All four corners, one epic voyage.

The Ultimate World Cruise

The most epic world cruise ever to set sail.

Get ready to see the world in a whole new light — introducing the Ultimate World Cruise onboard Serenade of the Seas®. You can spend 274 nights bonding with like-minded explorers over global discoveries across all seven continents. Or pick a corner of the globe and explore every inch of it on one of four Ultimate World Cruise℠ segments — each an immersive voyage of 60+ nights. Connect with countless distinct cultures, soak up the most spectacular landscapes on Earth, and marvel at World Wonders that showcase mankind’s boundless imagination.

Or call your local travel advisor . For more information, call the Ultimate World Cruise Contact Line at 800-423-2100.

Santorini, Greece

Dive deeper into the world's wonders

Ultimate world cruise.

Visit 150+ destinations and 11 World Wonders, across 7 continents and 60+ countries. The Ultimate World Cruise features four distinct segments that traverse the globe in one incredible journey.

36 Destinations, 64 Nights

Dec 10th – Feb 11th

Ultimate Americas Cruise

40 Destinations, 87 nights

Feb 11th - May 9th

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise

44 Destinations, 63 Nights

May 9th - July 10th

Ultimate Middle East & Med Cruise

40 Destinations, 63 Nights

July 10th - Sep 10th

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise

World map showing routes

Chichén Itzá, Cozumel, Mexico

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Machu Picchu, Lima, Peru

Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Australia

Great Wall of China, Beijing, China

The Taj Mahal, Cochin, India

Petra, Aqaba, Jordan

Great Pyramid of Giza, Alexandria, Egypt

Temple of Artemis, Ephesus, Turkey

The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Berlin, Germany

Copenhagen, Denmark

New York, New York

Dec 10th 2023 – Feb 11th 2024

Venture across Three Continents

36 Destinations, 64 Nights

Arica, Chile

Arica, Chile

Your once-in-a-lifetime journey begins December 2023, embarking from in Miami on the first segment of the Ultimate World Cruise℠ — the Ultimate Americas Cruise. Go from postcard-perfect Caribbean shores—including the ABC islands —to viewing abundant wildlife like sea lions, penguins and whales roaming glacier-studded Antarctica as you round Cape Horn. Along the way, discover World Wonders in South America, including man-made marvels and extraordinary natural phenomena.

Take in the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world, Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. Behold the largest waterfall system on the planet, Iguazú Falls near Buenos Aires. And explore Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic symbols of Peru’s ancient Inca heritage. Then sail up to the Yucatàn Peninsula to discover hidden coves and dramatic rock formations along Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas before exploring Ensenada.

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Feb 11th 2024 - May 9th 2024

Far East. Down Under. And up for anything

40 Destinations, 87 nights

Taj Mahal, India

Taj Mahal, India

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Venture miles from ordinary in Australia and Asia on this leg of the Ultimate World Cruise SM . Explore Hawaii and discover the crystal-clear waters of Mo’orea and Tahiti in unspoiled French Polynesia. Set out for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef — the only living thing on the planet that’s visible from space. Trek from pristine natural beauty in Bali to one of the most iconic man-made World Wonders, the Great Wall of China. And discover the unparalleled culture and modern architecture of Tokyo, then take in one of the most breathtaking sights in the world — The Taj Mahal.

May 9th 2024 - July 10th 2024

Adventure through time and place

44 Destinations, 63 Nights

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece

From glamorous Dubai, cruise to World Wonders left behind by the civilizations of legendary pharaohs and emperors, like The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. And countless renowned ruins across the Mediterranean and Aegean seas — from the Acropolis in Athens to the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus and the Colosseum in Rome.

Plus lesser-traveled Greek ports like Olympia, which was once the sanctuary site to honor Zeus and the location of the first Olympic games. Your journey continues to even more destinations known for their storied history — like Split, Barcelona, Cannes and Provence.

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July 10th 2024 - September 10th 2024

Set a course for the north

40 Destinations, 63 Nights

Blue Lagoon geothermal spa in Iceland

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The final leg of the Ultimate World Cruise is an immersive cultural exploration starting in the Med heading north. Discover Barcelona’s brilliant architecture, including Gaudi’s Sagrada Família. Savor flavors across continents — like a dinner of tagine and mint tea in Morocco.

Go from taking in fjords in Norway to biking through Copenhagen. Finally, experience another natural marvel — the other-worldly geothermal seawater at The Blue Lagoon in Iceland before stopping in New York and Perfect Day at CocoCay on your way back to Miami.

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Amenities Included in your entire adventure

Join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks and amenities — all included in your adventure. So you can complement back-to-back discoveries onshore with all your favorite comforts onboard, plus thoughtful touches to elevate every moment.

*New World Wonders Shore Excursions included for Crown & Anchor® Society Platinum members & above

Business Class Airfare

Premium Transportation Between Airport, Hotel and Ship

Pre-cruise Hotel & Gala

7 New World Wonders Shore Excursion*

Deluxe Beverage Package

Wash & Fold Laundry Service

VOOM Surf & Stream

A World Wandering Fleet Favorite

Designed with acres of glass offering panoramic vistas of sea, sky and land, Serenade of the Seas® is the perfect ship for scenery-scoping. Take in captivating views of Norway’s majestic fjords, gaze at glaciers in Antarctica, and soak up the sun and the sights while cruising through French Polynesia. In between adventures onshore, you can unwind poolside or tee off on the mini golf green. Settle in for dazzling entertainment or dance until dawn beneath the stars. And with top-notch restaurants onboard, every meal turns into a global taste-tour that’s as immersive as your Ultimate World Cruise.

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Machu Picchu, Peru

Machu Picchu, Peru

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Cruise Details & Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ultimate World Cruise?

The Ultimate World Cruise is a never-before-offered Royal Caribbean adventure that takes you on a 274-night journey around the world from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024. The adventure begins and ends in Miami, Florida, visiting all 7 continents, 65 countries, over 150 ports of call and 11 World Wonders. More than 40 of the ports you’ll visit are either rarely available on our other itineraries or brand new to Royal Caribbean, so get ready for the exploration of a lifetime. Book The Ultimate World Cruise early to ensure the best accommodation throughout the entire voyage.

What is the starting price for the Ultimate World Cruise and its 4 individual segments?

Ultimate World Cruise Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your 274-night Ultimate World Cruise fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate World Cruise complimentary amenities like business class airfare, pre-cruise hotel and gala, Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, wash and fold laundry service, and more.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses of $4,667 USD per person are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

Ultimate World Cruise Segments Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your Ultimate Cruise segment fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate Cruise segment complimentary amenities like Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, and wash and fold laundry service.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

What are the 11 World Wonders the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments will visit, and on what dates?

Ultimate Americas Cruise: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024

Chichen Itza: via Cozumel Dec 13, 2023

Christ the Redeemer: via Rio de Janeiro Dec 31, 2023

Iguazu Falls: via Buenos Aires Jan 5, 2024

Machu Picchu: via Lima Jan 29-30, 2024

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024

Great Barrier Reef: via Airlie Beach and Cairns March 13-14, 2024

Great Wall of China: via Beijing April 7-8, 2024

Taj Mahal: via Cochin May 1, 2024

Ultimate Middle East & Med Cruise: May 9, 2024 – July 10, 2024

Petra: via Aqaba May 17, 2024

Pyramids of Giza: via Alexandria May 21-22, 2024

Temple of Artemis: via Ephesus May 28, 2024

Colosseum: via Rome July 1, 2024

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024

There are no World Wonders visited during this Ultimate Cruise segment.

What benefits are included when booking the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

Guests who join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise will receive the following inclusions:

Embarkation Amenities

Round-trip business class airfare

Pre-cruise hotel and gala

Premium transfers between airport, hotel and ship

Onboard Amenities

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire voyage

VOOM Wi-Fi internet for entire voyage

Gratuities for entire voyage

Wash and fold laundry service

Our Crown & Anchor Society guests who hold Platinum status and above will also receive the exclusive benefit of included excursions to the 7 New World Wonders.

Guests who join us for one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments will receive the following inclusions:

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire segment

VOOM Wi-Fi for entire segment

Gratuities for entire segment

Wash and fold laundry service for entire segment

Will I receive the same stateroom for the entire duration of my Ultimate World Cruise or Ultimate Cruise segment?

Our Ultimate World Cruise team will ensure that you get the same stateroom for the entirety of the cruise when purchased within the exclusive booking window through November 2021. If you are purchasing your Ultimate World Cruise after the Ultimate Cruise segments have opened for sale, our team will work with you to make every effort to secure the same stateroom for your entire time onboard, based on the remaining available inventory.

What is the payment schedule for the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

To reserve a stateroom on the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments a non-refundable deposit is required. Final payment must be received by Royal Caribbean 180 days prior to cruise departure. For bookings created within 180 days prior to cruise departure, final payment must be received within 48 hours of booking.

How long do I have to place my deposit for the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

If outside of final payment, our Ultimate World Cruise and Ultimate Cruise segment guests are able to place a two-week hold to lock in their preferred stateroom and price before deposit is required. Your deposit must be placed within the two-week offer period to secure your selected stateroom.

Are there travel insurance options available on the Ultimate World Cruise or the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

There are travel insurance options available to guests who meet certain qualifications. For more information, please call 800-423-2100 or contact your Travel Advisor.

Why are the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments only offered as nonrefundable?

Our Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments are a unique adventure that has never before been offered by Royal Caribbean and we want to ensure that our guests who are committed to sharing this experience with us receive priority placement. To preserve this unique experience, all sailings onboard Serenade of the Seas from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024, will be offered as exclusively nonrefundable.

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HIT THE DECK RUNNING ON DAY ONE

An easier way to plan ahead.

There's so much to experience on a Royal Caribbean International cruise and we want to make sure you make the most of your time with us. Cruise Planner is available to help you pre-plan your vacation right after you've booked your cruise. Now you can plan ahead and reserve shore excursions, book specialty dining, schedule spa treatments and more on your tablet or computer from the comfort of your home.

Board your cruise relaxed and worry free.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VACATION WITH YOUR CALENDAR

Now you and your party can customize your vacation together using the Cruise Planner calendar. Your calendar is automatically populated as you reserve. Each day of your trip is listed and broken down by location, date, arrival and departure times and what has been reserved by guest. It's a snapshot view of what your vacation looks like, reserved in advance the way you want it.

Shore excursions

The world is yours to explore.

Make the most of it by reserving shore excursions at every port in your itinerary. There's an excursion for everyone, from adventure seekers to foodies, history buffs to animal lovers. This is your chance to get to the heart of the most exciting destinations of the world.

Do it with a one-of-a-kind adventure you'll never forget

Dining made easy

Reserve your table at any of our specialty restaurants, from our signature steakhouse Chops Grille to the imaginative curiosities of Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Enjoy additional savings of up to 40% off when you purchase one of our Specialty Dining Packages.

Plus, enjoy the convenience of selecting a dinner time that fits your schedule with My Time Dining.

Restaurants vary by ship.

Quench your thirst onboard with a beverage package that gets you the best value on your favorite drinks, from Coca-Cola® to fine wine, premium and frozen cocktails to a full selection of beers, fruit juices to Evian® water.

Start your vacation with a beverage in your hand from the moment you get onboard.

Stay connected while onboard with VOOM - the fastest internet at sea. Share your adventure and upload content to Facebook and Instagram, post videos to YouTube, tweet on Twitter, and have face‑to‑face conversations via Google Hangouts and Skype. Plus, you can even stream movies, games and apps via your personal accounts with DIRECTV, Netflix, Hulu and more. VOOM makes staying in the loop easy and affordable.

Stay connected and go full stream ahead with VOOM.

Relive the memories from your vacation with professional photos of your favorite moments onboard. Our photographers capture the joy of your adventure — from embarkation to formal night — and all the fun in between. Plus you’ll enjoy savings of up to 20% when you purchase a print or digital package before you sail.

At the Vitality SM Spa, relaxation and rejuvenation rule. Indulge with a variety of treatments that will leave you feeling like new. Pamper yourself with invigorating massage therapies, body wraps and facials. Give yourself the gift of youth with medi-spa treatments such as BOTOX® and Dysport®.

Glam up for formal night with a new hairdo and a mani-pedi. With treatments for everyone from couples, teens and men, you're bound to find at least one amazing indulgence at our spa.

The gorgeous view isn't the only thing that will dazzle you onboard our innovative cruise ships. Our complimentary shows are sure to entertain you from beginning to end.

Sit back and enjoy a variety of incredible productions, including award-winning musicals from Broadway and the West End, original Vegas-style productions, live comedy acts, and aquatic and ice shows.

Only one cruise line offers the thrilling opportunity to learn to surf, to feel the rush of skydiving right on the deck of the ship with Ripcord by iFly or to go on a behind-the-scenes ship tour.

Reserve these signature activities and more in Cruise Planner.

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Best Royal Caribbean Cruises

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Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

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Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. Royal Caribbean's latest ship is the first Quantum Ultra Class vessel to sail in the United States. As a member of this class, Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY, billed as the only skydiving simulator available at sea, and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below. 

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers nine bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more. 

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. 

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, as well as to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

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Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

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Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

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Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

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Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

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Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas (first launched in 2001) underwent an extensive renovation in January 2018. It boasts modern amenities like an outdoor movie screen and Wi-Fi (for an extra fee). Other highlights include an ice skating rink, a surf simulator and a rock climbing wall. 

There are seven dining venues across the ship, the newest of which is the Izumi Japanese specialty restaurant. While adults can relax at the ship's nine bars and lounges, youngsters can mix and mingle at age-appropriate youth clubs and a teens-only disco. Among other onboard amenities, Adventure of the Seas features an abundance of pools and whirlpools, including an indoor/outdoor pool and lounge area exclusive to adults called the Solarium.

When it comes to lodging, recent cruisers found staterooms to be comfortable and spacious. Cabins come in four categories – Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite – and about 60% offer ocean views. The ship's 2018 revamp brought with it new Interior and Ocean View staterooms, as well as a new Suite Lounge. While it may be difficult to find quiet spaces on the 3,807-passenger ship, recent guests were still complimentary of the service on board and the 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. 

Adventure of the Seas sails to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale , Florida and Orlando , Florida. The ship also completes transatlantic voyages.

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Oasis of the Seas

The 6,771-passenger Oasis of the Seas saw an extensive refurbishment in late 2019, unveiling the line's first dedicated karaoke venue, a live music space with a large dance floor, brand-new dining options (including a barbecue restaurant), three waterslides, new bars and more. 

While this ship is not for those seeking secluded spaces, most cruisers say the seven distinct onboard neighborhoods make up for that. The behemoth ship features designer boutiques and larger staterooms than other ships in the fleet.

Like other Royal Caribbean vessels, Oasis of the Seas offers four cabin categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior rooms average about 150 square feet, while Suite category cabins can span anywhere from 287 to 1,524 square feet and include added amenities like Jacuzzis and expansive balconies.

While recent cruisers were impressed with the ship's abundant amenities, they noted that with 2,109 crew members, there aren't many tailored onboard experiences – especially when the ship is filled to capacity. Oasis of the Seas caters to those looking for nonstop onboard action.

Oasis of the Seas sails from Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Barcelona and Rome to destinations in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Oasis-class ships, stop at Vitality Café for protein shakes and fresh juices. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

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Ovation of the Seas

The 4,905-passenger, 1,500-crew-member Ovation of the Seas features a skydiving simulator, an observation pod that hovers 300 feet above the sea and a bionic bar where robots mix cocktails. Other highlights include a rock climbing wall, a surf simulator, an outdoor movie screen and upscale boutiques like Cartier.

After working up an appetite, passengers can take their pick of 16 eateries, including six signature restaurants that require reservations and an additional fee. Many recent cruisers praised the cuisine, from the main dining room buffet to the Italian menu created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Travelers were also mostly complimentary of the staterooms, 75% of which boast balconies. The ship offers Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite category accommodations, all of which are equipped with flat-screen TVs, safes and sitting areas. Even those staying in Interior rooms can catch a glimpse of the sea with virtual balconies that give a real-time view of the ship's location.

The most common drawback, according to cruisers? You're likely to encounter long lines and crowded common areas. Some recent travelers also felt the service was not as good as expected. 

Ovation of the Seas sets sail from Vancouver ,  Honolulu , Seattle  and  Sydney  for itineraries in Alaska, Australia, Hawaii and the South Pacific.

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Vision of the Seas

Most recently updated in late 2018 (with the exception of routine maintenance in 2022), the 2,514-passenger, 742-crew-member Vision of the Seas offers Royal Caribbean staples like diverse dining venues and nonstop entertainment. Past cruisers especially praise the ship's appealing decor and the Solarium, an adults-only pool and lounge area. 

In terms of food, travelers can choose from the main dining room, the buffet and several casual eateries. Cruisers recommend springing for a meal at the ship's specialty restaurants, which range from the Chops Grille steakhouse to the Izumi Asian venue. Food in the main dining room received mixed reviews, but travelers praised the service around the ship.

When it comes to daytime activities, guests can try rock climbing, swim in the pools (which can become crowded) or play games in the casino. There are also sushi- and cupcake-making classes available.

In terms of lodging, Vision of the Seas touts four staterooms categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while Suites on the opposite end of the spectrum range from 243 to 1,140 square feet. Opt for a balcony-equipped Suite and you'll enjoy cushier extras like whirlpool bathtubs. All cabins include amenities like flat-screen TVs and vanity areas. 

Vision of the Seas departs from Baltimore for itineraries in the Caribbean, New England and Canada.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

Basic Information

Departure ports, private ports/islands, formal nights, complimentary dining, specialty dining, bars and beverages, accommodations, crown & anchor society, final thoughts.

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Royal Caribbean is a large cruise line offering mega-ship cruises across the globe. The company has been on the cutting edge of the cruise industry since it launched in 1969. Since then, it has continued to push the boundaries of cruise ship size and amenities, offering lots of “firsts” including the first rock climbing, ice skating, and surfing at sea.

Today, Royal Caribbean has 26 ships sailing to hundreds of destinations every day . If you’ve never cruised before, you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find on a Royal Caribbean ship. If you are a cruising veteran, you probably look to Royal Caribbean for some of the biggest and most innovative ships at sea.

Name: Royal Caribbean International

Parent Company: Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. (also owns Celebrity Cruises , Azamara, and Silversea Cruises)

Number of Ships: 26 (2 more will be added in 2024)

Destinations: 300+

Loyalty Program: Crown & Anchor Society

Credit Card : Royal Caribbean Visa Signature ® Card

Royal Caribbean boasts a fleet of 26 cruise ships :

  • Adventure of the Seas
  • Allure of the Seas
  • Anthem of the Seas
  • Brilliance of the Seas
  • Enchantment of the Seas
  • Explorer of the Seas
  • Freedom of the Seas
  • Grandeur of the Seas
  • Harmony of the Seas
  • Independence of the Seas
  • Jewel of the Seas
  • Liberty of the Seas
  • Mariner of the Seas
  • Navigator of the Seas
  • Oasis of the Seas
  • Odyssey of the Seas
  • Ovation of the Seas
  • Quantum of the Seas
  • Radiance of the Seas
  • Rhapsody of the Seas
  • Serenade of the Seas
  • Spectrum of the Seas
  • Symphony of the Seas
  • Vision of the Seas
  • Voyager of the Seas
  • Wonder of the Seas

Two additional ships will be added in the coming years: Icon of the Seas will debut in January 2024 and Utopia of the Seas is coming in spring 2024.

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean sails to more than 300 destinations around the world from 50 departure ports.

Owning a private island or beach resort is a common thing among large cruise lines and is something many passengers have come to expect.

The Royal Caribbean “Perfect Day Island Collection” consists of 1 current location and 1 in the works:

  • CocoCay: Located in the Bahamas, this destination features the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas and the tallest waterslide in North America. You’ll also find a swim-up bar, wave pool, zip line, beaches, a kid’s area, and more.
  • Lelepa: Located on the island of Vanuatu in the South Pacific, this destination was originally scheduled to open in 2022. However, the pandemic has put those plans on hold and there’s not currently an updated opening date.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Hot Tip: You can earn points and miles each time you set sail if you book your cruise with one of these credit cards .

Onboard Activities

There is so much to do on a Royal Caribbean cruise, including pools, a casino, themed parties, Broadway-style shows, youth programs, and art auctions, to name a few.

Icon of the Seas Thrill Island

Royal Caribbean is also an industry leader in offering some of the most unique and interesting experiences at sea. Next time you’re on a Royal Caribbean cruise, keep your eye out for some of these activities (not all activities are offered on every ship):

  • Bumper cars
  • Central Park
  • Cooking classes
  • Dance classes
  • Escape Rooms
  • H20 Zone Water Park
  • Ice Skating
  • Mystery dinner theater
  • Outdoor movies
  • Ripcord By iFly
  • Rock climbing wall
  • Scuba certification
  • Sky Pad bungee trampoline
  • Spanish classes
  • Table tennis
  • Tidal Wave boomerang slide
  • Trapeze school
  • Waterslides: Typhoon, Cyclone, The Blaster, Riptide, Supercell

Royal Caribbean still offers formal nights on its cruises. Most itineraries will have 1 to 4 formal nights :

  • 3- to 5-night cruises: 1 formal night
  • 6- to 10-night cruises: 2 formal nights
  • 11- to 14-night cruises: 3 formal nights
  • 15+ night cruises: 3-4 formal nights

Dress on formal nights can include suits and ties, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, or evening gowns. On formal nights, many of the restaurants require formal dress and The Chef’s Table dining experience requires formal attire.

If you don’t want to dress up, that’s fine, too. Just stick to the buffet or some of the more casual spots for dinner.

Hot Tip: Royal Caribbean is considered one of the best cruise lines for families , so bring your whole crew onboard.

Dining and Beverages

Like most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean offers both complimentary dining that’s included in your cruise fare and specialty dining that has either a flat fee or à la carte pricing.

Sorrento's Pizza

There are lots of dining options that are included in the price of your cruise , so you can eat every meal on your ship without paying an extra dime. The following locations are always complimentary, however, not all of these options are offered on every ship:

  • Cafe Promenade
  • Coastal Kitchen
  • El Loco Fresh
  • Main dining room
  • Solarium Bistro Restaurant
  • Sorrento’s Pizza
  • Splashaway Cafe
  • The Cafe @ Two70
  • Vitality Cafe
  • Windjammer Buffet

Hot Tip: Beverages like wine, beer, cocktails, and even soda will usually cost extra even at the complimentary restaurants. You can purchase a beverage package when you book your cruise or once you get on board. There are different drink package options available including ones that include alcoholic beverages, soda-only packages, and water bottle packages.

You’ll also find restaurants on every Royal Caribbean ship that come with additional charges — either a per-person fee or à la carte menu pricing.

The following dining options will cost extra over what you pay for your cruise:

  • 150 Central Park
  • Cafe Latte-Tudes
  • Chef’s Table
  • Chops Grille
  • Coffee and Tea Shop
  • Cupcake Cupboard
  • Fish & Ships
  • Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen
  • Giovanni’s Table
  • Hooked Seafood
  • Izumi Hibachi and Sushi
  • Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver
  • Johnny Rockets
  • Johnny Rockets Express
  • La Patisserie
  • Portside BBQ
  • Room Service
  • Samba Grill
  • Sichuan Red
  • Sugar Beach

If you would like to try out some of the specialty restaurants, you can purchase a dining package ahead of time or once you are on board the ship. You’ll be able to choose between a 3-restaurant package or an unlimited package. Kids ages 6 to 10 can dine at specialty restaurants for only $10. Kids ages 5 and under are free.

Hot Tip: How about specialty dining for free? Look out for deals when you book your cruise. Lots of websites offer perks like free specialty dining when you book with them. Be sure to check out our guide to the best websites to book a cruise to get you started.

There are plenty of places on Royal Caribbean ships to kick back and relax with your favorite beverage. Bars and lounges offer à la carte pricing or you can use your beverage package.

Bionic Bar

Here are the bars and lounges you may find on your Royal Caribbean ship (not all locations are offered on every ship):

  • The Bamboo Room
  • Champagne Bar
  • Diamond Club
  • English Pub
  • The Lime and Coconut
  • North Star Bar
  • Playmakers Bar & Arcade
  • Rising Tide Bar
  • Schooner Bar
  • Solarium Bar
  • Suite Lounge
  • Trellis Bar
  • Wipe Out Bar

If you would prefer to pay for your drinks upfront, you can choose one of Royal Caribbean’s beverage packages:

Deluxe Beverage Package

  • Bottled water
  • Coca-Cola souvenir cup
  • Cocktails, spirits, and liquor
  • Coffee and tea
  • Freshly squeezed juice
  • Non-alcoholic cocktails
  • Unlimited soda and Coca-Cola Freestyle beverages
  • Wine by the glass

Refreshment Package

Classic Soda Package

Water Package

  • 6-, 12-, or 24-packs of water delivered to your stateroom

Hot Tip: The drinking age onboard any Royal Caribbean ship is 21+ on sailings from North America and 18+ on sailings from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

There are so many different types of rooms you can book on your Royal Caribbean cruise. The 4 basic types of rooms include interior, oceanview, balcony, or suite, but there are many different types of rooms among those categories.

No matter what room category you choose, you’ll enjoy the following amenities:

  • Drawer and closet space
  • Flat-screen TV

Royal Caribbean offers a few unique room categories as well:

Virtual Balcony Staterooms — These rooms are available on select ships (including every interior room on Quantum of the Seas). They feature an 80-inch screen that gives you a virtual ocean view via a live camera outside of the ship.

Virtual Balcony Stateroom

Unique Interior View Rooms or Balconies — These rooms have a window or a balcony, but the view isn’t of the ocean! These rooms look out on the action inside the ship like The Royal Promenade or Central Park.

Royal Suite Class — This is a category of rooms that offer the highest level of luxury . You’ll not only enjoy fantastic accommodations but amazing experiences as well. These rooms offer 3 tiers of luxury — Sea Class, Sky Class, and the most luxurious, Star Class.

The Ultimate Family Suite — This one-of-a-kind room at sea is only available on Symphony of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas. It features 2 stories of the ultimate in family luxury including a balcony with a Jacuzzi, private game room, in-suite slide, and tons of other VIP perks!

Ultimate Family Suite on the Symphony of the Seas

Hot Tip: Tight budget? Why not pay for part or all of your cruise with points and miles ? 

Royal Caribbean offers a loyalty program called the Crown & Anchor Society .

Crown Anchor Society

After you’ve sailed with Royal Caribbean once, you’ll be automatically enrolled as a member of the Crown & Anchor Society. As a member you’ll earn 1 Cruise Point for every night you sail . Your points are doubled if you book a suite.

There are 6 tiers of membership in the Crown & Anchor Society:

  • Gold: 3+ Cruise Points
  • Platinum: 30+ Cruise Points
  • Emerald: 55+ Cruise Points
  • Diamond: 80+ Cruise Points
  • Diamond Plus: 175+ Cruise Points
  • Pinnacle Club: 700+ Cruise Points

Benefits vary by membership tier and can include things like onboard discounts, priority check-in, onboard lounges, private departure area, and free or discounted cruises .

Hot Tip: Make sure you’re prepared — check out our printable cruise packing list before you set sail.

Cruising is a great way to spend your vacation and Royal Caribbean offers some of the biggest and best ships around.

On a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll enjoy onboard activities like waterslides, zip-lining, bumper cars, and rock climbing. You’ll be able to dine at one of the many included restaurants, or you can choose a specialty restaurant like Giovanni’s Table, Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, or Johnny Rockets.

After a long day at sea, you’ll rest comfortably in your stateroom, whether you choose a Virtual Balcony room or opt for luxury in a Royal Class Suite. Plus you’ll earn perks and bonuses each time you cruise as a member of the Crown & Anchor Society.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to over 300 destinations, so no matter what part of the world you want to visit, chances are you can get there on a cruise.

The information regarding the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature ® Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best ship on royal caribbean.

Royal Caribbean’s biggest and best ships are the Oasis Class ships — Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas. However, the new Icon of the Seas which will debut in 2024, is set to be the biggest cruise ship in the world.

How much are drink packages on Royal Caribbean?

Beverage package prices on Royal Caribbean vary based on length of cruise and your itinerary. Here’s a look at what kind of pricing you can expect:

  • Deluxe Beverage Package (includes alcohol): $63 to $89 per day
  • Refreshment Package (includes soda, coffee, mocktails, juices, and water): $29 to $38 per day
  • Soda-only package: $12.99 to $15 per day

What is Royal Caribbean's newest ship?

The newest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet is currently Wonder of the Seas. However, there are 2 new ships debuting in 2024: Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

Is food free on Royal Caribbean?

Yes, Royal Caribbean has multiple dining venues on each ship that are included in the price of the cruise so you don’t have to pay anything extra onboard. There are also specialty restaurants that charge extra.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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The best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for every type of traveler

Gene Sloan

What's the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship? We get this question a lot, and our answer always is the same: It depends.

It depends on what sort of traveler you are. Royal Caribbean is the world's biggest cruise line, and it has more ships than any other major line, including vessels in a wide range of sizes and with a wide range of amenities. While they all have a lot in common, they have some major differences, too, that make them more or less appealing to different types of travelers.

Some Royal Caribbean ships — such as the line's Oasis-class vessels and recently launched Icon of the Seas — are built with far more family-focused activities than others. Some, such as the two-year-old Wonder of the Seas, have added features that appeal to luxury-loving travelers. Other Royal Caribbean ships operate on particularly low-cost itineraries that are best for budget travelers.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

In short, the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for you, if you're traveling with children, might not be the same as the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a solo traveler or the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a retiree.

Here, we list our top picks for the best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for five different types of travelers.

Icon of the Seas: Best ship for families

royal cruise

The best Royal Caribbean ship for families, in the unanimous view of TPG's cruise editors, is a ship that just debuted earlier this year: Icon of the Seas.

Sailing since January 2024, Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship in the world — more than 6% bigger than the next-biggest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. That means greater space for the family fun zones that are a hallmark of Royal Caribbean ships, from children's clubs to water parks.

But it's not just its larger size that makes Icon of the Seas the best Royal Caribbean ship for families. As TPG saw during an early sneak peek at Icon of the Seas in January, Royal Caribbean has designed the vessel — the first of a new class of ships — specifically to cater to families in a bigger way.

For starters, Icon of the Seas has an increased number of cabins that offer extra bunks to accommodate families with multiple children, including new room designs. Some family suites even feature separate rooms for the kids.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Many of these family-friendly accommodations are near a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside, which is dedicated to families with young children. Surfside features splash areas for babies and kids, pools and lounge spaces for parents, family-friendly eateries and shops, and a bar with "mommy and me" matching mocktails for kids and cocktails for grownups.

Icon of the Seas also features the largest water park ever built on a cruise ship, with a record six top-deck waterslides and a cool new ropes course. Your teens will never want to sail on another ship.

Related: The ultimate Icon of the Seas review and guide

Icon of the Seas is just the first of three family-focused sister ships Royal Caribbean has on order for delivery by 2026 that will make up its new Icon class. The second ship in the series, Star of the Seas, will debut in 2025 and already is open for bookings.

Wonder of the Seas: Best ship for luxury lovers

royal cruise

There's no doubt about it, Wonder of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to book if you're looking to live the high life (and are willing to spend big bucks to do so). Unveiled in 2022, the world's second biggest cruise ship (after Icon of the Seas) was the first Royal Caribbean vessel with a private suite complex for the fancy set — a swanky hideaway with an upscale private lounge, restaurant and sun deck (the new Icon of the Seas has one of these, too, but we still rank Wonder of the Seas as our top Royal Caribbean ship for luxury).

If you book a suite in the complex on Wonder of the Seas, you'll be getting a luxury experience of the sort you won't find almost anywhere else in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Related: What's it like in Wonder's suite complex? We spent $11,000 to find out

Called the Suite Neighborhood, the complex offers some of the biggest (and priciest) suites at sea, including the sprawling, two-deck-high Royal Loft suites that measure more than 1,500 square feet.

A booking for one of the suites also comes with a bevy of perks, from complimentary Wi-Fi to private beach access at Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach destination in Haiti. Among the best perks: Access to private concierges who set up shop daily in the suite complex and will ensure you get prime seats at the ship's shows or a table at the always crowded Mason Jar eatery . On a ship that can carry more than 6,000 people, such reservations are a must.

Note the suite complex is a gated community — one where you'll only be surrounded by other swells who have paid top dollar for exclusivity. Nobody can get into the area unless they have a keycard showing they're a resident.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

With access to a stylish rooftop pool, loungers at the suite area's private sun deck and higher-level food in its private Coastal Kitchen eatery, you may never want to leave the enclave. However, this being Royal Caribbean, you'll also have access to a seemingly endless array of amusements from waterslides to aerial water shows just steps away.

Freedom of the Seas: Best ship for budget travelers

royal cruise

Freedom of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank.

Based in Miami, the 16-year-old vessel operates short three- and four-night voyages to the Bahamas that are often on sale for just $250 per person or less. That's not per day, mind you, but for the entire cruise. It's a lot more affordable per day than the two ships mentioned above, which are the belles of the ball in the Royal Caribbean fleet and command significantly higher rates.

For would-be Royal Caribbean cruisers, Freedom of the Seas serves as a sort of "test the line" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't have the time of your life. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers as well as Florida locals who can book on short notice and drive into the port for a quick escape.

One of three ships in the line's Freedom class that date to the mid-2000s, Freedom of the Seas is no longer the creme-de-la-creme of the Royal Caribbean fleet (though it was when it debuted). At around 156,000 tons, it's about 30% smaller than Royal Caribbean's newer Oasis-class ships and has fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

That said, Freedom of the Seas still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first in the Royal Caribbean fleet to feature a FlowRider surfing simulator on its top deck — now a signature attraction for the line.

The vessel also has multiple pool areas, a water park, a miniature golf course and a rock climbing wall on its top deck. It also has one of Royal Caribbean's signature Royal Promenades in its interior — a mall-like space filled with eateries, bars and shops.

The only things you won't find are the most over-the-top Royal Caribbean attractions found on newer Royal Caribbean ships, such as zip lines, skydiving simulators and bumper car pavilions.

Quantum of the Seas: Best ship for solo travelers

royal cruise

Royal Caribbean isn't particularly known as a major draw for solo travelers. In recent years, it's doubled down on the family market more than ever. That doesn't mean that solos aren't welcome on its ships or won't have a great time.

If you're looking for the best Royal Caribbean ship for solo travelers, you'll want to start with Quantum of the Seas and its Quantum-class sisters. It's the class of ships where Royal Caribbean made the most effort to appeal to solo travelers.

In designing the vessels, Royal Caribbean took a page from solo-targeting Norwegian Cruise Line 's playbook and added several cabins specifically for solos. Quantum of the Seas offers 28 of these dedicated studio cabins, each measuring from 101 to 119 square feet.

What's more, unlike Norwegian's solo digs, some of these cabins are ocean-view rooms with balconies. Others have a virtual balcony that, at first glance, looks like a veranda but is actually a digital screen projecting a real-time view of the outside. (It may sound corny, but it works.)

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

While the solo cabins on the Quantum-class ships don't come with a dedicated solo lounge as they do on Norwegian ships, solo travelers will find Royal Caribbean-hosted meetups for solo travelers on the vessels. It's a great way for single travelers to find others in the same boat, so to speak.

There's also quite a bar scene on Quantum-class ships, with a lot of counter-style seating in bars that are a great place to find other solo travelers. We recommend one of the two large bars at the Music Hall, where you can make new friends while sipping musically inspired cocktails and listening to live bands. If the Music Hall is too noisy for chatting up other solos, head to the sometimes quieter Schooner Bar.

In addition, Quantum of the Seas ships is particularly known for its unusual range of activities, from skydiving simulators to bumper cars that you can enjoy just fine as a solo traveler.

Rhapsody of the Seas: Best ship for retirees

royal cruise

For older travelers looking for a Royal Caribbean ship that isn't jammed full of children, it's hard to beat Rhapsody of the Seas.

Dating to 1997, Rhapsody of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on newer Royal Caribbean ships. You won't find big water parks, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or bumper car pavilions on this ship.

For the most part, its top deck only offers pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Rhapsody of the Seas is also the ship that Royal Caribbean deploys on some of its most destination-focused itineraries, the type that have particular appeal to retirees looking to see more of the world.

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Over the next two years, for instance, Rhapsody of the Seas is sailing out of such less-common home ports as Colon, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The sailings out of Colon and Cartagena offer the chance to visit Southern Caribbean ports such as Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao that aren't on most Royal Caribbean itineraries in the Caribbean. The sailings out of San Juan will also get you into the Southern Caribbean, while the sailings out of Israel and Cyprus offer a destination-heavy tour through the Eastern Mediterranean, including stops at multiple Greek islands.

At 78,808 tons, Rhapsody of the Seas is a third the size of the biggest Royal Caribbean ships. Expect a more intimate experience than what you'll find on the bustling Icon-class, Oasis-class, Quantum-class and Freedom-class ships mentioned above.

The vessel is one of four in the line's Vision class, featuring ships much smaller than the typical Royal Caribbean vessel. With this class, the experience has more to do with the ports the ships visit than the onboard experience.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean is the world's largest cruise line, with a large fleet of ships that cater to a wide range of traveler types.

While its biggest focus of late has been on the family market, it has ships that will appeal to luxury travelers, budget travelers, solo travelers and retirees as well.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
  • What to pack for your first cruise

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Find the best Royal Caribbean cruise

Why should i book a royal caribbean cruise.

If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation, Royal Caribbean cruises are a perfect choice. Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines in the industry, with a successful history of providing excellent service and luxurious experiences. The Royal Caribbean cruise vacations take you to some of the world's most beautiful and fascinating destinations. They’re sure to have features to please everyone in your group.

How to find the best Royal Caribbean cruise deals?

There are many different Royal Caribbean cruise deals to choose from depending on your destination and the experiences you would most like to enjoy. These deals let you include additional features for a lower price to make your vacation even more comfortable. You can find the best deals by searching for your destinations, and filtering by your desired cruise lines. This way only the companies you wish to travel with will appear. You can also sort your results by price and length of time.

How to choose your cruise with Royal Caribbean?

If you want to book aRoyal Caribbean cruise there are plenty of amazing Royal Caribbean cruise deals available. Add your destination, cruise vacation, and number of travelers. Then you can sort your results by price, duration, and departure date. You can also filter by cruise line, cruise ship and cabin type. You’ll find different amenities to suit your vacation needs on each Royal Caribbean cruise. For example, youth programs, fitness facilities, and spa facilities.

What do I need to look out for when booking a Royal Caribbean cruise?

When booking your 2025 Royal Caribbean cruise it’s important to consider a few practical tips. Check what the cost covers, and what you may need to budget for or need insurance for. Think about any amenities or onboard service you’ll require, depending on the length of the Royal Caribbean cruise. For example, youth programs, entertainment, fitness facilities, spa facilities, and room service. Secondly, research the weather conditions for your journey and destination. In some locations, summer and winter weather can vary a lot. Another tip is to go over the ship layout to see where you’d like to pick a cabin. Don’t forget to check visa requirements and any flight logistics.

When is the best time to book a Royal Caribbean cruise?

You can book a Royal Caribbean cruise as early as you like depending on availability. There’s a higher chance of finding cheaper Royal Caribbean cruise prices by booking between 6 months to 12 months in advance. But there are also lots of last-minute cruise deals closer to your preferred departure date, but this will depend on your flexibility.

Are last minute deals available with Royal Caribbean?

Yes, you can find last-minute Royal Caribbean cruises on Expedia. Add your travel dates to the cruise finder and sort your results to find the best price available. Cruise deal discounts are indicated by a green box above the Royal Caribbean cruise price.

How do I book a cruise with Royal Caribbean?

To book a Royal Caribbean cruise on Expedia select your Royal Caribbean destination and filter by cruise line. You can also browse our extensive selection of pre-selected cruise deals and find the perfect cruise for you. Once you have found the one you want, choose your dates and the port of departure. You can also refine your search by cabin experiences, or cruise ship. Each ship will have amenities to suit your needs including room service, spa facilities, and fitness facilities.

Is Royal Caribbean great value for money?

Royal Caribbean cruises are excellent value for money if you're looking for an enjoyable and relaxing cruise vacations. A Royal Caribbean cruise offers a high standard of service, a great selection of dining, modern amenities, friendly staff, and exciting activities. The exceptional quality of the experience is worth the price.

Can I cancel a Royal Caribbean cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel your Royal Caribbean cruise. We all have unfortunate circumstances where we need to cancel a booking, so Expedia makes it easy to do so. All you have to do is head to your My Trips page on Expedia and click on the cancellation button. Another option is to contact customer service, where you’ll receive help with cancelling. Do make sure that you’re aware of the refund policy that applied to your booking, to see if you’re entitled to a full refund.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Guide

In the last 10 years, Royal has delivered the biggest and most modern ships in the market. From rock-climbing walls, crazy water slides and infinite food selection, Royal Caribbean continues to deliver a vacation of a lifetime.

Stemming from the idea that everybody should cruise, Royal offers cruise activities such as the Flowrider – Surf simulator and Zip-lining for active vacationers, as well as the adults-only Solarium for those who simply want to relax and unwind.

In 2019, Royal Caribbean revamped their private Island, presenting “Perfect Day at CocoCay” as a new port of call in many of their Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. This hidden island features an overwhelming number of activities such as the Daredevil’s Tower Aqua Park, Splash Summit, the Wave Pool and more!

The line also holds the distinction of debuting the Central Park and the Royal Promenade neighborhoods, two distinct areas found in many Royal ships, where guests can find many eateries, shops, bars and live entertainment throughout the day.

Royal Caribbean Promotions

Looking to save big and get the best deal on your next cruise? Check out Royal Caribbean's latest promotion.

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Royal Caribbean Articles

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HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Heather McManus - May 2, 2019

Royal Caribbean has taken the private island experience to the next level. Check out all the amplified awesomeness that make this private island a must see port of call.

View Article

royal cruise

YOUR GUIDE TO WHEN CRUISES WILL RESUME SAILING

Expedia - April 16, 2021

Cruise lines continue to adapt their sailing plans to these measures with diligence and enthusiasm and are beginning to announce sailings dates for a return to the sea. Want to be prepared to sail too? Here is everything you need to know about the restart of cruising.

royal cruise

4 REASONS ROYAL CARIBBEAN MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU

Heather Mcmanus - February 2, 2020

The megaship vacation style isn’t necessarily for everyone, but if you’re considering hopping onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s 26 ships, here are four reasons this cruise line could be the right fit for you.

Royal Caribbean Ships

  • Anthem of the Seas
  • Empress of the Seas
  • Quantum of the Seas
  • Harmony of the Seas
  • Ovation of the Seas
  • Spectrum of the Seas
  • Symphony of the Seas
  • Jewel of the Seas
  • Mariner of the Seas
  • Serenade of the Seas
  • Brilliance of the Seas
  • Navigator of the Seas
  • Adventure of the Seas
  • Radiance of the Seas
  • Grandeur of the Seas
  • Voyager of the Seas
  • Vision of the Seas
  • Explorer of the Seas
  • Rhapsody of the Seas
  • Enchantment of the Seas
  • Oasis of the Seas
  • Allure of the Seas
  • Liberty of the Seas
  • Independence of the Seas
  • Freedom of the Seas
  • Odyssey of the Seas

More Cruise Lines to Explore

  • AmaWaterways
  • Avalon Waterways
  • Azamara Club Cruises
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Costa Cruise Lines
  • Crystal Cruises
  • Cunard Cruises
  • Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Holland America Line
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line
  • Oceania Cruises
  • Princess Cruises
  • Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  • Seabourn Cruise Line
  • Uniworld River Cruises
  • Viking Ocean Cruises
  • Viking River Cruises

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Royal Caribbean: The Complete Guide

Ramsey Qubein

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

About Royal Caribbean sailings

Royal caribbean destinations, royal caribbean cruise prices, what is the best royal caribbean ship, what is the newest royal caribbean ship, what’s included on royal caribbean cruises, royal caribbean firsts in the industry: what is royal caribbean known for, royal caribbean loyalty program: crown & anchor society, royal caribbean credit card, how to redeem mycruise points, what is royal caribbean known for.

Mega cruise line company Royal Caribbean has some of the largest cruise ships in the industry — in fact, the new Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas is the largest in the world. Royal Caribbean offers a wealth of onboard amenities, and its most popular ships have a loyal following of customers who sail the line to all seven continents.

The company dates back to 1968 when it belonged to Norwegian shipowners who wanted to be a part of the growing cruise market. It is now part of the Royal Caribbean Group, which has several cruise lines under its banner. These include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

Whether you’re after Royal Caribbean’s newest ship or some of the company’s popular Caribbean or Mediterranean itineraries, here is a guide to its ships, destinations, offerings and loyalty program.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Royal Caribbean has an itinerary for every interest. You’ll find the company’s ships most often sailing around the Caribbean and to Mexico. It also operates ships that sail through the majestic scenery of Alaska, along the Mediterranean coastline, in the Baltic and in the South Pacific. Here’s what you can expect on its ships:

Cabin types: The interior cabins are the most affordable, and some of them have an extra-special feature: a virtual window. These screens show scenery from outside of the ship simulating what you might see from a sea-facing cabin. On certain ships, there are cabins that look toward the interior promenade or to the back of the ship facing the AquaTheater. Also available are sea-facing cabins, balcony cabins and large suites. Some of the most expansive have in-suite slides, cinemas and wraparound balconies.

Main U.S. routes: From the U.S., you can easily sail on its Alaska, Bermuda, Canada, New England, Caribbean, Mexico and Panama Canal itineraries, among others. 

Loyalty program: The Crown & Anchor Society is the line’s loyalty program, which provides accumulating benefits the more you sail with Royal Caribbean. Its elite status tiers are based on points, which you earn based on the number of nights you spend on board. Suite reservations earn double points.

The Royal Caribbean route map covers every continent, departing from both the West and East U.S. coasts as well as nearly 300 global ports.

Antarctica.

Middle East.

New Zealand.

Pacific Islands.

Panama Canal.

South America.

Some cruises are as short as two nights for a quick weekend getaway while others can last several weeks. There’s even a world cruise that takes 274 days.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of cruises

The cost of a cruise depends on when and where you travel. Things that can affect the overall price include:

Cruise cabin type.

NCL ship class.

Destination.

Length of trip. 

royal cruise

There are plenty of great deals out there, including three-night cruises to the Bahamas for as low as $252 per person. Or you can splurge and circumnavigate South America and visit Antarctica for $3,118 per person. If you go during one of Royal Caribbean's Kids Sail Free promotions, children staying in a room with at least two adults get to cruise for free (restrictions apply). This special promotion takes place several times a year.

royal cruise

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

It's impossible to say definitively which Royal Caribbean ship is the best, since opinions vary from one person to another. But there are some ships you might enjoy more than others based on the type of experience you're looking for. If you're traveling with kids, you may like its newest ships like Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas for their numerous swimming pools and water parks. Couples may prefer the adults-only areas on certain ships. Icon of the Seas, for example, has an area called Cloud 17, which has its own pool and bar.

The cruise line has more than two dozen ships in its fleet, which includes the largest passenger ship in the world: Icon of the Seas, carrying 7,600 passengers at full capacity.

» Learn more: Icon of the Seas: Floating bliss or horror at sea?

The newest Royal Caribbean ship — Icon of the Seas — will set sail in 2024 with more than 20 restaurants and bars plus a water park, numerous pools, and family-friendly attractions designed in different "neighborhoods." This will be the largest passenger ship in the world, which is not a novelty for the cruise line. In fact, Royal Caribbean is responsible for introducing many of the world’s largest ships to the market. It keeps topping itself with each new ship.

» Learn more: Do you need a passport for a Caribbean cruise?

Royal Caribbean cruises are not all-inclusive, and cruise companies (including Royal Caribbean) make money by selling ancillary services on board. These add-ons include things like beverage packages, specialty restaurant reservations and shore excursions. But there are plenty of perks that come with the cruise fare, and passengers can have lots of fun without spending any additional money. This is what's included in the overall cruise price:

Accommodations in your selected category.

Meals and snacks in the buffet restaurants, main dining rooms and by the pool. 

Non-bottled water, juice, iced tea, hot chocolate, and some coffees and teas.

Fitness center access.

Shows and entertainment.

Pools and some water park activities like the popular FlowRider surf simulator.

Activities like rock climbing and bumper cars on many ships.

You will have to pay extra to enjoy the specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, upgraded drink selections, spa services and many of the onboard activities.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Royal Caribbean has brought many special features to sea, and its passengers have come to recognize the brand for these attractions, including:

The FlowRider surf simulator.

The first rock climbing wall at sea.

The first ice skating rink at sea.

The Royal Promenade, a boulevard of shops, restaurants and bars.

The AquaTheater, featuring water shows in the deepest pool at sea.

The cruise line’s loyalty program is called the Crown & Anchor Society, and it comes with benefits that grow the more you sail. You earn one point for every night you sail on Royal Caribbean and double points when paying for a suite. The more points you accrue, the more benefits you earn.

Crown & Anchor Society elite levels

royal cruise

The loyalty program has six levels:

Diamond Plus.

Pinnacle Club.

While most of the perks are discounts and priority access to various parts of the ship, there are several top perks that make the loyalty program worth it.

royal cruise

Four free drinks per day.

One free day of Wi-Fi.

Diamond lounge access and evening happy hour.

Two bottles of water.

Diamond Plus

Five free drinks per day.

Two free days of Wi-Fi.

Priority access and seating at theater shows.

Three bottles of water.

Pinnacle Club

Six free drinks per day.

Daily breakfast at a specialty restaurant.

Diamond lounge access and evening happy hour. 

How to earn Crown & Anchor Society points

Members earn one point for every night spent on a ship. Nights in a suite earn double points.

How to redeem points

Unlike airline and hotel loyalty programs, you don’t earn points to redeem later with Crown & Anchor Society. Instead, the accrued points determine the elite tier you are in, which comes with a set of benefits to enjoy on the ship.

The Royal Caribbean Visa Signature® Credit Card accrues MyCruise points, which can be redeemed for onboard discounts, upgrades and companion fares on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity sailings. The card has no annual fee.

With the card, you earn:

2x points on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity sailings.

1x point on everything else.

Earn 25,000 MyCruise points after spending $1,000 on the card within the first 90 days of opening your account.

You need to have a cruise reservation with Royal Caribbean or Celebrity, and then log in to a dedicated website to redeem points for onboard perks. You need to make those redemptions at least seven days before a sailing.

The perks include:

Stateroom upgrades (as few as 5,000 points on 3-4 day sailings; 15,000 points on 4-8 night sailings).

Onboard credit (5,000 points for $50; 10,000 points for $100).

Onboard gifts (two robes for 5,000 points; two polo shirts and hats for 10,000 points).

Cruise discounts ($300 discount on a Celebrity cruise for 30,000 points).

Companion fare (on a 7-8 night Celebrity cruise for 120,000 points).

Free cruise (for 540,000 points, you can redeem for a 10+ night Celebrity cruise).

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

Royal Caribbean cruises have something for everyone.

Romantic types can book a cabin in the adults-only area while families can spend time enjoying the water park. Sporty travelers can try out the rock climbing wall or surf simulator. And with the world’s largest passenger ships, Royal Caribbean takes passengers all around the world with plenty of exciting itineraries.

Featured photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean.

No, but you can buy Wi-Fi packages with prices varying by the number of devices and length of the package. The price is around $20 per day.

No, Royal Caribbean sells several things on board like specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages, shore excursions and cabin upgrades. While there are many inclusions on the cruise (like most meals, accommodations and entertainment), Royal Caribbean is not all-inclusive.

Depending on the type of drinks you want to enjoy, there are different drink packages available on Royal Caribbean. If you buy an alcoholic drink package, everyone in the cabin over age 21 must also pay for an alcoholic drink package.

Non-alcoholic

The Refreshment package includes bottled water, premium coffee and tea, soda fountain drinks, fresh orange juice and mocktails for $29 per person per day.

The Classic Soda package includes soda fountain drinks for $12.99 per person per day.

The Deluxe beverage package ranges from $56 to $105 per person per day for beer, wine, cocktails, fresh juice, premium coffee and tea, mocktails and other drinks that cost less than $14 apiece.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

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I went on Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship and saw why bookings are surging to record highs

Royal Caribbean has been increasingly targeting multigenerational families.

The cruise line's president and CEO said its new Icon of the Seas megaship is a "great example."

I went on the world's largest cruise ship and saw how it could appeal to younger and older guests.

Royal Caribbean has a secret to its smashing success.

No, it's not its cruise ships' water parks or Broadway-style shows.

It's you, your parents, and your young children. Or, as the industry calls it, "multi-generational families."

In 2023, Royal Caribbean's bookings hit an all-time high ahead of the launch of its newest ship, the Icon of the Seas.

Interest has yet to wane: The three strongest booking weeks in the company's history were at the start of 2024 and "wave season," when cruise lines typically roll out flashy discounts to incentivize reservations .

Sure, its achievement is in line with the rest of the mass-market cruise industry.

Companies such as Carnival and Norwegian have also seen wild success over the last year, with some now running low on cabins and others charging fares surpassing pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

But Royal Caribbean's success, in particular, could be due to its shifting attempt to win over families .

Great timing: More people want to cruise with their kin now.

The trade group Cruise Line International Association called multigenerational cruising one of the top 15 trends in a September 2023 report, noting that 73% of responding cruisers said they're traveling with at least two generations of family members .

Royal Caribbean says these travelers are its bread and butter.

Like other cruise lines, the company now aims to poach families considering land-based vacations. Think of the US theme-park capital, Orlando.

"We've started this transition from being a traditional cruise vacation to being a multi-generational family option that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Orlando and Las Vegas," Jason Liberty, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told investors in February.

To do this, Royal Caribbean has been "acutely focused" on this family segment, Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told investors on the same call. "And I think Icon of the Seas is a great example of that," Bayley said.

On paper, it’s easy to see how the world’s largest cruise ship appeals to young children.

I joined the ship's complimentary, three-night preview sailing on January 20.

Its flashy, kid-friendly amenities — a short list of which includes a six-slide waterpark, a theme-park-like thrill ride, and a mini-golf course — consumed most of my time .

But if you pay close attention, you might notice the little designs and amenities that make it a great option for parents and grandparents too.

The water park is a good example.

Not every adult would love the 46-foot-tall drop slide. But children and their parents could gleefully go a few rounds on the multi-person raft slides .

Activities such as the rock-climbing wall, the mini-golf course, and the Crown's Edge thrill 'ride' are all near the water park.

Grandparents could spend an hour playing mini-golf with their grandchildren.

But if they prefer to sit out, they can watch their little ones from the adjacent covered lounge, where they can sip on a drink and pick at finger foods instead .

Or they can head to the adult-only infinity pool and bar behind the mini-golf course and water park.

A "family vacation" doesn't mean the family has to stick together for the entire trip.

Instead, on Icon of the Seas, adults can lounge around the ship's de-facto pool club, mai tai in hand, while their children spend their afternoon running around the activity-filled deck .

Like most cruise ships, bars are littered throughout the 1,198-foot-long, 20-deck vessel.

There's even a watering hole in the one neighborhood designed for toddlers, Surfside.

Large candy-shaped decals line Surfside's walls while a giant flamingo grounds the outdoor space. In between, there's a carousel, small dry and water playgrounds, and a pay-to-play arcade .

But just because your toddler can't drink doesn't mean you can't, either.

For supervising adults, Surfside has a watering hole: Lemon Post, which flexes lemonade-stand-inspired alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks.

The bar has great views of the water playground, so parents can sip while their kids play.

Across the way, there's also an all-day brunch restaurant where children eat for free, creating several spaces for multigenerational families to spend time together .

One of the ship’s seven pools has a swim-up bar.

Children can splash around while their grandparents unwind with a cocktail. Are you sensing a theme yet?

Or, like most other cruise ships, parents can head to the spa after sending the young ones to the children's and teen's clubs .

To my surprise, the cruise ship’s shows could also delight travelers of all ages.

I have vague childhood memories of hating cruises — and cruise shows. I remember them being tacky, boring, and plotless.

I wanted an exciting performance. Where are the dramatics?! Where are the plot twists?!

I didn't ask to be fidgety or sleepy during these shows, but the singers doing boring and campy covers of oldies hits surely helped me do both. (Can you tell I was later diagnosed with ADHD?)

Fortunately, the shows on the Icon of the Seas were good.

Two decades later, I still don't love most song-and-dance performances.

But I'll admit, the Icon of the Seas' shows were spectacular enough to win me over. The rendition of the Broadway hit "Wizard of Oz," which featured a flying bed and "monkeys," would've delighted kid me .

And I have no doubt even the most bored kid would also love 'Aqua Action!'

At times, I found the striking display of divers, nine-foot-tall robotic arms, and synchronized swimmers a bit cringey — especially the segment where the swimmers danced with flashlights.

But it was still an impressive show of acrobatic talent — enough to delight attendees of all ages.

If your children enjoy Cirque du Soleil-like acts, they will surely like "Aqua Action!"

In terms of dining, parents and their parents could be charmed by the ship’s plushest offering, the Empire Supper Club.

A meal at the Empire Supper Club — meant more for adults than children — includes several courses, cocktail pairings, and live music. At $200 a person, it's the most upscale restaurant on the ship.

Yes, there's a dress code. And yes, kids are allowed, as well .

The ship’s seemingly never-ending access to alcohol and the opportunity for fine dining could appeal to most parents and grandparents.

The family-oriented waterslides could be a big hit with all demographics as well.

But in my opinion, the most subtly successful way the ship targeted multigenerational groups of guests was through the proximity of relaxing lounges to children-oriented amenities such as the water park .

So far, targeting these diverse age groups has been paying off: The new ship has been a massive success.

The Icon of the Seas' fares have been "double or triple" Royal Caribbean's previous new ship launches, Liberty told investors in February .

These high rates don’t seem to impact reservations. Bookings for the new vessel have also been 'phenomenally strong,' Liberty said.

The company saw a record-setting booking day when it opened reservations for Icon of the Seas in October 2022 — over a year before the ship's launch.

A few months later, Bayley called the ship the "best-selling product in the history of our business."

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Why Royal Caribbean isn't going all in on massive cruise ships despite the wild success of its new Icon of the Seas

  • Royal Caribbean International has unveiled a swath of giant cruise ships over the past few years.
  • Its CEO said its new world's largest ship, the  Icon of the Seas,  is its "best-selling product" ever.
  • But the cruise line doesn't plan on going all in on megaships forever.

Insider Today

Earlier this year, guests at Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay private island were the first to revel at the historic sight of the world's largest cruise ships, Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas, docked side-by-side.

The vessels towered over their communal dock like skyscrapers, casting a dark shadow over their relatively tiny shared pier.

Together, they can accommodate about 19,250 people.

At 1,196 feet long and weighing 248,663 gross tons, the Icon of the Seas is a sight to behold. When it launched in late January, the giant vessel upstaged its eight-foot shorter predecessor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's biggest.

At the time, it was no surprise: Every new Royal Caribbean ship seemed to dethrone another Royal Caribbean ship for this title.

But not for long.

The company's smaller ships, important for diverse trips, are aging.

The company is synonymous with its mega vessels. And they've been mega-hits: Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, has repeatedly called the Icon of the Seas the "best-selling product" in the company's history.

Related stories

Royal Caribbean is set to launch four more megaships by 2028 — representing about a third of its total fleet. So far, most of the megaships' scheduled sailings are in the Caribbean.

The other 21 smaller vessels tend to have more specialized itineraries, Patrick Scholes, the managing director of lodging and leisure-equity research at Truist Securities, told Business Insider.

Given their trimmer sizes, these vessels can operate more sailings outside the Caribbean , which often reel in high fares and customer satisfaction for the company, Jay Schneider, the chief product-innovation officer at Royal Caribbean Group, told reporters in January. Think of the Mediterranean, Alaska, and South Pacific itineraries — the latter are especially important as the cruise line continues to ramp up business in Asia.

But these destination-flexible cruise liners are aging as Royal Caribbean continues to unveil their giant counterparts. The company launched its four oldest Vision-class ships, with a maximum 2,730-guest capacity, between 1996 and 1998.

They're tiny and old compared to the 2-month-old, 7,600-guest Icon of the Seas .

Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean plans to return to the basics: smaller cruise ships.

Despite the cruise line's success with mega-vessels, Schneider said Royal Caribbean is now considering a new class of ships that would start "smaller" — noting that he was "careful to say small, but less-than-large."

"The reality is, families want to go on vacations not just in the Western and Eastern Caribbean where a ship like Icon can get into," Schneider said. "They want to stay with our brand and journey to different destinations that require more versatility in ship size."

Desirable destinations such as French Polynesia and Venice, Italy, have limited visiting cruises , including size restrictions, to curb pollution and overcrowding. But, as Schneider said, small-vessel-enabled specialized itineraries are also important to travelers.

Giant mass-market floating resorts also often attract first-time cruisers, enamored by their family-friendly water parks and Broadway-style shows. But after a few good vacations at sea, these no-longer-new-to-cruising guests might start craving quieter ships or more bespoke itineraries.

"Alaska cruises tend not to be the first-time cruiser," Scholes told BI. "I don't really see Icon of the Seas doing a Norwegian Fjord or Alaska trip."

Plus, "there's probably only so much demand for these giant ships," Scholes said.

Royal Caribbean has already succeeded in the first part: bringing in a swath of new cruisers with its megaships. Now, it has to retain them.

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

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Royal Caribbean suspends cruise stops to resort in Haiti amid violence and uncertainty

R oyal Caribbean has canceled cruise ship stops to a private area in Haiti as the nation faces ongoing violence and rising political uncertainty.

The Miami-based cruise company, which has a resort in Haiti called Labadee, said on Thursday that it has suspended stops there for the next several days.

Passengers and crew haven’t faced violence or threats, and the move is a preventive measure, the company said.

“We have not had any security concerns; this was done out of abundance of caution,” Jonathon Fishman, director of corporate and incident communications for The Royal Caribbean Group, said in a statement sent to the Miami Herald on Thursday.

READ MORE: Flight suspensions between Haiti and South Florida extended. Here’s what you need to know

Over the past several weeks, Haiti has faced a new phase of civil unrest as gangs unleashed havoc, blocked airports and shut down the main port, making it difficult for needed supplies to reach Haitians. Prime Minister Ariel Henry announced he would resign from his post . He had backed a plan for a presidential council that would select the country’s next leader, but other Haitian political leaders rejected that plan, creating more uncertainty.

Royal Caribbean said that its global security and intel team is closely monitoring the situation in Haiti, and that “we are temporarily making adjustments to sailings visiting Labadee.”

Labadee is a resort in the north of Haiti, far from the gang violence and civil unrest in major cities Cap-Haitien and Port-au-Prince. The resort is fenced and has its own security.

Haiti maintains sovereignty over Labadee, but leased it to Royal Caribbean in 1985 for its exclusive use as a resort for cruise passengers.

The ships affected by the carrier’s decision to suspend all calls to Labadee are the following, according to the company:

▪ Oasis of the Seas – 3/10 and 3/17 sailings

▪ Symphony of the Seas – 3/9 and 3/17 sailings

▪ Adventure of the Seas – 3/15 sailing

▪ Mariner of the Seas – 3/16 sailing

▪ Explorer of the Seas – 3/17 sailing

▪ Grandeur of the Seas – 3/18 sailing

“We will continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed, and will communicate updates with guests directly,” the company said.

Meanwhile, airlines on Thursday continued to cancel flights between South Florida and Haiti citing security concerns. They had started doing so in early March as armed gangs surrounded Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. The airport has effectively been closed since then.

American Airlines extended its suspension of flights between Miami Port-au-Prince through March 25, spokeswoman Bri Harper told the Miami Herald on Thursday.

JetBlue Airways has canceled flights through March 22, said senior manager of corporate communications Derek Dombrowski. The airline has daily service between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port-au-Prince. Spirit, which also flies out of Fort Lauderdale, has put flights to Haiti — to Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien — on hold “until further notice,” spokeswoman Nicole Aguiar said.

Freight companies, air and sea, have also been affected as the country’s main port was closed.

For the second straight week, Amerijet canceled its two regularly scheduled cargo flights between Miami International Airport and Port-au-Prince. The flights normally leave Miami on Monday and Thursday. Other cargo companies have also put shipments on hold.

©2024 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Part of what cruise passengers see when in Labadee. In January 2023

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How dining works on cruise ships in 2024.

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A typical main course served on the cruise ship Norwegian Prima.

Embarking on a cruise is about much more than the destinations you’ll visit. Among the many onboard attractions, dining is a major part of any cruise vacation.

If you’ve never cruised, you could be forgiven for thinking that you’ll be forced to dress in formal wear and eat with strangers day after day. In fact, such an insistence on formal wear and shared tables is one of the biggest misconceptions about cruising in the modern day.

Modern cruise ships are floating vacation resorts, with multiple dining options to enjoy. Formal dinners do still exist, but so do poolside burgers, lavish salad bars, and midnight room service.

From the elegance of main dining rooms to the convenience of room service, here's a closer look at five main dining concepts you'll encounter on most cruise ships.

1. Main Dining Rooms

The heart of the culinary experience on most cruises remains the main dining room. These elegantly designed spaces focus on traditional dinner service, but are often open for breakfast and lunch too. Aside from the main theater or performance space, the main dining rooms will likely be the biggest single spaces on the ship.

Although main dining menus vary wildly across lines, there typically will be a selection of dishes for between three and five courses.

On many lines, the menu changes daily, with an ‘always available’ section of popular dishes remaining in place for the duration of the cruise. If you're not hungry, remember that you're not required to order something for every course.

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Traditionally, guests are given a fixed table and time for dinner, usually one of two sittings. Subject to availability, these can be changed by speaking with the host early in the cruise. This fixed option remains popular with traditional cruisers, as it allows guests to build a rapport with their servers and make new friends.

Large dining rooms remain a stunning feature on modern cruise ships from Royal Caribbean.

Some people dislike the fixed time concept, but there is no requirement to attend the main dining room every night, or even at all. All but the smallest cruise ships offer alternate dining options.

In recent years, cruise lines have begun to introduce more flexibility into the main dining room. Norwegian Cruise Line is well-known for its freestyle approach to dining, where guests come to the main dining room whenever they are ready to eat.

The downsides of anytime dining are the occasional need to wait, and the fact you’ll get different serving staff each night.

This more flexible approach that has proved so popular that many competing lines have introduced it or a hybrid approach. For example, British line P&O Cruises now offers the option of a fixed table for the duration of the cruise or an anytime option.

The shift to anytime dining is not the only trend seen in main dining rooms. In recent years, the majority of cruise lines have significantly relaxed dress codes.

Although sportswear and shorts may still be frowned upon during evenings, a ‘smart casual’ approach is perfectly acceptable on most lines. Even designated formal nights are, in most cases, less strict than in previous years.

2. Buffet Restaurants

For a more laid-back and versatile dining option, buffet restaurants on cruise ships offer a range of choices to suit everyone's taste.

Buffet restaurants on a cruise ship offer a wide variety of food options throughout the day.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, these restaurants provide a casual atmosphere where guests can help themselves to a wide range of dishes, from international cuisines to comfort foods.

Many buffet restaurants open for afternoon tea (or simply remain open for a longer lunch) and a late night snack bar ideal for those who’ve spent the day enjoying the sunshine and the bars.

The buffet is ideal for families and those looking for a quick and convenient meal without the formality of the main dining room. Usually, the buffet will be popular on formal night among those guests choosing not to dress up.

3. Alternative Casual Dining

Recognizing the desire for variety, most cruise ships offer alternative casual dining options, often situated poolside for easy access and quick service. These venues often operate on a 'grab and go' basis and are included in the cruise fare.

Pizza bar casual dining on MSC World Europa.

Casual venues can range from grill stations serving up burgers and hot dogs to pizzerias and sandwich bars, offering a relaxed dining experience without the need to get changed. This option is perfect for those looking to grab a bite in between activities or seeking a lighter lunch or casual meal under the sun.

On larger ships, some alternative approaches to casual dining are appearing. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima class of ships has introduced a food hall concept with ordering via table-based tablets.

On some lines, specialty cafes and coffee shops offer pastries and cakes, but these often come at an extra charge.

4. Specialty Restaurants

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, specialty restaurants on cruise ships offer cuisine-specific menus with a focus on fine dining. These restaurants often require an additional charge, either a flat fee or à la carte pricing, and provide an intimate setting with enhanced service and premium menu options.

Offering everything from steakhouses and Italian trattorias to sushi bars and French bistros, specialty restaurants provide a culinary exploration and an intimate alternative to the larger dining venues, at an additional cost.

A beach club serving North and Central American inspired cuisine is one of the premium dining ... [+] options on P&O Arvia cruise ship.

Some of the world’s biggest cruise ships can contain multiple specialty restaurants. For example, MSC World Europa features 13 dining venues, of which six carry an additional charge.

5. Room Service

The convenience of room service allows guests to enjoy meals in the privacy of their cabin at any time of the day or night. While the menu is more limited compared to other dining options, room service is perfect for those who prefer a quiet meal alone or with their travel companions.

Whether room service is free depends on the line, with some lines offering just free delivery at breakfast. Late night deliveries often incur a charge.

Dealing With Dietary Restrictions

Cruise lines are increasingly accommodating guests with dietary restrictions, offering a range of options for those with specific dietary needs.

Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have food allergies, the dining venues on board can cater to your requirements. Many modern cruise ships' buffet restaurants now feature detailed allergen labels.

Even so, it’s best to inform the cruise line of any dietary restrictions in advance of your sailing. Most ships have dedicated staff and unadvertised options to ensure that every guest can enjoy their dining experience without compromise.

David Nikel

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Jail Cells? Morgues? Your Cruise Ship Has Some Surprises for You.

Here are five unexpected features on ships, some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

A close-up photograph of three decks of a cruise ship's cabins, each of which has a balcony with a half wall of blue glass and two chairs.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Cruise ships have hidden features that many passengers, particularly first-timers, don’t know about. Some ships are as big as small cities, and while it’s relatively easy to familiarize yourself with a seemingly endless number of amenities — water parks, tattoo parlors, multiple restaurants — there is also an entire ecosystem, often below passenger decks, that is shrouded in mystery.

Here are five things that cruisers may not know about cruise ships:

There’s a morgue …

Cruise ships carry millions of passengers each year, and it is not uncommon for deaths to occur on board. Most vessels are required to have a morgue and additional body bags in the event of an emergency.

The morgue, usually a small stainless steel refrigerated room on the ship’s lowest deck, accommodates between two to 10 bodies, depending on the size of the vessel. When a passenger or crew member dies, officials on the ship will notify the authorities on shore and a medical team will assess the body and move it to the morgue, where it is kept until arrangements are made for repatriation. In most cases, the body will be removed at the next port of call, but sometimes will remain on board until the end of the voyage.

…and a jail

There are no police officers on cruise ships, but most vessels have small jails known as the brig, and unruly passengers could find themselves locked up if the ship’s security team determines that they have violated the cruise line’s code of conduct.

The brig, usually a bare-bones room with a bed and bathroom facilities, does not have iron bars like a traditional jail cell. It is used to detain guests who commit serious crimes like assault or possession of illegal substances. Drunk and disorderly passengers may be put under “cabin arrest,” meaning they cannot leave their cabin without a security escort.

Depending on the circumstances, most passengers put in the brig will stay there until they can be handed over to law enforcement officials.

Many ships don’t have a Deck 13

Many cruise ships do not have a Deck 13 because of the widespread superstition in Western culture that the number is unlucky. Ships with a Deck 13 typically use it for public areas, not cabins.

Some ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class vessels, have a Deck 13 because the vessels are used mainly for the company’s market in Asia, where the number is not considered unlucky. MSC ships also have a Deck 13, but not a Deck 17, because the cruise line’s founder is Italian and 17 is considered unlucky in Italy.

Cruise lines entertain other superstitions, like appointing godmothers to bless new vessels and ensure the safety of passengers and crew. They also hold naming ceremonies in which a bottle of champagne is smashed against the hull of a new ship for good luck. If the bottle fails to break, the vessel will, according to superstition, have bad luck. These days, cruise lines use mechanical devices to ensure that does not happen.

Hidden pools and facilities for the crew

There are typically more than 1,000 crew members on board large cruise ships, and while they spend most of their time serving passengers, there are several areas on the lower decks designated for them to unwind.

The facilities vary from ship to ship, but there are usually small pools in the ship’s bow exclusively for crew members, as well as restaurants, bars and recreational areas like game rooms and gyms. The designated bar, a central social hub for employees after they have finished their shifts, often hosts live music and events in the evening.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, has an entire “neighborhood” dedicated to its 2,300 crew members, with a clubhouse that has massage chairs and virtual balconies — large screens that show real-time views from outside — as well as a restaurant with portholes looking out to the ocean.

Most ships host A.A. meetings

With all-inclusive beverage packages and countless bars, cruise ships can be a tough environment for guests in recovery. Many cruise lines offer daily Alcoholics Anonymous meetings that are usually scheduled as “Friends of Bill W.,” a reference to William Wilson, who co-founded the A.A. program in 1935.

The meetings are usually held in a quiet place like the library, where guests can feel comfortable and maintain their anonymity. They are also open to other support group members, like Women for Sobriety and Narcotics Anonymous.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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    Canceling and rebooking is easy to do on Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner site. In the top right corner of the Cruise Planner, you'll see your initials in a little circle. Click on this circle and scroll down to "Order History". On the Order History page, click on "View Details" on the add-on you'd like to cancel.

  18. I went on Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship and saw why bookings are

    Royal Caribbean has been increasingly targeting multi-generational families. The cruise line's president and CEO said its new Icon of the Seas mega-ship is a "great example" of this. I went on the world's largest cruise ship and saw how it could appeal to younger and older guests. Royal Caribbean has a secret to its smashing success.

  19. Why Royal Caribbean's Wave of New Megaships Won't Last Forever

    Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean plans to return to the basics: smaller cruise ships. Royal Caribbean's oldest ship is the 2,440-guest Grandeur of the Seas, which first set sail on December 14, 1996.

  20. Royal Caribbean suspends cruise stops to resort in Haiti amid ...

    Royal Caribbean has canceled cruise ship stops to a private area in Haiti as the nation faces ongoing violence and rising political uncertainty. The Miami-based cruise company, which has a resort ...

  21. How Dining Works On Cruise Ships In 2024

    Modern cruise ships are floating vacation resorts, with multiple dining options to enjoy. Formal dinners do still exist, but so do poolside burgers, lavish salad bars, and midnight room service.

  22. Jail Cells? Morgues? Your Cruise Ship Has Some Surprises for You

    Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship, has an entire "neighborhood" dedicated to its 2,300 crew members, with a clubhouse that has massage chairs and virtual ...

  23. Royal Caribbean suspends cruises to Labadee amid Haiti violence

    Royal Caribbean is suspending cruise ship ports of call in Labadee, on the northern coast of Haiti, as violence escalates in the Caribbean country. "The safety and security of our guests, crew ...

  24. Royal Caribbean suspends cruise visits to Haiti's Labadee amid gang

    Royal Caribbean Group has suspended cruise visits to Labadee, a secluded peninsula in Haiti, for the next seven days following months of escalating gang violence in the country, a senior company ...

  25. Royal Caribbean

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  26. Flotilla Radisson Royal

    Flotilla "Radisson Royal" has 10 perfectly equipped yachts designed for year-round entertaining excursion cruises on the Moscow River with restaurant service aboard. Our company organizes cruises 365 days a year. Flotilla "Radisson Royal, Moscow" combines picturesque views of Moscow sights with excellent catering service.

  27. Moscow Luxury Hotels

    Radisson Collection Hotel, Moscow. 4.5 (View 1977 reviews) 2/1 Kutuzovskiy Avenue Bld. 1, Moscow, 121248, Russian Federation. + 7 (495) 221 5555.

  28. The best river cruises and excursions in Moscow

    ALL YEAR ROUND. Radisson cruise from Gorky park. 2,5 hours. Yacht of the Radisson Royal flotilla. Best water route in Moscow. Panoramic views of the capital from the water in winter and in summer. Restaurant with signature cuisine. Next tour: 1600 ₽.

  29. Moscow river cruises and boat tours 2024

    And if initially such cruises were offered by the Radisson Royal Moscow and River Palace, operating from the Hotel Ukraine, Park Kultury and Kievsky Station piers, now many other companies operating from the majority of central piers of Moscow have the same cruises. As well as on cruise routes, this segment also offers a wide variety of used ...