Guide to Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Princess, and Carnival Ships by Age and Size

 

Royal Caribbean ships by age and size

Cruise lovers know that choosing the right ship can make or break a vacation. Whether you're interested in the newest Royal Caribbean ships, comparing Royal Caribbean ships from newest to oldest, or checking out how Carnival, Norwegian, and Princess cruise ships rank by age, this comprehensive guide has everything you need. We’ll explore Royal Caribbean ships by age and size, introduce you to the newest cruise ships, and compare fleets from top cruise lines like Norwegian, Princess, and Carnival.

Royal Caribbean Ships by Age (Newest to Oldest)

Royal Caribbean International is known for innovation, and their ship evolution reflects cutting-edge design, technology, and guest experiences. Here's a look at Royal Caribbean ships from newest to oldest:

Ship NameYear Launched
Utopia of the Seas2024
Icon of the Seas2024
Wonder of the Seas2022
Odyssey of the Seas2021
Spectrum of the Seas2019
Symphony of the Seas2018
Harmony of the Seas2016
Anthem of the Seas2015
Quantum of the Seas2014
Allure of the Seas2010
Oasis of the Seas2009
Liberty of the Seas2007
Freedom of the Seas2006
Jewel of the Seas2004
Mariner of the Seas2003
Brilliance of the Seas2002
Adventure of the Seas2001
Radiance of the Seas2001
Explorer of the Seas2000
Voyager of the Seas1999
Vision of the Seas1998
Enchantment of the Seas1997
Rhapsody of the Seas1997
Grandeur of the Seas1996

As you can see, Royal Caribbean has steadily expanded its fleet over the decades. Their newest ships, like Utopia of the Seas and Icon of the Seas, are floating cities packed with amenities.

Newest Royal Caribbean Ships to Explore

Looking for the newest Royal Caribbean ships? Here's a quick overview of the latest additions:

Utopia of the Seas (2024)

Utopia of the Seas is part of the Oasis Class but introduces new venues and a focus on weekend getaways from Florida. It’s perfect for travelers looking for maximum fun in minimum time.

Icon of the Seas (2024)

This ship is part of Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class and is dubbed the "largest cruise ship in the world." It features a record-breaking waterpark, seven pools, and eight neighborhoods.

Wonder of the Seas (2022)

Previously the world's largest ship, Wonder offers lush open-air spaces, the Suite Neighborhood, and the AquaTheater.

These are the latest Royal Caribbean ships, ideal for families, first-time cruisers, and luxury seekers.

Royal Caribbean Ships by Size (Largest to Smallest)

Royal Caribbean ships vary significantly in size. Here's a breakdown of the top five largest Royal Caribbean ships by gross tonnage:

Ship NameGross TonnagePassenger Capacity
Icon of the Seas~250,800 GT7,600+
Wonder of the Seas~236,857 GT6,988
Symphony of the Seas~228,081 GT6,680
Harmony of the Seas~226,963 GT6,687
Oasis of the Seas~226,838 GT6,780

These ships redefine luxury, offering amenities like zip lines, robot bartenders, water slides, and Central Park-style promenades.

Royal Caribbean’s New Cruise Line Direction

With the introduction of the Icon Class, Royal Caribbean is embracing cleaner technology, sustainable energy, and next-generation entertainment. These new Royal Caribbean ships represent a shift toward family-centric, resort-style vacations that challenge even the biggest theme parks.

Their new cruise line strategy also involves shorter but more action-packed itineraries and revitalized private island experiences like Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Norwegian Cruise Ships by Age

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a unique “Freestyle Cruising” experience. Here's how their ships stack up by age:

Ship NameYear Launched
Norwegian Aqua2025 (Planned)
Norwegian Viva2023
Norwegian Prima2022
Norwegian Encore2019
Norwegian Bliss2018
Norwegian Joy2017
Norwegian Escape2015
Norwegian Getaway2014
Norwegian Breakaway2013
Norwegian Epic2010
Norwegian Gem2007
Norwegian Pearl2006
Norwegian Jade2006
Norwegian Jewel2005
Norwegian Dawn2002
Norwegian Star2001
Norwegian Sun2001
Norwegian Sky1999
Pride of America2005 (Hawaii only)

The newest Norwegian ships, Viva and Prima, bring elevated dining, infinity pools, and luxury suite complexes that rival land-based resorts.

Princess Cruise Ships by Age

Princess Cruises is known for romantic voyages and beautiful destinations. Here's a look at their fleet by age:

Ship NameYear Launched
Sun Princess2024
Discovery Princess2022
Enchanted Princess2020
Sky Princess2019
Majestic Princess2017
Regal Princess2014
Royal Princess2013
Ruby Princess2008
Emerald Princess2007
Crown Princess2006
Caribbean Princess2004
Island Princess2003
Coral Princess2002
Grand Princess1998

The Sun Princess (2024) is the first ship in their new Sphere Class, featuring advanced sustainability, expanded suites, and new dining concepts.

Carnival Cruise Ships by Age

Carnival is famous for fun-focused cruises and value pricing. Here's how their ships stack up by age:

Ship NameYear Launched
Carnival Jubilee2023
Carnival Celebration2022
Mardi Gras2021
Carnival Panorama2019
Carnival Horizon2018
Carnival Vista2016
Carnival Breeze2012
Carnival Magic2011
Carnival Dream2009
Carnival Splendor2008
Carnival Freedom2007
Carnival Liberty2005
Carnival Miracle2004
Carnival Legend2002
Carnival Pride2001
Carnival Spirit2001

The Carnival Jubilee (2023) continues the Excel Class tradition with new shows, themed zones, and the second roller coaster at sea.

Summary: Which Cruise Line Has the Newest Ships?

  • Royal Caribbean: Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are groundbreaking in size and innovation.

  • Norwegian: Norwegian Viva and Prima offer premium experiences with a focus on luxury.

  • Princess: Sun Princess leads the fleet with an eco-conscious design and upscale amenities.

  • Carnival: Jubilee and Celebration deliver high-energy fun with modern upgrades.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking at Royal Caribbean ships by age, checking the newest Royal Caribbean ship, or comparing Norwegian, Princess, and Carnival ships, one thing is clear: cruise lines continue to evolve. From massive floating cities to intimate, sophisticated vessels, there’s a ship for every type of traveler.

Ready to book your next cruise? Start by choosing a ship that matches your style, whether it’s the latest Royal Caribbean innovation or a classic Princess getaway.

 

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