Unexpected Return: Serenade of the Seas Faces Technical Issues
Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas recently made an unexpected return to Vancouver. The ship had set sail for a 7-night Alaska cruise but returned just two hours later. Passengers remained onboard, with uncertainty looming over the rest of the journey.
Engine Troubles Disrupt Cruise Plans
The ship departed on a Sunday evening, aiming for a scenic Inside Passage itinerary. However, it was back at the dock within hours due to engine-related issues. While propulsion was affected, other onboard systems continued to function normally. Fortunately, no injuries or safety concerns have been reported, but guests were not allowed to disembark.
Recurring Propulsion Problems
This incident marks the second consecutive sailing with propulsion issues for Serenade of the Seas. On its previous voyage, technical problems led to the cancellation of a port call at Icy Strait Point and a day of scenic cruising. Although Royal Caribbean acknowledged “speed restrictions from a technical issue,” specific mechanical details were not disclosed.
Itinerary Changes Likely
Originally, the ship was scheduled to visit Sitka, Alaska, on Tuesday, 8th July. However, given its current status in Vancouver, maintaining the original itinerary seems unlikely. Royal Caribbean has yet to release a public statement about the technical issue or any revised plans. Guests onboard are eagerly awaiting further updates.
Comparisons to Past Incidents
This latest setback has drawn comparisons to past incidents involving Radiance of the Seas, a sister ship. In 2024, Radiance faced repeated engine issues, culminating in a last-minute cruise cancellation after passengers had boarded. Such comparisons highlight the challenges cruise lines face with technical reliability.
Serenade of the Seas: A Smaller Ship with Big Ambitions
At just over 90,000 gross tons, Serenade of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s smaller vessels, accommodating around 2,500 passengers. The ship has been part of the line’s ambitious Ultimate World Cruise and also serves seasonal Alaska itineraries during the summer.
Awaiting Further Updates
As of Monday afternoon, the ship remains docked in Vancouver. It is unclear whether the cruise will continue on a revised schedule or face further disruptions. Guests booked on upcoming cruises are keenly watching to see if the issue is resolved quickly. More updates will follow once Royal Caribbean confirms the next steps for the voyage.
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