2016 is going to be a bumper year in the cruising world! Did you know there will be a total of 7 new ships launched at some point this year?
So, what can you look forward to?
Holland America have not introduced a new ship since 2010, that is a long time! This year though they are launching the Koningsdam in April which will take 2650 passengers. The ship will have a show kitchen where you can cook during the day and dine at night, this seems to be very popular don’t you think? There will also be a new seafood restaurant as well as the only purpose built wine blending venue at sea!
Royal Caribbean of course, are launching the Ovation Of The Seas also in April. The ship will be based in China as this market is on the up! The ship will take 4180 passengers – lots of “high tech” which I am sure you have already read about.
Viking are launching the Viking Sea, again in April. A bit smaller this one with 930 passengers. They are including drinks, wi – fi, and some shore excursions in the price, same concept as the river cruises. This will be interesting to see how it goes.
Carnival are launching the Vista in May. This will be in the Med for the summer, sailing from Barcelona. 3954 passengers will enjoy a “fun” time. I like the look of this ship as it will have a dedicated family as well as an adults only area.
Back to Royal Caribbean with the brand new Harmony Of The Seas in June. 5497 passengers on this one – wow! Have you seen the new water slide they have called “the abyss?” I would like to think I had the guts to try it – sadly not!
Now we move to the luxury market. Regent Seven Seas will be launching the Explorer in July. With only 738 passengers it is tiny compared to these other big boys. Regent say this is the most luxurious ship ever made – a bold statement to make however, knowing Regent I think it will be wonderful.
Lastly we have the Seabourn Encore, which is due to be launched in December. This will take 604 passengers and I bet you this one will be fab! There is a lot of talk about this ship because of the partnership with Thomas Keller, the world famous chef. Seabourn have sold 3 of its oldest ships in the last couple of years, again, would love to see this one!
So there you have it another 7 ships to wet your appetite. Some say can the cruising world cope with another 7 ships? Well, cruising is still on the increase, and why not? I can’t think of anything better then to cruise – there again I am biased!
There is a massive choice out there, if you need a hand you know where I am!