Royal Caribbean Group Unveils Discovery Class, a Bold New Era of Cruising
Royal Caribbean Group Announces Discovery Class Ships Built in France
The company announced it has signed agreements with France’s famed Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard to build an all-new Discovery Class, a new family of ships designed to reshape how guests explore the world. The deal includes two firm ship orders, with options for four more, setting the stage for a long-term expansion of Royal Caribbean’s vacation lineup.
The first Discovery Class ship is scheduled to debut in 2029, followed by a second delivery in 2032. Construction will take place in Saint-Nazaire, France, continuing a partnership that dates all the way back to 1985.
According to Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty, the Discovery Class is all about pushing boundaries. These ships are intended to showcase what happens when innovative design meets purpose-driven experiences, using new technology and France’s world-class shipbuilding expertise to reimagine vacations for decades to come.
Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley added that the Discovery Class introduces a bold new concept with guests firmly at the center. From cutting-edge design to immersive, one-of-a-kind experiences, every detail is being crafted to surprise and delight, while sailing to breathtaking destinations around the globe.
Royal Caribbean Group Unveils Discovery Class
Chantiers de l’Atlantique CEO Laurent Castaing emphasized that the project is a chance to highlight the future of shipbuilding. With more than 21 ships already built for Royal Caribbean Group—including Oasis Class icons and Celebrity Cruises’ Edge Series, the shipyard is no stranger to headline-making vessels.
This latest announcement fits into Royal Caribbean Group’s broader strategy, which includes a growing pipeline of ocean and river ships, eight land-based destinations by 2028, an innovative loyalty program, and a seamless digital ecosystem. Together, it all reinforces the company’s position as a leader in vacation innovation.
Bottom line: a new class of ships is on the horizon, a legendary shipyard is at the helm, and Royal Caribbean Group is once again signaling that the future of cruising is anything but ordinary.