Royal Caribbean Reimagines Travel in Asia with New Cruise Pathways

Royal Caribbean International has announced significant changes to its itineraries for cruises departing from China, impacting thousands of travelers. The cruise line, known for its luxurious ships and exceptional onboard experiences, is adjusting its routes to accommodate shifting travel demands, changing regulatory requirements, and evolving market conditions in the region. The decision, announced in early 2026, has left many passengers rethinking their plans but has also opened up new opportunities for travelers seeking diverse itineraries.

China’s Changing Travel Landscape

The changes come as part of a broader trend in the Chinese travel market, which has seen fluctuations in cruise demand in recent years. Royal Caribbean’s move to alter itineraries reflects the cruise industry’s adaptability and its ability to navigate through challenging and shifting global landscapes. While the exact routes and port stops have not been fully disclosed, the cruise giant has promised to maintain its commitment to offering world-class experiences to its guests.

Impact on Passengers and Travel Plans

Royal Caribbean had previously established a strong presence in the region, with cruises departing from China catering to both local tourists and international travelers. The shift in itineraries has caused some disruption, as passengers with bookings for upcoming cruises have been informed about the modifications. The cruise line has emphasized its commitment to customer satisfaction and aims to ensure that travelers are not left without options. Furthermore, guests are encouraged to explore Royal Caribbean’s expanded offerings in other parts of Asia, where the brand continues to thrive and attract new guests.

Cruise Line’s Focus on Asian Markets

Despite the changes to its China itineraries, Royal Caribbean remains committed to its long-term growth in Asia. By focusing on these regions, Royal Caribbean aims to tap into the growing demand for cruises across the Asia-Pacific region while diversifying its offerings in response to the changing market conditions in China.

The shift in itineraries is also a reflection of broader trends within the cruise industry, where companies are adjusting their regional operations to focus on markets that offer more growth potential. Southeast Asia, in particular, is seen as an emerging cruise hub, with an increasing number of travelers seeking new, exotic destinations. Royal Caribbean’s decision to redirect resources to these regions comes at a time when cruise demand is on the rise, particularly in markets outside of China.

The Future of China Cruises and the Global Cruise Industry

The announcement has raised questions about the future of cruise travel from China. While the company has not offered a definitive timeline for its return to China, industry experts suggest that the cruise line may reconsider its position in the region depending on the evolving travel dynamics and regulatory landscape. Other cruise lines, such as Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line, are also keeping a close eye on the changes in China and exploring ways to navigate these challenges while expanding their footprints in Asia.

Repositioning for Growth in the Asian-Pacific Region

Royal Caribbean’s shift in focus also comes with strategic benefits. By redistributing its fleet to ports in Japan, South Korea, and other Southeast Asian countries, the cruise line can capitalize on the growing interest in these regions. With the rise of Japan’s popularity as a tourist hotspot, the country presents an ideal location for cruise itineraries that feature a mix of iconic landmarks, such as Kyoto’s ancient temples and the bustling metropolis of Tokyo. Additionally, Royal Caribbean is eyeing ports in South Korea and Southeast Asia as major growth markets for the future.

Conclusion: The Evolving Cruise Landscape in Asia

Royal Caribbean’s decision to alter its itineraries from China reflects the evolving nature of the cruise industry in Asia. While the company has had to adapt to the changing dynamics in China, it remains focused on expanding its footprint across the rest of the Asia-Pacific region. Whether it’s repositioning ships in Asia or enhancing its presence in emerging markets, Royal Caribbean continues to lead the charge in offering unforgettable travel experiences to its guests across the world. For passengers looking for new adventures, the road ahead promises exciting possibilities in some of the most breathtaking destinations in Asia and beyond.

Image Credit:- Royal Caribbean

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Arajet Offers Discounted Caribbean Flights for Early 2026 Travel with Booking Period from February 2 to 6

Arajet is offering a limited-time promotion for discounted flights to the Caribbean, available for booking between February 2 and 6, 2026. This special offer allows travelers from the U.S. and Canada to secure affordable fares, starting at just USD 102 and CAD 166 per leg, for trips between February 23 and May 31, 2026. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer vacation, this promotion provides a fantastic opportunity to explore popular Caribbean destinations at unbeatable prices, with flexible travel options to suit every need.

As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity between North America and the Caribbean, Arajet continues to provide accessible air travel while maintaining competitive pricing. This initiative not only supports budget-conscious travelers but also enhances the airline’s reach across its U.S. and Canadian routes, offering a seamless and affordable travel experience for 2026.

The promotion applies to several routes connecting the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. These routes include major U.S. hubs such as Newark (EWR), Miami (MIA), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Sanford (SFB), as well as popular Caribbean destinations like San Juan (SJU), Punta Cana (PUJ), Santo Domingo (SDQ), and Montreal (YUL), and Toronto (YYZ) in Canada.

Travelers will have the flexibility to choose from a variety of bundled options that suit their individual preferences and needs. Arajet offers four distinct bundles: BASIC, CLASSIC, COMFORT, and EXTRA, allowing passengers to select the one that best fits their travel style, from no-frills options to more premium services. The airline’s goal is to provide travelers with a personalized experience, enabling them to enjoy the journey on their terms, whether they prioritize savings, extra comfort, or added perks.

To take advantage of this promotion, travelers will need to book at least one passenger per booking, and the offer is subject to availability. This provides an excellent opportunity for solo travelers, couples, or families who are planning a vacation or business trip to the Caribbean in early 2026. Whether you’re looking to relax on the stunning beaches of Punta Cana or explore the vibrant culture of San Juan, this promotion offers a wide range of options to choose from.

Arajet’s ongoing efforts to expand its presence in the U.S. and Canadian markets are evident through this promotional offer. By providing affordable flights between North America and the Caribbean, Arajet is not only enhancing travel options for customers but also supporting regional tourism and economic growth in the Caribbean. The airline’s modern fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft ensures that passengers will enjoy a comfortable and efficient flight experience, making it easier than ever to plan a getaway to one of the world’s most sought-after vacation destinations.

In addition to its competitive pricing and flexible bundles, Arajet’s efficient operating model is designed to simplify the travel experience, ensuring that passengers can focus on enjoying their trips rather than dealing with unnecessary complexities. The airline has prioritized providing a seamless travel process, from booking to boarding, making it an attractive option for travelers who value both value and convenience.

Arajet is offering discounted flights to the Caribbean for early 2026 travel, with a booking period from February 2 to 6, 2026. Fares start as low as USD 102 and CAD 166 per leg, providing an affordable opportunity to explore the Caribbean between February 23 and May 31, 2026.

Overall, Arajet’s new promotion is a compelling opportunity for travelers in the U.S. and Canada to explore the Caribbean in 2026 at unbeatable prices. Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway or a longer vacation, this offer allows you to plan your trip with flexibility, comfort, and affordability in mind. The airline’s commitment to expanding its reach and enhancing its services underscores its mission to provide accessible and enjoyable travel experiences, making the Caribbean more reachable than ever. Be sure to take advantage of this offer before it ends on February 6, 2026, and start planning your Caribbean adventure today.

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Norwegian Breakaway Cuts Caribbean Voyage Short, Returns to New York Early Amid Winter Storm

In a sudden and unexpected change to its scheduled itinerary, the Norwegian Breakaway made an early return to New York City on Monday, February 2, 2026, following the disruption of a major winter storm in the U.S. Northeast and North Atlantic. Originally set to dock at Manhattan Cruise Terminal on Tuesday, February 3, the cruise ship’s arrival was hastened by one day in order to avoid the intensifying weather system.

The Norwegian Breakaway had embarked on an 11-night Caribbean cruise on January 23, 2026, from New York City. However, the storm, which was expected to cause significant delays and hazardous conditions, led to a quick decision to alter the ship’s course, ensuring passengers would be able to return home safely and as smoothly as possible.

Impact of Winter Storm on Itinerary

The decision to expedite the ship’s return was made in response to a large winter storm affecting the eastern United States and North Atlantic, creating challenging conditions for vessels in the region. As the storm intensified, Norwegian Cruise Line opted to take swift action to avoid any further disruptions to the cruise’s schedule.

In a letter sent to guests onboard, the cruise line explained the situation and assured passengers that the adjustment was made with their safety in mind. “A large winter system moving through the eastern United States and the North Atlantic is affecting our ability to return to New York City on the original schedule. This adjustment ensures a smoother path north,” the letter read.

Cancelled Stop in St. Thomas

To facilitate the earlier return, Norwegian Cruise Line made a key change to the itinerary. A scheduled stop in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, on January 30, 2026, was cancelled. Instead, the Norwegian Breakaway sailed directly toward New York City following its visit to St. Maarten on January 29, 2026.

Although the change meant missing out on the U.S. Virgin Islands destination, Norwegian Cruise Line reassured passengers that the alteration was necessary to navigate the storm’s path safely. The decision, though disappointing to some, ultimately allowed for a more secure and timely arrival in New York City.

Extra Time in New York: A Positive Twist

One unexpected benefit of the change was an extended stay in New York City. While the Norwegian Breakaway had been scheduled to depart the city on Tuesday, passengers were instead granted an additional day in the city, providing more time to explore the iconic sights, enjoy local dining, and experience everything the Big Apple has to offer.

This bonus time in New York was described as an opportunity for passengers to “wrap up their vacation on a high note,” according to Norwegian Cruise Line. The cruise line emphasized that, despite the itinerary change, the extended time in the city turned out to be a pleasant bonus for many guests, allowing them to make the most of their final moments of vacation.

Refunds and Communication with Guests

Norwegian Cruise Line made every effort to communicate the changes to passengers swiftly and clearly. Affected guests who had booked shore excursions for St. Thomas were fully refunded, with credits applied to their accounts. The company reassured passengers that they were working to ensure that everyone would receive their refunds promptly, keeping in line with their commitment to customer satisfaction.

The cruise line also provided passengers with information about the changes to the itinerary, allowing them to adjust their expectations and plans accordingly. Norwegian Cruise Line’s focus on keeping guests informed at every step was crucial in maintaining a positive guest experience despite the disruptions.

Caribbean Ports of Call Still Delivered

Despite the storm’s impact, the Norwegian Breakaway still offered passengers an unforgettable Caribbean experience. In addition to the visit to St. Maarten, the ship had made stops in Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Tortola (British Virgin Islands). While missing St. Thomas was disappointing, the Caribbean ports that were visited still provided guests with plenty to enjoy, from picturesque beaches to historic sites and vibrant local culture.

The weather disruptions did not diminish the highlights of the trip, and Norwegian Cruise Line ensured that passengers had the chance to experience a beautiful slice of the Caribbean, even with the shortened itinerary.

Ensuring a Safe Journey Home

The Norwegian Breakaway’s early return to New York City was made to ensure the passengers’ safety while still allowing them to enjoy a fulfilling vacation. Norwegian Cruise Line acted quickly to address the weather-related disruptions, re-routing the ship to minimize the storm’s impact while keeping everyone on board safe.

Passengers arriving in New York were able to disembark with little delay, and the extra time in the city allowed many travelers to continue their vacation. Norwegian Cruise Line’s quick decision-making and efficient communication kept the experience as smooth as possible for all those involved.

Looking to the Future: Flexibility and Communication with Guests

For future travelers, Norwegian Cruise Line reassured guests that the company remains committed to providing flexible solutions in the face of unforeseen weather-related disruptions. The cruise line’s top priority is passenger safety, and guests can expect timely updates in the event of future changes. The company’s proactive approach during this storm highlighted its commitment to ensuring that guests have the best possible experience, regardless of external factors.

Conclusion: A Safe and Rewarding End to the Journey

While the Norwegian Breakaway’s Caribbean itinerary was altered due to a winter storm, the ship’s early return to New York City provided a safe and memorable conclusion to the journey. Norwegian Cruise Line’s quick response, clear communication, and customer-focused approach ensured that passengers could still enjoy a rewarding vacation, with the added bonus of extra time in New York City.

Despite the weather-related challenges, the Norwegian Breakaway was able to offer guests a safe, enjoyable, and fulfilling cruise experience, proving that sometimes, even unexpected changes can lead to positive outcomes.

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Royal Caribbean Orders Discovery Class Ships for Miami and Bahamas Itineraries, Revolutionizing Caribbean Tourism: What You Need to Know

Royal Caribbean has secured agreements with Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard for two new Discovery Class vessels, set to transform Caribbean tourism with debuts in 2029 and 2032 from Miami hubs to Bahamas ports. These mid-sized ships, with options for four additional units, emphasize innovative designs for wider port access, directly boosting tourism to hard-to-reach Caribbean gems like private islands and lesser-visited Bahamas outposts. The partnership leverages France’s shipbuilding prowess to introduce sustainability-focused features, elevating tourism experiences across sun-soaked itineraries starting from Miami. This expansion solidifies Royal Caribbean‘s role in driving Caribbean tourism recovery through enhanced connectivity and guest-centric innovations.

Discovery Class Specifications

Discovery Class ships represent a fresh category in Royal Caribbean‘s lineup, positioned between mega-classes like Oasis and smaller vessels for versatile Caribbean tourism routes. The inaugural ship enters service in 2029, followed by a sister in 2032, built at Saint-Nazaire to support exotic Miami–Bahamas voyages with advanced propulsion for efficiency. These vessels prioritize immersive zones and technology, enabling calls at tender ports that amplify tourism to pristine Bahamas beaches and cultural sites inaccessible to larger ships.

Caribbean tourism benefits from this scale, as mid-sized designs reduce overcrowding while increasing frequencies from Miami, fostering deeper visitor engagement with local economies. Sustainability integrations, including cleaner fuels, align with regional tourism boards’ green mandates, attracting eco-aware travelers to Bahamas eco-adventures.

Shipbuilding Partnership Deepens

Royal Caribbean Group strengthens ties with Chantiers de l’Atlantique, which has constructed twenty-one ships since 1985, including Oasis icons that dominate Caribbean tourism. Current builds at the yard include ongoing projects, with Discovery Class incorporating next-gen materials for lighter, greener hulls suited to Miami departures. The firm orders, plus four options, signal confidence in sustained tourism demand through 2030s.

Impacts on Caribbean tourism include job creation in shipbuilding that indirectly supports port expansions in Miami and Bahamas, enhancing infrastructure for higher passenger volumes. Reliable supply chains ensure timely deliveries, stabilizing tourism operator planning for long-lead bookings.

Miami as Launchpad for Tourism

Miami, Caribbean tourism‘s epicenter, positions as primary homeport for Discovery Class, leveraging its facilities for efficient Bahamas turnarounds. These ships’ agile profiles allow diverse itineraries, from short Miami–Nassau hops to extended loops hitting Bahamas family islands, spurring weekend tourism booms. Enhanced onboard tech previews tourism highlights, like virtual Bahamas reef dives, priming passengers for shore immersions.

Miami tourism surges as pre- and post-cruise packages flourish, with seamless transfers boosting hotel and excursion spends. Caribbean regional tourism gains from elevated service levels, drawing families seeking balanced ship-shore ratios in Bahamas ports.

Bahamas Tourism Expansion

Bahamas emerges central to Discovery Class routes, with smaller ship sizes unlocking exclusive tourism tenders to Perfect Day at CocoCay and emerging cays. Itineraries emphasize private destination visits, where Royal Caribbean‘s investments in beaches and activities drive record tourism revenues. New class features like adaptive dining and wellness hubs complement Bahamas water sports, creating holistic tourism packages.

Bahamas tourism impacts feature diversified arrivals, reducing reliance on mega-ships while elevating per-passenger spending through premium experiences. Local operators partner for authentic tours, amplifying cultural tourism amid rising global interest.

Sustainability Driving Tourism Appeal

Discovery Class integrates low-emission engines and waste-reduction systems, meeting Caribbean tourism sustainability pledges for cleaner Miami–Bahamas sailings. Onboard solar arrays and water recycling support eco-tourism narratives, appealing to millennials prioritizing green voyages. These align with international maritime regulations, future-proofing tourism operations.

Caribbean tourism thrives as sustainable credentials enhance destination branding, with Bahamas ports gaining from reduced environmental footprints. Traveler loyalty grows, projecting higher repeat tourism rates through 2032.

Guest Experience Innovations

Central to Discovery Class is guest-focused design, featuring modular entertainment and personalized tech for Caribbean tourism customization. Multi-deck atriums and pop-up venues adapt to themes like Bahamas festivals, immersing passengers pre-arrival. Wellness integrations promote active tourism, from yoga decks overlooking Miami skylines to shore-linked adventures.

Miami and Bahamas tourism elevates via satisfied cruisers sharing digital content, virally promoting itineraries. Enhanced experiences correlate with longer stays, boosting ancillary tourism revenues in ports.

Fleet Integration and Loyalty Boost

Discovery Class slots into Royal Caribbean‘s diverse portfolio, complementing Icon and Oasis for tiered Caribbean tourism options. Recent loyalty updates allow cross-brand point redemptions, incentivizing upgrades to Discovery sailings from Miami. This unifies tourism marketing, targeting varied demographics.

Broadened choices impact Bahamas tourism by segmenting markets, mid-size for explorers, mega for families, optimizing port utilisations. Caribbean overall tourism projects ten percent growth from fleet diversity by 2030.

Global Tourism Pipeline Strengthened

With firm deliveries locked, Royal Caribbean eyes Caribbean tourism dominance, potentially deploying Discovery to Mediterranean or Alaska post-debut. Options for four more ships hedge against demand spikes, ensuring capacity for Miami–Bahamas peaks. Strategic timing aligns with tourism cycles, filling post-2028 gaps.

Long-term, Caribbean tourism fortifies through reliable innovations, positioning Bahamas as innovation hubs. Royal Caribbean cements leadership in experiential tourism voyages.

Image Credit: Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Antigua and Barbuda Reclaims the Spotlight as Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 Returns With the Region’s Most Powerful Tourism Deal-Making Event

The Caribbean’s most influential tourism trade event is set for a high-profile return to Antigua and Barbuda next year, as Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 officially opens registration ahead of its May twelve to May fifteen schedule. The announcement signals the start of another pivotal business cycle for the region’s tourism industry, at a time when destinations are competing aggressively for market share, airlift, and long-term travel partnerships.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace stands as the largest and longest-running tourism trade conference in the region. For more than four decades, it has functioned as the central meeting ground where Caribbean tourism suppliers connect directly with international buyers from key source markets, including North America, Europe, and Latin America. The event is not simply a conference, but a structured commercial platform designed to drive real business outcomes for hotels, resorts, destinations, airlines, tour companies, and tourism service providers.

At its core, the Marketplace is built around a highly organised system of pre-scheduled one-on-one appointments. This format allows sellers to engage directly with tour operators, wholesalers, and travel advisors who control significant distribution channels and booking flows. For many Caribbean businesses, this concentrated access replaces months of overseas sales travel, delivering efficiency, cost savings, and faster deal-making within a single location.

The 2026 edition marks the forty-fourth year of the Marketplace, highlighting its enduring relevance in a rapidly changing travel landscape. While digital platforms and virtual meetings have reshaped parts of the industry, Caribbean Travel Marketplace continues to prove the value of face-to-face engagement, particularly for complex tourism products that rely on trust, long-term relationships, and destination knowledge.

Beyond the appointment halls, the event serves as a broader industry exchange. The programme typically includes destination showcases where countries and territories present new hotel openings, infrastructure upgrades, tourism experiences, and investment opportunities. Media engagement sessions help amplify these announcements to global audiences, extending the reach of the event far beyond those attending in person.

Industry programming is another core pillar of the Marketplace. Discussions and briefings focus on current market conditions, traveller behaviour trends, airlift challenges, sustainability commitments, workforce development, and the evolving expectations of post-pandemic travellers. These sessions provide context and insight that help businesses refine strategies, adjust pricing, and identify emerging opportunities across different source markets.

The selection of Antigua and Barbuda as host once again reflects the destination’s growing prominence within regional tourism. The country has positioned itself as a reliable and well-connected host for large-scale international events, supported by expanding airlift, a strong accommodation base, and a clear focus on tourism development. Hosting Caribbean Travel Marketplace places the destination at the centre of regional decision-making and global travel trade attention for an entire week.

For Antigua and Barbuda, the benefits are both immediate and long-term. In the short term, the event generates significant economic activity through hotel occupancy, conference services, ground transportation, dining, and local suppliers. In the longer term, it delivers sustained visibility among influential travel buyers and media, strengthening the destination’s positioning in future brochures, tour packages, and sales campaigns.

From a regional perspective, Caribbean Travel Marketplace plays a crucial role in maintaining cohesion across a diverse tourism landscape. It brings together large and small destinations, independent hotels and global brands, mature markets and emerging players. This inclusivity allows smaller operators to compete on equal footing, while larger stakeholders use the platform to reinforce partnerships and launch new initiatives.

The Marketplace also functions as a barometer for the health of Caribbean tourism. Booking sentiment, buyer demand, and contracting activity during the event often provide early signals of upcoming travel seasons. As the region adapts to inflation pressures, shifting travel budgets, and changing booking windows, these insights are increasingly valuable for planning and forecasting.

Sustainability and resilience have become more prominent themes within the Marketplace in recent years. Destinations are using the platform to highlight responsible tourism initiatives, environmental protection measures, and community-based experiences that align with evolving traveller values. Discussions around climate adaptation, energy costs, and long-term competitiveness are now firmly embedded within the event’s agenda.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 is expected to follow its established multi-day structure, combining intensive business appointments with networking events, destination presentations, and strategic discussions. The format allows participants to balance deal-making with relationship building, ensuring that commercial conversations are supported by deeper understanding and collaboration.

With registration now open, tourism businesses across the Caribbean and beyond are beginning to secure their place in what is widely regarded as the region’s most important annual tourism gathering. For many, participation in Caribbean Travel Marketplace is not optional but essential, forming a cornerstone of annual sales strategies and market engagement plans.

As the Caribbean tourism sector looks ahead to another competitive travel year, Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2026 in Antigua and Barbuda is set to once again serve as the engine room of regional tourism commerce, collaboration, and long-term growth.

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A legal challenge has temporarily shut down work at Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico project after a local environmental group was granted an injunction. 

Municipal leaders in Mahahual, Mexico, say the change of land use granted on behalf of Royal Caribbean’s project is legal and transparent. It follows the legal filing by the local group DMAS, which claims the amendment was made illegally.

Change of land use granted illegally, says environmental group

DMAS claims it requires public consultation first, but council leader Jaime Aguilar Cheluja says this is not mandatory. “This is mandatory only when the municipal planning programs and instruments established are formulated for the first time or are fully updated,” Aguilar Cheluja said.

He said the change of land use request only relates to about 3% of the total project, which doesn’t necessitate a period of public consultation. The change was requested by Royal Caribbean Group.

DMAS’s legal filing led to a suspension of work on the project after a court granted an injunction on January 25. The group claimed in the filing that land use for more than 107 hectares within the Perfect Day cruise tourism project was illegally reconfigured.

Antonella Vázquez, DMAS President, said the organization is not anti-cruise tourism or opposed to development. “However, we are in favor of respecting the law, urban planning, and the community’s right to a healthy environment.”

DMAS and its supporters worry that the development will negatively impact a protected mangrove area and the town’s water supply. “We are not going to touch anything in the mangrove conservation area,” said Royal Caribbean’s director of innovation, Jay Schneider in response.

The cruise company is planning an 80-hectare water park and related amenities near the existing cruise ship pier.

Cheluja said the council is fully behind the project, which is the largest private investment project of its kind ever in southern Quintana Roo.

A court hearing to address the injunction is expected to take place in the next few days.

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Royal Caribbean Group is detailing Points Choice, a new loyalty program capability that allows guests to earn cruise points on any of its three brands and apply them wherever they choose across Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea.

The program, launching January 30, 2026, connects the company’s existing loyalty programs (Crown & Anchor Society, Captain’s Club, and Venetian Society) giving guests flexibility to direct their earned points to the program where they’ll have the most value. Casino rewards programs give players perks that go from free credits, cashback on losses, to food vouchers and free rooms.

How Point Conversions Work

Guests continue earning cruise points as they always have, based on stateroom category and nights sailed.

The new points comes after the sailing, when guests have up to 14 days to decide which loyalty program receives their earned points. It should be noted that point values vary by brand.

A Royal Caribbean balcony stateroom earns 1 Crown & Anchor point per night, which converts to 3 Captain’s Club points on Celebrity or 1 Venetian Society day for every 3 Royal nights on Silversea.

Celebrity’s top suites earn 24 Captain’s Club points per night, converting to 2 Crown & Anchor points or 1 Venetian Society day.

Silversea’s expedition suites earn 1 VS day per night, worth 2 Crown & Anchor points or 24 Captain’s Club points.

Points Choice is designed with our guests at the center,” said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. “Our guests are exploring more of our brands than ever before, and we believe our loyalty experience should grow with them.”

Building on Status Match

Points Choice builds on Royal Caribbean Group’s Status Match program, introduced in May 2024, which allows loyalty members to enjoy equivalent tier status across all three brands.

A Crown & Anchor Diamond member, for example, receives equivalent recognition when sailing Celebrity or Silversea.

Together, Status Match and Points Choice create what the company calls the most integrated loyalty ecosystem in the cruise industry.

The program eliminates the need for guests to “start over” when exploring different brands within the Royal Caribbean Group portfolio.

Moving Between Brands

Royal Caribbean Group designed Points Choice to show how cruisers move between brands, from multi-generational trips to couples getaways and milestone celebrations.

Rather than operating brand loyalty programs in isolation, the company now enables guests to guide their loyalty journey across its entire portfolio.

Exchange rates will be published annually and may change. Additional information on point conversion details and frequently asked questions is available on Royal Caribbean Group’s website.

Last summer, Carnival Cruise Line announced it would be revamping its loyalty program this year, but it wasn’t well received, as many VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club guests looked to other cruise lines.

Norwegian Cruise Line also lets guests status match between brands.

Will Carnival Cruise Line follow suit? And is this the new way to keep guests within the cruise line’s own ecosystem? We’ll have to wait and see.

Don’t forget you can also snag some great last minute cruise deals from companies like Dunhill by doing a quick google search. Cruise companies are always trying to fill up ships last minute so you can usually find some steep discounts!