As 2026 approaches, the cruise industry is gearing up for an exciting year with a lineup of new ships set to launch across the globe. From family-friendly vessels to luxury yachts and expedition cruises, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here’s a look at some of the highly anticipated ocean cruise ships making their debut in 2026.
Disney Cruise Line: Disney Adventure
Debuting in March 2026, Disney Adventure will set sail year-round from Singapore. This ship will primarily serve the local market, offering family-friendly experiences, including Disney’s first-ever Iron Man roller coaster at sea, alongside Pixar and Marvel-themed attractions. For international guests, the ship will also offer short “cruises to nowhere.”
Explora Journeys: Explora III
Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys will expand its fleet with Explora III, a new addition to its LNG-powered fleet. Launching in summer 2026, this ship will offer spacious, upgraded accommodations, including Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences. It will also feature a new fitness, spa, and youth facility design, catering to the most discerning travelers.
MSC Cruises: MSC World Asia
MSC World Asia, set to sail in December 2026, will join MSC’s World-Class lineup as the third vessel in the series. Unlike its namesake, the ship will begin operations in the Mediterranean, offering an exclusive MSC Yacht Club complex with the largest selection of suites available, including the 570-square-foot Royal Duplex Suite.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Luna
Launching in April 2026, Norwegian Luna will be a larger version of the previous Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. At 10% larger, the ship will feature exciting new additions like the Aqua Slidecoaster—a hybrid waterslide and roller coaster—and luxurious new Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites. Guests can also enjoy the new “Rocket Man: A Celebration of Elton John” show.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Seven Seas Prestige
Regent’s first new ship series in 10 years, the Seven Seas Prestige, will launch in December 2026. This ultra-luxury vessel will accommodate just 850 guests, offering one of the highest passenger-to-space ratios in the industry. The ship will boast seven specialty restaurants, including the new Azure for Mediterranean flavors, and newly designed suites, including dual-level lofts.
Royal Caribbean: Legend of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Legend of the Seas will debut in July 2026, following the success of its sister ships, Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. The ship will feature a Royal Railway dinner show themed to the “Silk Routes,” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” as its main production. Expect an elevated version of the iconic Supper Club, inspired by the golden age of Hollywood.
Viking: Viking Mira & Viking Libra
Viking is set to launch two new ships in 2026: Viking Mira and Viking Libra. Viking Mira will debut in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe in spring 2026, while Viking Libra will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, marking a significant milestone in sustainable cruising. These ships will expand Viking’s fleet of ultra-modern vessels, offering intimate experiences for just 998 guests.
Expedition & Small Ship Cruises
Antarctica21: Magellan Discoverer
In November 2026, Antarctica21 will launch the Magellan Discoverer, the first hybrid-electric polar cruise ship built in the Americas. Designed for expedition-style cruising, this vessel will carry up to 96 guests on adventurous voyages to the Antarctic and beyond.
American Cruise Lines: American Maverick & American Ranger
American Cruise Lines will add two new ships to its Patriot Class: American Maverick and American Ranger. These small, intimate ships will cater to just 130 guests, offering unique cruises through New England and the Florida Gulf Coast, with all-balcony accommodations and multiple dining venues.
Emerald Cruises: Emerald Kaia
Emerald Cruises will expand its fleet of luxury yachts with the launch of Emerald Kaia in April 2026. Accommodating 128 guests, this ship will feature elegant suites with verandas, and its inaugural season will explore the Mediterranean.
Windstar Cruises: Star Seeker & Star Explorer
Windstar Cruises will introduce Star Seeker in January 2026 and its sister ship, Star Explorer, in December 2026. These small, luxurious ships will offer 224-passenger cruises to destinations across the globe, including an exciting watersports platform and fine dining experiences.
Yachts and Luxury Ships
Four Seasons Yachts: Four Seasons I
Set to debut in March 2026, Four Seasons I will offer a luxury yacht experience like no other. With personalized pricing per suite, this ship promises a unique blend of high-end dining and luxurious accommodations, overseen by former Celebrity Cruises captain Kate McCue.
Orient Express Sailing Yachts: Orient Express Corinthian
In summer 2026, the iconic Orient Express will bring its luxury experience to the seas with the launch of its first sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian. This vessel will offer all-inclusive Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises, with Michelin-starred dining and luxurious amenities, including pools and a marina.
New and Redesigned Ships
Aqua Expeditions: Aqua Lares
Aqua Expeditions, now under the Ponant Explorations Group, will launch Aqua Lares in February 2026. The expedition vessel will cruise East Africa, with luxurious accommodations including suites and a sun deck with a bar and lounge.
Vidanta Voyages: Elegant
Vidanta Voyages will unveil its luxury yacht, Elegant, in April 2026. With only 218 guests on board, this ship will offer an ultra-spacious experience, with 13 restaurants, live entertainment, a casino, spa, and fitness center—all set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean.
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