Royal Caribbean Group's secret weapon isn’t new ships: it's AI. See the company's fourth quarter earnings for proof.

Backed by strong demand for its brands and vacation experiences, 2025 proved to be an outstanding year for Royal Caribbean.

During Royal Caribbean Group's (RCG) Q4 earnings call on Thursday, January 29, company executives acknowledged that demand for cruising remains strong. 

In fact, RCG experienced the best seven booking weeks in the company's history since the last earnings call in October 2025. Approximately two-thirds of the 2026 inventory has already been booked at higher rates than in the past. 

"We’re not only seeing good volume, but our pricing is higher in the Caribbean than it was last year," said Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group CEO. 

However, higher fares are also being driven by the company’s expanding use of artificial intelligence (AI), which has helped RCG optimize pricing in real time and determine if last-minute discounts are necessary. 

Fares are higher than last year, but it's not just demand

Cruise fares have always been priced dynamically. In other words, the cost of an interior cabin on a weeklong cruise aboard Star of the Seas can fluctuate within hours based on how much inventory remains for that specific sailing.

This dynamic pricing system is standard within the cruise industry, as it helps companies balance supply and demand while keeping ships full during off-peak and peak travel periods. Recently, however, Royal Caribbean has leaned heavily into its use of AI to inform how it prices its cruises.

"Our yield management models... are AI-based," Liberty explained. "They do learn… [and] we have a pretty good handle now on close-in demand, how we market it, [and] how we price it... and our yield management and forecasting is informed by all of that." 

By analyzing the data these systems collect in real-time, Royal Caribbean can increase its fares without hurting the overall demand for its products. 

Read more: Analysis of cruise pricing data to find the cheapest time to book

Higher prices are sticking

Royal Caribbean’s cruise fares are rising, but demand remains strong because travelers are willing to pay more and spend more onboard. The cruise line's latest research shows that its consumers feel financially secure and continue to prioritize experiences, with 40% planning to increase their leisure travel spending in the next year. 

Not only that, but demand is exceeding capacity growth. As such, Royal Caribbean can continue raising fares while still keeping ships full, with premium experiences and onboard spending a central part of its long-term revenue strategy.

"[W]e're seeing people who are willing to pay more money than they did last year. They're willing to spend more money on the ships than they did last year," Liberty explained. "We're getting the volumes that are more than what our capacity increases, and we're benefiting from a lot of the investments that we've made."

Other ways Royal Caribbean is using AI across its operations

AI-driven pricing tools are just one way that Royal Caribbean is using artificial intelligence in its day-to-day operations. 

"AI and disruptive technology are becoming a foundational advantage for us. Representing a core capability that improves the guest experience, strengthens our commercial engine, and helps us run the business more intelligently," Liberty said during the Q4 call. 

Beyond pricing, the company is using AI to expand the way guests interact with its entire family of brands, not just a single line within its portfolio, such as Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises.

"[T]echnology and AI that make the experience more seamless and more personal," he added. "This approach expands the way guests can vacation with our family of brands and reinforces our vacation of a lifetime strategy."

For example, they aim to use technology to make vacations easier to discover and plan, improving overall guest satisfaction. Relevance and personalization directly correlate to what people are willing to pay for a premium vacation and pricey add-ons. 

"We are improving our ability to curate and personalize what guests see while increasing pre-cruise engagement… The goal is to reduce friction, improve the experience, and present relevant options that add value to the guest," Liberty said. 

In their eyes, AI isn't meant to replace the work of paid employees, either. Rather, when used correctly, it's a tool that can make their experience better and provide even more value. 

Liberty continued, "We are also using AI to improve efficiency and execution, from supply chain forecasting to energy management and marine operations. These are the types of capabilities that build durable operating leverage over time and reinforce our focus on margin expansion and returns."

As Royal Caribbean prepares its initial phase of development for a new private beach experience, a legal drama is playing out in Mexican court.

An environmental group has challenged the process in which the environmental needs of Perfect Day Mexico were approved. What this means is it's a challenge to the municipality and not Royal Caribbean's plans directly.

In short, this is a glimpse into the Mexican legal system.

According to a Mexican news outlet, the project’s potential environmental impacts are currently under review at the request of Defending the Right to a Healthy Environment (DMAS), which argued that there are irregularities in the approval of the land-use changes granted to Royal Caribbean International. 

While the civil organization isn't against the proposed water park plan, it is "...in favor of respecting the law, urban planning, and the community’s right to a healthy environment."

This isn't the first time that activists have raised concerns about the large-scale project. Locals have warned that the village of Mahahual has serious drainage and sewage management problems, which could potentially be worsened by the proposed water park. 

Environmental activists have also wondered about whether the Perfect Day Mexico water park could damage the nearby mangroves. 

As such, a federal judge issued a provisional suspension of work while the case is reviewed pending a formal hearing in the coming days. 

Royal Caribbean issued a statement on the news, "We are aware of the matter; however, we do not provide public commentary on pending litigation. We are committed to continued transparency, regulatory compliance, and the highest environmental standards in the development of Perfect Day Mexico and we deeply value our partnership with the people and government of Mexico.”

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer, was questioned about the project by El Financiero last year.

"We are not going to touch anything at all in the mangrove conservation area," Schneider promised, adding that the mangroves are already dying due to pollution from the municipal water treatment plant. 

He then emphasized the cruise line's plan to restore the mangroves' health by building a new water treatment plant for the Mexican community.

Read more: When is Perfect Day Mexico going to open? Here are the latest details

Perfect Day at Mexico is a massive tourist project

Building on the success of Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, Perfect Day Mexico is expected to span over 200 acres and feature a large water park, pools, beaches, an upscale beach club, dining venues, and more. 

Once complete, the world-class destination is estimated to attract up to 6 million tourists per year, transforming Costa Maya into a major stronghold for Royal Caribbean in the Western Caribbean.

According to the cruise line's plans, the proposed Loco Water Park will feature 30 adrenaline-pumping waterslides across five slide towers, including the tallest in North and South America. 

The 170-foot-tall Jaguar’s Peak will have two dueling slides. As the longest coaster waterslides in the world, riders can expect more than two minutes of twists, turns, and drops. 

Other highlights include the world’s longest lazy river, the tallest family raft slide that's designed for four to six riders, more than two miles of white-sand beaches, and a 50,000 square foot adult-only party pool. 

Royal Caribbean hasn't revealed an opening date yet for its Perfect Day Mexico project. However, they've mentioned that it will likely open in late 2027. 

This, of course, is dependent on the cruise line obtaining the necessary permits, paperwork, and approvals, as well as avoiding the possibility of a definitive suspension by the Mexican government. 

There's no denying that cruising today is vastly different than in the 1980s. Back then, cruises were more formal affairs, with strict dress codes, lengthy meals, and fewer onboard thrills.

Cruise ships were significantly smaller than the mega-ships that Royal Caribbean builds today. With fewer guests, it was easier for the cruise line to maintain consistency and closely oversee quality control. 

As ships have grown larger, the focus has shifted from luxury to prioritizing attractions, higher passenger capacities, and mass-market appeal. 

One of the biggest differences is the main dining experience. In the past, the dinner service was a cornerstone of the entire cruise. 

While many guests still enjoy eating in the dining room, it no longer carries the same importance it once did. Flexible dining times, specialty restaurants, and a solid lineup of casual venues have changed how passengers dine. 

Here's a look at how cruise ship dining was different in the 1980s — and why so many guests miss the tradition and formality of the dinner service. 

More traditional menus

(Credit: Adams Nicholas/Facebook)

In the 1980s, the menus lacked modern variety. 

Today, you'll find classic favorites like French onion soup and Caesar salads, alongside plant-based dishes and a wide variety of other options designed to cater to dietary restrictions. Back then, however, menus were smaller, and the choices were limited. 

Adams Nicholas shared images of old Royal Caribbean menus from the Song of America ship on Facebook. "The new themed menus sure don’t measure up to the old ones!" he wrote. 

(Credit: Adams Nicholas/Facebook)

Song of America entered service for Royal Caribbean in 1982 as the third-largest passenger vessel at sea. She operated for the cruise line for over 15 years until she was sold to Sun Cruises in 1998. 

Similar to Royal Caribbean's current menus, the nightly menus aboard Song of America had different themes, including French, Spanish, Italian, Caribbean, and the famous Captain's Gala. 

However, the dishes were far more refined than what's available today. For example, on French night, the entrées included saumon a l'oseille, coquille St. Jacques, baron d'agneau roti, coq au vin, and contrefilet de boeuf roti preigueux.

(Credit: Adams Nicholas/Facebook)

Similarly, appetizers on Captain's Gala night ranged from pear nectar to Baltic caviar, melon with prosciutto, pineapple juice, quiche florentine, and egg skobeloff with smoked salmon. 

Even the desserts were thoughtfully curated to reflect a higher level of sophistication, with options ranging from cherries jubilee to rum raisin ice cream, swan chantilly, and pear conde. 

Dinner was a much more formal affair

(Credit: Adams Nicholas/Facebook)

Back then, dinners in the Main Dining Room were more formal than today. As such, guests abided by strict dress codes, whereas today, it's common to find passengers dressed in casual t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. 

Additionally, dinners were elaborate seven-course affairs that began with appetizers and soups. This created a leisurely dining experience unlike today, where many guests prefer to rush through dinner to enjoy the evening's entertainment lineup. 

In fact, part of the reason that Royal Caribbean launched its new menus in 2023 was to expedite the service. Before the change, guests typically spent anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes in the dining room. The standard with the new menus is serving passengers a 3-course meal in around 75 minutes or less. 

Read more: Photos show what it was like to cruise on Royal Caribbean in the 1980s

No specialty restaurants

Older, smaller ships had fewer amenities. There weren't any water slides, rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, or mini-golf courses on board. Additionally, older Royal Caribbean ships lacked specialty restaurants.

While the specialty dining experience has become a major selling point on modern cruise ships, with options ranging from sushi to premium cuts of beef and freshly-made pasta, it did not exist in the 1980s. 

As such, expectations for the Main Dining Room were higher since it was the primary restaurant on the ships. It was common for all guests to look forward to the elegantly plated meals, highly attentive service, and world-class cuisine. 

Read more: What to expect in Royal Caribbean's Main Dining Room

Flexible dining wasn't an option

Finally, My Time Dining wasn't an option in the 1980s. All passengers had an assigned dining time — guests did not have the option to enjoy the dining room on their own time. 

Like today's traditional dining, passengers were expected to dine at the same time each evening. They were also seated at the same table with the same travelers and waitstaff. 

As such, dinners in the Main Dining Room were more formal and structured. Throughout the sailing, waiters learned everyone's preferences, which added a personalized touch to the mealtime experience. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean My Time Dining versus Traditional Dining

New cruise ships, like the record-breaking Icon and Star of the Seas, are popular because of their seemingly endless activities, dining options, and entertainment lineup. However, Royal Caribbean's fleet encompasses more than mega-ships, and its older vessels remain popular with many cruisers.

Royal Caribbean has continued to break its own record for the world's largest cruise ship since the launch of Freedom of the Seas in 2006. That means for nearly 20 years, they have striven to ensure that each flagship continues to push the boundaries of size and onboard amenities. 

Even still, the cruise line has maintained a diverse fleet with older, smaller ships that offer a more traditional cruising experience. For example, a vacation aboard Vision of the Seas would be vastly different than Utopia of the Seas. 

They're continuing to invest in their older ships, too. Through the line's Royal Amplification fleet modernization program, vessels like Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas have received significant upgrades, including new dining venues, refreshed public spaces, and added attractions. 

That said, many wonder if the age of your cruise ship actually matters. While newer ships grab headlines with cutting-edge features and world-class entertainment, it's important not to cross older ships off your list too quickly.

To learn more about how ship age factors into safety and operations, we spoke with Don Goldstein, a retired Commander of the U.S. Coast Guard, who worked for the Coast Guard for about 30 years. He was involved with the regulation and inspection of commercial vessels, including passenger and task vessels, and the ports that serve them.

During Commander Goldstein's career, he was stationed on all three coasts of the United States: Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf. Additionally, he represented the Coast Guard's business in North and South America, Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Far East.

In this article, we'll explore what a cruise ship's dry dock entails, today's environmental concerns, the life expectancy of modern-day cruise ships, and what it takes to keep the older vessels in service.

Routine maintenance is an ongoing process to ensure that older ships are well-maintained

According to Goldstein, routine maintenance is well-planned and supported. It encompasses more than periodic dry docks, too. For example, maintenance is continually done throughout the ship's life. 

"[T]hey can (and do) change out an entire piston on an engine while underway. The maintenance is accomplished on a planned cycle for each system and happens every day in accordance with the plan," he explains. 

"This includes changing filters, cleaning valves and piping, changing hydraulic fluids, testing emergency systems like emergency generators, [and] testing backup steering systems."

Dry docks, which occur twice within any five years with no more than 36 months between them, are another critical component of a cruise ship’s upkeep. They are planned years in advance to allow ample time to order the necessary parts and have the right contractors present. 

During a ship's dry dock, all hull openings are checked, and the valves are cleaned or replaced (if needed). Additionally, primary systems, including firefighting, navigation, and lifesaving, are inspected or replaced. 

"Anchor chains and lifeboat cables may be 'end-for-ended,' and all lifeboat food and water are inspected and/or replaced. Other issues or concerns that have occurred may be dealt with, such as when Allure’s azipod needs work," Goldstein added. 

Older ships may also require more extensive work in the dry dock due to changes in technology, as well as normal wear and tear caused by the harsh marine saltwater environment.

Cruise ship life expectancy has increased 

Thanks to better materials, design plans, and maintenance, Goldstein estimates that Royal Caribbean hopes to get at least 30 years of service out of any cruise ship built within the last 15 years. 

"Every new ship probably has a longer life expectancy than the last one, but it is incremental. For ships built in the 1990s, I expect they wanted to get at least 25 years of service," he said. 

Safety is more closely tied to the cruise line's willingness to invest in maintenance 

Given the ongoing maintenance and inspections by the Flag State and Port States, the safety of the vessel itself isn't an issue. It comes down to the ship's maintenance cost and whether the cruise line wants to continue funding it. 

As such, one of the key factors that determines when a ship is ready to be retired and/or scrapped is money. 

"[Michael Bayley, I think, said] the older ships' break-even point is 50% of capacity, while for the newer ships it is closer to 35%. He didn’t say word-for-word, but I suspect the introduction of azipod technology has a lot to do with this," Goldstein explained.

"Routine maintenance isn’t cheap, and there is a point where it is not economically feasible to maintain the ship. At that point, they will typically sell the ship to a lower-end cruise line."

Sovereign of the Seas, for example, was transferred to Pullmantur in 2008 when she was 20 years old. She remained with the small cruise line for over ten years until she was scrapped in 2020 after 32 total years in service. 

New LNG ships and growing environmental concerns could impact the operation and lifespan of older vessels

"LNG ships are more efficient than oil-powered ships, but I think the bigger concern is the increased environmental awareness on the part of many littoral states and countries," Goldstein said. 

In other words, he assumes that growing environmental regulations will eventually cause older ships to be retired or transferred to smaller cruise lines that sail to isolated ports of call. 

For example, new international regulations require ships to reduce their speed as they approach many ports in an effort to reduce emissions. 

Pros of an old cruise ship

Just because a cruise ship is older doesn't mean it's bad. Sure, it may not have the flashy water slides or state-of-the-art theater. Instead, guests love the relaxed vibe, easier navigation, and strong sense of nostalgia that mega-ships can't offer. 

Other pros of an old cruise ship include less nickel-and-diming, with features like the sauna and steam room included in the base fare, an overall lower cost compared to newer vessels, and the ability to visit more unique destinations. 

Plus, quality control is typically more consistent on older ships, since the crew doesn't have to worry about feeding five, six, or even seven thousand passengers. 

Read more: I've cruised on one of Royal Caribbean's smallest ships and one of its biggest. I was surprised how much I liked the small ones

Cons of an old cruise ship

Even still, older cruise ships aren't right for everyone. For example, despite regular dry docks and maintenance, they can still feel outdated compared to newer vessels.

The cabins, especially, are less modern and lack amenities that are on newer ships, including multiple charging options, smart lighting, refreshed color palettes, and more. 

Moreover, older ships have limited entertainment options and fewer dining venues. For example, if you are sailing on Icon of the Seas, you'll find a high-tech theater, an indoor AquaTheater, and over 20 distinct dining options. 

Comparatively, Vision of the Seas has fewer restaurants that are primarily limited to a traditional Main Dining Room and buffet, along with simpler entertainment offerings. 

Read more: I sailed on an older Royal Caribbean ship and a newer one

Royal Caribbean ships by age: oldest to newest

• Grandeur of the Seas (1996)
• Rhapsody of the Seas (1997)
• Enchantment of the Seas (1997)
• Vision of the Seas (1998) 

• Voyager of the Seas (1999)
• Explorer of the Seas (2000)
• Radiance of the Seas (2001)
• Adventure of the Seas (2001) 

• Brilliance of the Seas (2002)
• Navigator of the Seas (2002)
• Serenade of the Seas (2003)
• Mariner of the Seas (2003) 

• Jewel of the Seas (2004)
• Freedom of the Seas (2006)
• Liberty of the Seas (2007)
• Independence of the Seas (2008)

• Oasis of the Seas (2009)
• Allure of the Seas (2010)
• Quantum of the Seas (2014)
• Anthem of the Seas (2015)

• Harmony of the Seas (2016)
• Ovation of the Seas (2016)
• Symphony of the Seas (2018)
• Spectrum of the Seas (2019)

• Odyssey of the Seas (2021)
• Wonder of the Seas (2022)
• Icon of the Seas (2024)
• Utopia of the Seas (2024)
• Star of the Seas (2025)

• Legend of the Seas (2026)**
• Fourth unnamed Icon Class ship (2027)**
• Seventh unnamed Oasis Class ship (2028)**
• Fifth unnamed Icon Class ship (2028)**

Wrinkles can make a stylish outfit look messy and unkempt. However, getting wrinkles out of clothes on a cruise ship isn't as easy as using your iron at home. 

Cruises have strict fire-safety rules, meaning that heat-producing items, including steamers and irons, are banned from being brought onboard. Instead, passengers must rely on savvy hacks to keep clothes from looking sloppy. 

I've tried many tried-and-true methods over the years, from hanging my dresses in the bathroom to strategically packing to prevent annoying creases before they form. 

Here are some ideas on how to get wrinkles out of your clothes while at sea — and why you shouldn't try smuggling a steamer or iron on the ship. 

You can't bring iron or steamers on a cruise

Steamers and irons are fire hazards; the high heat and electrical draw can overload cabin wiring or ignite flammable materials in confined areas. As such, they are banned by most mainstream cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. 

It's not smart to try and conceal prohibited items in your luggage, either. In fact, you shouldn't be surprised if you find your steamer or iron confiscated. If that happens, you'll have to visit the table of shame on disembarkation day before leaving the terminal. 

Luckily, there are safe alternatives to keep your clothes wrinkle-free while on vacation. 

Wrinkle-release spray

Although it's no substitute for traditional irons, a generous spritz of wrinkle-release spray will help remove the larger creases from your clothing.

Wrinkle-release spray works by using a combination of water and fabric softeners to relax the garment's fibers. 

All you have to do is hang the clothing item in question, whether that's a t-shirt, sundress, or slacks, spray it until it's lightly damp, and gently tug the fabric with your hands. 

Plus, many wrinkle-release sprays also have anti-static properties, which will help your clothes stay cling-free. 

Travel-sized bottles are sold at retailers like Five Below, Target, Walmart, and more. You can also purchase it from Amazon — a convenient option for those who have one too many pre-cruise errands to cross off their list in time. 

Use your bathroom as a steam room

My favorite, cost-effective method for eliminating pesky wrinkles from clothes on a cruise ship is by using the steam from the bathroom. 

I'll hang the creased item in the bathroom while I'm showering, letting the warm steam relax the fibers naturally. 

I'll then let the garment sit as I'm styling my hair or finishing my makeup. I've found that this works better than wrinkle-release spray. Plus, it does not cost anything! 

If you're short on time, you can use a hair dryer for quick fixes. Lightly dampen the area of concern, then blow-dry the fabric. However, keep the dryer a few inches away so you don't damage the fabric or cause the dryer to overheat. 

Send clothing out for pressing

Perhaps the most expensive option is to use the ship’s laundry and pressing services for an added fee. The crew members will professionally press shirts, dresses, slacks, and more, ensuring that you're picture-ready for formal night. 

Pricing varies. However, you can generally expect shirts to cost around $2.00 each, dresses $7.00, long pants $4.00, and evening gowns $15.00. Note that these prices are for pressing only. Wash & press is more expensive. 

Moreover, same-day service is available for an added cost. Otherwise, your items will be returned by 5:30 p.m. the following day. 

Did you know that Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club cruisers get one complimentary bag of laundry on sailings of 5 nights or longer?

Top-tier passengers can use this perk to either have their wrinkled garments washed and dried early in the voyage or so they return home with less laundry.

That said, as soon as you reach Platinum status, you can save $5 off any dry cleaning or pressing order of $25 or more. It's not enough to book another cruise with, but every little bit adds up! 

Read more: Royal Caribbean laundry services on your cruise

Use packing cubes

One of the easiest ways to get rid of wrinkles is to prevent them from forming in the first place. Although some fabrics are more prone to creases than others, using packing cubes to compress and organize your clothing helps minimize the chances of wrinkles. 

Another advantage of packing cubes is that you can fit more into a smaller suitcase, eliminating the need to pay for checked baggage. Moreover, it's easy to unpack, as you can simply throw the packing cubes into drawers and on shelves. 

If you don't have packing cubes, consider rolling your clothes before placing them in your suitcase. Rolling clothing helps keep fabrics smoother. However, you should still fold structured pieces, such as shirts and slacks, along the natural seams. 

Read more: 115-item Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF)

Los Angeles is ready to welcome a new era of cruise travel with a brand-new terminal project. 

(Credit: Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC)

On January 22, 2025, the Port of Los Angeles announced that Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC (PCT) was selected as the developer and operator of the new Outer Harbor cruise terminal. The project was initially announced in 2024. 

PCT, a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, will also redevelop and operate the existing World Cruise Center on the Port's Main Channel. 

The Outer Harbor cruise terminal will be able to handle the newest and most environmentally sustainable cruise ships in California. It will also offer open spaces, recreational facilities, and enhanced access to the LA Waterfront for residents and tourists. 

(Credit: Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC)

"This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations," said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. 

"This project will also be a huge win for our Port communities, who will greatly benefit from the economic activity generated by such significant public and private investment in our LA Waterfront."

At the time of publication, PCT hasn't released an estimated timeline for when the terminal will be operational and open to cruise passengers. However, it's sure to boost Los Angeles’ position as a leading cruise destination for West Coast vacations. 

Read more: I flew across the country for a 3-day cruise. I maximized the trip by making a few smart decisions

Booming cruise passenger numbers drive LA's expansion

In 2025, the Port of Los Angeles welcomed over 240 cruise calls and a record-breaking 1.6 million passengers, up from 183 calls and 1.1 million passengers in 2024, according to the Port’s website. 

Last year, Royal Caribbean made the strategic decision to deploy Ovation of the Seas to California. As such, the Quantum Class ship became the largest cruise vessel to ever dock at the World Cruise Center. 

Moreover, Carnival Cruise Line announced plans to construct a new $26-million shoreside destination in Ensenada, Mexico, a popular cruise port on sailings from Los Angeles. 

Both these moves highlight a growing demand for bigger and more modern cruise ships in the region. 

Each cruise ship visit generates roughly $1.3 million in local economic activity, supporting thousands of jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors, along with crucial port operations. 

Carrix is the parent company of SSA Marine

SSA Marine recently announced it is pushing to build a new multi-berth cruise port in Manatee County, Florida. 

According to the proposal, the terminal would be built on a roughly 328-acre coastal property known as the Knott‑Cowen tract at the mouth of Tampa Bay. 

As such, situating the terminal beyond the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge would finally open Tampa to larger cruise ships. 

Currently, only smaller vessels, such as Royal Caribbean's Vision Class ships, can operate from Tampa due to the bridge's height restrictions. 

Although the new port project is in the early planning phase and has not been officially approved, initial work to identify and evaluate potential environmental, traffic, noise, and public access considerations has already begun.

Pending approval, construction of Tampa's newest cruise terminal would take three to five years.

Like the Port of Los Angeles, the Port of Tampa Bay had record-breaking numbers in 2025. The Western Florida cruise port welcomed over 1.6 million cruise passengers last year, along with over 262,000 shipping containers, as reported by Spectrum Bay News 9. 

Read more: A new proposal could solve the Tampa cruise problem that limits ship size

Royal Caribbean is ending one of its cruises early to avoid winter storm Fern.

Passengers on Harmony of the Seas were informed on Thursday that their sailing will be cut by a day because of the storm. The Oasis Class ship was supposed to call at Cozumel, Mexico, on Friday, January 22. However, the final port visit of the 7-night Western Caribbean cruise was canceled at the last minute. 

Now, the 226,963 gross-ton vessel will spend Friday at sea en route to Galveston, with plans to arrive in Texas around 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23. 

"We are tracking the development of a major winter storm expected to impact Southeast Texas beginning late Saturday. In order to give you the best chance at a safe and uninterrupted journey home by avoiding the winter weather impacts to local infrastructure and transportation, we have decided to arrive in Galveston one (1) day earlier than originally scheduled," read a letter delivered to current passengers. 

(Credit: OldPostageScale/X)

Guests do not have to disembark on Saturday. If they wish to remain on board until Sunday, they may do so. 

However, remaining passengers must inform their cabin attendant or Guest Services by 12:00 p.m. on Friday. Unfortunately, the stores and casino will be closed in Texas, though. 

"Due to Customs and Border Protection requirements, all guests extending their stay will be asked to debark the ship with their travel documents in hand and reboard once the ship has been fully debarked. Luggage can stay onboard, no need to bring it shoreside with you," the letter continued.

(Screenshot taken at 9:50 a.m. EST. Credit: Cruise Mapper) 

Cruise Mapper shows that as of Friday at 9:50 a.m. EST, Harmony of the Seas had already cleared the Yucatán Peninsula and was sailing north through the Gulf of Mexico toward Texas.

Harmony departed from Galveston on Sunday, Jan. 18. There were no impacts to the first part of the itinerary, with the ship calling at its scheduled ports of Roatán, Honduras, and Costa Maya, Mexico, before the sailing was adjusted.

Compensation for the early return

All passengers will receive a one-day refund of the paid cruise fare as an onboard credit. 

Additionally, all pre-paid Royal Caribbean shore excursions for Cozumel, Mexico, were automatically canceled and refunded as onboard credit to guests' SeaPass accounts. 

According to the letter, onboard credits can be used anywhere on the ship, and any remaining amounts will be refunded to the card on file at the end of the sailing. 

Thankfully, there's no impact on the Crown & Anchor loyalty benefits that guests will earn for the weeklong cruise. 

"You'll receive loyalty points for the original sail nights, instead of the nights sailed. For this sailing, you'll still receive 7 nights worth of loyalty points," the letter concluded. 

Winter Storm Fern has placed more than 200 million Americans under weather advisories

The potentially historic winter storm is expected to bring snow, high winds, and freezing temperatures to 230 million people in more than 30 states across the U.S., from Arizona to Texas, North Carolina, and Massachusetts. 

Local officials have told residents to prepare for widespread power outages, travel disruptions, and school closures. 

Airlines are also bracing for significant flight delays and cancellations, with more than 1,000 flights already canceled on Saturday, CNBC reported. 

As such, carriers have waived change and cancellation fees, as well as fare differences, for major airports across the country. Even restrictive basic economy fares can be changed without penalty. 

Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas was forced to skip a scheduled stop in Costa Maya because of reported damage to the cruise pier. 

Grandeur was expected to arrive in Costa Maya, Mexico, around 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22. However, passengers were informed ahead of time that the visit would have to be canceled. 

"Grandeur of the Seas port stop at Costa Maya cancelled...due to damaged pier from today," shared Md Tag Service Agent on X. 

A letter was later delivered to impacted passengers explaining the last-minute change and shore excursion refund options.

"We hope you're enjoying your time onboard the beautiful Grandeur of the Seas! As we continue our voyage, we wanted to inform you about a change to our itinerary," the letter begins.

"Due to damage at the pier in Costa Maya, Mexico, we'll have to skip our visit and enjoy a [sea day] instead. We're terribly sorry for the last-minute change...We thank you for your understanding and look forward to the remainder of our time together!"

All pre-paid shore excursions booked through Royal Caribbean will be automatically canceled and refunded to guests' SeaPass accounts as onboard credit. Any remaining credits at the end of the cruise will be refunded to the card on file.

(Screenshot taken at 9:04 a.m. EST on Jan. 22. Credit: Cruise Mapper)

Cruise Mapper confirms that Grandeur was unable to arrive as scheduled. Instead of showing the Vision Class ship in Mexico, the popular tracking website shows the vessel sailing north along the Yucatán Peninsula.

Although Grandeur wasn't able to safely dock in Costa Maya, three other cruise ships — including Harmony of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas, and TUI's Mein Schiff 1 — were still able to call at the port on Jan. 22. 

This seems to indicate that the damage was limited to a single cruise pier area in Costa Maya. At the time of publication, it's unclear how long repairs might take or whether future Royal Caribbean sailings could be affected by the damage. 

Grandeur of the Seas is currently sailing a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise from Tampa, Florida. 

The Vision Class ship departed on Jan. 17 and called at Cozumel, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Belize City, Belize, earlier this week. She's expected to arrive back in Florida as scheduled on Jan. 24. 

Norwegian Encore is also skipping Costa Maya

Norwegian Encore, a Breakaway Plus Class ship, won't be calling at Costa Maya as planned, either. In a letter delivered to guests shared in a public Facebook group, passengers were told they couldn't dock at Costa Maya because of circumstances "beyond [their] control." 

However, this last-minute change is allowing passengers to make history as the first overnight cruisers to visit Great Stirrup Cay.

"[W]e're thrilled to announce an extraordinary, first-of-its-kind experience, an overnight stay at our private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. This will mark the first overnight visit offered to Norwegian Cruise Line guests," the letter says. 

(Credit: Laura Clingo/Facebook)

"This moment gives you the opportunity to be among the first guests to experience Great Stirrup Cay after dark, truly making cruise history...As the sun sets, the energy shifts to an unforgettable evening celebration, with all nighttime activities focused on the vibrant Great Life Lagoon, the all-new pool area."

Guests can freely roam the island until midnight, but they won't want to miss the Glow Party under the stars from 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

The next day, passengers will have until 5:00 p.m. to enjoy the island’s beaches, pool, and other amenities. 

Read more: Cruise line spends $150 million to make its private island even better

Grandeur of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's oldest cruise ship 

Grandeur of the Seas entered service in December 1996. Not only is she currently the oldest operating ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, but she is also the smallest. 

Grandeur measures just 73,817 gross tons with a passenger capacity of 1,992 at double occupancy. Comparatively, Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, comes in at 248,663 gross tons and can carry 5,610 guests at double occupancy. 

Grandeur of the Seas will offer Caribbean cruises from Tampa, Florida, through May 2026. Afterward, she'll move to Central and South America and embark on a series of Southern Caribbean cruises from Colón and Cartagena. 

Then, beginning in April 2027, Grandeur will sail from San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a few months before moving back to Central and South America in December. 

You don’t need to be part of a large group to enjoy a cruise. In fact, cruising can be a safe and enjoyable way to travel solo. However, if you’re an extrovert, you might be wondering what opportunities you'll have to meet other travelers while on board. 

I've taken multiple solo cruises — from a short Bahamian getaway to a weeklong voyage to Alaska — and while I prefer traveling with my loved ones, I can attest that cruising alone gives you the chance to meet new people and form friendships that you might not otherwise encounter in your daily life. 

Making friends on a cruise is easier than you think. However, you must be willing to put in the effort, whether that means attending an event you'd typically avoid or striking up a conversation with a stranger at the bar. 

Here are 8 ways to embrace your social butterfly and meet people on a cruise ship. 

Join your sailing's Facebook group

Most cruises have an unofficial Facebook group started by other guests, giving you a dedicated space to ask questions about the itinerary, ship, or even arrange activities like bar crawls or slot pulls. 

These groups are a great way to break the ice and begin connecting with fellow guests before your sailing. While onboard, many passengers will continue to utilize the group to coordinate meet-ups, inquire about events, and share tips and experiences. 

To find your group, all you have to do is search your ship name and sailing date. Here are a few examples:

• Utopia of the Seas May 4-8, 2026
• Ovation of the Seas July 17-24, 2026
• Star of the Seas Aug. 2-9, 2026

Request to sit at a large table during dinner

The Main Dining Room has tables for two, which are ideal for solo travelers who prefer to dine alone. However, there are also larger tables that can accommodate 6, 8, or even 10 passengers. 

If you’d like to sit at a shared table, visit the maître d' on embarkation day. While shared tables aren’t guaranteed, you can make your request, and the crew will do their best to seat you with other passengers. 

Another option for those who want more flexibility is My Time Dining. If you meet guests you’d like to dine with during your cruise, you can request the next available table during the dining room’s operating hours.

Book a specialty restaurant with a shared table

Two specialty restaurants — the Chef's Table and Izumi Hibachi — have shared tables that encourage conversation among guests. While the meals aren't included in your cruise fare, they could be worth the extra charge if you want a more interactive and social dining experience. 

Even if you don't walk away with a new lifelong friend, the culinary experience is leagues above the standard fare in the dining room. At Izumi, for example, you can enjoy a lively Teppanyaki meal, complete with fried rice and your choice of protein prepared right in front of you!

The Chef's Table is the ultimate food experience on any Royal Caribbean ship. The six-course meal includes a wine pairing that's carefully selected to complement the savory appetizers, flaky fish, and decadent dessert. 

Read more: Guide to Izumi Sushi and Hibachi restaurant

Visit Adventure Ocean

If you aren't sailing alone but are worried about your children getting bored or feeling "stuck" with mom and dad, encourage them to visit Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbean's award-winning youth program. 

The age-specific activities are supervised by trained staff, so you can have peace of mind while enjoying some much-needed adult-only time. 

After "graduating" from Adventure Ocean, pre-teens and teens can enjoy dedicated spaces just for them, including Social020, Social100, and the Living Room. 

Finally, young adults shouldn't overlook the Hyperlink events, which target guests between the ages of 18 and 25. Activities range from trivia to "frat" games and nightclub meet-ups. 

If they don't make a friend on the first visit, there are plenty of opportunities to try again. Just like in school, it is nearly impossible to make a solid connection in homeroom. 

Start a conversation at the bar

People (myself included) tend to get chattier after a drink or two. While I might find myself feeling reserved, I'll typically begin warming up to new people halfway through a drink. 

Royal Caribbean ships have the perfect bar for everyone, whether you like singing along to tunes at the pub or relaxing with a glass of wine at Vintages. 

Starting a conversation can be as easy as asking someone what drink they ordered or bonding over a favorite song. 

Join a trivia team

Trivia is a popular cruise ship activity and is offered multiple times throughout any sailing. Themes range from music to Harry Potter, geography, logos, and general knowledge. 

Royal Caribbean’s activities team allows players to form teams, which is a great way to bridge gaps in knowledge among team members.

If you show up alone, try seeking out a smaller team to join. Even if you aren't confident in your knowledge, trivia competitions are an easy way to break the ice and introduce yourself to others. 

Hang out in the Suite or Crown Lounge

Talking to cruisers in the Crown Lounge is a great way to meet like-minded travelers who also enjoy cruising. It's easy to strike up a conversation about your favorite ship, destination, or Cruise Director! 

The more you visit, the more chances you’ll have to mingle with others. Consider stopping by in the morning to use the upgraded coffee machine, as well as at night for a cocktail before dinner. 

The Suite Lounge has a similar vibe, though it's accessible by all guests staying in a suite, not just dedicated loyalty members with at least 80 cruise points. 

Read more: Inside Royal Caribbean's Crown Lounge: Perks, Access & What to Expect

Speak up during excursions 

While there are plenty of chances to meet new guests on the ship, it's just as easy to connect with fellow passengers on shore excursions. 

Since you'll be together for a few hours, whether on a bus during a panoramic sightseeing tour or on a boat for an afternoon snorkeling excursion, you have ample time to strike up a conversation about a shared experience. Perhaps you saw a sea turtle grazing on the ocean floor or enjoyed marveling at a historic landmark in Rome. 

During a snorkeling tour in St. Thomas, my partner and I happened to sit next to two couples who had either resided or were currently living in North Carolina, just like we do! 

The Main Dining Room is a staple experience on Royal Caribbean cruises. However, many passengers may opt to skip the dining room in favor of specialty restaurants or a quicker, casual meal at the buffet, leaving them wondering if they should tell their waitstaff that they won't be there for dinner. 

The question was recently asked in a Royal Caribbean dining Facebook group, where a cruiser debated whether they should let their waiter know about the nights they plan on dining elsewhere. 

"We have reserved specialty dining on days 3, 4, [and] 5 of our upcoming 8-day trip. Should we let the [Main Dining Room] know that we won’t be there for those dinners but WILL be back for days 6 & 7?" they asked. 

While you aren't required to let your waiter know, many cruisers consider it common courtesy. 

If you choose traditional dining (i.e., the early or late seating) and know you’ll be missing a night (or two), it's polite to let them know. 

That way, they won't be waiting on you and can better manage their table assignments and service flow for the dinner seating. It also helps them know if the table will be used for My Time Dining guests. 

The responses were largely in agreement, stating that it's polite to let your waitstaff know when you won't be there. 

"We always let our waiters know when we will not be there," said one user. 

Another added, "Assuming you have the traditional, set dining time, common courtesy would be to let your waiter know you won't be there on those nights so the waiter and your fellow table mates are not waiting on you before starting their meal."

"[T]hey will tell you it's not necessary, but it is common courtesy to let them know," someone else agreed. 

One cruiser wrote, "It's simple courtesy to let them know the evening before as often the waiters will have prepared for you to show up. Our waiters frequently have our preferred beverage ready and even the cheese plate that we usually order to share at the table."

If you have My Time Dining, your server may ask you to request them the next night. If you have no intention of returning to the dining room, you can simply say that you have other plans. 

However, if they don't ask, there's no need to inform them, as My Time Dining is on a first-come, first-served basis — it's not expected that you will have the same waitstaff each night, like with traditional dining. 

If you have traditional dining, you can relax knowing that your assigned table and servers will be ready to welcome you each night you choose to eat in the dining room, even if you skip a few.

Read more: Royal Caribbean My Time Dining versus Traditional Dining

Why cruisers might skip the Main Dining Room

The Main Dining Room is designed to be a flexible option for cruisers. Although many choose to eat there every night since it's included in your cruise fare, others may prefer the intimate setting of specialty restaurants. 

You can either purchase a specialty dining package or pay the individual cover charges at restaurants like Izumi, Chops Grille, Hooked, and more. 

Another reason passengers might skip the dining room is for a quick meal at the buffet, rather than devoting time to a multi-course dinner. There are also more choices than in the dining room, so you can mix and match to create your perfect plate. 

The good thing is that you can choose how you want to mix up your cruise dining experience (or not). 

And if you do decide on a whim to skip the dining room, it's okay. Cruising is all about flexibility, and your waiter will understand the last-minute change of plans. 

Read more: 11 reasons eating at the cruise buffet instead of the dining room is better