Ahoy, fellow adventurers! With the new year of 2024 just around the corner, it's time to set sail and explore what the world of cruising has in store for us. From the unveiling of new ships to the impact of inflation on cruise fares and the most popular destinations, let's dive right in and chart our course for an exciting journey ahead.
New Ships on the Horizon
The cruise industry is expanding rapidly, and 2024 is set to introduce some exceptional new cruise ships. Royal Caribbean and Princess will debut their highly anticipated first-in-class vessels, while Cunard welcomes its first cruise ship in over a decade. Disney is launching a new cruise ship for families, and Silversea and Explora Journeys have luxury ships on the horizon. Viking and Ritz Carlton will also introduce new ships with unique features. Here's a look at what the best cruise ships of 2024 have in store
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas: A Game-Changer
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is generating significant buzz with record-breaking sales. This 7,600-passenger vessel will debut in January 2024 and is set to impress. The highlight is the new glass-covered AquaDome, an 82-feet-by-164-feet space with 600 panes of glass. It will feature an AquaTheater, restaurants, and Royal's first food hall, the AquaDome Market. Thrill Island awaits adrenaline junkies with its Category 6 waterpark and over-the-water obstacle course. Additionally, Chill Island offers a laid-back neighborhood with four pools, including the Cove Pool with an infinity edge to the ocean, and The Hideaway, a suspended infinity pool rising 135 feet above the water.
Princess Cruises' Sun Princess: Introducing the Sphere Class
Princess Cruises will debut the 4,000-passenger Sun Princess in February 2024, marking the arrival of the Sphere-class ships. Families will love the new Park19 area, featuring the first rollglider at sea, Sea Breeze. The area also includes a ropes course and Coastal Climb, an obstacle-course-meets-ladder adventure. The ship introduces two new suite categories: the Signature Collection and the Reserve Collection. The former offers exclusive perks like a dedicated restaurant, lounge, and sun deck, while the latter includes Club Class cabins and new Cabana cabins with access to a private sundeck and whirlpool.
Cunard's Queen Anne: A Long-Awaited Addition
After a 12-year gap, Cunard will launch Queen Anne in May 2024, offering a refreshing culinary experience. Two-Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux has partnered with the line to develop menus for the Queens Grill, Golden Lion pub, and Tramonto, a new outdoor dining restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Additionally, Queen Anne will introduce three specialty restaurants: Aji Wa, a Japanese restaurant; Aranya, an Indian restaurant; and Sir Samuels, a high-end steakhouse.
Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas: The Next Oasis-Class Ship
Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas, set to launch in July 2024, follows the crowd-pleasing Oasis-class layout. It features the signature Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods, as well as the thrilling Ultimate Abyss slide. The ship will offer a unique immersive restaurant concept centered around a train theme. Utopia will focus on shorter three- and four-day itineraries from its Port Canaveral homeport, providing an immersive experience that may require multiple trips to fully explore.
Disney Treasure: An Aladdin-Themed Adventure
Disney Treasure, a sister ship to Disney Wish, will debut in December 2024. Aladdin takes center stage in this ship's theme, filled with adventure. Plaza de Coco, an interactive dining experience inspired by the movie "Coco," and Jumbeaux's Sweet Shop, inspired by "Zootopia," are among the new venues onboard. Kids can enjoy the Mickey and Minnie-themed AquaMouse slide and two casual cafes named after princesses Moana and Mulan.
Silversea's Silver Ray: Luxury and Ocean Views
Silversea's Silver Ray, the second Nova-class ship, is set to launch in July 2024. Its asymmetrical design prioritizes breathtaking ocean views, particularly on the revamped pool deck. The ship boasts Silversea's favorite restaurants and introduces the S.A.L.T. Lab, where culinary enthusiasts can savor a 14-course tasting menu. The ship also features the new Otium spa and Otium suites at the back, providing a luxurious experience with butler service for all cabins.
Explora II: A Luxury Offering from Explora Journeys
Following a successful launch in 2023, Explora Journeys welcomes its second luxury ship, Explora II, in August 2024. Expect stunning features, such as a captivating lobby bar, beautiful pools, and a range of dining options, including an unlimited raw bar in the Emporium Marketplace. Created by the MSC Group, Explora Journeys aims to extend the upscale vibe beyond the ship. The line even welcomes families, a rare feature in the luxury cruise market.
