Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to start planning our 2014 vacations. If sailing on a brand new cruise ship on the big blue sea is in your forecast for the year, you’ll want to read on for our overview of the biggest launches scheduled for the high seas:
1. Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Cruise Line, January 2014
The first ship to make its debut in 2014, Norwegian Getaway will make the port of Miami its home, sailing to the Eastern Caribbean. She’ll have many of the same amenities as her sister ship, Norwegian Breakaway, including an ice bar, Carlo’s Bake Shop by Buddy Valastro of TLC's Cake Boss, and a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian.
Best features: New on the ship will be the Grammy® Experience* and museum, featuring live nightly performances by past award winners and nominees. Also look for the largest ropes course at sea and the Illusionarium, a dinner theater with magicians.
2. Regal Princess
Princess Cruises, May 2014
Originally scheduled for a maiden voyage in June, the Regal Princess’s inaugural sailing has been moved up to May, and she’ll spend the whole summer sailing the Mediterranean.
Best features: Like sister ship Royal Princess, Regal Princess will have a large adult-only area and authentic Neapolitan pizza at Alfredo’s.
3. Star Pride
Windstar Cruises, May 2014
The first of three new yachts, Star Pride will sail European itineraries starting in May before heading to Asia in the fall. The European sailings concentrate on the Mediterranean and include new stops in the Black Sea.
Best features: This 212-passenger, all-suite ship suits those seeking a more intimate cruise. Amenities are similar to those on Windstar’s older ships and include water sports.
4. Costa Diadema
Costa Cruises, October 2014
When she launches in the fall, Costa Diadema will be the line’s new flagship, and the largest ship in the fleet.
Best features: She’ll have two wine tasting rooms, a Bavarian beer bar, the Country Rock Club, and an interactive Lazer Maze.
Want more? Check out the new ship we're most excited about at BonVoyageMag.com.
*Grammy Experience is a registered trademark of the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences Inc.
Laura Brothers is a contributing writer at BonVoyageMag.com, a publication of Cruiseline.com.