Royal Caribbean Group plans to introduce a new class of cruise ships, described as being "beyond Icon," according to a recent company announcement. This development is part of a long-term agreement secured with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku, which aims to reserve construction slots for future vessels through 2036.
While specific details about the new design remain undisclosed, the company confirmed its focus on expanding its fleet with innovative vessels. This strategic move highlights Royal Caribbean's commitment to growth and advanced shipbuilding, ensuring its position in the global cruise market.
Key Takeaways
- Royal Caribbean Group will launch a new ship class, codenamed "beyond Icon."
- A long-term agreement with Meyer Turku secures building slots until 2036.
- An order for a fifth Icon-class ship has been finalized for 2028.
- The company also holds an option for a seventh Icon-class vessel.
- Meyer Turku has built 25 ships for Royal Caribbean since 1990.
Strategic Partnership with Meyer Turku
The core of Royal Caribbean's expansion strategy involves its established partnership with Meyer Turku. The Finnish shipyard has been a long-time collaborator, delivering 25 ships to the Royal Caribbean fleet since 1990. This history includes prominent vessels such as the Icon of the Seas, which entered service in 2023, and the upcoming Star of the Seas, expected in 2025.
The new framework agreement extends this partnership significantly, securing critical shipbuilding capacity for Royal Caribbean for over a decade. This ensures the company can continue to introduce new vessels and classes without interruption.
"Our long-term framework agreement with Meyer Turku secures building slots through 2036, which is crucial for our future fleet development," a Royal Caribbean Group spokesperson stated.
This commitment underscores the importance of reliable shipyard partnerships in the capital-intensive cruise industry. Securing these slots allows for long-term planning and innovation.
Expansion of the Icon Class
In addition to the new ship class, Royal Caribbean also firmed up an order for a fifth vessel in its popular Icon class. This ship is scheduled to begin service in 2028. This follows the anticipated launches of the Legend of the Seas in 2026 and a fourth, currently unnamed sister ship in 2027.
Icon Class Fleet Growth
- 2023: Icon of the Seas (in service)
- 2025: Star of the Seas (ordered)
- 2026: Legend of the Seas (ordered)
- 2027: Fourth Icon-class ship (ordered)
- 2028: Fifth Icon-class ship (newly ordered)
The company also holds an option for a seventh Icon-class vessel, indicating further potential growth for this successful ship series. The Icon class is known for its advanced design and guest experience features, setting new standards in the cruise industry.
Diverse Shipbuilding Portfolio
Royal Caribbean Group's current orderbook extends beyond Meyer Turku, showcasing a diversified approach to shipbuilding. The company has ongoing projects with other major shipyards globally.
Global Shipbuilding Partners
Royal Caribbean Group collaborates with several international shipyards to meet its fleet expansion needs. This strategy helps mitigate risks associated with relying on a single builder and allows access to specialized expertise from different regions.
Chantiers de l’Atlantique, a French shipyard, is currently building three ships for the group. This includes the Celebrity Xcel, which will be followed by a sister ship in 2028. Royal Caribbean International is also set to receive a seventh Oasis-class vessel from Chantiers de l’Atlantique in 2028. The Oasis class is known for its large size and extensive onboard amenities.
New Ventures and River Cruises
The group's expansion also includes a joint venture with TUI AG. This partnership is currently building the Mein Schiff Flow at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy. This demonstrates Royal Caribbean's reach into different segments of the cruise market.
Beyond ocean-going vessels, Royal Caribbean is venturing into river cruises. The company is developing a series of riverboats for its new Celebrity River Cruises brand. At least ten of these vessels are expected to be delivered by the TeamCo Shipyard in the Netherlands over the next few years. This move marks a significant diversification, tapping into the growing market for river-based travel experiences.
Future Outlook and Innovation
The introduction of a new ship class, described as "beyond Icon," signals Royal Caribbean's ongoing commitment to innovation. The company consistently seeks to push boundaries in ship design, technology, and guest offerings. This new class is expected to feature advanced environmental technologies and enhanced guest experiences, building on lessons learned from previous successful designs.
The long-term agreements with shipyards like Meyer Turku provide the necessary stability and capacity for these ambitious projects. This strategic planning ensures that Royal Caribbean can maintain its competitive edge and continue to grow its global footprint. The focus on both established and new ship classes, alongside diversification into river cruises, positions the Royal Caribbean Group for sustained growth in the evolving travel industry.
These investments reflect a positive outlook for the cruise sector, with companies like Royal Caribbean betting on continued demand for leisure travel experiences. The new ships will offer diverse itineraries and experiences to a broad range of travelers.
