I haven’t been on a cruise since last spring, so I’ve been itching to book a summer cruise vacation—whatever that might look like. With a few under my belt, I'm interested in seeing what new ships are popping up for the warmer months ahead. My criteria is simple: finding ones that have adventurous amenities (like huge waterslides), fun entertainment and delicious food options to stuff my face all week long. Whether I land on a cruise for my family or a girls’ getaway, here are the three ships I’m definitely looking into this season.
I've Been on 8 Cruises, and These Are 3 Summer Ships I Want to Book
It’s sailing season
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Published Mar 13, 2025
Courtesy of MSC
MSC is often known for their European adventures, but MSC World America will be the first dedicated ship for North America and its surrounding Caribbean islands. A little sister to their beloved World Europa, this latest ship has similar amenities including 19 dining options (like Eataly at sea), 20 bars and a various lounges—plus, Drew Barrymore is the Godmother of the new ship. How cool is that?
It will set sail in April, where the massive ship will have fun activities for the whole family. I haven’t been on an MSC ship, but I’m interested in checking out their multipurpose sports complex, where you can do rollerskating, bumper cars and basketball. For the adventurous guests, the ship also includes a 11-story dry slide and the Cliffhanger, the only overwater swing ride at sea, so hop on if you dare.
As for shows and late night festivities, the ship will have Dirty Dancing in concert, comedy shows and an inclusive spa that I will surely be heading to for a massage and a sauna view of the ocean.
Fast Facts
- Price Range: $703+
- Dates: August 30 to September 6
- Popular Destinations: Puerto Plata, San Juan, Ocean Cay
I’ve been on Norwegian Prima, so I’m excited to see a new ship join the class. Norwegian Aqua is extending its outdoor spaces and adding more ways to admire the stunning views at sea. Aside from spacious exteriors, guests can enjoy more room in their cabins and the most luxe suites for Haven members (I’m talking a duplex suite with three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a loft-style accommodation)—plus, solo travelers will have more options other than an inside room (aka no windows)—something I greatly appreciate!
Food wise, the ship has favorites like Los Labos and Hasuki, as well as loads of food at Indulge Food Hall, where I spent most of my time. But they’re finally adding three new restaurants on board. You’ll have the chance to discover Thai cuisine from Sukhothai, plant-based options at Panterie and delicious wine selection at Swirl.
As for entertainment, the latest ship is bringing back favorites like the Infinity Beach, glass bridge and Oceanwalk, but you can expect more thrilling amenities. It will have the Aqua Slidecoaster, a part-waterslide part-roller coaster, which is a first for the cruise line. There’s also going to be a 10-story dry slide, a high-tech LED sports floor and a snazzy beach club for guests 18 and over. You can also catch a tribute show for Prince and a concert filled with Fleetwood Mac covers of their album Rumors.
Fast Facts
- Dates: June through August
- Popular Destinations: Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, Tortola, Great Stirrup Cay
- Price Range: $1,148+
3. Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas
When I read Managing Editor Catrina Yohay’s raving review of the Icon of the Seas, I was ready to book a trip on the massive ship. Lucky for me, the cruise line is adding another ship in their Icon class, and it might be even bigger than its predecessor. It will share the same format of neighborhoods, with more experiences, over 40 dining options and loads of bars.
Once it sails in August, it will have the largest waterpark at sea, including the Crown’s Edge (an adventure course that has you literally above the sea), Splashaway Bay for the kiddos and the signature Flowrider for OG Royal fans. And if you’re a more ‘let’s relax by the pool’ kind of person, the ship will have secluded pool areas and adult-only spaces like The Hideaway, so you can lounge and get some sun without the shrieks of children.
The Star of the Seas will also have some fun shows aboard. In their state of the art AquaDome you can catch a water show featuring divers leaping 60 feet above your head. Or, you can catch an immersive skating performance, or Back to the Future The Musical if you didn’t have a chance to catch the hit musical on Broadway.
Fast Facts
- Price Range: $1,603+
- Dates: August 27 to August 31
- Popular Destinations: CocoCay, Bahamas
