Royal Caribbean International (RCI) has confirmed its order for a second $500 million, 130,000-ton, 3,100-passenger Eagle-class vessel at Kvaerner Masa-Yards for delivery in 2000. In addition, RCI has an option for a third ship of the same size slated for delivery in 2001.

If the third ship is ordered, the Eagle-class vessels would increase the company’s capacity approximately 40 percent, for a total fleet capacity of more than 33,000 berths. Today, RCI has 10 ships with approximately 17,770 berths.

The last three of the Vision-class ships will be launched in 1997 and 1998 while the first of the new big ships will be delivered in 1999.

“The Eagle-class ships are a reflection of our confidence in the growing importance of cruising as a worldwide vacation option,” commented Richard Fain, RCI’s chairman and CEO.