ONBOARD UTOPIA OF THE SEAS — Brilliant skies and glowing sun illuminated the AquaTheater as Royal Caribbean International celebrated Utopia of the Seas as the ‘World’s Biggest Weekend’ with a rocking concert that had people and crew from 70 different countries standing at their seats and singing along to the music.

This writer wondered if their cheers could be heard all the way to NASA, just up the coast from Utopia of the Seas’ permanent home at Port Canaveral in Florida.

Royal Caribbean International’s President and CEO Michael Bayley (left) and Captain Gus Andersson (right) at the July 15 naming ceremony for Utopia of the Seas

Describing Utopia – RCI’s sixth Oasis Class ship, sister to Wonder of the Seas, and joint-second-largest cruise ship in the world after Icon of the Seas – Royal Caribbean International’s President and CEO Michael Bayley said, “Utopia is all about celebrations and making memories possible for every weekend and any day of the week.”

Utopia of the Seas’ godmother Meghan Trainor

Loaded with more pools, more entertainment, bars and lounges, activities and dining options – including a simulated train journey fashioned after the Orient Express – the 5,668-passenger ship will sail short itineraries with a day at the line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Adding tradition to the naming, a band of bagpipers led Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty and Utopia’s godmother Meghan Trainor into the AquaTheater.

After a rousing concert that had guests singing to the music, a stunning water ballet by the AquaDancers, and traditional blessings by a rabbi and pastor, Trainor officially named the ship Utopia of the Seas.

Watch Travelweek Daily for more coverage of Utopia of the Seas in the coming day