Royal Caribbean Blog

As a cruise expert that shares travel advice every day, I encounter a lot of first time cruisers and some of their concerns aren't worth the angst.

I've run Royal Caribbean Blog for 15 years and I love helping everyone have a better cruise experience through tips, advice, anecdotes and recommendations. I love learning new things from about cruising as much as newbies do.

Because everyone vacations differently, it's understandable why people have their own approach to cruising.  But I've found new cruisers tend to sometimes get hyper focused on things that aren't as worth the concern as they think it warrants.

I'm sure we've all experienced things like this in life where we go in worried about an aspect of an experience only to realize later on it wasn't a big deal at all.

While there are problems you should always be vigilant about (like when to fly in for your cruise), here's my list 6 things new cruisers worry about that aren't worth the anxiety.

Negative cruise reviews

One of pet peeves are people that seriously want to change their cruise plans because of bad reviews they read online.

The power of the internet is such that you can share your opinion with the world, and while this can sometimes be helpful, the reality is negative reviews aren't very trustworthy.

The reason why you really shouldn't be that concerned with negative reviews of a cruise ship is because those people are not professional reviewers by any means.  In most cases, they let a singular issue dominate their review. Or they have a personal preference that they convey as being indicative of being problematic for everyone.

To illustrate my point, find a negative review of a film, restaurant, or place you've been that you love. You'll read them and probably roll your eyes because the complaint is either baseless or completely different from anything you've ever had. 

Plus, cruising is such a personalized experience. Everyone on the ship is not doing the same thing.  One person could stay in their stateroom and only order room service for an entire week, while someone else is a party animal and is out and about from for 18-20 hours per day.

I enjoy reading cruise reviews for recommendations and entertainment.  But never use them as a basis for which ship to sail on (or not).

Theme nights and dress code

Frankly, I think new cruisers get hung up on what they "need" to wear on a cruise ship more than they ought to.

Yes, there are theme nights and dress recommendations, but they're just that: recommendations.  

You will not be ostracized or kicked out if you don't dress for Caribbean night or white night. It's an optional choice for how you might indulge the theme.

The Main Dining Room dress code is another area where I think too much emphasis is placed on what you can and cannot wear. This is especially true of what to wear on formal night.

The reality is Royal Caribbean rarely, if ever, enforces their dress codes in the Main Dining Room. I probably would prefer they would clamp down a bit more than they do, but there's really no fashion police at all.

As a new cruiser, I'd say to use the theme nights and dress codes as suggestions, in the same way there's afternoon trivia at 4pm you could attend or not at all. Don't place too much emphasis on what you wear in the evening being critiqued by the cruise line for approval.

Check-in times

Ever since Royal Caribbean restarted cruising in 2021, they put a huge emphasis on adhering to check-in times at the cruise terminal. While check-in times matter, it's not nearly as critical as they used to be.

As part of the check-in process, you can select a check-in time and some cruisers get really worried about checking in exactly at midnight when check-in opens to get it.

In reality, it's not a big deal if you don't have the first check-in window time as much as it might seem. 

While no one wants a 2pm check-in time, my point is there is far less emphasis and restrictions on check-in times at the terminal as there was a few years ago.

My recommendation is to do your online check-in time, but don't sweat it if you get an 11am or noon check-in time.

Parking off site to save money

My "sorry, not sorry" part of this article is here: the amount of money you save parking off site isn't worth the hassle or extra time needed.

Yes, parking off site will save a little bit of money.  But it's not going to be a lot, and worse, the shuttle services are frustrating.

Because you're at the mercy of a shuttle to get you to and from the terminal, you're inevitably going to waste time waiting for a shuttle.  And in many cases, there are lots of other people who want to do the same thing and that makes the waits worse.

Waiting for a shuttle is worse after the cruise is over when everyone else is competing with you at the same time to get back to their car.

Parking at the cruise terminal will cost you more, but I think the convenience is well-worth it.

If it will rain during the cruise

Rain or shine, you'll have a fun time on the cruise. More importantly, you shouldn't get worked up because it could rain.

Caribbean cruises sail through the tropics where it's not a question of it will rain, but when and for how long.  But unlike rain storms at home, rain in the Caribbean is usually short lived.

If you look at a weather forecast for a Caribbean cruise, it's not unusual to see rain predicted for every day. But that doesn't mean it will be a rained out vacation.

Thunderstorms and passing showers are very common, and there are not nearly as many weather stations around Central America and the Caribbean as there are in the United States.  So forecasts generally fall under the, "it will probably rain, but we're not sure" umbrella.

In fact, it's common to be in port and have rain in one spot but not another. 

You should certainly look up the weather forecast to get an idea of temperatures, but don't plan around rain because it's impossible to know with any certainty what to expect.

The Key

Over the years, I've found Royal Caribbean's VIP add-on a nice perk, but not as critical as some new cruisers think.

I think newbies read what's included and over value what it offers, compared to how useful it really is.

It's ironic that as someone who hates waiting in lines for things, I'm not a fan of a program that gives you priority boarding to the ship.  But I think the problem is you can get similar results without paying for it.

I won't turn this into a full review of The Key, so I'll simply say as a new cruiser, you won't be at a disadvantage without The Key as you might think.

Royal Caribbean is preparing to unveil its brand-new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island next month, and we just received a sneak peek of the new resort on social media!

Over the weekend, Royal Caribbean shared an exclusive look at the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas. On Royal Caribbean’s official Instagram page, a short reel was shared to showcase the beach club’s progress as the cruise line makes final touches.

The caption reads, “The beach day of your dreams is almost ready for you. Which sport are you most excited about?”

The video's narrator says, “Come with us for a construction sneak peek of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, just over a month before it opens."

The behind-the-scenes video tour reveals major progress at the new beach club, including the massive oceanfront infinity pool, colorful cabanas, stunning beaches, custom water shuttles, and hand-painted murals from local Bahamian artists.

Royal Caribbean originally announced plans for the private resort in Nassau back in June 2023. After more than two years of planning, environmental approvals, government partnerships, and construction, Royal Caribbean appears to be entering the final stretch before the beach club’s opening.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is scheduled to open on December 23, 2025. Royal Caribbean guests will receive exclusive access to the 17-acre resort. While we’ve seen plenty of renderings and construction photos, this sneak peek is one of the most comprehensive looks yet at how the resort is coming together in real life.

Custom ferries will take cruisers to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island

Royal Caribbean’s sneak-peek video opens with an exclusive look at the vibrant, colorful ferries crossing the harbor.

Before we can even see the beaches or the massive infinity pool, we’re introduced to the colorful fleet that will soon deliver guests to Royal Caribbean’s newest destination. Our first glimpse of the beach club experience!

“These private ferries will take you straight from the pier to the island. They’re custom-made and looking so good already!" says the video's narrator. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean is trying to elevate cruise ports passengers complain about

The colorful fleet of brightly painted water ferries is one of the most charming additions to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

Royal Caribbean confirmed that it will have five custom-built ferries operating the short route across the harbor. Each one is designed to reflect the lively personality and tropical culture of The Bahamas.

Each vessel features a bold color scheme and a fun, themed name: Flirty Flamingo (pink), Sassy Starfish (blue), Coral Calypso (orange), Twisted Turtle (green), and Lucky Lizard (turquoise).

Beyond the aesthetics, Royal Caribbean announced the ferries were engineered for efficiency. Built with lightweight aluminum hulls and equipped with advanced navigation and propulsion systems, they’re designed for quick turnaround times and smooth, reliable travel. The ride is short, as it will take just a few minutes to cross the harbor. But, the elevated design and colorful presentation is a fun way to begin your day at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

Chill beach features custom cabanas with uninterrupted ocean views

Once you arrive at the beach club, you can explore three different zones: Chill Beach, Family Beach, and Party Cove. The construction sneak peek video gives an exclusive look at the new Chill Beach zone.

The video states, “After a quick and cute ride, we head straight for Chill Beach. These cabanas make the perfect spot to set up your beach day home base. The pool here is over 400 feet long with a shallow ledge to soak up the sun and ocean views.”

Chill Beach is designed for guests who want to slow down and enjoy a quieter, more refined slice of the Royal Beach Club experience.

This peaceful stretch of shoreline will offer a relaxed atmosphere compared to the lively, energetic Party Cove. This area is intended to feel like a true retreat focused on relaxation where guests can enjoy the scenery and amenities without distraction.

At the heart of this area is The Deep End Pool, which is a serene, resort-style pool featuring a swim-up bar. Guests will be able to sip cocktails or mocktails while remaining comfortably in the water, surrounded by palm trees and stunning views of the Atlantic.

Because Chill Beach is meant to be calming, guests will find a more subdued poolside experience here.

Along the shoreline, beach bars provide convenient access to tropical drinks throughout the day. Umbrellas will provide some much-needed shade for comfortable loungers so you can enjoy your drinks all day long.

Nearby, the Paradise Grill will serve a selection of fresh and flavorful dishes, offering beach-friendly meals with a Bahamian twist. Its location will make it easy for guests to grab lunch without having to leave the comfort of their spot on the sand.

And for those seeking a more elevated experience, Chill Beach also features a collection of beach and pool cabanas available for an additional cost.

These private retreats are outfitted with comfortable seating, shaded lounging areas, and even a personal attendant for quick service. With uninterrupted views of the ocean or the pool, the cabanas provide an extra level of comfort and privacy. This will allow guests to settle in and enjoy a full day of relaxation in one of the most tranquil corners of the beach club.

Local artwork will showcase Bahamian culture

Next, we can see some of the beautiful artwork that will bring Bahamian culture to Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.

“And then we had to stop and check out the incredibly talented local artists at work, adding to their custom pieces all around the island,” says the video.

Royal Caribbean is placing a major emphasis on Bahamian culture at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, and one of the most distinctive ways that comes to life is through the resort’s extensive local art program. The cruise line has expanded its Artist Discovery Program, which was originally launched onboard Icon of the Seas. The program will bring 11 Bahamian artists to create murals, sculptures, and large-scale installations throughout the beach club.

These designs will appear across 25 different locations, transforming the property into an immersive, open-air gallery that reflects the colors, energy, and traditions of The Bahamas.

According to Royal Caribbean, the artists were chosen not only for their talent, but also for their deep connection to Bahamian culture.

Their creations will follow three themes that define the destination experience. First, the Underwater Adventures will highlight the country’s vibrant marine life. Next, Junkanoo Jubilee will celebrate the island’s rhythmic music, dance, and festival traditions. Finally, Bahama Bliss will bring tranquility and escape that draw millions of visitors to the islands each year.

Each artist will bring a unique interpretation of Bahamian life to the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Royal Caribbean says the program was designed to give local artists with a global platform, offering grants and additional support to emerging and established artists. The cruise line emphasized how the beach club will showcase the authentic culture rooted in the Bahamian community.

Family Beach will be a laid-back, kid-friendly escape

Another zone at the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will be Family Beach, which is designed to be a relaxing, safe space for kids to spend their day. The Instagram video provides a behind-the-scenes look at the pool and cabanas at Family Beach.

“We then head over to Family Beach, where you can snag one of our picture perfect cabanas and the amazing ocean views,”

This part of the Royal Beach Club will offer convenience, shade, and open space, making it easy for families to enjoy the day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The shoreline here is calm and inviting for kids who want to swim in the ocean. There will also be plenty of loungers and umbrellas throughout, so parents can keep an eye on the water while still having room to unwind.

One of the highlights of Family Beach is The Shallow End, a zero-entry pool that offers effortless access for all ages. This pool will have an easy wade-in spot for young kids and a comfortable lounging area for adults.

You can also take advantage of a swim-up bar with tropical cocktails, mocktails, and frozen drinks - all without ever leaving the water! The design is intentionally simple and intuitive to create a space that feels safe, open, and enjoyable for families of all sizes.

Food and beverages will also be close by, thanks to beach bars and a convenient location of the Paradise Grill. Guests of the beach club can enjoy made-to-order dishes and snacks with Caribbean influences, including everything from salads and island-seasoned meats to kid-friendly bites.

For those looking to elevate their day, Family Beach features some of the most impressive cabanas on the island. 

The standout option is the Ultimate Family Cabana, a two-story retreat designed with small groups and families in mind. This premium cabana includes luxury amenities, spacious seating areas, and private nooks for both relaxation and play. It’s the beach club’s most exclusive family offering on the island for an additional cost.

Additional beach and pool cabanas are available throughout the area, offering shaded lounge spaces, plush furnishings, and personal attendant service.

These cabanas give families a dedicated home base for the day, allowing parents to relax while kids enjoy the nearby pool and beach. Whether guests choose the massive two-story retreat or a more traditional cabana, Family Beach is sure to bring unforgettable memories for the entire family!

It’s the final countdown to Royal Beach Club!

With construction nearly complete, Royal Caribbean’s Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is quickly transforming from a long-awaited concept into an exclusive resort destination. 

The narrator ends the video saying, "We ended the day with a look at the pool being filled. That's all for now!"

It’s a fitting end to the sneak peek tour, as the beach club’s three distinct zones will ensure that every type of cruiser can have their perfect resort day in Nassau, Bahamas. From the quiet escape of Chill Beach to the kid-friendly Family Beach with The Shallow End and the playful energy of Party Cove, there’s a little something for everyone.

For years, Perfect Day at CocoCay has been the brand’s signature private-destination experience. Now, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island marks the start of a new era. In fact, Royal Caribbean has plans for more Royal Beach Clubs to redefine the in-port experiences for cruisers.

Just a few weeks ago, the cruise line announced a brand-new Royal Beach Club Santorini in Greece. Royal Caribbean describes how they will introduce an innovative system designed to alleviate the island’s notorious congestion by distributing guests across three arrival points. This approach will maximize time ashore while helping preserve the character of one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Royal Beach Club Santorini is just one part of Royal Caribbean Group’s rapidly expanding portfolio. The cruise line plans to expand with Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Royal Beach Club Lelepa in 2027. The cruise line will also unveil a brand-new Perfect Day Mexico in Costa Maya, Mexico.

Royal Caribbean is emphasizing a strategic push toward creating more exclusive, premium experiences on land that complement the next generation of Royal Caribbean ships.

It's Sunday and it's almost Thanksgiving, but before you sit down with the family to give thanks for all the great cruises you took this year, I wanted to share this week's Royal Caribbean news with you.

A number of Royal Caribbean cruise ships closed their waterslides at the same time.

It's not unusual for any ship to conduct maintenance, but having a few ships with closed slides at the same time is interesting timing.

Moreover, the work being done is the same on each: replacing see-through parts of the slide with new sections.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean surprisingly bringing back beer we thought was long gone
• How Royal Caribbean climbed in the 2026 best cruise line rankings vs last year
• I always do these 6 things to avoid mishaps onboard
• Do cruise prices drop at the last minute?
• I paid just $272 for a room on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas. It was tiny, but the deal was too good to pass up
• Black Friday sale has Royal Caribbean drink packages as low as $46.99 per day
• Royal Caribbean cruise ship Wi-Fi drops price up to 55% off in Black Friday deal
• All about Icon Class ships
• I tried an aft balcony on Celebrity's newest ship — it's my new favorite

New Video: Things to NEVER Do in Your Cabin on a Cruise

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—Things to NEVER Do in Your Cabin on a Cruise—and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Family of man booted from Royal Caribbean cruise for alleged assault continue vacation without him

A passenger was kicked off a cruise ship, but his family decided to continue the cruise without him.

Reports claim Royal Caribbean kicked off a man in Australia after he allegedly beat up another man just four days into the sailing.

Despite this, the man's family decided to stay onboard and continue the 10-night voyage without him.

After 100 cruises, there are 5 ships that I'll always revisit

Matt just took his 100th cruise with Royal Caribbean, and he has five ships he'll gladly go on every time.

While there isn't a bad Royal Caribbean ship, there are a few that stand out as top favorites.

Whether you're going on your first cruise or looking to get on every ship too, these are the five Royal Caribbean ships Matt highly recommends.

Biggest packing regrets from cruisers

We asked cruisers what's one thing they brought on a cruise but regretted packing it.

Over 200 comments were shared with things that seemed like a good idea to bring, but ended up being either useless, redundant, or unnecessary.

Consider this your warning of what not to waste your energy bringing along when you sail.

Diamond tips and etiquette to avoid becoming a problem and enjoy the loyalty perks

Making it to Diamond level is a big deal, but there are lots of unwritten rules you should know about it.

A surge in cruise demand has seemingly pushed a lot more people to make to this upper Crown and Anchor Society tier, and it adds a lot of great benefits.

However, you'll want to be aware of how to best utilize your Diamond status to avoid problems later.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 584th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available at all our links.

Of all the cruise topics Matt is asked about, a few are hot button issues he can't help but not rant about every single time.

Please feel free to subscribe via YouTube, iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

If you've been waiting for a Black Friday discount on Royal Caribbean's internet packages, it appears your time has come.

Royal Caribbean began its Black Friday sale more than two weeks ago, but most cruisers didn't see any significant discount on Wi-Fi packages.

Deal hunters on the Royal Caribbean message boards started reporting a price drop for their internet access purchase to coincide with the updated promotion.

"Offer was just sent a few minutes ago under Black Friday 55% sale," wrote Eddie305.  He noted he's been watching for a price drop since February.

Others reported seeing a lower price too. As always, discounts will vary from sailing to sailing.

Here's what to expect and why a pricing glitch is frustrating some people.

Black Friday discount on Wi-Fi

Voom internet packages could be priced lower with the latest adjustment to the Black Friday preview sale.

The advertised discount is "up to 55% off", and I've observed prices for a one device package as low as $19.99 per day.

The price range seems to be between $19.99 and $22.99 per day for a one device package. That's a significant savings compared to the onboard price, which has the same package start at $27.99.

To get that 55% off number, you'll need to purchase a multiple device plan.

Think of it like buying in bulk: you save more by buying more. Royal Caribbean offers a 1, 2, 3, or 4 device package, and the cost difference to buy a 4 device package compared to a 3 device package is usually pretty slim.

Here's an example from an upcoming Star of the Seas sailing in March 2026:

• 1 Device: $174.93
• 2 Devices: $286.93 (30% off additional devices - $112 extra)
• 3 Devices: $321.93 (45% off additional devices - $35 extra)
• 4 Devices: $342.93 (55% off additional devices - $21 extra)

As you can see, the deepest discount hits if you want to add a third or fourth device to the plan.

Now is the time to re-price, but watch out for this glitch

Consider this article a good opportunity to check if your internet package price has gone down, and then cancel and repurchase to get the lower price.

Royal Caribbean allows you to cancel and rebook pre-cruise purchases without a penalty. Cancel, re-buy it at the lower price, and you'll get the refund from the original purchase in a few business days. In my experience, it almost always ends up being on the same credit card billing cycle as the revised purchase.

However, I observed an issue others did as well that you should be aware of.

User need2cruz posted an example, "Mine says $247 40% for our next trip,  but when I get to check out it keeps glitching back to the old price of $295 30% off.  I have tried on both web browser and on the app.  It always reverts to the old higher price, right when I try to process payment."

When I re-priced my internet package, I saw the same issue.  The price jumped when moving between the cart page and the checkout page.

In my case, I was able to get around this issue by going back to my shopping cart and removing the Wi-Fi package. I then re-added it to my cart, and I got the lower price and was able to check out.

Tip: You can share your internet package

Unlike the beverage packages, internet packages are shareable and ideal for families.  

Royal Caribbean's Starlink connection is usually reliable enough to support streaming video while on the ship.  You could watch a sporting event, catch up on TV shows, or keep up with new YouTube content.

The multi-device plan allows up to the designated amount of devices to be logged in at one time. You can log out of one device and then log in with a different device and that's permissible.

The "catch" with sharing an internet package is you share a single login, which is usually not a problem with family.  

The other potential hiccup with sharing an internet package is anyone can "boot" someone else off either accidentally or intentionally. 

When you max out the amount of devices that can be connected at once and then try to connect an additional device, it prompts you to either disconnect one of the devices or force disconnect one.

It's been my experience a game of "musical internet device chairs" commences until everyone gets situated once again with the right devices connected. It's always best to remember to log out, but easier said than done.

Booking a last-minute cruise was once an easy way to save money on your vacation, but is that still the case?

We’ve all heard the stories of travelers scoring last-minute cruises for unbelievably low prices. In fact, multiple posts recently circulated online showing ridiculously cheap cruise fares for last-minute sailings aboard Freedom of the Seas.

One Reddit user posted an unbelievable $7 cruise fare for a 5-night cruise that departed the following week, on November 15, 2025. Even with the extra $236 for taxes and fees, this cruise deal seemed too good to be true.

One commenter, who was also booked on the same sailing, provided additional context for the low price point. The cruiser shared, “I am on this cruise. Just to give you some background... originally we were scheduled to go to Labadee, then we got rescheduled to go to Puerto Plata. 

Then there was a scheduling conflict with the dock so they moved us to Falmouth.  Then the hurricane hit Jamaica.  We are now being rerouted to Cozumel instead of Falmouth. So every time the schedule has changed, everyone has complained and cancelled.”

Although few travelers can book a cruise just one week before departure, this example shows how shifts in supply and demand can dramatically influence cruise pricing. In this case, demand for Freedom of the Seas’ itinerary continued to fall, which allowed more cabins to become available.

With lower demand comes lower pricing, as cruise lines aim to sail as close to full capacity as possible. And once guests are onboard, Royal Caribbean expects to generate additional revenue through alcohol sales, specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, and other onboard spending.

For many years, it wasn’t uncommon for cruisers to book last-minute sailings like this to save money. In fact, it was one of the easiest ways to save money on a cruise vacation a few years ago! Now, it isn’t exactly a guaranteed way to bring down your cruise costs.

Here’s a deep dive into Royal Caribbean’s last-minute cruising, and whether you can actually save money if you wait to book your cruise.

Royal Caribbean continues to report record-breaking demand, which drives up pricing.

Throughout 2025, Royal Caribbean has continued to report strong financial results. In April 2025, Royal Caribbean Group reported a 109% load factor, meaning ships sailed with full cabins, often with more than two guests per room.

Revenue and pricing both moved higher. Total revenue reached $4.0 billion, and the cruise line specifically credited the quarter’s earnings to stronger than expected pricing on close-in demand. This refers to late-booking passengers that pay higher rates than Royal Caribbean anticipated.

Royal Caribbean also reported record bookings during wave season, which runs from mid-January to March each year. The cruise line also stated that April 2025 bookings were also ahead of last year, with “booked load factors at higher rates.”

What does this mean for the average cruiser? In practical terms, this means the company is filling ships earlier and at better prices, which leaves fewer empty cabins that would normally be discounted close to sailing.

CEO Jason Liberty summed up the demand by noting that “bookings for 2025 have remained on track, cancellation levels are normal, and we continue to see excellent close-in demand.”

With fewer cabins to book, last-minute deals are harder to find

From an economics perspective, it’s easy to see how supply and demand plays into pricing here. Cruise ships have a fixed number of cabins, and Royal Caribbean is selling a larger portion of that inventory at higher prices.

When demand is strong and cabins are nearly full, there is little reason to mark down the remaining staterooms at the last minute. Last year, the trend was similar, as Liberty summarized in the cruise line’s second quarter earnings calls.

The cruise line's CEO stated, “Bookings have consistently outpaced last year… and we have significantly fewer staterooms left to sell.”

With significantly fewer staterooms left to sail, Royal Caribbean has no incentive to discount cabins at the last minute. From a business perspective, the strategy makes sense to maximize revenue. For the average cruiser, this means waiting to book your cruise could end up costing you more money than booking further in advance.

That’s why last-minute deals in 2025 have been mostly limited to shoulder-season sailings where demand drops and supply is in excess.

Holiday sailings are extremely popular with increased demand.

If you’re looking to sail during the upcoming holidays, you likely won’t find a great last-minute deal over Christmas or New Year's Eve. I reviewed pricing data from Gangwaze.com for upcoming late-November and December sailings to look for last-minute pricing trends, for the purposes of this article. 

Across multiple ship classes, there was one undeniable trend: Christmas and New Year’s sailings rarely get cheaper as the departure date approaches. These weeks remain the most expensive for most of the year, which is driven largely by families booking cruises around school breaks. Even older ships, like Jewel of the Seas, show elevated pricing during this period.

For example, the December 20, 2025 itinerary aboard the new Icon of the Seas has inside cabins selling for $2,601, an 11% increase from the overall average for that itinerary. Moreover, prices for the sailing reached an all-time low in mid-July at $1,600 per person. However, those booking within the last few weeks would be paying nearly $1,000 more per person compared to booking four months prior.

In addition, the brand-new Star of the Seas shows similar last-minute pricing trends. Cruisers booking two weeks before the November 30, 2025 sailing would be paying 26% more than the average price of $1,881 for a balcony cabin. Earlier in the year, the sailing hit its lowest point at $1,500 in June 2025. But, by mid-November, fares had climbed nearly 60% to just under $2,400.

As you can see, holiday sailings around Christmas and New Year's Eve have peak demand across the fleet, and last-minute deals are highly unlikely. For the newest and most popular ships, like Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, prices continued to climb all the way until departure date.

Before and after the holiday season, pricing trends look completely different.

While holiday weeks are essentially immune to last-minute discounting, the weeks before and after Christmas tell a very different story. Early November through mid-December actually showed some of the steepest price drops for last-minute sailings, even on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships.

Let’s look at Icon of the Seas’ January 10, 2026 sailing. With the sailing less than two months away, pricing has fallen drastically for balcony cabins. The average cost of this sailing was $1,869 per person, which has decreased by 37% to $1,177.

Even the newest vessel, Star of the Seas, has some last-minute deals available. The November 23, 2025 sailing, which is departing in less than one week, has seen interior and balcony prices drop by more than 40% in recent weeks. The November 30, 2025 sailing also shows a 23% decrease for interior staterooms, falling from a September high of $1,750 to $1,344 this week.

Looking at Royal Caribbean's website, some of the cruise line's cheapest sailings are actually within the next few weeks. For example, Grandeur of the Seas has pricing starting at $244 per person for a 7-night sailing departing on November 29, 2025. According to Gangwaze historical pricing, this is 58% cheaper than the average price of $579 for an interior cabin.

We often see cruise prices drop in general between September and November, meaning this is a good time to look for last-minute deals. However, we might not anticipate a last-minute deal like this for Thanksgiving weekend.

Additionally, the weeks following New Year’s Eve are another underrated time to cruise. Once the holiday rush ends, demand drops sharply, and fares in January and early February are often far more affordable. With fewer travelers sailing, cruise lines may have extra cabin inventory, making last-minute deals more likely during this period.

What could be contributing to current pricing fluctuations?

Cruise pricing in late 2025 is being shaped not only by strong consumer demand, but also broader macroeconomic factors. For instance, travelers are grappling with elevated airfare costs, ongoing economic uncertainty, and lingering inflation that is making it more expensive to vacation. However, this also drives prospective travelers to book further in advance and search for higher value vacations, including cruises. 

“Consumers continue to prioritize experiences and make room in their budgets for meaningful vacations. Our independent research, combined with millions of daily customer interactions, continues to show positive sentiment towards travel and leisure and continued growth in spend,” explained Liberty in Royal Caribbean's October 2025 earnings call.

He continued, “Roughly three-quarters of consumers intend to spend the same or more on vacations over the next twelve months, a level that has remained consistent for several quarters. While the broader consumer environment has normalized from the exceptional strength over the past two years, demand for experiences and leisure travel remains intact.”

“Cruising offers superior value for money versus alternative options, driven by the high-quality onboard amenities and services, pricing inclusive of meals and entertainment, and the opportunity to visit a variety of destinations with the convenience of having everything in one place,” concluded the cruise line's CEO.

At the same time, broader financial uncertainty has made some travelers more cautious, leading to occasional waves of last-minute cancellations or shifts in travel plans. These competing dynamics, with surging demand on one side and sporadic disruptions on the supply side, help explain why pricing has been less predictable.

For instance, some of the last-minute deals appearing this fall and winter may stem from cruisers canceling or shifting their plans. Recent airline schedule disruptions have forced some travelers to adjust or scrap their vacations altogether. When enough guests change their reservations, a wave of newly available cabins can create unexpected opportunities for last-minute discounts.

In addition, the powerful Hurricane Melissa recently hit Jamaica and forced cruise lines to adjust their itineraries. And, as mentioned in the Reddit post about Freedom of the Seas’ $7 cruise fare, some passengers canceled their sailing after too many itinerary changes. 

All of these factors influence the availability of last-minute cruise deals, even around the holiday season. For travelers with flexible schedules, it’s still entirely possible to find cheap cruises closer to the departure date, but flexibility is still the key.

How can you find a last-minute deal for Royal Caribbean?

If you’re determined to snag a discounted fare, expect to hunt around and stay extremely flexible with your travel plans.

First, look for last-minute deals during shoulder seasons and during off-peak months. As we just discussed, this is when you’re most likely to find an excess of cabins available. Your odds of finding a deal increase during the offseason or shoulder season, when demand naturally dips. For most Royal Caribbean itineraries, this includes the quieter months of September through November and January.

In addition, keep an eye out for potential price drops right after a sailing’s final payment deadline. This is when booked guests must pay their remaining balance for their vacation. If someone’s plans change, they may cancel or switch to a different cruise around this time, which causes unexpected inventory to open up.

You might even see some last-minute deals right before final payment date when cruise lines have a better idea of expected occupancy. If cabins remain unsold, that’s typically when last-minute price reductions begin to appear, and fares may continue dropping as the sail date approaches.

Certain destinations also have price-sensitive windows. For example, Alaska often sees cheaper fares on the first and last sailings of the season, which usually include late April, early May, and early October. For the Caribbean, hurricane season can lead to occasional last-minute markdowns once school is back in session.

Additionally, consider less popular itineraries with longer routes. Some itineraries have inherently lower demand, which can open the opportunity for last-minute availability. Repositioning sailings, especially transatlantic and transpacific crossings, can offer some incredible deals and last-minute savings.

These longer voyages with extra sea days attract a smaller audience, increasing your chances of finding discounted cabins closer to departure.

Moreover, Royal Caribbean has multiple promotional categories on its website for last-minute deals. Be sure to check out the Last Minute Cruise page on Royal Caribbean’s website for a quick look at the best short-notice deals. Another promotion is the “Going, Going, Gone" sales, which offer pop-up promotions for sailings leaving within the next few weeks or months.

Regardless of which route you take, the biggest key to securing a last-minute deal is flexibility. You won’t be able to get your heart set on a specific sail date, ship, or itinerary. Additionally, don’t expect to have many options for cabin selection. This means you might find yourself in a less desirable cabin category or location onboard. 

However, these sacrifices can be worthwhile for those looking to cruise for a cheaper fare. The more you save on your cruise fare, the more you can spend on shore excursions, specialty dining, or poolside cocktails during your cruise!

Reaching Diamond status is a big deal for a lot of cruisers because of all the perks Royal Caribbean includes.

More cruisers than ever have made it to Diamond status, thanks to a surge in cruise demand. Cruising has not only become more accessible to the public, and a lot of people are coming back again and again.

When I reached Diamond level many years ago, I was excited for getting access to the dedicated lounge.  Since then, Royal Caribbean added new benefits, such as drink vouchers, that made it even more useful.

If you're getting close to Diamond, I think there are things I wish I knew before I made it there so that you can avoid missing out and not committing any faux pas' along the way.

The Crown Lounge is more like a social club than a rowdy spot

As a Diamond member in Crown and Anchor Society, there's a dedicated lounge for you on every ship.

One of the most surprising things about this space is it's less like a bar scene, and more like a quiet area. It's not a library by any means, but I think there's a certain expectation among many cruisers it's somewhere to keep the volume to conversation level.

This is especially true in during the day, because the lounge is where you'll find people reading, playing cards, enjoying coffee, or sitting with friends.

In the evening when cocktails are served, it gets the busiest with more guests in there to hang out.

Basically, be respectful of others in the lounge when it comes to how loud you are.  It seems to be unwritten rule not to take phone calls in there, nor is it acceptable to use it as a playground for young children. To be clear, kids are allowed and welcome in the Crown Lounge. Just like the adults, they can't be rowdy in there.

Frankly, I think the Crown Lounge has a stuffy feel to it, but it's largely been that way ever since I first got access to it.

You need to specify when using your Diamond drink vouchers

Without a doubt, the best benefit of Diamond level is the four drink vouchers you get everyday.  You'll want to take full advantage of this "mini-drink package" in a few ways.

I think it's incredible that Royal Caribbean gives all of its Diamond members four free drink vouchers per day to use on pretty much any drink.

First, make sure you tell the bartender or waiter when you order the drink that you want to use your voucher.

If you don't say anything, they may charge your SeaPass account for the beverage.  So be sure to mention when ordering the drink that you want to use your Diamond voucher.

Second, be sure to also specify the liquor you want in the cocktail so you get full value from your voucher.

If you ask for an Old Fashioned, they're going to likely use the well liquor that is the cheapest option.  But you can ask for a brand name liquor and it's still included in your voucher value.

Lastly, don't let your daily vouchers go to waste!

If you don't use all four of them every day, you should order extra bottles of water.  Stock piling bottled water in your stateroom is a good idea so you have access to it when you need it later, or to bring them on shore excursions.

You can't bring friends into the lounge

As neat as the Crown Lounge is, you cannot bring friends or family that aren't Diamond yet.

Over crowding in the lounge is bad enough as it is just among the Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club members.  So Royal Caribbean prohibits non-Diamond guests from coming in.

When you make Diamond, your spouse and kids under 18 also get your Diamond status too.  So don't worry about having to leave them behind.

However, if you're cruising with friends or family that are not Diamond yet, then the lounge is not available to them.

This is part of the reason why the cruise line switched to offering vouchers for drinks to be used at any bar.  You can enjoy this benefit anywhere else on the ship, so you can spend time with others and not lose out on vouchers.

Ask the Diamond Concierge for help with small problems onboard

I think one of the least utilized Diamond perks is the Crown Lounge concierge.

The Diamond concierge is akin to the Suite Concierge, although I'm not certain they have as much "power" in pulling strings. Nonetheless, they are still a useful option.

Basically, the Diamond concierge is a step up from Guest Services and likely has a shorter line too.

You can go there to settle billing issues, get questions answered, and even make reservations.

One adjustment to make when you get to Diamond is to stop and think if the Diamond concierge could assist instead.  It might save you time in line at Guest Services or a trek to that desk.  Or perhaps you can just combine some hors d'oeuvres with your inquiry.

The free coffee machine in the lounge is a hidden gem

You won't see the coffee machine listed on the benefits list, but so many Diamond members love having access to it.

Inside the Crown Lounge is a self-service coffee machine that makes espresso, coffee, and lattes. It's free to use and is available 24 hours per day.

There are cups there, so you can enjoy it in the lounge or take it elsewhere around the ship or back to your stateroom.

For many cruisers, this is just what they need every day. It's a step up from the complimentary coffee you get around the ship and doesn't require using a drink voucher at Cafe Promenade.

It should come as no surprise that the machine is busiest in the morning, and you'll also find an assortment of breakfast items as well.

Each morning there are various pastries and light bites that you can grab to accompany your coffee.

How the free day of internet works

A very common question new Diamond members want to know is how to use that free day of WiFi access included in your Diamond benefits.

You're entitled to a one day (24 hour) pass of internet access, and it can only be redeemed onboard the ship. You cannot apply or use it towards a pre-cruise purchase.

Once on the ship, connect to the ship's WiFi. Sign up for an internet access plan, and you should see your free day discount listed.

Is it cheaper to wait to the ship and use your free day or pre-purchase? It depends on the length of your cruise, as it can save you money if you're on a short 3-nighter. Otherwise, buy an internet package in advance.

If you've been holding out for a Royal Caribbean drink package, now might be the time to buy one.

Royal Caribbean started its Black Friday sale with an early access sale last week, and that sale continues this week leading up to the actual holiday.

Traditionally, this shopping holiday is one of the best times of the year to buy a drink package because it usually coincides with the lowest prices of the season.

If you're like me, Black Friday is an annual reminder to check drink package prices to see if there are any new discounts.

Drink packages as low as $46.99 per day

Perhaps the most popular add-on you can buy for a Royal Caribbean cruise is a drink package, and select sailings are seeing prices as low as $46.99 per person, per day.

In going through my upcoming cruises I have booked, I saw varying prices that differ from ship to ship.

The lowest Deluxe Beverage Package price I could find was $46.99 per person, per day on a 7-night Serenade of the Seas cruise to Alaska.

With that price, it would take just 4 cocktails per day to break even on the price. Or 3 cocktails and one specialty coffee from Cafe Latte-tudes.

On a Brilliance of the Seas cruise I have booked in March 2026, the Deluxe Beverage package is just $48.99 per person, per day. That means I'll need to have coffee in the afternoon too in order to break even.

Remember, these are just examples of discounts that you might spot. Each cruise has its own pricing based on Royal Caribbean's algorithm that factors in the type of sailing, newness of the ship, and how well the drink package is selling so far.

The rest of my cruises that I have booked have varying prices:

• Star of the Seas 7-night: $53.99
• Wonder of the Seas 4-night: $62.99
• Utopia of the Seas 3-night: $53.99
• Legend of the Seas 7-night: $58.08

Other cruisers found even more lucrative prices than I did with this sale.

Michael Poole shared a screenshot of his package coming in at just $41.99 per person, per day for his upcoming sailing. Meanwhile Kathryn Koo claims her 15-night transatlantic on Odyssey of the Seas is priced at $27.99 per person, per day.

Margit Ritzert shared a $46.99 price, Mike Stacy found it for $43.99

No matter which sailing you pick, it's likely a substantial discount considering Royal Caribbean is regularly charging over $100 per person, per day for the same package when purchased onboard ships. In fact, all purchases made online are cheaper than waiting to book during the sailing.

Sale runs through December 12

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale officially will be available until November 30, 2025. But then the Cyber Monday sale begins on December 1st and will go through December 12th.

Because Royal Caribbean employs dynamic pricing for its cruise add-ons, the name of the sale is less relevant than what the actual out the door price ends up being.

"Up to 50% off" is the listed discount for beverage packages during these sales, but savvy cruisers know the percentage off any product is not always the total story.

More importantly, the price could change at any point during the sale period.  It's a good idea to periodically re-check the price, especially on the actual Black Friday or Cyber Monday holiday.

Here's the fine print for drink package discounts through the holiday sale season:

Beverage: Up to 50% off

• Evian Water Package: 50% off onboard prices
• Classic Soda Package: 35% off onboard prices; CARBINTL sailings – 40% off onboard prices
  • Kids Savings (age under or equal to 12): 50% off Classic Soda Package
  • Cabin Offer (Interior and Oceanview): +5% off on Classic Soda Package sale offer.
• Refreshment Package: Discount varies by ship.
  • Kids Savings (age under or equal to 12): 50% off Refreshment Package
  • Teens Savings (age under 18/21, > 12): 40% off Refreshment Package
  • Cabin Offer (Interior and Oceanview): +5% off on Refreshment Package sale offer, excluding RBC
    sailings
• Refreshment + 10 Drinks Package: 15% off onboard prices; ASIA sailings – 35% off onboard prices
• Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship.
  • CAS Diamond and above: 55% off Deluxe Beverage Package
  • Prime Casino Royale members: 55% off Deluxe Beverage Package (thru March ’26)
  • Signature Casino Royale members: 60% off Deluxe Beverage Package (thru March ’26)
  • Masters Casino Royale members: 65% off Deluxe Beverage Package (thru March ’26)
  • Cabin Offer (Interior and Oceanview): +5% off on Deluxe Beverage sale offer, excluding sailings
    with 50% offer and RBC sailings. 

It's not too late to get a better price

If you already bought a drink package, you can still take advantage of a Black Friday or Cyber Monday price drop.

Royal Caribbean allows guests to cancel (and then re-book) any pre-cruise purchase up to 48 hours before your cruise date with no penalty.

To check if your sailing has this new offer available, log into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean's web site look for any available offers.

Royal Caribbean has closed the waterslides on multiple cruise ships to enhance their safety for guests. 

Passengers on Harmony of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas have reported that the slides aboard their ships were closed during their recent sailings. 

These include:

• The Blaster (Navigator of the Seas, closed as of Nov. 20)
• Riptide (Navigator of the Seas, closed as of Nov. 20)
• Perfect Storm Cyclone and Typhoon (Independence of the Seas, closed as of Nov. 20)
• Supercell (Harmony of the Seas, is or was closed)

Read more: Harmony of the Seas slides: What you need to know

Royal Caribbean has not issued a fleetwide announcement regarding the waterslide closures, much to the frustration of future guests who are unsure whether they'll be operational by their cruise date. 

That said, the Cruise Compass app has been updated to reflect the temporary closures aboard Independence of the Seas. 

Guests can find the notification on Day 1 of their sailing under the "Welcome aboard! Tap for hints and tips as we set sail" tab, positioned between the gangway information and the daily planner.

(Credit: smokeybandit/Royal Caribbean Blog discussion forum)

Although disappointing, each ship offers a variety of activities to keep guests entertained, including multiple pools and kid-friendly splash areas, surfing simulators, rock climbing walls, sports courts, and a full line-up of shows and onboard entertainment. 

Moreover, to compensate for the closure, other amenities, such as the FlowRider surf simulator, may stay open for a few extra hours. It's important to check the app to stay updated on the operating hours while on board. 

Replacing the acrylic tube parts with safer fiberglass sections

(Photo of the ongoing waterslide repair efforts on Navigator of the Seas. Credit: Armour3d/Reddit)

Navigator of the Seas' Captain James spoke about the ship's waterslide closures during a recent sailing, giving more insight into the situation and providing a potential timeline of when they will reopen on the Voyager Class ship. 

"It's those acrylic tube parts that are cracking on us, so we just said, 'You know what? Enough's enough,'" he remarked. 

Royal Caribbean brought on engineers to conduct a full assessment of the slides and determine the best long-term solution. They informed the cruise line that they needed to be taken out of service and essentially rebuilt to ensure durability for years to come. 

Continuing, Captain James explained, "They've had to refabricate parts, and they're actually gonna replace the acrylic with the fiberglass sections."

It's not a fast process, either. According to Captain James, each section is custom-made and cannot be pulled from existing inventory. 

The first installation on Navigator of the Seas is scheduled for Dec. 1. The Riptide mat racer slide will be worked on first, followed by the Blaster. 

If all goes according to plan, Navigator's slides should be up and running on Dec. 22, right in time for the ship's holiday cruises. However, guests have reported seeing notifications on the mobile app that the slides on Independence will be closed through Feb. 2026. 

Captain James also alluded to the fact that other Royal Caribbean ships had issues with their waterslides, causing the cruise line to launch a broader review of the slide's safety across multiple vessels in the fleet. 

Earlier this year, a cruise passenger was injured on a waterslide on Icon of the Seas

A guest sailing on one of the world's largest cruise ships sustained multiple injuries after an acrylic panel broke on a slide in the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark in August. 

At 46 feet tall, the Frightening Bolt is famous for being the biggest drop slide at sea. The trapdoor launch makes it one of the more extreme attractions on Icon and Star of the Seas. 

After the incident, the slide remained closed throughout August as the cruise line made the necessary repairs. Other slides, including the Pressure Drop and Hurricane Hunter, remained open. 

Following the accident, the injured guest retained Alex Perez of Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A., to pursue legal action against Royal Caribbean.

"Our firm has decades of experience handling cruise passenger injury cases, and unfortunately, incidents involving material or design failures aboard cruise ships are something we see far too often," Perez said.

Cruisers react to slide closures

As news of the closures spreads, passengers have expressed their disappointment on social media. While it is frustrating that the waterslides are closed, many are upset with how Royal Caribbean is handling the situation and the lack of communication from the cruise line. 

"We just booked for the end of March. Why are they not sharing that?? It’s one of the reasons we booked on this ship!" shared Katie Taylor, a future Navigator of the Seas passenger, on Facebook. 

Jennifer Vranekovic added, "I even sent [Royal Caribbean] messages telling them guests are only finding out in Facebook groups and not being notified. It should be pinned on the booking page as a notice since this isn’t random or new, they have been down [for] months. Travel agents don’t even know."

Guests currently onboard the affected ships are upset, too. Many embarked with children expecting to enjoy the slides, only to discover the closures after getting on board. 

"We didn’t even find out about the slides until we got on [Navigator of the Seas] and my girls wanted to go down the slide and they told us it was closed," said Tinneke Rossi.

"The only waterslide that was open was the yellow one. My kids were very bummed," shared Meredith Marlatt Dusek in a Harmony of the Seas Facebook group. 

Elizabeth Francis agreed, saying, "For those with kids--it can entertain them for hours if there are multiple slides. Royal markets these ships as having all these cool water slides."

Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships are the world's largest cruise ships, offering more amenities, dining options, and entertainment than any other vessels at sea. 

The class's namesake ship, Icon of the Seas, debuted in January 2024 and set a new standard for family cruise vacations. 

From the world's largest waterpark at sea to new Broadway-style productions, family-friendly areas, and dining concepts, every moment aboard Icon Class ships is meant to be unforgettable and unlike any other cruise vacation. 

As the largest cruise ships in the world, the massive Icon Class vessels can accommodate over 7,000 passengers at maximum occupancy. 

The ships also host 2,350 crew members from all over the world. This means that, at full capacity, Icon Class ships can welcome nearly 10,000 people. 

Don't let the crowds intimidate you, though. Royal Caribbean did an impressive job designing these mega-ships. 

With expansive public areas, multiple pools, dining venues, and restaurants, it's easy to find ways to relax, play, and eat without feeling cramped and overwhelmed. 

Here's everything you need to know to determine if a vacation aboard an Icon Class ship is right for you. 

What are the Icon Class ships?

As of November 2025, Royal Caribbean has two Icon Class ships in service:

• Icon of the Seas (2024)
• Star of the Seas (2025)
• Legend of the Seas (not yet in service, expected 2026)
• Icon 4 (not yet in service, expected 2027)
• Icon 5 (not yet in service, expected 2028)

The cruise line is set to welcome the third Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas, in July 2026. She will be the first to offer European cruises, as Icon and Star of the Seas sail exclusively to the Caribbean from Florida (for now). 

Royal Caribbean Icon Class size

Both Icon Class ships in service measure just shy of 250,000 gross registered tons (GRT). In fact, the Icon Class ships come in at 248,663 GRT. 

In comparison, Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships, which were the largest in the world until Icon launched in 2024, measure anywhere from 225,282 to 236,473 GRT. 

In terms of length, Icon and Star of the Seas stretch 1,194 feet from bow to stern. Moreover, they're 219 feet wide. 

Icon Class ship highlights

There's more to do, see, and eat on Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships than on any other vessel at sea. 

Starting with entertainment, each ship has different shows in the Absolute Zero ice rink, Royal Theater, and AquaTheater. 

Icon of the Seas

• Royal Theater: "The Wizard of Oz," "The Effectors: The Origin Story," "Showband! Live. Music Now."
• Absolute Zero: "Starburst: Elemental Beauty," "Once Upon a Time: The King's Royal Ball"
• AquaTheater: "AQUA ACTION!"

Star of the Seas

• Royal Theater: "Back to the Future: The Musical," "Create," "Showband! Live. Music Now."
• Absolute Zero: "SOL"
• AquaTheater: "Torque" 

Additionally, each ship hosts a variety of game shows, including the famous "Love and Marriage Show," where three lucky couples go head-to-head to see just how well they know each other, as well as dance parties and parades. 

The ships also bring on rotating headliner acts, musicians, and comedians. All the shows are available free of charge since they're included in Royal Caribbean's cruise fare. 

Pro tip: don't miss the Dueling Pianos show! It's exclusive to Icon Class ships and pits two talented pianists against each other in a high-energy, interactive performance where guests request songs and sing along. The venue fills up fast, so you will want to secure seats early! 

Moving on to amenities, Icon Class ships are packed with options for every type of traveler, from young kids to grandparents — think waterparks, sports courts, rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, mini-golf, and more. 

Many activities aren't exclusive to Icon Class ships. Rather, they're upgraded to create a one-of-a-kind experience. 

For example, many Royal Caribbean ships have a miniature golf course. However, the courses on Icon and Star of the Seas were creatively themed to match the vibe of the "Thrill Island" neighborhood. 

Similarly, the rock climbing wall was reimaged and renamed. "Adrenaline Peak" had different courses for all skill levels and offers the "ultimate rock climbing expedition and [the line's] highest vantage point yet."

Next, like Voyager, Freedom, and Oasis Class ships, Icon Class vessels have an ice skating rink. Not only do the talented skaters put on jaw-dropping shows, but guests can also sign up for complimentary skating sessions. 

On Icon Class ships, the ice rink is the line's largest yet and is conveniently located near the Royal Promenade. 

While Icon and Star of the Seas have plenty of amenities that are familiar to long-time cruisers, the ships also have entirely new experiences that set them apart. 

The Crown's Edge, for example, is a new extra-charge attraction that's part ropes course and part zip line. Brave guests will make their way across suspended platforms to a platform that dangles off the edge of the ship. Then, they will experience a sudden drop and zip over the ocean back to safety. 

Next, the Category 6 Waterpark is the largest waterpark at sea and is home to six record-breaking waterslides:

• Pressure Drop
• Hurricane Hunter
• Storm Chasers
• Storm Surge
• Frightening Bolt

Other water-based amenities include the Splashaway Bay and Baby Bay aqua park for kids and babies, and seven pools — each with a unique vibe and atmosphere. 

• Royal Bay (largest pool at sea with over 40,000 gallons of water)
• Hideaway (adults-only infinity pool)
• Swim & Tonic (adults-only pool with swim-up bar)
• Water's Edge (family-friendly pool in the Surfside neighborhood)
• The Cove (a smaller pool located near the Royal Bay pool)
• Cloud 17 (infinity-edge pool near the Lime & Coconut Bar)
• Suite pool (suite-only pool located in the Grove)

If that doesn't seem like enough to keep you busy, Icon Class ships also feature an escape room, laser tag course, casino, jogging track, and carousel. 

Finally, kids will love the award-winning Adventure Ocean youth programming on Icon Class ships. The daytime activities are included in the cruise fare. However, late-night programming costs $15 per hour from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.

Icon Class ships also feature the Royal Babies & Tots nursery program for children between the ages of 6-36 months. As of November 2025, the Royal Babies & Tots nursery fees are $9 per hour until 6:00 p.m. and $12 per hour after 6:00 p.m. 

Icon Class dining options

Icon Class ships have more dining venues onboard than any other ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. This means that, regardless of your craving or vacation style, you're bound to find something to satisfy every appetite.

There are 13 complimentary (or included) restaurants on Icon Class ships. Many are available fleetwide, including the Windjammer Marketplace and Main Dining Room. However, five are brand-new concepts that are exclusive to Icon and Star of the Seas. 

• Park Cafe
• Windjammer Marketplace
• Sorrento's
• Main Dining Room
• El Loco Fresh
• Sprinkles
• Vitality Cafe
• Coastal Kitchen (for suite guests only)
• Pearl Cafe
• Surfside Bites
• Surfside Eatery
• AquaDome Market
• Basecamp

Diving into the new dining venues, the Pearl Cafe is essentially a next-gen Cafe Promenade. There are a lot of grab-and-go food options, such as pasta or veggie trays, that make snack time easier than ever. However, this is also where guests can order specialty Starbucks drinks for an extra cost. 

Surfside Bites is a fast-casual spot in the Surfside neighborhood, perfect for busy families who need to fuel up between activities. The options aren't anything fancy, but they're definitely kid-approved: popcorn chicken, French fries, cheeseburgers, etc. 

Families who want more variety can head to the Surfside Eatery. Think of this like an extended version of the Windjammer buffet. However, rather than having to haul children up to Deck 15, it's located in the heart of the Surfside neighborhood. 

The AquaDome Market is Royal Caribbean's first food-hall concept. The stalls on Icon and Star of the Seas are different, but both offer a mix of international flavors, fresh ingredients, and quick-service options.

AquaDome Market options on Icon of the Seas 

• Crème de la Crèpe (Crèpes)
• GNGR (Asian)
• Mac's (Mac and cheese)
• Feta (Mediterranean)
• Toast & Garden (Sandwiches and salads)

AquaDome Market options on Star of the Seas 

• Feta (Mediterranean)
• Crème de la Crèpe (Crèpes)
• Mai Thai (Thai and Southeast Asian dishes)
• Pig Out BBQ (American BBQ)
• La Cocinita (South American-inspired street food)

Finally, there's Basecamp. Basecamp can be found in the Thrill Island neighborhood and was designed to be a spot to relax between activities. Food options include warm pretzels, tater tots, and chicken tenders. There's also a bar nearby for those who need to quench their thirst with a tasty cocktail. 

Icon of the Seas also boasts an impressive number of specialty restaurants, though there are plenty of included options for those who don't want to spend extra money on food:

• Chops Grille
• Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
• Playmakers Sports Bar
• Hooked Seafood
• Starbucks
• Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
• Izumi in the Park
• Empire/Lincoln Park Supper Club
• Pier 7
• Desserted
• Trellis Bar
• Celebration Table

Izumi in the Park is Royal Caribbean's first-ever to-go sushi window, where you can grab sushi, hot gyoza, or soft-serve bubble cones for a refreshing afternoon sweet treat! It's located in Central Park. 

Pier 7 is the all-day brunch restaurant in Surfside that dishes up tasty options like mango lime shrimp tostadas, smoked salmon benedicts, fluffy buttermilk pancakes, and surf & turf tacos.

The supper clubs are perhaps the most unique dining experiences aboard Icon Class ships. The concept is the same on both ships: a $200-per-person, eight-course meal is paired with live music and drinks.

That said, the theming, menu, and presentation differ. On Icon of the Seas, the Empire Supper Club was designed after New York City in the 1930s. The menu focuses on premium American cuisine with dishes like wagyu, oysters, and more. 

The supper club takes on a new vibe aboard Star of the Seas. The Lincoln Park Supper Club was themed after Chicago in the 1930s and 1940s. Menu items include kampachi, steak tartare, crab ravioli, and the famous Palmer House brownie that originated in the Windy City. 

If you'd prefer a more intimate specialty dining experience, consider booking the Celebration Table. It's kind of like an elevated Chef's Table. However, instead of a set prix fixe menu curated by the chef, you can choose between a few family-style options: American, Seafood, Italian, and Asian. 

Moving on, Desserted is the brand-new specialty milkshake bar, while Trellis Bar now offers a small menu of bar bites for an extra charge. 

Icon Class cabins and suites

Icon Class ships feature 28 unique categories of staterooms, ranging from spacious inside cabins to multi-story suites. 

As some of the world's family-friendliest ships, it should come as no surprise that more than 80% of all the staterooms can accommodate 3 or more guests. Moreover, more than 70% of Icon Class rooms have balconies. 

In total, there are 2,805 staterooms on Icon and Star of the Seas, broken down into 179 suites, 1,815 balcony cabins, 276 ocean view rooms, and 535 interior cabins.

All suites aboard Icon Class ships are part of the Royal Suite Class, meaning guests can expect lavish cabins and upscale amenities compared to older vessels. 

The exact benefits vary based on the category. For example, Sea Tier suites (i.e., Sunset Junior Suites and standard Junior Suites) are the most restrictive, meaning you won't have access to The Grove Sun Deck or Coastal Kitchen for breakfast or lunch.

If you have a little extra money to burn, consider splurging on a Star Class suite. These are the largest cabins on Icon and Star of the Seas and come with perks like an unlimited drink package, Royal Genie (essentially a butler), and more. 

Where do Icon Class ships sail?

As of November 2025, both Icon Class ships in service — Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas — sail from Florida to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. Icon offers vacations from Miami, Florida, while Star calls Port Canaveral, Florida, home. 

However, when Legend of the Seas debuts in July 2025, she will be the first Icon Class ship to sail in the Mediterranean, with voyages departing from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

Legend will move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2025, where she'll alternate between 6- and 8-night Caribbean cruises. The shorter voyages will visit the Western Caribbean, while the 8-night cruises will sail to the Southern Caribbean ports of Aruba and Curaçao. 

Then, in April 2026, Legend of the Seas will return to Europe for another European season. Once again, the Mediterranean voyages will depart from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. 

Icon and Star of the Seas will both remain in Florida until August 2027 — when Icon of the Seas will make the move to Galveston, Texas, and offer Western Caribbean cruises to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day Mexico and Royal Beach Club Cozumel. 

Packing for a cruise is a more intentional endeavor than packing for a weekend trip to New York City or Walt Disney World. 

When traveling on a cruise, you must pack the essentials carefully, considering both the onboard activities and shore excursions in port. 

That said, cruise cabins have limited storage. It's easier to pack more than you think you'll need, just to run out of space when settling into your stateroom. 

One user asked what experienced travelers regretted packing for their cruise on Reddit. The post received over 200 comments, with many saying that they had second thoughts about how much clothing they brought. 

Other answers ranged from common household items like steamers to lanyards and soda. Here's a round-up of the most regretted items packed for a cruise vacation. 

Too many clothes

Many cruisers shared that they regretted bringing too many clothes. While planning vacation outfits is fun, trying to pack multiple outfits for each day can be stressful. 

"I packed ~12 outfits and 4 swimsuits + coverups for a 7night/8day cruise and I could have packed less than half of that," wrote ResolutionStunning42. 

Instead, they wished they had focused on bringing a few nicer outfits, a few comfortable outfits, swimsuits, and a single cover-up. 

luckyvacaythrowaway added that they would not have brought clothes they felt insecure in at home, since they didn't end up wearing any of them. 

If you bring too many clothes, your cabin can quickly become a cluttered nightmare, making it harder to find the shirt you really want to wear for White Night. 

Shoes

On a similar note, a lot of travelers thought they had packed too many shoes. Not only do shoes take up a lot of valuable luggage space, but it's harder to organize them in the stateroom. 

"[I] now try to only pack two pairs and I wear my bulkiest pair on the plane/ship (sneakers). I then pack a pair of flip flops or water shoes for the pool and spa areas," shared 317ant. 

They also bring a pair of sandals that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. 

Uncomfortable shoes are also a no-go. Although you might be okay running back to the room mid-evening to change, your feet will thank you for bringing footwear that can handle long days ashore and evenings running from activity to activity. 

Box of tissues

Cruise cabins are stocked with the basics, including hand soap and tissues. As such, one traveler regretted bringing their own box of tissues. 

HawaiianShirtsOR wrote, "It just took up suitcase space unnecessarily. I have no idea why I thought there wouldn't be tissues in my cabin."

Typically, the tissues can be found tucked into one of the dressers or vanity drawers. You can also ask your cabin steward if you can't find them or need extras. 

Body wash and shampoo

Cruise cabins are equipped with basic toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and body wash. On Royal Caribbean ships, standard staterooms have a shampoo-body wash hybrid. 

As such, Intelligent_Ad_1385 argues that travelers do not have to pack body wash or shampoo.

Bringing your own bottles takes up luggage space and adds unnecessary weight, especially if you pack full-sized products. 

That said, many cruisers disagree with them, saying that personal hygiene products are essential. 

"I would recommend bringing shampoo and conditioner 100%, that soap is super harsh, it works [perfectly] on the body but it will strip all the moisture out of your hair," wrote iamadesert. 

Moreover, Royal Caribbean cabins do not have any conditioner. If you forget, you'll have to visit the onboard shops and pay for an overpriced travel bottle. 

Haircare products

On a similar note, one passenger shared that they regretted bringing their haircare products. 

"My hair was never done. I did need my [leave-in] conditioner so I could get the brush through my hair, but a curling iron and other products were laughable to me! It's so windy and humid sometimes! I'll never bring them again," stated GoldengirlSkye. 

This comes down to personal preference, though. Some cruisers enjoy styling their hair on vacation and couldn't imagine leaving home without important products or tools, especially those with textured hair. 

Steamer

Cruise lines have a long list of prohibited items that guests are not permitted to bring aboard their ships. Many items are common sense, like firearms, explosives, and illegal drugs. Others, however, can be easily overlooked during the packing process. 

Unfortunately, one cruiser learned the hard way that everyday household items can be flagged during the check-in process. 

No-Tank-1826 said, "We packed a travel steamer and got a note in our checked luggage that it was confiscated, 🤪 and we could pick it up from security after the cruise."

Read more: 5 things you can't bring on a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025

Wrinkle-release spray

Since steamers (and irons) aren't allowed on Royal Caribbean ships, many cruisers opt to bring wrinkle-release spray. As popular as it may be, maestra612 claimed that they ended up leaving it untouched in their cabin during their sailing. 

If you don't want to worry about finding wrinkle-release spray before your cruise, I've found that hanging the wrinkled garment in question to hang in the bathroom while showering works pretty well. 

The steam from the shower relaxes the fibers. Generally speaking, many wrinkles will smooth out by the time you're clean, but it isn't a fool-proof replacement for an iron or steamer. 

Pop-up laundry hamper

Many cruise content creators recommend bringing a pop-up laundry hamper. However, several cruisers regret listening to that advice. 

little_blu_eyez is one of them. In their eyes, the pop-up hamper took up too much floor space. Instead, they started using packing cubes. 

"I fully unpack when I get onboard," they said, "As I wear clothes I pack them back into the cube."

By the last night, they're already halfway packed and can spend more time enjoying the ship, rather than scrambling to fold everything neatly back into their suitcase. 

Alternatively, Due_Warthog725 suggests bringing a trash bag for dirty clothes.

Books

Many passengers love finding a comfortable lounge chair and diving into their newest book. Others, however, would rather spend their vacation taking advantage of the ship's amenities. 

East_Celebration6706 commented that they took a book on their cruise, but they did not open it once — there were too many other activities on the ship!

On a similar note, if you are planning on bringing books on board, you may want to invest in a Kindle. Rather than bringing bulky hardcover or paperback books with you, you can download multiple titles onto a single, lightweight device. 

Pro tip: download a variety of books before you board, especially if you aren't planning on purchasing Royal's Wi-Fi package. 

"Make sure you download any books you think you might like to read before you go since I think it would be very hard to do on board," advised tylersmom1919. 

Laptop

Vacation is a time to kick back and relax. However, if you bring a laptop with you, you may feel obligated to check in on how things are going at the office. 

That's what happened to thinkdeep. Bringing a laptop meant that they weren't able to fully disconnect during their hard-earned vacation. 

Magnetic hooks

There are tons of articles out there about how to maximize cabin storage (Royal Caribbean Blog is guilty of having a few). While we're big fans of magnetic hooks, they haven't been a home run for everyone. 

According to zzrryll, they never needed the hooks that "people insist on shilling." To be fair, newer ships tend to have smarter storage options, from extra hooks to clever shelving. 

As such, the takeaway from zrryll's comment is that before packing recommended storage accessories, research your cruise cabin. You may find that your specific stateroom has more than enough storage without needing to bring extra hooks. 

Over-the-door shoe organizer

Like magnetic hooks, some travelers have found the over-the-door shoe organizer hack to be overrated. 

"It all seems so excessive. Never once I have needed an over the door hanging organizer with 3 million pockets," said dawson33944, a Diamond cruiser within Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society. 

IslandGyrl2 added, "The shoe organizer is a hint you've over-packed; it just brings your clutter out into the open, and it makes a clunk-clunk every time you open the door."

Read more: 30 cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

Fan

Fans can be great accessories in the warm Caribbean or Mediterranean — nobody wants to overheat while trying to enjoy one of the ports of call. Sometimes, they can be useful in the staterooms, too. 

However, MyRunningAcct did not find their cabin hot or stuffy. As such, they ended up not needing the portable fan that they had brought.

RochR0k agreed, adding that their stateroom was so cold they had to turn off the air conditioning. 

Formal attire

It is no surprise that cruises are not as formal as they used to be. In fact, many modern-day cruisers elect not to participate in formal night. Some cruise lines, including Norwegian, have effectively gone away with traditional formal nights entirely. 

SeaSpeakToMe wrote, "Our first cruise we brought [one] nicer outfit (not super formal) for formal night and learned it’s not our style. Now we hit up the buffet or some other included food on formal nights. I can see the appeal, it’s fun to dress up sometimes, but it’s not my vacation style."

Unless formal nights are a must for you, you may be happier packing casual dinner outfits and skipping the dining room altogether. 

Telescope

If you are cruising to Alaska, binoculars are a must. You don't want to miss the dramatic landscapes or impromptu wildlife sightings. However, telescopes are generally considered overkill on a cruise. 

"I wanted to take in the sights of the ports from the top deck and see things up close and personal. Results were....okay," shared tubbis9001. 

It also didn't work well for stargazing. They could not keep the telescope stable enough to see the moon or stars while on the bow. 

Case of water

Royal Caribbean's base fare includes select beverages, such as tap water, drip coffee, lemonade, hot chocolate, and juice. However, bottled water costs extra, along with soda, alcoholic drinks, specialty coffee, and more. 

Many cruisers who decide to forego Royal's pricey drink package bring on limited quantities of non-alcoholic beverages, including one case of water or soda. While it can help save money, some cruisers think hauling on beverages isn't worth the effort. 

"[The water we brought] didn't get drunk and I dont think that terrible in room fridge could even catch up over the whole 5 day cruise so they were still barely chilled," said icebox_Lew. 

Another guest shared a story about having their carry-on soda bottles burst open in their bag:

"The soda we bought was in bottles and I thought that I had them well-packed to be safe. I was wrong. A couple clinked together and one broke. At least it was in our carry-on that contained mostly swimwear which was really easy to clean."

The moral of the story is that if you're going to bring drinks on your Royal Caribbean cruise, make sure that they are securely sealed and well-cushioned — the same goes for wine. 

Lanyards

You're either Team Lanyard or Team Anti-Lanyard. Personally, I think lanyards make cruising easier. However, they aren't the most fashionable accessories, so I understand why some may prefer to find more creative ways to keep their cruise card safe. 

One passenger said that they ditched their lanyard after it kept getting tangled. Instead, they preferred using a fanny pack. 

TollerLuvLJP added, "I discovered I hate the feeling of having something hanging around my neck. My clothes all have pockets, or I bring a bag."

Not enough over-the-counter medications

Just like you can regret packing too many clothes or pairs of shoes, you can also regret not packing enough of something. 

Being stuck in the middle of the ocean for days on end means you should come prepared with basic, over-the-counter medications. 

Cruise ships have medical facilities onboard, but they lack a full-size pharmacy. Moreover, while the onboard shops have a limited supply of medication, they are more overpriced than at your local drugstore. 

goinhungryyeah shared that they wish they had packed more random over-the-counter medication for stuff they never expected. 

Start with pain relievers, cold & flu meds, antacids, cough drops, seasickness medication, Band-Aids, toothache gel, and eye drops. You may find that you want to add more to your list.