Exciting New Cruise Ships in 2025
One of the greatest advantages of booking with a CLIA-accredited cruise specialist is gaining insider access to the latest and greatest in the cruise industry. CLIA-accredited specialists are invited to exclusive cruise line presentations, where they get a first-hand sneak peek at upcoming ships before the general public. These private briefings aren’t just about flashy marketing—they offer the chance to speak directly with each cruise line’s business development managers, ask insider questions, and gain valuable behind-the-scenes insights.
New Ships
After sitting through nine exclusive presentations from the world’s leading cruise lines this week, I’ve compiled a ship-by-ship breakdown of the most exciting new cruise ships setting sail in 2025. From groundbreaking entertainment and thrill rides to luxury suites and immersive itineraries, here’s what’s coming next in the world of cruising—straight from the experts.
Disney Adventure - Disney Cruise Line
The largest ship in the Disney fleet, Disney Adventure is all about immersive storytelling and open-air wonder. It also marks a historic first—Disney’s first-ever ship to be based in Asia.
✨ Standout Features
Disney Imagination Garden
A beautifully designed multi-level outdoor retreat celebrating classic Disney stories and characters.
Disney Discovery Reef
An multi-level open-air space designed to immerse guests in an "under-the-sea" experience.
7 Themed Areas
Including San Fransokyo Street (from Big Hero 6) and Marvel Landing, an outdoor water park with three unique attractions.
Two Rotational Dining Tracks
Guests can choose between two curated dining paths, such as Pixar Market Restaurant or Enchanted Summer Restaurant.
Enhanced Concierge Staterooms
A new level of elevated luxury for Disney fans.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Meyer Werft Shipyard (Papenburg, Germany)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Dec 15, 2025 - Departure port: Singapore.
Expected Regions
3-4 night sailings from Singapore
Oceania Allura – Oceania Cruises
For lovers of fine dining and small-ship luxury, Oceania Allura is an ultra-premium experience.
✨ Standout Features
"The Finest Cuisine at Sea"
Featuring 5 specialty restaurants, all included in the cruise fare, plus the new Aquamar Kitchen for health-conscious dining.
Unmatched Service
One chef for every 10 guests!
The Artist Loft
Guests can mingle with resident artists, attend lectures, and create their own masterpieces.
Creperie & Baristas Café
Enjoy French crêpes and Italian sundaes in an elegant café setting.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Fincantieri Shipyard (Sestri Ponente, Italy)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Jul 18, 2025 - Trieste to Athens
Expected Regions
Debut season in Mediterranean before heading to Miami in Nov 2025.
MSC World America – MSC Cruises
A mega-ship designed for fun, relaxation, and adventure, MSC World America has something for everyone.
✨ Standout Features
19 Dining Venues & 20 Bars
Including the first Eataly at Sea and Paxos, an authentic Greek island-inspired restaurant.
Thrilling Outdoor Attractions
JawDrop, one of the longest dry slides at sea, and Cliffhanger, an overwater swing ride.
MSC Luna Park
A multifunctional entertainment venue hosting movies, game shows, and themed parties.
Family-Friendly Offerings
LEGO Kids Club, bumper cars, rollerblading, and a baby care service.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Chantiers de l’Atlantique (Saint-Nazaire, France)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Apr 2025 - Caribbean round-trip from Miami.
Expected Regions
Caribbean year-round.
Star Seeker – Windstar Cruises
For those who love small-ship luxury, Star Seeker is Windstar’s most elegant ship yet.
✨ Standout Features
Intimate Luxury
224 guests to 135 crew, ensuring an exceptional level of service.
Infinity Suites
Floor-to-ceiling windows that open, offering breathtaking ocean views.
Exclusive Destinations
Alaska & Japan itineraries for once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Open Bridge Policy
Guests can visit the bridge for an insider’s view of how the ship operates.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
WestSEA Shipyard (Viana do Castelo, Portugal)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Late Dec 2025 Spain to US (Miami)
Expected Regions
Caribbean early 2026, Alaska (Summer), & Japan (Spring/Autumn).
Norwegian Aqua – Norwegian Cruise Line
As the first Prima Plus class ship, Norwegian Aqua takes outdoor luxury and thrill rides to the next level.
✨ Standout Features
Aqua Slidecoaster
The first-ever hybrid rollercoaster & waterslide at sea!
Larger & More Spacious Suites
Including the two-story Duplex Suite in The Haven.
Ocean Boulevard
A wraparound promenade offering unobstructed scenic views.
New Dining Concepts
Planterie (a plant-based food station), Swirl (a wine bar), and Sukhothai (authentic Thai cuisine).
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Fincantieri Shipyard (Marghera, Italy)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Caribbean round-trip from Port Canaveral, Florida in April 2025.
Expected Regions
Caribbean (Bahamas, Mexico, Dominican Republic).
Douglas Mawson – Aurora Expeditions
Designed for explorers and adventure seekers, Douglas Mawson is a true expedition ship.
✨ Standout Features
Small-Ship Exploration
Just 130 guests, offering immersive & intimate travel experiences.
Cutting-Edge X-Bow Design
Smoother sailing in polar waters.
Citizen Science Centre
Hands-on scientific learning experiences onboard.
Unique Itineraries
Tasmania, Subantarctic islands, the Ross Sea, and even a 34-day Epic Antarctica Crossing.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
China Merchants Heavy Industry (Haimen, China)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Coastal Tasmania expedition in late 2025.
Expected Regions
Tasmania, Subantarctic islands, Ross Sea, East Antarctica, and mid 2026 expanding to the Mediterranean.
Star Princess – Princess Cruises
The sister ship to Sun Princess, Star Princess is a destination in itself.
✨ Standout Features
The Dome
A multi-purpose performance venue with a glass geodesic roof, transforming from a sunlit pool by day to a starlit stage at night.
29 Restaurants & Bars
Including Crown Grill, Sabatini’s, and the exclusive Spellbound (accessed via a secret door!).
Wake View Terrace
An infinity pool, lounge, and bar overlooking the ship’s wake.
Sanctuary Collection
Private cabana mini-suites with exclusive dining & lounge areas.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Fincantieri Shipyard (Monfalcone, Italy)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Mediterranean (Barcelona roundtrip) in October 2025.
Expected Regions
Mediterranean (Summer), Caribbean (Winter 2025-26).
Celebrity Xcel – Celebrity Cruises
The fifth Edge-class ship, Celebrity Xcel promises elevated luxury and immersive experiences.
✨ Standout Features
The Bazaar
A multi-level entertainment space inspired by the sights, sounds, and flavours of the Caribbean.
Mosaic
A new dining concept featuring an open kitchen with destination-inspired dishes.
Chef’s Studio
Hands-on cooking classes based on the ship’s itinerary.
Expanded Suites & AquaClass Staterooms
More options for luxury-seeking guests.
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Chantiers de l’Atlantique (Saint-Nazaire, France)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Caribbean round-trip from Fort Lauderdale in late 2025.
Expected Regions
Caribbean (Bahamas, Mexico, Eastern & Southern Caribbean), Europe 2026
Star of the Seas – Royal Caribbean
The second Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas is an entertainment-packed resort at sea.
✨ Standout Features
8 Unique Neighborhoods
Each designed to cater to different guest experiences.
7 Pools & 6 Waterslides
Including Surfers Edge, the Cove Pool, and The Hideaway (an infinity pool hanging off the aft of the ship).
Aquadome
A 55-foot waterfall with aerial stunts and performances.
Absolute Zero
A round ice-skating arena featuring world-class performers.
Broadway’s Back to the Future
A full production of the hit musical onboard.
Royal Caribbean’s First Chief Dog Officer
Rover 🐶
🏗️ Where It’s Being Built
Meyer Turku (Turku, Finland)
🌍 Inaugural Sailing & Destinations
Inaugural Voyage
Caribbean round-trip from Port Canaveral, Florida in August 2025.
Expected Regions
Caribbean (CocoCay, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico).
Final Thoughts
From luxurious boutique ships to mega-ships packed with thrills, the 2025 cruise season is set to be an unforgettable one. Whether you’re seeking Michelin-level dining, adventure-packed itineraries, or serene ocean views, these new ships offer something for every kind of traveller.
Meet Your Cruise Specialist, Philip
As a CLIA Top 100 Master Cruise Consultant in Australia, my accreditation provides me with specialist knowledge in the luxury cruise space, allowing me to offer expert guidance on selecting the perfect voyage. Read More
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