RCG-Royal Caribbean Group has revised its cruise itineraries for 2024, removing Israel from the list of scheduled ports of call due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Reports indicate that travel agents have been informed of these changes, extending as late as October 2024.
A closer examination of Royal Caribbean itineraries reveals the absence of sailings incorporating Israeli ports of call until October 2024.
Furthermore, the cruise line had previously expressed concerns about the potential impact on its operations due to "sailings related to Israel deployment."
Originally, the cruise ship Jewel of the Seas was intended to be based in Haifa, Israel, in the coming year, but has been redirected to sail from the United States.
According to a spokesperson for Royal Caribbean, the safety and security of their guests and crew were their top priority.
"Due to the ever-evolving conflict occurring in Israel, we have adjusted 2024 vacations that visit Haifa, Israel, including Jewel of the Seas' seasonal cruises sailing roundtrip from the destination. Jewel will now cruise from Boston to popular destinations in the Northeast from July-Oct. 2024. Grandeur of the Seas, originally sailing from Boston, will move to Tampa, Florida, and visit islands in the western Caribbean. Guests and travel partners have been notified of the changes."