Over the past weekend, RCI-Royal Caribbean International's last OASIS PLUS-Class vessel - Utopia of the Seas, was launched/floated out from drydock at Chantiers de l'Atlantique yard/shipbuilder STX France in Saint-Nazaire. The float-out represents a crucial step toward the vessel's completion and debut in Port Canaveral/Orlando (Florida USA) currently scheduled for July 2024.
The float-out process culminated after ~17 months of planning and drydock assembly. It spanned nearly 15 hours and commenced with the gradual filling of the ship's dry dock with an astounding 46 million gallons of water overnight. Subsequently, Utopia OTS was gently moved into an outfitting dock, where the final phases of construction will be completed in preparation for its much-anticipated launch in the summer of 2024.
Since the commencement of construction in April 2022, Utopia OTS has taken shape through the assembly of more than 74 steel blocks, meticulously lifted and integrated into the ship's structure. Now, as the ship enters this next phase, she will come to life with the installation of her highly anticipated features. These include remarkable attractions such as the Ultimate Abyss, a 295-foot-long dry slide at sea, and a unique immersive dining experience set within a train car.
RCI's Utopia ship promises to revolutionize the cruise vacation experience by offering an unmatched array of 40+ dining and drinking options, an abundance of pools, thrilling activities, and tranquil relaxation spots. Friends and families celebrating special occasions will have the opportunity to craft their ideal weekend, choosing from an array of signature adventures and reimagined experiences. These include newly designed resort-style pools, the introduction of the Caribbean tiki bar called the Pesky Parrot, a reimagined Izumi restaurant now situated in Central Park with a convenient pick-up window for fresh sushi and Japanese street food and a range of al fresco dining options. Additionally, the liner will offer captivating nightlife and entertainment experiences.
Upon her debut in July 2024, Utopia will mark the first vessel in the groundbreaking Oasis Class to provide short getaway cruises, featuring 3-night weekend escapes and 4-night weekday adventures. Every voyage will include visits to The Bahamas' Nassau and CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island).
Notably, in January 2024, Perfect Day at CocoCay will unveil its first adults-only section Hideaway Beach Club.
Utopia's debut will also signify a significant environmental milestone, as she will be the first LNG-powered Oasis Class ship. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is recognized as one of the cleanest-burning marine fuels available. Building on the success of Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second LNG-powered vessel, Utopia will further RCI's longstanding commitment to environmental sustainability. This commitment encompasses a range of initiatives and features, from waste heat recovery systems to shore power connections, aligning with Royal Caribbean's dedication to responsible cruising practices.