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Royal Caribbean: The Complete Guide

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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. 

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.

» 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

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.

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.

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Royal Caribbean drink packages: Prices, inclusions and what to know before you buy

Royal Caribbean drink packages allow you to drink what you want and when you want without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed. Isn't that most cruisers' dream? The all-inclusive, extra-fee beverage plans aren't necessarily for everyone, but they are a nice way to enhance your cruise and take some of the stress out of in-the-moment vacation decisions.

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of packages, from a simple Water Package that keeps you and your crew hydrated during your cruise to a comprehensive plan that includes most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Other than the Water Package, which is priced based on the quantity you order, drink packages on Royal Caribbean are priced per person, per day.

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

The most common questions about Royal Caribbean's drink packages revolve around what each package includes, whether they are worth the price, and when is the best time to buy your package. I've tried all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages, but I've also cruised without any package. Here's what you need to know to decide if a beverage plan is right for you.

What's included in Royal Caribbean's drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers several different drink packages, and the inclusions vary based on your choice. All options include gratuities, and no Royal Caribbean drink package includes room service or minibar drinks. Also, unlimited alcoholic beverage packages may not be available while the ship sails in some locations, so package details may change based on itinerary.

Related: Cruise ship drinks packages: A line-by-line guide

Water Package

Royal Caribbean's Water Packages are available in 12- and 24-packs of one-liter bottles of Evian water. The bottles will be delivered to your cabin on embarkation day.

If you don't want to pay for a Water Package, you can find drinking water at complimentary drink stations in the buffet area and often in other locations on Royal Caribbean ships. You can bring your own reusable bottle and fill it from these stations or straight from the faucet in your cabin. The water throughout the ships is not only drinkable but also better than what's available in many cities. You can also purchase bottles of water a la carte.

So why might you consider a Water Package? If you drink bottled water at home, you may prefer the taste. The package also allows you to have plenty of water on hand in your cabin or to take on excursions.

The downside is that one-liter bottles are not the ideal size for lugging off the ship with you. You must either bring a reusable bottle or purchase single-serving bottles for port days. You can get these at bars or at the gangway as you disembark in each port.

Classic Soda Package

Royal Caribbean's Soda Package is for the serious soda drinker. On select ships, the package comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip on the bottom to allow the holder to use the Freestyle soda dispensing machines throughout the ship. The "magic" cup gets you all the refills you want 24 hours a day, with your pick of sodas with add-in flavorings. (Orange Coke is my fave.) Freestyle machines are available on 18 ships in the fleet.

You can also order a glass of soda at any restaurant or bar on board. Some venues only serve fountain sodas, but others have cans. One big bonus of the package is that sodas on Royal Caribbean's private island destinations ( Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee ) are included in the Soda Package. The only places you can't get a free soda with this package is room service (because room service other than continental breakfast comes with a $7.95 service fee, no matter what you order) or from your cabin's minibar.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

You can bring up to 12 cans of soda (or bottles up to 17 ounces) per person on board with you in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. So why would you want a Soda Package?

It's a question of convenience. I've been known to take a couple of 16-ounce bottles of soda on board with me, but carrying on much more than that is a big hassle. With a Soda Package, you can easily access your beverage of choice anywhere you are on board — including ordering sodas from roaming bar servers at the pool, in the casino or at events and shows — or on Royal Caribbean's private islands . You don't have to return to your room to grab a soda. It's also great for older kids and teens who might be roaming the ship with friends.

Refreshment Package

This is my favorite Royal Caribbean drink package. It includes still and sparkling water, sodas (with the included Freestyle magic cup), mocktails, premium coffees and teas (but not those from Starbucks stand-alone stores or kiosks) and freshly squeezed juices.

With this package, you can order almost anything non-alcoholic at bars and most restaurants on board. The Refreshment Package does not include shakes at Johnny Rockets, which are only included with the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Even the smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Café are included in this package, as is the sweet tea at Portside BBQ on Oasis of the Seas. Want a strawberry slushy? Order a virgin strawberry daiquiri. Want hot cocoa? Covered. How about a virgin mudslide? A bartender will happily blend up vanilla ice cream, coffee, hazelnut syrup and chocolate syrup blended into a perfect mocha shake.

As with the Soda Package, you can order your non-alcoholic beverages, from sparkling water to fancy mocktails, from your pool lounger or blackjack table.

Plus, with the Refreshment Package, you've solved the problem of needing water to take off the ship with you for excursions and what to drink while on the private islands. It's all included in this package.

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package takes all that's available in the Refreshment Package (sodas, water, mocktails, premium coffee and tea, fresh-squeezed juice) and adds cocktails, spirits and liquors, as well as beer by the bottle or can and wine by the glass.

There are some limits on brands available with the package, but the list includes imported, domestic and craft beer, an extensive wine list and commonly ordered spirit brands on drinks up to $14. Any bar server can tell you what's available on your cruise.

You also get a hefty 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100. It's handy for sharing a bottle with your travel partner at dinner.

As with the soda and Refreshment Packages, the Deluxe Beverage Package can be used anywhere onboard (except stand-alone Starbucks locations). Use it in restaurants, bars and at any venue where a bar server is present, as well as at either of Royal Caribbean's private island destinations. The Deluxe Beverage Package also throws in one more bonus — milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

This package comes with a few caveats. If one person in a stateroom buys this package, everyone of legal drinking age in the stateroom must buy the same package, according to cruise line policy. If someone in your room does not drink alcohol, don't worry. I've encountered many people who have called customer service and downgraded one or more non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

The package also does not include drinks that come with souvenir glasses. (Don't worry, you can always order the same drink in a regular glass.)

If your vacation plans include alcoholic beverages, buying this package is a nice way to pay your cruise bar tab in advance rather than deal with the shock of a high bill at the end of the cruise.

What do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost?

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing on beverage packages the same way it does on cruise fares. That means you won't know the prices for each package before you book a cruise. Demand, destination and promotions play a big part in the pricing, especially for the Deluxe Beverage Package, causing them to fluctuate slightly.

Here's what you can expect a Royal Caribbean drink package to cost:

• Water Package: 12 bottles for $39; 24 bottles for $69
• Soda Package: $12.99 per person per day
• Refreshment Package: $29 per person per day
• Deluxe Beverage Package: $56 to $105 per person per day (depending on your ship and trip)

The prices listed above do not include an automatic 18% gratuity. You'll want to factor that amount into your travel budget if you decide to purchase a package.

You will notice that the Deluxe Beverage Package price range listed above is a bit wider than what is posted on Royal Caribbean's site. Posted price ranges include the disclaimer that prices on individual sailings may vary. We used a realistic range of prices from Royal Caribbean guests who have booked cruises and paid for drink packages in the past 12 months.

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages

You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise. But should you? A lot depends on how soon your ship will depart. If you're sailing within a few months, go ahead and get any packages you plan to buy — unless Black Friday happens before you sail. Black Friday deals on drink packages are generally the lowest you'll find all year.

The package that varies most in price is the Deluxe Beverage Package. Its price is higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying this package ahead of time is always cheaper than on board.

Royal Caribbean does advertise price drops and deals for pre-cruise purchases. If you're waiting and hoping for a deal, frequent cruisers report that you should look at the actual price per person per day, not at the percentage off or BOGO deals to determine if the package price is where you want it.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

Is a Royal Caribbean drink package worth it?

Now that you know your choices and why you might want each package, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of whether these packages are worth purchasing for you or not.

The one-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. That makes this package a deal, but only if you prefer bottled water over taps or dispensers. It's also convenient to have the water delivered to your cabin, eliminating the need to bring a case of bottles on board or search for a bottle when you want water on the ship.

Soda Package

When ordering an individual soda on the ship, your charge will be what you'd expect to pay at a land-based restaurant, plus an 18% gratuity added automatically. When you ask a bar server for a soda on the ship, you'll be charged just over $4 per soda with the tip, regardless of whether it comes in a can or from a fountain.

As the starting point for the Soda Package is just over $15 per person per day with the gratuity, you'll need to count on drinking a minimum of four sodas a day for it to be a good value.

If you prefer nonalcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay around $7 for mocktails and protein shakes, $5 for lattes at non-Starbucks locations and close to $9 for smoothies. These prices are before the automatic 18% gratuity.

Here's what your daily consumption might look like on the Refreshment Package: You could start with a morning latte ($6 after you add gratuity), grab water for your excursion ($3.84), a soda at lunch ($4), a couple mocktails during the afternoon ($8.25 each), another soda with dinner ($4), and another mocktail for the show or in the casino ($8.25).

That puts you over $40 for the day, making the Refreshment Package a deal at $34 (with tip) per person, per day. Drink much less than that, and this Royal Caribbean drink package won't be worth it. The Refreshment Package price varies only slightly between sailings.

For alcoholic drinks, prices vary a lot based on your order. Beer and hard cider average $7-$9. Wine by the glass is $9-$25. Cocktails are $10-$14, except for the drink of the day, which is $8. These prices do not include the 18% gratuity.

When deciding if Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it, be sure to factor in non-alcoholic drinks you are likely to have, not just those with alcohol. How many premium coffees do you drink each day, including one with your dessert at dinner? How many waters and sodas?

The value of those often adds up to $25 or more per day. That leaves you with somewhere between $30 and $80 per day to spend on alcoholic drinks to break even.

If you're lucky and can purchase your package at the lowest possible price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of non-alcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. But if your purchase price is somewhere in the middle of the price range (where most people land), you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average non-alcoholic beverages to break even. That equals six beers or four or five glasses of wine or cocktails.

Related: Are cruise line drinks packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

Whichever package you choose, your value may also depend on your itinerary and activities. On a Caribbean cruise that includes a sea day or two and a stop at CocoCay, you'll likely drink more – simply because you're relaxing more than touring, and the hot temperatures will make you thirsty.

But what about a port-intensive cruise in Europe where you are off the ship for long hours and likely to be sampling local beverages? In those cases, the ship's beverage package might not come through for you.

Additional factors

Before you decide if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it, there are two more things to consider: Your Crown and Anchor loyalty status and your Casino Royale player status .

If you are a Diamond C&A member, your SeaPass card will be loaded with four free drinks per day. Diamond Plus members get five drinks, and Pinnacle members get six. Those can be water, specialty coffee or tea other than at Starbucks, sodas from bar servers, beer, wine or cocktails up to $14 (except at Bionic Bar).

As for casino perks, if your status is Prime or higher, you can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open.

Those free perks could make the difference in which package you choose, if any. For example, a Diamond member might use her free drink allotment on cocktails and wine and save money with a Refreshment or Soda Package for her other daily drinks. Or, perhaps, the free drinks are enough that it's cheaper to buy a few nonalcoholic beverages a la carte.

Diamond Plus members also have a discount of 30% on Deluxe Beverage Packages when purchased on board. That's rarely a good deal unless you simply forget to buy in advance, as pre-purchase in the cruise planner or app is almost always at least 30% lower than the onboard price.

Bottom line: Is a drink package on Royal Caribbean right for you?

Now that you have all the facts, there are several ways to look at Royal Caribbean's drink packages to determine if you should get one.

First, consider every kind of drink you will likely pay for on board. Are you happy with beverages that are included in the cruise fare? Those include tap water, drip coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and juice from a dispenser at breakfast. Or will your vacation only be complete with morning lattes, smoothies, fruity drinks by the pool and wine with dinner?

For some people, it's easy. If you're likely to drink four or five cocktails most days, plus specialty coffee, waters for excursions, soda and a glass of wine at dinner, your total, if purchased individually would easily exceed $80 per day. Unless your sailing has a higher-than-average price for the package, go for it.

But if you typically only drink a couple of glasses of wine at dinner, you aren't likely to break even — at least not on the Deluxe Beverage Package. In that case, skip the package that includes alcohol and do the math on the Refreshment Package.

If you drink soda, the difference in price between the Soda Package and the Refreshment Package is $16. Almost any combination of two other drinks — lattes, mocktails, smoothies or bottled water — makes the Refreshment Package a deal for you. If you can live without the extras, stick with the soda-only package.

If none of those looks like a bargain, pay as you go. Some people set a daily drink budget and check themselves (or their kids) against their folio in the Royal Caribbean app or on the interactive television in their stateroom. I've even met people who bring cash along to pay their drink balance daily at guest services to stay on track.

The other side of the equation is to factor the price of the drink package into the total vacation cost to make the cruise more of an all-inclusive vacation experience. Think about it like you would an all-inclusive land-based resort. When you vacation at one of those, you not only wouldn't know the price of the drinks you consume, but you also would not care.

If you're more interested in a stress-free vacation where you don't have to agonize about the cost of every drink you consume than paying the least amount of money possible for your vacation, a Royal Caribbean drink package is totally worth it.

The bottom line is that drink packages on Royal Caribbean expand your choices. You can use packages to make your cruise as all-inclusive as you'd like (and maybe save some money in the process), or you can opt to cruise and drink in pay-as-you-go mode. Either way, you'll find plenty of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as your favorite wine and beer, to enhance your vacation at sea.

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Royal Caribbean International Cuba Cruises

A Royal Caribbean cruise to Cuba and the Caribbean is a trip to paradise. In Cuba, you will meet locals who are excited to share their culture. You'll take a step back in time and life will slow down a bit. Enjoy taking it easy before heading back to the hustle and bustle. When you sail to Cuba with Royal Caribbean, you'll have an opportunity to immerse yourself in Cuba's rich culture, learn how to make authentic Cuban cuisine and become familiar with Cuban customs. Depending on your itinerary, you could also have the opportunity to explore the Bahamas and the natural beauty offered there. Don't miss your opportunity to escape to Cuban paradise with Royal Caribbean. Find out more about Royal Caribbean's cruises to Cuba and the Caribbean by giving The Cruise Web a call today at 1-800-377-9383.

Things to Do on a Cuba Cruise with Royal Caribbean

Become familiar with the concept of the 'Cuban Marriage' – which is a perfect blend of coffee, rum, and an authentic Cuban cigar! Or if that's not your ideal relationship, you can sway along with the music in one of Cuba's legendary clubs. On a Royal Caribbean Cuban cruise, you can visit a number of historical sites and gain a deeper appreciation for Cuba's history. Best of all, it's the perfect opportunity to just slow down a bit from everyday life and experience the scene around you. When you have finished your tour of Cuba, your Royal Caribbean itinerary could head to the Bahamas or elsewhere in the Caribbean, where you can relax on the white beaches and swim in the turquoise waters. Check out some of our recommended excursions in Cuba and the Bahamas below:

• Panoramic Havana (Havana, Cuba) See Cuba's capital from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach. Your extended tour includes stops at religious sites, political buildings, the Plaza de la Revolución, and many more! You'll see sites where several large rallies occurred that shaped Cuba's history. During the Panoramic tour you will have plenty of opportunity to snap gorgeous photos you'll keep for a lifetime.  

• Old Havana Walking Tour (Havana, Cuba) Dive into the heart of Cuba's history with a walking tour of Old Havana. With your experienced tour guide, you'll explore four of Havana's iconic squares. You will see the famous white marble lion fountain at the Plaza de San Francisco, Havana's oldest square – Plaza de Armas, the eclectic architecture of Plaza Vieja, and so much more!  

• Havana by Vintage American Car (Havana, Cuba) One of Cuba's many charms is that it is untouched by time. American cars from the 1950s and 1960s are a common sight and this is your opportunity to see Havana in a classic car. After you hop in, you'll cruise around town taking in all the sights. You will end your tour at the historic Hotel Nacionel de Cuba were you'll have a beautiful view of the bay and you can see photos of the hotel's famous guests, which include Frank Sinatra and Winston Churchill.  

• Atlantis Sea Lion Experience (Nassau, Bahamas) Splash around with playful sea lions at Dolphin Cay. After a brief orientation with skilled trainers, you'll get into waist deep water with the fun sea lions. You can watch them swim and dance under the water and you may even get a wet kiss on your cheek!  

• Relaxing Island Life (Nassau, Bahamas) Looking for a relaxing day filled with activity, or peace and quiet? You'll find both when you visit Nassau, Bahamas! No matter what you want to do, Nassau will have it for you. You can relax on the white sand beaches and then take a dip in the cool turquoise waters when it gets warm. The toughest decision you'll make is: one drink or two?  

• Deluxe Beach Break and Playa Mia Water Park (Cozumel, Mexico) This excursion is perfect for travelers looking to stay active. You can kayak, swim, sail, play on a water trampoline, pedal a water bike, and snorkel – and that's just in the water! On land, you can play soccer, ping-pong, or volleyball. It is perfect for families who want a fun, active day.  

Top 10 Royal Caribbean International Cuba Cruises

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Learn more about the departure ports for a Cuba cruise with Royal Caribbean. Your unforgettable Royal Caribbean Cuba cruise could depart from any of the following cruise ports:

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Check out our image gallery of Cuba cruising photos for Royal Caribbean. Just remember – this is merely a taste of the vibrant discovery waiting for you on a Royal Caribbean Cuba cruise vacation.

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What's Free On Utopia Of The Seas?

Discover what utopia of the seas℠ offers for free restaurants, attractions and things to do..

By Amanda Mesa | Published on April 19, 2024

Free Restaurants on Utopia of the Seas℠

D elicious dining options play a big role in every Utopia of the Seas ℠ sailing. The ship offers a mouthwatering selection of free restaurants onboard, serving up tantalizing cuisine from around the world. There are 21 total restaurants onboard, including both complimentary and specialty dining options . If you're looking to taste your way across both at a discount, consider purchasing a specialty dining package onboard or ahead of your sailing via the Cruise Planner app. These packages allow you to enjoy the ship's specialty restaurants at special prices. If you'd rather stick to free dining on Utopia of the Seas ℠ for a more "all-inclusive" cruise experience, you'll still have all of these wonderful options.

Main Dining Room

In the main dining room onboard Utopia of the Seas ℠ , y ou can look forward to a different three-course menu every night of your sailing, spotlighting delicious flavors that will transport you from Jamaica to Jaipur, India and beyond. Picture dishes like buttery escargot, succulent Maine lobster tail, tender filet mignon and even classic spaghetti Bolognese. If you're traveling with little ones, don't worry — the main dining room also offers a menu curated especially for kids. The best part? Dining here is complimentary, with very few exceptions — such as an extra charge for lobster on non-formal nights.

Boardwalk Dog House

Another complimentary returning favorite you'll find on Utopia of the Seas ℠ is Boardwalk Dog House. Located on Deck 6 in the ship's alfresco Boardwalk® neighborhood, this fast-casual hot dog spot serves up a variety of artisanal brats inspired by foodie capitals. Whether you're craving a classic foot-long loaded with your favorite fixings, a Chicago-style dog that's been "dragged through the garden" (as they say in the Windy City), a spicy, smoky frank with some kick or a chicken sausage flavored with juicy apples, you're bound to find something that hits the spot here during every awesome pool day at sea.

Sorrento's Pizza

Another Royal Caribbean classic, this guest-favorite free restaurant has spent years fine-tuning its recipes for crave-worthy pies. They range from classic offerings like spicy pepperoni and decadent cheese to creative specialty pizzas loaded with everything from smoky barbecue chicken, juicy pineapple and fresh garden veggies. Sorrento's is also one of the restaurants onboard that's open latest, making it a perfect pit stop to refuel after a wee-hours whirl on the dance floor. You'll find it on Deck 5 along the bustling Royal Promenade.

The Spare Tire℠

One of the most anticipated free restaurants onboard Utopia of the Seas ℠ is The Spare Tire℠. This brand-new food truck is located on Deck 15 just steps away from the pool. The menu focuses on easy-to-eat snacks and handheld faves like hearty sandwiches and shareable flatbreads. The smoked pulled pork sandwich is at the top of my must-try list, followed by the cheeseburger flatbread drizzled with secret sauce. If you have a sweet tooth (like me), make sure you save room for The Spare Tire's daily rotating selection of desserts. Come back for seconds and thirds throughout your pool day — every bite is included in your cruise fare.

Café Promenade And Park Café

Need your caffeine fix? Drop by Café Promenade on Deck 5 in the morning, afternoon or at night for brewed coffee, lattes and cappuccinos paired with tasty pastries and other quick-and-easy bites. It's open 24 hours, so you can drop by anytime your cravings strike. For more of an old-school diner vibe, head to Park Café in the ship's Central Park®️ neighborhood on Deck 8, where you'll find a great breakfast spread; delicious soups, salads and sandwiches at lunch; and crave-worthy tapas served alfresco in the evenings. Both restaurants are complimentary.

Windjammer Marketplace is one of the best free restaurants on Utopia of the Seas ℠ if you're looking to keep things casual. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, this buffet-style restaurant features plenty of seating at all hours of the day and stations that offer a jaw-dropping selection of rotating international culinary delights. You'll find some tried-and-true favorites that are available each day of your sailing, but you could also dine on something different during every visit. If you're traveling with kids, rest assured little ones will find plenty of yummy options to satisfy any palate, all included in your cruise fare. You don't need reservations to dine here — simply pop on by and enjoy the feast.

El Loco Fresh®

For me, nothing beats a delicious taco tray or cheesy burrito during a pool day — especially when it's complimentary. It's why I end up enjoying lunch at El Loco Fresh®, a fast-casual Tex-Mex eatery, during most of my sea days. You'll find all kinds of shareable options here, including a nacho tray that's perfect for enjoying with friends or family. The salsa and toppings bar is also wild.

Solarium Bistro

Located steps from the adults-only Solarium (my go-to pool spot for relaxing and catching up on my reading), Solarium Bistro is a complimentary dining option that's truly tranquil. The menu here usually highlights fresh, healthy Mediterranean dishes, including Greek salads, pitas paired with refreshing tzatziki, tender lamb chops and decadent Greek donuts called loukoumades .

I have a major sweet tooth, especially when it comes to ice cream — so I'm absolutely psyched about Sprinkles. This favorite afternoon treat spot has its biggest footprint yet onboard Utopia of the Seas ℠. Guests can indulge in any kind of ice cream creation loaded up with toppings — for free, of course.

Free Things To Do Onboard Utopia Of The Seas

Ultimate Abyss℠

Ultimate Abyss ℠ first made waves for being the longest dry slide at sea. The one onboard Utopia of the Seas ℠ takes things even further. It spans 10 stories and stretches 43 feet longer than any other before it. And that's not all — the ship's Ultimate Abyss ℠  also has zoom booster rollers and see-through racing windows that make the ride even more thrilling than ever. Admission is free, so you can ride as many times as you like.

The Perfect Storm℠

Everyone loves a good waterslide  — and Utopia of the Seas ℠ has three pulse-pounding waterslides to choose from. Together, they're known as The Perfect Storm℠, a notorious trio of slides with plenty of exhilarating twists, turns and drops. There's Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠, two racer slides that will have your heart pounding from the moment you start moving. And then there's Supercell℠, a massive champagne bowl that spins you around and around before funneling you into the pool down below. All three are free for cruise guests.

Flowrider®️ Surf Simulator

This one's a classic — and easily one of the best free things to do onboard Utopia of the Seas ℠. This surf simulator funnels over 30,000 gallons of rushing water to create perfect swells all day, every day. You don't need to be a pro to carve the surf, though — try your best to keep from wiping out or do what I do and ride boogie-style on your belly.

Rock-Climbing Walls

Harnessing up and making the climb is personally my favorite way to get in a fun workout at the start of every sea day, and the views at the summit of Utopia of the Seas ℠' twin rock-climbing walls are well worth the effort. Because this activity is free of charge, I like to come back throughout the day to stretch my arms and legs — especially around sunset, when the light is golden and the ocean water shimmers like gilded crystal.

Free Nightlife Onboard Utopia Of The Seas℠

Spotlight℠ Karaoke

I love a great karaoke spot, and Spotlight℠ Karaoke does not disappoint. With a massive selection of songs to choose from, you can belt it out like Beyoncé, croon like Taylor Swift or invite the audience to join you in a raucous rendition of Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'." Signing up to sing on the main stage is free, and you can also reserve a private room for a fee.

For late-night dancing, it doesn't get better than Boleros. This Latin-themed club hosts a live band playing cumbia, merengue, samba and salsa — and the mojitos and caipirinhas are off the charts. Admission to the club is free, but drinks are a la carte. Here's a pro tip: purchase a specialty beverage package ahead of your sailing for unlimited drinks included in a flat rate.

You can jam out to spectacular cover bands that range from classic rock to reggae at Music Hall, a huge concert venue that packs plenty of energy every single night of your sailing. Hit the dance floor and bust a move or just vibe from one of the venue's comfy lounge tables. Like Boleros, admission is free but drinks are a la carte.

No cruise is complete without a night of belly laughs at the onboard comedy club. On Utopia of the Seas ℠ , that club is called The Attic, and admission is free. This adults-only hotspot can hold a candle to some of the best clubs in Manhattan and Chicago. It hosts a changing lineup of stand-up comedians specializing in everything from sketch comedy to slapstick.

Whatever kind of entertainment you seek,  Utopia of the Seas ℠   makes it easy to enjoy an all-inclusive getaway that goes long on adrenaline-pumping thrills, delicious flavors and opportunities to make memories.

Written By AMANDA MESA

Amanda has written for Royal Caribbean since 2017. She also covers travel, lifestyle, food and beverage for Indulge Magazine, the Miami Herald and PureWow. She's traveled extensively around the world, enjoys building unforgettable itineraries and loves introducing readers to lesser-known.

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Royal caribbean vs. carnival: quick comparison chart.

Decide which line is best based on costs, food, onboard entertainment and other key factors.

Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line have quite a bit in common.

Trying to choose between Royal Caribbean and Carnival for your next cruise? Check out the comparison chart below, then read on for more details.

Winner: Royal Caribbean

When it comes to fleet size as well as the features available on cruise ships, Royal Caribbean has an edge over Carnival Cruise Line. That's because Royal Caribbean already has 28 ships in operation, including its incredible Oasis Class, Quantum Class and Quantum Ultra Class ships. Oasis Class vessels like Allure of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are some of the largest in the world – and Royal Caribbean Group is constantly rolling out new, even bigger cruise ships with better amenities and new features. For example, the new Icon of the Seas (scheduled to debut in 2024) plans to have the largest water park at sea, the largest swimming pool at sea, and a range of over-the-top cabins and suites for families of all sizes.

Meanwhile, Carnival currently operates 25 different vessels with a few more on the way. Newer ships like Carnival Celebration and Carnival Venezia aren't as large and grand as Royal Caribbean ships, nor are the brand-new vessels the company is planning for late 2023 and 2024. For example, the new Carnival Jubilee that is set to begin sailing later in 2023 will have 15 passenger decks and capacity for up to 6,631 guests, compared to 18 guest decks and 7,600 passengers on Icon of the Seas.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

SBW-Photo | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Comparing cabins across cruise lines as a whole isn't an easy feat, mostly because companies tend to offer larger suites and cabins with a better layout on their newer ships . You'll therefore likely have a nicer cabin on one of Carnival's newest vessels compared to an older ship from Royal Caribbean, and of course the opposite is also true. Cabin sizes and layouts also vary widely across the vessels of both brands, and that's true even for basic interior, ocean view and balcony cabins.

That said, Royal Caribbean still comes out ahead in this category, since the line boasts more square footage in some of the most basic cabins as well as more over-the-top luxury accommodations, especially for families.

As an example, most inside cabins on Allure of the Seas feature 172 square feet of space, whereas Carnival Celebration's inside cabins are slightly smaller at 158 square feet. Meanwhile, the largest suites on Celebration are the Carnival Excel Presidential Suite, with 1,120 square feet of space including the balcony, and the Carnival Excel Aft Suite, which has 861 square feet of interior and balcony space. Compare those options to the Sky Loft Suites on Allure of the Seas, which feature 1,132 square feet across the room and balcony, and the spacious two-bedroom AquaTheater Suites with 1,595 square feet including the balcony.

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Winner: Tie

Food options vary widely across vessels within any cruise brand, and this is especially true with Royal Caribbean and Carnival. For example, older ships from both cruise lines offer fewer specialty dining options overall along with the main dining rooms and buffet options cruisers come to expect, whereas newer ships from both lines feature a lot more unique and innovative options.

When you view the cruise dining options from both lines, you'll quickly find that both Carnival and Royal Caribbean pull out all the stops when it comes to food. For example, Carnival ships include a range of eateries from large and expansive buffets to main dining rooms to unique offerings like Big Chicken, Guy's Burger Joint and BlueIguana Cantina. Meanwhile, specialty dining on Carnival vessels features options like teppanyaki, Emeril's Bistros at Sea and Guy's Pig & Anchor Smokehouse.

Royal Caribbean ships feature convenient buffets and main dining room experiences, as well as included options like pizza kitchens, noodle bars and casual fast food. Specialty dining on Royal Caribbean ranges from the brand's Chef's Table experience to Johnny Rockets' burgers and shakes to innovative fine dining at Wonderland.

Drink packages

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer drink packages that cruisers can purchase as part of their vacation to get a more all-inclusive feel . Then again, the value of these packages depends on how much you drink over the course of your trip. Also note that the cost of drink packages across all cruise lines can vary depending on the ship, itinerary, travel dates, length of trip and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out slightly ahead in this category because the line offers three tiers of drink packages for guests with different needs. Choose from the Classic Soda Package; the Refreshment Package, which includes soda along with coffees, juices and even milkshakes at Johnny Rockets; and the Deluxe Beverage Package, which adds in beer, cocktails and wine by the glass. Meanwhile, Carnival offers just two different drink packages: the Bottomless Bubbles package, which covers soft drinks and juice, and the Cheers! drink package, which adds in spirits and cocktails, beer, wine by the glass, specialty coffee, energy drinks and more.

Read: Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line

Onboard activities

Analyzing onboard activities across cruise lines isn't always easy – you really have to break down this category by ship for a true comparison. When you do that with Carnival and Royal Caribbean, you'll find that both lines offer fun activities for all ages, from onboard water parks to hosted games, casinos and more.

That said, Royal Caribbean does take things up a notch in this category, especially on the line's newer ships. Some Royal Caribbean vessels offer escape rooms, surf simulators, zip lines, game shows and over-the-top water parks with incredible slides for thrill-seekers. For example, Freedom of the Seas boasts huge onboard waterslides, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, mini-golf and more. Don't forget about Icon of the Seas with its massive water park and pool offerings in the works. Meanwhile, standout activities on Carnival ships include Family Feud Live, onboard water parks and the thrilling SkyRide.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruises on GoToSea .

Live entertainment

The quality of cruise ship entertainment varies widely based on the quality of the talent booked for individual ships. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer their share of live music and entertainment, including performances by bands and singers, karaoke, and piano bars. Meanwhile, both lines also boast their own theaters on every vessel, which often feature Broadway-style shows, singing and dancing, comedy acts, and more.

Royal Caribbean comes out ahead in this category since its vessels feature award-winning musicals like "Hairspray," "Mamma Mia!" and "Cats." The open-air AquaTheater on Oasis Class ships also wows guests with incredible diving feats, stunts and aerial acrobatics. Some Royal Caribbean ships even have onboard ice skating performances and ice games.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea .

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Kids programming

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Winner: Carnival

Both cruise lines have kids clubs that cater to younger guests of all ages, with each one offering supervised care so parents can drop the kids off for some alone time or a quiet dinner on the ship. However, Carnival stands out slightly in this category due to the six different clubs offered across the fleet for children and teens between 6 months and 17 years old. Carnival also offers supervised Night Owls services for kids 11 and younger, which lets parents get out and have some late-night fun for an extra charge.

Royal Caribbean offers four kids clubs for children ages six months to 12, along with a separate club for tweens and teens . Supervised child care is available for free during the day, and you can opt for paid care after hours as well.

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Adults-only offerings

Both cruise lines offer their share of adults-only spaces and things to do, from onboard casinos to luxurious spas to bars that offer cocktails and live entertainment at all hours of the day and night. Carnival and Royal Caribbean also offer adults-only areas on some of their ships.

On Carnival, for example, cruisers will find the Serenity Adults-Only Retreat for sailors 21 and older with extra space and comfortable chairs for relaxation, along with its own bar nearby. On many Royal Caribbean vessels, on the other hand, the onboard Solarium for ages 16-plus has its own pool and extra space to find peace and quiet.

Carnival's Serenity relaxation area is included for guests. While Royal Caribbean's Solarium is typically also included, on certain sailings there is restricted access by fare class.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Shore excursions

Getty Images

Shore excursions offered by cruise lines are largely operated by third-party companies and are often the same across brands. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean boast a broad selection of excursions in destinations around the world, from snorkeling and scuba tours in the Caribbean to city tours, horseback riding, cooking classes and more.

Both cruise lines offer private and custom tours you can book through your ship as well.

Compare cruises on GoToSea .

Private island experiences

Royal Caribbean and Carnival each have their own private island in the Bahamas , which is included in most itineraries to this part of the world. These private islands provide a fun beach escape for families to enjoy, whether you want to relax in the sun or take part in some of the available activities.

Royal Caribbean's private island, called Perfect Day at CocoCay, is the more impressive option due to everything it includes: a heart-thumping water park, its own wave pool, a zip line, a hot air balloon experience and overwater bungalows you can book for the day, among other offerings. Meanwhile, Carnival's Half Moon Cay has a unique beached pirate ship to explore – but fewer amenities overall.

Note that both private islands have plenty of beach space for guests to spread out and relax, as well as restaurants and bars. You can also book excursions on both private islands, which include activities like snorkeling and water sports.

Read: The Top Cruise Line Private Islands

Comparing costs across cruise lines can be tricky since fares and available sales vary throughout the year, as well as based on the vessel booked, the cruise itinerary, the number and age of travelers, and more. To get an idea of who wins on price, we looked for two similar cruises on comparable ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean, then priced out an option for a family of four with two children ages 8 and 10. For the purpose of this comparison, we used seven-night eastern Caribbean cruises on Carnival Celebration and Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, both of which began sailing in 2022.

The Carnival Celebration itinerary from Miami stops in Amber Cove, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands . By comparison, the Wonder of the Seas sailing leaves from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten ; San Juan; and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

The chart below shows the total cost (including taxes and fees) for a family of four in January 2024 in both an ocean view and a typical balcony cabin across both cruise lines. Note that, for the purpose of this comparison, we selected the least expensive room option in each category.

Read: How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 30 times across most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries around the world. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate this cruise line comparison.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers
• How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals
• The Top Kids Sail Free Cruises

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All-inclusive resort or cruise – which is best?

“Club Tropicana, drinks are free… Fun and sunshine, there’s enough for everyone,” so sang George Michael in Wham!’s famous 1980s paean to the nascent all-inclusive. In the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, ‘free’ booze and no bill sounded and looked – if you were anywhere near a pool in Ibiza with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley – like holiday utopia. 

Drinks weren’t really free, but the idea that you could pay up-front to eat and imbibe, and be assured that you wouldn’t be presented with a terrifying bill at the end, was a novel concept, particularly for budget-conscious families and sun-seeking partygoers. 

It still offers considerable appeal in our cash-strapped times, which may explain why all-inclusives have had something of a renaissance. Cruising offers similar peace of mind and plenty to do with kids clubs, waterslides and Disney princesses on board – though alcohol isn’t always free. During both types of holiday, the entertainment comes to you and you’ll never have to flinch at the prices on the menu. 

But which type of holiday is best? Our writer put them both to the test.

Destination

Children’s clubs, food and drink.

• Hidden costs 

All-inclusive

Club Med founders Gilbert Trigano and Gérard Blitz, who dreamt up the all-inclusive concept in the 1950s, had beaches and sunshine in mind. But skiers also favoured the all-in pricing model. Europe’s slopes were a win-win for the brand, which opened its first Alpine village at Leysin in Switzerland in 1956 ( clubmed.co.uk ).

Traditional sunshine strongholds Mexico and the Caribbean – where Butch Stewart picked up the mantel with his Sandals brand – still account for a big slice of the all-inclusive pie, but the net has spread further to include Cuba, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro, Cape Verde and the Azores. Further afield there are all-inclusive resorts in Kenya, Thailand (mostly Phuket) and the Maldives and Mauritius. Turkish-owned Rixos ( rixos.com ) has recently opened resorts in Qatar and Doha, while Tui ( tui.co.uk ) and First Choice ( firstchoice.co.uk ) offer several resorts in Costa Rica. 

Cruise 

An average week or 10-day ocean cruise can tick-off several different destinations in one country, or across several countries in one trip. If you have a bit longer, it can take you round the world. Three-month world cruise itineraries cross continents, sail several seas and oceans, visit scores of capital cities and offer hundreds of excursion opportunities. 

And let’s not forget off-grid but accessible by water destinations such as the Galapagos, the Pitcairn Islands and Antarctica. River cruises follow the course of most navigable rivers, from the Amazon to the Zambezi. The Mekong, the Mississippi and the Ganges are among their more adventurous destinations. 

Whether beach or mountain-based, most all-inclusive resorts feature an activities element. Sandals comes up trumps, with free scuba at its Caribbean dive resorts and multiple rounds of golf and green fees at top courses in Jamaica, St Lucia and the Bahamas. 

Meanwhile, guests at Rixos resorts in Turkey have free daily access to The Land of the Legends Theme Park in Antalya – which means big savings in peak periods. This Easter, there are also egg hunts as well as giant egg-painting: a week at Premium Tekirova costs from £2,390 for four adults and two children, departing on March 30.

Watersports not your bag? Ikos Oceania in Halkidiki can provide a Tesla Model 3 at no extra cost for one day’s exploration as well as a culture pass to local museums. At Ikos resorts ( ikosresorts.com ), spa access is free between 8am to 8pm. 

If you’re after more than a typical beach holiday, check the activities part of a hotel website to find out what’s included. The adults-only Sanctuary Cap Cana ( sanctuarycapcana.com ) in the Dominican Republic offers Spanish classes and, at the House of Aia on Mexico’s Riviera Maya ( thehouseofaia.com ), a ‘personal growth’ programme includes 20 classes, ceremonies and rituals from visiting guides.

If you have adventurous teens in tow, the US offers some interesting options. At the historic Castle Hot Springs in Arizona ( castlehotsprings.com ) there’s axe-throwing, cruiser bikes, geothermal hot springs and creekside hammocks for lazing in, while, further north in scenic Wyoming, Scott Dunn has stays at Brush Creek Ranch, set in 30,000 acres of sage-bush prairie where you can ride, fish or take to the landscape by ATV ( scottdunn.com ).

With distractions ranging from rock-climbing walls and ropes courses to simulated surfing, via encounters with Star Wars, Marvel and Disney Pixar characters, cruising sets a high bar for activities. And on land, there are excursions – sometimes included – for every type of passenger. 

It’s not just families who benefit. Swan Hellenic ( swanhellenic.com ) has teamed up with Deepak Chopra to offer wellbeing voyages, while adult-only ships offer films under the stars or in theatres, lectures from wildlife experts and historians, opportunities for citizen science, celebrity speakers, casinos and activities ranging from dance lessons to art and photography classes. Virgin ( virginvoyages.com ) also puts on DJ sets and pool and dance parties. And let’s not forget the main event – a new place to explore every day.

Newer resorts have really lifted the bar. At its properties along Turkey’s Turquoise Coast, Rixos rolls out the red carpet for families with a Rixy Kids Club that has cooking and pottery lessons as well as football and dance academies. At Rixos Sungate, where the kids’ club is set around a splash park in a forest, children can learn to code using Lego robotics.

At Ikos Resorts’ collection of luxury properties in Spain and Greece, kids’ clubs are run in line with UK Ofsted standards. Meanwhile, Tui’s family-friendly resorts come with kids’ clubs and a seven-day line-up of activities including creative sessions. Mini Club Med offers trapeze lessons, introductory water-skiing, horse-riding, cooking classes, games and nature discovery activities. For older kids (11-17), there’s film design, DJ sessions and dedicated areas in which to hang out. 

If you’re travelling with very small children or have ambitious activities in mind, check the small print: like lots of childcare for babies and toddlers, Petit Club Med and Baby Club Med both cost extra. Motorised water sports often incur a fee at all-inclusives while some resorts impose limits on the number of windsurfing or other tutored lessons.

Cruise ships do a stellar job when it comes to children’s clubs, with all ages well catered for. Most resort ships divide clubs into four age groups and some, including P&O Cruises ( pocruises.com ), offer free babysitting. Royal Caribbean ( royalcaribbean.com ) has an adventure science lab for budding junior scientists as well as baby and tots programmes for those aged six to 36 months. Celebrity Cruises has a STEM at Sea partnership with The Frost Science Museum (Equinox and Edge-class ships; celebritycruises.com ).

P&O Cruises is particularly well set up for those with kids in tow, with round-the-clock children’s clubs on its family-friendly ships and family-oriented shore excursions. MSC Cruises ( msccruises.co.uk ) has baby, mini, junior, young and teen clubs. The latter offers Xbox and PS4 tournaments, a Drone Academy, flash mobs and dance offs. Disney Dream ( disneycruise.disney.go.com ) has some imaginative offerings too, including the Jedi Training Academy and the opportunity to hang out with characters from the Toy Story trilogy.

You get what you pay for. If that’s sun and sea and a good four-star family resort, expect two or three bars and a standard buffet: a week at the Iberostar Bellevue in Montenegro costs £1,562 in mid-May ( iberostar.com ). Pay a bit more and you’ll be rewarded with more imaginative menus. At Ikos Porto Petro in Majorca, five à la carte restaurants serve meals inspired by Michelin-starred chefs (from £2,470pp with Sovereign; sovereign.com ).

Ikos also has curated “dine out” programmes that encourage guests to eat at local restaurants – including a rustic tapas joint in Estepona, an agriturismo in Ibiza and a buzzy beachfront spot in Marbella. Sandals ( sandals.co.uk ) has similar in Curaçao and Nassau. Caribbean all-inclusives generally offer three or four restaurants – and maybe a pop-up beach venue or barbecue night.

Think cruise, think buffet, right? Wrong. Standards are high, with new ships offering a plethora of cuisines, dining styles and venues along with healthy options and dietary alternatives. You’re as likely to find vegan muffins and bee-pollen at the breakfast buffet as a Full English. 

Silversea and Virgin have ditched the buffet altogether. Partnerships with chefs including Marco Pierre White and Eric Lanlard (P&O Cruises), Relais & Chateau (Silversea; silversea.com ), Jacques Pepin (Holland America Line; hollandamerica.com ) and Thomas Keller (Seabourn; seabourn.com ) have also made a difference. Crystal ( crystalcruises.com ) has a Japanese restaurant masterminded by Nobu while wine presenter Olly Smith helms the Glasshouse on some P&O ships. 

Silversea, Holland America Line and Oceania ( oceaniacruises.com ) are highly regarded among foodies and Regent Seven Seas ( rssc.com ) offers some stylish settings while Celebrity’s newer ships have roof-top gardens and over-the-sea dining. Fine dining can cost extra, depending on the ship, but expect to pay around £15 on top for three courses, which might just include one of the finest steaks you’ll ever eat. 

All-inclusive 

It’s a broad-brush summation but for something established, refined and ‘old-school’ romantic – think castaway beaches, palm fronds gently buffeted by warm trade winds, knock-out views and honeymoon havens – the Caribbean is a safe bet. The likes of Jumby Bay ( oetkercollection.com ), Spice Island Resort ( spiceislandbeachresort.com ), Necker ( virginlimitededition.com ) and Curtain Bluff ( curtainbluff.com ) are famous for a reason. 

The Maldives attracts a discerning international clientele while, in Europe, there are affordable package resorts where screaming kids are well tolerated. At the stylish new kids on the block (think Ikos and Grecotel Luxme; grecotel.com ), Poppy and Miles only scream in the privacy of the rooms however. 

Skiers are too busy skiing, too knackered or too busy partying to care about trifles like the vibe. If in doubt opt for Club Med, where most people speak French. 

It varies enormously across ships. River ships are tranquil, geared to sightseeing and generally follow an up-early and early-to-bed routine. Large resort ships can feel like theme parks, with entertainment into the wee hours; smaller ships go out of their way to leave passengers alone and provide impressive libraries and spaces for quiet contemplation. Viking ( vikingcruises.co.uk ), Silversea and Seabourn excel at this. Then there are the tall ships such as Sea Cloud ( seacloud.com ) and those in the Star Clipper fleet ( starclippercruises.co.uk ), where you’ll spend most of your time on deck watching the wind make the sails dance. 

Some liners take a ship-within-a-ship approach, with exclusive areas, pools and services – at a cost. MSC has the Yacht Club while Norwegian Cruise Line ( ncl.com ), Royal Caribbean and P&O have premium areas with pools and separate menus. Cunard ( cunard.com ) has the Grills Suites. 

If you’re after a more intimate, house-party atmosphere (complete with Surrey types, ex-boat owners and ‘non-cruisers’), opt for a yacht-style cruise ship from Ponant ( uk.ponant.com ), SeaDream ( seadream.com ), Scenic Eclipse ( scenic.co.uk ) or one of a handful of Windstar ships ( windstarcruises.com ).

Hidden costs All-inclusive

Do question the headline price, especially if booking via a third party. In January 2024, a Which? survey of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed key omissions from some operators, including soft drinks. Those who booked with the cheapest provider, lastminute.com , were forking out an extra £367 per week on average for extras. 

Operators take different approaches to inclusions. BA Holidays says: “Expect your holiday to include flights and accommodation, all three meals and snacks in between. Drinks are included too but expect house wine and local spirits unless otherwise stated.” EasyJet’s small print states: “What’s included in the all-inclusive package varies vastly between hotels. When booking your holiday be sure to look at the board description.”

Premium restaurants often cost more, but at the Oaks IBN Battuta in Dubai for example (where a week costs from £989pp through loveholidays.com ) the price includes à la carte restaurants and in-room breakfast. In all cases the two-clicks-away small print was clear. Read it. If in doubt, use the chat function, talk to a travel agent or pick up the phone.

All cruises include accommodation, dining, entertainment and access to pools and the other fun facilities, but Wi-Fi, drinks – alcohol and soda – and tips and room service might not be included. Tips are automatically added to cruise bills on a per passenger, per day basis. Expect to pay for service on spa and beauty treatments and bar drinks.

If you plan on drinking every day, pay for a drinks package (there are alcohol-free packages, too). Celebrity Cruises alcoholic drinks packages start at around £55 per day and Cunard’s soft drinks package starts from around £8.50 per day. Princess Cruises’ Wi-Fi, tips and drinks bundle costs £50pp per day ( princess.com ). 

Though you’ll still pay extra to tip for beauty services, some truly all-inclusive lines also include Wi-Fi, limitless premium drinks, a free mini-bar, most service fees and some excursions. Some also include airfares and a pre- or post-cruise hotel night. Take a look at Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Viking, Crystal and Seabourn. 

Which wins?

The all-inclusive concept has evolved – there’s no room for holiday snobbery in 2024. If all you want is a hassle-free place to relax by a pool or on the beach and forget about daily expenses, this is as good as it gets. But if you intend to stay longer than a week or haven’t been to the destination before, do some research. You may tire of the same sand, sun loungers and restaurants while venturing out to drink and dine makes little financial sense.

If you’ve a thirst for new places, a cruise offers all of the above plus the bonus of a new port of call most days – without the need to unpack. You’ll never get bored of the changing views and, as for feeling claustrophobic, you can disembark every day (though you don’t have to). Plenty of ships overnight in port, so you can dine ashore too. 

Cruises score bonus points for once-in-a-lifetime experiences too. Unless you own a boat, how else do you experience the romance of a dawn arrival in Manhattan, a sunset sail out of Sydney or your first glimpse of porpoising penguins in the Galapagos?

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Princess Cruises is taking a page out of the ultra-luxury cruise industry with new all-inclusive, $3,000 cabins

• Princess Cruises says its new Sun Princess and upcoming Star Princess will have all-inclusive cabins.
• Guests who've booked the new Sanctuary Collection category would get an inclusive package and private lounge.
• It's a move that could appeal to ultra-luxury cruisers .

If you want to go on an all-inclusive vacation at sea, you no longer need to book an ultra-luxury, ultra-expensive cruise line .

Just sail on Princess Cruises' new ship instead.

In October, Princess says its two-month-old Sun Princess will debut in the US with the company's first-ever Sanctuary Collection, an adult-only lounge exclusive to guests who've booked one of the collection's high-end cabins. These luxurious accommodations comprise 10% of the ship's 2,157 staterooms, including all its suites.

But the Sanctuary's biggest perk arguably isn't the lounge's private pool and restaurant — it's the all-inclusiveness , a rarity among mass-market cruise lines.

It's the Carnival Corp. brand's latest appeal to ultra-luxury cruisers

Mass-market cruise lines like Princess, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian typically follow the " budget airline " strategy: charge a cheap base fare and offer plenty of irresistible up-charged amenities (like specialty restaurants, as is the case of Sun Princess).

It's a stark contrast to the high-end cruise industry, where all-inclusivity is often considered the standard.

For example, luxury cruise line Explora Journey's fare includes alcoholic beverages, WiFi, and access to the spa — amenities that would typically cost extra on ships like Sun Princess. On Regent Seven Seas , all this, plus excursions, pre-cruise hotels, and roundtrip flights are also included in the cost to sail.

Related stories

Over the last few years, Princess has begun following in these high-end cruise lines' foosteps.

In 2022, it launched Princess Premier, an optional inclusive package covering amenities like WiFi, drinks, some upcharged restaurants, and workout classes. It's the same package Sanctuary Collection guests would get, along with the private restaurant and adult-only lounge with cabanas, a pool, and private events.

The exclusive lounge concept is nothing new. Royal Caribbean's two largest cruise liners have a "neighborhood" exclusive to suite guests. The same applies to Norwegian, Celebrity, and MSC Cruises' vessels.

However, while these competing retreats offer perks like drink packages, WiFi, or private restaurants, none are as "inclusive" as Princess'.

In 2024, Sun Princess' Sanctuary cabins start at more than $3,000 per person for a weeklong Caribbean cruise in mid-December. To compare, the cheapest interior cabin for the same itinerary starts shy of $700 per person.

The cruise line says its next ship, Star Princess, which will debut in late September 2025, will also carry the Sanctuary Collection.

Following in the footsteps of high-end, all-inclusive cruise lines could be a wise decision for Princess. These luxury vacations at sea have become increasingly popular as travelers continue to spend big on their trips.

Like Princess, expedition cruise company HX recently shifted to an all-inclusive model as well.

Back on dry land, hotel giants like Hyatt and Marriott have also seen a boom in these "everything free" resorts .

Apparently, every vacationer — whether on water or solid ground — just wants one thing: stress-free poolside lounging with bottomless drinks.

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

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