| RCI to be fully operational by Dec

ROYAL Caribbean International (RCI) has expanded its American comeback for the northern summer, with Freedom of the Seas to kick off the line’s return in its home market in time for Independence Day.

Six of RCI’s ships will begin sailing out of Florida and Texas from 02 Jul, with Freedom to sail to Perfect Day at CocoCay (pictured).

By the end of Aug, 12 RCI ships will be cruising across Alaska, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Europe, with the cruise line to soon announce its full-fleet return by the end of the year.

Odyssey of the Seas will make her debut 03 Jul from Fort Lauderdale, after she was initially set to begin sailing in Israel (CW 17 May).

The ship will set sail on new six- and eight-night Caribbean cruises, after which she will be followed by Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas.

Also resuming will be Harmony of the Seas, which will return to Europe from 15 Aug, sailing seven-night itineraries to the Western Mediterranean.

All northern summer cruises are available to book today.

President & Chief Executive Officer Michael Bayley said as of the announcement, 90% of all vacationers booking with RCI were either vaccinated, or planning to get vaccinated in time for their cruise.

“We also thank Governor DeSantis of Florida, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Broward County Mayor Steve Geller and Chairman of the Canaveral Port Authority board Wayne Justice and board commissioners for their steadfast support of our industry and for providing access to vaccines to the thousands of crew on our ships,” Bayley added.

“This act of understanding and humanity has been deeply appreciated, and we are grateful for their support, which is enabling the health and safety of our guests, crew members and the communities we visit.”