All New Cruise Ships Launched in 2025: Every Ocean and Expedition Newbuild, Ranked by Launch Date
From record-breaking megaships and luxury yachts to expedition vessels and river cruises, 2025 delivered one of the most diverse cruise ship launch years ever.
All New Cruise Ships Launched in 2025
Every ocean and river cruise ship that entered service in 2025 — fully updated
Last updated: 31 December 2025
2025 was a bumper year for cruise ship launches. Image: Cruise Lowdown collage of Cruise Line images
2025 has been one of the most important years for new cruise ship launches in recent memory. Across ocean, expedition, luxury, boutique and river cruising, cruise lines introduced a wave of new vessels designed to meet changing traveller expectations - from LNG-powered megaships to small, experience-led ships and specialist river vessels.
Below is the complete, chronological list of every new ocean and river cruise ship that entered service in 2025, followed by a detailed FAQ section.
March 2025
Mein Schiff Relax - TUI Cruises
Mein Schiff Relax is the first ship in TUI Cruises’ new InTUItion class. Credit: TUI Cruises
The first ship in TUI Cruises’ new InTUItion class, Mein Schiff Relax entered service in March 2025. Built by Fincantieri and powered by LNG, it reflects the growing focus on sustainability, wellness and space in the European cruise market.
Key Highlights:
LNG-powered for lower emissions and greener cruising
Wellness-focused with extensive spa, fitness and relaxation areas
Modern European interior design with spacious, light-filled public areas
Tailored experiences for the German market, including dining and entertainment
April 2025
Norwegian Aqua - Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Aqua became the first ship in NCL’s Prima Plus class Image Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Aqua became the first ship in NCL’s Prima Plus class, expanding on the Prima-class concept with increased capacity, larger public spaces and upgraded entertainment venues.
Dimensions: Approximately 294 metres in length; gross tonnage around 156,300 GT
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri, Italy
Launch Date: April 2025
Maiden Voyage: April 2025, from Port Canaveral
Estimated Cost: Approximately $850 million
Capacity: approximately 3,550 guests
Key highlights
First ship in NCL’s Prima Plus class with expanded outdoor and public spaces
Modern, premium design aimed at families and couples
First hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea
Flexible dining options with no formal dress code
Advanced sustainability features
Upgraded entertainment and dining venues
Focused on spacious decks and innovative onboard experiences
MSC World America - MSC Cruises
MSC World America entered service in April 2025 Image. MSC Cruises
One of the most high-profile launches of the year, MSC World America entered service in April 2025 as part of MSC’s World Class. LNG-powered and built for the Caribbean, it blends European styling with American-market features.
Dimensions: Approximately 333 metres in length; gross tonnage around 205,700 GT
Shipbuilder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
Launch Date: April 2025
Maiden Voyage: April 2025, from Miami
Estimated Cost: Approximately $1 billion
Capacity: 6,769 passengers max
Key Highlights
LNG-powered World Class ship designed for the Caribbean
Innovative ‘Cliffhanger’ swing ride
11-deck waterslide with a 90-degree drop
Multiple dining and entertainment options
Large family and entertainment zones
European design blended with features for North American travellers
July 2025
Oceania Allura - Oceania Cruises
Oceania promised us Allura and she arrived in June 2025. Image: Oceania Cruises
Luxury line Oceania Cruises welcomed Oceania Allura in July 2025. As the second ship in the Allura class, it continues the brand’s focus on culinary excellence and destination-led itineraries.
Dimensions: Length: Approximately 241 metres, Gross Tonnage: Around 67,000 GT, Passenger Capacity: 1,200 guests
Maiden Voyage: June 2025, departing Athens-Istanbul.
Estimated Cost: Approximately $600 million.
Key Highlights:
As the second ship in Oceania’s Allura Class, Allura offers:
Exquisitely Crafted Cuisine: Continuing Oceania’s tradition of exceptional dining experiences.
Curated Travel Experiences: Thoughtfully designed itineraries to intriguing destinations.
Small Ship Luxury: Providing an intimate and luxurious cruising environment.
Luxurious New Library: Featuring walls of floor-to-ceiling glass, offering a serene space for relaxation.
Viking Vesta - Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking Vesta joined Viking’s growing ocean fleet in summer 2025. Offering adult-only cruising, all-veranda cabins and included shore excursions, it reinforces Viking’s destination-first philosophy.
Dimensions: 784 feet (239 metres), Beam: 101 feet (30.8 metres)
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri, Italy
Launch Date: July 2025
Maiden Voyage: Specific itinerary details to be announced; expected to feature European destinations
Estimated Cost: Not publicly disclosed
Key Highights:
All-Veranda Staterooms: Each of the 499 staterooms offers a private veranda, providing guests with panoramic ocean views.
Intimate Guest Capacity: Accommodating 998 passengers, the ship ensures a personalised and spacious cruising experience.
Destination-Focused Itineraries: Designed to dock in smaller ports, allowing access to unique destinations larger ships cannot reach.
Enrichment Programs: Onboard lectures, cultural performances, and destination-specific dining enhance the immersive travel experience.
Sustainable Technologies: Equipped with advanced energy-efficient systems to minimize environmental impact.
Asuka III — Asuka / NYK Cruises
Designed for the Japanese market, Asuka III entered service in 2025 offering premium hospitality and region-focused itineraries, representing continued growth in Asia’s cruise sector.
Dimensions: Length ~230m, Beam ~29.8m, Gross Tonnage ~52,200 GT.
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft (Germany).
Launch Date: Entered service July 2025.
Maiden Voyage: July 20, 2025, a 7-night "Hakodate and Otaru" cruise from Yokohama.
Estimated Cost: Not publicly disclosed.
Key Highlights
Eco-Friendly Propulsion - Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and diesel, with advanced systems for reduced emissions and shore power (cold ironing) capability.
Features traditional Japanese design, including open-air baths, and art eflecting Japanese hospitality (omotenashi).
All Private Balcony Cabins including single cabins.
Equipped with a dynamic positioning system (DP) to hold position without anchors.
High crew-to-guest ratio provides attentive service, plus six dining options, including French, Italian, and Japanese cuisine, with suites offering butler service.
Ritz-Carlton Luminara - The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Luxury ship Luminara joined The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection in 2025. Image: Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection
Luminara joined The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection in 2025, offering ultra-luxury, all-suite yachting with hotel-style service at sea.
Luminara brought Ritz-Carlton’s signature luxury to the seas, offering exclusive yacht-style cruising. The third vessel to join the fleet, with Michelin-star-quality dining, intimate suites, and access to boutique ports, it’s the ultimate choice for those seeking elegance and privacy.
Dimensions: Approx. 242 metres; 46,750 GT; Passenger Capacity: 456
Shipbuilder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
Launch Date: July 2025
Maiden Voyage: Mediterranean itineraries
Estimated Cost: Approx. $600 million
Key Highlights:
Luxury yacht experience with spacious suites and private terraces.
Nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio for personalized service.
Michelin-star-level dining and culinary programs.
Exclusive itineraries to boutique ports.
State-of-the-art environmental technology.
August 2025
Star of the Seas - Royal Caribbean
New Star of the Seas pictured with sister ship Icon of the Seas at Perfect Day Image: Royal Caribbean
The second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class, Star of the Seas is among the largest cruise ships ever built. Designed as a floating destination, it delivers high-energy attractions alongside neighbourhood-style zones.
Dimensions: Approximately 365 metres in length; gross tonnage around 250,800 GT
Shipbuilder: Meyer Turku, Finland
Launch Date: Mid-2025
Maiden Voyage: August 2025, from Port Canaveral
Estimated Cost: Over $1.3 billion
Capacity: almost 8,000 max
Key Highlights:
World’s largest cruise ship (joint with sister ship Icon of the Seas).
Multiple pools and the tallest drop slide at sea
Diverse dining and entertainment venues
Continues the “neighborhood” themes from Icon of the Seas
Autumn 2025
Brilliant Lady - Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages fourth Ladyships, Brilliant Lady entered service in 2025. Image: Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages’ fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, finally entered service in 2025 after delays. Maintaining the brand’s adults-only, lifestyle-led approach, it brings new itineraries and refined spaces to the fleet.
Dimensions: Approximately 278 metres in length; gross tonnage around 110,000 GT
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri, Italy
Launch Date: September 2025
Maiden Voyage: September 2025, from New York
Estimated Cost: Approximately $700 million
Key Highlights:
Adults-only cruise experience
Over 20 dining and beverage options
Included exercise classes and luxurious spa
Modern design with innovative entertainment
Star Princess - Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises’ second Sphere class, Star Princess entered service in late 2025. Credit: Princess Cruises
The second ship in Princess Cruises’ Sphere class, Star Princess entered service in late 2025. Building on the success of Sun Princess, it introduces expanded public spaces and next-generation design.
Dimensions: Approximately 330 metres in length; gross tonnage around 175,500 GT
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri, Italy
Launch Date: October 2025
Maiden Voyage: October 2025, in the Mediterranean
Key Highlights:
Exclusive suite guest experiences
Multiple dining venues and entertainment options
Advanced sustainability features
Modern amenities with a focus on luxury
Celebrity Xcel - Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Xcel is Celebrity Cruises fifth Edge Class Ship - Celebrity Cruises. Credit: Royal Caribbean Group
Celebrity Xcel became the newest Edge-class ship in late 2025, continuing Celebrity’s push into contemporary luxury cruising with bold architecture and premium onboard experiences.
Dimensions: Approximately 327 metres in length; gross tonnage around 140,600 GT
Shipbuilder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique, France
Launch Date: November 2025
Maiden Voyage: November 2025.
Estimated Cost: Approximately $1 billion.
Key Highlights:
Innovative Design: Continuing the Edge Class tradition with modern aesthetics and state-of-the-art architecture.
Magic Carpet: A movable deck that transforms into various venues, including a tender platform and an al fresco dining area.
Eden: A multi-level venue combining dining, entertainment, and panoramic ocean views.
Advanced Technology: Equipped with cutting-edge amenities to enhance the guest experience.
Disney Destiny - Disney Cruise Line
Disney Destiny, a new addition to the expanding Disney Cruise Line Image: DCL
Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Destiny entered service in November 2025, bringing immersive storytelling and family-focused entertainment to the fleet.
Dimensions: Approximately 341 metres in length; gross tonnage around 135,000 GT
Shipbuilder: Meyer Werft, Germany
Launch Date: November 2025
Maiden Voyage: November 2025, from Fort Lauderdale
Estimated Cost: Approximately $1 billion
Key Highlights:
Lion King-themed musical dining show
Family-friendly amenities and entertainment
Themed cruises and character experiences
Innovative dining and recreational facilities
December 2025
Star Seeker - Windstar Cruises
Windstar’s Star Seeker entered service in December 2025 Image credit: Windstar Cruises
Windstar’s Star Seeker entered service in December 2025, marking the line’s first newbuild in decades and signalling a new era for small-ship cruising.
Dimensions: Approx. 185 metres; Passenger Capacity: 312
Shipbuilder: Fincantieri, Italy
Launch Date: December 2025
Maiden Voyage: European itineraries
Estimated Cost: Not disclosed
Ideal for
Yacht-style cruising
Off-the-beaten-path ports
Immersive itineraries
Key Highlights:
Intimate ship size for access to smaller ports.
All-suite accommodations with luxury amenities.
Focus on sustainability with advanced green technologies.
Enrichment programs, including expert lectures and local cultural immersion.
Exceptional onboard dining and personalized service.
Douglas Mawson - Aurora Expeditions
The only Expecition ship launched in 2025 is Aurora Expeditions’ Douglas Mawson. Image: Aurora Expeditions
Named after the Australian explorer, Douglas Mawson entered service in December 2025 as a purpose-built expedition vessel designed for polar and remote-region cruising.
Dimensions: Approx. 104 metres long, 18.4 metres beam; ~8,000 gross tonnes
Shipbuilder: China Merchants Heavy Industry (CMHI), Haimen (Infinity-class expedition design)
Launch Date: Entered commercial service with Aurora Expeditions in 2025
Maiden Voyage: Antarctic expedition sailing, 2025 season
Estimated Cost: Approx. US$200 million (industry
River Cruise Ship Launched in 2025
The Lowdown
Whilst many new ships launched in 2025, there are still more innovative cruise ships debuting in 2026, affirming that sea travel is more popular than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions: New Cruise Ships Launched in 2025
Cruise Ship Launches 2025 - Your Questions Answered
How many new cruise ships entered service in 2025?
Sixteen new cruise ships entered service in 2025 across ocean, expedition, luxury, boutique and river cruise brands.
Which cruise ships were launched in 2025?
Cruise ships launched in 2025 include Mein Schiff Relax, Norwegian Aqua, MSC World America, Oceania Allura, Viking Vesta, Star of the Seas, Brilliant Lady, Asuka III, Star Princess, Celebrity Xcel, Disney Destiny, Star Seeker, Ritz-Carlton Luminara, Douglas Mawson and river ship Viking Tonlé.
What was the biggest cruise ship launched in 2025?
Star of the Seas from Royal Caribbean was the largest cruise ship to enter service in 2025.
Which 2025 cruise ships are LNG-powered?
LNG-powered ships launched in 2025 include Mein Schiff Relax, MSC World America and Star of the Seas.
Were any river cruise ships launched in 2025?
Yes. Viking Tonlé entered service in 2025, designed specifically for Mekong River itineraries.
What cruise ship trends defined 2025?
Key trends included LNG propulsion, the launch of ultra-large megaships alongside boutique and expedition vessels, and increased focus on experience-led ship design.