Royal Caribbean International Returns to Seattle In 2001

Radiance Of The Seas More Than Doubles Vision Of The Seas Sailings

Royal Caribbean International announced today that it will return to Seattle in 2001, and more than double the number of three- and four-night itineraries from the Port of Seattle aboard Radiance of the Seas, the first of four Vantage-class ships being built for the company.

"As our cruise fleet continues to grow, we welcome deployment opportunities in new and exciting markets," said Dan Hanrahan, senior vice president, Marketing and Sales, Royal Caribbean International. "With the new Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, the Port of Seattle sends a clear and positive message that it has the facilities and infrastructure to support the cruise industry."

"This is tremendous news for the entire Pacific Northwest region," Port of Seattle Commission President Jack Block said. "The three- and four-day sailings offered by RCI make it easy for passengers to spend time in our community before or after their cruise. The positive economic impacts of RCI's expanded schedule next year through additional tourism dollars will be felt far and wide."

"Royal Caribbean's announcement is another strong signal that the Port made the right move in building this premiere cruise facility," added Port Executive Director Mic Dinsmore. "The cruise industry recognizes Seattle as an excellent homeport."

Starting April 30, 2001, the Radiance of the Seas will offer 14 sailings departing from Seattle with ports of call in Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia.

Royal Caribbean Returns to Seattle in 2001 The round-trip itineraries include:

Seven four-night cruises that depart on Monday, Apr. 30; May 7, 14; Sept 17, 24; Oct. 1, 8, 2001, with ports of call in Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia.
Seven three-night cruises that depart on Friday, May, 4, 11, 18, 21; Sept 21, 28; Oct 5, 2001, with ports of call in Vancouver and Victoria in British Columbia.

The 2,100-passenger Radiance of the Seas will be a "new generation world cruiser," with quieter, faster engines, a yacht-like design, the cruise industry's newest technology for protecting the environment, and more glass than any other cruise ship.

More than 70 percent of outside staterooms will have balconies. Glass elevators facing the sea will span 12 decks, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows in many public areas will offer spectacular sea views.

"Radiance of the Seas represents an evolution of Royal Caribbean's signature elements, and will incorporate many exciting design features and technological advancements found on our Voyager-class ships," said Hanrahan.

Royal Caribbean International is a global cruise brand with 12 ships in service, and eight under construction or on firm order. For additional information about the cruise line, visit the company's Internet web site at www.royalcaribbean.com, or www.rclinvestor.com. For information about the Port of Seattle and its Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, visit the Port's Internet web site at www.portseattle.org