Cruise ships are marvels of modern engineering, offering unparalleled luxury and amenities on the high seas. Here’s a look at the five biggest cruise ships in the world, each representing the pinnacle of cruise ship construction and hospitality.
1. Royal Caribbean International – Icon of the Seas: 248,663 Gross Tonnes
The Icon of the Seas, weighing 248,663 gross tonnes and measuring 365 meters, is the world’s largest cruise ship. Christened on January 23, 2024, it holds 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew across 20 decks. As the lead ship of the Icon-class, it has sister ships arriving in 2025 and 2026.
Built by Meyer Turku in Finland, it’s Royal Caribbean’s first LNG-powered ship, using six Wärtsilä engines and three Azipod thrusters, with a cruising speed of 22 knots. After its maiden voyage on January 27, 2024, the Icon offers year-round, seven-night Caribbean trips from Miami, Florida.
2. Royal Caribbean International – Wonder of the Seas: 235,600 Gross Tonnes
The Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s flagship and the fifth Oasis-class ship, was the world’s largest when it launched in January 2022. Weighing 235,600 gross tonnes and 362 meters long, it accommodates 7,084 guests and 2,369 crew. Powered by Wärtsilä engines and three Azipod thrusters, it cruises at 22 knots. It began sailing in March 2022 and now offers Caribbean cruises from Miami and Cape Canaveral.
3. Royal Caribbean International – Symphony of the Seas: 228,081 Gross Tonnes
Launched in 2018, the Symphony of the Seas, at 228,081 gross tonnes and 361 meters long, was the largest cruise ship at the time. It accommodates 6,680 passengers and 2,200 crew across 18 decks. Built in France, it features six diesel engines and three 20-megawatt Azipod thrusters, cruising at 22 knots. It began its maiden voyage from Barcelona in April 2018 and now offers Caribbean cruises from Miami, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.
4. Royal Caribbean International – Harmony of the Seas: 226,963 Gross Tonnes
Harmony of the Seas was launched in 2016 and is the third Oasis-class ship, weighing 226,963 gross tonnes and measuring 362 meters. It accommodates 6,780 passengers and 2,300 crew across 18 decks. Built by STX France, it features three Wärtsilä 16V46 engines, three Wärtsilä 12V46 engines, and a combination of Azipod and tunnel thrusters, providing 82 megawatts and a cruising speed of 23 knots. It began its maiden voyage from Barcelona in June 2016 and now sails Western Caribbean routes from Galveston, Texas.
5. Royal Caribbean International – Oasis of the Seas: 226,838 Gross Tonnes
Oasis of the Seas was the largest cruise ship in 2009 when it was floated, weighing 226,838 gross tonnes and measuring 360 meters. It accommodates 6,699 passengers and 2,181 crew across 18 decks. Built in Turku, Finland, its construction took two years, with the keel laid in November 2007. The ship arrived at Port Everglades in Florida on November 13, 2009.
Powered by eight Wärtsilä V12 diesel engines and three 20-megawatt Azipod motors, it delivers 82 megawatts and cruises at 23 knots. The Oasis primarily sails Caribbean routes but also offers Mediterranean itineraries.
These colossal vessels showcase the advancements in maritime engineering and the growing demand for luxury cruising experiences. Each ship offers unique features and amenities, making them destinations in their own right.
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