Kitty Black

Cruise lines have been coming up with cool ship features ever since Royal Caribbean introduced their first climbing wall and ice rink at sea. In the last few years, innovations such as surfing simulators (Royal Caribbean), demonstration kitchens (Holland America Line), and bowling alleys (NCL) have also created buzz. Here’s what’s in store for 2009.

Royal Caribbean: Oasis of the Seas

• Size – This will be the biggest cruise ship at sea at 220,000 GRT (gross registered tons) when it is launched in December 2009. The ship will span 1,180 feet in length and it will carry 5,400 passengers. It will also have the biggest and most elaborate children’s facilities at sea at close to 29,000 square feet.

• Best New Feature – The Aqua Theater combines an outdoor amphitheater with an 18-foot deep swimming pool. By day, Scuba lessons take place and passengers enjoy the sun on deck. But, at night the place is transformed into fountains synchronized to lights and music with performances including water ballet, high flying acrobatics and high diving shows.

• Other New Features – Royal Caribbean has always pushed the envelope in industry firsts. This ship will feature the first zipline at sea, a children’s nursery, a vintage carousel, two Flowrider surfing simulators, and Loft Suites. The two-level urban-styled suites vary in size with the largest being the Royal Loft Suite at 1,524 square foot suite plus balcony.

Carnival Cruise Lines: Carnival Dream

• Size – This 130,000 GRT cruise ship will carry 3,646 passengers when it launches in September 2009. The Cloud 9 Spa will be the biggest in their fleet at 23,750 square feet.

• Best New Feature – Enjoy one of four whirlpool jacuzzis that have been strategically placed along the outside edge of the deck. Obviously these are not for passengers with a fear of heights since you will feel like you’re floating high above the water.

• Other New Features – The enhancements to the Fantasy-Class ships will also be available on the Carnival Dream. Waterworks Park features a racing waterslide, a corkscrew waterslide and a splash park. And the Carnival Comfort Collection bedding is now available fleet wide consisting of premium duvets and high thread count linens.

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Equinox

• Size – The Equinox is the sister ship to the Celebrity Solstice at a size of 122,000 GRT and the capacity to carry 2,850 passengers. It will be launched in August 2009.

• Best New Feature – Just like the Solstice that was launched in November 2008, the Equinox will boast a 1/2 acre Lawn Club. Passengers can play croquet, bocce ball, or just have a picnic lunch on the grass. The ship will also feature glass blowing demonstrations that create pieces of art at the Hot Glass Show.