Cruise lines expand 2026 deployments with new ships
New vessels are beginning service or preparing for maiden seasons across the Caribbean, Europe and Asia.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Luna has started its debut Caribbean sailings from Miami following its handover at the Fincantieri shipyard in March. Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas debuted in the Mediterranean, operating seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome.
Disney Adventure launched in March 2026 as Disney’s eighth ship. Based in Singapore, it offers three-, four- and five-night cruises around Asia. Explora Journeys, MSC Cruises’ luxury brand, also launched Explora III during the summer, with capacity for about 900 guests.
Viking Mira launched in June 2026 and was scheduled to spend its maiden season sailing in the Mediterranean and northern Europe. Windstar plans to introduce the 224-guest Star Explorer in December 2026, beginning with a Barcelona departure before operating year-round in Europe.
Several additional maiden voyages are scheduled for late 2026. MSC World Asia is due to depart Barcelona on Dec. 4 for a seven-night round trip. Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Prestige is scheduled to begin service Dec. 13 with a Barcelona-to-Miami voyage. Its published itineraries run through May 2027, covering the Caribbean and Europe and including two transatlantic crossings.