World’s largest, most expensive cruise ship to call in America’s Caribbean in 2009
MIAMI – Royal Caribbean’s new mega-ship, Oasis of the Seas will make Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas its first port of call on its 2009 itinerary. The one billion dollar luxury liner will bring 5,400 guests to St. Thomas when it launches in December 2009.
“The fact that Charlotte Amalie was chosen as the first port of call for this remarkable new ship is a testimony to the fact that St. Thomas is a world-class cruise destination and one of the most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean,” states Monique Sibilly-Hodge, Assistant Commissioner of Tourism. “We look forward to welcoming Oasis of the Seas and its passengers to the shores of America’s Caribbean next year.”
“We are committed to fostering the growth of one of the most critical industries for the U.S. Virgin Islands,” states Governor John deJongh. “Last year, the destination welcomed almost 2 million cruise visitors to the destination, and we expect that the addition of the Oasis of the Seas to our port of call will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our local economy.”
According to Port Authority board Chairman Cassan Pancham, all of the relevant agencies are coordinating their activities in preparation for the smooth arrival of the ship. “We greatly value our relationship with Royal Caribbean and thank them for their confidence in selecting us as the first port of call,” he states.
Edward E. Thomas, President and Chief Executive Officer of the West Indian Company states, “As port agent for Royal Caribbean Cruises we will insure that the passengers and crew of this large ship have a secure port and all the amenities necessary to make their weekly calls successful.”
Oasis of the Seas spans 16 decks, encompasses 220,000 gross tons and features 2,700 staterooms. It will launch with 19 consecutive seven-night sailings to the Eastern Caribbean.
In addition to St. Thomas, the ship will also call in Philipsburg, St. Maarten and Nassau, Bahamas on its initial seven night trip. The ship will homeport in Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
