These hot new ships are making waves
Legend of the Seas
The newest ship from Royal Caribbean makes its Mediterranean debut this July, followed by island hops from Fort Lauderdale in November. The latest Icon Class ship is set to deliver the most dining at sea with 28 options, including Hollywoodland Supper Club, inspired by the golden age of Hollywood. Complete with sultry jazz, gourmet bites and cocktails, the multi-course dinner experience takes guests through a journey of cinema from 1910 to the 1950s. There’s also new nightlife and entertainment ranging from the at-sea debut of the Broadway hit, Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” to America’s Got Talent LIVE, which will deliver a reimagined extension of the global variety show by showcasing a lineup of unique acts and performers from the Got Talent universe, from magicians and musicians to acrobats, aerialists and more.
Four Seasons 1
The wait for the debut of Four Seasons Yachts is officially over, as Four Seasons 1 embarks on its maiden voyage this month with Captain Kate McCue at the helm. McCue first made waves as the first woman to command a mega-cruise ship. The first in the collection will feature 95 luxurious, residential-style suites ranging from 500 plus to nearly 10,000 total square feet. One of the most innovative features is a state-of-the-art transverse marina, which opens across both sides of the yacht. The two retractable platforms – one portside and one starboard side – along with a spacious interior bar and lounge area, will be the spot for guests to hang out and have access to the water alongside options for watersports, wellness, activities, relaxation and more. The luxury yacht will have a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio.
Explora III
Explora’s expansion plans are continuing on course, with Explora III launching ahead of schedule this July. The third ship in the luxury ocean travel brand’s fleet will officially be named in Barcelona on Aug. 1. With an increased length of 63 ft., the ship will offer a redesigned suite mix that favours Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, refined public areas and a second Owner’s Residence. From Spain, Explora III will start her Maiden Voyage to Lisbon and heads to new destinations in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later in the year. In addition to fan favourites, there will be three new dining concepts including The Chef’s Table, an intimate, multi-sensory exploration of creativity, with live preparation, storytelling and immersive presentation; and The Cellar, a haven for wine enthusiasts, where rare vintages and indigenous varietals can be discovered with expert guidance.
Norwegian Luna
Also making its debut this month is Norwegian Luna, the sister ship to Norwegian Aqua. NCL’s new Prima-Plus class ship has many similar core features, including the popular Aqua Slidecoaster, the first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea. A new headline show, “Rocket Man: A Celebration of Elton John” will come to life on the ship. The high-energy, concert-style production features iconic hits like Rocket Man, Tiny Dancer, Bennie and the Jets and Don’t Go Breaking My Heart alongside archival footage of the well-known performer from over the years. Another option is “Syd Norman’s Presents: A Tribute to the Eagles,” set in the intimate pub-style venue with the same name. Guests will also notice updated interiors, dining and Luna Midway, an open-air, amusement park-style area featuring carnival-inspired games located on the top decks of the ship.
















