Royal Caribbean took delivery of Utopia of the Seas during a ceremony held at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, increasing the number of their operational ships to 28.
The 236,860 gross registered ton (GRT) vessel holds the title of the second-largest cruise ship in the world, just behind the giant Icon of the Seas. It's the company's first new build specifically targeting the short cruise market, offering 3- and 4-night sailings to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida.
Onboard, guests travelers can expect Oasis Class staples, including the Boardwalk and Central Park Neighborhoods, zip line, Aquatheater, Rising Tide Bar, and thrilling Ultimate Abyss dry slide. In addition to brand favorites, Royal Caribbean has introduced new innovative features, including the immersive train car specialty restaurant and Pesky Parrot Bar for tropical libations.
At double occupancy, Utopia of the Seas can host 5,668 passengers in her 2,834 cabins, including the 2,476-square-foot Ultimate Family Suite
The Ultimate Family Suite first debuted on Symphony of the Seas. The two-story suite is every child's dream, as well as those young at heart!
The most expensive accommodation onboard, those lucky enough to stay in the Ultimate Family Suite will enjoy lavish amenities, such as a Royal Genie (AKA butler), private suite-only dining room and sun deck, complimentary beverage and Wi-Fi packages, and even an in-suite slide and movie theater!
Not every traveler can spend upwards of $6,000 per person on a short getaway. Other staterooms range from affordable inside cabins to the brand-new Solarium Suites that offer 280-degree views, ensuring that guests with varying budgets can find a comfortable option for their cruise that doesn't break the bank.
Prices start at $393 per person for an interior room on a 3-night sailing. During peak travel months, however, expect fares to reach as high as $1,021 per guest for an inside cabin, reflecting the popularity of the new ship and the demand for travel during summer and winter holidays.
Read more: How much does a 3 day cruise cost?
All sailings are scheduled to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas
Since undergoing a $250 million renovation in 2019, Perfect Day at CocoCay has received praise from passengers and industry experts. Now, it's regarded as one of the top cruise desintations in the world.
Guests can select from various excursions, from the exciting Thrill Waterpark to the relaxing Coco Beach Club and adults-only Hideaway Beach. There are also plenty of complimentary amenities, including the Oasis Lagoon freshwater pool and complimentary lounge chairs and umbrellas on the white sand beaches.
Located roughly 240 miles from Port Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay is the ultimate tropical getaway for those short on time, and just about every sailing on Utopia of the Seas is scheduled to stop at the award-winning island (excluding a 4-night cruise to Cozumel in May 2025).
Combined with the onboard amenities, guests can relax in 10 pools or race down 18 adrenaline-pumping waterslides during their short vacation, ensuring enough ways to chill and play regardless of whether you're staying onboard or spending all day in the island's sun.
With over 40 food and beverage options onboard, you won't go thirsty or hungry
Between fresh slices of pizza at Sorrento's for a quick pick-me-up after spending all day in the Bahamian sun to indulgent meals in the included Main Dining Room and immersive experiences at Utopia Station - Royal Railway, you will find a culinary adventure to suit all tastes, budgets, and preferences.
In addition to the brand-new train car restaurant, guests can enjoy bites at the new poolside "food truck," sushi in Central Park at Izumi, a first on an Oasis Class ship for the beloved Japanese eatery, and for the first time, and two-story Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.
While the delivery of a ship signifies the official transfer of ownership, that doesn't mean the vessel is ready to enter regular service
During the construction process, the shipyard—Chantiers de l'Atlantique in the case of Utopia—is responsible for the vessel. After delivery, liability shifts to the cruise line, which will care for the ship while completing some finishing touches.
Additionally, before welcoming paying customers, the ship will undergo a series of shakedown voyages, allowing crew members to familiarize themselves with their daily operations and ensure everything runs smoothly. Plus, they often serve as a preview for media outlets and travel agents, so they can get a firsthand look at the ship's features and amenities.
Read more: How are cruise ships built?
Following Utopia's shakedown cruises, guests will be welcomed onboard for the maiden voyage on July 19
Utopia's inaugural voyage was initially scheduled for July 22; however, construction moved faster than anticipated, so Royal Caribbean bumped up the date of the first sailing, allowing the ship to entire service three days earlier than planned.
Now, Utopia of the Seas will depart from Port Canaveral on July 19 on a 3-night cruise visiting CocoCay and Nassau.
Royal Caribbean isn't done building Oasis Class ships
Oasis of the Seas' launch in 2009 shook up the cruise industry, marking the first time a cruise ship had ever been over 200,000 GRT. The interior-facing balcony balconies, zip line, AquaTheater, and distinct neighborhoods were industry-firsts, too.
With the addition of Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class is comprised of six different ships: Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder, and Utopia of the Seas. Though each has similar offerings, all ships have their own distinct charm. Allure, for instance, is currently the only ship within the class not to feature the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, whereas Utopia has the longest rendition of the slide onboard.
Similarly, Harmony of the Seas is the only Oasis Class ship with the specialty restaurant Sabor. When Symphony of the Seas launched, it was replaced by Playmakers.
In February, Royal Caribbean announced they placed an order for a seventh Oasis Class ship set to debut in 2028, adding to the impressive lineup.
Elizabeth Wright
Elizabeth graduated from New York University's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute with her M.A. in Journalism in May 2023. Growing up, she had the privilege of traveling frequently with her family and fell in love with cruising after sailing on the Oasis of the Seas her freshman year of high school. She wanted to pursue a career that highlighted her passion for travel and strengths as a writer.
