Royal Caribbean Sets 2008-2009 Winter Caribbean Itineraries

At 160,000 gross registered tons, Royal Caribbean’s third and final Freedom-class ship, Independence of the Seas, will make history in November 2008 as the world’s largest cruise ship yet to make a transatlantic passenger voyage.

Having completed her inaugural summer and fall seasons in Europe, Independence will head to the balmy waters of the Caribbean for the winter. Independence will be joined by three more Royal Caribbean ships leaving Europe to offer travelers 14 more seasonal Caribbean itineraries starting in November 2008.

“Independence of the Seas will make her U.S. debut at the end of 2008, bringing together all three Freedom-class ships in the Caribbean,” said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president, Sales, Royal Caribbean International.

Once in the Caribbean, Independence will offer guests two different itineraries, sailing roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale and alternating between an eight-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary leaving on Saturdays, and a six-night Western Caribbean departing on Sundays.

The Western Caribbean itinerary will call at George Town, Grand Cayman; and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. The Eastern Caribbean itinerary will feature a call at Labadee, Haiti, one of Royal Caribbean’s private island destinations, and an extra day at sea to enjoy the myriad of onboard amenities.