Royal Caribbean unveils new Quantum-class ships
Royal Caribbean International has revealed the first details of its new Quantum-class ships, the first of which is due to enter service next year.
Quantum of the Seas will debut in autumn 2014, followed by Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015, with both ships spanning 18 decks and able to carry 4,180 passengers. And those passengers can look forward to a range of new onboard facilities and amenities, including skydiving, bumper cars and roller skating.
“This new generation of ships gave us an opportunity to make another leap in vessel design. Innovation has always been part of our DNA and we have taken advantage of all that creativity to design Quantum cruising,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman & CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises. “The unique features on Quantum will boggle our guests’ minds, but the real strength of the design is how our people have integrated all these diverse components to create a comfortable and exciting experience.”
The two new liners will both feature 2,090 staterooms, which will be on average 9% larger than those on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. Every room on Quantum of the Seas will have a sea view – even interior rooms. This will be achieved by projecting real-time images of the ocean into the rooms. The new ships will also include the largest variety of stateroom categories, including new studio staterooms for single travellers, three junior suite categories and larger loft suites.
In terms of facilities, the Quantum vessels will be the first cruise ships ever to include ‘RipCord by iFly’, a skydiving experience, and North Star, which transports passengers over the side of the ship in a glass capsule, 90 metres above the waves. Other facilities will include an adults-only solarium and outdoor pool, and a new waterpark for kids.
“We are excited to be introducing major advancements in ship design and offerings on Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas,” said Adam Goldstein, president & CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “The innovative spirit of our brand is alive and well, and with Quantum class, we will deliver more unexpected activities in the most extraordinary spaces. Our guests should prepare to be wowed.”
In terms of entertainment venues, the main area will be ‘Two70 degree’ – a multi-level great room that features 270-degree panoramic sea views through large floor-to-ceiling glass windows that will span almost three decks. The ‘SeaPlex’ centre meanwhile, will offer a range of activities for children, including a circus school, full-size basketball court, bumper cars and roller skating.
Royal Caribbean is planning to reveal further details about the new ships’ F&B venues in the coming weeks. Bookings for the Quantum of the Seas winter 2014 sailings will go on sale on 4 June 2013.