In an exciting comeback, Royal Caribbean has marked its triumphant return to Latin America after a decade of absence with the official launch of cruises from Panama and Colombia. The inaugural ceremony, held at the port of Colon, Panama, was a feast of dance and regional music that welcomed the Rhapsody of the Seas, the flagship that will set sail on its first two weeks from this strategic port.

Royal Caribbean International made its long-awaited return to Latin America after a 10-year hiatus, docking at the Panamanian port of Colon. The arrival was met with enthusiasm during an exclusive event at the new Shopping Mall of the port, where executives from the cruise line joined dignitaries from Panama to celebrate this milestone.

Various personalities and tourism authorities were present at the event, with the Minister Denise Guillen, General Administrator of the Tourism Authority of Panama, and Vice Governor Querube Foster of the Government of Colon standing out. Both figures expressed their excitement and commitment to the cruise line, emphasizing the importance of this return to the region.

During the event, Alberto Muñoz, Vice President of Royal Caribbean for Latin America, expressed gratitude to all government and port entities for the support provided to make this return to Panama possible. He highlighted the joy of being able to showcase to passengers all the experiences that Rhapsody of the Seas offers on board.

The ceremony included the significant exchange of plaques between Royal Caribbean International and the port of Colon, with the participation of Captain Ole-Johan Grønhaug of Rhapsody of the Seas and representatives from Colon2000.

The Rhapsody of the Seas season, scheduled until April 2024, promises exciting seven-night adventures, taking vacationers to destinations such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao from Colon, Panama. Additionally, it will offer select departures from Cartagena, Colombia, expanding options for cruise enthusiasts.

Alberto Muñoz reaffirmed Royal Caribbean's commitment to Panama, highlighting the company's intention to continue creating the best cruise experiences at sea. With over 50 years of history, the cruise line thanked Panama for the warm welcome and the opportunity to share its innovative tourism proposals in the region.

The Rhapsody of the Seas, considered the most traveled ship in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet, returns to sail the waters of Latin America after a decade of absence. Since its inauguration, this majestic ship has explored 249 destinations in 70 countries around the world, leaving its mark at every port it has visited, from Miami to Dubai, as evidenced by commemorative plaques throughout its interior.

The Rhapsody of the Seas offers two exciting itineraries from December 2023 to April 2024, departing from both Panama and Colombia. The first itinerary, "ABC Islands from Colon," will depart from the port of Colon, Panama. Meanwhile, the second itinerary, "ABC Islands from Cartagena, Colombia," will depart from the historic Colombian city.

This return to the Latin American region represents a unique opportunity for travelers in the region, as the Rhapsody of the Seas allows exploring the Caribbean without the need for a visa or passing through the United States. This aspect becomes an additional attraction for Latin Americans seeking a hassle-free cruise experience.

The Rhapsody will offer a themed departure under the concept "Singles & Friends," an ideal option for those looking to meet people and enjoy the company of new friends during their journey.

Alberto Muñoz, Associate VP of Royal Caribbean, shared his enthusiasm during the inauguration: "We are delighted to return to Latin America with departures from Panama and Cartagena, touring destinations that we know are appreciated by Latin Americans, such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao."

Muñoz highlighted the distinctive features of the Rhapsody of the Seas: "This cruise offers the unique possibility of traveling without a visa, avoiding passing through the United States. Additionally, with a musical and gastronomic proposal focused on Latin culture, it presents itself as an unparalleled experience."

The medium-sized ship, with a capacity for approximately 2500 passengers, has been "tropicalized" to incorporate elements of Mexican, Argentinean, Colombian, and Central American cuisine. Onboard music will include bands from different Latin American countries, offering an authentic experience.

The Minister of Tourism of Panama, Denise Guillén, expressed that "not only is it a great joy for Panama, we are excited about over 25 years of a relationship with Royal Caribbean, one of the first in the region. Additionally, what gives us the most joy is the opportunity to welcome Argentines, Peruvians, Brazilians, Colombians, and Costa Ricans." (video)

Guillén highlighted that this return can significantly increase the number of tourists in Panama and offered a vision of the wonders that they can enjoy, both in the country and in the cruise itineraries. With projections of over 150,000 additional tourists.

After its itineraries from Latin America, the Rhapsody of the Seas will continue its journey with departures from San Juan, Puerto Rico, from the summer of 2024 to April 2025. This return of the Rhapsody to the region not only marks a milestone in the cruise offering in Latin America but also represents the constant expansion and adaptation of Royal Caribbean to the preferences of its passengers. The arrival of this iconic ship is tangible evidence of the excellence and innovation that characterize the company in the cruise industry.