Royal Caribbean unveils first marvel of Project Genesis

Royal Caribbean has unveiled the first architectural marvel of Project Genesis. The latest evolution in ship design will bring the best of the land to sea with what will be known as Central Park.

Central Park is a revolutionary design which will involve the center of the ship opening to the sky, revealing lush tropical grounds spanning the length of a football pitch. There will be a glorious public spaces with serene pathways, seasonal flower gardens and canopy trees. Central Park will provide cruisers with unique choices of outdoor space to further enhance their cruise experience.

Central Park is one of the ship’s most ground breaking spaces and will be the first of seven special areas to be revealed on Project Genesis. Each area will offer guests different features, depending on their personal style or mood.

Central park will be an elegant and lively area with a “town square” feel to it, with a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere throughout the day to a gathering place for alfresco dining and entertainment in the evening. Guests will have the chance to enjoy concerts and street performances, with an array of restaurants to choose from.

The dining choices will range from fine dining to casual chic and will be an enjoyable social space for guests to gather. 150 Central Park will be an elegant option; or the more casual Central Park Café for a picnic lunch, where guests can sit outdoors and people watch. Other dining choices will include: Giovanni’s Table, an Italian restaurant; Vintages wine bar; and Royal Caribbean’s signature Chops Grille steakhouse.

There will also be several bars scattered throughout, including the Canopy Bar which will be located at one of two impressive glass domed canopies. The fantastically unique Rising Tide Bar is a feat of engineering as it will give guests the chance to enjoy a cocktail as the bar slowly ascends into Central Park and then back down again into the public space below.

The incredible area will be lined with balcony staterooms rising six decks high with views of the Park below and the sky above. There will be a number of surprises to intrigue guests, including charming pathways and unusual plant life to be discovered, quiet reading corners, a chess garden with large scale pieces and a sculpture garden to name but a few.

Central Park will feature upscale retail boutiques for discerning travelers, including specialty outlets such as The Parkside Gallery, showcasing original artwork for purchase, and Picture This, a portrait studio.

“We are thrilled to debut Central Park, the first of many exciting neighborhoods on the Project Genesis ship, and a thrilling expression of the innovation and imagination for which Royal Caribbean is known,” said Richard Fain, Chairman & CEO, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. “This ship is a quantum leap in architecture and design and will deliver an unparalleled vacation experience to all who sail with us.”

Project Genesis is currently on order with Aker Yards in Finland and delivery is projected for August 2010.