Royal Caribbean has long embraced the idea of weaving culture into every part of the guest experience. One of the most vibrant ways they do this is through art. 

Launched in 2023, Royal Caribbean’s Artist Discovery program was created to spotlight emerging artists from the places they visit. The mission is simple, but powerful: immerse guests in the destination from the moment they board while giving local creators a global platform. 

Since its debut, the program has featured 18 artists across the Caribbean, showcased exclusively Bahamian talent at Royal Caribbean’s first Royal Beach Club in Nassau, and commissioned large-scale pieces aboard Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. 

 

In 2026, the program is expanding even further to include the newest Icon Class vacation: Legend of the Seas. For the first time, submissions are open to artists across both the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, widening the circle of talent and art brought to sea. 

The next group of budding artists will be commissioned to paint large-scale murals in six highly visible locations on the ship. These murals aren’t just décor – they’re designed as immersive, high-impact pieces that reflect the vibrancy of the Caribbean. Royal Caribbean is currently accepting applications until March 8, 2026.  

Carina Segredo, Art Programs Product Owner on Royal Caribbean’s Product Development team, shares that the program’s success comes from the caliber of the art and the community from where each artist builds.   

“It's incredibly special to help people show their artwork to millions of guests and propel their artistic dreams. But the real magic is in the community they form, connecting onboard at dinner or over coffee to bounce ideas off each other.”  

Her passion reflects the spirit of the program: supporting artists both emotionally and professionally as they place deeply personal pieces into the world. 

 

Curating a Connection to Culture 

Art at sea isn’t new. Royal Caribbean Group has long curated extensive collections across its fleet. But the Artist Discovery Program brings a fresh layer of authenticity by showcasing art from locals from the destinations guests are exploring. The program also provides new economic opportunities for regional artists. And what better way to connect travelers to their destinations than by bringing local art onboard to further immerse them in local cultures.  

Every stroke of paint becomes part of a much larger story, one where culture isn’t just seen but felt. 

 

By showcasing this immeasurable talent and enriching spaces onboard with one-of-a-kind murals and paintings, Royal Caribbean is thrilled to spotlight a new selection of artists. At Royal Caribbean Group, each brand in the Group’s portfolio – Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea – aims to connect guests to local cultures, traditions, and experiences, whether through art, cuisine, or dances and celebrations. 

For more information on how to apply, eligibility guidelines, installation location and timeline, and more, please visit https://www.royalcaribbeangroup.com/artist-discovery-program/. The application deadline is March 8, 2026.