A major cruise line won’t cruise out of Israel this summer. A representative for Royal Caribbean affirmed to Fox News that it has “changed the course” for a line of trips planned to leave from Israel. The organization refered to the current unrest in the area as the reason for this change.
As indicated by the organization, the Odyssey of the Seas won’t withdraw from Haifa, Israel, as it had recently been planned to do as such. The cruise ship was initially set to go from Haifa on a tour through the Greek Isles and Cyprus.
Instead, Royal Caribbean stated that the Odyssey of the Seas will spend its debut season in Florida.
In a statement to Fox News, a representative for Royal Caribbean said, “Royal Caribbean International has changed the course for its brand-new ship Odyssey of the Seas. Due to the unrest in Israel and the region, Odyssey has not been able to complete the preparations required to operate from Haifa, Israel as planned. Given this and the uncertainty of when things will return to normal, the industry’s newest ship will now spend its inaugural season in Florida. The cruise line’s change of plans was driven by the safety and well-being of guests, crew and the surrounding communities. Details on Odyssey’s new cruises will be announced at a future date.”
The statement proceeds, “Royal Caribbean will continue to closely monitor the changing situation in Israel and remains hopeful to return to this popular destination with its ships in the future. Travel partners and guests on the affected sailings are receiving information and assistance to confirm the refund process.”
Fox News recently announced that this cruise would be the first-ever cruise from Royal Caribbean to withdraw from Israel. It was additionally set to be the first full-vaccinated cruise.
