Oasis Class Grows: Keel Laying for Royal Caribbean’s Seventh Megaliner

Bild von Markus Lauff auf Pixabay
Major milestone at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France! On June 11, 2026, the official start of construction for Royal Caribbean International's seventh Oasis-class mega-ship was celebrated with a traditional keel-laying ceremony. During this historic maritime event, the first massive steel section, weighing hundreds of tons, was precisely lowered into the dry dock. To wish the floating giant safe travels, newly minted coins were placed beneath the first block according to ancient seafaring tradition. The parent company is pushing ahead with its rapid expansion: just one day prior, the cruise line took delivery of Legend of the Seas in Finland, the third vessel in the even larger Icon class.

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The currently unnamed newbuild (project number B35) is scheduled to enter service in 2028. Despite the introduction of the new Icon class, the Oasis platform remains the proven backbone for global family vacations. Spanning 18 decks, the ocean liner will accommodate up to 6,800 passengers across 2,867 staterooms, supported by a crew of 2,400. Measuring 362.1 meters in length with a maximum beam of 64 meters, the ship will be a true resort of superlatives. From spectacular water parks and surf simulators to climbing walls, an ice rink, and grand theaters, everything a vacationer could desire is onboard. Additionally, the cabin layouts will be optimized to cater to the growing trend of multi-generational family travel.

In terms of environmental protection, Royal Caribbean is utilizing state-of-the-art technology directly from the shipyard. Following in the footsteps of Utopia of the Seas, delivered in 2024, the new addition features a highly efficient dual-fuel propulsion system primarily powered by clean liquefied natural gas (LNG). This virtually eliminates sulfur oxides and particulate matter emissions. Thanks to an innovative air lubrication system, the hull will glide through the ocean on a carpet of micro-air bubbles, significantly reducing frictional resistance. Furthermore, an advanced waste heat recovery system converts engine exhaust energy into additional electricity for hotel operations. Shore-power connectivity ensures zero-emission port calls, while the vessel is also structurally prepared for future fuel cell integration.

The immense scale of this giant presents unique logistical challenges, leading the cruise line to invest heavily in its own exclusive destinations, such as "Perfect Day at CocoCay." Strategically, the parent company manages its major projects with precision: while the Icon class shines in Finland as the technological flagship of the premium segment, the modernized Oasis platform from France provides the economic foundation for the high-volume family market. With this dual-yard strategy, Royal Caribbean secures Europe's top engineering capacities, cementing its global dominance in the mega-ship industry.