MSC Cruises is the world's third largest cruise brand as well as the market leader in Europe, South America, the Gulf region and Southern Africa. It is also the fastest growing global cruise brand with a strong presence in the Caribbean, North America and the Far East markets.

In 2026, Royal Caribbean International is recognized as the fastest-growing and leading cruise line globally, marked by a record-breaking year for passenger volume and revenue. Following the successful launch of its "Icon of the Seas" class, the company has seen a significant 18.6% increase in revenue and a double-digit rise in passenger numbers, outpacing competitors like Carnival and MSC Cruises. While MSC Cruises held the title for several years due to its aggressive fleet expansion in the U.S. and European markets, Royal Caribbean’s recent focus on "mega-ship" deployments and tech-forward guest experiences has secured its top spot. The line's growth is driven by a strategy of creating "destinations at sea," featuring massive water parks, skydiving simulators, and robotic bartenders that attract a younger, adventure-seeking demographic alongside traditional cruisers.