Royal Caribbean Joins Princess Cruises, Oceania, Celebrity, and More Unveil Jaw-Dropping New Cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexico, and Beyond in 2026!

The second half of 2026 brings a surge of exciting new cruise routes and ship launches, primarily departing from US homeports in Florida for Caribbean sailings and Seattle for the Alaska season. This wave of new itineraries promises to cater to various tastes, from luxury cruises to expeditionary journeys, offering a variety of experiences for travelers seeking fresh adventures.

New Ship Launches for US Routes

Several brand-new vessels will make their debut on U.S.-based routes between June and December 2026, providing passengers with exciting new ways to explore the seas.

• Star of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
  Royal Caribbean’s second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, is scheduled to debut at Port Canaveral in August 2026. This new ship will embark on 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean sailings, stopping at vibrant destinations such as Perfect Day at CocoCay, Costa Maya, Roatán, and Cozumel. These routes offer travelers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and luxury, with the added bonus of CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island experience.
• Star Princess (Princess Cruises)
  The Star Princess will launch its inaugural Alaska season in Seattle, where it will operate weekly 7-day roundtrip voyages from Seattle’s Pier 91 through September 2026. The ship will visit classic Alaska destinations such as Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, and Victoria, Canada, offering passengers a glimpse into the stunning landscapes and rich history of the region.
• Oceania Allura (Oceania Cruises)
  Following a European season, the Oceania Allura will make its way to Miami in December 2026. This new ship will embark on 7- to 17-day roundtrip Caribbean itineraries starting December 2, 2026, visiting a range of exotic destinations such as St. Barts, the British Virgin Islands, and Harvest Caye in Belize. The longer voyages will provide an immersive experience in the beauty and culture of the Caribbean.
• Seven Seas Prestige (Regent Seven Seas)
  Aimed at ultra-luxury travelers, the Seven Seas Prestige will debut in December 2026, offering Caribbean and Panama Canal voyages from Miami. This ship is poised to offer unparalleled luxury with all-inclusive amenities, fine dining, and an exceptional level of service, setting a new standard for luxury cruising in the region.

Verified Itineraries for June to December 2026

Several newly launched verified itineraries are set to depart from U.S. ports during the second half of 2026. These specific routes have been officially confirmed, providing travelers with clear options for their upcoming voyages.

• Discovery Princess (Princess Cruises)
  The Discovery Princess will offer 12- to 17-night Alaska “On Your Own” or “Connoisseur” tours, departing from Fairbanks and Anchorage on June 3 and June 22, 2026. These cruises provide a unique opportunity to explore Alaska’s rugged beauty, with options for both independent travel and guided experiences.
• Disney Destiny (Disney Cruise Line)
  Disney Destiny will begin its ongoing voyages in June 2026 from Fort Lauderdale, offering 4- to 5-night Bahamas/Caribbean cruises, including stops at Lookout Cay, a private Disney destination. This family-friendly cruise offers a combination of fun, relaxation, and Disney magic, making it an ideal choice for travelers with children.
• American Maverick (American Cruise Lines)
  American Cruise Lines will launch small-ship coastal yacht cruising along the U.S. coastline starting in June 2026, providing a more intimate cruising experience along the American coast. The American Maverick will offer a boutique style of cruising, perfect for those looking to explore U.S. coastal cities in comfort and style.
• Celebrity Xcel (Celebrity Cruises)
  Set to depart from Miami on October 23, 2026, the Celebrity Xcel will embark on a 16-night transatlantic voyage from Barcelona to Miami, crossing the Atlantic Ocean while offering passengers a luxurious and relaxing way to travel between Europe and the Caribbean.
• Viking Sky (Viking Ocean Cruises)
  On December 22, 2026, the Viking Sky will depart Fort Lauderdale for a 141-night world cruise, taking passengers on a journey through Mexico, Panama, and beyond, offering a comprehensive and immersive global adventure.

Special Expedition & Coastal Routes

In addition to the more traditional routes, there are also expedition cruises and coastal routes that offer travelers unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

• Atlas Ocean Voyages will launch an Arctic Expedition on the World Voyager, departing September 21, 2026. This journey will take passengers to remote Arctic communities, with a final stop in St. John’s, Newfoundland, offering an unparalleled adventure for those seeking to explore one of the world’s most rugged regions.
• American Cruise Lines will deploy 11 new itineraries in 2026, visiting over 200 U.S. ports, including America 250 routes on the Great Lakes, celebrating the country’s 250th anniversary. These new routes will allow travelers to explore a diverse range of U.S. destinations, from scenic coastlines to historic landmarks.

Exciting Growth for U.S. Cruise Ports

With a range of new ships, verified itineraries, and special expeditions launching between June and December 2026, the U.S. cruise industry is set for a busy and exciting season. Whether travelers are seeking Caribbean adventures, exploring the Alaskan wilderness, or embarking on luxury or expeditionary voyages, the variety of options available from Florida and Seattle ensures there is something for every type of cruiser. As the industry continues to expand and diversify, the second half of 2026 promises to be a thrilling time for cruise enthusiasts.