The Russian invasion of Ukraine has elicited all sorts of support for the people of Ukraine, and the cruise industry has been quick to respond.
The geopolitical issues of the conflict are one aspect, but the people behind the invasion are another aspect that have a deep connection, especially those that work for the cruise line.
Royal Caribbean hires crew members from all over the world, including the Ukraine. Royal Caribbean employs over 500 crew members from the Ukraine.
In a post on social media, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley responded to questions the company has received about those crew members.
"Understandably they are extremely concerned and anxious about their loved ones at home," Mr. Bayley wrote.
Royal Caribbean is offering its Ukrainian crew members various forms of assistance, "We have made available all communication channels that we have so they can access their families.
"[We] Have offered assistance getting them home or close to home if they wish to leave their ship and we are trying to expedite any Ukrainian crew who wishes to join any of our ships earlier than scheduled."
Mr. Bayley added that support is not just limited to the Ukrainian crew. Royal Caribbean's 200 crew members are not being ignored, as they too are dealing with questions about what is happening back home.
"We also have over 200 Russian crew who also are concerned and anxious over these events and we are offering them the same support."
"The Royal family is here for all our crew and our thoughts and prayers go out to all impacted by these events"
Port stops in Russia could change
Prior to Mr. Bayley's comments, Royal Caribbean informed guests booked on Baltic cruises in 2022 that visits to Russia could be skipped.
In an email to guests booked on Voyager of the Seas sailings that visit St. Petersburg in summer 2022, Royal Caribbean said it has, "secured alternate ports" just in case.
"We’re continuously monitoring events taking place around the world, including the situation in Ukraine. With the recent events, it is increasingly uncertain if we can visit St. Petersburg, Russia, as scheduled. For your peace of mind, we want to share our plans."
"At this time, our intention is to sail to St. Petersburg; however, we have secured alternate ports, should we feel that changing our itinerary is the best path forward."
In addition, Royal Caribbean said it would allow anyone booked on a Baltic cruise in 2022 to change their cruise and would waive change fees.
