Royal Caribbean International, the global holiday company, today celebrates the arrival of Quantum of the Seas in Southampton, the first-ever smartship and most technologically advanced cruise ship in the world.

Quantum of the Seas takes the guest experience to a whole new level with never seen before technology offering super-speedy bandwidth to keep guests connected wherever the ship is sailing.  New boarding process technology means that guests will go from checking in to chilling out in ten minutes and a series of other world firsts, like robotic bartenders and digital shows on Roboscreens, will keep guests on the edge of their seats.

Designed with audiences who’ve never cruised before in mind, Quantum of the Seas will also have a stellar entertainment programme that takes guests on a visual and experiential journey of music, sound and performance – the like of which isn’t even available on land. From stage shows on “Broadway at Sea” that include stunning live performances, exciting visuals and special effects in the Royal Theatre, to live performances in the Music Hall, they’ll be treated to an array of first of their kind productions and performances to leave them spellbound.

Quantum of the Seas and sister-ship Anthem of the Seas – debuting in Southampton, UK in April 2015 – will also introduce a new set of first-at-sea onboard experiences, such as Ripcord by iFLY, an exciting indoor skydiving experience; North Star, a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air on a breathtaking journey; and SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and more.

If all that excitement’s worked up an appetite, guests need look no further as in yet another world first, Quantum will host the first ever Jamie’s Italian restaurant at sea. Guests can enjoy simple, fresh Italian dishes in a warm, inviting ambience which have been created by Britain’s best-loved chef – in addition to seventeen other restaurant concepts on board as vast and varied as dining in the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. With a new take on the main dining room, guests will also be in control of their own epicurean journey with “Dynamic Dining,” which lets them choose from five complimentary, full service restaurants, offering more choice and flexibility than ever before.

The Quantum Class spans 18 decks, encompasses 167,800 gross registered tonnes, carries 4,180 guests at double occupancy and features 2,090 staterooms. Quantum of the Seas will sail out of New York Harbour from her homeport of Cape Liberty for her inaugural season before departing to her new homeport of Shanghai (Baoshan), China. Looking to 2015, Royal Caribbean is basing its newest and most exciting ship in the UK – Anthem of the Seas will launch in Southampton and sail from the city throughout summer 2015.

Info courtesy of Royal Caribbean.