Royal Caribbean Ships Resuming Mexico Port Calls in Late-May

While Carnival was first to announce their intentions to resume port calls south of the border (see our blog entry below), it seems that Royal Caribbean ships will beat them there. Royal Caribbean announced late last evening that it will resume its port calls in Cozumel, Mexico, beginning with sailings that depart on or after May 24, 2009. They applaud the decision of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to downgrade their previous "Travel Alert" to a "Travel Health Precaution for Mexico."

Like their guests, the cruise line itself is anxious to return to Mexico. Until then, passengers will have time to fully review and understand the CDC's decision.

Royal Caribbean ships with Cozumel port calls include Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Enchantment of the Seas.

Mariner of the Seas will continue its modified Pacific Northwest itinerary, up to and including, its June 14 sailing.

Royal Caribbean will continue to utilize their Influenza Prevention and Response Plans, which the line's office of Medical and Public Health developed in coordination with the CDC and other health experts. The plan is based on three pillars: Preparedness and Communication; Surveillance and Detection; and Response and Containment.

For their latest itinerary updates, check the Royal Caribbean website where significant developments will be posted.