The number of newly built ocean-going cruise ships entering service in 2014 is quite a bit smaller than in years past, a reflection of the economic slowdown and a determination to slow capacity growth. (Of course, it’s the opposite situation in the river cruise segment; see our special section on page 32 for an overview of all the new river ships due out in 2014.)

Perhaps the most highly anticipated of the new ships coming out next year is Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas. This 4,180-passenger ship promises to amaze cruisers with its amusement park-style array of rides and attractions, like the bumper cars, sky-dive simulator and a capsule that will carry 14 people up 300 feet over sea level.

Two of the ships are sisters to very popular new entrants. Princess Cruises’ Regal Princess is the same model as the Royal Princess, with its glass-paneled top-deck walkway and bustling atrium. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway is similar to sister Norwegian Breakaway, but will have a spicier Miami Beach vibe.

Costa Cruises, the Italian line, is introducing its new flagship, the Costa Diadema. At 132,500 gross tons with passenger capacity of 4,947, it’ll be the largest ship to fly the Italian flag.