The cruise of the future, now
Royal Caribbean's latest Quantum class ship, Ovation Of The Seas, stopped over in S'pore last month. Infographics journalists BILLY KER and HO YAN HAO hopped on board to discover what makes this ocean liner the smartest of its kind
In physics, quantum refers to a minimal amount. Yet this ship is anything but small.
Not only does the Ovation of the Seas weigh the equivalent of two regular cruise ships, it also features a wealth of cutting-edge technology.
It was dreamed up by Royal Caribbean's in-house team, and experts in various fields provided support to make some of the technology possible.
The ship, the newest in the luxury cruise company's Quantum class, took more than 18 months and $1.37 billion to build.
Computer models were used to reduce the Ovation's energy consumption by creating more efficient engines and an aqua dynamic hull design.
Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the ship and has low latency. This means guests can surf the Internet, stream music and videos as easily as they would on land.
Attractions on board include a Bionic Bar, where guests use touchscreens to order drinks and watch the robotic arms shake, stir and strain the beverages.
There is also the Virtual Balcony, where guests in interior staterooms can see the outside world through a large high-definition television.
The Two70° combines a bar, cafe and stage, and features floor-to-ceiling glass walls which double as screens. Any backdrop a performance needs - moving or static - can be projected onto it.
It is also home to a show that features robotic arms moving smaller screens.
Each passenger is given a radio-frequency identification (RFID) wristband, which can be used to buy things on board, unlock your room door, and access the gym and casino. For those concerned about their luggage, RFID tagging allows guests to check on their belongings.
Ovation of the Seas will be offering 10 cruises in March and April next year. Destinations range from those nearby such as Penang, Malaysia, to farther ones such as Tianjin, China.
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now