Caribbean cruise capacity will rise more than 10pc in 2026, securing over 40pc of global market share with more than 200 ships deployed in the region.
Major brands such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC, and Norwegian will provide 75pc of the capacity, boosted by newbuilds entering service throughout the year. Norwegian Luna, a 3,571-passenger vessel, will debut weeklong cruises from PortMiami in the second quarter, while Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class Legend of the Seas, accommodating 5,610 guests, begins seasonal sailings from Fort Lauderdale in November.
Upscale and niche operators including Explora Journeys will add capacity with ships such as the 922-guest vessel shifting to San Juan and Miami itineraries for the 2026-27 season. Additional luxury entries include Seven Seas Prestige, Four Seasons I, and Orient Express’ Corinthian.
Megaships that launched in 2025, including MSC World America, Norwegian Aqua, Royal Caribbean Star, and Disney Destiny, will complete their first full year in the region.
