It’s official, Royal Caribbean fans! After years of rumors and "Project Discovery" whispers, Royal Caribbean Group has finally confirmed that a brand-new class of ships is on the horizon.

Named the Discovery Class, these ships are set to break the bigger is better mold we’ve seen with the Icon and Oasis Classes. In a move that has seasoned cruisers cheering, Royal Caribbean is returning to its roots with a focus on destination-focused, immersive cruising.

Here is everything we know about the Discovery Class and why it’s the most exciting news since the reveal of Icon of the Seas.

The Big Announcement: What We Know So Far

On January 29, 2026, Royal Caribbean Group signed an agreement with the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France—the same legendary yard that built the Oasis Class and the original Sovereign of the Seas.

The deal includes:

• The first ship is scheduled to debut in 2029, with the second following in 2032.

• The agreement includes options for four additional ships, potentially bringing the fleet to six.

• The Discovery Class is being described by CEO Michael Bayley as a "game-changer" focused on breathtaking destinations.

Why Smaller is "Big" News

If you’ve been on Icon of the Seas or Wonder of the Seas, you know they are floating cities. They are incredible, but their massive size means they are physically limited to certain ports.

The Discovery Class is expected to be significantly smaller than the Icon (250,000 GT) and Oasis (225,000 GT) classes. While official specs haven't been released, industry insiders and CEO comments suggest:

• Panama Canal Capable: These ships will likely be "Neo-Panamax" size, allowing them to transit the Panama Canal and reach ports in Alaska, Europe, and exotic locales that the mega-ships simply can't touch.

• Replacing the Classics: Many speculate the Discovery Class will eventually replace the aging Vision and Radiance Class ships, which are currently Royal’s "go-to" vessels for smaller ports.

• Intimacy Meets Innovation: Expect the latest tech (like LNG propulsion and smart energy systems) but in a more intimate, 2,500–3,000 passenger setting.

What Will the Onboard Experience Be Like?

Michael Bayley noted that the class will offer "extraordinary, one-of-a-kind experiences" and "immersive moments." Here is what we’re keeping our eyes on:

1. Destination-Centric Design: We expect more glass, outward-facing lounges, and perhaps even retractable roofs (like the Solarium on older ships) to make the scenery the star of the show.

2. Tech-Forward Features: Expect the "Pearl" style innovation or perhaps a smaller version of the AquaDome, adapted for a ship that needs to handle both the Caribbean sun and Alaskan glaciers.

3. The "Best of" Royal: While we might not see a massive waterpark, we hope to see fan-favorites like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Chops Grille, and maybe even a reimagined Central Park.

What do you want to see on the Discovery Class? A wrap-around promenade? A specific specialty restaurant? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we’re just as eager as you are to see how this class "redefines" cruising!

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