2019 has been another exciting year for cruising; with the release of ground-breaking vessels like Norwegian Encore, Spirit of Discovery and MSC Grandiosa, the future of cruising looks promising. As we lead into 2020, sustainability is the main focus for many cruise operators and, with various plans already set in place for LNG ships, sustainable tourism is becoming more and more viable. Along with new ships, there will be plenty of new features too – from giant dome roofs to personal AI assistants.

So, whether you already have a vessel in mind or want to learn more about what’s coming, here are some of the latest and greatest cruising vessels coming in 2020.

SCARLET LADY – VIRGIN VOYAGES – APRIL 2020

As arguably the most talked about vessel for 2020, Scarlet Lady has attracted a lot of attention during her run-up for release next year. While some cruisers are sceptical of the vessel’s unauthentic approach, some are excited to see if she can change the cruising game to cater towards the younger market. It’s not only the vessel that is planning to stray from the norm, the crew dress code has taken a different turn too, keeping away from the well-known trousers and jacket and moving on to a more punk rock look with knee-high boots and pillow-case tunics.

Even the rooms have been decked out with the latest technology, allowing you to control your cabin from an in-room tablet. Finally, the onboard activities seem to follow the same sort of cruising trend, extensive fitness classes, top-deck pools and social bars are all things you could find on other vessels but, as Virgin Voyages’ last signature twist, they have included a tattoo parlour for anyone who might want to remember their Virgin Voyage forever.

CELEBRITY APEX – CELEBRITY CRUISES – APRIL 2020

Following on from her sister ship Celebrity Edge, who started sailing in late 2018, Celebrity Apex is the next addition to the game-changing Edge class. Much like her sister, she will feature the famed ‘Magic Carpet’, a moveable platform that goes up and down the side of the ship, acting as an extension for certain decks and even as a way to help guests get on and off the tender boats taking them to shore.

Changes to cabins include the new Infinite Veranda design that infuses the indoors with the outdoors by using bi-folding doors, adding or retracting almost a quarter of the room size. The top deck has also taken a new name. Now known as the Resort Deck, it features a large pool flanked with sculptural trees and two martini-style Jacuzzis. Plus, suite users will have access to three private-access areas that include a pool, sundeck, lounge and restaurant.

P&O IONA – P&O CRUISES – SPRING 2020

Some may know that we have our own Iona Insider, Chris Mayhew, and this has made us even more excited for P&O Cruises’ latest game-changing vessel, Iona. As not only the biggest ship built for the UK market, but P&O Cruises’ first LNG only ship, she will not only be perfect for every type of cruiser but sustainable too.

Iona focuses on mouth-watering food, stunning destinations and panoramic views so that everybody can see the jaw-dropping landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords, Spain and Portugal. Plus, with the announcement of their acclaimed Local Food Heroes adding to the mix, you know P&O Cruises’ dining venues will be rated amongst the top venues at sea. Finally, the mesmerising three-storey, glass dome located on the top deck will be a welcome feature for cruisers day and night.

MSC VIRTUOSA – MSC CRUISES – SEPTEMBER 2020

MSC’s latest vessel, MSC Virtuosa, is a 331 metre-long ship that has an astonishing 2,444 cabins and can carry a colossal 6,300 passengers. Much like her sister-ships, she will host the world-famous Cirque du Soleil shows and have a staggering 111 metre-long indoor promenade that projects a digital sky through the use of an LED Screen.

Various shops, restaurants and entertainment will also be hosted along the promenade. Finally, to add to the list of entertainment, there’s a double-deck indoor amusement park, double-deck entertainment space and an outdoor waterpark.

ODYSSEY OF THE SEAS – ROYAL CARIBBEAN – OCTOBER 2020

Listed as the one and only Quantum-Ultra Class vessel, Odyssey of the Seas is planning to be the best of the successful Quantum-Class that also includes fleet mates Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Activities like the fan-favourite bumper cars and skydiving simulator will be featured on board, along with new tastes like Giovanni’s and classics like Playmakers.

Evenings are filled with eccentric shows and rocking bars. On the top deck, you will have your usual Aqua Park and North Star, taking guests high above the ocean for jaw-dropping vistas of the surrounding areas. Finally, Odyssey of the Seas is a ship for everyone; families, couples and solo cruisers will all feel at home on board.