New Cruise Ships to Look Forward to in 2025

The cruise industry is setting sail with some incredible new vessels in 2025! Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, these ships offer cutting-edge amenities, sustainable designs, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a preview of what’s on the horizon:

1. Virgin Voyages: Brilliant Lady

Launch Date: September 2025
Passenger Capacity: 2,700 guests
Highlights: Brilliant Lady brings the “adults-only” cruising experience to new heights with features like a “Rebel Spa,” a state-of-the-art wellness center that includes psychedelic art-inspired treatments, floatation pods, and an exclusive wellness deck with yoga and meditation areas overlooking the sea. Unlike other ships, Brilliant Lady will offer a “no buffet” policy, opting instead for a variety of sit-down restaurants that offer a more curated, restaurant-style dining experience throughout the day. The ship will also debut a “Sky Lounge” with panoramic views for sunset cocktails, and nightly performances featuring live music, comedy, and a rotating series of cutting-edge theatrical shows.

2. MSC Cruises: MSC World America

Launch Date: April 2025
Passenger Capacity: Approx. 6,762 guests
Highlights: The MSC World America is MSC Cruises’ first LNG-powered vessel to sail in the U.S., underscoring the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The ship will feature the world’s first underwater dining room, where guests can dine while observing marine life through large panoramic windows. A standout feature is its focus on American tastes, with a variety of exclusive U.S.-themed dining options and entertainment tailored for American travelers. It also boasts the largest waterpark in MSC’s fleet, with thrilling slides and interactive water play areas.

3. Royal Caribbean: Star of the Seas

Launch Date: Summer 2025
Passenger Capacity: Approx. 5,610 guests
Highlights: As the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, the Star of the Seas is set to introduce the line’s most innovative features yet. It will be equipped with an “Eco-Friendly Thrill Zone,” offering a high-tech, carbon-neutral roller coaster that gives guests an adrenaline rush while reducing its environmental footprint. The ship will also introduce new interactive dining experiences, where guests can participate in cooking challenges or dine in “multi-sensory” spaces that change throughout the evening. Expect futuristic entertainment like 3D holographic shows and immersive virtual reality experiences.

4. Oceania Cruises: Allura

Launch Date: June 2025
Passenger Capacity: 1,200 guests
Highlights: Allura will bring Oceania’s signature luxury to new heights. It will be the first ship in Oceania’s fleet to feature a “Wine Experience” lounge, where guests can attend private wine-tasting sessions led by sommeliers, paired with small-batch, rare wines from around the world. The ship will also offer a one-of-a-kind “Culinary Exploration Center” that provides guests with hands-on cooking classes using locally sourced ingredients from the ports of call. Plus, each stateroom will feature an “ocean balcony” designed to maximize outdoor living space, with larger private verandas and more panoramic views than any other ship in the fleet.

5. AmaWaterways: AmaMagdalena

Launch Date: March 2025
Passenger Capacity: 60 guests

Highlights: The AmaMagdalena offers an exclusive, intimate river cruise experience on Colombia’s Magdalena River. What sets this ship apart from other AmaWaterways ships is its focus on adventure and culture. It will feature the “Explorer’s Lounge,” a unique space designed for interactive storytelling and local cultural presentations. In addition to luxury suites and personalized service, the ship will offer bespoke excursions, including private guided bird-watching tours and visits to indigenous communities along the river. The ship’s “Gastronomy on the River” program will also introduce guests to local Colombian cuisine through cooking classes and food-focused shore excursions.

6. Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking Neptune

Launch Date: Early 2025
Passenger Capacity: 930 guests
Highlights: The Viking Neptune stands out as the first ship in Viking’s fleet to feature a “Nordic Wellness Center,” offering a comprehensive spa experience that includes treatments based on ancient Scandinavian traditions, such as hot stone massages and Scandinavian seaweed wraps. The ship will also introduce an exclusive “Polar Expedition” program, where guests can embark on small-group expeditions to Arctic and Antarctic destinations, accompanied by expert naturalists and historians. A unique feature will be the “Nordic Sky Bar,” an open-air rooftop bar offering stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for sunset cocktails or stargazing.

7. Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Viva

Launch Date: Spring 2025
Passenger Capacity: Approx. 3,215 guests
Highlights: Norwegian Viva, the second ship in the Prima Class, will offer some exciting new features, including a completely redesigned “Indulge Food Hall” that offers a range of gourmet street-food-inspired eateries. The ship will also debut the “Oceanwalk,” a glass-floored walkway suspended above the sea, offering breathtaking views of the ocean below. For relaxation, the Viva will have a new “Wellness Oasis,” a quiet retreat featuring wellness programs, hydrotherapy pools, and personalized fitness sessions. Additionally, the ship will be equipped with a zero-waste “Sustainability Kitchen,” a first for Norwegian, where passengers can learn about eco-friendly dining practices.

8. Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Jubilee

Launch Date: November 2025
Passenger Capacity: Approx. 5,374 guests
Highlights: The Carnival Jubilee will bring the fun to the next level with a brand-new “Cloud 9 Spa” experience, featuring a vertical hydrotherapy pool and private relaxation pods with ocean views. The ship will also introduce a “Carnival Adventure Park,” a family-friendly zone with climbing walls, zip lines, and an expanded ropes course. For food lovers, Carnival Jubilee will feature a new “Street Eats Market,” inspired by global street food vendors, where guests can sample dishes from around the world in a lively outdoor setting. Additionally, the ship will offer an exclusive “Nightlife Cruise” experience, featuring themed parties, silent discos, and after-hours events that will run throughout the night.

Which 2025 ship will you choose? Let us help you decide!

With so many incredible ships debuting in 2025, choosing the right one can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’m here to help you find the perfect fit. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed family vacation, a luxury river cruise through Europe, or a modern, eco-conscious experience at sea, I’ve got the expertise to guide you.

Let’s take a closer look at your preferences—whether you want a massive, family-friendly ship or a more intimate, cultural journey on the rivers. I can help match you with the perfect ship and itinerary that suits your style, budget, and travel dates.