Royal Caribbean Passengers Enjoy Upgrades as Cruise Line Announces Ship Swaps

Royal Caribbean has surprised passengers booked on select sailings by swapping the deployments of two of its ships, offering an unexpected upgrade. Those affected will have the chance to transition from a four-night cruise to a seven-night voyage on a newer ship, at no extra charge.

This change appears to be part of a strategic move to boost capacity for western Caribbean cruises while preparing for the upcoming launches of new destination experiences in Mexico. Central to this expansion is the anticipated Royal Beach Club Cozumel, set to open in 2026, followed by the ambitious Perfect Day Mexico resort in 2027.

For the 2026–2027 season, Royal Caribbean will redeploy the Grandeur of the Seas, the smallest and oldest ship in its fleet, and Jewel of the Seas, which is slightly larger. Jewel will take over sailings from Tampa and Fort Lauderdale, while Grandeur will offer cruises from Cartagena, Colombia, and Colon, Panama.

Passengers affected by these adjustments have been informed about their new cruise options through emails from Royal Caribbean. These emails also outline the changes in itinerary and the opportunity for certain passengers to enjoy upgrades. Specifically, those booked on Grandeur’s Bahamas cruise on May 4, 2026, can switch to Jewel’s new seven-night sailing from San Juan, which includes visits to multiple ports.

This redeployment is expected to enhance the cruise experience, providing travelers with more itinerary options and new destinations to explore. Passengers can also choose to rebook on another Royal Caribbean cruise with waived fees or request a full refund if they prefer.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.