Royal Caribbean Group and Chantiers de l’Atlantique Form Strategic Alliance for Next-Generation “Discovery Class” Fleet
SAINT NAZAIRE, FRANCE – Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has formalized a strategic agreement with the renowned Chantiers de l’Atlantique (CdA) shipyard to pioneer the Discovery Class, a new category of cruise vessels designed to set a new benchmark for immersive global travel. This multi-vessel agreement includes two firm ship orders—scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2032—with options to construct four additional ships in the future.
Redefining the Guest Experience
The Discovery Class is engineered to modernize the cruise experience by blending architectural innovation with “purpose-led design.” According to Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty, the initiative is a testament to the company’s drive to bring the world closer to its guests. By leveraging France’s sophisticated shipbuilding ecosystem, the new class will utilize advanced technology to create one-of-a-kind, immersive moments that harmonize with the breathtaking destinations they visit.
A Legacy of Maritime Innovation
This latest venture strengthens a four-decade partnership between Royal Caribbean and the Saint Nazaire shipyard. The collaboration began in 1985 with the industry-shifting Sovereign Class and has since produced 21 vessels, including:
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Oasis Class: Featuring the revolutionary Harmony of the Seas.
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Edge Series: Award-winning designs for Celebrity Cruises.
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Current Projects: The shipyard is currently finalizing Oasis 7 and Celebrity Xcite.
Strategic Growth and Market Positioning
The announcement comes as Royal Caribbean Group executes a broader, multi-year portfolio expansion. This “differentiated ecosystem” aims to offer a seamless vacation experience across ocean, river, and land-based platforms. By 2028, the group expects to operate eight land-based destinations alongside its expanding fleet, all supported by a unified digital ecosystem and an evolved loyalty program.
Laurent Castaing, Chief Executive Officer, Chantiers de l’Atlantique said:
“Royal Caribbean Group has been keenly focused on disrupting the vacation industry with their innovative and bold vacation offerings. Partnering with Jason and Michael to bring the Discovery Class to life is an opportunity to showcase the future of shipbuilding. Together, we are shaping a new generation of ocean vacations that will lead the industry toward a more innovative future,”
Financial and Operational Outlook
While the ship orders remain contingent upon customary closing conditions and financing, the agreement underscores Royal Caribbean’s robust financial outlook and commitment to long-term capital investment. The Discovery Class will play a pivotal role in the company’s mission to deliver the world’s best vacation experiences responsibly.
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