Oasis of the Seas currently sails around the Bahamas, Jamaica and Florida, but in 2014 the ship will make her debut in Europe for sailings from Southampton (UK) and Barcelona (Spain) after she is dry-docked in the Netherlands for routine maintenance for a couple of days in spring.
This once in a lifetime switch to Oasis’ schedule is currently piquing the interest of Arab holidaymakers, who are rushing to book up rooms on the ship, according to Helen Beck, the the regional director of Royal Caribbean International:
“She is coming next year, in September, to Europe and it’s creating a huge interest because, particularly in the Arab market here, they love the biggest and the best.”
“We have beautiful state room accommodation … duplexes called the Grand Loft Suites and they resonate very well with Arab guests and their families – particularly when you are booking a large family it’s perfect.”
Ms Beck adds that it’s the move from Caribbean waters to European seas that has helped to attract Arab families, as Oasis will now avoid the US immigration paperwork that can dissuade many would-be travellers from the region.
Before 2013, Royal Caribbean International operated a cruise ship from Dubai, but this did not generate as much profit as expected.
However, in contrast, the actual number of passengers booking cruises from the region has grown by double digits in recent years.
Speaking of this growth, Ms Beck added:
“This year, 2011-12, we had 15 per cent growth but previously we had 30 to 40 per cent growth, which is very healthy.”
“This year is already setting up to be very good and we are expecting to get back to 30 to 40 per cent this year versus last year in the Arab market.”
Oasis of the Seas is known for her exciting Caribbean sailings, but a routine pitstop for maintenance in the Netherlands has meant the company can offer these exciting European sailings onboard the ship for the first (and probably last) time!
After a few short cruises leaving from Barcelona, Oasis will sail to Southampton before embarking on a voyage over to Florida, USA.
The changes to Oasis’ schedule have been very well received so far, with many cruise fantastics rushing to book up their spots on this exclusive cruise trip.
Facilities onboard Oasis of the Seas:
Oasis of the Seas is one of the “most innovative ships at sea”, according to Royal Caribbean. Onboard you’ll find 7 different neighbourhood zones, each full of fun activities and experiences and designed to cater for all the family.
Here’s a selection of what else you can expect onboard:
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