Royal Caribbean International Charts a Course

Toward Trans-Fat-Free Cruise Vacations

Radiance of the Seas

Cruise Information Center Photo

New Era at Sea Begins March 1

Royal Caribbean International will become the first cruise line to make the move toward removing trans fat from its menus beginning March 1, 2007, culminating in a fully trans-fat-free menu fleetwide by the end of this year. Effective immediately, trans-fat-free frying oil will replace the old pour-and-fry oil originally used in food preparation, and entirely-new, trans-fat-free menu options will be introduced to Royal Caribbean's menus.

Royal Caribbean has long accommodated requests from guests with special dietary requirements, from those looking to maintain a low-fat intake to others who face serious allergies. The cruise line's devotion to its guests, and their health, is rising to an entirely new level with menus featuring foods prepared with healthier oils throughout all restaurants on every ship.

"Vegetable oils that have undergone hydrogenation result in a type of fat that doctors have linked to serious health risks including diabetes, high blood pressure and increased cholesterol levels," said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, Total Guest Satisfaction. "If we can offer guests a healthier serving of the foods they love by switching to trans-fat-free oils, while maintaining the same level of satisfaction, why wouldn't we make the switch?"

The trans-fat-free oil was put to the test onboard Navigator of the Seas last November. The conclusion was that, not only is the trans-fat-free oil healthier for guests, but it provides a better tasting product.

Royal Caribbean is working jointly with all onboard food and beverage partners as well as suppliers to ensure that a full transition to a trans-fat- free menu will take place fleetwide by the end of this year.

"We've seen a shift in the lifestyle choices of Royal Caribbean guests. Our guests are more active, health-conscious cruisers," said Bayley. "Making this investment to upgrade to a healthier option in terms of food preparation is yet another way we can connect with our guests to ensure the best overall cruise experience."