Royal Caribbean International's newest cruise ship, Legend of the Seas, was launched into the water for the first time at Meyer Turku's facilities in Finland on August 29.

The vessel represents the latest addition to Royal Caribbean's fleet of LNG-powered cruise ships, marking continued investment in liquefied natural gas propulsion technology within the cruise industry.

The launch ceremony marked the transition of Legend of the Seas into its outfitting phase, while the dry dock is being prepared for the keel laying of the fourth Icon Class ship, according to the Finnish shipbuilder.

Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku, said the vessel represents continued collaboration between the shipyard, Royal Caribbean, and partner companies in developing shipbuilding processes and concepts.

"Legend of the Seas continues the state-of-the-art Icon Class, which allows the Finnish maritime industry to showcase its unique expertise at its best," Lindholm said. "The shipyard, Royal Caribbean, and an extensive network of partners work together to develop the processes and concepts from ship to ship. Alongside its sister ships, Legend of the Seas will also mark an important milestone in increasingly responsible shipbuilding."

The Icon Class series represents Meyer Turku's ongoing construction programme for Royal Caribbean International. The shipyard has been building vessels in this class as part of its cruise ship construction portfolio.