Independence of the Seas is being pulled from the U.K. next year and returning to the U.S.
Royal Caribbean had offered cruise itineraries for the ship from Southampton during the 2020 season but the cruise line is getting more demand in North America.
Ben Bouldin, AVP and Managing Director, Royal Caribbean International UK & Ireland told Cruise Critic, "The UK remains a cornerstone of the Royal Caribbean business and this is evident from the fact that we have our amazing Quantum Class ship Anthem of the Seas returning to Southampton in 2020."
He added, "The decision for Independence of the Seas to remain in Florida has been made to help us satisfy the increasing demand we're seeing in North America, particularly for our newly opened Perfect Day at CocoCay."
Independence of the Seas will be sailing from Fort Lauderdale on Caribbean sailings and include a stop at Coco Cay. Travelers who had booked a trip on the ship from the Southampton location will receive full refunds for the cruise and any non-refundable airline charges, as well as a "Future Cruise Credit," valued at 25 percent of the cruise fare paid, to use on another trip.
Travelers will also receive the option of being booked on an alternative trip on the Anthem of the Seas which will remain in Southampton. They'll also be given an onboard credit and reimbursed airline charges.
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