Celebrity Cruises has taken a bold step in ship design with the signing of a letter of intent for a new class of ships, Royal Caribbean Cruises and French shipbuilder STX France have announced.

The two 2,900-guest, 117,000-gross-registered-ton ships, developed under the project name EDGE will build upon the modern luxury experience of the brand’s Millennium and Solstice class ships.

At 984 feet long, 123 feet wide and 190 feet high, Project EDGE will deliver small ship itineraries with large ship amenities, a perfect holiday experience in step with today’s premium guest.

Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises said: “The addition of two project EDGE ships to our fleet delivers on our long-term strategic plan of moderate capacity growth, and continues the positive momentum the Celebrity brand has achieved in the premium segment of our industry.

These vessels also represent a significant leap forward in environmentally friendly ship design, benefiting from new technologies to drive significant fuel efficiency and an ongoing process to ensure the extensive use of sustainable materials.

“Our new class of ship will set the standard for premium world travel and deliver the next generation of modern luxury experiences that our guests know and love,” said Michael Bayley, president and chief executive officer of Celebrity Cruises.

“STX France designs and builds some of the most innovative and stylish cruise ships in the world, and project EDGE offers them the opportunity to again set a new standard for modern iconic architecture.

“On this stunning new ship we will bring our guests even closer to the must-see destinations of the world, while indulging them on-board in the most luxurious accommodations, the finest culinary experiences, and the best hospitality delivered by our dedicated staff.”

The company expects delivery of the first ship in autumn 2018, with the second delivered in the early part of 2020.

The order is contingent upon the completion of customary conditions, including financing. 

“We are excited to be collaborating with Celebrity on this dramatic step forward in premium cruise ship design,” said Laurent Castaing, managing director of STX France.

“This class of ships will be designed to deliver the destination to holidaymakers who want to experience all the world has to offer.”

Based upon current ship orders, projected capital expenditures for full year 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 are $1.4 billion, $1.5 billion, $2.3 billion, $0.4 billion and $2.2 billion, respectively.