People, 20 decks: this brand-new ship is testing the limits of cruising

Royal Caribbean’s latest ship, Legend of the Seas, launched in July 2026, is designed for large multigenerational family cruises and reflects the cruise line’s push to build ever-larger “floating resorts.” The 30th vessel in the fleet and third in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class accommodates 5,610 guests at double occupancy and up to 7,600 at full capacity. At 365 meters long, it is divided into eight neighborhoods, including Thrill Island, Chill Island, Central Park gardens, the Royal Promenade, Surfside for kids and AquaDome. The ship’s main lobby features a four-deck “The Pearl” sphere with more than 600 LED mirror panels. Legend also includes a top-deck waterpark with six waterslides, seven pools, a swim-up bar, and an adults-only Hideaway.