Royal Caribbean laysoff or furloughs 26% of its employees

Royal Caribbean has reduced its workforce by 26% through a combination of permanent layoffs and 90-day furloughs with paid benefits.

The Miami Herald reported the workforce reduction, as confirmed by Royal Caribbean chief communications officer Rob Zeiger.

The layoffs and furloughs are a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that has greatly impacted the entire cruise industry. Royal Caribbean has been under a voluntary global shutdown since mid-March that extends through mid-April, although that could certainly be extended as well.

The CDC has issued a 100-day no-sail order, and Carnival Cruise Line has already cancelled sailings through the end of June.

Royal Caribbean has stated it is "studying" the new CDC regulation before making any changes.