Top 5 Luxury Ships Setting Sail in 2025

Jasmine Johnson
Aug 27, 2024
4 min read

As the cruise industry continues to innovate and expand, 2025 promises to be an exciting year with the introduction of several new ships from some of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines. These ships not only represent advancements in technology and sustainability but also enhance the onboard experience for travellers. Here’s a sneak peek at the new ships set to debut in 2025.

1. Luminara - The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is expanding its fleet with the third yacht, Luminara, set to debut in 2025. Luminara will exemplify luxury yachting, combining the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton brand with the freedom and flexibility of a yacht.

Luminara will offer a highly personalized cruise experience with spacious suites, each featuring a private terrace. The ship will focus on exclusive destinations often inaccessible to larger ships, providing guests with a sense of adventure and discovery. Onboard amenities will include a Ritz-Carlton Spa, a collection of specialty dining venues, and a variety of water sports activities. With a nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, Luminara will ensure impeccable service and attention to detail. Inaugural sailing: July 31, 2025; 7-night RT Rome (Livorno, Portofino, Monte Carlo, Ajaccio, Port Cervo) Maiden season: Mediterranean, Asia Guest capacity (double occupancy): 448

2. Allura - Oceania Cruises

Allura will join Oceania Cruises in 2025 as a sister ship to Vista, continuing the line’s reputation for refined elegance and culinary excellence. Allura will cater to a smaller, more intimate group of guests, offering a personalized and luxurious experience.

The ship will feature the brand’s signature onboard amenities, including The Finest Cuisine at Sea, with a variety of gourmet restaurants offering dishes crafted by master chefs. The Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center will provide a holistic approach to wellness, with an emphasis on rejuvenation and relaxation. Additionally, Allura will offer a wide range of immersive excursions, allowing guests to explore destinations in depth.

Inaugural sailing: July 18, Seven-day Trieste to Athens

Maiden season: Mediterranean, North American East Coast, Caribbean Guest capacity (at double occupancy): 1,200

3. Viking Vesta - Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is set to expand its ocean fleet with the launch of the Viking Vesta in 2025. Viking Vesta will be designed with the line’s hallmark Scandinavian elegance, focusing on destination-oriented itineraries and cultural immersion. This upscale vessel will also be slightly larger than Viking’s previous newbuilds.

Viking Vesta will offer a comfortable, all-veranda stateroom experience, allowing guests to enjoy the passing scenery from the privacy of their rooms. The ship will feature the Explorer's Lounge, a popular space for relaxation and reflection, as well as the Viking Living Room, a cosy venue for socializing and enjoying light bites. With enrichment programs that include guest lecturers and cultural performances, Viking Vesta will appeal to travellers interested in deepening their understanding of the destinations they visit.

Inaugural sailing: July 2, 2025; 12-night Venice to Barcelona

Maiden season: Mediterranean, Northern Europe Guest capacity (double occupancy): 998

4. Celebrity Xcel - Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises, known for its modern luxury and innovative approach, is set to launch the Celebrity Xcel in 2025. This ship will be the fifth addition to the highly acclaimed Edge Series, continuing the trend of unique design and cutting-edge features. The Xcel promises to elevate the cruising experience with expanded dining options, larger staterooms, and enhanced wellness facilities.

Key features of the Celebrity Xcel include the "Magic Carpet," a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the ship’s exterior, offering breathtaking views and serving multiple purposes, from a tender boarding area to a dining venue. Additionally, the ship will boast environmentally friendly technology, including a more efficient hull design and the use of sustainable fuels, reducing its environmental footprint. The Retreat on Celebrity Cruises offers an elevated experience with luxurious suite accommodations, personalised butler service, exclusive spaces such as the Retreat Lounge and Sundeck, a private dining restaurant and comprehensive benefits, including a beverage package and priority services. Inaugural sailing: Nov. 18, 5 nights - Bahamas & Mexico RT Fort Lauderdale (Bimini, Cozumel)

Maiden season: Caribbean Guest capacity (double occupancy): 3,260

5. Star Princess - Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises will unveil the Star Princess in 2025, a ship that will continue the line’s legacy of offering a combination of comfort, adventure, and relaxation. The Star Princess will be the Sun Princess's sister ship, launched in 2024. Both ships belong to Princess Cruises' Sphere Class, a new class of ships that marks a significant evolution in the line's design and amenities. The Star Princess will feature modern amenities and innovative spaces to enhance the guest experience. Highlights include the Princess MedallionClass experience, which uses wearable technology to provide personalized service and convenience. The ship will offer a wide range of dining options, from casual eateries to specialty restaurants, along with extensive entertainment choices such as Broadway-style shows and live music. The Star Princess will also feature expansive outdoor decks and a luxurious spa. Guests who book the Sanctuary Club will enjoy exclusive access to the private adults-only top-deck pool club, as well as a dedicated restaurant and lounge. Inaugural sailing: October 4, 2025; 11-day Mediterranean RT from Barcelona

Maiden season: Mediterranean, Caribbean Guest capacity (double occupancy): Approx. 4,300