Royal Caribbean Group has officially launched its Latin American 2025–2026 cruise season, featuring a special deployment in the Southern Caribbean of the prestigious Serenade of the Seas. The ship will sail an itinerary including Colón, Cartagena, Oranjestad and Willemstad, with calls in Aruba through late April 2026, when it will reposition to Alaska for the summer season. At that time, another Royal Caribbean vessel will take over the itinerary, ensuring continued service and presence in the Southern Caribbean.
On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, a special ceremony was held aboard Serenade of the Seas in Aruba, celebrating the ship’s arrival and marking the start of its Southern Caribbean itinerary. Present were Captain Carlos Díaz of Serenade of the Seas, Wendy McDonald, Regional Vice President and Government Relations for the Caribbean region at Royal Caribbean Group, along with Marc Figaroa, CEO of Aruba Ports Authority NV, and Ronella Croes, CEO of Aruba Tourism Authority. Key members of both Aruba Ports Authority NV and Aruba Tourism Authority were also in attendance. A commemorative plaque was exchanged on board, accompanied by words of gratitude and appreciation.
“This deployment highlights Royal Caribbean’s strong commitment to the Latin American market and to Aruba as a destination, which consistently welcomes a significant volume of cruise visitors,” said Wendy McDonald of Royal Caribbean Group during the ceremony.
“We are pleased to offer our guests a premium experience in the Southern Caribbean, including iconic ports such as Aruba, Cartagena and Curaçao. After visiting Aruba several times, it became clear to me that ‘when you love Aruba, Aruba loves you back.’ The island and its people hold a special place in my heart, and each visit only deepens my admiration and affection. It always feels like coming home.”
Ronella Croes of A.T.A. added:
“We sincerely thank Royal Caribbean Group for including Aruba in this itinerary. It is our pleasure to be part of this important market. The collaboration between Aruba Tourism Authority and Aruba Ports Authority plays a vital role in delivering the quality, service and reliability that Royal Caribbean looks for in a destination. This alliance is truly valuable to us, and we appreciate the confidence Royal Caribbean Group places in Aruba.”
Marc Figaroa of APA NV also delivered remarks during the plaque exchange ceremony:
“In 2026, the Royal Caribbean family will become our number one cruise line, holding the largest share of our market. Royal Caribbean Cruise Line will represent 27.1% of our total market, and Royal Caribbean Group together will account for 34.8% of total passengers. This achievement reflects dedication, commitment and the hard work of a strong team. Our collaboration with Royal Caribbean is extremely important to us, and we wish to express our sincere gratitude. Masha danki.”
About Serenade of the Seas
Serenade of the Seas entered service in July 2003 as part of Royal Caribbean International’s Radiance-class fleet.
Key specifications include:
– Gross tonnage: 90,090 GT
– Length: 293 m (961 ft) — Beam: 32.2 m
– Guest capacity: 2,100–2,500, with a crew of 850–900
On November 18, 2025, the ship brought approximately 2,400 guests to Aruba.
About Royal Caribbean Group
Royal Caribbean Group is a leader in the cruise industry, operating brands such as Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises. Its global fleet consists of 68 ships sailing to approximately 1,000 destinations worldwide. Through Royal Caribbean International, 29 ships are currently active, with additional vessels expected. The company is known for innovation, high-level guest experience and its commitment to sustainable travel.
Press release: Aruba Tourism Authority
