28 January 2024 , 13:53
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The cruise company behind the nine-month round-the-world cruise has spoken out dispelling rumours swirling about the future of the trip.
Since December, the Royal Caribbean’s “Ultimate World Cruise” has captivated — and confused — a following of avid social media users. Millions are following the journey through the eyes of the passengers, as they live and post their lives aboard a vessel they’ll be on for nearly a year.
People following the cruise on social media have compared it to a reality TV show. As part of TikTok circus that has erupted around the 'once in a lifetime' journey, rumours have also sprung up about possible changes to the route.
Read more: Inside the Icon of the Seas - the world's largest cruise ship as big as four city blocks
Yemen's Houthi weaponized followers ride vehicles while taking part in a rally and parade denouncing the US-led aerial attacks on Yemen (Getty Images)On board the Serenade of the Seas are hundreds of passengers who will live aboard the ship as it travels to 150 ports, 60 countries and seven continents. Royal Caribbean's marketing materials read: “All four corners, one epic voyage.”
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But despite setting off on December 10, already rumours appeared suggesting global tensions would cause a change in the route.
The Yemen based Houthis have been attacking ships in the Red Sea, a key shipping lane, since the Israel-Hamas war broke out. This has led the US and its allies to strike Houthi targets in Yemen and threatens a further escalation of the war raging in Gaza.
Guest on the ship and TikToker Adita posted last week: “The rumour that I’ve been hearing is that Royal Caribbean is thinking of ending the World Cruise in Los Angeles due to problems in the Middle East.”
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The french navy ship, the FS Languedoc (D653), as seen in port on January 20, 2024 in Djibouti (Getty Images)Prices range from around $54,000 to $117,000 per passenger.
But the cruise has said everything is going according to plan. A spokesperson for the cruise line told Cruise Radio: "This adventure will complete its first segment in February, and we can’t wait to kick off the next part of the journey shortly after and begin exploring Asia. The Ultimate World Cruise has allowed guests to see the world uniquely, and we have loved watching their reactions.”
"The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority," they added. "In collaboration with our Global Security team, we continuously monitor the situation in the region and make any necessary adjustments. Guests will be notified directly of any changes."
Another passenger who's been posting his experience on TikTok, Anthony McWilliams, told Business Insider that Royal Caribbean hasn't told them of any potential changes. He said: "There has been no official communication from Royal Caribbean about this concern but as passengers, we have been talking amongst ourselves and with Royal Caribbean. Similar to conditions impacting our itinerary, I feel confident that Royal Caribbean will have our safety and best interest at heart when making these sort of decisions."
The cruise is not set to visit the Middle East for another three months.