Royal Caribbean adds longer, more immersive Asia cruises
Royal Caribbean is inviting international travelers to set sail on journeys to explore multiple destinations in Asia with a new lineup of sailings from China on Spectrum of the Seas for the 2027-2028 season.
While the cruise line's sailings from China on Spectrum of the Seas have emphasized short cruises in recent seasons, Royal Caribbean introduced some longer Asia cruises, including voyages to Japan's iconic Mount Fuji and Nagoya for the 2026-2027 season. And now, options to take a longer cruise to some of Asia's most sought-after destinations with Royal Caribbean are expanding further.
"This new lineup reflects our continued commitment to the China market and our ambition to deliver more diverse and immersive vacations," Royal Caribbean Greater China President Benjamin Bouldin said in a press release. "These longer, more immersive itineraries are designed to meet the evolving preferences of Chinese vacationers seeking deeper connections with loved ones, while also enabling international travelers to easily explore Asia's most iconic destinations and seasonal highlights from China."
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Spectrum of the Seas will sail Asia cruises of up to 11 nights in 2027-2028
Spectrum of the Seas will sail to more destinations than ever during the 2027-2028 season, calling to 22 destinations across Asia on a wide range of itineraries of three to 11 nights, from short weekend getaway cruises to longer, more immersive journeys throughout the region.
The season offers opportunities to explore a variety of diverse destinations, including East Asia's vibrant capitals, winter landscapes in Sapporo (Muroran), Japan; volcanic landscapes in Jeju (Seogwipo), South Korea; historic sites at Da Nang (Chan May) and Hue in Vietnam, and hot spots like Busan, South Korea; and Mount Fuji, Japan.
While shorter sailings from Shanghai and Hong Kong focus on top island destinations like Jeju and Busan, longer voyages will offer travelers the chance to visit multiple destinations in Japan.
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With new eight- to 10-night itineraries, Royal Caribbean is even offering travelers the opportunity to start or end their journey in Tokyo with one-way sailings from Shanghai, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. This added travel flexibility gives passengers the opportunity to extend their time exploring Tokyo before or after a cruise.
Additionally, for more immersive Japan experiences on round-trip sailings from Shanghai, the season offers eight-night itineraries featuring overnight stays in Osaka and Tokyo.
Longer Asia itineraries offer spring bloom and fall foliage sailings
For travelers who want to experience Asia during peak times for spring flowers and fall foliage, Royal Caribbean is offering special itineraries curated to showcase the region's seasonal beauty:
- Spring Blossom Journey: In May 2027, vacationers can sail across China, Japan, and South Korea to witness the region's spring bloom season, from Beijing's peonies to Fukuoka's wisteria in Japan and Jeju's hydrangeas. For deeper immersion, Spectrum will offer an overnight stay in Beijing (Tianjin), giving travelers two full days to explore North China's rich history and culture.
- Autumn Foliage Escape: In October 2027, travelers can experience vibrant fall landscapes with visits to Seoul (Incheon), South Korea, and Sapporo (Muroran) known for their spectacular autumn foliage.
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The season also includes festive sailings, offering the travelers the chance to celebrate the holidays in Asia's most vibrant destinations.
Specifically designed for family vacations in Asia, Spectrum of the Seas offers regionally inspired cuisine, entertainment featuring Royal Caribbean original productions, and thrilling attractions for all ages like the North Star all-glass observation capsule, RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, a rock-climbing wall, and SeaPlex - the largest indoor activity space at sea featuring bumper cars.
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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 11:03 AM.