What is the oldest cruise ship still at sea?

The MV Astoria is the oldest cruise ship currently sailing, and Cruise and Maritime Voyages embraces the story of its vintage vessel. It employs an on-board historian to offer lectures about the ship's fascinating past.



As of 2026, the title of the oldest cruise ship still in active service is generally held by the MV Astoria (formerly the MS Stockholm). Originally launched in 1944 and entering service in 1948, this ship has had a remarkable 80-year career under various names and owners. It gained infamy early on for its 1956 collision with the Andrea Doria. Despite its age, it has undergone numerous major refits to maintain modern safety standards while retaining a classic, smaller-scale cruising atmosphere. Another contender in the "active but vintage" category is the Sea Cloud, a legendary four-masted barque built in 1931 that still operates as a luxury sailing cruise ship. While modern mega-ships like the Icon class dominate the headlines, these maritime survivors continue to attract travelers who prefer historical charm and a more intimate connection with the ocean over the amenities of newer vessels.

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