Excitement was in the air at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany earlier, as Royal Caribbean International marked the official start of construction by cutting the first piece of steel for its Quantum Ultra ship.

The next engineering marvel in the innovative cruise line’s line-up will officially be named Spectrum of the Seas.

Set to debut in 2019, Spectrum will be the next evolution of the cruise line’s ground-breaking and high-tech Quantum class of ships placing the ship in a new class of her own.

The revolutionary Quantum Ultra ship will specifically be designed for guests in China and the Asia-Pacific region, and will feature cutting-edge and unprecedented experiences and amenities.

Michael Bayley, president, Royal Caribbean International, said: “Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum Ultra ship, Spectrum of the Seas.

“We are now one step closer to delighting our guests in Asia Pacific with this remarkable ship.

“Spectrum will be a leap forward in vessel design and guest experiences that will provide travellers with ample opportunities to create unforgettable memories.”

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