By
Alex Smith |
Royal Caribbean Group has signed a framework agreement with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku that secures the company’s rights to build at the yard for the next decade.
As part of the deal, Royal Caribbean has confirmed an order for the fifth Icon-class ship, scheduled for delivery in 2028, and has added an option for a seventh Icon ship alongside its existing option for Icon 6.
The agreement reinforces Royal Caribbean’s long-standing partnership with Meyer Turku, which has delivered 25 ships for the group since the mid-1990s, including the Icon-class vessels. The Finnish yard has already constructed Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, with Legend of the Seas due in summer 2026 and Icon 4 in 2027. The deal also sets the foundation for a new class of vessels beyond the Icon class.
“As we continue to reimagine the future of vacations, we are excited to continue collaborating with Meyer Turku to grow the Icon Class and position us to usher in a new era of innovation that will disrupt the vacation sector through 2036,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “This is an exciting time for our company, and we are proud to launch this new stage in our history with our esteemed partners, Meyer Turku, the Finnish government, and the Finnish maritime cluster.”
Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm added: “With the framework agreement now signed, we announce our common plan for the next decade in cooperation with Royal Caribbean Group and other key partners to build more Icon Class ships and drive the future of shipbuilding. I am extremely proud of the recognition that these orders bring to the skilled personnel at Meyer Turku and to the Finnish maritime industry expertise.”
The Turku shipyard is one of the country’s largest industrial employers, with each cruise ship project engaging around 13,000 people directly at Meyer Turku and across its supply chain. The yard’s contribution is estimated to bring more than €1 billion ($1.19 billion) in added value to the Finnish economy annually.
“This new framework agreement is excellent news for Finland,” said Petteri Orpo, Prime Minister of Finland. “The longstanding collaboration between Royal Caribbean Group and Meyer Turku will continue to have a significant positive impact on Finland’s economy, creating jobs across the country and energising our unique maritime ecosystem.”
Sakari Puisto, Minister of Economic Affairs, added: “Our strong shipyards, industrial networks and leading research institutions deliver innovative and sustainable world-class ships, making Finland an attractive destination for future investment.”
Royal Caribbean currently has nine new ships on order and is developing seven land-based destinations by 2028 as part of its long-term strategy to expand both its fleet and vacation offerings.