Royal Caribbean Mega-Ship To Include AquaTheater, Boardwalk

By Mike Grasso
Royal Caribbean’s massive Oasis of the Seas, expected to be the largest most innovative ship at sea, is making a buzz throughout the travel industry. The 220,000-ton, 5,400-passenger mighty ship has a December 2009 launch date. So what’s all the talk you ask?

The design of the ship follows what companies officials call, “neighborhoods,” which is expected to offer something for everyone. Where families with kids may appreciate the lively boardwalk area with carnival games, a first-of-its kind carousel at sea (upper right picture), and a ice cream parlour, couples can relax in the Central Park neighborhood under one of the live trees while perhaps watching a street performance. Afterward, everyone will enjoy the outdoor show venue called the Aqua Theater (upper left picture), featuring water, light and acrobatic shows into the evening hours.

The plans for the Oasis of the Seas are unlike anything else experienced in cruise travel; loft-style cabins, an outdoor park the size of a football field, including live trees and grass, the largest freshwater pool in the industry, and a zip-line at sea suspended nine decks above the Boardwalk.

The Oasis of the Seas will be based in Ft. Lauderdale and cruise in destinations throughout the Caribbean. Tickets go on sale in August for the first sail, but at this time, no word what price tag will be placed on the excitement and experience Royal Caribbean has planned for those planning a sail on the Oasis of the Seas.

Click here for more information from Royal Caribbean.

American Airlines Plane Departing SFO Makes Emergency Landing

An American Airlines jet made a safe emergency landing at Los Angeles International Airport on Monday after the pilot reported smoke and the smell of fuel in the cockpit, a Federal Aviation Administration spokesman said.

American Flight 442 was en route from San Francisco to Miami when the pilot declared an emergency, diverted to Los Angeles and landed shortly after 2 p.m., said FAA spokesman Ian Gregor. There was no fire on the plane, which carried 180 passengers, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokeswoman d’Lisa Davies. Read more from CBS5