Royal Carribean picks STX France to build 3rd OASIS class ship
STX France SA signed today a contract for building a cruise ship intended for Royal Caribbean International (RCI - subsidiary of RCCL) fleet. 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 is also provided, STX Europe press release said.
With 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 millions working hours distributed over more than three years. Studies 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 as it 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 should get back quickly to a cooperation mind. We are eager to start" declared Laurent Castaing, STX France Managing Director.
STX France SA is part of STX Europe AS, an international shipbuilding group which aims to be the leading builder of cruise vessels, ferries and other specialized vessels. STX Europe AS is also the majority shareholder in STX OSV Holdings Limited listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). The group has a strong position in terms of developing state-of-the-art concepts, technology, processes and products for customers around the world. STX Europe comprises 6 shipyards in Finland, France and Norway in addition to 9 shipyards belonging to STX OSV Holdings Limited. STX Europe has STX Europe Group has approximately 14,000 employees. See: www.stxeurope.com
STX Europe's principal shareholder, the international industrial group STX, has approximately 54 000 employees and aims to be a global top player in its core areas; shipping and trade, shipbuilding and machineries, plant and construction, and energy.