Southampton is set to host another cruise first next year when Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas makes her inaugural voyage from the port.

Royal Caribbean International has announced that Quantum of the Seas will be making its inaugural 8-night westbound transatlantic voyage from Southampton on November 2 arriving at Cape Liberty Port, New Jersey.

The announcement means the Hampshire port will play host to Quantum, giving the city the chance to see what will then be the world’s latest cruise ship development first-hand before her naming ceremony in New York.

The port of Southampton will also play host in 2014 to the world’s largest cruise ship, Oasis of the Seas, on its first-ever European season and transatlantic sailing out of a UK port of call, generating the highest ever volume of pre-booking registrations ever seen by Royal Caribbean International.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd has also revealed that it has signed a contract with the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany to construct a third Quantum-class cruise ship for delivery in mid-2016.

Quantum of the Seas is set to offer several “firsts at sea”, including a skydiving experience – a thrilling adventure that transports guests more than 300 feet in the air – cutting-edge venues such as the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars and roller skating, and the cruise line’s largest and most advanced staterooms ever.

The new Quantum class ships will also introduce new venues, including: Two70°, a multi-level great room named for its incredible 270-degree sea views through three-deck high, floor-to-ceiling glass walls at the stern of the ship; SeaPlex, the largest indoor sports and entertainment complex at sea with bumper cars, roller skating and a circus school with trapeze; and Music Hall, a two-storey live music venue.

The third, yet-unnamed Quantum-class vessel will join the Royal Caribbean International fleet, alongside Quantum of the Seas, which will make its maiden voyage in 2014, and Anthem of the Seas, scheduled to debut in 2015.

“We are creating a compelling experience for holidaymakers with innovative design, winning service, and appealing destinations around the world,” said Richard D Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Brian J Rice, vice chairman added, “This order follows our stated goals of moderate growth, driving improved returns and leading to an investment grade rating.”

“We are encouraged by the very positive response we received from travel agents and consumers when we first announced some of the unprecedented offerings on Quantum Class last month,” said Adam Goldstein, president and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean International. “The Quantum class will offer holidaymakers more unexpected activities in the most extraordinary spaces, and a third ship will offer even more opportunities for holidaymakers to experience Quantum cruising.”

“We are excited to construct these tremendous ships to meet guests' demand for an exceptional cruise experience,” said Bernard Meyer, managing partner Meyer Werft. Meyer continued, “And we are honoured by our long partnership with Royal Caribbean, a true innovator in modern ship design.”

l Will wet weather sink cruise ship naming ceremonies in Southampton in the future? See Review.