After quietly disposing of the Monarch of the Seas, its oldest (22 years) ship, Royal Caribbean filled the space in the stable with the much-heralded Quantum of the Seas. When it hits the water, Quantum will kick-start the seventh class of ships for the cruise line and be followed a year later by a sister called Anthem. Quantum's permanent home port will be Bayonne, NJ, to serve the growing New York market.
Launch date: November 2
Capacity: 4,905
Sister ships: None (yet)
Maiden Voyage: Southampton to Bayonne
Home Port: Bayonne, New Jersey
Ships in Royal Caribbean fleet: 22
Interesting: This new ship is being called revolutionary for its North Star, a pod at the end of a mechanical arm that extends — with up to 14 thrill-seekers in it — over the ocean at a height of 300 feet. Also unique is the chance to "sky dive" inside the RipCord by iFly, a simulator with vertical wind to keep you airborne. Quantum's not as big as the Oasis Class ships, and will carry between (according to reports) 4,180 and 4,905 passengers, who will also be introduced to a first-of-its-kind sports and entertainment complex that Royal Caribbean has branded SeaPlex. Also new, rooms with balconies for singles.
Holland America Eurodam
14 nights
March 30, 2014
Fort Lauderdale, Ponta Delgada, Cadiz, Almeria, Cartagena, Rome
Inside: $699
Cost per day: $49
www.hollandamerica.com