Royal Caribbean International returns to Alaska in July 2021

Royal Caribbean International's return to the United States marks its first step, with its itineraries returning to Alaska this summer. Today, the cruise company announced plans to launch its season in Alaska with 7-night round-trip cruises from Seattle with Serenade and Ovation of the Seas, beginning July 19 and August 13, respectively. After more than a year with cruises on hiatus and the significant impact it had on our beloved Alaskan communities, travelers can now plan their course to the culture-rich destinations they have hoped to discover, while helping to revive local economies. New 2021 Alaska Summer Cruises on Serenade and Ovation are available to book now.
"Any traveler visiting Alaska immediately understands how special it is, given its natural beauty, welcoming local people, and culture carefully preserved over centuries," said Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “The past year has been a challenging time for all of us, and the Alaskan communities that rely heavily on cruise ship tourism, and have felt it deeply. Seeing communities, industry, and government successfully pass a solution that will help bring these communities back to life shows the great progress and clear pathways we can make together. We are confident that this is only the first part of our return to cruising from the US. "
Serenade of the Seas will begin sailing in July, with round-trip cruises from Seattle; a change from its previously scheduled homeport in Vancouver. On board, the ship will offer breathtaking views from its unique ocean-view glass elevators and floor-to-ceiling windows as guests travel from one destination to another. The week-long itinerary features a number of popular ports of call including Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Icy Strait Point, Alaska, as well as Endicott Arm Fjord and Dawes Glacier.
Ovation of the Seas does the same August itinerary with a different take on Alaska adventure, combining the region's natural wonders and wildlife-filled fjords with an exciting range of onboard experiences. From the North Star glass observation capsule to the
RipCord by iFly parachuting simulator, vacationers can get their adrenaline pumping as they take in challenging views of the scenic landscape and destinations such as Glacier National Park, Inside Passage at Juneau and Skagway, Alaska, from incomparable vantage points.
Travelers can plan their Alaska cruise with the peace of mind knowing that all crew members and vacationers 16 and older will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and everyone 12 and older as of August 1. . Minors will have to take a test before sailing. These measures are part of Royal Caribbean's commitment to the health and safety of each guest, crew member and community visited, known as the Royal Promise. The measures will be constantly evaluated and updated, along with evolving public health circumstances. Royal Caribbean will continue to work closely with local health officials on the specific measures outlined for the region. Affected guests and travel partners will be contacted directly to offer their options. These reservations are covered by Royal Caribbean's “Sail with Confidence” program.