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Celebrity Ascent Deck Plans & Reviews

Celebrity Ascent

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Celebrity Ascent First Look: Review, Tour, & Should You Sail?

Note: Cruzely was invited for a complimentary inaugural cruise aboard the new Celebrity Ascent. Below are our thoughts about the new ship from Celebrity.

For those that have sailed across multiple cruise lines, you know that each line — and each ship — has its own unique personality. In other words, no matter how many different cruises you take, there’s always something that’s new to experience. We were reminded of this on our recent inaugural cruise aboard Celebrity Ascent.

Celebrity Ascent marks the fourth in the cruise line’s ground-breaking Edge class of ships (or “Edge series” as Celebrity calls them). And while we’ve sailed on nearly every major cruise line (including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, MSC, NCL, Virgin, Princess), one major line we had yet to experience was Celebrity. Turns out that their newest ship makes us feel like we’ve made a big mistake waiting this long to sail.

Meet: Celebrity Ascent

For those not yet familiar with Celebrity, it’s part of Royal Caribbean Group’s portfolio of cruise lines. Aimed at a more upscale experience, you can think of it in car terms to get an idea of its positioning in the market.

Just like Toyota has the upscale Lexus brand, Royal Caribbean offers the elevated Celebrity brand. But this is much different than just a “nicer” Royal Caribbean cruise ship. It’s something completely different with a different atmosphere, feel, and philosophy. It’s much more geared toward adults (though kids are welcomed!) instead of focused on everyone.

Celebrity went a new direction with its Edge class of ships, beginning with Celebrity Edge that first sailed in late 2018. Now the cruise line introduces Celebrity Ascent, the latest in the class (along with Edge, Apex, and Beyond).

If you have sailed these sister ships before, then you have a good idea of what Ascent can offer passengers. If you haven’t, or haven’t sailed Celebrity at all, then you don’t know what you’re missing.

First Impressions of the Ship

Boarding at Terminal 25 in Fort Lauderdale, Ascent makes a strong first impression. You enter near the Grand Plaza — a multi-story atrium centered around The Martini Bar. This is definitely a hotspot for the ship and during the evenings it gets busy. But it’s also a great initial introduction to the style and atmosphere of the ship.

You’ll notice the distinct asymmetrical shape of the space and bar. There are no wood tones or heavy chrome accents. The spot oozes with contemporary style. It’s wide, open, and airy. This isn’t meant to be a nice cruise ship… it’s built to be a nice resort.

In fact, walking around the ship when boarding, our first thought was if you took a spa and used that as inspiration for a ship’s design. The colors are calming. The lighting is always perfect. Even the music is a relaxing mix that provides some white noise to the ship without being intrusive.

But what really caught our attention is the space around the ship. First, it should be noted that the inaugural sailing we attended was only about two-thirds full. Even imagining most spaces with a full capacity ship still left plenty of space for everyone (the one exception is The Martini Bar area in the Grand Plaza that got very busy during the evenings).

This makes sense as based on tonnage versus passengers carried, Ascent has a space ratio of 43.1 at 100% occupancy . Anything above 40 should be considered reasonably spacious.

More than that, however, there was obviously a lot of thought put into building a ship that feels spacious everywhere. Hallways around the ship are wider, from the cabin hallways to those around the interior areas of the ship. There are also lots of spots from the Solarium to the Grand Plaza to the ship’s theater that cover multiple decks. The result makes for long sightlines and an airy feeling.

This trend even goes to the cabin doorways, which seem the width of a regular door at home instead of the relatively narrow cabin doors found on most ships.

In other words, if your biggest complaint about cruising is that it’s too crowded, this is the ship for you.

A Look Onboard

It’s hard to overstate just how nice Celebrity Ascent is unless you’ve sailed it or one of its sister ships (which are said to be similar). While pictures don’t do it justice, we have highlighted some spots with details about what to expect and some images to give you an idea.

Grand Plaza The spot to be in the evening, the Grand Plaza is a center atrium on the ship. There’s seating around the edge, bartenders that do fancy acrobatics while they mix drinks, restaurants lining the decks on both sides, and a massive light fixture in the middle.

During the evening live music is played and there’s no better spot to enjoy a fun evening out with your traveling partner.

The Theater The Theater on Ascent is a massive circular room with a stage in the middle. Five movable video boards provide backdrops while parts of the stage can raise and lower. A center section in the ceiling allows performers to drop from the roof while the lighting and sound features are world class.

The result are visually stunning shows that have to be seen to be believed.

The Retreat Like some other lines, Celebrity has their own “resort within a resort” that features higher-end rooms. Along with nice rooms is a lounge area and outdoor pool/sundeck that is only available to these guests. There is also a private restaurant for passengers in The Retreat.

Pool Area/Solarium If you want to be by the pool, you have two main options. First is the general pool deck that features a large pool, some great artwork (we love the chrome octopus), and twin hot tubs that sit up over the deck like flower blooms.

The Solarium is an amazing space that spans multiple decks with a domed ceiling. The atmosphere is calm and serene with lots of seating, its own pool and twin hot tubs.

Rooftop Garden One feature of the Edge series ships and continued on Ascent is the Rooftop Garden. This is an open space on the top deck that features seating and open space in a park-like atmosphere. There are pools nearby, but it’s more of just a relaxing spot where you can enjoy the company of who you’re traveling with. There is also a large screen that features sporting events, yoga classes during the day, and more.

Eden Another signature space in the class that’s aboard Ascent is Eden. It’s hard to describe the area as it’s somewhere to be entertained, to grab a bite to eat, or to just lounge. It’s multiple stories with lots of natural light and located aft of the ship with great outdoor views. During the day it’s relaxed and a great place to unwind. During the evening the crew puts on performances, and there’s also a high-end restaurant.

Cabins on Ascent

No matter how you want to travel, there’s a cabin that will fit. And one nice thing is that they are all nicely appointed and comfortable. The theme of space continues throughout the available staterooms. If you’re used to cramped cabins, that’s not the case here.

We mentioned more space in the doorways, but there’s simply more space everywhere. Even interior cabins feel comfy (though certainly not large, but larger than many we’ve seen).

One feature that’s different on Celebrity is the use of “infinite” balconies, although the cruise line calls them “infinite verandas.” Typically, balcony rooms have a door that leads out to a balcony that juts out the side of the ship.

With these infinite balconies, instead the far wall of the cabin is one large window. Press a button and the top half of the window slides down, essentially making the entire room a balcony. There are still bi-fold doors that can be opened and closed to separate a balcony area and a blackout shade that closes the area for sleeping.

The Retreat should also be mentioned. This is a section of suites aboard Ascent that feature access to a private restaurant, a private lounge, and sundeck. As well, you have more dedicated services, and the rooms also come with premium drinks and wi-fi.

Entertainment on the Ship

Perhaps one of the biggest misnomers when it comes to cruising is the idea that you have “hokey” entertainment with performers that couldn’t cut it anywhere else. Anyone who thinks that obviously hasn’t sailed a modern cruise ship, much less on Celebrity Ascent.

There are a number of entertainment options around the ship with everything from live music to performances in Eden. But two spots stand out as unique to this class.

First is a spot called The Club . It’s a multi-story spot, that like Eden, serves a lot of different roles. During the day, it’s a place to hang out and play games. This includes some video games, and what Celebrity calls “augmented” games that are essentially video games projected on the floor that you play with your body.

At night, it changes into more of a lounge with live music and shows, including “Smoke and Ivories” — a cabaret-style show that’s above and beyond. No matter the time of day, there will be something to do here.

But the star of the entertainment lineup is The Theater . We’ve been at sea across dozens of ships and never seen anything like it.

Instead of a traditional theater setup, Ascent features a round room with a circular stage in the middle. That alone provides more dynamic and visually interesting views, but it’s just the start. Around the back of the stage are five floor-to-ceiling screens that can also move and slide around the stage. During the shows, the visual backdrops are simply stunning, providing an amazing backdrop that just can’t be replicated with a traditional set.

In addition there are stage segments that rise and fall, a spot in the center of the ceiling where acrobats drop and swing, lights extraordinaire and so much more. Of course, all this speaks nothing of the talent of the performers themselves, who are world class.

We watched two shows (Bridges and Awaken) during our time on the ship and would not hesitate to watch them again. If you sail, consider the theater shows a “can’t-miss.”

Food Options Aboard Celebrity Ascent

Food is a major part of any cruise and that stays true for Celebrity Ascent. All told there are more than a dozen restaurants around the ship. In general, the food and restaurants tend to be more elevated. If you’re really into high-end food, you’re in luck. We will say that those with simpler tastes do have options, but you will need to look around a little more.

Free spots to eat include the Oceanview  Café , which is the ship’s large buffet with more space than we’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. It serves everything from pizza to lobster tails on the last day of the cruise. There is a small café in Eden with salad and sandwiches and light fare at the Spa  Café . You can grab a burger or sandwich at the Mast Grill if you just want something easy.

For dinner there are four main dining restaurants that are included in the fare. Each one of these ( Cyprus, Tuscan, Normandie, and Cosmopolitan ) has the same menu but has a special section of appetizers and entrees section that’s unique from the other restaurants for more variety.

You could definitely eat during your cruise without spending extra, but it will limit your options on Ascent. There are a large number of specialty restaurants and most focus on an elevated experience. This includes:

• Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud
• Rooftop Garden Grill
• Le Grand Bistro
• Le Petit Chef
• Fine Cut Steakhouse

In addition, there are two restaurants Blu and Luminae that are exclusive to passengers staying in AquaClass cabins and The Retreat, respectively.

What We Liked

Overall we were extremely impressed from bow to stern with Celebrity. It is definitely a different experience if you’ve sailed larger mass market lines including sister line Royal Caribbean. Overall, it simply feels more stylish, classy, and sophisticated. You feel much more that you are at a resort than a cruise ship.

We were big fans of the décor and style of the ship. It simply felt modern, with lots of nice touches like calm music and great art pieces around the ship.

But honestly we’ve been on nicely appointed cruise ships before. So what really stood out was how the ship’s design felt so open and spacious. This is mentioned above, but from small touches like wider cabin doorways to big open rooms like the Solarium and theater, you never get that cramped feeling like on most ships.

We also have to give special mention to the large production shows. The ship’s theater is simply a technological marvel that you have to see. The shows that are on board also take full advantage of the technology to offer something to see that’s stunning.

What We Didn’t Like

We found it hard to find fault with much of anything aboard Celebrity Ascent. But if we had to find something, we will mention that a late-night party on the pool deck could be heard in our cabin on deck 10 until close to 1 a.m. If you are a light sleeper, it could keep you up. Surprisingly, we asked some other passengers staying on our deck if they heard it and they did not. It could have just been our specific location on the ship.

And while we know that a cruise line like Celebrity is going to have some fancier dining, our personal tastes are fairly basic. We like to try new dishes, but not every meal. Having a few more “comfort food” items easily available would have been nice, but this was far from a deal breaker.

Should You Sail Celebrity Ascent?

So what’s the final takeaway? Let’s say that if you have an upcoming cruise on Ascent then we’re not just confident that you’ll enjoy the ship, we are jealous that you’re getting to sail . This was our first-ever cruise aboard Celebrity and it definitely left us impressed.

Now, we will say it won’t be for everyone. If you are a family sailing with kids, it might not be the right ship. Kids are welcome and there is a kids area for them to play while parents enjoy. Outside of that, however, there isn’t a ton — especially on the pool deck. Kids won’t have a bad time, but other lines and ships would be better.

However, those wanting a more sophisticated cruise — think a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a cruise passenger who appreciates luxury — will find Ascent to be a perfect fit. And while the price tag is generally higher than other mass market lines, in our opinion it would be worth it.

More Photos of Celebrity Ascent

While we discussed a lot about the ship, there are some spots that we think are worth seeing that we didn’t get a chance to mention.

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I also sailed this weekend. You have written an excellent truthful review! You didn’t mention the SUNSET BAR designed by Nate Berkus of HGTV. I thought the multi leveled bar was great to watch the sunset and meet fellow cruisers. The Moroccan/Mediterranean design made you think in Spain!

You’re right. I passed through there but with so little time, I didn’t get a chance to sit and relax/enjoy it! I could have happily spend another week onboard.

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Celebrity Ascent Makes its Debut in Europe

• April 26, 2024

This summer, Celebrity Cruises’ Ascent is setting sail in Europe for the first time to explore the Mediterranean.

Visiting destinations in Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal and Turkey, the line’s newest ship arrives in Barcelona on April 27. The Celebrity Ascent will commence her European season with a nine-night Italian Riviera and France itinerary, visiting La Spezia, Florence and Pisa in Italy.

“We’re bringing our latest and greatest Edge Series ship to Europe, enabling guests to discover this diverse region with its stunning coastlines while enjoying Celebrity Ascent’s premium facilities, elevated food and drink experiences, and wonderful entertainment,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.

The Ascent will offer a variety of seven- to 12-night cruises exploring the Mediterranean departing from ports across Europe, including Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy and Athens (Piraeus), Greece.

Guests will visit the sites of Ephesus (Kusadasi) and Naples as well as explore the waters of the Greek Isles around Mykonos and Santorini.

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Celebrity Ascent embarks on European debut from Barcelona (Spain)

Celebrity Cruises ’ latest addition , the Celebrity Ascent , is preparing for her inaugural sailing in Europe following her arrival in Barcelona (Spain) . scheduled for April 27.

Embarking on her European voyage, the Celebrity Ascent will begin with a 9-night Italian Riviera and France itinerary, visiting popular destinations across the Mediterranean. Notably, the ship will have an overnight stay in La Spezia (Italy) , allowing guests ample time to explore the renowned cities of Florence and Pisa .

Similar to hersister ship, the Celebrity Beyond , the Celebrity Ascent boasts the hallmark features of the Edge Series, showcasing 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges onboard. This culinary experience ensures that guests can indulge in a diverse array of dishes at every meal, complemented by distinct cuisines reflecting the destinations visited.

The ship reintroduces celebrated Edge Series amenities, including ‘The Magic Carpet,’ a cantilevered multi-purpose venue offering a bar, lounge area, and al-fresco dining with exceptional views of Europe at each port of call and during sail-aways. Additionally, guests of The Retreat can enjoy exclusive access to amenities such as the private restaurant Luminae, a dedicated lounge area, and a 2-story sundeck.

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Celebrity Ascent descends on the Mediterranean

Maiden European season for Celebrity Cruises' flagship vessel

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Setting sail for the first time in Europe, Celebrity Cruises  flagship vessel, Celebrity Ascent℠ has commenced its maiden season in the Mediterranean with a 9-night Italian Riviera and France itinerary, departing on Saturday 27 April.

During her European deployment, Celebrity Ascent will visit destinations in Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal and Turkey.

Celebrity Ascent offers new spaces not featured on sister ships in the Edge Class series, including Nate Berkus and Kelly Hoppen CBE; culinary excellence from a Michelin-starred chef; and expansive onboard entertainment.

“We’re bringing our latest and greatest Edge Series ship to Europe, enabling guests to discover this diverse region with its stunning coastlines, while enjoying Celebrity Ascent ’s premium facilities, elevated food and drink experiences, and wonderful entertainment,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises .

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Like sister ship, Celebrity Beyond℠ , Celebrity Ascent features the best of the cruise line’s Edge Series, with 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges to explore onboard providing the ultimate food and drink experience where guests can try a new dish at every meal, in addition to distinct cuisines in the destinations it visits.

It also sees the return of celebrated Edge Series features including cantilevered multi-purpose venue ‘The Magic Carpet®’ offering a bar, lounge area and al-fresco dining that gives the best views of Europe for guests to uncover at every port and at every sail away and The Retreat®, complete with a private restaurant, Luminae, lounge area and two-story sundeck exclusive to guests of The Retreat.

World-renowned chef Daniel Boulud returns as Celebrity’s Global Culinary Ambassador creating exclusive menus for guests and launching his second restaurant at sea, Le Voyage®, which has a new look and feel on Celebrity Ascent for the ultimate intimate fine-dining experience onboard.

Transforming evenings at sea, guests can immerse themselves in cutting-edge nightlife experiences, with high-energy entertainment including new live productions and augmented gaming experiences handpicked by industry-leading creatives. Three brand-new mesmerising production shows in The Theatre will feature state-of-the-art technology that blur the line between digital and reality onstage, as well as breathtaking performances by world-class singers, dancers, and specialty artists.

Celebrity Ascent will offer a variety of 7- to 12-night escapes to the rocky coves and sandy beaches in the Mediterranean; ancient history in the Aegean, and the beautiful coast lining the Atlantic, all departing from key ports across Europe including Barcelona, Spain; Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy and Athens (Piraeus), Greece.

Travellers can expect to visit the stunning sites of Ephesus (Kusadasi) and Naples, complete with their rich history and tours of the ruins, as well as venturing into the crystalline waters of the Greek Isles circling Mykonos and Santorini. Mediterranean itineraries allow guests to explore the region’s stunning hotspots such as Spain’s famous Las Ramblas and Gaudi’s architecture in the streets of Barcelona; Italy’s chic town of Portofino, a favourite amongst the world’s glitterati, and France’s esteemed wineries in Provence (Marseille).

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Celebrity Ascent

The fourth Edge Series ship, Celebrity Ascent features an innovative outward-facing design that boasts expansive outdoor spaces. The new two-story Sunset Bar and a redesigned Rooftop Garden brings you closer than ever to the water’s edge. Young travelers can experience a new adventure every day with Camp at Sea, while adults enjoy a moment of relaxation in the SEA Thermal Suite or the adults-only Solarium. Grab a quick bite to eat at Eden Café, or indulge in fine dining at the Cosmopolitan Restaurant. Guests will find plenty of dining options onboard to satisfy each taste. The ship offers many options for entertainment as well. Visit the Theatre for live entertainment where the lines between audience and performance are blurred, or take a stroll through the three-story Grand Plaza. The Magic Carpet also offers multi-level entertainment with breathtaking views as you soar up to thirteen stories above sea level. At the end of each exciting day, guests can retire in comfort to one of the luxurious accommodations found on the Ascent, ranging from Single Staterooms to the indulgent Panoramic Ocean View Staterooms.

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Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings on select dates. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Celebrity Ascent Itineraries

Itineraries, from the mediterranean to the caribbean, take vacation to new heights.

Rich history, art and cuisine await in Europe. Explore Croatia's medieval towns, enjoy culinary delights and escape to paradise on sun-drenched beaches in Greece. Visit the historical treasures of Italy or bask in the beachside glamour of Cannes in France. Explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan in search of authentic local flavors, join an excursion to The Baths of Virgin Gorda from nearby Tortola, and soak up the lush mountain views on the St. Kitts Scenic Railway. Journey to the Western Caribbean and get up close and personal with dolphins in Nassau and lounge away the day on Grand Cayman’s famous Seven Mile Beach.

With more luxury to love, Celebrity Ascent℠ extends your vacation bliss right on board. The ship’s outward-facing design and expanded outdoor spaces are perfect for enjoying the ever-changing views. From the cantilevered Magic Carpet soaring above the ocean to the asymmetrical pool area with martini-shaped hot tubs, Celebrity Ascent has everything that’s made our Edge Series ships stand apart from anything else at sea.

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The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure