The Tampa Port Authority is pleased to announce today’s plaque presentation on board Royal Caribbean International’s (RCI) Jewel of the Seas, welcoming the beautiful cruise ship to her new home port for the winter 2011-2012 cruise season.

Launched in 2004, the 90,000-ton Radiance Class Jewel of the Seas holds 2,500 passengers and more than 850 crew members.

At 962 feet in length, the ship offers passengers an array of dining, entertainment and recreational opportunities.

RCI credits the ship as having the highest percentage of outside cabins in its fleet. Jewel of the Seas replace Radiance of the Seas, which sailed 44 sailings from Tampa during the 2010-2011 season. Vacationers can enjoy options including two, five-night and a four-night Western Caribbean itinerary from Tampa.

“Having this beautiful ship home port in Tampa is an indication of the growth trend in Tampa as a cruise port in recent years, and Royal Caribbean’s decision to enhance activity at the Port of Tampa is testament to the strength of the Tampa cruise market,” William “Hoe” Brown, Tampa’s Port Authority vice chairman, said: “The Tampa Port Authority is extremely pleased to welcome the beautiful Jewel of the Seas, and we anticipate much success in the years ahead.”