Royal Caribbean Group has revealed plans for the world's first nuclear-powered cruise ship, a bold concept aimed at eliminating carbon emissions from its largest vessels. The Project Odyssey concept, developed in partnership with NuScale Power, would use small modular reactor technology to generate electricity for propulsion and onboard operations.
The proposed vessel would carry 6,000 passengers and feature a 25-year reactor life, eliminating the need for refueling and reducing operating costs by an estimated 30% compared to LNG-powered ships. Royal Caribbean emphasized that modern naval reactor technology has an impeccable safety record spanning over 60 years of military use.
The concept faces significant regulatory hurdles, as current international maritime law does not address commercial nuclear-powered passenger vessels. Royal Caribbean estimates the first sailing, if approved, could occur by 2035.
