This promises to be an exciting year for cruise fans, as a variety of 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 roll glider 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.
Find
us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/AtthetaTravel
