In 2024, Royal Caribbean and Make-A-Wish entered into a multi-year partnership supporting the nonprofit’s mission to create life-changing memories for children, offering hope and strength to wish kids and their families.
In its inaugural year, Royal Caribbean’s “Wishes at Sea” program not only welcomed kids on 10 different ships, granting their wish, an all-expenses-paid getaway that has been planned specifically for wish kids and their immediate family, but also raised $1.8 million in donations. Make-A-Wish kids have chosen iconic vacations that are packed with adventure, VIP treatment, and exclusive experiences.
This year, Royal Caribbean partnered with Make-A-Wish Shanghai in an effort to expand its current “Wishes At Sea” program. On June 12, 2026, Royal Caribbean and Make-A-Wish Shanghai fulfilled their first wish aboard Spectrum of the Seas. 13-year-old Xiao Ze, who lives with progressive muscular dystrophy, and his family embarked on a 3-night voyage to Jeju, Korea.
“Through this partnership, Royal Caribbean can do what we do best: create unforgettable family vacations while bringing joy and connection to children facing critical illnesses and their loved ones. As a leader in vacation experiences, we are proud to turn meaningful journeys into sources of strength and inspiration for families in need,” said Benjamin Bouldin, President, Greater China and Managing Director of Asia, Royal Caribbean.
During the launch, Make-A-Wish presented the young man with an honorary crew certificate to commemorate his voyage. He and his family explored Jeju, visiting Snoopy Garden, Fairy Tale Village, and Pyoseon Beach.
“We are deeply grateful to see Xiao Ze’s wish come to life. This journey is more than a vacation. It brought comfort, bolstered confidence and offered hope to Xiao Ze and his family, in a time when they need it most,” said Shen Li, Secretary-General of Make-A-Wish Shanghai.
Hospital visits, treatments, and disruption of normal activities can be a devastating reality for children with critical illnesses. The partnership between Royal Caribbean and Make-A-Wish offers a dream vacation that can give these children and their families the strength to keep fighting, offering inspiration, hope, joy, and adventure.
Anyone who would like to get involved can make a direct donation online at Royal Caribbean’s Make-A-Wish page, where 100% of the proceeds go directly to Make-A-Wish. While cruising, guests can often join the ship’s Sports Staff for a “Walk for Wishes” 5K, participate in walkathons, and bid in auctions for exclusive experiences to help raise money for the nonprofit.
Spectrum of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s first Quantum Ultra Class ship. She was purpose-built for the Asian market and debuted from her homeport of Shanghai in June 2019. She features the RipCord skydiving simulator, the SkyPad VR trampoline, the North Star glass observation capsule, and the Two70 high-tech entertainment space. Her specialty dining includes Teppanyaki and Sichuan Red, offering authentic Chinese cuisine. Another unique venue is the Bionic Bar, where guests are served by robotic bartenders.