A new record-breaking cruise ship is set to debut in Europe, further solidifying Royal Caribbean's dominance in the industry. The Legend of the Seas, a 20-deck-high vessel, will embark on its maiden voyage from Civitavecchia, Italy, on Saturday.
The ship, built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, is part of Royal Caribbean's Icon Class series, which continues to push the boundaries of ship sizes. The Legend of the Seas measures approximately 248,660 gross tons, making it the world's largest cruise ship, albeit by a small margin.
With a capacity for nearly 10,000 people, including 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, the Legend of the Seas is a behemoth of the seas. Its top deck features an array of amusements, including splash areas, pools, and family-friendly eateries.
The ship's maiden voyage will take it to various destinations in the Mediterranean, including Marseille, France; Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and La Spezia, Italy. In October, the Legend of the Seas will reposition to Florida, where it will operate alternating six- and eight-night sailings to the Western and Southern Caribbean.
Designed with families in mind, the Legend of the Seas boasts more cabins offering extra bunks to accommodate families with children. The ship's Surfside neighborhood, a dedicated area for families with young children, features splash areas, pools, and family-friendly eateries.
New features on the Legend of the Seas include a Hollywood-themed Supper Club, new food venues at the AquaDome Market, and a version of the Broadway hit "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Initial fares for seven-night sailings in the Mediterranean start at $1,480 per person, based on double occupancy.
