An order for a fourth ‘trailblazing’ Quantum-class ship was agreed overnight by Royal Caribbean Cruises.
The company already has Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas in operation and a third under construction.
The fourth 4,180-passenger vessel, to be built at the Meyer Werft yard in Germany, is due to be delivered in 2019, three years after Ovation of the Seas joins the Royal Caribbean International fleet.
Royal Caribbean Cruises chairman and chief executive, Richard Fain (pictured), said: “Today’s announcement is a reflection of the success of the first two Quantum-class ships.
“We have received a remarkable response from travel agent partners and travellers, and are thrilled that we’ll be able to deliver another revolutionary ship with our partners at Meyer Werft.”
No details were given about where the new ship will be deployed although Quantum and Ovation will sail from China and Anthem is operating its maiden season from Southampton this summer before moving to New York.
Based on current ship orders, the company’s projected capital expenditure for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are $1.6 billion, $2.3 billion, $0.4 billion, $2.4 billion and $1.3 billion, respectively. No price tag was put on the new ship, but Quantum cost $1 billion.
Capacity increases for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are expected to be 5.5%, 6.3%, 3.1%, 3.9% and 6.5%, respectively.
These figures do not include potential ship sales or additions that the company may elect to make in the future, Royal Caribbean Cruises pointed out.
Royal Caribbean International president and chief executive, Michael Bayley, said: “The fourth Quantum class vessel will be a trailblazer in smart-ship design and vacation innovation.
“Royal Caribbean International is synonymous with adventure, and the icons and amenities on this ship will continue to challenge and expand guests’ expectations of the cruise experience.”