World’s largest cruise ship the Wonder of the Seas completes sea trials – and will debut in 2022

Amazing video footage has been released showing the world’s largest cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas – completing her sea trials.

And it has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year, sailing from her home in Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean on March 4, 2022, before making her way to Barcelona and Rome ‘to kick start the summer holidays in May’.

The sea-trial footage shows Wonder of the Seas being towed out of the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where she was built – then being put through her paces on the open seas.

Amazing video footage has been released showing the world’s largest cruise ship – Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas – completing her sea trials

Over four days she covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was ‘pushed to the limit on propulsion’, hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph).

More than 40 sea acceptance tests were completed, along with ‘plenty of inspections’.

Around 500 workers were involved in the trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis Class ship.

Next May, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy.

It has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year

It has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year

During the sea trials Wonder of the Seas covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was 'pushed to the limit on propulsion', hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph)

During the sea trials Wonder of the Seas covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was ‘pushed to the limit on propulsion’, hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph)

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike ‘will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder’s eight distinct neighbourhoods, an Oasis Class first’. These include ‘all-new features such as the Suite Neighborhood – which offers Royal Suite Class guests an elevated “Suite Sun Deck”, complete with a plunge pool, bar and plenty of loungers and nooks to kick back in – a cantilevered pool bar named The Vue, and Wonder Playscape – an interactive, open-air kids’ play area with awe-inspiring views’.

It adds: ‘With returning favourites also on deck, like The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; Central Park, the neighbourhood filled with real plants from end to end; and the vibrant Caribbean-inspired pool deck experience, the innovative, new ship invites adventurers of all ages to reimagine, explore and make memories once again.’

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: ‘The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we’re seeing. These regions are in the position to welcome a brand-new, innovative ship like Wonder of the Seas.

Around 500 workers were involved in the sea trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's fifth Oasis Class ship

Around 500 workers were involved in the sea trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis Class ship

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike 'will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder's eight distinct neighbourhoods'

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike ‘will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder’s eight distinct neighbourhoods’

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph)

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph)

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: 'The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we're seeing'

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: ‘The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we’re seeing’

‘Wonder will shine bright as the world’s newest wonder in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. And what’s in store is the ultimate vacation experience that highlights the very best of Royal Caribbean, reimagines renowned favourites and introduces new adventures every guest, no matter their age, can enjoy.’

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph).

Wonder’s Caribbean itineraries are available to book today on Royal Caribbean’s website. The new ship’s European sailings will open on Wednesday, September 22. 

Next May, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy

Next May, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy