On Tuesday, July 9th, Grenada welcomed Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas, which brought much-needed supplies, including 15 tons of fuel, to help with recovery after Hurricane Beryl. The cruise ship, carrying 2,416 passengers, usually sails seven-day Southern Caribbean trips from San Juan. However, it changed its route to provide humanitarian aid to those in need.
“This substantial donation of fuel will be instrumental in powering essential services, showcasing the strong partnership and support from Royal Caribbean during this challenging time,” said Randall Dolland, chair of the Grenada Tourism Authority.
Authorities extended their gratitude to the management of Royal Caribbean for their support and expressed their aim to continue fostering this partnership. Additionally, they invited all citizens to celebrate the arrival of the Rhapsody of the Seas and its passengers as they continue their recovery efforts.
Hurricane Beryl left a trail of destruction in Grenada. The hurricane caused widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and the natural environment. Many areas were left without power, and essential services were severely disrupted.
Royal Caribbean Group has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to providing humanitarian relief.
In 2013, the company joined efforts to help the Philippines after Typhoon Haiyan caused catastrophic damage, contributing a total of $1 million.
In 2017, after Hurricane Irma, Royal Caribbean evacuated 5,507 people and 122 pets from affected islands, and also evacuated 2,700 HQ employees and their families from Miami before the hurricane hit, using the Enchantment of the Seas. The aid delivered to the Caribbean included pallets of medical supplies, gallons of water and milk, pounds of ice and pet food, garbage bags, rolls of toilet paper, batteries, and generators.
In 2021, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises sent two ships to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines to evacuate residents at risk from a potential eruption of the La Soufriere volcano, working closely with local authorities to assist those most in need.
