Written by Owen
If you ever thought that cruising was a dying industry, you couldn’t be more wrong. The cruise industry never stands still, and 2027 is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in recent memory. If you’re wondering what cruise ships are set to launch for 2027, and perfect if you’re looking at cruises for 2027 – let’s go! These are all the new ships in 2027!
Royal Caribbean is set to make a monumental splash in 2027 with the delivery of its fourth Icon Class ship, joining the ranks of Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. The Icon ships are already legendary: Icon of the Seas alone boasts over 40 bars and restaurants, a record-setting waterpark, the dramatic “Pearl” art installation, and cutting-edge LNG and fuel cell technologies.
Looking ahead, this fourth Icon ship is expected to continue the line’s tradition of pushing boundaries, offering even more mega-scale entertainment, eco-forward features, and jaw-dropping design. With options already in place for a fifth and sixth Icon-class vessel, Royal Caribbean seems set on shaping the future of large-scale cruising well into the next decade.
Related Posts:
A Royal Caribbean Rumour – Hero of the Seas – Launching 2027
Insider Tips: Royal Caribbean Hidden Stay Awhile Perk
Perfect Day Mexico: Royal Caribbean’s Hot New Resort
Norwegian Cruise Line will continue expanding its Prima Class with the fifth ship due in 2027. This new vessel will build on the success of Norwegian Prima, Viva, Aqua, and the soon-to-come Luna, offering increased size – around 169,000 gross tons and capacity for approximately 3,650 guests, and retaining its methanol-ready design, reflecting NCL’s commitment to sustainability.
The Prima class has redefined the NCL experience with more spacious designs, a greater emphasis on upscale dining, and expanded outdoor areas. The 2027 addition will continue that trajectory, striking a balance between a modern mega-ship and a more refined atmosphere.
I cruised on Norwegian Viva in 2024, and it was so fun! You can read those blogs here:
A Full Review: 9-Night Greek Isles Cruise with NCL
Norwegian Viva Greek Isles Cruise: The Truth About What I Paid
Perhaps the most innovative addition in 2027 comes from Celebrity Cruises’ new river brand, Celebrity River Cruises. The first two ships, Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, are scheduled to debut in 2027 and will operate seven-night sailings on Europe’s Rhine and Danube rivers.
These vessels are designed to push the boundaries of river cruising – featuring generous open-deck space, 360-degree views, multiple lounges, and the brand’s first-ever “Magic Edge” cantilevered dining pods projecting above the river. Each ship will offer eight restaurants and bars, a plunge pool, and a hybrid propulsion/advanced-waste system for a more sustainable experience.
Demand for the program has already been extraordinary: priority booking access sold out in six minutes upon opening. Fares for the inaugural season will include meals, drinks, WiFi, and daily excursions, with optional pre- or post-cruise land stays in cities such as Prague or Budapest adding extra flexibility.
Learn more about Celebrity River:
Everything You Need to Know About Celebrity River Cruises
Introducing: Celebrity River Cruises – Already Sold Out WTF!
Carnival Cruise Line will welcome a new addition to its fleet in spring 2027 – Carnival Festivale. The name pays homage to one of Carnival’s early ships from the 1970s, reimagined for a new era of cruising. As an Excel-class vessel, Festivale will come in at around 180,000 gross tons, feature Carnival’s largest-ever waterpark, and introduce new entertainment concepts such as immersive music zones and vibrant family areas designed for all ages.
The ship will make its maiden voyage from Southampton on May 2, 2027, crossing the Atlantic before settling into its homeport of Port Canaveral, Florida. From there, Festivale will sail a mix of Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, combining the line’s signature “choose fun” energy with modern innovations, coluorful venues, and expansive outdoor spaces perfect for families and groups of friends.
More Carnival Blogs:
Carnival Cruises for Dummies: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Introducing Carnival Festivale – Everything We Know So Far
‘Fun Italian Style’: Everything You Need to Know About Carnival Cruise Line’s New Venture
Carnival Introduces CHEERS! Zero Proof – A New Non-Alcoholic Drink Package
Disney Cruise Line also has big plans for 2027 with the scheduled debut of another Wish-Class ship, the fourth in the series. Like her sisters, this vessel will come in at around 144,000 gross tons, carry approximately 4,000 guests, and be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), combining eco-conscious engineering with the kind of family-friendly magic Disney is famous for.
Beyond the new ship, Disney is expanding its deployment strategy. Starting in 2027, Disney will operate year-round sailings from Galveston, Texas, transitioning the port from a seasonal stop to a permanent homeport. This opens up new opportunities for families in the Gulf Coast region to enjoy Disney’s unique brand of storytelling at sea.
You can usually find me on a cruise ship, somewhere in Europe, or sneaking a beach day. I share beautiful photos, travel tips, and the occasional ‘why did I book this?’ moment.
I have t-shirts, enamel pins, and digital downloads!!
