Royal Caribbean International has officially begun construction on its seventh Oasis Class cruise ship, marking a significant milestone for the cruise line. The first piece of steel for the unnamed vessel was cut during a ceremony held at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This event signals the start of a new chapter for the revolutionary Oasis Class, which has redefined the cruise industry since its introduction more than a decade ago.
The new ship is scheduled for its bold introduction in 2028. This seventh addition to the Oasis fleet promises to deliver unparalleled vacation experiences, building on the legacy of its predecessors. Representatives from Royal Caribbean and Chantiers de l'Atlantique attended the steel-cutting ceremony, celebrating the collaborative effort to bring this new vessel to life.
Key Takeaways
- Construction has started on Royal Caribbean's seventh Oasis Class ship.
- The first steel was cut at Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in France.
- The new vessel is expected to launch in 2028.
- This ship continues the innovative legacy of the Oasis Class fleet.
The Evolution of the Oasis Class
The Oasis Class ships have consistently pushed the boundaries of cruise ship design and onboard experiences. Starting with the original Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2008, these vessels introduced groundbreaking features that reshaped the industry. These innovations include the open-air Central Park, the thrilling AquaTheater with its high-diving spectaculars, and the Ultimate Abyss, known as the longest dry slide at sea.
Each new ship in the class has built upon this foundation, adding new elements and refining existing ones. The latest addition, Utopia of the Seas, offers an ultimate short getaway experience. The upcoming seventh ship aims to continue this trend of evolution, promising an array of thrills, relaxation, dining options, and entertainment.
Did You Know?
The Oasis Class ships are among the largest cruise ships in the world, known for their innovative design and diverse activity zones.
A Milestone Ceremony in France
The steel-cutting ceremony took place at the renowned Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This shipyard has a long history of constructing some of the world's most iconic vessels. The event brought together key figures from both Royal Caribbean and the shipyard, symbolizing the strong partnership behind this ambitious project.
Naval engineers, architects, designers, and other innovators are all part of the team working to bring this lucky number seven to fruition. The ceremony marked the official beginning of the physical construction process, a moment filled with anticipation for the ship's future debut.
"This milestone represents the culmination of countless hours of planning and innovation," a Royal Caribbean representative stated at the event. "We are excited to see the next evolution of the Oasis Class take shape, continuing our commitment to delivering unforgettable vacations."
What to Expect from the New Ship
While specific details about the seventh Oasis Class ship, including its name, are still under wraps, Royal Caribbean has hinted at its offerings. The cruise line aims to deliver unparalleled experiences across various categories. Passengers can anticipate a blend of thrills and chill activities, diverse dining and drinking options, and show-stopping entertainment.
The Oasis Class ships are known for their distinct neighborhoods, each offering a unique atmosphere and set of activities. These often include areas like the Boardwalk, Royal Promenade, and the Pool and Sports Zone. The upcoming vessel is expected to enhance these concepts, introducing new features while maintaining the beloved elements that define the Oasis experience.
Royal Caribbean's Legacy
For over 50 years, Royal Caribbean has been a leader in the cruise industry, consistently voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 22 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards. The company operates ships that visit more than 300 destinations in 80 countries, including its private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
Looking Ahead to 2028
The journey from the first steel cut to the ship's maiden voyage is a complex process spanning several years. The 2028 launch date allows for meticulous construction, outfitting, and testing to ensure the vessel meets Royal Caribbean's high standards. The company will release more information about the ship's name and specific features as its development progresses.
The ongoing amplifications and innovations across the existing Oasis Class fleet demonstrate Royal Caribbean's commitment to continuous improvement. This includes features like the Ultimate Abyss, which remains a popular attraction. The seventh ship will undoubtedly introduce new marvels to keep passengers engaged and entertained.
Key Features of Oasis Class Ships:
- Central Park: An open-air park featuring thousands of live plants.
- AquaTheater: An outdoor amphitheater hosting high-diving and acrobatic performances.
- Zip Line: A thrilling ride soaring above the Boardwalk.
- Ultimate Abyss: A 10-story dry slide for adventurous guests.
- Diverse Dining: A wide range of specialty and complimentary restaurants.
- Multiple Pools: Various pool decks catering to different preferences.
The anticipation for this new addition is high within the cruising community. As Royal Caribbean continues its tradition of innovation, the seventh Oasis Class ship is poised to deliver a fresh and exciting vacation experience for travelers worldwide.
