Royal Caribbean has confirmed that its Legend of the Seas will return to Florida as part of the cruise line’s 2027–28 deployment plan, marking an integral shift in homeports for one of its newest and largest vessels.
The announcement follows the ship’s debut season in Europe and continues the brand’s expansion of ultra-large cruise ships in the North American Region.
The New Entry To The Icon Class
Legend of the Seas is the third cruise ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, joining Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas as part of the company’s largest and one of the most luxurious vessels.
Under construction at Meyer Turku in Finland, the ship’s design builds on its sister ships’ blueprint, delivering massive scale and advanced amenities. At approximately 250,800 gross tons with 2,805 cabins, Legend of the Seas will carry around 5,610 passengers at double occupancy, with a maximum guest capacity exceeding 7,000.
Beyond its sheer size, the ship is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), in line with the company’s mission to adopt a cleaner fuel choice. It incorporates eco-friendly innovations aligned with Royal Caribbean’s net-zero goals.
From Mediterranean Debut to Florida Homeport
Legend of the Seas is scheduled to make its maiden voyage in July 2026 from the Western Mediterranean, offering sailings from ports such as Barcelona and Rome.
Following its European season, the ship is expected to reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where it will enter service for the winter 2026–27 season before continuing into 2027–28.
The Florida homeport aligns with strong demand for Caribbean itineraries and forms the backbone of Royal Caribbean’s seasonal deployment.
What Sets Legend of the Seas Apart
While technically part of the Icon fleet, Legend of the Seas introduces unique offerings that differentiate it from predecessors:
- Record choice of dining and entertainment, with more than two dozen restaurants and lounges onboard.
- Family-centric experiences, including expansive waterparks, thrill rides, and interactive zones.
- Broadway-style shows and immersive entertainment venues.
- A mix of luxury suite neighborhoods and family-focused accommodations, including multi-story townhouse cabins.
The level of onboard variety reflects Royal Caribbean’s effort to appeal to a diverse age group of travelers, not just traditional cruisers.
Looking Ahead
Legend of the Seas’ full 2027–28 schedule and specific itineraries will be revealed closer to the booking window. Early indicators suggest a mix of 3–8 night Caribbean voyages from Fort Lauderdale, good to both quick getaways and longer holiday sailings.
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