In 2026, over 38 million people are projected to take a cruise including over 21 million Americans. The cruise industry continues to grow each year as more new cruise ships, bigger and better than ever, are built and begin sailing.
The first half of 2026 saw several new ocean ships debut, including Four Seasons’ first vessel, Four Seasons I. Here is a look at five new cruise ships that will come out in the second half of 2026.
5 New Cruise Ships, Second Half of 2026
Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas
Legend of the Seas will be the largest new cruise ship, at just over 248,000 gross tons, that is debuting this year. Royal Caribbean recently took delivery of this new ship that will sail its maiden voyage on July 4, 2026.
Legend of the Seas will have 28 different dining options and not only the largest waterpark at sea, but also the largest swimming pool on any cruise ship.
Entertainment on the ship include Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and America’s Got Talent LIVE, alongside deck-defying performances during the AquaTheater’s “Shockwave” and ice-skating spectacles at Absolute Zero’s show, “Fusion”.
Legend of the Seas will start by sailing several months in the Mediterranean before heading to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida for the winter Caribbean season.
It will be the third Icon class ship from Royal Caribbean, the largest class of cruise ships in the world. You can view prices on cruises on Legend of the Seas here.
Explora Journeys’ Explora III
Explora III will be Explora Journeys’ third of six all-inclusive cruise ships to enter their fleet. The 72,810 gross ton ship will make its debut on July 24, 2026. It will also be the cruise line’s first ship to be powered by LNG.
“A sanctuary of unparalleled comfort and space, EXPLORA III embodies effortless elegance, evoking the feeling of being aboard a private yacht”
Explora III will have 461 ocean-front suites, five heated swimming pools, seven restaurants, and 12 bars and lounges. The ship will have a guest-to-crew ratio of 1.25 to 1.
MSC World Asia
MSC World Asia will be the second largest new cruise ship to debut in 2026 and the cruise line’s 3rd World class ship. It will have the tallest dry slide at sea that will drop 12 decks and be 266 feet long.
The ship will also feature Cliffhanger, an over-water swing that towers 164 feet above the ocean.
MSC World Asia will be loaded with activities for families that include a massive waterpark and a two-level Adventure Trail ropes course.
MSC Luna Park Arena will have interactive entertainment that uses immersive digital technology. The floor will transform into an interactive arena where guests can compete in dynamic gaming experiences.
The venue will also host original game shows including Code Breakers, Labyrinth and Chart Toppers, alongside high-energy themed parties and entertainment across two decks.
Regent’s Seven Seas Prestige
Regent Seven Seas Cruises will launch the first in a new class of cruise ships in late 2026. Seven Seas Prestige will be 76,500 gross tons in size and carry 822 guests and 630 crew members.
The ship will have 411 suites across 12 decks and will be the largest in the ultra-luxury cruise line’s fleet. It will have seven specialty restaurants and 11 total dining experiences.
The all-inclusive ship will have fares that include unlimited shore excursions in every port of call, gourmet cuisine in a range of specialty and al fresco dining venues, fine wines and spirits, onboard entertainment, Starlink WiFi access, valet laundry service, pre-paid gratuities, and a one-night pre-cruise hotel package for guests in Concierge-level suites and above. You can check prices for cruises on Seven Seas Prestige here.
Across its inaugural season, Seven Seas Prestige will embark on 13 extraordinary voyages across Europe and the Caribbean, including two transatlantic crossings.
Viking Libra
Viking Libra will be the latest Viking ocean ship to enter the fleet when it debuts in December 2026. The ship will carry 998 guests in 499 staterooms, each one will have a balcony.
It will have Viking’s signature Scandinavian design that they are known for, and be similar to the current ships sailing in Viking’s fleet.
The following will be included in all cruise fares on Viking Libra:
- One shore excursion in every port
- WiFi
- Drinks during meals
- Thermal suite
- All dining options
Viking Libra will sail its maiden voyage on December 3, 2026, a 10-night cruise to the Greek Isles from Athens.
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