By Mary Forgione From Los Angeles times

You’ve heard the hype, now you’ll get to see the cruise ships that are hitting the water in 2016.

Five cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Carnival, are scheduled to roll out the largest ships in their fleets next year.

Cruise Critic compiled a list of new ships that includes the “largest-in-fleet, first-in-class — or both,” a statement said. Bigger and better amenities — including an IMAX theater and a 10-story water slide — also seem to be part of the trend.

Here are ships set to make their maiden voyages next year.

April

Holland America’s Koningsdam will feature solo and family cabins as well as farm-to-table dinner in its Culinary Arts Center.

Royal Caribbean International’s Ovation of the Seas, a Quantum class ship, has been designed with the Asian market in mind.

River cruise giant Viking Ocean Cruises will launch its second ship named the Viking Sea. It will have a hands-on cooking experience called the Kitchen Table and free shore excursions.

May

Carnival Vista, the largest in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet and first in its new Vista class, boasts the first IMAX theater at sea as well as an on-board brewery.

June

There’s been a lot of buzz around Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas, the largest in the line’s fleet, carrying 5,479 passengers. An aqua park for children along with a 10-story water slide are some of the wow factors for families. And yes, the robots are back at the Bionic Bar.

July

Seven Seas Explorer
Regent Seven Seas is launching the Seven Seas Explorer, which will be its largest ship. All cabins are suites with balconies, and it has a Culinary Arts Kitchen.

December

The Seabourn Encore will be the largest in Seabourn’s fleet. It too will have all-suite cabins with balconies and a restaurant by French Laundry’s Thomas Keller.

IMAGES:
Harmony of the Seas A rendering of the Splashaway Bay water park on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas cruise ship. (Royal Caribbean International)
The atrium lobby on the Seven Seas Explorer. (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)

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