Royal Caribbean Group is finally building smaller ships, the Discovery Class, directly responding to years of customer demand for vessels that offer shorter sailings and more intimate experiences. The move comes after the company's controversial shift to shorter itineraries for its new Oasis Class ships, which alienated its core passenger base. Discovery Class ships will replace the oldest vessels in the fleet, specifically the Vision Class ships launched between 1996 and 1998, which are nearing the end of their operational life. These new ships will be smaller, theoretically offering more specialty restaurants, bars, pools, and entertainment options, while being small enough to access more exotic ports.

Royal Caribbean CEO Michael Bayley hinted at the plans during earnings calls, though he provided few specifics. The first two ships are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2032 at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in France.