Edwin W. Stephan, the founder, long time-president, and vice-chairman of the board of Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, has passed away at the age of 87.

In 1969, Stephan founded the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and his contributions have helped shape and define the modern cruise industry we know today. 

Under his leadership in 1970, the company launched Song of Norway, the first ship purpose-built for warm-water cruising. 

During Stephan’s tenure, the company saw many industry firsts, including the launch of wide, open-air decks, and the round, cantilevered Viking Crown Lounge that made Royal Caribbean ships stand out.

Royal Caribbean was also the first to ‘stretch’ a major cruise ship by inserting an additional mid-section into Song of Norway in 1978. 

“Ed was an inspiration and a great friend to many in the company.  He was an honourable man who loved his family, his work, and his community,” said chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, Richard D. Fain.  

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ed’s loving wife, Helen, and the children he adored, Michael, Samantha, Gary, and Kristina. He will be deeply missed by all of us here, by his many friends, and by our community.”

A family only service will be held to honour his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations in memory of Edwin Stephan to be made to Mount Sinai Miami Medical Center Foundation in honour of his physician, Eugene J. Sayfie M.D.