RCI-Royal Caribbean International has modified two itineraries for Independence of the Seas, attributing the changes to ongoing maintenance that necessitated speed reductions. The updates, which affected sailings in June 2025, have prompted both concern and acceptance from guests.
RCI emphasized that passenger safety remained its highest priority.
The first adjustment occurred during the 8‑night cruise departing Hamburg (Germany) on June 21st. The vessel’s arrival at Rotterdam was delayed by several hours—originally scheduled for 11:00 a.m., docking was delayed until approximately 2:00 p.m. due to enforced speed restrictions. Both the Captain and RCI communicated this information via a letter to passengers, noting that all maintenance was being conducted with “the utmost safety”.
Subsequently, the planned call at Ålesund (Norway) during the June 29th Norwegian Fjords sailing was cancelled and replaced by an additional sea day. However, the arrival in Molde was moved earlier by one hour to 7:00 a.m. Guests received notification by email and were assured that safety had not been compromised. All pre-booked Royal Caribbean shore excursions for Ålesund were automatically refunded.
To acknowledge the inconvenience, RCI offered onboard credit: US$150 for interior and oceanview staterooms, US$200 for balcony cabins, and US$400 for suites. Families received an extra US$25 proceeding from the third occupant in same-cabin scenarios.
Such adjustments underscore the infrequency yet inevitability of propulsion or maintenance issues aboard large cruise vessels.
The 2008-built Independence OTS continues to be maintained and refitted to uphold the company's standards despite its age.