Royal Caribbean has officially expanded its presence on Florida’s Gulf Coast, with Radiance of the Seas now operating a year-round schedule from Port Tampa Bay.
The move gives travelers more flexibility when planning Caribbean vacations from Tampa, while also strengthening the port’s growing role as one of the cruise industry’s most important homeports.
After spending the winter offering short Bahamas cruises from Fort Lauderdale, the popular Radiance-class vessel has now settled into its new long-term home on Florida’s west coast.
Radiance Begins Permanent Tampa Deployment
The 2,142-passenger Radiance of the Seas recently launched its first year-round season from Tampa, marking a significant deployment change for Royal Caribbean.
Following a winter schedule that featured short Bahamas getaways from Fort Lauderdale, the ship repositioned to Tampa and immediately began offering a series of Western Caribbean cruises.
The initial deployment focuses on shorter sailings designed for travelers looking for quick Caribbean escapes without committing to a full week at sea.
Short Caribbean Getaways Through Fall 2026
For much of 2026, Radiance of the Seas will operate a combination of four-night and five-night cruises from Tampa.
These itineraries feature:
- Cozumel, México.
- Costa Maya, México.
- One or two relaxing sea days.
The shorter cruises provide guests with an opportunity to enjoy Royal Caribbean’s onboard amenities while still visiting some of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations.
For many travelers, these sailings offer the perfect balance between port exploration and time spent enjoying the ship.
Longer Western Caribbean Cruises Arrive This Winter
Beginning in early November 2026, Radiance of the Seas will transition from short cruises to longer seven-night itineraries.
These expanded voyages will take guests deeper into the Western Caribbean and include visits to several additional destinations.
Ports featured on the weeklong sailings include:
- George Town, Grand Cayman.
- Belize City, Belize.
- Cozumel, México.
- Roatán, Honduras.
The longer cruises allow guests to experience a wider variety of Caribbean cultures, beaches, excursions, and attractions while still departing conveniently from Tampa.
Special Holiday Cruise Planned for Christmas
One of the highlights of the upcoming deployment will be a festive Christmas sailing during the 2026 holiday season.
The special seven-night holiday itinerary will include visits to destinations in both Mexico and the Bahamas.
A major attraction of the cruise will be a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s highly popular private island destination.
The private island offers guests:
- White-sand beaches.
- Large freshwater pools.
- Water attractions.
- Complimentary dining options.
- Family-friendly activities.
Holiday cruises remain some of the most sought-after sailings each year, and this itinerary is expected to attract strong demand.
More Variety Coming in 2027
Royal Caribbean plans to further diversify Radiance of the Seas’ Tampa deployment beginning in 2027.
The ship is expected to offer a mix of:
- Six-night cruises.
- Seven-night cruises.
- Eight-night cruises.
These itineraries will continue focusing primarily on Western Caribbean destinations while giving travelers additional options when selecting cruise lengths.
Following those sailings, the ship will once again return to its schedule of four-night and five-night cruises to Cozumel and Costa Maya beginning in May 2027.
Tampa Commitment Extends Into 2028
Royal Caribbean has already published schedules showing Radiance of the Seas remaining homeported in Tampa through at least April 2028.
This long-term commitment demonstrates the cruise line’s confidence in the growing popularity of Tampa as a departure port.
Port Tampa Bay has experienced significant growth in recent years as more travelers seek alternatives to larger and often busier ports such as Miami and Port Canaveral.
Celebrating 25 Years of Service
Radiance of the Seas continues to be one of Royal Caribbean’s most beloved ships.
Built at the renowned Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, the vessel recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in service.
Despite being a quarter-century old, the ship continues to receive updates and improvements to keep the onboard experience fresh for guests.
Earlier this year, Radiance underwent a refurbishment in Grand Bahama that included:
- Technical upgrades.
- Routine maintenance.
- Refreshed public spaces.
- General ship enhancements.
These updates help ensure the vessel remains competitive while continuing to deliver the classic Royal Caribbean experience passengers expect.
Tampa’s Royal Caribbean Fleet Continues to Grow
Radiance of the Seas is not the only Royal Caribbean ship operating from Tampa.
The cruise line currently maintains a three-ship presence at the Florida port:
| Ship | Deployment |
|---|---|
| Radiance of the Seas | Year-round |
| Enchantment of the Seas | Year-round |
| Jewel of the Seas | Seasonal (Winter 2026-27) |
The addition of Radiance to a permanent Tampa schedule gives Royal Caribbean greater flexibility while providing travelers with more itinerary options throughout the year.
Tampa Becomes an Even Bigger Cruise Hub
With multiple Royal Caribbean vessels now sailing from Tampa year-round or seasonally, the port continues strengthening its position as one of the leading cruise gateways along the Gulf Coast.
For travelers seeking convenient access to the Western Caribbean without the crowds often associated with South Florida ports, Radiance of the Seas now offers a wide range of options throughout the year.
Whether it’s a quick four-night escape to Mexico, a holiday sailing to Perfect Day at CocoCay, or a longer Caribbean adventure featuring Grand Cayman and Honduras, Tampa cruisers will have plenty of opportunities to set sail aboard one of Royal Caribbean’s most experienced and well-loved ships.
