By
Alex Smith |
The cruise order book continues to span an increasingly broad range of vessel sizes and operating models, from the largest ocean ships to small expedition vessels and destination-specific riverboats designed for focused itineraries. Rather than following a single direction in terms of ship size, the upcoming order book increasingly reflects the diversity of the modern cruise industry. With more people than ever choosing to cruise, operators are looking to design their ships for new demographics and destinations, adding new and innovative features to adapt their offerings.
Among the ships due to enter service over the coming months are vessels that illustrate this diversity, including the 6,758-passenger MSC World Asia, the hydrogen-powered Viking Libra, new expedition ships for Antarctica and smaller river vessels targeting destinations from the Nile to the Seine. MSC World Asia, scheduled for delivery from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2026, will continue MSC Cruises’ expansion of its World Class fleet. The 333-metre vessel will accommodate more than 6,700 passengers and feature the Y-shaped architecture used across the series, with extensive outdoor space and a broad selection of accommodation and public areas.
The ship will also introduce a new Family Aventura district, which will include an adventure trail and dry slide, alongside indoor facilities including a kids’ club and gaming areas. MSC World Asia is scheduled to enter service in winter 2026.
At the mid-size scale, Viking Libra is being built as a 998-guest ocean vessel, with delivery scheduled for November 2026. Constructed by Fincantieri, the ship will be the first cruise vessel designed to use hydrogen stored onboard for both propulsion and electricity generation.
The vessel will use liquefied hydrogen together with fuel-cell technology capable of producing up to six megawatts of power. The system will allow Viking Libra to operate with zero emissions in certain operating conditions. The ship will initially sail in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
In expedition cruising, Antarctica21’s Magellan Discoverer is designed specifically around voyages to Antarctica. The 94-metre vessel will carry up to 76 guests and is being built by Asenav in Chile for operation during the 2026-27 Antarctic season.
Magellan Discoverer will combine diesel engines with a hybrid-electric propulsion system, while heat-recovery systems and Tier III-compliant emissions technology will support more efficient operations. A wet science laboratory will also support research activities during Antarctic voyages. With 40 cabins across three passenger decks, Magellan Discoverer is designed to maintain the boutique atmosphere of Magellan Explorer while adding new environmental and scientific capabilities.
The emphasis on specialised expedition cruising becomes even more pronounced with Captain Arctic, a 70-metre vessel being developed for Selar Expeditions, a new expedition cruise line. The ship will carry just 36 passengers alongside 24 crew and is designed around wind and solar power. Its small size will support a flexible expedition model focused on smaller communities and natural environments.
Destination-specific design is also evident in the river cruise market. AmaWaterways’ AmaNubia, due to enter service in Egypt, will carry 76 guests in 38 staterooms, including 15 suites. The ship has been designed specifically for Nile cruising, with Egyptian-inspired interiors, regionally influenced dining and an onboard Egyptologist.
The design of river cruise ship AmaNubia has been inspired by Egyptian history and culture (Photo: AmaWaterways)
On the Seine, Emerald Cruises is preparing to introduce Emerald Lumi in March 2027. The 110-metre, 130-guest river ship has been designed specifically for the river, allowing it to operate between Paris and destinations including Honfleur. Emerald Lumi will feature all-weather balconies, a restaurant, bar and lounge, as well as a heated indoor pool that can be converted into an evening cinema. Its initial programme will focus on an eight-day Seine and Normandy itinerary.
Another example of destination-led shipbuilding is Aranoa, the new vessel being introduced by Aranui Cruises for French Polynesia. Scheduled to begin sailing in 2027, the 116-metre ship will carry 198 passengers and combine passenger accommodation with cargo operations, continuing the mixed passenger-freighter model that has characterised Aranui’s service in the region.
The US market is also continuing to expand its fleet of smaller vessels. American Cruise Lines’ American Anthem, due in 2027, will carry 180 guests and operate on the Columbia and Snake rivers. The ship forms part of the line’s continuing expansion of its domestic river and coastal cruise fleet.
At the luxury end of the market, Seven Seas Prestige demonstrates that smaller capacity does not necessarily mean a smaller vessel. The 77,000-gross-ton Regent Seven Seas Cruises ship is the first in a new series of three ships that will accommodate up to 850 passengers in 434 suites, and will feature a theatre, spa, four lounges and 11 distinct dining venues. Built by Fincantieri, the first Prestige Class vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2026.
Discover more insights on the passenger shipping industry in the Autumn/Winter 2026 issue of Cruise & Ferry Review. To get content like this on a regular basis, subscribe to the print editions or free digital editions of our Cruise & Ferry publications.