Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas- WOW

Royal Caribbean Debuts New "Neighborhoods" on Oasis
Published on: June 19, 2008



Royal Caribbean International introduced its latest amenities planned for its newest ship, Oasis of the Seas. Launching in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the world's largest and most revolutionary ship, with a total capacity of roughly 6,300 passengers (third and fourth berths included). The company, which in April debuted a Central Park running down the center of the ship, yesterday unveiled the Boardwalk, a space for families inspired by the nostalgic seaside piers of yesteryear, plus the first amphitheater at sea, AquaTheater, which will celebrate water with the largest freshwater pool found on a ship offering a full spectrum of activities and performances for guests. Central Park, the Boardwalk and AquaTheater will all be located on one deck, with AquaTheater in the stern. In addition, a new version of the Royal Promenade will allow guests to have a physical connection with the neighborhood above, Central Park, as natural light cascades down from the sky through the Crystal Canopy sculptured glass domes.

Reminiscent of the piers that dot the coast of England and amusement parks such as Coney Island, the elements of Boardwalk will engage the entire family in classic fun with eateries, retail outlets and carnival games. An original, handcrafted carousel -- the first at sea -- will be the centerpiece of this neighborhood. Two rock-climbing walls and the first zip-line at sea will be suspended nine decks above the Boardwalk. AquaTheater, created to offer two unique experiences, will allow guests to swim in the theater's magnificent kidney-shaped pool, relax on sun loungers located on tiered platforms surrounding the pool, and even take Scuba lessons in the afternoon. At night, the venue will deliver a complete sensory experience playing on the element of surprise as audience members witness the area come alive with theatrical performances featuring dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet, and professional high-diving, as well as elaborate fountain shows synchronized to music and lights.

Royal Caribbean also introduced a series of industry-first loft suites offering expansive ocean views and luxury amenities. The 28 contemporary two-level loft suites will feature vibrant, ocean-inspired colors in a sophisticated and spacious setting. The lofts will feature spectacular views of the ocean with floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows. The signature lofts will round out a new portfolio of 37 categories of accommodation options, many with views unique to Oasis of the Seas, such as Central Park and the Boardwalk. "We are particularly excited about the neighborhood concept, which gives guests compelling choices and the ability to flow seamlessly throughout the ship to meet their individual desires and preferences," said Richard Fain, chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
Additions to Royal Promenade, the heart of the ship, will include a mezzanine level that overlooks the main promenade below. The Royal Promenade will be home to a vast array of shopping, dining and entertainment options including the Rising Tide bar, the first moving bar at sea, which will traverse three decks and allow cruisers to enjoy a cocktail as they slowly ascend into Central Park. A focal point will be a giant copper globe sculpture built into the facade above the Globe, and Atlas Pub, which will "crack open" to create a spectacular, surprise element for guests, as it unfurls on hinged hydraulics and becomes a bridge platform for performances. Other options include the Schooner Bar and Champagne Bar; the new Mondo Coffee Bar; Focus, a photo shop and gallery; and the Boleros Latin dance club.

"Royal Caribbean is proud to introduce a number of industry firsts on a level and scale that the world has never seen before," said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. "Oasis of the Seas is the ultimate expression of the creativity and imagination found on all of our ships, providing guests with a collection of experiences that will offer an incredible cruise vacation.

When she launches in December 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. She will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line's new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which includes Central Park, Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale.