Steel Cut on Fourth Oasis-Class Cruise Ship

Photo courtesy Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean has announced that the first steel has been cut for the fourth Oasis-class ship, marking the official start of construction for the next installment of the world’s largest cruise ships.

The steel cutting took place at the STX France shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where the third and fourth Oasis-class ships are being built.

The first Oasis ship, Oasis of the Seas, was introduced in 2009, followed closely by the Allure of the Seas in 2010. At 225,282 gross tons, the vessels are the largest cruise ships in the world, spanning 16 decks with 2,700 staterooms. The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas currently sail alternating seven-night Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries every Saturday and Sunday from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The third and fourth Oasis ships will be delivered in 2016 and 2018, respectively, and details of the ships will be revealed in the coming months, Royal Caribbean said.

Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas were both built at STX Europe in Turku, Finland, which is now owned by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft and the Finnish government.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up