Smooth Sailing Ahead — Even as Royal Caribbean Waves Goodbye to Baltimore
Big waves are rolling through Baltimore’s cruise scene.
Royal Caribbean, a long-time staple at the Port of Baltimore, just dropped anchor one last time—announcing it will pull out of the city in late 2026. Their beloved Vision of the Seas is headed to sunnier skies in Fort Lauderdale, with its 3 day cruise from baltimore set for October 17, 2026. After that? It’s goodbye crab cakes, hello Caribbean.
Why the switch? Blame the bridges. Literally. Royal’s newer, bigger ships can’t slip under the Francis Scott Key Bridge, and that’s a major roadblock (or boatblock?).
But don’t pack away your sunscreen just yet.
Enter: Carnival Cruise Line – Doubling Down in Baltimore
Carnival isn’t just staying—they’re leveling up. The cruise line just renewed a 5-year commitment through 2029, and rumor has it they’re planning to bring in a larger Conquest-class ship. Translation? More space, more fun, and about 1,000 extra passengers per sailing.
And with destinations like the Bahamas, Bermuda, and the Caribbean, Baltimore still has you covered for your tropical fix.
🚢 Port of Baltimore: Still Rock Solid
Even with Royal Caribbean sailing off into the sunset, Baltimore’s cruise port isn’t missing a beat. It just earned its 16th consecutive top security rating from the U.S. Coast Guard. That means you’re in safe hands from the moment you park to the moment you step on deck.
TL;DR: What’s Changing, What’s Not
LeavingStaying (and Growing)Royal Caribbean (late 2026)Carnival Cruise Line (thru 2029)Vision of the SeasNew, bigger ship on the horizonSome itinerary cutsMore capacity, Caribbean cruises
Bottom Line
Royal Caribbean’s exit might sting for loyal cruisers, but Baltimore’s not backing down. Carnival’s ready to fill the gap—and then some—with bigger ships, better vibes, and a bright future for sailing out of Charm City.