The collaboration between Royal Caribbean and Meyer Turku Shipyard continued when an order for a new Icon-class cruise ship was announced in early autumn 2025. The collaboration has already resulted in several cruise ships, and the shipyard has delivered numerous vessels to one of the world's largest cruise lines.
Most recently, the cruise ship Star of the Seas was delivered in July 2025, and in 2023, Icon of the Seas was delivered. Currently, two giant Icon-class ships are under construction. These orders have a significant impact on employment, especially in Southwest Finland.
On September 23, 2025, Royal Caribbean announced a long-term agreement of intent until 2036. The agreement reserves the rights for Meyer Turku to build their ships in the coming years. In his press release, Casimir Lindholm, CEO of Meyer Turku, outlined the plan for the next ten years with partners, including Royal Caribbean, to build new ships and advance shipbuilding. The press release emphasizes the pride felt in how the future ships will support both Meyer Turku's personnel and the Finnish maritime industry.
Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, is also proud and pleased with the order and options. He considers this a significant moment for the future of the company and emphasizes that it opens a new phase of cooperation with Meyer Turku and the Finnish government. The Finnish government is also pleased with the continuation of the long-term cooperation between Meyer Turku and Royal Caribbean. Prime Minister Orpo commented that the news is excellent for Finland in terms of the economy, jobs, and revitalizing the maritime industry ecosystem.
The financing negotiations related to the deal will be handled separately, according to Finnvera, the state-owned specialised financing company.
Source: MTV Uutiset, 23.9.2025: “Iloisia talousuutisia tuhansille: Turun telakalle taas tilaus jättilaivasta – sopimus vuoteen 2036.”https://www.mtvuutiset.fi/artikkeli/iloisia-talousuutisia-tuhansille-turun-telakalle-taas-tilaus-jattilaivasta-sopimus-vuoteen-2036/9228036
Best Partner Oy has long been involved at the Turku shipyard together with subcontractors. Along with its intermediaries, Best Partner Oy has participated in the construction of the ships Star of the Seas and Icon of the Seas. Through Best Partner, subcontractors employ professionals from many fields, and they are currently involved in the construction of the ship Legend of The Seas, which is scheduled to be delivered to the customer in the summer of 2026. The workers are engaged in various tasks, including insulation, welding, and electrical work.
