As announced today, the newest ship for Royal Caribbean International – Quantum of the Seas will sail from Shanghai, China after the inaugural season in New York. It will do from three to eight night cruises to Korea and Japan.
This is first time in history of Royal Caribbean International when the newest ship will be outside of the US market.
Quantum of the Seas is planned to be delivered to Royal Caribbean International in November 2014. It will sail from Cape Liberty, Bayonne, NJ for 7-12 nights Caribbean itineraries. In May of 2015, the Quantum of the Seas will be repositioned to Shanghai – its home port for the season.
By moving the best ship in the feet to China, Royal Caribbean International is trying to achieve competitive advantage in the Asian market. China’s economic growth creates a lucrative market for cruise companies. Most cruise lines use the oldest ships there.
Quantum of the Seas will be the newest addition to the Voyager of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas. By adding the Quantum of the Seas to Asia, Royal Caribbean International will increase capacity by 66%. This will create a very strong presence in the region.
Liberty of the Seas will replace Quantum of the Seas for the summer 2015 in the New York market. She will do Bermuda, Caribbean and Canada/New England itineraries.
Starting in November 2015, Quantum’s sister ship – Anthem of the Seas will sail from Cape Liberty, Bayonne, NJ, for the Caribbean itineraries.