Royal Caribbean International ships Empress of the Seas (pictured) and Majesty of the Seas will leave the line’s fleet later this month.
In a statement, the line’s president and chief executive Michael Bayley said the decision had been “a major moment” in Royal’s history, adding that it was “difficult but necessary”.
The ships have been sold to an undisclosed third party, based in Asia-Pacific region, the line said. Royal said the buyers would release further details in the future.
Passengers and agents affected by the ships’ departure will be contacted by the line.
Bayley said: “Empress and Majesty of the Seas made indelible marks on the cruise industry with their revolutionary design and size.
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“Touted as the cruise industry’s most ground-breaking ships when they were introduced, they continued to make history throughout their more than three decades of service.
“Saying goodbye to these two beloved ships is a major moment in Royal Caribbean’s history – one that is difficult but necessary.”
Empress launched in 1990, offering three and four-night cruises departing from Miami, visiting The Bahamas.
In 2017, the ship completed Royal’s maiden voyage to Cuba.
Majesty – the line’s third Sovereign class ship – debuted in 1992. The vessel initially offered seven-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.
Bayley added: “With plans for new, innovative ships to join our fleet in the upcoming years, we look forward to our guests and crew continuing to make new memories with us.”