Travel2latam spoke with Itzel Valdés, Associate Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean for Royal Caribbean.
What is your background in the company?
I have been with the company for over 11 years, so I am not new to this environment. I work for a company that has always been responsible and has promoted the internal growth of its employees. Throughout my career within the group, I have been fortunate to take on various responsibilities, and today I have the honor of being in charge of the entire Latin American and Caribbean region. This reflects Royal Caribbean's strong commitment to the Latin American market and the growth of Mexico.
What are Royal Caribbean's latest strategies and developments?
The company's strategies are ambitious and positive. Royal Caribbean is a leading brand in innovation and technology, always at the forefront. Recently, we launched the Icon of the Seas, revolutionizing the industry in 2024. In addition, we have announced the Star of the Seas, the second ship in the Icon class, which is expected to enter service in August 2025 with a home port in Port Canaveral.
Coming this year is Star of the Seas, which will debut in August 2025 in Port Canaveral. While all details about the onboard entertainment have not yet been revealed, we are confident that it will offer innovative experiences for our guests. With these new Icon class ships, our strategy is strengthened.
During our presence in Colombia, in Anato, we have announced the extension of the season. In 2023, we started with the Rhapsody of the Seas, we evaluated its potential and this year we are betting on the Serenade of the Seas, which will operate from October 2025 to April 2026, with departures from Cartagena and Colón.
In addition, we have confirmed the arrival of the Jewel of the Seas, of the Radiance class, which will allow us to have operations in Colombia and Panama throughout the year, visiting the ABC islands of the Caribbean (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao). This project will include an experience completely adapted to Latin American tastes, with gastronomy, drinks, music and entertainment that reflect our culture.
How has the Latin American public responded to these initiatives?
The Rhapsody of the Seas was one of the ships with the highest satisfaction rate last season, which shows that Latin passengers are looking for personalized experiences. For this reason, Royal Caribbean continues to invest in the region.
Tell us a little more about your professional career and your vision for this role.
I have worked in various areas such as human resources, finance, accounting, taxes, operations and technology. My approach has always been to find a balance between numbers and the human factor. Currently, I also lead the commercial team, with a clear strategy: to strengthen the growth of Latin America. I have a solid, committed and passionate team, which makes the difference in any organization. I am very proud of this company, the brand and the people who work here.
How are you driving the MICE segment within Royal Caribbean?
We have made progressive progress in recent years. We are developing strategies to make our options known to different types of groups and events.
Royal Caribbean has always sought to offer convenience, and in this regard, we work on educating the market to eliminate any lack of knowledge. We have opened seminars, training sessions and opportunities for clients to experience first-hand what we offer. We have a highly trained team on board, which adapts perfectly to the needs of these groups. Our goal is to establish ourselves as the leading option in this segment.
Why did you decide to expand your presence in Panama and Colombia?
This expansion responds to the need to provide options to passengers who, for various reasons, cannot travel to the United States. We are committed to these markets because we understand their potential and their importance in the region.
The results have been positive and reinforce our strategy. The arrival of the Rhapsody was a first step, then we extended it with the Serenade and now with the Jewel of the Seas, which will allow us to operate in the region until May 2027.
How would you describe your commitment to Royal Caribbean and what does it mean to you to lead this company?
I am fully committed to Royal Caribbean. I am not only passionate about the product and the travel experience, but also about the company's responsibility to deliver consistent, quality service. Our team and crew touch lives, create experiences and build connections with guests. Working here is an honor because I share the company's values and mission.
Royal Caribbean has long been known for innovation. What are the next developments in this area?
Following the success of Perfect Day at CocoCay in 2019, we continue to pursue new experiences. Currently, 19 of our 28 ships visit this island, as it is one of the most highly rated destinations. In 2027, we will open Perfect Day at Lelepa in Vanuatu, replicating the success of CocoCay. In addition, at the end of 2025 we will open Hideaway Beach at CocoCay, which will offer a premium experience with gastronomy, entertainment and exclusive activities on the beach.
While we do not have immediate plans to build hotels in these destinations, we have incorporated overnight stays into some itineraries, allowing guests to enjoy more time in each destination. For example, Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas will offer itineraries with overnight stays in Los Cabos, which represents a unique opportunity for our guests.
What is Royal Caribbean's vision regarding the diversity of its passengers?
At Royal Caribbean, we think of all our guests, from solo travelers to families and groups of friends. Our approach is inclusive and multicultural, ensuring that every onboard experience is unforgettable.