Royal Caribbean Blog

Are you someone that has never tried a cruise because you think cruise ships just aren't for you?

I have friends and family that have felt this way for years out of concern that ships are overcrowded, isolated in the ocean, or otherwise bored. Regardless of the reason, they haven't tried a cruise yet because they believe it would not be a fun vacation.

Royal Caribbean (and the entire cruise industry) has worked for years to undo those beliefs, and one of the best ways has been to design and build new cruise ships that defy the notion of what you can do on a ship.

When I hear from new cruisers, many are astounded by how much there was to do onboard. Any fear of not having enough to do or feeling "trapped" are almost always brushed aside after they get home.

If I had to pick a cruise ship for a non-cruiser to try, Wonder of the Seas is that ship because I think it has so many amenities onboard that they never expected.  If your idea of a great vacation is heading to a sandy beach, laying out by the pool, enjoying high-class entertainment, and plenty of food and drink options, then I think Wonder of the Seas may be the perfect first cruise ship for you.

The best suite experience in the fleet

If you elect to book a suite, you can look forward to the best end-to-end suite program on any Royal Caribbean ship.

When you book a Royal Caribbean suite, you're not just getting a large cruise ship cabin. You're also getting access to a number of services that other passengers do not have.

Suite guests have access to their own complimentary restaurant, suite lounge, and entire suite sun deck. 

Known as the Suite Neighborhood, this area is at the top of Wonder of the Seas and is where you'll find the suite lounge, Coastal Kitchen restaurant and pool area.

I think the sun deck is particularly compelling, because it is a sprawling space with loungers, bar, plunge pool and sweeping views.

Someone that hasn't cruised before may be drawn to booking a suite because they tend to stay in suites in hotels for bonuses that come with those rooms. Similarly, a cruise ship suite is about rewarding guests with added service that make the entire experience easier to enjoy.

Dining and food galore

Regardless if you're on a cruise ship or your hometown, everyone can enjoy a great meal.

Someone that has never cruised probably imagines a dining hall and buffet as what the cruise dining experience is like, similar in some regards to an all-inclusive hotel. While there is a buffet and main dining room on cruise ships, there is so much more than just that.

Royal Caribbean designed Wonder of the Seas so that there was a wide assortment of dining choices. First and foremost, they cannot have everyone onboard the ship eating at just a couple of restaurants. Moreover, Royal Caribbean knows they are competing against land resorts that have a variety of food.

On Wonder of the Seas, you have over 40 restaurants, bars and lounges to choose from, which means you can can visit six different places each day of the week.

There's Japanese hibachi, custom-made salads, New England style seafood, and a new Southern American restaurant that has barbecue pulled pork, fried chicken and crab beignets.

This isn't microwaved and/or pre-prepared food. Rather, chefs prepare all the food each day.

Fears that you will be stuck eating just at the buffet will quickly disappear once you discover all the choices on a ship like Wonder of the Seas.

If you enjoy a cocktail or two, Royal Caribbean offers over 400 different cocktails, wines, beers and zero-proof cocktails available. Of course, the bar staff can create almost any drink you like that isn't on the menu, so you just have to ask.

Teens will love the fact there are zero-proof cocktails available in their own teen club area of the ship. 

Known as Social100's Patio, teens can check out the bar there that includes jumbo-size games, a private whirlpool, loungers and nooks.

The places you'll visit

Another fear new cruisers have is that they will feel trapped. Friends usually say, "I'd hate to be stuck at sea" and the reality is a cruise on Wonder of the Seas will take you to some gorgeous places.

On a 7-night cruise, you can expect to visit at least three ports of call, if not more. That means on most days of your cruise, you'll have to opportunity to disembark for the day and explore ports of call in the Caribbean.

When I first started cruising, I loved days we were in port because you would wake up and be somewhere new each day. 

You could enjoy the sandy beaches of Cozumel, Mexico, or walk the streets of Old San Juan. You might be able to drive an ATV, snorkel with marine life all around you, or learn about the history and culture of the people that call the port you are visiting home.

In short, there are a lot of amazing things you can do during your cruise while in port. Having more than half the days of your cruise include a port visit substantially helps reduce the feeling that you're relegated to the ship only.

No cruise aboard Wonder of the Seas is complete without a visit to Royal Caribbean's private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay. Other cruise lines have private islands, but none compare to the amazing upgrades Royal Caribbean has invested at CocoCay.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is not just a beach reserved for cruise ship guests. There's a water park, upgraded beach club, giant freshwater pool, and island food you actually want to eat.

And after a day of fun ashore, you get to come back to the cruise ship (just like a hotel) and enjoy evening dining and entertainment.

All this fun onboard and on shore means the time will pass quickly, and you'll find the week-long cruise flying by.

The best selection of activities on any cruise ship

I'm going to make the bold statement that Wonder of the Seas has the best variety of entertainment and things to do of any cruise ship right now.

Royal Caribbean has a reputation for being the cruise line that packs their ships with the most "I can't believe you do that on a cruise ship" sort of activities.

Families can choose between water slides, an open-air play area for younger children, 10-story dry slide that has lights and sound effects, and aqua park.

At night, there's three different venues performing various shows that are included with your cruise fare. 

Studio B has professional ice skaters that perform 365: The Seasons on Ice.  Using projection technology, the cast tells the story of Earth’s changing seasons.

Moving to the AquaTheater on the back of the ship, you'll be able to see an all-female cast perform inTENse that includes acrobatics, slacklining, high diving, tumbling, and synchronized swimming. 

The Royal Theater has two shows that have Broadway-style performances to enjoy.

If that isn't enough, there are comedy shows, a piano bar, live musical performances around the ship, and even movies by the pool to watch.

The takeaway here is that there is so much to do onboard, and it's up to you how much (or little) you do. If you're worried a cruise ship means you'll be bored because the expectation is you alternate between sitting by the pool and eating, you'll be pleasantly surprised how much more there is to do.

Kids? No problem: Lots for adults

Royal Caribbean is the best cruise line for families, and whether you have kids or not, there is lots to enjoy for adults on Wonder of the Seas.

If you do have kids, there is supervised kids programming in Adventure Ocean that is available for children as young as six months old, all the way up to 17 years old.

The nursery is available for kids between 6 and 36 months old for an addition cost. As a parent that has used the nursery extensively, it's worth every penny.

Kids between 3 and 17 have their own supervised space, where they can play, dance, draw, and have fun with other kids their age. It's not just an enclave for children, it's an opportunity for them to do what they want, while you enjoy time alone to do what you want.

Besides the amazing restaurants you can choose from for date night, there's lots more you can do without any children on Wonder of the Seas.

First and foremost, there is an entire area of the pool deck reserved just for adults. The Solarium is an enclosed pool area with upgraded loungers. Because it's climate controlled, it's always the perfect temperature!

You'll also find arguably the best wine bar across any Royal Caribbean cruise ship with Giovanni's Wine Bar. Located in Central Park, Royal Caribbean revamped its wine bar experience with a new motif, and the added bonus of being able to enjoy many of the same foods you'd find in nearby Giovanni's Italian Kitchen without getting up from your seat.

You can visit the casino throughout the day or night, where you'll find plenty of slot machines, poker tables, blackjack, roulette, craps and more table games. For a lot of people, the casino fun is another way Royal Caribbean caters to parents while the kids are away.

If you prefer to pamper yourself, why not take a visit to the Vitality Spa, where you there are some truly amazing treatments to choose from, along with a full salon.

While not adults only, if you're cruising without kids, you might consider buying a pass to the Coco Beach Club at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The Coco Beach Club is an upgraded beach day experience, complete with its own restaurant and infinity pool. Kids are allowed here, but most families end up elsewhere for the variety of things to do around the island. This means a great spot to spend your day and splurge a bit.

If an adults-only beach area sounds like heaven, don't worry, because Royal Caribbean has your back.

Scheduled to open in late 2023, Hideaway Beach will be a new expansion area that will only allow adults in and offer yet-to-be-announced things to do.

Convinced yet?

If you gravitate towards booking a beach vacation or prefer to stay in a new hotel, and have not tried a cruise yet, Wonder of the Seas might be the perfect cruise ship for you.

Wonder of the Seas has the latest and greatest innovations and things to do, which rival much of what you can find on a land vacation. Better yet, a cruise includes much more in your base cost than a land vacation.

You're going to find plenty for everyone in your family to do. Other lines tend to cater to either mostly kids or mostly adults, but Royal Caribbean is far more even keeled at a price families can afford.

If you are one of those people that never considered a cruise vacation, Wonder of the Seas is the ship that could change your mind.

More cruise advice

• What is the best room on a cruise ship?
• Picking a Cruise Line and Ship
• Avoid these mistakes when picking a cruise ship cabin
• 25 best Royal Caribbean tips, tricks & hidden secrets
• 5 Costly lessons learned on a cruise (and how to avoid them!)
• 15 really cool things to do that you can only find on Royal Caribbean cruise ships
• Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum Class Royal Caribbean cruise ship that launched in 2015. As one of the biggest and most modern cruise ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, Anthem of the Seas boasts excellent entertainment, dining, activities, and itineraries fit for any cruising style.

Whether you’re sailing to the Caribbean or Europe, it’s helpful to have an overview of what is offered on Anthem of the Seas to ensure your cruise vacation is off to a great start.

Let’s take an in-depth look at everything you can see and experience on Anthem of the Seas.

In this guide:

• Pool Deck
• Dining
• Bars & Lounges
• Things to do
• Adventure Ocean
• Entertainment
• Wellness & Relaxation
• Staterooms
• Itineraries

Anthem of the Seas Pool Deck

The Anthem of the Seas pool deck has a total of three pools and one children’s play area. As a Quantum Class ship, Anthem of the Seas was designed to sail in all climates. Therefore, she offers a mix of both outdoor and indoor pool areas.

Related: All about Quantum Class ships

Anthem of the Seas has one main pool outside along with two whirlpools. On sunny days, this is where you’ll find the most guests swimming and sunbathing. You’ll find two bars outside, live music, and plenty of seating. This is also where pool games are held, such as the bellyflop and sexiest man competitions.

Also located outside is the H20 zone, a colorful kids splash park with a large shallow pool, kids “lazy river”, and a baby splash pad for children still in diapers.

Anthem of the Seas also has an indoor pool available to all guests, which can make a great option for rainy or chilly days. The roof in the indoor pool is technically retractable, although it generally remains closed. There’s also a smaller, shallow pool in the indoor area perfect for kids, as well as two whirlpools.

The Solarium on Anthem of the Seas is the adults-only pool area for guests aged 16 and up. It’s fully enclosed and climate controlled. Located in the Solarium is a canopied pool, whirlpools, and padded pool chairs and loungers.

You can also find the Solarium Bridge wings in the Solarium, which are small outdoor decks that jet off the side of the ship, offering views of the ship sailing through the ocean.

Anthem of the Seas Dining

You won’t go hungry on Anthem of the Seas, with plenty of complimentary and specialty dining venues available. It’s easy to go an entire cruise only eating at complimentary dining venues, as there is a wide range of cuisines and cooking styles available.

Complimentary dining venues on Anthem of the Seas:

• Main Dining Room, the main sit-down dining hall open for breakfast and dinner as well as lunch on sea days
• Windjammer Marketplace, a buffet with a wide selection of cuisines and dishes open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Cafe Promenade, a grab and go spot for coffees, teas, and small snacks
• Sorrento’s, a pizza and antipasti venue
• Cafe @ Two70, a casual grab and go venue with sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries
• SeaPlex Dog House, a hot dog stand with a variety of toppings
• Solarium Bistro, a Mediterranean-inspired hybrid buffet and sit-down restaurant

Related: Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Some guests may prefer to try Royal Caribbean’s specialty dining venues, however, especially if they’re looking for an upgraded dining experience. Specialty restaurants often have a more intimate ambiance and wider range of cuisines not found elsewhere onboard. They can be a nice option for a special occasion or enjoyed as part of a dining package.

Specialty dining venues on Anthem of the Seas:

• Chops Grille, Royal Caribbean’s classic steakhouse
• Jamie’s Italian, modern Italian cuisine
• Izumi Sushi, offering a variety of sushi and hot dishes like ramen and fried rice
• Johnny Rockets, Americana fare including hamburgers and milkshakes
• Wonderland, an imaginative cuisine restaurant inspired by the tales of Alice and Wonderland
• Chef’s Table, a multi-course meal in which each course is paired with wine
• Cafe Patisserie, a French-style bakery with patisserie and specialty coffees and teas

Related: Top 10 Royal Caribbean dining tips

Anthem of the Seas Bars & Lounges

Outside of the extensive number of dining venues onboard Anthem of the Seas are a variety of lounges, each of which comes with its own drink offerings and vibe.

Some bars, such as Vintages Wine Bar, offer a relaxing environment perfect for sipping a glass of wine and reading a book. Others, like Boleros, offer a high-energy ambiance where you can enjoy live Latin music while drinking a fresh mojito.

The following bars and lounges can be found on Anthem of the Seas:

• Schooner Bar
• Music Hall
• Boleros
• Pool bar
• North Star bar
• Solarium Bar
• Casino bar
• Bionic Bar
• Two70 Bar
• Vintages
• Brass & Bock Pub
• Diamond Club
• Suite Lounge

If you plan on spending a lot of time on your cruise enjoying drinks, it may be worth it to pre-purchase a Deluxe Beverage Package. By purchasing a beverage package, you can have an unlimited amount of drinks throughout the cruise without worrying about the individual cost of each beverage.

Additionally, if your Anthem of the Seas cruise visits Perfect Day at CocoCay, your drink package benefits will work on the island.

For more information about beverage packages and whether or not you should book one for your cruise, check out the following articles:

• Royal Caribbean Drink Package Info, Tips, Pros & Cons
• Royal Caribbean drink package rules overview
• Is a cruise drink package worth it?

Things to do on Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas is packed with amazing activities for guests of all ages, most of which are included in your cruise fare. Some activities are available throughout the entire cruise, whereas others will have set times allocated for the activity, which can be found in the Cruise Planner or Royal Caribbean app.

Here are some of the activities available on Anthem of the Seas:

RipCord by iFLY

RipCord by iFLY is an indoor skydiving simulator found only on Quantum Class ships, where passengers can feel like they’re “skydiving” in an indoor wind machine.

To participate in RipCord by iFly, first you must watch an instructional video on indoor skydiving safety and body positioning. Next you’ll head to the skydiving chamber to put your flying skills to the test!

RipCord by iFLY has both complimentary and extra-cost options. Both will be available to book in the Royal Caribbean app once onboard Anthem of the Seas.

North Star

Another unique activity found only on Quantum Class ships is the North Star, a 360 degree observation pod that reaches a height of 300 feet above sea level. Guests board the North Star from the pool deck and are rewarded with panoramic views of the ship and surrounding scenery.

The North Star, like RipCord by iFLY, also has complimentary and extra-cost options. Complimentary rides are available while the ship is in port, whereas extra-cost options can be booked on sea days.

Related: 15 really cool things to do that you can only find on Royal Caribbean cruise ships

SeaPlex activities

Whereas many Royal Caribbean ships have an outdoor sports court, Anthem of the Seas has the SeaPlex, an indoor sports court and gaming area. Onboard activities are offered in the SeaPlex throughout the cruise, and include the following:

• Bumper cars
• Ping pong
• Xbox gaming arena
• Pickleball
• Soccer
• Volleyball

Challenger’s Arcade is also located near the SeaPlex, although this comes at an additional cost.

FlowRider

Like many Royal Caribbean ships, Anthem of the Seas has a FlowRider surfing simulator onboard. This activity comes at no extra cost, and passengers can try their best at boogie boarding or surfing on the simulator’s high speed waves.

Miscellaneous onboard activities

Outside of the main signature activities found on Anthem of the Seas are a variety of other fun things to do offered throughout the cruise. Miscellaneous onboard activities may include:

• Trivia
• Game shows
• Dance classes
• Morning stretch classes
• Scrapbooking
• Guest lectures
• Outdoor and indoor movies
• Theme nights
• Towel folding demonstrations
• Jewelry making
• Art auctions
• Wine tasting

Adventure Ocean on Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas has childcare for kids aged 3-17, which is complimentary during the day but has an hourly cost after 10PM. A nursery is also available for ages 6-36 months, although this comes at an additional hourly cost.

Adventure Ocean is split into age groups:

• Royal Babies & Tots: 6-36 months
• Aquanauts: 3-5 years
• Explorers: 6-8 years
• Voyagers: 9-11 years
• Teens: 12-17 years

Related: Six things to know about Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean

Each age group has their own Adventure Ocean area on Anthem of the Seas. In addition, there is a Science Lab onboard where kids can participate in fun, hands-on science experiments.

Teens have two exclusive areas: The Living Room and Fuel Teen Disco. The Living Room is a hangout area during the day for teens, whereas Fuel Teen Disco is a teen “nightclub” open in the evenings.

Anthem of the Seas also has an open play area onboard where parents can bring their children to use playground equipment, toys, and books. This area is unsupervised, so parents must remain with their children at all times.

Anthem of the Seas Entertainment

There are two main entertainment venues on Anthem of the Seas: the Royal Theater and Two70.

All Royal Caribbean ships have a multi-level theater used for musicals, plays, comedians, musicians, vocalists, and miscellaneous events during the cruise.

Two70, on the other hand, is an entertainment venue found only on Quantum Class cruise ships. Located in the aft of Anthem of the Seas, Two70 has floor-to-ceiling windows that span 270 degrees, offering incredible views of the ocean. 

We Will Rock You

The Royal Theater’s signature production show on Anthem of the Seas is We Will Rock You, a full-length Broadway musical telling the story of a futuristic society in which rock ‘n’ roll, or any music for that matter, has been banned.

A group of Bohemians rally up against the powerful Globalsoft company, who is doing everything in their power to make sure music, and the emergence of rock ‘n’ roll, does not return to society.

The musical features a score of music from Queen as the Bohemians try to save rock 'n' roll from the corporate, cold society in which they live.

The Gift

Another Royal Caribbean original production found in the Royal Theater is The Gift, which tells the story of a family that has been disengaged with each other due to the passing of their mother. The family’s mother, located in the spirit world, sees the struggles of her family and decides to send her family a magical gift.

The family received this gift on a stormy night, leading the family members to be guided on a journey to find themselves and bond with each other once again.

Spectra’s Cabaret

Spectra’s Cabaret is the signature production show found in Two70. Spectra, the maestro of the show, and his Agents of Rhythm take the audience through a colorful, upbeat, electric cabaret that combines live music and dancing with the advanced technological effects found in Two70.

Miscellaneous entertainment

Outside of the main production shows found on Anthem of the Seas are a variety of live music and other entertainment options:

• Live acoustic guitar music in the Bull & Bock pub
• Live Latin and Caribbean music at Boleros
• Live jazz orchestra music
• Live piano tunes at Schooner Bar
• Comedians
• Musicians
• Virtual symphonies and concerts at Two70

Anthem of the Seas Wellness & Relaxation

If you’re looking for rest and relaxation on your cruise, you’ll want to check out the spa on Anthem of the Seas. A variety of treatments are available, from Swedish massages to couples treatments and aromatherapy. A salon is also located within the spa, offering hair and nail services.

Anthem of the Seas also has a thermal suite available, which has saunas, steam rooms, a rainforest shower, and hot stone loungers. You can access the thermal spa with a thermal spa pass, which has no limit on the amount of times you can visit the spa, so you can enjoy the facilities throughout the entire cruise.

In addition to the spa is the Vitality Fitness Center, which is a large gym on the top floor of the ship. Located in the fitness center are cardio machines, free weights, weight machines, and exercise mats.

Fitness classes and consultations are also available, although these come at an extra cost.

Related: Five ways to find fitness on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Anthem of the Seas Staterooms

Anthem of the Seas has a stateroom option for any budget, from small studio cabins for solo travelers to lavish loft suites. Certain room categories, such as studios and suites, can fill up quickly, so booking your cruise as far in advance as possible is recommended to ensure you can book the stateroom of your choice.

The following staterooms are available to book on Anthem of the Seas:

• Interior with virtual balcony
• Ocean view
• Interior studio cabin
• Studio cabin with balcony
• Balcony
• Junior Suite
• Junior Suite with spacious balcony
• 1 Bedroom Grand Suite
• 1 Bedroom Grand Suite with spacious balcony
• 2 Bedroom Grand Suite
• 1 Bedroom Owner’s Suite
• Sky Loft Suite
• Grand Loft Suite
• Owner’s Loft Suite
• Royal Loft Suite

For more information and tips on booking the best stateroom for your cruise on Anthem of the Seas, check out the following articles:

• What’s the best cruise ship cabin for my family?
• Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean
• Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Anthem of the Seas itineraries

Anthem of the Seas splits her time between the US and UK, offering cruises from Cape Liberty, New Jersey and Southampton, England.

Cruises from Cape Liberty

When departing from Cape Liberty, Anthem of the Seas primarily offers 7 or 8-night Bahamas cruises, visiting Orlando, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Nassau, with Miami offered as a port stop on 8-night itineraries.

She also offers a few 11-night Southern Caribbean cruises, visiting ports in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Puerto Plata, St. Kitts, Antigua, San Juan, and St. Lucia, depending on the itinerary.

Transatlantic cruises are also available as Anthem of the Seas makes her way to and from Southampton, England.

Read more: Guide to cruises from New York

Cruises from Southampton, England

Itineraries departing Southampton, England may visit the following destinations:

• Norwegian fjords
• Northern Spain and western France
• Canary Islands, Spain, and Portugal
• Mediterranean

Cruises to Northern Spain, western France, and Norway are typically 7-night itineraries. Visiting the Canary Islands is offered on 12-night itineraries, and Mediterranean cruises from Southampton are usually 14 nights.

Are you considering booking a cruise on Anthem of the Seas? Check out our FULL ship tour to discover all that Anthem of the Seas has to offer:

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Royal Caribbean Group has scheduled an earnings call with investors later this week, which means we might get answers to a few hot button topics.

Royal Caribbean Group will release its second quarter 2022 earnings on Thursday, July 28, 2022. They'll subsequently hold a conference call with Wall Street analysts to discuss the results in greater detail.

On Thursday, there will be a lot of data shared, including information helpful to not just investors.

It's common for policy shifts, direction, and even new projects to get further detail during these calls. With so much change right now in the cruise industry, these calls are some of the best opportunities to get answers.

It's impossible to know in advance which questions will get answers, but here is a wish list of questions cruise fans are eager to hear about during this week's earnings call.

Did Royal Caribbean become profitable again this quarter?

Whether you own stock or not, Royal Caribbean making money instead of losing money is important for the financial well-being of the company.

Since 2020, Royal Caribbean has been losing billions of dollars, but this might be the quarter where they turn the corner.

In the first quarter of this year, Royal Caribbean still lost a billion dollars, but operating cash flow turned positive in April 2022. Moreover, they said at that time they expected to return a net profit for the second half of 2022.

Of course, there are going to be any number of negative factors that could offset profitability, including inflation, oil prices, supply chain issues, and weaker demand for cruises.

A profitable quarter is an important step towards shedding all the debt they accrued over the last two years.

What does the end of the CDC cruise ship program mean for testing and vaccine requirements?

If we took a poll of possible questions to be answered, I think Covid-19 protocols would win in a landslide.

Ever since the U.S. government announced it would end its Covid-19 program for cruise ships, many cruise fans have wanted to know what this means for the current rules and requirements.

Specifically, what, if anything, will change as it pertains to pre-cruise Covid-19 testing and/or vaccination requirements.

Currently, Royal Caribbean requires all guests, regardless of vaccination status, to get a Covid test done up to 2 days before sailing. Not only does this add stress of trying to find a testing site and living in limbo until the test results come back, but getting a negative test to travel is not required of any other form of leisure travel.

Likewise, the requirement all passengers must be fully vaccinated if over the age of 12 is another big question. 

Some cruise lines have dropped testing requirements, such as Virgin Voyages and Margaritaville at Sea, but Royal Caribbean hasn't announced any changes.

In June, Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley said he expected pre-cruise testing, "is going to be around for another couple of months."

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO talks when pre-cruise Covid testing and vaccine mandate will last

Any Icon of the Seas hints?

We're half way through 2022 and still have no idea what Royal Caribbean's next new cruise ship will even look like.

Not only is the design of Icon of the Seas still under wraps, but there's no sense of when sailings might go on sale or other key details.

Royal Caribbean might be tempted to tip their hat at some details if it helps assuage analysts that a new ship will bring in lots of new business. Earnings calls are partially historical and forward looking.

While the past quarter's numbers are inflexible, Royal Caribbean Group executives can play up the future as rosy as possible in order to paint as positive a light as they can for better days ahead.

What has inflation's impact been on Royal Caribbean?

Something every company is dealing with is the rate of inflation on business.

From fuel to food to salaries, there's an impact to be felt on anyone's bottom line.

In the first quarter, Royal Caribbean said fuel and food costs were the primary inflationary problems they were dealing with.

In the short term, Royal Caribbean has 50% of its fuel hedged for this year and a smaller percentage for next year.

How to listen to the call

There will be full coverage of anything intriguing that comes out of Royal Caribbean Group's second quarter 2022 earnings call right here on RoyalCaribbeanBlog, but if you would like to listen on your own, here's how.

The call will be available on-line at the company's investor relations website, www.rclinvestor.com.  The call begins at 10am Eastern Time on Thursday, July 28, 2022.

You will be able to listen via the link provided close to the start of the call.

Royal Caribbean sails to over 200 destinations around the world, from common ports like Cozumel to off-the-beaten-path destinations like Mo'orea, French Polynesia and Alexandria, Egypt.

While there’s no “best” cruise port in the world, there are several ports that should be high on anyone’s bucket list. Whether you’re interested in exploring medieval history or are looking for a picturesque beach day, here’s our list of the top 10 Royal Caribbean cruise destinations that can’t be missed.

Kotor, Montenegro

If you’re looking for a port that transports you back in time 1000 years, look no further than Kotor, Montenegro.

Kotor is a small, medieval town located in the Bay of Kotor, which is often called a “fjord” due to its winding waterway surrounded by steep mountains. The sail into Kotor is arguably one of the most scenic in Europe, where you’ll pass charming mountain villages dwarfed by the rocky cliffs above.

Once you arrive in Old Town Kotor, you’ll find yourself walking through one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean, lined with narrow streets of traditional stone buildings, cathedrals, and public squares.

If you’re up for a challenge, consider hiking to the Castle of San Giovanni for the most impressive views of Kotor and the bay. While the 1300 steps and 70 switchbacks may have you struggling in the moment, it will be well worth it when you reach the top.

Related: A day spent in Kotor, Montenegro

St. Maarten

St. Maarten is one of the more common cruise ports in the Caribbean, and you’ll often find the port on Eastern Caribbean itineraries.

St. Maarten is unique in the fact that the island is owned by two countries. On one side of the island is Sint Maarten, a Dutch territory, and on the other is Saint Martin, a French territory. Because the island is quite small, it’s possible to visit both sides of the island in one day.

One of the most touristy spots on the island is Maho Beach, where you’ll witness planes flying directly overhead as they take off from St. Maarten’s international airport, located directly adjacent to the beach.

Related: Top things to do in St. Maarten on your Royal Caribbean cruise

A more tranquil beach day can be found at Orient Beach, located on the French side of the island, with pristine waters and soft white sand.

Most visitors to St. Maarten will opt for a beach day, although more adrenaline-filled activities are available, including kayaking, snorkeling, cycling, and 4-wheeling.

Phuket, Thailand

When you think of Thailand, you’ll likely picture crystal clear beaches, green mountains, colorful temples, and spicy street food. Phuket, the largest island in Thailand, offers all of those attractions and more.

If a beach day is up your alley, consider a full-day boat tour of the world famous Phi Phi Island (Koh Phi Phi). You’ll sail past steep green cliffs emerging from turquoise waters on your way to some of the world’s best beaches, where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in paradise.

Be sure to visit a Wat (Buddhist temple) while in Phuket to gain more insights into Thailand’s fascinating culture. You may also want to visit The Great Buddha of Phuket, a 150 foot seated Maravija Buddha statue set atop a hill with views of the sea.

Make sure to try local Thai cuisine, too, which is often regarded as one of the best cuisines in the world. Spicy curries, fried noodle dishes, papaya salads, and noodle soups can be found at countless street food stalls or restaurants on the island.

Some itineraries may offer overnight stops in Phuket, meaning you’ll have more time to explore the city’s nearby attractions.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan is another favorite destination among many cruisers for its historical landmarks, natural beauty, and alluring old town. Cruise ships dock adjacent to Old San Juan, the colorful, colonial area of San Juan lined by the old city walls.

San Juan is a port that is easy to explore without prior planning. Because the ships dock right in town, you can simply walk off the ship and spend a few hours wandering around Old San Juan. History buffs may want to visit the Castillo San Felipe del Morro, a citadel built between the 16th and 18th centuries to protect the city.

Related: Things to do in Old San Juan

If you’re interested in exploring Puerto Rico’s natural beauty, consider an excursion to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest Service. Excursions to the rainforest often include hiking and visits to waterfalls.

Many itineraries dock in San Juan until 10 or 11PM, meaning you can enjoy a relaxing evening in port, taking in sunset views and sampling cuisine at local restaurants.

Lisbon, Portugal

While Portugal has been on the travel radar for decades, it has recently been rising in popularity. Boasting world-class beaches, a sunny climate, affordability, and diverse landscapes, it’s no wonder that Portugal has become one of the most up-and-coming destinations in Europe.

A major benefit when cruising to Lisbon is that cruise ships dock right in the historic city center, just a 5-minute walk from Praça do Comércio, the city’s main square. From the square you have immediate access to Lisbon’s Alfama neighborhood, the oldest neighborhood in the city known for its narrow, hilly, and colorful streets.

While in Lisbon, be sure to try the country’s famous pastel de nata, an egg custard tart with a crispy crust. You’ll find these delightful treats all over the city. You’ll also want to find the best “miradouros” in the city, which are viewpoints atop hills offering the best views of Lisbon (and the best place to take a selfie).

Because Lisbon is located on the Atlantic coast as opposed to the Mediterranean, you’ll typically only find port stops to Lisbon on longer (9 to 12-night) cruises departing from Southampton, England.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean’s premiere private destination in the Caribbean, Perfect Day at CocoCay, offers a stress-free beach day experience with activities for every cruising style and budget.

The majority of the island is complimentary, with beaches, pool chairs, umbrellas, locker storage, trams, and food included in your cruise fare.

Other activities, such as kayaks, snorkeling, ziplining, and a helium balloon ride come at an extra cost. You can also opt to rent a cabana for the day or visit the Coco Beach Club, offering a slice of tranquility and your own private place to relax.

Related: 40 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips, tricks and secrets

Passengers traveling with kids will be amazed by the variety of kid-friendly activities on the island, too. From Thrill Waterpark, home to the tallest waterslide in North America, to Splashaway Bay, it won’t be hard to keep kids busy at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Another plus of visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay is that your drink packages will work on the island, extending the value of your beverage package.

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is the most popular port on Alaska cruise itineraries, and the city offers everything you could want in a quintessential Alaskan experience, from glaciers to wildlife and culture.

Mendenhall Glacier is one of the most popular places to visit while in Juneau, which is located in a recreation area with hiking trails and the 377ft. Nugget Falls waterfall. Kayaking tours are also common here, where you’ll have the chance to get up and personal with the massive glacier.

Read more: Everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean cabins and suites

Juneau is one of the best whale watching destinations on an Alaska cruise, too, as it's known for the abundance of humpback whales calling the area home in the summer months. Helicopter tours, dog sledding excursions, and the Goldbelt Tramway are other fantastic ways to spend the day in Juneau.

Related: Top 10 things to do in Juneau, Alaska

Bermuda

Often mistaken for being a Caribbean island due to its tropical beaches and landscapes, Bermuda is actually located in the north Atlantic, 650 miles east of North Carolina.

Something unique about a cruise to Bermuda is that ships often dock overnight (sometimes with two overnights). With so much time in port, you won’t have to pick and choose one activity over another as you’ll have time to experience many different areas of the island.

Related: Why you should take a cruise to Bermuda

There are around 34 beaches and coves to discover in Bermuda, although the most famous is Horseshoe Bay, known for its clear waters and pink sand. The island also boasts excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities including underwater visits to shipwrecks.

Bermuda has an efficient public transportation system that makes exploring the island a breeze. You’ll enjoy taking a stroll around the colorful, colonial buildings in Bermuda’s capital of Hamilton, visiting Bermuda’s crystal caves, or touring the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Simply put, there’s no shortage of ways to keep busy in Bermuda despite the island’s small size.

You’ll find most Bermuda itineraries departing from Cape Liberty, New Jersey or Baltimore, Maryland, making visiting this Atlantic paradise convenient for those living in the northeast.

Canary Islands

Spain’s Canary Islands are located off the coast of Africa and more than 600 miles from mainland Spain. There are eight main islands in the Canaries.

You’ll typically find a few itineraries per year to the Canary Islands. These cruises generally depart from Southampton, England on Anthem of the Seas and visit three ports in the Canary Islands in addition to several ports on mainland Spain and Portugal. Visits to the Canary Islands can also be found on select transatlantic itineraries.

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers black sand beaches, cliffside towns, and diverse landscapes–from volcanic to dense forests. Consider an excursion to Teide National Park, where you’ll find Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain.

Lanzarote, another island in the Canaries, has plenty of otherworldly landscapes to discover. Some parts of the island may make you feel like you’re on Mars, with desolate volcanic landscapes, whereas others will transport you to a palm tree-lined paradise.

Each Canary Island has its own distinct charm that will surely leave you wanting to discover more of this unique archipelago.

Airlie Beach (Queensland), Australia

Let’s head down under for our last destination not to be missed: Airlie Beach, Australia. Located on the coast of Queensland, Airlie Beach is a gateway to Australia’s Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef.

Cruises tender near the town of Airlie Beach, with a walkable main street and several attractions in the town itself, such as the Airlie Beach Lagoon, white sand beaches, and cafes, shopping, and restaurants.

Most visitors to Airlie Beach will opt for an excursion to discover the area’s natural beauty. Catamaran tours to the Whitsunday Islands, for example, give the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on the archipelago of 74 small islands floating off the coast.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider a flightseeing tour over the Great Barrier Reef, where you can spot the massive reef and nearby Whitsunday Islands from above.

Regardless of what you choose to do in port, Airlie Beach is sure to exceed your expectations for a gorgeous beach day.

Read more cruise destination inspiration:

• 4 great itineraries (and 1 to avoid) for a first cruise vacation
• 15 countries you didn't know you could cruise to on Royal Caribbean

Today is our last day on the Mariner, but what better way to end the cruise than in CocoCay?

Patty and I woke up at 10 a.m. this morning and headed to the Windjammer for breakfast. We were able to get a great table that overlooked the colorful entrance of CocoCay.

Also visiting CocoCay today was Allure of the Seas. We had a feeling the island was going to be busy, so we got off the ship as soon as we were done eating.

Our first stop during our (perfect) day at CocoCay was Chill Island, which you can get to quickly by taking a left once you get on the island. Here you can find tons of seats and umbrellas for sunbathing and relaxing by the sea. There are also daybeds here you can rent for a fee if that is more your style.

It was a very hot day (85 degrees but felt like 95), so I wanted to stop and get a drink at The Wacky Seagull. Someone ahead of me ordered a Miami Vice (also known as a Lava Flow); it looked so good that I had to get one too. Patty and I sat down and enjoyed the views while I savored my drink.

We started going towards the Oasis Lagoon so we could cool off in the water. There were multiple shops along the way for those that enjoy shopping. The Chill Grill is also near Chill Island. We decided to check out the food they offered, and boy were we surprised to see how much food they had!

The Chill Grill had burgers, tacos, hotdogs, sandwiches, fruit and various desserts. It was a much larger selection than Royal Caribbean’s other private island, Labadee. Patty and I decided to split a cuban sandwich and ribeye cheesesteak sandwich.

I could hear the music bopping from the Oasis Lagoon, so I knew we were close! The lagoon was busy when we first got there, and it stayed that way most of the afternoon.

All the beach chairs were claimed by towels so it was hard to find an empty one to put our stuff down. Luckily, Patty didn’t have to wait too long, as a couple decided to leave when she was near them. The seats were right by the lagoon and had the perfect view of the swim-up bar.

Celebrating the fact that we found chairs, I visited the swim-up bar and got myself a Bahama Mama. It helped me stay cool in the heat for sure. A lot of the group cruisers were hanging out here so it was fun to see them and chat. This was my first Royal Caribbean Blog group cruise, and I met lots of friendly people that have made my first experience memorable.

I love jamming to the music at the lagoon, so that makes this place my favorite spot on the island. The DJ does an excellent job of playing current and older pop songs to get people hyped and excited.

As I mentioned, we were worried the island was going to be busy since there were two cruise ships. This was not the case because the island is larger than it looks. There are many places to go and spend your day, almost like a resort. This was my third time at CocoCay, and every time I visit, I find new spots or things to do!

The heat was catching up to us, so we chose to head back to the ship and give ourselves plenty of time to shower and get ready for dinner.

I had heard from an employee that I can get a Johnny Rockets shake as part of my Diamond Plus status, so I wanted to go see if this was true. Johnny Rockets is only open from noon to 5 p.m., so I had to go before dinner. Turns out the employee was right, and I got an Oreo shake for free! I wish I would’ve known about this sooner.

We didn’t want to forget to look at all of our professional pictures and buy some, so we did that since we were close to the dining room. We decided on our welcome aboard picture and another from a photoshoot.

Matt was sitting with his daughters at a table of eight, so he invited my mom and me to join them. It was a lovely dinner with great company!

Patty ordered the crispy coconut shrimp as an appetizer. We both got the cheese tortelloni as the main dish. I thought this was super good and different than how it has looked in the past. As I was eating it, it occurred to me that it tasted like mac n cheese, in a good way!

Dinner had two of my favorite desserts - the summer fruit pavlova and dark chocolate brownie. Both were a-ma-zing and I so wish I could bring home some leftovers (but there were none to be had).

The Farewell Variety Showtime featured both Adam Kario, the juggler and comedian from last night, and Jeffrey Allen, who had performed towards the beginning of this sailing.

Adam put on a great show and brought someone up to help him with an act, and that was fun to watch. The crowd even gave him a standing ovation. Jeffrey is an Elton John impersonator. While I did not know any of the songs he played, I could still appreciate his musical talent.

After the show, it was approaching 8 p.m., and it was time for the sunset. We made our way to the helicopter pad at the front of the ship. There were about 20 other people up there taking pictures of the sunset as well. It was beautiful for our last night at sea.

Since this is the last night of the cruise, we had to pack to leave. Patty and I are not light packers, so we had to dedicate a chunk of time to getting ready for tomorrow's long day back home.

There was still one more event I wanted to attend at 9:45 p.m. - The Battle of the Sexes game show. The host asked for five women and five men to come up on stage to represent each team. They then had to compete in certain challenges, like making a paper airplane and seeing who could throw theirs the farthest and choreographing a synchronized dance with a handkerchief. It was a fun show, but I had to leave early to finish up my packing.

That’s a wrap on our Mariner of the Seas group cruise. Thank you for following along with us! Our next group cruise is in December on Wonder of the Seas. In the meantime, happy cruising!

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

The big news in the cruise world this week came when the CDC ended its voluntary Covid-19 program for cruise ships.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced it will no longer report Covid cases on cruise ships, which includes the color-coded program that provided case numbers on individual ships.

In lieu of the program, the CDC will continue to publish recommendations, but it will ultimately be up to the cruise lines to implement their own protocols.

Royal Caribbean News

• CDC posts new Covid-19 recommendations for cruise ships
• 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion
• UK vs. US cruising: What are the main differences?

Video: 10 Tips To Save Anyone Time on a Cruise Ship!

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — 10 Tips To Save Anyone Time on a Cruise Ship! — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Read our Mariner of the Seas live blog

We've been sailing on Mariner of the Seas this past week and sharing a daily look at what it's like onboard.

Matt and Angie are on an 8-night eastern Caribbean cruise that departed from Port Canaveral.

Guide to cruises to Greece

Have you dreamed of sailing to the Greek isles some day?

Whether you’re interested in touring the birthplace of the Olympics, swimming at world-renowned beaches, or strolling charming villages, visiting Greece is sure to impress.

Check out our Greek Isles cruise guide for everything you need to know for this type of sailing.

What's the difference between big and small Royal Caribbean cruise ships?

Does it really matter if you book a big cruise ship or a small cruise ship?

There are advantages and drawbacks to each size of ship, and it's important to know the differences between each one.

Before booking a cruise, you should know if you should choose a big ship or a small ship.

Although it was a day at sea, my mom and I had a busy day!

We both have slept in every day of this sailing, and today was no different. Patty has been wanting to try breakfast in the main dining room, so she hurried down to deck three before it closed at 9:30 a.m. I on the other hand went to the Windjammer because I needed to eat quickly.

Patty told me she was very impressed with how fast the service was in the main dining room because she arrived, ordered, and ate in only 25 minutes. She started off with a bran muffin and a fruit plate. For the main course, she got Eggs Your Way with sides of bacon and cheese grits. She was shocked by how big of a bowl the cheese grits were. The food was all very good, she said. Patty enjoyed being waited on and would do it again even if she had limited time to eat breakfast.

At 10 a.m., the group cruisers gathered in the conference room to hear Matt record a podcast for his channel. He described what he did at each port and his overall experience on the group cruise thus far. After that, he answered a few cruise questions people emailed him. It was fun to be a part of his episode.

I had been eyeing the frappuccino drinks at the Cafe Promenade, so I ordered a caramel one to try. I didn’t know if there would be coffee in it so I wasn’t sure what to expect. It did have coffee in it, but it wasn’t too strong of a taste so I was happy about that.

While I was getting my drink, the Veteran's Gathering was taking place. It was a special event, and I could tell many felt the same way. 

Next up on my agenda was the Ladies Pamper Party in the salon. I have been to this event multiple times on past cruises because I like to feel a little pampered every now and then! The event was busy, as all the seats were taken when my mom and I arrived.

The employees sampled various cleansers, toners, moisturizers, etc., and described to us how to apply them to our face and neck. I have the same old skincare routine, so I enjoyed switching it up and experimenting with new products.

One of the products they used was the sunglow bronzer, which I have been using for at least 10 years when I purchased it on a previous cruise. The employees applied it to those that wanted to try it, so Patty and I had that done.

At 1 p.m., the group cruise had a private ice skating event in Studio B. After signing a waiver and getting geared up, we were able to hit the ice. I was very rusty at first and had to get used to the skates before I was comfortable to slowly maneuver myself around the rink.

Even Matt came on the ice for a short while!

Love & Marriage was at 2 p.m., which I thought was an odd time because it’s usually at night during production showtime. Nonetheless, we attended the event with a strawberry daiquiri and lava flow in hand.

This show is one of my favorites, so I was excited. I have seen the show so many times that I can predict almost every question they ask the couples! The newlyweds won this time around.

We had some time to spare before afternoon trivia, so Patty and I relaxed on deck four and watched the waves. Deck four has become one of our favorite quiet spots on the Mariner.

Patty likes to walk laps, and she said she prefers walking on deck four rather than deck 12. Deck 12 is busy with sunbathers and group gatherings that prohibit her from a constant walk.

Deck four is far less busy; even without a walking path, she gets a good workout in. Another plus is that for at least half of the time, she is in the shade versus in the sun on deck 12.

Patty and I had not been to general knowledge trivia yet on this cruise, so we were intrigued to see how we would do. We actually did not do too bad (I thought) and scored 9/20. We knew we did not win, so we left before they announced the winners (who got a perfect score).

Since we were right by the casino, I wanted to test my luck. My family says I am the lucky one of the group, but that was not the case today. I did not bet much, but I lost it all and was left with a measly 0.24 cents. I left the casino with nothing to brag about, but I still had fun.

By this time, we needed to get ready for dinner. Tonight was “dress your best” night which is the equivalent of the old formal night. I find it interesting how they changed the terminology, but I can see why since people may not want to get dressed to the nines for dinner. I would estimate that only 25% of guests dressed in formal attire while most of us were business casual.

Upon seating at the table, you are expected to scan a QR code and use your phone to look at the dinner menu. My phone wasn’t easily accessible, so I asked for a physical menu which I appreciated. On this cruise, I realized I miss getting the physical menu every night, but I understand their reasoning to limit germs.

I started with the roasted tomato soup while Patty got the Asian-style pork tacos. The main course was chicken cordon bleu for me and tagliatelle pasta for Patty.

She told me she missed having meat during her dinner, so she also later ordered the grilled lamb chops. I helped her finish her pasta.

Dessert consisted of tres leches, crème brûlée and the apple blossom à la mode. They have the apple blossom every night, but I just had to order it because I know how good it is. It was a great choice!

By the time we finished dinner, it was already time for the 7 p.m. headliner show “Center Stage.” I thought it was just the singers and dancers, but there was also a juggling & comedian act in the middle - The singers and dancers opened and closed the show. It was nice that we got to see a variety of entertainment that everyone could enjoy.

Right after the show, there was an 80’s party happening in the Royal Promenade. Similar to the 70’s disco inferno, there was music and dancing to all things 80’s. Patty and I watched the show for a little while, then we went to the Bamboo Room to share a mojito. The mojito in the Bamboo Room is excellent in my opinion.

I had some time before the 10 p.m. game show, so Patty and I went up to the Solarium to relax in one of the daybeds. These are always occupied during the day, so we were happy to finally enjoy one tonight. We couldn’t even feel that we were moving and it was peaceful to hear the rhythm of the waves.

The game show was Adult Majority Rules. They had a regular Majority Rules earlier this cruise that I attended. The one tonight was a completely different version. It was so funny; I think I laughed the most I ever have during a game show.

Immediately after, there was adult karaoke. I listened to a few singers - some were great and others not so much. I can’t judge though because I cannot sing myself!

Tomorrow we will be visiting one of Royal Caribbean’s private islands, CocoCay.

Today's port of call was St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The ship arrived at 7 a.m. and had a scheduled departure of 12:30 p.m.

Knowing we did not have much time in port today, Patty and I decided to wake up earlier than usual and head up to the Windjammer for a quick breakfast. I had my usual while Patty switched it up with some yogurt and biscuits with gravy.

Once we lathered up with sunscreen, we wanted to get off and walk around the port, which seemed to be the common theme among other cruisers. While at the Windjammer, we could see a beach nearby, so we first wanted to stop there.

As we were walking off the ship and into the port, I could hear music in the distance. This is nothing too unusual, but as we walked closer, I noticed it was just a man blaring music from speakers and not actual musicians. I thought this was interesting, but hey, it was a hot day to be outside doing live entertainment.

The last time I was here was in January 2015. The port looked exactly as I remembered. We had not gone to the beach, so I was unsure how to get there. However, it was quite easy to find, as it was just around the corner from the main square.

Frederiksted Beach was conveniently located less than a 10-minute walk from the port. There were lounge chairs and umbrellas all around. It was busy today, and many families were enjoying the ocean and sunbathing. We also stumbled upon a perfect picture opportunity with Mariner in the background, so we had to take some photos!

We wanted to see some of the shopping, so we made our way back toward the main square. Another person had his computer plugged in and playing music for all to hear. There were the typical pop-up shops here, such as t-shirts, jewelry, local art and other knickknacks.

As we walked a little farther, I noticed a small group of people gathered around a pen. Upon further inspection, I noticed four small puppies. They were so cute and loved by everyone that saw them (including me).

They were from the St. Croix Animal Welfare Center: “providing and promoting the humane treatment of animals in our community.” The last time I was in St. Croix, the same organization was there with puppies. One of the workers told me their breed is unknown, but they were a couple months old.

After taking a few more photos and enjoying the scenery, Patty and I were ready to head to the ship and cool off. It was 90 degrees and humid. We were in the sun a lot yesterday, so we were burnt and not wanting to get even more burnt.

We had been wanting to try the main dining room lunch on board, so we did that as soon as we got back. We were seated right away, and next to the window which I liked. Since my mom’s phone wasn’t working, they were able to give her a physical lunch menu while I looked on my phone.

I ordered the mozzarella sticks for an appetizer while Patty got the Manhattan clam chowder and insalata caprese. For the main meal, I got the chicken sandwich and Patty got salmon. Lastly, I got the Floating Island, which was meringue in a vanilla creme sauce with caramelized sugar on top. Overall, we enjoyed the lunch and service. We also had nice conversation with a couple seated next to us.

As soon as we finished lunch, the ship was leaving St. Croix, so we watched the sail away from deck 4.

Patty was sleepy from the night before and took a nap. She told me how she woke up last night to some rough waters, so she did not sleep as well as she would’ve liked. Luckily I slept right through it!

As Patty was napping, I wanted to do some work, so I tried to find a place to sit with my computer. I wasn’t sure where to go, but as soon as I saw the Starbucks, I knew that would be a good place to go. There was seating all around, even behind the counter, so it was easy to find a quiet spot.

The Wi-Fi onboard has been pretty good this sailing. There are moments when it’s slow, but it works for the most part. I had a few small issues with the Surf & Stream but I was able to get my work done.

We had not gone to the Diamond Lounge yet, so we wanted to stop by before our 5:30 dinner. The lounge was pretty full (but that isn’t saying much because it’s small to begin with) but we had no problems getting little appetizers and our drink order in. I got the chocolate martini and Patty tried a mango mojito - both were very tasty choices. I actually liked my mom’s more than mine!

In the main dining room, I started off with the baked potato soup while Patty had the seafood puff pastry and escargot (she orders this every night). For the main course, I had the lasagna al forno and she had the beef stroganoff. Our waitress, Carol, did warn us that it had pickles in it and therefore wasn’t as popular, but Patty wanted to try it anyway. We appreciate her honesty when we are trying to decide what we want!

For dessert, I got the English trifle and Patty got the coconut layer cake. We were very pleased with our meal and the friendly service.

We had just enough time to make it to the 7 p.m. show: The Magic of Puck. We got there 20 minutes early so we got good seats in the aisle on the main floor. The show was packed, so I was glad we got there when we did. Puck was on season seven of America’s Got Talent, so I knew he would not disappoint. He did an excellent job with his tricks and audience engagement.

The night was still young, and there were two game shows I wanted to attend: The Perfect Couple and The Liars Club. They were both in the Star Lounge back-to-back.

I wasn’t sure what to expect at The Perfect Couple - I thought maybe this was replacing Love & Marriage. I would be disappointed if they got rid of Love & Marriage because that is my favorite show on Royal Caribbean cruises! Once I was at the gameshow, I quickly remembered that this is different.

Three couples participated in three challenges to see which couple was most compatible. I was rooting for the older couple, and they ended up winning!

I had to wait about 20 minutes before the next game show, so I stayed in my spot since it was still busy. I am wondering if they should have these gameshows in the Royal Theatre since they seem to be popular and we are sailing at full capacity.

The Liars Club is where three employees attempt to convince the audience they know the definition of odd words. For example, the first word was “slangwhanger.” The three employees gave various descriptions (trigger happy, a shy and quiet child, or a loud and obnoxious speaker), then the audience voted who they thought was telling the truth. It was a fun time and many laughs were had.

Tomorrow we will be at sea before arriving in CocoCay!

I recently went on my first cruise from the United Kingdom after previously only sailing from ports in the United States. While planning my cruise, I wasn’t sure what differences I should expect on a cruise departing from the UK vs. the US.

Once I got onboard, I realized that while there were a few slight differences, the Royal Caribbean experience was nearly exactly the same whether sailing from the UK or the US. However, it was fun to spot the ever so slight differences onboard, from certain foods available in the Windjammer to being able to brew tea in my cabin.

After all, while you may be on a Royal Caribbean cruise from the UK, you’re still with an American cruise line. Therefore you may not see as many differences onboard as opposed to if you would sail with a British cruise line.

For example, British cruise lines, including Cunard and P&O Cruises, offer an afternoon tea service, where you can enjoy a variety of teas, sweets, and savory bites. This is something you won’t find on a Royal Caribbean cruise departing from the UK.

Nonetheless, let’s take a look at the top differences I noticed between my UK and US cruises with Royal Caribbean, and some general differences you’ll see when planning your UK cruise.

Tea kettles in the cabin

Something you’ll notice when entering your stateroom for the first time on a UK cruise is an in-cabin electric kettle for coffee and tea. You can make instant coffee and tea directly from your room, which can be nice when you are having a relaxing morning in the cabin.

While you may encounter this on Alaska cruises leaving from the US or Canada (as I did on Ovation of the Seas last year), it’s not guaranteed.

Attitude toward the weather

The most "culture shock" I had on my cruise from Southampton was on our first sea day. As we began traveling toward France, the weather was not cooperating. The sky was completely gray, winds were not ideal, and the temperature did not feel like mid-June.

I had to walk from one side of the ship to another, so I decided to walk on the pool deck. I was shocked when I walked outside and saw tons of passengers on the pool deck... with several even swimming outdoors! Some passengers were using towels as blankets, others in full winter jackets, and some "sunbathing" in just a swimsuit.

I couldn't help but imagine how empty the pool deck would be if we encountered similar weather on a cruise from Florida! I appreciated the determination of the passengers onboard my cruise from the UK to enjoy their vacation no matter the weather. Luckily the weather improved later on in the week, but it was a fun difference to note.

Time of year to sail

You can cruise with Royal Caribbean year-round on itineraries leaving from the United States. Whether January, July, or October, you’ll find a wide range of itineraries available. While certain destinations are seasonal, such as Alaska and Northeast/Canada cruises, the majority of sailings are offered any time of the year.

Royal Caribbean’s UK cruising season typically runs from May to October each year. If you’re looking to sail on Anthem of the Seas in, say, January, you’ll have to fly over to the US.

Outlets

One minor difference that UK cruisers should know before booking a Royal Caribbean ship is that there are no Type G (UK) outlets onboard, so it’s important to pack a few plug adapters in your bag.

Royal Caribbean ships have both Type C (Europlug) and Type A/B (USA) outlets available in cruise ship cabins. 

Drink options

Royal Caribbean works hard to cater cruises to passenger demographics onboard. On cruises departing from China, for example, you’ll find more Chinese-influenced cuisine and beverage options.

Similarly, one thing you’ll find on cruises leaving from the UK is a menu of gins and beers available. I was surprised to find a menu of gins and beers set up on tables throughout the ship, as I had never seen this on a US cruise before!

Menu differences

One thing you’re bound to notice on a UK cruise is the additional menu options available in the Main Dining Room. Each night, you’ll find two additional menu options: an English-style main (Guinness pie, chicken and leek pie, etc.) and an Indian curry.

While you can technically order Indian food in the Main Dining Room on cruises departing from the US, you won’t find it on the menu. Instead, you’ll have to inquire with your waiter about what Indian options are available that day.

On UK cruises, though, an Indian option is listed on the main courses section of the dining room menu each evening. Curry options are quite diverse, too, from a classic chicken tikka masala to lamb and fish curries.

You may also find English-influenced cuisine in the Windjammer, from dessert puddings to savory pies and English breakfast.

Ports

Cruise ports on a sailing departing from the UK are, unsurprisingly, quite different from where you’ll visit on a cruise departing from the US.

Cruises from the United Kingdom visit the following destinations:

• Norwegian Fjords
• Northern Spain & France
• Mediterranean
• Canary Islands

There are also several itineraries that visit the British Isles, although they usually do not depart from Southampton. Jewel of the Seas, for example, will be offering British Isles cruises departing from Amsterdam and visiting ports in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.

Most cruises from the US, on the other hand, visit the following destinations:

• Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean
• Alaska
• Bermuda
• Northeast & Canada
• Mexican Riviera

Both UK and US cruises offer a range of landscapes, cultures, and history to discover. If you’re looking for a warm, sunny beach day, you’ll be able to find that on a Mediterranean or Canary Islands cruise from the UK or a Caribbean cruise from the US.

Likewise, if mountains and fjords are more your style, a Norwegian fjords cruise and an Alaska cruise will both offer unbelievable scenery and cooler temperatures.

Ships

You’ll have many more options when it comes to picking a ship when sailing from a US port. Most Royal Caribbean ships are sailing from a US port at some point during the year, so you won’t have trouble finding a ship that matches your cruising preferences.

You’ll typically have only one option when cruising out of the UK. Anthem of the Seas is the primary Royal Caribbean ship that sails from Southampton, England.

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Even though there’s only one ship option, Anthem of the Seas is a favorite among Royal Caribbean fans. As a Quantum Class ship, she is designed to sail in the cooler temperatures you may encounter on a UK cruise, with indoor relaxation and activity spaces for guests of all ages.

Among her features are the North Star observation pod, RipCord by iFLY indoor skydiving, and a full-length musical production of We Will Rock You.

Guests & crew onboard

Generally speaking, the majority of guests onboard a cruise departing from the US are from the United States, Canada, or Latin America. Cruises departing from England tend to have a primarily UK passenger makeup, although you’ll also find passengers from all over the world.

I estimated that around 80% or more of the passengers on my Anthem of the Seas cruise were from the UK or Ireland. I was definitely in the minority with my American accent!

I also noticed more staff from the UK on my cruise from Southampton compared to sailing from the US, including the cruise director and pub singer (although this could have just been a coincidence).

Read more about cruising from the UK:

• I tried my first cruise from the UK: here's what you should know
• Anthem of the Seas Live Blog: 7-night Spain & France cruise from Southampton

Hi everyone! My name is Angie. I am one of the Social Media Managers for Royal Caribbean Blog. I am going to be taking over the rest of the live blog for this sailing!

Today we arrived in St. Kitts. Joining me on this cruise is my mom, Patty, who loves cruising as much as I do.

We pulled into the port around 10:30 a.m., so we had plenty of time to enjoy breakfast in the Windjammer. We even got to see the mountainous and lush St. Kitts scenery while eating.

I always go for a sticky bun (they have different flavors every day), an omelet and cranberry bread (one of my all-time favorites). The last time I was on the Mariner in April, I was able to create my own omelet, but I could not this cruise. The standard ham and cheese combo is a good alternative.

We had an excursion today - “Catamaran Fan-ta-sea to Nevis with Snorkel and Beach” - with those of us on the group cruise.

We were instructed to meet the group outside at the white tents at 11 a.m. Since everyone was getting off the ship at the same time, it was quite busy and we weren’t sure if we would make it on time.

By 11:30 a.m., everyone had gotten off the ship and we were ready to board the 65-foot catamaran. It was a short walk to the catamaran, and I was glad we didn’t have to go on a bus ride to get there.

Since I am prone to motion sickness, I took some Dramamine and I was ready to go!

Once on board, we made our way about seven miles to Shitten Bay (I swear that is the real name). Here, we were able to snorkel or stay on the catamaran and enjoy the views. I opted for the snorkeling while Patty stayed on board and took photos.

I had a fun time swimming around and seeing all the different kinds of fish, rocks, coral, etc. I saw tons of Sergeant Major fish as well as Trumpetfish. One of the workers even dove down to show us an octopus hiding under a rock, a rainbow fish, and some pretty shells.

We snorkeled for about 45 minutes, then we had lunch on the catamaran. The menu included jerk chicken, mac n cheese pie, sweet potato pudding, rice and beans, and a lettuce salad. Drinks were also included. I had some fruit punch while many had soft drinks, rum punch, or beer.

After lunch, they took us to Nevis, a nearby island, which was about another four miles away. They dropped us off on the beach where we could do our own thing for an hour. There were plenty of lounging chairs with umbrellas, but I assumed they would cost extra. To my surprise, we sat down and no one asked us to pay. After being in the sun for quite a while, I wanted to get under some shade, especially since I burn easily.

Not long after sitting down did we get bombarded by locals trying to sell us stuff - jewelry, hats, dresses, t-shirts. I was not looking to buy anything but Patty was suckered into buying two hats for $15. It ends up she did alright negotiating because someone else on our excursion paid more from the same salesman.

A dip in the cool, clear water and some lounging beach time went by fast, as the catamaran was soon back to pick us up and head back to the ship.

We had a leisurely, hour-long trip back to the starting point. It was choppy waters at first, but then the last half was smooth sailing. I laid down in the front of the catamaran and relaxed while enjoying the beautiful landscapes.

This excursion was a fun experience! All four workers were friendly, helpful, and personable. One took extra care of the passengers that needed additional assistance. Another was great with the kids and gave them snacks and seashells. Captain Phil and his crew were always smiling, offering drinks, and asking if we needed anything.

As we were leaving, one of them gave me a magnet of a frog that said “Nevis” on it - it was very cute.

We arrived back at about 5 p.m. The ship was leaving at 5:30, so we did not have time to shop around. My mom always likes to get a t-shirt or two, but there was no time, so we headed back to the Mariner.

We have 5:30 dinner in the main dining room, and we were able to get there just a little late since we had to drop off things in our cabin and rinse off. Our waiters, Carol and Frederick, are always so accommodating and never make us feel bad if we arrive late.

Dinner was good as usual! My mom loves seafood, so she ordered the escargot, shrimp cocktail, and seafood cake. For the main course, I chose the chicken parmesan while mom decided to get the New York strip steak.

Dessert was tasty, as I got the Mississippi Mud Pie. Mom got the no-sugar-added dark chocolate custard. We also decided to share the lemon curd tartlet. All were great choices, but mom did say she wished the custard had some whipped cream on top.

After dinner, we tried to attend the 7 p.m. ice skating show, but it was too late as the person at the front said the venue was full. However, I did notice others going in since they had people saving them seats. We had to wait and try the 9:15 show instead.

To pass some time, we checked out the casino. As Diamond Plus members, we have $6 free play on any machine in the casino. Patty chose to play some Jacks or Better poker. It entertained her for over an hour; she doubled her money at one point, but then lost it all. Isn’t that how it usually goes?

Once it was almost time for the ice show, we got there early to snag seats. The venue was packed; there were even people standing behind the seats to watch the show. The show was “Ice Under the Big Top” and included lots of elaborate and colorful costumes and sets. It was an upbeat way to end a great day!

Tomorrow we will be in St. Croix.