What Cruise Lines Are Part of Royal Caribbean in 2026

Royal Caribbean Group owns and operates three major cruise lines in 2026: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises, offering everything from family-friendly mega-ships to ultra-luxury expeditions. This powerhouse portfolio solidifies its dominance in the global cruise market, catering to diverse traveler preferences with innovative ships and exclusive destinations.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean Group owns 5 major cruise lines in 2026, including its namesake brand.
• Royal Caribbean International remains the flagship brand for family-friendly, innovative mega-ships.
• Explore with Celebrity Cruises for upscale, modern luxury experiences under the same parent company.
• Silversea Cruises offers ultra-luxury all-inclusive voyages as part of the Royal Caribbean family.
• TUI Cruises operates independently but partners closely for German-speaking markets and sustainability.
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises caters to luxury and expedition travelers, fully owned by the group.

The Royal Caribbean Family: More Than Just a Cruise Line

When you think of Royal Caribbean International, you likely picture the Oasis-class megaships, record-breaking waterslides, and Broadway-caliber entertainment. But did you know that Royal Caribbean is more than just a single cruise line? In 2026, the Royal Caribbean Group (formerly Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.) operates a diverse portfolio of cruise brands, each catering to different travel styles, budgets, and destinations. Whether you’re a luxury seeker, an adventure enthusiast, or a family looking for fun, there’s likely a brand under the Royal Caribbean umbrella that’s perfect for you.

Understanding the full scope of what cruise lines are part of Royal Caribbean in 2026 isn’t just about knowing the names—it’s about unlocking a world of vacation possibilities. From ultra-luxurious all-inclusive experiences to expedition cruises in polar regions, the group’s brands span the spectrum of modern cruising. This guide dives deep into each brand, their unique offerings, fleet details, and how they complement (and sometimes contrast with) the iconic Royal Caribbean International experience. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, knowing your options can help you choose the perfect cruise for your next getaway.

Royal Caribbean International: The Flagship Brand

The Heart of the Fleet

Royal Caribbean International (RCI) is the crown jewel of the Royal Caribbean Group. Founded in 1968, it has grown into one of the largest and most innovative cruise lines in the world. As of 2026, the RCI fleet includes over 27 ships, with new vessels joining regularly. The brand is renowned for its Oasis-class and Quantum-class ships, which are among the largest cruise ships ever built. These floating resorts feature everything from zip lines and surf simulators to Central Park neighborhoods with real trees and restaurants.

RCI targets families, multigenerational travelers, and first-time cruisers with a “something for everyone” approach. Themed deck parties, Broadway shows, and celebrity chef restaurants (like Jamie’s Italian and Wonderland) set it apart from more traditional lines. The brand also pioneered the concept of “neighborhoods” on ships—distinct zones like Boardwalk, Central Park, and the Royal Promenade—that enhance the onboard experience.

Fleet Highlights and Innovations

• Icon of the Seas (2024): The world’s largest cruise ship, featuring the first waterpark with a 17-second drop slide, seven pools, and a suspended infinity pool.
• Utopia of the Seas (2024): A Quantum Ultra-class ship designed for short 3- and 4-night Bahamas cruises, perfect for weekend getaways.
• Wonder of the Seas: The largest Oasis-class ship, with a 10-story Ultimate Abyss slide and a 1,400-seat AquaTheater.

Royal Caribbean International continues to innovate with features like the SeaPlex (an indoor sports arena), North Star (a glass observation capsule), and Two70° (a high-tech entertainment venue with robotic screens). The brand also offers a robust loyalty program, Crown & Anchor Society, which rewards repeat cruisers with perks like priority boarding, free drinks, and exclusive events.

Why Choose Royal Caribbean International?

If you want a high-energy, activity-packed cruise with endless dining options, entertainment, and family-friendly amenities, RCI is ideal. However, note that the sheer size of the ships can mean crowds during peak times. Tip: Book a suite or opt for the Royal Genie service (available on select ships) for a more personalized, less crowded experience.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Redefined

From Premium to Premium-Luxury

Celebrity Cruises, acquired by the Royal Caribbean Group in 1997, occupies a unique niche: it’s a premium cruise line that bridges the gap between mass-market and luxury. In 2026, Celebrity is undergoing a rebranding under the “Celebrity Xcel” initiative, which includes a new class of ships (the Xcel class) and a focus on “modern luxury” and sustainability. The brand targets travelers who want upscale experiences without the formality of traditional luxury lines like Regent or Seabourn.

Celebrity ships feature sleek, contemporary design, spacious staterooms, and an emphasis on culinary excellence. The brand’s “Eden” concept—a multi-level entertainment and dining venue with floor-to-ceiling windows—has become a signature feature. Celebrity also partners with Michelin-starred chefs and offers unique dining experiences like the “Chef’s Table” and “Le Petit Chef” (a 3D animated dining show).

Fleet and Key Features

• Celebrity Edge (2018) and Apex (2020): Flagship vessels with the Magic Carpet—a robotic platform that moves up and down the ship’s side for dining, excursions, and tender service.
• Celebrity Beyond (2022) and Ascent (2023): Edge Series ships with expanded outdoor spaces, larger staterooms, and the “Rooftop Garden” with al fresco dining.
• Xcel Class (2025+): The next generation of ships, designed to be the most sustainable in the fleet, with LNG propulsion and advanced waste management systems.

What Sets Celebrity Apart?

Celebrity Cruises excels in culinary innovation, design-forward spaces, and destination immersion. The brand offers longer itineraries (7-14 nights) with more overnight port stays, appealing to travelers who want to explore cities deeply. Unlike RCI, Celebrity has a more relaxed dress code (no formal nights) and a quieter onboard atmosphere. Tip: Opt for a Concierge Class or AquaClass stateroom for enhanced service and access to the exclusive “The Retreat” lounge and sundeck.

Silversea Cruises: Ultra-Luxury Expedition Cruising

The Pinnacle of All-Inclusive Luxury

Silversea Cruises, acquired by Royal Caribbean Group in 2018, is the group’s entry into the ultra-luxury and expedition cruising market. In 2026, Silversea operates 12 ships, including the new Silver Nova (2023) and Silver Ray (2024), which are the first LNG-powered luxury ships. The brand is known for its all-inclusive model: drinks, gratuities, shore excursions, and even airfare are included in the fare.

Silversea’s small ships (carrying 250-700 guests) allow access to remote destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Galápagos. The brand’s “Expedition Team” includes naturalists, historians, and marine biologists who lead educational programs and guided excursions. Onboard, guests enjoy spacious suites (all with butler service), Michelin-starred dining, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere.

Fleet and Expedition Focus

• Silver Nova and Silver Ray: The “Nova” class ships feature an asymmetrical design with an open stern for easier tender operations and a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio.
• Silver Origin (2020): A purpose-built Galápagos ship with floor-to-ceiling windows and a “Discovery Lounge” for lectures and briefings.
• Silver Endeavour (2022): A polar-class ship designed for extreme cold-weather cruising, with a reinforced hull and ice-breaking capabilities.

Why Choose Silversea?

If you’re seeking a no-expense-spared, intimate, and educational cruise experience, Silversea is unmatched. The brand is ideal for affluent travelers, retirees, and those interested in wildlife and nature. However, Silversea’s high fares (often $20,000+ for a 10-night cruise) and limited onboard activities (compared to RCI or Celebrity) may not appeal to everyone. Tip: Book an expedition cruise to Antarctica for once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes.

TUI Cruises (Mein Schiff): German-Speaking Premium Cruising

A European Powerhouse

TUI Cruises, a joint venture between Royal Caribbean Group (50%) and TUI Group (50%), operates the Mein Schiff (“My Ship”) brand, catering primarily to German-speaking travelers. In 2026, TUI Cruises has 7 ships, with the new Mein Schiff 7 (2024) joining the fleet. The brand combines German efficiency with Mediterranean flair, offering a mix of relaxation and activity.

Mein Schiff ships are known for their wellness focus, with large spa areas, yoga decks, and healthy dining options. The brand also emphasizes sustainability, with LNG-ready engines and a “Zero Waste” program. Unlike RCI, Mein Schiff ships are smaller (carrying 2,500-3,000 guests) and feature a more subdued, European-style ambiance.

Key Features and Itineraries

• Mein Schiff 6 (2017) and Mein Schiff 7 (2024): The newest ships, with expanded outdoor spaces, a “Beach Club” pool area, and a 1,000-seat theater.
• Wellness and Fitness: Dedicated yoga decks, fitness centers with ocean views, and spa treatments using German brands like Babor.
• Itineraries: Focused on the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Caribbean, with longer stays in port cities.

What Makes Mein Schiff Unique?

TUI Cruises offers a European premium experience with a strong emphasis on wellness, sustainability, and local cuisine. The brand is ideal for travelers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed cruise with fewer children and less onboard entertainment. Tip: Try the “Mein Schiff 7” for the latest wellness innovations, including a saltwater pool and a meditation garden.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: The German Luxury Expedition Leader

Expertise in Polar and Cultural Cruising

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, another joint venture (50% owned by Royal Caribbean Group), is a German luxury and expedition brand. In 2026, the brand operates 5 ships, including the Hanseatic Inspiration (2019) and Hanseatic Nature (2021), which are among the most advanced expedition ships in the world. Hapag-Lloyd specializes in polar cruising (Arctic and Antarctica), cultural itineraries (e.g., the Baltic, the Mediterranean), and river cruises.

The brand’s ships feature a hybrid propulsion system (LNG and battery power), a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, and an expedition team of scientists and naturalists. Onboard, guests enjoy gourmet dining, a spa with a saltwater pool, and a relaxed, intellectual atmosphere. Hapag-Lloyd is known for its “soft luxury” approach—no formal nights, no tipping, and a focus on comfort and education.

Fleet and Expedition Focus

• Hanseatic Inspiration and Nature: Polar-class ships with a 1B ice rating, allowing access to remote Arctic regions.
• Europa 2 (2013): A luxury yacht-like ship with a 1:1 crew ratio and a “Residence” suite with a private balcony and butler service.
• Hanseatic Spirit (2022): The newest ship, designed for both polar and cultural itineraries, with a glass observation lounge.

Why Choose Hapag-Lloyd?

Hapag-Lloyd is perfect for discerning travelers who value education, comfort, and expert-led excursions. The brand’s small ships and high crew ratios ensure personalized service, while the focus on sustainability appeals to eco-conscious cruisers. Tip: Book a “Classic Antarctica” itinerary for a chance to see penguins, whales, and icebergs up close.

Fleet Overview and Strategic Insights (2026)

Here’s a snapshot of the Royal Caribbean Group’s fleet in 2026, highlighting the diversity of brands, ship sizes, and target markets:

Brand	Number of Ships	Ship Size (Passengers)	Key Markets	Unique Feature
Royal Caribbean International	27+	3,000-7,600	Families, multigenerational, first-timers	Oasis-class megaships, record-breaking attractions
Celebrity Cruises	15	2,000-3,500	Upscale travelers, couples, foodies	Magic Carpet, Eden venue, Edge-class design
Silversea Cruises	12	250-700	Affluent, retirees, expedition seekers	All-inclusive, butler service, LNG-powered ships
TUI Cruises (Mein Schiff)	7	2,500-3,000	German-speaking, wellness-focused	Wellness decks, sustainable design, European flair
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises	5	150-230	Cultural/polar cruisers, luxury seekers	Polar-class ships, 1:1 crew ratio, hybrid propulsion

Strategic Advantages of the Royal Caribbean Group

The Royal Caribbean Group’s multi-brand strategy allows it to dominate multiple market segments simultaneously. For example:

• Economies of Scale: Shared technology, procurement, and marketing reduce costs across brands.
• Cross-Brand Loyalty: The group’s “Club Royale” program allows points earned on one brand to be redeemed on another.
• Innovation Sharing: Technologies like the Magic Carpet (Celebrity) and Icon-class features (RCI) can be adapted across the fleet.

In 2026, the group is also investing heavily in sustainability (LNG propulsion, waste reduction) and digital experiences (app-based check-in, AI concierge services).

Choosing the Right Royal Caribbean Brand for You

With so many options, selecting the right cruise line can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• For Families and First-Timers: Royal Caribbean International (RCI) offers the most activities, dining, and entertainment.
• For Upscale Couples: Celebrity Cruises provides modern luxury with a relaxed vibe.
• For Luxury and Expedition: Silversea Cruises delivers all-inclusive, intimate, and educational experiences.
• For Wellness and Sustainability: TUI Cruises (Mein Schiff) emphasizes relaxation and eco-friendly practices.
• For Cultural and Polar Cruising: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises combines luxury with expert-led excursions.

Remember, the Royal Caribbean Group’s brands share a commitment to innovation, service, and sustainability, but each has its own personality. By understanding what cruise lines are part of Royal Caribbean in 2026, you can find the perfect match for your travel style and budget. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline on a megaship or sipping champagne in Antarctica, there’s a Royal Caribbean brand ready to take you there.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines are part of Royal Caribbean Group in 2026?

Royal Caribbean Group owns three major cruise lines in 2026: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. The group also holds a partial stake in TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises through a joint venture in the German market.

Is Celebrity Cruises owned by Royal Caribbean?

Yes, Celebrity Cruises is a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group, operating as their premium cruise line brand. This partnership allows both brands to share resources while maintaining distinct luxury and experience-focused itineraries.

Does Royal Caribbean own Silversea Cruises?

Yes, Royal Caribbean Group acquired full ownership of Silversea Cruises, a leader in ultra-luxury and expedition cruising. Silversea continues to operate independently while benefiting from Royal Caribbean’s global scale and expertise.

Are TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd part of Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean Group holds a 50% stake in TUI Cruises and a majority stake in Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, both targeting the German-speaking market. These brands remain separate entities under a joint venture structure, not full subsidiaries like other lines.

What’s the difference between Royal Caribbean International and other brands under the group?

Royal Caribbean International focuses on innovative, family-friendly mega-ships, while Celebrity Cruises offers elevated luxury and Silversea specializes in all-inclusive, small-ship expeditions. Each brand caters to different traveler preferences under the same corporate umbrella.

Which cruise lines under Royal Caribbean offer luxury experiences?

For luxury travelers, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises are the top choices within the Royal Caribbean Group. Celebrity provides modern luxury, while Silversea excels in ultra-luxury, all-inclusive voyages with high crew-to-guest ratios and exotic destinations.