Royal Caribbean International is repositioning the Symphony of the Seas to Florida starting in August 2027.
The Oasis-class ship was initially set to offer cruises to the Western Caribbean and the Bahamas from the Port of Galveston.
Instead, the vessel will offer six- to eight-night cruises to the Caribbean, departing from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
According to a statement sent to passengers, the change is part of the company’s itinerary planning process.
As a result, guests are being offered a chance to move their bookings to similar sailings onboard the Liberty of the Seas, rebook other sailings or cancel their bookings.
In its letter, Royal Caribbean highlighted the features of the Freedom-class ship, which is currently being refurbished as part of the Royal Amplification program.
“Onboard the Liberty of the Seas, you’ll experience unmatched chill at the completely reimagined pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas, as well as thrills at an all-new Royal Escape Room,” the company said.
Guests who opt to change their bookings to similar sailings onboard the Liberty of the Seas are being offered different compensations.
Original fare rates are being protected or reduced to the current fares onboard the vessel, depending on which is lower. Passengers who paid in full will be provided with a refund in case of a fare decrease.
Royal Caribbean is also offering guests the option of rebooking any other Royal Caribbean sailing. In this case, passengers will be responsible for any difference in pricing of their cruise fares, taxes, fees and gratuities.
Those who opt to cancel their bookings will be provided with a full refund of any portion of their cruise fare and any pre-paid amenities.
“We do apologize for any inconvenience this move has caused, recognize the impact on your original plans, and are here to support,” the company added.
In addition to the Liberty of the Seas, Royal Caribbean is deploying the Icon of the Seas in Galveston in 2027.
As one of the largest ships in the world, the 250,800-ton vessel is scheduled to offer seven-night cruises to the Western Caribbean, departing from Texas.