Utopia of the Seas, the last Oasis-Class cruise ship, has made its debut by touching water for the first time. This monumental moment occurred during a 15-hour float-out event at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. With 46 million gallons of water flooding the ship’s dry dock, Utopia of the Seas is one step closer to its completion. As the largest cruise ship in the world, it is set to debut in June 2024, offering 3 and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas from Port Canaveral in Florida. Powered by Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), it prioritizes environmental sustainability while providing guests with unique amenities and features.
Utopia of the Seas Float Out
The construction of Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas has reached an exciting milestone as the ship touched water for the first time during its float out event. The 15-hour float out took place at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where a staggering 46 million gallons of water were flooded into the ship’s dry dock to allow it to touch water. This is a significant moment in the building process of a cruise ship and marks a major step forward towards the completion of Utopia of the Seas.
Construction on Utopia of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas is the final ship in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class series and is expected to debut at Port Canaveral in Florida. The ship will offer 3 and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas, giving passengers the opportunity to experience the cruise line’s private island at Perfect Day at CocoCay. These sailings are set to begin in June of 2024.
Highlights of Utopia of the Seas
With its debut at Port Canaveral, Utopia of the Seas will become the largest cruise ship in the world, surpassing its Oasis-class predecessors. The ship will have an expected gross tonnage of over 170,000, making it an impressive addition to Royal Caribbean’s fleet.
LNG-Powered
Utopia of the Seas will also be the first ship in its class to be powered by LNG (Liquified Natural Gas). This fuel source allows for cleaner and more environmentally friendly operation, aligning with the cruise industry’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact on communities. The use of LNG is a significant step forward in the industry’s commitment to sustainability.
Distinctive Offerings
Utopia of the Seas will offer a range of unique and exciting features for passengers to enjoy. One notable addition is the indoor tiki bar, called the Pesky Parrot, located on the ship’s Promenade. This tropical-themed bar will provide a lively and fun atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy a drink.
Another distinctive offering is the interactive dining experience on board. Designed to replicate a classic train car ride, this unique dining concept allows guests to enjoy a multi-course meal while being immersed in simulated trips to various destinations. With evolving storylines matched to the cuisine, this dining experience promises to be both delicious and entertaining.
For those craving international flavors, Utopia of the Seas will feature Izumi Hibachi and Teppanyaki at Central Park, a Japanese restaurant offering hibachi-style cooking and teppanyaki grills. Additionally, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar will provide a taste of Italy with its authentic Italian cuisine and extensive wine selection.
Other dining options on the ship include The Mason Jar, a restaurant known for its Southern cuisine and previously featured on the Wonder of the Seas. Guests will also have the opportunity to dine at Chops Grille, 150 Central Park, Coastal Kitchen, Hooked Seafood, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Johnny Rockets, the main dining room, and the Windjammer buffet.
Entertainment Venues
Utopia of the Seas will offer an impressive selection of entertainment venues and options. For music lovers, there will be five live music spots on board, including Spotlight Karaoke, Boleros for Latin music, Music Hall for cover bands, Bell & Barley English pub, and the piano tunes of Schooner Bar. These venues will provide a variety of music genres and atmospheres for guests to enjoy.
In terms of main show entertainment, specific titles have yet to be unveiled. However, Utopia of the Seas will feature three main performance venues: the Royal Theater for Broadway-style shows, the AquaTheater for a new diving and aerobatic spectacle, Studio B for fresh ice-skating performances, and The Attic for comedy acts. These venues will showcase a range of talented performers and ensure that guests are entertained throughout their cruise.
Cruise Itineraries
Utopia of the Seas will offer sailings to the Bahamas, allowing passengers to explore this beautiful destination. The ship will also make trips to Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. These itineraries provide an opportunity for guests to relax on pristine beaches, participate in thrilling water sports, and enjoy a variety of activities and attractions.
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-Class Ships
Utopia of the Seas will be the sixth Oasis-class ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. With each new ship in this class, Royal Caribbean has consistently pushed the boundaries of size and scale. Utopia of the Seas will continue this trend, with an expected gross tonnage over 170,000, making it an impressive addition to the world of cruising.
Largest Cruise Ship In The World
While Utopia of the Seas will hold the title of the largest cruise ship in the world upon its debut, it will soon be surpassed by another much-anticipated ship, the Icon of the Seas. This ship, also being built by Royal Caribbean, is expected to be larger than Utopia of the Seas, further cementing the cruise line’s commitment to innovation and grandeur.
LNG-Powered for Environmental Impact Reduction
Utopia of the Seas stands out not only for its size but also for its commitment to environmental sustainability. As the first ship in its class to be powered by LNG, it will operate with cleaner and more efficient operations. LNG is a cleaner-burning fuel source, reducing emissions and minimizing the ship’s impact on the environment. This move towards LNG represents Royal Caribbean’s ongoing efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future for the cruise industry.
Distinctive Features and Dining Options
Utopia of the Seas offers a range of unique and exciting features for passengers to enjoy. Some of the standout offerings include the indoor tiki bar, called Pesky Parrot, located on the Promenade. This vibrant and tropical-themed bar is the perfect spot to relax with a drink and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
The ship also boasts an interactive dining experience that replicates a classic train car ride. Guests can enjoy a multi-course meal while being transported through simulated trips to various destinations, with evolving storylines matched to the cuisine. This innovative dining concept provides a memorable and immersive experience for diners.
In addition, Utopia of the Seas offers Izumi Hibachi and Teppanyaki at Central Park, allowing guests to savor the flavors of Japan with hibachi-style cooking and teppanyaki grills. Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar offers an authentic Italian dining experience with a wide selection of Italian cuisine and wines.
For fans of Southern cuisine, The Mason Jar will be a highlight on board. This restaurant, previously featured on the Wonder of the Seas, offers delicious Southern-inspired dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.
Conclusion
Utopia of the Seas represents the pinnacle of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships. With its impressive size, innovative features, and commitment to environmental sustainability, this ship promises to offer an unforgettable cruise experience. From its debut at Port Canaveral to its exciting itineraries and distinctive dining options, Utopia of the Seas is set to redefine luxury cruising and provide passengers with a truly extraordinary vacation.