NEW YORK -- 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.