Quantum of the Seas, a leviathan ship that’s been described as a game-changer for the cruise industry with everything from an onboard skydiving chamber to bumper car ring, has been named the best new ship 2014 by editors of Cruise Critic.
The result should come as no surprise to those who follow the world of cruising, given the fanfare surrounding its launch earlier this month when the ship set off on its maiden transatlantic voyage from Southampton, England, to New Jersey.
Spanning the length of nearly 350 meters, with a capacity of 4,905 guests, it would be no exaggeration to claim that Royal Caribbean’s newest ship has ushered in a new era in cruising with a string of firsts, including the world’s first robotic bartenders, skydiving simulator, bumper cars and a "London Eye-inspired gondola" or observation capsule that sails 90 meters (300 feet) above sea level to offer passengers 360 views of their surroundings
"Quantum of the Seas dares its passengers not to have fun. It's a bold ship that screams for your attention via its innovative features," write Cruise Critic editors.
Likewise, the ship also boasts a Jamie Oliver restaurant, his first aboard a cruise ship.
Other winners of the 7th annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Awards include Disney Cruise Line, which was named best for families for the second year in a row, and Carnival Cruise Lines, which was deemed best value for money.
Food loving cruisers may also want to consider Oceania Cruises, which was named best for dining for the third consecutive year with its wide variety of dining options including Jacques Pepin’s restaurant Jacques.
In the category of river cruises, Viking Cruises was named the best in class, while Emeral Waterways was named best new river ship.
The results of the Cruise Critic’s awards come on the heels of US News and World Report, which likewise compiled its own ranking and gave Disney Cruise Lines the top spot in categories like best cruise line for families and best cruise in the Caribbean.
Cruise Critic is an online cruise guide and subsidiary of TripAdvisor.
Source: Relaxnews