Royal Caribbean Cruises has joined Abta and said the move reinforced its commitment to UK travel trade

The membership officially started today and means the line's bonding shifts from the Passenger Shipping Association to Abta.

Cruise-only sales provided by the operator’s three brands – Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises – will be covered.

Robin Shaw, Royal Caribbean Cruises' vice-president and managing director for the UK and Ireland, said: “Our decision to join Abta comes at an exciting time for the organisation and the industry as a whole.

“Over recent months there is a real feeling that businesses involved in travel and tourism should speak with one voice through one body – and Abta is taking on the challenge to be the main lobbying body.

“We look forward to having our say and being able to make a positive contribution on behalf of the cruise sector.

“Obviously, the Abta brand resonates with consumers and is a well-known sign of reassurance so it makes sense to switch our bonding arrangements on the cruise-only holiday business.”

Mark Tanzer, Abta chief executive, added: “Royal Caribbean Cruises are a great addition to the Abta family and we look forward to helping develop the close ties they have with the rest of our membership.

“The high standards and range of services provided by Royal Caribbean Cruises are recognised throughout the industry and Abta membership can only enhance them.”

Royal Caribbean Cruises remains a full member of the PSA and will continue to play an active part in its work promoting the cruise industry to both the trade and consumers.

The line said the decision to join Abta would not affect the PSA.

As a member of Abta, Royal Caribbean Cruises will sign up to the association’s Codes of Conduct, although Shaw said it was already complying with all regulations.

Abta membership and bonding does not impact on Royal Caribbean Cruises' existing CAA bonding for flight-inclusive cruise packages, which will continue under the Atol scheme.

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