Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE, OSE: RCL) today announced that it has entered into an agreement with Meyer Werft in Germany to order a fifth Quantum-class ship for delivery in the autumn (northern hemisphere) of 2020.
“It is such a pleasure to announce the order of another Quantum-class ship as we are welcoming Anthem of the Seas to North America,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “These ships have been received with excitement, and performed exceptionally well, across the globe. We fully expect that momentum to continue as we add to this innovative class of ships.”
“At Royal Caribbean we are focused on continuously improving efficiency and sustainability, and the fifth Quantum class vessel will be clear evidence of this,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Of equal importance is our ability to consistently surpass guest expectations, and we are harnessing the power of the latest technology to do so on this ship.”
Based upon current ship orders, projected capital expenditures for full year 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are $1.6 billion, $2.4 billion, $0.5 billion, $2.5 billion and $1.4 billion, respectively.
Capacity increases for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are expected to be 5.4%, 6.4%, 3.4%, 3.7% and 6.6%, respectively. These figures do not include potential ship sales or additions that we may elect to make in the future.
Australia will welcome its own Quantum class vessel in 2016, when the $1.3 billion Ovation of the Seas arrives in December. Currently under construction and almost 50 per cent complete, the Quantum Class megaliner will not only claim the title of the largest cruise ship to ever call Australia home – carrying almost 5,000 guests and 1,500 crew – but also the most technologically advanced. Ovation of the Seas redefines cruising in Australia, offering a host of incredible features and technologies, from an iFly sky diving experience, 18 distinct dining options – including Jamie Oliver’s first at sea – a robotic bar, the fastest internet bandwidth at sea, bumper cars and the North Star – a glass viewing capsule which transports guests more than 91 metres above the ship for breathtaking 360 degree views.
Bookings for Ovation of the Seas’ maiden Australian season are now open. For further information or to make a booking, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au, phone 1800 754 500 or see your local travel agent.
SOURCE: Royal Caribbean International