23 July 2009

In cruising, size matters

An obvious trend in the cruise industry: bigger is better. And while other industries are curtailing production, new cruise ships will be launched this year.
The biggest of all is the Oasis of the Seas. With a passenger capacity of 5,400 and weighing 220,000 tons, the monster size ship will be the biggest ship in the world by far.
The huge boat features loft suites that some compare to luxury accommodations in New York and Las Vegas. The lofts are the first multi-deck staterooms as well as the tallest accommodations at sea. The 28 contemporary dual-level lofts boast modern art and every imaginable amenity.
Examples:
• The Royal Caribbean’s new Oasis of the Seas due to be launched next year includes such unusual oversize features as the first onboard zip-line and the deepest pool afloat.
• The Yachts of Seabourn is set to add the $250 million Seabourn Odyssey to its fleet, which provides three times the size of any other Seabourn ship. Spa villas and sunbathing terraces will be part of the design.
• The Silversea Cruises is also set to launch its first new ship build since 2001.The Silver Spirit brings thelargest staterooms to the fleet along with a new Asian restaurant and supper club concept.
• The Celebrity Cruise's Equinox, sister ship of Solstice is also set for a 2009 launch. Equinox boasts penthouse suites with a separate dining room and a living room. The suites also boast private verandas.
• Even river ships are getting larger. The Viking Legend arriving next April will be Europe’s largest river cruise boat for passengers.
Report by David Wilkening