New cruise ships due to set sail in 2018
2017 was a big year for new cruise ships, but 2018 is set to be just as big.
Whether it’s colossal family-friendly liners with water parks or a relaxing small-ship that can sneak into intimate ports – 2018 has a new ship for every type of cruiser. Here are 8 new ships that are due to hit the ocean in the next 12 months.
Symphony of the Seas
If you thought Royal Caribbean were slowing down after completing Harmony of the Seas last year, you were mistaken. The cruise line is back this year with yet another (bigger) ship: Symphony of the Seas. Clocking in at 230,000 tons with the capacity to host 5,535 passengers, Symphony of the Seas will be their biggest ship to date (yes, even bigger than Harmony of the Seas).
On-board you will find passenger favourites such as the FlowRider surf simulator, a mini-golf course, a nine-deck-high zip line, the Bionic Bar and the Ultimate Abyss slide. However, Symphony of the Seas isn’t destined to be a carbon copy of her sisters. New features will include a New England-style seafood restaurant and a sports bar that sprawls across the vessel's rear-facing Boardwalk area. Symphony also will have a new candy and ice cream shop and casual Mexican eatery.
Maiden Voyage: April 2018
Carnival Horizon
Carnival is another cruise line that is known for pulling out all the stops when they announce a new ship - and the Carnival Horizon will be no exception.
Due to set sail in March 2018, Carnival Horizon will feature many first-at-seas and will boast exciting activities for all the family. The most exciting new feature has to be the Dr. Seuss Waterworks. The centrepiece is two twisting waterslides themed after Dr. Seuss characters, while other attractions include side-by-side racing slides, splashy water-spray toys and a giant tipping top-hat.
The ship will also include the SportsSquare, complete with the much-loved SkyRide. If you’re unfamiliar, SkyRide is a bike machine suspended high above deck offering fantastic views of the ship. But when it’s time to relax, you’ll find quiet space too. The Serenity Adults Only Retreat is included in the price and is the perfect place to unwind. Then there’s also the Cloud 9 Spa, with traditional spa services like massages, facials and body wraps as well as modern thermal suites.
Maiden Voyage: March 2018
NCL Bliss
If an Alaskan cruise is still on your bucket list, you’ll have another option in 2018. The new NCL Bliss has been built with the stunning North American landscape in mind. In the wide-angled Observation Lounge, passengers will be able to admire soaring eagles above, while keeping an eye out for breaching whales below.
But this is NCL we’re talking about – so we already know that there are electrifying amenities on board. NCL Bliss will be home to the world’s largest race-track at sea, as well outdoor laser tag and Aqua Park with transparent slides that stick out the side of the ship.
Maiden Voyage: May 2018
MSC Seaview
The name of MSC’s newest ship is no accident because the MSC Seaview is all about enjoying the ocean view. Her most notable feature is the impressive 360° promenade with glass balustrades that runs around the entire ship. Here guests can take an afternoon stroll, stop for some alfresco lunch at one of several restaurants or shop in stylish boutiques while enjoying magnificent views. The MSC Seaview will also boast an increased number of balcony cabins.
MSC Seaview: June 2018
Seabourn Ovation
While all the ships we’ve mentioned are amazing – some cruisers prefer the quieter life and that’s where Seabourn Ovation comes in. A sister-ship to the already prestigious Seabourn Encore, Master Designer Adam D. Tihany was aiming for a yacht-like feel in every detail (and has succeeded).
Facilities on board this small-sized ship include a Spa and Wellness centre that offers passengers holistic experiences integrating physical, social, environmental and spiritual well-being, as well as a Fitness Centre. The accommodation is also all-suite – offering passengers the choice between Wintergarden Suites, Signature Suites, Owners Suites, Penthouse Suites and the Penthouse Spa Suites.
Maiden Voyage: May 2018
Viking Orion
Another option for cruisers who prefer small-ships is the new Viking Orion. Only available to 930 guests at any one time, the Viking Orion boasts the Scandinavian sophistication that you have come to expect from this luxury cruise line.
There’s nothing particularly different about this new ship and she will boast many of the same features you have found on other Viking ships. Including the Wintergarden, Explorer’s Lounge, Infinity Pool at the rear of the ship, and the 360° promenade (where 4 laps equal one mile of running).
Maiden Voyage: June 2018
Nieuw Statendam
If you’re looking for an educational cruise that takes you to the farthest corners of the world, it has to be Holland America. Sister ship to ms Koningsdam, the ms Nieuw Statendam is the second in their Pinnacle-class ships and boasts the same outstanding light-filled spaces and luxurious interiors. Her atrium climbs three decks high and is capped by a ceiling that serves as a back-drop for subtly changing high-definition projections.
The suites and staterooms are just as elegant, but with modern touches for a comfortable stay – including bedside USB ports, frameless shower doors and customized wood cabinets. Four suites are available (ranging from Pinnacle to Vista) as well as five staterooms (included interior and Verandah).
Maiden Voyage: December 2018
Celebrity Edge
The Celebrity Edge isn’t due for her maiden voyage until late in the year and she is still very much under-construction – but the cruising world is still excited.
The Celebrity Edge will be decorated with glass windows that provide amazing views of the ocean and landscape (a trend we’re seeing quite a bit of this year). But the innovative feature that everyone is waiting to see in real life is the Magic Carpet. The same size as a tennis court, it will glide up and down the edge of the ship and will change function as it goes. On some decks, it will expand a dining venue, but on others it will become a viewing platform.
On the top of the ship, passengers will find The Rooftop Garden. Here the Celebrity Cruises have built metal ‘trees’ and interactive games – in the evening the trees will even become perches for musicians!
Maiden Voyage: December 2018
Which new cruise ship are you looking most forward to?
- 6th February 2018