Royal Caribbean International Names Third Ship in Freedom Class

sailingrose · December 22, 2006

MIAMI, Dec 21, 2006 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Royal Caribbean International today announced that the line's third and final Freedom-class ship will be named Independence of the Seas. The ship, currently under construction at Aker Yards in Turku, Finland, is set to make her debut in May 2008. She will follow Liberty of the Seas, which makes her entrance into New York City harbor May 3, 2007.

"Independence of the Seas will have all of the signature elements of her sister ships, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, making the Freedom- class ships the most innovative and forward-looking class of ships in the cruise industry," said Adam Goldstein, president for Royal Caribbean International. "Her name reflects the all-encompassing mindset behind Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, where guests have the freedom to create their own unique adventure by choosing multiple onboard options, from active pursuits such as rock climbing, surfing or ice skating; to more relaxing experiences, such as spa treatments, fine dining or world-class entertainment."

At 160,000 GRT and holding 3,634 guests double-occupancy, Independence of the Seas will share the title of the world's largest cruise ship with Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas. Among new programs and onboard embellishments yet to be announced, amenities on Independence of the Seas will include the popular innovations already found on her sister ships including the FlowRider® surf simulator; the H20 Zone aqua park; cantilevered whirlpools, suspended 112 feet above the ocean; an ice-skating rink; a boxing ring; and the 1,215-square-foot Presidential Family Suite, which sleeps up to 14.

Beginning May 19, 2007, Liberty of the Seas will sail alternating seven- night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries year-round from Miami, calling on San Juan, Puerto Rico; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and Labadee, Haiti in the east; and Labadee; Montego Bay, Jamaica; George Town, Grand Cayman; and Cozumel, Mexico in the west. Liberty of the Seas will depart Miami on Saturdays while Freedom of the Seas, also sailing alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries out of Miami, will depart Sundays.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand through its cruisetour division. For additional information or to make reservations, go to www.royalcaribbean.com or call (800) 327-6700.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean International