We're five weekends away from the official launch of Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas.
The brand-new party ship will focus on short getaways to The Bahamas, namely Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Guests onboard the 5,668-passenger vessel can enjoy an exciting array of amenities, from exhilarating waterslides to mesmerizing high-diving shows and the cruise line's first immersive train car dining experience.
“With the delivery of Utopia of the Seas, we have the keys to the ultimate weekend,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.
Read more: Royal Caribbean takes delivery of new cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas
“This is the short vacation that packs every way to make amazing memories in a 3-night weekend or 4-night weekday getaway. Vacationers want every minute to be a minute well spent, and the unmatched combination of Utopia and Perfect Day at CocoCay will deliver that. We are proud and excited to soon debut Utopia in a big way!”
Here's a first look at the new Utopia of the Seas.
Resort-style pool deck
The expansive pool deck is designed to be a haven for guests to soak up every moment of the Bahamian sun. With five pools—more than the days to count—, eight hot tubs, three waterslides, and a dedicated aqua park for children, there are plenty of ways to relax and play aboard Utopia of the Seas.
Plus, with the addition of the new "food truck" dining venue, passengers don't need to travel far for a quick bite to eat. Dishing up "handheld favorites" like pulled pork sandwiches, cheeseburger flatbreads, daily rotating desserts, and more, the new dining concept is a convenient way to fuel up without straying far from the poolside fun.
Read more: "There will be nothing better on planet Earth": First look at Royal Caribbean's new weekend party cruise ship
Royal Caribbean designed the pool deck to cater to all ages and preferences, which is why you'll find three thrilling Perfect Storm waterslides, a children's aqua park, and three Lime & Coconut bars. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-filled afternoon or a tropical poolside co*cktail, the pool deck aboard Utopia of the Seas won't disappoint.
"From the ultimate multigenerational vacation on this year’s earlier debut of Icon of the Seas to now the ultimate weekend getaway on Utopia of the Seas, we are laser-focused on delivering a variety of vacation options and priceless memories for our guests," said Jason Liberty, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean Group.
Other onboard activities include the zip line, ice skating rink, FlowRider surf simulator, miniature golf course, rock climbing walls, and Utopia Playscape for kids.
Revamped Ultimate Abyss
Utopia of the Seas' Ultimate Abyss is not only the cruise line's longest yet, but also the longest dry slide at sea! Measuring 259 feet long, Royal Caribbean reclaimed the title after it was stolen by MSC World Europa's 250-foot Venom Drop.
It's 43 feet longer than the Ultimate Abyss slides on other Oasis Class ships and about 10 times longer than a London double-decker bus.
Those brave enough to plummet down the 10-story slide will begin their adventure on Deck 16, speeding through the new transparent racing windows and zoom booster rollers for a "surprise exit" on the Boardwalk.
Adults-only Solarium
Found at the front of the ship on Deck 15, the Solarium is a Royal Caribbean staple available to passengers 18 years and older. This adults-only area is a sanctuary of tranquility for those who might not want to be in the middle of all the action on the pool deck.
Hideaway Beach, the adults-only beach at CocoCay, costs extra. However, it's worth the splurge for those seeking a kid-free day on the island.
Relocated Izumi
Though not a new dining concept, Izumi onboard Utopia of the Seas will be relocated to Central Park, a first for an Oasis Class ship. With six teppanyaki tables, Utopia's Izumi will be the largest in the fleet.
Additionally, there will be three different dining styles: teppanyaki, sushi, and, for the first time, a private multicourse omakase-inspired dining room. There will also be a to-go sushi window to grab delicious rolls, hot gyoza, or soft-serve bubble cones for an extra charge.
Read more: Utopia of the Seas restaurant and dining guide
Sushi isn't everyone's favorite, though. With more than 40 ways to dine and drink, there's something for everyone on the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, whether you are craving a juicy steak, fresh piece of pizza, or poolside Mexican fare.
It will also be the only ship with the new immersive train car dining experience, Royal Railway - Utopia Station. The unique dishes, specialty co*cktails, and overall ambiance promise to deliver a memorable meal while "transporting" you through different times and places, including America's Wild West.
Fans of Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar will appreciate the revamp, as the restaurant will span two stories and feature a terrace overlooking the Boardwalk.
Utopia of the Seas will welcome paying guests onboard for the first time on July 19
With Utopia officially in the hands of Royal Caribbean, the anticipation for the ship's inaugural voyage continues to grow.
Departing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, Utopia of the Seas will call at CocoCay on July 20 and Nassau on July 21 before returning to Florida and welcoming a new set of passengers onboard for a 4-night cruise, which includes one sea day.
The ship introduces a new era of cruising, as it's the line's first ship entering service catering to the short cruising market. Rather than reserving older vessels for 3- and 4-night sailings, those loyal to the brand or curious about cruising can experience cutting-edge amenities and world-class entertainment not found on any other short cruise in the world.
