Royal Caribbean Expands Icon Class Fleet with New Agreement for Fourth Ship
(IN SHORT) Royal Caribbean Group has signed an agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku to build a fourth Icon Class ship, set for delivery in 2027, with options for two additional ships in the same class. This expansion follows the successful launch of Icon of the Seas and anticipates continued growth in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. The deal highlights the strong partnership between Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku and underscores Finland’s role in global shipbuilding. The new ships will further enhance Royal Caribbean’s offerings, blending luxury and innovation to create unique vacation experiences.
(PRESS RELEASE) Miami, FL, 2024-Aug-28 — /Travel PR News/ — Royal Caribbean Group has solidified its future in the cruise industry by signing an agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku for the construction of a fourth ship in its revolutionary Icon Class, slated for delivery in 2027. The deal also includes options for two additional Icon Class vessels, underscoring Royal Caribbean’s commitment to expanding its innovative fleet.
Following the success of the recently launched Icon of the Seas and the upcoming Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean is set to continue its trajectory of delivering groundbreaking vacation experiences. The new Icon Class ships promise to build on the transformative offerings of their predecessors, blending elements of beach retreats, resort escapes, and theme park adventures into a single, unforgettable journey.
Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “The response to Icon of the Seas has been extraordinary, surpassing our expectations in both guest satisfaction and financial performance. We’re excited to continue our collaboration with Meyer Turku to bring even more innovative ships to our guests.”
The Finnish maritime industry stands to benefit significantly from this agreement. Prime Minister Petteri Orpo highlighted the positive impact on Finland’s economy and employment, noting that Royal Caribbean’s investment reaffirms the country’s position as a leader in shipbuilding.
Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku, emphasized the significance of this order: “This milestone is a testament to the expertise and innovation of our team. The Icon of the Seas set a new standard in naval architecture and energy efficiency, and we are eager to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in shipbuilding.”
The longstanding partnership between Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku is further strengthened with this latest order, marking 21 ships built together over nearly three decades. As anticipation builds for Royal Caribbean’s expanding fleet, which includes seven new ships on order, the company remains at the forefront of the cruise industry, offering unparalleled vacation experiences.
Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, added: “Icon of the Seas has redefined what’s possible in a vacation, and we’re just beginning. Our mission is to create memories that last a lifetime, and with each new ship, we are delivering even more exciting ways for our guests to relax and have fun.”
This agreement is subject to customary conditions, including financing. For more details on Royal Caribbean Group and its brands, visit royalcaribbeangroup.com.
About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is a vacation industry leader with a global fleet of 68 ships across its five brands traveling to approximately 1,000 destinations. With a mission to deliver the best vacations responsibly, Royal Caribbean Group serves millions of guests each year through its portfolio of best-in-class brands, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea; and expanding portfolio of land-based vacation experiences through Perfect Day at CocoCay and Royal Beach Club collection. The company also owns 50% of a joint venture that operates TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. With a rich history of innovating, Royal Caribbean Group continually delivers exciting new products and guest experiences that help shape the future of leisure travel. Learn more at royalcaribbeangroup.com or rclinvestor.com.
Media Contact:
corporatecommunications@rccl.com
Source: Royal Caribbean Group
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