NBC's 'TODAY' to Broadcast Live Morning Show From Royal Caribbean International's Freedom of the Seas When She Debuts in New York Harbor

NBC's 'TODAY' to Broadcast Live Morning Show From Royal Caribbean International's Freedom of the Seas When She Debuts in New York Harbor

Legendary Singer and Songwriter Barry Manilow to Kick Off Summer Concert Series Onboard World's Largest Ship

NEW YORK, April 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Millions of NBC "TODAY" show fans are in for quite a treat when the morning show sets sail onboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Freedom of the Seas. The top-rated three-hour show will bring Freedom in to New York Harbor on May 12, 2006 where she will be christened by foster mother to hundreds, Louise Calder. Mrs. Calder was selected by "TODAY" viewers to be the Godmother of the world's largest ship. Adding to the excitement, "TODAY" announced on Friday that legendary singer and songwriter Barry Manilow, currently topping the charts around the world with his recent album, will kick off the show's popular Summer Concert Series that morning.

"We are thrilled to introduce Freedom of the Seas to 'TODAY' show viewers," said Adam Goldstein, president for Royal Caribbean International. "It is equally exciting to host world renowned superstar and icon, Barry Manilow onboard for a live performance."

Viewers tuning in to "TODAY" on May 12 will marvel at Freedom's cruise industry firsts including FlowRider, the first surfing simulator at sea; an interactive water park; two cantilevered whirlpools that extend 12 feet out from the sides of the ship; a family suite that sleeps up to 14 people; and a full-size boxing ring.

At 160,000 GRT and holding 3,634 guests double-occupancy, Freedom of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship in the world when she debuts in May 2006. The first in Royal Caribbean's new Freedom class, she will sail seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami calling in Cozumel, Mexico; George Town, Grand Cayman; Montego Bay, Jamaica; and Royal Caribbean's private destination, Labadee, Hispaniola. For more information or to make reservations, go to http://www.royalcaribbean.com/ or call (800) 327-6700.

Contact: Tracy Quan (305) 539-6577
tquan@rccl.com

Lyan Sierra-Caro (305) 539-4091
lsierracaro@rccl.com

Source: Royal Caribbean International

CONTACT: Tracy Quan, +1-305-539-6577, tquan@rccl.com, or Lyan
Sierra-Caro, +1-305-539-4091, lsierracaro@rccl.com

Web site: http://www.royalcaribbean.com/

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