Cruise enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a scoop of news from the high seas! Royal Caribbean, one of the leading cruise lines globally, is quietly undergoing a delightful transformation in its ice cream offerings. In a surprising move, the beloved Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream, a staple on 13 Royal Caribbean vessels, is making way for a new, yet-to-be-revealed, in-house brand. As the winds of change blow through the cruise industry, let's explore the details of this sweet transition and show you what may soon tickle the taste buds of Royal Caribbean cruisers.
The Farewell to Ben & Jerry's:
Starting in mid-December, Ben & Jerry's will bid adieu to the Royal Caribbean fleet, leaving behind a legacy of scoops and smiles. The cruise line discreetly informed travel agents of the impending change, sparking curiosity among passengers eager to discover what's next in the realm of onboard ice cream delights. In a cheeky announcement, Royal Caribbean shared that the Ben & Jerry's departure would pave the way for something "sweeter." But what could possibly be sweeter than iconic flavors like Cherry Garcia and Chunky Monkey?
The Mystery of the New Ice Cream Experience:
Royal Caribbean has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the new ice cream experience, only disclosing that it will be an in-house brand. The cruise line has yet to unveil details regarding whether the new offering will be complimentary or come with an additional charge. Unlike Ben & Jerry's, which was always an extra-cost indulgence, the unknown ice cream adventure adds an air of anticipation for cruisers eager to savor the sweet surprises that lie ahead.
The Transition Process:
The exact timeline for the rebranding remains undisclosed, with completion expected by the end of 2023. The transition process will likely vary across ships, taking into account factors such as available supplies, conversion work schedules, and the intricacies of updating signage, coloring, and menu boards. As the ships undergo this sweet makeover, enthusiasts may witness the evolution of beloved ice cream spaces into refreshed parlors.
Speculations on the Next Sweet Treat:
While Royal Caribbean is guarding the secret recipe for its own new ice cream brand, several delectable possibilities tantalize the taste buds of eager cruisers. Hand-scooped delights, soft-serve wonders, frozen custard creations, sundae bars, or even more elevated options like gelatos and sorbets are all within the realm of possibilities. The cruise line might even surprise passengers with a broader sweetshop concept, expanding beyond traditional ice cream offerings. Now the new ice cream options have hit the seas and here are some photos of what you can expect.
Alternatives Onboard:
For those not keen on splurging, fear not! Royal Caribbean continues to offer free soft-serve ice cream at Sprinkles or on the pool deck, ensuring a sweet treat for all. Beyond Ben & Jerry's, the cruise line also tantalizes taste buds with occasional ice cream desserts at the Windjammer buffet or in the main dining rooms. Other frozen delights, including milkshakes, further enrich the onboard culinary experience.
Conclusion:
As Royal Caribbean sails into the future with a revamped ice cream experience, passengers are left to wonder what delectable surprises await them. The departure of Ben & Jerry's opens the door to a world of new possibilities, promising a sweeter journey for cruisers on board. So, set sail and get ready to embark on a delightful voyage filled with tantalizing ice cream adventures aboard Royal Caribbean's transformed fleet. Bon voyage and bon appétit!
