Last Updated On: 2 August 2025

If you’re thinking about booking a vacation with Royal Caribbean, you’re in for a treat. These folks have made a name for themselves by creating some of the coolest, most innovative ships on the water.

As the biggest cruise line by revenue and second largest by passenger count, they know a thing or two about creating unforgettable experiences at sea.

Before you hit that “book now” button, let’s walk through everything you should know about their ships, where they go, what they offer, and what to expect.

Not sure which destination is for you, this video will help:

A Quick History Lesson

Royal Caribbean kicked off back in 1968, founded by three Norwegian shipping companies. They launched their first ship, Song of Norway, in 1970, followed by a couple more in the early 70s. These early ships would look tiny compared to today’s giants, but they got the ball rolling.

Fast forward to 1988, and they launched Sovereign of the Seas, which was the biggest passenger ship at the time. This started their tradition of “go big or go home” that continues today. After merging with Celebrity Cruises in 1997, they rebranded as Royal Caribbean International and haven’t looked back since, rolling out increasingly impressive ships year after year.

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The Fleet: From Huge to Really Huge

As of 2025, Royal Caribbean has 30 ships sailing around the world, and honestly, trying to keep track of all their new launches feels like a full-time job. They organize their ships into different “classes,” and each one has its own personality – think of them as different generations of the same overachieving family:

Icon Class

The absolute newest show-offs on the water. Icon of the Seas kicked things off in January 2024, Star of the Seas joined the party in August 2025, and Utopia of the Seas snuck in during July 2024. These floating cities hold over 7,600 passengers and basically said “hold my beer” to every cruise ship that came before them. We’re talking the largest waterpark at sea, suspended infinity pools, and enough neighborhoods to make you think you’re in a small town rather than on a ship.

Oasis Class

Before Icon came along and stole their thunder, these were the biggest kids on the block – and they’re still absolutely massive. With room for about 6,700 people, they’re famous for having actual neighborhoods, including Central Park (yes, with real living plants) and a Boardwalk complete with a working carousel. Because apparently having a park on a ship wasn’t ambitious enough – they needed a carnival too.

Quantum Class

The tech nerds of the fleet. These ships introduced features that made people question if they were actually on a boat or in some sort of floating science experiment. The North Star lifts you 300 feet above the ship in a glass pod (for those who enjoy mild heart attacks), there are bumper cars (because why not?), and interior rooms get “virtual balconies” – basically fancy TVs showing the ocean view you’re missing.

Voyager Class

The revolutionary middle children that changed everything. When these ships introduced ice skating rinks and rock climbing walls, people thought Royal Caribbean had lost their minds. Turns out they were just getting started. At around 3,800 passengers, they’re more manageable than their younger siblings but still packed with enough activities to keep you busy for weeks.

Freedom Class

Similar size to Quantum ships but with a focus on getting your heart rate up. FlowRider surf simulators let you embarrass yourself in public, massive pool decks give you plenty of room to recover, and there’s enough active stuff to justify that third helping at the buffet.

Radiance Class

The ones that figured out natural light was actually quite nice on a cruise ship. Lots of glass, panoramic elevators, and a more refined vibe. They’re what you get when Royal Caribbean remembers that sometimes people actually want to see the ocean while they’re cruising on it.

Vision Class

The smallest and most intimate of the bunch, holding around 2,400 passengers. They’re like the wise grandparents of the fleet – they might not have all the flashy new gadgets, but they know how to do cruising properly. Plus, they can actually fit into ports that the mega-ships have to wave at from a distance.

Explorer Class

The forgotten middle children between Voyager and Freedom. Explorer of the Seas and her sisters have many of the same party tricks that made Royal Caribbean famous – ice rinks, rock walls, and enough activities to make your head spin. About 3,800 passengers, so big enough to have everything but not so big you need GPS to find your room.

Each class basically represents Royal Caribbean saying “we can top that” to their previous efforts. Choose bigger if you want every possible bell and whistle, or stick with the smaller classes if you prefer not needing a map to navigate your vacation.

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Where Can You Go?

Royal Caribbean sails to more than 300 destinations worldwide, so you’ve got options!

Caribbean and Bahamas

This is Royal Caribbean’s bread and butter – the routes that pay the bills and keep everyone happy. During winter months, the majority of their 30-ship fleet heads to these reliably sunny waters where the weather’s warm and the complaints are minimal. For the 2025-2026 winter season, expect about 24-25 of their ships to be sailing Caribbean and Bahamas routes because, let’s face it, people want sun when it’s miserable at home.

Many of these trips include stops at their private destinations: Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas, Labadee in Haiti, and starting December 2025, the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. It’s like having a guaranteed good beach day built into your itinerary – no worrying about whether the local beaches will be crowded or if the weather will cooperate.

Europe

During summer, they typically send 7-8 ships to European waters, covering the Mediterranean, Baltic, and British Isles.

Alaska

A popular summer spot, with usually four ships heading north each year to showcase America’s spectacular last frontier.

Asia and Australia

They maintain a presence down under and in Asia, particularly during North American winter. You might find them sailing from Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Sydney, or Melbourne.

Departure Ports

In the U.S., you can hop on a Royal Caribbean ship from places like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, New Jersey, Seattle, Galveston, Los Angeles, San Diego, New Orleans, Baltimore, Boston, and San Juan.

Internationally, they sail from Amsterdam, Barcelona, Quebec, Vancouver, Shenzhen, Beijing, Stockholm, Auckland, Rome, Venice, Copenhagen, and many more.

No Fly Cruises from the UK

Royal Caribbean offers some fantastic no-fly cruises from Southampton. This means you can skip the hassle of flying and start your holiday straight away. Destinations include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the Canary Islands.

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What’s There to Do Onboard?

So much! Royal Caribbean is known for packing their ships with things to do:

Adventure Activities

Depending on which ship you choose, you might find:

  • FlowRider surf simulators (wipeouts are free!)
  • Rock climbing walls
  • Skydiving simulators
  • Bumper cars
  • Ice skating rinks
  • Multiple pools and hot tubs, including adults-only options
  • Sports courts and fitness centers

Daily Fun

Sea days are filled with organized activities like:

  • Dance classes (two left feet welcome)
  • Trivia contests (time to show off your useless knowledge!)
  • Card games and board games
  • Art auctions
  • Bingo
  • Cooking shows, ice carving, cocktail demonstrations
  • Behind-the-scenes tours
  • Casino gaming when at sea

Shopping and Services

There’s duty-free shopping with special promotions throughout the cruise. You’ll also find spas, salons, medical facilities, and guest services to help with whatever you need.

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Where Will You Sleep?

Royal Caribbean offers rooms for every budget, preference, and group size:

Interior Staterooms

The budget-friendly option without windows. On newer ships, many interior rooms have “virtual balconies” – digital screens showing real-time views outside, so you don’t feel like you’re in a cave.

Ocean View Staterooms

These rooms include windows or portholes to let natural light in and give you sea views.

Balcony Staterooms

The popular middle option with private verandas where you can enjoy fresh air and ocean views.

Family Accommodations

Royal Caribbean really shines when it comes to family cruises:

  • Family Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony Staterooms – Larger than standard rooms, these can sleep up to 6 people with additional bunk beds or pull-out sofas. Perfect for families who want to stay together without breaking the bank.
  • Family Connected Suites – Available on newer ships, these clever configurations connect multiple staterooms with a shared vestibule, giving families both togetherness and privacy. Found primarily on Quantum, Oasis, and Icon class ships.
  • Ultimate Family Suite – The crown jewel for families with money to spare! This two-story wonder includes an in-suite slide, air hockey, gaming center, hot tub on the balcony, and separate bedrooms. Only found on select ships like Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas.

Solo Cabins

Traveling as a single? Royal Caribbean has you covered:

  • Studio Interiors – Purpose-built single occupancy cabins that won’t hit you with the dreaded “single supplement” fee. Found on Quantum, Ovation, Anthem, Spectrum, and Odyssey of the Seas.
  • Studio Balconies – Solo rooms with their own private balcony, available on newer Quantum Class ships. These cost more than interior studios but give you your own outdoor space.

The solo cabins are compact (around 100 square feet) but efficiently designed, and often include access to an exclusive Studio Lounge where solo travelers can mingle.

Suites

Royal Caribbean divides their fancy options into three tiers:

  1. Sea Class – Junior suites costing around $6,000 for a week-long cruise.
  2. Sky Class – Mid-tier suites around $10,000 for a week, with extra perks like access to a special restaurant and a suite lounge.
  3. Star Class – The high-end options starting at double Sky Class prices and reaching up to $60,000 for the Ultimate Family Suite. These come with the fanciest perks and services.

All rooms include private bathrooms, TVs, phones, hair dryers, comfy bedding, 24-hour room service, and in-room safes.

Special Cabin Features & Touches

Royal Caribbean has added some cool features to make their cabins stand out:

  • Virtual Balconies – Interior cabins on newer ships feature floor-to-ceiling HD screens that display real-time ocean views, complete with a virtual railing and the sounds of the sea.
  • Infinite Verandas – On select Quantum Class ships, these innovative balcony cabins feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open at the touch of a button, transforming your entire room into an open-air space.
  • Central Park & Boardwalk View Rooms – Unique to Oasis Class ships, these inward-facing balcony rooms overlook the ship’s internal neighborhoods instead of the ocean.
  • Loft Suites – Two-story accommodations with floor-to-ceiling windows and a distinct modern aesthetic. The Royal Loft Suite is the most impressive, spanning over 2,100 square feet.
  • Thoughtful Design – Recent refurbishments have added USB ports by the beds, improved lighting controls, more storage space, and updated bathrooms with glass shower doors instead of clingy curtains.
  • AquaTheater Suites – These suites face the back of Oasis Class ships and offer private balconies with perfect views of the AquaTheater performances.
  • Themed Kids’ Cabins – Some family staterooms feature separate kids’ areas with fun nautical or adventure themes, colorful décor, and kid-sized amenities.

If you’re celebrating something special, let Royal Caribbean know ahead of time. They might surprise you with cabin decorations, a cake, or a bottle of wine depending on your celebration and loyalty status!

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Food, Glorious Food!

Your taste buds won’t be bored:

Included in Your Fare

  • Main Dining Room – The traditional cruise dining experience with multi-course dinners. Recent menu updates have reportedly improved service speed while keeping the quality high.
  • Buffet – Open extended hours with various food stations offering international options, grilled items, salads, desserts, and more.
  • Café Promenade – Casual spot for sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
  • Sorrento’s Pizza – Because pizza is always a good idea.
  • Various other casual spots depending on your ship.

Specialty Dining (Extra Cost)

These are a bit fancier and come with an extra charge, but they’re worth it for a special treat:

  1. Chops Grille: An American steakhouse with delicious cuts of meat and seafood.
  2. Giovanni’s Table: Enjoy hearty Italian dishes like pasta and seafood in a cozy setting.
  3. Izumi: If you love sushi, sashimi, or hibachi, this Japanese restaurant is a must-visit.
  4. Wonderland: This place is all about creative, imaginative dishes that look as good as they taste.
  5. Johnny Rockets: A retro diner serving up burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
  6. 150 Central Park: For an upscale farm-to-table experience with seasonal ingredients.
  7. Jamie’s Italian: Italian restaurant with notable “garlic bread”
  8. Hooked Seafood: Fresh seafood and raw bar offerings in a New England-inspired setting
  9. Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade: Sports bar with pub-style food
  10. The Mason Jar: Southern restaurant featuring “Low Country classics, Bayou staples, and bold BBQ”
  11. Chef’s Table: Multi-course meal with paired wines (mentioned as an exceptional experience)

Suite Perks

Suite guests get access to Coastal Kitchen, an exclusive restaurant serving Mediterranean-California fusion cuisine.

Drink Packages

If you like a tipple (or seven) during your holiday, Royal Caribbean has worked out that selling you drinks in bulk is better business than watching you nurse one overpriced cocktail all afternoon:

  • Deluxe Beverage Package – The “drink whatever you want” option covering virtually everything up to $15 per glass – cocktails, beer, wine, fancy coffees, bottled water, fresh juices, and sodas. You’ll pay around $80-105 per person per day, which sounds horrifying until you price out individual drinks.
  • Refreshment Package – For the sensible types who want premium coffees, teas, bottled water, fresh juices, sodas, and mocktails without the hangover. Around $35-40 per person per day.
  • Classic Soda Package – Just fountain sodas with a souvenir cup that you’ll definitely lose by day three. About $15-18 per person per day.
  • Water Package – Because apparently buying water on a ship surrounded by water costs extra. At least they deliver it to your room.

Here’s what you need to know before you commit:

  • Prices change more often than the weather and vary by ship and sailing
  • If one adult buys the Deluxe package, everyone else in the cabin has to as well (Royal Caribbean knows all about drink sharing schemes)
  • It’s all or nothing – you can’t just buy it for formal night
  • Sometimes they have sales, so it pays to stalk the prices before sailing
  • Gratuities are included, so no awkward tipping math
  • Works everywhere onboard and at their private islands
  • There’s a 15-drink daily limit because apparently even Royal Caribbean has standards

Do the math before you buy – you need to drink about 6-7 premium cocktails daily to break even on the Deluxe package. That’s either impressive dedication or a cry for help. You can find out if drinks packages are worth it in our guide, which might save you from some questionable financial decisions.

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Entertainment That Wows

Royal Caribbean doesn’t mess around when it comes to shows:

Theater Productions

  • Broadway musicals including Hairspray, CATS, and Mamma Mia
  • Original productions like Flight, Piano Man, and Gallery of Dreams
  • Comedy shows that’ll have you laughing till your sides hurt

Cool Specialty Shows

  • AquaTheater shows with high diving, acrobatics, and synchronized swimming (on select ships)
  • Ice skating shows with professional skaters
  • Live music throughout the ship
  • Adult game shows and themed parties
  • Outdoor movies by the pool

Nightlife

Multiple bars, lounges, and nightclubs keep the party going after dark. The Royal Promenade on many ships becomes the center of evening fun.

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Dress Code & Formal Nights: What to Pack

If you’re wondering what to throw in your suitcase, Royal Caribbean keeps it pretty relaxed while still offering opportunities to dress up if that’s your thing:

Daily Dress Code

For most of your cruise, the dress code is “Casual” or “Smart Casual”:

  • Casual – Think vacation wear: shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, jeans, and casual tops are all fine for most venues during the day.
  • Smart Casual – A slight step up for dinner in the Main Dining Room: collared shirts, dresses, or nice pants with blouses. No shorts, tank tops, flip flops, or baseball caps in the main dining room at dinner.

Formal Nights

Royal Caribbean has renamed these “Dress Your Best” nights, and they typically occur:

  • Once on cruises lasting 3-5 nights
  • Twice on cruises of 6-10 nights
  • Three times on cruises 11 nights or longer

On these special evenings, you’ll see a mix of outfits:

  • Some people go all out with tuxedos, gowns, and cocktail dresses
  • Many opt for suits, dress shirts, nice dresses, or elegant pantsuits
  • Others keep it simple with button-down shirts and slacks or dressy tops with nice pants

If dressing up isn’t your thing, you can skip the Main Dining Room on these nights and eat at the buffet or other casual venues where regular attire is fine.

Specialty Restaurant Dress Codes

Most specialty restaurants follow the “Smart Casual” code, while the fancier venues like 150 Central Park or Chef’s Table might expect slightly more formal attire.

Theme Nights

Many cruises include fun theme nights like:

  • Caribbean Night
  • White Party
  • 70’s Disco Party
  • Halloween or holiday themes (on seasonal sailings)

These are completely optional, but packing a themed outfit or two can add to the fun if you’re into it!

Quick Packing Tips

  • Check your cruise calendar in the Royal Caribbean app before sailing to see which nights are “Dress Your Best”
  • Pack at least one nicer outfit for these evenings
  • Don’t forget comfortable shoes for exploring ports and walking around the ship
  • Bring a light jacket or sweater as the air conditioning can be chilly in theaters and restaurants
  • Swimwear is for pools and sun decks only (cover up when walking through indoor areas)

Remember, Royal Caribbean’s dress code is more about guidelines than strict rules. The goal is for everyone to be comfortable while still maintaining a pleasant atmosphere.

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Cruising with Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean has earned a solid reputation as one of the most kid-friendly cruise lines out there. If you’re planning to bring the little ones (or not-so-little ones) along, here’s what you need to know:

Adventure Ocean: The Kids’ Club Program

Royal Caribbean’s complimentary kids’ program is broken down by age groups:

  • Royal Babies & Tots (6-36 months) – Drop-off nursery service available for an hourly fee ($6-8/hour). Includes supervised playtime and age-appropriate activities.
  • Aquanauts (3-5 years) – Fun activities like storytime, arts and crafts, dress-up games, and science experiments designed for this age group.
  • Explorers (6-8 years) – Hands-on activities including science experiments, theater games, scavenger hunts, and themed parties.
  • Voyagers (9-12 years) – More independent activities including sports competitions, talent shows, team challenges, and science projects.
  • Teens Program (13-17 years) – Split into two groups (13-14 and 15-17) with dedicated teen lounges, organized activities, dance parties, and supervised hangout time. Teens can come and go as they please.

The kids’ clubs are typically open from 9am to 10pm with breaks for family meal times, though hours can vary by ship. Late-night “Party Time” babysitting is available from 10pm to 2am for an additional fee (around $7-8 per hour).

Family-Friendly Activities

Beyond the kids’ clubs, Royal Caribbean offers tons of activities the whole family can enjoy together:

  • Water Features – Splash pads, water slides, and kid-friendly pools (including the colorful Splashaway Bay aqua park on newer ships)
  • Sports Activities – Mini-golf, basketball, table tennis, arcade games, rock climbing, and FlowRider surf simulators (height restrictions apply)
  • Entertainment – Family-friendly shows, ice skating performances, and parades featuring DreamWorks characters on some ships
  • Special Activities – Cupcake decorating classes, family disco nights, outdoor movie screenings, and family game shows
  • Adventure Ocean Family Time – Special sessions when parents can join their kids in the youth facilities for family-focused activities

Practical Information for Parents

  • Baby Essentials – Royal Caribbean offers a service called Babies 2 Go where you can pre-order diapers, wipes, and baby food for delivery to your stateroom.
  • Dining Options – Kids’ menus are available in the Main Dining Room and most specialty restaurants. The buffet is always a safe bet for picky eaters.
  • My Family Time Dining – An expedited dining service where kids are served first, then Adventure Ocean staff pick them up from the dining room so parents can enjoy a leisurely meal.
  • In-Room Babysitting – Not currently offered, but the late-night group sitting is available.
  • Age Policies – Infants must be at least 6 months old on day of sailing for most cruises, and 12 months for transatlantic, transpacific, and select longer voyages.
  • Children’s Pools – Kids must be fully potty-trained to use most pools. Those in diapers (including swim diapers) can only use designated baby splash areas.
  • Teen Curfew – Guests under 18 must be in their staterooms by 1:00 AM unless accompanied by an adult in their travel party.
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Accessible Cruising: Royal Caribbean’s Accommodations

Royal Caribbean works to make their ships welcoming to guests of all abilities. Here’s a quick overview of their accessibility features:

Accessible Staterooms

  • Wider Doorways – Accessible cabins have wider entryways and bathroom doors to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters
  • Ramped Thresholds – For easier entry and movement between cabin areas
  • Bathroom Features – Roll-in showers, grab bars, raised toilet seats, and lowered sinks
  • Additional Space – More room to maneuver mobility devices
  • Special Features – Lowered closet rods, accessible balconies on select rooms, and visual doorbells

Around the Ship

  • Public Areas – Most venues and public spaces are designed to be accessible with elevators serving all decks
  • Pool Lifts – At least one pool and one whirlpool on each ship has a lift
  • Theater Seating – Designated wheelchair spaces in entertainment venues
  • Gangways – Accessible ramps for boarding and disembarking at ports (where available)
  • Service Animals – Permitted onboard with appropriate documentation

Special Services

  • Embarkation Assistance – Priority boarding and help getting on the ship
  • Braille Signage – Available throughout the ships
  • Amplified Telephones – For guests with hearing limitations
  • Assistive Listening Devices – Available for theaters and shows
  • Large Print Materials – Menus and daily planners available in large print
  • Medical Oxygen – Guests can bring their own approved oxygen equipment

If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to contact Royal Caribbean’s Accessibility Team when booking your cruise. They can help match you with the right ship and cabin for your requirements, and note any special assistance you might need during your vacation.

Remember that accessible staterooms are limited and in demand, so booking early is strongly recommended.

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You’re right, that’s not quite in your tone. Let me rewrite it to match your voice better:

Private Islands: Like Having Your Own Slice of Paradise

Royal Caribbean decided that the best way to guarantee a perfect beach day is to buy the beach. Smart thinking, really. They’ve got three private destinations that show up regularly in Caribbean itineraries:

Perfect Day at CocoCay

This Bahamas private island got a $250 million makeover and now it’s basically a water park that happens to be surrounded by ocean. Features include:

  • Thrill Waterpark with 13 slides including North America’s tallest waterslide
  • The Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool (for when the actual Caribbean isn’t good enough)
  • A helium balloon ride that takes you up for proper views
  • Zip line for the adventurous types
  • Gorgeous beaches and rentable cabanas
  • Free food options (swimming works up an appetite)
  • See our full guide on CocoCay private island

Labadee, Haiti

This private beach setup has been Royal Caribbean’s Haitian hideaway for years:

  • Beautiful private beaches for serious relaxation
  • Zip lines and water activities
  • Included BBQ lunch that’s actually quite good
  • Local craft market for souvenirs
  • See our full guide on Labadee private island

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island (December 2025)

The newest addition opens in Nassau, Bahamas this December. Details are still coming, but knowing Royal Caribbean, expect them to pack it with activities and call it “the ultimate beach experience” or something equally ambitious.

What’s next: More private destinations planned for Mexico and the South Pacific, because apparently Royal Caribbean’s mission is to own a slice of paradise in every ocean.

The real win with these private islands? No crowds from other cruise lines, everything actually runs on schedule, and you don’t have to worry about dodgy beach vendors or getting back to the ship on time.

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What’s In Your Wallet? Pricing and Value

Let’s talk money. Understanding what’s included helps you figure out the real value:

Included in Your Fare

  • Your room
  • Main dining venues (Main Dining Room, buffet, and some casual spots)
  • Most entertainment and shows
  • Basic activities (pools, hot tubs, fitness center)
  • Kids and teens programs

Costs Extra

Price Tips

  • Newer ships cost more than older ones
  • Suites offer more space and perks but at much higher prices
  • Spring and fall usually offer better deals
  • Sales happen regularly throughout the year

The Real Deal: What People Are Saying

Reviews of Royal Caribbean span the full spectrum:

The Good Stuff

  • Entertainment that rivals land-based shows
  • Activities for everyone from tots to grandparents
  • Clean, well-maintained ships
  • Friendly staff (especially in restaurants)
  • Tasty food in the main dining venues

The Not-So-Good

  • Itinerary changes sometimes happen with little notice
  • Those extra costs can add up quickly
  • Customer service can be hit or miss
  • Older ships occasionally show their age
  • It can get crowded during peak times

Experiences can vary a lot depending on which ship you’re on, where you’re going, when you sail, and what you expect going in.

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First-Timer Tips

Never been on Royal Caribbean before? We also have a very good guide for people new to cruises that goes into much more detail.

Picking the Right Ship

  • Newer ships have more stuff to do but cost more
  • Smaller, older ships give you a more intimate experience and often visit ports the big ships can’t
  • Research specific ship features since they vary a lot

Planning Your Trip

  • Book early for the best cabin selection and prices
  • Consider shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for better deals
  • Use the Royal Caribbean app to pre-book dining, shows, and activities
  • Know exactly what’s included so you can budget properly

Once You’re Onboard

  • Get to shows early for good seats (unless you have priority from suite status)
  • Make dining reservations in advance, especially for specialty restaurants
  • Take advantage of all the free stuff
  • Download the Royal Caribbean app before sailing for easier planning

What’s Coming Next?

Royal Caribbean treats innovation like a competitive sport – they’re always working on something bigger, better, or more ridiculous:

New Ships

  • Star of the Seas launched in August 2025 and is now sailing 7-night eastern and western Caribbean trips from Port Canaveral
  • Icon of the Seas sister ships are in the pipeline, because apparently one revolutionary ship class isn’t enough
  • They typically launch new vessels every 1-2 years, each one trying to outdo the last

New Destinations

  • Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opens December 2025 in Nassau, Bahamas – their newest “we own this beach” destination
  • More private spots planned for Mexico and Vanuatu because owning beaches in multiple oceans is apparently the goal
  • Expansion of existing private islands with new attractions and facilities

Future Innovations

  • Next-generation ship technology that’ll probably make today’s “revolutionary” features look quaint
  • New entertainment concepts because ice skating rinks and surf simulators are apparently just the beginning
  • Enhanced digital experiences to make cruise planning and onboard life even more seamless

Environmental Initiatives

  • Working toward net zero emissions by 2050 with a net zero capable ship planned by 2035
  • Alternative fuel testing including successful biofuel trials
  • Waste-to-energy systems and other green tech innovations

The pattern is pretty clear: if Royal Caribbean can dream it up and it involves either making ships bigger, adding more activities, or finding new ways to surprise people, they’re probably already working on it. The question isn’t what they’ll do next, it’s how they’ll manage to top themselves again.

Going Green: Royal Caribbean’s Environmental Commitments

If sustainability matters to you when you travel, you might be interested in Royal Caribbean’s environmental efforts:

Ocean Conservation Programs

  • The Ocean Fund, established in 1996, has contributed over $11 million to 66 marine conservation organizations worldwide
  • Their partnership with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) focuses on sustainable seafood sourcing and ocean conservation awareness
  • The “Save the Waves” program has evolved from basic recycling into a comprehensive environmental philosophy

Reducing Environmental Impact

  • They’re working toward net zero emissions by 2050 and aim to launch a net zero capable ship by 2035
  • Newer ships are significantly more efficient – Allure of the Seas emits 30% less carbon dioxide per person than ships built just 12 years earlier
  • They’ve completed successful biofuel trials and introduced the maritime industry’s first onboard waste-to-energy system

While cruise ships still have a considerable environmental footprint, Royal Caribbean is making genuine efforts to minimize their impact and contribute to ocean conservation. Their initiatives go beyond just marketing – they’re putting real resources into creating more sustainable cruising practices.

🛳️ Review:

5 stars! Booking through About2Cruise was simple. Our family loved the Royal Caribbean cruise – the kids enjoyed the H2O Zone and Adventure Ocean club, while we relaxed in the Solarium and spa. Great food, fantastic activities, and friendly staff made it a perfect holiday. We’ll definitely book with About2Cruise again!

A photo of a wedding ceremony on a cruise ship. The couple is standing on a deck with a beautiful view of the sea. The groom is wearing a navy blue suit and the bride is wearing a white dress with a lace overlay. The captain of the ship is officiating the ceremony. There are guests standing behind the couple. The sky is clear and sunny. Save This Pin

Royal Caribbean Wedding

Getting married on a Royal Caribbean cruise is a great way to have a fun, stress-free wedding while cruising great locations.

  • Where You Can Get Married: Onboard the ship, at sea, or at a port destination.
  • Types of Weddings:
    • Vows at Sea: Legally binding ceremony performed by the captain.
    • Shipboard Weddings: Tie the knot on the ship, either docked or while sailing.
    • Destination Weddings: Say “I do” at one of the cruise’s beautiful stops.
    • Beach or Port Ceremonies: A tropical wedding with everything arranged for you.
  • Cruise Wedding Guide: Check out our full Cruise Wedding Guide for all the details on planning your perfect Royal Caribbean wedding, from venues and packages to tips on making your big day unforgettable!

🛳️ Review:

I’m a solo traveller and was a bit nervous about going on a cruise, however Jo my cruise booking agent from About2Cruise was awesome. She booked me in a Royal Caribbean single cabin which was really nice.I met new friends at the bars and even got to sit next to some now life long friends at dinner. Thanks guys.

A photo of a close-up shot of a boy and a girl in a swimming pool on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. The boy has short dark hair and is wearing a blue shirt. The girl has long dark hair and is wearing a pink shirt. The background contains the ship's structure and other passengers. The water is clear, and there are small bubbles around the children. Save This Pin

Swimming Pools and Water Slides

Here’s what you can expect when your cruise line is listed as one of the top 17 water slides on a cruise ship. You’ll also find a more detailed guide to water slides on Royal Caribbean ships.

Main Pool

The Main Pool area is where the action is. Here’s what you’ll find:

  • Multiple pools: Perfect for a swim or just hanging out.
  • Hot tubs: Great for relaxing and soaking your worries away.
  • Sun loungers and cabanas: Catch some rays or take a nap.
  • Poolside bars: Grab a cocktail without leaving the pool.

Solarium

The Solarium is an adults-only chill zone. Highlights include:

  • Heated pools: Nice and warm, even if it’s a bit cool outside.
  • Whirlpools: Relax with some bubbles and great views.
  • Cascading pools: Some ships have fancy tiered pools.
  • Lush greenery and comfy seats: Super peaceful and relaxing.

H2O Zone and Splashaway Bay

These areas are kid heaven with tons of fun water stuff:

  • Interactive water features: Water cannons, fountains, and geysers.
  • Kid-friendly slides: Safe and fun for the little ones.
  • Shallow pools: Perfect for kids to splash around in.
  • Colorful themes: Bright and fun designs that kids love.

Sports Pool

For those who like to stay active, the Sports Pool is the place to be:

  • Lap swimming: Swim some laps and get a workout in.
  • Water sports: Join in on water volleyball or pool basketball.
  • Fitness classes: Aqua aerobics and other fun workouts.

Beach Pool

On some newer ships, you’ll find a Beach Pool that feels like a resort:

  • Zero-entry pools: Easy to get in, just like at the beach.
  • In-water loungers: Relax in the pool on a comfy lounger.
  • Sand-like textures: Some pools have sand-like floors for a beachy vibe.

The Perfect Storm

The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides is super exciting:

  • Cyclone: Twists and turns for a thrilling ride.
  • Typhoon: Similar to Cyclone but with its own unique twists.
  • Supercell: The biggest one with a giant bowl that swirls you around.

Ultimate Abyss

Not a water slide, but still a must-try. It’s the tallest dry slide at sea, taking you from Deck 16 to the Boardwalk on Deck 6. It’s a crazy fun ride! This slide is on Symphony of the Seas.

Blaster Aqua Coaster

On some ships, you’ll find this awesome water coaster:

  • Water propulsion: Zoom through dips, drops, and straightaways.
  • Two-person rafts: Share the fun with a friend.
  • Spectacular views: The slide goes out over the edge of the ship.

Tidal Wave

This boomerang-style slide is a wild ride. This water slide is featured on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas.

  • Steep drop: Go down a steep slope and then up a vertical wall.
  • Weightless sensation: Feel weightless for a moment before sliding back down.

Poolside Amenities

Around the pools, you’ll find lots of things to make your time even better:

  • Sun Loungers: Plenty of places to sunbathe or relax in the shade.
  • Poolside Bars: Grab a cocktail, soft drink, or snack without leaving the pool area.
  • Hot Tubs: Several hot tubs around the pool decks, perfect for soaking and relaxing.
  • Towels: Fresh towels are always available, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Here are five top questions asked about Royal Caribbean Cruises

What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?

  • No worries! Royal Caribbean has plenty of options for people with dietary needs like vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more. Just let them know about your needs before you sail, and they’ll make sure you’re taken care of.

What kind of shore excursions can I do, and how do I book them?

  • There’s a ton to choose from, like cultural tours, adventure activities, and beach days. You can book shore excursions online before you go or once you’re on the ship at the Shore Excursions Desk.

How does the internet work on the ship?

  • Royal Caribbean offers different internet packages, from basic browsing to full-on streaming. You can buy these packages before your cruise or once you’re on board, so you can stay connected as much as you need. Learn more about saving on cruise ship internet here.

What’s the deal with the loyalty program?

  • The Crown & Anchor Society is Royal Caribbean’s way of rewarding repeat cruisers. You earn points for each cruise and get perks like priority boarding, special events, discounts, and more, depending on how many points you’ve racked up.

How does Royal Caribbean keep everyone safe?

  • They take safety seriously with regular drills, onboard medical facilities, and strict cleaning protocols. There’s also security staff and measures in place to make sure everyone stays safe and healthy throughout the trip.

Read about the highs and lows of my Royal Caribbean cruise from Southampton in this detailed review.