Four of the most expensive cruise ships ever

The maiden voyage of MS Oasis of the Seas took place in December 2009, and this vast Royal Caribbean vessel cost a cool $1.4 billion to build. As well as being the most expensive cruise ship ever built, it also set a new record by being the first ship to carry over 6,000 passengers on a trip. This impressive ship is longer than The Shard building, and has incredible features such as a 750 seat outdoor arena for live shows, rock climbing walls, basketball courts, a 700m jogging track, and an ice rink that has professional shows. There's even an indoor park for when you need a stroll, and a choice of over 20 restaurants, so there's no risk of getting bored. It also has a sister ship, MS Allure of the Seas, which is similarly well-equipped and cost roughly the same amount. 

The Norwegian Epic launched in November 2009, and for the last few years offered Caribbean cruises during the winter, and European trips in the warmer months. Its since been moved to Barcelona, offering over 4,000 guests per trip the opportunity to enjoy sights across the Mediterranean, with itineraries that travel from the UK. The budget has been well spent on stylish and modern facilities, fromcontemporary staterooms to suites that are great for couples or families. You'll also enjoy a full size aqua park, casino, and even an elegant cigar lounge for after dinner conversations. 

A kid's dream holiday on sea, the Disney Fantasy has only been sailing since 2012, and offers cruises from Florida to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Featuring 16 decks and 1,250 staterooms, the ship has been completely fitted out in a Disney theme, with shops and restaurants named for their movies, and even a horn that plays Disney songs. It's also notable for featuring the AquaDuck – a 765 feet aquacoaster where you can enjoy views of the ocean and the ship while you zip down clear tubes. 

Coming up for 2016, the Seven Seas Explorer is expected to set a standard for luxury cruises. Much of the buzz has been about the The Regent Suite, which is set to be one of the largest and most expensive cruise suites on the seas. Featuring 3,875ft² of space, it'll cost just over £6,000 a night to enjoy this exclusive accommodation, which includes in-room spa treatments, and access to your own private garden, spa, and steam room means you might not even want to leave your quarters. There will, of course, be more affordable staterooms, and guests will enjoy the opulent ship with its cabaret theatre, art deco designs, and exclusive restaurants that bring to mind stylish, old-fashioned ships.