Biggest Cruise Ships in the World – Largest Maritime Giants 2023

Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Cruising has become a popular and exciting way to travel, offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury on the open seas. A cruise vacation allows passengers to embark on a journey filled with comfort, entertainment, and exploration as they sail to various destinations around the world. Here is the list of the biggest cruise ships in the world as of 2023:

S.no.	Cruise Ships	Owned by
1	Wonder of the Seas	Royal Caribbean International
2	Symphony Of the Seas	Royal Caribbean International
3	Harmony of the Seas	Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
4	Allure of the Seas	Royal Caribbean International
5	Oasis of the Seas	Royal Caribbean Group
6	Costa Smeralda	Carnival Corporation & plc
7	P&O Iona	Carnival Corporation & plc
8	AIDA Nova	Carnival Corporation
9	MSC Grandiosa	MSC Cruises
10	Carnival Mardi Grass	Carnival Cruise Lines

Top 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World 2023

Whether you’re seeking a sun-soaked Caribbean getaway, an immersive cultural experience in the Mediterranean, or an expedition to remote corners of the globe, there is a cruise for every taste and preference.

Cruise ships are like floating cities, providing an array of amenities and activities to cater to diverse interests and ages. From luxurious accommodations and fine dining options to entertainment shows, casinos, spa facilities, and recreational activities, cruise ships offer a wide range of onboard experiences to keep passengers entertained and pampered throughout their voyage.

With a dedicated crew committed to providing exceptional service, passengers can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey while all their needs are taken care of.

For more interesting information about these cruise ships, continue reading this article till the end.

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1. Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

The Wonder of the Seas, belonging to Royal Caribbean International, is an extraordinary feat of engineering and design. Weighing a remarkable 236,857 Gross tonnes, it proudly claims the title of the world’s largest cruise ship. This colossal vessel, delivered in January 2022, is a testament to human ingenuity and maritime excellence.

With its length stretching an impressive 1,188 feet, the Wonder of the Seas stands as a true marvel on the seas. It is the fifth addition to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class of cruise ships, renowned for their opulence and grandeur. The ship has been meticulously crafted to offer an unparalleled experience to its passengers, combining luxury, entertainment, and comfort.

Catering to an astonishing capacity of 6,988 passengers, along with a dedicated crew of 2,300 members, the Wonder of the Seas creates a vibrant and bustling community on the water. Whether exploring its expansive decks, indulging in world-class dining options, or enjoying a multitude of entertainment activities, passengers are immersed in a floating civilization that never ceases to amaze.

To ensure maneuverability and precise navigation, the Wonder of the Seas is equipped with four powerful bow thrusters. Each thruster boasts an impressive 7500 Horsepower, enabling the ship to gracefully glide through the water with ease. These advanced thrusters contribute to the vessel’s ability to achieve cruising speeds of up to 22 knots, allowing passengers to swiftly journey to their desired destinations while relishing in the breathtaking views of the open sea.

From the moment the Wonder of the Seas embarks on its inaugural voyage in March 2022, it promises an unforgettable experience for all who step on board. It represents the epitome of luxury and adventure, combining state-of-the-art facilities, exceptional service, and awe-inspiring design to redefine the notion of a remarkable cruise vacation.

2. Symphony Of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

The Symphony of the Seas, the second-largest cruise ship in the world, held the prestigious title of the largest ship until it was surpassed by its sister ship, the “Wonder of the Seas.” This magnificent vessel boasts an impressive size, with 228,081 gross registered tons, towering at a height of 238 feet and spanning a length of 361.011 meters.

The Symphony of the Seas is a dream come true for families seeking the ultimate vacation experience. It offers an exhilarating array of activities designed to ignite energy and create unforgettable memories. Adventure-seekers can engage in thrilling glow-in-the-dark laser tag battles or take the plunge down the towering ten-story high Ultimate Abyss slide—the tallest slide at sea.

For those seeking a refreshing escape, the ship provides opportunities to bask in the sun after enjoying epic waterslides and testing their skills on the FlowRider surf simulators. Onboard the Symphony of the Seas, there is something for everyone, ensuring that families can immerse themselves in a world of excitement, adventure, and relaxation.

3. Harmony of the Seas (Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.)

Harmony of the Seas, an Oasis-Class vessel under the ownership of Royal Caribbean, closely follows the footsteps of its sister ship in terms of design and grandeur. Constructed at the renowned Saint-Nazaire shipyard by STX France, this exceptional cruise ship represents the third installment in the prestigious “Oasis-Class” series, having been delivered to Royal Caribbean in May 2016.

With a staggering gross tonnage of 226,963 GT, Harmony of the Seas is a true giant of the seas. Its maximum beam, measuring an impressive 66 meters, ensures stability and ample space for passengers to indulge in a multitude of activities and amenities. This colossal vessel has been thoughtfully designed to offer an unforgettable experience to its guests.

Harmony of the Seas boasts an extensive array of accommodations, featuring a remarkable total of 2,747 staterooms. Each of these staterooms is equipped with virtual balconies, providing guests with the illusion of an actual balcony view through innovative technology. This unique feature adds an extra touch of luxury and immersion to the onboard experience.

In terms of capacity, Harmony of the Seas has been designed to accommodate a substantial number of guests. With double occupancy in mind, the ship can comfortably house 5,479 passengers. Whether traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, guests are guaranteed ample space and comfort during their voyage.

From its elegant design to its world-class amenities, Harmony of the Seas offers an exceptional cruise experience for all who step on board. With a wide range of dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities, there is something to captivate and delight every guest. The ship’s impressive size and luxurious features make it a floating oasis of relaxation, adventure, and exploration on the high seas.

4. Allure of the Seas (Royal Caribbean International)

Allure of the Seas, another remarkable Oasis-Class cruise ship, takes its place as the fourth vessel on the list, closely following its sister ship. Constructed at the STX Europe shipyards in Turku, Finland, this magnificent ship represents the second addition to Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-Class series. At one point in time, it held the distinction of being the largest passenger ship in service.

With a length of 362 meters, Allure of the Seas showcases the grandeur and scale that is characteristic of Oasis-Class ships. Built to impress, the vessel boasts a gross tonnage of 225,282 GT, towering at a height of 72 meters, and featuring a maximum beam of 60.5 meters. These impressive dimensions ensure a spacious and comfortable environment for all on board.

Delivered in October 2010, Allure of the Seas offers a luxurious experience for its guests. With a capacity of 5,400 passengers at double occupancy, the ship welcomes a large number of travelers seeking a memorable cruise vacation. Onboard, guests can indulge in a wide range of amenities and features, including a two-deck dance hall, a theater with 1,380 seats, an ice skating rink, a concierge club, spa facilities, and fitness centers, among many others.

The ship has been thoughtfully designed to cater to the diverse interests and preferences of its passengers.

Allure of the Seas stands as a testament to Royal Caribbean’s commitment to providing unforgettable experiences at sea. With its impressive size, luxurious accommodations, and an array of entertainment and recreational options, the ship promises a truly exceptional cruise journey for all who step on board.

5. Oasis of the Seas (Royal Caribbean Group)

Oasis of the Seas, the pioneering vessel in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class cruise ships, made its remarkable debut in 2009 as the largest cruise ship in the world at that time. Even today, it proudly holds the title of the fifth-largest cruise ship globally. It is worth noting that Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines have secured all top 5 spots in terms of ship size.

The journey of Oasis of the Seas began when it was ordered in February 2006, followed by its launch from STX Europe’s Turku Shipyard in 2008. This marked the introduction of a new class of vessels into the esteemed fleet of Royal Caribbean International.

Impressively, Oasis of the Seas measures 361.6 meters in overall length, towering at a height of 72 meters above the waterline and boasting a depth of 22.55 meters. With a gross tonnage of 225,282, the ship exhibits a remarkable combination of size, grandeur, and engineering excellence.

Featuring 16 passenger decks, Oasis of the Seas offers accommodation for 5,400 passengers at double occupancy and has the capacity to serve a maximum of 6,296 passengers. The ship provides a range of options to cater to the preferences of its guests, including two-story loft suites and luxurious suites with balconies, ensuring a comfortable and indulgent stay for all.

Oasis of the Seas has set new standards in the industry by introducing groundbreaking amenities and features. Notably, it showcases an outdoor Aqua Theater, an extraordinary open-air venue where guests can witness captivating performances. The ship also features a unique open-air corridor known as Central Park, which is adorned with a variety of eateries, creating a vibrant and immersive atmosphere for guests to enjoy.

Furthermore, the ship offers an array of exciting entertainment options. Guests can relax and unwind in the glass-covered Solarium, complete with a pool, or challenge themselves on the surf simulators, Zipline, and rock-climbing walls. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of the ship’s numerous amenities, including five swimming pools and volleyball and basketball courts.

6. Costa Smeralda (Carnival Corporation & plc)

The Costa Smeralda, named after the stunning Emerald Coast of Sardinia, stands as a testament to technological advancement in the cruise industry. Operated by the renowned Italian cruise line Costa Cruises, this impressive vessel is powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), making it an eco-friendly and sustainable choice.

As the largest cruise ship commissioned by Costa Cruises, the Costa Smeralda boasts a significant size, measuring 185,100 gross tons. Stretching 337 meters in length and 42 meters in width, it provides ample space and comfort for its passengers. With a maximum capacity of 6,554 passengers and 1,646 crew members, the ship ensures a memorable and enjoyable experience for all on board.

In December 2019, the Costa Smeralda embarked on its maiden voyage, captivating passengers with its luxurious amenities and breathtaking design. Primarily operating in the Mediterranean Sea, it offers a remarkable cruising experience in one of the most picturesque regions in the world.

This technologically advanced cruise ship is designed with a focus on sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. It incorporates various eco-friendly technologies, making it a “Smart floating City” that combines luxury with environmental consciousness. The utilization of LNG as its primary power source is a notable step towards reducing emissions and promoting cleaner energy alternatives.

7. P&O Iona (Carnival Corporation & plc)

P&O Cruises presents the remarkable LNG-powered cruise ship, Iona, which was originally scheduled to commence operations in May 2020. However, due to the global impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, the delivery of the ship was delayed, and P&O Cruises finally received it in October 2020.

Iona holds the distinction of being the largest cruise ship built to sail for any U.K-based cruise line and ranks as the seventh largest in the world. This impressive vessel stretches 345 meters in length and features 17 passenger decks, offering a vast and luxurious space for guests to explore and enjoy. With a gross tonnage of 185,000, Iona has the capacity to accommodate 5,200 passengers and provides a high-end hospitality experience with a dedicated crew of 1,800 members.

Although faced with delays, Iona embodies the innovative and sustainable approach of P&O Cruises through its utilization of LNG as a power source. This enables reduced emissions and contributes to a more environmentally friendly cruising experience.

With its grand size and luxurious amenities, Iona aims to provide guests with a truly memorable and enjoyable journey. The ship offers a diverse range of entertainment options, dining experiences, and recreational activities to cater to the preferences and interests of every guest on board.

Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, the arrival of Iona has brought excitement and anticipation to the world of cruising. It represents a new era of U.K-based cruise travel and showcases P&O Cruises’ commitment to delivering exceptional service and unforgettable experiences for passengers seeking a remarkable voyage at sea.

8. AIDA Nova (Carnival Corporation)

AIDA Nova, operated by AIDA Cruises, holds the distinction of being the world’s first cruise ship capable of being powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) both at sea and in port. Presently, it stands as the 8th largest ship globally, showcasing its impressive size and capabilities.

With over 2,600 passenger cabins, AIDA Nova exhibits a gross tonnage of approximately 183,900 GT. The ship stretches 337 meters in length and spans 42 meters in width, providing ample space and comfort for its guests.

It represents the inaugural vessel of the Helios class, a series of ships built by MEYER WERFT for AIDA CRUISES. AIDA Nova sets the stage for future developments within the cruise industry, as Carnival Corporation has ordered an additional 10 next-generation “green” cruise ships that will also be powered by LNG, solidifying its position as a leader in using LNG to power cruise ships. These new vessels are expected to be delivered between 2019 and 2025.

AIDA Nova’s utilization of LNG as its primary power source aligns with the industry’s increasing focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact. This innovative approach not only helps to minimize emissions but also showcases a commitment to a cleaner and more eco-friendly cruising experience.

As part of the AIDA Cruises fleet, AIDA Nova offers a range of amenities and experiences for guests to enjoy during their voyage. From luxurious accommodations to various entertainment options and dining venues, the ship strives to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for all passengers on board.

With AIDA Nova leading the way in utilizing LNG as a power source, it sets a precedent for future advancements in the cruise industry’s sustainable practices. It represents a significant step forward in reducing the environmental footprint of cruise ships while still providing guests with a remarkable and immersive cruise experience.

9. MSC Grandiosa (MSC Cruises)

MSC Grandiosa, unveiled in November 2019, is an extraordinary cruise ship belonging to the Meraviglia Plus – A class, surpassing its predecessor, MSC Meraviglia, which was launched in 2017.

Operated by MSC Cruises, this magnificent vessel stretches 331 meters in length, making it 16 meters longer than the MSC Meraviglia. With a gross tonnage of 181,541, MSC Grandiosa offers a remarkable capacity to accommodate 6,334 passengers across its 2,421 cabins. Notably, it boasts the largest capacity shopping area among all cruise ships, providing guests with a wide array of retail experiences onboard.

After a temporary pause, MSC Grandiosa proudly resumed its operations on January 24th, 2021, embarking on its Mediterranean route from Genova. As it sails through the stunning Mediterranean region, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a diverse range of destinations and experiences, immersing themselves in the beauty and culture of the region.

MSC Grandiosa represents a flagship vessel for MSC Cruises, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation, luxury, and exceptional guest experiences. With its spacious accommodations, state-of-the-art amenities, and impressive shopping area, the ship strives to provide a memorable and enjoyable journey for all who step on board.

Whether exploring the various onboard activities, indulging in gourmet dining options, or simply relaxing and enjoying the breathtaking ocean views, passengers on MSC Grandiosa are treated to a truly remarkable and immersive cruising experience.

10. Carnival Mardi Grass (Carnival Cruise Lines)

Carnival Mardi Gras, a magnificent LNG-powered cruise ship, is a part of the Carnival Cruise Lines fleet, operated by the largest cruise ship operator in the world. With a gross tonnage of 180,000, it currently holds the position as the 10th largest cruise ship globally.

Constructed by Meuer Turku Shipyard during the pandemic, Carnival Mardi Gras was successfully delivered in December 2020. The ship has been designed with a comprehensive pandemic-proofing plan, including the inclusion of a state-of-the-art medical center to facilitate passenger testing and care for those in need. Onboard, a dedicated team of 1,745 officers and crew members are ready to provide excellent service to the 6,630 passengers it can accommodate.

Carnival Mardi Gras pays tribute to the company’s very first cruise ship, TSS Mardi Gras, which made its debut in 1972. It carries the legacy of providing unforgettable cruising experiences while embracing the latest advancements in technology and sustainability.

Guests on Carnival Mardi Gras can expect an exceptional voyage with a variety of onboard amenities and entertainment options. From indulging in delicious dining experiences to enjoying live performances and engaging in thrilling activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The ship’s LNG-powered technology aligns with the industry’s growing focus on environmental sustainability and reducing emissions. It represents Carnival Cruise Lines’ commitment to promoting cleaner energy alternatives and providing a greener cruising experience.

Carnival Mardi Gras combines the nostalgia of the past with modern innovations, offering guests a memorable journey and ensuring their safety and well-being during these challenging times.

Famous Cruises in the World

There are several famous cruises in the world that have garnered acclaim and popularity among travelers. These cruises offer unique experiences, breathtaking destinations, and exceptional onboard amenities. Here are a few notable examples:

Caribbean Cruises: Caribbean cruises are renowned for their tropical paradise destinations, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant island culture. Travelers can explore stunning locations such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Virgin Islands, while enjoying a range of activities, including water sports, beach relaxation, and cultural excursions.

Mediterranean Cruises: Mediterranean cruises allow passengers to discover the rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse cultures of countries such as Italy, Greece, Spain, and Turkey. From exploring ancient ruins in Rome to soaking up the sun on the Greek islands, a Mediterranean cruise offers a captivating blend of history, art, and natural beauty.

Alaska Cruises: Alaska cruises provide a unique opportunity to witness the untouched beauty of the Last Frontier. Passengers can marvel at towering glaciers, spot magnificent wildlife such as bears and whales, and engage in thrilling outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. The scenic landscapes and rugged wilderness make an Alaska cruise an unforgettable adventure.

Norwegian Fjords Cruises: Norwegian Fjords cruises take passengers through breathtaking fjords, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic mountain landscapes. Sailing through iconic destinations like Geirangerfjord and Sognefjord, travelers can immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of Norway while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship.

Nile River Cruises: Nile River cruises offer a unique perspective on Egypt’s ancient history and iconic landmarks. Cruising along the Nile, passengers can visit historic sites such as the Pyramids of Giza, the Valley of the Kings, and the temples of Luxor and Karnak. It’s an opportunity to witness the wonders of ancient Egypt while enjoying the serene beauty of the river.

These are just a few examples of famous cruises in the world. Each cruise offers its own distinct charm, captivating destinations, and memorable experiences, allowing travelers to explore the world in comfort and style while creating lifelong memories.

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