Royal Caribbean Is Pulling Its Galveston Ship and Sending It to Florida in 2027

Royal Caribbean just made a big change to its 2027 cruise schedule. Here’s what you need to know if you have a booking affected by this shift.

Symphony of the Seas Is Moving to Fort Lauderdale

Royal Caribbean is moving the Symphony of the Seas from Texas to Florida. The change takes effect in August 2027.

The giant Oasis-class ship was originally supposed to sail from the Port of Galveston. It was going to offer Western Caribbean and Bahamas cruises from Texas. Now, those plans have changed.

Instead, Symphony of the Seas will homeport at Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades. The ship will offer six- to eight-night Caribbean cruises from South Florida.

Why Did Royal Caribbean Make This Change?

Royal Caribbean told affected passengers that this move is part of its normal itinerary planning process. The company didn’t give a more specific reason for the switch.

What Happens to Your Booking?

If you had a cruise booked on Symphony of the Seas from Galveston, you have options. Royal Caribbean is giving affected guests three choices.

Option 1: Switch to Liberty of the Seas

You can move your booking to a similar sailing on the Liberty of the Seas. Royal Caribbean is sweetening this deal by protecting your original fare rate or lowering it to the current fare — whichever is less.

If you already paid in full and the fare drops, you’ll get a refund for the difference. The Liberty of the Seas is currently getting a major makeover through Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplification program.

Royal Caribbean described some of the new features coming to the ship. “Onboard the Liberty of the Seas, you’ll experience unmatched chill at the completely reimagined pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas, as well as thrills at an all-new Royal Escape Room,” the company said.

Option 2: Rebook a Different Royal Caribbean Sailing

You can also move your booking to any other Royal Caribbean cruise. Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay any difference in cruise fare, taxes, fees, and gratuities.

Option 3: Cancel for a Full Refund

If neither option works for you, you can cancel. Royal Caribbean will give you a full refund of your cruise fare and any pre-paid amenities.

“We do apologize for any inconvenience this move has caused, recognize the impact on your original plans, and are here to support,” the company said.

Galveston Isn’t Getting Left Behind

Galveston fans still have something exciting to look forward to in 2027. Royal Caribbean is sending the Icon of the Seas to Texas that same year.

Icon of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. The 250,800-ton ship will offer seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Galveston.