Maritime





Monday November 2, 2009

New cruise ship joins Royal Caribbean fleet


MIAMI: Royal Caribbean International has taken delivery of its newest and most revolutionary cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas, from STX Europe in Turku, Finland.

After nearly six years in the making, its US debut into Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale will be on Nov 11.

This Oct. 30, 2009 photo released by Royal Caribbean shows Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas departing a ship yard in Finland. - AP

The cruise line that revolutionised the industry with the FlowRider surf simulator, ice-skating rinks, cantilevered whirlpools, rock climbing walls and the Royal Promenade – an entertainment boulevard stretching nearly the length of the ship – is poised to unveil a range of new attractions and engineering marvels onboard Oasis of the Seas.

In this Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009 photo, A general view of the "Oasis of the Seas" cruise ship at a dockyard in Turku, Finland. - AP

It is the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, it spans 16 decks, encompasses 225,282 gross registered tonnes, carries 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and features 2,700 staterooms.

The ship also introduces unique industry “firsts” including a neighbourhood concept – seven themed areas providing guests with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal styles, preferences or moods.

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