Get Excited for These New Cruise Ships Coming in 2023

There are few things more exciting for cruise enthusiasts than when they get the chance to try out new cruise ships. Although there are only a few more months left in 2023, there are still many more new vessels preparing for their first voyages, which means plenty of reasons for you to get excited. From the record breaking attractions of Royal Caribbean’s new ship, to the unprecedented levels of luxury being delivered by Celebrity, we’ve got all the details of the new 2023 cruise ships that are sure to get cruisers reaching for their wallets. Breathe deep and take in that new-cruise-ship smell!

Norwegian Viva

The Norwegian Viva, which launched in August, is the first ship on our list of 2023 cruise ships. The newest ship in the NCL fleet sets itself apart from other ships with spacious accommodations, outstanding service, and elevated experiences. Onboard the Viva, you will find plenty of entertainment and excitement, like fast slides, a three-level race track, and a virtual world to explore. For a good show, see Beetlejuice The Musical from Broadway or head to the Ocean Music Fest for a live jam session. There is also plenty around to please your palate, like Palomar for Mediterranean seafood, Le Bistro’s French cuisine, and Hasuki for Teppanyaki.

One thing Norwegian Viva does exceptionally well is utilize its spacious design and top-notch service to create a relaxing refuge like nothing you’ve ever experienced. The new spa & fitness center on board is The Mandara Spa, which provides detoxifying saunas, state-of-the-art pools, and a tranquil two-story waterfall. Grab a drink at Indulge Outdoor Lounge and kick back in one of their hammocks, or enjoy live music at The Local Bar & Grill. The Haven at the top of the ship offers even more luxury, with exclusive premium accommodations, 24-hour butler service, and private elevators. This may just be the most relaxing of all the new cruise ships to come out this year!

Celebrity Ascent

Next on our list of 2023 cruise ships is Celebrity’s latest vessel, the Celebrity Ascent, which will set sail on its maiden voyage this November. Celebrity promises an unparalleled luxury vacation experience with each of its new cruise ships, and the Ascent is sure to do just that. Treat yourself with a taste of the good life with exclusive accommodations, refined dining, and holistic wellness options. The Retreat is where you’ll get the full taste of what Ascent has to offer, with a luxury suite experience. There you will get to enjoy private dining, exclusive spaces, and a wide range of exquisite services.

The whole ship takes luxury cruising to a new level, thanks in large part to the reimagined spaces designed by the world-renowned Kelly Hoppen CBE. She brings to this magnificent vessel her unique blend of Eastern and Western styles that favor clean lines and neutral tones, creating the atmosphere of a futuristic royal palace. For culinary offerings, they have 8 specialty restaurants, a quartet of main dining restaurants, and another 4 complimentary casual venues.

That makes for 32 distinct establishments, when including the 14 cafés, bars, and lounges onboard. Menus feature dishes crafted by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher, and are inspired by cultures from around the world.

Carnival Jubilee

Carnival’s contribution to the new 2023 cruise ships is Carnival Jubilee, hitting the waters this December. This jam-packed ship comes with 6 distinct “zones,” each offering a different flavor and set of attractions. Grand Central is the main atrium, and it features floor-to-ceiling windows, live entertainment, and dining options such as JavaBlue Café and Bonsai Sushi. Summer Landing is the chill zone, and is home to the iconic Guy’s Pig & Anchor Smokehouse | Brewhouse. Lido zone is focused on diverse dining options, like RedFrog Tiki Bar, Street Eats, Guy’s Burger Joint, Seafood Shack, and BlueIguana Cantina. The aptly named Ultimate Playground is where you’ll find exciting activities like the BOLT roller coaster, WaterWorks, and fun sports like mini golf.

This new cruise ship also brings with it two new zones, Currents and The Shores. Currents is modeled after underwater worlds, using LED windows and a wave-shaped LED ceiling to make you feel like you are deep under the sea. Here you will find innovative bars, dining spots, and live music venues, featuring the likes of Emeril’s Bistro 717, Dr.Inks, Ph.D., and The Golden Mermaid. The Shores, on the other hand, has the aesthetic of a seaside town, taking inspiration from beaches and boardwalks. This is a great place to grab a slice of pizza at Offers Coastal Slice, or a handcrafted cocktail from Marina Bar.

Icon of the Seas

Finally, we finish off our list of 2023 cruise ships with a ship that technically launches in January of 2024, Icon of the Seas. Royal Caribbean’s new cruise ships always bring something bigger and better than what came before, and Icon promises to continue in that tradition with a mix of exciting new thrills and unprecedented relaxation. Their water park, Category 6, will be the largest waterpark at sea, and features six record-breaking waterslides. That includes the tallest waterslide at sea, the Frightening Bolt, and the first open freefall waterslide called Pressure Drop. Icon will also have 7 different pools onboard, including the largest pool at sea, called Royal Bay.

Another brand new addition to this one-of-a-kind cruise ship is Royal Caribbean’s new neighborhood, Surfside. As the name suggests, this area will be focused on poolside fun, featuring an aquapark for kids, an adults-only pool, and several dining options. Whether you are traveling by yourself, or bringing the whole family, Icon of the Seas has you covered with a range of accommodations and a host of fun activities for any and all ages. You can expect a voyage on this spectacular ship to be filled with rejuvenation, thrilling adventure, and absolute indulgence!

Related: Icon of the Seas Revealed by Royal Caribbean

If you’re as excited as we are to check out these new cruise ships, then it might be time to book your trip today! Visit Cruises.com — we can help you book the smart way! We give you our exclusive bonus offers and all qualifying cruise line offers, plus all of the cruise line loyalty program benefits. Book online at Cruises.com or call 800-288-6006 today.