude the enchanting feeling of summer in full bloom with nods to “Tangled,” “Cinderella,” “Frozen,” “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “The Princess and the Frog,” and more.

The heart of every Disney adventure is the irresistible thrill and joyful delight of boldly embarking on new and exciting experiences, a feeling guests will dare to discover within Marvel Landing and Toy Story Place.

  • At Marvel Landing, heroes will unite in a destination for fans of all ages. As a celebration of Marvel’s larger-than-life personalities, this area will offer Avengers-level adventure, with all-new attractions and experiences that showcase imaginative representations of guests’ favorite Super Heroes.
  • Toy Story Place will inspire guests to explore, create, connect and have fun in a whimsical, interactive play land with themed food venues and water play areas, where the world of Pixar’s “Toy Story” movies and shorts springs to life in surprising and inventive ways.

Where Magic Meets the Sea

The Disney Adventure will offer guests a Disney Cruise Line vacation on a grand scale, including the hallmarks of every Disney cruise – fun and relaxation for everyone onboard, incredible dining, world-class entertainment and exceptional guest service.

Every sailing will include an endless array of indoor and outdoor fun, with exciting attractions, interactive play areas, fun in the sun and special entertainment, plus so much more for families to enjoy together. Young cruisers will have the time of their lives with dedicated spaces and clubs for kids, tweens and teens, while adults relax and unwind with premium dining, lounge and spa experiences.

A highlight of every Disney cruise vacation is the world-class entertainment that brings the ship to life. Throughout the Disney Adventure, guests will enjoy unforgettable character encounters, dazzling stage shows brimming with Disney songs and characters, signature events, first-run films, karaoke and game shows.

Guests aboard the Disney Adventure will also enjoy the exceptional dining and impeccable service that Disney Cruise Line is known for. Guests will indulge in a collection of imaginative restaurants where dinner is more than a meal — it’s a chance to feast on favorite Disney stories through immersive theming and distinctly Disney entertainment. Guests will be accompanied by the same dedicated service team throughout the voyage, adding a level of familiarity and attention to their dining experience.

When it’s time to rest, guests will retreat to well-appointed staterooms complete with special Disney touches and family-friendly conveniences, such as Disney Cruise Line’s signature split-bath concept, which allows two people to get ready at once. The Disney Adventure will also feature extensive concierge accommodations, providing ultimate luxury and a heightened level of personalized service and convenience, including access to exclusive areas and amenities such as a private indoor lounge, an expansive sundeck with a pool and whirlpools, high-end shopping venues, and dedicated spa and fitness facilities.

A New Adventure on the Horizon

Beginning in 2025, the Disney Adventure will sail three- and four-night cruises from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre for at least five years as part of a collaboration between Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board. Singapore’s strategic location, world-class air connectivity and port infrastructure make it a thriving cruise hub in Southeast Asia, a diverse region that is home to over 40 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Disney Cruise Line estimates the passenger capacity of the 208,000-gross-ton Disney Adventure to be approximately 6,700 with around 2,500 crew members.

More details about the maiden voyage and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.

For more information about Disney Cruise Line, guests can visit disneycruise.com.

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Cruise ship sailing past forested mountains in Alaska, illustrating the small ship vs large ship Alaska cruise choice

Small Ship vs Large Ship Alaska Cruise: Big Ship, Luxury or Expedition?

by Cruise LinesCruise Tips

Deciding on a small ship vs large ship Alaska cruise comes down to what you want from your days. Big ships from lines like Princess, Holland America and Royal Caribbean give you the lowest price per day and plenty to do on board. Luxury ships add space, service and inclusions. Small expedition ships with 22 to around 150 guests get you closest to wildlife, glaciers and remote coves, at the highest price per day.

Most people are not really choosing a cruise line first. They are choosing a style of trip. This guide compares the three main styles of Alaska cruise side by side, explains how routes and seasons change the picture, and helps you work out which one fits your budget and travel style. If you already know your style and want to pick a specific line, our guide to the best cruise line to Alaska for you goes line by line.

The Three Styles of Alaska Cruise at a Glance

Here is how the three styles compare on the things that matter most. Prices are rough per person, per night guides based on two people sharing, and they move a lot by month, cabin and how early you book.

Big ship Luxury Small ship / expedition
Typical lines Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, Carnival Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn, Crystal, Oceania, Viking UnCruise, Lindblad Expeditions, American Cruise Lines
Guests on board About 2,000 to 5,000+ About 250 to 1,250 About 22 to 175
Rough price per night About $85 to $250 (inside to balcony) About $600 to $1,200+ About $700 to $1,600+
Ports Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, plus Victoria BC on Seattle round trips Main ports plus some smaller towns such as Sitka, Wrangell or Haines Small towns, remote inlets, wilderness landings
Wildlife access From the deck, or on paid excursions From the deck, or on paid excursions Close up from kayaks, skiffs and the bow, often with naturalists
What is included Meals in main venues; drinks, Wi-Fi, tips and excursions usually extra Most drinks, tips and Wi-Fi; some lines include excursions Often all activities and guiding; some lines include drinks and transfers
Best for Families, first-timers, value seekers Couples wanting comfort and fine dining Active travelers and nature lovers

One point the table cannot show: a cheap big-ship fare and an expensive expedition fare are not always as far apart as they look once you add excursions. In Alaska, a whale-watching trip, floatplane flight or glacier landing can easily cost several hundred dollars per person each, and those are already built into many expedition fares.

Big Ship Alaska Cruises: Best Value and Most Choice

Large ships carry most of Alaska’s cruise visitors, and they do some things very well. You get the widest choice of dates, cabins and departure ports, plus pools, shows, kids clubs and a long list of restaurants. For a family or a first trip to Alaska, that mix is hard to beat on price.

Recent snapshot fares for 2027 seven-night sailings started at roughly $600 to $820 per person for an inside cabin on Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Holland America, with balconies from about $900 to $1,700. Taxes are often included in quotes; gratuities, drinks and excursions usually are not.

Glacier Bay and scenic cruising on a big ship

Glacier Bay National Park allows only two cruise ships a day, with seasonal caps on top of that, so permits are limited. Holland America and Princess are the lines most often associated with Glacier Bay itineraries, and a National Park Service ranger comes on board for the day. If Glacier Bay is high on your list, check the itinerary before you book rather than assuming it is included. Some big ships visit Hubbard Glacier or Endicott Arm instead, which are spectacular in their own right.

Who a big ship suits

  • Families with children who want activities on sea days
  • Travelers who want to keep costs down and choose excursions one by one
  • Anyone planning a cruisetour with land days in Denali

The trade-off is crowds. On busy days in Juneau or Skagway several large ships can be in port at once, and popular excursions sell out. Torn between the two biggest Alaska specialists? See our comparison of Holland America vs Princess.

Tidewater glacier and snowy mountains seen from the water on an Alaska cruise
Glacier viewing is a highlight on every style of Alaska cruise. Photo: Timon Cornelissen on Pexels

Luxury Alaska Cruise: Space, Service and Inclusions

A luxury Alaska cruise sits between the two extremes. Ships are mid-sized, so you still sail the classic routes and dock at the main ports, but with far fewer people, more space per guest and a higher level of service. Recent Alaska deployments have included Regent’s Seven Seas Explorer (746 guests), Silversea’s Silver Moon (596) and Silver Whisper (392), Crystal Symphony (606), the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara (452) and Oceania’s Riviera (1,250), with Viking also offering longer Alaska voyages. Deployments change year to year, so check the current season with each line.

What you pay for is mostly comfort: all-suite or all-balcony ships on many lines, included drinks and gratuities, better dining and smaller crowds when you board tenders or join tours. Some lines, such as Regent, include many shore excursions in the fare, while others charge for them, so compare carefully. Expect roughly $600 to $1,200 or more per person per night, and promotions can bring that down on shoulder-season dates.

Who a luxury cruise suits

  • Couples and older travelers who value calm, space and service
  • Food lovers who want fine dining after a day ashore
  • People who want the classic Alaska ports without big-ship crowds on board

Keep in mind that a luxury ship still goes where large ships go. You will share Juneau and Skagway with the same crowds once you step off, and the ship cannot slip into the narrow inlets that small vessels reach.

Alaska Expedition Cruise: Closest to the Wilderness

An Alaska expedition cruise on a small ship is the most immersive way to see Southeast Alaska. With a few dozen guests on board, ships can change course for a pod of humpback whales, anchor in a quiet cove overnight and put you in a kayak or skiff the same afternoon. Many trips spend little or no time in the big cruise ports.

The main players today are:

  • UnCruise Adventures, with seven Alaska ships carrying 22 to 88 guests. Fares include activities such as kayaking, paddle boarding and guided hikes, gear, meals and drinks including alcohol. A seven-night Glacier Bay itinerary between Juneau and Sitka has been advertised from about $4,900 per person.
  • Lindblad Expeditions (with National Geographic), with naturalist-led expeditions. Lindblad has announced that its 62-guest Sea Lion and Sea Bird will be replaced by the larger Greg Mortimer (about 150 guests) for 2027, with a new Vancouver to Sitka Inside Passage route from May 2027. It is usually the priciest of the three per night.
  • American Cruise Lines, with coastal ships of around 170 guests sailing round trips from Juneau and longer trips from the Pacific Northwest. It is more comfort-focused than adventure-focused, and recent eight-night Juneau round trips were listed from about $6,725 per person.

Note that Alaskan Dream Cruises, a long-running Sitka-based small-ship line, stopped operating in early 2026 and canceled its remaining sailings, so you will no longer find it on 2027 itineraries.

Small ship Alaska cruise trade-offs

A small ship Alaska cruise has fewer facilities: no casino, few or no evening shows, simpler cabins on some ships and limited medical services. Motion can be more noticeable in open water. Many itineraries are one way between Alaska towns such as Juneau, Sitka or Ketchikan, so you will usually fly in and out rather than sail from Seattle or Vancouver. That adds flight costs, but it also means more days actually in Alaska.

Kayakers paddling on calm water beneath forested mountains in Southeast Alaska
Kayaking straight from the ship is a big draw of expedition cruising. Photo: Martine Sunde on Pexels

Inside Passage vs Gulf of Alaska and Cruisetours

Whichever style you choose, the route shapes your trip as much as the ship.

  • Inside Passage round trips from Seattle or Vancouver are usually seven nights and call at Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway, with a day of glacier viewing. Foreign-flagged ships sailing round trip from Seattle must stop at a foreign port, which is why Victoria, British Columbia often appears on the last night.
  • Gulf of Alaska one-way cruises run between Vancouver and Seward or Whittier, near Anchorage. They usually add Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord and pair well with a land tour.
  • Cruisetours combine a one-way cruise with several nights on land in places like Denali National Park and Fairbanks. Princess and Holland America have the deepest land networks here.
  • Small-ship routes mostly stay within Southeast Alaska, weaving through narrow channels between islands that big ships cannot use.

When to Go on an Alaska Cruise

The Alaska cruise season runs from roughly late April or May to late September.

  • May and early June: lower prices, fewer crowds, snow on the peaks and often drier weather. A good time for value on any style of ship.
  • Late June to August: peak season, with the warmest weather, long days, whales well established and salmon runs in July and August. Prices and crowds are highest.
  • September: cheaper fares, autumn colors and a chance of northern lights on dark nights, but more rain and shorter days.

Small ships have far fewer cabins, so popular summer dates can sell out a year or more ahead. Big-ship fares tend to be more flexible, and you can often find promotions; our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 is a good place to start.

How to Choose Your Alaska Cruise Style

  1. Start with your budget per night, not per trip. Then add what is not included, especially excursions, drinks and tips, so you compare like with like.
  2. Decide how active you want to be. If you want to kayak, hike and get off the ship in wild places most days, a small ship is worth the cost. If you prefer watching from a balcony, a big or luxury ship fits.
  3. Think about who is traveling. Young children usually do better on big ships. Couples looking for quiet often prefer luxury or small ships.
  4. Check the scenic day. Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm: know which one your ship visits.
  5. Consider a hybrid. A big-ship cruise plus a small-boat whale watch or a few days in Denali can give you a taste of both worlds for less than a full expedition.

If you are weighing up a dedicated expedition ship, our comparison of the best expedition cruise lines covers polar, Alaska and Galápagos specialists side by side.

FAQs

Is a small ship or large ship better for an Alaska cruise?

Neither is better for everyone. Small ships get you closer to wildlife and remote places with fewer people around, while large ships offer more facilities, more departure dates and much lower prices per day.

Which is the best cruise ship to Alaska?

It depends on your style. For value and families, a big ship from Princess or Holland America is a strong choice; for comfort, a luxury line like Regent or Silversea; for wildlife and adventure, an expedition ship from UnCruise or Lindblad.

How much does a luxury Alaska cruise cost?

As a rough guide, luxury lines run about $600 to $1,200 or more per person per night, with expedition ships often higher. Big-ship cruises can start under $100 per person per night for an inside cabin.

Can small ships go into Glacier Bay?

Yes, some can. Glacier Bay limits large cruise ships to two a day and smaller tour vessels to three a day, and some small-ship lines such as UnCruise include Glacier Bay on selected itineraries.

When should you not go on an Alaska cruise?

Outside the May to September season there are essentially no cruises. Within the season, late September brings more rain and shorter days, and peak July dates are the most crowded and expensive.

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New Culinary Adventures Await Onboard The Disney Treasure

by Cruise Lines

Heartwarming Disney adventures will flavor several new dining experiences onboard the Disney Treasure when it sets sail in Dec. 2024. From an adult lounge themed to “The Aristocats” and a heartwarming “Guardians of the Galaxy” dinner offering, to a “Coco”-inspired menu and premium sweet treats straight out of “Zootopia,” guests will embark on a delicious journey that combines Disney Cruise Line’s signature service and world-class cuisine with tastes from beloved Disney stories.

A “Cat-Tastic” Piano Lounge

Infused with the eclectic elegance of an old-school jazz club, the Scat Cat Lounge will interpret the groovy penthouse performance of “Ev’erybody Wants to be a Cat” from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film “The Aristocats” in an artistic salute to the film. An assortment of hanging lanterns and a paw print-adorned baby grand piano will evoke the bohemian sophistication of the film’s iconic character Scat Cat and his larger-than-life persona.

A direct extension of the Grand Hall, Scat Cat Lounge will also take design cues from the Grand Hall’s Agrabah-inspired architecture with a complementary color palette and curated décor. Symbols of cats, both hidden and overt, throughout the space will help bring the animated adventures of Duchess and her mischievous kittens into the real world for the first time. At Scat Cat Lounge, guests will encounter swinging live music and a delicious craft cocktail menu.

  • Served to sip from a French-style ceramic bowl, the Créme de la Créme Martini will fuse cognac and chocolate into a rich, creamy dessert cocktail that will be reminiscent of “The Aristocats” kittens, Marie, Toulouse and Berlioz’s favorite evening treat. 
  • The Cat Drink will combine clarified bourbon, amaro, Aperol and fresh lemon into a near translucent cocktail that shows off hand-crafted drinkware that will be embossed with the image of a cat.
  • Ideal for two or more guests, The Turkish Tea Experience will honor the Agrabah-inspired architecture of the Grand Hall. The tea-based cocktail will be presented in a bejeweled tea pot and gold-detailed teacups.  

An Out-of-This-World Cinematic Dining Celebration

Worlds of Marvel, Disney Cruise Line’s Marvel-themed dining experience, will host Disney Treasure guests for two distinct nights, including a brand-new offering that will showcase the lively duo Rocket and Groot from the blockbuster “Guardians of the Galaxy” films. “Marvel Celebration of Heroes: Groot Remix” will begin as diners partake in a celebration honoring the many Super Heroes who keep the world safe. The story will unfold onscreen when Groot takes over the proceedings and brings the party to the next level like only he can. Throughout the evening, guests will eat to the beat of an “awesome mix” of hit songs from decades past and have the chance to test their knowledge of the Marvel universe with activities for the whole family. Guests on the Disney Treasure will also experience “Avengers: Quantum Encounter,” a fan-favorite cinematic dining adventure that follows Ant-Man and The Wasp as they work to protect new Quantum Core technology from a fearsome foe.

A Flavorful Trip to Santa Cecilia

At Plaza de Coco,an array of artful dishes will transport guests to the picturesque town depicted in the Pixar Animation Studios film, “Coco.” Traditional recipes from the Rivera family’s kitchen will guide a modern menu that will capture the festive flavors of Miguel’s colorful world in a fresh new way. Everyone in the familia will gather around the table for two unique, celebratory evenings full of food and theatrical entertainment during their Disney Treasure voyage.

The musical meal will begin with appetizer options to the tune of Abuelita Elena Shrimp Diabla with chili-chipotle sauce, cilantro, pickled red onion and toasted birotes, and Chorizo Street Croquettes with chili-lime crema, cotija cheese and cilantro. 

Tastebuds will continue to dance when entrees are served, including Luisa’s Pollo Asado, which features Michoacán citrus chicken, cilantro rice and serrano-tomatillo salsa; Enrique’s Port Wine Braised Center Cut Beef Short Rib with cheddar cheese and green onion red mash, and long green beans with crisp shallots; Pan-Seared Adobo Spiced Sea Bass with seared scallops, rainbow carrots, spinach, romanesco, peas and chimichurri sauce; a Blistered Poblano Pepper stuffed with Oaxaca cheese and green rice; and Red Capsicum and Green Parsley Grilled Snapper with fried yucca, refried beans, baby spinach and pico de gallo.

Dessert will usher in the grand finale of Margarita Lime Cheesecake with a sea salt shortbread and raspberry-agave margarita coulis; Mexican Chocolate Tart with spiced chocolate crème, caramel pecan nuts and chocolate glaze; and Warm Coconut Tres Leches featuring milk-soaked coconut cake, caramel sauce and dulce de leche ice cream.

A Delicious Departure to Zootopia

Guests on the Disney Treasure who step into Jumbeaux’s Sweets will discover a mouthwatering display of specialty treats inspired by the diverse inhabitants from the bustling mammal metropolis featured in Disney Animation’s “Zootopia,” along with a selection of more than 35 flavors of handmade gelato, ice cream, plant-based frozen desserts and sorbets.

  • In a nod to Officer Judy Hopps’ humble upbringing on her family’s carrot farm, the Judy Hopps Carrot Cupcake will feature spiced carrot cake layered between dollops of lemon frosting, white chocolate crème and blueberry compote. The cake will be topped with a chocolate piece portraying Judy and dotted with brightly colored sprinkles.
  • Named for Officer Judy Hopps’ partner in solving crime, the Nick Wilde Raspberry ‘n Cream Cupcake will draw flavor inspiration from the distinct color of Nick’s fur and feature red velvet sponge cake paired with vanilla frosting, white chocolate crème, raspberry compote and a chocolate décor topping.
  • The Paw Shortbread Sandwich will present an elevated take on Nick Wilde’s notorious “pawpcicle.” Two paw-shaped red velvet shortbread cookies filled with vanilla frosting and dulce de leche will be decorated with red fondant and served on a wooden stick to resemble the icy treat from the film.
  • The Mango Leopard Cakesicle will honor the many striped residents of Zootopia with a lemon fudge cake pop drizzled with mango chocolate glaze and decorated with a bold spotted leopard print.
  • A crop of three Carrot Chocolate Covered Strawberries will be served over cookie crumble soil and decorated with piped stems made of frosting.
  • Each Zootopia Chocolate Bark Post Card will represent a beloved character from Disney’s “Zootopia” and carry its own distinct flavor variation that will combine an assortment of dry fruits, nuts and sprinkles in a delicious dark, milk or white chocolate treat.

The Disney Treasure’s maiden voyage, a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida, will set sail on Dec. 21, 2024, followed by an inaugural season of seven-night itineraries to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from Port Canaveral.

To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.

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What’s Included in MSC Cruises (And How Much is Everything Else?)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsCruise TipsMSC Cruises

MSC Cruises can be some of the cheapest that you can book – but you need to understand exactly what that cruise fare then gets you. It’s no good assuming that you’re getting a bargain if it then turns out that you’ve got loads more that you need to fork out for.

Cruise Mummy smiling for a selfie with a large cruise ship MSC Euribia docked in the background. The ship is white with multiple decks, and various construction equipment is visible in the foreground under a cloudy sky.

What complicates matters even more is the fact that MSC offers three different ‘experiences’, all of which comes with different costs and different inclusions.

It can get a little confusing, but with this guide, I’ll make it clear what you get, and what you need to pay for, for each cruise fare you can choose.

And then you’ll know what counts as a real bargain cruise with MSC, and what actually isn’t as good a deal as you thought.

What’s Included in an MSC Cruise and What Costs Extra..?

1. Accommodation

As with any cruise line, your cruise fare covers your accommodation costs. It’s one of the main things that you’re actually paying for.

A cosy cabin on MSC Euribia cruise ship features two single beds with white linens and blue throws, separated by a nightstand. The room is decorated with framed marine-themed artwork and includes a vanity desk with a mirror and various amenities. Soft lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

And as you’d expect, you have the typical range of cabin options available:

  • Inside cabins with no view
  • Ocean View cabins that have a window
  • Balcony cabins with a private balcony space
  • Suites, offering the most space and a range of extra perks.

However, as I’ve already said, there are different cruise fares you can book with MSC, called ‘Experiences’. And the experience that you choose will determine which cabin types you’re able to book.

Experience Cabins You Can Book Choose Your Specific Cabin?
Bella Inside, Ocean View, Balcony No
Fantastica Inside, Ocean View, Balcony Yes
Aurea Suites Yes

If you book the Bella experience, you only get a Guarantee cabin – one where the cruise line will pick your room for you, and you’ll only find out where you’re staying a few days before you sail.

Close-up of MSC cruise ship highlighting Bella Balcony and Fantastica Balcony cabins, marked by red arrows, showcasing the ship's multi-tiered accommodation options.

You’ll also get the worst locations on the ship – the ones that are furthest from the restaurants or leisure amenities or those with an obstructed view.

Also, if you book a cabin for 3 or 4 people, there’s a chance that you could be split between two cabins instead, if there isn’t a larger room available. 

MSC Virtuosa balcony cabin with bunk beds

This might be a good thing, but if you’re travelling with kids it could make things difficult, especially since there’s no guarantee the cabins will be next to each other. They will be on the same deck and same side, but there could be several cabins between them.

If you choose Fantastica, you’ll get to pick where on the ship your cabin will be, and if you choose Aurea you can book one of the suites.

This includes a range of normal suites, and the option of booking in the MSC Yacht Club, an exclusive part of your MSC ship that features on most newer MSC ships. These come with a range of additional perks such as a pillow menu, access to exclusive lounge and sun deck areas, and a welcome package with Prosecco and chocolates.

Regardless of whether you choose the cheapest Bella Inside cabin or the fanciest Aurea suite, you’ll always get a minibar, a TV, a safe, a hairdryer, air-con and a telephone. But you won’t always get a bed!

One cruise ship has solo rooms with sofa beds instead of a proper bed – so be warned!

Read more: MSC Bella Vs Fantastica Vs Aurea

2. Food

As with other cruise lines, MSC offers a wide range of food at no extra cost for your cruise fare.

You can enjoy the Main Dining Room or the buffet, along with a small range of other casual venues for items like burgers or pizza, and you won’t have to pay anything.

A plate of food featuring a sesame seed bun burger with a vegetable patty and sundried tomatoes, accompanied by a generous portion of golden French fries. The meal is set on a white tablecloth with silverware and a glass of sparkling water visible in the background.

But each MSC ship also has a range of speciality restaurants. These include steakhouses such as Butcher’s Cut, a variety of Asian restaurants such as the Kaito Sushi Bar or Oriental Plaza, and various other international venues including the Hola Tapas Bar, or the Indochine Restaurant. The specific venues will depend on which ship you choose.

For these restaurants, you’ll either need to pay a fixed price to dine there, or they will offer an a la carte menu, with the costs added to your account that you’ll need to settle at the end of the cruise.

A promotional banner for MSC Cruises advertises "Speciality Dining Packages" with options including Duo (two speciality dining experiences for €75), Trilogy (three speciality dining experiences for €95), The Finest Four (four speciality dining experiences for €125), L'Atelier Grill Chef's Table (€85), and Dinner and Bubbles (€115). The banner features images of gourmet food and happy diners.

MSC also offers the option of paying for a dining package. You can choose between one to five meals, and by paying in advance you can save up to 40% of the cost of paying for each meal individually when you’re on the ship.

So, that’s another way you can budget in advance and still enjoy all the experiences of your cruise ship.

3. Drinks

On an MSC cruise, there are a small selection of drinks that you’ll be able to enjoy at no extra charge – tap water, basic coffee and tea, ice tea, and juices at breakfast. But for everything else – sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic drinks, you’ll need to pay.

Cruise Mummy raises a glass of amber-colored beverage in the Main Dining Room on an MSC cruise ship, with elegant décor and attentive staff in the background, capturing a moment of joy and fine dining on a luxury voyage.

You can pay for drinks individually, if you want. A glass of soda costs around $2.25, a beer will cost around $6, and a cocktail can vary between $7 and $16 depending on how fancy a drink you’re looking for.

Read more: MSC Cruises Drinks Menus with Prices

If you’re someone who likes to drink a lot (not just booze, but soft drinks too) then it’s worth considering a drinks package. With these, you’ll pay in advance for the duration of the cruise and then be able to enjoy unlimited drinks within your package.

There are three packages that include alcohol – Premium, Easy Plus, and Easy. There’s also an alcohol-free package that covers sodas, bottled water, speciality coffees and even soft-serve ice cream, and there’s a Minors package for younger guests.

A promotional banner for MSC Cruises highlights various drink packages with pricing. The options include the Easy Package (€47 per adult/day), Easy Plus Package (€63 per adult/day), Premium Extra Package (€87 per adult/day), Dine & Drink Package (€15 per meal or €9 per meal/day), Alcohol-Free Package (€29 per adult/day), and Minors Package (€20 per child/day). The banner features images of beverages and encourages guests to upgrade their drink packages.

The cost for the packages will vary depending on where you’re sailing and how long you’re cruising – British guests will pay between £64 and £77.05 per day for the Premium Extra package, for example.

Never jump into buying a drinks package without doing some basic budgeting first, as you might overpay if you don’t drink much each day. My drinks package calculator can help you work it out.

One thing to be mindful of is that the mini bar costs extra, even if you have a drink package. The only way you get to enjoy your mini bar for free is if you stay in the Yacht Club.

A minibar price list from MSC Cruises displays various items and their prices. Spirits include gin, vodka, and whisky at £9 each. Soft drinks like fruit juice, sodas, and ice tea are priced at £3.5 each. Mineral water ranges from £2.5 to £3.5, and beers such as Heineken and Beck's cost £8 each. Snacks, including peanuts, chocolate-covered peanuts, mixed nuts, and chips, are priced between £3.5 and £4.5. The form includes spaces for cabin number, quantity consumed, and total cost.

4. Room Service

On every MSC cruise, guests are welcome to enjoy room service on those occasions where they would rather dine in their room, or they just want a snack. 

A breakfast menu card from MSC Cruises allows guests to indicate their desired quantity for each item.

If you’ve booked the Fantastica or Aurea experiences, then room service is available 24-hours a day and there’s no charge at all for delivery. Some free items are available on the menu, but there are some that have a charge – you just won’t pay for the delivery.

If you’ve booked the cheaper Bella experience, then there will be a $4.99 delivery fee. This is per order, not per person, so you’ll only pay the single fee even if you’re ordering food for everyone in your cabin. You might also want to add a tip on for your budget, so bear that in mind.

5. Entertainment

MSC cruise ships offer a range of entertainment every evening, in the main theatre but also in some other venues around the ship. This can include singers, dancers, acted performances and more. Comedy isn’t too common, just because of the multi-lingual nature of the ships.

A vibrant stage performance on a cruise ship features a group of performers dressed in futuristic costumes under dynamic lighting. The background is illuminated with striking red and orange patterns, creating an energetic atmosphere. The audience is seated, watching the engaging and lively show.

None of this entertainment costs anything to enjoy – it’s all covered by the cost of the cruise fare.

It’s a nice way to pass the evening but make sure you head to the venue as early as you can if you want the best seats. The venues aren’t always designed very well and it’s not uncommon to be stuck behind a pillar, or for a venue to become very crowded.

6. Activities

MSC’s ships are packed with fun things to do during the day, but not all of them are covered by the cost of your cruise fare.

An arcade on a cruise ship features various games, including motorcycle racing simulators, air hockey, and other interactive attractions. The area is brightly lit with colorful neon lights, creating an exciting and playful atmosphere. Large windows offer a view of the sea, adding to the unique experience of gaming at sea.

The waterparks are free, so you can swim or ride the slides as much as you want, but pretty much everything else will have a fee that you’ll need to pay. Some examples include:

  • Bowling – typically £25 for 30 minutes
  • Flight Simulator – £15 per go
  • Formula 1 Simulator – £12 per go
  • Arcade games – between £1.50 and £5
  • 4D Cinema – £8

Those prices can quickly add up. But there is a way you can save – you can buy a Fun Pass.

A sign about the MSC fun pass that is on display for people to see

The Fun Pass works differently depending on which ship you’re cruising on – for some, it offers all-inclusive activities, while on others, it gives you a set amount of bonus credit. So if you paid £100, you’d get £40 extra free to spend on the activities on the ship.

Paying for a Fun Pass doesn’t just save you money, it also makes it easier to budget for the activities. You can set a rule where, once the Fun Pass is spent, that’s the activities budget done.

Read more: Is the MSC Fun Pass Worth It?

7. Kids’ Clubs

MSC Cruises has some excellent kids clubs onboard, and is one of the few cruise lines to properly cater for babies. So it’s an even bigger relief to know that the kids’ clubs on the ship are available at no extra charge.

Two children pose happily with certificates in front of a large LEGO sailor statue at an MSC Cruise Kids' Club. The boy on the left holds colorful streamers and a "Congratulations" certificate, while the girl on the right, wearing a Minnie Mouse hoodie and a face mask, holds a similar certificate and streamers. The background features bright colors and playful decorations, enhancing the fun atmosphere.

You can even enjoy free babysitting for babies and toddlers during the day in one-hour slots, so that you can enjoy your lunch and dinner in peace if you want to. You just need to make sure you’ve booked using the registration form.

Group babysitting is also available for children late at night, if you want to enjoy the nightlife on your ship. It’s available for children aged 3 and up, provided they are potty trained, and it costs $6 per child for the first hour, or $10 per child for the full three hours. The service is offered between 11 pm and 2 am.

8. Service Charges

As if the different experience fares you can book with MSC weren’t confusing enough, there’s one more quirk of MSC that can make budgeting a little tricker – daily gratuities. And that’s because sometimes they’re included, and sometimes they aren’t.

A crew member wearing a mask and uniform serves a guest seated on the deck of a cruise ship. The guest, a bald man with tattoos, is receiving a drink from a cart filled with various beverages. The scene takes place under a bright, sunny sky, with the ship's sleek exterior and other passengers in the background.

If you’re cruising from the UK, then the tips will be included. If you’re cruising from the US, then they won’t be, and you should expect to pay up to $14 per person, per day on your cruise.

For cruises in Europe it can vary but the cost will be similar if they aren’t included – make sure you check.

You’ll also want to remember other tips that you might want to pay – such as the luggage porters at port. It’s custom to give them a small tip and it helps to make sure they look after your bags for you.

9. WiFi

Kids using the internet

WiFi internet access is almost never included as standard with a cruise fare, and with MSC that’s no different – if you want to get online, you’ll need to pay extra.

The good news is that MSC’s packages are very well priced, with some of the lowest WiFi charges of any cruise line.

And, you aren’t forced to pay for the full duration of your cruise if you don’t want to – you can pay by the day, though it does work out a lot cheaper to pay for a full week.

There are three packages you can pick from:

  • Social – grants access to popular social media apps such as Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, WhatsApp and Pinterest, but you won’t be able to use them for video calls
  • Surfer – everything in the Social package, but access to the web/emails
  • Streamer – full access to the internet including video and audio streaming.
WiFi Package Cost Per Day Cost For A 7-Night Cruise
Social From €3.90 From €14.90
Surfer From €9.90 From €29.90
Streamer From €19.90 From €59.90

If you don’t want to pay for the WiFi, you can usually find free WiFi while you’re in port – chain restaurants, some bars and hotels are good places to try. Just make sure your phone is on airplane mode at other times, as roaming charges (especially at sea) can be astronomical.

10. Laundry

If you’re on a shorter MSC cruise, you’ll probably never need to use the laundry services, but for longer cruises, it can be more cost-effective to have some clothes washed instead of buying a whole holiday wardrobe.

MSC doesn’t offer self-service laundry unlike some other cruise lines, which means you have to use the laundry service. You can pay per item, or you can pay for a laundry package.

This image is a pricing list for laundry services on an MSC cruise. It details the costs in pounds and euros for various types of clothing items for both gentlemen and ladies, such as shirts, trousers, dresses, and skirts, along with the cost for other items like pillowcases and blankets. The list is presented in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Russian.

On a per-item basis, expect to pay around €3 per t-shirt or €9 for a dress. Packages start at €15 which gets you 10 items – so you can save a lot buying a package instead of paying for everything individually.

11. Flights and Transfers

One thing that isn’t included with an MSC cruise fare as standard is your flights. It’s possible to book a package through the cruise line, but most of the fares you see advertised will be cruise only.

A view from an airplane window shows the wing of the aircraft against a backdrop of a clear blue sky and the sun shining brightly. Below, a landscape of fields and rivers is partially covered in snow, with clouds scattered across the horizon, creating a serene and picturesque aerial scene.

Often you can save by booking your flights separately, either yourself or by using a travel agent to put together a package for you. You just need to be aware that, if something happens to your flight, the cruise ship won’t wait for you. 

Give yourself plenty of time to get to your embarkation port, and make sure you have insurance. If you can, it’s best to fly the day before and book an overnight hotel so that you’re guaranteed to make the ship in time.

Don’t forget transfers, too – you need to get from the airport to the cruise port after all, and that’s another cost to factor in.

And if you’re sailing from Southampton (or from a port that’s in your own country) then you’ll need to still think about how you’re getting there. If you’re using public transport, budget for those costs, and if you’re driving, you’ll need to think about parking.

Suggested read: How To Get To Southampton Cruise Terminal by Train

12. Shore Excursions

Shore excursions aren’t included in your cruise fare, and depending on the type of excursion, they can be pretty expensive if you book through the cruise line.

My son on an MSC shore excursion. He smiles with his arms outstretched, standing in front of the iconic Stonehenge monument. He is wearing a black hoodie with a "Love Our Planet" design and blue shorts featuring a Mickey Mouse patch. The grassy field and ancient stones create a historic and picturesque backdrop under a cloudy sky.

You have alternative options – in some ports, you might not need an excursion, and you can just wander off on your own to explore.

In others, look for local bus services or book excursions with a third party. You can often save a lot doing this, but the downside is that there’s a risk the ship will leave you behind if your excursion delays you in any way.

You could, of course, just stay on the ship – nobody’s forcing you to get off an explore, and this is a great way of keeping costs down.

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To Conclude

MSC Cruises can be very cheap, though for the lowest fares, you might end up with a cabin in a less-than-ideal location. You also need to think about drinks prices, and the activities you want to enjoy around the ship.

Look into the extra packages that are available. You can make your MSC cruise all-inclusive (or as good as) if you pay for a drinks package and a Fun Pass, but only if you’ll definitely make use of them.

With a bit of planning, and working out how much you’re likely to spend on extras, you can make sure you’ve budgeted for a great cruise with MSC.

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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.

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Fire On World’s Largest Cruise Ship Causes Power Outage

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsNews

A fire broke out on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas while it was docked in Costa Maya, Mexico.

The cruise line described the fire as “small,” causing a “brief” power loss, and being “quickly extinguished.” No injuries were reported among passengers or crew members.

Icon of the Seas Aerial

The power outage affected lifts, air conditioning, service stations, and cabins.

Some passengers reported hearing an explosion, which added to the initial panic and confusion, and the emergency code of “Bravo Bravo Bravo” went out over the address system onboard.

During the incident, guests who were ashore were unable to re-board the ship, as the security and ID scanners were also affected.

The crew quickly restored power and resumed normal operations. At no time were guests called to their muster stations, which shows you that it must’ve been a small fire that the crew were able to contain.

As the incident happened during a port visit, and with it being resolved so quickly, the schedule of the cruise wasn’t impacted and Icon was able to continue sailing as planned.

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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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Fire And Power Loss Reported On Icon Of The Seas

by Cruise Lines

A small, isolated fire in a crew area has been reported aboard the World’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean International’s NEW Icon of the Seas.

The fire occurred on Tuesday afternoon while the ship was docked in Costa Maya, Mexico. It was quickly extinguished by onboard fire team with no reported injuries as reported by Seatrade Cruise News.

Power Restored

Power was also quickly restored as Icon of the Seas’ backup generators went into action and power to all parts of the ship was quickly restored, per the report.

Cruise To Continue, Damage Unknown

No information or specifics of any immediate damage were yet available, but Icon of the Seas will sail as planned, the spokesperson said.

Many of the passengers onboard were still ashore but, the gangways were temporarily closed during the response.

Icon of the Seas

Icon of the SeasIcon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas is the first ship in the Icon Class and is 250,800 GT’s. She carries 5,496 passengers (based on two per cabin) with a total guest capacity of 6,826.

She is currently on a seven-day roundtrip sailing that departed from PortMiami on June 22. A call at Cozumel is scheduled Wednesday.

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Solo Cruise Demand Rising As Experts Reveal The Best Reasons To Book

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsSolo

Cruise specialists Iglu Cruise have revealed that demand is rising for solo cruises, with many people eager to set out and explore the world on their own.

Norwegian Bliss Studio

Over the past 10 years, online searches for the term “solo travel” have increased by 400%, and then specifically in 2024 there’s been a 19% increase in demand for solo cruise cabins from January to April.

The team at Iglu Cruise have revealed five reasons why solo cruises should be considered by anyone who has a passion for cruise travel.

1. New experiences and destinations

Cruises offer a fantastic way to visit various exciting places in one trip.

With numerous itineraries available, you can explore bucket list destinations like the Norwegian Fjords or Greek islands without waiting for a travel partner. Solo cruises allow you to control your adventure and travel at your own pace.

Additionally, there are incredible shore excursions designed for solo travellers, enhancing your experience and helping you create memorable moments. You may even meet other solo cruisers during your journey, adding a social element to your travels.

2. Make new friends or have some quality time with yourself

    A solo cruise provides the flexibility to be as social as you wish.

    If you want to make new friends and immerse yourself in a new social environment, cruises offer many opportunities for self-growth and confidence building.

    Alternatively, if you prefer solitude, a solo cruise is perfect for quality time with yourself, away from the daily grind. Onboard, you can enjoy lively bars, restaurants, and social events or find quiet spots to read a book or enjoy a drink alone.

    3. Work from anywhere, ideal for digital nomads

      For those who can work from anywhere, a solo cruise offers a refreshing change from the usual work environment.

      Most cruise lines provide WiFi and internet access, though it’s usually at an extra cost, allowing you to keep up with work while exploring new destinations.

      With the growing trend of flexible work schedules, cruise working is becoming more popular. Some cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages, offer special passes for flexible workers, combining work and leisure with amenities like fast WiFi, daily coffee credits, and laundry services.

      4. Spacious solo cabins

      The rise in solo travellers has led to more cruise lines offering solo cabins without extra charges.

      Cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and MSC Cruises cater to solo travellers with well-equipped cabins and itineraries worldwide.

      These cabins provide ample space to relax and enjoy your voyage independently, making solo travel more comfortable and convenient.

      5. A safer way to solo travel

        Solo holidays can be daunting due to safety concerns, but cruises offer a secure alternative. Cruise ships have crew available 24/7, trained to ensure your safety both on and off the ship.

        Whether you’re enjoying a drink, using the gym, relaxing on the deck, or dining out, crew are there to help you with anything you need.

        Excursions booked through the cruise lines are also safe, allowing you to explore with an escorted group. No matter the destination or cruise line, your safety is always a priority.

        Interested in learning more? The team at Iglu Cruise will be happy to help you explore your solo cruise options.

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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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21 Things You Need To Know About Princess Cruises’ Ocean Medallion

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsPrincess Cruises

The Princess Ocean Medallion is a really impressive bit of tech considering the actual Medallion itself is quite small. The Medallion serves as a way of getting onto the ship quicker, making orders and payments and doing all kinds of other stuff too.

princess ocean medallion

But if it’s your first time cruising with Princess, or your first time since they’ve introduced the MedallionClass, there’s a lot that you’ll need to know – which is where I can help. Read this article before you cruise to learn all of the cool things the Medallion can do – and how not to get caught out!

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1. It’s free!

You don’t have to pay for the Princess Medallion – both the Ocean Medallion itself and the companion app are completely free. You also get a free lanyard when you board the ship so that you’ve somewhere to keep it safe, although other accessories will cost you extra.

The Medallion is a fancy bit of kit, but it’s included in the price of your cruise, which is a nice bonus. If you make the most of it, it’ll make your entire holiday a little more seamless, so it’s definitely worth taking advantage of since you don’t have to pay any extra to enjoy the benefits.

Cruise Mummy and Cruise Granny wearing Medallion lanyards
My mum and I with our Medallion lanyards

2. It works on every ship

Every ship in the Princess Cruises fleet is MedallionClass, meaning you can use the Medallion on every ship. It originally only launched on a select number of ships but has gradually been rolled out across the remainder of the fleet.

The last of the ships to receive the MedallionClass upgrade did so during the shutdown so that when cruising returned every ship was able to offer this service. Even if you’re cruising on the oldest ships in the fleet, you can make use of the Medallion and its companion app.

Island Princess cruise ship
Island Princess

3. You’ll only get it mailed to you if you live in the US

The Ocean Medallion can be ordered to your home if you live in the US, but passengers in other countries must pick theirs up when they are checking in for their cruise at their embarkation port. There are plans to roll out home delivery to other countries in future.

If you live in the US, you won’t be mailed the Medallion automatically. Instead, you need to log onto the MedallionClass app and fill in your details, ordering it for delivery. If you don’t, then it’ll be waiting for you at your embarkation port just as any other guests would be.

4. The app lets you set everything up in advance

In order to get the Ocean Medallion working for you, you’ll need to activate your account on the MedallionClass app on your smartphone. You can download this ahead of your cruise, or while you’re on the ship – even if you don’t pay for a WiFi package.

mobile phone with MedallionClass App

It is recommended that you download it in advance since you’ll have the best connection and can also complete the necessary details to make embarkation run smoothly and get you onto the ship faster. It’s really simple to use, and all you’ll need to fill in is a few personal details.

5. Free lanyard included

The Ocean Medallion comes with a free lanyard holder designed to keep it safe. You can pick up your lanyard at the same time as you pick up the Medallion at your embarkation port. US passengers who ordered the Medallion for home delivery must still pick up the lanyard at the port.

lanyard

The lanyard has a holder attached to it that is designed for the Medallion, so it will just slot into place. You can buy replacement paper inserts if you’d prefer to jazz up your lanyard, with some designed to show favourite ports and others to celebrate a special occasion.

As you can see from the image above, the strap is white so it really does get dirty quite quickly, particularly if you wear make-up. It’s also quite thin so it’s not the most comfortable.

Instead, I prefer to use my own lanyard. The one below is from Cruise Necessities. As well as the Medallion holder, it also comes with a regular cruise card holder, so you can use it with other cruise lines too.

Princess Cruises lanyard

I like this lanyard because it has an extendable cord and a clip to take it on and off. You can get a pack of four in different colours so you have one to match every outfit!

6. Other accessories are available (for a fee)

If you’d rather not wear the lanyard, there are other accessories you can buy to hold the Medallion. These include plastic watch straps, plastic clips, and either silver or gold bracelets and necklaces. You can order these through the app or in the OceanFront store on the ship.

The plastic accessories are relatively cheap – the watch straps are $12, and the clips are $8. The jewellery is more expensive, ranging from $45 to $65 depending on your choice. Replacement paper inserts for the lanyard cost just $3.

Cheaper Princess Medallion accessories are available on sites like Amazon. I’ve made a list of the 10 Best Ocean Medallion accessories, so be sure to check that out particularly if you’re cruising with kids, as there are some much better options than the free lanyard which is much too long for small people.

7. You don’t have to use it

You don’t have to use your Ocean Medallion if you don’t want to. It is an optional extra, although it comes with a number of benefits to make your cruise run smoother, so it is recommended that you use it.

If you’re a little bit confused or intimidated by the Medallion, then there are free classes you can attend on the ship that explain what it is and everything it does. These don’t take up much of your valuable holiday time, and so are a good idea if you’re hesitant to use it just because you don’t quite grasp its purpose.

And while you are filling in the details about yourself on the app, the actual Medallion doesn’t store those details, so you don’t need to worry about losing it and therefore losing your data. All it contains is a unique ID for you, and when that communicates with the ship’s systems, it recognises you.

8. It’s a similar size to an AirTag

The Ocean Medallion is not a large or cumbersome item – it’s about the same size as an Apple AirTag, or slightly larger than a US quarter or £2 coin. It’s a great size to wear around your wrist or your neck without it becoming uncomfortable.

Because of its small size, it is recommended that you keep it within a secure holder at all times. Otherwise, it could be very easy to lose it. 

9. It’s waterproof – you can swim with it

The Ocean Medallion is completely waterproof and sandproof, so you’re safe to wear it in the swimming pools or take it with you on the beach on a shore excursion. It won’t be damaged and will continue to work as normal.

man and woman on the pool

This is great, because you don’t want to be constantly thinking about taking it off and putting it back on whenever you’re enjoying the pools on the ship, and you definitely don’t want to lose it on the beach while you’re in port and then have to rush around to find it before you get back on-board.

10. Lose it? Relax – you’ll get a new one free

If you lose your Ocean Medallion at any point, you can just visit the Guest Services or Medallion Class desk onboard and they’ll issue you a new one with a new lanyard at no extra charge. However, if you’ve bought another accessory and lost it, Princess won’t replace that along with the Medallion.

medallion class desk

Don’t worry if you’ve lost the Medallion, as it will be disabled as soon as you get a new one. If someone did find your Medallion they wouldn’t be able to pay for things with it, as a photo check is carried out by the staff at the same time. If the person ordering doesn’t match the photo, then they’ll be refused.

And to use the Medallion with slot machines in the casino, you’ll need to know the date of birth of the guest that it belongs to.

11. Using the MedallionClass app means boarding the ship faster

When you fill in your details on the Princess Medallion app, you’ll be giving Princess Cruises some of the essential details that they would normally take from you at check-in, including providing a photo. So your check-in process will be smoother and quicker and you’ll get on board sooner.

It’s not priority embarkation and you will still have to queue up, but once you reach the desk then you won’t have to answer as many questions, meaning you can move into the waiting area to board sooner.

Related Post: How Early Can You Board A Princess Cruise?

12. It can open your stateroom door

One of the best benefits of the Ocean Medallion is that it can open your stateroom door for you. It uses an RF signal to communicate with your door, so that it unlocks automatically as soon as you approach it, without needing to find your cruise pass.

The staterooms also have small displays near them, and you’ll get a greeting message as you approach. This greeting will be personalised even further if you’re celebrating a special occasion on the ship.

Stateroom door on a Princess Cruise ship

One thing to be aware of, is that the door will be unlocked whenever you’re just outside with your Medallion. So you can’t press the handle to check that it’s locked, as it will only lock when you walk away! This is something to get used to.

13. Use it to order food or drinks

You can use the Medallion to make purchases around the ship, with everything charged to your onboard account. If you order food or drinks on the smartphone app, then it will be delivered to your exact location on the ship, as the Medallion acts as a tracker.

This is perfect if you want to order a cocktail but are worried about giving up your place on a lounger by the pool – just have your drink brought to you.

I ordered a drink and then went to the bathroom. When I returned, the waitress said that she was aware that I was in the bathroom, so she waited for me to come back to deliver the drink!

And if you’ve filled in all your details on the MedallionClass app, this will include your favourite drinks and foods. So as you approach a bar, the server might greet you by name and ask if you want your particular drink, since the information will be shown to them on their display. It’s a nice touch.

While it can be great to order drinks without having to get up or speak to a waiter, the Medallion app isn’t perfect. When I ordered something that was out of stock, the app didn’t tell me this, it just stayed on the ‘being prepared’ status for a couple of hours and then was marked as delivered, even though it wasn’t.

If you don’t have a drink package, you may therefore be charged for drinks that you haven’t received, so you’ll need to head to guest services to get these removed.

Also, at busy times, your drink may not arrive at all. So, I found that I only used the app to order drinks when I wasn’t desperate for one. If I was really thirsty, I’d head to the bar.

Read more: Princess Cruises Drinks Menus With Prices

MedallionClass app screenshot

14. Track your family or friends with it!

Using the MedallionClass smartphone app, you can track others in your travelling party around the ship, getting real-time updates on their location so you can easily find them if you’ve been separated.

You don’t need the paid Wi-Fi in order to access this – the app will work on the free Medallion Wi-Fi instead. It’s great for cruising families too, since you can always keep tabs on your children while they’re in the kids’ club and make sure they haven’t wandered off.

15. It can be used to send messages to each other

As well as tracking other members of your party using the MedallionClass app, there’s also a messenger service that lets you send messages to each other without needing to pay for the onboard Wi-Fi.

It isn’t perfect – you need to go into the app to retrieve messages, and you won’t get notifications when someone messages you. But if you know you’re planning on meeting up soon, you can check the messages every now and then to get updates. And it’s a great free alternative to Wi-Fi.

16. There are even games to play!

There are numerous games you can play using the Ocean Medallion, including treasure hunts for kids, family-friendly trivia and more. You can interact with the touch screens around the ship to take part, and possibly top the leaderboard by the end of the cruise.

woman watching a boy tapping on the screen

The Medallion also lets you enjoy casino games both around the ship and directly through the app. These are, of course, suitable for adults only.

17. The colour matches your loyalty level

The centre colour of your Princess Cruises Medallion will match your level in the Captain’s Circle loyalty programme. The default colour is blue, but if you are a member of the Captain’s Circle then the Medallion will be different. There are five Princess Medallion colors.

Gold members (those who have cruised once before) will get a gold Medallion. Ruby members (those with three cruises, or 30 days of sailing) will have a ruby Medallion. Platinum members (5 cruises or 50 sailing days) will have a platinum Medallion, and Elite members (15 cruises or 150 sailing days) will have a black Medallion.

Elite captain's circle card

18. Don’t wear the Medallion near a pacemaker!

The Ocean Medallion includes magnets and devices that emit an RF signal. The recommendation is that they should not be worn within nine inches of a pacemaker device, although the pacemaker manufacturer may have more specific requirements.

If you are wearing a pacemaker, you should avoid using the lanyard and necklaces, and either wear the Medallion on a wrist strap or not use it at all. Otherwise, it may cause some interference, which could have severe consequences.

19. There’s a battery inside

The Ocean Medallion contains a small battery which is a similar size to a watch battery. These are long-lasting and will easily manage your cruise holiday – the Medallion doesn’t require much power at all to emit the RF signal with your unique guest ID.

ocean medallion components

So don’t worry if you order your Medallion for home delivery – it will still work by the time you get onto the ship and for the length of your holiday without any issues. If it does stop working for any reason, visit the Guest Services desk and they’ll replace it for you free of charge.

20. They can’t be re-used across cruises

The current design of the Ocean Medallion, including a sealed battery, means that they are not reusable. They are designed to be used only for the duration of your cruise, and then you can keep them as a souvenir.

It may be that future designs are made rechargeable so that they can be used on multiple cruises, but for now, you will just have to use the Princess Cruises’ Medallion as a keepsake once your cruise has ended.

21. They’re magnetic

The Medallion is magnetic, which means a lot of people like to use metal surfaces to keep it safe when they aren’t wearing it. It also means it can be used as a fridge magnet once you return home for your cruise.

If you like to display your collection of cruise cards on your fridge, you’ll be pleased to know that the Ocean Medallion can join the display.

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To conclude

It may not be mandatory, but there are a lot of great reasons to use the Princess Ocean Medallion, so it makes sense to learn how to get the most out of it. Whether it just means keyless access to your stateroom, or you’re ordering drinks and snacks direct to your seat, it can just make your cruise feel that little bit more special.

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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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Mid-size cruise ship sailing on blue water, typical of the oldest Royal Caribbean ships still in service

Oldest Royal Caribbean Ships: Which Are Still Worth Booking?

by Cruise Lines

The oldest Royal Caribbean ship still sailing is Grandeur of the Seas, which entered service in December 1996 and turns 30 at the end of 2026. Right behind her are the other three Vision class ships (Rhapsody, Enchantment and Vision of the Seas, all from 1997-98), followed by the big Voyager class ships and the sleek Radiance class. These older ships are usually cheaper and often reach more interesting ports. What they don’t have are the headline thrills of Icon or Oasis class.

This guide covers only the older end of the fleet: which ships are the oldest, how old they are in November 2026, when each last had a major refit, and which ones are still worth booking. If you want every ship from newest to oldest, see our full list of Royal Caribbean ships by age.

The oldest Royal Caribbean ships at a glance

The table lists the 13 oldest ships still in the fleet, oldest first. Ages are as of November 2026. The “last major refit” column shows the most recent significant upgrade (new venues, cabins or attractions), not routine maintenance dry docks, which most of these ships have had more recently.

Ship Entered service Class Gross tonnage Last major refit
Grandeur of the Seas 1996 (age 29-30) Vision 73,817 2012 refurbishment (maintenance dry dock 2024)
Rhapsody of the Seas 1997 (29) Vision 78,878 2016 upgrades (soft refresh 2025)
Enchantment of the Seas 1997 (29) Vision 82,910 2017 upgrade; stretched in 2005
Vision of the Seas 1998 (28) Vision 78,340 2013 refit (maintenance dry dock 2024)
Voyager of the Seas 1999 (27) Voyager 137,276 Royal Amplified 2019
Explorer of the Seas 2000 (26) Voyager 137,308 Waterslides added 2023 (not amplified)
Radiance of the Seas 2001 (25) Radiance 90,090 2016 refit (maintenance dry dock 2026)
Adventure of the Seas 2001 (25) Voyager 137,276 Planned amplification cancelled; not amplified
Brilliance of the Seas 2002 (24) Radiance 90,090 2018 refit
Navigator of the Seas 2002 (24) Voyager 139,999 Royal Amplified 2019
Serenade of the Seas 2003 (23) Radiance 90,090 2017 upgrades
Mariner of the Seas 2003 (23) Voyager 139,863 Royal Amplified 2018
Jewel of the Seas 2004 (22) Radiance 90,090 2016 refit (new windows and repaint 2024)

Tonnage figures vary slightly from source to source, because ships are re-measured after refits. Refit dates come from published dry dock records. Royal Caribbean doesn’t publish a single official refit history, so check the ship page on royalcaribbean.com for what is on board today.

Vision class: the oldest Royal Caribbean ships still sailing

The four Vision class ships are the oldest Royal Caribbean ships still sailing, and the smallest. Each carries roughly 2,000 to 2,500 guests (Grandeur takes about 1,950 at double occupancy). An Icon class ship carries well over 5,000. The class was originally six ships. Legend of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas left the fleet years ago, and the Legend name is now on the new Icon class ship that arrived in 2026.

Grandeur of the Seas (1996)

Grandeur is the fleet’s oldest ship and also its smallest by tonnage. Royal Caribbean announced in 2019 that she would move to sister brand Pullmantur in 2021. Those plans were dropped in 2020, after Pullmantur collapsed during the pandemic, and she stayed in the fleet. For the 2026-27 season (May 2026 to April 2027) she sails seven-night Southern Caribbean cruises from Cartagena in Colombia and Colón in Panama. That deployment was switched from Jewel of the Seas. Her last big refurbishment was in 2012, with public-area carpets and upholstery replaced in 2024.

Rhapsody of the Seas and Vision of the Seas (1997 and 1998)

These two near-sisters have a lot of glass. Floor-to-ceiling windows run through the Centrum atrium and the lounges, so the sea is in view almost everywhere. Both had upgrades in the 2010s that brought newer dining concepts. Rhapsody had a soft refresh in 2025 with new carpets, upholstery and furniture. Vision had a maintenance and technical dry dock in 2024.

Enchantment of the Seas (1997)

Enchantment is the odd one out. In 2005 she was cut in half and lengthened by 73 feet, which is why she has more tonnage than her sisters. A 2017 upgrade added newer restaurants, lounges and refreshed cabins. Her pool deck feels slightly more modern than those of the other Vision class ships.

Quiet pool deck on a mid-size cruise ship with loungers and a calm sea beyond
Older, smaller ships tend to have calmer pool decks than the newest mega-ships. Photo: Ivan Glusica on Pexels

Voyager and Radiance class: older ships with plenty of life left

Next in line come two very different groups. Both are now well past 20 years old.

Voyager class (1999-2003)

When Voyager of the Seas launched in 1999, she was the largest cruise ship in the world. She was the first with an ice rink, a Royal Promenade and a rock-climbing wall. Three of the five ships (Voyager, Navigator and Mariner) have since had the full Royal Amplified refurbishment. Those refits added waterslides, laser tag, new restaurants and more cabins, which makes them the best value among the older ships for families. Explorer’s amplification was postponed in 2020, but she got waterslides in 2023. Adventure’s planned 2021 amplification was cancelled, and no new date had been announced at the time of writing.

Radiance class (2001-2004)

Radiance, Brilliance, Serenade and Jewel are about 90,000 tons each. They are built for scenery, with acres of glass, glass lifts on the outside of the ship and many balcony cabins. They are popular for Alaska, Europe, Australia and the southern Caribbean. Most had “Royal Advantage” style upgrades between 2016 and 2018, adding newer dining and bars. None has had a full amplification.

What sailing on an older Royal Caribbean ship is like

An older ship is a different kind of holiday from a new one, not a worse one. Here is what to expect. For a wider look at the trade-offs across all cruise lines, see our guide to whether cruise ship age really matters.

The upsides

  • Lower fares. Older ships are often among the cheapest ways onto Royal Caribbean. The gap compared with an Oasis or Icon class sailing on a similar route can be large, especially on short Bahamas cruises and in shoulder seasons.
  • Better itineraries. Smaller ships fit ports and channels the giants cannot. They do the longer and more unusual routes, such as repositioning cruises, the southern Caribbean, Alaska’s Inside Passage and smaller European ports.
  • Fewer crowds. With about 2,000 guests on a Vision class ship, there are shorter queues at embarkation, tender stations and the buffet, and it is easier to find a sun lounger.
  • A more traditional feel. Expect a classic main dining room, a theatre and a central atrium, with fewer upcharge “neighbourhoods”. Some guests see the newer ships as theme parks and find this a better fit.
  • The same core service. Crew, the Crown & Anchor loyalty programme, onboard packages and the main dining standards are broadly the same across the fleet.

The downsides

  • Fewer headline attractions. Unamplified ships have no waterslides, no FlowRider and no surf simulators (Explorer’s slides are an exception). The Vision class ships have no ice rink or Royal Promenade either.
  • Cabin wear. Cabins have been refreshed, but bathrooms are smaller, there are fewer power sockets and the layouts are dated. Some soft furnishings show their age between refits.
  • Fewer specialty restaurants and bars. You will find the basics, such as a steakhouse and an Italian option on many ships, but not the range on the newest ships.
  • Older technology. On some of the oldest ships, wi-fi, app features and lift capacity lag behind the newer ships.
  • Kids’ facilities. Adventure Ocean is on every ship, but teens in particular may find an unamplified older ship tame.
Compact cruise cabin with a small balcony overlooking the sea at sunset
Cabins on older ships are smaller but many still offer balconies. Photo: Nothing Ahead on Pexels

Which older Royal Caribbean ships are still worth booking?

The answer depends on who is travelling. A quick guide:

  1. Families wanting thrills on a budget: Navigator, Mariner or Voyager of the Seas. Royal Amplified gave them waterslides, laser tag and updated pool decks, and they cost less than the newest ships.
  2. Couples and scenery lovers: the Radiance class, especially for Alaska, Europe or long voyages. The glass-heavy design and high share of balcony cabins suit scenic cruising.
  3. First-timers testing the water: a three- or four-night cruise on a Vision class or Voyager class ship. You can see if cruising suits you for a modest fare.
  4. Port-focused travellers: Grandeur’s southern Caribbean season from Colombia and Panama, or the Vision class’s longer and more unusual itineraries. The ship matters less when you are ashore most days.
  5. Not ideal for: anyone mainly booking for the ship itself, such as big water parks, Broadway-style shows or dozens of restaurants. Look at Oasis or Icon class instead.

A quick checklist before you book an older ship

  • Check the ship’s own page for the current list of venues. Don’t rely on old reviews, because refits change things.
  • Look up the next scheduled dry dock. Sailing just after one means fresher cabins. Sailing just before one can mean some wear.
  • Compare the per-night fare against a newer ship on a similar route. Add the specialty dining you would actually buy before deciding which is better value.
  • Pick a recently refreshed cabin category if possible, and ask your travel agent which decks were updated most recently.
  • If you have children, check which activities are included and which carry a charge.

Is Royal Caribbean retiring its oldest ships?

At the time of writing (November 2026), Royal Caribbean has not announced retirement or sale dates for any of the ships above. The line has said, though, that it is working on a new, smaller class, widely reported as “Discovery class”. Royal Caribbean’s leadership has said that ships like these will eventually replace the ageing Vision and Radiance class ships. So the Vision class ships, now nearing 30, are likely to leave in the coming years. Royal Caribbean usually announces a ship’s exit with plenty of notice and moves booked guests to other sailings, so you can book them now with reasonable confidence. If having a particular ship matters to you, check for news before booking a sailing a long way ahead.

If Rhapsody is on your shortlist, check which Rhapsody of the Seas cabins to avoid before you book, because cabin location matters more on a smaller, older ship.

FAQs

What is the oldest Royal Caribbean ship?

Grandeur of the Seas, which entered service in December 1996. She is the oldest and smallest ship in the current fleet.

What are the oldest Royal Caribbean ships still sailing?

The four Vision class ships (Grandeur, Rhapsody, Enchantment and Vision of the Seas, built 1996-1998), followed by Voyager of the Seas (1999) and Explorer of the Seas (2000).

Is Grandeur of the Seas being retired?

Not at the time of writing. A 2019 plan to move her to Pullmantur was cancelled in 2020. She is scheduled to sail from Colombia and Panama from May 2026 to April 2027.

Are older Royal Caribbean ships worth it?

Often, yes, if you care more about price, itineraries and a relaxed atmosphere than big onboard attractions. Amplified Voyager class ships offer the best mix of value and activities.

Which Royal Caribbean ships have been Royal Amplified?

Among the older ships, Voyager, Navigator and Mariner of the Seas have been amplified. Independence, Freedom, Oasis and Allure have also had the treatment. No Vision class or Radiance class ship has been amplified.

Mid-sized cruise ship sailing on calm open sea, illustrating Holland America ships by size and age

Holland America Ships by Size & Age (2026)

by Cruise LinesCruise NewsHolland America Line

Holland America Line sails 11 ships in late 2026. The largest is Rotterdam at about 99,800 gross tons with 2,668 guests, and the smallest are the R-class sisters Volendam and Zaandam at about 61,000 tons and 1,432 guests. The newest is Rotterdam (2021) and the oldest is Volendam (1999).

This guide ranks the Holland America ships by size and by age in two tables. It also explains the four ship classes, the refits now under way, and the fleet changes already announced for 2027 to 2029, including P&O Cruises’ Arcadia moving across.

Holland America Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)

Every Holland America ship is mid-sized by today’s standards. Even the biggest carries well under 3,000 guests, while many mainstream megaships carry more than 5,000. The table uses Holland America’s own fleet specification figures for gross tonnage (GT), guest capacity at double occupancy, and length. Other sources sometimes give slightly different numbers, mainly because ships are re-measured after refits.

Rank Ship Class Gross tonnage Guests (double occupancy) Length
1 Rotterdam Pinnacle 99,836 2,668 984 ft
2 Nieuw Statendam Pinnacle 99,500 2,666 975 ft
3 Koningsdam Pinnacle 99,500 2,650 975 ft
4 Nieuw Amsterdam Signature 86,700 2,106 936 ft
5 Eurodam Signature 86,273 2,104 936 ft
6 Westerdam Vista 82,348 1,964 936 ft
7 Noordam Vista 82,318 1,972 936 ft
8 Zuiderdam Vista about 82,300 1,964 936 ft
9 Oosterdam Vista 82,305 1,964 936 ft
10 Zaandam R-class 61,396 1,432 about 780 ft
11 Volendam R-class 61,214 1,432 about 780 ft

In practice the fleet falls into four size bands rather than 11 different sizes. The three Pinnacle-class ships are near-identical at about 99,500 to 99,800 tons. The two Signature ships are around 86,000 tons, the four Vista ships around 82,000 tons, and the two R-class ships around 61,000 tons. Sister ships within a class differ by only a few hundred tons, so a small gap in the table won’t change your cruise.

Largest Holland America ship

Rotterdam is the largest Holland America ship by a small margin. It is slightly longer than its Pinnacle-class sisters and carries a few more guests. It is still a long way from the industry’s giants: the biggest cruise ship in the world is more than twice its size.

Smallest Holland America ship

Volendam is the smallest in the fleet, with Zaandam close behind. Both carry 1,432 guests at double occupancy. Their size lets them reach smaller ports, which is one reason Holland America often uses them for longer and more unusual itineraries.

Holland America Ships by Age (Newest to Oldest)

The years below are when each ship entered Holland America service, which is also when it was built, because every current ship was built for the line. Ages are worked out as of late 2026.

Ship Class Entered service Approx. age in 2026
Rotterdam Pinnacle 2021 5 years
Nieuw Statendam Pinnacle 2018 8 years
Koningsdam Pinnacle 2016 10 years
Nieuw Amsterdam Signature 2010 16 years
Eurodam Signature 2008 18 years
Noordam Vista 2006 20 years
Westerdam Vista 2004 22 years
Oosterdam Vista 2003 23 years
Zuiderdam Vista 2002 24 years
Zaandam R-class 2000 26 years
Volendam R-class 1999 27 years

Rotterdam was delivered in 2021, after pandemic-era delays. You will sometimes see it listed as a 2020 or 2022 ship, depending on whether a source uses the original plan, the delivery date, or its first full season. Holland America has a gap in its build history: no new ships arrived between Nieuw Amsterdam in 2010 and Koningsdam in 2016, and none have arrived since Rotterdam.

A ship’s age matters less than you might expect. Holland America keeps its older ships in service and refits them regularly. Volendam had a multimillion-dollar refresh of cabins and public areas in 2024, Zaandam was refitted in 2025, and Noordam was updated in 2024. When you compare ships, the date of the last refit is often more useful than the build year.

Wide teak promenade deck on a mid-sized cruise ship with sea views and lounge chairs
Wraparound teak decks are a feature of most of the fleet. Photo: Joan Costa on Pexels

Holland America Ship Classes Explained

Ships in the same class share a design, so the class tells you more about the onboard experience than any single figure. Here is what sets each class apart.

Pinnacle class: Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, Rotterdam

These are the newest and largest Holland America cruise ships, at about 99,500 tons and 2,650 guests each. They have the widest choice of specialty restaurants and the Music Walk entertainment venues, including B.B. King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard and Lincoln Center Stage. Cabins and public spaces have a more contemporary look than on the older ships. Choose a Pinnacle ship if you want the most variety onboard.

Signature class: Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam

At about 86,000 tons and 2,100 guests, the Signature ships sit in the middle of the range. They have Tamarind, the line’s Pan-Asian restaurant, and Nieuw Amsterdam also has Morimoto by Sea. Both are part of Holland America’s Evolution refurbishment programme, so expect changes over the next few years.

Vista class: Zuiderdam, Oosterdam, Westerdam, Noordam

The four Vista ships carry about 1,900 to 1,970 guests each and were built to fit the original Panama Canal locks. That makes them a regular choice for Panama Canal transits. They have the classic Holland America layout, with a wraparound teak promenade deck and a multi-deck atrium. They are also the main focus of the Evolution programme (see below).

R-class: Volendam and Zaandam

The two remaining R-class ships are the smallest and oldest in the fleet, with 1,432 guests each. They have a traditional feel, a quieter atmosphere and a loyal following among guests on longer voyages. They are a good fit if you prefer fewer people onboard over newer venues.

Recent Refits and the Holland America Evolution Programme

In 2026 Holland America announced Holland America Evolution, a programme of about $500 million to upgrade six ships: the four Vista-class ships plus Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. The line calls it the largest fleet update in its history. The aim is to bring Pinnacle-class features, such as the Grand Dutch Café, to the older ships and to add new cabins and suites.

  • Oosterdam goes first. Its Evolution dry dock in Marseille was moved forward, and the ship is due back in service with a 10-day voyage from Civitavecchia (Rome) on 31 October 2027. Holland America says it will add 76 new staterooms, including 30 solo verandah cabins, as well as new suites, a Grand Dutch Café and a redesigned Ocean Bar. Our news story on the 30 new solo cabins on the reimagined Oosterdam has more detail.
  • Zuiderdam is next, with its Evolution features due to debut in April 2028.
  • Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Westerdam and Noordam are included in the programme, but at the time of writing Holland America had not given dates for them.

The Evolution work is separate from the regular dry docks. Oosterdam, for example, already had a refit in spring 2025 that added an expanded casino, upgraded spa facilities, a redesigned Crow’s Nest and a refreshed aft pool area. If you are booking Oosterdam for late 2027, check the sailing date carefully: Holland America cancelled its published voyages from 11 September to 9 December 2027 when it brought the dry dock forward, and offered replacement sailings.

Mid-sized white cruise ship docked at a harbour on a sunny day with passengers on deck
A new ship is set to join the Holland America fleet in 2029. Photo: Neil Smith on Pexels

Holland America Fleet Changes: Arcadia Joins in 2029

In October 2026 Holland America announced that parent company Carnival Corporation will move P&O Cruises’ Arcadia into its fleet in 2029. That will bring Holland America to 12 ships. Arcadia was originally ordered by Holland America as a Vista-class ship around 2000 and has sailed for P&O Cruises since 2005. It is about 83,800 gross tons and carries about 2,000 guests (2,094 by one count), so it is a close match for the four existing Vista ships.

Before the transfer, Arcadia will get an Evolution makeover. Holland America says its venues and features will be confirmed later. No new name has been announced. In the same reshuffle, Cunard’s Queen Anne will move to P&O Cruises in 2029 after a redesign and a new name. Read more in our report on Holland America growing to 12 ships with Arcadia.

As of November 2026, Holland America has no confirmed newbuild order. Company leaders have said they are thinking about new ships as part of future growth, but no order has been announced. For now, the fleet grows through Arcadia and the Evolution upgrades rather than brand-new ships.

Which Holland America Ship Size Is Right for You?

The size of a cruise ship affects more than how many people are onboard. Here is how to use the rankings above.

  • For the most dining and entertainment, choose a Pinnacle-class ship. Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam have the most venues.
  • For a balance of choice and calm, the Signature and Vista ships work well. They have most Holland America favourites, with a few hundred fewer guests.
  • For long voyages and smaller ports, Volendam and Zaandam are often the ships Holland America uses for Grand Voyages and less common routes.
  • For Alaska, Holland America sends several ships each summer, from large to mid-sized. The ship matters less than the timing, so see our guide to the best time to cruise Alaska.
  • For the newest cabins, look at the Pinnacle ships now, or at Oosterdam and Zuiderdam once their Evolution work is done in 2027 and 2028.

Deployments change every season. Before you book, check the current itinerary and the date of the last refit on the Holland America cruise ships page.

FAQs

How many ships does Holland America have?

Holland America has 11 ships in late 2026: Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Eurodam, Noordam, Westerdam, Oosterdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam and Volendam. The fleet will grow to 12 when Arcadia joins from P&O Cruises in 2029.

What is the largest Holland America ship?

Rotterdam is the largest, at about 99,800 gross tons with 2,668 guests and a length of 984 feet. Its Pinnacle-class sisters Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam are almost the same size.

What is the oldest Holland America ship?

Volendam is the oldest. It entered service in 1999, followed by Zaandam in 2000. Both have been refitted several times, most recently in 2024 and 2025.

How big are Holland America cruise ships?

They are mid-sized. They range from about 61,000 gross tons and 1,432 guests on the R-class ships to about 99,800 tons and 2,668 guests on Rotterdam. That is far smaller than the largest megaships at other cruise lines.

Is Holland America building new ships?

Not at the moment. As of November 2026 there is no confirmed newbuild order. The line is growing by adding Arcadia in 2029 and upgrading six existing ships through its roughly $500 million Evolution programme.