Groundbreaking. Intelligent. Epic – no three words could be more apt in describing the new class of revolutionary cruise ships making their grand debut in 2016. From robot bartenders to onboard breweries and IMAX movie theatres, 10-storey super slides to luxury spas with falling snow, the spectacular range of brand spanking new cruise ships from Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean, Regent, Carnival & Viking are truly in a league of their own. Without further ado, here’s a sneak peek of the crème de la crème of new ships in 2016.
Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas
How do you spell Royal Caribbean‘s latest cruise ship? F-U-N! A sister ship to Anthem and Quantum of the seas ships, Ovation of the Seas takes adventure at sea to a new level with an awesome range of facilities for all cruisers of all ages. The ship introduces iFLY to cruising, a skydiving simulator providing thrill-seeking cruisers the opportunity to experience weightlessness, and the world’s first robot bartenders to cater to all your beverage needs. But the creme de la creme of features is the North Star, an arm-like pod that extends from the ship over the ocean, providing spectacular 360 degree views. Ovation of the Seas’ maiden voyage departs Southampton in April, with itinerary stops by in Malaysia, China & Japan. Debut: April 2016
Viking Sea
The well-known river cruise line debuts its second ocean cruise ship in April 2016. The 930 passenger ship named Viking Sea will cruise Mediterranean and Scandinavian itineraries. The ship, consisting of all balcony cabins boasts beautiful facilities, a stunning infinity pool for the ultimate view at-sea and, most excitingly, a luxury spa featuring a ‘snow grotto’ with simulated falling snow. Debut: April 2016
Carnival Vista
‘The most innovative ship ever built’ says Carnival Cruise Line, and with an impressive range of revolutionary facilities and a number of world firsts in cruising, the 133,500 tonne, 3,954 passenger capacity Carnival Vista is sure to live up to expectations. With the world’s first ever onboard IMAX theatre, thrilling feel-like-you’re-flying Sky Ride and Kaleid-o-slide Raft riding water tube slide, Carnival Vista takes fun to new heights. And for adults? Beer lovers can check out Carnival Vista’s very own onboard brewery! From kids and tweens to adults, Carnival has thought of it all. Debut: May 2016
Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas
At a whopping 227,000 tonnes and a capacity of 5497 passengers at double occupancy, Royal Caribbean’s new Harmony of the Seas is set to be the largest passenger ship on Earth – and its state-of-the-art design and facilities are just as epic. For adrenaline junkies, Harmony of the Seas offers the ultimate thrill fix with the Ultimate Abyss – the world’s largest at-sea super slide at 10 storeys high and a nail-biting 45 meters above sea level. Complimented by a state-of-the-art water park, 16 guest decks and a huge range of beautifully designed onboard facilities to compliment stunning Mediterranean itineraries, Royal Caribbean‘s all-new Harmony of the Seas is set to be a real cruise crowd pleaser. Debut: June 2016
Regent Seven Seas Explorer
The ‘most luxurious cruise ship in the world’ is a big claim from Regent Seven Seas but its newest ship, the 750 passenger Seven Seas Explorer is sure to set the benchmark for luxury cruising. Featuring marble floors and crystal chandeliers, the all suite, all balcony ship has the higest space ratios of any cruise ship on the planet – the giant Regent Suite is bigger than the average house! An impressive crew of 542 are set to provide the highest standard of service in cruising. The Seven Seas Explorer makes its maiden voyage departing Monte Carlo en route to Venice in July. Debut: July 2016
