Texas cruisers have something major to look forward to. Royal Caribbean International expects Icon of the Seas to be a hit when it moves to Galveston, Texas, in 2027, according to Michael Bayley, president and CEO of the brand, speaking on Royal Caribbean Group’s third quarter earnings call.
Icon of the Seas will become the first Icon-class ship homeported in Galveston. It moves from Miami when the new Hero of the Seas takes over the seven-night Miami program next year. Bayley said the company has already received a strong response from travel partners and expects the ship to be a huge success in Texas.
The move also sets the table for future Western Caribbean itineraries, as Royal Caribbean works through its plans in Mahahual and Cozumel in Mexico. That is good news for travelers who love sailing from a drive-to port without giving up one of the newest, most talked-about ships at sea.
Guest satisfaction is a big reason for the confidence. Bayley pointed to net promoter scores in the 80s on the Icon-class ships, even while carrying as many as 7,600 guests, as evidence that guests are having an exceptional time and are happy with the experience.
Key takeaways
- Icon of the Seas will move to Galveston, Texas, in 2027.
- It will be the first Icon-class ship homeported in Galveston.
- The ship moves from Miami as Hero of the Seas takes over the seven-night Miami program.
- Royal Caribbean says travel partners have already responded strongly to the deployment.
- The move supports future Western Caribbean itineraries tied to Mahahual and Cozumel, Mexico.
Want to be among the first to sail Icon of the Seas from Galveston? Request a free quote and let Isaiah Newport Travel help you plan a similar trip.
Source: Cruise Industry News
