Another Royal Caribbean cruise ship is being deployed to the port of Los Angeles.

Starting on May 28th, 2025, Ovation of the Seas will begin sailing 3, 4, and 5-night cruises out of the San Pedro World Cruise Terminal.

Instead of being deployed to Tianjin, China, as previously announced, Royal Caribbean is moving the 4,905-passenger vessel to the West Coast.

Ovation of the Seas will join Navigator in the California area for the summer of 2025.

Around October 2025, Quantum of the Seas will replace her sister ship in the Los Angeles market.

Based on the port's schedule, Quantum will take her first cruise out of Los Angeles on October 2nd, 2025. 

During a call with investors on Thursday, Royal Caribbean cited high demand in California (rather than low profit in China) as the reason for the move.

The cruise line was previously absent from the Los Angeles cruise market for a decade, not entering the area due to declining profits and partially filled ships.

In 2022, Royal Caribbean finally sent Navigator of the Seas, a Voyager-Class ship, to homeport in Los Angeles.

Sending a larger vessel signifies Royal Caribbean's commitment to the LA market

Although Royal Caribbean previously cited low bookings and profits as the reason for pulling out of Los Angeles, it seems the tides have changed.

Navigator of the Seas, built in 2002, has a capacity for 4,000 passengers, and she isn't large enough to carry all the demand in the area.

Ovation of the Seas carries nearly 1,000 more passengers and signifies that the cruise line is renewing a commitment to the LA market.

"We have strong ambitions to grow the West Coast in the US," Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean President and CEO, announced.

During the 2024 second-quarter earnings call, he informed investors that the cruise line wants to infuse more energy into California.

"It's the sixth largest economy in the world," he said.

In 2022, California reached a population of 39 million, expanding a huge market for the cruise line.

Bayley said that Navigator, which has been on the West Coast for two years, has been "performing exceptionally well."

Bookings are selling quickly, and the cruise line is responding to high demand.

Michael Bayley announced the move during a meeting for travel partners on Utopia of the Seas. The room erupted into applause. 

Adding another ship to the West Coast alongside Navigator and Quantum of the Seas is a strong indication of the cruise line's investment in the area.

Does this mean Royal Caribbean is moving away from China?

During the second quarter earnings call, an investor asked if moving Ovation away from China is a sign that China hasn't been a strong market for the cruise line.

Michael Bayley responded that, on the contrary, the cruise line has "very good market choices to make."

"Our belief in the long-term potential for China has not changed at all," he said.

Spectrum of the Seas, another Quantum-Class ship that started sailing out of Shanghai a few months ago, hasn't disappointed the cruise line.

Read more: All about Quantum Class ships

"It's performing very well and we feel good about the China market."

The 5,622-passenger vessel has been consistently filling sailings since it began sailing out of Shanghai in April of 2024.

Royal Caribbean was the first major cruise line to return to the China cruise market after industry shutdown in 2020.

Spectrum of the Seas was designed for the Asian market, and  Royal Caribbean is quite pleased with her performance in Shanghai.

However, Bayley did inform investors that "it hasn't reached the levels we're seeing in the American market."

Royal Caribbean was faced with a choice: continue investing long-term into China with Ovation of the Seas, or deploy to California and meet high demand there?

Ultimately, the cruise line "made the decision based upon maximizing performance."

However, this doesn't at all indicate a move away from the Chinese market.

In fact, Royal Caribbean is still committed to filling sailing there long-term.

Bayley hinted that guests will see more ships in China very soon. "We're quite committed to the opportunity there," he said. 

"And we'll be announcing in the future more deployments into China."

The demand for Royal Caribbean cruises is higher than ever

Royal Caribbean's bookings and profit in 2024 have been on fire.

Jason Liberty, President and Chief Executive Officer for Royal Caribbean Group, said during the second quarter earnings call that bookings are significantly higher than in the second quarter of last year.

Inventory is flying off the shelves, "despite the fact that we have significantly fewer staterooms left to sell."

Read more: "We are just getting started" Royal Caribbean reports $4.1 billion in revenue in second quarter

In the second quarter of 2023, Royal Caribbean carried 1,900,810 guests at 105% occupancy.

In contrast, the second quarter of 2024 saw 2,040,242 guests at over 108% occupancy.

The cruise line hit its profit goals 18 months ahead of time, exemplifying how Royal Caribbean is in high demand this year. 

Sailing and stateroom options are becoming more and more limited, due to the popularity of Royal Caribbean cruises.

For those looking to book a cruise in the upcoming months, booking as early as possible is your best bet.

Booking early is the smartest way to secure lower prices and a specific cabin category.

Prices for 2025 and 2026 will also continue to increase as inventory is selling out further in advance.

Go ahead and place the deposit on your 2025 cruise as soon as possible.

Read more: Royal Caribbean launches a half dozen new 2025 and 2026 itineraries in latest deployment

Air travel is different than cruising, and demands an entirely different set of decisions. 

Flying to your cruise adds another factor to your plans, requiring careful consideration. What airport will you fly into? Should you get a nonrefundable ticket?

Adding a second mode of transportation complicates your travel details, and opens up the possibility for even more to go wrong.

A delayed flight could delay your arrival at the cruise port, or a more expensive ticket could cut into your budget for the vacation.

Before you book your flight, there are a few important aspects to consider—and they're not just doubling-checking the booking dates.

If you're thinking about booking a flight to your cruise port, here are some details you should consider first.

Read more: Flight attendant shares 20 tips to minimize air travel fiascos

1. Refundable airfare if your plans aren't certain

A variety of factors could disrupt your travel plans—influencing anything from your cruise date to the passengers flying with you.

Your cruise fare may not be refundable, but you can purchase refundable airfare if your plans are uncertain.

If you're unsure where you're flying, if you'll be able to sail on the cruise, or who's coming with you, refundable airfare is the way to go.

Not all plane tickets are refundable, so you'll have to intentionally plan to make sure you get one.

Tickets that are refundable directly (not in flight credit) often cost more. You'll want to weigh your priorities and your level of certainty about travel plans to decide if this is the best option for you.

Not every airline has refundable fares. 

Southwest, Jetblue, Delta, United, and American Airlines offer refundable tickets for most of their flights.

If you don't want to pay the full price of a refundable plane ticket, some airlines also offer flight credit or points in exchange for a refund.

2. Never book a flight on the same day as the cruise

The most expensive cruise mistake you can make is to book a plane flight on the same day your sailing begins.

The air travel industry experiences frequent delays, and an on-time flight is never promised.

Should your flight arrive late, the cruise ship isn't obligated to wait for you.

If you miss your cruise, that's considered a no-show and the cruise fare won't be refunded, leaving you with an expensive loss and no cruise vacation to enjoy.

Instead, book your flight at least one day before the cruise departs, and plan to stay near the cruise port.

Booking the first flight in the morning also makes it unlikely for you to be delayed, and gives the airline lots of time to re-book you should anything happen.

3. Consider booking international flights through Royal Caribbean

Booking international flights can be a complex, expensive process. 

For an international cruise, you might find yourself needing 2-3 distinct flights to take you to your destination.

Royal Caribbean's flight booking system, Air2Sea, can help with that.

Through Air2Sea, cruisers can purchase air travel that links directly with the cruise booking.

Using Air2Sea is a convenient way to put all your travel information in one place. Additionally, it comes with extra perks like special deals and promotions, as well as 24/7 customer support.

If any unexpected delays or emergencies arise, Royal Caribbean will work to help you. 

Air2Sea offers "assured arrival," meaning that the cruise line will ensure you get on the ship at the next legal port of call should you miss the departure day.

4. Try a better seat for longer flights

As someone who's been on too many international flights to count, they are not easy.

Sitting inside a plane for over 8 hours is a marathon of patience and a test of your ability to plan ahead.

The most memorable flights are the disagreeable ones—where you've been squished between two passengers or seated in the same row as a screaming baby.

A good seat could mean the difference between hours of torture versus hours of relaxation and entertainment.

For longer flights, especially international ones, consider booking a better seat, whether that’s a window seat, or upgrading to business or first class.

If you choose a comfortable seat and more legroom, your body will thank you. 

Instead of arriving at your destination sore, cranky, and tired, you'll land feeling refreshed and ready for your cruise.

For those long flights, prioritizing your comfort is key. 

5. Fly to an alternate airport to save money 

Certain cities are cheaper to fly to than others.

For cruises out of major cities, consider looking for a smaller, nearby city to fly into instead.

Read more: Cheap places in the US to fly to for a cruise

Because smaller airports come with lower fees, airlines price those plane tickets at a lower cost as well.

To save money, consider flying into smaller airports, and then getting transportation to your cruise port. 

For example, if your cruise leaves from Miami, a flight to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) is cheaper than one to Miami (MIA).

If the cruise begins in Vancouver, Canada, a domestic flight into Seattle may cost less.

Additionally, if your flight requires a long layover, choose your layover airport carefully. Ensure that it won't be overcrowded and that there is easy access between gates.

6. Get travel insurance

Flying to your cruise means you're adding even more money, time, and effort into your travel plans.

This huge investment—with the potential for more complications—is the perfect opportunity to purchase travel insurance.

Smart cruisers know that travel insurance covers many scenarios beyond your control, and allow you to get compensated should anything go wrong.

When it comes to flights, travel insurance can cover airline cancellations, lost baggage, and more.

Additionally, your health insurance can be out-of-network when you leave the country, so travel insurance can cover any mishaps like accidents, health problems, or even flight incidents.

Travel insurance gives you that extra peace of mind that you'll need when taking multiple modes of transportation on your cruise.

Royal Caribbean is known for launching mega cruise ships, but it wants to expand new classes into a different market.

While record-breaking mega ships are becoming the norm for the cruise line, larger ships are limited to certain ports. Some ports can't accommodate larger ships due to size restrictions.

Vessels in the Icon, Oasis, and Quantum Class are often prevented from visiting certain ports and must send tender boats out to dock.

Given these limitations, Royal Caribbean wants to expand into the smaller ship market.

On the second quarter earnings call this week, Jason Liberty, President and Chief Executive Officer for Royal Caribbean Group, talked about plans for new ships, specifically saying they have to replace their aging fleet.

The next class of smaller cruise ships will replace previous classes, reaching new ports and upgrading the small ship experience.

The next class of small ships will replace aging vessels

Even as it builds astounding, entertainment-packed mega ships, Royal Caribbean is mindful that its smaller vessels are becoming outdated.

"We have ships that are reaching 30-35 years [old]," Jason Liberty said.

"This is not just about what we want to build, it's also [about] replacing ships that will eventually reach their end of life."

Royal Caribbean hasn't launched a smaller ship since 2004, when Jewel of the Seas (a Radiance Class vessel) took her maiden voyage.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Captain talks about new smaller cruise ship plans

Grandeur of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's oldest vessel, was launched back in 1996. 

Since the early 2000s, Royal Caribbean has made a name for itself with record-breaking ships like the Oasis and Freedom Class. 

Although many of its smaller vessels have been revitalized in the last few years, they still lack the overall technology and stateroom categories the cruise line has developed more recently.

Cruisers have criticized ships like Grandeur of the Seas for their aged, broken-down quality. 

Some complain that the cabins feel dated, with more adventurous cruisers missing exciting amenities like waterslides or surf simulators.

In general, cruise ships begin to age out after 30 years in service, so many of the ships launched before 2000 are reaching the end of their life.

Read more: Royal Caribbean ships by age — Newest to Oldest

"We're looking at smaller ships that will replace some of those older ships," Liberty said, touching on the cruise line's next project.

He called the business of designing new ships a long-term business.

"In the cruise ship business, you're always thinking longer term, in growth and [new ship] orders, but also your environmental footprint."

Creating new classes takes more than a few years. The Icon Class, for example, was seven years in the making. 

Read more: How long does it take to build a cruise ship?

Royal Caribbean's goal is to be disciplined with its path of growth, thinking long-term, and taking on new ship orders with care.

Small vessels can visit more ports, expanding Royal Caribbean's global reach 

During the earnings call, an investor asked if building smaller vessels would allow Royal Caribbean to reach new markets.

Since smaller ships can enter more ports, this is the case.

However, Jason Liberty explained that it's "less about the sourcing market, it's more about where the ships can go."

In other words, smaller ships at new ports don't necessarily attract cruisers who live near those ports but rather appeal to cruisers who want to go to new destinations.

It's less about where the cruisers come from, and more about where they want to go: "It's about getting them into some of the more unique destinations."

Research has shown that cruisers want to stay with the Royal Caribbean brand while traveling to new destinations. 

The cruise line wants to further diversify its footprint around the world.

Read more: Does it matter how old your cruise ship is?

Royal Caribbean currently sails itineraries to over 270 destinations in 60+ countries, across six continents.

The goal with smaller vessels is to continue to spread out where guests can travel.

According to Liberty, Royal Caribbean wants to stay flexible in delivering the itineraries guests are looking to sail, as well as generating global demand for cruises. 

What we know about Project Discovery

Little has been revealed about "Project Discovery."

Royal Caribbean's next class of smaller vessels could be called the Discovery Class, similar to Project Icon, which named its class and first name directly.

The first ship in the class could be named Discovery of the Seas.

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO: New smaller cruise ship could be announced in 2024

The public is still waiting for details to be finalized for the cruise line to formally announce its plans. 

However, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean President and CEO, has hinted that more information could be released sometime in 2024.

He also implied that the next iteration of the Ultimate World Cruise could be held on these new vessels.

While on the 2024 President's Cruise, Bayley remarked that the line wants to offer more outside cabin categories on its next World Cruise, while also keeping the capability to travel to unique ports.

The Discovery Class could satisfy this need, featuring upgraded oceanview and balcony cabins in a smaller frame.

The Captain of Radiance of the Seas commented that the new class of ship would be around the size of the Radiance Class, which has the capacity for around 2,500-2,700 passengers.

Read more: Royal Caribbean: Building a new smaller cruise ship is "deeply in our consideration"

The Radiance Class is the line's next-to-smallest class, averaging 962 feet long and 90,090 gross tons.

Jewel of the Seas was the last Radiance Class ship to be released, launched in May of 2004.

Over 20 years later, we could have a new ship to replace her.

Royal Caribbean demand is stronger than ever, and the cruise line is targeting more customers from multiple demographics. 

The cruise line held its second quarter earnings call on Thursday, telling investors that cruise sales continue to increase. 

Jason Liberty, President and Chief Executive Officer for Royal Caribbean Group, said that sailing purchases are still on fire.

"2024 bookings have consistently outpaced last year throughout the entire second quarter and into July, despite the fact that we have significantly fewer staterooms left to sell," he said.

Cruise bookings are quite a bit higher in the second quarter of this year compared to the same time last year. 

In the second quarter of 2023, Royal Caribbean carried 1,900,810 guests at 105% occupancy.

In contrast, the second quarter of 2024 saw 2,040,242 guests at over 108% occupancy.

Throughout 2024, earning goals have exploded for the company.

Royal Caribbean announced today that the second quarter of 2024 earned $4.1 billion in revenue, and the cruise line is just getting started.

Cruising demand is higher than ever, particularly in North America

Thanks to several factors, demand for Royal Caribbean cruises is stronger than ever.

North American consumers, who represent 80% of the line's purchases, continue to be a robust market.

North American workers have 10% more vacation time than in 2019, and they're spending half of those extra days cruising.

Jason Liberty cited "a resilient economy, low unemployment, stabilized inflation, and record-high household net worth" as influences on the growing amount of bookings.

With more vacation time and the opportunity to relax, cruises are a great option to enjoy multiple destinations and amenities within one experience. 

Royal Caribbean's research shows that consumers are spending more on travel than on any other leisure category.

Consumers prefer to spend their money on experiences, particularly travel and vacation. 

Not only that, but buyers also intend to increase their travel spending over the next 12 months.

According to Liberty, "Cruising remains an attractive value proposition, and cruise purchase intent is high and continues to strengthen."

It doesn't look like spending on sailings is going to slow down anytime soon.

The booking window for cruises continues to expand—consumers are planning their vacations further out.

Royal Caribbean research also shows that cruisers are willing to pay more for the experience, so pricing (and brand revenue, as a result) is increasing for 2025 and 2026.

Cruisers are spending more and more on their sailings, buying more onboard add-ons than last year. 

Pre-cruise add-ons like drink packages, WiFi, and shore excursions are optional, but currently in huge demand.

Guests are buying more add-ons than ever, both earlier before the cruise and at higher speeds.

Read more: When should you buy Royal Caribbean drink package, wifi, tours & other add-ons

According to Liberty, this translates "into higher satisfaction rates and higher onboard spending."

Thanks to higher spending and customer satisfaction, "Our market is growing and we are attracting more customers into our vacation ecosystem."

Guests who enjoy their first cruise with Royal Caribbean are likely to book more and bring friends and family along with them.

1 in 2 cruisers are a millennial or younger

Multiple Royal Caribbean strategies serve to attract multiple demographics to its brand, including a strong number of younger cruisers.

Half of Royal Caribbean cruisers are now millennials or younger, and they're not the only demographic increasing their bookings.

As the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age, more of that demographic is expected to cruise.

Royal Caribbean's research shows that retirees take 50% more vacations than non-retirees who are still working.

Not only is the baby boomer generation expected to cruise more, but they also serve to draw in the younger generations.

The baby boomer generation currently holds 50% of the United States' wealth but is expected to transfer its wealth over to the younger generations over the next two decades.

One form of wealth transfer is traveling together, with the baby boomers taking their younger family members on cruises.

Jason Liberty said that Royal Caribbean is already profiting "from that active and real-time wealth transfer through multigenerational travel."

Additionally, working generations such as millennials and Gen Z are benefiting from the 10% increase in vacation time.

Read more: Almost 1 in 2 Royal Caribbean cruise ship passengers are millennials

Younger generations intend to spend more time and money on travel than any other leisure activity.

Millennials and younger generations continue to make up a percentage of Royal Caribbean cruises "at a faster pace than any other generation," according to Liberty.

Today, one out of every two Royal Caribbean cruisers is a millennial or younger.

Shorter sailings cruising the Caribbean are one draw that serves to hook both new and younger cruisers.

Utopia of the Seas, in particular, a new and hyped Oasis-Class ship, entered the market by offering short Caribbean sailings out of Port Canaveral.

Short Caribbean cruises serve as an "on-ramp" for new cruisers to enter Royal Caribbean, "an important entry point" for those new to cruising or the Royal Caribbean brand, according to Jason Liberty.

Read more: Is a short cruise on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world a crazy idea?

Shorter sailings serve as a cheaper, faster taste of what Royal Caribbean has to offer.

Nearly 70% of guests on a short Caribbean cruise fall in the new cruiser or new to Royal Caribbean category and many of them are younger cruisers.

40% of guests in the younger demographic intend to book a short vacation in the next 12 months.

According to Royal Caribbean's research, 90% of guests who sail a short cruise intend to cruise again, and half of those respondents plan to return for a longer cruise.

"New to cruise customers are up double digits versus last year," Liberty said.

Royal Caribbean has made visible progress in building its new private Beach Club in the Bahamas.

While visiting Nassau, Bahamas on Utopia of the Seas this weekend, our team took photos of the construction work being done on Paradise Island.

On a strip of land previously covered by palm trees and thick sand, excavators are clearing the ground, and trucks bringing in supplies. 

Paradise Island, the narrow strip of land near Nassau's cruise port, will house a 17-acre piece of land dedicated to Royal Caribbean's private club.

Royal Caribbean announced that the Royal Beach Club will open sometime in 2025, with "more details to be revealed in the coming months."

Based on our team's photos, the land has been cleared to begin building.

Where trees, logs, and dirt once stood, now the cleared ground is prepared for what will be multiple structures that make up the beach club.

Although no actual building has begun, construction workers brought in supplies such as steel poles, large water tanks, and packs of metal or wire.

Although it's unclear what purpose these supplies serve, the steel beams could make up foundations for the buildings, and packets of wire perhaps serve as material for constructing fences.

Although the curved white building pictured is not new, its steady presence and open doors could indicate that it serves a purpose in construction, or will become part of the new Beach Club.

Packets of supplies to the right of the white building are also tools for the cruise line to use in building the beach club.

Royal Caribbean is partnering with the Bahamas to build this exclusive club, intending to incorporate the island's vibrant culture into architecture, food, and live music.  

Royal Caribbean announced that cruisers who visit the private club "will be welcomed by local architecture that complements the exceptional views of The Bahamas’ turquoise-blue waters and white sand beaches, along with experiences that feature Bahamian fare, island-style barbecues, live music, and local artisans."

Read more: Royal Caribbean breaks ground on new beach club in Bahamas reserved for its passengers

Further down the island, palm trees remain alongside a possible dock site.

The beach club has been marketed as a world-class destination experience.

Cruisers can expect to pay an extra cost for entrance to the exclusive venue.

Much like the adults-only Hideaway Beach on Perfect Day at CocoCay, guests may pay a single entrance fee to access the area.

Read more: Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island: What you should know before it opens

The entrance fee could include access to the exclusive venue, lunch, and a beach chair.

Royal Caribbean's plans for the Royal Beach Club include a family zone, arrivals area, water sports center, food area, and one or more swimming pools.

In fact, Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley confirmed the beach club will have the largest swim up bar in the world.

"Next year we'll be opening the Royal Beach Club in the Bahamas," Mr. Bayley said at a meeting with members of the press on Utopia of the Seas. "We're kind of hoping we're going to have the largest swim up bar in the world. Can you imagine that?"

It's unknown yet exactly what activities will be offered, but there will be various options to consider.

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

Matt tried the newest cruise ship dining experience on Utopia of the Seas: the Royal Railway.

The Wild-West-themed train car hosts a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment experience.

The unique and visually stunning venue was unlike any other specialty restaurant he'd tried. Royal Caribbean's Royal Railway Utopia Station pushes the envelope of what's possible on a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean News

• New Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, debuts on Friday
• 5 things Utopia of the Seas does better than other Oasis Class ships
• Celebrity announces date, ship, location for President's Cruise 2025
• Christmas cruise in the UK? Royal Caribbean won't do it, according to CEO
• The best cruise essentials on sale for Amazon Prime Day, and are worth every penny
• Royal Caribbean's new cruise ship promises the 'ultimate' food and drinks that you will love
• Woman on Ultimate World Cruise shares her experience, including pregnancy, divorce, and even deaths
• "There is no magical fuel" Royal Caribbean CEO shares honest thoughts on how to power cruise ships
• What a room on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas looks like

New RCB Video: Everything I loved and hated about the world’s newest cruise ship

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Everything I loved and hated about the world’s newest cruise ship — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Meghan Trainor christens new cruise ship

Meghan Trainor, famous singer-songwriter, American Idol judge, and Godmother of Utopia of the Seas, helped christen the new cruise ship on Monday.

The newest and second biggest cruise ship in the world, which launched on its inaugural cruise this weekend, hosted a launch party with Ms. Trainor present.

She helped break a bottle of champagne against the bow, a tradition meant to bring good luck to the vessel and its passengers.

Curfew for kids on a cruise ship? Royal Caribbean CEO wants to revisit the policy

An increased amount of cruisers are starting to complain about out-of-control kids onboard Royal Caribbean ships.

At a talk on Utopia of the Seas, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International president and CEO, admitted that it could be time for the cruise line to review its policies.

To help adults enjoy a more peaceful vacation, Royal Caribbean will be revisiting its kid's curfew policy and Adventure Ocean activities.

Weekend cruises: Tips for taking a 3-night Royal Caribbean getaway

Looking to save money and PTO hours? 

A 3-night weekend cruise provides the opportunity to take a short but sweet vacation.

To help you decide on a ship, destination, and budget, we've compiled some tips for taking a Royal Caribbean weekend cruise.

Celebrity Cruises wants you to join them on a cruise with its top executives.

Celebrity Cruises announced the details, date, location, and ship of the 2025 President's Cruise. For the first time, Celebrity Cruises' President's Cruise will sail to the Fjords of Norway.

Guests onboard the 2024 President's Cruise just returned from their 6-night Caribbean sailing on Celebrity Beyond.

Celebrity Cruises President's Cruise offers members of the loyalty status program, Captain's Club, an opportunity to meet the line's leadership and hear exclusive upcoming news. 

Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises, will welcome passengers onboard an eight-night sailing to experience the famous fjords, wildlife, and waterfalls of Norway.

Read more: I took my first Celebrity Cruise on a new ship. We had a great time, but I missed Royal Caribbean's entertainment

The 2025 President's Cruise is set to sail a "once-in-a-lifetime" itinerary

On May 17th, 2025, Celebrity Apex, the cruise line's second Edge class ship, will sail the wonders of Norway.

Balancing luxury cruising and big-ship amenities, the vessel has a capacity for 3,405 passengers and comes in at 130,818 gross tons. 

The President's Cruise is an exciting opportunity for loyal fans and members with Celebrity Cruises and a reminder of the brand's premium vacation experience. 

Cruisers can meet with the line's President and leadership, experiencing exclusive events, premier parties, and special announcements.

The eight-night cruise will visit scenic cities in Norway, providing ample opportunity to appreciate the famous landscapes of the area.

Guests will enjoy Norway's famous fjords, wildlife, and waterfalls on exciting shore excursions to be revealed later.

"Natural wonders and once-in-a-lifetime thrills await on this special sailing," the cruise line said in a press statement. 

The exciting Norwegian itinerary promises bucket-list opportunities for cruises to see marvelous views, historical sites, and exhilarating adventures.

“The President’s Cruise is a massive celebration of our Captain’s Club members, and the sailing is an incredible opportunity for me and my executive team to spend time with our guests,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, Celebrity Cruises President.

She touched on the unique opportunity she gets to come together with loyal Celebrity Captain's Club members, saying "It is incredibly rewarding to hear guests’ stories and experience Celebrity through their eyes."

Celebrity Cruises provides this option, not only for members to hear from leadership, but also so that the line can learn from its members.

According to Hodges Bethge, she receives valuable feedback while on President's Cruises.

"The feedback and ideas we receive while onboard are instrumental in shaping the future of Celebrity Cruises, allowing us to innovate and enhance our offerings in ways that truly resonate with our guests.”

The 2025 sailing promises an exciting week of surprises and exclusive rewards for Captain's Club members.

This year's sailing took place on Celebrity Beyond for an exciting cruise of exclusive benefits

This year, the 2024 President's Cruise took place on the much-hyped Celebrity Beyond.

The Edge-class has been called the best in the fleet, coming in at 141,420 gross tons with a capacity for 3,260 passengers at double occupancy.

Guests departed from Port Everglades, Florida, on Sunday, June 23rd for a 6-night Caribbean sailing that featured onboard entertainment, custom shore excursions, and a sneak peek into what Celebrity guests can expect for the next few months.

The sailing had two sea days packed with entertainment, including performances from Guinness World Record-holding hula hooping.

A pool party also featured a performance from members of the Team USA Artistic Swimming Team.

West End star Marisha Wallace and the captain of Celebrity Reflection, Captain Kyriakos Matragkas, put on an exciting and unique rock show.

Guests could also present unfiltered questions to the Celebrity executives and leadership team at a Q&A session called "A Conversation with Celebrity." There, they received honest answers to pressing questions about the cruise line.

The unique sailing also offered a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Celebrity Cruises just started sailing to the Royal Caribbean Group private island in the Bahamas in April of 2024.

Celebrity Cruises ships now visit the private island for a full day of enjoyment.

Read more: I went to Royal Caribbean's private island on a Celebrity cruise ship. Here's what surprised me about this visit

On the 2024 President's Cruise, passengers were greeted with surprise jet ski and flyboard stunt performers, Caribbean Junkanoo bands, and live DJs.

Coco Beach Club also hosted an afternoon soirée for Captain's Club members.

In Grand Cayman, Celebrity's executive team hosted group shore excursions tailored to the cruise line.

President Hodges Bethge hosted a private lunch at the oldest dwelling in Grand Cayman, the Grand Old House.

The President's Cruise ended with a stop in Bimini, Bahamas, where the cruise took over the island for a private beach club party and was sent off with fireworks.

The sailing returned to Port Everglades on Saturday, June 29th.

Loyalty club members can now have their status matched across brands

Members of the Celebrity Cruises loyalty program, Captain's Club, now receive more benefits than ever before.

The President's Cruise is just one of many perks Captain's Club members receive.

Members receive access to stateroom upgrades, spa discounts, exclusive onboard events, priority boarding and seating, and complimentary laundry.

In May 2024, Royal Caribbean Group announced that it would match loyalty statuses across all three of its brands: Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Silversea.

No matter which line passengers start with, they can enjoy a one-to-one tier match and equivalent benefits.

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's new loyalty match program. I missed having drink vouchers, but it saved me hundreds of dollars

Now, Captain's Club members with Celebrity Cruises can enjoy even more benefits across the globe, sailing different ships over all of Royal Caribbean Group's fleets.

More than 50 ships sail to almost 1,000 destinations across all seven continents, providing more ways than ever to see the world while enjoying elite benefits.

Winter cruises don't look like they'll become a thing with Royal Caribbean.

The cruise line doesn't plan on having any Christmas cruises out of the UK, according to its CEO.

Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO, explained why the line won't be having a Christmas cruise in Europe.

On this year's President's Cruise, held on Oasis of the Seas, he answered guest's burning questions during a Q&A session.

One cruiser from the UK asked, "Please, can we have a Christmas cruise coming out of Southampton?"

The CEO, although sympathetic to his fellow Brits, explained why the cruise line isn't planning on a Christmas cruise out of England.

Transatlantic cruises aren't practical in the winter 

Michael Bayley told cruisers that a Christian cruise out of Southampton isn't in Royal Caribbean's plans: "I don't think it's going to happen in the near future."

The main reason for that, he said, is the weather. "The weather's terrible," he said frankly, citing "gale-force winds and seas at 30 feet."

Because a Christmas cruise out of the UK requires the ship to be in the UK, this often involves a Transatlantic journey: "To operate a ship out of Europe, we have to bring it to Europe."

The Atlantic Ocean is particularly rough and stormy in the winter, the exact time a ship would need to start traveling to arrive for a Christmas cruise.

A Transatlantic cruise would take between 11 and 12 days, also requiring the cruise line to sell the sailing.

Because Transatlantic cruises are so long, they don't sell as quickly.

"They're extremely expensive," Mr. Bayley said, "and they don't sell very well because nobody's got the time during late October [or] November, to take that much time off to sail."

Most people are already taking off work and school in late December and January, October and November aren't popular times to sail, especially on such a long cruise.

Plus, the ships for a Christmas cruise are bigger vessels, so "we need a lot of people to stay on."

Sailing out of the UK would require the line to sell out a Transatlantic voyage on a larger ship, which isn't likely.

"It becomes [about] economics," Mr. Bayley explained. "It's difficult for us to operate it and make it profitable."

Considering the climate, timing, and economics of a Transatlantic cruise in the winter, it doesn't make sense for Royal Caribbean to schedule a Christmas cruise out of the UK.

Independence of the Seas is scheduled to home port in Southampton, England, in the summer of 2025, giving her plenty of time to cross the Atlantic on smoother seas.

Read more: The worst months to cruise to Europe

Mr. Bayley also addressed winter cruises out of the Canary Islands.

"There's just not enough demand for those ships at the rates that make it economical. It doesn't work," he said.

"There's a seasonality to the business and you've got to be very careful about how the ships are deployed."

Cruise ship schedules depend on a variety of factors, from weather to customer demand, to holidays and vacations.

Royal Caribbean has to carefully choose when ships are deployed in certain regions, and it won't be able to offer every cruise guests desire.

Will there be an Icon Class ship in Europe? 

Following up with more requests from Royal Caribbean's European audience, a cruiser from Spain also posed a question.

Rebecca from Madrid wanted to know: "Please, will an Icon Class ship be in Europe?"

Cruisers want to know if one of Royal Caribbean's newest classes will homeport in Europe.

She also asked that Royal Caribbean add more short, weekend cruises to Europe's itineraries, saying that the only one available to her (sailing out of Barcelona) was already sold out.

Mr. Bayley immediately answered in the positive. 

"I think that's a great idea," he said.

Royal Caribbean sees "a big opportunity [right] now for shorter cruises in Europe, especially at the Spanish ports."

Shorter, weekend cruises will be in the plans for the cruise line, especially with how much demand it's seeing from the market.

Although Mr. Bayley didn't specify if these weekend cruises could take place on an Icon Class ship, he did answer Rebecca's questions in the affirmative. "We have looked at that."

However, weekend cruises will be focused around major ports in Spain.

Where are Royal Caribbean's Christmas cruises?

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of holiday sailings on all its ships. 

The cruise line tends to sail most of its ships on Caribbean itineraries during the winter, taking advantage of the warmer weather and classic vacation areas.

On a Christmas cruise, you can expect the vessel to be brightly decorated, complete with a Christmas tree in a central location (such as the Royal Promenade).

The sailing is likely to also have Christmas-themed activities, such as caroling, holiday movies, and appearances from Santa and his elves.

There is also a menorah lighting, and a priest onboard to conduct public mass on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

The following Royal Caribbean cruises will take place over Christmas Day, 2024:

• Explorer of the Seas: 11-day Southern Caribbean cruise
• Jewel of the Seas: 10-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Ovation of the Seas: 10-day New Zealand cruise
• Vision of the Seas: 8-day Bahamas and Perfect Day cruise 
• Serenade of the Seas: 9-day Eastern Caribbean cruise
• Anthem of the Seas: 4-day Penang Phuket cruise
• Spectrum of the Seas: 9-day best of Japan cruise
• Navigator of the Seas: 7-day Cabo cruise cruise
• Radiance of the Seas: 7-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Icon of the Seas: 7-day Western Caribbean and Perfect Day cruise
• Enchantment of the Seas: 5-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Brilliance of the Seas: 7-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Quantum of the Seas: 7-day South Pacific cruise
• Adventure of the Seas: 6-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Freedom of the Seas: 8-day Eastern Caribbean cruise
• Grandeur of the Seas: 5-day Eastern Caribbean cruise
• Wonder: of the Seas 7-day Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day cruise
• Symphony of the Seas: 7-day Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day cruise
• Oasis of the Seas: 6-day Western Caribbean cruise
• Rhapsody of the Seas: 7-day Southern Caribbean cruise
• Odyssey of the Seas: 7-day Perfect Day and Bahamas cruise 
• Harmony Of The Seas: 7-day Western Caribbean cruise 
• Allure Of The Seas: 4-day Bahamas and Perfect Day cruise
• Liberty Of The Seas: 4-day Bahamas and Perfect Day cruise 
• Independence Of The Seas: 5-day Western Caribbean and Perfect Day 
• Voyager Of The Seas: 5-day Western Caribbean and Perfect Day 
• Utopia Of The Seas: 4-day Bahamas and Perfect Day cruise 
• Mariner Of The Seas: 5-day Western Caribbean cruise 

Do kids need to be reigned in more on cruise ships?

Royal Caribbean has always been a family-focused brand, providing exciting vacation experiences for all ages. However, some adult cruisers feel the number of unruly kids onboard degrades their cruising experience.

At a talk on Utopia of the Seas' preview cruise this week, one travel agent shared that she's receiving a lot of complaints from adult clients.

She claims some of her clients are even leaving Royal Caribbean for other cruise lines because of the amount of unruly children onboard.

"I'm hoping you take this as an opportunity for improvement," she said to senior management on Utopia of the Seas.

She explained that adults are having an increasing amount of problems with unruly children onboard Royal Caribbean's vessels, particularly on Icon of the Seas, a ship marketed to families.

"Icon is fantastic, but [at] the swim-up bar, there's kids splashing into your drinks."

She said that she was on the dance floor at Bolero's at midnight, and still had children crawling through adult's legs as they tried to dance.

Because of these incidents, passengers are starting to leave Royal Caribbean for other quieter, more adult-focused cruise lines.

To improve the adult experience, the travel agent suggested more adult-oriented areas or curfews at the bars onboard.

Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO, responded that the cruise line hears passengers' concerns and will look into it.

Royal Caribbean will revisit curfews for kids

For cruisers ages 17 and under, Royal Caribbean has a curfew of 1:00 A.M. 

Security staff onboard take measures to enforce this curfew by asking kids to return to their staterooms and checking the SeaPasses of passengers in public areas.

Michael Bayley said that the cruise line has been receiving an increased amount of written complaints about kids in public areas, so the line is willing to revisit the curfew policy.

"It's probably time for us to take a look at [the curfew]. I think the idea of curfews in some of the bars is a great idea," he said.

Other senior staff at the talk suggested an earlier curfew, especially for adult-focused bar and lounge areas, such as Bolero's or the swim-up bar.

Mr. Bayley reassured passengers that Royal Caribbean is still a family brand that welcomes kids onboard, but "we do need to make sure that we respect the adults."

"And you know what they say, everybody loves their own kids, but they're not so fond of everybody else's kids."

Royal Caribbean has already made changes in recent years to recognize customer feedback regarding kids onboard.

The Solarium, a crystal canopy pool area located at the front of most Royal Caribbean ships, used to allow guests aged 16 and over. 

In September of 2023, the cruise line raised the age limit to 18 years old, keeping the adults-only name consistent. 

Parents can continue to take advantage of Adventure Ocean

Royal Caribbean has a free kid's program across its fleet.

Adventure Ocean features activities for kids aged 6 months to 11 years, with different rooms and games tailored to each age range.

Parents have to register at the beginning of the cruise and sign their children in and out at each visit.

On sea days, the area is open from 9 A.M. to 12 P.M., then from 2 P.M. to 5 P.M. and from 7 P.M. to 10 P.M.

Adventure Ocean is completely free between those hours, but there is an extra charge per hour after 10:00 P.M.

On port days, Adventure Ocean is open for the entire time that the ship is docked at port.

Guests booked on Royal Caribbean shore excursions can even drop off their kids and head to their destination.

Tween and teen cruisers can also find activities in separate hangout spaces designed specifically for them.

Read more: I'm a teen and went on the world's largest cruise ship. I was worried it would be juvenile, but it exceeded all my expectations

To avoid infringing on other cruiser's vacations, parents can take advantage of Adventure Ocean and should avoid leaving their children unattended.

Royal Caribbean's guest conduct policy states that parents and guardians are responsible for the behavior of accompanying minors, and must appropriately supervise them throughout the cruise vacation.

Read more: Royal Caribbean is testing a way to track your kids on the world's largest cruise ship

Vicki Freed, Royal Caribbean International's Senior Vice President of Travel, Trade, and Support also spoke about the activities available for kids onboard Royal Caribbean's ships.

"We are reevaluating some of the activities for the young children and also the teens to keep them more engaged with one another in our different venues like Adventure Ocean," she said. 

How to choose a cruise with fewer children onboard

Royal Caribbean is a family brand, but some cruises will have more kids than others.

Adults looking to avoid mischievous youngsters can plan ahead by avoiding certain sailings.

Summertime and holiday cruises, when kids are on break from school, will have a larger amount of families onboard.

"Icon has a huge number of families," Mr. Bayley said. "Of course, it peaks during the summer with families and kids."

Read more: 4 mistakes I saw other people make on Icon of the Seas—and 2 mistakes I made

Larger ships, such as Icon of the Seas, are marketed as floating amusement parks for all ages, so they have a wider appeal to families.

Royal Caribbean's mega-ships, from the Icon to the Oasis Class, are packed with activities like waterslides, ice skating, rock climbing, mini-golf, carousels, craft lessons, theater productions, and so much more.

They appeal to families because of their ability to entertain people of all ages.

Read more: 12 differences between the big and small Royal Caribbean cruise ships

On the other hand, sailings when school is in session (September to May) and longer cruises are likely to have fewer kids onboard.

Any adults who are cruising and notice rowdy or unattended kids onboard can let Guest Services know and allow crew members to handle it.

Cruise ships are always evolving, including how to power them.

In a world growing more aware of the importance of protecting the environment, cruise lines are holding themselves to a higher standard.

Royal Caribbean has its own net zero carbon emission goals, and its newest cruise ships rely on new fuel sources to power them.  They're even using biofuels on some ships, as well as launching the first waste-to-energy system on a cruise ship.

However, the work isn't complete and the ultimate goal of a clean burning fuel unreached.

At a Q&A session on the 2024 President's Cruise, a passenger named Bridget asked, "What is the top thing Royal Caribbean is working on towards [its] environmental impact?"

Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told passengers that the cruise line is committed to sustainability, but can't rely on solutions that don't yet exist.

He was honest about where Royal Caribbean succeeds environmentally and where it needs work.

Royal Caribbean works with the latest research it has at the time 

Michael Bayley explained Royal Caribbean's commitment and mindset regarding the environment.

"Everything that we do is put through that lens of trying to be as sensible as we can buy new ships, for example; Icon, Utopia, Star."

Icon of the Seas launched in January of 2024, Utopia of the Seas will have its first voyage in July of 2024, and Star of the Seas is set to arrive in the summer of 2025.

Royal Caribbean has focused on making its new ships as environmentally friendly as possible in tandem with new research providing information.

The three new ships were all made with hybrid engines and can run on a combination of typical marine fuel and LNG (liquified natural gas).

LNG is considered more environmentally friendly because, according to Mr. Bayley, it's about 24% better in carbon footprint than marine fuel.

"We are committed to making the journey to carbon neutrality," he said.

"Over time, we set goals for 2030."

Read more: Royal Caribbean's next-gen cruise ship will advance goal of creating sustainable cruising

Although LNG is considered better for the environment, it's not perfect.

Liquified natural gas has also been criticized for leaking when it's transferred between tanks.

"When decisions are made on building ships, they're made with the information that's available at the time. And of course, the information at the time when we signed contracts to build ships is different from how it looks today," Michael Bayley said. 

Although Royal Caribbean builds its new ships with the newest technology they're aware of, the information changes from year to year.

Cruise ships can be built in 18-12 months, but they take years to come to fruition. Icon of the Seas, for example, was conceived before 2016 and finally launched in 2024.

With these long timelines, information can change over the years.

"In five years, how we do this is going to look different as well," Mr. Bayley continued.

"There is no magical fuel"

The biggest issue for cruise ship sustainability is fuel. Cruise ships use a massive amount of fuel to power their journeys and amenities onboard.

Michael Bayley touched on this during the Q&A: "The big question is, what is the future fuel for all of this transportation? It's still unknown."

Transportation industries such as cargo ships and airlines are investing in the issue and attempting to find a solution, but there's still not a perfectly sustainable option.

"There is no magical fuel," Mr. Bayley said, and he believes "that's the formula for success in the future."

Five to ten years ago, LNG was viewed as the solution to creating a more sustainable fuel. But now it's not considered the best option.

Read more: Which Royal Caribbean ships are powered by LNG?

Mr. Bayley also addressed other options that are still being developed, such as methanol and fuel cells.

He didn't make a mention of the new biofuel Royal Caribbean has been testing on its ships.

However, none of these options are viable for cruise ships yet. 

The entire marine industry is working on a solution

And before you consider boycotting cruise ships for their lack of sustainable fuel, it's important to consider the big picture.

When it comes to environmental issues, Mr. Bayley pointed out that the whole world "is on the same journey" to carbon neutrality.

Many governments and industries are working on the question of sustainable transportation.

Nearly everything we consume in the Western world has arrived by cargo ship, powered by typical marine fuel.

"80% of everything we consume comes on containers," Mr. Bayley said. "The cars we drive, the clothes we wear, the water we drink."

Typically, these items come by ship or rail, so there's no getting away from the question of carbon-neutral fuel.

Fuel is a big question for the entire marine industry, and Royal Caribbean is committed to figuring out a sustainable answer.

"I can assure you we're committed to that," Mr. Bayley told passengers on the President's Cruise. 

"We are working diligently, not only as a company but [also] within the industry and within the larger sector of the maritime industry, which is vast."

He also urged listeners to check out Royal Caribbean's sustainability report on the website, which describes all of the cruise line's efforts in detail.

Royal Caribbean has more sustainable waste management than cities on land

Royal Caribbean understands its responsibility to the environment and has done an excellent job at managing waste onboard its ships.

Just 7% of the waste onboard Royal Caribbean ships ends up in the landfill. 

The rest is recycled, incinerated, or turned into purified water that can be dumped in the ocean.

"I would challenge any city in Europe or the world to have a better, more advanced technology than we have onboard," Mr. Bayley said.

"Now, if you went home and understood how much of your waste is going into a landfill, I'm going to bet it's a lot more than 7%."

According to the Trash in America report by Frontier Group, 52.6% of trash in the United States is thrown in landfills or otherwise combusted without energy recovery.

Read more: Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ships will convert waste to energy