Royal Caribbean Orders Fourth Quantum Ship

Cruise line giant Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd has entered into an agreement with German shipbuilder Meyer Werft to order a fourth Quantum-class ship slated for delivery in 2019.

“Today’s announcement is a reflection of the success of the first two Quantum-class ships,” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman and CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

“We have received a remarkable response from travel agent partners and travelers, and are thrilled that we’ll be able to deliver another revolutionary ship with our partners at Meyer Werft.”

The Quantum class ships have 168, 000 gross tons and feature capacity of 4,200 passengers.

The third Quantum-class ship, Ovation of the Seas, is under construction at Meyer and is set to join Royal Caribbean’s fleet in spring 2016.

The sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, were delivered in fall 2014 and spring 2015 respectively.

Based upon current ship orders, projected capital expenditures for full year 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are USD 1.6 billion, USD 2.3 billion, USD 0.4 billion, USD 2.4 billion and USD 1.3 billion, respectively, the cruise liner said.

The company’s capacity increases for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 are expected to be 5.5%, 6.3%, 3.1%, 3.9% and 6.5%, respectively.

Royal Caribbean said that the order is contingent upon the completion of customary conditions, including financing.