Royal Caribbean is making bold moves when it comes to growing their brand in Asia. This month they announced that their most anticipated ship, the Quantum of the Seas, will be going to China in May 2015 to home port in Shanghai.
The Quantum of the Seas, which won’t debut until November 2014, is being built to include spectacular features like the North Star, which is a capsule attached to a mechanical arm that takes passengers soaring above the water with amazing views of their surroundings. There will also be bumper cars, a simulated sky diving experience and a three-story lounge with digital screens to back up aerialists and other performers.
When it debuts, the Quantum will be sailing from Cape Liberty, just outside New York City, on itineraries to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. In May, this ship will make the journey to Shanghai where she will be sailing 3- to 8-night itineraries that feature stops in Japan and South Korea. Royal Caribbean is making this major move as a way to gain traction with the growing population of Chinese who are looking for exciting ways to spend their free time.
Adam Goldstein, President and COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. said that the Chinese want the best quality and Quantum will deliver that. “We are ready to accelerate the growth of this vital market with a ship that will capture the imagination of travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind vacation experience,” he said in a statement.
As Royal Caribbean aims to grow their market in Asia, they are keenly aware of their base in America. The Anthem of the Seas, which will be the sister ship to the Quantum of the Seas, is debuting in April 2015 in Southampton, England. The Anthem will sail in Europe until November 2015 when she will begin her home port in Cape Liberty, NJ. The Liberty of the Seas will also be sailing from Cape Liberty starting in the summer of 2015.
Quantum will undergo a few changes to accommodate the lifestyles and culture of Chinese passengers, but Royal Caribbean also expects to have their fair share of American, Australian and European passengers experiencing Asia on this brand new ship.
Do you think moving the Quantum of the Seas to China is a good decision? Would you cruise from Shanghai on the Quantum in 2015? Cruisers, we know you have opinions on this and we’d love to hear them, so comment below!
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Quantum of the Seas to Home Port in China