Rhapsody of the Seas set for $54 million revitalization

Royal Caribbean International’s Rhapsody of the Seas has entered Sembawang Shipyard in Singapore to begin a month-long, $54 million drydock where it will undergo a major revitalization and emerge with an array of new amenities. The ship revitalization is the largest of its kind ever to take place in Singapore and will employ more than 800 local workers from the region. Part of the cruise line’s Vision Class of ships, Rhapsody of the Seas will receive a host of new dining and entertainment venues as well as an assortment of technological upgrades. The ship also will receive a bow-to-stern refresh of all furniture, carpet and upholstery, including renovated staterooms. Similar to sister-ship Splendour of the Seas, which underwent its revitalization in November, Rhapsody will receive new dining venues, including Chops Grille, Izumi Asian Cuisine, Chef’s Table experience and Park Café. Additional offerings include a Diamond lounge for Crown and Anchor loyalty guests, a Concierge Lounge for suite guests and top tier loyalty guests, a transformed Viking Crown Lounge and the popular Royal Babies and Tots Nursery. New offerings for guests include ship-wide Wi-Fi, a digital way finding system, electronic mustering, an outdoor movie screen, as well as iPad’s in every stateroom featuring content about the ship’s amenities and activities. The ship’s Champagne Bar, located in the Centrum, also will re-emerge as the R Bar, featuring a 1960s vibe, complete with iconic furnishing and signature cocktails mixed by a savvy and personable mixologist. When the enhancements are completed on March 28, Rhapsody of the Seas will sail a 15-night voyage from Singapore to Sydney, Australia. (http://www.royalcaribbean.com)