DNV GL to Class Royal Caribbean’s New ICON Ships

Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku and DNV GL have signed a contract for the classification of Royal Caribbean International’s two new ICON Class cruise ships scheduled for delivery in 2022 and 2024.

The final concept for the first vessel is currently being discussed, and the concept design phase is expected to start this spring. The initial building phase of the first ship will begin next year, with keel laying planned for October 2019.

The new fuel-efficient ICON Class vessels will feature a number of green technologies, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) main fuel, fuel cell technology and hull air lubrication.

“It is a proud day for DNV GL to have been entrusted with the classification of the first vessels of the new ICON Class,” says Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV GL – Maritime. “These ships are set to push the envelope of what we can expect from a modern cruise vessel in terms of environmental performance, and we are looking forward to supporting Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku to realize a successful delivery.”

“To have been chosen to be part of this innovative project is a huge win for our entire global cruise team,” says Paal Johansen, Global Cruise Ship Director, DNV GL – Maritime. “This signing shows that Royal Caribbean trusts us to deliver on their most ambitious project yet, and it is a testament to the strong relationship between Meyer Turku, our local office in Finland and our wider network of cruise experts. Following on from the delivery of the Symphony of the Seas, the largest cruise ship ever built, we look forward to continuing to deliver on our promise to provide the best service and deep technical expertise.”