– “Oasis of the Seas” marks the introduction of a new technological standard in the tourism industry. The advanced technologies and communication solutions applied on it help change the way Royal Caribbean interacts with and serves its customers. The Cisco solution provides a platform through which Royal Caribbean sets a new industry standard for a modern cruise line prepared for future challenges, thanks to the offered amenities and network services – says George O’Meara, Vice President of Cisco Services for the United States and Canada.
The “Oasis of the Seas” ship will set sail on its maiden voyage from its home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Cisco Unified Wireless Network solution makes many services available on the ship that were previously unseen on cruise ships:
• All waiters on the “Oasis of the Seas” use wireless payment terminals, which allow for easy payment processing for purchases made by guests anywhere on the ship. These devices are also used to receive electronic cancellations from guests for various onboard activities, such as rock climbing or using the ice rink.
• Over 1,000 crew members of the “Oasis of the Seas” use Cisco Unified Wireless IP Phones (model 7925G), which enables faster service for guests on board.
• For 2010, the introduction of a service to rent wireless Cisco phones to guests was also planned. This device will allow them to call or send text messages to other passengers, as well as provide them with information about events organized on the ship.
• The phone will also enable real-time monitoring of passengers’ locations on the ship. This feature is intended to help parents look after their children. Children registered in the Adventure Ocean program, run by Royal Caribbean, will wear transmitters that send a wireless signal to the phone, allowing their location to be tracked.
• Over 900 Cisco wireless access points help ensure full network coverage on the ship, from bow to stern, providing guests with constant access to a variety of services during the cruise.
• The Cisco ASA (Adaptive Security Appliance) solution provides efficient wireless network protection and connectivity using virtual private networks (VPN).
• Over 300 interactive digital signs operating on the Cisco network have been placed on the ship. Passengers can use them to, among other things: browse restaurant menus and opening hours, watch videos, and check showtimes for movies and entertainment events in the amphitheater.
• Each of the 2,706 cabins on the Oasis ship is equipped with an IP television (IPTV) receiver providing high-quality sound and image. Using IPTV allows passengers to watch programs even in poor weather conditions.
– The Oasis of the Seas ship is unrivaled in the industry in terms of the IT technologies used. Cisco solutions are crucial for ensuring the comfort and satisfaction of our guests. The strategic partnership with Cisco included the delivery of state-of-the-art technologies, as well as the development of a solution that will enable us to provide maximum comfort to customers from all over the world – said Bill Martin, Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.