File this under mega-rumor-that-probably-has-little-truth-but-is-interesting-nonetheless. According to CIN who hears “through the industry grapevine,” RCI execs are considering possibly sailing the Oasis to Europe. The Mediterranean is probably the best bet. Oasis has been very profitable for the port of calls in the Caribbean, and ports in Europe would love the bragging rights to say that they have Oasis calling there. The ports in the Med are extremely interested in attracting her also for the amount of visitors she can carry.

The big problem is: infrastructure. Oasis is huge in both a physical sense and a passenger sense. Port Everglades required a massive expansion of a terminal, Labadee required a dock be built, and Falmouth, Jamaica warranted that a port be constructed. RCI execs are reminding the European port authorities of the investment that is required for her to sail there. RCI claims that current infrastructure needs to be upgraded.

Europe is becoming extremely lucrative and very profitable for lines. In 2011, Barcelona will be THE hot spot for cruising in Europe. All lines are sending their best products there. Carnival will have the brand new Carnival Magic; NCL’s will have among others, the hotly anticipated Norwegian Epic; and RCI will send the Liberty of the Seas, and others, to the Med; Other lines will also have a strong presence in the Med then as well.

IF Oasis were to sail there, it would be in 2012 I would guess.

Some things to keep in mind: RCI are under contract to bring a certain amount of passengers to Port Everglades. This is only economically feasible through the use of Oasis and Allure as they process 10-12,000 pax every turn-around day. RCI may have contracts with other ports in the Caribbean that Oasis and Allure play important roles. Also, why would European ports invest that much money in infrastructure to attract ONE ship, when lines are already sending ships to Europe based on current infrastructure and facilities.

So I pose a question to you: Do you feel that RCI should send Oasis to the med or keep her stateside. Sound off in the comments below.

source CruiseIndustryNews