Find out which vessels make the list of the Largest Cruise Ships in the World Ranked by passenger capacity. Explore the Largest Cruise Ships in the World and their unmatched onboard experiences.
When it comes to ocean travel, the allure of megaships is undeniable. These floating resorts are engineering marvels, packing in thrilling attractions, luxurious amenities, and record-breaking capacities. In 2025, the largest cruise ships in the world continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible at sea, offering experiences that rival some of the best land-based vacations.
Let’s take a closer look at the biggest cruise ships that dominate the oceans today, ranked by their gross tonnage and passenger capacity.
Currently the largest cruise ship in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas made its much-anticipated debut in January 2024. This groundbreaking vessel is the first in Royal Caribbean’s Icon class and a true game-changer. With 250,800 gross tons, Icon of the Seas features 20 decks (18 guest-accessible), 7,600 max capacity passengers, and unique attractions including six water slides and the biggest pool at sea.
With itineraries sailing from Miami, the ship brings unmatched family-friendly innovations and opulent accommodations like the Surfside Family Suite and the AquaDome.
It’s no surprise that the Royal Caribbean largest cruise ship tops this year’s rankings.
Launched later in 2024, Utopia of the Seas is the final ship in the iconic Oasis class. It earns its place as the second-biggest cruise ship in the world, boasting 236,860 gross tons and a max capacity of 6,509 passengers.
Utopia is notable for being Royal Caribbean’s first Oasis-class ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it one of the more eco-conscious mega vessels. With more than 20 onboard dining venues and cutting-edge entertainment, this ship redefines indulgence at sea.
Before Icon and Utopia, Wonder of the Seas held the title of the world’s largest cruise ship. This Royal Caribbean giant launched in 2022 and continues to wow passengers with 19 pools, 2,867 staterooms, and 18 decks.
Weighing in at 235,600 gross tons, this floating paradise carries up to 7,084 guests and remains one of the most visually impressive and experience-packed cruise ships afloat.
From 2018 to 2022, Symphony of the Seas was the reigning champion among cruise ships. This Oasis-class beauty still impresses with its 228,081 GTs, 2,759 staterooms, and a capacity of up to 6,680 passengers.
Whether it’s zip-lining across the ship or watching Broadway-style shows, Symphony continues to hold a top spot in the conversation around the world's largest cruise ships.
Once the biggest cruise ship in the world, Harmony of the Seas now ranks fifth. Debuted in 2016, it spans 1,188 feet in length and has 23 pools and whirlpools onboard. With 226,963 GTs, this Oasis-class ship offers 6,687 max capacity and continues to be a favorite among cruisers for its blend of family fun and high-end amenities.
The ship that started it all, Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009 and redefined the cruise experience. With 226,838 GTs, 18 decks, and a capacity for 6,771 passengers, it set the tone for all Oasis-class vessels that followed.
While newer ships have surpassed it in size, Oasis remains iconic for its split-deck design and entertainment offerings like the AquaTheater and Central Park.
Allure of the Seas, another Oasis-class marvel, matches many of the same specs as Oasis but carries 225,282 gross tons. Since her 2010 debut, Allure has carried thousands of guests across the globe and retains its title as one of the biggest cruise ships on the seas.
With the launch of MSC World America in April 2025, MSC Cruises has officially taken its World-class fleet to new heights. Weighing in at 216,638 gross tons, this impressive new vessel is now the largest ship ever built by the cruise line — and also holds the title of MSC’s biggest LNG-powered ship, reflecting the company’s growing commitment to sustainable cruising.
MSC World America stretches across 22 decks and offers 2,614 staterooms, thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of today’s diverse cruise guests. From spacious suites to cozy cabins, the ship delivers comfort and flexibility for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG), it’s a step forward in MSC’s ongoing mission to reduce its environmental impact while still delivering the modern, high-energy cruise experience the brand is known for.
MSC Cruises joins the mega-ship conversation with the MSC World Europa, which made its debut in December 2022. At 215,863 gross tons, it's the MSC biggest ship and the largest LNG-powered cruise ship in the fleet.
The World Europa features 16 decks, 2,700 staterooms, and unique highlights like the Spiral — an 11-deck dry slide. It's the first of MSC’s futuristic World-class ships, and World America, its sister ship, is set to launch in 2025.
Rounding off the top ten is the Costa Smeralda, Costa Cruises’ largest ship and the first in its Excellence-class. Weighing in at 185,010 gross tons, the ship features 20 decks, 2,614 staterooms, and a capacity of over 6,500 guests.
Named after a scenic Sardinian destination, Costa Smeralda is powered by LNG and reflects Italy’s architectural and culinary brilliance at sea.
While Royal Caribbean dominates the top spots, many other cruise lines boast massive ships in their own right:
The competition to build the largest cruise ships is far from over. Each year brings new ships that are bigger, smarter, and more sustainable. Whether you’re sailing with Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian, Carnival, or Princess, there’s a floating megaresort waiting to welcome you aboard.
Cleanest Cruise Ships Ranked (2025)
When planning a vacation at sea, cleanliness is one of the most important factors to consider. With thousands of passengers and crew members on board, cruise ships must maintain the highest hygiene [...]
April 30, 2025
Tips for the Best Time to Buy Royal Caribbean Excursions
Planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean? One of the most exciting parts of the journey is exploring the destinations through shore excursions Royal Caribbean offers. From ziplining over Jamaican [...]
April 28, 2025
Celebrity Cruises Concierge Class
When you’re looking at cruise cabins, it usually feels simple. You pick what fits your budget and comfort, inside, Oceanview, balcony, or suite. But with Celebrity Cruises, it’s not [...]
April 25, 2025
2025 Great Stirrup Cay Cruises: Experience Norwegian's Exclusive Island
Great Stirrup Cay is a tropical paradise reserved exclusively for Norwegian Cruise Line guests. With multiple departures from Florida, several Norwegian cruises include a stop at this stunning [...]
April 23, 2025
