Royal Caribbean Advances Construction on New Oasis-Class Ship
Royal Caribbean has reached a significant construction milestone for its seventh Oasis-class vessel, officially beginning physical assembly at the Chantiers de L’Atlantique shipyard in France. This development marks an exciting step forward for the highly anticipated addition to their groundbreaking fleet.
What Happened
The keel-laying ceremony for the as-yet-unnamed ship, currently referred to as Oasis 7 or B35, took place on June 11, 2026. This traditional maritime event signifies the start of the vessel’s physical assembly, as massive pre-fabricated blocks will now be set into place to form the ship’s structure. Shipyard officials and Royal Caribbean executives gathered to mark the occasion, including the customary sealing of coins beneath the first steel block for good fortune.
Scheduled for completion in 2028, the vessel is projected to be approximately 236,900 gross tons, consistent with the impressive scale of its sister ships. While specific details about its features remain under wraps, the ship is expected to embody the innovative design and expansive offerings characteristic of the Oasis class, which currently includes ships like Oasis of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.
This milestone follows the initial steel-cutting for Oasis 7 in October 2025, which began the process of creating the individual components. The two-year construction period at the French shipyard will see the ship come to life, deck by deck, eventually showcasing the signature neighborhoods, diverse dining venues, and extensive entertainment options that define the Oasis class experience.
Why It Matters for Travelers
The progression of Oasis 7’s construction is a positive sign for travelers eager for new cruise options and experiences. The addition of another vessel to the popular Oasis class means increased capacity and potentially more diverse itineraries across various destinations once the ship debuts. This expansion can provide greater flexibility for booking sailings, especially during peak travel seasons, offering more opportunities to experience these renowned ships.
Travelers particularly drawn to Royal Caribbean’s innovative ship design and array of onboard activities will find even more choices. The Oasis class is celebrated for its groundbreaking features, from the iconic Central Park and Boardwalk neighborhoods to the thrilling Aquatheater, catering to a wide range of interests for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. The consistent popularity of these ships underscores the demand for their unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
For those who enjoy the specific short-cruise format introduced with Utopia of the Seas, a sister ship to Oasis 7, this new vessel could potentially offer similar convenient getaways. While its specific deployment and itinerary length have yet to be revealed, the continued investment in this class suggests Royal Caribbean is keen to expand on proven successes that resonate with a broad traveler base.
What to Expect Next
As construction advances over the next two years, travelers can anticipate more details to be released regarding Oasis 7, including its official name, homeport, and initial itineraries. These announcements typically spark high interest, offering an early glimpse into future vacation planning opportunities. Bookings for new ships often open well in advance of their maiden voyages, allowing travelers to secure their spot on these highly sought-after sailings.
Royal Caribbean will likely unveil specific features and innovations unique to Oasis 7, building upon the established success of its predecessors while introducing new elements to enhance the guest experience. Keeping an eye on official announcements from the cruise line and reputable travel news sources will be key for those planning to be among the first to sail on this magnificent new ship.
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