Royal Caribbean Blog

Thousands of guests have been informed that their booked sailings on Freedom of the Seas have been canceled due to redeployment scheduling. 

Passengers on at least 18 voyages aboard Freedom of the Seas received the dreaded email notification this week. 

"Due to a change in itinerary planning, and after exploring all our options, our October 26, 2026, Freedom of the Seas sailing has been redeployed," the email reads. 

"The time and effort you took to plan your cruise is important to us, and we apologize for the inconvenience," the cruise line continued. 

Others chimed in via social media that their voyages were impacted, too. 

"My Thanksgiving cruise was canceled as well, November 23," someone shared on Reddit. 

"Our February 1, 2027 cruise got cancelled too. We moved to January 4, 2027, not sure what’s going on," Jeffery Todd commented on Facebook. 

(Credit: Hankidan/Reddit)

Another person said, "My sailing also got cancelled Sept 14-19th from Miami. Just got an email today. Not happy."

"We were set to depart Sept 10 for our [10-year] anniversary and had splurged on several 'extras' to treat ourselves. Now we have to rebook and likely won’t get the great early bird deals we had," someone else added. 

The canceled sailings range from 4-night cruises to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay to 5-night voyages to Cozumel and CocoCay, as well as 5-night Western Caribbean itineraries that include stops in Jamaica and The Bahamas. 

Here's a full list of all the impacted cruise dates on Freedom of the Seas:

• Sept. 10, 2026
• Sept. 14, 2026
• Sept. 24, 2026
• Sept. 28, 2026
• Oct. 8, 2026
• Oct. 12, 2026
• Oct. 22, 2026
• Oct. 26, 2026
• Nov. 5, 2026
• Nov. 9, 2026
• Nov. 19, 2026
• Nov. 23, 2026
• Dec. 3, 2026
• Dec. 7, 2026
• Jan. 28, 2027
• Feb. 1, 2027
• Feb. 25, 2027
• March 1, 2027

Royal Caribbean did not provide a specific reason for the cancellations beyond the vague "change in itinerary planning." However, the cruise line offered options to rebook on alternative sailings or issue full refunds. 

Rebooking options available for impacted cruise passengers

According to the email sent to the guests on the Oct. 26, 2026, voyage, there are three options available.

The first allows them to rebook one of three sailings aboard Freedom of the Seas at a protected rate. This means that the original stateroom category price will be protected or lowered to the current advertised fare. 

The replacement sailings are:

• Oct. 3, 2026: Labadee and Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Oct. 17, 2026: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee
• Oct. 31, 2026: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee

"If your booking was already paid in full and your cruise fare decreases, we'll provide you with a refund for the difference," the email adds. 

The second option allows passengers to rebook any other Royal Caribbean sailing without paying the usual non-refundable deposit change fee.

Guests, however, are responsible for any difference in pricing for the cruise fare, taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise fare items, such as specialty restaurants and excursions. 

Finally, if passengers cannot find a new itinerary that works for them, Royal Caribbean will issue a full refund of the paid portion of the cruise fare and any prepaid amenities to the original form of payment. 

Cruisers react

Having a cruise canceled is always disappointing, and many passengers took to social media to express their frustration and disappointment over the disrupted plans.

"[O]ur perfect day and Mexico cruise we've had booked since last April got cancelled and our options now kinda suck," a Redditor remarked. 

"Bummer, we were on that sailing too and it would have been a first cruise for my parents and my sister's family. This will be fun to rebook for all of these people," another comment read. 

Others argued that Royal Caribbean should have offered more compensation to impacted travelers. 

"$100 [in onboard credit] would cost them next to nothing but would at least say 'we recognize that this is an inconvenience to you,'" one person wrote. 

"This does stink, [them] not offering anything. In addition to these options a cruise credit would have been nice," someone else agreed. 

Disclaimer: An earlier version of this article was posted, saying that at least five Freedom sailings had been impacted. This has been corrected to include the 18 voyages sent to travel agents. 

Plans to construct a new Chesapeake Bay Bridge could allow larger cruise ships to sail into Baltimore.

On Thursday, the Maryland Transportation Authority Board unanimously voted to advance a plan to replace the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, as reported by WTOP News. 

The "Alternative-C" plan would see the construction of two four-lane bridges over the bay, doubling the current capacity. Additionally, it would increase the vertical clearance of the bridge to match that of the Key Bridge when it’s completed. 

This would give vessels an extra 50 feet of clearance, potentially allowing larger ships that were previously unable to pass beneath the existing bridge access to the Port of Baltimore for the first time. 

The total cost of the project is estimated to be between $15 billion and $17 billion. Design work could begin as early as 2028, with construction scheduled for summer 2032, pending approvals and other formal requirements. 

Despite the high price tag, the bridge would greatly benefit the local economy, with an economic analysis estimating that the bridge project would generate anywhere from $17 billion to $23 billion and create 61,300 to 75,600 jobs. 

"This recommendation is an exciting step that moves us closer to a Bay crossing that provides a smoother travel experience for those who drive over the bridge and the Marylanders who live by it," said Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle in a statement. 

"Alternative C is the option that best supports Marylanders' current and future daily travel needs with the least environmental impact on our treasured Chesapeake Bay."

What a taller bridge could mean for Baltimore cruises 

Vision of the Seas, a Vision Class ship measuring less than 79,000 gross tons (GT), is the only Royal Caribbean cruise ship that sails from Baltimore due to the current restrictions. 

Other cruise lines, including Carnival, also deploy smaller ships to Baltimore because the existing Chesapeake Bay Bridge limits the size of vessels that can safely pass beneath it. Carnival Pride, for example, comes in at 88,500 GRT. 

Neither Vision of the Seas nor Carnival Pride represents the cruise lines' modern mega-ships and state-of-the-art features of today's fleet. 

Read more: My first Royal Caribbean cruise from Baltimore: Essential tips for Maryland sailings

The decades-old ships lack many of the amenities found on newer ships, such as expansive waterparks, multiple specialty dining venues, and high-quality entertainment options. 

As a result, Baltimore cruises are more limited in onboard offerings and are typically reminiscent of a more traditional era of cruising. 

A taller Chesapeake Bay Bridge could remove the current limitations and allow larger cruise ships to sail from Baltimore, opening the door for newer, larger vessels to homeport in Baltimore.

Moreover, it could convince Royal Caribbean to deploy a ship to Baltimore year-round. In March 2025, the cruise line's deployment schedule revealed that it was pulling Baltimore cruises during the winter of 2026 and 2027. 

However, a few months later, the deployment schedule confirmed that Vision of the Seas would return to Maryland, albeit seasonally. 

She'll be based out of Baltimore from May to October 2027, with plans to offer 5- and 9-night cruises to Bermuda and Canada/New England. 

Demolition of the remaining sections of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is ongoing

On March 26, 2024, Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge partially collapsed after being struck by a container ship. It was the second-longest bridge in the United States and the third-longest in the world. 

Following the accident, cruise operations in Maryland came to a screeching halt as officials assessed the damage and implemented safety measures.

Demolition of the bridge's remaining piers, ramps, and aboveground structures was initially planned for 2024. However, the Maryland Transportation Authority postponed it to 2025. 

The process officially began in July 2025 and is expected to take around nine months, with an estimated completion date of around April 2026. As a result, the opening of the replacement bridge has been pushed back to late 2030. 

Going on a cruise is an easy way to travel, but first timers are bound to have questions.

I recently sailed with a group of 100 influencers, media, and vloggers aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. Our group chat was filled with excitement, karaoke seeking validation, and a lot of first time cruise questions.

I think it's natural to have questions, especially once you get onboard the ship. I know when I've traveled to a new country or region I'm never totally certain what to expect.

I compiled all of the newbie questions so someone else new to cruising can benefit from knowing the answers before they board.

How to do muster drill

Before any cruise can begin, an important safety drill is required of every passenger sailing.

It's called the muster drill, and it's similar to the spiel you hear on an airplane before it takes off.  You need to know what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.

One person wrote in the chat, "What was the thing we need to do check into before 4pm otherwise they call us out over the intercom."

They're right that you need to complete it before sail away, but it's really quick and easy.

With the Royal Caribbean app downloaded, click the Safety icon in the bottom menu and then watch the safety video and listen to a recording of the ship's emergency signal.

The last step is to go to your muster station and check-in. 

Your muster station location is listed in the app as well as on the back of your stateroom door. You can ask any crew member for help finding where your muster station is located.

When you arrive at your muster station, a crew member will scan your SetSail pass (or SeaPass card) and confirm you know what to do in case of an emergency.

That's it! You can knock it out quickly in just a few minutes and avoid being paged over the entire ship's public address system!

How to connect to Wi-Fi

As you might imagine, influencers are going to want to be connected to the internet and I've seen plenty of people struggle with it.

It's not complicated, but somewhat confusing how to get started. This is evidenced by the usual line of people on embarkation day at the Voom desk.

Connect your device to the ship's Wi-Fi network and you'll be given a prompt to either just use the Royal Caribbean app and have no internet access, or create an account for internet access.

Whether you prepaid for an internet package or want to buy it onboard, you need to first create an account.  This is your login for how you can switch devices later.

After creating an account, you'll have the choice to leverage the prepaid package you have or buy access on the spot.

Another question was can only one person be connected to Wi-Fi, and the answer is you can have as many devices connected at once as included in your package.

If you bought a one device package, you can have one device connected at at time. But you can log out of device one and then log in with device two.  There's no restriction on people, so if you want to let your spouse, friend, or vlogger friend use your account, you can share the login with them.

Are drinks in pineapples included in a drink package?

It's so tempting when you walk on the pool deck to order a pina colada that comes in a pineapple, but that will cost you extra.

Your Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package includes most drinks on the ship, but souvenir glasses or specialty drinks that come in fruit are not included.

If you order a drink served in a pineapple, you would only pay the difference for the pineapple. The drink package covers the actual beverage part, so you would pay the difference to cover the souvenir cup or fruit creation.

Do I need to carry photo ID?

In addition to your SeaPass card, someone asked if they needed to have their drivers license or passport with them while around the ship.

You definitely do not need to carry ID with you, as the ship has all your pertinent information associated with your SeaPass account.

With a scan of your SeaPass card, they can verify your name, age, and who you're cruising with.  In short, your room keys act as ID.

Does the ship accept Apple Pay?

Royal Caribbean ships are cashless, and you cannot use a credit card or tap to pay either.

Every transaction is done via your SeaPass card.  You cannot use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card for a specific transaction onboard.

"I checked and every single show is sold out for the entire cruise"

After boarding the ship, one person in our group was surprised to discover all the shows were already sold out for the sailing.

The truth is you need to prebook entertainment before the cruise begins. About a month before the sailing, you should be able to make reservations for any of the shows on Royal Caribbean's bigger ships.

There's no cost to make a reservation.

If, however, you find yourself in the same situation as this person and there are no more reservations left, there is always a standby line you can go to about 20-30 minutes before the show begins.

The reality is a lot of cruisers will make pre-cruise reservations for shows, but when it comes time for the show, they don't go because they're busy doing something else.

This is why the standby line usually works. But you'll want to arrive early to ensure you can get in.

Where is the shampoo and conditioner?

I think a lot of first time cruisers are genuinely surprised by the lack of included toiletries in standard cabins.

"Are the rooms supposed to have shampoo and conditioner? We can't find any," is what one person wrote.

Every cabin has a 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash in a dispenser that's inside the shower, but that's it. If you're in a suite, then they have upgraded toiletries that include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

My recommendation is bring your own toiletries, especially if you have special needs hair.  

I always pack my own shampoo and conditioner for cruising, because the stuff provided isn't high quality. At the very least, it's not the same hair products you're used to at home.

Where can I get something for motion sickness?

I think the chances you will get seasick on a cruise ship are pretty low, but it could happen.

If you find yourself feeling queasy, then you can go to Guest Services and ask for medicine.  Theoretically, they will provide you with free meds to take.

Personally, I prescribe to a "always be prepared" mentality, so I pack my own.  Bonine or Dramamine work quite well and you can get it without a prescription.

What food and drink is included and what costs extra?

Perhaps the top question any new cruiser has is what food is free on Royal Caribbean and what will cost you extra.

There were questions throughout our sailing regarding if certain foods, drinks, or services were included with the cost of the cruise.

A Royal Caribbean cruise includes the basics, so you won't go hungry or thirsty onboard.  But there's some food and drink that has an extra cost to it.

The exact specifics will depend on the ship, but there are few inclusions that are universal, regardless of ship:

• Main Dining Room
• Windjammer buffet
• Coffee shop with light snacks and pizza
• Water
• Milk
• Regular coffee and tea
• Flavored waters
• Hot chocolate (via instant packets)
• Lemonade
• Iced tea

This is a generalization, but the ship you sail on may have more options included.

When in doubt, you can ask a crew member before ordering what's extra.

Star of the Seas offers over two dozen stateroom categories, from wallet-friendly inside cabins to multi-story suites. However, not all cruise rooms are created equal, with some offering less convenience or privacy than others. 

Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ship is the second-ever Icon Class ship and shares many features with Icon of the Seas, including the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark, cutting-edge entertainment, and modern stateroom designs.

Star of the Seas has 2,805 cabins comprised of 28 different categories, ranging from standard interior staterooms to infinite balconies, family-friendly suites, and more. With so many choices, it's easy to spend thousands of dollars on a room you aren't happy with.

For example, some cabins inherently experience more noise, while others have obstructed views. These factors may not bother some passengers. However, they're important to consider when booking your cruise. 

Here's a rundown of the worst cabins on Star of the Seas that should be avoided. 

Below Chill Island

Chill Island is Star of the Seas' upgraded pool deck. Boasting seven pools, ten hot tubs, and more, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a poolside cocktail while enjoying your sea day. 

Initially, it may seem like a smart idea to be located steps from the pool deck. It would make snagging a coveted lounge chair easier in the morning, right? 

While that might be true, Chill Island isn't the quietest spot on board. Crew members begin shuffling chairs early in the morning. 

Balconies on Deck 14 are also subject to a lot of noise bleed from the bustling neighborhood. Everything from live music to screaming children and poolside competitions can turn your peaceful veranda into a spot you'd prefer to avoid. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14172 - 14276
• 14572 - 14676

Below the buffet and adults-only pool deck

Deck 15 is also home to Star of the Seas' buffet. The Windjammer Marketplace is a Royal Caribbean staple that's open every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

As one of the ship’s main included restaurants, it is undeniably popular. Whether you're trying to feed a group of particular children or want a quick breakfast before heading ashore, the Windjammer sees a steady flow of guests throughout the day. 

While lunch and dinner patrons are less likely to be bothersome, morning breakfast traffic might be an earlier-than-anticipated wake-up call. 

Additionally, The Hideaway, Star of the Seas' adults-only pool deck, is located next to the Windjammer on Deck 15. It replaced the Solarium that's on other ships in the fleet. 

This hangout spot features plush daybeds, an aft-facing bar, an infinity pool, and a DJ who frequently plays upbeat music to foster a party-like atmosphere. 

As such, cabins underneath The Hideaway can hear more noise throughout the day, from the thumping of the live music to scraping deck chairs. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14278 - 14362
• 14678 - 14752

Near the AquaDome

At night, the AquaDome transforms into a theater for high-diving spectacles. However, the bustling, multi-use space also hosts various events during the day. As such, rehearsals and other activities can generate unexpected noise.

The AquaDome also houses more than just the ship’s AquaTheater. Hooked, the seafood specialty restaurant; the Rye & Bean coffee bar; and the AquaDome Market are all located in the same area. The additional foot traffic can result in extra noise. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 14138 - 14170
• 14538 - 14570

Balconies near the Surfside neighborhood

The Surfside neighborhood effectively replaced the Boardwalk, which debuted on Oasis of the Seas in 2009. Although the bones are similar, Surfside was designed to be a stay-all-day area for families with children. There's everything from a splash pad to a pool, a family buffet, a specialty brunch restaurant, a bar, and more. 

Just like Oasis Class ships, there are inward-facing balconies on Star of the Seas. While these staterooms can be fun for families with younger children, they're less-than-ideal for cruisers sans kids. 

Regardless of where your cabin is located, you will hear the constant buzz of activity from Surfside, including children playing, music, arcade games, the carousel, and more. 

Moreover, some ocean-view balconies near Surfside are more prone to experiencing higher noise levels from the family-focused neighborhood throughout the day

Cabins to avoid: 

• 7280 - 7346
• 7680 - 7746
• 8321 - 8347
• 8721 - 8747
• 9289 - 9347
• 9689 - 9747
• 10289 - 10347
• 10689 - 10747
• 11289 - 11347
• 11687 - 11747
• 12289 - 12347
• 12689 - 12747 

Obstructed Central Park balconies

Central Park quickly became a guest favorite on Oasis Class ships, earning its place on the new Icon Class ships for its real greenery, open-air concept, and al fresco dining. 

Balconies facing the Central Park neighborhood are generally quieter than Surfside balcony rooms. However, cabins located above The Pearl are partially obstructed. 

The top of the structure means that it's hard to people-watch from your balcony or admire the lush plants.

Cabins to avoid: 

• 10219 - 10235

Outside Music Hall

While it's true that the lower decks are better for those who suffer from motion sickness, there are some spots to avoid if you're a light sleeper. 

One reason that cruise ships are popular vacation choices is the endless entertainment, from daytime belly flop competitions to late-night dance parties. 

The Music Hall is one venue on Star of the Seas that comes alive later at night. As such, guests who are sensitive to noise and prefer to retire earlier will want to steer clear of staterooms near the two-story Music Hall. 

Cabins to avoid: 

• 3180 - 3200
• 4180 - 4200
• 4577 - 4591

By the casino

Deck 4 is home to one of the largest casinos at sea. While a stateroom near Casino Royale could be convenient for avid gamblers, it's more likely to be a nuisance to those who would rather not bet their hard-earned money. 

Like the Music Hall, Casino Royale comes alive at night, and the noise from the slot machines, the spinning of roulette wheels, and excited cheers of jackpot winners can be disruptive.

Cabins to avoid: 

• 4202 - 4270
• 4602- 4670

The front of the ship

Cruise rooms in the front of the ship are more susceptible to the rocking of the vessel. As such, if you're someone who gets easily motion sick, it's important to select a cabin that's centrally located. 

Seasickness affects everyone differently. Some cruisers could stay in a forward stateroom and feel fine, while others may find small swells uncomfortable. 

While a mid-ship cabin can’t completely prevent motion sickness, it’s a smart precaution for those particularly sensitive to movement. 

Guarantee staterooms

If you have a specific area you do NOT want to be by (for example, Casino Royale or Surfside), don't let Royal Caribbean assign your stateroom for you — even if you think it's worth the cost savings. 

Guarantee cabins are cheaper fares that Royal Caribbean offers in exchange for allowing them the right to randomly select your room closer to your cruise's sail date. In other words, you forego the option to select your stateroom for a cheaper fare.

I was excited for my first visit to Royal Caribbean's new beach club in The Bahamas, but a few things jumped out as surprises about this new offering.

I think the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is poised to become easily the best thing you can do in Nassau. It's a high quality, limited capacity, beach offering exclusive to Royal Caribbean cruisers and it includes everything you'd want.

I tracked this project since its early inception, but a few things about my day weren't what I expected.  After all, this is a shore excursion, and there are differences you should be aware of compared to any other shore excursion or a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Here are a few surprises and fun observations I made while at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

Yes, the pools are heated

The number one question I've been asked since visiting the Royal Beach Club is about the pools.

Fear not, all of the pools are heated within the beach club. In fact, every beach club going forward will have heated pools.

Royal Caribbean recognized early on that having heated pools would be beneficial during the winter months, as The Bahamas can get warm, but not necessarily hot.

Combine that with strong breezes that are common for a barrier island that the club resides on, and having warm water is a good idea.

There's a mailbox to send postcards

A simple, yet fun idea was to include a mail drop on the island.

This beach club is not only in The Bahamas, but located within the country's capital of Nassau.  So mail service is possible since the beach club isn't located on a remote island, as CocoCay is.

The mail drop claims someone comes once a day to check it.  

Since you probably don't travel with postcards and international postage, they will sell you it at the nearby stand.  It costs about $4 to buy and send a postcard.

This can be a fun souvenir to send home and get later, or to share FOMO with friends and families that didn't come on the cruise.

There are very few power outlets, so bring a power brick

Maybe it's just me, but I wanted to capture all the moments from my day.  I think a lot of cruisers do too.

However, there's basically no power outlets to recharge your phone later.

The only power outlets I could find were in the cabanas that are available to rent.  I could not find power outlets at any of the bars or restaurants.

I recommend bringing a portable charger with you (like this one for just $20) so you won't run out of battery. (This link contains an affiliate link that costs you nothing extra, but I make a small commission)

You need to bring photo ID with you, even if you're just going to the beach club

Unlike a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, you need to take photo ID with you off the ship.

Royal Caribbean doesn't need it, but you'll need it before getting back on the ship.

When it's time to head back to the ship, the ferry will drop you off in the Nassau cruise port.  Even if you bypass all the shops and attractions, you need to show ID and your SeaPass card in order to get back on the pier and eventually the ship.

You could bring a passport, but a driver's license will work too. The port just wants to confirm you are who your SeaPass card claims to be.

The fritters don't have conch in them because it's not sustainable

In the name of research, I sampled everything on the menu at Paradise Grill. When I got to the "Fire Engine Fritters", something tasted different about it.

As it turns out, there's no conch in them.

I spoke with Royal Caribbean Vice President Food & Beverage, Linken D'Souza, and he said Royal Caribbean made the decision to not include conch because it's not a sustainable food.

The cruise line is very sensitive to environmental needs and being a part of solutions to protect the waters their ships visit.

The fritters weren't bad at all, and I thought with the "crack sauce" it came with had really good flavor.

Royal Caribbean hid security cameras in the lights

Maybe only I appreciate this level of "cruise nerd", but Royal Caribbean actually hid their security cameras so it doesn't take away from the tropical vibe.

An executive pointed out that they wanted the club's theming to really evoke a fun and tropical experience. Seeing hardware like a security camera detracts from it.

So if you pay close attention, the bottom of the lights on poles have a fisheye security camera that I would have never noticed until it was pointed out to me.

You can't use your SeaPass card to pay for anything in the beach club

I'm so used to CocoCay that I was a little surprised when I learned my SeaPass card wouldn't work on the island.

All the bars and souvenir shops take credit card, cash, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. 

In addition, it's a good idea to bring cash for tipping.

With just a week before its official grand opening, Royal Caribbean's new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in the Bahamas is nearing completion.

Royal Caribbean invited me to experience this first-of-its-kind offering that it hopes will be a key differentiator from any competitor.

The beach club will open on December 23rd, but I got the chance to see most of the new club and what guests can expect when they arrive.

Let's take a tour of this new exclusive beach and party spot.

A new way to beach

Royal Caribbean built this beach club to offer something no one else has: combining a memorable cruise vacation with beach day add-on.

Located in Nassau, Bahamas it is strategically positioned to cater to many Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises ships that visit nearly every day.

Exemplifying how popular a port Nassau is, over 31,000 passengers visited the port on April 8, 2025.

Despite its record-breaking numbers, Nassau isn't the most popular cruise destination. Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, even noted that it falls within the bottom ten percent in overall guest demand.

Enter the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. This new experience is designed to appeal to guests who might otherwise stay on the ship or skip itineraries with Nassau. Its goal is to deliver on the high standards the cruise line has developed at other private destinations and on board its vessels. 

The 17-acre beach club gives Royal Caribbean and Celebrity passengers exclusive access to a pristine stretch of beach away from the crowds. 

The area is divided into three zones — Family Beach, Chill Beach, and Party Cove — to ensure that there's something for everyone. 

Chill Beach is a peaceful oceanfront area with a pool, swim-up bar, beachside bars, Paradise Grill, cabanas, and more.

According to the cruise line, must-try items at the Bahamian grill include the BBQ Black Bean Burger, Fire Engine Fritters, Pinwheel Shrimp Skewers with Guava Glaze, Bahama-Style Baked Mac & Cheese, and more. 

The Party Cove is the social hub of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island and is primarily geared toward adults. 

The heart and soul of the area is the two-story Floating Flamingo Pool & Swim-Up Bar. The colorful, open-air structure serves as a visual focal point, setting the tone for lively fun.

Not only is the Floating Flamingo Swim-Up Bar the largest swim-up bar in the world, but it also features a resident DJ who keeps the energy high throughout the day, similar to the DJ at Hideaway Beach at Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Another Paradise Grill location is situated within the Party Cove, ensuring guests have easy access to food, regardless of where they choose to spend their day.

Finally, Family Beach offers a casual, kid-friendly atmosphere with convenient access to food, drinks, and private spaces. It's home to the Shallow End Pool, a zero-entry pool with its own swim-up bar, as well as the third Paradise Grill location.

Unfortunately, the finishing touches are still being applied to this area, so I was unable to preview it.

However, this fun-filled area is where you'll find the two-story Ultimate Family Cabana, which goes for $10,000 per day. Despite its price, Royal Caribbean reports strong demand for the luxurious retreat.

The cabana includes a dedicated attendant and admission for up to 12 guests. Inside, families will find a private bathroom, a heated whirlpool, a spiral slide, a frozen drink machine, a television, and more. Don't worry, though — there are beachside and poolside cabanas that are more modestly priced, too. 

Admission to the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is not included in your cruise fare. Similar to the Deluxe Beverage Package, the day passes are priced dynamically based on factors like the ship and sailing date. 

There are two types of passes available. The all-inclusive Day Pass with Unlimited Open Bar & Dining starts at $169.99 per person. 

Alternatively, the Day Pass with Non-Alcoholic Drinks & Dining is priced at $129.99 for guests ages 13 and older and $109.99 for children ages 4 to 12.

For a cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas in July 2026, the pre-cruise sale on the Cruise Planner has the Unlimited Open Bar pass listed at $139.99 per person, which highlights the value of booking in advance to secure the lowest pricing.

All inclusive, with food, drinks, and Wi-Fi

Something that makes the Royal Beach Club different is that it's all-inclusive.

Your day pass includes not just admission, but also unlimited food from the various restaurants around the club.

There's a mix of traditional favorites and Bahamian leaning cuisine too.

And of course, there's a wide selection of drinks too.

If you bought the non-alcoholic day pass, you could purchase individual alcoholic beverages.

The idea is to have the perfect beach experience, everything is already here waiting.

Bigger than I expected, and more chill too

After a few hours walking and exploring Royal Beach Club, it's clear how expansive this narrow strip of land truly is.

While it's narrow, it's also quite large. The total property is 17 acres in size, and while it may not seem that large when you see it from the ship, it feels much bigger when you arrive.

While one area wasn't open for my visit, I was still impressed how large the area feels. I'd call it deceptively large, and that means there's much more space to spread out and find your own area.

The other thing I loved immediately was how comfortable it felt, thanks to a strong breeze.

While December in The Bahamas is far from the hottest month of the year, there's a consistent breeze that helps keep things comfortable.

Depending on the time of year, there could be easterly trade winds or a fresh breeze.  Since it's kind of a barrier island, it enjoys more wind than if you were inland.  All of this means I think it may not feel as hot out as it is.

Royal Caribbean is planning its next beach club in Santorini, Greece, and they're asking patrons what they'd like to see at the new exclusive destination. 

It's clear that, between Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, the cruise line has developed a winning formula for private destinations. 

Greece, however, is a different ballpark. Guests aren't embarking on Greek Isles cruises for waterparks, adult-only beaches, or swim-up bars. 

Royal Caribbean has already acknowledged the difference, stating that the extra-charge beach club is more than an idyllic spot to spend the day with a beachside cocktail. 

Rather, the experience will include a scenic ferry tour along Santorini’s coastline, plus stops in the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira.

Still, they must nail the beach club aspect — and they can't simply copy what works at Perfect Day at CocoCay or the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. 

To help shape the experience, a select bunch of passengers received emails asking them to provide feedback on amenities and dining options they would like available. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean reveals plans to open its first private beach club in Europe

Food will play a central role at the Royal Beach Club Santorini

The survey began by asking participants what the most important factors surrounding the dining experience are. For example, guests should select authentic Greek food items, portion size, convenience, complimentary options, and variety. 

Then, should a buffet with small bites be available, participants were asked to indicate which options would be the most appealing:

• Hummus
• Tzatziki
• Spicy red pepper & feta dip
• Warm pita
• Fresh local fruit
• Spanakopita
• Tiropita
• Bougatsa
• Baklava
• Sfakianopita
• Loukoumades
• Tsoureki
• Sesame bread rings

In addition to light bites, the survey asked participants to assume that there would also be a station with hot items, giving them a list of 10 options and asking for an overall rating on how appealing the menu is. 

The example menu includes:

• Signature Island Burger: grilled beef burger with tzatziki, feta, red onion, shredded lettuce, and tomato between a brioche-style bun
• Roasted Cod: slow-roasted in tomatoes, capers, lemon, and herbs
• Tomato Fritters: tomato fritters, fried until golden crispy with herbs and onions
• Lemon Oregano Chicken: golden-baked chicken thighs coated in a lemon-herb Greek marinade
• Souvlaki Pork: grilled marinated pork skewers
• Roasted Lamb Shoulder
• Vegetable Stew: slow-roasted potatoes, zucchini, eggplant, tomatoes, and onions, seasoned with oregano and olive oil
• French Fries
• Rice Pilaf
• Grilled Halloumi: grilled cheese from Cyprus

The survey reveals that Royal Caribbean is potentially thinking about adding a food truck-style venue to the Royal Beach Club Santorini. 

The fast-casual spot would, according to the survey, be located on the beach and offer build-your-own-gyros and Greek salads. 

• Gyro: warm pita topped with shaved pork or chicken
• Veggie Topping: shredded lettuce, red onion, tomato, and feta cheese
• Sauce Options: Toum, Tzatziki, Hummus, Greek Vinaigrette, Harissa Hot Sauce
• Greek Salad: add gyro chicken or pork

Finally, after viewing the pictures, participants were asked a series of questions to rate the overall dining experience, giving insight into how appealing the buffet, hot stations, and food truck might be — based solely on the survey.

For each query, guests could "strongly agree," "somewhat agree," "neither agree nor disagree," "somewhat disagree," or "strongly disagree." 

1. The menu items on this menu look high-quality
2. The menu could elevate my experience at a beach club in Greece
3. The menu provides an authentic Greek experience
4. The menu is a good fit for the Royal Caribbean brand
5. The menu feels appropriate for beachside dining
6. The menu has something for everyone 

The Royal Beach Club Santorini is expected to welcome guests in the summer of 2026

The exact date of the beach club's opening hasn't been announced yet. However, once open, the Royal Beach Club Santorini will offer an exclusive retreat for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity guests. 

As with the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, admission to the Greek beach club is not included in the cruise fare.

Prices vary based on the ship and sail date. However, they're generally around $200 per adult after the Cruise Planner sale. 

If there's one piece of cruise advice I always give, it's never travel the same day your cruise departs.  So when I broke that rule, it gave me more trouble than it was worth.

The reason why you never want to fly the same day your cruise departs is a travel delay could cause you to miss your cruise, putting your entire vacation in jeopardy.

So when Royal Caribbean invited me to sail on Wonder of the Seas to preview the opening of its new beach club in The Bahamas, I decided to break my own rule and roll the dice.

Why would I flagrantly choose to travel the same day as my cruise? I had a family commitment the day before the cruise began that wasn't negotiable. And I had spent a lot of time away from home this year on over a dozen cruises.

I booked a Brightline train that took me from Orlando to Miami. It departed at 5:40am and would arrive in Miami at 9:15am. Taking a train instead of flying lessened my concerns because Brightline's fleet tends to run on time with less delays or cancellations.

The good news is my train was on time and I made it to my Wonder of the Seas cruise, but I also regretted my choice a few times and realized why I won't do this again.

No matter how good the plan sounded, I had more anxiety than I expected

Maybe I'm just a worrywart, but until my train was firmly in South Florida, the level of anxiety I experienced surprised me.

At first it was concern over if my alarm would go off and would I wake up on time.  Then it was worrying about finding a parking spot at the train station.  And finally, would the train get me there on time.

I cannot even imagine how much more worried I would have been if I had been flying.  Flights are notorious for being delayed for all sorts of mundane reasons.

Boarding at the cruise terminal begins at 10am, but you have to be onboard by 3pm usually.  That means your buffer for delay or mistake is only a few hours.

In my situation, I felt better that I could always drive myself down to Miami in roughly the same amount of time the train would take.  That's not usually a fallback people who elect to fly can say.

I didn't expect to be so tired all day because of my long travel day

It came as no surprise waking up at 4am was difficult and I was initially tired, but it really dragged me down all day.

My plan was to nap on the ship once the staterooms opened at 1pm, but it was rough getting to that point.

I stopped to get coffee on my way to the train station, so that helped perk me up initially. But those first few hours onboard after boarding before cabins opened were rougher than I expected. I just wanted to lay down and nap.

When my room was ready, that's exactly what I did and it felt glorious.  But my nap left me feeling more lethargic than energized.

A very early start of travel started me off tired and it never really wore off.

In fact, I was in my cabin by 10pm because I just couldn't summon the energy to stay out later.

Had I traveled to Miami the day before, I could have slept much longer the night before the cruise and gotten onboard with a lot more rest.

My plans worked out, but I wouldn't want to do it again

In my case, I was lucky that I was able to make this cruise as scheduled. But I can't say I enjoyed how it all happened on embarkation day.

There are countless examples in the news of a family that misses their cruise ship because of a delayed flight or some other travel mishap.

Even when things go to plan, I found having such a small amount of buffer removed all the pre-cruise excitement and replaced it with angst.

Would I wake up on time? Would my train have delays? Will there be enough parking?

This isn't how I want any vacation to start, and I doubt others would too.  Perhaps there are que sera sera people out there that let fate take its course, but its definitely not my style.

My recommendation remains always travel at least one day before your cruise begins, and don't do what I did.

If you're wondering, "Does Royal Caribbean have free Wi-Fi", you might be surprised it doesn't, especially with more airlines and hotels including it.

Because being online is so ubiquitous today, I'll often see genuine shock that cruisers have to pay for internet access on their ship.

Royal Caribbean sells internet packages that offer unlimited access throughout your cruise, with the only limitation how many devices you want to have connected at one time.

There are two reasons why Royal Caribbean doesn't include Wi-Fi for free. First, high speed satellite internet is expensive and cruise lines don't have a large business travel segment to leverage like hotels and airlines.

Second, Royal Caribbean employs a modular approach to their cruise pricing because most of its customers don't want to pay for amenities they won't use. Basically, offering a Wi-Fi package as an optional add-on keeps the base fare lower for those that don't want or need internet access.

Before you sail on Royal Caribbean, here's a look at the internet options available on your cruise ship.

"Are we going to give free Wi-Fi? No."

You're not the first person to wonder if Royal Caribbean will ever start offering free Wi-Fi.

At an event in 2024, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean International Michael Bayley was asked that exact question by cruise fans.

He explained the high cost makes charging for internet on a cruise an unavoidable reality.

"We got to pay a ton, a ton, a ton of money for Wi-Fi," Mr. Bayley said.

"Are we going to give free WiFi? No."

Hotels and resorts have the luxury of cheaper cable-based internet access.

The app is free to use without Wi-Fi

While Royal Caribbean doesn't have free Wi-Fi, it does have a free app you can use while on the ship.

The Royal Caribbean app is free to download, even while you're onboard the ship. The cruise line wants you to take advantage of the app because it makes planning and understanding what's happening onboard easier.

Once downloaded on your device, you just need to connect to Royal Caribbean's Wi-Fi network. Don't worry, you won't be charged.

You'll have two options: log into your Wi-Fi package or just use the app.

With the app, you can use all of its functions without paying for an internet package, including the free chat feature.

The chat allows you to text anyone else on the ship that has the app downloaded and it's one of the top reasons you can skip paying for Wi-Fi so you can still communicate with friends and family sailing with you.

Wi-Fi packages for sale

If you need internet access, paying for an unlimited internet package is the best option.

You can buy internet access before the cruise or onboard.  You specify how many devices at once you'd like to have and then pay for it.

You can log out devices and log in other devices. The limit is simply how many devices can be logged in at one time.

Always pre-purchase a Wi-Fi package because it's discounted before the cruise begins. Waiting to book it onboard is a mistake because it will cost more.

Cruise ship cell plans

Some cellular carriers now offer internet access while on the ship.

AT&T, Verizon, and other major carriers offer an optional "day pass" where you can connect to the ship's cellular antenna and use your phone like you would at home, including internet access.

I was pleasantly surprised how well AT&T's cruise ship pass worked when I've tried it. Not only is it easy, but impressively fast too.

One advantage using a cell phone day pass has over buying a Voom package from Royal Caribbean is you can "cherry pick" which days to pay for internet access.  Royal Caribbean does offer a 24 hour pass when on the ship, but it costs about $30, whereas cell phone day passes are about half that cost.

The internet loophole that might work

I've found a loophole that might work for you to get limited internet access without paying, but I can't promise it will.

If you have an iPhone, once connected to the ship's free Wi-Fi option to just use the app, you're able to send and receive basic messages and push notifications.

The reason this works is because I believe Royal Caribbean has to open certain protocols to make push notifications within its app work properly. 

You cannot send or receive photos or attachments, and it basically only works with iMessage, although you may have luck with other apps.

Since this is an unintentional loophole, Royal Caribbean could close it at any time and I make no guarantees it actually works.  But in practice, it's been something that I've observed for years.

Whether you're ready or not, the holiday season has arrived — and it will be over before you know it. Now is the perfect time to start buying gifts, so you’re not running to the store at the last minute.

If you have a loved one going on a cruise next year, the holidays are the perfect opportunity to give them a present they'll actually use on their upcoming trip. 

Don't worry, though — our round-up of the best cruise gifts can be used by sailors and jetsetters alike, making them ideal for anyone with wanderlust. 

From practical travel essentials to fun gadgets, here's a list of 13 gifts that are perfect for cruisers, too. 

Editor's note: We’ve included Amazon affiliate links in this article. Shopping through these links won’t cost you anything extra, but Royal Caribbean Blog may earn a small commission on your purchase. Thanks for your support!

Travelpro Maxlite Carry-On Luggage

A new suitcase is a great way to show the traveler in your life that you're thinking of them. You don't want to gift something that will fall apart after just one or two uses, though. You also don't want to purchase something that will be a nuisance to drag through airports and cruise terminals. 

Enter the Travelpro Maxlite bags — they're lightweight, durable, and designed for easy maneuvering thanks to the smooth gliding spinner wheels and adjustable handle. The suitcase comes with a TSA-approved lock for added security, too. 

The bags come in multiple sizes, so you get a single carry-on for quick trips or generously gift a full set for longer vacations.

BUY: Travelpro Maxlite Luggage

Anker Noise Cancelling Earbuds

Bringing headphones on a cruise is more useful than people think. For example, noise-cancelling headphones can make long bus rides and flights more enjoyable, letting you listen to your favorite artists, watch a TV show, or catch up on a podcast without disturbing others. 

They can also be used on the noisy pool deck to block out some of the chatter and background music, or in the gym during a mid-cruise workout. 

Anker's Noise-Cancelling Earbuds are an affordable, high-quality option that doesn't break the bank, like Apple AirPods or Bose QuietComfort Earbuds. Highlights include a 2-in-1 charging case + phone stand, adaptive technology, transparency mode, and long-lasting convenience. 

BUY: Anker Noise-Cancelling Earbuds

Universal Travel Adapter

Universal travel adapters can be used on older cruise ships and international trips. They come with multiple USB ports or sockets, so phones, tablets, earbuds, and other electronics can be charged simultaneously — a luxury in cabins with two or three outlets. 

Adapters are practical, compact, and travel-friendly, especially for wayfarers who find themselves in different countries every other month. 

JFMONE's adapter will ensure that your loved one is always prepared and never scrambling to buy a charger abroad, with support for over 10 types of plugs that work in countries like the United States, France, Italy, Singapore, and more. 

BUY: JMFONE Universal Travel Adapter

Anker MagSafe Compatible 3-in-1 Charger

Another option is a 3-in-1 charger that allows powering multiple devices at once, including iPhones, AirPods, and Apple Watches. 

With just one cord, your gift recipient won't have to worry about wires cluttering the vanity space in their cruise cabin. Moreover, they're travel-friendly and ultra-portable, meaning they won't take up valuable luggage space. 

Plus, with 15W charging, it can power an iPhone 15 up to 20% in just 15 minutes and charge an Apple Watch Series 9 to 30% in only 22 minutes.

BUY: Anker MagSafe Compatible 3-in-1 Charger

Phone Tripod Stand Selfie Stick

Some people like to be as tech-free as possible on vacation. Others like to capture their memories on camera. 

Speaking from experience, it can be awkward to ask fellow guests to snap a photograph. Many are willing, but it's never a great feeling to have to rely on strangers to capture your family's vacation. 

A tripod stand selfie stick helps ensure that your memories are just one click away. 

BUY: MOFT Phone Tripod Stand Selfie Stick

Portable Vlogging Camera

Who said home videos are dead? While they might not be on VHS tapes anymore, you can still create quality memories of your family's vacation. 

You don't need a YouTube channel to have a reason to record your trip — a high-quality vlogging camera is all you need to preserve your adventure for years to come. 

They're a great tool beyond vacations, too. You can use your vlogging camera to capture your children's baseball game, graduation, and more. 

BUY: Insta360 Portable Vlogging Camera

Hontry Compact Binoculars

Binoculars are useful on scenic cruises to destinations like Norway and Alaska, where the wildlife and scenery are abundant. 

They can help make snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, bald eagles, and whales visible, whereas they might appear tiny and nearly invisible to the naked eye. 

A good pair of binoculars doesn't have to cost a fortune, though. The Hontry binoculars are popular for their 10x magnification, BaK-4 prisms, and compact design — available for under $30. 

BUY: Hontry Compact Binoculars

Amazon Colorsoft Kindle

Standard paperback and hardcover books are expensive and heavy. In other words, they aren't the most travel-friendly option. 

This holiday season, consider giving the bookworm in your life a Colorsoft Kindle. The lightweight e-reader gives the owner access to thousands of books in a compact design that can be slipped into their carry-on. 

The Colorsoft version is different from the Paperwhite; it's optimized for reading in color and even has a neat highlight feature that allows you to mark the pages in yellow, orange, blue, or pink. 

BUY: Amazon Colorsoft Kindle

Sunrise Alarm Clock and Sound Machine Nightlight

Inside cruise rooms can be jarring due to their lack of natural sunlight. Regardless of what time it is, it somehow always feels like the middle of the night, even if it's 1:00 p.m. 

A sunrise alarm clock is a must-have for many choosing these cheap cabins, as it gradually simulates natural sunlight to gently wake the body up. 

Sound machines are another helpful addition since they can drown out the sound of creaking cabinets, hangers, crying babies, and drunken passengers stumbling through the halls. 

BUY: REACHER Wood Grain Sunrise Alarm Clock and Sound Machine Nightlight

Portable Charger with Built-In Cables, USB, USB-C

A portable charger is a great gift for anyone who’s always on the move. On cruises, they come in handy while ashore during lengthy shore excursions. However, they can also save an otherwise doomed phone during an unexpected travel delay. 

The key is to find a charger that isn't too bulky. Otherwise, you may feel inclined to leave it behind. A compact model that already has built-in cords is ideal, so you can easily throw it into your daybag before leaving the ship or purse while running errands at home. 

One with extra-fast charging capabilities is even better. 

BUY: VRURC Portable Charger with Built-In Cables

Mini Portable Instant Photo Printer

Having a photo printer on hand means that you're seconds away from giving shareable keepsakes to your friends, family, or fellow travelers. 

It also makes scrapbooking a breeze after your trip. Instead of making a trip to the local drugstore for prints, you can instantly print your photos from the comfort of your home.

Photo printers are a fun gift for all ages, too. 

BUY: Liene Mini Portable Instant Photo Printer

Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Waterproof speakers epitomize hands-free convenience. At home, they can be used in the shower, by the pool, kayaking on the lake, or even during mundane tasks like cooking in the kitchen (an accidental spill won't destroy it!). 

While you shouldn't blare music from portable speakers on a cruise, they can be used in your stateroom (at a reasonable level) while getting ready for dinner or relaxing on your balcony. 

BUY: HEYSONG Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker

Portable Handheld Fan

Finally, a portable handheld fan is useful for cruisers and anti-cruisers alike. They can make touring ancient ruins like the Acropolis or Chichen Itza far more bearable than without, especially during the peak summer months. 

Portable fans are just as practical at home, too. Does your friend or family member spend a lot of time outside? Whether they're an avid gardener, love attending sporting events, or frequently walk their dog, a small fan ensures that they can continue enjoying their favorite activities comfortably. 

The JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan stands out for several reasons, including its 10+ hour battery life, foldable design, and built-in portable power bank.

BUY: JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan With Rechargeable Battery