Royal Caribbean's newest ship is one step closer to its highly anticipated maiden voyage. 

On June 10, 2026, Royal Caribbean International finally took delivery of Legend of the Seas, the cruise line's third Icon Class ship, at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland. 

More than 1,200 crew members and partners gathered at the shipyard for a special ceremony, led by Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley, and Meyer Turku CEO Casimir Lindholm.

During the event, the hard work of hundreds of engineers, designers, architects, and crew members was celebrated, honoring the years of planning, construction, and coordination that were required to bring this massive vessel to life. 

(Credit: Meyer Turku shipyard)

"Today's delivery of Legend of the Seas marks another important milestone in our ambition to continuously redefine the vacation experience," said Liberty.

"This new ship reflects the strength of the vacation ecosystem we are building — combining industry-leading ships, innovative technology, and exceptional experiences for our guests. It is an achievement only possible through the extraordinary partnership and expertise of Meyer Turku and the thousands of talented people whose creativity and commitment continue to help us design the future of vacations."

"We're incredibly proud to introduce Legend of the Seas to vacationers and continue the legacy of the revolutionary Icon Class," added Bayley.

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

"This wouldn’t be possible without the many talented individuals that came together to deliver what is truly the ultimate family vacation, and we look forward to making Legend’s debut this summer a legendary one."

As the largest cruise ship to offer European getaways, Legend of the Seas will bring Royal Caribbean's signature resort-style, mega-ship experience to the region on an unprecedented scale.

From new neighborhoods to record-breaking attractions, unique dining options, world-class entertainment, and more, the ship will redefine what an unforgettable European cruise vacation can look like.

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

Her maiden voyage is scheduled for July 4, 2026. The seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise will call at Marseille, France; Barcelona, Spain; Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and La Spezia, Italy. This specific cruise will be preceded by a short, invite-only media sailing.

In November, Legend of the Seas will relocate to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she'll offer a series of six- and eight-night cruises to the Western and Southern Caribbean. Each adventure will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning island in The Bahamas.  

Legend of the Seas Fast Facts

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

Legend of the Seas will measure 248,663 gross tons and have a passenger capacity of 5,610 at double occupancy, according to the cruise line. Moreover, she'll come in at 1,196 feet long, have 18 guest decks, and be home to over 2,300 international crew members. 

Although her Icon Class bones mean you can expect many of the same features and highlights found aboard Icon and Star of the Seas, she's also unique in that she introduces several new offerings. 

For starters, the upscale supper club specialty restaurant will be rethemed to focus on the glitz, glamour, and fame of Hollywood's golden age of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s.

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

Additionally, Royal Railway – Legend Station will take diners on Legend of the Seas to new destinations during an immersive dining experience. 

The AquaDome Market will have a new lineup of food stalls, too. These include Seoulmate, La Española, Simply Pressed, and Adobo. The only returning stall is Crème de la Crêpe, a beloved favorite that first debuted on Icon of the Seas. 

Other exciting changes coming to Legend include refreshed entertainment options in the Royal Theater, AquaTheater, and Absolute Zero ice rink:

• Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Royal Theater)
• America's Got Talent LIVE at Sea (Royal Theater)
• Shockwave: A Battle for the Beat (AquaTheater)
• Fusion (Absolute Zero)

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

Of course, all the Icon Class exclusive amenities will also be available, ranging from the Category 6 Waterpark to the family-friendly Surfside neighborhood, dueling piano bar, adults-only Hideaway retreat, Crown's Edge obstacle course/zip line, and more. 

More Icon Class Fun To Come

Royal Caribbean's Hero of the Seas, the cruise line's fourth Icon Class vessel, is scheduled to debut in 2027. At the time of writing, they also have three more Icon Class ships on order for delivery in 2028, 2029, and 2030, respectively. 

Like Icon, Star, and Legend, the future Icon Class ships will also be LNG-powered. This helps advance Royal Caribbean Group's journey toward developing a net-zero cruise ship by 2035. 

"Legend of the Seas is the third Icon Class ship built at our shipyard, and constructing the series has enabled us to develop our production processes in a systematic way. We have built on the experience gained from the previous vessels and further improved efficiency with the customer and our extensive partner network," said Lindholm.

"The ship is an exceptional project in terms of both scale and technical complexity, requiring strong expertise and seamless collaboration across the entire maritime cluster. At the same time, Legend of the Seas moves shipbuilding towards more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable solutions."

Royal Caribbean's new record-breaking Icon Class ships certainly turn heads. However, before planning your vacation, it is important to understand what's actually included in your cruise fare. 

Legend of the Seas is the third Icon Class ship in the fleet — and the first to offer Mediterranean cruises. This expands the lineup beyond The Bahamas and Caribbean, giving travelers a new way to experience the Icon Class design in some of Europe's most popular destinations. 

That said, a vacation aboard Legend of the Seas will cost you a pretty penny, especially once you factor in add-ons like specialty dining, drink packages, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi, which can significantly increase the cost of your trip hundreds of dollars more than you budgeted for.

In this article, we'll break down exactly what is — and isn't — included on Legend of the Seas. That way, you can set realistic expectations and avoid surprise charges onboard.

What is included on a Legend of the Seas cruise?

Let's start with your accommodations. 

Legend of the Seas has four base cabin categories: Interior, Outside View, Balcony, and Suite. Within those categories, numerous sub-categories give guests plenty of options to choose the experience that best fits their budget and travel style. 

Depending on which type of cruise cabin you book, the exact size, amenities, and layout of the room will vary. At the very least, though, your cruise fare includes your own private room and ensuite bathroom. You'll also get housekeeping service at least once per day (twice if you're in a suite). 

I'd recommend working with a travel agent, as they can keep you informed on any ongoing promotions and help you secure the best pricing. Plus, they might have access to exclusive group rates that aren't advertised on Royal Caribbean's website. 

Food included on Legend of the Seas

Moving on, dining is a central part of the cruise experience, and Legend of the Seas brings its culinary A-game. 

When planning your cruise aboard Legend of the Seas, it is important to know what venues are and aren't included in our cruise fare. 

If, for example, you want to try the all-new Hollywoodland Supper Club, you don't want to wait until you are on the ship to learn that the exclusive experience costs $200 per person.

Complimentary restaurants on Legend of the Seas include:

• Pearl Café (with a few exceptions)
• Park Cafe
• Windjammer Marketplace
• Surfside Bites
• Surfside Eatery
• AquaDome Market
• Main Dining Room
• Coastal Kitchen (for those staying in suites) 
• The Grove (for those staying in suites) 
• Basecamp
• Sorrento's
• El Loco Fresh
• Vitality Cafe (with a few exceptions)
• Sprinkles
• Room service (continental breakfast only)

This means you can treat your taste buds to complimentary tater tots and smashburgers at Basecamp, try different cuisines at the AquaDome Market, and enjoy soft serve at Sprinkles all cruise long!

Complimentary entertainment and activities 

Legend of the Seas cruise fares include many exciting activities for no additional cost, such as Broadway-style entertainment, live music, access to the Category 6 Waterpark, daily trivia, and more. 

The Royal Caribbean entertainment team has worked to upgrade the offerings to give passengers new, larger-scale productions and a wider variety of live shows. Many productions are exclusive to Legend, so you will not find them on any other vessel in the fleet! In short, if you're bored sailing on Legend of the Seas, you simply aren't trying to have fun! 

Here's a full list of the entertainment and activities that are available on Legend of the Seas for free:

• Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory 
• America's Got Talent LIVE at Sea
• Shockwave: A Battle for the Beat
• Fusion
• The Quack Bash
• Voyage to Adventure parade 
• Category 6 Waterpark
• Seven pools
• 10 whirlpools
• Splashaway Bay
• Adventure Ocean youth programming
• Father Daughter Dance
• Family Field Day 
• Once Upon a Bedtime Story
• Larger than Life Family Festival
• FlowRider surf simulator
• Surfside carousel

• Sports court
• Playscape climbing gym
• Adrenaline Peak rock climbing wall
• Lost Dunes mini-golf course
• The Hideaway adults-only deck
• Ice skating at the Absolute Zero rink
• Dueling piano shows 
• Live jazz at Lou's Jazz 'n Blues
• Latin-themed dance nights at Boleros 
• Comedy shows 
• Karaoke sessions
• Game shows 
• Viva Ibiza Pool Party
• Royal Kappa Chi — Legend Chapter 
• RED Nightclub 
• Sing-alongs at Ale & Arrow and Schooner Bar
• Vitality Fitness Center

Drinks included on Legend of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's cruise fare includes a selection of complimentary beverages. These drinks are available at any time during your sailing and include tap water, tea, drip coffee, lemonade, iced tea, milk, juice (not fresh squeezed), and hot chocolate. 

However, if you want alcohol, fountain drinks, fresh juices, zero-proof cocktails, specialty coffee, milkshakes, bottled water, or Starbucks, you must purchase them. 

Alternatively, you can invest in a Royal Caribbean beverage package. There are several types of beverage packages available to accommodate different budgets and drinking habits. 

The Deluxe Beverage Package gives unlimited access to alcoholic and non-alcoholic specialty beverages. As such, it's the most expensive option. The Royal Refreshment Package includes all beverages sans alcohol, while Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package only includes soft drinks. 

If yoy want to keep your drink costs down, you can bring one 750ml bottle of wine per adult of legal drinking age on board, along with a 12-pack of soda.

Transportation between ports of call

Legend of the Seas is a destination in and of itself. However, you can travel to many bucket list ports aboard the Icon Class ship, too.

When she debuts in June 2026, Legend will become the first Icon Class vessel to offer European itineraries, calling at ports like Marseille, France; Barcelona, Spain; La Spezia, Italy; and Naples, Italy. 

Transportation between these ports is a huge deal because it eliminates the hassle of planning multiple flights, trains, hotel check-ins, and luggage transfers between each destination. 

Legend will then reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for the winter, sailing to the Southern and Western Caribbean. Each voyage will offer passengers a chance to visit Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Here, guests can enjoy a variety of complimentary amenities, including multiple stretches of white-sand beaches, a large freshwater pool, beach games, a buffet lunch, and more. 

As such, it is a great port to visit if you want the ultimate private island experience but are traveling on a budget! It's easy to plan a fun day ashore and not spend extra money. 

Strong demand across the cruise industry has sent fares soaring, with travelers continuing to prioritize memorable experiences. 

Not only that, but optional onboard add-ons, such as drink and internet packages, specialty dining, and shore excursions, have also become more expensive.

Although it's no secret that newer, bigger vessels tend to cost more than older ships like Vision of the Seas or Radiance of the Seas, I generally prefer paying more for a newer ship experience. 

From expansive pool decks and modern accommodations to better entertainment venues and a wider variety of dining options, the latest mega-ships feel like floating resorts — they are a destination in and of themselves!

Recently, I embarked on a short cruise aboard Harmony of the Seas from Barcelona, Spain, to Palma de Mallorca and Marseille, France. 

Sailing from Europe meant my overall expenses would naturally be higher once airfare, hotels, and pre-cruise costs were factored in. 

However, I couldn't say no to the opportunity to sail on this recently revitalized Oasis Class ship with my sister before she begins medical school, knowing that her availability will become far more limited once classes and clinical rotations begin.

With all the enhancements, from the tropical Pesky Parrot bar to Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade, I couldn’t wait to get on and check out everything new on the amplified ship, as well as explore new ports of call. 

We tacked on pre- and post-cruise stays in Barcelona to our short three-night sailing, after which my sister opted to extend her vacation to Spain and Portugal. For our portion, however, my sister and I spent around $5,900 on our five-night European trip aboard Harmony of the Seas. 

On a nightly basis, this means we spent around $1,172.40, or roughly $2,931 per person. In this article, I'll provide a full breakdown of what we spent during my Harmony of the Seas cruise, including travel-related expenses and onboard spending. 

Our round-trip plane tickets from North Carolina to Barcelona, Spain, cost almost $2,430. 

Airfare prices have recently increased due to the ongoing fuel crisis. However, flights out of Charlotte, North Carolina, have been unreasonable for quite some time. 

In fact, it's pretty common for round-trip tickets to places like Miami or Orlando on American Airlines to cost upward of $400 per person — yikes!

Although I am usually a devout American Airlines flyer, I couldn't justify the flight prices from Charlotte to Barcelona and instead booked a cheaper option aboard Lufthansa, which cost $1,054.63. This price included a checked bag, but I could not select my seat assignment until 24 hours before departure. 

I couldn't convince my sister to join me because she wanted to use her American loyalty benefits. She flew separately from Greensboro to Philadelphia, and then onward to Barcelona.

Her flight cost $1,375.83, and she arrived much earlier than I did, so she took advantage of nearly a full extra day in Barcelona while I was stuck in the Munich airport during a lengthy layover. This meant that between the two of us, our airfare cost more than the cruise itself, coming in at $2,430.46. 

We arrived one day before the cruise and stayed at a centrally located hotel in Barcelona. Our room cost over $340.

Usually, I'm not a stickler when it comes to pre-cruise hotels and am fine with basic accommodations near the hotel or port. However, with limited time in Spain before our sailing, I wanted somewhere convenient and safe, so we could comfortably explore the city without wasting time going back and forth. 

In the end, we settled on the Catalonia Portal De L'Angel Hotel, with our one-night stay coming to $347.37. This location was perfect, just steps away from the Cathedral of Barcelona and around a five-minute walk to the famous tree-lined La Rambla boulevard.

My sister arrived earlier than I did, and the hotel let her store her bags while she ventured off to grab breakfast, browse nearby stores, and take in the sights, since the room was not quite ready. 

We spent around $320 in Barcelona before the cruise.

This was our first visit to Barcelona, so we weren't in a budget mindset when it came to exploring the city. Between meals, attractions, transportation, and spontaneous shopping, we focused more on making the most of our limited time than staying within a specific budget.

Here's a breakdown of what we spent: 

• Taxis from BCN airport to our hotel: $74.75
• Two coffees from D Origen Coffee Roasters: $11.20
• Dinner at Tantarantana: $48.76

• Viral tiramisu dessert coffee from Coffee Casa: $17.44
• Casa Batlló admission: $93.18
• Lunch at Gusti Toscani: $14.42
• Souvenirs: $35.17
• Taxi from hotel to Barcelona cruise port: $23.35

Total: $318.27

The three-night sailing aboard the Harmony of the Seas ship cost $1,286.74 for a windowless inside cabin. 

With just three nights aboard the massive 226,963 gross-ton Oasis Class ship and no sea days, we did not mind saving money on our cruise fare. A balcony seemed pointless since we wouldn't have time to fully enjoy it! 

We booked a Category 4V Interior Stateroom through my travel agent for $1,286.74, or $643.37 per person, including gratuities. This came out to around $429 per night for both of us.

The room wasn't anything fancy, but it was a comfortable enough space to rest up after long days ashore in Spain and France. 

We also loved the location, as it was steps from the aft elevator bank. This made navigating the massive vessel a little easier. 

The price of our Royal Caribbean cruise covered more than the room, too — ranging from unlimited meals to basic beverages, unique entertainment, and transportation from Barcelona to Palma de Mallorca and France. 

On Harmony of the Seas, there are multiple pools, water slides, a fitness center, a three-deck-high dining room, ice skating shows, and high diving performances, among other activities and amenities.

In short, even when we weren't exhausted from spending all day ashore, the ship made it easy to stay entertained and busy.

We racked up $424.34 in other charges, including Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and souvenirs. 

We kept our onboard spending pretty low while aboard Harmony of the Seas. Since it was such a short voyage, we did not bother with specialty dining, and my daily Diamond vouchers meant we did not need to splurge on a pricey drink package. 

In total, we spent $123.17 on the ship. This included Wi-Fi, dessert at Playmakers, a few arcade games, and our excursion in Marseille to Aix-en-Provence. Our booking included a $50 onboard credit, which helped decrease the overall cost of our spending, as we would have spent closer to $170 without it. 

While ashore, we spent an additional $301.17 in Palma de Mallorca and Aix-en-Provence, with miscellaneous charges ranging from souvenir shopping to sweet treats. The biggest splurge was pearls in Palma de Mallorca. Since they're my sister's birthstone, she couldn't resist picking up a few special pieces of jewelry to bring home.

Before we knew it, it was time to get off the cruise ship and meet our dad in Barcelona for some much-needed time together!

My dad flew to Spain to meet us before he continued traveling with my sister. Unfortunately, I didn't have the PTO to join them since I had just returned from a Disney cruise aboard the brand-new Destiny ship. Still, I'm glad we got to spend a little time together in Spain before my sister effectively disappears for med school. 

Here's a breakdown of what we spent: 

• Hotel: $432.65
• Taxi from Barcelona cruise port to hotel: $19.72
• Breakfast at the Barcelona Coffee House: $52.09

• 1.5-hour tour of the Sagrada Família: $267.30
• Lunch at La Pepita: $83.37
• Admission to Park Güell: $62.76
• Dinner at La Selva: $82.21
• Taxi from the hotel to the Barcelona airport: $54.71

Total: $1,054.81

Between travel-related expenses, food, shopping, and the cruise itself, we spent nearly $5,900 on our Harmony of the Seas vacation.

My six-night vacation to Europe, including a three-night cruise on the Harmony of the Seas ship and an overnight flight, was not cheap, but it was an unforgettable experience — and a great way to visit Spain for the first time!

Plus, with Harmony recently renovated, she offers even more ways to play, drink, and dine than ever before, ensuring that vacations aboard the Oasis Class vessel are exciting for first-time cruisers and longtime Royal Caribbean fans alike.

While this trip was definitely a splurge, coming in at $5,861.99, combining the three-night itinerary with a pre- and post-cruise stay in Barcelona made for the perfect introduction to Spain and a way to justify flying across the pond for a short cruise. 

Certain cruise mistakes can quickly turn into costly, unforgettable experiences — for all the wrong reasons. 

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world and welcomes millions of passengers annually. With their massive ships, record-breaking onboard activities, and itineraries spanning the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and beyond, it is easy to see why so many cruisers are Loyal to Royal. 

However, it isn't always sunshine and rainbows at sea. We asked Royal Caribbean passengers what their biggest cruise-related mistakes were, and after reviewing over 700 answers on our Facebook page, it quickly became clear that many travelers shared the same avoidable regrets. 

From booking the wrong cruise room to purchasing unnecessary add-ons, there are plenty of easy ways to screw up your Royal Caribbean vacation. Here are the seven most common Royal Caribbean cruise regrets — and how to make sure you don't make the same mistakes on your next vacation. 

A lot of cruisers booked the cheapest cruise room to save money.

Repeatedly, people said they regretted choosing a windowless, interior cabin. When many envision cruise vacations, they picture breathtaking sunsets and slow mornings on their private balconies, pulling into port. However, those expectations don't match reality for guests in interior rooms.

Many commented that they'd never stay in an inside cabin again. As one traveler put it, "We had [a Promenade View inside cabin on Liberty of the Seas,] and it was awful. Right above the ice cream shop and [we] heard nothing but [the] freezer door banging." 

There's nothing wrong with trying to save money on your accommodations, but it is important to understand exactly what you’re giving up in exchange for the lower price, whether that's the ability to select your exact cabin or a view and natural light. 

Many travelers regretted overpacking for their cruise. 

Several passengers told us that they regretted overpacking, claiming that they brought way more than they needed for their sailing. 

While you may be used to overpacking for trips to the beach or theme parks, a cruise environment is very different — and you have far less storage space than you might be accustomed to. This is especially true if you're sharing a cabin with two or three other guests. 

You definitely want to come prepared, but you also don't need to pack multiple outfits for each day of the cruise. It's more than acceptable to re-wear dresses to dinner, and you do not need as many swimsuits as you think. 

They bought the Royal Caribbean drink package.

Many commenters mentioned they didn't think the Royal Caribbean drink package was worth the cost, and those who did purchase it often consumed too much alcohol, leaving them unable to enjoy their port days.

While the convenience of prepaid drinks sounds appealing, it often leaves guests feeling pressured to "get their money’s worth" by overconsuming. Of course, if you are a heavier drinker and don't buy a package, you may end up with a surprisingly expensive onboard statement at the end of the cruise. 

That is why it is so important to calculate your daily drink intake to determine whether you should buy a drink package or purchase each beverage individually. And don't forget that there are more options than the pricey Deluxe Beverage Package. Royal Caribbean cruisers may also select an inclusive non-alcoholic package or a soda-only package, both of which are more affordable than the alcohol-heavy option. 

Others wasted money buying the Unlimited Dining Package.

Another unpopular add-on is the Unlimited Dining Package (UDP), especially on newer, larger ships. Although the package is valuable to specialty dining-focused travelers, others argue that it is just too much food to fully enjoy. 

One traveler wrote that they bought the UDP on Icon of the Seas, but regretted it because there were so many other complimentary and low-cost dining options aboard the vessel. 

From the Windjammer buffet to late-night pizza, unlimited desserts, poolside Mexican fare, and indulgent three-course dining room meals, there's more than enough food included in your cruise fare — and you will get way more bang for your buck by sticking to the "free" options. 

They flew in on embarkation day.

For many experienced cruisers, flying in on embarkation day is one of the biggest mistakes you can make before any sailing. Countless travelers have shared horror stories about delayed flights, canceled connections, and weather disruptions that caused them to miss the ship's departure. 

Although flying in on embarkation day saves money on a pre-cruise hotel and may require less PTO, it leaves no room for error the morning of embarkation. Even if you make the ship on time, the stress of awaiting your flight's departure and rushing to the terminal isn't how you should want to begin your long-awaited vacation. 

Instead, it is recommended to arrive at least one day before embarkation. Not only will this give you more of a buffer in case of unexpected delays, but you can also start your vacation by exploring your chosen embarkation city — whether that means browsing the famous artwork at Wynwood Walls in Miami, enjoying fresh seafood in Seattle, or wandering the streets of New York City (and snacking on a fresh bagel!).

No one seemed prepared for disembarkation.

The final morning of your cruise often comes far too quickly. Before you know it, you'll be asked to place your luggage outside your stateroom, purchase your last-minute photographs, and vacate your cabin so the crew can begin preparing it for the next set of guests.

Regardless of whether you book a three-, five-, seven-, or ten-night cruise, it never feels long enough once you're on the ship, and many commenters regretted not booking a longer itinerary. 

On the other hand, a few mentioned that they wished they had made a booking for their next cruise while still onboard. Royal Caribbean offers exclusive discounts at Next Cruise, meaning you can save money by thinking ahead! 

Finally, a lot of passengers said they will never cheat on Royal Caribbean with other cruise lines again.

With so many other cruise lines and ships at sea, it is not uncommon for cruisers to branch out in hopes of saving money or trying something new. However, many Royal Caribbean loyalists shared that they regretted switching to lines like Carnival, Costa, MSC, and Princess. 

Nothing comes close to the cruise line's entertainment lineup, ship designs, dining options, and overall onboard experience. As such, it isn't surprising for passengers who try other cruise lines to return with a greater appreciation for what Royal Caribbean offers.

Plus, by sticking with Royal Caribbean, you climb the company's prestigious Crown & Anchor Society loyalty tiers faster, which unlocks valuable perks like free daily drinks, welcome amenities, casino credit, and more. 

Royal Caribbean has been hit with a lawsuit by a former passenger who blames the cruise line for her accidentally tripping over another guest's mobility scooter. 

Colleen Parsons of Florida filed a lawsuit against Royal Caribbean Group in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida on May 18, 2026, accusing the cruise line of negligence.

Here's allegedly what happened: On June 22, 2025, Parsons was sailing aboard Jewel of the Seas, a Radiance Class ship that launched in 2004, when she tripped over a large mobility scooter in Casino Royale. 

According to the lawsuit, Parsons claims that she was in the overcrowded casino when another guest bumped into her, forcing her into the path of the parked mobility scooter. 

As a result of the fall, Parsons fractured her left wrist and required surgery, resulting in permanent scarring. According to the lawsuit, she's seeking compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and the diminished enjoyment and value of her cruise vacation.

However, Parsons isn't seeking legal action against the other passengers involved in the accident. Rather, she's accusing Royal Caribbean of negligence for failing to maintain a safe environment and to warn passengers of a hazard in the walkway.

The lawsuit also claims that crew members aboard the 90,090 gross-ton ship failed to establish or enforce proper safety protocols for operating and parking mobility scooters.

Royal Caribbean mobility scooter policy

To keep things running in tip-top shape, Royal Caribbean has a ton of rules and policies. Technically, when guests book a cruise, they automatically agree to the terms and conditions outlined in the cruise contract. These range from onboard conduct to accessibility equipment, safety requirements, and prohibited items.

"Assistive devices including mobility scooters must be stored and recharged in your stateroom so fire doors, corridors and elevator lobbies are kept clear for emergency evacuation. When parked throughout the ship, they must be parked out of the way to allow safe and easy access by other guests and crewmembers," states Royal Caribbean's website. 

"Assistive devices should fit through a standard stateroom entry doorway which is at least 23 inches wide. We offer accessible staterooms which have wider doors which are at least 32 inches wide and may accommodate larger devices. If you have an assistive device larger than 32 inches wide, please contact our Access Department for assistance."

This case is one of many personal injury lawsuits filed against Royal Caribbean this year

Cruise lines can face frustrating legal challenges when passengers are injured on board. The circumstances of each case vary, but plaintiffs often argue that the cruise line failed to maintain a reasonably safe environment or address potential hazards.

For example, earlier this year, Jaimie Lewis, of California, filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit seeking damages of more than $75,000 after slipping and falling aboard Harmony of the Seas. 

Lewis claims that she slipped on a walkway in the ship's Central Park neighborhood and fell backward onto the hard deck in November 2024 after a rainstorm. 

(Credit: Jeanne Grubbs / Facebook)

According to the lawsuit, there weren't any visible wet-floor warning signs to alert passengers of the danger, despite the ship's crew being aware of the hazard. Consequently, Lewis' legal team argues that the lack of signage, warning cones, or verbal warnings left her unaware of the danger, directly leading to her accident.

More recently, Tanya Jones, of Australia, filed a maritime personal injury lawsuit against Royal Caribbean after slipping and falling on a wet and slippery outdoor flooring surface aboard Voyager of the Seas, resulting in serious and permanent injuries.

The complaint states that Jones encountered dangerous, slippery floors on one of the outdoor decks, caused by an accumulation of a wet foreign substance. 

Furthermore, Jones' lawsuit blames Royal Caribbean for allegedly failing to properly inspect and maintain the area, despite being aware of the danger through prior incidents across its fleet involving similar accidents on the same type of outdoor deck. 

Bad weather moving through the English Channel will slow the plans for a Royal Caribbean ship, impacting its timeline to return back to the UK.

Liberty of the Seas' second sailing since completing her Royal Amplification was suddenly disrupted by severe weather, affecting passengers on two cruises and forcing last-minute adjustments to debarkation and embarkation plans.

The revamped Freedom Class cruise ship won't return to its seasonal homeport in England as originally scheduled on Sunday, June 7, due to a storm that's preventing the vessel from safely making her way back toward Southampton. 

As a result, passengers embarking on Liberty of the Seas for the June 7 cruise were told to arrive later than planned.

"We are closely monitoring adverse weather along our route back to Southampton, England for our current sailing. With safety in mind, the ship is expected to be delayed in returning to the port by approximately six (6) hours and the terminal will be closed for embarkation until 2:30 PM," reads the email notice sent to guests, as shared with Royal Caribbean Blog.

(Credit: Leeor Plotkin)

It continues, "Arriving at the terminal earlier than your adjusted time will result in you being turned away until your new time. All guests should be checked in and onboard by 6:30 PM. So, plan on arriving no later than 6:00 PM. We're sorry for any inconvenience caused by this change." 

According to the email, the earliest arrival time was pushed from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., while the latest arrivals must check in at 6:00 p.m.

Liberty of the Seas is currently wrapping up her first weeklong itinerary back in service following her highly anticipated Royal Amplification. 

The 154,407 gross ton ship received new restaurants, refreshed public spaces, and even a few new cabins. 

Highlights include Izumi Hibachi, Starbucks, a new Caribbean resort-style pool deck, El Loco Fresh, The Lime and Coconut, and more. 

She'll remain in Europe throughout the summer, offering voyages to bucket list destinations like Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Germany, and Norway, then move back to the United States. 

Unfavorable weather en route to England

(Credit: CruiseMapper. Screenshot taken at 2:18 p.m. EST)

Current reports on social media reveal that the developing storm system is forcing Liberty of the Seas to remain docked in Vigo, Spain, until 11:00 p.m. local time. 

"Late departure tonight from Vigo at 23.00 so now 11.00 arrival in Southampton sunday now, due to storm avoidance," Michael Mccalla shared on Facebook. 

Initially, the vessel was supposed to depart around 4:30 p.m. local time, with an estimated arrival time of 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 7. 

(Credit: Buoyweather. Screenshot taken at 2:31 p.m. EST)

However, as of 2:35 p.m. EST (8:35 p.m. local time), Liberty of the Seas remains in Vigo as the storm continues to impact the ship's English Channel crossing from Spain to England. 

Vigo itself isn't forecast to be impacted by the severe weather. That said, the situation further north is less favorable, with strong winds and other inclement conditions developing across the English Channel. 

According to Buoyweather, conditions along the route are expected to deteriorate overnight, especially closer to Southampton. 

Strong winds and gusts could reach as high as 37 knots (around 42 mph), with models also indicating the possibility of waves exceeding 20 feet.

Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas just received a major revamp, and I went on board to check out all the new changes. During my cruise on the massive Oasis Class ship, I stayed in the cheapest cabin available: a standard interior stateroom. 

Since this was such a busy itinerary, I didn't mind saving money on my accommodations. Instead, I preferred booking a windowless inside cabin to have a more generous budget for shore excursions, local cuisine, and other travel-related expenses. 

My sister tagged along with me, and we made great memories aboard Harmony of the Seas, visiting Spain and France — and to my surprise, she didn't completely hate the interior stateroom!

We booked a Category 4V Inside Stateroom months in advance through my MEI travel agent. The fare came to $1,286.74, or $643.37 per person, including gratuities. 

Although pricey for a three-night cruise, I realized we'd be paying more since it was Harmony's first sailing after her multi-million dollar Royal Amplification. 

In the end, the 172-square-foot cabin wasn't anything fancy, but it was a comfortable, modern retreat after long days exploring Palma de Mallorca, Spain, and Aix-en-Provence, France, and enjoying everything the newly amplified ship offered. 

Harmony of the Seas Interior Room Review + Photos

My sister and I were assigned cabin 10277 weeks before our voyage. This is a standard interior stateroom located toward the aft (or back) of the vessel, just steps away from an elevator bank. 

We ended up loving our cabin's location since it was easy to get to popular dining venues like the Main Dining Room and Windjammer on Deck 16. 

Since breakfast and dinner were usually the first places we headed after leaving the cabin each morning or freshening up in the evening, having those venues a short elevator ride away was convenient. 

Our cabin was also tucked away from the louder public areas, such as Dazzles, which helped it feel quiet and relaxing at night. 

Moving on, the layout of my 172-square-foot cruise room was nearly identical to the one I stayed in on Quantum of the Seas a few years back, minus the virtual balcony. 

There were two twin-sized beds (that could have been combined to create one queen-sized bed), a vanity, dresser, closet, safe, mini-fridge, flat-screen television, two nightstands, full-length mirror, and a small chair tucked into the corner of the cabin. 

We used the mini-fridge to keep our water bottles cool, so we'd return to the ship to ice-cold drinks waiting for us in the cabin. 

Because we spent so little time in the cabin besides showering and sleeping, the TV was not something we used very often. Still, my sister mentioned she wished it could swivel more, since she had an awkward viewing angle from her bed. 

As a newer cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas' staterooms are outfitted with plenty of charging options, including standard American and European outlets, along with USB ports. 

There's also one American outlet on the right side of the bed (when facing it). However, the opposite side does not have one. This means you should come prepared with an extra-long charging cord or portable charger. 

Moreover, I wish the cabin had a small loveseat instead of a chair. We did appreciate having the extra seating area, especially since my sister is a stickler about not getting into bed until she’s showered, but when used as a catch-all place, there was not much room left to comfortably sit. 

Now, let's talk storage. For a basic inside cabin, the storage space was fine. There was a dresser with five drawers and one cabinet, which housed the room's mini-fridge. Additionally, one of the drawers was already occupied by items like a box of tissues and the hairdryer, which left it fairly unusable for personal storage.

Still, we both agreed that for those on longer voyages, there would be more than enough storage to keep everything organized and tidy. 

The closet, for example, was spacious and had six deep cubbies — perfect for things like shoes, bags, folded clothes, and other essentials. This is also where you'll find the cabin's safe. 

Although we did not fully unpack during our three-night cruise, we did take advantage of the ample hanging space to keep our dresses from getting wrinkled. 

That said, we could have easily unpacked and had room to spare, especially since the closet came equipped with nearly two dozen hangers. 

Finally, the stateroom's bathroom was cramped but perfectly sufficient for daily use, with everything laid out efficiently to make the most of the small space.

The long sink vanity made getting ready in the mornings easier, especially since my sister often took over the cabin vanity area before I was up and showered. 

The shelves also provided a good amount of storage for toiletries and cosmetics. Plus, there were two hooks on the back of the bathroom door, which allowed me to keep my hanging toiletries organizer within reach. 

I also appreciated the two shelves in the shower, as this gave us both dedicated space for our shampoo, conditioner, and face wash. Some ships only provide a single small shelf, which I find frustrating.

That said, the shower did not have the best water pressure, and the water temperature was inconsistent. We quickly discovered that if we showered after 9:00 p.m., there would be chilly bursts. As such, my sister began showering before dinner each night. 

On the plus side, the shower was surprisingly spacious. The rounded capsule design (with no clingy, gross curtain) helped it feel more open than a typical cruise shower, and it was easy to move around without feeling boxed in or knocking my elbows on the wall. 

Like other Royal Caribbean cabins, the bathroom didn't come stocked with a ton of toiletries — just the basic Salt + Breeze hair and body wash, along with a bar of soap. 

Was my Harmony of the Seas inside cabin worth it?

For this cruise, I'm glad we didn't shell out more money on a balcony cabin. All we wanted was a clean, modern, and comfortable place to reset between busy port days and all the onboard activities — and our 172-square-foot stateroom provided just that. 

Beyond sleeping, showering, and getting ready, we spent very little time in the cabin. As such, the lack of natural light or private outdoor space never felt like a drawback. 

That said, there were a few minor quirks, such as the wacky water temperature and awkward TV placement, but nothing that impacted the overall experience in a make-or-break way. 

In the end, I'd happily stay in another inside cabin aboard Harmony of the Seas, especially since Oasis Class cruises are less about the stateroom experience and more about everything happening around the ship and ashore. 

The body of a cruise ship crew member who had been missing for five days was finally located in St. Kitts and Nevis, authorities confirmed. 

Wang Zyuan, 33, disappeared while hiking the Mount Liamuiga hiking trail on May 27. He was last heard from around 2 p.m., when he contacted emergency services to report that he was lost, as reported by The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF). 

Although a joint search and rescue team was immediately mobilized, the operation stretched on for days as rescuers combed through the hillside up to the crater. 

Eventually, the RSCNPF confirmed that his body was recovered on June 1, though they didn't reveal the cause of the death. 

(Credit: RSCNPF / Facebook)

"It is with deep regret that the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) confirms that Mr Wang Zyuan, who had been missing on the Mt. Liamuiga trail since Wednesday, May 27th, 2026, was located deceased on Monday, June 1st, 2026, by one of the search teams," reads the police force's Facebook post. 

"Since May 27th, joint teams from the RSCNPF, the St. Kitts-Nevis Defence Force, the St. Kitts-Nevis Fire and Rescue Services, the Police Training School, the Forest Unit, the Red Cross, the Ross University K9 Unit, and dedicated community volunteers have searched the mountain daily. We are profoundly grateful to every person who gave their time and effort to this operation."

In a statement provided to USA TODAY, Royal Caribbean confirmed that Zyuan, a Chinese male national, worked for the company, though they did not reveal his exact position aboard the ship:

"We are saddened to learn a crew member has passed away," the statement said. "We appreciate the tremendous efforts of the local authorities and rescue teams, who worked tirelessly over the past several days."

According to the St. Christopher Air & Sea Ports Authority, Rhapsody of the Seas, a Vision Class cruise ship measuring 78,878 gross tons, was the only cruise ship in port on May 27. The post also added that St. Kitts and Nevis welcomed approximately 2,270 passengers ashore that day. 

Rhapsody of the Seas was on a seven-night Southern Caribbean cruise out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, as shared by Pure Holidays. The vessel departed on May 23 and called at Tortola, British Virgin Islands; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; St. John's, Antigua; Basseterre, St. Kitts; and St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. 

The Mount Liamuiga volcano hike is strenuous

Royal Caribbean's website states that the Mount Liamuiga volcano hike is "extremely strenuous" and not advised for people with pre-existing medical issues such as cardiac, respiratory, or orthopedic conditions. 

Additionally, it urges passengers to consider their fitness level when determining whether they should embark on the six-mile hike or not. 

A simple Google search will also reveal countless firsthand accounts reinforcing just how steep and difficult the hike is. 

(Credit: Anton Alvin Singh / Facebook)

"This hike is totally doable if you’re able to scale rocks but I would be lying if I said it wasn’t the physically hardest hike I’d ever done," said Yaya, one of the co-founders of Hand Luggage Only. 

"[The hike] was quite strenuous. I’m fairly experienced with hiking and trails and [I'm] a runner so I was ok with the cardio aspect of it, but there were some people that struggled," someone else commented on Reddit.

"There are definitely some slippery parts and you have to keep aware of your surroundings. A few that turned back, but most made it at different paces."

For the first time ever, one of Royal Caribbean's biggest ships had to use tender boats.

(Credit: Aloschi Bros / Facebook)

Last week, one of the world's largest cruise ships successfully tendered thousands of passengers ashore.

Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas made history as the first Oasis Class ship to tender guests ashore in La Spezia, Italy, on May 28, 2026. This overturned an industry assumption that these massive vessels were too large to do so efficiently. 

Tendering is when cruise ships anchor offshore and use smaller boats to transport passengers from the vessel to shore. If no pier can accommodate a cruise ship's size, tendering is required. 

Sometimes, certain ports don't have piers, like Santorini, Greece; George Town, Grand Cayman; or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. As such, the only way to visit these destinations is to tender from the cruise. 

(Credit: Aloschi Bros / Facebook)

Aloschi Bros, a European tour operator with origins dating back to 1932, shared photos of Harmony of the Seas' tender operation on Facebook, saying, "With over 226,000 GT, more than 6,000 guests and 2,000 crew members onboard, operations of this scale require exceptional coordination, precision and operational expertise."

"Aloschi Bros is proud to have managed and supported this unprecedented call in La Spezia, delivering a smooth and efficient operation for one of the world’s largest cruise ships."

One passenger, Stephen Martin, added that they were impressed with how Royal Caribbean handled the process. Rather than waiting in a crowded tender queue, it was easy to book a timeslot through the mobile app the day before, which made "the whole experience far smoother and more organised." 

(Credit: Stephen Martin / Facebook)

Moreover, Martin claimed tendering was the only way they could visit La Spezia due to the ongoing pier work, which would explain why previous Oasis Class visits on vessels like Allure of the Seas didn't require passengers to tender ashore. 

"[T]oday ran surprisingly smoothly, so it certainly proved that tenders can work even for mega-ships," Martin remarked on his Facebook post. 

Harmony of the Seas was in port from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., according to CruiseMapper. It was the third stop on the ship's current seven-night itinerary, which departed Barcelona, Spain, on May 31. She's expected to return to La Spezia again on Wednesday, June 10.  

An even bigger cruise ship is expected to tender in La Spezia next month

La Spezia is a popular port of call on Mediterranean itineraries. It serves as a gateway to some of Italy's most famous destinations, including Cinque Terre, Florence, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

The successful tender operation by Harmony of the Seas is important for Royal Caribbean and the Italian city as they prepare to welcome its first Icon Class ship.

Legend of the Seas is scheduled to make her inaugural call in La Spezia on July 2, 2026, during her debut Mediterranean season. This specific call is on the ship's preview voyage. She'll return on July 10 with paying passengers. 

Legend of the Seas comes in at a staggering 248,663 gross tons, 1,196 feet in length, and can accommodate over 5,600 passengers at double occupancy, according to Royal Caribbean. 

The ship's itinerary for the July 4 voyage indicates that guests will also be required to tender ashore, which suggests the port's pier work may continue throughout the summer.

As such, Harmony won’t hold the title of the largest cruise ship to tender passengers ashore. It will be passed off to Legend once she successfully completes her call in La Spezia in July. 

Could this open up more ports for Oasis and Icon Class ships?

(Credit: Stephen Martin / Facebook)

Having large ships like Harmony of the Seas and Legend of the Seas tender ashore has sparked discussion among cruise fans about whether this could become more common in the future.

Generally speaking, it could, especially in destinations with pier limitations or ongoing infrastructure work that prohibit vessels from coming alongside the dock. 

However, it is not likely to lead to any major changes to cruise itineraries in the near future since, in many cases, the destinations aren't equipped to handle the volume of passengers these ships bring ashore.

Taking your first cruise? I wanted to share what experienced cruisers wish they knew before their first sailing.

However, whereas veteran cruisers will have a better understanding of the cruise planning process, first-time guests might feel overwhelmed. From choosing the right ship and cabin to deciding what add-ons are worth the money, there are plenty of important decisions to make. 

As someone who has been on over three dozen cruises, I've learned that, although every traveler has different priorities, there are a handful of tips that can help all types of cruisers avoid common mistakes, save money, and get the most out of their sailing.

And to be fair, I've definitely made my fair share of mistakes over the years — from booking the cheapest sailing without doing much research to overextending myself on port-intensive itineraries. 

Here are my best first-time cruise vacation planning tips so you can start sailing like a pro from day one!

Use a good travel agent

Travel agents are incredibly useful when planning cruise vacations. While cruises are known for their convenience, there’s still a lot of planning involved, such as choosing the right ship and itinerary, booking shore excursions, and understanding dining options. 

A good travel agent will break down the best options based on your personal preferences and highlight ongoing promotions, which will make the overall process less stressful.

However, you must vet any agent and agency before booking to ensure they are reputable and experienced. I've been using MEI Travel for years and continue to book with them due to their professionalism and level of expertise. 

Choose your cruise ship based on what is important to you

With 29 ships in the fleet, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the number of options. 

Some vessels, like Oasis and Icon Class ships, feature world-class entertainment venues, multiple dining options, innovative amenities, and unique stateroom options that cater to a wide range of interests. 

On the other hand, Vision and Radiance Class vessels focus on a more intimate, traditional cruise experience. 

However, that means that newer ships are more expensive. If you aren't interested in water slides, surfing simulators, or ice skating rinks, you may be better off choosing an older vessel and saving money. 

At the end of the day, choosing the right Royal Caribbean cruise ship comes down to your personal preferences. 

Book as early as possible to guarantee your preferred stateroom category

If you are eyeing a certain cruise cabin, you'll want to book as far in advance as possible. This is especially true for suites and ADA-accessible rooms. They are limited in number compared to standard staterooms and can sell out quickly. 

Suites come with added perks such as priority boarding, private sun decks and dining rooms, and more spacious accommodations. As such, they are highly desirable for travelers looking to elevate their cruise experience.

The same applies to ADA-accessible staterooms, which are designed to meet accessibility needs with wider doorways, roll-in showers, lowered sinks, and more. However, there are only a handful of ADA-accessible rooms on each ship.

Other cabin considerations include connecting rooms for families, certain locations (like near the middle of the vessel), and specific family layouts. 

Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is something you want to buy but hope you never have to use. While yes, it does provide crucial international medical coverage, it also protects you in other, more common situations. 

For example, if your flight gets delayed and you miss your cruise ship, travel insurance can help cover the cost of catching up to the ship at the next port (if possible). Alternatively, it may cover lodging and transportation expenses.

It's also beneficial when it comes to luggage issues. If your airline loses your suitcase, travel insurance may reimburse you for things like clothing, toiletries, and medications. 

Book your Royal Caribbean cruise add ons in advance

After you've placed the deposit for your cruise vacation, you can begin browsing add-ons through Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner. This includes shore excursions, drink packages, specialty restaurants, spa treatments, internet packages, arcade credits, and more.

Generally speaking, add-ons are cheaper when you buy them in advance, as Royal Caribbean offers pre-cruise discounts that are not available once you’re on the ship. Sometimes, these discounts can be as great as 30% to 40% off drink packages! 

The discounts vary. However, if you see an add-on for a price you like, don't wait to book it. If the price later drops, you can always cancel and re-book with no penalty. 

You don't have to book a shore excursion in every port

While Royal Caribbean's shore excursion program offers a variety of organized tours, you’re not required to book one in every port. In fact, some destinations are easy to explore on your own. 

For example, if your ship is calling at St. Maarten, it's easy to find the taxi stand and hop on a shared ride to Maho Beach, rather than booking a tour through Royal. By going this route, you'll save money and have more flexibility with your schedule. 

However, when it comes to destinations that are farther from the cruise pier or have limited transportation options, you're usually better off booking through Royal Caribbean, such as if you want to visit Rome when in Civitavecchia. 

Read more: 4 shore excursions weren't as glamorous in real life

Is the drink package worth it on a cruise?

Before automatically assuming you need a drink package, it’s important to consider your personal drinking habits. 

For some, the Deluxe Beverage Package is a good deal, allowing unlimited access to alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, fresh-squeezed juices, bottled water, and more. 

However, it's not cheap, and if you don't think you can consume at least 5 to 9 alcoholic beverages per day, it might not be worth the investment. 

For example, if the going rate for the drink package on the Cruise Planner is $65 per day, you'd need to drink at least 5 $14 cocktails per day. You could also consume 9 $7.49 beers. 

You don't have to default to the Deluxe Beverage Package, either. Royal Caribbean has two non-alcoholic drink packages that can be a better fit for some travelers. 

The Refreshment Package includes non-alcoholic beverages like specialty coffees, fresh juices, sodas, and bottled water, while the Classic Soda Package only includes unlimited fountain drinks.

These packages are cheaper than the Deluxe one, too. For example, depending on the sale, the Royal Refreshment Package can cost anywhere from $32.00 to $42.00 per day. The soda package generally comes in at around $9.99 to $18.00 per day. 

Read more: I spent $600 on Royal Caribbean’s beverage package

Know what you can and can't bring on board

Royal Caribbean, like every other cruise line, has a list of prohibited items that guests cannot bring on board. Items range from common household appliances like extension cords, steamers, kettles, and coffee makers to dangerous weapons and illegal drugs.

That said, you can bring food and drinks on — with certain restrictions. For example, you are allowed to bring packaged dry snacks, such as chips, nuts, and candy. Cooked food, however, is not permitted. 

Likewise, Royal Caribbean allows each guest over the legal drinking age to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne with them on embarkation day only. Beer, hard seltzers, pre-made cocktails, and hard liquor are on the prohibited list, though. 

Check in as early as you can

Royal Caribbean’s online check-in process opens 45 days before your cruise departure date. Checking in as soon as you can gives you the best chance of securing an early arrival time at the terminal, as they're the most desirable. 

Earlier arrival times can help you get on the ship sooner, meaning you can start exploring the ship and enjoy lunch before the masses roll in. It's also just a nice feeling to spend most of embarkation day on the ship, rather than waiting in an airport hotel. 

Another advantage of completing your check-in as soon as it's available is that you're less likely to forget. Those who don't complete online check-in may face longer wait times at the terminal since all your information has to be manually verified on-site. 

Head to Adventure Ocean ASAP

Speaking of embarkation day, families with younger children should make Adventure Ocean one of their first stops after they've boarded the ship.

Royal Caribbean's complimentary youth program is popular for a reason, offering a wide range of supervised activities, from arts and crafts and science experiments to video games and more. 

The best way to ensure that your kiddos don't miss out on any of the fun is to complete registration on embarkation day. Plus, this will give you a chance to tour the facilities and see what's offered on your specific cruise ship. 

Skip the buffet on embarkation day for a more laid-back lunch experience

Another great embarkation day tip is to skip the ever-popular Windjammer buffet. While the seemingly endless options might seem tempting, the problem is that nearly everyone else has the same idea. As a result, the buffet is often packed during the first few hours of embarkation day. 

Instead, I'd recommend checking out other options, such as the Park Café, El Loco Fresh, Boardwalk Dog House, or Sorrento's Pizza. For those who don't mind splurging, enjoying a specialty lunch can be a relaxing way to kick off your vacation and avoid the crowds. 

Reservations can be made ahead of time on the Cruise Planner and are highly recommended. However, you can always stop by on embarkation day and see if there's an opening.  

Don't be afraid to ask for help with a problem

Finally, don't be afraid to go to Guest Services if something doesn't go according to plan. Whether it's a dining reservation issue, a stateroom concern, or a billing discrepancy, you'll find that Royal Caribbean crew members are more than willing to help — you just have to reach out.

Based on my experiences from over 30 cruises, I've found that most issues can be resolved pretty quickly when they're brought to the attention of the crew members. Too often, first-time cruisers spend their vacation frustrated by a minor issue without realizing that a simple visit to Guest Services could solve it in a few minutes. 

Also, Royal Caribbean loves feedback because it lets them know how to improve the guest experience. As such, even if an issue can't be resolved during your particular sailing (i.e., if you felt the dining room service was slow or the food was mediocre), it's still worth sharing your thoughts to help future sailors.