Palma de Mallorca to be next Royal Caribbean base

Royal Caribbean International announced last week it would base a ship in Palma de Mallorca in a strategic move to attract more U.K. and Irish passengers and families.

It is the first time the cruise line will base a ship in the port and marks a departure from its usual homeports of Venice, Barcelona, Rome and Southampton.

Royal Caribbean said the Grandeur of the Seas ship would operate 7-night cruises from the Mallorcan capital during summer 2011.

"Our research has found that Royal Caribbean International is now the brand of choice for families choosing to cruise" said Royal Caribbean GM Jo Rzymowska in a statement.