It’s official – the newest and most innovative ship in the Royal Caribbean lineup has arrived. Wonder of the Seas has been delivered to the Royal Caribbean International family after three years of construction and is ready to set sail on a journey of wonder and adventure. The ship, which was officially handed over during a traditional flag-changing ceremony in Marseille, France, with shipyard partner Chantiers de l’Atlantique, will make its debut in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 4.
“Wonder of the Seas will revolutionize cruising in a bigger and bolder way,” says Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “This ship elevates the company to the forefront of innovation and new features, delivering world-class and memorable vacations responsibly to guests around the world.”
Ship highlights include:
- Suite Neighborhood – The new, eighth neighborhood offers Royal Suite Class guests an elevated Suite Sun Deck in a new location, complete with a plunge pool, bar and plenty of loungers and nooks to kick back; along with favorites such as Coastal Kitchen, the private restaurant; the Suite Lounge, and the largest Ultimate Family Suite yet to host a family of 10.
- The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar – The new hotspot serves up southern staples and new twists on classics for brunch, dinner and in the late night, including savory johnnycakes, southern fried chicken, crab beignets, and shrimp and grits. Completing the experience is live country music, farmhouse-style decor, a collection of American whiskeys and spiked shakes.
- Wonder Playscape – The underwater-themed play area for kids is a whole new adventure with slides, climbing walls, games, an interactive mural activated by touch and imaginative puzzles.
- Vue Bar – The happiest of happy hours can be found at the new cantilevered bar that offers panoramic ocean views by day, and after sunset, it shines bright with a colorful mosaic canopy.
- Caribbean pool deck – At the center of the Caribbean vibes is The Lime & Coconut, alongside the trio of high-speed waterslides, The Perfect Storm; kids aqua park Splashaway Bay, Casitas, in-pool loungers, live music; and more.
- El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca – The grab-and-go spot for Mexican delights, like made-to-order tacos, burritos and quesadillas, now debuts Cantina Fresca. The dedicated bar serves a selection of “aguas frescas,” margaritas and other Mexican staples.
According to Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, Wonder of the Seas is the result of 30 months of hard work and collaboration between more than 2,000 crew members and workers who are dedicated to delivering the best possible experience to guests. “Wonder of the Seas sets the stage for the spring and summer vacations families and travelers alike are looking forward to,” says Bayley. “This latest and most innovative ship offers a combination of brand-new features and favorites that span thrills, entertainment, dining, and nightlife, making it the world’s newest wonder and the ultimate vacation in the Caribbean and Europe.”
Upcoming Cruises:
- Sailing from Fort Lauderdale – Wonder will set sail to the Caribbean from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale between March and April 2022. The 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries include visits to the cruise line‘s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, The Bahamas; Roatan, Honduras; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
- Sailing from Barcelona and Rome – Starting in May, the new Oasis Class ship charts course for summer vacations in the Mediterranean. The 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises will visit marquee destinations like Naples and Florence, Italy; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Provence, France.
- Sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida – Year-round adventures on Wonder begin in November 2022, when the newest addition to the Royal Caribbean lineup cruises to the Caribbean from Port Canaveral. The destinations vacationers have in store range from Perfect Day at CocoCay and Philipsburg, St. Maarten, to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Cozumel, Mexico.
Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, says that Wonder of the Seas represents a new step forward in the Oasis Class ships. “Our teams have worked together to make major changes that enhance the ship’s performance,” says Castaing. “Wonder is really an outstanding new ship.”
So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable vacation experience onboard the world’s newest wonder, Wonder of the Seas. Whether you’re a family, a solo traveler, or a couple, this ship offers something for everyone and promises to take your vacation to the next level.