The worldwide corona virus pandemic has led to an unprecedented time for the cruise industry, together with fleets being laid up it is also resulting ad hoc cruise ship calls to various ports.
Yesterday Southampton saw one of these calls when Royal Caribbean International’s Allure of the Seas arrived from Barcelona for a short 5-day lay by.
Allure of the Seas passing Mayflower Park Southampton
Delivered in 2010 and at 225,282GRT Allure of the Seas is one of the world’s largest cruise ships with a passenger capacity of 5,484 passengers at (double occupancy) 6,780 maximum.
The Oasis Class vessel was due to dry dock in Cadiz for her amplification, but this has been postponed due to the closure of all Spanish ports.
On arrival in Southampton, she berthed at the City Cruise terminal 101/2 berths and is currently set to sail for Cadiz on 25th March.
Allure of the Seas arriving at the City Cruise Terminal
Below are some more arrival images as Allure of the Seas passed Calshot.
To date Southampton has now seen visits from three of the four current Oasis class ships, Oasis, Allure and Harmony.
As always thank you for reading my latest blog post
It was announced yesterday that all CLIA ocean-going cruise lines will be voluntarily and temporarily suspending cruise ship operations from U.S. ports of call for 30 days as public health officials and the U.S. Government continue to address COVID-19.
A number of cruise lines had already announced the suspension of cruise operations prior to the announcement from CLIA and following the unprecedented announcement by Princess Cruises earlier this week.
What follows is a list of all cruise lines and links to their announcements and planned resumption dates (in alphabetical order).
I will try and keep the post upated as the situaion changes and more announcements are made.
List of all lines suspended cruise operations
AIDA Cruises
AIDA Cruises has cancelled all cruises until early April 2020
Amawaterways
AmaWaterways cancelled all river cruises in Europe and Asia until 25th April 2020 (including April 26, 2020 aboard AmaCerto)
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways has cancelled all cruises until 30th April 2020.
Azamara Club Cruises
Azamara has cancelled all cruises in the United States are suspended for 30 days beginning midnight 13th March. Currently all international cruises will operate on their scheduled itineraries.
Celebrity Cruises has suspended cruises in the United States for 30 days beginning midnight on 13th March. Currently all international cruises will operate their scheduled itineraries.
Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises has cancelled all cruises until 30th April 2020. (updated 5/3)
CroisiEurope All cruises postponed until 15th April (updated 16th march)
Cunard
Cunard cancelled all cruises until 11th April, with all three ships now due to return to the UK.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line from 14th March all cruises have been cancelled until end March 2020.
Dream Cruises
Dream Cruises announced a voluntary suspension of all cruises ex Singapore onboard Genting Dream from 23rd February, 2020 until 27th March, 2020.
Update 25/3
Explorer Dream Australian program of cruise itineraries cancelled between 8th October 2020 and 21st February 2021
Holland America Line announced a voluntary suspension of all cruises around the world for 30 days commencing 13th March 2020.
Hurtigruten
Hurtigruten announces that all Norwegian coast operations are suspended until 18th April, and all international expedition sailings are cancelled through April 28th. (updated 18th March)
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has cancelled all cruises departing from Miami from 14th March through to 30th April 2020.
MSC Cruises confirms that all cruises operation will be suspended, all cruises that are currently sailing will do so through the end of their itineraries. (updated 18th March)
Marella Cruises
Marrella Cruises have cancelled all cruises until 28th March 2020.
Royal Caribbean commencing 13th March all cruises in the United States have been suspended for 30 days. The line also has a number of restrictions for passengers who have certain passports or visited certain countries.
Update: 25/3
“Today, March 24th, we have decided to extend our voluntary suspension until May 11th, 2020. Our goal is to resume operations for most of our ships on May 12th, 2020. Because of announced port closures, there are other itineraries we will be suspending.
• Ships sailing out of Singapore, and ships sailing through Canada have all been impacted differently due to port closures.
◦ Canadian ports will remain closed until July 1st, 2020.
◦ The Port of Singapore will remain closed through May 2020.”
Paul Gauguin Cruises
Paul Gaugin has cancelled all cruises until 11th April 2020.
P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises The line has cancelled all cruises until 11th April (updated 16th March)
Aurora is currently returning early from a Norwegian Fjords cruise, and due Southampton 16th March instead of instead of 23rd March. Staff onboard have been advised that she will not be sailing for 2-3 weeks so expecting a further announcement in due course.
Ventura passengers booked on the next cruise (N004) an 11 night cruise to Spain and Portugal have been advised that it has been cancelled and have been offered a future cruise credit of 125% on any cruises booked before 31st December 2021.
Phoenix Reisen
Phoenix Reisen has announced cancellations for 4 of it 5 is ocean going ships through to April/May 2020.
Quark Expeditions
Quark Expeditions has not advised of any cancellations as yet but has implemented extra precautions and health screening for passengers and crew.
River Cruises (except Nile):
As things are changing rapidly the line has announced it will make further announcements Monday, March 16th, 2020 at 12:00 p.m. regarding all river trips up to and including April 14th, 2020.
River trips to China, Vietnam and Cambodia have been cancelled.
Ponant
Ponant has not advised of any cancellations as yet but has implemented extra precautions and a ban on any guest or crew member one who falls into following categories:
1. Who passed through China (including Macao and Hong Kong), South Korea, Iran and Italy (even a transit airport) 30 days prior to embarkation.
2. Presenting with a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) at the time of embarkation and who passed through Taiwan, Singapore, and Japan (even a transit airport) in the last 30 days.
3. Who arrives with a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) and who is considered a risk by the company’s medical team. The risk will be assessed in line with our protocol for reviewing the information provided in the compulsory health questionnaire, associated symptoms, recently frequented geographic areas, etc.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises has suspended all cruise operations for all 18 ships in the fleet until 10th May 2020.
Saga Cruises
Saga Cruises has cancelled all ocean cruises until 1st May 2020.
Silversea has amended itineraries due to the closure of Italian ports. and also has restrictions on guests who have traveled from, visited or transited through airports in China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Iran, South Korea and specific areas of Italy (the affected cities within Lombardy and Veneto region) within 15 days of their voyage embarkation, regardless of nationality, will not be allowed to board any of its vessels. Guests who are denied boarding will be issued a full cash refund.
Star Cruises (Hong Kong)
Star Cruises has implemented a number of precautionary measures and extra health screening for guests.
TUI (Mein Schiff)
TUI Mein Schiff brand has amended itineraries as a result of Spanish ports being closed.
Uniworld
Uniworld has cancelled all cruises until 23rd April 2020.
Viking Cruises
Viking Ocean Cruises all ocean and river cruises have been cancelled until 1st May 2020.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages has announced it is postponing the inaugural Showcase Tour which will now begin on 15th July 2020, with the Maiden Voyage taking place on 7th August 2020.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises has announced that all cruises have been cancelled until 11th April 2020.
This is an unprecedented time for the whole cruise and travel industry and its a situation that is constantly evolving. I will update this post as things change with the lines.
Thank you for taking the time to red my latest post.
This year will be a record year for the cruise industry with no less than 24 new ocean going cruise ships coming into service. What is interesting is the sheer variety of ships and on board facilities being debuted. The ships range from 5,200 passenger mega-ships through to 100 passenger ultra-luxury, polar expedition ships and even a modern sail ships. On board facilities and activities are just as diverse as the ships themselves, ranging from a roller coasters to a tattoo parlor, and helicopters, submarines and even mast climbing!
If ever there was a year that summed just how diverse the cruise industry it then this is the year.
Lets take a brief look at the ships setting sail and meet the class of 2020:
Stand Out feature(s): Hybrid powered, Observation platforms (on several decks), infinity pool, custom-built expedition equipment inc underwater drones, Zodiacs, Kayaks
Delivered ahead of schedule MS Fridtjof Nansen is the second in a 2-ship series of hybrid-powered expedition ships which were designed for Norwegian coastal and Polar expedition cruises (Arctic and Antarctica itineraries) Fridtjof Nansen” and her earlier sister Roald Amundsen were both named after the most influential Norwegian polar explorers.
Seven Seas Splendor – Regent Seven Sea
Image: Seven Seas Splendor
Builder: Fincantieri (Trieste, Italy)
Launching: January
Tonnage: 56,000gt
Cabins: 377
Passengers: 750
Stand Out feature(s): A large number of passenger Lounges, Pickleball Court on deck
Seven Seas Splendor itinerary is based on a series of Caribbean, North America and Europe (Mediterranean) cruises, with Transatlantic repositioning crossings, together with a Panama Canal transit between Florida and California. The inaugural cruise season in the summer of 2020 is in Europe, featuring 15 port destinations, including Italian and French Riviera, Greek Islands, British Isles.
Scarlet Lady – Virgin Voyages
Image: Andrew McAlpine
Builder: Fincantieri (Sestri Ponente, Italy)
Launching: February
Tonnage: 110,000gt
Cabins: 1,430
Passengers: 2770
Stand Out feature(s): First tattoo parlour at sea, vegan eateries, adults only
Scarlet Lady is the first cruise ship for Virgin Voyages. The inaugural cruise season starts in April and is based on 7-day Caribbean round trips departing on Sundays from Miami. New/revised itineraries now offer late-night call port departures (some at midnight). Virgin Voyage has a total of four “Lady Ships” on order with the second Valiant Lady, due for delivery in 2021 with the other following in 2022 and 2023.
Silver Origin – Silversea
Image: Silversea
Builder: Shipyard De Hoop BV (Lobith, Holland)
Launching: March
Tonnage: 5800gt
Cabins: 51
Passengers: 102
Stand Out feature(s): The Grill (outdoor dining venue) Observation Lounge located at the bow, Marina Platform (Snorkeling Area)
Silver Origin is a Galapagos-based luxury superyacht. The newbuild is owned by Silversea Cruises and operated by company’s “Silversea Expeditions” division. Silver Origin will sail year-round itineraries in the Galapagos Islands upon entry into service in Summer 2020. Voyages will sail from Baltra to San Cristobal, or reverse, lasting one week in duration.
Celebrity Apex – Celebrity Cruises
Sister ship Celebrity Edge Image: Andrew McAlpine
Builder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique (Saint-Nazaire, France)
Launching: April
Tonnage: 129500gt
Cabins: 1467
Passengers: 2918
Stand Out feature(s): Magic carpet (a cantilevered platform on the side of the ship), Eden and rooftop garden
Celebrity Apex is the second of five new Edge Class ships. Once delivered Apex will be christened on March 30, 2020, in Southampton by best-selling author, activist and CEO of non-profit organisation Girls Who Code, Reshma Saujani.
Celebrity Apex cruise itinerary is based on roundtrips from homeport Southampton. The liner offers a short pre-naming voyage (April 2020) for travel agents only. From Southampton is scheduled a mini-season with 5 departures to ports in northern Europe and Mediterranean. Ex-UK roundtrip itineraries are 7 and 10 days.
Le Bellot – Ponant
Image: Ponant
Builder: VARD shipyards (Tulcea Romania and Soviknes-Alesund Norway)
Launching: April
Tonnage: 10700gt
Cabins: 92
Passengers: 184
Stand Out feature(s): “Blue Eye” underwater lounge,Navigation Bridge has an open-bridge policy, infinity pool
She is the fifth in a series of six Explorer-class vessels for the ultra-luxury expedition brand. Set to join the Ponant fleet in April 2020, Le Bellot cruise itinerary offers unique itineraries to to unusual ports and island destinations around the world. On each voyage, passengers enjoy professional lectures and media presentations, led by the ship’s naturalists and themed on the regional wildlife and local cultures.
Silver Moon – Silversea
Sister ship Silver Muse image: Silver Sea
Builder: Fincantieri (Sestri Ponente, Italy)
Launching: April
Tonnage: 40700gt
Cabins: 288
Passengers: 596
Stand Out feature(s): Observation Lounge (with 270-degree panoramic views and a radar screen, Salt water swimming Pool, heated during cool-weather cruises.
Based on the same design same design as the sisterships Silver Muse (2017) and Silver Dawn (2021). Silversea Cruises has a planned expansion up to 12 ships. The last newbuild in this series (still unnamed) is planned for delivery in 2023
National Geographic Endurance – Lindblad Expeditions
Stand Out feature(s): highest ice-class rating – PC5 (Category A), X-Bow design, two Infinity Edge Pools, Observation Deck
The first of two new polar vessels for the line, the 126-passenger National Geographic Endurance is is built to PC5 Category A standard and is fully stabilized. The maiden voyage, ‘Svalbard in Spring: Polar Bears, Arctic Light and Epic Ice,’ is set to embark April 2, followed by a series of expeditions exploring areas both familiar and new to Lindblad.
Stand Out feature(s): 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, fleet of 8 electric amphibious zodiacs, 2 submarines (7-person mini-subs), 2 helicopters
Scheduled for launch in 2020, Crystal Endeavor is a polar-class superyacht and the world’s first purpose-built cruise yacht with P6 (polar-class) hull designation. The itinerary program includes as destinations Europe’s and the Canadian Arctic and Antarctica (during winter), the Americas, Europe, Pacific and Atlantic islands, Russian Far East (including Kuril Islands), Australia New Zealand. Itineraries as length range between 12-22 days.
Iona – P&O Cruises
Image: Christian Costa
Builder: Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)
Launching: May
Tonnage: 184700gt
Cabins: 2500
Passengers: 5200
Stand Out feature(s): biggest-ever ship built for the U.K. market, LNG powered, glass roof covered swimming pool – “SkyDome”, “Lanai Deck” (800m) long outdoor Promenade Deck
P&O newest and largest new ship is set to debut in May with her naming ceremony being held in Southampton on 4th July. The vessel has a sistership (still unnamed) of the same design, scheduled for delivery in 2022. ship’s itinerary program is based on 7-day Norwegian Fjords cruises roundtrip from homeport Southampton (England), visiting in Norway ports Stavanger, Olden, Hellesylt (or Alesund), Geiranger, Bergen. The inaugural season starts on May 14, 2020 (maiden voyage) and includes only no-fly cruise itineraries round trip from the UK.
World Voyager – Mystic Cruises
Image: Mystic Cruises
Builder: WestSEA shipyard (Viana do Castelo, Portugal)
Launching: June
Tonnage: 9300gt
Cabins: 86
Passengers: 196
Stand Out feature(s): Glass-domed observation lounge, shoreside activities include: camping, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, Zodiac boat tours
World Voyager is an ice-strengthened expedition cruise ship designed for operations in the polar regions (Arctic and Antarctica) and the second vessel in Mystic Cruises planned fleet of ten ships. The inaugural season will see the ship in Europe (Mediterranean, Western and Northern Europe / Baltic Sea). A total of 24 different routes were announced, with 7 cruises in Northern Europe leaving from Germany (homeports Kiel and Hamburg).
Evrima – Ritz-Carlton
Image: Ritz-Carlton
Builder: Barreras Shipyard (Vigo, Spain)
Launching: June
Tonnage: 26500gt
Cabins: 149
Passengers: 214
Stand Out feature(s): 10 ultra-premium dining options, aft marina platform for watersports with direct access to the sea
Scheduled for inauguration in June 2020, Ritz-Carlton’s Evrima ship (fka “Ritz-Carlton Azora” ) is the first of all three ultra-luxury expedition yachts owned by Marriott International Inc (shipowner). The mega-yacht is operated by The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (cruise brand and subsidiary of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company). MS Evrima ship’s inaugural cruise (maiden voyage) date is June 14, 2020. The 7-day itinerary departs from Barcelona (Spain) to Palma (Mallorca Island, Balearic Spain).
Enchanted Princess – Princess Cruises
Image: Princess Cruises
Builder: Fincantieri (Monfalcone, Italy)
Launching: June
Tonnage: 143700gt
Cabins: 1834
Passengers: 3668
Stand Out feature(s): New Sky suite’s, three-deck-high Piazza atrium, new Wakeview swimming pool, Movies Under the Stars (LED screen outdoor cinema)
Launching in June 2020 and being named in Southampton, Enchanted Princess is the 5th Royal-class for Princess Cruises fleet, with fleetmates and sisterships Royal Princess (2013), Regal Princess (2014), Majestic Princess (2017), Sky Princess (2019) and Discovery Princess (2021). One more Royal-class liner (still unnamed) is due for launch in 2022. Enchanted Princess itinerary starts with an inaugural cruise season in Europe (Mediterranean). Departures are offered from homeports Civitavecchia-Rome, Barcelona and Piraeus-Athens.
Le Jacques Cartier – Ponant
Image: Ponant/Cruisemapper
Builder: VARD shipyards (Tulcea Romania and Soviknes-Alesund Norway)
Launching: July
Tonnage: 10700gt
Cabins: 92
Passengers: 184
Stand Out feature(s): “Blue Eye” underwater lounge,Navigation Bridge has an open-bridge policy, infinity pool
Le Jacques Cartier cruise ship (initially named “Le Surville”) is the 6th (last) in a six-ship series Ponant Cruises-owned polar expedition vessels. Advertised as “expedition yachts” Le Jacques Cartier cruise programme offers unique itineraries to offbeat port and island destinations around the world, including Caribbean, Europe (Baltic and Mediterranean), East Asia, Australia, Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean islands (Oceania), Canadian Arctic, Brazil Amazon (Orinoco River), South America and Antarctica.
Spirit of Adventure – Saga Cruises
Sister ship Spirit of Discovery Image: Andrew McAlpine
Builder: Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)
Launching: August
Tonnage: 58258gt
Cabins: 540
Passengers: 1000
Stand Out feature(s): Wraparound Promenade Deck, new venues inc Nepalese restaurant, Khukuri House, inspired by Gurkha heritage
Spirit of Adventure is the second of two identical polar expedition vessels built for Saga Cruises. This month it was announced that her official naming ceremony would be held in Portsmouth 19th August, which is a first for the South Coast port. The itinerary is based on round trips from two UK homeports (Dover and Southampton) and starts with “The Inaugural Cruise” from Dover departing August 21, 2020. The 17-day Baltic Sea voyage features an overnight in St Petersburg (Russia).
Stand Out feature(s): world’s first sail ship with an elevator, Swimming Platform (extending from Deck 2), dining venues feature panoramic 270-degree views
Sea Cloud Spirit is a full-rigged, 3-masted barque and currently world’s largest sail ship.The ship was originally named “Sea Cloud Hussar” and due for delivery in 2010 but was delayed due to the original shipyard going bankrupt. Sea Cloud Spirit itinerary was announced in June 2019. The Megayacht’s inaugural season (August through December 2020) will be in the Caribbean and will feature a new destination – USVI (Virgin Islands).
Ocean Victory – Albatros Expeditions
Image: Victory Cruise Lines, Albatros Expeditions
Builder: CMIH-China Merchants Heavy Industry (Haimen shipyard, Jiangsu China)
Launching: September
Tonnage: 7400gt
Cabins: 93
Passengers: 146
Stand Out feature(s): Observation Deck with two Hydraulic Platforms and two Viewing Platforms), Four Zodiac Docks (2 on each side, hull access at sea-level), 1 x “family stateroom” for up to 6 persons.
MS Ocean Victory is the second in a series of ten ice-strengthened (polar class 1A / PC6) expedition cruise ships scheduled for delivery in September 2020. Starting operations for Victory Cruise Lines, Ocean Victory’s itinerary program 2021 (May through September) includes a total of 20 cruises in Alaska (USA) and British Columbia (Canada). Itineraries lengths range between 7 to 10 days.
MSC Virtuosa – MSC Cruises
MSC Virtuosa Sister ship MSC Grandiosa Image: Andrew McAlpine
Builder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique (Saint-Nazaire France)
Launching: October
Tonnage: 181,000gt
Cabins: 2405
Passengers: 4810
Stand Out feature(s): 111-meter-long indoor promenade with “digital sky” LED screen, Zoe personnel assistant, 2-deck Super Amusement Park, 4D Cinema; Flight Simulator
MSC Virtuosa is the second Meraviglia Plus-class vessel – and follows 2019 built sistership MSC Grandiosa. The Meraviglia-Plus vessels are an upgraded (enlarged design) the previous Meraviglia-Class ships. MSC Virtuosa’s maiden season in Europe is based on 5 homeports (Barcelona Spain, Genoa Italy, Civitavecchia -Rome, Palermo Sicily, Marseille France) and 7-day Western Mediterranean cruises. The 6-port roundtrip itineraries, along with the rotational homeports, also visit Malta (Valletta).
Costa Firenze – Costa Cruises
Image: Costa Cruises
Builder: Fincantieri (Marghera, Italy)
Launching: October
Tonnage: 135,225gt
Cabins: 2116
Passengers: 4232
Stand Out feature(s): Designed to showcase Italian food, lifestyle, and culture, Gondola Lounge, Bridge of Sighs, Golden Party where there are gifts and surprises won every ten minutes
Costa Firenze like her earlier sister has been designed specifically for China’s cruising market. The inaugural cruise (7-day itinerary Trieste to Savona) starts on October 1, 2020, and visits Bari, Barcelona and Marseille. with a month-long inaugural season in Europe/Mediterranean, from the Italian homeports Trieste and Savona. From November the liner starts a 51-day relocation from Savona to Hong Kong.
mardi Gras – Carnival Cruise Line
Image: Carnival Cruise Line
Builder: Meyer Werft (Turku, Finland)
Launching: October
Tonnage: 180,800gt
Cabins: 2641
Passengers: 5285
Stand Out feature(s): “BOLT Ultimate Sea Coaster” the industry’s first roller coaster at sea, Grand Central (midship on Decks 6-8) is an expanded Atrium
Carnival Mardi Gras is the largest and most technologically advanced vessel ever constructed for the line. She is the same basic design as AIDAnova, and Costa Smeralda delivered 2019 and P&O’s Iona also due this year. The separate Carnival brands all refer to them as different classes e.g XL Class Carnival/P&O, Helios AIDA Cruises, Excellence-Class Costa Cruises. The itinerary program offers a diverse schedule with 6-day to 15-day voyages in Europe and the Caribbean.
Odyssey of the Seas – Royal Caribbean
Sister ship Spectrum of the Seas Image: Meyer Werft
Builder: Meyer Werft (Papenburg, Germany)
Launching: November
Tonnage: 168,666gt
Cabins: 2095
Passengers: 4246
Stand Out feature(s): North Star, extending s up and over the ship for 360-degree views, “iFly by RipCord” (skydiving simulator) Skypad, Inside cabins featuring “virtual balconies, outdoor theater a large LED screen for movies nightly and live media streaming daily
Odyssey of the Seas cruise ship is the second Quantum-Ultra class vessel. The class is an enhanced version of the Quantum-class ships but in reality they are only slightly larger than the Quantum class, with gross tonnage increasing from 168,666 to 168,800gt. Odyssey of the Seas will homeport in Fort Lauderdale with an inaugural four-night Bahamas cruise departing November 5, 2020. Prior to an the inaugural cruise season the liner will visit Southampton as part of a Transatlantic re-positioning crossing from Europe.
Coral Geographer – Coral Expeditions
Image: Coral Expeditions
Builder: VARD (Vaung Tau, Vietnam)
Launching: December
Tonnage: 5,536gt
Cabins: 64
Passengers: 120
Stand Out feature(s): wrap-around promenade deck, trademarked “Xplorer” tenders, Six Zodiacs used for landings and close to shore excursions
Scheduled for launch in 2020 (inauguration in January 2021), the MS Coral Geographer cruise ship is the 5th ship in the fleet of the Australian cruise company Coral Expeditions and is designed for ocean cruising to more isolated and shallower tropical destinations. MS Coral Geographer itinerary program is based on Asia-Pacific cruises to Kimberley region, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia and South Pacific Islands.
Ultramarine – Quark Expeditions
Image: Quark Expeditions
Builder: Brodosplit Shipyard (Split, Croatia)
Launching: Q4 TBC
Tonnage: 13,500gt
Cabins: 102
Passengers: 200
Stand Out feature(s): Panorama Lounge and Bar – A relaxed gathering spot with unobstructed panoramic views and an outdoor, forward-facing Observation Deck. Zodiac’s for onshore landings, Polar Boutique – Stocked with the industry’s top cold-weather expedition gear and a carefully curated selection of polar keepsakes
Quark Expeditions’ Ultramarine ship was named after the color ultramarine, the name also means “beyond the sea”. The vessel was specifically designed to navigate the ice-filled polar waters. The ship’s inaugural season includes voyages in the Canadian Arctic (including Northwest Passage), Greenland, Spitsbergen Norway.
Flying Clipper – Star Clippers
Image: Star Clippers
Builder: Brodosplit Shipyard (Split, Croatia)
Launching: TBC
Tonnage: 8,770gt
Cabins: 150
Passengers: 300
Stand Out feature(s): Glass-bottomed swimming pool, Complimentary water sport activities include snorkelling, dinghy sailing, waterskiing, sea kayaking. signature onboard fun activity is the supervised mast-climbing,
Flying Clipper is Star Clippers’ biggest ship, and was originally due for delivery at the end of 2017. The ship is modelled on France II, the legendary sailing vessel which was launched in 1912, was the biggest in the world at the time. During summer 2020, Flying Clipper cruises in Europe (Mediterranean). Following Transatlantic re positioning crossing, during winter the ship will be based in the Caribbean. Itineraries including homeports, ports of call etc are yet to be announced.
Of all the ships launching this year what one are you excited about?
As always thank you for reading my latest blog post
LONDON, UK, Oct 10, 2019–Today,Royal Caribbean Internationalannounced the home port and name of its fifth Oasis Class ship. The next ship to join the leading cruise line’s innovative lineup will be named Wonder of the Seasand will set sail fromShanghai, China.
The details were revealed by Royal Caribbean President and CEO, Michael Bayley, at a global cruise industry conference event held in Shanghai.Debuting in 2021, the world’s largest cruise ship will introduce a new era of cruising as the first of the renowned Oasis Class to sail the Asia Pacific.
“Royal Caribbean is known for its innovation and constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and anOasis Class ship inChina is proof of that,” said Bayley. “Wonder of the Seaswill redefine the ultimate vacation and be revolutionary in her own right, and she marks one of Royal Caribbean’s most exciting chapters to come.”
“Royal Caribbean has been a market leader in China for more than 10 years by consistently showcasing bold deployment strategies and driving growth of the new to cruise market,” said Dr Zinan Liu, Chairman, Royal Caribbean Asia. “The deployment ofWonder of the Seasis a manifesto of new era for Royal Caribbean.”
Image: Royal Caribbean
What to expect onboard
Wonder of the Seaswill be part of the Oasis class of ships which are the largest in the world. The new ship will combine the iconic seven-neighbourhood concept that her sister ships feature along with a bold lineup of thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, unparalleled entertainment and the latest technology.
Image: Royal Caribbean
Construction
Today also marked an important milestone forWonder of the Seasas the ship began constructionat the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.During what is known as the keel-laying ceremony,Wonder’sKeel, a 970-tonne block measuring 155 feet by 65 feet, was lifted onto the building dock with a 1,400-tonne crane. This ceremony marks the beginning of her construction.
1st keel section lifted in to building dock at Saint Nazaire Image: Royal Caribbean
Wonder of the Seas continues the popular Oasis Class ship series, whose last introduction was 2018’s Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean has said Oasis 5 will have the same seven-neighborhood concept, thrilling experiences, imaginative dining, exciting entertainment and the latest technologyMore information onWonder of the Seasitineraries and brand-new adventures will be announced soon.
No further details of the ship have been revealed but she will be a similar design to her sisters’ ships however comparing the renderings to her earier sister Harmony of the Seas she some significant changes in her design.
Comparison between Harmony & Wonder of the SeasNote: huge Royal Caribbean Logo
Sports Deck & Aqua Theater Image: Royal Caribbean
Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean entered into an agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique for a sixth Oasis-class ship, to be delivered late in 2023.
The cruise line currently has six cruise ships currently under construction or on order. Odyssey of the Seas will be the next new ship to join the fleet in 2020 and then followed by Wonder of the Seas in 2021. In 2022 the first Icon-Class Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) powered Royal Caribbean ship will arrive taking the cruise line into a new era of cruising.
Have you sailed on an Oasis class? and are you excited for the fifth Oasis class ship?
As always thank you for taking the time to read my latest post
About Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean Internationalis the world’s largest global cruise line, delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel featuring the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous holidaymakers. The cruise line continues to revolutionise holidays with itineraries to more than 260 destinations in 72 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s highly anticipated Perfect Day Island Collection including the first private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
UK consumers and travel agents think we’re doing great things… in 2018, Royal Caribbean won over 30 national and international awards including “Best in Cruise ” in the Sun Travel Awards, “Best Cruise Line for Entertainment” and “Best Cruise Line for Suites” in the Cruise Critic UK Editor’s Picks, and “Best Mainstream Cruise Company” in the Globe Travel Awards.
The cruise line sails 26 of the world’s most innovative cruise ships to the most popular destinations in Bermuda and the Caribbean, Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, South America, Asia, and Australia and New Zealand.
Odyssey of the Seas Inaugural Season Starts November 2020, sailing from South Florida
Royal Caribbean has just released details of where it’s newest ship, Odyssey of the Seas will sail when she launches in November 2020.
Steel cutting ceremony 1 February 2019 Image Meyer Werft
Royal Caribbean International will dial up the adventure in South Florida in autumn 2020 with the debut of the highly anticipated Odyssey of the Seas – the first Quantum Ultra Class ship to arrive in North America. The global cruise line’s 27th ship will arrive to her seasonal home port of Fort Lauderdale in November 2020 to offer 6- and 8-night Caribbean cruises. Odyssey will then continue her inaugural year in Europe for summer 2021.
Offering even more ways to experience the sun-soaked islands of the Western and Southern Caribbean, Odyssey of the Seas will be the first Quantum Ultra Class ship to call on Aruba and Curacao as part of its 8-night itineraries. Island-hopping holidaymakers can explore Aruba’s rugged landscape off-roading in Arikok National Park, and discover the beloved architecture and narrow streets of Willemstad, Curacao. Primed for memory-making, Odyssey’s 6-night adventures will open the door to deep diving in Cozumel, Mexico; swimming with sea turtles in George Town, Grand Cayman; and a day of thrill and chill on Perfect Day at CocoCay, home to Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America; Up, Up & Away, the helium balloon experience that soars up to 450 feet in the air; Oasis Lagoon, the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool; and the pristine, white sand beaches of The Bahamas.
Odyssey’s Caribbean cruises are now open for sale; and Europe itineraries will open in November 2019.
As part of the Quantum Ultra Class, Odyssey of the Seas will represent the next evolution of Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking and high-tech Quantum Class. First introduced in 2014, Quantum Class ships boldly redefined the industry with unprecedented innovations in design, thrilling activities, game-changing technology and multidimensional entertainment.
Travellers on board Odyssey can expect to find an unrivaled combination of new, soon-to-be-announced features, plus “Only on Royal” features, including the RipCord by iFLY sky-diving adventure; North Star, a glass observation capsule that takes guests more than 300 feet above the ocean;
The state-of-the-art Two70 entertainment venue; and a robust line up of culinary experiences. The ship will also tout SeaPlex, the largest and most revolutionary indoor active space at sea, featuring a trapeze school, full-size basketball court, roller-skating rink and bumper cars.
The second Quantum Ultra Class ship, Odyssey of the Seas will offer a number of activities and entertainment. Royal Caribbean will announce new, soon-to-be-announced experiences soon. The ship will offer a number of Quantum Class activities, including:
RipCord by iFLY sky-diving simulator
North Star observational capsule
Two70 entertainment venue
SeaPlex featuring
Trapeze school
Full-size basketball court
Roller-skating rink
Bumper cars
For a taste of what will be on offer take a look at the following video from Royal Caribbean:
Odyssey of the Seas will be the cruise line’s second Quantum Ultra Class ship and is under construction at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.
Odyssey of The Seas Factfile
Shipyard: Meyer Werft, Papenburg (Germany)
Hull No.: S713
Keel Laid: May 2019
Class: Quantum – Ultra (sister ship Spectrum of the Seas)
Length: 348 m
Width: 49 m
Gross tonnage: 168,666 GT
Passengers: 4246 – 4819
Staterooms & suits: 2,095
Decks: 16
Cabin Decks: 9
Crew: 1551
Cruising speed: 22 knots
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So it is with great interest that I saw the latest press release from Royal Caribbean announcing their new vegan food options. I became vegan in 2018 having been vegetarian for one year before, so vegan dining options on board are now of great importance. With the rise of veganism and flexitarian diets cruise lines need to offer new dining options as they are now effectively mainstream.
OC Plant Based Impossible cheese burger Image: Oceania
A number of lines have offered vegan options for a number of years, In Spring 2017, Oceania Cruises – the world’s largest luxury cruise line launched an a plant based menu which in April this year was extended and now features more than 250 dishes and is available fleet wide in all dining venues. In the same year the German cruise line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises introduced a new vegetarian and vegan menu on Europa 2, which featured more than 80 vegetarian and vegan options.
“As the number of people and families adopting a vegan lifestyle continues to grow, we wanted to formalise our vegan offerings in a dedicated menu (available upon request in the Main Dining Room) where guests can explore options and choose their dish – it’s all part of the dining experience!
“It’s important to us to meet holidaymakers’ dietary choices.”
The vegan menus are now available on board Royal Caribbean’s ships, including its 2020 European flagship Allure of the Seas.
The one route they will not be found on is ships travelling to China.
Plant-based in the Windjammer Buffet
Royal Caribbean also say that plant-based options will also be available in the Windjammer Buffet in edition to the evening dining options.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN REVEALS DELICIOUS NEW VEGAN DINING OPTIONS
The palate-pleasing, plant-based provisions will tantalise taste buds across the entire Royal Caribbean fleet from August 2019*
LONDON, UK, 6 August 2019 – Royal Caribbean International has announced new mouth-watering vegan menus, which will be rolled out across its fleet this month. While vegan options have always been available on board Royal Caribbean ships, the new menus have been added to the Main Dining Room, enhancing the dining choices for every guest.
The three-course menus will be available on request, offering a range of gastronomic delights to cater for diners following the increasingly popular vegan lifestyle. New vegan options include edamame-stuffed Portobello mushrooms, vegan spaghetti “bolognaise” and orzo pasta stew with green vegetables, as well as desserts such as a toffee “cheesecake” with dark chocolate and a peanut butter crust.
“At Royal Caribbean, we’re always looking at how to raise the bar of our dining offerings and we do it with one specific purpose: delivering great holidays for our guests,” said Linken D’Souza, Vice President of Food & Beverage, Royal Caribbean International.
“As the number of people and families adopting a vegan lifestyle continues to grow, we wanted to formalise our vegan offerings in a dedicated menu (available upon request in the Main Dining Room) where guests can explore options and choose their dish – it’s all part of the dining experience! It’s important to us to meet holidaymakers’ dietary choices.”
The vegan menus are now available on board Royal Caribbean’s ships, including its 2020 European flagship Allure of the Seas, when she home ports in Barcelona next summer following a $165 million makeover.
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Its unfortunate that as yet Royal Caribbean have not released any images of the dishes being served as yet, but check out the latest post from https://vegancruiser.co.uk where Sanna has shared the full 7-day vegan menu.
Iconic Ship Sets Sail from Barcelona in May 2020 with Added Thrills, Nightlife and Dining
MIAMI, July 11, 2019 – Travelers can soon take in Europe’s historic destinations from a bold, new perspective on board the amplifiedAllure of the Seas. Royal Caribbean International has revealed the signature feats and innovative experiences coming to the renowned Oasis Class ship as part of a 58-day, $165 million transformation. Guests will be able to conquer a continent’s worth of adventures and come back for more with Allure’s upcoming lineup of new features, including the Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides, completelyredesignedAdventure Ocean kids and teens spaces, the first Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, and Quantum Class original Music Hall. Reimagined as the ultimate summer vacation in Europe, Allure will open its season of 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises from homeport Barcelona, Spain on May 10, 2020.
Bold Family Favorites Whether the moment calls for thrills or relaxation, vacationers sailing on the amplified Allure of the Seas can test their courage or sit back at the Pool and Sports Zone neighborhood that will now tout the perfect family day out. Feature highlights include:
The 10-story Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea
The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides, Typhoon, Cyclone and Supercell
Splashaway Bay kids aquapark, featuring twin drench buckets, three waterslides, fountains, pools, water cannons and a Splash Pad for tots
Reimagined pool deck, complete with The Lime & Coconut signature bar across two locations, a wider variety of seating and shade with cabana-like “casitas,” daybeds, hammocks and swing seats; new whirlpools on the top deck, and a reinvigorated, adults-only Solarium
The thrill will go from the outside-in on board the amped-up Allure. Expanding on the ways that families can spend time together and on their own are the additions of completely reimagined, dedicated spaces for babies, kids and teens, and popular Royal Caribbean activities.
All-new Adventure Ocean, where younger kids can choose their own immersive adventures across an entirely new layout. The major makeover will bring to life interactive, personalized and unexpected activities and features in areas redesigned from top to bottom, including whimsical rooms with climbable creations at Play Place, hands-on art, science and tech fun at Workshop; friendly competition in physical, interactive games at Arena; the Hangout, to chill and make new friends over gaming consoles or sit back for some quality “me” time, AO Babies for babies and tots, and experiential activities at the multipurpose AO Junior space specially designed for 3- to 5-year-olds
Maxed-out teen spaces, debuting a 360-degree transformation, with a secret speakeasy-like entrance leading into an exclusive lounge with gaming consoles, music, movies, places to hang out and a new outdoor deck
Glow-in-the-dark laser tag in Clash for the Crystal City and RoyalEscape Room – Apollo 18: Lunar Landing, an out-of-this-world expedition that challenges guests to solve puzzle after puzzle before time runs out
A World of Flavors Allure will deliver an array of culinary possibilities with more restaurants, casual spots and bars joining the already-diverse offering of specialty and complimentary options.
Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, a new take on a guest-favorite, will offer the beloved family-style, rustic dining experience with an enhanced menu of Italian staples, complete with hand-tossed pizza from the new in-house pizza oven, an expansive charcuterie station and a wide selection of wines and limoncellos
Portside BBQ will serve up a menu inspired by popular barbecue styles across the United States, including brisket, pulled pork, chicken, burnt ends, mac and cheese, homestyle cornbread and more
Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade for gameday watch parties on big-screen TVs, tournaments, bar bites with a twist and ice-cold brews
El Loco Fresh, featuring casual Mexican “street fare”
Sugar Beach, the sweetest spot on board with more than 220 types of candy and ice cream
Bionic Bar by Makr Shakr, manned by two robot bartenders shaking up classic cocktails and custom orders
Amped-Up Hotspots After a day of exploring iconic destinations and channeling their inner adventurer, guests can go out for a “night on the town” and find new venues added to the nightlife offered on board.
Music Hall, a Quantum Class favorite, will take live music to the next level with revolving setlists and cover bands, ample lounge seating on two levels and room to rock out on the dance floor
Spotlight Karaoke, the dedicated karaoke bar with both main stage and private room experiences will feature thousands of songs to choose from, music trivia and themed nights
Beginning May 2020, Allure of the Seas’ 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises sailing roundtrip from Barcelona will visit must-see cities such as Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Provence (Marseille), France; Florence/Pisa (La Spezia), Rome (Civitavecchia) and Naples/Capri, Italy.
Allure joins the original gamechanger, Oasis of the Seas, as the second Oasis Class ship to be reimagined in the $1 billion Royal Amplifiedfleet modernization program. These two revolutionary ships will steal the spotlight next year in Europe and the New York area, respectively, as the boldest summer vacations on both sides of the Atlantic.
In November 2020, Allure will make its way coast to coast to Miami for the winter season. Sailing from Royal Caribbean’s state-of-the-art Terminal A, the reimagined ship will offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises. Many of the ship’s Caribbean itineraries will include visits to the cruise line’s new private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
About Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel featuring the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionize vacations with itineraries to more than 270 destinations in 72 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s highly anticipated private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 16 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards.
Media can stay up-to-date by following @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter, and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers can call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN.
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To date Southampton has now seen visits from three of the four current Oasis class ships, Oasis, Allure and Harmony.
It was announced yesterday that all CLIA ocean-going cruise lines will be voluntarily and temporarily suspending cruise ship operations from U.S. ports of call for 30 days as public health officials and the U.S. Government continue to address COVID-19.
Amped-Up Hotspots
Cruise Ship Profiles 