Tuesday, July 1, 2025
Royal Caribbean International recently announced a last-minute change to the Independence of the Seas’ itinerary, much to the surprise of guests onboard. The cruise line was set to visit the charming Norwegian port of Alesund on July 1, 2025, but those plans were disrupted due to maintenance on the ship’s propulsion system. Instead of the planned stop in Alesund, the ship will now spend the day at sea. However, there’s a silver lining for travelers—the vessel will arrive in Molde, Norway, an hour earlier than originally scheduled, offering guests additional time to explore the scenic destination.

A Sudden Change: Maintenance at Sea

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The Independence of the Seas, which is currently sailing from Southampton, England, on a seven-night Norwegian Fjords cruise, had to make some unexpected adjustments due to propulsion system issues. According to a statement from Royal Caribbean, the ongoing maintenance requires the vessel to operate at a slower speed, which affected its ability to visit Alesund. As a result, guests will spend the day at sea, rather than the planned port call in Alesund.
While the change may be disappointing to some, the cruise line made sure that guests could still make the most of their trip. In addition to the early arrival in Molde, Royal Caribbean emphasized that maintenance was being conducted with the utmost safety to ensure the well-being of passengers and crew.

What’s in Store for Guests?

Though the loss of Alesund may be a letdown, the revised itinerary still offers plenty of opportunities for guests to enjoy the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords. The Independence of the Seas will now dock in Molde an hour ahead of schedule, giving travelers extra time to explore the picturesque coastal town, known for its stunning landscapes and panoramic views of the surrounding fjords.
The original itinerary also includes visits to Olden and Haugesund, as well as two days at sea, where guests can relax and take advantage of the many onboard amenities. Whether it’s indulging in a spa treatment, enjoying a gourmet meal, or attending one of the ship’s entertainment shows, there’s no shortage of activities to keep passengers entertained.

Extra Perks for Passengers

To make up for the inconvenience, Royal Caribbean extended a thoughtful gesture to guests onboard. All passengers were offered onboard credit as a token of appreciation for their understanding. This gesture ensures that despite the changes, guests can still enjoy their vacation to the fullest.

Royal Caribbean’s Commitment to Safety

As with any cruise line, the safety of passengers and crew is always Royal Caribbean’s top priority. The company reiterated in its statement that all maintenance work was being conducted with the highest safety standards, ensuring that the ship remains in top condition for the remainder of the cruise.
This isn’t the first time the Independence of the Seas has encountered a slight delay. Earlier this month, the ship also delayed its visit to Rotterdam by two hours due to similar maintenance work. Despite these adjustments, Royal Caribbean has maintained its commitment to providing guests with an unforgettable cruise experience.

A Summer Full of Adventures

The Independence of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s premier vessels, offering exceptional cruising experiences throughout the summer. Built as part of the Freedom class series at Aker Yards shipyard in Turku, Finland, the 3,864-guest ship is known for its wide range of onboard amenities and luxurious accommodations.
Currently offering summer cruises out of Southampton, the Independence of the Seas will soon be repositioned to Miami for the winter season. Starting in early November, the ship will offer seven-night cruises to the Caribbean from South Florida, providing an entirely different set of experiences for those seeking a warm-weather escape.

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Tags: Alesund cancellation, cruise maintenance, Independence of the Seas, Molde visit, norwegian fjords, royal caribbean, Royal Caribbean updates, Tourism news, Travel News

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