From a record-breaking ‘mega ship’ to one company’s first-ever liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel, there is a lot happening in the world of cruising in 2026.Disney fans have been treated to a new liner, while MSC will be launching an Asian-inspired ship.Meanwhile, Orient Express is dabbling in the ocean travel scene and introducing the world’s largest sailing yacht.Read on to discover the cruise ships to look out for this year. Legend of the Seas Royal Caribbean launched Legend of the Seas last month – a £1.3 billion mega shipLast month, cruise giant Royal Caribbean launched its record-breaking ship, Legend of the Seas. The £1.3 billion Icon Class ship is the company’s newest addition to their fleet, and boasts the largest water park at sea, the Royal Bay, alongside seven pools and ten whirlpools.Passengers have 28 dining options to choose from. After a top-quality meal, they can explore the entertainment facilities, from Broadway shows to live music.As the ultimate family cruise ship, Legend of the Seas is one of the most impressive vessels to hit the sea this year. ‘We’re incredibly proud to introduce Legend of the Seas to vacationers and continue the legacy of the revolutionary Icon Class,’ said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean. ‘This wouldn’t be possible without the many talented individuals that came together to deliver what is truly the ultimate family vacation, and we look forward to making Legend’s debut this summer a legendary one.’MSC World Asia MSC’s newest liner, MSC World Asia, will officially set sail in DecemberSet to launch in December, MSC World Asia is MSC Cruises’ newest World Class ship, which will embark on voyages around the Mediterranean from December 2026. Featuring Asian-inspired designs throughout, the ship is curated to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for its passengers. The vessel ‘blends traditional Asian architecture with contemporary design, celebrating the continent’s rich culture, art and landscapes’, according to MSC’s website. There will be six speciality restaurants on board, including a brand new Pan-Asian Street Food fast-casual dining concept, as well as two buffet restaurants and six main dining concepts. Viking Mira Viking Mira launched in June and has 499 stateroomsViking’s latest ocean ship, the Viking Mira, launched in June this year and has embarked on her first itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Classified as a small ship, the brand new vessel boasts 499 staterooms and has enough space to accommodate 998 guests. Guests can enjoy a pool, two cinemas, a theatre and a Nordic spa amongst other facilities. Disney Adventure Disney Adventure set sail in March and brings beloved stories from Disney, Marvel and Pixar to lifeThe latest magical vessel to join Mickey Mouse’s fleet is Disney Adventure, which set sail for the first time in March. Bringing beloved stories from Disney, Marvel and Pixar to life, the ship sails from Singapore on three- or four-night voyages. On board, guests can explore seven themed areas including the Disney Imagination Garden, which sits at the heart of the ship. The Disney Discovery Reef is centred around The Little Mermaid, Finding Nemo, Lilo & Stitch and Luca, while Marvel Landing celebrates all things Marvel.Toy Story Place, Wayfinder Bay, San Fransokyo Street and Town Square make up other magical spots on board.Explora III Explora III sets sail today for the first time and is a luxurious vessel with whirlpools and sports courtsExplora Journeys launches its new ship, Explora III, today (August 3).The luxurious ship is kitted out with everything from whirlpools to a ‘sky bar’. Guests can also enjoy sports courts, a spa, seven restaurants and 12 bars and lounges. It is the company’s first LNG-powered vessel and boasts 461 oceanfront suites. With five heated pools, passengers will be able to completely relax as they sail to the next dreamy destination on their itinerary. Seven Seas Prestige Seven Seas Prestige is Regent’s newest ship and will set sail in December this year Set to debut December 2026, Seven Seas Prestige will be Regent’s newest vessel.With a capacity of 822 guests, the ship will boast 411 suites and a breadth of facilities across its 12 decks. Passengers will be able to make use of the all-new solar sports deck which includes a competition-size pickleball court, an 18-hole putting green and more. Orient Express Corinthian Orient Express Corinthian is the largest sailing yacht in the worldTraditionally known for luxury train travel, Orient Express is taking its opulence and elegance to the high seas by way of the new Orient Express Corinthian. The world’s largest sailing yacht launched in May 2026, and has a capacity of up to 110 guests. After a summer spent traversing the Med, the Orient Express Corinthian will head for the Caribbean in the autumn, crossing from Lisbon to Barbados on a 14-day voyage.There are 54 suites to choose from and a range of delicious restaurants, bars and eateries on board.Despite not being a full-sized cruise ship, there is even space for a barber, hair salon, gym and spa on the vessel.Norwegian Luna Norwegian Cruise Line launched Norwegian Luna in JuneNorwegian Cruise Line’s latest ship, the Norwegian Luna embarked on its first journey in March of this year, sailing from Rome Civitavecchia, Italy.With plenty of food options to please the whole family, guests can dine al fresco on Ocean Boulevard, or choose something from the selection of mini restaurants and food trucks at the Indulge Food Hall. As for entertainment, the Aqua Slidecoaster and infinity pools promise fun with amazing views, and there is a splash pad for the little ones.Norwegian Luna’s hull features artwork created by acclaimed artist ELLE.