Cruise ships have become floating cities, where you can expect to find everything from water parks to shopping malls. These modern ships are engineering work of genius, designed to entertain, relax, and amaze passengers. These mega-ships redefine cruising, offering more amenities and attractions than ever before. Here’s a look at the 15 largest cruise ships in the world today based on their gross tonnage and passenger capacity.
The only question is—where to sail first? Let’s find out!
Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 250,800 | Passenger Capacity: 7,600 The largest cruise ship ever built, Icon of the Seas, debuted in 2024. It features eight neighborhoods, including a family-focused area with a massive waterpark. This Royal Caribbean giant blends luxury with adventure, making it the ultimate vacation spot at sea.
Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 236,857 | Passenger Capacity: 7,084 Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas displays unique designs, boasting features like a Central Park filled with live plants and the massive Ultimate Abyss slide. It’s a floating heaven for thrill-seekers and relaxation lovers alike.
Symphony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 228,081 | Passenger Capacity: 6,680 This mega cruise combines entertainment and elegance. From zip lines to world-class dining, this ship’s size and scope are a testament to Royal Caribbean’s knack for innovation. Its outdoor Boardwalk and AquaTheater are standout attractions.
Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 226,963 | Passenger Capacity: 6,687 Packed with excitement, Harmony of the Seas features surf simulators, water slides, and robot bartenders. It’s a playground for adventure lovers, with plenty of options for families and solo travelers to enjoy its vast amenities.
Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 226,838 | Passenger Capacity: 6,780 Oasis of the Seas set the standard for luxury cruise ships when it launched in 2009. Neighborhoods like the Royal Promenade and the first shipboard zip line redefined what a cruise experience could be. This one will surely keep you entertained until the end.
MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)
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Gross Tonnage: 215,863 | Passenger Capacity: 6,774 MSC World Europa is MSC Cruises’ largest and most sustainable ship. Powered by LNG, it features futuristic designs, a 341-foot indoor promenade, and the longest dry slide at sea. It’s a mix of style and innovation.
Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 225,282 | Passenger Capacity: 6,780 Here’s another large cruise ship that doesn’t need an introduction. Allure of the Seas offers a perfect blend of entertainment and luxury. With its open-air Central Park and ice-skating rink, it’s a masterpiece of design and a favorite among cruise enthusiasts.
Spectrum of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
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Gross Tonnage: 169,379 | Passenger Capacity: 4,246 Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Ultra-class ship, Spectrum of the Seas, is tailored for the Asian market. It features high-tech entertainment, such as the SkyPad bungee trampoline, and luxury suites, like the two-story Ultimate Family Suite.
Carnival Jubilee (Carnival Cruise Line)
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Gross Tonnage: 183,900 | Passenger Capacity: 5,374 Adding to the Carnival’s fleet, we now have the latest one called the Carnival Jubilee. This one offers attractions like the BOLT roller coaster and a huge selection of themed bars and restaurants. It’s a floating celebration designed for nonstop fun and entertainment.
Norwegian Prima (Norwegian Cruise Line)
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Gross Tonnage: 142,500 | Passenger Capacity: 3,215 Norwegian Prima is the prime example of elegance and excitement blended into one. Its wide-open decks and infinity pools make it perfect for relaxation, while attractions like the Prima Speedway add a thrill-seeker’s edge to the experience.
AIDAnova (AIDA Cruises)
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Gross Tonnage: 183,900 | Passenger Capacity: 6,654 The AIDAnova stands out for being one of the first cruise ships powered by LNG, reducing its environmental impact. Its variety of dining options and a spa covering over 3,500 square feet make it a crowd-pleaser.
Costa Toscana (Costa Cruises)
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Gross Tonnage: 185,010 | Passenger Capacity: 6,554 If Italian style is your personal preference, you must check out the Costa Toscana. This one boasts an eco-friendly design in the most Italian way. It features 11 restaurants and a rooftop garden. This ship is a floating tribute to Italy’s culinary and cultural charm while also using LNG technology.
Disney Wish (Disney Cruise Line)
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Gross Tonnage: 144,000 | Passenger Capacity: 4,000 Disney Wish showcases the magic of Disney while you experience luxury cruising. From Star Wars and Marvel experiences to Broadway-style shows, this cruise ship is an excellent choice for families looking for an unforgettable vacation with their Disney fans.
P&O Iona (P&O Cruises)
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Gross Tonnage: 184,089 | Passenger Capacity: 5,200 P&O Iona offers stunning panoramic views and a relaxed atmosphere. But what truly stands out about this cruise is its SkyDome and infinity whirlpools. It’s an elegant choice for those who want to unwind while enjoying breathtaking ocean vistas.
Celebrity Beyond (Celebrity Cruises)
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Gross Tonnage: 140,600 | Passenger Capacity: 3,937 Celebrity Beyond takes luxury cruising to a whole new level with innovative features like the Magic Carpet. This is basically a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the ship’s side. It's high-end dining and modern design are additional highlights in the cruise world.
