Royal Caribbean International has recently made headlines with the cancellation of several Alaska cruises, leaving many passengers disappointed and scrambling for alternatives. The Royal Caribbean Alaska cancellations stem from a combination of factors, including disputes with port authorities, changes in docking fees, and broader operational adjustments. This blog post will explore the reasons behind these cancellations, their impact on travelers, and what affected passengers can do to adjust their plans. Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruise Cancellations
Why Are Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruises Being Cancelled?
1. Port Fee Dispute with Juneau
One of the primary reasons for recent cancellations is a conflict between Royal Caribbean and the Alaskan port of Juneau. In May 2025, Juneau implemented a new docking fee structure that charges cruise lines based on passenger capacity rather than vessel tonnage. This change is expected to generate an additional $5 million in revenue for the port but has led Royal Caribbean to cancel multiple scheduled stops in Juneau
The cruise line has cited “port availability changes” as the official reason for the cancellations, but the timing suggests a direct response to the increased fees. Affected sailings, including those aboard Ovation of the Seas, have been rerouted to alternative ports like Ketchikan and Sitka 6.
2. Ongoing Tensions Between Royal Caribbean and Juneau
The dispute is not new—Royal Caribbean and Juneau have had a strained relationship for years. In 2024, the cruise line opposed Juneau’s “ship-free Saturdays” initiative, even funding a campaign against it. Additionally, Royal Caribbean announced plans to build a private berth in partnership with a local Indigenous group, a move that reportedly surprised Juneau officials.
With the private port not expected to open until 2027, Royal Caribbean appears to be minimizing its reliance on Juneau’s public docks in the meantime, leading to further itinerary disruptions 1.
3. Operational and Itinerary Adjustments
Beyond Juneau, Royal Caribbean has made broader scheduling changes affecting Alaska cruises. Some sailings have been altered due to logistical challenges, including port capacity limitations and maintenance requirements. For example, Serenade of the Seas had a March 2025 sailing canceled due to extended dry dock repairs.
4. External Factors: Weather and Health Protocols
While not directly cited in recent cancellations, Alaska’s unpredictable weather and potential health concerns (such as COVID-19 protocols) have historically impacted cruise schedules. Ice accumulation, storms, and port closures can force last-minute changes.
Which Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruises Are Affected?
Several sailings have been confirmed as canceled or modified: Royal Caribbean Alaska Cruises Are Affected?
- Ovation of the Seas: Multiple 2025 and 2026 sailings have dropped Juneau from their itineraries, with stops replaced by Ketchikan, Sitka, or Icy Strait Point 6.
- Serenade of the Seas: A March 2025 cruise was canceled due to extended dry dock maintenance 3.
- Other Ships: While Voyager of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas also have scheduled Juneau visits in 2026, no widespread cancellations have been announced yet 6.
Passengers booked on affected cruises have received notifications via email, with Royal Caribbean offering alternative ports or compensation options 16.
What Should Affected Passengers Do?
1. Check Your Booking Status
If you have an upcoming Alaska cruise, monitor:
- Royal Caribbean’s official website for updates 12.
- Your Cruise Planner account for itinerary changes 12.
- Email/SMS notifications from the cruise line 12.
2. Explore Compensation Options
Royal Caribbean typically offers:
- Alternative itineraries with similar ports.
- Future Cruise Credits (FCC) for rebooking.
- Full refunds if the cruise is canceled outright 312.
3. Consider Rebooking or Land Tours
If your cruise is canceled, you may:
- Rebook a later sailing with Royal Caribbean.
- Switch to a different cruise line (e.g., Princess, Holland America).
- Opt for an Alaska land tour as an alternative 12.
4. Review Travel Insurance
If you purchased insurance, check whether it covers cancellations due to port changes or operational disruptions 12.
The Bigger Picture: Cruise Industry Challenges in Alaska
The cancellations highlight broader tensions between cruise lines and Alaskan ports. As tourism grows, local governments are imposing stricter regulations and higher fees to manage environmental and infrastructural pressures. Meanwhile, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean are investing in private ports to reduce reliance on public docks 12.
For passengers, this means Alaska cruise itineraries may remain fluid in the coming years. Staying informed and booking flexible options can help mitigate disruptions.
Conclusion
Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruise cancellations are primarily driven by its dispute with Juneau over docking fees, compounded by operational adjustments and external factors. While frustrating for travelers, the cruise line is providing rebooking options and refunds.
If your cruise is affected, act promptly to explore alternatives and ensure you don’t miss out on the breathtaking beauty of Alaska—whether by sea or land.
For the latest updates, always refer to Royal Caribbean’s official communications and monitor your booking details closely. Royal Caribbean’s Newest Cruise Ships
(Note: This blog is based on available information as of August 2025. Always verify details with Royal Caribbean before making travel decisions.)