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Royal Caribbean Group owns a powerful portfolio of cruise lines in 2026, led by its flagship brand Royal Caribbean International, known for innovative mega-ships and global itineraries. The group also includes Celebrity Cruises, offering upscale, modern luxury experiences, and Silversea Cruises, a leader in ultra-luxury and expedition voyages. Together, these brands form a diverse, high-end cruise network catering to every traveler.
Key Takeaways
- Royal Caribbean Group owns 6 major cruise lines, including its namesake brand.
- Celebrity Cruises offers luxury experiences under Royal Caribbean’s portfolio.
- Silversea Cruises delivers ultra-luxury, all-inclusive voyages for discerning travelers.
- Explore new markets with TUI Cruises, targeting European vacationers.
- Adventure awaits on Hapag-Lloyd, specializing in expedition and cultural cruises.
- Maximize value by leveraging shared loyalty perks across affiliated brands.
📑 Table of Contents
- The Royal Caribbean Family: A Global Cruise Empire in 2026
- 1. Royal Caribbean International: The Innovation Powerhouse
- 2. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Redefined
- 3. Silversea Cruises: Ultra-Luxury and Expedition Excellence
- 4. TUI Cruises (Joint Venture): German Market Leadership
- 5. Pullmantur Cruceros: Heritage and Innovation in Iberia
- 6. The Royal Caribbean Group Ecosystem: Shared Strengths, Unique Identities
The Royal Caribbean Family: A Global Cruise Empire in 2026
When you think of luxury, innovation, and unforgettable vacation experiences, one name consistently rises to the top: Royal Caribbean Group. As we look ahead to the 2026 cruise season, the Royal Caribbean brand is not just a single cruise line—it’s a vast, dynamic family of premium vacation experiences that span the globe, catering to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adventurer, a luxury-loving couple, or a family looking for nonstop entertainment, there’s a Royal Caribbean-owned cruise line that’s tailor-made for your dream getaway.
From the groundbreaking ships of Royal Caribbean International to the ultra-luxury elegance of Silversea, the Royal Caribbean Group has strategically positioned itself as the most diverse and forward-thinking cruise corporation in the world. With a portfolio that blends mainstream appeal with high-end sophistication and expedition cruising, the group continues to redefine what it means to cruise in style. In 2026, the Royal Caribbean family is stronger than ever, with new ships, expanded itineraries, and cutting-edge technology enhancing the guest experience across all brands. This guide will reveal exactly what cruise lines are under Royal Caribbean, exploring each brand’s unique identity, target audience, and standout features—so you can choose the perfect fit for your next voyage.
1. Royal Caribbean International: The Innovation Powerhouse
The Flagship Brand of the Royal Caribbean Group
As the cornerstone of the Royal Caribbean Group, Royal Caribbean International (RCI) is the brand that introduced the world to mega-ships, skydiving simulators, robotic bartenders, and the revolutionary Quantum Ultra-class vessels. With a fleet of over 25 ships and more on the horizon for 2026, RCI remains the go-to choice for families, multigenerational travelers, and vacationers who want nonstop entertainment, diverse dining, and cutting-edge onboard experiences.
What sets RCI apart is its relentless pursuit of innovation. The Icon of the Seas, launched in early 2024, set a new benchmark for cruise ship design—and its sister ship, Star of the Seas, is scheduled to debut in 2025, with a third Icon-class vessel in development for 2026. These ships boast seven distinct neighborhoods, including Surfside, a family-friendly district with kid-centric activities and a splash park, and Central Park, a lush, open-air garden with real trees and fine dining.
Key Features and 2026 Highlights
- Thrill Attractions: The Ultimate Abyss (10-story dry slide), FlowRider surf simulators, and the North Star glass capsule (on Quantum-class ships) offer adrenaline-pumping experiences.
- Entertainment: Broadway-style shows like Grease and We Will Rock You, ice skating performances, and aqua-theaters with high-diving acrobatics.
- Dining: Over 20 dining venues per ship, including Jamie’s Italian, Wonderland (immersive molecular cuisine), and the Chef’s Table experience.
- Family Focus: Adventure Ocean kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and family suites with private entrances and game rooms.
In 2026, Royal Caribbean International will continue expanding its presence in the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Asia. New itineraries include 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailings with stops in Perfect Day at CocoCay—the company’s private island in the Bahamas—featuring the tallest waterslide in North America, a helium balloon ride, and a floating cabana village.
Best For: Families, first-time cruisers, and travelers seeking a high-energy, activity-packed vacation.
2. Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Redefined
Where Sophistication Meets the Sea
Stepping into the world of Celebrity Cruises is like entering a floating five-star resort. Acquired by the Royal Caribbean Group in 1997, Celebrity has evolved into a premium brand that blends modern elegance, gourmet dining, and immersive destination experiences. With a focus on “modern luxury”, Celebrity targets couples, empty-nesters, and discerning travelers who appreciate refined service, spacious staterooms, and a more relaxed onboard atmosphere.
The brand’s Edge Series ships—Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, and the upcoming Xcel (launching late 2025, sailing in 2026)—are engineering marvels. The Infinite Veranda staterooms, which transform balconies into indoor-outdoor living spaces with the touch of a button, are a game-changer. The Magic Carpet—a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the ship’s side—serves as a bar, embarkation station, and tender platform, adding both functionality and wow factor.
2026 Innovations and Signature Experiences
- Wellness Focus: The Canyon Ranch SpaClub offers holistic treatments, thermal suites, and fitness classes. New in 2026: onboard wellness retreats with nutritionists and mindfulness coaches.
- Epicurean Excellence: Michelin-starred chef partnerships, farm-to-table menus, and the Le Petit Chef 4D dining experience. The Raw on 5 seafood bar and Eden multi-sensory restaurant are must-visits.
- Art & Culture: Curated art collections, live jazz in The Club, and destination-focused enrichment lectures.
- Itineraries: In 2026, Celebrity will offer longer 10- to 14-night voyages to Alaska, the Galápagos (via Celebrity Flora, a purpose-built expedition ship), and the Mediterranean.
Best For: Couples, food and wine enthusiasts, and travelers who value understated luxury and destination immersion.
3. Silversea Cruises: Ultra-Luxury and Expedition Excellence
All-Inclusive, All-Suite, All-Exclusive
When the Royal Caribbean Group acquired a majority stake in Silversea Cruises in 2018 (and full ownership in 2021), it gained access to one of the most prestigious names in ultra-luxury cruising. Silversea operates a fleet of intimate, all-suite ships that carry between 100 and 700 guests, offering a level of personalized service and exclusivity unmatched by mainstream lines.
Silversea’s hallmark is all-inclusive luxury. Fares cover butler service for every suite, premium beverages (including champagne and top-shelf liquor), gratuities, Wi-Fi, and even shore excursions in select ports. The brand’s “Door-to-Door” and “White Glove” packages go even further, including private transfers, pre-cruise hotel stays, and luggage handling.
Expedition Cruising: Silversea’s Edge in 2026
While Silversea excels in classic luxury itineraries (Mediterranean, Caribbean, South Pacific), its expedition fleet is where the brand truly shines. In 2026, Silversea will operate six expedition ships, including:
- Silver Endeavour – Purpose-built for polar regions, with ice-class hull, helicopters, and Zodiacs for Antarctic and Arctic exploration.
- Silver Origin – The world’s most luxurious Galápagos ship, with naturalist guides and glass-bottom boats.
- Silver Cloud & Silver Wind – Refitted for expedition use, offering voyages to Patagonia, the Falklands, and the Amazon.
Onboard, guests enjoy lectures by scientists, marine biologists, and historians, along with gourmet dining featuring local ingredients. The “S.A.L.T.” program (Sea and Land Taste) immerses travelers in regional cuisine, with cooking classes, market tours, and chef-led excursions.
Best For: Affluent travelers, luxury seekers, and adventure enthusiasts interested in remote, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
4. TUI Cruises (Joint Venture): German Market Leadership
A Strategic Partnership for European Expansion
While not a wholly owned subsidiary, TUI Cruises is a crucial part of the Royal Caribbean Group’s global strategy. Launched in 2008 as a 50/50 joint venture with TUI AG (Germany’s largest travel company), TUI Cruises operates a fleet of mid-sized, German-speaking ships that dominate the European market—particularly in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
The brand’s ships, including Mein Schiff 1 through Mein Schiff 7 and the upcoming Mein Schiff Relax (debuting 2025), are designed for a relaxed, wellness-oriented experience. Think spa-focused itineraries, healthy dining options, and a strong emphasis on German hospitality and language services.
2026 Focus: Sustainability and Regional Itineraries
- Green Cruising: TUI Cruises is investing in LNG-powered ships and carbon-offset programs. Mein Schiff Relax will feature hybrid propulsion and advanced wastewater treatment.
- Itineraries: Primarily Baltic, Mediterranean, and Canary Islands routes, with longer 14-night voyages to the Norwegian fjords and Iceland.
- Onboard Experience: German-language entertainment, local cuisine, and family-friendly activities. The “Mein Schiff” app allows guests to book spa treatments, dining, and excursions in German.
For Royal Caribbean, the TUI Cruises partnership is a smart way to access the lucrative German-speaking market without building a standalone brand. It also allows for shared technology and innovation, such as the adoption of RCI’s Royal IQ app for digital check-in and onboard services.
Best For: German-speaking travelers, wellness-focused cruisers, and European vacationers seeking a more intimate, regional experience.
5. Pullmantur Cruceros: Heritage and Innovation in Iberia
Spain’s Premier Cruise Line with Royal Backing
Pullmantur Cruceros, Spain’s largest cruise line, has been part of the Royal Caribbean Group since 2006. After a brief pause during the pandemic, the brand relaunched in 2022 with a new vision: blending Spanish culture with modern cruise amenities. In 2026, Pullmantur will operate two ships—Horizon and Monarch—on Mediterranean and Caribbean routes, primarily targeting Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin American travelers.
Pullmantur’s unique appeal lies in its “cruise + land” model. Many itineraries include pre- or post-cruise stays in cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, or Miami, with guided tours and hotel packages. The brand also offers “cruise-only” options for those who prefer flexibility.
2026 Highlights and Cultural Focus
- Spanish Flair: Flamenco shows, tapas bars, and paella cooking classes. All announcements and menus are in Spanish and Portuguese.
- Family-Friendly: Kids’ clubs with Spanish-language activities and teen lounges with gaming and movie nights.
- Itineraries: 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises (Barcelona, Marseille, Civitavecchia), plus 10-night Caribbean voyages from Miami.
- Innovation: Adoption of Royal Caribbean’s Royal IQ app for digital services, plus new onboard tech like facial recognition for faster embarkation.
Pullmantur’s 2026 strategy emphasizes sustainability, with plans to reduce single-use plastics and partner with local conservation groups in port cities.
Best For: Spanish-speaking travelers, families, and those seeking a culturally immersive Mediterranean or Caribbean experience.
6. The Royal Caribbean Group Ecosystem: Shared Strengths, Unique Identities
How the Brands Work Together (and Stay Distinct)
One of the Royal Caribbean Group’s greatest strengths is its ability to let each brand maintain its unique identity while leveraging shared resources. This “ecosystem” approach benefits both guests and the company:
- Technology: All brands use the Royal IQ app for digital check-in, mobile key access, and onboard purchases.
- Private Destinations: Royal Caribbean International’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee (Haiti) are open to select Celebrity and Silversea itineraries.
- Fleet Management: Shared shipbuilding contracts (e.g., Meyer Turku for Icon-class and Edge-class) reduce costs and ensure quality.
- Environmental Initiatives: The group’s “Destination Net Zero” plan targets carbon neutrality by 2050, with LNG, shore power, and waste reduction across all brands.
Choosing the Right Royal Caribbean Brand for You
With so many options, how do you decide? Consider these factors:
- Budget: RCI and Pullmantur offer more affordable options; Celebrity and Silversea are premium; Silversea’s expedition cruises are ultra-luxury.
- Travel Style: High-energy (RCI), relaxed luxury (Celebrity), adventure (Silversea), regional (TUI, Pullmantur).
- Language: English (RCI, Celebrity, Silversea), German (TUI), Spanish (Pullmantur).
- Group Size: Families (RCI, Pullmantur), couples (Celebrity, Silversea), solo travelers (Celebrity, Silversea).
Data Table: 2026 Fleet Overview
| Brand | Number of Ships (2026) | Ship Capacity Range | Target Audience | Key Innovation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Caribbean International | 28+ | 2,500–7,600 | Families, thrill-seekers | Icon-class neighborhoods, Ultimate Abyss |
| Celebrity Cruises | 16 | 2,200–3,200 | Couples, luxury travelers | Infinite Veranda, Magic Carpet |
| Silversea Cruises | 12 (incl. 6 expedition) | 100–700 | Affluent, adventure cruisers | All-inclusive, expedition Zodiacs |
| TUI Cruises | 8 | 2,500–3,000 | German-speaking, wellness | LNG propulsion, Mein Schiff app |
| Pullmantur Cruceros | 2 | 2,000–2,700 | Spanish-speaking, families | Spanish culture, cruise+land packages |
As we look toward 2026, the Royal Caribbean Group stands as a testament to innovation, diversity, and strategic vision. Whether you’re chasing thrills on a floating theme park, sipping champagne in a butler-served suite, or exploring the Antarctic in a Zodiac, there’s a Royal Caribbean-owned cruise line designed for your dream vacation. The key is understanding what each brand offers—and matching it to your travel personality. With new ships, expanded itineraries, and a commitment to sustainability, the Royal Caribbean family isn’t just surviving the future of cruising—it’s defining it. So pack your bags, choose your adventure, and set sail with the world’s most dynamic cruise empire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cruise lines are under Royal Caribbean Group?
The Royal Caribbean Group owns three major cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Each offers distinct experiences, from family-friendly mega-ships to ultra-luxury expedition voyages.
Is Celebrity Cruises part of the Royal Caribbean family?
Yes, Celebrity Cruises has been a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group since 1997. It caters to upscale travelers with modern luxury ships and immersive destination-focused itineraries.
Does Royal Caribbean own any luxury cruise lines?
Absolutely—Royal Caribbean Group acquired Silversea Cruises in 2018, an ultra-luxury line known for all-suite ships, butler service, and exotic global destinations. This expands their portfolio into the high-end market.
Are there any other cruise brands under Royal Caribbean besides the main three?
Currently, the group operates three primary brands, though they previously held stakes in others like Pullmantur (now sold). Their 2026 focus remains on Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, and Silversea.
How do I choose between Royal Caribbean Group’s cruise lines?
For high-energy activities and families, pick Royal Caribbean International; for refined luxury, choose Celebrity Cruises; and for all-inclusive, intimate voyages, opt for Silversea Cruises. Each brand targets different travel styles.
What cruise lines under Royal Caribbean offer expedition cruises?
Silversea Cruises specializes in luxury expedition voyages to Antarctica, the Galápagos, and remote regions, while Royal Caribbean International’s “Adventure Ocean” program includes select expedition-style itineraries.