Global cruise line Royal Caribbean International has unveiled more new shore excursions to allow holidaymakers to make the most of 55 ports in 22 different countries. Just in time for summer breaks, new shore excursion options include the ability to make private tour arrangements as well as exclusive family-friendly days.

A record 11 Royal Caribbean International ships will be deployed in Europe in 2011 and offer 109 different cruise itineraries – almost double that currently available. 

For guests looking for increased flexibility, Royal Caribbean International is introducing new customised half- or full-day private shore excursions offering travel in private vehicles. Guests can also choose to be accompanied by an English-speaking guide to provide tour commentary and local insight. 

Featuring the same convenience and peace of mind that comes with booking Royal Caribbean International’s group shore excursions, guests can enjoy the private tours in 13 ports-of-call throughout Egypt, Finland, Greece, Israel, Italy, Sweden and Turkey, in addition to previously introduced private tours offered in Russia.  Royal Caribbean International excursion specialists will create customised arrangements to fit individual styles and interests, or simply provide a private vehicle for an existing tour.  Both private and custom arrangements accommodate up to 10 people and can be requested online.

As a leader in family holidays, Royal Caribbean International continues to cater for multi-generational groups with new hands-on activities that are fun for children, parents and grandparents alike.  New half day excursions designed specifically with families in mind include gastronomic experiences such as “Pizza Making for Families” in Sorrento, Italy, featuring a city tour followed by a pizza making class and lunch to enjoy the family’s culinary creations, as well as “Sea Kayaking” in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where guests can explore the outdoors and admire the historical city walls from the unique perspective of a kayak at sea level.

Royal Caribbean International also will be expanding its existing shore excursion services by nearly doubling the number of “Easy” tours for accessible sight-seeing.  14 new additional “easy” tours take the total to 33. Featuring vehicles adapted with access ramps or lifts when available, new and existing “easy” shore excursions cater to individuals who have difficulty walking or standing for extended periods, or who use wheelchairs full time.  Accessible European sightseeing includes exploring the quaint town of Trogir from Split, Croatia, wine tastings in Sardinia, and coach tours highlighting historical landmarks and local artistry, such as Florence’s famed Michelangelo Square and leather factories.

In addition to enhancing new experiences for guests, the global cruise line is adding to its contribution to its destination partners.  Royal Caribbean International is pre-purchasing Chorus Pass tickets from the Venetian Chorus Association, a non-profit entity tasked with safeguarding, conserving and restoring the architectural and artistic heritage of churches in the city of Venice, to invest in maintaining the cultural heritage represented in more than 1,000 pieces of art.  Guests onboard Brilliance of the Seas will receive a complimentary Chorus Pass ticket ($13 value), providing access to 16 of most important churches in Venice, with the purchase of each Shuttle Bus Pass.