Discover the 10 largest yachts in the world

Modern cruise ships have completely changed the face of global travel. Offering a combination of luxury, entertainment and high-end amenities, they are no longer simply a cruise ship but have evolved into a top destination.

Royal Caribbean International continues to be a leader in the large cruise industry. In 2025, the company ushered in a new era for cruise tourism by launching Icon of the Seas, which will be the world's largest cruise ship.

Here is a list of the 10 largest cruise ships that make ocean travel an unparalleled luxury experience.

1.Icon of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

Launched in January 2024, this is the largest cruise ship ever with a gross tonnage of 250,800 GT. The newest member of the Royal Caribbean fleet is 364.75 meters long and can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers. This is the first Royal Caribbean cruise ship to use liquefied natural gas (LNG) and fuel cell technology. Unique features include 6 water slides, 8 neighborhoods, more than 40 restaurants…

2.Utopia of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

The world's second largest cruise ship, launching in 2024, is 362 meters long, has a gross tonnage of 236,860 GT and a maximum capacity of 6,509 passengers. As the first LNG-powered cruise ship in the Oasis series, Utopia of the Seas offers a sustainable travel experience, perfect for exciting weekend adventures with more than 20 restaurants, 3 water slides, 2 casinos, 5 swimming pools...

3.Wonder of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

This Oasis-class superyacht embarked on its maiden voyage in 2022. With a gross tonnage of 235,600 GT and a length of 362 meters, the cruise ship can accommodate up to 7,084 passengers. Wonder of the Seas has 18 decks, 19 pools, 25 dining options...

4.Symphony of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

Launched in 2018, Symphony of the Seas will reign as the world's largest cruise ship until 2022. With a gross tonnage of 228,081 GT and a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers, this impressive Oasis-class ship redefines the limits of passenger ships.

5.Harmony of the Seas – Royal Caribbean

Known as one of the most popular family cruise ships, Harmony of the Seas began its journey in 2016. With a length of 362.2 meters and a gross tonnage of 226,963 GT, Harmony of the Seas can accommodate up to 6,687 passengers and looks like a floating city with countless world-class entertainment activities.

6.Oasis of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

With her maiden voyage in 2009, Oasis of the Seas is one of the most iconic passenger ships, pioneering the concept of residential living. With a gross tonnage of over 226,838 GT and a maximum capacity of 6,771 passengers, she redefined what was possible for the world's largest ships.

7.Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean

With her maiden voyage in 2010, this Oasis-class cruise ship has become the crown jewel of Royal Caribbean International's world-class fleet. With 225,282 GT and a whopping 6,780 passenger capacity, she has received numerous major awards in her time.

8.MSC World America - MSC Cruises

Launching in April 2025, MSC World America is the largest cruise ship operated by MSC Cruises. With a gross tonnage of 216,638 GT, 22 decks, a capacity of 6,762 passengers and a sustainable LNG power system, the ship is on par with the largest cruise lines.

9.MSC World Europa - MSC Cruises

The cruise ship embarked on its maiden voyage in December 2022 and is ranked as one of MSC's largest cruise ships today. With a gross tonnage of 215,863 GT and a length of 333.3 meters, the cruise ship can accommodate up to 6,762 passengers; 16 guest decks, 13 restaurants, 20 bars...

10.Costa Smeralda - Costa Cruises

Named after Sardinia's famous Emerald Coast, Costa Smeralda is Costa Cruises' largest cruise ship. Launched in 2019, the LNG-powered ship boasts a gross tonnage of 185,010 GT, 20 decks and a capacity of 6,554 passengers.

What makes a cruise ship 'large'?

-Gross Tonnage (GT): This is the main unit of measurement, which also means the total internal volume of a ship. 1 GT = 2.83 cubic meters. The higher the GT, the more spacious the interior space is for various amenities.

-Length: The actual distance of the yacht, from bow to stern.

-Passenger capacity: Maximum number of passengers that can be accommodated.

-Number of floors: This is a vertical scale specifically designed for dining, entertainment and accommodation.

Why does size matter in the yachting industry?

The more passengers on board, the lower the operating cost per passenger, making the trips more accessible to more people. More amenities and activities: The more spacious interior space allows for a variety of activities and amenities, including water parks, shopping, climbing, dining, etc.

Scale appeal and marketing: The larger the yacht, the more people it attracts. Larger yachts generally offer more stable rides even in rough seas.

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