Royal Caribbean’s European Expansion

Royal Caribbean Cruises have this weeks announced plans to expand in Europe as cruising has become an increasingly popular choice amongst holiday-goers. Richard Faun, Royal Caribbean chairman said he believes cruising has started to reach a “critical mass” in Europe – denying that the state of the US economy had influenced decisions to deploy more cruise ships in Europe.  

The cruise line expects that more than 60,000 cruise passengers will sail on Independence of the Seas this summer, with the port of Southampton projected to handle over 900,000 cruisers in 2009. RCI’s UK and Ireland managing director Jo Rzymowska said: “The UK cruise market is leading the way with more new ships sailing from our waters than any other European market, and growing numbers of travellers are turning on to the idea of holidays at sea.” 

Independence of the Seas, the line’s largest cruise ship, arrived in the UK for the first time this week in preparation for her summer cruises from Southampton. The ship is 1,112 ft. long and holds more than 4,300 passengers – the largest vessel ever to operate from the UK. The launch celebrations for the ship will include a musical performance from the band, Scouting For Girls, firework displays and a charity auction hosted by Sir Steve Redgrave.

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