How Many Ships Does Each US Cruise Line Own Revealed

The U.S. cruise industry is dominated by a few major players, with Carnival Corporation leading the pack, owning over 90 ships across its nine brands—more than any other American cruise line. Royal Caribbean Group follows closely with around 60 vessels, including its luxury Silversea brand, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings operates about 30 ships. These figures reveal a highly consolidated market where scale defines global reach and onboard innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Carnival Corporation leads: Largest fleet with 85+ ships across 9 global brands.
• Royal Caribbean Group: Operates 60+ ships, including record-breaking Oasis-class vessels.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: 29 ships, focusing on innovation and luxury experiences.
• MSC Cruises expansion: Rapid growth with 22 ships, targeting U.S. market dominance.
• Disney Cruise Line: Small but premium fleet of 5 ships, family-focused.
• Celebrity Cruises: 15 ships, merging luxury and sustainability in modern designs.
• Smaller lines thrive: Lines like Viking (9 ships) prioritize niche, high-end markets.

The Big Picture: How Many Ships Does Each U.S. Cruise Line Own?

Imagine standing on the deck of a massive cruise ship, the ocean stretching endlessly in every direction. The sun is setting, the waves are lapping gently against the hull, and you’re sipping a cocktail while the ship glides toward your next tropical destination. But have you ever wondered just how many of these floating resorts a single cruise line actually owns? It’s not just one or two—some lines command entire fleets, while others focus on a handful of boutique vessels. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing how many ships each U.S. cruise line owns can help you make smarter vacation choices. It can even give you insights into the type of experience you’ll have—from intimate luxury to high-energy family fun.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore the fleets of the major U.S.-based cruise lines, from the giants of the industry to the smaller, more niche operators. We’ll answer the burning question: how many ships does each U.S. cruise line own? Along the way, we’ll uncover what those numbers mean for your vacation—like how fleet size impacts onboard experience, itineraries, and even pricing. No fluff, no sales pitches—just honest, practical insights to help you plan your next cruise with confidence. Whether you’re drawn to the mega-ships with rock climbing walls or the quiet elegance of a smaller vessel, this guide has you covered.

Major U.S. Cruise Lines: The Giants of the Fleet

Carnival Cruise Line – The King of Volume

Let’s start with the undisputed heavyweight: Carnival Cruise Line. If you’ve ever seen a cruise ship with a giant funnel shaped like a smiley face, that’s Carnival. Known for its fun, energetic vibe and “Fun Ships,” Carnival is all about accessible, affordable cruising for families and first-timers. But how many ships does Carnival own? As of 2024, Carnival Cruise Line operates 27 ships across 10 classes—from the older Fantasy-class to the cutting-edge Excel-class, which includes the record-breaking Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration, and Carnival Jubilee.

What does that mean for you? A massive fleet means more departure ports, more itineraries, and more flexibility. Want a 3-day weekend getaway from Miami? Done. A 14-day Caribbean adventure from Galveston? No problem. Carnival’s size also allows them to innovate quickly—think of the BOLT roller coaster on the Excel-class ships. But there’s a trade-off: the larger ships (some over 180,000 gross tons) can feel crowded during peak season. Pro tip: if you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, consider sailing on one of the older, smaller Fantasy-class ships like the Carnival Paradise, which still offers solid value without the mega-ship bustle.

Royal Caribbean International – Innovation Meets Scale

Next up: Royal Caribbean International, the cruise line that redefined what a ship can be. Royal Caribbean owns 27 ships (tied with Carnival), but their vessels are often larger and more technically advanced. Their fleet includes the Oasis-class—the world’s largest cruise ships, with the Wonder of the Seas topping out at over 236,000 gross tons. These floating cities feature Central Park (yes, real trees and plants), zip lines, robotic bars, and even ice skating rinks.

Royal Caribbean’s size allows them to push boundaries. Their newer ships, like the Icon of the Seas (launching in 2024), are designed with sustainability and family experiences in mind. But with great size comes great crowds. If you’re not a fan of long lines or packed pools, consider sailing on one of their slightly smaller ships, like the Radiance-class or Vision-class, which still offer great amenities but with a more manageable passenger count. Fun fact: Royal Caribbean also owns Silversea Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises through its parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, giving them global reach beyond U.S. operations.

Norwegian Cruise Line – The “Freestyle” Fleet

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) owns 19 ships, making it the third-largest U.S. cruise line in terms of fleet size. Known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept—no fixed dining times, no strict dress codes—NCL appeals to travelers who want flexibility. Their fleet ranges from the older Dawn-class to the massive Breakaway Plus-class, which includes the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss.

NCL’s size allows for a wide variety of experiences. Love Broadway shows? The Encore has a full production of Kinky Boots. Prefer a more relaxed pace? The Norwegian Sky, one of their smallest ships, offers a shorter, more intimate cruise experience. One thing to note: NCL has been aggressively expanding its fleet. They have several new ships on order, including the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, which feature sleek, modern designs and enhanced outdoor spaces. If you’re booking soon, keep an eye out for these new vessels—they often come with launch promotions and upgraded amenities.

Mid-Sized Players: Quality Over Quantity

MSC Cruises – The Rising American Star

Now, let’s talk about MSC Cruises. While MSC is technically a European company (headquartered in Switzerland), it operates a major U.S. presence and is increasingly targeting American cruisers. MSC owns 22 ships, but only a handful are based in North America—most are deployed in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and South America. However, their U.S. footprint is growing fast, with ships like the MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape sailing out of Miami and Port Canaveral.

MSC’s strategy is unique: they’re building massive, eco-friendly ships with a European flair. Think elegant interiors, Italian dining, and a more refined onboard experience compared to the high-energy vibe of Carnival or Royal Caribbean. Their newer ships, like the Meraviglia-Plus-class, feature LED sky domes, expanded kids’ zones, and even a Formula 1 simulator. One downside? MSC is still catching up in terms of brand recognition in the U.S., so you might find fewer American crew members and more multilingual announcements. But if you’re looking for something different—a mix of European sophistication and American convenience—MSC is worth considering.

Princess Cruises – The “Love Boat” Legacy

Princess Cruises, famous for its “Love Boat” TV series in the ’70s and ’80s, owns 15 ships. While smaller than Carnival or Royal Caribbean, Princess has a loyal following thanks to its consistent service, diverse itineraries, and focus on destination-rich voyages. Their fleet includes the Royal-class, Grand-class, and the newer Sky-class, which features the Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess.

What sets Princess apart? Their ships are designed for longer cruises—think 7-day Alaskan voyages, 14-day Panama Canal transits, or even world cruises. They’re also known for their “MedallionClass” technology, which uses a wearable device to streamline everything from check-in to room service. The downside? Their ships tend to have a slightly older demographic, and some of the older vessels (like the Caribbean Princess) are due for refurbishment. But if you’re looking for a well-rounded, dependable cruise experience with a focus on exploration, Princess delivers.

Boutique and Luxury: Smaller Ships, Bigger Experiences

Holland America Line – Classic Cruising Refined

Holland America Line (HAL) owns 11 ships, making it one of the smaller U.S. cruise lines. But don’t let the number fool you—HAL is all about quality, not quantity. Their ships, like the Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam, and Rotterdam, are designed for a more mature, cultured audience. Think wine tastings, classical music performances, and enrichment lectures from historians and naturalists.

HAL’s smaller fleet allows for more personalized service. You’re more likely to know your waiter’s name or get a table at the specialty restaurant on the first try. Their itineraries are also impressive—HAL is a leader in Alaska and Europe, with many ships offering extended voyages. One thing to note: their newer ships, part of the Pinnacle-class, are larger and more modern, but still maintain HAL’s signature elegance. If you’re tired of the mega-ship madness and want a quieter, more refined experience, HAL is a solid choice.

Oceania Cruises – The Gourmet Getaway

Oceania Cruises, owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, operates 8 ships. These aren’t your average cruise ships—they’re designed for foodies and culture lovers. With a focus on “cuisine at sea,” Oceania offers gourmet dining at no extra cost (yes, even in specialty restaurants), curated shore excursions, and longer stays in port.

Their ships, like the Insignia, Regatta, and the newer Allura-class, are mid-sized (around 67,000 gross tons) and carry about 600–1,200 guests. That means no crowds, no lines, and a more intimate experience. Oceania is perfect if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or spend extra time in port. The catch? It’s not cheap. Fares are higher, and while drinks aren’t included, the value lies in the quality of the experience. Think of it as a floating boutique hotel with Michelin-level dining.

Emerging and Niche U.S. Cruise Lines

Virgin Voyages – The New Kid on the Block

Virgin Voyages, backed by Sir Richard Branson, is the newest major U.S. cruise line. As of 2024, they own 3 ships: the Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady. All are based in the U.S. (Miami, Seattle, and San Juan) and sail Caribbean, Mediterranean, and transatlantic itineraries.

Virgin’s ships are designed for adults only (18+), with a trendy, music-driven vibe. Think rooftop yoga, drag brunches, and a no-tipping policy. Their ships are also more sustainable, with advanced wastewater treatment and energy-efficient systems. The downside? Limited destinations for now, and fewer onboard activities compared to the mega-ships. But if you’re looking for something fresh, modern, and Instagram-worthy, Virgin is worth a try. Pro tip: book early—their ships sell out fast, especially for themed voyages.

American Cruise Lines – The U.S. River & Coastal Specialist

American Cruise Lines (ACL) is unique—it focuses exclusively on U.S. rivers and coastal routes. They own 17 ships, but they’re much smaller (carrying 100–200 passengers) and designed for intimate, scenic voyages. Think: Mississippi River cruises, Puget Sound explorations, and New England fall foliage tours.

ACL’s ships are American-built and American-flagged, which means they can dock in places larger ships can’t. You’ll get up close to small towns, historic sites, and natural wonders. The trade-off? Limited amenities—no rock climbing walls or casinos. But if you’re into nature, history, and slow travel, ACL offers a peaceful alternative to the big-ship experience. Their newer ships, like the American Liberty and American Eagle, feature modern staterooms and expanded outdoor viewing areas.

Fleet Size Comparison: A Quick Look at the Numbers

To help you compare, here’s a quick snapshot of how many ships each major U.S. cruise line owns as of 2024. These numbers include active vessels and exclude those in long-term dry dock or retired.

Cruise Line	Number of Ships	Notable Ships	Best For
Carnival Cruise Line	27	Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration	Affordable fun, families
Royal Caribbean	27	Wonder of the Seas, Icon of the Seas	Innovation, mega-ship lovers
Norwegian Cruise Line	19	Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Prima	Flexibility, freestyle dining
MSC Cruises (U.S. ops)	22 (5 U.S.-based)	MSC Seashore, MSC Seascape	European flair, eco-friendly ships
Princess Cruises	15	Sky Princess, Enchanted Princess	Destination-focused, longer voyages
Holland America Line	11	Rotterdam, Nieuw Statendam	Classic cruising, mature audience
Oceania Cruises	8	Insignia, Allura	Gourmet dining, culture lovers
Virgin Voyages	3	Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady	Adults-only, trendy vibes
American Cruise Lines	17	American Liberty, American Eagle	River & coastal U.S. cruises

Note: Fleet sizes are subject to change due to new builds, retirements, or redeployments. Always check the cruise line’s official website for the latest updates.

What Fleet Size Means for Your Cruise Experience

So, why does the number of ships a cruise line owns actually matter? It’s not just about bragging rights—it affects your vacation in real ways. A larger fleet (like Carnival or Royal Caribbean) means more departure ports, more itinerary options, and often lower prices due to economies of scale. But it can also mean larger crowds, longer lines, and a more standardized experience.

On the flip side, smaller fleets (like Oceania or ACL) offer more personalized service, fewer crowds, and unique itineraries. But they might have fewer departure dates, higher prices, and limited onboard activities. The key is to match the fleet size to your travel style. Love variety and excitement? Go big. Prefer quiet, intimate, and immersive? Go small.

Here’s a quick tip: if you’re unsure, try a mid-sized line like Princess or HAL. They offer a nice balance—enough variety to keep things interesting, but not so big that you feel lost in the crowd. And remember: the number of ships is just one piece of the puzzle. Always look at ship age, itineraries, and onboard amenities when choosing your cruise.

Whether you’re drawn to the energy of a 6,000-passenger mega-ship or the serenity of a 150-guest riverboat, knowing how many ships each U.S. cruise line owns helps you pick the perfect fit. So next time you’re planning a cruise, don’t just ask about the destination—ask about the fleet. Your dream vacation might just be a ship number away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many ships does each U.S. cruise line own in 2024?

As of 2024, major U.S. cruise lines like Carnival Cruise Line operate 27 ships, while Royal Caribbean International has 28. Smaller lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, have 19 vessels in their fleet. Exact numbers may vary slightly due to new builds or retirements.

Which U.S. cruise line has the largest fleet?

Royal Caribbean International currently holds the title for the largest fleet among U.S. cruise lines, with 28 ships. Carnival Cruise Line follows closely with 27 vessels. Both companies continue to expand with new ship orders.

How many ships does Carnival Cruise Line own?

Carnival Cruise Line owns and operates 27 ships as of 2024, making it one of the largest fleets in the U.S. market. The line plans to add more ships in the coming years to meet growing demand.

Does Disney Cruise Line own fewer ships than other U.S. cruise lines?

Yes, Disney Cruise Line has a smaller fleet with 5 ships, compared to larger lines like Royal Caribbean or Carnival. However, Disney focuses on premium experiences and is expanding with 3 new ships planned by 2025.

How many ships does Norwegian Cruise Line own?

Norwegian Cruise Line operates a fleet of 19 ships, known for their “Freestyle Cruising” concept. The line is actively modernizing and adding new vessels to compete with industry leaders.

Are there any U.S. cruise lines with only one or two ships?

Yes, niche operators like Viking Ocean Cruises (U.S.-managed) start with smaller fleets, though Viking now has over 9 ships. Smaller lines like American Cruise Lines focus on U.S. rivers and coasts with a fleet of 18 boutique ships.