In a landmark event, Royal Caribbean launched a new chapter in its history with the inaugural sailing of Ovation of the Seas from the Port of Los Angeles—marking the arrival of a Quantum-class ship to the Mexican Pacific. On board, ABC Mundial spoke with Itzel Valdés, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean at Royal Caribbean, who shared the company’s bold new plans for the region.

With a capacity of 4,905 passengers, Ovation of the Seas joins the Navigator of the Seas, which has operated out of Los Angeles since 2022. This cutting-edge vessel highlights Royal Caribbean’s commitment to strengthening its presence on the U.S. West Coast.

Valdés emphasized that this expansion isn’t just driven by U.S. demand, but also by the growing interest among Latin American travelers in cruises connecting with the Mexican Pacific.

“Perfect Day México”: A Game-Changer for Cruise Tourism

During the interview, Valdés introduced Perfect Day México, a next-generation private island currently under development on Mexico’s Pacific coast. “Growth in Latin America and Mexico has been tremendous. Perfect Day México is going to redefine cruise tourism in the region,” she stated enthusiastically.

Set to open in 2027, the destination promises to revolutionize the vacation experience with exclusive features and attractions. “Royal Caribbean is not just building ships—we’re building entire destinations. Perfect Day México will be a milestone for regional tourism and a clear sign of our long-term commitment,” said Valdés.

Visa-Free Cruises from Panama and Colombia

One of Royal Caribbean’s major strategies for the Latin American market includes the return of visa-free cruises departing from Colón (Panama) and Cartagena (Colombia), launching in October 2025 and running through 2026.

“These ABC Islands itineraries are crafted specifically for Latin audiences. They’re tropicalized experiences with local entertainment, drinks, and cultural elements,” explained Valdés.

She highlighted Royal Caribbean’s pride in its strong regional footprint: “We’re offering a localized, authentic product made for Latin American travelers. And this is just the beginning.”

Starting in October 2025, Serenade of the Seas will offer seven-night sailings from Cartagena and Colón. Then, from May 2026 through April 2027, Jewel of the Seas will join the visa-free cruise program, reinforcing Latin America’s position as a strategic hub for cruise tourism.

These routes will feature regional cuisine, Latin music, and a predominantly Spanish-speaking crew to offer passengers a more personalized and culturally familiar experience.

New Jewels on the Horizon: Star of the Seas and Beach Clubs

The fleet’s expansion also includes the much-anticipated Star of the Seas, launching in August 2025 and joining the company’s futuristic “Future Class” line. Royal Caribbean is also investing in its exclusive Beach Clubs, with the first already operating and a second one scheduled to open soon in Cozumel, Mexico.

“What excites me most is being able to talk about so many innovations. We’re a company that leads with vision. Today we’re here on the Ovation, but we’re already preparing for what’s next. We constantly roll out new products because the Latin American market deserves it,” added Valdés.

With new ships, exclusive destinations, and experiences tailored for the Latin market, Royal Caribbean is reaffirming its leadership in the cruise industry—and its deep commitment to Latin America as a key region for future growth.