Royal Caribbean announces new 'world's largest cruise ship'

Royal Caribbean's fifth Oasis-class ship began construction this month with a steel-cutting ceremony, a groundbreaking-like celebration for ships. The yet-to-be-named ship will keep much of the design of the current Oasis ships, including the title of the "world's largest cruise ship."

Each of the Oasis ships has held the title, starting with the first in the class, Oasis of the Seas, in 2008. A year later, the slightly larger Allure of the Seas was given the title. It held it until 2016 when Harmony of the Seas debuted. Then last year Symphony of the Seas took the title, which it still holds today.

Details regarding the size of the new world's largest ship are still under wraps (a standard move by cruise lines to ensure that competitors don't attempt to build a larger vessel in the meantime), but Symphony of the Seas clocks in at 228,081 gross tons and is 1,188 feet long. It has a maximum capacity of 6,680 guests with 2,200 crew.

Other details on the new ship are also yet to be shared, but Royal Caribbean did confirm it will "feature a bold and unexpected lineup of thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, unparalleled entertainment and the latest technology."

The Oasis class ships have each made waves with their cutting-edge entertainment technology, including robotic bartenders, ice rinks, FlowRider surf simulators, glow-in-the-dark laser tag and the first ziplines at sea. Symphony of the Seas also has one of the largest family suites at sea, the multi-level Ultimate Family Suite. Other suites on Oasis ships include full floor to ceiling virtual balconies, luxury suites with full-size pianos in them, and suites with direct views of the outdoor AquaTheater.

While each of the Oasis ships offers their own unique entertainment, all of them are organized around neighborhoods. Each of these seven neighborhoods provides a unique theme while helping passengers to not get lost in the massive city-like boats. Royal Caribbean confirmed that the seven-neighborhood layout will remain on the new ship.

When the new ship sets sail in 2021 it won't hold the "world's largest" title for long; a sixth Oasis ship is scheduled to be delivered in 2023.


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