Royal Caribbean International has become well known for cruise innovation and design over the past forty years. And they continue to take that to new levels with the recent announcement about their new ship, Quantum of the Seas and the introduction of “Quantum cruising.”  Set to debut in fall of 2014, Quantum of the Seas launches new industry firsts and will be christened by stage, film and television star, Kristin Chenoweth.

Quantum of the Seas Launches Industry Firsts

Wonder what it would be like to skydive while at sea? The new RipCord by iFly lets everyone, whether they’re seasoned skydivers or first time flyers, a chance to enjoy the exhilaration of skydiving in a controlled, safe environment. Yes, this is the very first skydiving simulator at sea.

Views from the top decks are incredible, but Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas takes that to a new different level with North Star. Best described as an engineering marvel, guests can enjoy views in a jewel-shaped glass capsule, which will then transport them more than 300 feet above sea level. This capsule, which can accommodate 14 guests at a time, extends over the ocean and the sides of the ship, delivering awe-inspiring views spanning 360 degrees. Another revolutionary concept – Two70

Two70 is a multi-level great room, and its name fits, because this space will offer 270 degree panoramic sea views, thanks to the floor to ceiling glass walls that span nearly 3 decks. Located at the stern of the ship, Two70 combines technology to transform the entertainment experience from daytime to evening.  During the day, Two70 offers a comfortable, modern living room space for guests to relax and enjoy.And as the sun sets, Two70 then transforms into an evening persona. The lights go down, and entertainment appears, with a combination of live performers, aerialists, along with digital scenery and breathtaking videos.The Largest indoor active space, SeaPlex

Royal Caribbean International has led the way with unique indoor activity spaces, and on Quantum of the Seas, this will be SeaPlex. With features that guests of all ages can enjoy, a few include basketball on a full size regulation court, and experiencing a circus school with a flying trapeze. At night roller skating and the first bumper cars at sea are more fun options.

Innovative staterooms – now every room has a view

Quantum of the Seas will offer the largest variety of stateroom categories to date, including some new studio staterooms, some that will have balconies for single travelers, as well as larger Loft Suites, and three junior suite categories. And yes, every room will have a view now, thanks to the introduction of Virtual Balcony staterooms. This will bring virtual balconies to interior staterooms, and provide real time views of the destinations and ocean.

A few more details to help you plan for your group

Quantum of the Seas will accommodate 4,180 guests and is 167,800 gross registered tons. She’ll launch in fall 2014 and will sail out of Cape Liberty located in Bayonne, New Jersey. This offers a new option if your group likes to sail from the East Coast, and with Quantum of the Seas providing more “first at sea” options for all guests, it might be one to consider.And following Quantum of the Seas, the “Quantum experience” will continue with their next ship, Anthem of the Seas in spring 2015. Royal Caribbean International keeps innovating and I’ll share updates as more details continue to be unveiled.