Royal Caribbean confirms 2 ships in new Discovery Class

Royal Caribbean Group has secured shipbuilding slots for a brand-new Discovery Class with French shipyard Chantiers de l’Atlantique. The agreement includes two confirmed ship orders with the option for four additional vessels.

The first ship in the new series is set to debut in 2029, with the second following in 2032.

Speaking last December on a webcast from sister publication Travel Weekly, Royal Caribbean President Michael Bayley revealed the line wanted to ensure the ships were designed in a a way that would enable them to operate in more ports, particularly in the Mediterranean and Alaska.

He also outlined an aim for the ships to be able to transit the Panama Canal to save up to 40 days moving between Alaska and the Caribbean.

Last year, the group confirmed an order for a fifth Icon Class ship and an option for a seventh as part of a long-term agreement with the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. The line’s third, fourth and fifth Icon Class ships, and a seventh Oasis Class ship, are scheduled to be delivered by 2028.

Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty said: "The Discovery Class represents our continued commitment to shaping the future of vacations.

“These ships will be a showcase of what’s possible when design meets purpose, ultimately bringing the world closer to our guests."

RELATED:

Royal Caribbean confirms fifth Icon in 10-year shipyard deal

Connections Cruise Arabia returns to Dubai in 2026

Royal Caribbean to debut multi-brand loyalty programme