Cartagena to Rejoin Royal Caribbean as a Homeport in 2025

Cartagena is set to once again become one of Royal Caribbean International’s key homeports. As part of a newly revealed winter schedule for Latin America and the Southern Caribbean, the Serenade of the Seas will offer a series of cruises departing from this Colombian port during the winter of 2025-26.

These week-long cruises will include stops in Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire, with an additional homeport in Colón, Panama.

Alberto Muñoz, Royal Caribbean International’s Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean, stated that Cartagena was selected as a homeport due to its advantageous geographic location and rising status as a popular international tourist destination.

In a discussion with ProColombia, Muñoz also mentioned that the positive feedback from the Rhapsody of the Seas' operations during the 2023-24 season played a significant role in the decision.

Muñoz emphasized that Colombia’s “cultural richness” aligns with Royal Caribbean’s goal of providing unique experiences.

“From the vibrant life in Cartagena to the natural wonders and beautiful beaches, it offers a diversity of experiences that complement Royal Caribbean’s itineraries,” he said.

Royal Caribbean anticipates strong demand for these cruises from local Latin American markets, further solidifying its market presence.

“Cartagena, with its blend of history, culture, and accessibility, is an ideal starting point for Caribbean itineraries, especially those featuring the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao). We believe the city will appeal to both our loyal customers and new travelers,” Muñoz noted.

“In the long run, we aim to optimize our operations in the region and enhance brand recognition among local and international consumers. This will enable us to offer more varied and tailored itineraries, thereby elevating the experience for our passengers,” he continued.

For Colombia, this operation serves as an opportunity to showcase the country’s attractions on a global scale, Muñoz pointed out.

“We are aiding in positioning Colombia as a premier cruise tourism destination, emphasizing its culture, history, and natural beauty. This will not only draw more international tourists but also help improve Colombia’s global image as a safe, diverse, and appealing destination for all types of travelers,” he added.

Muñoz also highlighted the expected economic boost for the local economy due to Royal Caribbean’s operations in Cartagena, noting that the venture will generate benefits for the country.

“We aim to significantly contribute to the growth of local tourism, create jobs, and generate income by utilizing local services, including transportation, hotels, excursions, and connectivity in the area,” he concluded.