The world’s new largest cruise ship, ‘Wonder of the Seas,’ docks in Cozumel

The Wonder of the Seas is 98 feet long, making it even larger and heavier than the largest military ship ever built, the USS Nimitz-class aircraft carrier. Photo: Courtesy

The Mexican island of Cozumel welcomed the world’s largest cruise ship, “Wonder of the Seas.”

The massive cruise ship owned by Royal Caribbean docked Monday in Cozumel as part of its maiden voyage. 

Although the ship has the capacity to host 7,000 passengers and 2,300 crew, Royal Caribbean decided to play it safe for now and operate at only 65%. This was to facilitate social distancing and help prevent the spread of COVID-19 onboard. 

The Wonder of the Seas became the world’s largest cruise ship in operation this month by surpassing its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas.

Upon arrival in Cozumel, the ship and its captain were greeted by Quintana Roo Gov. Carlos Joaquín González. Photo: Courtesy

Industry experts consider the maiden voyage of the Wonder of the Seas as a major turning point for the cruise ship industry, which was all but halted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The arrival of the ship in Cozumel is yet another sign that the popular Mexican destination is regaining momentum with international tourists. 

Earlier: Yucatán Turismo sponsors a travel video for a new generation

In 2019, ports on the Yucatán Peninsula welcomed nearly 2,000 cruise ships, making it the region’s best season to date. The busiest of these ports by far had been Cozumel with 1,366 docked cruise ships, followed by Mahaual’s 481 and Progreso’s 146.

But now port authorities in Cozumel are claiming that 2022 could likely be even busier due to pent-up demand and ever loosening health restrictions. 

Cozumel is Mexico’s busiest cruising port and has bounced back in a big way during the past several months. Photo: Carlos Rosado van der Gracht

The ship has 16 decks for guest use, 20 restaurants, 4 pools, and 2,867 cabins. 

Some of the most popular amenities include a children’s water park, playground, ice-skating rink, zip line, and a 1,400-seat theater. 

After departing Cozumel, Wonder of the Seas will continue its journey along the Yucatán Peninsula to Mahahual before heading off to St. Maarten and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Carlos Rosado van der Gracht
Born in Mérida, Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican/Canadian blogger, photographer and adventure expedition leader. He holds degrees in multimedia, philosophy, and translation from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
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