By
Rebecca Gibson |
German shipbuilder Meyer Werft is to construct a fourth Quantum-class ship, which will be delivered in 2019.
The newbuild will join sister ships Quantum of the Seas, which was launched in November 2014; Anthem of the Seas, which was christened in February 2015; and Ovation of the Seas, currently under construction at the Meyer Werft yard and due for delivery in spring 2016.
“Today’s announcement is a reflection of the success of the first two Quantum-class ships,” said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “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.”
Royal Caribbean’s 167,800gt Quantum-class ships have 16 guest decks and can accommodate 4,180 passengers at double occupancy.
The vessels feature the cruise line’s largest staterooms; Virtual Balconies; a Bionic Bar where guests can place orders via tablets and then watch robotic arms mix their drinks; the Ripcord by iFly skydiving experience; SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea; Two70°, which spans three decks at the stern of the ship; and North Star, a glass pod that extends more than 300 ft above the ship.
Guests can also enjoy the Dynamic Dining concept, which comprises 18 restaurant concepts and speciality restaurants created with partner-chefs Jamie Oliver, Devin Alexander and Michael Schwartz.
“The fourth Quantum class vessel will be a trailblazer in smart-ship design and vacation innovation,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “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.”
Based upon current ship orders, Royal Caribbean’s projected capital expenditures for full year 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are US$1.6 billion, US$2.3 billion, US$0.4 billion, US$2.4 billion and US$1.3 billion, respectively.
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.