After sailing on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, I couldn’t help but perk up when talk started swirling about Royal Caribbean’s next big project. It’s rumoured to be called the Discovery Class, and while details are still top secret, there’s enough information floating around to get any cruiser (myself included) feeling curious.
If it turns out to be true, this could mark the start of a new chapter for Royal Caribbean. One that’s smaller, sleeker and focused on destinations rather than headline-grabbing size. And one that I would definitely be interested in for sure.
Royal Caribbean’s leadership has confirmed that a brand-new class of ship is being designed right now, with a launch expected within the next few years. The project is being referred to internally as Project Discovery, which is where the name “Discovery Class” has come from.
The idea seems to be to create ships that are smaller than the giant Oasis or Icon class vessels. Think in the range of around 2,500 to 3,000 passengers rather than the 5,000 plus you’ll find on the mega-ships. Most likely closer to their older ship sizes.
These new ships will apparently be able to pass through the Panama Canal, which gives a pretty clear indication of their scale. That immediately opens up a world of new possibilities, from more adventurous itineraries to smaller ports that can’t accommodate the giants currently sailing the seas.
The focus seems to be on creating something versatile – a ship that’s large enough to offer all the signature Royal Caribbean features but small enough to reach more exotic destinations.
Right now, we don’t have any confirmed details about size, layout, or what the onboard experience will be like. The name “Discovery Class” hasn’t even been made official yet, though it’s what most people in the cruise community are calling it.
We also don’t know where the first ship will sail from or what it’ll be called. But it’s expected to launch around 2028 or 2029 if all goes to plan.
While much of this is still speculation, it’s exciting to imagine how Royal might design a ship that bridges the gap between its classic fleet and the newest floating resorts.
I’ve seen firsthand how big ships can deliver those wow moments – from Central Park to the water slides and entertainment. But with bigger ships come bigger crowds and a sense that sometimes you’re spending more time exploring the ship than the destinations themselves.
If Royal Caribbean is planning a class that can go smaller and reach ports that aren’t on the typical cruise map, that’s something I’d happily get behind. It feels like a return to what cruising used to be about – discovery, exploration, and connection to the places you visit.
This could also be the perfect size for travellers like me who enjoy a lively atmosphere without feeling like you’re in a floating city.
If I could design the Discovery Class myself, here’s what I’d love to see onboard:
For someone like me who enjoys quieter ports, scenic walks and meaningful experiences, that’s what would make a ship like this stand out.
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