Royal Caribbean brings three ships to Australia - plus more cruise news to get excited about

Whether you take a short trip to an Australian destination, visit our neighbours in New Zealand or the South Pacific, or fly and cruise in Alaska, the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, cruise holidays offer great value to travellers.

Plus, these days there are cruise ships and itineraries that cater to pretty much every kind of person with the industry continuing to boom. Here are some cruise updates to get excited about.

Royal Caribbean brings three ships to Australia

August 14: Royal Caribbean has announced it is expanding its 2027-28 Australian summer lineup with three ships heading to Aussie shores.

The newly amplified Ovation of the Seas will make Brisbane home alongsideVoyager of the Seas, while Anthem of the Seas returns to Sydney.

Itineraries will offer a combination of 2-to 12-night holidays, ranging from weekend getaways, plus tropical escapes exploring Australia, NewZealand and the sun-soaked South Pacific.

“This season is a major milestone for our region with three bold ships,” said Gavin Smith, vice president and managing director, Australia and New Zealand, Royal Caribbean.

“We’re thrilled to welcome more Royal Caribbean adventures Down Under.”

All South Pacific cruises from Sydney and Brisbane on Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas will also make a stop at the first private island destination for Australian cruisers.

Royal Beach Club Lelepa in Vanuatu will have two beaches to visit, including an adults-only retreat and a family beach with activities.

The expanded selection of 2027-28 holidays will open for bookings on Royal Caribbean’s website starting 19 August.

Read on for more cruise news...

Carnival Cruise Line appoints first female staff captain

August 7: Daniela Gargiulo has been appointed Carnival Cruise Line’s first female Staff Captain across the company’s global fleet.

A special ceremony was held onboard Carnival Adventure as Captain Francesco Bencivenga officially welcomed Daniela to be his second-in-command, while the ship was returning to Sydney.

She started at Carnival Cruise Line as a Deck Cadet in 2013 and has been steadily progressing through the ranks by showcasing 13 years of dedicated service, the company said.

“This promotion is an incredible honour and I’m extremely proud to be the first woman in Carnival Cruise Line history to be a Staff Captain. Carnival’s career pathways allow men and women wonderful opportunities for a life at sea,” said Daniela. 

“I love working with people from all over the world, from different cultures, and I’m especially excited to be starting this new chapter in my career onboard Carnival Adventure in Australia.”

Explora III officially sets sail

August 6: Explora Journeys has celebrated the departure of EXPLORA III following her official Naming Ceremony in Barcelona, as the newest ship in the fleet embarks on her inaugural season.

EXPLORA III is the brand’s first LNG-powered ship and offers more public space per guest than any ship in the fleet.

The ship features 461 ocean-front Suites, Penthouses and Residences, including two Owner’s Residences designed by Patricia Urquiola.

Guests can enjoy seven culinary experiences, 13 bars and lounges, five heated swimming pools, and an expanded Ocean Wellness offering.

Following her Maiden Journey from Barcelona to Lisbon, EXPLORA III will sail through Northern Europe, exploring the Baltic Sea, the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and Greenland before crossing the Atlantic to Canada and New England.

Norwegian Cruise Line unveils major upgrades to two ships

July 30: A major refresh of two ships, the Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem, have been unveiled by NCL, ahead of their upcoming Alaska, Europe and Asia seasons.

The updates will bring some of the brand’s most popular guest experiences to even more passengers.

The Norwegian Jade will now have a brand-new adults-only Vibe Beach Club with private cabanas, a dedicated bar and premium loungers. The onboard spa will be expanded to add a charcoal sauna, salt room, ice room, IV lounge, four-senses loungers, experiential showers and a new plunge pool.

There will also be a new Starbucks on board. The Jade returns to Asia this season for the first time in seven years, with new ports including Brunei, Taiwan and the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Norwegian Gem will continue sailing seven-day Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, visiting destinations including Cannes, Florence, Dubrovnik, Split and the Greek Islands.

Onboard upgrades also include a new adults-only beach club with private cabanas and upgraded outdoor relaxation spaces.

The spa has also seen a refresh, with charcoal, salt and ice rooms, IV lounge, four-senses loungers, plus an upgraded Thalassotherapy pool and hot tub.

Viking takes delivery of newest river ship in europe

July 30: Viking has taken delivery of the Viking Dagur, the company’s newest Viking Longship.

The ship was built at Meyer’s Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock-Warnemünde, Germany.

The 190-guest Viking Dagur joins the company’s growing fleet of state-of-the-art sister ships and will sail Viking’s popular itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

Luxury river paddlesteamer to launch

July 27: Australia’s first, five-star, overnight river vessel, is finally set to launch early this spring.

The new paddlesteamer, PS Australian Star, is run by Murray River Paddlesteamers and will offer year-round cruises of three, four or seven nights on the Murray River from the historic, Victorian riverport of Echuca.

Accommodating just 38-guests in deluxe, airconditioned staterooms, PS Australian Star replicates an authentic, 19th Century paddlesteamer but with modern-day additions.

The new river boat is the largest wood-fired paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only, five-star, accommodated paddlesteamer in the world.

Grand Princess returns to Australia in 100 days

July 23: Princess Cruises is celebrating 50 years of cruising in Australia, and counting down to the anticipated return of the Grand Princess to local waters.

Arriving in 100 days, Grand Princess will be Australia’s next year-round ship offering cruises around Australia, New Zealand (Aotearoa), South Pacific and longer voyages like the 79-Day Circle Pacific which includes Hawaii, Alaska, Japan and Southeast Asia.

“As we celebrate 50 years in Australia, it’s fitting a ship so closely connected to our heritage will be welcoming guests year-round to some of the world’s most spectacular destinations,” said Matthew Rutherford, Princess Cruises Vice President Asia Pacific.

Renowned cruise ship to get revamp

July 21: Cunard cruise liner Queen Victoria will head to dry dock for a refresh.

Work will be done on the Grand Lobby, Queens Room, Cunard Grill’s suites and new eating spot The Pavilion Wellness Café. 

Eight new Britannia staterooms will also be introduced, including three from a new premium category, Britannia Deluxe Oceanview, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic ocean views. 

“Queen Victoria has always held a special place in the hearts of our guests, celebrated for her distinctive character, intimate spaces and unmistakable sense of British elegance,” Katie McAlister, President of Cunard, said.

“From the Grand Lobby to the Queens Room, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure Queen Victoria continues to deliver the timeless luxury she is known and loved for.”

The 2,061-guest ship will return to service in November.

The ship will visit Sydney on 24 February 2027 as part of her World Voyage.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises marks 35 years 

July 20: Regent Seven Seas Cruises, which dubs itself “the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise line”, will celebrate three and a half decades of “elevating luxury at sea” it says.

It’s launching a collection of 35th Anniversary Sailings in 2027.

They’ll cover six ships including the new Seven Seas Prestige.

Highlights include the 12-night Sapphire Sojourn from Los Angeles to Panama City on Seven Seas Prestige and a panama canal transit with Holiday in Panama on Seven Seas Splendor sailing from Miami to San Francisco.

“We are incredibly proud to be celebrating 35 years of setting the standard for ultra-luxury travel,” President Wesley D’Silva said.

Seaborn launches 40th anniversary voyages

July 16: Upmarket cruise firm Seabourn has launched what’s its calling its “most ambitious voyage collection yet”.

The Ruby Collection marks the 40th anniversary and includes 54 voyages across its five ships.

It says the sailings “pair enhanced onboard experiences with access to extraordinary destinations that larger ships simply can’t reach.”

Highlights include seven-day yacht-style sailings to the 120-day Cape to Cape World Cruise and the 96-day Grand Expedition: Pole to Pole

New ports of call including Taichung and Tainan (Taiwan), Petersburg, Valdez and the Chiswell Islands (Alaska).

New course launched for curious cruisers

July 10: Expedition cruise company HX Expeditions, has launched a new free online course dedicated to the icy destination of Svalbard,

It has been developed in partnership with the University of Tasmania as part of pre-departure learning for guests. A similar course is on offer for Antarctica.

The company is marking 130 years since its first guest voyage to Svalbard in 1896.

Chief Scientist, Verena Meraldi said: “That first voyage was also attended by scientists, biologists and guests who wanted to learn more – so it feels fitting to launch the educational programme this week.”

Celebrity ship revealed after revamp

July 10: A revamped pool club with daybeds, entertainment spots, restaurants and open air outdoor space Sunset Park are coming to the modernised Celebrity Reflection.

It’s the second Solstice series ship to be given an update.

Also new are the three-storey Grand Plaza, Boulevard Lounge, Boulevard Bar and The Parlor, Trattoria Rossa, Fine Cut Steakhouse, and rooftop dining venue, Bora. 

Another favourite from Celebrity Solstice, The Parlor sports and gaming lounge. packed with hundreds of classic board games, billiards, and darts, is on the way.

The refreshed ship will set sail next March.

New River Nile ship on the way

July 6: It’s a bucket-list cruise for many and an Aussie-owned Nile ship is coming in September.

Travelmarvel Sirius launching in September 2026 will carry 124 guests across 62 cabins. Shore excursions are led by qualified Egyptologists.

The Treasures of Egypt and the Nile itinerary travels between Luxor and Aswan in includes by a Cairo stay featuring the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and Dendera Temple and the Grand Egyptian Museum.

Other highlights include Karnak Temple, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, Abu Simbel and Philae Temple.

David Cox, CEO of APT Travel Groups said: “Egypt has always held a powerful allure for Australians, with a history spanning more than 3,000 years that continues to captivate travellers today, and we’re seeing it return to the top of travel wish lists.”

Ponant unveils new Asian itineraries

July 3: Luxury exploration cruise firm Ponant Expeditions has launched an array of new sailings across Asia.

It says they will offer access to “some of the region’s most remote and culturally rich destinations aboard its intimate fleet of luxury small ships.”

There’s still time to book for 2026 cruises, with 2027 and 2028 now launched.

Indonesia and East Timor, Philippines, Borneo and Vietnam, as well as Japan are on the itineraries, meaning Aussie travellers don’t have to fly long haul to get on board.

Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas sets sail

July 2: The next ‘world’s largest cruise ship’ has made its debut in the Mediterranean and will officially set sail with passengers on July 4.

The 250,000-gross-ton Legend of the Seas by Royal Caribbean is the third Icon class ship to join the fleet, joining her mammoth sister ships Icon and Star of the Seas.

The ship has 18 decks split into eight “neighbourhoods”. It stretches 365 metres long, with a maximum capacity of 7,600 guests.

On board, passengers will have a choice from the most dining at sea with 28 options for every occasion. New experiences include Hollywoodland Supper Club, a multi-course elevated dinner inspired by old Hollywood.

There are also seven pools and dedicated water experiences for all ages, including Royal Bay, the largest pool at sea, and Category 6, a massive water theme park.

Legend will initially launch in Europe sailing 7-night Western Mediterranean holidays from Barcelona with stops in Rome.

Then from November onwards, the ship will call Fort Lauderdale, Florida home and host 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean holidays, which include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island Perfect Day CocoCay.

New luxury river cruise for India and Sri Lanka

June 18: As Aussies increasingly choose Asia over other cruise destinations around the world, Scenic has unveiled a new collection of luxury journeys through India and Sri Lanka.

Aboard the newly redesigned Scenic Aura, itineraries will be an integrated river-and-land program designed to show off the very best of these two fascinating countries.

With just 44 guests per departure and land groups capped at 25, the small trips allow for full immersion in the destination.

Early birds can save up to $1,500pp on selected sailings from September 2027 to March 2028.

Two new Viking river ships

June 12: Viking has taken delivery of its newest river ships, the Viking Annar and the Viking Fjolvar.

The 95-stateroom Annar will host 190 guests, with three full decks and an indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, as well as asymmetric corridors that enable Viking to offer true two-room suites.

The Fjolvar will host 168 guests in 84 staterooms, and is is built specifically to navigate the Seine River and dock at Viking’s exclusive docking location in the heart of Paris.

The Viking Annar will sail Viking’s itineraries on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, while the Viking Fjolvar will sail itineraries on the Seine River.

New images of epic cruise ship slide revealed

June 16: New photos of what will be the longest ‘dry’ slide at sea have been revealed.

MSC Cruises’ new ship, MSC World Asia, will boast the impressive attraction, called The Spiral @ Tree of Life.

Within outdoor fun park the Harbour, an elevated walkway wraps around what bosses have dubbed the Tree of Life, leading guests to the slide.

It will drop 81 metres across 12 decks,ending up in central hub, World Promenade

The Tree of Life itself is an eight ton, 10m high creation adorned with LED lights and is inspired by the Supertrees of Singapore’s Marina Bay.

MSC World Asia is the third ship in MSC Cruises’ World Class series.

The ship will be officially named on 28 November 2026 in Le Havre, France.

Luxury cruise line launches wellness sailing

June 15: With all things wellness taking off, luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas is launching special sailings.

The company is launching themed voyages including wellness and longevity in partnership with skincare brand ELEMIS.

“Spotlight Voyages represent the evolution of luxury travel - guests are looking not only to see the world, but also to engage through their personal interests and passions,” said president Wesley D’Silva.

That cruise will be on the new ship, Seven Seas Prestige.

The company is also offering cruises with genealogy, gastronomy and fine wine focuses.

Carnival launches Australia’s first-ever beach club

June 12: Aussie cruisers will be able to chill-out in private-island style cabanas.

Carnival Cruise Line guests sailing to Tangalooma on Moreton island in Queensland will be able to visit the new Tangalooma Dunes Cabana Club

Carnival guests can book one of 20 private cabanas from August 1.

They include a fridge, towels, lovers and chagrin points and hold eight people.

They cost $399.99 a day.

Sydney-based Carnival Adventure and Carnival Splendor sail year-round to Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in the world.

Tangalooma Island Resort guests will be able to book the beachside spots too.

Viking gets new ocean ship

May 27: Viking has taken delivery of its newest ocean ship, Viking Mira.

Like all Viking ocean vessels, it’s classified as a small ship, with 499 staterooms for 998 guests.

Built in Italy, she will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

“Our guests are curious travellers, and the arrival of a new ship allows us to offer them even more opportunities to explore the world in Viking comfort,” Leah Talactac, President and CEO said.

Also on the way is Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions.

Cunard announces landmark celebration

May 7: Cruise line Cunard has announced an historic rendezvous of its four ships as part of its 2008 voyages.

The landmark historic event will see all four ships, Queen Anne, Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria meet on the River Mersey in Liverpool on 16 May 2028.

Festivities set to take place both on land and on board.

Plus cruise enthusiasts can book a range of back-to-back sailings, allowing guests to experience the best ports across Europe and up to four Queens in one holiday.

The four-Queen voyage spans 40-nights from Southampton to Civitavecchia and includes the momentous Four Queens Celebration in Liverpool.

New around-the-world cruises launched

May 7: Oceania Cruises has unveiled a global sailing programme with the launch of two 180‑day around the world voyages for 2028 and 2029 aboard newest ship, Oceania Aurelia. 

Among the highlights are a series of overnight port stays that allow for more time ashore for exploration in destinations including Papeete, Bora Bora, Sydney, Bali, Tokyo, Singapore, Mumbai, Seville, and Bordeaux.

Select mid‑cruise programmes take guests beyond the coastline, unlocking wonders such as Machu Picchu in Peru, the ancient city of Petra in Jordan, and the majesty of the Taj Mahal in India.

Across each circumnavigation, nearly 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites are within reach.

Guests on the Around the World 2028 cruise will have an addition to their itinerary as they will be invited to join the celebrations as Oceania Aurelia is officially christened in Miami in January 2028.

Windstar Cruises completes full transformation of Wind Star

April 29: Windstar Cruises has completed a full transformation of Wind Star, the original yacht that the company says "pioneered modern sailing cruises".

After first debuting 40 years ago, the newly reimagined 148-guest sailing yacht will now set course for the Med, Greek Isles and Tahiti.

"As our original sailing yacht, Wind Star has always held a special place in our fleet. With these significant updates, we've honoured what guests love most while elevating every aspect of the experience," Stijn Creupelandt, chief operating officer of Windstar Cruises, said.

"Now, she's ready to deliver that experience in entirely new ways, in some of the world's most iconic destinations."

Oceania Cruises unveils new ship, Oceania Aurelia

April 23: Oceania Cruises has unveiled Oceania Aurelia, which will debut in late 2027.

The new ship has been purposefully designed for extended global itineraries, including the company's 2028 and 2029 Around the World voyages as well as a series of expansive Grand Voyages.

Oceania Aurelia will hold fewer than 500 guests, served by 400 officers and crew.

Luxurious suites with dedicated butler service define the onboard experience, with 179 of the ship's 238 accommodations designed as spacious suites. Most exceed 28 square metres, with a select few spanning up to 93 square metres.

"Oceania Aurelia is our ultimate world explorer," Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, said.

"She is designed specifically for guests who desire greater space, more suites, and a deeper level of personalised care, particularly for extended journeys."

Princess Cruises unveils largest-ever Japan season

April 15: Princess Cruises has announced its largest-ever Japan summer season for 2028, alongside an expanded Southeast Asia program for 2027-2028.

The new deployment features 96 departures across 61 itineraries, with two ships homeporting in Tokyo for the first time.

"This is the most immersive Japan season we've ever introduced and one that reflects how our guests want to experience the destination today," said Jim Berra, Princess Cruises Chief Commercial Officer.

"With Diamond Princess and Sapphire Princess homeporting in Tokyo for the first time, late‑night stays timed to Japan's most celebrated summer festivals, and sailings that visit all four main islands during cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, we're delivering unprecedented access to the culture, cuisine and traditions that define Japan."

Oceania Vista makes maiden arrival into Sydney Harbour

April 9: Oceania Vista, one of Oceania Cruise's newest Allura-class ships, arrived into Sydney Harbour this morning for her maiden voyage into Australian waters as part of her 2026 around-the-world cruise.

The ship sailed into Australia from New Caledonia, following an 18‑night voyage starting in Papeete (Tahiti).

After a brief visit in Sydney, the ship is set to depart this evening on an 18‑night voyage to Singapore, calling at Mooloolaba, Whitsunday Beach, Townsville, Cairns and Darwin, before continuing through Indonesia and arriving in Singapore at the end of April.

The ship is on Oceania's inaugural 197-day 2026 World Odyssey voyage, which first set sail on December 20 to circumnavigate the world, visiting over 100 ports across 43 countries.

The cruise lasts until July 6, 2026 when you disembark in Miami, and is one of the longest travellers can book.

World's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship is 'floated out'

March 24: Viking has announced that the Viking Libra, the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions, was officially "floated out".

The float-out ceremony for the Viking Libra hydrogen cruise ship took place at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Ancona, Italy, ahead of her November 2026 delivery.

"From the beginning, our approach to ship design has focused on reducing fuel consumption, and the Viking Libra is our most environmentally friendly vessel yet," Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, said.

Following a two-day process that will set the Viking Libra afloat, she will then be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.

The ship will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Carnival Encounter returns from dry dock

March 20: Carnival Encounter has returned home to Queensland from dry dock with a refreshed look inside and out.

As well as a new hull design, guests can experience a new spa relaxation zone, the Cloud 9 Spa Thermal Suite, featuring heated thermal lounges, saunas and steam baths.

All five pool areas have also been revitalised, and all seven jacuzzi tubs replaced.

Behind the scenes, extensive energy-efficiency upgrades have been carried out throughout the ship, including the galleys, laundry and cold rooms.

"We are excited to be offering Queenslanders a whole new spa experience and fresh fun onboard the only cruise ship sailing year-round from Brisbane," Anton Loeb, Carnival Cruise Line Assistant Vice President Sales and Marketing, said.

"Carnival Encounter provides a great value holiday at sea in autumn, winter, spring or summer."

MSC expands Yacht Club

March 19: MSC Cruises has opened sales for its award-winning MSC Yacht Club aboard MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra, offering guests keycard-only access to an array of private venues along with 24/7 personalised service.

The ships will be the latest in the cruise line's fleet to undergo a major dry-dock refurbishment.

Other updates include the addition of two speciality restaurants - Butcher's Cut, an American-style steakhouse, and Kaito Sushi Bar, along with a newly refreshed MSC Aurea Spa, and an enhanced MSC Gym Powered by Technogym.

With the addition of MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra, the MSC Yacht Club will be available across 19 ships fleetwide.

Viking takes delivery of newest river ship in Europe

March 12: Viking has announced it has taken delivery of the Viking Eldir, the company's newest Viking Longship.

"We are pleased to welcome the Viking Eldir to our growing river fleet," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.

"With our exclusive docking locations, we proudly bring our guests closer to destinations along the great rivers of the world."

Hosting 190 guests in 95 staterooms, the Viking Eldir is built specifically to navigate the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

It features Viking's Scandinavian design and has a space-saving square bow, three full decks, indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace, asymmetric corridor and true two-room suites.

The ship will sail popular itineraries that include Rhine Getaway, Grand European Tour, Passage to Eastern Europe, European Sojourn and Christmas on the Rhine.

Explora Journeys marks major milestones

March 10: Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has celebrated a host of important milestones.

A Triple milestone ceremony at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa marked the float out of EXPLORA IV, the coin ceremony of EXPLORA V and the steel cutting of EXPLORA VI.

The brand launched its first ship, EXPLORA I, in July 2023, followed by EXPLORA II in September 2024. The LNG‑powered EXPLORA III will join the fleet in July 2026, with EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V arriving in 2027. EXPLORA VI will follow in 2028

"For the first time, all six ships in our fleet are either in service or under construction – a defining moment as we bring the 'Ocean State of Mind' to life on an even greater scale," said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys.

Disney Adventure Arrives in Singapore

March 4: The Disney Adventure has arrived at its new home port of Singapore.

A water salute and fireworks celebrated the arrival of the mammoth ship.

The Disney Adventure sets sail on her maiden voyage from Singapore on 10 March 2026, embarking on three- and four-night sailings.

"The arrival of the Disney Adventure in Singapore marks a significant milestone in our global expansion, introducing Disney cruising to Asia for the very first time," says Joe Schott, president of Disney Signature Experiences.

Disney says The Disney Adventure offers seven themed areas, with itineraries designed to entertain guests for multiple days at sea.

The company's newest ship will be the closest one for Aussies to sail on after the company pulled out of the country.

Carnival Cruise Line announces ship deployment update

February 26: Carnival Cruise Line has announced that Carnival Adventure - a former P&O Australia ship - will now only sail seasonally in Australia from April 2028 when she relocates to North America for the northern hemisphere summer.

The company said it has had to make this deployment decision given more favourable market conditions elsewhere and the uncertain regulatory environment in Australia and New Zealand.

But Carnival confirmed it will remain the only cruise line with a year-round commitment to Australia.

"It is business as usual with Carnival Cruise Line operating from more homeports across Australia and New Zealand in 2027/28 than ever before, so there are plenty of attractive itineraries for our guests," Country Manager Peter Little said.

Regent Seven Seas orders another ship

February 18: Ultra luxury cruise line Regent Seven Seas cruises is getting a new ship.

It'll be the fourth vessel in its Prestige‑Class series. It's set for delivery in 2036.

It will follow the debut of Seven Seas Prestige in December 2026, with the second and third Prestige‑Class ships entering service in 2030 and 2033.

All four vessels will be built at Fincantieri shipyards in Italy.

Seven Seas Prestige will be 40 per cent bigger than previous Regent ships yet carry only 10 per cent more guests the firm says.

Royal Caribbean announces brand new Discovery Class ships

January 30: Royal Caribbean has announced a major expansion of its fleet, confirming a brand new Discovery Class to be built at Chantiers de l'Atlantique in France.

The first Discovery Class debut is planned for 2029, followed by a second in 2032.

Royal Caribbean says the new class will introduce a bold, guest-first concept, combining cutting-edge design, immersive experiences and next-generation technology.

"The Discovery Class introduces a bold new concept that puts our guests at the centre of it all. It will deliver extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences," Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean, said.

The company is gearing up to welcome its next icon class ship, with Legend of the Seas set to debut later this year.

Celebrity Cruises reveals an order of ten more river ships

January 30: Celebrity River Cruises has announced an order of 10 new ships – doubling the fleet to 20 by 2031.

It has also now opened its 2028 season for booking, with 80 per cent more European destinations available to guests.

The news comes as the company marks the first piece of steel cut on its very first river ship, Celebrity Compass.

The inaugural 2027 season for Celebrity Compass sold out in under six minutes during presale.

MSC Cruises announces upgrades to Ocean Cay

January 29: MSC Cruises has announced upgrades to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas.

Updates will include new food and beverage facilities, adults-only beach, dedicated family lagoon, as well as an extended pier to allow two ships to call simultaneously.

The works are due for completion in late 2027.

Aman at Sea's first luxury vessel open for reservations

January 22: Aman at Sea has unveiled the inaugural itineraries for Amangati, its first ocean-going motor yacht, with reservations now open.

The brand’s first-ever Mediterranean journeys have been unveiled, with Amangati set to hit the ocean for the first time from Spring 2027.

Amangati is a 180-metre, nine-deck yacht designed to reflect Aman's signature principles.

There are only 47 expansive suites ranging from 68 to 354 square metres, accommodating 94 guests, all with their own terrace.

The vessel's debut season will consist of five- to eight-night Mediterranean journeys.

Select journeys will also see the ship remain at anchor during significant cultural moments, including the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix, providing a rare vantage point from which to experience these occasions.

Oceania Cruises unveils new ship's maiden voyages

January 22: Oceania Cruises has also unveiled a first look at the itineraries of Oceania Sonata, the first ship in its all-new Sonata Class, debuting in August 2027.

Now available online for preview, with bookings opening on 29 January 2026, Oceania Sonata's inaugural season features 22 sailings from August 2027 through April 2028, spanning more than 90 destinations on voyages ranging from 7 to 16 days.

The 1,390-guest vessel will visit Europe, including cities like including Barcelona, Athens, and Lisbon, as well as the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and South America.

Oceania is considered the world's leading culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line. Oceania Sonata also features one chef for every eight guests and half of the ship's crew is dedicated to culinary operations.

Norwegian Aura now available to book

January 19: Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has unveiled Norwegian Aura, the longest and largest vessel in its fleet, which is now available to book.

The cruise ship will homeport in Miami beginning in June 2027 following her debut in Europe in late May 2027.

Norwegian Aura will be almost 1,130 feet long, 168,000 gross tons and will accommodate 3,840 guests at double occupancy, that's 10 per cent larger than its predecessor ships Luna and Aqua (launching this year).

At the centre of the design is the all-new Ocean Heights, an open-air activities complex complete with a ropes course, that can transform into a laid-back space at night.

"Norwegian Aura represents the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and the celebration of bringing together families, friends, and travellers from around the world," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

Azamara Cruises announces major fleet updates and expansion

January 16: Azamara Cruises has announced an enhancement program across its fleet, representing the most extensive renovations and refurbishments in the company's history.

Called Azamara Forward, the updates will include a brand new Chef's Table experience, a reimagined cocktail lounge, refreshed staterooms and suites, and upgraded public spaces.

Exclusively on Azamara Quest, the program will introduce 12 all-new premier suites exclusive to the ship, including an entirely new Penthouse Deck exclusively on Azamara Quest's highest level, and the all-new Grandview and Panorama Suites.

"This transformation reflects years of listening to our guests and travel partners and an extraordinary amount of creativity and collaboration across our teams," Dondra Ritzenthaler, CEO of Azamara Cruises, said.

Oceania Cruises goes adults-only

January 9: From now, Oceania Cruises will exclusively welcome over-age guests, in a move the company says is in pursuit of a more serene, upscale experience at sea.

Executives say the change comes after extensive guest research and feedback.

Any existing reservations with minors will still be honoured, but going forward, everyone who books onto an Oceania Cruise must be over 18.

The culinary- and destination-focused luxury cruise line is a premium brand within the portfolio of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

"By transitioning to an adults-only experience, we are enhancing the very essence of the Oceania Cruises journey–one defined by sophistication, serenity and discovery," said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises.

READ MORE HERE