Royal Caribbean International announced today that Majesty of the Seas, the line’s oldest but well-loved vessel, will not be leaving the fleet next year as planned. Instead, Majesty will undergo a major drydock next year, then reposition to Port Canaveral, where the ship will continue to offer 3- and 4-night Bahamas cruises. However, this won’t be your father’s Majesty of the Seas. Highlights of what is to come include

  • New waterslides
  • Poolside movie screen
  • New restaurant options including Sabor Taqueria, Izumi Japanese cuisine, and Chef’s Table
  • Voom interent, the fastest at sea, which will be complimentary for all Majesty of the Seas’ guests

According to Royal Caribbean’s press release, the casino will also see upgrades and “suite guests will enjoy exclusive amenities and services as part of a newly enhanced suite program.” Royal didn’t elaborate, but with Majesty being, I believe, the only ship remaining in the fleet without a concierge lounge, I could envision one being added during drydock.

a cruise ship in the water
Image courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

MJ’s Take

I am booked on what were to be the final two cruises of Majesty of the Seas. That’s obviously going to change now. This is pure speculation on my part, but with demand for cruises on the rise, and a large chunk of new capacity heading to China, refurbishing Majesty may be the best solution for meeting demand in the U.S. short cruise market for the time being. I’m fairly certain a cruise on the newly refurbished Majesty of the Seas is in my future.

-MJ, July 6, 2015