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The world’s largest ocean cruise ships

The world’s largest ocean cruise ships

An overview of 5 of the world’s largest ocean cruise ships

Published on 18 Feb 2022


The opportunities that large ship cruising brings are endless. From the on board amenities to the destinations visited, large ocean cruise ships enable you to make the most of travel. Here’s an overview of our top 5 large ocean cruise ships:

What is considered a ‘large’ ship?

Large ships are classified by the following:

Small ships: 799 passengers or less

Small to midships: Between 800 and 1,499 passengers

Midsize ships: Between 1,500 and 2,499 passengers

Large ships: Between 2,500 and 3,499 passengers

Mega ships: 3,500 passengers or more

Iona

Cruise Line: P&O Cruises

Occupancy: 6,600

Classification: Mega Ship

Sails To: Europe

This 6,600-passenger cruise ship is the smallest to feature on our list but she is by no means little. Iona, who joined the P&O Cruises fleet in 2020, was the first British cruise ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas, making her the greenest, the largest and most innovative ship of her kind. Pairing with some of the world’s leading experts in hospitality, interior design, architects and cruise ship designers, she is full to the brim with a vast range of new and familiar on board dining experiences, venues and amenities. Much like the destinations she sails to, she is full of excitement.

Symphony of the Seas

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Occupancy: 6,680

Classification: Mega Ship

Sails To: Western Mediterranean, Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean

It’ll come as no surprise that Royal Caribbean’s impressive fleet dominates our list of the world’s largest ocean cruise ships. Symphony of the Seas, a 6,680-passenger mega ship, launched in 2018 as the fourth vessel in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. Boasting some of the boldest thrills at sea, Symphony of the Seas is popular with families and couples alike. Test your courage on the Ultimate Abyss and twin FlowRider surf simulators or take it easy in the Ultimate Family Suite.

Harmony of the Seas

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Occupancy: 6,687

Classification: Mega Ship

Sails To: Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, Southern Caribbean

Full to the brim with awe-inspiring activities to keep the whole family entertained, this 18 deck ship has a lot to offer. The 6,687-passenger Harmony of the Seas joined the Royal Caribbean fleet in 2016 and has been making waves ever since. She needs to be seen to be believed and you’ll certainly need longer than a week to take part in everything on offer! Catch a hit musical, enjoy a cocktail made by a robotic bartender or be wowed by aerial acrobatics.

Oasis of the Seas

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Occupancy: 6,771

Classification: Mega Ship

Sails To: The Bahamas, Western Caribbean, Eastern Caribbean, Canada & New England

Oasis of the Seas, along with sister ship Allure of the Seas, welcome a whopping 6,771 passengers aboard. As one of the most popular ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet, Oasis of the Seas offers amazing entertainment, thrilling activities, delectable dining, boutique shopping, award-winning kids and teens clubs and, not to mention, some of the most incredible destinations in the world. What are you waiting for?

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean International

Occupancy: 6,988

Classification: Mega Ship

Sails To: Western Mediterranean

Officially the world’s largest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas will help you to unlock the best of the world, one adventured-fuelled day at a time. Setting sail for the very first time in March 2022, Wonder of the Seas will join Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, a class that redefined cruising. Featuring many returning fan favourites and lots of new amenities, this is a ship that will leave you chasing adventure forevermore.

Popular large cruise ship destinations

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