Royal Caribbean’s Epic 9-Month World Cruise Concludes in Miami

Royal Caribbean International is wrapping up its groundbreaking 9-month Ultimate World Cruise, with the Serenade of the Seas set to dock back in Miami on September 10, 2024. This ambitious voyage saw the ship visit an impressive 160 destinations across the globe since its departure on December 20, 2023.

“The response to this cruise has been phenomenal,” said Vicki Freed, Royal Caribbean’s vice president of sales, trade support and service, in an interview with Travel Weekly. The cruise quickly gained significant attention, evolving into a much-discussed topic on social media as passengers documented their journey and shared it with the world.

Despite challenges, including a route deviation due to Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea in May and protests blocking its scheduled stop in Amsterdam in August, the cruise maintained its allure. In response to the unforeseen detour, passengers onboard voted to choose their new path, adding an element of democratic adventure to their travel story.

Michael Bayley, CEO of Royal Caribbean International, joined the final leg of the journey, actively engaging with passengers and sharing updates via social media. “274 days, 7 continents, the wonders of the world, 65 destinations and the Serenade of the Seas returns tomorrow to Miami where 9 months ago the great adventure began,” Bayley shared in a heartfelt Facebook post. He highlighted the transformative experiences of the passengers, noting the profound life changes and deep relationships formed throughout the voyage.

As the Serenade of the Seas returns to its starting point, the passengers prepare to disembark, taking with them memories of a lifetime and stories of an unprecedented travel experience that spanned continents and cultures, proving Royal Caribbean’s capability to deliver a cruise experience unlike any other.