Royal Caribbean pledges to increase European market share
A record 22 ships will be deployed in Europe next year by Royal Caribbean Cruises, confirming an increased commitment to the region.
The US cruise firm believes its brands can continue to grow their market share in 2009.
Royal Caribbean International will have eight ships in European waters for summer and autumn, including Independence of the Seas for a second summer out of Southampton.
Celebrity Cruises will have five ships in a single European season for the first time, including the brand’s two newest veesels, Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Equinox.
Joining them will be Celebrity Constellation, built in 2002; Celebrity Summit, launched in 2001; and Celebrity Century, which underwent a $55 million revamp in 2006.
Azamara Cruises will offer deluxe cruises on board both Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest in the Mediterranean between April and December.
Additionally, all six Pullmantur Cruises’ ships and CDF Croisieres de France’s Bleu de France – both Royal Caribbean Cruises brands – will operate in the Mediterranean in 2009.
Senior vice-president international Michael Bayley, speaking at the Seatrade Med convention in Venice, said: “With 22 ships deployed in Europe, 20 of which are in the Med, in 2009, we are clearly demonstrating our commitment to the region.
“We are not only dedicating more ships, but some of our newest and the most innovative ships to Europe and the Mediterranean.
“We are also focusing on enhanced products and onboard options that will further increase the satisfaction of our growing number of international guests.
“These factors increase our confidence that the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. brands will continue to grow their market share in Europe and the Mediterranean in 2009.”
He added: “The international markets show the greatest growth potential, with Europe and the Mediterranean representing the ideal centre.
“Extending our deployments and our seasons in Europe and the Mediterranean reflects our commitment to, and the importance of, the region as an integral part of our international growth strategy.
“We see strong development opportunities in Europe and the Mediterranean as a destination, as well as a source market, and we are making the necessary investments to further grow our market share in these key regions.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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