Royal Caribbean Reassigns Ships for 2026 Deployment

Royal Caribbean is revising its 2026-2027 deployment schedule with significant changes involving two of its cruise ships, Grandeur of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas. According to one source, Grandeur of the Seas will move its homeport from Florida to South America, operating from Cartagena, Colombia and Colón, Panama, while Jewel of the Seas will assume Florida itineraries originally scheduled for Grandeur. In this scenario, guests booked on Florida sailings of Grandeur of the Seas will have their reservations automatically transferred to Jewel of the Seas, with comparable staterooms and price protection.

Grandeur of the Seas Moves to South America

The 1,992-guest Grandeur of the Seas is set to leave its Florida base to operate cruises from Cartagena, Colombia, and Colón, Panama. This repositioning is part of a broader strategy to tap into emerging South American markets and provide travelers with fresh, tropical itineraries.

An important detail for guests: customers with bookings on Grandeur of the Seas for Florida departures will automatically be transferred to its replacement, Jewel of the Seas, ensuring similar accommodations along with price protection including refunds for any fare differences.

Jewel of the Seas Takes on Florida-Based Itineraries

The 1,097-passenger Jewel of the Seas, known for its modern design and enhanced onboard amenities, will now homeport on Florida itineraries, covering Tampa and Fort Lauderdale departures. In a notable enhancement, some Florida sailings on Jewel of the Seas will include an extra three days at sea at no additional charge, with stops at Caribbean destinations such as St. Kitts & Nevis, Antigua, St. Maarten, and Grand Bahama Island.

Clarifying Conflicting Reports

It should be noted that while one account details the above adjustments, another original report described a complete swap between the two ships, with guests booked on either vessel having their itineraries maintained but switching ships. At present, Royal Caribbean has confirmed the automatic transfer for guests originally booked on Grandeur of the Seas in Florida. Further clarification may be provided regarding bookings originally made on Jewel of the Seas if they are impacted by additional deployment strategies.

Customer Support and Strategic Goals

Royal Caribbean is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for all affected guests. Detailed notifications and updated confirmations have been sent to travel advisors and customers. Should guests prefer to make alternative arrangements, they can rebook on another cruise without penalties on non-refundable deposits.

This adjustment not only allows Royal Caribbean to expand its presence in promising South American markets but also reinforces the cruise line’s dedication to maintaining a competitive and attractive offering in the Florida and Caribbean cruising sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When do the changes take effect?

The deployment changes will begin with cruise sailings departing in May 2026.

What happens if my booking is affected?

For guests originally booked on Grandeur of the Seas for Florida itineraries, reservations will be automatically transferred to Jewel of the Seas with comparable staterooms and price protection. Additional guidance may be provided for passengers booked on Jewel of the Seas if further adjustments are confirmed.

Will the itineraries change?

Most itineraries will remain largely consistent. Notably, some Florida-based sailings on Jewel of the Seas will feature an extended schedule, adding three extra sea days with visits to popular Caribbean destinations.

Why are these changes being made?

The adjustments are part of Royal Caribbean’s strategic response to evolving market demands, optimizing operations in key Florida and South American markets while enhancing the overall guest experience.