Leading the charge is the hotly anticipated Icon of the Seas, set to debut as the world’s biggest ship in January, and labelled “the future of family vacations”.

Record-breaking demand has seen bookings open early for 2025-26, which Royal Caribbean president and chief executive Michael Bayley attributes to the holiday-for-everyone approach. “Families and friends are looking for vacations where everyone can make memories their way without compromise,” he says.

Getting lost is a given on these massive cruise ships, but a set of walkie talkies will help you reunite when you’re ready, and can be an affordable alternative to expensive Wi-Fi packages.

Disney Wish

It’s hardly necessary to spell out why a Disney getaway appeals to families, but Disney Wish is bigger and better than any previous Disney ship. The newest addition to the happiest fleet at sea boasts attractions including a Mickey and Minnie wild water ride, Frozen and Marvel themed dining experiences, and a Star Wars bar. Add in shore visits to the Bahamas’ tropical beaches, and adjoining room options for families, and it ticks all the boxes for family holiday fun. Sister ship Disney Treasure joins the fleet next year.

The AquaMouse water coaster on Disney Wish.

Carnival Jubilee

A roller coaster, water slides and a high-adrenaline ropes course are just the start of the thrills on Carnival Jubilee. Dining and entertainment options are spread across six zones, including underwater-themed Currents and beach-themed The Shores. If you book a Family Harbor room or suite, you’ll get access to an exclusive family lounge for breakfast, snacks, board games, family movies and video games. Carnival Jubilee launches in December, sailing Western Caribbean itineraries from Galveston, Texas.

Carnival Cruise Line has introduced BOLT, the world’s first rollercoaster at sea.

MSC Euribia

We could talk about the five swimming pools and 1000sq m aquapark, the boutique bars and restaurants, or the largest shopping area at sea – but if you’re travelling with kids, the big thing you’ll want to know about on MSC Euribia is the Lego. The kids’ clubs are loaded with it to keep youngsters busy while the grown-ups relax, perhaps at the MSC Aurea Spa or MSC Yacht Club. Every cruise includes a day of Lego-themed entertainment. Launched in June, MSC Euribia cruises northern Europe.

MSC Euribia boasts seven rooms dedicated to children and teens – and Lego is a highlight.

Icon of the Seas

Six waterslides. Seven pools. Eight distinct neighbourhoods. More than 40 restaurants. Icon of the Seas’ record-breaking numbers all add up to “a combination of the best of every vacation”, Royal Caribbean says.

For thrillseekers, there’s a ropes course that involves swinging 46m above the ocean. For littlies, a Surfside splash zone catering to kids under six. For grown-ups, an adults-only retreat. Plus it has more rooms than ever to accommodate modern families, including groups of five and six.

Miami-based Icon of the Seas launches in January and will sail the Caribbean.