Royal Caribbean boosts the Latin American Caribbean with new visa-free itineraries and a multigenerational approach

Royal Caribbean International launched its 2025-2026 Latin American season with Serenade of the Seas, offering seven-night itineraries departing from Panama, Colón, or Cartagena, and visiting Caribbean destinations such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. The company says some itineraries allow for all three destinations in a single voyage, while others alternate ports, providing flexibility for passengers.

In May 2026, the season will resume with Grandeur of the Seas, offering the same route through April 2027. This strategy appeals to both experienced cruisers and those without a U.S. visa, facilitating access to comprehensive itineraries in the Latin Caribbean.

According to Itzel Valdés, Associate Vice President of LATAM & Caribbean at Royal Caribbean, the choice of the Serenade responds to the objective of developing the Latin American market, leveraging the operational capacity of certain ships, and offering differentiated experiences to different passenger profiles. "Ships of this size help position the brand and explore new routes in the region," notes Valdés.

The company maintains a close relationship with travel agencies, which are essential for the sale and promotion of the product. Before the season begins, agents receive training, sales materials, and coaching to offer comprehensive service to clients, including advance planning for itineraries through 2027.

Royal Caribbean defines itself as a multigenerational brand, designed for all ages and travel styles. Cruises allow travelers to combine destinations, entertainment, and onboard dining, with options tailored to families, groups of friends, or couples. Valdés emphasizes that cruises offer real value, countering the perception of expensiveness, by including accommodations, meals, drinks, and activities.

The company also strengthens its environmental and social commitment through programs such as See the Future, which seeks to protect the ecosystem, support local communities, and promote employment in destinations such as Mexico, Panama, and Colombia. In Cozumel and Mahahual, for example, Royal Caribbean trains local staff, promotes infrastructure projects, and develops community centers.

The season also includes new entertainment and cuisine tailored to a Latin American audience. “We're tropicalizing the onboard experience, with Latin American-inspired dishes, drinks, and shows,” explains Valdés. The cruise also includes Spanish-language captains and announcements, and features like Find My Kid for greater family safety.

Among the new ports, San Diego, Catalina Island, and La Paz stand out, expanding the destination offering in Mexico and reinforcing the brand's growth strategy in the region. Sales are now open for Colombia, Panama, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Peru, highlighting the growing demand for accessible visa-free itineraries.

With a fleet of 29 ships and constant innovation, Royal Caribbean reaffirms its commitment to Latin America as a strategic market, combining new routes, multigenerational experiences, and sustainable development in every port it visits.