Royal Caribbean sets seven-ship Europe program as investment plans advance
The cruise group’s 2028-29 deployment includes a year-round European role for Rhapsody of the Seas, alongside broader corporate developments.
Royal Caribbean announced its 2028-29 Europe program on October 14, 2026, outlining itineraries of seven to 12 nights across seven ships.
Under the plan, Rhapsody of the Seas will begin operating year-round in Europe from November 2028. Its routes will cover destinations in the Canary Islands, Portugal, Morocco, Cyprus, Malta and Greece, according to the company’s announcement.
The deployment follows Royal Caribbean’s September 23 agreement to invest about USD 3.00 billion for a 50.00 percent interest in Sandals and Beaches Resorts. The transaction would establish a joint venture and is expected to close in early 2027.
Royal Caribbean reported second-quarter 2026 revenue of USD 4.83 billion, an increase of 6.50 percent from a year earlier, and net income of USD 1.13 billion. On October 12, Wells Fargo lowered its price target for the company from USD 388.00 to USD 358.00 while leaving its rating unchanged, according to an analyst-tracking report.
Royal Caribbean shares traded at EUR 249.20 on the Lang & Schwarz venue at 10:38 a.m. CEST on October 16, 2026.
