Princess cruise line unveiled their newest ship under construction, the Royal Princess. Debuting in spring 2013, the 141,000-ton, 3,600-passenger cruise ship is the first of two new ships being built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone. A sister ship will be launched in spring 2014.
One new design element is the over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed enclosed walkway on the ship’s starboard side extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel.
From here passengers can enjoy dramatic views, including to the sea 128 feet below. On the ship’s port side, passengers will find a similarly-unique cantilevered SeaView bar, featuring cocktails with unbeatable vistas.
The top decks will feature a new adults-only pool surrounded by seven private cabanas that appear to be floating on the water. Two additional pools will flank a tropical island that offers pool seating by day, and will become a dance club by night, complete with a water and light show.
The popular poolside theater, Movies Under the Stars, will play a starring role mid-ship with an expanded size and high-definition viewing.
The Cruise Line Industry Association has estimated that 16 million cruise passengers are expected in 2011, a 6.6 percent increase over 2010. The most popular destinations are Alaska, Europe and the Caribbean.