For the cruise industry, Europe has turned into a goldmine thanks to the weak U.S. dollar.  Add to that, Europeans themselves, who have healthier economies than the United States, are taking cruises in increasing numbers.

Royal Caribbean has announced that it is adding another ship to the region for the 2009 summer and fall seasons and offering itineraries ranging from four to 14 days aboard a total of eight vessels.  

** Brilliance of the Seas will remain in Europe and continue offering year-round itineraries for a second consecutive year. In November and December, Brilliance will offer vacationers a new Egypt and Eastern Mediterranean itinerary sailing roundtrip from Barcelona, featuring the Greeks Isles and calls at Port Said.

** In 2009, Independence of the Seas returns to Southampton, U.K., for her second Europe season, offering 14-night Western Mediterranean, 10- and 11-night Western Europe and Canary Islands, and four-night British Isles itineraries.

** In Northern Europe, Vision of the Seas will sail homeport in Copenhagen sailing on short itineraries while Jewel of the Seas will sail in 12-night Scandinavia and Baltic voyages, featuring an overnight in St. Petersburg. The ship will also sail one 12-night itinerary that combines the British Isles and Norwegian Fjords.

** Navigator of the Seas will sail from a new homeport, Malaga, as well as Civitavecchia and Barcelona while Voyager of the Seas will remain on Mediterranean voyages from Barcelona.

** From Athens and Istanbul, Vision of the Seas will operate on ten- and 11-night Holy Land voyages, including port calls in Haifa and Ashdod. 

Royal Caribbean will also offer cruise-tours throughout Europe combining a cruise with land tours and hotel stays ranging from three- to-five-nights prior to embarkation.

For reservations, contact your travel agent.  Additional information may be obtained by visiting Royal Caribbean’s web site.

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