13 November 2009

Oasis due to dock in homeport

Hundreds of onlookers are expected as the world’s largest cruise ship arrives at its homeport in Florida for the first time today (Friday).

Oasis of the Seas is due to make its US debut in Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale after being delayed by two days due to rough seas in the Atlantic as it crossed from its shipyard in Finland.

A flotilla of fireboats, private watercraft and other maritime escorts are due to welcome the 5,400-passenger Royal Caribbean International mega ship.

The vessel, which features the first living park at sea with nearly 12,000 plants and trees, is due to enter service on December 1 following a formal naming and a series of media events.

Oasis has an elevating bar and 24 dining options including the upscale 150 Central Park, healthy fare at Solarium Bistro, sweets at The Cupcake Cupboard and a traditional main dining room.

Activities within the seven main themed areas on board include a zip wire ride that runs diagonally nine-decks above an open-air atrium.

Accommodation includes 28 multilevel loft suites - the first at sea - with floor-to-ceiling windows.

The AquaTheater serves as a pool by day and an oceanfront theatre by night for high-diving and aquatic acrobatic performances.

by Phil Davies