Hundreds of onlookers and a flotilla of maritime escorts witnessed the world’s largest cruise ship Allure of the Seas arrive at its homeport of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, yesterday.
The giant Royal Caribbean International vessel sailed into the port after a 13-day transatlantic crossing from its shipyard in Finland.
Allure of the Seas will be joined by sister ship Oasis of the Seas off the Florida coast tomorrow (Saturday) for a press photo opportunity.
Hundreds of landscapers will board Allure over the next week to add more than 12,000 live plants to the ship’s outdoor Central Park, one of seven neighbourhoods on board.
The official naming ceremony takes place on November 28 during a one-night inaugural fundraising cruise raising money for the Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Haiti Fund, among other charities.
The godmother of Allure of the Seas, which is capable of carrying 6,200 passengers, will be unveiled during the celebrations.
The ship departs on its maiden cruise on December 1 when it will start operating seven-night Caribbean voyages.
Prices for a nine-night fly-cruise including flights from the UK for a seven-night cruise on Allure of the Seas starts at £1,470 per person.
Allure of the Seas includes a two-level shopping street, 17 bars, more than 20 restaurants and cafes including the first Starbucks at sea, two rock climbing walls, two FlowRider surf simulators, a zip wire, the Broadway hit Chicago: The Musical, a 3D movie theatre, DreamWorks Animation activities and shows and an AquaTheatre for high dive performances and water shows.