Royal Caribbean International Adjusts Alaska Cruises: Scenic Tracy Arm Fjord Removed from Itineraries
Royal Caribbean International has announced another itinerary change, this time eliminating the stunning Tracy Arm Fjord as a destination. This follows a series of cancellations, including an entire summer’s worth of cruises on the Freedom of the Seas. While frustrating for passengers, this latest adjustment stems from serious safety concerns following a significant landslide in the area.
Landslide Impacts and Ongoing Risks
Last August, a major landslide in Tracy Arm Fjord triggered a tsunami, thankfully without causing any injuries or fatalities. However, the area remains unstable, with continued rockfall posing a risk to cruise ships. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) continues to monitor the situation. This has prompted Royal Caribbean, and now other major cruise lines, to reassess their Alaska itineraries.
What Royal Caribbean Guests Can Expect
Royal Caribbean has proactively notified guests of the changes. Sailings to Tracy Arm Fjord scheduled for June, July, August, and September have been adjusted. For example, guests on the Serenade of the Seas’ June 7, 2026, cruise will now visit Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier instead. The cruise line assures passengers that Endicott Arm offers equally breathtaking scenery.
As Royal Caribbean explains to its guests, “Due to a recent landslide and ongoing navigation safety concerns, we’ll no longer be able to cruise through Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska. Instead, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenic cruising through Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier.”
Other Cruise Lines Follow Suit
Royal Caribbean isn’t alone in making these changes. Carnival Cruise Line has also announced it will bypass Tracy Arm Fjord, citing unsuitable waterways for navigation. Carnival will also redirect its ships to Endicott Arm Fjord. Holland America Line has similarly adjusted its itineraries, opting for Endicott Arm Fjord due to unstable ice and geological conditions.
The Future of Tracy Arm Fjord as a Cruise Destination
Currently, the ban on sailings to Tracy Arm Fjord remains in effect for the remainder of the year, with uncertainty surrounding 2027 cruises. While some itineraries still list Tracy Arm Fjord as a stop, its inclusion remains questionable. The situation is being closely monitored, and a decision regarding future access will be made based on ongoing safety assessments.
Sample Itinerary: Serenade Of The Seas Alaska Inside Passage Cruise (July 2027)
- Day 1: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Day 2: Inside Passage, Canada
- Day 3: Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska (Currently Listed – Subject to Change)
- Day 4: Juneau, Alaska
- Day 5: Ketchikan, Alaska
- Day 6: Prince Rupert, British Columbia
- Day 7: Day at Sea
- Day 8: Vancouver, British Columbia
Despite the changes, Alaska cruises with Royal Caribbean International and other lines will continue to offer unforgettable experiences and stunning glacial views. The shift to Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier ensures passengers will still witness the beauty of Alaska’s icy landscapes.
