Royal Caribbean News Round-Up: May 17, 2026

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Matt Hochberg

Happy weekend! In case you missed any Royal Caribbean news, here is a look at everything that happened this week!

Royal Caribbean changed itineraries for its upcoming summer Asia cruises on one ship.

Spectrum of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas has been redeployed for summer 2027, although no specific reason was given.

Guests booked on the sailings received an email alerting them to the change of plans and what their new options are for switching voyages.

Royal Caribbean News

New RCB Video: Why I Keep Booking the Same Royal Caribbean Cruise Again and Again

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! 

This week, we are sharing our latest video—Why I Keep Booking the Same Royal Caribbean Cruise Again and Again—don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!

6 cruise ideas that seem smart, but can easily backfire

Tour guide

It's easy to think you've stumbled upon a smart cruise trick only to realize it's a bad idea.

Sometimes it's an idea that sounds better on paper than in reality, and other times it's an oopsie waiting to happen.

These ideas seem tempting, but I've found them to be the recipe for instant regrets.

This underrated Florida port is great for cheap cruises (but has one downside)

Matt in Tampa

With cruise prices only going up, you can still find good deals if you're willing to sail from Tampa, Florida.

I've consistently found reasonable prices for cruises, even when booked at the last-minute.

Before you book, the choice in ships (or lack thereof) might be a surprise to you.

Balcony vs Junior Suites: Which is better for you?

Balcony vs Junior Suite

Is it worth it to book a Junior Suite or stick to a balcony room?

The extra perks and living space make a Junior Suite tempting, especially if the price is right.

But you'll save money with a balcony and those savings can go a long way to enhancing your cruise.

Most passengers have no idea Royal Caribbean does this for Make-A-Wish families

Make-A-Wish, Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean and Make-A-Wish America have tightened their bonds, and it might surprise you how much this nonprofit is connected.

Earlier this week, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley was added to agency's national board.

Mr. Bayley is credited with spearheading the company's deep commitment to Make-A-Wish, which has granted more than 3,000 wishes to date.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

Episode 608

The 608th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! 

After 4 Royal Caribbean cruises in 4 months, here's what takeaways Matt has from these sailings.

Please feel free to subscribe via YouTube, iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast! We’d appreciate it.


Matt started Royal Caribbean Blog in 2010 as a place to share his passion for all things Royal Caribbean with readers. He oversees all the writers at Royal Caribbean Blog, and writes a great deal of content on a daily basis.  He has become one of the foremost experts on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Over the years, he has reached Pinnacle Club status with Royal Caribbean's customer loyalty program.

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