This promises to be an exciting year for cruise fans, as various brand-new ships are scheduled to begin riding the waves.
Royal Caribbean’s
highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is ready to begin its reign as the
world’s largest cruise ship at the end of January. Passengers will enjoy the
ship’s innovative new performance spaces and activities, comfortable cabins and
suites, and exciting new restaurants and bars. And – for your advance cruise
planning – Royal Caribbean plans to add two more new ships to the Icon class by
mid-2026.
Princess Cruises will
also introduce a new class of ship this year. The Sun Princess, debuting
in February, will be the first ship in the Sphere class. This will be the
largest ship in the Princess fleet, offering new types of suite accommodations,
the first rollglider ride at sea, and new areas where kids, teens, and families
can enjoy themselves. The Sun Princess will sail in the Mediterranean
before moving to the Caribbean.
Disney Cruise
Line’s new Disney Treasure will showcase the prankster-turned-hero Aladdin,
among other popular characters. Onboard highlights include a water slide with a
new Mickey and Minnie Mouse adventure story, three theaters, and a rotational
dining plan that lets guests dine at different restaurants each day, but with
the same familiar wait staff. The Treasure will sail in the Caribbean.
Several other
cruise lines will launch new ships this year, including Cunard Line, Ritz-Carlton
Yacht Collection, Silversea, and Viking Ocean Cruises, as well as river cruise
lines Ama Waterways and Avalon.
New cruise ships
have lots of appeal, but high demand can increase their fares. As an
alternative, consider sailing on a ship that’s recently been refurbished and
updated.
Norwegian Cruise
Line’s Norwegian Joy will use a three-week stay in dry dock this January
to reconfigure some suites, add two dozen balcony cabins and a thermal suite,
and expand the Vibe Beach Club. The ship will sail in the Caribbean this spring
before switching to Bermuda cruises.
Oceania Cruises
will undertake a major refurbishment of the Marina this May, redesigning
some suites and adding new dining options. The updated ship will have the line’s
signature restaurant, Aquamar Kitchen; al fresco dining in a new Italian
trattoria; and an all-day ice cream parlor. The refreshed Marina will
sail in Northern Europe this summer.
For more
information about a voyage on a new or renewed ship in 2024, talk with Anita, your
professional travel advisor.
