Royal Caribbean Blog

There's a lot of cruise ship tips and tricks, but what are the most repeated bits of cruise advice I give to readers every week?

I host question and answer sessions on our YouTube and Facebook channels every week, and there's all sorts of questions about going on a cruise that are asked.  Over the years, I've definitely developed a few tenants of cruising that I think are critical.

To be fair, a lot of the advice I give out are opinions based on my own experience that I think will benefit others.  But there are also some pieces of advice that I think are hard and fast rules everyone should follow because the consequences of skipping them could result in a dramatically worse experience.

While cruises are designed to be very easy going and require very little pre-planning, anyone that's cruised a lot will tell you the more effort you put in in advance, the higher dividends you see later in overall experience and avoiding problems.

In reflecting on the cruise tips and advice I dole out each week, I wanted to come up with the 10 most important pieces of cruise advice I would give to just about anyone.  These are universal truths that I think are imperative to having a great cruise and skipping them could lead to problems later on.

You might be able to skip all of them and still have a fun time, but you only stand to benefit and protect yourself against pitfalls by following these "commandments". My hope is they'll save you time, money, or both.

1. Never fly the same day your cruise departs

There are places in you vacation cut corners, but your flight to your cruise ship isn't one of them.

Flying in the same day your cruise ship departs is playing with fire when it comes to being able to make the cruise.  Flights get delayed and cancelled all the time, no matter which time of year it is.

What you want to do is fly in at least one day before your cruise begins.

Sure, an extra night before the cruise sails means the added cost of a hotel room, vacation day from work, dog sitter, and a variety of other expenses.  But it will cost you much more if you miss your cruise because your flight prevents you from getting to the ship before it departs.

It doesn't take a nationwide airline problem to be the reason your flight gets cancelled. Everyday flights get delayed and cancelled, and there's no reason to chance your entire vacation on the connecting flight being on time or a snow storm in Milwaukee shutting things down.

I've seen too many people miss their cruise because they flew the same day of the cruise, so add an extra day before and start your vacation sooner.

2. Pre-purchase add-ons and re-price later. Don't wait to book

A lot of people will try to time Royal Caribbean's sale in the same way they would time a sale on jeans at the mall.  Unlike retail stores, you can reprice purchases much easier before the cruise.

First and foremost, the price for that Royal Caribbean drink package, wifi, or shore excursion will cost less if you buy it before the cruise.

What you want to do is buy it in the Cruise Planner as soon as you think you know you want to get it. Lock in the price and then you're good.

However, if the price goes down at any point before your cruise, you can cancel and rebook it quite easily in the Cruise Planner website.

This may lead some to wonder why not just wait to see if there's a price drop, and if there isn't, book it in those last few days. The reason why that's a bad idea is because prices can go up.

Booking these things before the cruise locks in the price and protects you against a price increase, while still allowing you to re-price if the price goes down.

3. Book your cruise as early as you can for the lowest price

If your cruise vacation is that big trip you're going to take, be sure to book the cruise as soon as you can for the lowest price.

Generally speaking, the best prices for cruises are when they first go on sale. In the months leading up to your cruise, more people book up cabins on a given sailing and that drives up prices.

The best strategy for locking in the cruise ship cabin you want at the price you can afford is to book it as early as you can. Booking six, twelve, or even 18 months in advance will likely get you a better price than if you wait longer.

Moreover, booking early gets you the cabin category and location you really want.

While last-minute cruise deals do exist, they're few and far between and it may not line up with the time of year you want to sail.  Or the cabin selections could be extremely limited.

Book early and if you're in certain countries, re-price up to final payment date if there is a lower price.

4. Always buy travel insurance

I used to consider travel insurance as a discretionary purchase that some people could skip, but it seems like the benefits greatly outweigh the cost.

Like all insurance, it's a waste of money until you need it.

Most people think of travel insurance in terms of health benefits if you were to get sick or hurt in a foreign country, but I think it's far more likely to come in handy in the course of regular travel.

Did you know travel insurance covers trip interruption and cancellations? It protects you when unforeseen events occur that would otherwise leave you high and dry financially.

Considering basic travel insurance is likely going to cost you much less than a drink package, it's an investment worth taking every time, just in case.

5. Complete the entire online check-in before the cruise

I hate wasting time on my vacation, and the biggest waste of time on a cruise is standing around in the cruise terminal doing things you could have done at home.

Royal Caribbean's check-in process is super simple and it behooves you to complete all the steps before the cruise so that you can breeze through the cruise terminal.

The goal of the online check-in is to get passengers from curb to ship as quickly as possible. 

If you upload all your documentation, take a photo, and enter your billing information, you'll find it takes you longer to walk through the terminal than actually checking-in. It's time saved so you can do more onboard.

6. All ships are great, but look at what it has and doesn't have

I get asked all the time if a certain Royal Caribbean cruise ship is good, or what is the worst ship in the fleet.

There isn't any ship I don't recommend and no ship is so bad everyone should avoid it. But there are ships that might not be a good fit for you and your family.

Not all Royal Caribbean cruise ships are the same, and that means they all don't have the same restaurants, activities, amenities, or features you might want in a ship.

The primary reason someone may not like a ship is because it lacks something they personally value as important. Water slides, specialty dining, public venues, or even types of cabins could be reasons why a particular ship isn't great for you.

What you want to do is compare the ship you are considering to other ships to figure out what it has and what it doesn't have, and then decide which you would prefer.

Managing expectations is key to having a great cruise, so don't get onboard and be surprised when something you assumed was going to be there isn't there.

7. Use a travel agent

I'm still shocked how many people don't use a travel agent when booking their cruise, but you only stand to benefit by using a good one.

Many are unaware travel agents still exist, or that they can be beneficial when it comes to cruises.

A travel agent's value is more than just booking a cruise. Anyone can book a cruise. 

Travel agents' value is saving you time and money, as well as being your answer hotline along the way.

They may have special group rates or discounts you hadn't considered, but they're also the ones that sit on hold with Royal Caribbean instead of you when there's a problem or discrepancy.

If you used a travel agent and didn't like them, that's fine, find one that is awesome. They exist, you just haven't found them yet. 

Just like how you can't rely on one restaurant, lawyer, or park as the basis for judging all other restaurants, lawyers, or parks, there are all sorts of travel agents out there. Get a personal recommendation from someone you know and trust and you'll be surprised how helpful a travel agent can be.

Oh, and a travel agent should never cost you anything extra. The cruise line pays them a commission and the price is the same whether you book directly with them or with the agent.

8. Book dining reservations as soon as you get onboard

Specialty dining packages have never been as popular as they are today, so if you buy one, be sure to make reservations as soon as you get onboard.

Dining packages can save you a lot of money compared to going to the same number of restaurants and paying the normal cover charge.  The "trade off" is you have to wait to book a reservation for a specific restaurant at a specific time until you get on the ship.

As soon as you board the ship, go to any specialty restaurant and ask them to make reservations for you.  They can book any other specialty restaurant.

By making reservations on the first day as soon as you board, you'll likely get a time and location you really want.

9. Research ports in advance

Shore excursions can often be very "hit or miss" due to how many options there are and the variety of vendors.

The ports of call you visit are a major component to any cruise vacation, and you have just a few hours to make the most of your time there. It greatly benefits you to have a plan in place before you arrive to save you time, money, or sanity.

Once you book the cruise, look into which tours and things to do there are in each port you are visiting.  Book tours through reputable providers and have a plan.

All too often people report back they had a disappointing time in port because the tour wasn't what they expected, they were unaware of what there was to do, or they simply chose poorly.

Read as much as you can about the places you'll visit and pick the right activity for you.

10. Sign up for activities before the cruise or once onboard

There's limited capacity for shows and signature activities, so make a reservation whenever you can, as soon as you can.

Royal Caribbean allows guests to book activities and shows up to a month before the cruise on Oasis and Quantum Class ships.  Other ships may have reservations available once you get onboard and connect to the wifi to book it via the Royal Caribbean app.

Regardless of which way is available, book things up to assure yourself of a spot.

 It’s not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and activities book up in advance.

After 10 cruises in interior cabins, I spent three nights in the opulent Owner’s Suite on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas.

This cabin is one of the most spacious on the entire ship and comes with its own name: the Adagio Suite. At 624 square feet, the room’s size is nearly four times as big as the interior staterooms I typically book.

For 2 guests, the total price of our suite came out to $2,612 for a 3-night cruise, or right around $870 per night. This price includes taxes, fees, and gratuities, and we also received $100 onboard credit.

We originally booked the suite for $2,934, but our travel agent repriced the sailing a few months after booking and found a cheaper deal, saving us $322.

Let’s take a tour of my spacious cabin at sea complete with a bedroom, living room, dining room, and extra large balcony.

My suite was located on deck 10, right outside of the ship’s aft elevator lobby. The suite’s convenient location was one of the best perks of the cabin, as we never had to walk far to get from our cabin to anywhere onboard.

When I opened the door to my suite for the first time, I was immediately blown away by the cabin’s size and amenities.

The suite has one bedroom, where you’ll find a king bed, television, side tables, and storage space.

The bedroom is not separated from the rest of the suite by a wall, but you can close a curtain for more privacy.

There is a vanity and desk area in the bedroom which includes several outlets to charge your devices.

Like all cabins, you’ll find a safe in the Owner’s Suite in the drawers above the vanity.

Now let’s move to the living room.

The living room has a sectional couch, plush chair, coffee table, and end table. This space is great for entertaining or winding down after a busy day in port.

To watch television in the living room, you can simply swivel around the TV from the bedroom to the living room.

The living room is connected to a dining room.

This area features floor-to-ceiling closets, which are perfect for hanging dresses and suits for formal night. You’ll also find Royal Caribbean bathrobes inside the closet.

Next to the closet are additional drawers where you can store clothes, shoes, and other personal items. Like all Royal Caribbean cabins, there is a mini fridge available here as well.

Above the mini fridge is a Lavazza Espresso coffee maker and ice bucket. You’ll also receive a few complimentary water bottles in the suite, which will be placed near the coffee maker.

There is also a dining table perfect for enjoying in-suite meals. As a suite guest, room service is complimentary, including meals from the Main Dining Room menu.

Across from the dining room is a bathroom, and the Owner’s Suite bathroom is unlike any bathroom I’ve experienced in a cruise ship cabin before.

The bathroom has dual sinks, which is optimal for two guests getting ready at the same time.

It also features a standalone bathtub with jacuzzi controls.  Like all suites, the bathroom comes with upgraded Malin + Goetz shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

In addition to the bathtub is a separate shower with a detachable shower head.

There is both a toilet and bidet in the Owner’s Suite bathroom.

Next let's head outside to the suite's balcony.

One of the best benefits of the Owner’s Suite is the large balcony. At 160 square feet, the balcony is three times larger than those in standard balcony cabins.

There are two balcony doors, one in the bedroom and the other in the living room.

The balcony offers unobstructed views of the outdoors. It’s located on the ship’s hump, meaning that the balcony sticks out further than other balconies onboard.

On the balcony is a dining table with two chairs, a perfect spot to enjoy breakfast and coffee in the mornings.

There are also two padded, reclinable lounge chairs, a notable upgrade from the standard chairs found on regular balconies.

While not cheap, the Owner’s Suite is nothing short of a spectacular cabin on Liberty of the Seas. For those looking for extra living space, upgraded amenities, and a more luxurious experience onboard, it is certainly worth the splurge.

Royal Caribbean wants to be the preeminent cruise line for families with young children.

Its next new cruise ship will come in at 250,800 gross tons, with the capacity to carry nearly 10,000 passengers and crew members.

When Icon of the Seas launches in early 2024, she'll be the first cruise ship in the fleet to have an area dedicated to young families.

Surfside is the name of the open air area on the back of Icon of the Seas, which is a brand new neighborhood concept.

Royal Caribbean envisions this area being a focal center for multi-generational families to enjoy time together, including kids, parents and grandparents.

Aiming for the family vacation market

The cruise line has gone on record already by stating it intends to make Icon of the Seas the very best choice for a family vacation, and not just a cruise vacation either.

"Icon will be the best family vacation in the world," is what Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider said about the plans for this ship.

Royal Caribbean intends to follow up on that bold statement by creating a purpose-built neighborhood for families.

Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO, said that young families are already a major group that sails with the cruise line, "younger families make up quite a large significant proportion of Royal Caribbean guests, and we see that number increasing over time."

"So this is a space that's very much dedicated towards a younger family."

Surfside has something for everyone, not just kids

The concept is not to build the largest kiddie area on a cruise ship, but a place where kids and their parents will want to go and spend time together.

Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty pointed to consumer research that indicated family time was more than just something exclusively for kids to enjoy, "In going through the research, we knew that families wanted to stay together through the course of the day."

"In order to be able to do that, we needed to make sure that there were experiences within that neighborhood to bring that to life. And also tailored to the different generations."

To that point, Royal Caribbean designed Surfside to not be a compromise while on vacation. Kids and adults could enjoy time in the space together.

Inside Surfside

The new area must have a connection to the water, a variety in food and beverage, and plenty to do.

Royal Caribbean came up with a vibrant design that is reminiscent of a "surfer town that evokes fun and imagination." At the same time, it has to offer a relaxing experience where you can hang out and just be close to the water.

There's pools for adults, pools for kids, restaurants and bars for kids and adults. The idea is there's enough to keep you entertained throughout the day.

To start with, there are three water experiences to choose from, with the idea that families can hang out together:

• Splashaway Bay: Kids water slides and water features
• Baby Bay: Water splash area for very young children
• Water's Edge: The pool pressed up against the glass on the very back of the ship 

Royal Caribbean also wanted to bring a few popular features from the Oasis Class ships, and one of those is the carousel from the Boardwalk neighborhood.

The carousel on Icon of the Seas will be beach-themed and feature 8 new characters.

There's also an arcade with over 30 different games to choose from, along with the Playscape area that was first introduced on Wonder of the Seas.

Close to it all

Surfside was also designed to ensure that all the kid activities were close by.

Surfside has 3 entrances, including a slide from Central Park.

Adventure Ocean and the teen club are also located right near Surfside. The idea is everything is connected, so you don't have to leave the space to get to another kid-centric area.

Eating and drinking around Surfside

Another goal of Surfside was to make it easy for everyone to find something to eat and drink while in the neighborhood. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and brunch.

Royal Caribbean says they've re-imagined the family dining experience and placed those experiences within Surfside.

Next to Splashaway Bay and next to a deep water pool, you have Surfside Bites that's a quick grab and go.

Then there's Surfside Eatery, which is Royal Caribbean's first buffet just families.  You'll find all the family favorites from the Windjammer, but located within Surfside so you don't have to leave the neighborhood.

There's also a new specialty restaurant, Pier 7, which is described as a casual Boardwalk eatery.

The Lemon Post bar is also a new concept that is the first bar to feature an adult menu and a kids menu. This will serve traditional tropical cocktails, as well as mocktails.

Cabins within Surfside

Royal Caribbean has also come up with new stateroom options in the neighborhood that can cater to families of 3, 4, 5, and 6 people.

Read more: Guide to Icon of the Seas cabins and suites

The idea behind these new cabins is to offer spaces for parents and their kids to have to enjoy. This means staying together, but having space for kids and space for parents.

The Surfside Suite is one such cabin, which is a brand new kind of cruise ship stateroom. It has kids nook, where it can be closed off so parents can have privacy while still being able to see what the kids are doing in there.

The Family Infinite Balcony has a kids alcove with beds, TVs, and room to hang out. It also has a split bath so that families can have more flexibility.  The infinite balcony can actually double as a movie theater with its own projector.

Then there's the Ultimate Family Townhouse, which is 3-stories and can hold up to 8 guests.

It has its own cinema, karaoke, patio, white picket fence, table tennis, and mailbox.

It has slides to move you from decks, as well as direct access to Surfside (no hallway walk required).

How much does it cost? According to Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley, the average cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse in 2024 is $75,000 per week.

See more about Surfside

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On all of my cruises, one thing I have never made it around to was trying the FlowRider. While I’ve enjoyed watching others try it, I hadn’t taken the plunge for myself. I set out to find out if I could really learn to surf on a 3-night cruise.

Royal Caribbean is known for many things, but one of the activities that they are known for the best, is the surf simulator better known as the FlowRider. The FlowRider has 30,000 gallons of rushing water, mimicking what it is like to surf on the ocean. I’ve seen boogie boarders struggle to stay on, so watching stand up surfers being able to stay up has always been impressive.

When I noticed that Royal Caribbean offers a FlowRider surf lesson for my upcoming 3-night Liberty of the Seas sailing, I decided to sign up and find out if it is possible to learn to surf in only 3 days. 

Prior to getting onboard, I had some nerves about attempting to try it.

As a previous spectator of the FlowRider, I’d been scared about falling and hurting myself, or not being able to actually stand up on the board, especially in front of a crowd of people watching.

While I couldn’t guarantee that those wouldn’t happen to me, I did take the one preventative measure I could, purchasing a rash guard and swim shorts to wear over my bathing suits to prevent any “wardrobe malfunctions”, which the force of the water has been known to cause. 

Trying out free sessions first

With my nerves in full force, I decided that I should head straight to the FlowRider after getting on board to get my feet wet, hoping to beat the long lines and spectator crowds.

The first session was a "Mixed Wave" session on embarkation day.

It turns out that they only allow you to try stand up surfing during their mixed wave sessions, which were offered only once a day.

On the third day, the other sessions offered were “Boogie Boarding” or “Advanced Standup Surfing” only. 

The first Mixed Wave session was at 3pm, so I made my way to the FlowRider for my first attempt.

Upon arriving I had to sign a lengthy waiver, which included many safety videos about how to properly fall to avoid injury. Once I finished signing those, I was given a blue wristband.

It turns out that everyone who wants to attempt to surf during open sessions is given a blue wristband. You’re then given 1 “turn”, consisting of 2 attempts to prove that you can stand up on your own.

If you pass, you’re given a white wristband and can continue surfing during both the Mixed Wave and Advanced Standup Surfing sessions. 

I had assumed that while I would be limited to my one turn at a time, that once I fell twice I would be able to get back in line and try again. They told me that they didn’t allow this due to trying to limit injuries from guests not being able to stand up and getting knocked over time and time again.

At that point I was glad that I had booked a lesson, as it was a dedicated hour for a small group to try as many times as you could. 

With it being the first day, the lines were very low with only 5 of us out there. Three of the other riders were very experienced, and even brought their own boards with them to ride on. I was the only one trying to stand up for the first time. 

When signing the waiver I saw that everyone has to prove that they can ride the boogie board before attempting to stand up, so when my turn was up I headed over to the boogie board. The staff told me to go out into the middle of the FlowRider on the board, and then come back to the sidelines.

I'm not sure what the thought process behind that was, but nevertheless after my 15 second ride, I was deemed worthy to try stand up surfing.

Years ago my husband had tried surfing, and the instructors held his arms to help get him out into the water, from which he was able to stay up for a while. I was expecting that they would do the same for me, but I learned that after the shut-down, they no longer could hold guests' arms to guide them out into the FlowRider.

This meant that once you got yourself onto the board, you had to bend over and bounce backwards into the rushing water, and then try to stand up and steady yourself.  

Of course, with this not being the lesson I booked, I also got very minimal instruction from the staff. They can’t be spending the whole open session training people how to stand up, with the typically long lines of people waiting to take their turn. I was hoping for some more tips and guidance, but they gave me the basics and sent me out on my way.

On my first attempt, I got knocked off my board in just a few seconds. I rode the waves up to the back and made my way back down for my second attempt.

Hoping that now I had a feel for the water I would be able to stay on longer and at least make it farther out into the waves.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case, and after around 10 shaky seconds I was knocked off for my second time. While walking to bring the board back to the front of the line, one of the instructors not-so-encouragingly told me to stick to boogie boarding. 

With my single turn being over, I couldn’t try again until the next mixed wave session which was the next day.

While I understand that they’re trying to limit injury, it was frustrating that the line was so small and I couldn’t keep trying until the session was over. This made me more nervous that I wouldn’t be able to learn to surf in just three days if I was only getting 1 turn per session. 

Trying again on day 2

On the second day, I woke up early to head out for another surfing session.

There were only three other people there for the session, and the instructors seemed a bit more relaxed and willing to offer me guidance, which I very much needed.

During my first attempt, I wiped out again after about 10 seconds.

Before starting my second attempt, I received even more instructions from not only the staff, but also other surfers who had mastered stand up surfing. With their tips, I was able to stand up and surf for 45 seconds on my own. 

Knowing that my single turn was over, I headed to dry off and watch the rest. The staff ended up letting me try for a second turn, citing that they were in a good mood that morning.

I took them up on it, and was able to again stand up for around 45 seconds on my next two attempts. This still wasn’t good enough for a white bracelet, so I had to wait until my lesson later that evening to ride again. 

Trying a private surfing lesson

At 8pm on the second day of the cruise, we headed back up to the FlowRider for my lesson, which was a group lesson. There were 7 of us total, with no one having tried to stand up before.

During the lesson we again had to prove that we could ride a boogie board, but this time they had us get up onto our knees on the board and navigate the board across the FlowRider.

This seemed much more useful than my boogie board test out earlier in the cruise, and truly gave us a feel for how the littlest of movements in your body can affect how your board turns. 

With that out of the way, it was time to try standing up again.

For the lesson, the instructors use a rope that both they and the rider hold onto while on the board. This imitates the holding onto each other's arms that they used to do during open sessions, and allowed them to help us out into the middle of the FlowRider.

Immediately I realized how much more efficient using the rope was was than trying to bend over and stand up while in the middle of the waves. 

The instructor that wasn’t holding the rope was on the sidelines giving us tips to stand up straight, open our chest, put our weight onto our back leg and more to keep us up.

We exclusively held the rope for our first two attempts, which were well over a minute each. On our third attempt, we were instructed to drop the rope once we got out to the middle, where it was time to put our lesson to the test. 

Our biggest pieces of training were:

1. Put all of your weight in your back leg
2. Stand up straight with your chest open
3. The slightest shift in weight will dictate where your board goes

With the training behind me, I stayed out there and upright for almost two minutes.

I was able to focus on my form, and attempt to navigate back and forth across the area. I even got a spin in there, though it did ultimately cause me to fall off at the end.

I went out for my last attempt of the trip, and not only was able to stand up and stay on, but also was able to walk off on the side rather than falling off the board. 

With 7 people in the group, and the lesson being only an hour, we didn’t get as much time to ride as I would have hoped. However, even with the limited time, the instructors were able to help all 7 of us learn how to surf on the FlowRider. 

Does it hurt when you fall?

If you're like me, you're worried about falling and how much it hurts when you lose your balance on the FlowRider and hit the pad.

I was pleasantly surprised at how cushy the pad was, and it had quite a bit of bounce to it, designed with falling in mind.

In the waiver and lesson, they stressed the importance of holding your head once you fall and riding the wave back up, to limit head injuries.

Though I didn't notice any pain in the moment, I did start to develop bruises on my elbows from falling on them. However, these were minor and I was anticipating much worse injuries. 

Can you really learn to surf on a cruise ship?

If the timing of the private lesson works for your schedule, it is the best way to learn how to stand up. Not only do you get the use of the rope, but you also get specific advice to help you. And of course, you get more than one turn during the lesson. 

While I’m not ready to go out and invest in my own board quite yet, and my bruises are still healing, I am happy to know that I was able to learn how to surf on a 3-night cruise.

Who knows, maybe you’ll catch me out there on my future cruises! 

Despite February having the fewest days of any month, there are still plenty of Royal Caribbean cruises you can sail on this month.

This article is an effort to share what you need to know about going on a Royal Caribbean cruise in the month of February, with important news, tips, and helpful information along the way.

With the exception of President's Day holidays in the middle of the month, February is generally a slower month in terms of demand for cruises since school is in session.

Deal hunters will find good prices in the first two weeks, and the last week.

President's Week can see more families hopping on a cruise since there is either a long weekend or the entire week off for many schools.

Ships sailing in February 2023

• Freedom of the Seas from Miami, Florida
• Anthem of the Seas from Cape Liberty, New Jersey
• Allure of the Seas from Galveston, Texas
• Symphony of the Seas from Miami, Florida
• Independence of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida
• Harmony of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Mariner of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida
• Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Adventure of the Seas from Galveston, Texas
• Explorer of the Seas from Miami, Florida
• Navigator of the Seas from Los Angeles, California
• Spectrum of the Seas from Singapore
• Grandeur of the Seas from Miami, Florida
• Enchantment of the Seas from Baltimore, Maryland
• Radiance of the Seas from New Orleans, Louisiana
• Serenade of the Seas from Tampa, Florida
• Voyager of the Seas from San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Quantum of the Seas from Brisbane, Australia
• Ovation of the Seas from Sydney, Australia
• Oasis of the Seas from Miami, Florida
• Brilliance of the Seas from Tampa, Florida
• Wonder of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida
• Odyssey of the Seas from from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Vision of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Rhapsody of the Seas from Bridgetown, Barbados
• Jewel of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida

Health protocols for February 2023 cruises

Royal Caribbean's health protocols have not changed this winter, and they're fairly straight forward.

If your cruise doesn't visit Colombia or sail from Australia, pre-cruise testing is no longer required to sail.

At this time, only the following sailings have pre-cruise testing requirements:

Cruises from the U.S. and Caribbean with stops in Colombia

Guests age 18 and up who are not fully vaccinated will need to present a negative result for a PCR test taken within 3 days or an antigen test taken within 2 days prior to sailing.

Guests under the age of 17 and fully vaccinated guests do not have have any testing requirements.

Tests must be arranged on your own and are at your own expense.

Cruises from Australia

All guests aged 2 and above, regardless of vaccination status, must present a negative test result for a COVID-19  PCR test taken within 2 days before boarding day, or a self-administered Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) within 1 day before boarding, for sailings of any length.

February weather on a cruise

February should be a little bit warmer than January, but it's still typically more comfortable outdoors than other months of the year,

High temperatures in the Caribbean in February are in the 70s, although it can drop as low as the 60s in The Bahamas. The Southern Caribbean is going to be the warmest, with high temperatures in the low 80s.

There is a good argument for February having some of the best weather of the year in the Caribbean because of the lower humidity levels, low rainfall, and generally comfortable weather outdoors. It's great for doing outdoor shore excursions without feeling excessively sweaty after.

While the weather may be lovely in the tropics, winter storms are still very prevalent back at home, which is why you want to be sure to arrive at least one day before your cruise so that if your travel plans are interrupted, you don't miss your cruise.

Read more: Packing for a Royal Caribbean cruise in the Winter

Is it warm enough to swim? Yes, albeit it won't be the most ideal pool or beach swimming conditions.

Average water temperatures throughout the Caribbean hover around 80 degrees (27 C), which is on the cooler side for the year, but not drastically cooler than the summer months.

Is February a good month to go on a cruise?

The best thing about taking a cruise in February is you get to escape the winter cold that by now has become a tired trend.

Similar to January, you'll find low prices on cruises in February (if you can avoid the holiday in the month). This is especially true of 4- and 5-night cruises that leave on weekdays.

If there's a negative to taking a February cruise, it's getting to your cruise could be a challenge. With winter in full swing, snow and ice storms around the country can impact your ability to fly to your cruise on time.  

It's extra important to fly into your cruise departure city at least one day early to protect against travel delays.

Super Bowl on a cruise

Yes, you can watch the Super Bowl on a cruise ship. In fact, it becomes a kind of big party around the ship to watch the big game.

Since a lot of passengers will want to watch the game, Royal Caribbean typically shows the game all around the ship at many venues. Depending on your ship, the game can be shown in bars, the pool deck movie screen and even in the Royal Theater. Exact locations will be posted in the Cruise Compass for that day.

In addition to showing the game in various spots, there will be typical football watching snacks as part of a "tailgate party" offering.  These have included hot dogs, nachos, chips and more. 

Read more: Guide to watching the Super Bowl on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Best cruises in February 2023

Ready to pick a great sailing in February? It's the perfect month to getaway from the winter cold and enjoy a warm Caribbean beach instead!

Ideally, you'll book a cruise many months in advance to get the lowest possible rate, but a last-minute cruise deal for February still exists.

Here are a few picks for a great February sailing:

• 3-night Ensenada cruise on Navigator of the Seas cruise from Los Angeles February 21, 2023
• 5-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Grandeur of the Seas February 5, 2023
• 11-night Southern Caribbean cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas February 5, 2023
• 4-night Bahamas & Perfect Day at CocoCay cruise on Freedom of the Seas February 21, 2023

Oasis of the Seas was a record-breaking ship when she launched in 2009, and she remains one of Royal Caribbean’s most impressive cruise ships today.

Oasis of the Seas sets the bar high when it comes to cruise ships; she has a nearly endless selection of entertainment, dining options, cabin categories, and thrilling activities to do onboard. And although you can visit a variety of destinations on Oasis of the Seas–from the Bahamas to Europe–the ship is a destination within itself.

If you’re considering a cruise on Oasis of the Seas, be sure to read through this planning guide so you know everything to expect once onboard. Let’s jump in!

Oasis of the Seas overview

Oasis of the Seas was the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class. With a capacity of nearly 7,000 passengers, length of 1,187 feet, and gross tonnage of 225,282, she was the world’s largest cruise ship when she launched and remains one of the biggest cruise ships in the world today.

In 2019, Oasis of the Seas received a $165 million amplification to modernize the ship. New dining and bar venues, a revamped pool deck, updated kids programming, and new activities were just some of the changes made to the ship. Due to the amplification, Oasis of the Seas feels new and refreshed despite being almost 15 years old.

Oasis of the Seas neighborhoods

Oasis of the Seas was the first Royal Caribbean ship to be split into distinct neighborhoods. These neighborhoods range from outdoor parks to indoor entertainment centers; each aims to help manage crowds throughout the ship while providing unique experiences in each location.

These are the neighborhoods on Oasis of the Seas:

• The Boardwalk, an outdoor neighborhood meant to evoke nostalgia for seaside towns. It features a carousel, candy shop, hot dog stand, sports bar, Johnny Rockets, shops, and the AquaTheater.
• Pool & Sports Zone, the top decks of Oasis of the Seas with pools, hot tubs, Splashaway Bay, and sports activities
• Central Park, an open air oasis in the middle of Oasis of the Seas with restaurants, retail, and lush greenery
• The Royal Promenade, the main thoroughfare of Oasis of the Seas with bars, lounges, casual eateries, and shopping
• Entertainment Place, the entertainment hub onboard with a comedy club, theater, jazz club, nightclub, and casino
• Youth Zone, home to Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean kids programming
• Vitality Spa & Fitness, where guests can enjoy a spa, salon, and fitness center

Oasis of the Seas dining & beverage

There is an abundance of food to enjoy on any Royal Caribbean cruise ship, but especially on an Oasis Class ship. Oasis of the Seas boasts over 20 locations to grab a bite to eat, from burritos at El Loco Fresh to upscale dining at 150 Central Park.

Like other ships, Oasis of the Seas has both complimentary dining venues and specialty restaurants. While there’s no need to spend extra to dine at specialty restaurants, many guests prefer the ambiance and cuisine offered at these venues. However, there are more than enough complimentary options to keep you satisfied throughout any Oasis of the Seas cruise.

Oasis of the Seas complimentary dining options:

• Main Dining Room
• Windjammer Cafe
• Solarium Bistro
• Park Cafe
• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento’s Pizza
• Boardwalk Dog House
• El Loco Fresh
• Vitality Cafe
• Coastal Kitchen (suites only)
• Johnny Rockets (breakfast only)

Oasis of the Seas specialty dining options:

• 150 Central Park
• Chef’s Table
• Chops Grille
• Giovanni’s Table
• Izumi Sushi & Hibachi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Portside BBQ
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Starbucks
• Sugar Beach

If you are interested in dining at specialty restaurants on Oasis of the Seas, you may want to consider purchasing a dining package. Royal Caribbean offers several specialty dining packages, including an Unlimited Dining Package, which allow you to dine at several specialty restaurants for a lower cost than booking each restaurant individually.

For more information on Royal Caribbean’s dining packages, read our Ultimate Guide to Royal Caribbean’s Unlimited Dining Package.

Oasis of the Seas bars & lounges

Just like dining, there are plenty of options when it comes to grabbing a drink onboard Oasis of the Seas. Everything from wine bars to pool bars–and even a bar run by robot bartenders–can be found onboard.

During her 2019 amplification, The Lime & Coconut was added to the pool deck of Oasis of the Seas. This tropical-themed bar offers signature cocktails that will transport you directly to paradise, including the signature Lime & Coconut, made with Malibu Coconut Rum, coconut milk, coconut syrup, guava syrup, and lime juice.

Related: Top 10 Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas hidden secrets

While there are standalone bars on Oasis of the Seas, many are found in lounges throughout the ship where guests can enjoy a drink with live music and other entertainment. A pub, Latin bar, jazz club, and other venues can be found throughout the ship.

Other bars and lounges on Oasis of the Seas include:

• Casino bar
• Jazz on 4
• Blaze Comedy
• Diamond Club
• Spotlight Karaoke
• Boleros
• Globe & Atlas Pub
• Rising Tide Bar
• Bionic Bar
• Schooner Bar
• Playmakers
• Trellis Bar
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Music Hall
• Solarium Bar
• Wipeout Bar

Like dining packages, Royal Caribbean also offers drink packages. Three main packages are available: the Deluxe Beverage Package (alcoholic drinks), Refreshment Package (non-alcoholic drinks), and Classic Soda Package.

If you’re thinking of purchasing a drink package for your upcoming Royal Caribbean cruise, these guides should help you decide if it’s the right choice for you:

• Royal Caribbean drink package info, tips, pros & cons
• Royal Caribbean drink package rules overview
• Guide to Royal Caribbean’s coffee card package

Oasis of the Seas shows & entertainment

All production shows on Oasis of the Seas are included in your cruise fare. Depending on the show, reservations may be required. We recommend opening the Royal Caribbean app as soon as you board the ship on embarkation day to make show reservations for the cruise.

There are three main entertainment venues on Oasis of the Seas: the Royal Theater, the AquaTheater, and the Studio B ice-skating rink.

In the Royal Theater is CATS, the ship’s Broadway musical, telling the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles. Other than the Broadway production, the Royal Theater hosts comedians, game shows, and guest performers during any Oasis of the Seas sailing.

In the AquaTheater is Aqua80, a thrilling show of high diving, acrobatics, and aeralists performing to the best tunes of the 80s.

Over in Studio B, you’ll find Frozen in Time, a dazzling ice-skating performance based on the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen.

Outside of signature production shows on Oasis of the Seas you can find:

• Live acoustic guitar music at the Globe & Atlas Pub
• Live Latin music at Boleros
• Live piano tunes at Schooner Bar
• Live Jazz band at Jazz on 4
• Live bands at Music Hall
• DJs
• Game shows

Simply put, there’s a huge variety of entertainment on Oasis of the Seas, and you’ll find several options to choose from every night of the cruise.

Oasis of the Seas pool deck

During the 2019 amplification of Oasis of the Seas, she received a Caribbean-resort-style pool deck, bringing a tropical feel to the ship’s highest decks.

There are four distinct pool areas on the Oasis of the Seas pool deck. You’ll find three main pools and one Splashaway Bay area for kids, which has small slides, water sprayers, and climbing areas.

In addition, there are three waterslides on the pool deck available to guests of all ages. First are the Perfect Storm waterslides, a pair of twisting and turning racing slides. The other slide, the Supercell, first sends riders twisting and turning downhill before being emptied into a bowl, where they spin several times in a circle before sliding into a hole at the bottom.

Also on the pool deck is unlimited, complimentary soft-serve ice cream, the Lime & Coconut pool bar, private cabanas (must be reserved), and plenty of pool chairs.

Solarium

In addition to the main pool deck, which is accessible to guests of all ages, there is an adults-only Solarium for guests 18 and older.

The Oasis of the Seas Solarium features comfortable seating, several jacuzzis, a shallow wading pool, a bar, and a large outdoor sun deck. The Solarium offers a more relaxing atmosphere compared to the main pool deck, and it’s one of the best places to spend a sea day onboard Oasis of the Seas.

The Solarium Bistro is also located inside the Solarium. This complimentary venue is available to guests of all ages and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Signature activities on Oasis of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas is packed with family-friendly activities. Here are the main signature activities you’ll find onboard, all of which are included in your cruise fare:

• A zipline, soaring 8 decks over the Boardwalk neighborhood
• The Ultimate Abyss, a dry slide from the Sports Deck to the Boardwalk neighborhood
• Oasis Dunes mini golf
• Sports Court for activities like soccer, basketball, and pickleball
• Ping pong tables
• Ice skating in Studio B
• Carousel
• Laser tag

Outside of signature activities, there are even more activities listed each day in the Cruise Compass, such as family scavenger hunts, kids karaoke, family craft time at Adventure Ocean, etc.

There are, however, a few activities not included in your cruise fare on Oasis of the Seas:

• The Apollo 18 escape room, where you can work as a team with other passengers to solve clues and “escape” from the room before time runs out. This activity costs around $20 per guest.
• There are two arcades on Oasis of the Seas, and these come at an extra cost.

Adventure Ocean

Like all Royal Caribbean cruise ships, Oasis of the Seas provides complimentary childcare programming through the ship’s Adventure Ocean program. As a plus, Oasis of the Seas has the updated version of Adventure Ocean, which gives more flexibility in activities and enhanced play spaces for passengers 6 months to 17 years old.

Adventure Ocean on Oasis of the Seas is broken into the following age groups:

• AO Babies: 0-36 months (comes at an hourly cost)
• AO Juniors: 3-5 years
• AO Kids: 6-12 years
• Teen spaces: 13-17 years

Each age group has their own room in Adventure Ocean that features age-appropriate programming and activities.

AO Kids, for example, has its own “Workshop” station where kids can do crafts and science experiments. They also have video games, dodgeball, foosball tables, and other games.

In addition to the structured programming, there’s also a Play Place, which features toys and climbing structures where kids can run around and burn their energy. Kids must be supervised at the Play Place. You’ll also find AO Theater in Adventure Ocean, which plays movies and hosts activities throughout the sailing.

Teens on Oasis of the Seas will love Social 298, an exclusive space just for teenagers. This hangout space features comfortable seating, video games, foosball tables, interactive electronic tablets, and an outdoor patio.

Oasis of the Seas staterooms

On Oasis of the Seas, you’ll find interior, oceanview, and balcony cabins, as well as a wide selection of suites.

Interior cabins are best for those on a budget or those who would prefer to allocate extra money toward add-ons like a drink package, shore excursions, and specialty dining instead of an upgraded cabin.

Although they do not have a window, interior staterooms on Oasis of the Seas are a cozy place to relax and unwind after a busy day onboard.

Related: I tried the best inside cruise ship cabin hacks to see how well they worked

Oceanview and balcony cabins can provide an excellent value, as many guests prefer being able to see the ocean from their stateroom. Plus, having a private balcony can be a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle found elsewhere onboard, so this stateroom category is among the most popular on Oasis of the Seas.

Oasis of the Seas is one of the best Royal Caribbean ships for those planning to book a suite. As an Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas features the Royal Suite Class, which provides an enhanced onboard experience for suite guests.

Benefits of the Royal Suite Class include private suite sun deck access, meals at the suites-only restaurant Coastal Kitchen, a suite concierge, Suite Lounge access, and priority boarding, among others.

Oasis of the Seas itineraries

Oasis of the Seas sails from Fort Lauderdale, Florida from November 2024 to April 2026. She is offering 6- and 8-night Western, Eastern, and Southern Caribbean cruises to a variety of destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay, Labadee, Nassau, St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica, and more.

During the summer 2024 season, Oasis of the Seas sailed to Europe and offered 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises. These sailings started in either Barcelona or Rome and visited Palma de Mallorca, Marseille, Florence/Pisa, and Naples.

Considering a cruise on Oasis of the Seas? Here’s our best advice and tips for planning your cruise vacation:

• 15 reasons to book a cruise on Oasis of the Seas
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

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What is the perfect cruise for a first-timer?

Choosing a cruise ship, length, and itinerary are the first decisions you’ll make when planning a Royal Caribbean cruise. Everything from 3-night cruises to 18-night itineraries are available on Royal Caribbean, and as a first-time cruiser, it can be confusing to know which itinerary to book.

Where should you visit? How many nights should you book? Should you spend time in your embarkation port before the cruise? These are all questions you’ll ask yourself before booking a cruise, and luckily, it’s hard to go wrong with any cruise vacation.

Nonetheless, there are a few itineraries that work perfectly for first-time cruisers. To help you plan your first cruise, here are a few suggestions of cruises to book, from 3-nights to 3 weeks.

Best 3-night cruise: Weekend cruise to the Bahamas

Although we’d usually recommend a weeklong cruise for first-timers, a 3-night cruise can also be a great option. 3-night weekend cruises start on Friday afternoon and end on Monday morning, and they offer a sampling of what a Royal Caribbean cruise has to offer.

The majority of 3-night cruises leave from Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, or Miami. The itineraries visit two ports in the Bahamas: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island, is the highlight of a 3-night cruise. This Bahamian paradise offers white sand beaches, a large pool, a waterpark, exclusive beach club, kids pool areas, and private cabanas.

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

Most importantly, almost all activities and areas of the island are included in your cruise fare (including food) and your Royal Caribbean drink packages work on shore.

What makes this island so great for first-time cruisers is that very little planning is needed beforehand. While you can book a day pass to Thrill Waterpark or the Coco Beach Club, you can just as easily get off the ship with no plan, head to the beach, and have a perfect day.

Nassau

Nassau, located on New Providence Island in the Bahamas, is one of the world’s most popular cruise ports. The island features world-class, picturesque beaches along its perimeter, including Cabbage Beach and Cable Beach.

Related: Best things to do in Nassau on a cruise

Nassau has excellent snorkeling opportunities as well. Popular excursions include visits to Blue Lagoon Island and Pearl Island, which include roundtrip transportation from your cruise ship to the islands’ crystal clear waters.

Many visitors to Nassau spend the day at an all-inclusive resort. ResortForADay.com offers day passes to popular resorts near the port, including RIU Palace, Margaritaville, and Baha Bay Waterpark.

We recommend planning your day in Nassau before your 3-night cruise begins to ensure you select the excursion or activity that best suits your travel preferences.

More Nassau tips & tricks:

• Excursion Focus: Pearl Island Beach Escape in Nassau
• Blue Lagoon Island in Nassau review
• Warwick Paradise Island day pass review

Which ships sail 3-night cruises from Florida?

3-night Bahamas cruises are regularly scheduled every weekend on these three ships:

• Freedom of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas

All three ships belong to Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class and hold around 4,000 passengers. These ships may not be as big as Royal Caribbean’s largest Oasis and Quantum Class ships, but they offer a perfect mix of fun and relaxation onboard.

Waterslides, ice-skating rinks, bungee trampolines, FlowRider surf simulators, an escape room, and mini golf are just some of the activities available on Freedom Class ships. Outside of these thrill-seeking activities, you’ll find pools, an adults-only Solarium, and a selection of diverse restaurants and bars.

Related: Guide to weekend cruises: Tips for taking a 3-night Royal Caribbean cruise

As another plus, both Freedom of the Seas and Independence of the Seas recently received significant refurbishments, adding Royal Caribbean’s most modern venues and activities onboard.

Why 3-night cruises are a nice option for first-time cruisers

3-night cruises can make a nice “sampling” of a cruise vacation. They are perfect for those apprehensive about cruising, as they don’t require booking a long trip, yet still offer the best Royal Caribbean has to offer, including thrilling activities, high-quality entertainment, and diverse dining options.

As another plus, 3-night cruises don’t require taking much time off work or school, especially for those who live near a cruise port. It truly makes the perfect “weekend escape” away from the daily grind back home.

Related: Is it worth it to book a short 3-night cruise?

The downsides of 3-night cruises, however, are that the price per night is typically higher than longer sailings, and that it may not be “worth it” to travel far distances to the cruise port for such a short cruise. If you’re flying from Montana to Florida for a cruise, for example, you’re better off booking a longer sailing.

Best 1-week cruise: 6, 7, or 8-night Caribbean cruise

More often than not, a weeklong cruise is the perfect option for first-timers. Booking an itinerary with 6, 7, or 8 nights onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise allows you to both see a variety of destinations and enjoy ample time on the ship.

Weeklong cruise itineraries are offered around the world, but some of the best itineraries for first-time cruisers leave from Florida ports and visit the Caribbean. While west coast cruisers may prefer a cruise from Seattle or Los Angeles, our top recommendation for others is to sail out of Port Canaveral, Fort Lauderdale, or Miami.

There are two main weeklong cruise itineraries from Florida:

• 7-night Western Caribbean cruise
• 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise

7-night Western Caribbean itineraries visit 4 ports: Roatan, Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Ports may also include Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and Belize.

Related: How to choose the right Caribbean cruise sailing

7-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries typically visit 3 ports, which vary between St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Nassau, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Labadee, San Juan, Puerto Plata, Tortola, and Antigua.

6 and 8-night cruises are also great options for first-time cruisers booking a weeklong sailing. 6-night cruises, while shorter, can still offer a mix of exciting ports with relaxing sea days, and are offered to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Related: Ultimate Mexico Cruise Guide

8-night cruises, on the other hand, often visit Southern Caribbean ports such as Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire. The extra day on 8-night itineraries provides more travel time to reach these islands.

Which ships sail weeklong cruises from Florida?

The majority of Royal Caribbean’s fleet offers weeklong cruises from Florida at one point or another during the year. For first-time cruisers, though, we suggest a cruise on a Quantum or Oasis Class ship.

These two classes of ships are Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest, and offer the features showcased on all Royal Caribbean television commercials. Zip lines, surfing simulators, indoor skydiving, open-air parks, and an AquaTheater are just a few of the mind-blowing amenities found on these ships.

Related: All about Oasis Class cruise ships

Sailing on a Quantum or Oasis Class ship is the best choice for first-time cruisers worried about feeling “bored” on a cruise. There’s very little chance (if any) you’ll ever feel bored on one of these ships, and they offer the widest range of entertainment, dining venues, and cabin options in Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Why weeklong cruises are a nice option for first-time cruisers

The longer itinerary of weeklong sailings provides extra time to travel to ports further from the United States, meaning you can experience a wider range of cultures and scenery than on a shorter sailing. Visiting ports like Cozumel, St. Thomas, and Labadee are not possible on short weekend cruises.

You’ll also have more time to immerse yourself in Royal Caribbean’s onboard experience, from attending nightly entertainment shows to spending sea days at the pool.

3, 4, and 5-night cruises can often feel too short, and many first-time cruisers find that by the time they become familiar with the cruise experience, it’s already time to return home. On a weeklong cruise, you won’t feel pressured to rush from activity to activity, allowing you to fully relax onboard while not “missing out” on anything throughout the week.

Best 3-week trip: Combining a cruise with a land vacation

Most Royal Caribbean cruises are under 10 nights, but if you’re planning a longer vacation, there are ways to extend a cruise with a land-based trip.

If you have two or three weeks to spare, consider booking a longer cruise and combining it with a land vacation. Many of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ports are in some of the world’s most famous cities, so we recommend spending time in your embarkation port (or surrounding areas) before your cruise begins.

You can book a cruise to 12-night Greece, for example, and spend several days in Rome or Athens before the cruise. Likewise, you could sightsee around Hollywood before embarking on a 7-night cruise from Los Angeles.

Here are our top recommendations for turning a Royal Caribbean cruise into a longer 2-3 week vacation.

Caribbean cruises

Conflicted on whether to visit Disney World or book a Royal Caribbean cruise? Why not both?

If you’re cruising from Port Canaveral, spend time in Disney World or Universal Studios before your cruise. Visiting Orlando means popular parks like Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Islands of Adventure are at your fingertips.

Related: How to get to Port Canaveral for your Royal Caribbean cruise

We recommend booking the cruise after your trip to Disney World or Universal Studios. It’s likely you’ll feel exhausted after several days of theme parks, and a cruise vacation will be much appreciated.

Alaska

Alaska cruises are extremely popular; they provide a comfortable way to travel through the state’s scenic Inside Passage. While most itineraries are round trip sailings, some are one-way cruises starting in Vancouver and ending in Seward, Alaska (and vice versa).

Starting a 7-night Alaska cruise in Vancouver means you’ll have a weeklong cruise to 4-5 diverse Alaska ports, such as Juneau, Skagway, Hubbard Glacier, and Sitka.

Related: Alaska cruise guide

On the last day of the cruise, itineraries cross the Gulf of Alaska to Seward, Alaska. While you could return home once the cruise ends, many passengers spend time in Alaska’s interior after the sailing.

One way to extend your time in Alaska is to rent an RV and road trip to Anchorage, Talkeetna, and Denali. Other options include booking a guided Cruise Tour directly through Royal Caribbean or renting a cabin in a coastal Alaska town.

It’s easy to spend 1-2 weeks in Alaska’s interior, which offers a vastly different experience compared to the Inside Passage.

Europe

A wonderful way to visit Europe is on a cruise. How else is it possible to spend Monday in Spain, Tuesday in France, and Wednesday in Italy? Traveling so quickly from place to place is difficult to achieve on a land-based vacation.

Plus, you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics while cruising, making your time in Europe that much more enjoyable.

That being said, there are a few downsides to cruising Europe, the biggest of which is having limited time in ports. It’s difficult to properly visit cities like Rome, Paris, and Barcelona in just 10 hours on a European cruise. Visiting the historic landmarks of these cities can easily require several days.

Related: 30 best European cruise tips

Because of this, many cruisers prefer combining a European cruise with a land-based vacation. You can book a 12-night Holy Land cruise from Rome, for example, and spend a week in Italy before your cruise begins.

Alternatively, you could fly to London a week before a cruise from Southampton, giving you plenty of time to visit sites like Stonehenge, Windsor, and the Roman Baths.

It’s easy to plan several days or weeks of land-based travel before a European cruise to see more of the continent on your vacation.

Why hybrid land and cruise vacations are great for first-time cruisers

Many first-time cruisers are concerned about having limited time in each cruise port. If they have only experienced land-based vacations in the past, only having 8-10 hours in port may feel extremely limited.

And while most first-time cruisers are surprised with just how much they can experience on a single port day, planning a land-based portion of the trip in combination with a cruise offers the perfect blend of travel styles.

The land portion of a trip can be done at a slower pace than a cruise ship port day, and you’ll gain a better understanding of a region’s culture, cuisine, and history. There’s no set schedule to adhere to when traveling on your own, meaning you can spend extra time at a museum, restaurant, or attraction without worrying about missing the ship.

These hybrid vacations work nicely when traveling far distances to reach a cruise port. If you’re flying across the world for a cruise, it makes sense to add a few days to your vacation in order to make the most of the long flight.

Happy weekend! We hope you are enjoying a wonderful and relaxing weekend and managing to stay warm. Now it is time to sit back with a cuppa tea or java, and check out the latest in Royal Caribbean cruise news.

Royal Caribbean had good news to share this week with his affirmation the eMuster drill isn't going anywhere.

Royal Caribbean International's Senior Vice President of Marine Operations, Greg Purdy, confirmed that Royal Caribbean will not revert back its muster drill to the old drill.

The news comes after both Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line went back to the traditional drill.

Royal Caribbean News

• Spotted: Royal Caribbean texts passengers with pre-cruise cabin requests
• Royal Caribbean takes Pickleball to the high seas
• When is the Best Time to Cruise?
• 10 things Royal Caribbean got right with Wonder of the Seas
• 10 things Royal Caribbean got right with Symphony of the Seas
• Guide to cruising with a birth certificate
• Can you get an all-inclusive Alaska cruise?

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 485th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, where we discuss some of the top debated Royal Caribbean changes of the last few months.

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

New RCB Video: The worst cruise ship cabins to avoid booking!

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — The worst cruise ship cabins to avoid booking! — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

15 things I look forward to every time I go on a cruise ship

There are just some things I love to do every single time I cruise.

Some cruisers can’t wait to watch shows each evening whereas others look forward to elegant dinners and tranquil evenings on their balcony more than anything else.

These are the top 15 things I look forward to every time I go on a cruise ship. 

I packed for a 7-night cruise with just a carry-on

How difficult is it to pack for a weeklong cruise with just a carry-on bag?

It's certainly possible, but you have to be strategic with how you choose the things to bring.

Here's how I packed for my 7-night Caribbean cruise with only a carry-on suitcase. 

After 100 cruises, here are 8 ways my cruising style has changed

After taking 100 sailings, Marcy's approach to a cruise has changed a bit.

From cruising more frequently to booking better cabins, she shares what's different now compared to her early days of sailing.

Here are the top ways Marcy's cruising style has changed after 100 sailings.

Symphony of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest cruise ships in the fleet. Offering large open decks, plenty of things to do onboard, and lots of dining choices, its hard not to love everything Symphony of the Seas has to offer.

Currently the second largest ship at sea (a title held for close to four years until Wonder of the Seas entered service in 2022), there's a lot to love about the Symphony of the Seas.

As the fourth Oasis Class ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, you can expect to find many fan-favorites, including the zip line, two FlowRiders, AquaTheater shows, and Rising Tide Bar. 

The ship is still relatively new, as it entered service in 2018. It is 1,188 feet long and weights a total of 228,081 gross tons (which is more than the weight of 17,000 African elephants)! 

Here's what Royal Caribbean did right with the Symphony of the Seas and what you can look forward to on your next sailing.

1. Refreshed Solarium 

The Solarium onboard the Symphony of the Seas is an adults-only retreat located at the forward of the ship on deck 15. It features a one-of-a-kind art installation that's comprised of thousands of dichroic acrylic elements. At night, it's lit up with a combination of pinks, blues, and greens. 

Plus, they brought back the Solarium pool after receiving feedback on its removal on the Harmony of the Seas.

Additionally, the Solarium Bistro received a major update compared to older Oasis Class ships. The venue is two-stories, with the top half home to Hooked Seafood. 

2. New specialty dining options 

The Symphony of the Seas was the first Oasis Class ship to replace Sabor on the Boardwalk with Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade. Unlike other specialty dining restaurants, Playmakers is only offered a la carte. You can purchase a side of fries for only $3, while their infamous "Touchdown Sundae" runs at $12 (but it is served in a collectable Playmakers football helmet bowl!).

Inside, you’ll find 31 big-screen televisions! 

If you’ve sailed on the Harmony of the Seas, you’ll notice that this venue replaced the Starbucks on the Boardwalk. The kiosk returned to the Royal Promenade.

Playmakers can also be found on the Wonder of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas after her refurbishment in 2019. 

Symphony was also the first ship in the fleet to receive Hooked Seafood, which serves up fresh New England-style seafood. If you're a fan of oysters, you'll appreciate how you can try oysters three different ways: Rockefeller style, with leeks and white wine, or with brie and champagne. 

Onboard pricing is $24.99 per adult for lunch and $54.99 per adult for dinner. Children cost $12.99 each. 

Hooked is also available on the Navigator of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas. 

3. Sugar Beach

Another new addition to this Oasis Class ship's Boardwalk's was Sugar Beach, and it has now become a staple on many ships within the fleet. 

Inside, you can find more than 200 different candies. Guests can also purchase ice cream here and create their own concoction by adding whatever toppings they desire. 

Note that it is not a complimentary venue. 

4. "Hidden" piano staircase

Found on deck 15 leading up the to Windjammer Marketplace on deck 16, the piano staircase plays musical notes when stepped on, and guests can create their own tune by walking up and down them! It's entertaining for all ages. 

5. Entertainment options 

Royal Caribbean is known for their complimentary onboard entertainment that make guests wonder "how am I on a cruise ship?". 

Guests will surely ponder that after watching an adaptation of the broadway musical Hairspray, which features many songs from the original production, as well as jaw-dropping set designs. 

1977, the ice skating show onboard, begins with light-emitting drones before taking viewers on a journey through time to save Her Majesty's Crown Jewels. 

Passengers onboard any Oasis Class ship should make sure that they see an AquaTheatre show, as divers plunge into the deepest pool at sea from up to 30 feet. The show onboard the Symphony of the Seas is HiRO and combines technology, futuristic choreography, unexpected stunts, and acrobatics. 

Finally, Flight: Dare to Dream is a Royal Caribbean Productions original that focuses on chronicling humanity's fascination with flying. It is one of the most ambitious stage productions to date, as the design was informed by Clayton C. Anderson, an Astronaut who lived in space for 167 days and completed 38 hours and 28 minutes over six spacewalks in two missions. 

6. Central Park's abundance of plants

Did you know that there are about 20,700 lush tropical plants in Symphony of the Seas' Central Park neighborhood? In comparison, Harmony of the Seas only has 12,000. 

It takes a special and intricate system of irrigation, fertilization, lighting, and drainage to help sustain such a unique park.

No wonder there's a landscape specialist who works with a team of three horticulturalists onboard! 

Read more: the flourishing garden on Symphony of the Seas has over 20,000 plants, and it's my favorite spot onboard

7. Return of Ultimate Abyss and Perfect Storm

Both the Ultimate Abyss and Perfect Storm can be found onboard the Symphony of the Seas. 

The Ultimate Abyss debuted on the Harmony of the Seas in 2016, while the Perfect Storm waterslides launched after the Liberty of the Seas' dry dock in 2016.

These added thrills immediately became beloved by adventurous sailors. 

From the aft of deck 15, guests can plunge down ten stories on the Ultimate Abyss, one of the tallest slides at sea, and end up on the Boardwalk. Note that it has a minimum height of 44 inches. 

The Perfect Storm features two twisting slides called Cyclone and Typhoon. The pair of slides let passengers race against each other to the bottom. Supercell, the third waterslide, sends riders down a few turns before released into a bowl slide and ends with a plunge pool. 

All slides descend three decks and jet over the Central Park neighborhood that's ten decks below!

8. Nicely appointment accommodations 

Oasis Class staterooms received a major upgrade on the Harmony of the Seas, and Royal Caribbean kept the new design on the Symphony of the Seas. 

There are five main categories of staterooms onboard: studio, interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite. There is a stateroom for cruisers of all budgets, party sizes, and preferences.

Basic amenities in the staterooms include mini-bars (coolers, not refrigerators), safes, phones, and flat-screen televisions. In the bathroom, guests will find cups that can be replaced daily, towels, hand soap, and body wash. 

There are also at least three plugs, as well as two USB outlets, so you never have to worry about not being able to charge your devices!

9. First-ever Ultimate Family Suite

Heads were turned when Royal Caribbean launched the Ultimate Family Suite onboard the Symphony of the Seas in 2018. 

It offers a family experience unlike any other, and you can think of it like a kid's paradise, complete with a personal in-suite slide, video gaming room, life-sized Connect Four, and air hockey table.

While the kids play hard, the adults can relax hard in the Jacuzzi located on the balcony that overlooks the Sports Deck. Plus, they won't have to worry about planning a thing, as the suite comes with a dedicated Royal Genie who takes care of coordinating daily activities and one-of-a-kid experiences.

There is only one of these suites available onboard and only three in the entire world, with the other two on the Wonder of the Seas and Spectrum of the Seas. Due to their exclusively, they tend to book up very quickly as soon as new itineraries are released. 

10. Running track alcoves 

Located on deck five in the forward of the ship, guests can find two alcoves off the side of the track. Here you can find shuffleboard, comfortable seating, play ping pong, and, of course, get some phenomenal ocean views!

You'll rarely find these alcoves busy, so it's a great place to escape outdoors if you're hoping to avoid crowds. 

Don't worry, the aft seating on the track is still available for those wishing to soak in some of those sea day wake views. 

Many first-time cruisers want to know whether or not you can cruise with a birth certificate in lieu of a passport, but the answer depends on a few key factors. And, just because you can cruise with a birth certificate doesn’t necessarily mean you should.

Whether or not you can cruise with a birth certificate instead of a passport depends on your citizenship status and cruise itinerary. Sailings from the U.S. permit U.S. citizens to show a birth certificate as proof of citizenship, but additional documentation is required for those over 16 years old.

If you’re considering cruising with a birth certificate instead of a passport, be sure to read this guide thoroughly to understand the rules before embarkation day.

Who can cruise with a birth certificate, and on which sailings is this allowed?

Cruising with a birth certificate is permitted for U.S. citizens, but only in specific cases. The only time U.S. citizens can cruise with a birth certificate (and ID) as their official identification is on sailings departing from U.S. homeports. These must be roundtrip sailings starting and ending in the U.S.

U.S. homeports include:

• Cape Liberty
• Miami
• Fort Lauderdale
• Port Canaveral
• Los Angeles
• Seattle
• Galveston
• Boston
• San Juan

For any cruises departing from outside the U.S. (Canada, Italy, Australia, etc.), U.S. citizens must provide a passport valid at least 6 months after the cruise ends.

Which type of birth certificate is allowed?

Only official U.S. state-issued birth certificates are accepted. Note that state-issued birth certificates are different from hospital birth certificates (baby feet birth certificates), and are issued directly from your state’s vital records office.

To obtain a state-issued birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or territory in which you were born, and follow the instructions for requesting a copy and paying any applicable fees.

Do I need other documentation in addition to my birth certificate?

Guests 16 and older who are providing a birth certificate as their citizenship document before a cruise must also provide a valid driver’s license or government-issued picture ID.

If your name has changed since the birth certificate was issued, you must also provide a supporting document (marriage license, legal name change document, etc.) that provides proof of the name change.

Remember that both documents must match the name provided on your cruise reservation.

What documentation is required when cruising with minors?

While guests 16 and above must provide a state-issued ID in addition to their birth certificate, minors under 16 may cruise with just a birth certificate. This is, of course, only valid on cruises departing from a U.S. homeport (otherwise a passport is required).

If the name of the parent and minor child do not match, however, the names of the parent and child must be linked through legal documentation.

If an adult is traveling with a minor who is not the parent or legal guardian of the child, they must present:

• A passport or visa (when required) OR
• The child’s state-issued birth certificate AND
• A notarized letter signed by one of the child’s parents stating that the adult has permission to take the child on a cruise

A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or Certificate of Naturalization are also permitted in lieu of a passport or birth certificate on sailings from U.S. homeports.

Are there any exceptions?

If you sail from a U.S. homeport but are on a cruise visiting Colombia, all passengers–regardless of citizenship status–must provide a passport valid for at least 6 months after the cruise’s return date. No other travel documents will be accepted.

Puerto Rican citizens should note that a birth certificate issued before July 1, 2010, is not a valid proof of citizenship. Therefore, it’s required to obtain a renewed birth certificate. These renewed documents can be ordered through vitalcheck.com.

Permanent residents of the United States can provide a United States Permanent Resident Card, but a passport from their home country is recommended.

Can citizens of other countries cruise with a birth certificate in lieu of a passport?

Citizens of other countries sailing on a Royal Caribbean cruise from the U.S. must provide a valid passport from their home country. The only exception to this is with U.S. permanent residents, although bringing a passport is still advised.

Should you cruise with a birth certificate?

We recommend cruising with a passport instead of a birth certificate, even when a birth certificate is permitted as your proof of citizenship documentation.

Traveling to a foreign country without a passport puts you at risk for a variety of headache-inducing scenarios should you miss the cruise ship, require emergency transportation back to the US, etc.

You cannot board a flight from a foreign country back to the United States without a passport. If you miss the ship in Cozumel, for example, you’ll have to travel to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and obtain a replacement passport.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Getting stranded in a foreign country without a passport is not how you want to spend your vacation. You never know when an unexpected scenario may occur, so it’s better to be prepared and have a passport handy.

In addition, having a passport makes disembarking the ship easier once the cruise is over, as there’s a separate line for those with U.S. passports versus those traveling with state-issued birth certificates and other forms of identification.

Simply put, it’s always better to have a passport than to travel with just a birth certificate, and it opens up a wide selection of cruise itineraries and international travel choices for the future.

You can view the full list of Royal Caribbean’s required documentation to board here.

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