Royal Caribbean Cruises has confirmed the first order in a planned series of large new generation ships.
The €700 million ship is part of an initiative code named Project Sunshine and will have capacity for more than 4,100 passengers. Due for delivery in autumn 2014, an option has been taken out on a second ship to enter service in spring 2015.
The 158,000-ton vessels – larger than Royal Caribbean’s Freedom-class ships such as Southampton-based Independence of the Seas and Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 – will include new activities and entertainment although details are being kept secret. The project is a result of more than a year of dedicated research and development, the company said.
Chairman and chief executive Richard Fain said: “While we continue our policy of keeping our newest ideas and features under wraps during the early stages of construction, I can say that I am very excited about the passion and imagination that our teams have devoted to the project.
“Project Sunshine builds on the best ideas of our existing ships and adds exciting new activities and entertainment concepts. It will offer features for everyone: from grand, spectacular spaces to small intimate settings; from active, invigorating activities to the serenity of more personal space; and from a plethora of dining alternatives to a cornucopia of opportunities for families.
“I am also excited about the energy efficiency and environmental technologies which have been incorporated. Our existing ships are some of the most energy efficient in the world and Project Sunshine takes this one further step.”