It’s all about Royal Caribbean!

As you are probably aware, Royal Caribbean has been in the news for all the wrong reasons, firstly they changed a couple of ports on the Quantum of the Seas (not their fault, port schedules etc)

Then they released the news that Independence of the Seas will no longer be sailing from Southampton in 2020.  The ship will now sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, rather than Southampton as originally planned.

The decision has been made in order to respond to the high interest in the line’s new Caribbean private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Royal Caribbean are offering full refunds and a ‘Future Cruise Credit’ for use on an alternative sailing with the line which is valued at 25% of the cruise fare paid on the cancelled sailings.

Independence of the Seas emerged from a multi-million-pound makeover in May 2018 which revealed a bigger and better Splashaway Bay, all new Panoramic staterooms with floor to ceiling windows and a Royal favourite: Izumi Asian & Sushi Restaurant.

However, all is not bad news.  If like me, you grew up in the 90’s, 00’s then you may be excited about the news who will be onboard the Explorer of the Seas

They have just revealed that former Pussycat Doll, Kimberley Wyatt, will host dance classes onboard.

The specially created classes will take place onboard Explorer of the Seas on the following sailings all departing from Southampton:

-July 21st 2019 (14 nights)

-August 4th 2019 (14 nights)

-August 18th 2019 (13 nights)

Kimberly Wyatt was part of The Pussycat Dolls for seven years and previously worked as a dancer on Explorer of the Seas and Legend of the Seas from 1999 to 2000.

The exclusive dance classes will be free of charge and are based on Wyatt’s Bring Your Heels dance workshops.

She said: “I began my career onboard a Royal Caribbean ship, so I am incredibly excited to be returning to host my very own dance classes.

I’ll be running a few classes on each sailing to make sure everyone who wants to join in, can.

These classes will attract the next generation of dancers and kids as well. I wanted to create something that is perfect for all ages.”

So yes, the Independence is sad news, as it was a very popular sailing, especially after it’s refit, but Royal Caribbean still have the Anthem of the Seas sailing out of Southampton for the Summer of 2020.