Royal Caribbean Blog

As an adult, I've come to appreciate that both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have their strengths, but one consistently offers a better value. 

My first-ever cruise was aboard the Disney Magic. However, my family soon turned to Royal Caribbean because of its jaw-dropping ships and competitive pricing, primarily opting for ships like Freedom of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas instead of Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy. 

Disney Cruise Line delivers an immersive, detail-oriented experience that feels magical from the moment you arrive at the terminal. On the flip side, Royal Caribbean tends to focus more on massive, innovative ships packed with engineering feats. 

Within the past year, I've sailed on two of the newest ships at sea: Icon of the Seas and Disney Destiny. As much as I would have loved for them to be paid media voyages, every aspect of the trips was paid for with my hard-earned money, meaning I observed what worked, what didn't, and how each vacation stacked up in terms of overall value. 

Although I found myself trying to plan another Disney cruise before disembarkation day, there is no denying that Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas delivered the stronger overall value, especially when factoring in the included dining options, entertainment, and onboard amenities.

In the end, comparing a Disney cruise and a Royal Caribbean cruise is a little like comparing apples to oranges. Still, both are highly family-friendly cruise lines that have solid entertainment lineups alongside well-designed adults-only spaces and experiences.

Here's how my two experiences aboard Icon of the Seas and Disney Destiny stacked up — and why I don't think you can actually go wrong with either of them (sorry, Matt!). 

In April 2024, I sailed on a seven-night cruise on Icon of the Seas from Miami, Florida.

Royal Caribbean's Icon Class is advertised to deliver the "ultimate family vacation," featuring amenities like the largest water park at sea, countless dining options, and around-the-clock entertainment. 

Despite clearly being built for families, my fiancée and I wanted in on the action, so we booked a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise in April 2024, calling at ports like Perfect Day at CocoCay, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts and Nevis. 

Icon of the Seas was not cheap when she launched, and you'll still struggle to find affordable vacations on the massive vessel. Knowing that, we booked our trip nearly 16 months in advance to give ourselves plenty of time to budget and prepare.

Even still, our Neighborhood GTY stateroom cost over $3,800, breaking down to roughly $542 per night. Once we factored in travel-related expenses and optional add-ons like shore excursions, a drink package, unlimited specialty dining, and Wi-Fi, our total vacation cost was around $7,456. 

While it wasn't the cheapest cruise, it definitely could have been more expensive had we gone with an ocean-view balcony, and in the end, we weren't too unhappy with the cost, which came to about $932 per night (including the night we flew to Florida) for one of the newest and most impressive ships at sea.

Around a year later, I went on a short four-night Bahamian voyage on Disney Destiny from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Being a cruise writer isn't all fun and games. At times, it can be difficult to separate work from play and create a healthy work-life balance. So, when planning my birthday cruise, I knew I wanted an experience that would be vastly different from the other countless voyages I'd covered for Royal Caribbean Blog and Cruise Blog. 

Enter Disney Destiny, Disney Cruise Line's newest Wish Class ship, sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Like my vacation on Icon of the Seas, I knew a Disney cruise wouldn't be a cheap getaway, so we booked our four-night voyage in January 2025, or 16 months in advance. 

We reserved a Category 5C Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom with Verandah for $3,125. This came out to around $781 per night, or $239 more expensive than my neighborhood infinite veranda on Icon of the Seas. 

In the end, we spent nearly $5,570 on the cruise fare, travel-related expenses, souvenirs, port adventures, and an unlimited thermal spa pass (which was SO worth it, by the way), or $928 per night. 

The short Bahamas cruise was not the most affordable vacation I have ever taken, but I was celebrating my 27th birthday along with several other personal and professional milestones, so I decided the splurge was worth it — even if I could have stretched my budget further on other lines or a land-based trip. 

Both ships offer a ton of different dining options, from poolside tacos to upscale steakhouses. 

Food is undeniably one of the most important parts of a cruise — and you can't go wrong with Icon of the Seas or Disney Destiny for quality and variety. 

That said, each ship has its strengths. Whereas Disney Cruise Line's themed dining rooms focus on immersive, character-driven stories, Royal Caribbean offers a more flexible main dining approach. 

With Royal Caribbean’s "My Time" (or "anytime") dining, guests can make reservations for the Main Dining Room around their own schedule, whereas Disney only offers two traditional, fixed seating times each evening.

Moving on, Royal Caribbean's specialty dining is family-friendly, giving guests a wider range of upscale options that everyone can enjoy together — from Teppanyaki to Italian, seafood, and more. 

On the other hand, Disney's specialty restaurants are strictly adult-only (and highly exclusive). Scoring a reservation for Palo can seem impossible if you don't hold status with the line — or book a pricey Concierge suite. 

Still, after over three dozen cruises on multiple lines, Palo stands out as one of the best meals I have ever had at sea, easily living up to the hype and even surpassing high-end venues like Celebrity's Le Voyage. So, yeah, it's worth the hype (if you can get in). 

TK

Disney has pricey Wi-Fi packages that are almost impossible to justify.

PICTURE

Royal Caribbean. 

Entertainment-wise, Disney Destiny and Icon of the Seas are two of the best ships at sea, but Royal Caribbean has more variety.

PICTURE

Royal Caribbean's shows are more diverse (AquaTheater, ice skating, etc.) Disney focuses solely on theater productions. 

Disney's verandah cabins are sleek, elegant, and ideal for families.

Disney.

My Royal Caribbean drink package meant I didn't have to worry about racking up a large bill on drinks. 

PICTURE

Disney includes soda, though. When I went on Icon, I hadn't embraced sobriety yet. If I were to go on RC today, I'd likely purchase a soda or Royal Refreshment package. Disney doesn't have anything, not even a non-alcoholic option. 

Icon of the Seas offered way more to do onboard. 

PICTURE

Royal Caribbean. Category 6. Ice skating rink. FlowRider. Mini-golf. Rock climbing wall. Sports tournaments. 

Occasionally cruise ships have to change the itinerary for a variety of reasons, and I had my visit to one of the best Alaska glaciers cancelled by Royal Caribbean.

Just a month before the start of the Alaska cruise season, Royal Caribbean cancelled all of their visits to Tracy Arm fjord because of recent landslides there.

No one wants to book a cruise and then be told later the plans need to change, but safety always comes first.

The cruise line informed us we'd be headed to Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier instead to replace our cancelled plans.

While I may not have been happy with the change, our replacement visit ended up being an amazing experience.

Cruise ship glacier visits are the highlight of any Alaska cruise

No matter which glacier your ship visits, seeing one of these natural wonders is a must-do.

Most Alaskan itineraries include an early morning where the ship sails into a fjord to slowly approach the glacier.

This is one major reason why sailing to Alaska by cruise ship is such an advantage, because the bigger glaciers are difficult or impossible to reach by land.

It's one of the best viewing opportunities you'll get, and it's a captivating day.

Glacier day is an early start

I was sailing on Serenade of the Seas, and we entered Endicott Arm around 6am to begin the 30-mile journey.

A lot of cruisers armed themselves with coffee or hot chocolate, bundled up, and headed outside to see everything as we passed by.

The ship moves slowly because the waterway is narrow, and there are floating pieces of ice along the way.

There's something to look at from anywhere on the ship, including your balcony or any public area of the ship.

Both sides of the ships have views of the coast and high cliffs that make up Endicott Arm. Not only is it a magnificent sight, but there are animal viewing opportunities along the way.

We spotted seals and whales, including a mom and baby seal on a piece of ice. 

Animal viewing will be sporadic, but when you see one, it's incredible.

A 600-foot tall glacier waits at the end

After about two and a half hours, we reached Dawes Glacier and got a front row seat to enjoy the view.

This is one of the best examples of a tidewater glacier, and it sits at the head of the fjord.

Our ship approached as close as was safe to do so, and then began a slow spin so everyone could get a good view.

I started off watching from my balcony room. In fact, we booked a balcony instead of an inside room specifically because we wanted to take full advantage of it on our glacier day.

The benefit of having a balcony is not only a private viewing area, but you could retreat indoors when we got too cold to warm up inside.  Meanwhile, we could still watch through the glass doors.

After taking in the first sights, I wanted a better vantage point, so I walked quickly to the front of the ship.

There are multiple public decks on a Radiance Class ship like Serenade, which helps spread everyone out.  I started off on the upper pool deck, moving to the front for a higher vantage point.

But I think the absolute best glacier viewing opportunity is the ship's helipad on deck 5.

You're right at the very front of the ship with nothing obstructing your view ahead. While this means it's the coldest spot to stand, I think it's worth it for what you get to see.

This is also a good reminder that while a balcony cabin is convenient, you could very easily book a less expensive stateroom and still enjoy the glacier viewing from any of the public areas.

Our ship did a full 360-degree spin so that everyone could get a view without having to run around the ship to a specific location.

We remained near Dawes Glacier for about a half hour before slowly beginning the journey back. Of course, this means another opportunity to enjoy the views around Endicott Arm once more, especially if you didn't wake up for the initial sail in.

I recommend bundling up because it's probably the coldest day of your cruise

Alaska cruises aren't as cold as you might think, but glacier day can get quite brisk. The combination of wind and nearby ice made this the coldest day of our cruise.

You will want to wear a couple of layers to keep yourself warm enough to enjoy the views.  I don't think you should go to the trouble of packing a parka jacket just for one morning, but you will need more than just a sweater.

A knit hat and gloves are a must-pack item for your Alaska cruise. They don't take up much space in your luggage, and will make a major difference in being able to stay outside longer.  

Instead of a giant parka, I think a combination of a warm fleece jacket and outer rain jacket should do the trick.  Add a t-shirt underneath it all, and those three layers should keep you warm enough.

These are affiliate links, which cost you nothing extra to use but we make a small commission.

You could also purchase hand warmers to bring with you, which you can stuff in your gloves, shoes, or jacket to also warm you up. A DIY approach is get a hot cup of black coffee and just hold it.  That could get you lots of extra warmth for no additional cost.

What to pack for an Alaska cruise is one of the most popular questions, but I don't think you need to pack an entire outfit just for your glacier viewing.  Instead, layer up and don't be afraid to take breaks inside to warm back up.

Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier was worth it, even if it wasn't our first plan

Even though I booked an Alaska cruise with a different glacier stop in mind, Royal Caribbean still delivered a viewing we won't ever forget.

I certainly don't fault them for making a change to ensure the safety of everyone involved, and I'm even happier we got a picture perfect viewing chance as a replacement.

Even my teenage kids, who are usually jaded about nature, were out on the balcony to take it all in. And to take plenty of selfies too.

Glacier day should be a top priority, regardless of which one you visit.  Get up early, bundle up, grab coffee, and enjoy this amazing natural treat.

Royal Caribbean recently launched a two new credit cards, including a premium card that has better perks along with an annual fee.

Guest writer Ira Winkler is a longtime cruise fan who has been sailing with Royal Caribbean for years. He recently sailed on Independence of the Seas and utilized his Royal One Plus credit card benefits. He shared his thoughts on whether this new premium travel card is worth it with Royal Caribbean Blog. 

When Royal Caribbean announced a new credit card, I was skeptical. 

I heard they were going to charge for the better card. And while some people assume it's a money grab, I've found that premium cards usually have benefits. However, you have to really calculate whether or not the extra expense is worth it. 

This time, the call was easy, at least for me. 

Here's what it's like using the brand-new Royal One Plus credit card — and why it's the perfect addition to my credit card lineup. 

Priority Boarding

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

I've only ever traveled in suites on all past cruises. Recently, however, my wife received a casino offer in the mail, and one option was a four-night trip to Nova Scotia, where she had never been before. As such, we decided on the cruise aboard Independence of the Seas. 

The potential upgrade costs didn't seem worth it for a short cruise, so we stuck with the
free balcony cabin. This, however, meant that we didn't get our usual (and much-appreciated) suite boarding benefits. 

As such, this was the perfect time to test out the priority boarding benefit of the Royal One Plus card.

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

Unfortunately, due to traffic, we didn't arrive at the port until 1:30 p.m. The Royal
One Plus luggage drop was clearly indicated on the same banner as The Key and Suite check-in, but it was already closed. 

Therefore, I had to drop my luggage off with the regular porters and go through the standard security line. Since it was long, I asked a terminal employee if there was a suite line that I was missing, and they let us bypass the regular line by hopping in the handicapped one.

Once inside the terminal, we had to wait in another line to check in, which took around fifteen minutes.

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

While standing in line, I noticed a clearly defined seating area with refreshments that Royal One Plus cardholders and suite guests likely used.

Frankly, the fact that I usually travel in suites meant that going through the standard check-in process provided me with something to compare it to. If I had shown up
earlier, I likely would have saved around twenty minutes, and the overall embarkation experience would have been more relaxed.

Assuming I would have received suite-like embarkation, I would consider the boarding perks a major benefit of the Royal One Plus credit card, especially given my dislike of lines.

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

Moreover, I didn't benefit from priority luggage delivery, but our bags arrived outside our door before 4 p.m. 

Lack of Special Cardholder Events

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

The biggest disappointment with the benefits was the advertised "Exclusive Cardholder Events." In short, there were none. I looked for information in my cabin similar to the Crown & Anchor Society and Casino Royale documents, but there was nothing. 

I even asked the Diamond Concierge, but he never heard about it. He contacted a variety of people with no luck.

It is possible that the Exclusive Cardholder Events may be something specific to Visa
or Bank of America offers, but there is no context or information anywhere about this.

While the "Events" benefit is listed on the Royal Caribbean website, it is not listed on
Bank of America's website. Perhaps they will add events in the future. We'll see!

SeaPass Issues

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

One problem I had during my sailing was that my SeaPass card didn't show my drink package. Customer service tried to reprint my SeaPass card several times with no success in including the drink package. 

Ironically, because my wife did not have the Royal One Plus logo on her card, she had no issues with the drink package. 

While customer service did add a sticker to the card to ensure I received the benefits of the drink package, it might indicate that the Royal One Plus logo glitched the card printing system. 

App Integration

A pleasant addition to the Royal Caribbean mobile app is that you can now see how many points you have towards exclusive credit card rewards on your profile screen. Clicking the "Redeem" feature also indicates how many points are pending. 

Logging in through the Bank of America website lets you redeem points on any of the sister cruise lines (i.e., Celebrity Cruises and Silversea). However, if you want to redeem points for an upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise, this is much easier than going through the online banking portal. 

Accumulating Rewards

While many premium credit cards offer double rewards points for gas, groceries, airfare, and possibly even cruises, the Royal One Plus card distinguishes itself with 4x rewards points for spending on any Royal Caribbean brand. 

The value of this reward greatly depends on how much you cruise, the type of cabin you book, and how much you spend on the ship.

If you are like me, this reward can add up quickly. I cruise about eight times a year, frequently in suites, and have a Silversea cruise coming up. As such, this benefit can earn me over $1,000 in onboard credit per year! 

No International Transaction Fees

If you travel internationally, you might find that your current card charges you a 3% or more transaction fee. Thankfully, the Royal One Plus card doesn't charge such fees.

Given that this can apply to expensive hotel stays and other related costs, this perk alone can offset the $99 annual fee — if you take an international trip. 

Some overseas vendors have an option to charge your transaction in U.S. dollars instead of the local currency. However, the exchange rate is not favorable, and it usually works out to cost more than the 3% transaction fee you would otherwise pay.

TSA Precheck/Global Entry

Another benefit of the Royal One Plus card is the TSA Precheck/Global Entry credit. If you travel enough to need the Royal One Plus card, you likely fly at least a couple of times a year. Trust me when I say that there's no greater time saver for air travel within the United States than TSA Precheck — and Global Entry, if you fly internationally.

Applying for Global Entry gets you TSA Precheck by default. With TSA Precheck, the airport security screening lines are usually significantly shorter, and the security process is easier. 

If you have "Touchless" TSA Precheck, which is a free upgrade, the lines are even shorter! You walk up to the security area, biometrically scan your face, and simply walk into the luggage screening area.

Global Entry, on the other hand, is an international traveler's dream. You can be through Customs and Immigration in as long as it takes to walk through the area. You walk up to a Global Entry kiosk, where there is rarely a line, and you are generally through immigration screening in seconds.

Global Entry/TSA Precheck normally costs anywhere from $85 to $120/year, but if you frequently fly, it is easily worth it. Since reimbursement is included with the Royal One Plus card, that benefit alone further offsets the card's $99 annual fee — at least for the first year.

A Big Caveat

Before you apply for any credit card, you must consider whether you can pay off the card monthly. If not, you should definitely consider the interest rates. 

For example, getting 4x back on a cruise for onboard credits sounds awesome! That means that a $2,500 cruise can get you around $100 to spend however you like. But, if you pay off that $2,500 over time with an 18% interest rate, which is relatively low these days, you'll spend more than $100 on interest in three months. 

If you are going to spend the money and pay over time on another credit card, then the interest rate might not be as much of a concern. Just understand that it is a strong consideration that can negate the benefits of any credit card reward.

The Final Verdict: Is The Royal One Plus Credit Card Good?

Personally, the onboard benefits alone (i.e., suite boarding and exclusive events) would not justify paying the $99 yearly fee. However, being a frequent cruiser who pays off credit card bills monthly, the Royal One Plus card pays for itself 20 times over. It isn’t as versatile as a standard credit card rewards program, but it applies the benefits where I enjoy them.

If you were to ask me where I would draw the line, I would say, "This depends completely on the individual and their spending and payment habits." However, if you cruise twice a year on Royal Caribbean brands, it is likely a great card, even if for no other reason than the $200 yearly certificate you receive (assuming you make the minimum charges). 

I also admit that when I use the card, it does have me think about how I am going to be spending the onboard credit, even for a brief moment, and that can be priceless! 

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

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

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

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

(Credit: Meyer Turku shipyard)

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

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

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

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

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

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

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

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

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

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

Legend of the Seas Fast Facts

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

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

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

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

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

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

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

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

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

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International)

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

More Icon Class Fun To Come

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is included on a Legend of the Seas cruise?

Let's start with your accommodations. 

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

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

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

Food included on Legend of the Seas

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

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

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

Complimentary restaurants on Legend of the Seas include:

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

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

Complimentary entertainment and activities 

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

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

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

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

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

Drinks included on Legend of the Seas

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

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

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

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

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

Transportation between ports of call

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anytime I'm in my cruise ship cabin, I try to avoid doing certain things that would be a nuisance to others.

I don't tip toe around my room by any means, but I want to be a good neighbor. I try to act like I'd hope others around me would act, because noise from other cabins is a common problem you might encounter.

Basically, I never want to be the person that irritates someone else.  Everyone makes noise occasionally, but I would never want to do anything that reaches the point of causing issues to others.

After taking over 100 cruises, I've learned there's a definite way to do things that everyone should follow.

For the benefit of others who are trying a cruise, here are the seven things I avoid doing in my cabin on any cruise.

I only flush toilet paper, and nothing else

A rule I heard early on about what should be flushed down the toilet on cruises is, "anything that came out of you and toilet paper".

It's incredibly easy to accidently clog the toilets by flushing anything else down them, and that's a problem for you and everyone else in your hallway.

Cruise ship bathrooms share toilet flush lines, similar to a sewer system. The problem is if one gets backed up, it cascades down the line.

This is why you absolutely cannot flush food, diapers, "flushable" wipes, or anything else down them.  It might work at home, but not on a cruise ship.

My guess is clogged up toilets are one of the most common technical problems on a ship because there's a lot of rookie mistakes made.  So consider this your warning.

When I open my cabin door, I try not to let it slam shut

I can't say it always works, but I really try to not let the cabin door slam when I open it.

Cruise ship cabin doors are made of metal, and they are rather heavy.  They're designed to gracefully shut on their own, but any kind of wind can really slam them quickly.

When a balcony door or window is left open, it creates a wind tunnel effect. And that sucks the door closed very quickly.

I've found on older ships, the doors slam quicker and it's loud enough to easily wake someone up that is sleeping next door.

I never yell from my balcony to someone else

It's an honest mistake to spot someone you know below your balcony or nearby and yell to them to get their attention, but it's so annoying to others.

Your voice carries far more than you'd imagine from a balcony. In fact, you'd be surprised how easily a regular volume conversation can be heard from one balcony to another, or even inside the rooms.

Plus, that person you're trying to get their attention? There's a lot of competing noise and it's unlikely they'll hear you.

Instead, text or call them.  Or go find them elsewhere.  Skip yelling like Stanley from "A Streetcar Named Desire" to them.

Balconies aren't libraries, but be considerate about noise

Besides not yelling, I try to keep the noise down on a balcony.

I take umbrage with the idea there should be no noise on a balcony, but there's a line between quiet and a party.

Certainly, I would never play a music over a Bluetooth speaker on my balcony.  And while I have no problem having a conversation out there, it shouldn't be a party scene.

The issue is how easily others around you can hear anything going on in your balcony in theirs.  You both paid a lot of money to enjoy it, so just be respectful.

I try to keep my room tidy so it's not a mess for the cabin attendant

Every Royal Caribbean cabin gets daily cleaning from a stateroom attendant, but they aren't your maids.

Not only is it easier on me from an organizational perspective to keep my room organized, but I want the room stewards to be able to vacuum, wash, and replenish the cabin without navigating a mess of my stuff.

I hope no one thinks I'm a clean freak and my room is pristine. I leave jackets on chairs, and my vanity tends to look like a library of every publication Royal Caribbean has printed for my sailing.

But I strive to pick things up off the floor, throw trash away, and otherwise keep the floors clear.

I'm never loud in the hallway

Just like the balcony, noise in the halls around cabins easily travels.

There's nothing wrong with talking in the hallway as I'm walking, but having conversations, games with my kids, or phone calls in the hall is a faux pas.

Even at a normal conversation volume level, all of it can be heard from those in neighboring rooms.

People in rooms around you could be sleeping, resting, or just don't want to hear your conversation.  So it's why you'll want to keep the talking or family time inside your cabin.

You should never vape or smoke in your cabin

I don't smoke at all, but I feel obliged to say no one should ever smoke in their rooms or balcony.

With the advent of vaping, some people seem to think the rules are different for smoking vs vaping. However, Royal Caribbean's rules are clear on the matter, because it's not allowed anywhere in any cabin.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We spent around $320 in Barcelona before the cruise.

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

Here's a breakdown of what we spent: 

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

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

Total: $318.27

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's a breakdown of what we spent: 

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

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

Total: $1,054.81

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Many travelers regretted overpacking for their cruise. 

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

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

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

They bought the Royal Caribbean drink package.

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

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

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

Others wasted money buying the Unlimited Dining Package.

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

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

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

They flew in on embarkation day.

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

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

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

No one seemed prepared for disembarkation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Royal Caribbean mobility scooter policy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(Credit: Jeanne Grubbs / Facebook)

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

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

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

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

Most cruise ports have hotels near the ships, but in Vancouver there's one hotel that is actually inside the cruise terminal that is the most convenient pre-cruise stay I've ever had.

The Pan Pacific Vancouver hotel is unique in that it sits atop the cruise terminal building, and it comes with a tight integration too.

From the moment I took my first Royal Caribbean cruise to Alaska, I was hooked. So I was eager to get back again and immediately booked a stay at the Pan Pacific for our stay.

For $600 a night (including breakfast), I had a prime location with views of Vancouver harbor, convenient access to the ships, and probably the easiest embarkation ever. I paid for my own hotel and was not comped in anyway.

The Pan Pacific Vancouver is an exceptional place to stay because where it's located.

There are always lots of hotel options in any major city, but the Pan Pacific Vancouver is a luxury hotel that's right on the waterfront.

Canada Place cruise terminal is part of the same building, so cruise ships literally pull up next to the building.  There's a good chance when you wake up on any morning, there's a cruise ship within view.

Plus, the hotel is located near some of the best neighborhoods and upscale shopping districts within the city.

My room was more expensive for two reasons: I visited in the summer during the high tourism season, and the FIFA World Cup had games to be held in the city.

I chose the Pan Pacific because they take care of your luggage getting to the ship.

The best perk of staying at in this hotel is you can have your luggage sent from your room to the ship.

Anywhere else I've cruised from, I have to drag my luggage from hotel to the cruise terminal.  Not a terrible ordeal, but once you've stayed at the Pan Pacific, it's a really neat change.

The morning of your cruise, you can call bell services to come to your room and take your luggage. I'm not exaggerating when I say I waited less than 5 minutes for them to arrive to get our bags.

I printed my own luggage tags (and attached them with luggage tag holders), but the bellhop can attach tags if you need them.

He takes your bags from your room as early as 7am, and ensures they get on the ship.  

All you have to do is take an elevator downstairs to start the embarkation process.

The lobby of the hotel has a contemporary and timeless look.

We took Vancouver's Canada Line rapid transit rail from the airport, and it goes directly to the waterfront area.  We walked out of the train station and across the street from the hotel.

The hotel sits atop a convention center and the cruise terminal. Bell hops wait outside and took our luggage for us while we went to check-in.

Two escalator rides up, and you emerge into a beautiful atrium with giant windows facing Vancouver harbor.

My room came with floor-to-ceiling windows.

We booked two rooms next to each other. Both rooms were quite large, and they had great views of the city.

You could pay more for a room with a view of the harbor, but I was fine with the city view to save some money.

It was relaxing to watch the city skyline from my comfortable king-sized bed.

After a day of traveling across the country for this trip, it felt so nice plopping down on the king size bed.

Because we had such large windows, it allowed for unfettered views of the city. 

If you felt like getting up and getting closer to the windows, you could people watch quite easily.

To the left of the main room, the bathroom was enormous.

While I love to cruise, I can always appreciate a good hotel shower.

This was a big bathroom with a rainfall shower head. 

The morning of the cruise, we took an elevator downstairs to board the cruise ship.

After our bags were picked up from our hotel room, all we had to do was head downstairs to the lobby. 

Walking through the convention center, there is a slightly unusual check-in process.

The check-in takes place in a convention center space, shared between many cruise lines. You're directed to the Royal Caribbean section, where the actual check-in is similar to other ports.

However, things are different as you proceed.  You walk through a maze of corridors and walkways until you reach security.  This looks more like an airport TSA security checkpoint than what I've seen in other terminals.

In addition, you have to go through U.S. customs check here because we're headed to U.S. ports in this cruise.

Rather than conduct a customs check upon arrival in Alaska, it's done in Vancouver to make things easier once in Alaska.  

The Pan Pacific is expensive, but it's perfect for anyone that values convenience over everything else.

There's one reason to pick the Pan Pacific when you cruise from Vancouver, and it's how easy it is to get on the ship from the hotel.

There are arguably better values around Vancouver, and certainly more luxurious options. But I booked the Pan Pacific because it reduced the logistical needs considerably.

Some people prioritize convenience factor over saving money, and the time saved was enormous.  Plus, it was just easier having the bellhop come get our bags.

The hotel had fantastic service from start to finish, and it's undeniably located in the heart of Vancouver. It's exactly the hotel you'd imagine when wanting to do a pre-cruise visit to this Pacific Northwest city.