Royal Caribbean International (RCI) is upping the cruise ship ante once again with Quantum of the Seas, the newest ship of their considerable fleet and the first of the Quantum class. By all accounts, Quantum of the Seas is going to deliver the WOW factor that mega ship cruisers have come to love and expect from Royal Caribbean.

The new ship is expected to make her inaugural sailing in the fall of 2014 and then home port in Cape Liberty, NJ for the 2014-15 winter season. Quantum of the Seas will sail to Bahamas, eastern and southern Caribbean and Transatlantic, with a full capacity of 4,905 guests.

Quantum of the Seas Entertainment

Innovative shipboard activities are one of Royal Caribbean’s strong suits and Quantum of the Seas looks like it will live up to the reputation. Favorites from sister RCI ships like the FlowRider^®, the original shipboard surf simulator,

and the signature rock climbing wall will be found on Quantum, along with some cruise industry firsts. RipCord by iFly^® is a sky diving simulator that allows guests to feel the thrill of flying without having to jump out of a plane! Only available on the Quantum of the Seas, it’s safe for all ages.

Another first-at-sea is NorthStar that will lift 8-10 guests at a time in a glass capsule 300 feet above the ship and over the ocean, providing 360 degree bird’s-eye views of the sea, ship and land.

Indoor active spaces are nothing new on cruise ships, but Quantum of the Seas will have the largest at sea with some brand new experiences for cruisers of all ages. At SeaPlex you can take to the flying trapeze in circus school, or take it to the hoop on the regulation size basketball court during the day. By night, a DJ spins tunes from above as the space transforms into bumper car and roller skating arenas – more firsts debuting on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class.

Two other venues on Quantum of the Seas transform from day to night. Music Hall is the place to enjoy live musical performances in an intimate setting. By night, it becomes the ship’s entertainment center with dance and theme parties, bands and DJs. Two70° is another gathering place named for the 270 degree panoramic views from the two-and-a-half-story glass windows. By day, it’s an open and airy living room where guest can relax, chat and take in the scenery. By night, digital scenery replaces the view and becomes a backdrop to amazing acrobatic performance art and an ice bar.

Quantum of the Seas Staterooms

Royal Caribbean has always been a good choice for family cruising because they offer so many activities that appeal to a wide range of ages and interests, but now they have gone a step further by creating modular units called Family Connected Staterooms that sleep up to six in three adjoining spaces. These let larger families spend more time together, but have the luxury of space apart too.

Another Quantum-class first is the two-story Loft Suites, the most luxurious accommodation onboard. With expansive views, a loft bedroom, downstairs dining and sitting area, a private whirlpool and balcony, as well as a dedicated concierge, loft guests are completely pampered.

One more great innovation on Quantum of the Seas is the Virtual Balcony in interior staterooms. A high-definition screen that spans nearly floor to ceiling provides real-time views of the ocean and destinations! You’ll never get that dreaded claustrophobic feeling in this inside cabin.

With the multi-use venues, smart technology and novel entertainment features, Quantum of the Seas is sure to be a huge hit with multi-generational families and groups, as well as solo travelers and couples. Once again, Royal Caribbean is bringing innovation and creativity to cruising with the exciting new features on Quantum of the Seas.

Reservations for fall 2014 through April 2015 on Quantum of the Seas are now open. For more information, rates and availability, please contact Covington Travel.

Covington Travel is pleased to recognize Royal Caribbean International as a valued partner and sponsor of this post. Artistic renderings courtesy of RCI.