Royal Caribbean International has started construction work on its first ever Quantum Ultra ship, to be named “Spectrum of the Seas”.

An official steel-cutting ceremony was held at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, where the new vessel will be built. Set to debut in 2019, the new ship will be specifically designed for the Chinese market.

“Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum Ultra ship, Spectrum of the Seas. We are now one step closer to delighting our guests in Asia Pacific with this remarkable ship,” said Michael Bayley, president & CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “Spectrum will be another giant leap forward in vessel design and guest experiences.”

The Quantum Ultra class is an evolution of Royal Caribbean’s existing Quantum-class ships, which debuted in 2014. It now features three ships, Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, all of which have a capacity of approximately 4,900 passengers and come equipped with a series of unique amenities, including a surfing simulator and rock-climbing wall.

The most eye-catching addition to the Quantum class however, is “North Star”, the observation capsule that extends out from the top deck of the ship on a 41-metre-long arm.

Spectrum of the Seas will be the latest international cruise ship designed specifically for the fast-growing Chinese market. Most recently, NCL sailed its brand new Chinese-focused liner, Norwegian Joy, to Shanghai for its inaugural season. Facilities include large duty-free shopping areas, Asian F&B outlets and luxury accommodation.

When it launches in 2019, Spectrum of the Seas will join its sister ships, Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, in the Asia Pacific region.