BREAKING: RCI Signs LOI To Build

Royal Caribbean signed a letter of intent with German yard Meyer Werft for the first of a new class of vessel for the 2nd largest cruise line. “Project Sunshine,” (Oasis was Project Genesis and Voyager was Project Eagle) will be different than current vessels but retain their features. Exactly what those features will be is still under wraps. What is know is:

  • One Ship in Fall of 2014
  • An Option for a second in for Spring 2015
  • 158,000 GRT
  • 4,100 PAX
  • I estimate the cost to be around $942 million USD
  • Richard Fain, Chairman and CEO of RCI:

    Royal Caribbean has worked hard to earn a reputation of offering the most innovative ships in the cruise industry and this next generation will not disappoint. While we continue our policy of keeping our newest ideas and features under wraps during the early stages of construction, I can say that I am very excited about the passion and imagination that our teams have devoted to the project. Project Sunshine builds on the best ideas of our existing ships and adds exciting new activities and entertainment concepts. It will offer features for everyone: from grand, spectacular spaces to small intimate settings; from active, invigorating activities to the serenity of more personal space; and from a plethora of dining alternatives to a cornucopia of opportunities for families.

    I am also excited about the energy efficiency and environmental technologies which have been incorporated. Our existing ships are some of the most energy efficient in the world and Project Sunshine takes this one further step. Based on our over 20 years of experience with Meyer Werft, along with their compelling proposal, we know they will deliver on all of the innovations Royal Caribbean’s guests have come to expect.

    Bernard Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft shipyard:

    Meyer Werft is pleased to be working with Royal Caribbean especially in light of their reputation for building such innovative ships. I am very happy we are continuing our long time partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and its brand Royal Caribbean International. Their projects always present incredible opportunities for Meyer Werft to create the latest cutting edge hardware in the cruise industry