Labor Unrest Forces Royal Caribbean’s Star OTS to Cut Short Cadiz Refurbishment

Royal Caribbean has been forced to modify the refitting schedule of its new Icon-class ship, Star of the Seas, due to a strike by metalworkers at the Navantia shipyard in Cádiz, Spain. Originally set to undergo a two-week outfitting, the ship will now only dock in Cádiz for three days, from July 24 to 26, 2025. Following this brief stay, it will head to Finland for additional outfitting, delaying its departure from Meyer Turku to around July 17 at 17:00 local time.

This adjustment follows a similar decision made by Carnival Cruise Line earlier this summer when its ship, Carnival Liberty, was redirected from Cádiz to Marseille amid ongoing labor disputes at the shipyard. Carnival has filed a EUR 4.5 million claim against Navantia due to related delays.

The strike began on June 18–19, fueled by disagreements over pay, working conditions, and industrial protections. While one union has reached a preliminary agreement, another remains on an indefinite strike, leading to property damage, protests, and multiple arrests.

Royal Caribbean’s decision reflects a trend of cruise operators avoiding Cádiz until the labor dispute is resolved, which could impact future repair contracts. The shipbuilder, Navantia, has faced scrutiny as it strives to recover from the disruptions caused by the strike, which has affected multiple projects, including a EUR 100 million overhaul of Allure of the Seas.

As Star of the Seas prepares for its next stages in Finland and a short visit to Cádiz, the state of labor relations at Navantia remains a concern for the cruise industry.

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