STX  France  SA  signed  today  a  contract  for  building  a  cruise  ship  intended  for  the  Royal  Caribbean International (RCI – a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd) fleet. The third ship of the Oasis-class, this ship featuring outstanding dimensions is due for delivery in mid-2016. An option for a second ship due in mid-2018 has also been provided.

At 361 metres long and 66 metres wide, this ship is one of the biggest ever built in Saint-Nazaire. Oasis of the Seas  and  Allure  of  the  Seas  are  indeed  the  largest  and  most  revolutionary  cruise  ships  in  the  world. Architectural marvels at sea, they span 16 decks, encompass 225,282 gross registered tons, carrying 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms.

"The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas have fundamentally transformed the cruise experience for our guests," said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "These ships have consistently generated outstanding guest satisfaction ratings and continue to produce superior financial results.  We are thrilled to be adding a sister to this extraordinary class of vessels at a compelling price.  Being back building in France just adds to the pleasure."

This contract is worth 10 million working hours distributed over more than three years. Design will start in January 2013, while production is planned to start in September the same year.

"We are extremely proud to have been selected by Royal Caribbean International to build this third unit, which is a real challenge to our yard. This ship is a real exception in the cruise world and is highly innovative and  spectacular.  Moreover,  we  are  delighted  to  partner  with  Royal  Caribbean  again  and  continue  our decades-long relationship. Royal Caribbean has always been an important part of our shipyard’s success as we have  built twelve of their vessels. Our technical teams are already cooperating and are eager to start," declared Laurent Castaing, STX France Managing Director.