Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas, the world’s third-largest cruise ship, emerged last week from a dry dock in Germany.
The ship was floated out at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg in northwest Germany ahead of sea trials in September, Britain’s Mail Online reported.
Before that happens, engineers will test its functions, including thrusters and stabilizers, and finishing touches will be applied. The massive ocean liner will set off on its maiden voyage from Southampton to a port near New York City on Nov. 2.
Quantum of the Seas is a massive 4,180-passenger vessel that weighs 167,800 registered tons. It is the first in a new class of ships for Royal Caribbean International.
The 18-deck ship boasts a number of exclusive amenities and firsts at sea, including an observation capsule that extends over the water, a skydiving simulator and the largest guest rooms of any Royal Caribbean vessel.
One of the principal features is the North Star, a jewel-shaped observation capsule attached to a mechanical arm that lifts its occupants 300 feet above sea level. The passenger pod, similar to the capsules on the London Eye, offers 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean.
With an activity area known as SeaPlex, the ship will be an ideal option for parents who are looking to keep their children entertained. SeaPlex is the biggest indoor active space at sea, complete with a flying trapeze, basketball court and three firsts for a cruise ship — bumper cars, roller skating and a food truck.
