Royal Caribbean Signs with Meyer Werft to Build New Generation of Ships
Royal Caribbean Signs with Meyer Werft to Build New Generation of Ships
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has signed a letter of intent with shipyard Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, to build the first of a new generation of Royal Caribbean International cruise ships. Developed under the code-name “Project Sunshine,” the order calls for one ship to be delivered in fall 2014 with an option for a second ship for spring 2015. The 158,000-ton newbuild will carry just over 4,100 guests based on double occupancy.
The estimated all-in cost per berth is about €170,000 (about $230,354). The cost includes the yard’s base contract price plus everything needed to design, operate and build the vessel, from architect fees to supervision costs and all loose inventories from computers to art and bed linens.
Meyer Werft has become the yard of choice for several cruise lines recently. Norwegian Cruise Line in October announced agreement with Meyer Werft to build two new next generation Freestyle Cruising ships for delivery in spring 2013 and spring 2014. Disney Cruise Line took delivery of its new Disney Dream in December and is building a second ship, Disney Fantasy, at the yard, set for delivery in 2012. Celebrity Cruises is building its entire Signature series of ships at Meyer Werft. Royal Caribbean built its two most recent mega-ships, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, at STX shipyard in Turku, Finland.
“Royal Caribbean has worked hard to earn a reputation of offering the most innovative ships in the cruise industry and this next generation will not disappoint,” said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO of RCCL. “While we continue our policy of keeping our newest ideas and features under wraps during the early stages of construction, I can say that I am very excited about the passion and imagination that our teams have devoted to the project.”
Fain said Project Sunshine builds on the best ideas of the company’s existing ships and adds new activities and entertainment concepts. It will offer features for everyone, according to Fain, from grand spaces to small intimate settings; from invigorating activities to the serenity of more personal space; and from a plethora of dining alternatives to a cornucopia of opportunities for families.
“I am also excited about the energy efficiency and environmental technologies which have been incorporated,” Fain said. “Our existing ships are some of the most energy-efficient in the world, and Project Sunshine takes this one further step. Based on our over 20 years of experience with Meyer Werft, along with their compelling proposal, we know they will deliver on all of the innovations Royal Caribbean’s guests have come to expect.” The letter of intent is subject to customary conditions being satisfactorily met.
