In 1988 Royal Caribbean introduced a new era of cruising with its ship Sovereign of the Seas, which is considered the industry’s very first mega-ship. Since then, they have built themselves into the second largest cruise line with the addition of numerous ships that cruise both the Caribbean and beyond.
This successful line has kept their ships in the water for many years, and has decided it’s time for a major overhaul on many of the older ships. This year, they are spending an estimated 70 million on the renovation of two ships, Radiance of the Seas (completed in May), and Splendour of the Seas (scheduled for transformation in November).
And yesterday, Royal Caribbean announced has a renovation in store for many more of its older ships over the next three years, including updates to the onboard electronic technology, cabins (including those designed specifically for families) and dining options.
These enhancements will come at a cost of approximately Royal Caribbean $300 million and will take place during month-long dry dock overhauls. The changes, termed “Royal Advantage Revitalizations” will bring older ships up to date with the newer, adding features that have been guest favorites and enhancing the Royal Caribbean cruising experience.
The renovation schedule is as follows.
2012:
- Rhapsody of the Seas (March 2012)
- Grandeur of the Seas (May 2012)
- Serenade of the Seas (November 2012)
2013 and 2014:
- Legend of the Seas
- Vision of the Seas
- Navigator of the Seas
- Voyager of the Seas
- Explorer of the Seas
- Adventure of the Seas
- Brilliance of the Seas
During this time, Royal Caribbean also plans more minor enhancements for three additional ships: Independence of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas.
RCI’s ships Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas saw improvements earlier this year, including the addition of new elements their latest ship, the seven-month-old Allure of the Seas.