Summary
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) announced on August 18, 2004, that it has secured an extension on its option to purchase a second "Ultra Voyager" class ship. This option, originally set to expire on August 31, 2004, has been pushed back to September 30, 2004. This extension provides the company with additional time to finalize its decision regarding the construction of a new vessel slated for delivery in 2007. The first "Ultra Voyager" ship, ordered in September 2003 for a May 2006 delivery, will be operated by the Royal Caribbean International brand. These new vessels are significantly larger than the existing Voyager-class ships, featuring 18 stories, a cruising speed of approximately 22 knots, and capacity for 3,600 guests and 1,400 crew members when at full occupancy. The decision on the second ship will impact future fleet capacity and investment for the company.
Key Highlights
- 1Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) received an extension on its option to purchase a second Ultra Voyager ship.
- 2The option deadline was extended from August 31, 2004, to September 30, 2004.
- 3The second Ultra Voyager ship is scheduled for delivery in 2007.
- 4The builder of the first Ultra Voyager ship is Kvaerner Masa-Yards of Finland.
- 5The first Ultra Voyager ship is set for delivery in May 2006.
- 6The Ultra Voyager class ships are approximately 15% larger than existing Voyager-class ships.
- 7Each Ultra Voyager ship will carry 3,600 guests and 1,400 crew at 100% occupancy.