The five biggest cruise ships

A number of Royal Caribbean's liners offer on-board surfing. Photo / Supplied

Megan Singleton has the lowdown on the world's largest passenger liners.

Allure of the Seas

Built by Royal Caribbean, this is the mother ship at 225,000 tonnes. She carries 5412 passengers - which is more than the entire population of Dannevirke, plus another 2300 crew to take care of your every need. But this is no floating hotel; you'll find more to keep you busy here than you have days to do it. It is divided into seven "neighbourhoods", has 25 dining outlets, Broadway shows (currently it's Chicago), zip lining, surfing (yes) and ice skating - and that's before you discover the spa, gym, kids club and shops.

Oasis of the Seas

Coming in just five centimetres shorter than the Allure, this "little sister" has the original concept of the seven neighbourhoods, gardens with living trees, water slides, shops and a Starbucks. It also carries 5412 passengers. You could find yourself spending money on "extra" paid activities like the cafes, shops and fortune-telling machine to tempt you, but it costs nothing extra to take a dance class, eat three times a day, go zip lining or watch a movie.

Quantum of the Seas

Another Royal Caribbean ship and it's still all about fun times on the high seas. This one has a skydive air machine so you can practise flying, plus bumper cars, surfing, and the North Star which is like a pod on the London Eye that lifts you way above the deck and into the sky for outstanding views. This mega-ship carries 4180 passengers and offers flexible fine dining times to suit your night.

Norwegian Epic by Norwegian Cruise Line

With 4100 fellow passengers she's no shrinking violet with plenty to do to keep you and yours busy at sea. The big announcement is that the Blue Man Group is in residence - it's fantastic entertainment for the whole family. Plus, with 20 dining outlets, an aqua park and a rock climbing and fitness centre, you can choose to be sporty or hang out in a lounge bar or the adults-only beach club.

Freedom of the Seas

Actually fifth equal with identical sister ships, Liberty of the Seas and Independence of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas is still a pretty big girl at over 154,000 tonnes and with the capacity to carry 3634 passengers. Again, the FlowRider surf simulator is the winner for the energetic, plus a partnership with DreamWorks and Mattel means you're never short of entertainment on the huge outdoor cinema screen.

Click here for Megan's blog on 10 things you need to know before you cruise.

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