Royal Caribbean just added Halloween fun on its cruise ships all month long

In:
02 Oct 2025

Starting this year, Royal Caribbean is letting passengers enjoy the spooky season all October long with month-long Halloween celebrations across its fleet. 

Halloween-Icon-1

Historically, Royal Caribbean guests couldn't enjoy Halloween activities unless they were on a sailing on October 31. 

For the first time ever, the cruise line is celebrating throughout the entire month of October. 

A Royal Caribbean spokesperson confirmed the news in an email to Royal Caribbean Blog.

Icon-Halloween-8

"Guests are encouraged to participate in the festivities, so we recommend they pack their favorite costumes and accessories to have a ghoulish-good time!" they said. 

From Halloween-themed crafts to family scavenger hunts and a special movie night, cruisers are guaranteed to have a frightfully fun experience at sea. 

What to expect on Royal Caribbean's Halloween cruises

Halloween

According to the email shared with Royal Caribbean Blog, there are a variety of activities planned for family-friendly fun, including:

  • Halloween-themed crafts (younger cruisers)
  • Halloween games (younger cruisers)
  • Teen Halloween games (teenagers)
  • Teen Halloween movie night (teenagers)
  • Horror movie quotes trivia (families)
  • Family Halloween-themed crafts (families)
  • Halloween family scavenger hunt (families)
  • Halloween costume parade (families)
  • Adult Halloween monster mash bash (adult-only)
Halloween decorations

To find available activities on your October voyage, simply check the Royal Caribbean app. After you have selected your sailing (or are connected to the ship's Wi-Fi), select "Entertainment" and browse the daily schedule. 

Even if the activities aren’t your thing, you won't want to leave your house without a costume. 

Guests are encouraged to dress up on the cruise, regardless of whether it's in early October or over Halloween. 

Oasis-Oct-Halloween-Night

"We're celebrating All Hallows Eve and all things creepy and crawly," the Cruise Planner says, "Ghouls and goblins, tonight is your night to shine."

It's a great excuse to get another use out of your kid's Halloween costume this year!

Read more: What Halloween is like on the world's largest cruise ship

Month-long Halloween celebrations at sea aren't rare

Most famously, Disney Cruise Line's Halloween on the High Seas has been a fan favorite for years. 

The special sailings feature everything from themed character appearances — think Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow dressed as the Sanderson sisters — to Halloween crafts and elaborate décor. 

Margaritaville at Sea also began offering its own Halloween-themed sailings, featuring themed cocktails, onboard activities, costume contests, and numerous decorations throughout the ship. 

MVAS-Halloween

The special sailings began in mid-September and will run through the end of October. 

With Royal Caribbean now joining in on the extended celebrations, it’s clear that the spooky season is becoming a staple during October cruises.

Read more: I celebrated Halloween on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, and it's my favorite holiday to spend at sea

Anonymous Royal Caribbean crew member officer shared what it's like to work on a cruise ship

In:
02 Oct 2025

Cruise ship crew members have interesting jobs. No two days are ever the same when dealing with guests. It’s a demanding and fascinating role, but it is also rewarding. 

A now-deleted Reddit user who claims to be an Officer aboard an Oasis Class cruise ship shared insights into their life at sea.

"Hi cruisers!! First Officer here! Since we always have guests asking interesting stuff on bridge tours thought [of] making this post. Remark: not disclosing RCI private information and future company plans!" they wrote. 

Since being posted, the thread has gotten over 440 comments and 1,100 upvotes. Needless to say, there were a lot of people interested in the behind-the-scenes workings of a cruise ship. 

What percentage of the water consumed on board is desalinated and purified? 

Bottle of Water

The Officer said that all the fresh water on Royal ships is purified per United States Public Health (USPH) regulations. 

"We are producing water on the principle of Reverse Osmosis — Seawater converted to Fresh Water," they said. 

The original poster (OP) added that 3 out of 4 cruise ships are also likely to get water loaded at the turnaround day port (like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Seattle). 

What kind of crew cabin do you get?

Utopia-Crew-Cabin-6

While cruise ship Captains get mega-suites near the Bridge, other crew members typically live in smaller quarters and often share a windowless room and/or bathroom. 

However, because the OP has a higher ranking than cabin stewards, bartenders, etc., they have a private stateroom on Deck 3 with a small porthole, double bed, private bathroom, sofa, and television. 

What would happen if there were a mechanical failure while underway (like an engine failure)? 

Propellors on Harmony of the Seas

The OP said, "We have a lot of redundancy for almost everything."

Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's second-newest Oasis Class ship, has 6 engines. However, they typically only use 3 at a time. As such, if there's an engine failure, the engineers can start another one.

How in-the-loop are crew members about the future plans of the company?

Discover Class rumor ship

According to the Officer, it all depends. A lot of news is shared via rumor, though. 

"Sometimes there are only rumours spreading across the ship which are likely true. Heard about the Legend of the Seas name 9 months before it was revealed," they wrote. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO talks rumored new ship size and where it could sail

What is the career path to become an officer on a cruise ship?

Bridge of Icon of the Seas

Just like with most professions, you can't wake up one day and immediately become a cruise ship Officer. 

First, you have to begin with 4 years at Maritime University to earn your Bachelor’s in Maritime Studies and Navigation. During your studies (or immediately after), you must also complete one year of cadetship. 

"Then you get the STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch license and you start as Second Officer in Royal," the OP said. 

Bridge of a cruise ship

Some cadets are lucky and start working for a cruise line. However, the majority of officers work their way up, starting as cadets on cargo ships. 

As a First Officer, is your job primarily logistics and handling the port of call with local authorities? Or is it more like managing staff and driving the ship?

Reddit-AMA-Officer-Side-View-At-Sea

(Credit: Reddit)

The OP does not manage anyone. Instead, they work purely on the navigational side. 

Their responsibilities include updating navigational charts weekly, making the routines, watchkeeping, and dealing with ballast water reports.

And yes, it's possible to get bored performing the same duties over and over!

How often are lifeboat drills performed, and how often are the lifeboats thought of/spoken about during regular operation?

The muster drill happens more frequently than lifeboat drills. According to the OP, the safety drill is weekly, whereas they only lower the release the lifeboats from the hooks every 3 months. 

If working on a ship operating shorter cruises, the safety drill would happen more frequently, such as every Friday and Monday on 3- and 4-night sailings. 

Roughest water you've experienced? Details? Did it bother you?

ough-weather-2

The roughest waters the Officer experienced were when they were arriving in Vancouver, Canada. 

"We were drifting around for 5 days and on the second day we got 33 feet (11 meters) waves," they wrote.

"The ship listed around 22 degrees. Most of our ships (Royal) [don't] exceed [a] list [of] more than 2 degrees, so you can imagine how rough the [sea] was."

Are you able to enjoy passenger areas if you're off-duty?

Central Park on Star

The amount of privileges crew members have depends on their position. The higher up you are, the more freedom you have. 

For this First Officer, they like to eat dinner in the Windjammer with colleagues, walk through Central Park and the Royal Promenade, and watch shows. 

Can you see onto the balconies?

Balcony view

Balconies are not as private as you might think. Although there are dividers that limit how much one can see into neighboring balconies, they don’t provide complete privacy.

The OP said, "From the bridge some of the balconies are visible yes! More interesting is in CocoCay when we dock with [another] ship."

Read more: Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean

How often do whales come close to the ship?

Reddit-Officer-AMA-Dolphins

(Credit: Reddit)

"[Whales are] very rare, especially in the Caribbean," they wrote, "Alaska and [the Northeast Coast] can encounter some and you can see the tails."

Dolphins, however, are a different story. The smart mammals swim with the ship's bow. 

Apart from CocoCay, do you have a favorite port of call in the Caribbean?

Old San Juan streets in Puerto Rico

The OP loves San Juan, Puerto Rico, calling it a "lovely" place. 

On the flip side, they claim that sailing into St. Thomas is challenging. 

Do you ever want to go on a cruise as a passenger on vacation?

Wonder of the Seas

For many crew members, especially in safety or operational roles, it is difficult to switch their working brain off. 

"I’ve never done it, and I [don't] think I will do it as I always see the ships from safety’s point," the First Officer shared. 

What’s the funniest thing or behavior that you’ve seen?

Wonder of the Seas

Working on a ship means you’re bound to have tons of funny stories from guest interactions. 

One of the standout moments for the OP is when they were asked if crew members live on the ship. 

"[O]ne of my colleagues said that we are taken by helicopter by the end of each day. It was funny because he was joking, but the guest thought we [were] taking helicopters [every day]," they added.

Do you have family back home?

A lot of cruise crew members spend months away from their loved ones. The OP is no exception. 

They spend around 2 to 3 months onboard per contract, with the same time off. As such, they have about 6 months off during the calendar year. 

What’s the longest you’ve had to wait for a pier runner?

Utopia of the Seas

Cruise ships operate on a tight schedule and have strict all-aboard times for guests in ports of call. If you're late, you may have to frantically dash down the pier before the gangway goes up. It's fun to watch pier runners, but you don't want to be one. 

The longest the OP has waited on a pier runner was about 30 minutes in Roatán, Honduras:

"The Guest Services Manager managed to reach the couple missing and then we decided to wait."

How much socialization is there between the various divisions?

Bar crew members

Cruise ships are like floating cities where people from all departments interact daily, both on and off duty.

"The crew windjammer is [open] for everyone and we regularly sit with engineers, cast members, guest services etc. [It's] nice to find friends from different divisions."

Over 70 guests, crew sick due to a gastrointestinal outbreak on Royal Caribbean ship

In:
30 Sep 2025

More than 70 people got sick in a gastrointestinal illness outbreak during a cruise on Royal Caribbean's Serenade of the Seas. 

Serenade-Norovirus-Outbreak-Hero

Among the 1,874 guests aboard the ship, 71 reported being ill during a cruise that will end on October 2, 2025, along with one crew member, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The outbreak was reported to the CDC on Sept. 28, 2025. 3.79% of passengers and 0.11% of crew members reported gastrointestinal issues. The predominant symptoms of the infected individuals were vomiting and diarrhea.

The CDC listed the causative agent as norovirus, a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through contaminated water, food, and surfaces.

Virus-2

Consequently, the cruise line implemented heightened cleaning and sanitation measures onboard, including:

  • Increased cleaning and disinfection
  • Collecting stool specimens from gastrointestinal illness cases for testing
  • Isolating ill passengers and crew
  • Consulting with the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) regarding sanitation procedures and illness reporting.

"The health and safety of our guests, crew, and the communities we visit are our top priority," Royal Caribbean Group told USA TODAY

Serenade of the Seas docked in Haines

"To maintain an environment that supports the highest levels of health and safety onboard our ships, we implement rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which far exceed public health guidelines."

Serenade of the Seas is currently on a 13-night voyage one-way from San Diego, California, to Miami, Florida. 

Cruise ship GI illness outbreaks now surpass reported cases in 2024

The norovirus outbreak on Serenade of the Seas is the 19th gastrointestinal illness outbreak on a cruise in 2025. Comparatively, 18 cases met the CDC's threshold for public notification in 2024.

The following cruise ships have reported outbreaks in 2025, along with the causative agent:

  • Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud Spirit — January 4-10, 2025 (Ciguatera, presumed)
  • Silversea Cruises: Silver Ray — January 4-20, 2025 (E. coli)
  • Holland America Line: Volendam — January 4-25, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking Mars — January 10-24, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Princess Cruises: Coral Princess — January 20-February 5, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Royal Caribbean International: Radiance of the Seas — February 1-8, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Holland America Line: Rotterdam — February 2-14, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Holland America Line: Eurodam — February 19-March 1, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Princess Cruises: Coral Princess — February 21-March 9, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Holland America Line: Rotterdam — March 7-16, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Cunard Line: Queen Mary 2 — March 8-April 6, 2026 (Norovirus)
  • Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn Encore — March 16-April 9, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Viking Expedition: Viking Polars — April 11-23, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Linblad Expeditions: National Geographic Sea Lion — April 15-29, 2025 (Unknown)
  • Holland America Line: Zuiderdam — January 4-May 9, 2025 (Unknown)
  • Holland America Line: Eurodam —April 12-May 5, 2025 (Unknown)
  • Regent Seven Seas: Seven Seas Explorer — April 26-May 14, 2025 (Unknown)
  • Royal Caribbean International: Navigator of the Seas — July 4-11, 2025 (Norovirus)
  • Royal Caribbean International: Serenade of the Seas — September 19-October 2, 2025 (Norovirus)
Virus

Last year, most outbreaks were attributed to norovirus (15 out of 18). However, E. coli and Salmonella were also identified on cruise ships.

Although cruises often get a bad reputation for norovirus outbreaks, the CDC claims that ships are only responsible for about 1% of reported norovirus outbreaks. The highly contagious virus can also spread in confined spaces like camps, hotels, and college dorms. 

Read more: Cruise ships suffer worst year for stomach bugs in over a decade. Here's what I'm doing to stay healthy

Norovirus outbreaks are also on the rise across the United States

NoroSTAT-Data from 2012 to 2025

According to the CDC, norovirus cases increased throughout the 2024-2025 season, which lasted from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025. 

During that time frame, 2,675 norovirus outbreaks were reported by NoroSTAT-participating states. There were 1,478 norovirus outbreaks reported by the same states throughout the previous seasonal period. 

How to protect yourself from norovirus on a cruise ship

Foaming-Hand-Soap-Cruise-Cabin-Bathroom-Hack

While onboard, you should follow all recommended health precautions, such as washing your hands before entering the buffet and after using the restroom. 

It's also smart to limit your time in the crowded cruise ship buffet. Even if you thoroughly wash your hands before entering, it is hard to maintain strict hygiene standards with the high volume of guests coming and going.

Next, consider taking the stairs more often than the elevators. With hundreds (if not thousands) of passengers on a cruise ship, elevators typically feel cramped and hot. On the other hand, stairwells are quieter and reduce your time in extra-confined spaces. 

How a government shutdown could affect cruise ships and travel

In:
29 Sep 2025

The government will go into a shutdown effective Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. if Democrats and Republicans can't come to an agreement on federal funding.

Oasis of the Seas

Essentially, the two parties can't agree on spending levels and which programs to fund or restore, especially around health care, in the bill.

Should the government shut down, most federal agencies would halt non-essential work, and many government employees would be furloughed. 

Although essential federal workers — like air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents — would remain on the job (albeit without pay), the government shutdown could still impact your upcoming cruise. 

How would the government shutdown affect cruises?

Based on previous government shutdowns, federal agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Coast Guard, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the TSA remain operational since they're essential. 

Additionally, port employees are considered essential, so there would likely be minimal disruptions to the cruises themselves. However, they would be working without pay during the shutdown. Instead, they'd get back pay once the funds are available.  

Although short-term operations wouldn't be impacted too much, the issue is the long-term strain, as hiring and training activities are typically paused during a shutdown. 

Will the shutdown impact air travel?

Alaska airlines flight

There isn't a concern about whether planes will fly (they will). The bigger issue is how smoothly airports function during a government shutdown. 

The TSA and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are essential services, so air traffic controllers and security screeners will continue to work — but without pay. That said, fliers could still feel the effects if the shutdown drags on and agents begin calling out of work in protest. 

In 2019, for example, TSA agents and FAA controllers began skipping work after two weeks of no pay. As such, it's not uncommon to see longer lines at airport security and more flight delays than usual, especially at major hubs. 

"The truth is, most people won't really feel much of a difference," Maya MacGuineas, the president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, told CBS News

"If you've got a vacation planned to a National Park, you're going to be [upset] and disappointed. But most people will go on with their everyday lives and interact with the government the same way they do, and not feel a big difference. That could get worse, the longer it lasts."

Can I renew my passport for my cruise during a shutdown?

TSA PreCheck, visa, and passport operations are fee-funded and not normally impacted by a shutdown. 

However, passport applications may be delayed, so you should not wait until the last minute to renew or apply for one. If a passport office is in a building run by a different shuttered agency, it could close, too. 

Global Entry is a different story. During the 2018-2019 shutdown, Global Entry appointments at a few enrollment centers were randomly cancelled with no rescheduled date available. 

Should I cancel my upcoming travel plans?

Freedom-Docked-Nassau

No, you should not cancel your cruise if the government shuts down on Oct. 1. That said, you should be extra patient, especially if you're flying to the cruise port. 

If cruise ports and airports are understaffed, check-in and security could take longer to clear. Additionally, it could take more time for the cruise ship to be cleared before guests can begin disembarking. 

Royal Caribbean Blog reader Don Goldstein noted that during a previous government shutdown, he was stuck on board when the ship returned to Florida:

Freedom-Disembarkation-Miami

"[We] came into port after a cruise, Port Everglades, I think, and it took us about 4 hours to get off the ship due to lack of ICE staffing at the port."

Because of this, it is crucial that you remain flexible and don't book the earliest flight home (you shouldn't do this regardless). 

If you cannot get off as early as you thought, don't panic; contact your airline or travel provider as soon as possible. They will help rebook you on the next available flight. 

TSA Security employees checking a backpack

Additionally, you should not fly to your cruise port on the day of embarkation. Arriving at least one day early gives you a buffer in case of flight delays or cancellations, which can be even more common during a government shutdown when essential airport employees might not show up.

Give yourself extra time at the airport, too. Even if your flight is on time, it may take longer to check your bag and go through security.

Her $13,000 infirmary bill was higher than the cruise itself: Why one cruiser regrets not buying travel insurance

In:
26 Sep 2025

One woman's first cruise turned into a nightmare when she was slapped with a $13,000 medical bill after she began throwing up blood and losing consciousness.

Baxter-Medical-Emergency-Hero

Khiali Baxter was two days into her first-ever Royal Caribbean cruise with her boyfriend when she began feeling unwell. 

"So, I woke up. I started throwing up blood, unfortunately, and I had passed out on the ground," Baxter told KHOU 11, "I could feel myself kind of going in and out of consciousness. I was very cold and terrified."

She was taken to the ship's medical facility, then transported to a hospital four hours away from the cruise port in Costa Maya — but not before waiting four hours onboard and racking up a $4,000 bill.

Khiali-Baxter-Medical-Emergency-1

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

While at the hospital, Baxter received over $9,000 in medical care, including several different procedures to help stabilize her.

However, before they would treat her, the staff asked Baxter's family for payment. Baxter's father, Craig, recalled the conversation with a hospital employee in an interview with KHOU 11, saying they'd work as far as $2,500 would take them.

"I've never heard this in my life," he said. 

Khiali-Baxter-Medical-Emergency-4

(Credit: KHOU 11)

Back in Texas, Baxter's parents were scrambling to secure emergency passports to travel to Mexico. 

The last-minute flights and accommodations weren't cheap, but they were not going to leave their daughter in a foreign hospital. 

Travel insurance would have made a huge difference

Khiali-Baxter-Medical-Emergency-2

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

Baxter was unaware of the steep out-of-pocket costs associated with international medical care and decided against travel insurance. 

"It was a very, very scary experience, and my main thing that I do want to say is that I really wish I would’ve gotten travel insurance," Baxter said.

Travel insurance is a valuable but often overlooked safety net. Although it might seem like an avoidable expense, it's one of those things you don't want to use but are thankful for when you need it. 

Read more: Travel insurance for a cruise: Why you need it for a Royal Caribbean cruise

Khiali-Baxter-Medical-Emergency-3

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

A good insurance policy provides peace of mind in case of unexpected medical emergencies at sea. In Baxter's case, it would have helped recoup some of the expensive treatments she received, such as an endoscopy, colonoscopy, and blood transfusion. 

Even though Baxter didn't have insurance, a family friend set up a GoFundMe. Over 160 generous donors have helped raise $14,138, or roughly 88% of the $16,000 goal. 

Still, the family wants to share Baxter's story in hopes that it prepares others for the unexpected, especially when traveling far from home.

Stateroom phone

Travel insurance also helps cover things like lost luggage, travel delays, medical evacuations, and more. As such, the small upfront cost is worth the protection it provides during a costly emergency. 

"It was an eye-opening experience that I hope prepares other young people," Craig Baxter said.

Unfortunately, Baxter isn't the only cruiser to be hit with a large medical bill 

Gastro-Cruise-Ship-Intake-Form-Medical-Center

Vincent Wasney and his fiancée, Sarah Eberlein, were cruising on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas when Wasney began suffering from a series of seizures. However, before the couple was allowed to disembark, they had to pay over $2,500 in medical bills.

As reported by KFF Health News and NPR, Eberlein heard Wasney make a pained noise before he had his first seizure. Blood began spilling from his mouth as a result of him accidentally biting his tongue.

Wasney's second seizure caused him to stop breathing, while the third seizure, characterized as a grand mal seizure, was even more severe. 

Medical center sign

The vessel was close enough to their disembarkation port in Florida, so they could disembark early via rescue boat — but not before paying a $2,500.22 medical bill. 

The charges included $2,285.78 for general ward admission and observation, along with $97.99 for an i-STAT blood test, $104.55 for out-of-facility services, and $11.90 for medication.

Read more: Man was sick on a cruise and was hit with a big bill before being sent home

Royal Caribbean alters itinerary on world's largest cruise ship to avoid developing storm

In:
26 Sep 2025

Royal Caribbean changed a Caribbean itinerary in an effort to avoid the strengthening tropical storm system in the Atlantic Ocean. 

Star-Caribbean-Cruise-Changed-Atlantic-Storm-Hero

Guests sailing aboard Star of the Seas' September 28, 2025, cruise were notified that they'd no longer be heading to the Eastern Caribbean. 

Instead, the 7-night Caribbean cruise will visit the Western Caribbean, calling at Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico.

"Our Captain, along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Zetzer, has been monitoring the expected development of a tropical storm near the northwest Bahamas and a hurricane in the Atlantic," reads the email.

Star-Storm-Change-Letter

"We have decided to change our itinerary to safely avoid the storm and large seas on our eastern route. As a result, we will now sail a Western Caribbean itinerary..." 

This sudden change means that guests won't visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas. Moreover, Star's inaugural visit to St. Kitts has been postponed. 

Star of the Seas will now call at St. Kitts for the very first time on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2025 — assuming that there aren't any future storm systems that further derail the plans. 

Star of the Seas docked

Although disappointing, Royal Caribbean emphasized that the safety and comfort of its guests and crew remain the company’s top priority.

"We're terribly sorry for this last-minute change caused by the weather - your safety is our top priority," the email continues.

"Please remember, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather." 

Tropical Storm Alex

This is the first storm-related itinerary change for Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. She entered service for the cruise line in Aug. 2025. 

Read more: Cruising in hurricane season: What you need to know

Not a tropical storm yet

Tropical-Disturbance-Atlantic

Although the strengthening disturbance isn't a tropical storm yet, the National Hurricane Center predicts that it has an 80% to 90% chance of developing by late Friday, Sept. 26, or over the weekend. 

The path of possible Tropical Storm Imelda prompted Royal Caribbean, as well as Disney Cruise Line, to reroute ships to ensure that all guests and crew members remain safe. 

According to the National Hurricane Center's 8:00 a.m. EDT report on Friday, Sept. 26, an area of low pressure will likely form along the wave by tonight as it moves near the southeast Bahamas. 

Surfside

The low is expected to develop into a tropical storm when it's in the vicinity of the central and northwest Bahamas over the weekend. 

Even if the storm doesn't strengthen, it will bring heavy rains and gusty winds to places like Haiti, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Dominican Republic, eastern Cuba, and The Bahamas. 

Royal Caribbean CEO talks rumored new ship size and where it could sail

In:
26 Sep 2025

Royal Caribbean is getting closer to making a formal announcement about its upcoming new ship class. While we don't have a lot to go on, President and CEO Michael Bayley let a few secrets slip about the Discovery Class. 

Sign of Royal Caribbean

Bayley is currently sailing aboard the 2025 President's Cruise on Utopia of the Seas. During the Common Ground chat, he teased a few details about what’s coming next for Royal Caribbean. 

Rumors about the Discovery Class began circulating in July 2023 when Bayley said that they were considering and planning a smaller class of ships. Since then, speculation has only grown with more tidbits spilled by cruise line executives. 

However, Bayley seemed to confirm that Royal Caribbean is full speed ahead for the Discovery Class. 

Bayley-Presidents-Cruise-2

"We've been working a lot on the Discovery Class...it takes a lot of work to design a ship...[but] we're getting really close," he said while on Utopia of the Seas.

"We can't make any announcements now, but I'm hopeful that in the coming months we will be able to make an announcement on that class." 

In other words, the Discovery Class ships will be happening, but there are still a lot of things that need to happen before the cruise line can formally introduce the ships to the world. 

Bayley-Presidents-Cruise-3

In the meantime, here is the new information we’ve learned straight from Bayley about the ships.

Where will Discovery Class ships sail?

Discover Class rumor ship

The Discovery Class was named because of where the ships will sail; they want guests to literally discover new and interesting ports of call. 

"We want the ship[s] to be able to really focus on...the more exotic itineraries," Bayley remarked. 

So, instead of sailing to The Bahamas or Caribbean (those markets are heavily dominated by Oasis and Icon ships, anyway!), guests can expect itineraries to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, and the South Pacific. 

Midnight sun

Royal Caribbean's smallest ships are also its oldest — think Vision and Radiance Class vessels. Although they've been updated throughout the years, they no longer reflect the modern design and amenities that Royal Caribbean is known for today.

As such, Royal Caribbean's goal is for Discovery Class ships to gradually phase out these aging vessels. 

"[Discovery ships] would...come in and start replacing the older hardware that currently operates in many of those itineraries," Bayley added.

How big will Discovery Class ships be?

Bayley didn't give any exact measurements, but he did reveal that Discovery Class ships will be small enough to sail through the Panama Canal. 

To date, the largest vessel to sail through the Panama Canal was Norwegian Bliss. As such, we know that Discovery Class ships won't be larger than 168,000 gross registered tons (GRT) and 1,094 feet long. 

"It'll go through the Panama Canal, which we think will be a real positive because it'll be able to go to Alaska in the summer, and it can get back into the Caribbean," Bayley said during the Common Ground chat.

Vision of the Seas docked in Baltimore

Still, 168,000 GRT is considerably larger than Vision and Radiance Class ships, which measure anywhere from 73,817 to 90,090 GRT. 

Discovery Class ships will likely be large enough to offer Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences, but still small and versatile enough to visit ports that are inaccessible to the Oasis and Icon vessels. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean Ships by Size - Largest to Smallest

Royal Caribbean redeploys cruise ships sailing from Puerto Rico in latest deployment change

In:
25 Sep 2025

Royal Caribbean is sending two Vision Class ships to Puerto Rico in 2026 and 2027. 

Side of a Radiance Class ship

Originally, Brilliance of the Seas was set to offer Caribbean cruises from Puerto Rico. However, Royal Caribbean decided to swap the ship. Now, Brilliance of the Seas will sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, while Vision of the Seas will depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Similarly, Radiance of the Seas was scheduled to offer cruises from San Juan. In the cruise line's latest deployment swap, Radiance will move to Tampa, Florida, while Rhapsody of the Seas will take over the cruises from Puerto Rico. 

Royal Caribbean let impacted travel advisors know about the change in an email.

Pier in San Juan

"Our original plan for Brilliance of the Seas was to offer sailings in 2026 - 2027 departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Instead, Brilliance of the Seas will offer sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Vision of the Seas will offer the sailings from San Juan, Puerto Rico," the first notice reads. 

The second email is similar, just indicating the Radiance and Rhapsody of the Seas will swap places. 

Both continue, "We're truly sorry for the impact that this has on your clients' vacation plans."

Options for passengers on Brilliance or Vision of the Seas

Radiance and Brilliance of the Seas

Impacted cruisers booked on either Brilliance or Vision of the Seas have two options:

  • Re-book any other Royal Caribbean sailing
  • Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

For those who want to re-book another cruise vacation, Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees. 

That said, guests are responsible for the difference in cruise fare, taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise fare items — think Wi-Fi, drink packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, etc. 

El Morro

However, if the reservation was already paid in full, Royal Caribbean will provide a refund of the difference within 14 business days.

If there is no suitable replacement, impacted passengers may request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare, as well as non-refundable deposits and prepaid amenities.

The email states that if the cruise was booked using a Future Cruise Credit, Royal Caribbean will refund any new funds paid above the certificate amount and reinstate the original certificate.

Vision Class ship

Additionally, airfare booked through Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program will be automatically refunded.

Options for passengers on Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas

Radiance of the Seas

Impacted cruisers booked on either Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas have a few options, depending on their sail date:

  • Re-book a similar sailing
  • Automatically move to the same sailing on Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas
  • Re-book another cruise on any Royal Caribbean ship
  • Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

Option 1 only applies to guests aboard Radiance of the Seas on March 20 and 27, 2027, as well as April 3 and 10, 2027. 

San Juan Street

Passengers who choose this option will have the original stateroom category price protected or reduced to the current cruise fare rate — whichever is lower. 

Note that this applies to the cruise fare only. Taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise items will be at the prevailing rate. 

If the booking was already paid in full, Royal Caribbean will automatically issue a refund for the difference. 

Guests booked on sailings outside of the aforementioned dates will be automatically moved to the same cruise aboard Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas. 

The process is easy, as Royal Caribbean will move them to a like-for-like stateroom, and their original stateroom category price will be protected. 

However, they also have the option to re-book another cruise vacation, and Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees. They will be responsible for the difference in cruise fare, though. 

Radiance docked

Finally, impacted cruisers can request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare. No other compensation will be provided. 

Guests on any of the four cruise ships have until October 15, 2025, to let Royal Caribbean know of their decision.

Royal Caribbean will host next Presidents Cruise on Icon of the Seas in October 2026

In:
25 Sep 2025

During this year's President's Cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean announced the date and ship for the next annual event. 

Presidents-Cruise-Icon-Hero

Royal Caribbean International President and C.E.O. Michael Bayley announced that the 2026 President's Cruise will be held on Icon of the Seas on the October 3, 2026, sailing. 

It is a 7-night cruise that departs from Miami, Florida, and visits the Eastern Caribbean. The President's Cruise will call at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's award-winning private island in The Bahamas. 

The past three cruises have been held on Oasis Class ships. The 2023 President's Cruise was on Allure of the Seas, while last year's was on Oasis of the Seas. 

Bayley-Presidents-Cruise-1

Finally, this year's President's Cruise was on Utopia of the Seas, the newest Oasis Class ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet. 

What is a President's Cruise?

Presidents-Cruise-2025-Utopia-1

The Royal Caribbean President's Cruise is an annual sailing hosted by Michael Bayley, the President and C.E.O. of Royal Caribbean International. 

You don't have to hold a certain status within the Crown & Anchor Society to sail. As such, anyone is eligible to attend, whether you're a first-time cruiser or a loyal Pinnacle Club member. 

The President's Cruise is a great opportunity for Royal Caribbean fans to sail together with special events and exclusive merchandise. 

Presidents-Cruise-Party-Nassau-Utopia-2025

Ten-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan performed on the 2023 President's Cruise. Similarly, the '80s band Culture Club was on last year's President's Cruise aboard Oasis of the Seas.

There are also a lot of surprises and commemorative opportunities for those on board. For example, on this year's President's Cruise, guests were surprised with a celebrity appearance by Rev. Run of Run-DMC at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Hideaway Beach. 

The Red Bull Stunt Show was held right on the beach, too. 

Brand-Partner-Giveaway-CocoCay-Presidents-Cruise

There was also a party in Nassau (celebrating the cruise line's 50+ year partnership with The Bahamas), and partnered giveaways at CocoCay from brands like Aperol Spritz, Coca-Cola, and more. 

Finally, Pinnacle Club members got an exclusive tour of the upcoming Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau. Once completed, the beach club will be home to the world's largest swim-up bar, multiple private beaches, and more. 

"It's the most epic celebration at sea— and you’re invited! Set sail with President & CEO Michael Bayley for our annual tradition and get ready for an adventure like no other. A town takeover in Italy? We did it. Celebrity-studded concerts? Always! Surprise champagne attacks from Michael himself? It’s par for the course," says the Royal Caribbean website

Brand-Partner-Giveaway-CocoCay-Presidents-Cruise-2

"Plus, exclusive shore excursions, popping parties and unforgettable events take every moment to the max. Get in on the action, join us for the next one and find out for yourself what makes the President’s Cruise so special."

2027 will be a big one because it is the 10th President's Cruise

President's Cruise logo

Royal Caribbean began its popular President's Cruise in 2016. The first-ever President's Cruise took place aboard Allure of the Seas in September 2016. 

The exclusive cruise was a thank-you event for loyal Crown & Anchor Society cruisers and featured tons of special events and performances, including one by Patti LaBelle. 

The Grammy-award-winning artist performed songs like "Lady Marmalade," "New Attitude," "On My Own," and "You Are My Friend."

President's Cruise Swag

There has been a President's Cruise every year since, except in 2020 when it was canceled due to the pandemic. That sailing was also supposed to take place on Allure of the Seas in Europe. 

As such, Royal Caribbean will go all out during the 10th President's Cruise in 2027. 

What to expect on Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas docked in Miami

Icon of the Seas is, well, she doesn't need much of an introduction. The Icon Class namesake entered service in January 2024 after years of anticipation. 

It makes sense that the next President's Cruise will take place on an Icon Class ship, as she exemplifies the latest and greatest from the cruise line. 

Onboard, you'll find everything from the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark to the Crown's Edge over-the-water attraction, an adult-only swim-up bar, the family-friendly Surfside Neighborhood, Empire Supper Club specialty restaurant, and so much more. 

Royal Caribbean is attracting more young Americans to cruising and building their loyalty, CEO says

In:
19 Sep 2025

Royal Caribbean wants to win over the younger generation of cruisers with more than adrenaline-pumping thrills and Broadway-style entertainment. 

Photo by John McCarry

By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and other innovations, Royal Caribbean has turned its app into what Millennials are calling the cruise line's "biggest flex."  

Royal Caribbean's mobile app was first introduced in 2018 and quickly became a favorite feature amongst guests. 

The app made it easier than ever to browse the daily schedule, make dining reservations, and book shore excursions, and over the years, it's continued to evolve into a powerful digital companion. 

Jason Liberty

Today, it is praised for its personalization, ease, and seamlessness, particularly among Gen Z and Millennial cruisers.  

By meeting younger travelers where they are (i.e., on their cell phones), Royal Caribbean is not only modernizing the cruise experience but also building lifelong loyalty. 

"Technology isn’t just an add-on for us — it’s central to how we design vacations," said Rafeh Masood, Chief Digital and Growth Officer of Royal Caribbean Group. 

Exclusive Offers

"By developing these tools in-house, we can anticipate what younger travelers want and deliver it in a way that feels seamless. That approach is winning over first-time cruisers and turning them into loyal guests who return again and again."

Gamified Loyalty & Digital Badges

RCI Badge module_2

In March, Royal Caribbean rolled out new mobile badges that awarded guests for each ship they've sailed on.

Later on, they added a feature that lets cruisers earn badges for the destinations they’ve visited — from Perfect Day at CocoCay to Europe, Mexico, Bermuda, and beyond. 

Millennials and Gen Z love sharing experiences, and tracking which ships they have sailed on to different destinations creates a sense of achievement and pride, almost like collecting new stamps in a passport. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean updated its virtual badges, and it's become a "Gotta Catch 'Em All!" craze

Smart Suggestions

App notifications

Royal Caribbean's app gives guests "Netflix-style recommendations" for dining, nightlife, and excursions based on personal preferences. 

This makes it easier to discover what is trending onboard the ship without feeling overwhelmed by everything going on. 

The app will also send notifications for pre-cruise planner sales, so guests can save on their favorite add-ons like shore excursions, drink packages, Wi-Fi, and more.

Calendar-Friendly Notifications

AquaDome show on Star of the Seas

Speaking of everything going on, it can be easy to forget what you've signed up for or were interested in. 

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean's mobile app sends smart, calendar-friendly notifications to remind passengers of their upcoming reservations, comedy shows, and sunset yoga classes that they signed up for.  

Real-Time Peace of Mind

Find My Kid Secondary Image Asset

Available exclusively on Star of the Seas (for now), parents can use the Royal Caribbean app to track their kids’ location onboard in real time.

The "Find My Kid" feature keeps tabs on children in public spaces across the ship, as well as in their stateroom. Children must be registered at Adventure Ocean and have a special WOW Band to utilize this service. 

Although it isn't a replacement for good parenting, it lets parents have a little peace of mind when letting their children go off on their own on the cruise ship. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean adds a way to track your kids on its newest cruise ship

Royal Caribbean uses AI for more than its mobile app

Burgers at the buffet

Artificial intelligence helps Royal Caribbean manage millions of daily price points and even reduce waste onboard its fleet of ships. 

"We manage about 15 million price points a day. That used to be done more or less with a couple 100 revenue managers, and today, those 15 million price points, 90-plus percent of them are all AI-driven," said Jacon Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, at the Skift Global Forum in New York City on Wednesday.

Liberty continued, adding that they've reduced waste on 69 of its ships (comprised of vessels operating under the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea umbrellas) by 50%. 

Chefs in a kitchen

One way they've done so is by leveraging AI to help adjust food production in real-time. For example, AI can help predict how many hamburgers and other food items the chefs should prepare.

It also helps crew members better estimate how much food should be thawed and prepped throughout the sailing.

"We’re using well over 50,000 eggs per day…We have 180,000 passengers, as we speak right now on our ships. Just being able to manage it at a deeper level and a more predictable level has huge savings for us on a waste standpoint," Liberty said. 

Read more: What does Royal Caribbean do with all its uneaten food?

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