Cruising in 2026: the ultimate guide to new ships and voyages

What’s new in cruising this year and beyond, from the next generation of ships hitting the waters to destinations and itineraries in focus.

Hotels at sea: the best in luxury cruising right now

We’re living in a post-modern travel moment where cruise lines are designing ships that look like hotels – and hotel brands are designing hotels that float. It’s all in pursuit of experiential luxury, and an ultra-luxe fleet of yachts is spearheading the movement. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection kicked off the trend four years ago and has since introduced its legion of fans to the world of cruising with a trio of vessels: Evrima, Ilma and Luminara.

Superyacht Aqua Lares — Superyacht *Aqua Lares* will spend the summer months sailing Svalbard and the Arctic Circle.

‘Aman junkies’ feeling cruise-curious need not switch allegiance with the launch of Aman at Sea. Reservations are now open for the debut of 47-suite yacht Amangati for her Mediterranean season in the European spring of 2027, including select voyages that drop anchor at key cultural fixtures such as the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix.

*Amangati* is Aman’s first foray into cruising. (Credit: Sinot)

Likewise, Four Seasons Yachts is rewriting the rules of indulgence at sea. Likened to floating palaces, its new-build vessels promise intimacy on a grand scale, where every detail feels couture-crafted. Leading the charge is Four Seasons I, a 207-metre showpiece setting sail on its inaugural voyage this season.

*Orient Express Corinthian* brings nostalgia to the high seas. (Credit: Accor/Martin Darzacq)

Legendary heritage brand Orient Express is also entering the fray, launching its first-ever sailing yacht 140 years after its first luxury trains left the station. Orient Express Corinthian debuts in June 2026, sailing between Marseille, Corsica and Liguria with 54 nostalgia-rich suites and a culinary concept helmed by Yannick Alléno, one of the world’s leading chefs. Sister yacht Orient Express Olympian will follow in 2027.

Explore Peru’s remote reaches in style with A&K Sanctuary’s *Pure Amazon*. (Credit: Damian Russell)

Luxury is also pushing into the wildest reaches. Aqua Expeditions’ latest superyacht, Aqua Lares, has launched in the Seychelles before it sails the Arctic from June to September, while A&K Sanctuary’s Pure Amazon brings the brand’s ethos of elevated exploration to the rainforest with a 12-cabin expedition vessel exploring Peru’s Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve.

Dazzling debuts: new cruises coming this year

New additions onboard the reinvented *Celebrity Solstice* include Trattoria Rossa.

Things are looking shipshape as a fleet of next-generFation vessels make their grand entrances this year and beyond. Making a splash is Explora Journeys’ newest addition, EXPLORA III, a destination in its own right that marks a milestone in the evolution of this envelope-pushing brand. Debuting ahead of schedule in the Mediterranean in July, the LNG-powered ship introduces next-gen sustainability alongside expansive design, elevated dining and immersive wellness – including a sound-healing pod.

Meanwhile, Norwegian Luna, the newest Prima Class ship from Norwegian Cruise Line, begins its debut sailings this year. Bookings are also now open for Norwegian Aura, the next evolution in the fleet – 10 per cent larger than its predecessors and designed with curated, family-focused experiences in mind. It launches in Europe in May 2027 before homeporting in Miami.

MSC Cruises’ new flagship MSC World Asia sets sail in December 2026. Its design draws inspiration from Asian culture, art and landscape, including vibrant bespoke works by Vietnamese artist Hoan Phan.

Upping the ante in the megaship stakes, Royal Caribbean will debut Legend of the Seas in Europe in July, the next in the Icon Class fleet pitched as the world’s best family holiday at sea. The line is also evolving its fleet with a cutting-edge new Discovery Class, slated to launch in 2029.

*Celebrity Solstice* has been reborn. (Credit: Tracy Arm Fjord)

Celebrity Cruises is making its classics new again, investing over US$250 million to modernise its Solstice Series ships. First is Aussie fave Celebrity Solstice, which took to the seas in March with reimagined spaces, design upgrades and new onboard experiences.

Reflective of a shift towards immersive slow travel, the demand for river cruising is ever-increasing. AmaWaterways debuts AmaSofia in the European spring, sailing the Rhine and the Danube. Next year, the brand will launch a new vessel on the Mekong as well as AmaRudi, a next-generation double-width Danube ship.

Cruise the Danube with Uniworld. (Credit: Uniwold/Pam Mclean)

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises launches its first new-build since 2021: S.S. Emilie, a 154-passenger Super Ship sailing the Danube with Art Nouveau interiors inspired by Gustav Klimt and his muse, Emilie Flöge. The brand has announced four more ships for 2027, including S.S. Audrey and S.S. Marlene, named for screen legends Audrey Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich, plus S.S. São Rafael on Portugal’s Douro River.

Egypt remains high on the bucket list. Viking answers the call with two new 82-guest vessels – Viking Ptah and Viking Sekhmet – sailing the Nile this year. Or perhaps you’ve had your fill of all that is new and cutting-edge? If so, consider stepping back in time.

Experience life onboard Windstar Cruises’ *Star Seeker*.

Exploring the Caribbean and Alaska before sailing to Asia, with emphasis on immersion in Thailand and Vietnam, Windstar Cruises’ first new-build in its Star Class fleet, Star Seeker, also debuted this year. The 112-suite yacht will be joined by sister ship Star Explorer at the end of the year, purpose-built to glide into hard-to-reach river ports and cities such as London along the Thames.

In other news, HX Expeditions has unveiled its vintage-inspired ‘1896 Cabin’ aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen, inviting guests to experience life as an early polar adventurer. The immersive concept marks 130 years since HX Expeditions set out on its pioneering voyage from mainland Norway to Svalbard.

New waters: the latest and greatest cruise itineraries

Monaco GrandPrix — Drop anchor at the Monaco Grand Prix with Silversea.

The year is already awash with horizon-expanding itinerary announcements. Part of 414 inspiring new sailings for 2027–28, Silversea’s three new Grand Voyages invite unhurried travellers to explore the Western Mediterranean, Asia and South America in depth over 51 to 77 days.

Another cruise experience tapping into demand for extended itineraries, Explorations by Norwegian by My Cruises – the world’s longest cruise to and from Australia – is returning for a second year-long voyage with fresh destinations in Borneo, Kenya and the Philippines.

Departing from Melbourne, luxury cruise line Crystal will embark on its first circumnavigation of Australia as part of its 2029 World Cruise – a 127-night voyage aboard Crystal Symphony.

And in 2027, Uniworld will launch a collection of European itineraries blending boutique river cruising with its sister brand Luxury Gold’s premium small-group land travel. Expect everything from hiking in the Swiss alps to wine tasting on the banks of the Rhine and meeting the only saffron grower left in the Wachau Valley.

Plus, Hurtigruten is expanding its Fjord and Arctic Voyages for 2027-28 with three brand-new ‘Limited Collection’ voyages including The Arctic Line – North, departing Copenhagen before sailing Norway’s coast.

Sustainability at sea: eco-friendly cruise lines

Ponant Explorations kayaking — PONANT EXPLORATIONS invests in the environment. (Credit: Ponant/Daniel Ernst)

A wave of new initiatives shaped by an environmental ethos is rippling through the seas. Swap2Zero, a future transoceanic ship project from PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, is paving the way towards decarbonised, zero-emissions navigation by 2030 using breakthrough technologies and wind-assisted propulsion.

Meanwhile, Viking’s 998-guest ocean ship Viking Libra will debut at the end of 2026 as the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, meaning it will be capable of operating with zero emissions.

Also innovating in the eco-cruising space, HX Expeditions is launching two electric-powered ‘silent science boats’ to reduce underwater noise pollution during boat excursions in the Antarctic and Arctic.

In Alaskan waters, MSC Cruises has announced a landmark partnership with marine conservation organisation ORCA to study whale behaviour, collect data and improve guest whale-watching experiences.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Seize the moment: cruise experiences you can’t miss

CelebritybXcel — Celebrity Xcel will host Med-inspired festivals during its European season.

Some experiences only come around once in a blue moon. Our advice? Seize the opportunity. Hurtigruten’s Astronomy Voyage on Signature offers first-class seats to the skin-tingling northern lights as you cruise Norway’s Arctic coast alongside an expert aurora chaser.

Or perhaps opt for PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ solar eclipse cruises near Iceland’s fjords or off Spain’s Balearic Islands to see the rare total solar eclipse on 12 August, when the moon will obscure the sun, creating an ethereal ring.

Plenty of cruise lines are tapping into the zeitgeist, too, and planning itineraries around cultural moments. Silversea’s newly unveiled voyage collection 2027–28 is built around some of the world’s best events and cultural, sporting and culinary festivals, from the iconic to the under-the-radar.

Think the Monaco Grand Prix, Carnival in Rio, Awa Odori in Tokushima (Japan’s largest dance festival), the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the San Sebastián Street Festival in Puerto Rico. All promise high energy and deep community connection.

The Bazaar, Celebrity Xcel — The festivals come to life in The Bazaar onboard *Celebrity Xcel*. (Credit: Michel Verdure)

Seasonal sailings are also in focus, with AmaWaterways offering Festive Delights cruises that channel the warmth and wonder of Christmas along Europe’s rivers. Or explore the waters of Baja California, Mexico, during peak whale migration season with UnCruise adventures for blue whale, humpack, dolphin and flying mobula ray spotting, along with the chance to snorkel with playful seal lions.

Cultural immersion is increasingly extending onboard, too. Celebrity Cruises’ brand-new Celebrity Xcel is a masterclass in this space. To mark its debut European season, the ship is launching four new Euro-inspired festivals at The Bazaar, designed to blend seamlessly with the in-port experience – celebrating, variously, Greek, Italian, Spanish and Moroccan flavours and flair.

Destination spotlight: the growth of cruising Asia

Cruising in Asia is continuing to grow apace in 2026. Cruise Lines International Association data shows Asia Pacific is the fastest growing regional market. The continent sings with punchy flavours, ancient cultures and metropolises that move at lightning speed. So is it really a surprise? No.

But what continues to delight is the wealth of new ways to discover this region by water – whether you’re witnessing South Korea’s electric markets with Explora Journeys, Vietnam’s imperial citadels with Silversea or Japan’s crimson foliage with Princess Cruises; or, you can board Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas, which will homeport for the first time in Singapore between October 2026 and February 2027.

Thousands of readers have cast their votes in a worldwide survey, revealing the best islands in the world to add to your travel radar.

The best island escapes have a way of making us feel instantly lighter – whether it be the pink-hued fringing reefs, green coconuts, powdery sands between your toes or crystalline water that shifts between turquoise and aquamarine with the light. Perhaps it’s the easy-breezy atmosphere that makes your worries melt as quickly as a tropical ice block in the sun. But how does one choose which island to visit?

Travel + Leisure has released its list of the best islands in the world as part of its 2026 World’s Best Awards, shining a spotlight on 25 idylls worth adding to your travel radar. More than 661,000 votes were cast across all award categories, including the best train journeys in the world, from more than 207,000 readers, who weighed in to share their opinions. From accessible Pacific gems to volcanic Portuguese outposts and stirring Scottish isles, the top-voted islands have revealed travellers’ appetite not only for relaxation, but also for adventure and cultural discovery.

And taking out the No.1 ranking? A blissful Thai island set in an inlet of the South China Sea.

1. Koh Samui, Thailand

Thailand’s second-largest island, Koh Samui, has been named the number one island in the world for 2026, scoring an impressive 95.64 out of 100. Travellers appreciate the island’s diversity – offering everything from pristine beaches and lush rainforests to elephant sanctuaries and breathtaking Buddhist temples.

The destination has received increased attention from tourists over the past year or so, thanks to the hit HBO series The White Lotus setting its third season at the uber-luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (we can dream, right?). Whether you’re checking into this five-star resort or an affordable jungle villa, Koh Samui will no doubt cast its spell on you.

2. Maldives

maldives aerial — The Maldives are known for their overwater villas. (Credit: Unsplash/Ishan @seefromthesky)

The atolls of the Maldives continue to hold universal allure, owing to their unbelievably glassy waters, indulgent overwater resorts and abundant marine life luring the diving crowd. And now they are even easier to access than ever, thanks to Luxury Escapes recently launching Australia’s first direct flight to the Maldives.

3. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

yellow iguana on Galapagos Islands — Spot the incredible wildlife of the Galapagos Islands. (Credit: Simon Berger)

Giant tortoises. Cheeky sea lions. Marine iguanas. With its unique environment where guests can follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin, unparalleled wildlife encounters and expedition spirit, it’s easy to see why this island group in the eastern Pacific Ocean tops bucket lists the world over.

4. Bali, Indonesia

The River Café at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa, Bali — A secluded riverside infinity pool hangs over the sacred Petanu River at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa.

Bali is a tried-and-true crowd-favourite among Aussie and NZ travellers not just for its convenient proximity to the east coast of Australia, but for its surf breaks, laid-back beach club lifestyle and delicious food. Plus, prices are a fraction of what they are back home.

5. Phuket, Thailand

Rich in dramatic limestone cliffs, elephant sanctuaries and a dynamic meld of cultures, Phuket is the largest island in Thailand and one worth planning a tropical escape to.

6. Seychelles

a white-sand beach with giant boulders at La Digue, Seychelles — Etched on La Digue Island are huge granite rocks. (Credit: Getty/Diamond Dogs)

The independent island nation of Seychelles commonly conjures images of secluded beaches studded with oversized granite boulders and lined with shady palms. But it is also home to thriving vanilla plantations, multi-ethnic culture, French and British architecture, as well as island-hopping opportunities.

7. Fiji

Top view of Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort pool — Spend warm days soaking up the sun, playing golf or relaxing by the pool at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort.

Fiji was voted one of the best islands in the world for several reasons: it is convenient to get to (located around four hours from mainland Australia), home to wildly beautiful marine environments and boasts of the friendliest locals in the world.

8. Sri Lanka

sri lanka train — Sri Lanka is known for its lush landscapes. (Credit: Unsplash/gemmafjam)

Located in the Indian Ocean just off the south-eastern coast of India, Sri Lanka beckons with flavour-packed cuisine, lush jungle and relaxed surf scenes that have visitors longing to return.

9. Dominica, the Caribbean

With rainforest covering around two-thirds of the land mass, this Caribbean destination is all about getting outdoors. Swim under thundering waterfalls, hike volcanic terrain and snorkel around Scotts Head.

10. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Boasting a vibrant fusion of African, Arabic and Indian cultures, Zanzibar is a unique place to book for your next island escape. The postcard-worthy beaches harbour dolphins and sea turtles, while the landscapes are home to endangered monkeys, rhinos and antelopes.

11. Golden Isles, USA

Comprising Jekyll Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and St. Simons Island, the Golden Isles lie along Georgia’s Atlantic coast. Expect sweeping salt marshes, stretches of sun-drenched beaches and landmarks revealing a fascinating southern history.

12. Sardinia, Italy

sardinia boats — Sardinia is blessed with blue waters. (Credit: Unsplash/Fadi al Shami)

If you haven’t yet visited Sardinia, consider this your sign. This relatively undeveloped island, placed 200 kilometres off Italy’s mainland just south of Corsica, offers a distinctive local cuisine and mysterious Bronze Age ruins. An absolute must is joining a boat charter to the La Maddalena Archipelago – I’ve never seen water so clear and blue!

13. Skye and the Hebrides, Scotland

Not all islands come ringed with palm trees and tropical waters. In Scotland, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides offer windswept coastlines far from civilisation, historic castles and a Lord of the Rings vibe.

14. Malta

the Valletta city pictured from above — Soak up the Baroque beauty of Valletta City. (Credit: Visit Malta)

One of the world’s best islands for both history and stunning blue water, Malta is famed for its golden limestone architecture, megalithic temples and Baroque buildings. Make sure to visit the striking Blue Lagoon.

15. Grenada, the Caribbean

Dubbed the ‘spice isle’, Grenada’s main hilly island is home to an abundance of nutmeg plantations, along with colourful Georgian buildings and diverse landscapes, from flowing waterfalls to castaway beaches.

16. Madeira, Portugal

coastal views at Porto da Cruz, Madeira — The majestic coastal beauty of Madeira’s Porto da Cruz. (Credit: Lauren de Sousa)

This subtropical Portuguese archipelago is a speck in the North Atlantic Ocean. Praised for its stirring volcanic landscapes, fortified wine and hiking trails, Madeira is a wonderful destination for food lovers as well as nature seekers.

17. Azores, Portugal

A lush paradise in the Atlantic, the Azores comprise nine volcanic islands, with São Miguel being the most popular among tourists. Bubbling geothermal hot springs, green crater lakes, whales, and dolphins are all reasons to visit.

18. Maui, USA

Maui is Hawai’i’s second-largest island and is known for its crystal-clear snorkelling at Molokini Crater, epic sunrises, waterfalls, scenic drives and luxurious beach resorts.

19. Sicily, Italy

sicily architecture — Sicily boasts charming architecture. (Unsplash/Val Vesa)

It’s little wonder Sicily has become such an enviable tourist destination, voted one of the best islands in the world. Not only does it offer sparkling turquoise coves and Italy’s tallest active volcano, but it’s also home to ancient Greek ruins and charming towns dotted with restaurants dishing up twirls of silky spaghetti.

20. Milos, Greece

Ah, Milos. This Aegean outpost in the Cyclades region is proving that the Greek islands will always be a slice of paradise to travellers with its moon-like landscapes, quieter atmosphere and pebbly beaches dotted with sun-baking locals.

21. Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Discover vegetation-lined walking trails, nature sanctuaries, luxury yacht trips and famous seawater-flooded grottos on this dreamy Caribbean island.

22. Crete, Greece

a boat moored in the seaside village of Loutro Crete — Loutro is a charming seaside village in Crete that is surrounded by turquoise waters.

The largest and most populous island of Greece, Crete is the place to go for towering mountain gorges, world-renowned beaches, historic old towns and a distinct blend of Minoan, Greek Orthodox, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.

23. Vieques, Puerto Rico

The lesser-known Caribbean island of Vieques is where wild horses roam the countryside, wildlife refuges and bioluminescent bays where microorganisms light up the water with an otherworldly blue-green glow.

24. Paros, Greece

The lively main fishing town of Paros gives the island plenty of charm – think whitewashed houses, cobbled alleys, vine-draped tavernas and boutique shops. But don’t miss the sailing cruises and unique rock formations dotted around the island.

25. Kauaʻi, USA

Kauaʻi coast — Hike dramatic coastlines on Kauaʻi. (Credit: Unsplash/Jake Houglum)

Part of the Hawaiian archipelago, Kauaʻi is best known for its striking natural beauty, where godly green cliffs tumble into azure ocean and rainbows spring from misty waterfalls.