Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas, has officially left the shipyard where it was constructed. On Friday, the ship left the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, and is bound for Marseille ahead of its official handover in January of 2022.
Wonder of the Seas is to remain in Marseille for several months before sailing across the Atlantic to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for its maiden voyage in March 2022.
Record Breaking Wonder of the Seas
Once the cruise ship is handed over to Royal Caribbean, scheduled for January 2022, it will officially claim the title of the world’s largest cruise ship. Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis-class ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. At 236,857 gross tons, the vessel is larger, by gross tonnage, than its 230,000-ton sister ship, Symphony of the Seas.
The ship completed trial runs more than a year ago, but the launch has been delayed due to the pandemic. Excitement for the ship’s launch is palpable as the Oasis-class ships are some of the most popular cruises in the world.
In addition to radically redesigned decks, Wonder of the Seas will include several enhancements and new features not found on other Oasis-class vessels. The new additions include a brand-new Suite Class neighborhood complete with a plunge pool, bar, and the exclusive Suite Lounge, and Coastal Kitchen restaurant.
For kids, Wonder of the Seas introduces the Wonder Playscape, an open-air underwater-themed kids’ play area with slides, climbing walls, games, puzzles, and an interactive mural.
Another first onboard the Wonder of the Seas is The Vue, a brightly colored bar extending over the ship’s side, with unbeatable views of the horizon.
The ship also features the return of Royal Caribbean fan-favorites such as the FlowRider® and Ultimate Abyss℠.
