Serenade Of The Seas To Sail Year-Round From San Juan

Miami -  Royal Caribbean International today unveiled its 2010-11 year-round Caribbean season, comprising of 243 sailings aboard five of the world’s most innovative cruise ships. Twenty-four distinct itineraries, ranging from five to nine nights, will include visits to 25 captivating ports of call and offer virtually unlimited choices - onboard and on-shore - for family and adventurous vacationers. Serenade of the Seas will expand from seasonal to year-round service at San Juan, Puerto Rico, while Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas will continue regular sailings from Port Canaveral and Miami, respectively. Together, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas will offer vacationers a choice of a Saturday or Sunday departure for an unparalleled cruise experience from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale. General bookings for Royal Caribbean’s 2010-11 year-round Caribbean cruises are now open. Additional seasonal Caribbean deployments will be announced in the near future.

Royal Caribbean shore excursions also will offer guests an expansive variety of optional diversions to complement their days in port. Guests can snorkel in Barbados on Tiami Five Star Catamaran & Turtles; visit ancient Mayan ruins from Cozumel on Tulum Mayan Ruins Express; zipline through the trees of Jamaica’s Laughland River Gorge on the Chukka Canopy Experience; delve into the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungles and beaches at Costa Maya on ATV Jungle & Beach Adventure; or simply take in the sun on balmy, breezy Orient Beach during a call at St. Maarten on St. Martin Beach Rendezvous. On itineraries featuring a call at Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach paradise on Haiti’s northern coast, guests will be able to race each other on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster, an alpine coaster to open in summer 2009 that winds down the adjoining mountainside.

Having sailed seasonally from San Juan since 2003, Serenade of the Seas  will begin year-round service in April 2010 from the Puerto Rican city-port with two alternating seven-night Southern Caribbean itineraries through December 2010. No port of call is repeated on the two itineraries, presenting vacationers the option to combine two consecutive cruises into a grand 14-night Southern Caribbean odyssey. One itinerary will call at Curacao, Aruba, Dominica and St. Thomas, while the other at Barbados, St. Lucia, Antigua, St. Maarten and St. Croix.

From May 2010, Freedom of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas will continue alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries departing respectively on Saturdays and Sundays. On January 30, 2011, Liberty of the Seas will begin alternating a six-night Western Caribbean, departing every other Sunday, and an eight-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary, departing every other Saturday. The two ships feature the cruise line’s exclusive onboard amenities, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the H2O Zone water park, a boxing ring, cantilevered whirlpools, an ice-skating rink, and the four-bedroom, four-bath Presidential Family Suite. With eight restaurants and more than 15 bars and lounges, these Freedom-class ships offer guests more ways to enjoy a memorable Caribbean cruise vacation.

From Port Everglades, vacationers can choose a Saturday or Sunday departure aboard one of the world’s largest and most revolutionary cruise ships in the industry, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. In 2010, Allure of the Seas will cruise its inaugural season, mirroring Oasis of the Seas alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean roundtrip itineraries. Oasis of the Seas also will sail two special holiday cruises, a five-night voyage departing December 18, calling at Labadee and Falmouth, Jamaica; and a nine-night voyage departing December 30, calling at Labadee, Falmouth, St. Maarten and St. Thomas.

Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas, debuting in November 2009 and 2010 respectively, will feature Royal Caribbean’s new neighborhood concept, seven themed areas throughout the ship that offer different experiences for guests to choose, based on their personal styles, preferences or moods. Inspired by seaside entertainment esplanades, Boardwalk will engage the entire family - whether young or young at heart - with eateries, retail outlets, carnival games, and an original, handcrafted carousel - a first at sea. Nine decks above, the first zip-line at sea will whisk guests from end to end on a thrilling aerial adventure. Boardwalk will lead to the AquaTheater at the stern of the ship, where the amphitheater - another first at sea - will offer a guest pool area by day and a performance venue at night, featuring dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet, professional high-diving, and elaborate fountain shows synchronized to music and lights.

Onboard every Royal Caribbean ship, guests enjoy the cruise line’s award-winning Broadway-style musical revues from Royal Caribbean Productions, acclaimed Adventure Ocean kids and teen programming, world-class gaming in the Casino Royale, and Royal Caribbean’s renowned friendly and engaging Gold Anchor Service from every staff and crew member.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

Royal Caribbean’s Mariner Of The Seas Arrives In Los Angeles
Cruise Line Introduces West Coast’s Largest And Most Innovative Cruise Ship

Miami -  The largest ship ever to offer cruise vacations from the West Coast arrived into Los Angeles today. At 1,020 feet long and 142,000 gross registered tons, Royal Caribbean International’s Mariner of the Seas will sail year-round from the Port of Los Angeles offering a seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary with ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, Mexico. Mariner of the Seas is one of the cruise line’s Voyager class of ships, which revolutionized the cruise industry by introducing innovative amenities such the iconic rock-wall, an ice-skating rink, a full size basketball and sports court, an inline skating track and Royal Caribbean’s signature Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants, bars and lounges that runs nearly the length of the ship.

“We are excited to be introducing one of the industry’s most innovative ships to the West Coast  giving more vacationers the opportunity to conveniently experience the Royal Caribbean difference,” said Adam Goldstein, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “From the very beginning, we have been guided by the principles of ‘Why Not’ - why not ice-skate across the equator or why not rock climb 200 miles out at sea? With Mariner of the Seas’s arrival in Los Angeles, we invite West Coast travelers to the Nation of Why Not and ask them ‘why not go out and see, do and be more than they had ever thought possible on a vacation’.”

Mariner of the Seas offers guests the chance to relax in the adults-only Solarium, swim in the two swimming pools or six whirlpools, or sunbathe in the main pool area, which served as the canvas for pop art sensation Romero Britto. Britto transformed the 25,000 square-foot pool deck into an outdoor art exhibit replete with whimsical figures and playful patterns. This one-of-a-kind pool deck also features a side gallery chronicling this project from initial inspiration to final construction. Offering an experience that caters to active travelers or multigenerational family vacations, Mariner of the Seas also features a nine-hole miniature golf course, interactive golf simulator, the full-service Mariner of the Seas Day Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center.

In the evening, guests can enjoy one of the 16 bars and themed lounges and seven restaurants, including a 1950s-style Johnny Rockets Diner and Royal Caribbean’s signature specialty restaurants; Chops Grille steakhouse and Portofino Italian restaurant. Guests also can enjoy a myriad of entertainment options from top-rated Broadway-style productions in the Savoy Theatre to world class gaming in the Casino Royale.

Throughout, all guests will experience the line’s hallmark Gold Anchor Service, which helps make each guest vacation a unique and unforgettable experience with friendly and engaging service from the staff and crew.

For younger guests, Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean youth program offers scheduled activities throughout the day that enriches and entertains kids. Teens have their own dedicated onboard areas such as Fuel, the teen disco; The Living Room, a place where they can relax and hang out with their friends; and The Back Deck, an outdoor lounge.

Mariner of the Seas will sail a seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary, round-trip from Los Angeles with ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

MIAMI, January 9, 2008 - Royal Caribbean International guests can Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha, Waltz or Swing into the spotlight in “Invitation to Dance,” the cruise line’s newest production show featuring guests as stars aboard Explorer of the Seas. Created in conjunction with Louis van Amstel, Emmy-nominated choreographer for ABC-TV’s “Dancing with the Stars,” and Cheryl Burke, two-time winner on the show, “Invitation to Dance” transports the world of professional ballroom dancing to the high seas.

Guests sailing on Explorer of the Seas have the opportunity to compete for the honor of best ballroom dancers at sea. With the guidance of professional dancers, stylists and make-up artists, guests may just realize their true calling while on vacation.

“Invitation to Dance’ is another example of Royal Caribbean’s dynamic and innovative approach to offering engaging entertainment and activities for our guests,” said Peter Compton, vice president, Entertainment and Guest Activities, Royal Caribbean International. “With all the excitement surrounding competitive dancing on television, we are now challenging our guests to live out a dream while enjoying their cruise vacation.”

Chosen during an evening of ballroom dancing at the beginning of each cruise, four couples are selected to participate in the “Invitation to Dance” production show later that week. The finalists work with Royal Caribbean’s professional ballroom couples to learn slick dance moves, attend costume fittings, and receive star treatment in preparation for their Royal Caribbean stage debut. Showtime is an exciting evening in the spotlight for the dancing couples as they join the Royal Caribbean cast on stage and compete against each other for the applause and support of their fellow guests.

Explorer of the Seas sails year-round from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, NJ, on fivenight Bermuda getaway cruises and nine-night Caribbean vacations.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and three under construction. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand through its cruisetour division.

Royal Caribbean International guests can Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha, Waltz or Swing into the spotlight in “Invitation to Dance,” the cruise line’s newest production show featuring guests as the stars aboard Explorer of the Seas. “Invitation to Dance” transports the world of professional ballroom dancing to the high seas with a little help from guests.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will play a key role at “Seatrade Med 2008″ and will confirm its increasing commitment to Europe and the Mediterranean.

With an unprecedented 22 ships sailing in Europe in 2009, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will offer cruisers more choices than ever before.

“The international markets show the greatest growth potential, with Europe and the Mediterranean representing the ideal center,” said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, International, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Bayley made his comments during his opening address at the Seatrade Med convention, being held in Venice, Italy, this week. “Extending our deployments and our seasons in Europe and the Mediterranean reflects our commitment to, and the importance of, the region as an integral part of our international growth strategy. We see strong development opportunities in Europe and the Mediterranean as a destination, as well as a source market, and we are making the necessary investments to further grow our market share in these key regions.”

Royal Caribbean International has announced plans to deploy a record eight ships to the region for summer and fall of 2009. Vacationers can select from four- to 14-nights itineraries aboard some of the world’s most innovative cruise ships: Independence of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Freedom-class ship; two Voyager-class ships, Navigator of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas; as well as Brilliance of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Legend of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas. Totaling 70 distinct itineraries and 87 ports of call in 32 countries, Royal Caribbean International will offer vacationers unprecedented choices throughout the Mediterranean Sea, Northern and Western Europe and a variety of transatlantic sailings.

In May 2008, Royal Caribbean International’s Brilliance of the Seas began sailing year-round in the Mediterranean, a first for the brand. Departing from Barcelona, Spain, the ship offers an array of cruise options and destinations.

With its largest European deployment ever slated, in 2009, Celebrity Cruises will be offering guests the opportunity to take the ideal cruise on a premium brand. For the first time in the line’s history, five ships will visit the region in a single European season. They will include the brand’s two newest ships, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox. Joining them will be Celebrity Constellation, built in 2002; Celebrity Summit, launched in 2001; and Celebrity Century, which underwent a $55 million revitalization in 2006. The line will visit 76 ports in 29 countries, five of which are new to Celebrity Cruises. Celebrity’s ships will sail from six different homeports, and spend overnight port calls in eight different ports.

Azamara Cruises will offer deluxe cruise experiences onboard both their ships, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest, in the Mediterranean between April and December 2009. No other deluxe brand offers the number of ports that Azamara Cruises’ ships will visit next year, nor matches the breadth of distinct itineraries. Azamara’s seven- to 15-night Europe itineraries will visit 91 ports in 36 countries, and depart from five different homeports. Overnight calls will be offered in seven ports and late-night departures (10 p.m. or after) will be offered in 10 ports, allowing guests to capture more of the flavor of each locale’s nightlife and a more immersive destination experience.

Additionally, all six Pullmantur Cruises’ ships and CDF Croisieres de France’s Bleu de France - both Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands - will operate in the Mediterranean in 2009. 

“With 22 ships deployed in Europe, 20 of which are in the Med, in 2009, we are clearly demonstrating our commitment to the region,” Bayley added. “We are not only dedicating more ships, but some of our newest and the most innovative ships to Europe and the Mediterranean. We are also focusing on enhanced products and onboard options that will further increase the satisfaction of our growing number of international guests. These factors increase our confidence that the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands will continue to grow their market share in Europe and the Mediterranean in 2009.” Participation in Seatrade Med 2008: In addition to Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will also be represented at Seatrade Med by:

Harri Kulovaara, executive vice president, Maritime, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., speaking on A Grand Design

Miami - December 5, 2008 - Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. today announced the suspension of its fuel supplement for Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, anywhere in the world.

The decision reflects the recently sustained lower price of fuel.

Effective Monday, December 8, guests making new bookings for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, will not be charged the fuel supplement.

Guests already booked on sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, will receive a refund of any fuel supplement paid, as follows:

Guests with existing bookings for sailings that depart on or after January 1, 2009, and who are now paid in full, will have the supplement automatically refunded to them in the form of an onboard credit during their sailing.

Royal Caribbean Launches New Brand Campaign Empowering Vacationers To Ask “Why Not?”
Groundbreaking Television And Print Ads, A New Website And Interactive Promotions Entice Citizenship In “The Nation Of Why Not”

Miami -  In an unprecedented move, Royal Caribbean International has officially seceded from land and declared itself The Nation of Why Not, in the first new integrated advertising campaign for the global cruise line in nearly ten years. Created in partnership with Royal Caribbean’s  lead agency, JWT NY, and a group of WPP agencies, including Mindshare and RMG, the campaign will be rolled out today in North America and globally in 2009 and includes print and online advertising, television commercials, collateral, as well as a new social networking website - www.nationofwhynot.com.

The Nation of Why Not kicks off with two television commercials (30-second and 60- second versions) inviting vacationers to secede from land and become citizens of “the nation.” The tongue-in-cheek spots - a combination of live action and animation - begin November 10, during morning show programming on ABC and NBC television networks, and during primetime programming on ABC and CBS. The commercials highlight Royal Caribbean’s global destinations and innovative onboard amenities, challenging viewers to do things at sea that they could not do on land, such as “Why not ice skate on the equator and climb mountains at sea?” Additionally, print ads will launch in forty newspapers nationwide on Sunday, November 16, 2008.

Breaking with convention, travel and cruise industry professionals will be introduced to The Nation of Why Not on Monday, November 17, with the first edition of “The Why Not Herald,” an insert in key travel trade publications across the United States and Canada. Subsequent editions will feature the new brand campaign’s print advertisements.

“The Nation of Why Not is a place where innovation and imagination rule supreme,” stated Adam Goldstein, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “The founding of The Nation of Why Not is not a revolution, but an evolution of Royal Caribbean’s  legacy of presenting guests with a variety of unexpected possibilities onboard, such as rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, and surf simulators, which have always prompted the idea of ‘why not?’”

The citizens of The Nation of Why Not - from guests, cruise and shore-side staff to travel agents, architects, designers and builders - bring the concept of “Why Not?” to life by participating in, delivering and conceptualizing the global cruise line’s award-winning Gold Anchor service and signature onboard innovations. The new brand campaign not only resonates with Royal Caribbean’s  cruisers, but is a natural fit within the existing company culture, which fosters creativity and dedication to developing the most innovative cruise ships in the world. Nine years ago the “Get Out There” campaign successfully redefined society’s perceptions about cruising and propelled Royal Caribbean to become the leader of the active cruise vacation market; today the Why Not? campaign connects the world to The Nation of Why Not’s “anything is possible” state-of-mind.

“JWT is honored to team-up with Royal Caribbean, always a trailblazer in the industry, to launch this new brand,” stated Ty Montague, Chief Creative Officer & Co-President, JWT. “The campaign celebrates the pioneering spirit of the company and shows how that spirit releases the Why Not in all of us. It also reflects the great community of people - crew, cruisers and travel agents - that Royal Caribbean has built up over the years and gives them all a sense of belonging as citizens in the Nation.” 
The cruise line has evolved into a global company over the last decade, expanding its fleet and setting records by introducing many ‘firsts’ at sea. The line’s newest ships, Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas launching in December 2009 and late 2010, respectively, are the embodiment of these ongoing ideals.
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 20 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

Revolutionary Design Creates Boardwalk with AquaTheater, Sky-lit Royal Promenade and Unique Loft Accommodations

 Miami, Steeped in a philosophy that innovation and imagination contribute to a remarkable cruise vacation, Royal Caribbean has once again raised the bar with the announcement of the latest amenities on its newest ship, Oasis of the Seas. Launching in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the world’s largest and most revolutionary ship introducing the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept, which will provide vacationers with the opportunity to seek out relevant experiences based on their personal styles, preferences or moods. Boardwalk, will be a breathtaking space for families inspired by the nostalgic seaside piers of yesteryear; the first amphitheater at sea, AquaTheater, will celebrate water with the largest freshwater pool found on a ship offering a full spectrum of activities and performances for guests; and the urban living concept will take to the high seas with the introduction of industry-first loft suites offering expansive ocean views and luxury amenities. Enhancements to the cruise line’s signature Royal Promenade will include a new design allowing guests to have a physical connection with the neighborhood above, Central Park, as natural light cascades down from the sky through the Crystal Canopy sculptured glass domes. Other surprises include two rock-climbing walls and the first zip-line at sea suspended nine decks above Boardwalk.

The announcement of the new neighborhoods adds to the previously revealed neighborhood, Central Park, which was introduced in April. Reminiscent of the piers that dot the coast of England and amusement parks such as Coney Island, the elements of Boardwalk will dynamically engage the entire family in classic fun - whether young or just young at heart - with eateries, retail outlets and carnival games. An original, handcrafted carousel - the first at sea - will be the centerpiece of this vibrant neighborhood. AquaTheater, created to offer two unique experiences, will allow guests to swim in the theater’s magnificent kidney-shaped pool, relax on sun loungers located on tiered platforms surrounding the pool, and even take SCUBA lessons in the afternoon. At night, it will deliver a complete sensory experience playing on the element of surprise as audience members witness the venue come alive with heart-pounding theatrical performances featuring dramatic acrobatics, synchronized swimming, water ballet, and professional high-diving, as well as elaborate fountain shows synchronized to music and lights.

The introduction of 28 contemporary two-level loft suites will redefine cruise ship accommodations with vibrant, ocean-inspired colors in a sophisticated and spacious setting. Never before seen at sea, the lofts will feature spectacular views of the ocean with floor-to-ceiling, double-height windows to ensure the view will be enjoyed from each and every vantage point. The signature lofts will round out a new portfolio of 37 categories of accommodation options many with views unique to Oasis of the Seas.

“With our history of introducing game-changing amenities, we’re pleased to be able to answer the question of ‘what could possibly come next?’” said Richard D. Fain, Chairman & CEO, Royal Caribbean  Cruises Ltd. “We are particularly excited about the neighborhood concept which gives guests compelling choices and the ability to flow seamlessly throughout the ship to meet their individual desires and preferences.”

Additions to Royal Promenade, the heart of the ship, will include a mezzanine level that overlooks the main promenade below. The Royal Promenade will be home to a vast array of shopping, dining and entertainment options including, the Rising Tide bar, the first moving bar at sea, which will traverse three decks and allow cruisers to enjoy a cocktail as they slowly ascend into Central Park. A focal point will be a giant copper globe sculpture built into the facade above the Globe and Atlas Pub, which will “crack open” to create a spectacular, surprise element for guests, as it unfurls on hinged hydraulics and becomes a bridge platform for performances. Other options include the cruise line’s popular Schooner Bar and Champagne Bar; the new Mondo Coffee Bar; Focus, a photo shop and gallery; and the ever-popular Boleros Latin dance club.

“Royal Caribbean  is proud to introduce a number of industry ‘firsts’ on a level and scale that the world has never seen before,” stated Adam Goldstein, President & CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Oasis of the Seas is the ultimate expression of the creativity and imagination found on all of our ships, providing guests with a collection of experiences that will offer an incredible cruise vacation.”

When she launches in late 2009, Oasis of the Seas will be the largest and most revolutionary cruise ship in the world. An architectural marvel at sea, she will span 16 decks, encompass 220,000 gross registered tons (GRT), carry 5,400 guests at double occupancy, and feature 2,700 staterooms. Oasis of the Seas will be the first ship to tout the cruise line’s new neighborhood concept of seven distinct themed areas, which includes Central Park, Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade. The ship will sail from her home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Additional information is available at www.oasisoftheseas.com.

Royal Caribbean  International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska and Canada, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and South America.

Throughout the month of June, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will be participating in the Make-A-Wish Foundation’s “Destination Joy” fundraising campaign, allowing guests onboard Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises ships to make donations to the Foundation. All funds raised will be given to the Make-A-Wish Foundation so they can grant wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

“We are proud to take part in Destination Joy and help the Make-A-Wish Foundation make every child’s wish come true,” said Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Richard D. Fain. “Our company is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, and this includes the wonderful work the Make-A-Wish Foundation provides for some of the neediest children.”

Throughout June, Make-A-Wish donation cards will be available on all Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises  and Azamara ships. Guests will be able to donate any amount they choose and their donation will appear as an onboard charge. Along with the donation cards, guests will be able to participate in auctions where they can bid on unique onboard experiences, such as an opportunity to be on a ship’s bridge while it departs a port, a behind-the-scenes galley tour and lunch with the ship’s executive chef, or priority seating for all shows.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has been a national partner of the Make-A-Wish Foundation since 2000. Through the company’s Wishes at Sea program, Royal Caribbean has helped make cruise wishes possible for more than 1,100 children.

Royal Caribbean works with Make-A-Wish chapters to help create the perfect wish for each child whose desire is to have an unforgettable, dream-come-true vacation with his or her family.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and seven under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America.

MIAMI, May 05, 2008 - Royal Caribbean International, the industry leader in exciting cruises for families and active vacationers, today announced its 2009-10 Mexican Riviera cruise season. Vacationers can choose from 55 departures, ranging from four- to seven-night Mexico cruises, from the homeports of Los Angeles and San Diego. Guests will sail aboard the Voyager-class Mariner of the Seas, the largest cruise ship to be homeported in the Pacific Ocean, and Radiance of the Seas, the newest and largest ship to offer short cruises on the West Coast. In addition, vacationers can choose from four Panama Canal crossings aboard Serenade of the Seas. Bookings for 2009-10 Mexican Riviera and Panama Canal cruises open Tuesday and Thursday, respectively.

“For the first time,  Royal Caribbean International is offering a second choice for cruisers to embark on a Mexico cruise from the Southern California port of San Diego,” said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean International. “Vacationers, as well as groups and incentives travelers will now have more choices for the best cruise offerings from the West Coast to visit the timeless colonial charms of the Mexican Riviera aboard the industry’s most innovative cruise ships.”

Mariner of the Seas’ seven-night Mexican Riviera itinerary sails round-trip from Los Angeles with ports of call at Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan. One of the largest cruise ships in the world, Mariner offers guests revolutionary amenities, such as an onboard ice-skating rink, full-size basketball court, inline skating track, iconic rock-climbing wall, and the Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants, bars and lounges that runs nearly the length of the ship.

For the 2009 autumn season, Radiance of the Seas will feature a four-night itinerary with a call at Cabo San Lucas, and a five-night itinerary which also calls at Ensenada. Radiance is one of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance family of ships, which features the highest percentage of oceanview staterooms in the line’s fleet, and a 10-story atrium with glass elevators offering spectacular vistas of the sea.

Vacationers also can choose four distinct Panama Canal crossing itineraries, ranging from 13 to 15 nights, with departures from Miami, San Diego and San Juan, Puerto Rico aboard Serenade of the Seas, another Radiance-class ship.

On every Royal Caribbean International ship, guests enjoy the line’s award-winning Broadway-style musical revues from Royal Caribbean Productions, multiple onboard bars, lounges and discos throughout the ship, and Vegas-style gaming in the Casino Royale. The ships’ onboard Day Spa also offers a full range of rejuvenating treatments, and the adults-only Solarium pool provides a more sedate and relaxing environment.

Younger cruisers will laugh and learn in the line’s top-rated Adventure Ocean kids programming with teen-only spaces fleetwide. Or, the whole family can stay in, order room service - always complimentary 24 hours a day - and catch a popular on-demand movie.

Throughout, every guest will enjoy Royal Caribbean’s Gold Anchor standard of friendly and engaging service from staff and crew.  

About Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

Royal Caribbean has named conservation advocate Jamie Sweeting as its vice president of Environmental Stewardship.

In his position, which is new to the company, Sweeting will be responsible for establishing the company’s long-term environmental strategy, including goals and objectives that ensure responsible corporate environmental performance. These objectives will incorporate factors such as climate change, destination stewardship, current and future environmental regulations and agreements, and programs that lead to sound environmental policy, compliance, incident response and training.

“We are delighted to have Jamie join our team,” said Gary M. Bald, senior vice president of Safety, Security, Environment and Health for Royal Caribbean. “Jamie will further strengthen our ongoing commitment to serve as responsible stewards of the environment. He has worked with many corporations to help them become more environmentally responsible, and maximize their contributions to conservation. His expertise and experience will be invaluable to our company as we continue to work to preserve and protect the environment.”

Sweeting has more than a decade of experience in tourism, conservation and business management. Most recently, he served as senior business advisor for Conservation International’s Center for Environmental Leadership in Business. Previously, he served as the Center’s Senior Director of the Travel and Leisure program, where he helped companies realize the benefits of becoming industry leaders in conservation and community development. Earlier in his career, Sweeting worked for the Ecotourism Society and also conducted a special project on ecotourism in the Caribbean.

Sweeting received a Master of Tourism Administration from George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and a B.A. in Leisure and Business Management from Manchester University in the United Kingdom.

Royal Caribbean is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisières de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and seven under construction. It also offers cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, Latin and South America and New Zealand.

Three Freedom-class Ships from Three Ports Offer More Choices for Caribbean Vacationers

MIAMI, April 22, 2008 - Consistently pleasant weather, beautiful beaches and rich cultures make the Caribbean a rejuvenating and enriching region for a tropical getaway or a family cruise vacation. For the 2009-10 cruise season, Royal Caribbean International will offer 31 distinct itineraries on 264 sailings, ranging from six to 14 nights. Vacationers can choose departures aboard nine of the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ships from the ports of Miami, Port Everglades, and Port Canaveral, FL; Cape Liberty in Bayonne, NJ; Galveston, TX; San Juan, PR; and Colon, Panama. Booking for Royal Caribbean’s 2009-10 Caribbean cruises open this week.

“Royal Caribbean offers vacationers a wide range of Caribbean cruises departing from seven convenient homeports,” said Alice Norsworthy, senior vice president, Marketing, Royal Caribbean . “We continue our legacy of delivering exhilarating Caribbean experiences in one of the world’s most spectacular destinations with some of the best ships in the industry geared for family and active vacations.”

Vacationers can choose year-round departures to the Caribbean from the ports of Miami, Port Canaveral, Cape Liberty, and San Juan. Freedom of the Seas debuts at Port Canaveral in May 2009 as the largest and most innovative cruise ship in the port’s history. The Freedom-class cruise ship will sail alternating Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, replacing Voyager-class Mariner of the Seas¸ which will depart for its new homeport of Los Angeles in January 2009.

Unlike any other vacation experience, Royal Caribbean’s Freedom-class of ships exclusively feature amenities that have revolutionized the industry, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, the H20 Zone water park, a boxing ring, cantilevered whirlpools, and the four-bedroom/four-bath Presidential Family Suite. With eight restaurants and more than 15 bars and lounges, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas offer guests more ways to enjoy a memorable Caribbean cruise vacation.

From Miami, Liberty will sail alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries in the summer 2009 season, but changes to two alternating Western Caribbean itineraries in the winter. Liberty’s traditional Western Caribbean itinerary will alternate with a new Western Caribbean itinerary in November, which includes ports of call at Belize City, Belize; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.

Adventure of the Seas will homeport year-round at San Juan, offering two new alternating seven-night Southern Caribbean itineraries with Sunday departures, while Serenade of the Seas will join Adventure in the winter and offer a Saturday departure. New ports of call at Grenada, Dominica and St. Croix for both ships, and additionally Tortola and St. Kitts for Serenade, create two back-to-back voyages with no repeat calls. The distinct alternating itineraries of either ship will give vacationers the opportunity to combine two sailings into an extended 14-night Southern Caribbean odyssey.

Additional winter season highlights include the following itineraries:

• Independence of the Seas will sail six-night Western Caribbean and eight-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Port Everglades, giving vacationers a choice of six Caribbean itineraries aboard one of three Freedom-class ships.
• Explorer of the Seas will continue its third consecutive year-round deployment at Cape Liberty sailing Eastern and Southern Caribbean itineraries, ranging from eight to 12 nights. A special 14-night holiday cruise departs December 20, 2009.
• Voyager of the Seas will return to Galveston, TX in December 2009 to offer two alternating Western Caribbean itineraries, one new, featuring calls at Roatán, Honduras, and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.
• Jewel of the Seas will sail 10- and 11-night Caribbean and Panama Canal cruises from Miami. On a very special holiday sailing, Jewel will make a maiden call on Christmas Eve at the new Jamaican cruise port of Falmouth.
• Enchantment of the Seas will return to Colon, Panama to offer seven-night Southern Caribbean cruises to Colombia and the ABC Islands. Royal Caribbean International is the only cruise line to homeport in Colon.

Onboard every Royal Caribbean ship, guests enjoy complimentary 24-hour room service, award-winning Broadway-style musical revues from Royal Caribbean Productions, top-rated Adventure Ocean kids programming with teen-only spaces fleetwide, and Royal Caribbean’s Gold Service Standard of friendly and engaging service from staff and crew.

On many Western Caribbean itineraries, guests also enjoy a call at Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s private beach destination along the northwestern coast of Haiti. Labadee’s features a wide variety of watersports and excursions, a craft market, Labadee Luc’s Splash Bash pirate water park, and the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, the world’s longest zip line over water at 2,600 ft.

About Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 21 ships currently in service and two under construction. The line also offers unique cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, South America and New Zealand.

“We look forward to working with our colleagues at TUI AG to build a world class cruise line for Germany,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer of Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd.   “TUI Cruises is another strategic step in our efforts to meet the growing global demand for cruising.”

“Our partnership with Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd.  will help us bring the very best cruises to our fellow countrymen,” said Dr. Michael Frenzel, chief executive officer of TUI AG. “We expect TUI Cruises to be a central player in Germany’s fast growing cruise market.”

TUI Cruises will be based in Hamburg, Germany, and Richard J. Vogel, a long time cruise industry executive, will serve as chief executive.

The new cruise line will begin service with one ship in early 2009. Sales and marketing activities will begin in the coming months.

TUI Cruises will meet the needs of German-speaking customers seeking a premium cruise experience. The onboard product will be custom-tailored to German tastes, and encompass food, entertainment and amenities. German will be the language used onboard.

The companies announced their intentions to form TUI Cruises on December 10, 2007. On March 10, 2008, they received permission to move forward from European antitrust regulators. Each company holds a 50 percent interest in the joint venture.

Further details regarding the brand’s first ship and the TUI Cruises product will be revealed at an April 29 press event in Hamburg. 

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ltd.  is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisières de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, Latin and South America and New Zealand.

TUI AG is Europe’s leading travel and shipping group. TUI AG holds the majority stake in Europe’s leading travel group, London-based TUI Travel PLC. The corporation operates the world’s fifth-largest container shipping company - Hapag-Lloyd - and, through Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, also runs the leading German cruise line company in the luxury and expedition segment.

For first and second guests in a stateroom, the revised fuel supplement will be $8 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-day, and no more than $112 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-cruise. Additional guests in a stateroom will be charged $3 (U.S.D.) per-person, per day, and no more than $42 (U.S.D.) per-person, per-cruise.

The revised fuel supplement will apply to bookings made throughout the world on or after May 1, 2008, onboard three Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisières de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers cruisetour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, Latin and South America and New Zealand.