A Sunrise, a Cruise, and a Dream Come True: Royal Caribbean Launches 'Wishes at Sea
Spectrum of the Seas welcomed its first wish child as Royal Caribbean unveiled a heartfelt new programme with Make-A-Wish Shanghai
Some holidays create lasting memories, but for one young guest aboard Spectrum of the Seas, this voyage meant so much more.
Royal Caribbean has launched "Wishes at Sea," a new programme in partnership with Make-A-Wish Shanghai that will give children living with critical illnesses the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable family holidays at sea.
Designed for children aged 3 to 17, the initiative officially set sail on 12 June, with its very first wish bringing smiles, special moments and treasured memories to one deserving family.
A Dream Comes True at Sea
The programme's first guest was 13-year-old Xiao Ze from Nanyang, Henan, China, who lives with progressive muscular dystrophy. With limited opportunities to travel, he had always dreamed of seeing the open ocean, watching the sunrise from a cruise ship and enjoying a holiday with his family.
That wish became reality during a three-night sailing from Shanghai to Jeju, South Korea, between 12 and 15 June.
One of the most memorable moments came on the second morning of the cruise, when Xiao Ze visited the ship's bridge to watch the sun rise over the horizon. It was a simple wish, but one that became an unforgettable highlight of the voyage.
To celebrate the occasion, Make-A-Wish Shanghai presented him with an honorary crew certificate, marking his own seafaring adventure aboard Spectrum of the Seas.
Exploring Jeju Together
The adventure continued ashore in Jeju, where Xiao Ze and his family visited Snoopy Garden, Fairy Tale Village and Pyoseon Beach. Along the way, they sampled local flavours and enjoyed spending precious time together while exploring the island.
Back on board, there was plenty more to experience. The family took in sweeping ocean views from North Star, shared meals in the ship's main dining room and enjoyed performances of The Silk Road and The Effectors at the Royal Theater.
It was the kind of family holiday Royal Caribbean is known for, filled with special moments both at sea and ashore.
Make a wish Shanghai
A Partnership Built on Hope
The launch of "Wishes at Sea" was marked during a ceremony aboard Spectrum of the Seas, attended by leaders from Royal Caribbean and Make-A-Wish Shanghai, along with the ship's Captain Flemming Nielsen and Hotel Director Igor Benkovic.
"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," said Benjamin Bouldin, President Greater China and Managing Director of Asia for Royal Caribbean.
"As a leader in vacation experiences, we are proud to turn meaningful journeys into sources of strength and inspiration for families in need."
Shen Li, Secretary-General of Make-A-Wish Shanghai, said the experience brought far more than a holiday.
"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."
More Wishes Still to Come
Royal Caribbean says "Wishes at Sea" is only just beginning.
The cruise line plans to continue welcoming more children aboard Spectrum of the Seas and future sailings, giving more families the chance to discover new destinations, create lasting memories and enjoy meaningful time together.
For Xiao Ze and his family, the programme's very first sailing proved that sometimes the most memorable cruise isn't about where the ship is going, it's about the unforgettable moments shared along the way.
Until next time, keep dreaming of your next cruise.