Galveston’s Cruise Scene Transformed as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Launches in 2027, Promising Unforgettable Caribbean Getaways

Published on November 13, 2025

Royal Caribbean International has officially announced the arrival of its groundbreaking new ship, Icon of the Seas, which will set sail from Galveston, Texas, beginning in August 2027. This marks a new chapter for the cruise line as it expands its presence in Texas, one of the most vibrant cruise markets in the U.S. The Icon of the Seas will offer travelers an exciting new way to explore the Caribbean with six- to eight-night itineraries that promise a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable destinations.

The Icon will visit some of the Caribbean’s most popular locations, including the exclusive Royal Caribbean destination of Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. This private island is known for its pristine beaches and world-class amenities, offering everything from thrilling waterparks to relaxing beachfront lounges. The Icon will also visit Roatan, an island off the coast of Honduras, famed for its stunning coral reefs and lush tropical landscapes, making it a perfect destination for snorkeling and diving. In addition, passengers will have the chance to experience Cozumel, Mexico, where they can unwind at the new Royal Beach Club Cozumel, a luxury retreat designed to offer the ultimate in relaxation and service.

The Icon of the Seas will not be alone at Galveston. Joining it will be the Liberty of the Seas, which will begin sailing from the port in April 2027. The Liberty will offer four- to eight-night cruises to the Caribbean, providing more options for travelers seeking a tropical escape. Alongside the Liberty, the Symphony of the Seas will also set sail from Galveston, offering similar four- to eight-night Caribbean sailings. With this fleet of ships, Galveston is poised to become a major hub for Royal Caribbean, making it easier than ever for Texas travelers to embark on a dream Caribbean vacation.

In addition to Galveston, Royal Caribbean’s 2027 cruise program includes exciting sailings from other major U.S. ports, including Los Angeles, New York/New Jersey, and Baltimore. From Los Angeles, guests can look forward to two ships: the Ovation of the Seas and the Navigator of the Seas. The Ovation will offer shorter cruises, perfect for travelers looking to take a quick getaway, while the Navigator will operate a seven-night program, catering to those seeking a longer vacation. These sailings will give West Coast residents plenty of options for exploring the Caribbean and beyond.

The Northeast will also see some exciting changes, with the Oasis of the Seas relocating to Cape Liberty, New Jersey, in May 2027. The Oasis will sail seven-night cruises, providing an ideal option for East Coast residents who want to enjoy a Caribbean vacation. The Odyssey of the Seas will also be based at Cape Liberty, offering both seven- and 12-night itineraries. These options will give travelers a chance to explore more distant destinations, while the Independence of the Seas will provide additional four- to nine-night itineraries from the same port. Meanwhile, the Vision of the Seas will sail from Baltimore, offering a variety of exciting adventures for travelers from the mid-Atlantic region.

This expansion is a clear sign of Royal Caribbean’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for cruise vacations in the U.S. With a mix of short getaways and longer cruises, travelers will have more opportunities than ever to embark on a dream vacation to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and beyond. Whether sailing from Galveston, Los Angeles, New York, or Baltimore, Royal Caribbean’s guests will enjoy a variety of ships, each offering its own unique features and amenities.

The Icon of the Seas is expected to be a game-changer for Royal Caribbean, as it offers state-of-the-art amenities, innovative entertainment, and luxurious dining options. With its sleek design and focus on guest experience, the Icon is sure to attract travelers looking for a new level of luxury at sea. As the cruise industry continues to grow and evolve, the Icon of the Seas will be one of the highlights of 2027, bringing a new sense of excitement to the world of cruising.

With the addition of the Icon of the Seas and the expansion of itineraries from Galveston and other U.S. ports, 2027 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Royal Caribbean. As the cruise line continues to innovate and expand, travelers will have even more opportunities to experience the beauty and excitement of the Caribbean, all while enjoying the world-class service and luxury that Royal Caribbean is known for. Whether guests are looking for a short getaway or an extended vacation, Royal Caribbean’s 2027 program promises something for everyone.