# European cruise expansion plans for 2028 > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-cruise-expansion-plans-for-2028 > Updated: 2026-11-03T13:07:44.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Major cruise operators have announced expanded operations and itineraries within Europe for the 2028 season. Royal Caribbean plans a significant expansion to establish year-round cruising in the region. This strategy includes deploying seven ships, led by the Rhapsody of the Seas, which will transition from Mediterranean itineraries in the summer to longer winter voyages covering the Canary Islands, Portugal, Morocco, Cyprus, Malta, and Greece. Additionally, the company will return the Freedom of the Seas to Southampton, UK. Star Clippers has also released its 2028 summer program, featuring 76 itineraries, which represents the largest selection in the company’s history. The provider will utilize three vessels to visit various Mediterranean destinations, including new ports such as Istanbul, Antalya, Malta, and Barcelona. The program offers shorter voyages from cities like Athens, Rome, and Venice, alongside longer trips that focus on smaller ports away from traditional large-scale cruise paths. ## Timeline ### 2026-11-03: Star Clippers announces expanded Mediterranean routes for 2028 Star Clippers has unveiled 76 new sailing itineraries for the summer 2028 season, expanding its Mediterranean routes to include ports like Istanbul, Malta, and Barcelona. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/star-clippers-announces-expanded-mediterranean-routes-for-2028 ### 2026-10-15: Royal Caribbean announces major European expansion for 2028 Royal Caribbean is expanding its European presence for 2028–2029 with a seven-ship deployment, including year-round Mediterranean and Northern European cruises led by Rhapsody of the Seas. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/royal-caribbean-announces-major-european-expansion-for-2028 --- Cite as: European cruise expansion plans for 2028. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-cruise-expansion-plans-for-2028