Quantum Class Moves Forward

Quantum Class Moves Forward

Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum and Anthem both see milestonesBy: Marilyn Green

Cruise
Royal Caribbean International commemorates two strategic developments at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.  // © 2013 Royal Caribbean...

Royal Caribbean International commemorates two strategic developments at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.  // © 2013 Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International marked two important milestones in the development of its Quantum-class ships at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, this month.

Quantum of the Seas received its first block, as the keel was officially lowered and put into place, and Anthem of the Seas, Quantum’s sister-ship, had its first piece of steel cut, signaling the first step in the ship’s construction.

“Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum class, as we are now two steps closer to delighting guests around the world with Quantum cruising,” said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas coming together so well, and today we not only honor these two very important milestones, but also recognize the years of hard work and dedication from the team developing these ships.”

The keel laying marks the beginning of the ship’s physical construction. During the ceremony, a 430-ton block measuring 59 by 75 feet was lifted into the building dock with an 800-ton crane. Newly minted coins placed under the keel stay in place until the end of construction, when they are presented to the ship’s captain and crew to be placed onboard the ship. According to maritime tradition, the coins are said to bring luck to the ship.

Quantum-class ships will span 16 deck and carry 4,180 guests. The ships will debut new features, including as RipCord by iFLY, the first skydiving experience at sea; the North Star, which transports guests more than 300 feet above the ocean; and The Sea-Plex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars and a roller skating ring; and more.

The Quantum class will debut in autumn 2014 with Quantum of the Seas, followed by sister-ship Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015.

Royal Caribbean to offer ‘skydiving’ at sea

Royal Caribbean to offer ‘skydiving’ at sea

By Phil Davies

Royal Caribbean to offer 'skydiving' at seaTwo cruise industry “firsts” have been claimed by Royal Caribbean International as details of its new Quantum class of ships were revealed.

The RipCord by iFly is described as the first skydiving experience at sea, allowing people to enjoy the “sheer thrill and exhilaration” of skydiving in a safe, controlled, and simulated environment.

This is coupled with North Star, a jewel-shaped glass capsule, which transports passengers more than 300ft above the ocean and over the sides of the ship to deliver 360-degree views.

Royal glass capsule

The line is claiming the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea – featuring bumper cars and roller skating – and the company’s largest cabins include “virtual balconies” for inside accommodation, giving real-time views of the ocean and destinations.

Three connected cabins designed for multi-generational families form a special layout that provides separate bedrooms and bathrooms.

New studio cabins for solo passengers, some with balconies, will feature on the new category of 4,180-passenger ship together with three levels of junior suites and larger loft suites.

Other new features include Two70°, a multi-level entertainment room with 270-degree panoramic sea views through floor-to-ceiling glass walls spanning almost three decks at the stern of the ship.

Sporting and entertainment venue SeaPlex is described as the largest indoor active space at sea, featuring a circus school with flying trapeze and a full-size basketball court. Bumper cars and roller skating will be offered at night together with a dancefloor with a ‘floating’ DJ booth hovering above.

Two70

Live music, DJs, theme night parties and billiards will feature in the two-storey Music Hall, with a design inspired by the spirit of rock and roll, according to the company.

An adults-only Solarium, along with an outdoor pool, a new indoor pool with retractable roof and a H2O Zone kids’ aqua park, will be featured on the top deck.

Royal Caribbean family experiences and venues such as a rock climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator, Adventure Ocean children’s programme, Royal Babies and Tots Nursery and DreamWorks entertainment will be included on the Quantum class vessels.

Additional details about dining, entertainment and other “unexpected features” and amenities on Quantum of the Seas will be unveiled in the coming months, the line said.

Quantum of the Seas is due to enter service in autumn 2014 on seven and 14-night Caribbean cruises from its home port of Cape Liberty. Itineraries for sister ship Anthem of the Seas from spring 2015 have yet to be unveiled. Bookings for Quantum of the Seas open on June 4.

Royal Caribbean Cruises chairman and chief executive Richard Fain said: “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.

“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.”

Royal Caribbean International president and chief executive Adam Goldstein added: “We are excited to be introducing major advancements in ship design and offerings on Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

“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.”

The details were unveiled by US stage, television and film star, Kristin Chenoweth – godmother of Quantum of the Seas – in New York City.