Harmony of the Seas is a cruise ship that belongs to Royal Caribbean International's Oasis-class. It was built by STX France at its Saint-Nazaire shipyard and delivered in May 2016. The construction of Harmony of the Seas began with the steel cutting ceremony in September 2013, followed by the keel laying in May 2014. Royal Caribbean Cruises placed an order for the ship in December 2012.
The vessel is currently the fourth-largest cruise ship in the world, after Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.
The ship was built with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability, using advanced technologies such as exhaust gas cleaning systems and hull lubrication systems to reduce its environmental impact. The Oasis-class ships are known for their massive size and impressive amenities, and Harmony of the Seas is no exception.
Harmony of the Seas is equipped with three multi-storey waterslides, a new-generation exhaust gas cleaning system, and a hull lubrication system that allows the ship to float on air bubbles, reducing drag and increasing fuel efficiency. The ship also features telescoping funnels to sail under bridges.
The inaugural voyage of Harmony of the Seas took place in June 2016. The ship has a capacity of 5,479 guests (double occupancy) and 6,687 guests (total), with a crew of 2,200 international members. It has 18 total decks, 24 guest elevators, and 4 bow thrusters with 7,500 horsepower each.
Harmony of the Seas is a popular choice for cruise enthusiasts, and activities for guests. Its seven neighbourhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade, provide a diverse range of experiences for passengers.
Harmony of the Seas made its maiden voyage on May 29, 2016, from Southampton, England. The ship's first season was spent sailing in Europe, offering cruises to the Mediterranean and the Western Mediterranean. In November 2016, Harmony of the Seas repositioned to its new homeport in Port Everglades, Florida, to begin offering Caribbean cruises.
Throughout its history, Harmony of the Seas has continued to be a popular choice for cruise passengers, thanks to its impressive array of amenities, activities, offering a variety of dining options and entertainment. The ship features seven distinct neighbourhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade. It also boasts a variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities, such as the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story slide, and the Perfect Storm, a trio of water slides.
In 2019, Harmony of the Seas underwent a major refurbishment as part of Royal Caribbean's Royal Amplified program. The ship received several new features, including the Ultimate Abyss slide, the Perfect Storm water slides, and the Splashaway Bay water park for kids. The ship's restaurants and bars were also updated, and new cabins were added.
Today, Harmony of the Seas continues to be a popular choice for cruise passengers, offering a wide range of itineraries and activities for guests to enjoy. Its history is one of innovation and growth, and it has helped to shape the modern cruise industry.
