New Luxury Cruise Ship Size of A Small Town (Photos)

The brand new luxury cruise ship Independence of the Seas is the biggest in the world. The masterpiece took two years to build and cost $800,000,000. The fortress has arrived in Southampton and will begin her inaugural season in grand style.

Royal Caribbean International adds this new ship to their fleet of sister ships Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas. The vessel will begin its new life by sailing around Europe.

The 160,000 ton liner was built in Finland and can carry 4,375 guests and a crew of 1,000. The ship boasts 15 passenger decks and 14 elevators. Facilities on board Independence of the Seas include an ice rink, 9 hole mini golf course, a rock climbing wall, a 1,350-seat theater and a surf simulator in addition to the more traditional bars, pools, casino and spa treatments.

There is also the central promenade lined with shops, bars and restaurants. Skylight Chapel, located at the highest point of the ship will host weddings and can accommodate 40 guests.

Independence of the Seas will be officially named before she leaves for her first paying cruise on May 2. Four night cruises will start at $700 per person. An 11 night Canary Islands cruise will start at $2,200 per person and a 14 night Mediterranean cruise a heftier $2,600 per guest.

We've got some great photos of the magnificent cruise ship below.

















Photo Credit: Daily Mail