Key facts
- The global cruise fleet is expected to increase to approximately 540 ships by 2037, with passenger capacity nearing 50 million.
- Thirteen new cruise ships are slated for service in 2026, with 22,841 new berths in the contemporary market.
- Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, features extensive dining, pools, and entertainment.
- MSC World Asia will offer a 300-square-meter Venchi chocolate boutique, café, and gelateria, including a live chocolate-making experience.
- Younger travelers (18-35) are increasingly booking Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises, with 34% of MSC Cruises' bookings for this demographic targeting the Mediterranean.
- Virgin Voyages will offer a true crime-themed cruise in March 2027, featuring live podcast recordings and crime-themed events.
The cruise industry is anticipating significant growth and diversification in 2026 and 2027, with an influx of new ships and a focus on unique passenger experiences. Projections indicate the global fleet will expand to approximately 540 ships by 2037, increasing passenger capacity to nearly 50 million.
In 2026 alone, 13 new cruise ships are set to enter service, with the majority catering to the contemporary market. Notable additions include Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, the current largest cruise ship globally, featuring extensive amenities. Explora Journeys has also expanded its fleet with the delivery of EXPLORA III. A significant development in sustainable cruising is the Viking Libra, the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, scheduled for service entry in November 2026.
MSC Cruises is launching the MSC World Asia in December 2026, offering Mediterranean itineraries and a substantial Venchi chocolate experience, complete with a live chocolate-making lab and a custom gelato flavor. This vessel will accommodate up to 6,762 passengers and feature over 2,600 cabins.
Younger demographics are increasingly embracing cruise travel, particularly for Mediterranean and Caribbean routes. MSC Cruises data shows 34% of bookings from 18- to 35-year-olds are for the Mediterranean, and 40% of their 2026 bookings are for the Caribbean. This trend suggests younger travelers are using cruises to access a wider range of destinations.
Beyond traditional itineraries, themed cruises are emerging as a key trend. Virgin Voyages is bringing back its popular adults-only true crime voyage in March 2027, offering onboard podcast recordings and crime-themed events. Silversea, in partnership with PerryGolf, will launch golf-focused voyages in 2027, allowing passengers to play iconic courses. Additionally, VIVA Cruises will host 'Winter Magic with André Rieu' voyages in December 2026, including a Christmas concert by the violinist.