Topping the list is the Seawise Giant, the largest ship ever built, followed by the impressive Oasis and Quantum class cruise ships that redefine luxury at sea. Each of these ships is a marvel of marine technology, designed to handle heavy loads and offer unparalleled experiences.
The Seawise Giant, with its 458-meter length, takes the top spot, while other giants like the Queen Mary 2 and the Valemax also make significant contributions to their respective categories. Learn about the top 10 largest ships in the world.
List of the largest ships in the world
A look at the world’s largest ships
Seawise Giant (458.46 m)
The Seawise Giant holds the title of the largest ship ever built, with an incredible length of 458 meters and a total weight of 564,763 tons. This massive oil tanker, capable of transporting over 4.5 million barrels of crude oil, was in service for decades before being retired and scrapped in 2010.
Batillus class (414.22 m)
The Batillus class oil tankers were among the largest supertankers ever built, measuring over 414 meters in length and capable of carrying 553,662 tons of oil. Built in France, these four ships set a new standard for oil transport efficiency, however they were decommissioned after a relatively short operational period due to high maintenance costs.
Esso Atlantic/Pacific (406.57 m)
The sister ships Esso Atlantic and Esso Pacific were huge oil tankers built for Exxon, each over 406 meters in length. Their deadweight capacity was 516,000 tons, making them among the largest ships of their time. These ships served global oil transportation needs until their final retirement and scrapping in the early 2000s.
Pioneering Spirit (382 m)
Pioneering Spirit is the world’s largest crane vessel, measuring 382 metres in length. Specially designed for installing and removing large oil and gas platforms, the vessel can lift structures weighing up to 48,000 tonnes. It revolutionised offshore construction and remains one of the most important vessels in energy infrastructure projects around the world.
Velemax (360-362 m)
The Valemax class of bulk carriers are among the largest ships in the world, measuring up to 362 meters in length. These ships were specifically designed to transport iron ore, with each ship capable of carrying 400,000 metric tons. Valemax ships are essential for transporting large quantities of ore, especially between Brazil and China.
Oasis class (360–362 m)
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class cruise ships are the world’s largest passenger ships, reaching up to 362 meters in length. These floating cities offer unmatched luxury and amenities, including theaters, water parks and multiple neighborhoods. With a capacity of over 6,700 passengers, they are a marvel of modern cruise travel, operating primarily in the Caribbean.
Quantum class (347.06-348 m)
The Quantum Class ships launched by Royal Caribbean are known for their innovative features and luxurious design. Around 348 meters long, they are among the largest cruise ships worldwide, with attractions such as skydiving simulators and robotic bartenders. These ships can carry over 4,000 passengers and are popular for their state-of-the-art amenities and technology.
Queen Mary 2 (345.03 m)
The Queen Mary 2 is one of the world’s most famous ocean liners, measuring over 345 meters in length. Built for the Cunard Line, the ship primarily operates transatlantic crossings between the U.K. and the U.S. The Queen Mary 2 blends classic elegance and modern luxury, accommodating up to 2,695 passengers with style and comfort.
MOL Triumph Class (400m)
The MOL Triumph class, which measures 400 meters in length, is one of the largest container ships in operation. Each ship can carry more than 20,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of cargo, making them vital to global trade. The ships are known for their fuel efficiency and environmentally friendly design, which helps reduce carbon emissions.
Berge Stahl (342 m)
The Berge Stahl was once the world’s largest bulk carrier, measuring 342 meters in length. Built to transport iron ore, the ship was specifically designed to travel between Brazil and Europe. With a carrying capacity of 364,767 tonnes, it remains one of the most important ships for global shipping, even though newer bulk carriers have overtaken it.
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