From new larger-than-life sea vessels to sleek, river-meandering beauties, here’s a look at what to expect from cruising in 2025, with inputs from Royal Caribbean International – Middle East’s Managing Director, Mohamed Saeed.
“The cruising industry is setting sail into a transformative era, with 2025 poised to be a pivotal year from a trends perspective,” Saeed tells TTN. “Significant events such as the Cruise Travel Mart, and the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai will highlight the latest innovations in the cruise industry, reinforcing the GCC’s status as a burgeoning market for cruise tourism.” This year will see the expansion of Celebrity Cruises’ acclaimed Edge Series, with the debut of a new ship – Celebrity Xcel - set to debut in November. “This will be the fifth vessel in this innovative line, which is renowned for its luxurious amenities, modern design and exceptional service. The addition aims to elevate Celebrity's offerings even further, enhancing the premium cruising experience that has become synonymous with the brand,” says Saeed. The expansion of Celebrity River Cruises is another point of excitement. “Celebrity Cruises is poised to enhance its river cruise offerings in Europe with new fleet additions, inspired by the design and luxury of its Edge series, scheduled for launch by 2027.” Royal Caribbean is all set to reveal groundbreaking ships, the second and third Icon class ships – Star of the Seas and Legend of the Seas – in 2025 and 2026 respectively. “Royal Caribbean is known for pushing the boundaries of ship design and onboard experiences, captivating a diverse range of travellers, so these are undoubtedly much awaited.” “While Silversea is not introducing a new ship in 2025, the brand seems to be strategically planning its future, with whispers of potential ventures into river cruising,” Saeed shares with our readers. This expansion would align with current trends in travel, as Celebrity Cruises explores river cruise options beginning in 2027, indicating that Silversea might follow suit to diversify its offerings and appeal to new markets. KEY TRENDS From solo travel to luxury escapades, the sector is adapting to evolving passenger demands, says Saeed, while new destinations and groundbreaking ship launches promise to redefine the experience. Here’s a deep look at trends shaping the future of cruising for travellers from the Middle East and beyond. No passenger left behind: Once considered a niche market, solo travel is now a driving force in the cruise industry. Cruise lines are responding with purpose-built single cabins and curating activities to foster connections among solo travellers. This trend reflects a broader societal shift towards independence and self-discovery in travel, Saeed tells us. Beyond the deck: Gone are the days when cruising was synonymous with lounging by the pool. Modern travellers crave adventure and immersion, and cruise lines are delivering. Expeditions to remote destinations like Antarctica and the Galápagos Islands are surging in popularity. These trips often include activities such as kayaking, hiking, and cultural exchanges with local communities. Cruising for all ages: Family cruising remains a flagship of the industry and increasing in popularity among GCC travellers. Cruise lines are doubling down on this trend, introducing multi-generational packages, dedicated kids’ clubs, and family-friendly excursions. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, launching in 2024, is a prime example, featuring a waterpark, surf simulator, and themed neighbourhoods designed to cater to every age group. High-end horizon: While luxury cruising may rank last in terms of volume, it remains a significant segment, particularly among affluent GCC travellers. Ultra-luxury lines like Silversea and Regent Seven Seas are expanding their offerings, with bespoke services and high-end amenities, think all-suite accommodations and personalized butler service, catering to the growing demand for exclusivity. TOP DESTINATIONS GCC travellers are increasingly venturing beyond traditional hotspots, with five key destinations emerging as favourites for 2025, says Saeed. West Mediterranean: Spain and Italy continue to captivate GCC travellers, offering a blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. Barcelona and Rome remain top ports of call, says Saeed. Northern Europe: Post-pandemic, cooler climates like Norway’s fjords and Iceland’s geothermal wonders are gaining traction. Eastern Mediterranean: Cyprus, the Greek Isles, and Turkey are drawing attention for their mix of ancient history and modern charm. Alaska: Despite its distance, Alaska’s pristine landscapes and wildlife are attracting GCC travellers, with cruise lines offering seamless connections via major hubs like Seattle. Red Sea Cruises: With Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 driving tourism development, Red Sea itineraries featuring Aqaba (Jordan) and Sharm El Sheikh (Egypt) are becoming increasingly popular.LEGEND OF THE SEAS Royal Caribbean’s third Icon Class vessel – Legend of the Seas – will offer an unmatched combination of experiences that define the revolutionary Icon Class vessels, following Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. Legend will set sail year-round from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, starting in November 2026 on 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean vacations, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Prior to her Caribbean debut, Legend will offer summer adventures in Europe with 7-night Western Mediterranean vacations from Barcelona beginning August 2026. “On the heels of celebrating one year of the record-breaking Icon Class and the memories made by vacationers of all ages on Icon, we are thrilled to announce the name of Royal Caribbean’s third Icon Class vacation,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Legend of the Seas is the next bold step in this exciting era of vacations and the continuation of the Icon Class legacy, and we look forward to bringing the revolutionary lineup of experiences to more families and adventurers across Europe, the Caribbean and beyond.” In the summer, vacationers can Euro-hop to bucket-list destinations like France, Italy and Spain, filled with historic sites, stunning landscapes and sun-soaked beaches. Legend’s grand Caribbean debut in the winter will take vacationers to the region’s most magnificent destinations in the Western and Southern Caribbean, including visits to the vacation brand’s one-of-a-kind private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, on every getaway. There’s something for every type of family and vacationer across eight neighbourhoods with more than 40 ways to dine and drink, adrenaline-pumping thrills, unrivalled ways to chill, and plenty of ways for vacationers to make memories together and on their own, without compromise. Adventurers have in store a lineup of Icon Class highlights on Legend from thrills like Crown’s Edge – part skywalk, part ropes course and part thrill ride – to the largest waterpark at sea, Category 6. Sun-seekers can kick back and choose from seven pools for every vibe and mood, including the largest pool at sea, Royal Bay; swim-up bar Swim & Tonic and the adults-only Hideaway, featuring a one-of-a-kind infinity pool suspended above the ocean. Plus, families of all ages can spend time together or chart their own adventures at Surfside, the neighbourhood designed for young families and with a lineup of activities and ways to stay, including the three-story Ultimate Family Townhouse with reimagined spaces for the whole family.