Royal Caribbean Group has officially pulled back the curtain on its next generation of cruise ships, introducing the all-new Discovery Class. The announcement signals another major step in the cruise giant’s plan to shape the future of vacations at sea.
The company confirmed it has signed agreements with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique to build the new class. Two ships are firmly ordered, with options in place for four more if demand continues to grow.
The first Discovery Class ship is scheduled to debut in 2029, followed by a second delivery in 2032. If all options are exercised, the class could play a key role in Royal Caribbean’s fleet well into the 2030s.
Designed Around Experiences, Not Just Size
According to Royal Caribbean leadership, the Discovery Class is being built with guests firmly at the center of every decision.
Rather than focusing purely on scale, the new ships are meant to emphasize experience, immersion, and design-led storytelling.
Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, said the class reflects the company’s long-term commitment to innovation.
He described the ships as a meeting point where purpose-driven design and advanced technology come together.
Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley added that Discovery Class will introduce a bold new onboard concept. From layout to experiences, the ships aim to surprise guests in ways they have not seen before.
The latest construction milestone comes as Royal Caribbean continues expanding its next-generation fleet, with work also now underway on the fifth Icon Class ship.
While specific features have not yet been revealed, the message is clear. Royal Caribbean is once again looking to redefine what a modern cruise vacation feels like.
A Long-Standing Shipyard Partnership Continues
The Discovery Class will be built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France. The shipyard is one of the most respected cruise builders in the world and a long-time partner of Royal Caribbean Group.
Over the past 40 years, the yard has delivered 21 ships for the group. It is also currently working on other major projects, including Oasis 7 and Celebrity Xcite.
Laurent Castaing, CEO of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said the partnership allows both companies to push boundaries. He noted that Discovery Class represents a chance to showcase what the future of shipbuilding can look like.
With the new class, Royal Caribbean is clearly thinking long-term. The Discovery Class is positioned not just as a new ship series, but as a blueprint for the next era of cruising.
