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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 confirmed to be called the Discovery Class, and while the finer details are still top secret, there’s enough information floating around to get any cruiser (myself included) feeling curious.
Confirmed on 29th January 2026, this marks the start of a new chapter for Royal Caribbean. One that could be smaller, sleeker and focused on destinations rather than headline-grabbing size. And one that I would definitely be interested in for sure.
What’s rumoured so far
Royal Caribbean’s all-new Discovery Class is officially locked in with the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France. The first ship in the class is set to debut in 2029, and the second ship is scheduled to be delivered in 2032.
Discovery Class ships will “bring the world closer to our guests” — from cutting-edge design to immersive experiences — while visiting some of the world’s most bucket list-worthy destinations.
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.
What’s Still Unknown
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 in 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.
Why this could be industry-changing
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.
What I Hope to See
If I could design the Discovery Class myself, here’s what I’d love to see onboard:
- A more intimate layout with cosy lounges and panoramic views instead of endless crowds.
- Fewer family-centric spaces and more adult-friendly areas for couples or solo travellers.
- Or even an adults-only ship.
- A strong emphasis on sustainability, using the latest tech to reduce emissions and waste.
- Itineraries that go beyond the usual Caribbean or Med hotspots, offering new places to explore and photograph.
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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My Full, Honest Experience of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas
Everything You Need to Know About Allure of the Seas (2025 Edition)
Is Royal Caribbean Expensive? Full Breakdown and Target Audience
