Spotted: Countdown Begins for Launching of Ovation of the Seas

Image Courtesy: Meyer Werft

Ovation of the Seas, the third ship of the Quantum class ordered by US cruise operator Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, is scheduled for float-out on February 18, 2016.

The 168,666-gross ton cruise ship, which has been constructed in 18 months, will depart Meyer Werft’s covered building dock soon.

Over the last few weeks the German shipbuilder conducted extensive tests on the vessel, as well as interior work and machinery trials.

After it hits the water, Ovation of the Seas will undergo more tests in the harbor.

The ship will then be berthed alongside the yard’s outfitting pier for the finishing touches.

Able to carry 4,200 passengers, the new cruise ship is expected to join the Royal Caribbean’s crew in spring this year.

The company already has two Quantum-class ships in service, Quantum of the Seas, delivered in fall 2014, and Anthem of the Seas, delivered in spring 2015.

Royal Caribbean’s fourth cruise ship of the class, being built at Meyer Werft, was ordered in May and is expected for delivery in 2019.

The company ordered a fifth Quantum-class ship from the same shipyard in November 2015. The vessel is expected to be delivered in fall of 2020.

Image Courtesy: Meyer Werft