by Jason Leppert
Last updated: 11:30 AM ET, Sat December 24, 2016
Seabourn Encore
Technically, Seabourn's new Seabourn Encore has already launched, but its official inaugural sailing is scheduled for January 7, 2017, making it the first in the new year. The 600-guest ship will have all the luxuries of the preceding Odyssey-class and more thanks to a slightly larger design.
Viking Sky
Viking Cruises will continue its rapid expansion with the launch of its third oceangoing vessel, the Viking Sky. The award-winning ocean brand is already making waves with a stunning set of luxurious hardware features paired with excellent service software that will be reprised in February 2017.
Norwegian Joy
Also coming online in February 2017 is Norwegian Cruise Line's new Norwegian Joy for the Chinese outbound market. While it is not slated for North American travelers, we're hoping its unprecedented go-kart racetrack on deck will make its way to the next Breakaway Plus-class ship, the Norwegian Bliss, coming to Alaska in 2018.
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Silver Muse
Plussing the current flagship Silver Spirit's design will be Silversea Cruises new Silver Muse in April 2017. Hallmark features of the luxury line will return while several additional restaurant options are introduced such as dedicated Asian and seafood dining, as well as an expanded pizzeria.
MSC Meraviglia
One of two separate prototypes being constructed for MSC Cruises, the MSC Meraviglia will set sail in June 2017. The "ship for all seasons" will highlight a 262-foot synthetic LED sky above an interior promenade and showcase Cirque du Soleil performances in the Carousel Lounge.
National Geographic Quest
Not all the new ships are of the mega variety as Lindblad Expeditions will welcome the National Geographic Quest in June 2017 beginning expedition cruises in Alaska. The ship will cater to only 100 guests with 24 kayaks, paddle boards, snorkeling equipment and zodiacs for adventuring.
Viking Sun
Not slowing up at all, Viking Cruises will again launch the fourth of six planned ocean sister-ships, the Viking Sun, in October 2017. This one will almost immediately set out on the line's first-ever 141-day world cruise from Miami, Florida to London, England starting on December 15, 2017.
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MSC Seaside
MSC Cruises other new prototype ship, the MSC Seaside, is being specifically constructed for warm-weather cruising year-round from Miami, Florida. It will begin sailing from its homeport in December 2017 with an expansive water park and wraparound al fresco boardwalk.
Majestic Princess
The second ship next year dedicated to the Chinese outbound market will be Princess Cruises' new Majestic Princess in late 2017. Already making changes from its earlier sisters, the ship will sport a French bistro in place of the Crooners lounge, a modification that might make its way to the fourth Royal-class ship as well.
Flying Clipper
When Star Clippers' new Flying Clipper launches in late 2017, it will be one of the smallest vessels to come out next year, but it will also be the largest square-rigged sailing ship. It will carry 300 guests within its 8,770 tons.
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