Passengers aboard Independence of the Seas were met with a surprise announcement this week as Royal Caribbean International confirmed a last-minute itinerary change due to ongoing propulsion system maintenance.
Royal Caribbean’s flagship Icon of the Seas made an unexpected return to the Port of Ponce Wednesday afternoon. According to a statement from the Municipality of Ponce, an 80-year-old female passenger from Trinidad & Tobago experienced a medical emergency aboard the world’s largest cruise ship.
Royal Caribbean crew member Nitin Kumar has been honored with the Hero Award for his brave actions that helped protect guests from serious harm.
What began as a relaxing day at sea turned into a powerful reminder of courage and compassion aboard Symphony of the Seas. On June 8, 2025, a terrifying moment unfolded when a large glass panel ofthe ship’s Coastal Kitchen restaurant shattered unexpectedly, but thanks to the swift, selfless actions of one crew member, a potential tragedy was avoided.
Royal Caribbean Group announced that Richard Fain, the long-serving Chairman of the Board, will step down from his role in the fourth quarter of 2025. Fain, who has chaired the Board since 1988 and is credited with shaping much of the modern cruise industry, will remain involved with the company as a Director on the Board.
MSC Cruises is preparing to rewrite the cruise industry record books with a bold plan to build the world’s largest cruise ships surpassing the Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class vessels.
Royal Caribbean Group has announced a generous $40,000 donation to the Norwegian Seaman’s Mission, reinforcing its dedication to seafarer welfare and local communities in key port destinations.
The funding will benefit Seafarers’ Welfare Centres across four Norwegian cities includeing Ålesund, Bergen, Honningsvåg, and Stavanger, where thousands of international seafarers, including cruise ship crew stop annually during voyages. The centers offer free services, recreation, and cultural support, functioning as a “home away from home” for those working at sea.
The next chapter in cruise innovation has officially begun. Royal Caribbean’s newest megaship, the Star of the Seas, roared to life early Monday morning as it left the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland to begin its sea trials.
“Star of the Seas departed our shipyard early Monday morning to begin her sea trials. We wish her and her crew sunny skies and smooth sailing!” announced the shipyard, marking a major milestone in the ship’s journey to service.
Royal Caribbean Group is setting a new course toward the future of employee learning and development. The company has introduced Royal Caribbean Group University (RCGU), a dynamic new platform created exclusively for its employees to foster growth, innovation, and long-term career success.
Royal Caribbean has pulled back the curtain on its newest and most expansive private destination yet Perfect Day Mexico. Scheduled to open in fall 2027 near Costa Maya, this next-generation beach escape is designed to redefine the Western Caribbean cruise experience. With sweeping beaches, high-adrenaline water attractions, and dedicated adult and family zones, the resort promises a vibrant combination of thrills and chill for every kind of vacationer.
