The Legend of the Seas Returns to Fort Lauderdale for the 2027-28 Winter Season, Offering New Caribbean and Bahamas Itineraries

Published on December 13, 2025

Royal Caribbean has officially announced that its popular vessel, Legend of the Seas, will return to Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the winter season of 2027-28. The 5,610-guest ship is scheduled to arrive at Port Everglades this November 2027 to join the seasonal deployments of the company in its continuous effort to offer more Caribbean and Bahamas cruises. This will be the second consecutive winter for Legend of the Seas in the United States, with Florida turning out to be an increasingly important base for cruise tourism in the region.

A New Wave of Caribbean and Bahamas Itineraries for 2027-28

For the 2027-28 season, Legend of the Seas will offer six- and eight-night cruises, taking passengers to exciting destinations throughout the Caribbean and Bahamas. The itineraries will feature visits to well-known spots, such as the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Curaçao, with Cozumel being one of the standout ports on the itinerary. Guests will also have the exclusive opportunity to visit Royal Caribbean’s new Royal Beach Club in Cozumel, an innovative addition that will enhance Mexico’s cruise tourism by offering a luxury beach experience.

These newly added itineraries not only strengthen the ship’s position in the Caribbean cruise tourism market but also serve as a catalyst for increasing international cruise arrivals to the U.S. and the Caribbean region. With Fort Lauderdale as a central port of departure, the ship plays an important role in driving growth in both the Florida tourism industry and regional Caribbean tourism.

Icon-Class Ship Debuts in Fort Lauderdale: A New Era for U.S. Cruise Tourism

In November 2026, Royal Caribbean will debut its Icon-class ship in Port Everglades, marking a significant milestone in U.S. cruise tourism. The 250,800-ton vessel will offer six- to eight-night cruises to the Caribbean and Bahamas, further expanding Fort Lauderdale’s role as a major embarkation point. Key destinations like Cabo Rojo, Aruba, and Curaçao will be featured, and most cruises will also make stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, enhancing the overall visitor experience for U.S. tourists.

The introduction of the Icon-class ship not only strengthens Florida’s tourism industry but also contributes significantly to regional tourism in the Caribbean. As the U.S. continues to lead as a dominant player in global cruise tourism, the addition of this ship helps reinforce the importance of Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas as top cruise destinations.

Legend of the Seas Heads to the Mediterranean in 2027: Expanding Global Cruise Tourism

After wrapping up its winter season in the Caribbean and Bahamas, the Legend of the Seas will head to the Western Mediterranean for its second summer season. Set to embark on weeklong cruises between May and October 2027, the vessel will offer visits to destinations in Spain, France, and Italy, further strengthening European cruise tourism. These cruises will allow passengers to experience the rich cultural and historical landmarks of Southern Europe, contributing to the tourism industries of Spain, France, and Italy.

The ship’s LNG-powered design and commitment to eco-friendly cruising align with the growing demand for sustainable tourism, particularly in popular Mediterranean destinations. The Legend of the Seas will thus play a role in promoting sustainable cruise tourism in the Mediterranean, helping to ensure that environmentally conscious travelers continue to seek out Europe’s vibrant coastlines for their cruise vacations.

Unmatched Dining and Entertainment: A Major Draw for Cruise Tourists

One of the biggest attractions of Legend of the Seas is its onboard offerings. With 28 distinct dining options, it boasts the most dining choices at sea, setting a new standard in cruise tourism. From gourmet dining to casual eateries, guests can enjoy a wide variety of culinary experiences that highlight international flavors. The ship is also home to the largest waterpark at sea, ensuring families and guests of all ages have a great time onboard.

In addition to its dining and recreation, the ship offers live entertainment, including a production of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”, a first for Royal Caribbean. This addition elevates the ship’s appeal for families and cruise tourists seeking world-class entertainment alongside their travels. The combination of dining, entertainment, and exceptional itineraries ensures that the Legend of the Seas remains one of the most sought-after cruise options in the region.

The Economic Impact of Cruise Tourism in the U.S. and the Caribbean

The return of Legend of the Seas to Fort Lauderdale for the 2027-28 season reinforces Florida’s reputation as a top cruise tourism destination. As Port Everglades becomes a central hub for Royal Caribbean’s Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, the economic impact on the local economy is significant. Cruise passengers contribute to the tourism industry not only through ticket sales but also via spending on shore excursions, dining, local attractions, and souvenirs. In addition, the ship’s visits to Mexico, Curaçao, and other Caribbean islands directly benefit local economies, providing jobs and supporting the regional tourism sector.

A Bright Future for U.S. and Caribbean Cruise Tourism

The return of Legend of the Seas in the 2027-28 winter will see Royal Caribbean continuing to build on the increasing demand for cruises in the Caribbean, while reinforcing Fort Lauderdale’s position in U.S. cruise tourism. The ship’s diverse itineraries, combined with Royal Caribbean’s commitment to luxury and sustainability, ensure that cruise tourism within both the U.S. and the Caribbean will be continued. From pristine beaches in the Bahamas to vibrant cultural centers in the Mediterranean and family-friendly entertainment on board, the Legend of the Seas promises a world-class experience for all travelers.