By reported construction or contract estimates, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships were among the most expensive cruise ships in the world through 2023, with reported costs of $1.3 billion to $1.45 billion per ship. Icon of the Seas complicates the comparison: it was handed over in November 2023 but did not begin passenger service until January 2024, and contemporary estimates put its cost at either $1.6 billion or around $2 billion. These figures are estimates from different sources, not a uniform audited ranking.
What “most expensive” means in this comparison
This comparison uses reported ship construction costs or estimated contract prices. Those figures are not the same as ticket prices, lifetime operating expenses, resale value, or cost per passenger berth. Sources may also use different definitions, so the figures below should be read as attributed estimates rather than perfectly comparable accounting disclosures.
The comparison is historical, through December 31, 2023. It counts Icon of the Seas by its 2023 handover date, while distinguishing that from the ship’s first passenger voyages in 2024.
Reported costs for high-cost cruise ships
| Ship or group | Reported amount | What the figure represents | Timing and source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oasis-class ships | $1.3–$1.45 billion per ship | Reported construction-cost range for the class | Royal Caribbean Blog, 2023. Source |
| Wonder of the Seas | Approximately $1.35 billion | Ship-specific cost estimate | The Points Guy. Source |
| Icon of the Seas | $1.6 billion | Estimated contract price in an orderbook snapshot | CruiseTimes, 2023. Source |
| Icon of the Seas | Around $2 billion | Early cost estimate; Royal Caribbean Blog said the exact figure was not then known | Royal Caribbean Blog, 2023. Source |
| Carnival Jubilee | $1.1 billion | Estimated contract price | CruiseTimes, 2023 orderbook snapshot. Source |
| Celebrity Ascent | $900 million | Estimated contract price | CruiseTimes, 2023 orderbook snapshot. Source |
| EXPLORA I | Over €500 million | Operator-announced investment; stated in euros | Explora Journeys, 2023. Source |
These figures do not support a precise, apples-to-apples worldwide ranking: the orderbook labels its values estimated contract prices, while other sources use broader construction-cost estimates or an operator-announced investment. EXPLORA I’s euro amount is kept in its original currency; converting it into a dollar ranking would require specifying an exchange-rate date.
#1 Best Overall
- Detailed toy model of the AIDALuna ocean liner at a scale of 1:1400, For play and collecting
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- Contents: 1x siku 1720 AIDALuna cruise ship, Scale: 1:1400, Material: Metal/Plastic, Dimensions: 18.1 x 2.7 x 4 cm, Weight: 0.12 kg, Colour: Blue/White, Series: SIKU Super
Why Icon of the Seas needs a date qualifier
Royal Caribbean announced Icon of the Seas’ handover on November 28, 2023. The ship began passenger service in January 2024, so it belongs in an end-of-2023 comparison based on delivery, but not in a list limited to ships that carried passengers during 2023. The handover announcement establishes the delivery milestone; the Associated Press also reported the January 2024 debut. Royal Caribbean handover announcement; Associated Press timeline.
Its reported price is particularly uncertain. CruiseTimes’ 2023 orderbook listed a $1.6 billion estimated contract price, while Royal Caribbean Blog cited an early estimate around $2 billion and said the exact figure was not known. Neither figure should be presented as a confirmed final construction cost.
Rank #2
- 13¼-INCH SIZE: Each assembled centerpiece measures approximately 13¼ inches for a noticeable decorative tabletop display
- CARDSTOCK CONSTRUCTION: Made from printed cardstock with detailed windows, decks, floral accents and water imagery
- CARDSTOCK CONSTRUCTION: Made from printed cardstock with detailed windows, decks, floral accents and water imagery
- ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: Each piece requires assembly before use and creates a decorative accent for travel celebrations, receptions and themed gatherings
- AGE RECOMMENDATION: This item is a general-use product intended for decorative or novelty use by adults and is recommended for ages 14 years and older
How to read the numbers without overstating them
Oasis class: a supported high-cost range, not one definitive price
Royal Caribbean Blog reports an estimated $1.3 billion to $1.45 billion cost for each Oasis-class ship. The Points Guy separately places Wonder of the Seas at approximately $1.35 billion. Taken together, these sources support describing the class as a group of very high-cost ships, but they do not establish that every vessel had the same final cost.
Other ships: orderbook estimates are useful comparisons, not audited totals
The CruiseTimes snapshot gives estimated contract prices of $1.1 billion for Carnival Jubilee and $900 million for Celebrity Ascent. Those provide useful context beyond Royal Caribbean’s ships, but they remain orderbook estimates rather than a shared audited measure of final project cost.
Rank #3
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- 📏【HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL & PORTABLE SIZE】: This cruise ship model is made of high quality plastic, durable and compact in structure, withstand the crazy play of children. The edges are smooth, caring for the child's hands, suitable to kids over 3 years old boys and girls. In addition, the size of the toy ship boat is (9.4 x 1.1 x 2.1) inches, which is suitable for children's small hands and pockets, making it easy for children to carry and play anywhere, anytime.
- 🎵【COOL LIGHT & SOUND FEATURES】: This cruise ship models assembled has an interesting light and sound feature that is triggered by loading two 1.5V AAA batteries (kit does not include batteries) and then pressing the red button at the bottom. When this feature is activated, the little ship cruise is like a jewel in the night!. With the flashing blue lights, the boys colorful ocean liner ship will also emit real engine sounds, seagull calls and upbeat music, how fun! This will arouse your child's interest in cruises!
- 🎵【COOL LIGHT & SOUND FEATURES】: This cruise ship models assembled has an interesting light and sound feature that is triggered by loading two 1.5V AAA batteries (kit does not include batteries) and then pressing the red button at the bottom. When this feature is activated, the little ship cruise is like a jewel in the night!. With the flashing blue lights, the boys colorful ocean liner ship will also emit real engine sounds, seagull calls and upbeat music, how fun! This will arouse your child's interest in cruises!
- 🎁【GREAT GIFT】: This STEM toy cruise is suitable for any age from 3 years old, stimulates children's audio-visual development, allows children to learn knowledge of cruise ship construction, and can be a great gift for ocean lovers, as a housewarming gift, birthday, wedding, nautical collector, beach lover, or any other special occasion. Also suitable as a gift for any holiday, such as birthdays, children's day, Christmas, Easter and Thanksgiving, etc.
Cost per berth is a separate question
A lower total construction estimate does not necessarily mean a ship is less expensive relative to its passenger capacity. CruiseTimes’ orderbook includes lower-berth capacity and gross tonnage, which can support separate comparisons; total ship cost alone cannot establish cost per berth. The New York State Buffalo Cruise Market Study reported a $648.3 million average ship cost and a $291,900 average price per berth for its global ocean-ship orderbook covering 2023–2028. That is a cohort average, not an average for ships delivered in 2023 or a ranking of individual vessels. New York State Buffalo Cruise Market Study (2024).
Ship costs versus a cruise line’s fleet commitments
Royal Caribbean Group’s second-quarter 2023 SEC filing reported approximately $11.0 billion in aggregate expected costs for its listed ships on order, excluding partner brands. That is a fleet-level commitment, not the price of any one ship, and should not be used to rank individual vessels. Royal Caribbean Group’s 2023 second-quarter filing.
Rank #4
- Norway:The Norway was formerly the French ship. After being decommissioned, the French ship was refurbished and renamed the Norway and owned by the Norway Cruise Line. The Norway is the only transatlantic cruise ship built and converted for luxury cruise service. After the conversion process, her passenger capacity has been increased and she has larger and more public spaces for cruise-style leisure and entertainment. The United Nations flag is the symbol of the ship's international crew.
- Highly detailed restoration: The 1/1250 scale model of the Norway is known for its highly detailed restoration. The Norway model condenses the classic elements of the Norwegian Cruise Line and perfectly presents the unique design of this ship. Every detail of the Norway cruise ship model, including the deck, chimney, mast, propeller, and paint, has been carefully carved. Whether it is placed or viewed up close, you can feel the charm of the Norway.
- Material: The Norway cruise ship model is made of high-quality metal materials and refined by advanced die-casting technology, which fully reflects the perfect combination of high quality and exquisite craftsmanship. The metal body of this Norway cruise ship model is sturdy and durable, with a real sense of weight and touch, and a delicate paint surface, showing a delicate texture. The die-casting process makes the structure of the Norway cruise ship model more smooth.
- Unique decoration and gift: The Norway cruise ship metal die-cast model kit is not only a fine craft, but also a decoration and collection. The 1/1250 Norway cruise ship model kit is very suitable for military enthusiasts and model collectors to collect or give as a gift. The Norway ship model can be placed on a table, display cabinet or desk to become an eye-catching focus. This 1/1250 scale Norway cruise ship model kit can bring you endless fun and satisfaction.
- Worry-free purchase: This 1/1250 Norway cruise ship model uses a sturdy and durable paper box as the outer packaging to ensure that the model is fully protected during transportation to avoid damage. We always adhere to strict production standards, and every link of this 1/1250 Norway cruise ship model is carefully controlled to ensure that every customer receives a high-quality product. If you have any questions about the Norway cruise ship model, please feel free to contact us.
How much does it cost to build a cruise ship?
The examples here range from $900 million for Celebrity Ascent to $1.3–$1.45 billion for an Oasis-class ship, with estimates for Icon of the Seas ranging from $1.6 billion to around $2 billion. EXPLORA I’s operator announced investment of over €500 million. The spread reflects different ships as well as different reporting measures; these examples do not provide one standard price for building a cruise ship.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 3D CRUISE SHIP CENTERPIECE: Printed cardstock centerpiece designed as a dimensional ocean liner, measuring 13¼ inches long and creating a nautical table decoration that captures the spirit of adventure at sea
- ASSEMBLY REQUIRED TABLE DECOR: Ships flat for convenient storage and assembles quickly into a three-dimensional cruise ship centerpiece that makes a bold statement on buffet tables, gift tables, or party displays
- PRINTED CARDSTOCK MATERIAL: Crafted from strong printed cardstock, this decorative prop is lightweight and affordable, offering both ease of use and reliable party presentation without requiring special setup tools
- NAUTICAL PARTY THEMES: Perfect decoration for bon voyage celebrations, cruise night events, ocean-themed birthdays, retirement parties, vacation gatherings, and nautical holidays where a festive table centerpiece is needed
- MADE IN THE USA: Elevate every occasion and milestone with our premium party supplies, made in Pennsylvania. Our vibrant decorations and favors promise durability and style, ensuring unforgettable moments for all life events
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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