A huge new cruise ship will become the world’s biggest when it sets sail this summer, complete with over 40 bars and restaurants, an epic waterpark, thrill rides, a surf simulator and plenty more. 

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas is due to make her debut in July 2026, initially sailing from Barcelona and Rome on a series of sun-soaked Mediterranean itineraries. She will then embark on a winter season from Fort Lauderdale in Florida, offering itineraries to the Caribbean that include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island, CocoCay. 

Legend is the third of the cruise line’s Icon class ships, a sister ship to Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, both of which currently share the title of the world’s biggest cruise ship with a 248,663 gross tonnage. Legend will join them in that ranking, also boasting the same gross tonnage. 

The mega ship will be able to hold up to 5,610 passengers – the same size as a small UK town – and will have 20 decks. 

Thrill-seekers won’t be stuck twiddling their thumbs on board given the onboard offerings including the largest waterpark at sea, which will include SIX waterslides, mat racing, and raft riding. That’s not even counting the seven pools and 10 whirlpools that can also be found onboard. 

But it’s not just the waterpark that’s sure to appeal to those who prefer to have a jam-packed programme of activities. Other highlights will include the 40ft-long FlowRider surf simulator, and the Crown’s Edge obstacle course ropewalk where those who are very, very brave can take a stroll over the ocean itself. There are also plenty of splashparks and play areas for little ones, given the ship is geared towards families. 

For foodies, there are 28 venues where you can dine at sea – a record for Royal Caribbean – including 11 specialty dining restaurants. After dinner there will be plenty of evening entertainment onboard, from live music to the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical in the ship’s main theatre. There’s even an ice arena where you can watch performers take on daring stunts. 

It’s therefore no surprise therefore that Legend is one of 2026’s most highly anticipated new ships. It’s not the only large ship set to take to the waters. Later this year, in December, MSC Cruises will welcome MSC World Asia into its fleet. Boasting a 215,863 gross tonnage, this ship will be smaller than Legend of the Seas, but still boasts an impressive size; in fact, it will even be divided into seven ‘districts’ to help passengers navigate their way around.

These will include Family Aventura for families (unsurprisingly), a Zen Area with a spa, an Aqua Deck with a waterpark and family-friendly pools, Terraces for bars and lounges, the Galleria for shopping, a Promenade for plenty of onboard fun, and the MSC Yacht Club that offers dedicated spaces for its members. 

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