Royal Caribbean Blog

Happy weekend! I hope Spring is starting to arrive where you live.  Regardless of the weather, it is time to sit back, relax, and check out the latest in Royal Caribbean news!

Royal Caribbean extended its health protocols for North American cruise ships through the end of June 2022.

There's been no change to the protocols that had been in effect prior to the extension, including vaccine and pre-cruise testing requirements.

Royal Caribbean periodically posts protocols for a few weeks at a time in order, although they are subject to change at any time.

Royal Caribbean also released health protocols this week for Italy & Spain Mediterranean cruises.

Royal Caribbean News

• Voyager of the Seas returns to service for first time in two years
• Royal Caribbean will still refund you if you test positive for Covid right before your cruise
• Royal Caribbean updates: Mariner cancellations, Johnny Rockets & more
• Which size ship for a Mediterranean cruise
• When should I book my Alaska shore excursion?
• 15 countries you didn't know you could cruise to on Royal Caribbean
• Top 10 things to do in Sitka, Alaska
• Books to pack in your beach bag

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 450th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, which has a review of Matt's cruise on Oasis of the Seas.

Matt went on a 3-night cruise aboard Oasis of the Seas and shares his experience.

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: What food is included with your Royal Caribbean cruise?

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — What food is included with your Royal Caribbean cruise? — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

How do Royal Caribbean and MGM Resorts shared benefits work?

Did you know MGM Resorts will match your loyalty in Royal Caribbean's Crown and Anchor Society?

For no extra cost, you can link your Crown & Anchor level and immediately take advantage of MGM benefits including resort fee waivers, discounts on entertainment, and complimentary hotel upgrades.

We tried out the loyalty match to see how beneficial this perk really is.

6 Royal Caribbean trademarks that sound like they could be really cool things

Of all the trademarks that Royal Caribbean filed recently, there are a few that sound very intriguing.

While we wont know what Royal Caribbean has up their sleeve until they announce something, perhaps trademark filings will give us a clue of what to expect.

Royal Caribbean introduces new payment program for anyone that books with a travel agent

A  new FlexPlay option allows guests to set up automatic payments before the final payment date.

With the new FlexPay program, this can be scheduled and set up in advance.

It’s well known that a Royal Caribbean cruise can take you to amazing destinations around the world. Most cruisers know they can visit destinations like the Bahamas, Mexico, St. Maarten, Alaska, Italy, and Spain while on a cruise, but did you know that Royal Caribbean offers cruises to over 60 different countries?

Cruising to lesser-known ports offers the chance to see regions and cultures of the world you’ve only dreamed of, whether the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, street markets of Thailand, or wildlife of Greenland. 

Let’s take a look at 15 countries (or territories) you didn’t know you could cruise to on Royal Caribbean, but we’re warning you now: this post will give you major wanderlust.

Malaysia

Royal Caribbean cruises leaving from Singapore often visit the country of Malaysia, with port stops in Penang and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang). Cruising to Malaysia brings the chance to discover a blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultures, traditions, and religions.

Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s capital city, with a metropolitan population of nearly 8 million people. Popular attractions in Kuala Lumpur include the Petronas Twin Towers, shopping centers, the Thean Hou Temple, the Little India neighborhood, and Merdeka (Independence) Square.

Visiting the Batu Caves is among the most popular attractions while cruising to Malaysia, though. A massive, colorful staircase leads visitors to the limestone Batu caves, a sacred pilgrimage site for Tamil Hindus. In front of the staircase is a 146-foot statue of Lord Murugan, a god of the Tamil people of southern India.

The other popular port in Malaysia, Penang, has had its culture influenced by China, India, Britain, and the Middle East due to its history as a regional trading center. Cruises dock near George Town, the capital city of the island state of Penang.

Visiting George Town brings the opportunity to view Chinese temples, Hindu Temples, mosques, churches, street markets, gardens, and museums. Traveling by trishaw (a 3-wheel pedicab) is a fun way to get around George Town.

Eating Malaysian cuisine is another way to experience the diverse blend of cultures found in Malaysia, with Chinese, Indian, Malay, and Thai culinary influences found in local dishes. From curried noodles to Chinese dumplings and pork soup, your taste buds are sure to be impressed in Malaysia.

Thailand

If you’re interested in wandering through busy markets, visiting Buddhist temples, and tasting one of the most beloved cuisines in the world, consider booking a Royal Caribbean cruise that visits Thailand.

Some itineraries visit Bangkok, and often include an overnight stay, allowing visitors more time to explore Thailand’s bustling capital city. Popular sites to visit in Bangkok include the Grand Palace, Wat Arun (Buddhist temple), and floating market.

Phuket is another common port stop in Thailand, bringing visitors closer to Thailand’s famous beaches, including the tropical paradise of Koh Phi Phi island. From island hopping to cooking classes and visits to the elephant sanctuary, Phuket offers a wide range of activities for all interests.

Must-try foods in Thailand include tom sam (papaya salad), chicken or pork grilled meat skewers, fresh spring rolls, and fried noodles such as pad thai and pad see ew. Be prepared for some spice and an abundance of flavor in every bite.

Vietnam

Cruises to Vietnam are often on the same itinerary as cruises to Thailand, but the two countries have many differences. Whereas Thailand drives on the left side of the road and uses the Thai alphabet, Vietnam is on the right side of the road and uses the Roman alphabet. In addition, French-influence can be found in Vietnam, whether in local cuisine, architecture, or cafe culture.

Royal Caribbean cruises to Vietnam often visit the ports of Hue/Danang (Chan May), Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Hue and Da Nang are in Central Vietnam and are common spots to visit when the cruise docks in Chan May port. One of the most popular activities for a day in Central Vietnam is an excursion to the ancient town Hoi An, a quaint city offering a blend of cultures with Chinese architecture, Japanese pagoda, Vietnamese culture, and canals. 

Nha Trang is a beach destination offering tropical, white sand beaches and beach resorts. Heading into the countryside is another highlight to experience while in Nha Trang, with shore excursions taking guests on a bicycle ride past small villages and farms.

Ho Chi Minh City offers an urban experience for visitors, with the opportunity to discover French colonial buildings, Buddhist temples, and bustling streets. Shopping at local markets and tasting Vietnamese cuisine is a must while in Ho Chi Minh, with a warm bowl of pho and crispy banh mi sandwich some of the most popular foods to try.

Guests interested in history may enjoy the “Cu Chi Countryside Biking” tour, which strolls through small agricultural villages and includes a stop to the Cu Chi tunnels, a network of underground tunnels used in wars against the French and American forces.

Additionally, depending on the itinerary, a 2-day shore excursion may be offered to visit the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, a UNESCO world heritage site. While those opting to visit Angkor Wat will not experience Vietnam, they are sure to be amazed with the plethora of temples to explore in Cambodia.

Japan

Japan is a bucket-list destination for many people, with the country’s dramatic contrast between historic cultures and modern technology a draw for around 30 million tourists per year.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to Japan, with port stops common in Kyoto (Osaka), Okinawa (Naha), Akita, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Tokyo (Yokohama). Cruises to Japan generally depart from China on Spectrum of the Seas.

Cruising to Japan offers an array of shore excursion opportunities, from exploring Tokyo’s bustling streets to admiring the scenery of Mt. Fuji and visiting shrines and temples. It goes without saying that tasting local cuisine is a must while in Japan, whether udon noodles, sushi, Wagyu beef, or matcha ice cream.

While cruises to Japan have not yet returned following the shutdown of the cruise industry in 2020, they are expected to return once cruises can restart from China.

Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a nation comprising 83 islands in the South Pacific, home to around 320,000 people. The majority of the population lives in rural areas, and over 100 languages are spoken throughout the archipelago.

Royal Caribbean cruises often visit Vanuatu on South Pacific cruises departing from Australia or on transpacific cruises. Popular port stops in Vanuatu include Mystery Island and Port Vila.

Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu, offering visitors the opportunity to discover Vanuatu’s culture through markets and food, or enjoy the city’s nearby nature through waterfalls, rainforest hikes, and beaches.

Mystery Island is a secluded, uninhabited island, making for a relaxing beach day. Visitors to Mystery Island can enjoy excellent snorkeling, standup paddling, and taste local cuisine, cooked by the residents of nearby Aneityum island.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at Lelepa will be located on Vanuatu’s Lelepa island, with the island’s amenities and activities designed to showcase the diversity and ecological beauty of Vanuatu.

New Caledonia (French overseas territory)

New Caledonia is a French overseas territory and archipelago in the South Pacific, home to around 270,000 people. A melting pot of Kanak Melanesian, French, Polynesian, and Asian cultures, New Caledonia offers a unique cultural experience and picturesque landscapes.

Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia, is a popular destination for Royal Caribbean cruises to the South Pacific. Located on the largest island of Grande Terre, visitors to Noumea can explore nearby beaches, local markets, and French and Melanesian cuisine.

Many itineraries also visit the Loyalty Islands, an archipelago and administrative subdivision of New Caledonia, with port stops on Lifou Island and Maré Island. In addition, some itineraries visit Isle of Pines, known as the “Jewel of the Pacific” for its raw, beautiful landscape and turquoise waters. Visitors to New Caledonia can expect to find gorgeous, clear water, well-preserved coral reefs, and insights into local Melanesian culture.

Don’t forget to try bougna, a native dish of crab and yams cooked in a banana leaf, and brochettes, which are skewers of grilled chicken.

Fiji

Fiji is an island nation archipelago located in the South Pacific, home to over 300 islands and nearly 900,000 people. Visiting Fiji is possible on a Royal Caribbean South Pacific itinerary departing from Australia, with port stops including Suva and Lautoka.

Suva is the most populous city in Fiji, where visitors can explore the city’s urban culture or head out into nature to discover waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, and what life is like in the Fijian countryside.

Royal Caribbean cruises also visit Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. Those looking for a beach day will find plenty of lovely beaches near Lautoka and on surrounding islands, whereas visitors looking to get more active can go ziplining, soak in thermal mud pools, kayak, and explore the Sleeping Giant mountain range.

Kava is the beverage to try while in Fiji. Enjoyed throughout the South Pacific, Kava is a mild sedative drink made from mixing water with the powdered root of pepper kava plants, which results in feeling calm and relaxed. Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions that include kava ceremonies for those looking to try the drink and learn more about its history and significance.

If you’re hungry, be sure to try kokoda, a Pacific-style ceviche made with mahi-mahi, coconut cream, lime juice, and chilies.

French Polynesia

Spread across 118 small islands and atolls, the beauty of French Polynesia can be discovered while on a Royal Caribbean cruise. As French Polynesia is located further into the Pacific from Australia compared to New Caledonia and Fiji, visits to the region are generally only found on transpacific cruises.

Common port stops to French Polynesia on transpacific cruises include Raiatea, Moorea, and Papeete, Tahiti. Visitors will want to explore the lush landscapes of French Polynesia, from cascading waterfalls to mountains, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches.

Beach days are also sure to impress guests in French Polynesia, whether on a catamaran ride, snorkeling, or sunbathing in the warm South Pacific sun.

Don’t forget to head outdoors to watch as your ship sails into the islands each day, as the jagged mountain peaks rising dramatically from the ocean are sure to be a beautiful sight to view from onboard.

Nicaragua

Cruises to Nicaragua are not very common, as the country is usually only visited on repositioning Panama Canal cruises. Royal Caribbean ships tender in the Pacific coastal town of San Juan del Sur.

What was once a small fishing village is now a popular destination for tourists in Nicaragua, offering beaches, shopping, and world-class surfing. Despite becoming more popular in recent years, San Juan del Sur maintains its charm and is easy to explore on foot.

Most visitors to San Juan del Sur will spend the day at the beach or walking through town. Passengers hoping to get active may enjoy hiking to Cristo de la Misericordia, one of the largest statues of Jesus in the world, which overlooks the coast and surrounding mountains of San Juan del Sur..

Shore excursions may also be offered to nearby destinations in Nicaragua, such as the colorful city of Grenada or Lake Nicaragua, which boasts incredible views of the volcanic peaks on Ometepe Island.

For food and drink, stop at a local restaurant for fresh jugos (juices), tostones (plantains), and gallo pinto (rice and beans). Nicaraguan cuisine is flavorful, affordable, and filling, so enjoying lunch in port is a must-do activity while in San Juan del Sur.

Belgium

Royal Caribbean cruises to Belgium are infrequent, usually only found on transatlantic or longer cruises departing from Southampton. Cruise ships dock in the port of Zeebrugge, which is around 30 minutes from Bruges, where most visitors will spend their day in Belgium.

Bruges is a city with medieval history and architecture, once the center of trade in northwestern Europe. Today the city is quaint and charming, allowing visitors to stroll along canals, historic squares, and parks.

Enjoying down time in cafes and restaurants is a nice way to spend the day in Bruges, whether tasting Belgian beer, fries, waffles, or the country’s famous chocolate.

Iceland

Home to some of the most unique landscapes in the world, Iceland is a must-see destination that can be visited on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Port stops in Iceland include Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, and Seydisfjordur.

Cruising to Iceland offers visitors the chance to experience the country’s geological landscape, whether soaking in hot springs, viewing erupting geysers, and hiking volcanoes. Visiting glaciers and volcanoes is possible in one day in Iceland!

Cultural insights can be enjoyed too, as guests can learn more about Iceland’s melting pot of Scandinavian, Viking, and even Celtic cultures.

As cruises to Iceland will likely be during the summer months, plenty of daylight is to be expected, allowing visitors to maximize their time exploring the country. Some cruises include overnight stays at certain Icelandic ports, as well, for those who would like to see as much of Iceland as possible.

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

Greenland

Greenland, an autonomous dependent territory of Denmark, is possible to visit on a Royal Caribbean cruise, although it is not a commonly offered itinerary, so be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to visit while you can!

Cruises to Greenland often visit Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, and Qaqortoq. While Nuuk and Qaqortoq are considered large towns by Greenland’s standards, they only have populations of 17,635 and 3,050 people!

Visitors to Greenland can expect to find rugged landscapes, rural towns and villages, hot springs, insights into Nordic and Inuit culture, and meat and seafood-focused cuisine. Wildlife viewing opportunities are in abundance in Greenland, too, from minke, fin, and blue whales to seals and polar bears.

Greenland itineraries may also include a visit to Prins Christian Sund, a fjord in southern Greenland where guests can be awe-inspired by glaciers, steep mountain peaks, waterfalls, and wildlife. While at Prins Christian Sound, cruisers can walk around the tiny settlement of Aappilattoq, home to just 100 residents.

Turkey

Offering a blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures is the country of Turkey, another country that can be visited while on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Select Greek Isles, Mediterranean, or Holy Land cruises include a port stop in Turkey.

The most common port stop in Turkey is Kusadasi, a resort town located on Turkey’s Aegean shore. Most visitors to Kusadasi plan to visit Ephesus, an ancient city founded in the 10th century BC. Considered one of the best preserved archaeological sites in the world, visitors to Ephesus can enjoy well-maintained streets and buildings of the Roman Empire.

While less common, some cruise itineraries will offer a stop in Istanbul, Turkey. At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul offers visitors a unique chance to discover how cultures, religions, and cuisines coexist in a city of over 15 million people.

Famous attractions to visit in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar. Don’t forget to try Turkish cuisine, with foods such as doner kebab, pide, and borek popular among locals.

Egypt

Cruisers looking to visit the only remaining wonder of the ancient world are in luck, as Royal Caribbean offers cruises to Egypt. Common ports to visit on a cruise to Egypt are Alexandria and Port Said.

Port stops in Egypt are long, with ships often docked from 7 or 8AM to 10PM. This allows passengers enough time to travel to and from Cairo, visiting famous sites including the Pyramids of Giza, Sphinx, and the Saqqara Necropolis.

Alternatively, guests can choose to stay in the coastal cities of Alexandria and Port Said, admiring old architecture, learning about the Suez Canal, and discovering Egypt’s culture.

Be sure to taste local Egyptian cuisine during your day in port, such as falafel and koshari, and don’t forget to order a cup of tea!

Montenegro

Montenegro is a small Balkan country with a population of just 622,000 people along the Adriatic, and Royal Caribbean ships often visit the historic port of Kotor.

Kotor is a small, compact town with winding cobblestone streets and historic squares. Wandering through the streets of Kotor’s Old Town is a must while visiting Montenegro, as the town is filled with historic churches, markets, restaurants, and picturesque waterfront views.

If you are hoping to travel outside Kotor and experience more of Montenegro, consider a shore excursion that travels inland, visiting small villages such as Njeguši, where you can learn more about life and culture in Montenegro.

Don’t forget to watch your ship sail into the Bay of Kotor, which navigates through Europe’s southernmost “fjord”. While technically a river canyon and not a fjord, the dramatic cliffs alongside a narrow section of the Mediterranean provide visitors with unbelievable views when sailing to and from Kotor.

The next batch of health protocols for Royal Caribbean's North American cruises has been released.

Royal Caribbean announced health & safety protocols for North America departures through June 30, 2022. 

As always, these protocols are subject to change at anytime.

The newly released protocols are identical to the existing protocols they replaced, with no noticeable differences.

You can also refer to the health protocols for Alaska cruises, which differ slightly.

Vaccines

All guests 12 years and older must be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before sailing.

Guests under the age of 12 years, who are considered fully vaccinated, should follow the guidance for vaccinated guests below.

Testing

Pre-Cruise

All guests 2 years and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result.

Vaccinated guests ages 12 years and over: PCR or antigen test must be taken no more than 2 days prior to sailing.

Unvaccinated children ages 2 to 11 years: PCR test must be taken no more than 3 days prior to sailing — but not on boarding day. Antigen tests are not accepted for unvaccinated guests.

No testing required for guests under age 2.

Pre-cruise testing costs and scheduling are the guest's responsibility.  

Embarkation Day

Unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11 years will take a complimentary test for COVID-19 during check-in. 

Onboard

For sailings that are 5 nights or longer, unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11 years will take a complimentary antigen test prior to debark. 

Masks

Masks are optional for fully vaccinated guests.

Unvaccinated children are expected to continue wearing masks indoors and in crowded settings.

Masks are required for all children 2 years and older while at the Adventure Ocean youth program.

Guests under 2 years do not have to wear a mask at any time.

Shore Excursions

All guests, regardless of vaccination status, may visit most ports freely or book a shore excursion.

A few ports still require an excursion to go ashore, regardless of vaccination status. 

Full protocols

Planning an Alaska cruise usually involves booking shore excursions in the state’s magnificent destinations, whether to go whale watching, visit a glacier, or take a train into the mountains, but when is the best time to book an Alaska shore excursion?

Let’s dive into our best tips for booking shore excursions on an Alaska cruise that will help ensure you pay the least amount of money and have the widest variety of tours to choose from.

Book early, reprice later

It’s recommended to book shore excursions as soon as possible after booking an Alaska cruise. This helps ensure the tour you want to book does not sell out and that you pay the lowest price possible for a shore excursion when booking through Royal Caribbean.

Waiting for the price to go down on a shore excursion is never the best idea, as you are always able to cancel a shore excursion and immediately rebook it on the Cruise Planner if you see a lower price.

For example, if you book a whale watching tour for $179.99 and it is later priced at $149.99, you can cancel and rebook without penalty, saving $30 in the process.

Additionally, tours can and do sell out on occasion. Royal Caribbean may sometimes add more tour options or spots to an excursion, but this is not guaranteed. Therefore, if you find something you really want to do while on an Alaska cruise, be sure to book the tour right away.

In fact, some excursions may have various time slots to choose from, with excursions offered in the morning or afternoon. Booking early ensures you can select the time slot that works best with your schedule.

Related: Best things to do on an Alaska cruise

Research excursions in advance

Having an idea of what types of activities and tours are available in each Alaska cruise port is helpful to know before you book your cruise. Not only can this influence your itinerary choice, but it cuts down on research time after booking the cruise, meaning you can save time and book excursions while they are still available.

Juneau, for example, offers some of the best whale watching opportunities on an Alaska cruise whereas Canada’s Yukon territory can be visited on a cruise to Skagway. Ketchikan offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and cultural activities whereas Sitka excursions can provide insights into Russian Alaska and the town’s history.

Deciding which shore excursion to book ultimately depends on your budget and interests. A full-day hike with 3,000 feet of elevation gain can sound like a dream for some passengers and a nightmare for others! Likewise, those prone to seasickness will want to research tours that do not involve small boats, and passengers with kids will want to find the best kid-friendly excursions available.

What to do in Alaska cruise ports:

• Top 10 things to do in Juneau
• Top 10 things to do in Ketchikan
• Top 10 things to do in Skagway
• Top 10 things to do in Sitka

Related: Alaska cruise whale watching guide & tips

Booking excursions onboard

Every Royal Caribbean ship has an area onboard where guests can inquire and book shore excursions once the cruise begins. On some ships this is a standalone venue whereas on other ships it is located at Guest Services.

We don’t recommend waiting to book excursions once onboard because the price may be higher than booking an excursion prior to your cruise. While there is the advantage of being able to speak directly with Shore Excursions staff about tour options, you will be limited to what excursions still have spots available.

If you already have an excursion booked but have questions or concerns about the tour, though, you can speak to the Shore Excursions staff onboard to get any questions answered or find a different excursion.

Related: Cruising to Alaska: What I did right and wrong

Why are there no excursions available?

If you booked your cruise far enough in advance, excursions and other cruise add-ons may not yet be available in the Cruise Planner. Check periodically in the time leading up to your cruise to see if excursions are listed. Once you see them listed and know what excursion to book, book right away to ensure you get a spot and a good price.

Royal Caribbean may add additional excursions to the Cruise Planner, so check periodically to see if there are any new, exciting excursions available that you want to book.

Can I cancel my Alaska shore excursion?

According to Royal Caribbean’s tour cancellation policy, excursions can be modified or cancelled up to 48 hours prior to port arrival without any penalty. However, tours involving flights, trains, special events, overnight stays, hotel stays, and Private Journeys must be cancelled at least 30 days prior to your sailing date. Cancellation penalties may apply if guests do not adhere to these rules.

If you are booking an excursion through an independent provider, check with the tour operator for cancellation information and policies.

Another Royal Caribbean cruise ship has returned to service after being shutdown due to the pandemic.

Royal Caribbean's Voyager of the Seas will set sail on Friday after a two-year operational pause.

Voyager of the Seas will begin welcoming guests in Barcelona, Spain, and then depart for a cruise itinerary in Northern Europe. The itinerary will consist of a 9-night voyage that will feature five stops, including that of Cartagena, Gibraltar, Lisbon, and Amsterdam.

Voyager will conclude the sailing in Copenhagen, Denmark. Currently, Voyager of the Seas is scheduled to remain in Northern Europe for the remainder of the summer cruise season.

Royal Caribbean already made one change to Voyager's sailings when the cruise line announced scheduled visits to Russia would be skipped due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Instead of visiting Russia, some of Voyager of the Seas' sailings will go to Germany and Poland.

Some of the ship’s voyages this summer will sail to regions such as the Baltic Sea and Scandinavia. These summer cruise itineraries aboard Voyager of the Seas will largely consist of 7 to 11-night cruises. Many of these itineraries will visit countries such as Sweden, Estonia, Denmar, Finland, Germany, Poland, and Norway.

After the summer season, Voyager of the Seas will cross over the Atlantic Ocean in September. The ship will arrive in Boston, and will set sail for a variety of ports such as Canada and additional locations within New England.

In November 2022, Voyager of the Seas will begin offering sailings to the Caribbean, from Puerto Rico, during the winter season. 

Royal Caribbean ships left to restart

With Voyager of the Seas back in service again, that leaves just two other Royal Caribbean ships to restart operations.

Radiance of the Seas is preparing to restart operations from Vancouver when she begins her Alaska cruise season.  Radiance will sail a Pacific Coast cruise just before beginning service from Vancouver on April 29, 2022.

Rhapsody of the Seas will restart when she sails from Rome on May 23, 2022 to offer 7-night Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries.

Serenade of the Seas had already restarted cruises, but was sidelined during the Omicron wave.  She also took extra time off to undergo a dry dock.  Serenade will join Radiance for the start of the Alaska cruises.

There's always things happening with Royal Caribbean, so here's a quick summary of a few changes this week that I've summed up in a new post.

This week there's been a possible change in price for one specialty restaurant, new cancellations and a construction update to share.

If you ever have a news tip, feel free to email it to [email protected] for possible inclusion in a future update!

Mariner of the Seas 2023 cancellations

It appears Royal Caribbean has cancelled a number of sailings on Mariner of the Seas between May 2023 and October 2023.

Royal Caribbean says these cruises were cancelled in order to modify the itinerary planning. This means Mariner is still offering cruises, but the exact lineup of sailings have changed.  In short, Mariner is still offering similar itineraries from the same port, just on different days.

In an email sent to guest that had their cruises cancelled, the line explained, "We recently had to make some modifications to our itinerary planning, which impacts Mariner of the Seas’ May 2023 – October 2023 sailings. As a result, Mariner’s departures have been revised, and therefore, we’ve made adjustments to its itineraries. Unfortunately, this means your upcoming cruise has been cancelled."

"Mariner of the Seas will still be offering similar itineraries from the same port – just on different days."

Guests that had their cruises cancelled have the option to change to a different sailing within one week of what they had originally booked. 

Alternatively, they can rebook on another ship with no change fees, or take a refund.

Guests have until April 27, 2022 to make a decision.

Price hike at Johnny Rockets?

On at least one cruise ship, it appears perhaps the price has changed to dine at Johnny Rockets.

A member of the Oasis of the Seas Cruisers Facebook group shared that the cover charge has gone up to $14.95 per person to dine there.

Guests on other ships are reporting the price remains $11.99 per person.

Cayman islands set to expand cruise ship capacity

The Cayman Islands are about to lift their cap on cruise ship passenger numbers, which means upcoming scheduled visits to Grand Cayman look to be a go.

In March, the Cayman Islands opened their waters to cruise ships for the first time in two years, but they retained a maximum of 75,000 cruise ship passengers to visit.

The island will now move into the next phase of their restart plan on Monday, which means the restrictions on the number of cruise ships has been removed.

Galveston cruise terminal construction update

Another week, another cruise terminal construction update to share!

The Port of Galveston released a new drone photo of the construction progress being made with Royal Caribbean's new cruise terminal in Galveston.

The new terminal 10 is taking shape, and today's update provides a bird's eye view of the 160,000-square-foot terminal opening this fall.

Allure of the Seas will begin sailing from the terminal in November.

Royal Caribbean has trademarked a lot of interesting names over the last couple of years, and perhaps these could be a hint at future projects they have planned.

In the cruise industry, Royal Caribbean has secured a spot for itself as a market innovator.  They have consistently used technology and lessons learned from previous innovations to create new onboard experiences that capture the attention of the cruising public.

It began with adding a rock climbing wall to cruise ships, but has since graduated to AquaTheaters, North Star, Bionic Bar, Ultimate Abyss, and much more.

Royal Caribbean is on the verge of launching a brand new class of cruise ship with Icon of the Seas, and there's still another Oasis Class ship to go.  While we wont know what Royal Caribbean has up their sleeve until they announce something, perhaps trademark filings will give us a clue of what to expect.

I went through the last two years of trademark applications to see which names stand out as sounding like they could be really cool.

It's important to note that just because Royal Caribbean trademarks a name, doesn't mean it will be used for anything. Moreover, I know nothing more than anyone else outside of Royal Caribbean, so these names could all end up being something completely different or not relevant at all.

So in the interest of purely day dreaming, here's my picks for names Royal Caribbean trademarked that just sound enticing.

Cruiseverse

Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean trademarked "cruiseverse" and while I don't think this will be a ship-based experience, it sounds very different.

Usually trademark applications are quite vague, but this one had more details about what the cruise line intends to do with it.

It's meant for "virtual cruise ship services" and is described as featuring, "operating a virtual cruise ship ship vessel featuring virtual cafes, restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and virtual excursions."

Whether or not this is meant for an online world, or something totally different, you have to admit this is more than just a new water slide.

AquaDome

In early 2021, Royal Caribbean trademarked "AquaDome" under the generic category of "Cruise ship services Restaurant and bar services"

Breaking apart the name, we have "aqua" and "dome", which seems to infer something involving water and a rounded structure.

Royal Caribbean likes to use the word "aqua" in the name of a few of its existing onboard features:

• Aquanauts (Adventure Ocean room for younger kids)
• AquaTheater (ampitheater on Oasis Class ships)
• aqua coaster (type of water slide on Navigator of the Seas)
• Aqua Class (name of suite amenities on Celebrity Cruises)

Pressure Drop

Royal Caribbean trademarked the name of what sound like brand new water slides in December 2021.

The new trademarks included:

• Category 6
• Hurricane Hunter
• Storm Surge
• Pressure Drop
• Storm Chasers

Pressure Drop seems the most exciting of the bunch, and it could point to new water slides for its cruise ships or on its private islands.

Playaway Park

When I read the trademark for "Playaway Park", I immediately thought of Splashaway Bay since the names sound similar.

Splashaway Bay is an aqua park for kids on many cruise ships. Playaway Park sounds like it could be the name of a dry playground for kids. 

Absolute Zero

Could "Absolute Zero" be the name of a new ice bar?

Ice bars are a fad on land and on some other cruise lines, where the bar is cooled to such a low temperature the bar is made of ice and guests usually have to wear jackets to enter.

Norwegian Cruise Line has an ice bar on the Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape.

Perhaps Royal Caribbean is considering its own version of a chilly drink venue.

Thrillamanjaro

In the grand scheme of trademarked names, I think this is my favorite sounding name.

Given that it's a play on words from Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, I have to think it's some kind of tall activity.

The first step to planning a Mediterranean cruise is deciding which itinerary and ship to book. Royal Caribbean has both its smallest and largest cruise ships sailing in Europe during the summer months, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

A Mediterranean cruise differs from a Caribbean cruise in that while the ship itself is often seen as the destination in the Caribbean, the ports are what stand out most on a European cruise itinerary.

While cruising on Royal Caribbean’s newest and biggest cruise ships offer the most activities and options for guests, small ships can offer just enough to see, eat, and do onboard while sailing from port to port.

Ultimately, deciding which ship to book depends on your preference, budget, and ship’s itinerary, but there are a few things to consider before choosing the best ship for you.

Why choose a small ship for a Mediterranean cruise

While cruising the Mediterranean on an older, smaller ship may not seem as glamorous as on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships, it can provide an excellent experience for guests at a fraction of the cost. By “small ships,” we are referring to Vision or Radiance Class cruise ships.

One of the biggest benefits of booking a Mediterranean cruise on a smaller cruise ship is the range of itinerary options available. While larger ships tend to have more limited and repeated itineraries, smaller ships visit a diverse range of ports during the European cruise season.

Places like Kotor (Montenegro), Split (Croatia), Zakynthos (Greece), Koper (Slovenia), and Sardinia (Italy) tend to only be visited by smaller cruise ships. For those looking to try something new and visit destinations off the usual tourist trail, cruising on a small ship can be a great choice.

That’s not to say all itineraries on a smaller ship only visit lesser-known destinations, though. It’s also common for small ships to visit cities like Barcelona, Florence, and Rome, which offer some of the most popular tourist sights in all of Europe.

Smaller ships may come with fewer dining and entertainment venues, but many cruisers find this is not as important on a Mediterranean cruise as it would be elsewhere.

For starters, Mediterranean cuisine is some of the best in the world. Having more dining venues available onboard is less important when you have authentic, fresh Mediterranean food right outside the ship. From falafel wraps to gyros, pasta, fresh seafood, pizza, and world-renowned steak, there is no shortage of excellent dining options on a Mediterranean cruise regardless of the ship you are sailing on.

In addition, port days are often long and busy in the Mediterranean, leaving many cruisers tired once back onboard. Getting dressed up for a formal dinner or seeing a new show each night can seem less appealing than on a Caribbean cruise, where most days are spent relaxing.

Smaller ships are more budget friendly, too. A weeklong itinerary on a Vision or Radiance Class ship can be less than half the cost of a similar itinerary on an Oasis or Quantum Class ship. Money saved on ship selection can be put toward other cruise add-ons like a drink package or shore excursion. Additionally, you may be able to book an upgraded stateroom on a smaller ship that would otherwise be out of budget on a larger ship.

Read more: How much does a Mediterranean cruise cost?

And while smaller ships may not come with as many activities and amenities as larger ships, they still offer the basics of a fantastic cruise experience. No matter the size, all Royal Caribbean ships include complimentary and specialty dining, lounges, pools, a Solarium, live music, Adventure Ocean kids programming, a spa, a fitness center, signature shows, and a daily schedule of activities and events onboard.

It's also important to note that cruising on a "small" ship is still quite big. Royal Caribbean's smallest ships are the Vision Class, yet they still have a capacity of 2,000 passengers or more.

Why choose a big ship for a Mediterranean cruise

The advantages of booking a Mediterranean cruise on a big cruise ship are the same as elsewhere in the world: there are more onboard options and amenities available. By “big ships,” we are referring to Oasis or Quantum Class cruise ships.

If you are looking for the widest selection of things to do onboard while on a Mediterranean cruise, a big ship may be the best choice for you. Bigger ships come with more dining options, onboard activities, entertainment venues, bars, pools, cabin options, and more. 

Families with kids will especially enjoy cruising on a big ship. Adventure Ocean programming is often enhanced on bigger Royal Caribbean ships, with larger indoor and outdoor spaces available for kids to enjoy. Areas like an outdoor teen patio, science lab, craft zone, and kids-only theater are available on bigger cruise ships.

In addition, there are more signature activities offered on Royal Caribbean’s biggest cruise ships. Whether waterslides, bumper cars, indoor skydiving, laser tag, or ice skating, guests of all ages will find something fun to do while onboard.

Read more: What is the best time to cruise the Mediterranean?

There are more entertainment options on an Oasis or Quantum class ship as well. Compared to a small ship which may have one or two main shows in the theater, big ships have venues such as the AquaTheater, Studio B, and Two70. Here guests can enjoy Royal Caribbean’s newest entertainment offerings, from ice skating to virtual concerts and diving.

While small ships can offer a wider range of itineraries, big ships still visit many of Europe’s top destinations. From popular ports like Athens and Barcelona to lesser-visited cruise destinations like Kusadasi, Turkey, and Haifa, Israel, there is certain to be an itinerary to catch your eye.

The “downside” to choosing a big ship for a Mediterranean cruise is that you will unlikely have time to experience all that the ship has to offer. Unlike in the Caribbean where an Oasis or Quantum Class ship may have two or three sea days to spend onboard, bigger ships may only have one sea day on a weeklong itinerary.

Additionally, it’s not uncommon for port days to be up to twelve or thirteen hours long. And while you can stay on the ship while in port, you will be missing out on incredible European destinations in the process. With these two factors combined, you have much less time to explore a big ship on a Mediterranean itinerary.

Big ships tend to have the most expensive itineraries in the Mediterranean, too, due to the demand for new ships. Those with tight budgets should consider whether sailing on a big ship is worth the cost when the biggest draw to a Mediterranean cruise are the ports you’ll be visiting instead of the ship.

That being said, cruising on a big ship in the Mediterranean is still a good option for those new to cruising or those who want to experience as much as possible onboard. It’s hard to beat the number of options an Oasis or Quantum Class ship offers, and you will always have something new to try whether at sea or in port.

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Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society benefits can improve your cruise experience, but points earned can also transfer to experiences on land. Royal Caribbean has a partnership with MGM Resorts, offering a tier match between the Crown & Anchor Society and MGM Rewards program.

For no extra cost, you can link your Crown & Anchor level and immediately take advantage of MGM benefits including resort fee waivers, discounts on entertainment, and complimentary hotel upgrades.

I recently headed to Las Vegas to take a closer look at how linking your Royal Caribbean account with MGM Rewards can enhance your MGM experience, whether in Las Vegas or beyond.

In this article:

• Overview
• Where can I use MGM Rewards benefits?
• Hotel benefits
• Retail benefits
• Dining benefits
• Transportation benefits
• Entertainment benefits
• Gaming and access benefits
• Overall thoughts

Overview

MGM Rewards (formerly known as M Life Rewards) is a loyalty program with benefits and rewards available at select MGM properties in Las Vegas and around the United States.

MGM Rewards tier points are earned through the following:

• Gaming: slots, video lottery terminals, video poker, and table games
• Hotel accommodations, dining, and spa (4 tier credits per dollar spent)

There are no set tier points earned per dollar spent on gaming. Instead, MGM Rewards points are earned based on time spent playing, average bet, and game type.

There are five tiers within MGM Rewards:

• Sapphire (Up to 19,999 Tier Credits)
• Pearl (20,000 - 74,999 Tier Credits)
• Gold (75,000 - 199,999 Tier Credits)
• Platinum (200,000 Tier Credits)
• Noir (by invitation only)

Tier match

Luckily, Crown & Anchor Society members do not have to spend any money at MGM properties to take advantage of MGM Rewards. Through a tier match offered between MGM Resorts and Royal Caribbean, Crown & Anchor Society members can immediately begin receiving discounts and rewards.

The tier level you receive with MGM Rewards depends on your tier in the Crown & Anchor Society:

• C&A Gold = Sapphire status with MGM Rewards
• C&A Platinum = Pearl status with MGM Rewards
• C&A Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club = Gold status with MGM Rewards

Linking your account

To link your Crown & Anchor Society account with MGM Rewards, first make a free account on the MGM Resorts website. Next, contact an MGM Rewards representative through phone or email:

• Phone: 866-761-7111
• Email: [email protected]

Let the representative know your Crown & Anchor Society number. They will contact Royal Caribbean to confirm your information and link you to the appropriate tier with MGM rewards. In my experience this took only a few minutes. As I am a Diamond member in the Crown & Anchor Society, I immediately became a Gold Member with MGM Rewards.

Where can I use MGM Rewards benefits?

MGM Rewards can be used at the following destinations:

Las Vegas

• Bellagio
• ARIA Resort & Casino
• Vdara Hotel & Spa at ARIA Las Vegas
• MGM Grand
• The Signature at MGM Grand
• Mandalay Bay
• Delano Las Vegas
• Park MGM
• The Mirage
• New York-New York
• Luxor
• Excalibur

Regional Destinations

• Beau Rivage
• Gold Strike Tunica
• Borgata
• MGM Grand Detroit
• MGM National Harbor
• MGM Springfield

Hotel benefits

While both Sapphire and Pearl members of MGM Rewards receive a guaranteed lowest room rate when booking direct, the best hotel benefits come with Gold tier and above.

Most hotels on the strip all come with resort fees which must be paid in addition to the hotel fare each night. The majority of resort fees run around $35 - 40 per night plus a 14% tax added on the nightly hotel fare.

Perhaps the best benefit for MGM Gold members and above is having the nightly resort fee, along with taxes and fees, waived each night of your stay. As the resort fee and taxes can add $50+ to your hotel cost each day, this leads to instant savings no matter if you stay just one night or an entire week.

In addition to the resort fee waived, Gold MGM members and above can take advantage of a priority check-in line at the front desk and a complimentary enhanced room upgrade at check-in, based on availability. The complimentary room upgrade usually entails an upgrade to a room with a Strip view or higher floor, but if those rooms are unavailable, guests can be upgraded to a higher tier room such as a suite.

Park MGM

To test out the hotel benefits through MGM Rewards, I booked a room at the Park MGM. Getting the resort fee waived can only be done when booking directly through the MGM Rewards website, so I booked online and headed to the hotel on the Las Vegas Strip.

I booked a standard room with two queen beds at the Park MGM for $105.05. The resort fee and tax, which I did not have to pay due to my MGM Rewards status, would have been an additional $44.22. When you book, the website still tells you the resort fee and taxes are due upon arrival. This is waived when checking in at the front desk.

Upon arrival at Park MGM, I initially entered the general check-in line as I did not realize I had another option. As I was waiting in line, though, I spotted the VIP line for Gold MGM members and above. The VIP line had no wait and I was able to get checked in right away.

It was around 1PM, and while check-in was not officially open until 3PM, a room was ready. I inquired, however, about the complimentary enhanced room upgrade for Gold MGM members. While a room upgrade was not available at 1PM, one would be ready at the normal check-in time.

I decided to wait two hours to see what kind of upgrades MGM Rewards members can receive. In the meantime, I checked out the pool areas at the Park MGM, which are complimentary for hotel guests. The Park MGM has three pools, two bars, and plenty of comfy seating available. It definitely seemed like a great space to spend hot, sunny days in Las Vegas.

I received an upgrade to a Stay Well Two Queen room, which enhances the guest safety experience with improved air purification, aromatherapy, dawn simulator lighting, an upgraded mattress, and a chlorine-reducing shower infuser. The room was quite spacious and I enjoyed having access to the Stay Well amenities throughout my stay.

Retail benefits

MGM Rewards members receive discounts at participating retail shops in Las Vegas. Sapphire members receive a 5% discount, Pearl and Gold members 10%, and Platinum and Noir members 15%.

“Participating retail” seemed vague, and the MGM Rewards desk did not have a list of participating retail stores available. I ended up finding an old PDF from the ARIA Resort & Casino which lists participating retail at MGM properties in Las Vegas.

The participating retailers list is quite extensive, covering both high-end retail like Tesorini and resort-themed souvenir stores such as I love NYNY. The list seemed to cover most retail stores at MGM properties.

Any discount is nice when in Las Vegas, and as I was planning to purchase a souvenir or two anyway, I decided to take advantage of my 10% discount. I walked into the Shoppe at Park MGM and saved a few dollars on souvenirs to take home.

One thing that caught my eye in the (outdated?) retail brochure was the fact that certain spas were listed in participating retail. I was curious whether this discount was just for spa retail or if it could be used for spa treatments, so I asked MGM Rewards staff members, to which I received varying responses.

Some staff members thought spa treatments were included in the discounts whereas others were not certain. I headed to The Spa & Salon at New York-New York to check for myself where it was confirmed that the discount was only for spa retail. While disappointed I would not be booking my discounted manicure, I purchased a few retail items from the spa anyway for 10% off.

Dining benefits

MGM Rewards properties, whether in Las Vegas or beyond, have a wide array of cuisines available, from quick-service buffets to fine dining. MGM Rewards members receive benefits for dining at MGM properties.

Dining benefits start at the Pearl tier with a dedicated line at the buffet for Pearl and above. Those with Gold status or above also receive priority reservations for fine dining and a dedicated line at participating restaurants outside the buffet.

I decided to try out a dining benefit by heading to the buffet at the Excalibur Hotel & Casino, located just across the street from the Park MGM.

Upon arrival, I immediately noticed the dedicated buffet line for MGM Rewards members. While I got to the buffet near closing and there was no line anyway, I can see how this would be a fantastic, time-saving benefit during peak hours.

I was able to be seated within a few minutes, and while I wouldn't say the buffet at Excalibur is the fanciest in the world, I enjoyed the crepe and omelet stations as well as the wide range of cuisines available.

Note: While the dining benefits on MGM's website also list a $100 dining credit for those reaching the Gold tier, this benefit is not available for members who reached Gold simply by linking their Crown & Anchor Society account.

Transportation benefits

MGM Rewards benefits also extend to transportation, providing discounts and benefits guaranteed to save members money when traveling to Las Vegas and beyond.

Visitors of any tier in MGM Rewards who need a car rental will save up to 30% off base rental rates with Avis. Those with Pearl status and above can enjoy complimentary self-parking at MGM Rewards destinations, and those with Gold Status and above can enjoy complimentary valet parking.

While I took a Lyft to my hotel in Las Vegas, I would have saved $15 per day in parking fees through my MGM Rewards status had I brought my car.

Entertainment benefits

MGM Rewards members receive discounts on entertainment and access to complimentary shows at MGM Rewards destinations. While benefits on hotel stays, transportation, and dining were relatively straightforward, MGM’s entertainment benefits are more complex as most are on a case-by-case basis.

These are the main entertainment benefits through MGM Rewards:

• Exclusive MGM Rewards pre-sale access for select entertainment & sporting events
• Discounts to select shows at MGM Rewards destinations
• Complimentary tickets to select exclusive MGM Rewards concerts in Las Vegas

Initially I thought there would be a percentage discount on shows at MGM properties like Cirque du Soleil and Blue Man Group. Upon speaking to a representative, though, it appears discounts are offered on a case-by-case basis dependent on demand for each particular show. There was no list of shows offering discounts available, so I was unable to take advantage of this benefit.

One new benefit MGM Rewards is offering is complimentary tickets to select MGM Rewards concerts in Las Vegas. Through this benefit, MGM Rewards members will be notified of complimentary concerts exclusive for Pearl members and above. 

Gaming and access benefits

Earning a higher status with MGM Rewards by linking your Crown & Anchor Society account brings a variety of gaming and access benefits to be enjoyed at MGM Rewards destinations.

Dedicated reservation lines, non-expiring MGM Rewards points and slot dollars, VIP line access to select Las Vegas nightclubs, bonus on slot dollars earned, and invitations to member-only events and tournaments are just some of the gaming benefits MGM Rewards members can enjoy.

Overall thoughts

Linking your Crown & Anchor Society account to MGM Rewards is completely free and 100% worth doing before staying at an MGM property, whether in Las Vegas or at regional destinations. Saving money and time is guaranteed, whether through complimentary parking or VIP check-in lines.

I think the greatest value of MGM Rewards is, by far, having resort fee and taxes waived for those with Gold status and above. With a savings of around $50+ per night, this can save visitors hundreds of dollars on a stay in Las Vegas or other MGM properties.

In addition, I really enjoyed the complimentary room upgrade available. While I wasn’t upgraded to a significantly larger room or a suite, the upgrade from a standard room to a Stay Well room was well appreciated.

Although I wasn’t traveling to Las Vegas at the busiest time of year or on a weekend, I still enjoyed having access to priority lines at check in and the buffet. I never had to wait in line more than a few seconds, and I’m sure this is a benefit that would be extra helpful during peak times of the year.

I do not have any complaints on benefits offered, especially as I received these benefits simply by linking my Crown & Anchor Society membership to MGM. There was definitely a sense of uncertainty from staff members when I inquired about what benefits were included for MGM Rewards members, though.

Conflicting statements on entertainment discounts and retail options were a bit frustrating when figuring out how to use my MGM Rewards benefits. I encountered this even when asking questions at the MGM Rewards desks at several resorts, so I was surprised there wasn’t more concrete information on the loyalty program available. However, seeing as though the change from M Life Rewards to the MGM Rewards program is quite new, it’s understandable that there may be some confusion on all benefits.

Overall, I was able to save money and time through MGM Rewards and I would recommend any Crown & Anchor Society member to create and link their account to MGM prior to traveling to Las Vegas or beyond.

Sitka is a common port on Royal Caribbean cruises to Alaska, located on the western side of Baranof Island and directly facing the Pacific Ocean. Offering a blend of Russian, Tlingit, and American cultures, Sitka offers everything from breathtaking day hikes to historic monuments.

If your Alaska cruise visits Sitka, it’s a great idea to learn about what activities are offered in town so you can make the most of your day in port. Let’s take a look at the best activities to do on a cruise to Sitka.

Fortress of the Bear

Photo credit: Fortress of the Bear

Fortress of the Bear is a bear rehabilitation facility, offering a second chance at life for orphaned and sick brown bears in Alaska. 8 bears are currently housed at the facility: Toby, Lucky, Chaik, Smokey, Bandit, Tuliaan, Nuka, and Nikishi.

Fortress of the Bear has a three-quarter acre habitat in the Tongass National Forest, and visiting the facility offers the opportunity to get within just 25 feet of Alaska’s brown bears in a natural setting. Visitors can view bears from a large, covered viewing platform and learn about the bears from on-site naturalists.

Visiting Fortress of the Bear is an excellent activity for those hoping to catch a glimpse of Alaska’s brown bears and support an organization working to improve the lives of young bears that have been orphaned.

Spot marine life

A cruise to Sitka, much like other Alaska cruise ports, brings the opportunity to spot majestic wildlife, particularly in the ocean waters.

You’ll find tour operators offering whale watching shore excursions throughout the season. While Sitka may not be as popular for whale watching compared to ports like Juneau or Icy Point Strait, it still offers the opportunity to spot humpback whales, otters, sea lions, seals, and a slim possibility of spotting orcas.

One excursion that may be of interest to animal lovers is the “Sea Otter and Wildlife Quest” tour, which brings guests on a three-hour boat ride through Sitka Sound to spot sea otters, sea lions, porpoise, seals, bald eagles, whales, bears, and other types of wildlife. A naturalist guide accompanies the group as they sail through picturesque mountain scenery, offering insightful information about Sitka’s ecosystem and history.

Kayak Sitka Sound

Kayaking is a sport popular for visitors to Alaska, allowing the chance to explore the state’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife from the water. Kayak excursions in Sitka take visitors to nearby destinations including Sitka Sound and the remote Siginaka Islands.

While traveling via kayak, visitors have the chance to spot wildlife both above and below the water including otters, sea lions, bald eagles, jellyfish, and crabs. Kayak excursions to Sitka Sound even give visitors the chance to kayak with views of Mount Edgecumbe, a 3,201 foot volcano west of Sitka.

Alaska Raptor Center

Bird lovers will enjoy a visit to the Alaska Raptor Center, a rehabilitation facility for injured raptors. The Alaska Raptor Center works to rescue and rehabilitate hawks, owls, eagles, and other birds of prey.

Visitors to the Alaska Raptor Center will have the opportunity to witness these majestic birds fly through the air and learn more about the center’s work to help raptors regain strength and independence before being released back into the wild.

The Alaska Raptor Center can be visited on your own or through a shore excursion.

Walk around the historic town

If you don’t want to plan an organized excursion while in Sitka, consider walking around town on your own. VisitSitka.org provides a list of historic sites to discover around town, from the Sitka Maritime Heritage Society to the Russian Block House.

The Sheldon Jackson Museum makes for an interesting activity in Sitka, which houses a collection of Alaska Native ethnographic material including totems, baskets, masks, and traditional clothing.

The Sitka Sound Science Center is another activity to add to a day exploring town. The center’s small aquarium houses sea urchins, anemones, starfish, rockfish, sculpins, salmon, a wolf eel, and more. There’s also interactive exhibits and a skeleton of an adolescent killer whale on display.

Outside of museums, monuments, and educational centers are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shopping.

Discover Sitka’s Russian influence

Sitka was originally inhabited by the Native Tlingit people. In 1799, Russian explorers settled Old Sitka, much to the dismay of the Native people. Russians were victorious during the 4-day long Battle of Sitka in October 1804, though, and established a settlement named Novo Arkhangelsk (New Archangel).

The city grew in the early 1800s, and it was officially designated the capital of Russian America in 1808. Russians remained in Sitka until the land was transferred to the United States in 1867, following Russia’s defeat in the Crimean War.

Visitors to Sitka today can discover the remnants of Russia’s influence in Sitka by visiting monuments and tasting Russian cuisine.

The Russian Bishop’s House is a popular spot to visit, which was the residence of Ivan Veniaminov, the first Bishop of Alaska and the headquarters of the Russian Orthodox Church in Alaska. Today the Russian Bishop’s House has been transformed into a museum, offering artifact displays and information about daily life in Russian Alaska.

Another popular spot to visit is St. Michael Cathedral. While technically a reconstruction of the original church following a fire in 1966, St. Michael Cathedral is a designated National Landmark giving insights into Russia’s influence in Alaska.

Those looking to taste Russian-influenced cuisine while in Sitka may enjoy Pel’Meni, a casual, quick-serve Russian dumpling restaurant serving beef and potato dumplings topped with curry powder, butter, sriracha, rice vinegar, and cilantro.

Visit the Sitka National Historical Park

The Sitka National Historical Park is a 113-acre waterfront park in Sitka that preserves the site of a battle between the Native Tlingit people and Russian traders.

The park is free to visit and within walking distance from downtown Sitka. It includes nature trails, a visitor center, and a theater showing a video about Sitka’s history.

A popular trail at the park is the Totem Trail, a mile long walkway through the forest that has eighteen hand carved Tlingit and Haida totem poles. Also in the park is the Russian Memorial Trail, leading visitors to the grounds of the Battle of Sitka. Visitors can explore the trails on their own or join a guided walk with a park ranger.

Visiting the Sitka National Historical Park can be a relaxing way to spend time in Sitka while taking in the surrounding nature and history.

Visit the Baranof Castle State Historic Site

Photo credit: Jrozwado

Take in the best views of Sitka from the Baranof Castle State Historic Site, also known as Castle Hill. The formal transfer ceremony of Alaska from Russia to the United States occurred on top of Castle Hill, making the Baranof Castle State Historic Site an integral part of Alaska’s history and transformation.

Castle Hill was originally inhabited by the Native Tlingit people who built a fortification on the land. From 1804 to 1967, the site was occupied by Russians, at which point Alaska was officially transferred to the United States.

As the site is accessible from downtown Sitka, it makes for an easy activity to add to your day exploring the town.

Go on a day hike

Like all of southeast Alaska, Sitka is surrounded by mountain peaks emerging dramatically from the ocean below. Visitors looking to explore Sitka’s nature are in luck, as there are a variety of day hikes to choose from.

A top rated trail in Sitka is the Mount Verstovia Trail, a 4.5 mile out and back hike leaving near downtown Sitka and to the peak of Mt. Verstovia at 3,300 feet. A challenging hike with several thousand feet of elevation gain, this hike is not for beginners, although it offers unparalleled views of Sitka’s scenery. Most hikers will stop at Picnic Rock (2,550’) as the trail to the top of Mt. Verstovia from there is unmaintained. 

If you’re looking for something easier, consider Sitka’s Cross Trail, an accessible gravel-paved trail for cycling and walking. The trail is 3.8 miles each way and connects through Sitka’s neighborhoods and tourist destinations, offering a tranquil place to walk while remaining close to town.

Passengers looking to get extra active may enjoy the “Sitka Bike and Hike” excursion, which brings guests on a 4 mile bike ride along the shore of the Pacific ocean and 1 mile hike through the rainforest.

Eat and drink your way through town

Photo credit: Ludvig's Bistro

A wonderful way to experience Sitka’s cultural melting pot is through food and drink. Cuisines from around the world can be found in Sitka, from upscale Mediterranean to quick-service seafood.

If you’re interested in a fancier sit-down meal while in Sitka, consider dining at Ludvig’s Bistro, the highest rated restaurant in town. Menu highlights at Ludvig’s Bistro include Wild Alaskan Paella Mixta, Rockfish n Chips, Ludvig’s Chowder, Bistro Steak, and Tuscan Scallops.

For a more casual meal, head to Ashmo’s food truck for fish and chips, salmon mac and cheese, and black cod over rice.

Looking for a drink? Check out Ernie’s Old Time Saloon for a variety of beers on tap or a cocktail. On days with particularly cold weather, spend some time in one of Sitka’s coffee shops to warm up with a coffee and pastry.

Local’s guide of what to do in Sitka, Alaska

Mollie Breese lives in Alaska and came up with a few things worth trying that only locals really know about, but you should try too!

Enjoy a quiet walk through an old Russian cemetery  

Prior to the United States’ purchase of the Alaskan territory, Russian fur traders and fishermen were the principal foreign inhabitants of coastal Alaska (then called Russian America). Reminders of these past adventurers remain embedded throughout Alaskan communities, and if you talk to a local, the chances are high that they have a Russian relative in their bloodline. 

As the once capital of Russian America, Sitka maintains strong ties and cultural undertones to this period of Russian heritage. Visitors can see this history firsthand at the old Russian Orthodox cemetery located in the heart of downtown Sitka. This 200-year cemetery contains beautiful tombstones marking the graves of Russian Orthodox parishioners. Each tombstone is remarkably unique, with some falling to the test of time and nearly completely covered in moss. Placed in the moss-covered forest, a walk in this cemetery will make you feel miles away from town. 

While walking a cemetery may not seem like an exciting affair, this walk allows visitors to see a lasting mark of history today. When visiting, remember to be respectful, as this cemetery is still in use today by local families.

You can access the cemetery off Seward Street, near the Sitka Lutheran Cemetery. The cemetery was vandalized in January 2022, but local organizations continue restoring the area and returning it to its former beauty. 

Take a hike along Beaver Lake Trail and look for wildlife 

If you’re up for a little more adventure, head over to Beaver Lake Trail to enjoy a 3-mile hike through old-growth forests and along a pristine mountain lake. You will need to rent a car or pay for a taxi to access this route. The trailhead is outside of town at Blue Lake Campground. However, there are plenty of sights to enjoy in the area, making the trek worth it. If you have a more extended stay in the area, you can hike to the trailhead from downtown Sitka via the Herring Cove Trail. This trail departs from Sitka road and is about a one-hour trip. 

Beaver Lake Trail is a 3-mile trail with a steep elevation gain in the first quarter of a mile. The trail rises sharply up 200 feet with a series of switchbacks before leveling off to its ascent to Beaver Lake. The huffing and puffing is worth it once hikers reach the lake and behold the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. This trail is short enough to be combined with other sightseeing stops throughout the day. Wildlife is common along this path, so keep your eyes out for bears, eagles, deer, and ermine. 

Local tip: Pack rain gear, bear spray, and bug spray for this outing. While the Alaskan wilderness is beautiful, it is also incredibly buggy in the summer months. Bears can be frequent visitors along this route, so take extra precautions and always be Bear Aware.  

Grab lunch at the Fresh Fish  

While you should visit Sitka for the scenery, you will want to stay for the food. Sitka is not short on delicious restaurants and cafes, and you could spend weeks experiencing all the wonderful flavors found in this city. However, if you’re only in town for a short bit, make a stop at the Fresh Fish food truck for one of the best meals in town. After all, you can’t visit Alaska without trying the local seafood! 

Fresh Fish offers a bare menu of locally-caught poke, chowder, and ceviche. The menu changes often, so it is always fun to swing by and see what they are offering. Meals are made quickly, so you can grab a delicious treat quickly before heading out on your next adventure. 

Local tip: Fresh Fish is typically open Friday-Wednesday from 11:30-3:00. Depending on the day, the cart does move around in town. Check out their Facebook page or Instagram @thefreshfish.ak for the latest updates. 

Take a boat ride to Goddard Hot Springs

Even in the summer, Sitka can experience chilly temperatures and gloomy days. One of the best ways to still enjoy the outdoors, even on a cloudy day, is to catch a boat to Goddard Hot Springs. The boat ride from Sitka is about an hour and offers splendid views of Baranof Island from the water.

Keep your eyes on the lookout for whales and other marine mammals on your journey. Located to the south of Sitka, visitors can plan to spend at least half of a day exploring these natural wonders and enjoying a dip in the warm waters. 

The city of Sitka owns the Goddard Hot Springs, and the springs are free to the public. Each spring is protected within wooden huts, keeping out the worse of the Alaskan weather. Pack plenty of layers for the return trip, as temperatures can dramatically vary on the water. 

Look for Puffins at St. Lazaria Island

Sitka sits on the outside of the Interior Passage, making it an excellent destination for bird viewing during the short summer months. Thousands of sea birds flock to the Sitka area between May and September to breed and nest along the sea cliffs and islands. One of the best places to see this natural phenomenon is St. Lazaria Island. 

St. Lazaria is the summer home of dozens of bird species, including puffins, petrels, auklets, and oystercatchers. These birds nest along volcanic cliffs and feed upon the abundant Fish and marine life that congregates in the waters around the island. St. Lazaria is one of 2,500 Alaskan islands that comprise the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge. It is estimated that over half a million birds return to this location each year to raise their young. 

St. Lazaria Island is located to the north of Sitka and is only accessible by boat. Numerous charters and water taxis depart from Sitka every day to take eager birdwatchers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts on a cruise along the edges of this protected island. Otters, seals, and humpback whales are also a common sight on this journey. 

Local tip: This may not be the best choice for visitors prone to seasickness. Pack a pair of binoculars for this journey, as there will be much to see! While much of the water around Sitka is protected from weather, the ride out to St. Lazaria can be rough if the weather turns.  

Regardless of how you choose to spend your day in Sitka, Alaska, you are guaranteed to enjoy it. This makes it one of the top stops to enjoy your Great Alaskan Journey! Fair winds and smooth sailing! 

More information on what to do in Alaska's cruise ports:

• Top 10 things to do in Juneau, Alaska
• Top 10 things to do in Skagway, Alaska
• Top 10 things to do in Ketchikan, Alaska