Royal Caribbean Blog

Have a future cruise credit from a cancelled cruise? Royal Caribbean will give you extra onboard credit if you book a cruise this month.

At any given time Royal Caribbean has a myriad of promotions running, but I was surprised to see an offer for redeeming future cruise credits.

While Royal Caribbean has been cruising since June 2021 in North America, there are still quite a few unredeemed future cruise credits out there.

RoyalCaribbeanBlog reader Rich Triplett alerted us to this offer.

The "Future Cruise Credit Kicker" runs the entire month of February, and will give you $100 onboard credit per stateroom if you book a cruise departing between March 1 – December 31, 2022.

This offer is combinable with all rates and promotions, meaning there are no blackout rules with it.

Onboard credits will be added to up to two weeks after the FCC has been redeemed on all valid bookings determined by booking creation, FCC redemption and sailing dates. 

More offers in February

In addition to the onboard credit offer, there are a few other promotions Royal Caribbean has running during February.

30% savings off cruise fare for all guests in the stateroom

30% Off Every Guest offer must be booked between February 1 – 28, 2022 (“Offer Period”). 30% Off Every Guest offer applies to select sailings departing on or after March 1, 2022. 

WOW Sale

WOW Sale applies to new bookings made between February 9 – 14, 2022. WOW Sale offers up to $400 USD to spend at sea (“Onboard Credit” or “OBC”) per stateroom on select sailings departing on or after March 9, 2022.

OBC amounts are per stateroom and determined by category booked and sailing length:

• Sailings 5 nights or less, $50 OBC for Interior and Ocean View, $75 for Balconies and $150 for Suites
• Sailings 6 nights or longer, $75 OBC for Interior and Ocean View, $100 for Balconies and $400 for Suites

2022 Kicker

2022 Kicker applies to new bookings made between February 1 – 28, 2022. 2022 Kicker provides instant savings of up to $150 USD per stateroom on select sailings departing between March 1 – December 31, 2022.

Savings amount determined by category booked and sailing length:

• Sailings 5 nights or less, $25 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $50 for Balconies and $75 for Suites
• Sailings 6 nights or longer, $50 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $75 for Balconies, and $150 for Suites

Crown and Anchor Bonus

Applies to new bookings made between February 1 – 28, 2022 to Gold, Platinum, Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Crown & Anchor Society members.

CAS Bonus provides up to $50 USD to spend at sea (“Onboard Credit or “OBC”) per stateroom on select sailings departing on or after March 1, 2022.

OBC amount is determined by sailing length:

• Sailings 5 nights or less, $25 to spend at sea
• Sailings 6 nights or longer, $50 to spend at sea.

OBCs are not redeemable for cash and are non-transferable. When reserving, a valid Crown & Anchor Society membership number must be included in the reservation.

Our live blog is back with a cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas for a 4-night sailing from Tampa, Florida.

Brilliance of the Seas restarted cruises from Tampa in December 2021, and I've been eager to get back onboard a Radiance Class ship. I really enjoy the layout of these smaller ships. I'm often asked which is my favorite small ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, and Brilliance is always my answer.

This is a 4-night Western Caribbean cruise with just one port stop in Costa Maya.

Since the cruise departs from Tampa, I'm able to drive to the port in just about an hour travel time from my home in the Orlando area.

Of course, I took my pre-cruise Covid test two days ago and it came back negative.  I used the at-home test that Royal Caribbean accepts, and it couldn't be easier. No waiting, and the entire process took 20 minutes from start to finish, and I never had to leave my desk.

Since I booked this cruise only a few weeks ago, check-in times were limited by the time I went to get one.  At first I had a 1:30pm check-in time, but I managed to subsequently get a 1:00pm check-in time.

Read more: 7 things worth checking again on a Royal Caribbean cruise

The drive to Tampa was uneventful and I parked via the valet parking option. $80 total, and I get to drive right up to the terminal and hand my keys to the attendant and be on my way.

As expected, they were enforcing the check-in times and I entered a line for the 1:00 check-in time.  Luckily, it moved very quickly and I completed the entire check-in procedure in under 30 minutes.  In fact, I spent more time waiting to get through the line outside than the actual check-in procedure.

I boarded Brilliance of the Seas and headed right away to the Windjammer for lunch.  I hadn't eaten lunch yet, so I figured for the benefit of the entire ship it was a good idea to eat before I got hangry.

I love the outdoor seating in the Windjammer on Brilliance of the Seas at the back of the ship.

The staterooms opened up right around 1:30pm, so I went down to my room to drop off my stuff.

For this cruise I'm booked in a Category 2M - Spacious Ocean View Stateroom.

I haven't stayed in an ocean view cabin since Majesty of the Seas in 2017, and I was pleasantly surprised how much living space there is inside.

The distance between the couch and the bed is substantial. The room is anything but cramped.

After catching up on some blog posts, I realized I hadn't finished the muster drill, so I went to complete that.

I had done the first two steps (watch the safety video and listen to the emergency siren) while I was still at home, so all I needed to do was go to my muster station to check-in.  

I then walked around Brilliance of the Seas a bit to explore a bit. Being back on a Radiance Class ship, it was an adjustment after so many significantly larger cruise ships, but it felt like being home and the ship looks great.

Sail away was at 5pm, and I headed to one of my favorite Brilliance of the Seas secrets: the helipad.

We had a beautiful day to sail out of Tampa, with temperatures in the low 70s, no clouds, and a very light breeze.

We even saw a few dolphins as we departed.

When your ship departs Tampa, it takes a few hours to exit the harbor, as you travel towards the ocean and finally make it to the ocean when you pass under the Sunshine Skyway bridge.

In the time before we made it to the bridge, I decided to stop at Izumi for "pre-dinner" and get some sashimi to hold me over until dinner.

I was able to walk in without a reservation when they opened and get a table.

After I finished my sushi, I enjoyed a beautiful sunset on the pool deck.

Roughly two hours after we set sail, our ship passed under the Sunshine Skyway bridge.

Dinner brought me and some friends onboard to Giovanni's Table.

Food was great, and the pasta of the day had a spicy flavor to the sauce.

We concluded our evening with music in the King & Country pub.

Tomorrow is a sea day.

Stray observations

The water bottles on Brilliance have these aluminum water bottles with a screw top. 

The stricter face mask protocols are still in place on Brilliance of the Seas. One policy I noticed that I had never seen before was you had to mask up when ordering at the bar outdoors.

I had heard from other guests they were expecting around 1300 passengers on this sailing, but I'll need to go to Guest Services and verify the number.

If you're interested in sailing on part of Royal Caribbean's first world cruise, today is your first chance to book it.

Royal Caribbean is opened up the ability to book part of the epic 274 world cruise, beginning today for Crown and Anchor Society guests and friends and family of our ultimate world cruise guests.

Beginning February 20, these segments will open up for sale to everyone else.

The world cruise will take place on Serenade of the Seas and visit 11 world wonders across more than 60 countries.

Prior to starting the world cruise, Serenade of the Seas will undergo a revitalization in 2022 that include cosmetic updates.

The world cruise has been divided up into 4 segments that you choose from:

• Round the Horn: Americas & Antarctica Expedition: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024, 64 Nights, 36 destinations
• Wonders of Asia & the Pacific Expedition: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024, 87 Nights, 40 destinations
• Middle East Treasures & Marvels of the Med Expedition: May 9, 2024 – July 10,2024, 63 Nights, 44 destinations
• Capitals of Culture Expedition: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024, 63 Nights, 40 destinations

All guests participating in the Ultimate World Cruise, or one of the segments, will receive the an unlimited drink package for each guest, wash and fold laundry service for up to three bags per state room per week, Gratuities and Voom surf and stream for two devices per stateroom.

Exclusively for Crown and Anchor members platinum and above, guests on the Ultimate World Cruise will also receive business class airfare from the guests home, a two-night pre-cruise hotel and gala dinner party at the Intercontinental Miami, premium transportation and seven new world wonders shore excursion.

Royal Caribbean Senior Manager of Onboard Cruise Sales Abundance Boekestein said demand for the world cruise has been incredible, " Our Ultimate World Cruise opened in October and has such a positive response from our guests that we've been holding on to our expeditions to give our ultimate world cruise guests the extra time they were looking for to secure their spots."

World Cruise segment prices

Round the Horn: Americas & Antarctica Expedition

Wonders of Asia & the Pacific Expedition

Middle East Treasures & Marvels of the Med Expedition

Capitals of Culture Expedition

Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

Which world wonders will each segment visit?

Round the Horn: Americas & Antarctica Expedition: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024

Chichen Itza: via Cozumel Dec 13, 2023
Christ the Redeemer: via Rio de Janeiro Dec 31, 2023
Iguazu Falls: via Buenos Aires Jan 5, 2024
Machu Picchu: via Lima Jan 29-30, 2024

Wonders of Asia & the Pacific Expedition: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024

Great Barrier Reef: via Airlie Beach and Cairns March 13-14, 2024
Great Wall of China: via Beijing April 7-8, 2024
Taj Mahal: via Cochin May 1, 2024

Middle East Treasures & Marvels of the Med Expedition: May 9, 2024 – July 10, 2024

Petra: via Aqaba May 17, 2024
Pyramids of Giza: via Alexandria May 21-22, 2024
Temple of Artemis: via Ephesus May 28, 2024
Colosseum: via Rome July 1, 2024 

Capitals of Culture Expedition: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024

There are no World Wonders visited during this expedition.

Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class cruise ships aren't the line's largest or flashiest, but they offer a great value of innovation and comfort for a reasonable price. 

While there aren't as many entertainment and dining options as on Oasis and Icon Class ships, there's a good variety of activities and restaurants, ranging from the three-deck dining room to poolside fish & chips. 

Although Freedom Class ships are no longer the largest in the fleet, they should not be overlooked. Within recent years, Royal Caribbean has invested in upgrading Freedom and Independence of the Seas as part of its Royal Amplified program, adding new features and amenities to the older vessels. 

Liberty of the Seas is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2026, too. 

Considering a cruise on one of Royal Caribbean's Freedom Class ships? Here's everything you need to know before placing your deposit. 

What are the Freedom Class ships?

Royal Caribbean launched three Freedom Class ships between 2006 and 2008:

• Freedom of the Seas (2006)
• Liberty of the Seas (2007)
• Independence of the Seas (2008)

The size of Freedom Class ships ranges from 154,407 gross registered tons (GRT) to 156,271 GRT. Liberty and Independence of the Seas are 1,112 feet long, while Freedom is one foot shorter, coming in at 1,112 feet in length from bow to stern. 

In comparison, Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships, AKA the world's largest cruise ships, measure just shy of 250,000 GRT and are over 1,190 feet long. 

What is there to do on Freedom Class ships?

Freedom Class ships are known for all the fun activities on the top deck, including cantilevered hot tubs, a FlowRider surf simulator, waterslides, adults-only Solarium, a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, Splashaway Bay kids aqua park, a sports court, and, of course, the pools!

Generally speaking, the amenities on the three Freedom Class ships are nearly identical. However, Freedom of the Seas received a new Caribbean-style pool deck in 2020, while Liberty of the Seas is the only cruise ship in the fleet with the Tidal Wave boomerang waterslide. 

Back inside, guests will find Studio B, the cruise line's ice skating rink that transforms into a nightclub once the sun has gone down. It's also home to some of the wildest events on the ship, including the adults-only Crazy Guest game show and Battle of the Sexes. 

In terms of entertainment, the options are more limited than on Oasis and Icon Class ships, which famously have the high diving shows at the AquaTheater. However, between the original production shows, headliner acts, and live music, there’s still no shortage of ways to stay entertained throughout the cruise.

Freedom of the Seas shows

• Royal Theater: "Marquee," "Once Upon a Time"
• Studio B: "Freedom-ice.com"

Liberty of the Seas shows

• Platinum Theater: "Saturday Night Fever — The Musical"
• Studio B: "Encore! An Ice Spectacular"

Independence of the Seas shows

• Royal Theater: "Invitation to Dance," "The Tap Factory"
• Studio B: "Freeze Frame"

Be sure to check the Cruise Compass on the Royal Caribbean app to see when other events, such as parades and dance parties, will take place. 

Additionally, all three Freedom Class ships have Royal Caribbean's award-winning Adventure Ocean youth programming for children, as well as the Royal Babies & Tots nursery program for children between the ages of 6-36 months. The latter has an additional fee, while Adventure Ocean's daytime programming is included in the cruise fare. 

As of November 2025, the late-night Adventure Ocean fee is $15 per hour from 10:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. Moreover, the Royal Babies & Tots nursery fees are $9 per hour until 6:00 p.m. and $12 per hour after 6:00 p.m. 

Freedom Class dining

There's no shortage of great dining options on the Freedom Class ships. In addition to the complimentary (included) Main Dining Room and all-you-can-eat Windjammer buffet, there are a variety of specialty (extra-charge) restaurants for guests to enjoy. 

The complimentary restaurants on Freedom Class ships include:

• Main Dining Room
• Sorrento's
• Windjammer Marketplace
• Café Promenade 

The specialty restaurants vary. Although each features the iconic Chops Grille, the rest of the lineup differs by ship. For example, Liberty of the Seas is the only Freedom Class ship with Sabor, a casual Mexican restaurant. However, it is being removed in 2026 as part of the ship's Royal Amplification. 

Here are the specialty restaurants you will find on each Freedom Class ship:

• Chops Grille
• Chef's Table
• Giovanni's Table (Liberty and Independence only)
• Giovanni's Italian Kitchen (Freedom only)
• Johnny Rockets
• Sabor (Liberty only)
• Fish & Ships (Independence only)
• Izumi Sushi & Hibachi (Freedom and Independence only)
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade (Freedom and Independence only)

Freedom Class cabins

Freedom Class ships have four categories of staterooms: inside, ocean-view, balcony, and suite. The total number of staterooms varies between 1,899 to 1,963. 

All standard staterooms (i.e., inside, ocean-view, and balcony) have the same basic amenities, including an ensuite bathroom, bed, television, mini-fridge, safe, closet space, and outlets. 

Suites come with more benefits, though the suite program on Freedom Class ships is not as robust as Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships. 

Still, while you may not have access to a private restaurant or Royal Genie, all Royal Caribbean suites (excluding Junior Suites) on Freedom Class ships come with double Crown & Anchor Society points, priority embarkation and disembarkation, access to a dedicated suite lounge, and reserved pool deck seating. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Liberty of the Seas' Royal Amplification

Liberty of the Seas' long-awaited Royal Amplification is scheduled to take place in late April and May 2026. 

During the ship's dry dock, new features will be added, while some, including Sabor, will be replaced to make way for newer concepts. 

Highlights of Liberty's Royal Amplification include:

• An expanded casino
• Izumi Teppanyaki (R.I.P. Sabor!)
• Starbucks
• Royal Escape Room
• New staterooms
• El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca
• The Lime & Coconut Bar

Read more: Royal Caribbean will upgrade Liberty of the Seas cruise ship with new restaurants, cabins, and more

Where do Freedom Class ships sail?

Because Freedom Class ships are smaller than Oasis and Icon Class vessels, they tend to offer more unique itineraries, particularly around Europe. However, you can also find shorter voyages to The Bahamas — perfect for first-time sailors, family reunions, and birthday celebrations. 

Here's a breakdown of the Freedom Class deployment schedule through April 2028:

Freedom of the Seas deployment schedule

• November 2025 - April 2027: Miami, Florida (The Bahamas and Caribbean)

Liberty of the Seas deployment schedule

• November 2025 - April 2026: Fort Lauderdale, Florida (The Bahamas)
• May 2026 - October 2026: Southampton, England (Europe)
• October 2026 - April 2028: Galveston, Texas (Western Caribbean)

Independence of the Seas deployment schedule

• November 2025 - April 2026: Miami, Florida (Caribbean)
• April 2026 - October 2026: Cape Liberty, New Jersey (Bermuda, Caribbean, and Canada/New England)
• November 2026 - May 2027: Miami, Florida (Caribbean)
• May 2027 - October 2027: Cape Liberty, New Jersey (Bermuda, Caribbean, and Canada/New England)

Who should sail on a Freedom Class ship?

These days, Freedom Class ships remain popular because of the sheer number of activities they offer onboard, as well as their value. Generally speaking, a cruise on a Freedom Class ship will be more affordable than one on an Oasis or Icon Class vessel. 

Since Freedom Class ships are no longer the newest in the Royal Caribbean fleet, the cruise line tends to price them a bit lower than newer and larger ships.

Despite their age, they offer lots to do for all ages, from the sports court to the ice skating rink, rock climbing wall, mini-golf course, world-class dining, and original entertainment. 

Perhaps the biggest drawback of Freedom Class ships is the lack of the Royal Suite Class program. High-end cruisers may prefer sailing on a ship with a more expansive suite offering, as the Royal Suite Class added perks, better amenities, and a more elevated overall experience. 

For example, Freedom Class ships do not have the Coastal Kitchen suite restaurant. Moreover, if you want a Royal Genie, you'll have to pay extra for the service, even if you're staying in the Royal Suite. 

Freedom Class tips and secrets

The best sailaway spot on any cruise ship can be found on Freedom Class ships. Rather than venturing up to the crowded pool deck, go all the way forward on Deck 4 to the helipad. It's quieter, and you'll get amazing panoramic views as the ship pulls away from port. 

Speaking of views, don't overlook the Viking Crown Lounge on Deck 14. Not only are some of the best events of the ship held here (don't sleep on the Silent Disco!), but during the day, you can enjoy a crafted cocktail and take in the sweeping views of the ship, the ocean's horizon, and the port of call. 

The 2022 Alaska cruise season is quickly approaching, but will Royal Caribbean cruises to Alaska sail this year?

Four Royal Caribbean ships are sailing to Alaska in 2022: Quantum of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. Both Quantum and Ovation will sail from Seattle, whereas Radiance and Serenade will sail from Vancouver.

As of right now, there is no reason to believe cruises to Alaska will not happen in 2022. Both Serenade of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas made successful cruises to Alaska from July to October of 2021.

Since then, several government restrictions have been dropped and the cruise industry has had more time to prove its protocols and safety restrictions work. Therefore, Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruise season is set to begin when Radiance of the Seas sets sail on April 29, 2022.

Canada’s current stance on cruise ships

Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships are foreign-flagged. Under the Passenger Vessel Services Act, foreign-flagged ships departing from the United States must stop in a foreign port at some point during the cruise. Because of this, Canada’s acceptance of cruise ships is a vital piece of whether or not Alaska cruises can happen.

Canada banned cruise ships with more than 100 passengers at the start of the Covid pandemic in 2020. This ban was extended several times, leading many to believe the 2021 Alaska cruise season would be canceled.

The state of Alaska was eager to get tourism back in 2021, though, and passed The Alaska Tourism Restoration Act. This was a temporary waiver that would allow foreign-flagged cruise ships to sail to Alaska without having to stop in a foreign port. Therefore, Royal Caribbean was able to cruise to Alaska during the 2021 season.

The Alaska Tourism Restoration Act states the following:

Authority to conduct these voyages shall terminate on March 31, 2022, or when Canada lifts its Covid-related restrictions, whichever occurs first. Voyages may not occur during any period for which the CDC has issued an order to suspend cruise ship operations.

In July 2021, the Canadian government announced that the ban on cruise ships would be coming to an end on November 1, 2021.

Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra stated that “As the outlook of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to improve, Canada looks forward to having a cruising season in 2022. The cruise ship industry, which represents more than $4 billion annual input into the Canadian economy and directly and indirectly generates approximately 30,000 jobs, is an important part of Canada’s domestic tourism sector.”

And while the Canadian government still advises Canadians to avoid cruise ship travel, their website also states the following:

Effective November 1, 2021, cruise ships are permitted in Canadian waters. Canada is working with the cruise ship industry, and other domestic and international partners, to support safe cruise ship travel in spring 2022.

Will new Covid variants affect the Alaska cruise season?

While everything is relatively uncertain when speaking about the Covid-19 pandemic, there is no strong reason to believe that a new variant, such as omicron, will affect the 2022 Alaska cruise season.

Omicron cases seem to be subsiding since their peak in mid-January. By May, when most Royal Caribbean ships will begin sailing to Alaska, omicron may not be as big of an issue as it was for cruise ships in January of 2022.

In addition, cruise ships have been successfully sailing throughout the world even during the peak of the omicron and delta variants. While new restrictions and protocols were put in place by Royal Caribbean, very few sailings were canceled.

Lastly, the Canadian government has not introduced any new restrictions for cruise ships since lifting the ban in November of 2021, even with the influx of Covid cases that appeared this winter.

Read more tips and information about cruises to Alaska:

• The weirdest Alaska cruise questions
• Comparing the Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska 2022
• Best things to do on an Alaska cruise
• What it's like to go on an Alaskan cruise at the end of the season
• Cruising to Alaska: What I Did Right and Wrong

The cruise industry is lashing out at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for their latest guidance against cruise ship travel.

On February 9, the CDC updated the notice to clarify the modifications of CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships Operating in U.S. Waters.

Despite Covid numbers falling precipitously on ships (and on land), the agency continued to urge the public against cruise ship travel for the fully vaccinated because in their view, the chances of getting COVID on a cruise ship is "very high".

In a statement by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the industry rejected this notion and called out the CDC for being "unnecessarily discriminatory against
cruise to maintain that the chances of getting COVID-19 on a cruise “is very high” even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines."

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have adopted highly effective protocols for passengers and crew members on its ships that that test all persons boarding, have medical, isolation and quarantine facilities on site, implement extensive response plans using only private shoreside resources, and have created an environment where almost every single person is fully vaccinated.

According to CLIA, the result has been has been a dramatic drop in the number of COVID-positive cases, with hospitalizations being extraordinarily rare – in fact 80 times
lower than on land in the U.S. 

This data was backed up by Royal Caribbean Group's CEO Jason Liberty when he said over the last several weeks, cases onboard have been "declining rapidly."

Despite these facts, the CDC continues to maintain even if you are fully vaccinated, the chances of getting COVID on a cruise ship is very high.

"Regrettably, upon initial review, the latest CDC guidance appears out of step with the actual public health conditions on cruise ships and unnecessary in light of societal trends away from more restrictive measures.

"We are confounded by the CDC’s imposition of even more complex and unwarranted measures which ignore empirical evidence that the industry’s protocols have provided a greater level of COVID mitigation than most any other setting.

CLIA says misleading statements by the CDC on the state of Covid on a cruise ship creates confusion for consumers, and creates potential problems within the different sectors of travel the cruise industry operates.

In short, CLIA feels the CDC is targeting the cruise lines in its recommendations, "It seems unnecessarily discriminatory against cruise to maintain that the chances of getting COVID-19 on a cruise “is very high” even if you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines."

CLIA even went as far as to say the CDC's actions against cruise ships are counterproductive to promoting the importance of Covid-19 vaccines to the general public, "This discounts the importance of what the CDC has otherwise promoted as the single most important touchstone for public health and safety."

"The vaccination rate on cruise ships is close to 100%, whereas on land it is only about 63%."

You can read the full CLIA statement here:

Why does the CDC not warn against other travel and entertainment?

Often the CDC has been accused of holding the cruise lines to a double standard when compared to other forms of shoreside travel and entertainment settings (such as restaurants, bars, and theme parks).

On the CDC's website, it now explains that cruise ships are "congregate residential settings" with high risk of COVID-19 transmission among travelers (passengers and crew).

In case you're wondering, this means the CDC thinks examples of "congregate residential settings" are prisons, nursing homes, schools, and shelters.

Source: CDC

"Cruise ships have thousands of travelers living for multiple days (or months for crew) on the same ship—eating, sleeping, and participating in activities together in one location. These factors are not typically found in other shoreside travel and entertainment settings (such as restaurants, bars, theme parks). Data from the pandemic suggest COVID-19 spreads quickly in group settings, including on cruise ships. Hence, CDC developed COVID-19 THN criteria specific to cruise ships to inform the public regarding COVID-19 conditions on cruise ships."

It then went on to pass the buck of saying those other shoreside travel and entertainment settings in the United States are regulated by public health agencies on a state and local level.

With Omicron cases on cruise ships plummeting, Royal Caribbean will not extend its stricter face mask rules and will allow them to end.

In mid-December Royal Caribbean tightened its face mask protocols due to the increase of Covid-19 cases around the world due to the Omicron variant.

Specifically, face masks were required to be worn indoors at all times, unless actively eating or drinking. This included vaccinated-only zones.

Beginning February 15, 2022, the stricter mask rules will go away and that means guests will not have to wear face masks at venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants, shows and Casino Royale. 

During a webinar with travel agents, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President, Sales, Trade Support and Service, Vicki Freed, told travel agents the policy was changed yesterday, and beginning February 15, 2022 the stricter mask rules will go away.

"One thing that changed yesterday is we have now announced that in our casinos you will not be required to wear masks and you can smoke again in the smoking areas of the casino," Ms. Freed told travel agents.

Royal Caribbean International Assistant Vice President of Guest Experience, Aurora Yera-Rodriguez, told travel agents protocols will go back to the way they were before the stricter mask rules were added due to Omicron, "After February the 15th, we'll now allow smoking in the casino again. That is actually aligned, with us going back to protocol the way they were before, where you don't have to wear a mask in vaccinated areas."

"We'll go back to the way it was before on Omicron."

"As of right now, we did not push that additional mask restriction and casino smoking out to guests beyond the 15th. So hopefully we're in a good spot."

Masks are NOT required to be worn:

• In open-air areas of the ship, unless you are in a crowded setting.
• In the pool or any activity where they may become wet.
• At venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants, shows and Casino Royale. NOTE: For cruises departing through February 14, 2022, masks must be worn in vaccinated-only venues
• In your stateroom when you are with your traveling party.
• While visiting our private destinations, unless you are in a crowded setting.
• By any guest under the age of 2.

Masks ARE required to be worn:

• While indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking.
• While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.

Falling Covid cases on ships

The change in protocols coincides with Covid cases onboard falling back to pre-Omicron levels.

Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty told investors last week that ship cases are significantly lower than the last two months, "In the last several weeks, cases on board our ships have been declining rapidly and we now have returned to exceptionally low pre-Omicron levels."

Over the last seven days, Royal Caribbean Group has averaged only "a handful of positive guest cases per cruise."

Other cruise lines relaxing protocols

Royal Caribbean's announcement comes a day after Norwegian Cruise Line said it would end its Omicron protocols as well.

NCL said beginning March 1, masks will no longer be required while indoors. Instead, they will be recommended.

Another change is NCL will now allow children under 5 years old to sail if they are unvaccinated, beginning on March 5.

In addition, NCL will require its passengers to test once at home before the cruise begins in an effort to speed up the check-in process.

You might be able to save extra money on booking a new cruise or a pre-cruise add-on, such as a drink package, excursion or wifi.

Royal Caribbean's WOW Sale begins today, which offers new discounts on cruise fares and items purchased via the Cruise Planner website.

Whether or not either of these sales saves you money will depend on the ship and sailing you pick, but here's what you should know about the promotion.

WOW Sale

WOW Sale applies to new bookings made between February 9 – 14, 2022.

It offers up to $400 USD Onboard Credit per stateroom on select sailings departing on or after March 9, 2022. 

OBC amounts are per stateroom and determined by category booked and sailing length:

• Sailings 5 nights or less, $50 OBC for Interior and Ocean View, $75 for Balconies and $150 for Suites
• Sailings 6 nights or longer, $75 OBC for Interior and Ocean View, $100 for Balconies and $400 for Suites

Onboard credit does not apply to China departures.

Combinability: 30% Off Every Guest, 2022 Kicker, CAS Bonus and FCC Kicker are combinable with each other as well as promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Promo Code driven offers, Free Upgrades, Crown and Anchor discounts and Shareholder Benefits. WOW Sale is combinable with 30% Off Every Guest, 2022 Kicker, CAS Bonus and FCC Kicker as well as with promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, Instant Savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Promo Code driven offers, Free Upgrades, Shareholder Benefits, but not combinable with Ultimate World Cruise and Crown and Anchor discounts. Resident rates apply to select states on select sailings; valid state of residence must be provided at time of booking. 30% Off Every Guest, 2022 Kicker and CAS Bonus is not combinable with any other offer or promotion, including, but not limited to, Ultimate World Cruise, Standard Group, Interline, Travel Agent, Travel Agent Friends and Family, Weekly Sales Events, and Net Rates. FCC Kicker is combinable with all rates and promotions. Promo Code driven offers are based on select ships and sail dates and must be applied at time of booking; limit one promo code per booking.

Offer available to residents of United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and select countries in the Caribbean. 

Cruise Planner WOW Sale

The new sale offers up to 35% off pre-cruise purchases made between February 9 – 16, 2022 on sailings departing between February 13, 2022 – December 31, 2022.

Here is what is included during the sale:

Beverage: Up to 40% off

• Classic Soda Beverage Package: 30% off onboard prices.
• Classic Soda Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device: Over 35% off onboard prices.
• Spring Water Cans: 40% off onboard prices.
• San Benedetto Water Cans: 40% off onboard prices.
• Evian Water Bottles: 40% off onboard prices.
• Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship.
• Deluxe Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device: Over 30% off onboard prices.
• Refreshment Package: 30% off onboard prices.

Shore Excursions: Up to 30% off

• Shore Excursions: Discount varies by ship.

Internet: Up to 50% Off

• VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship.
• VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship
• VOOM Surf Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship.

Dining: Up to 55% Off

• Unlimited Dining Package on 3N – 9N sailings: Discount varies by ship.

Gifts & Gear: Up to 20% Off

• Anniversary Decorations with Champagne
• Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries
• Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries
• Inky Beach Set
• Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe)
• Inky Travel Set
• Red Wine and Cheese
• Royal Caribbean Beach Towel
• Strawberries with Champagne
• White Wine and Cheese

Photo Packages: Up to 70% Off

• Photo Packages: From 5 – 100 Print and/or Digital Options: Discount varies by ship..
• Photo Package: Private Photo Session: Discount varies by ship.
• Photo Package: Picture This Private Studio: Discount varies by ship.
• Photo Package: All Digital: Discount varies by ship.

Spa: Up to 30% Off

• Spa Packages: Discount varies by ship.

Can I save money with this sale?

Each Royal Caribbean sale adds the potential to save money on the cost of these purchases, but the price does not change for every single sailing and item available to purchase.

Some prices may change, but there is not a flat discount applied across all sailings.  Some people will notice better prices, while others may not see any change.

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. Keep in mind that not all sailings may see the sale applicable, nor are all offers significantly cheaper than previously posted.

If you spot a better discount on something you already pre-purchased, you should be able to cancel the purchase and then re-purchase the same item under this promotion.

More helpful information

• Should you buy pre-cruise purchases now or wait to buy it onboard?
• 45 ways to save money on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• How much should I budget for a cruise?

A Royal Caribbean cruise ship is home to many impressive suites, but which one is the most expensive?

While there are spacious multi-room suites and even Aquatheater suites offering stellar views of the ship’s aft, the most expensive suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship is the Ultimate Family Townhouse. 

Designed to be a hub of activity and fun for families, the Ultimate Family Townhouse is a redesigned version of the Ultimate Family Suite that first premiered on Symphony of the Seas in 2018. 

As of 2024, the Ultimate Family Townhouse can only be found onboard Icon of the Seas; however, it'll be available on Star of the Seas when the second Icon Class ship launches in August 2025. While little is known about the third Icon Class ship, it can be assumed it will be present when it debuts in 2026, too. 

The one-of-a-kind suite offers a kid-centric design, colorful decor, and unique features not found in any other stateroom or suite onboard. 

To see what makes the Ultimate Family Townhouse the most expensive in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, let’s take a closer look at what's offered. 

Icon of the Seas' Ultimate Family Townhouse

Icon of the Seas stole the title of the world's largest cruise ship from Wonder of the Seas. This is the first time that an Oasis Class ship hasn't held that title since Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009.

Onboard this mega-ship, you'll find many cruise line firsts, including the record-breaking Category 6 water park, walk-up Izumi window in Central Park, a swim-up bar, and more. 

One of the most impressive additions, however, is the Ultimate Family Townhouse. At 1,772 square feet, not only is it one of the largest suites in the fleet, but it's also the most expensive. 

This massive suite can accommodate up to eight guests and has everything that a kid could ever need or want! 

From an in-suite slide to colorful decor, movie-viewing room, and "backyard" with access to the family-centered Surfside Neighborhood, this suite is sure to be a hit for those willing to splurge.  

The Ultimate Family Townhouse is three stories that span Decks 7, 8, and 9. The entrance is located on Deck 8. 

In the dining area, there's an interactive game table, while the movie room features a large television, popcorn and karaoke machines, and even a monster-themed daybed. 

Parents will enjoy the master bedroom, which has a king-sized bed, private balcony, large flat-screen TV, and ensuite bathroom outfitted with a twin vanity and double shower. 

Of course, no family-centered suite is complete with a bedroom designed just for children! Featuring bunk beds and a whopping four televisions, parents will have trouble making sure that their kids are getting enough sleep. It can sleep up to four thanks to the pullman and convertible sofa beds.  

The second bathroom is just as fun as the rest of the suite, with an elevated sink, mirror with LED lights, and funky shower tiles. 

There's also a dual shower tub, so there won't be any worries about bathing even the youngest of cruisers. 

Since this is a suite, everyone — both kids and adults alike — will enjoy the premium amenities, including toiletry products and luxurious bedding. 

One of the premiere features of the Ultimate Family Townhouse is the slide. Starting from upstairs and ending in the living room, it’s sure to be popular with kids staying in the suite.

Complete with a hot tub and plush outdoor seating, the balcony is another spacious area of the Ultimate Family Townhouse that offers impressive ocean views. 

This is different from the sister Ultimate Family Suite onboard Symphony and Wonder of the Seas, as neither suite offers uninterrupted ocean views since they overlook the sports area and Boardwalk Neighborhood. 

What does the Ultimate Family Townhouse cost?

Regardless of when you cruise onboard Icon of the Seas, the Ultimate Family Townhouse will always come with a hefty price tag. Despite that, it's already sold out for the entirety of 2024!

Looking into 2025, here are some prices of the Ultimate Family Townhouse for a family of four. Note that these prices are subject to change at any time. 

• 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing on June 28, 2025: $118,669
• 7-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing on October 18, 2025: $82,305

Here's a look at how much the Ultimate Family Suite will cost onboard Star of the Seas during her inaugural season:

• 7-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing on November 9, 2025: $81,157
• 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise departing on March 8, 2026: $75,691

Is the Ultimate Family Townhouse worth it?

Ultimately, deciding whether a suite is worth it or not depends on what you value in a vacation, your family’s specific needs, and, of course, your budget.

Some guests may opt to book a smaller suite or a balcony room and instead use the money they saved to book beverage and dining packages, spa treatments, and shore excursions.

Others may value the exclusivity of a suite and decide that the extra comfort, space, and amenities are worth the extra cost.

It’s important to note that the benefits of staying in the Ultimate Family Townhouse don’t just stop at the suite’s features and amenities, though.

Guests staying in the Ultimate Family Townhouse are part of Star Class, the highest tier of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class, which comes with exclusive benefits.

Star Class guests will receive full access to Coastal Kitchen, complimentary specialty restaurants, beverage packages, gratuities, and VOOM internet, as well as expedited boarding and departure, reserved seating at entertainment venues, and Suite Lounge and Suite Sun Deck access, among others.

Perhaps the best benefit of staying in Star Class, though, is the Royal Genie. Each Star Class Suite has its own Royal Genie. A Royal Genie acts as a personalized concierge onboard who can take care of special requests, arrange and manage reservations, and plan special events and celebrations.

The exact list of services a Royal Genie can provide varies based on your specific needs. For example, the genie may bring an ice cream bar to your suite for kids, deliver Starbucks to your room at the same time each morning, bring specialty dining to your suite, etc.

Prior to your cruise, you will receive a questionnaire, so your Royal Genie can get to know you and your party better before you board the ship.

Is the Ultimate Family Townhouse more expensive than other staterooms and suites onboard? Yes, but the features, design, and concept of the suite are unlike any other cabin offered on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. Staying in the Ultimate Family Townhouse is sure to be an unforgettable experience for both kids and adults alike.

Norwegian Cruise Line announced it has relaxed its Covid-19 protocols beginning in March, perhaps signaling a change for the industry.

On Tuesday, Norwegian Cruise Line updated its Sail Safe Health and Safety Program for cruises sailing March 1, 2022 and beyond. In it, it changed its mask and vaccine requirements by reducing how strict they are.

Like Royal Caribbean, NCL had tightened its protocols due to the Omicron variant. 

Here's a look at the major changes NCL announced.

Face masks

Norwegian announced for cruises sailing on or after March 1st will be no longer required to wear face masks onboard.

NCL continues to recommend face mask use, but will not require it indoors.

Sailings through February 28 still require all guests to wear masks onboard while indoors, except when actively eating or drinking. This matches Royal Caribbean's current stricter protocols.

It's important to note that NCL did not require masks while indoors before Omicron because they required all of their passengers to be fully vaccinated. The CDC had a policy if 95% or more guests are vaccinated, there were different mask rules for those ships.

Covid-19 vaccines

Another change is NCL will now allow children under 5 years old to sail if they are unvaccinated, beginning on March 5.

Prior to this change, all passengers had to be fully vaccinated, including children ineligible to be vaccinated.

On NCL's site, it said the change is part of the evolution of the protocols, "As we continue to heed guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prioritize maintaining health and safety, our Sail Safe Program, which requires all guests, ages five and over, to be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departure and show proof of vaccination at the terminal in order to board the vessel, has evolved to allow children under five to sail while unvaccinated."

Testing

In addition, NCL will require its passengers to test once at home before the cruise begins in an effort to speed up the check-in process.

Previously, NCL required passengers to be tested at home and then again at the terminal.

Tests taken at home need to be completed within two days of embarkation when sailing from U.S. ports and three days when outside the U.S.

Will Royal Caribbean do the same?

Is NCL's change a harbinger of what's to come for Royal Caribbean?

Maybe.

Royal Caribbean still has its stricter Omicron protocols in place through at least February 14.  If those protocols were to lapse, then Royal Caribbean's protocols would fall back to their pre-Omicron protocols that mirror NCL's new policy.

There's good reason to believe protocols are more likely to become less restrictive given the lower rate of Covid-19 cases in society, and on cruise ships.

Last week, Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty said cases on cruise ships were substantially down from last month, "in the last several weeks, cases on board our ships have been declining rapidly and we now have returned to exceptionally low pre-Omicron levels."

"In fact, over the last seven days, we have averaged only a handful of positive guest cases per cruise."

"With the declining cases, operational challenges are also abating. So, while the variant is not done, it appears that the worst is behind us."

Later in the call, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley said the cruise line would re-evaluate its protocols, "I think what we'll see is as we get into that environment, we'll start, again, working with the CDC. We'll start removing many of the protocols that exist today, and it will become easier and simpler for our customers."