Royal Caribbean International has announced an itinerary change for an upcoming Star of the Seas cruise. The vessel, scheduled to depart from Port Canaveral on September 28, 2025, will now sail to the Western Caribbean instead of its originally planned Eastern Caribbean route. This adjustment is a direct response to a developing tropical storm in the region.
The cruise line communicated this change to all booked guests, citing safety as the primary reason for the modification. The Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean's Icon class, and this seven-night voyage marks an important part of its maiden season.
Key Takeaways
- Royal Caribbean's Star of the Seas cruise on September 28, 2025, changed itinerary.
- The route shifted from Eastern Caribbean to Western Caribbean due to a tropical storm.
- New ports of call include Costa Maya, Roatán, and Cozumel.
- Original stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts & Nevis are cancelled.
- All pre-purchased shore excursions for the original itinerary will be refunded.
Reason for the Itinerary Change
Royal Caribbean explained that the decision was made after careful monitoring of weather patterns. The cruise line's captain, in collaboration with Chief Meteorologist Craig Setzer, tracked the potential formation of a tropical storm near the northwest Bahamas and a hurricane further out in the Atlantic Ocean.
"Our Captain, along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, has been monitoring the expected development of a tropical storm near the northwest Bahamas and a hurricane in the Atlantic," Royal Caribbean stated in its message to guests. This proactive approach aims to ensure passenger and crew safety by avoiding adverse weather conditions.
Weather Monitoring
Cruise lines employ dedicated meteorological teams and advanced tracking systems to monitor weather conditions globally. This allows them to make informed decisions about route adjustments, often well in advance of a storm's direct impact.
The company emphasized that avoiding the storm's path and large seas was crucial. Cruise ships are designed to navigate various weather conditions, but significant storms can cause discomfort for passengers and pose operational challenges. Therefore, rerouting is a standard safety measure.
New Western Caribbean Route Details
The Star of the Seas will now embark on a Western Caribbean journey. This revised itinerary includes three popular destinations in Mexico and Honduras. Guests will have the opportunity to visit Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico.
These destinations offer a range of activities, from historical Mayan ruins and vibrant coral reefs to bustling markets and pristine beaches. Each port provides unique cultural and recreational experiences for travelers.
Original Eastern Caribbean Plan
The initial itinerary for the September 28, 2025, sailing was set for the Eastern Caribbean. It included a visit to Royal Caribbean's private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Other planned stops were Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas and Basseterre in St. Kitts & Nevis.
The change means guests will miss out on these specific locations. However, the Western Caribbean ports offer distinct attractions that aim to provide an equally enjoyable cruise experience.
Understanding Cruise Itinerary Changes
Itinerary changes are not uncommon in the cruise industry, especially when sailing through regions prone to tropical weather. Factors like hurricanes, tropical storms, and even heavy fog can lead to adjustments. Cruise lines prioritize passenger safety and will alter routes to bypass dangerous conditions, even at the last minute.
Passenger Refunds and Safety Assurance
Royal Caribbean acknowledged the inconvenience caused by this sudden change. "We’re terribly sorry for this last-minute change caused by the weather; your safety is our top priority," the cruise line stated to its guests. The company reiterated that a cruise ship is one of the safest places during inclement weather because of its ability to move away from storms quickly.
For guests who had pre-purchased shore excursions through Royal Caribbean for the original Eastern Caribbean itinerary, full refunds will be processed. These refunds will be automatically credited back to the guests' cards on file. The company anticipates that these refunds will appear within 14 business days.
- Automatic Refunds: No action is required from guests for shore excursion refunds.
- Processing Time: Refunds are expected within two weeks.
- Safety First: The cruise line emphasizes that passenger safety is the top concern.
The Star of the Seas: A New Icon-Class Vessel
The Star of the Seas is a significant addition to Royal Caribbean's fleet. It represents the second ship in the groundbreaking Icon class, known for its innovative design and extensive amenities. This vessel began its maiden season in late August 2025, just before the affected September sailing.
The christening ceremony for the Star of the Seas featured godmother Kellie Gerardi, a notable figure in space exploration. The ship operates out of Port Canaveral, offering a series of seven-night cruises that alternate between Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries. This flexibility allows the vessel to adapt to various operational and environmental conditions, as demonstrated by the recent change.
"Please remember, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather."
Advanced Ship Features
As an Icon-class ship, the Star of the Seas incorporates advanced environmental technologies. It is an LNG-powered vessel, reflecting the cruise industry's move towards more sustainable operations. The ship's design also focuses on maximizing guest experience with various neighborhoods, entertainment options, and dining venues.
The ability of such large vessels to adjust their routes underscores the sophisticated logistics and safety protocols in modern cruising. While itinerary changes can be disappointing for travelers, they are a necessary measure to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone onboard.
Travelers booked on future cruises in hurricane-prone regions during the storm season are always advised to stay informed about potential itinerary adjustments. Cruise lines typically provide timely updates to affected guests.
