Celebrity Cruises has taken a significant step in ship design with the signing of a letter of intent to build a new class of vessels, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and the French shipyard STX announced today. The two ships, which will have a capacity of 2,900 passengers and a gross tonnage of 117,000, will be developed under the name Project EDGE and will be built according to the "Modern Luxury" concept of the brand that owns the Millennium and Solstice class ships.
Measuring nearly 300 meters long, 37.5 meters wide, and 58 meters high, the Project EDGE ships will operate itineraries typical of smaller vessels but with the amenities of larger ones, providing a perfect vacation experience in line with today's premium passenger demands.
“The addition of the new Project EDGE ships to our fleet aligns with our long-term strategic plan for moderate capacity growth and continues the positive momentum Celebrity Cruises has achieved in the premium segment of the industry,” said Richard D. Fain, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises
“Our new class of ships will be the global benchmark for premium travel, offering a new generation of modern luxury experiences that our guests already know and love,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Celebrity Cruises. “STX France designs and builds some of the world’s most innovative and stylish cruise ships, and the EDGE project gives them the opportunity to set a new standard in iconic modern architecture. With these stunning new ships, we will take our guests to must-see destinations, bringing them even closer to the destination itself while they enjoy the most luxurious onboard environment, the finest culinary experiences, and exceptional service from our staff.”
“We are delighted to collaborate with Celebrity Cruises on this major step forward in the design of premium ships,” said Laurent Castaing, Managing Director of STX France. “This new class of ships will bring destinations closer to those passengers who want to experience everything the world has to offer.”
These ships also represent a significant leap forward in the design of environmentally friendly vessels, as they utilize new technologies to achieve more efficient use of fuel and sustainable materials.
The company expects delivery of the first ship in the fall of 2018 and the second to be completed in early 2020. The order is subject to customary closing conditions, including financing
Taking into account current orders, the planned investment for the years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 is $1.4 billion, $1.5 billion, $2.3 billion, $0.4 billion and $2.2 billion respectively.
Capacity increases of 2.4%, 5.5%, 6.7%, 3.8%, and 4.3% are expected for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018, respectively. These figures do not include potential ship sales or additions that the company may choose to make in the future.
