I was one cruise away from making it to Royal Caribbean's highest loyalty status, and I paid for an ultra-luxurious suite to celebrate the occasion.

Around a year ago, I saw a path to reach Crown and Anchor Society’s top loyalty level, Pinnacle Club, but I knew I would need a few sailings to be booked in suites.  While sailing in a suite you get double points, but you can get triple points per night if you book a suite solo.

With a little bit of organization, I was able to line everything up perfectly for a 7-night Oasis of the Seas sailing. I picked this sailing because I could combine reaching the magic number of 700 cruise points and celebrating the Royal Caribbean Blog group cruise.  

Originally, I booked a Grand Suite, which is an incredible cabin.  However, I was looking at some rates on the Star Class cabins and came across the Star Loft Suite.

Thanks to my loyalty benefit of a reduced single supplement rate, booking the Star Class suite for just one person came out to be $11,693.

The catch with booking a Star Class suite is I was planning to sail with my family, so I came up with a strategy of booking myself solo in the Star Class suite and booking them in the cheapest inside cabin I could find for around $1,500.

While that’s certainly a lot of money for a 7-night cruise, I knew I wanted to celebrate this milestone celebration in a big way. So booking a suite like this certainly was going to check that box!

What Royal Caribbean does to celebrate reaching Pinnacle

Around two days prior to boarding, the ship's Loyalty Ambassador emailed me to congratulate me on reaching this top status and asked me to provide: 

• A photo of myself
• How many years I've been sailing
• My favorite ship
• My favorite port
• My number of sailings

On the cruise you reach 700 points, there's a special event that recognizes your achievement at the Top Tier party. There were seats reserved for my family in the front row.  

During the event they invited us on stage to get a photo with some officers, and I asked my Royal Genie to join us for the photo.

They hand you a few items for the photo, but our kit with all of our Pinnacle Club materials will be mailed to us in 30 days. This includes name tags, luggage tags along with a few more items.  

We did get a printed photo delivered to my cabin, along with a certificate for a free 7-night Caribbean cruise!

After the top tier event was over, I went straight to the Schooner bar for a celebration toast of champagne with some friends.

Having a Genie was a great way to make this cruise extra special

Around an hour after, we went back to our suite to find the room decorated by my Genie and a fun celebration cake.  

While having a Genie during this week is certainly not necessary, it provided a little extra fun with the celebration and of course the cabin was a huge perk.  

Our Genie was a huge help all week: private escort off the ship, holding seats at shows, arranging dinners or just sending up afternoon Starbucks.  

I closed up our week by renting the Owner’s Box at Playmakers for $200, which the Genie arranged and it came with beer and a lot of food!  

Since most of us all had the ultimate dining package, we just kept ordering just about everything on the menu while watching four hours of college football.  

Although I prefer balcony cabins, I didn't think a private verandah was worth the extra money on a 2-night sailing aboard one of the world's biggest cruise ships. 

Royal Caribbean has begun leaning more into the short cruise market with 3- and 4-night sailings to its award-winning private island in The Bahamas. However, they rarely offer 2-night getaways.

As such, I was intrigued by a somewhat rare opportunity to take a 2-night cruise, especially on a ship as large as Oasis of the Seas. With limited time onboard, I knew most of my time would be spent exploring the ship, rather than relaxing on a balcony. 

Costing $724.98 for two people (including taxes, port fees, and gratuities), the inside cabin wasn't cheap. In fact, we spent more on flights from Charlotte to Fort Lauderdale! 

Still, paying extra for a balcony stateroom seemed like a waste of money. For this particular sailing, I knew we'd get the most value from enjoying the ship's amenities and Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Oasis of the Seas is a destination in and of itself, with sprawling neighborhoods, countless dining options, unique entertainment, and adrenaline-pumping activities. She was updated in 2019 to feature newer amenities, too. Now, guests can enjoy the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, the Perfect Storm water slides, and more. 

Having spent over 50 nights on Oasis Class ships, I knew what to expect onboard. However, my travel partner was embarking on her first-ever cruise — and this was the perfect introduction. 

Our two days on Oasis of the Seas were jam-packed from the moment we set foot on the ship. As such, we were only in the room to sleep and shower, which is what I figured.

I don't regret saving money and staying in a windowless inside cabin — it was perfect for our quick Bahamian getaway! 

What to expect from Oasis of the Seas rooms: inside cabin review

It's no surprise that the newer the ship, the nicer the cabin. Staterooms on ships like Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas have better storage options, modern designs, and smart features like bedside outlets. 

Throughout her 15+ years in service, Royal Caribbean has kept Oasis of the Seas up to par through regular refurbishments and upgrades. However, the staterooms are nearly identical to how they were when the ship debuted in 2009.

There's room for the essentials, though. The layout maximizes the space to comfortably fit a bed, desk, loveseat, coffee table, and two nightstands. 

In fact, I was surprised by how spacious room #12153 was. Earlier this year, I sailed on Wonder of the Seas, and my tiny interior stateroom barely had room for an extra chair! 

Comparatively, my cabin on Oasis of the Seas had a nicely sized sofa, which is where we kept our suitcases during our 2-night cruise. 

While I typically unpack as soon as possible, it was unnecessary on such a short cruise. That said, storage space was abundant, so those on longer voyages won't have trouble settling in.

Some may think that older Oasis Class ships don't have a lot of storage, but between the closet, built-in shelves, drawers, and vanity area, there's more than enough room for two people. 

Another difference compared to newer ships is that these cabins lack outlets. Unlike my inside staterooms on Wonder and Symphony of the Seas, the only outlets on Oasis are found near the vanity. 

Moreover, they are just standard American and European plugs — no USB or USB-C options. If you like to have your phone charge beside the bed, make sure you bring a portable charger (or a really, really long cable). 

As an older ship, there was no key slot by the door to power the cabin's electricity, either. Instead, there was one master switch button that had to be left on for the lights and air conditioning to work. 

Although not necessarily as environmentally friendly as newer ships, we never had to worry about accidentally leaving our SeaPass in the cabin when we left. 

Speaking of air conditioning, our stateroom stayed surprisingly cold for the entire sailing. I've sailed in some cabins where, even when the thermostat was at its lowest, the room never felt very cool. 

Aside from those minor differences (i.e, fewer outlets, dated design, less storage, and a master power switch), the cabin had the same amenities as newer ships. 

For example, the mini-fridge kept our two bottles of wine cool; the television worked fine; and the beds were just as comfortable as other ships. 

(You can always ask for a mattress topper or extra pillows if you're a particular sleeper and need a plush bed.) 

Finally, one thing I love about older Oasis Class bathrooms is how spacious they feel. They aren't as cramped as other bathrooms on ships like Wonder of the Seas. 

That's not to say they feel as large as my master bathroom with dual sinks and a walk-in closet at home, but for a cruise ship, the bathroom in my inside cabin on Oasis of the Seas was roomy. 

The bathroom was well-maintained, and that extended to the shower itself. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, the shower had the same 2-in-1 shampoo-body wash hybrid and small toiletries shelf.

Read more: I always pack two things for my cruise bathroom that I'll thank myself for later

However, I was pleasantly surprised with the two hooks inside the shower, which were perfect for hanging our wet swimsuits after spending the day ashore at CocoCay. 

These were in addition to the hooks on the back of the bathroom door. I never travel without my hanging toiletries organizer and would have been disappointed if the only hooks were inside the shower. 

Additionally, the shower pressure was strong, and I loved seeing how clean the showerhead was.

There wasn't any noticeable lime scale buildup or discoloration. In fact, the showerhead looked brand new!

I would book another interior stateroom on Oasis of the Seas again

Cruise ships are floating cities with endless dining and entertainment all under one roof. Oasis and Icon Class ships, especially, take cruising to another level with their size, variety of venues, and onboard activities.

Inside cabins are a great way to cruise on a budget. If you're hardly in your stateroom (like I was on Oasis of the Seas), you don't have to splurge on a balcony cabin. 

With so much happening around the ship, from live music to karaoke, AquaTheater performances, mini-golf tournaments, game shows, and more, your stateroom is a place to recharge and shower.

I think it's smarter to spend the extra money on add-ons like shore excursions and specialty meals. 

Your first-ever cruise is a special experience. Even if you fall in love with vacations at sea, nothing will ever come close to the feeling of stepping on a ship for the first time.

Having been on over 30 cruises, I love sailing with first-time cruisers whenever possible. There's something special about seeing their reactions to everything onboard, from the amenities to the dining room, cabin, and entertainment. 

Recently, I invited a close family friend, Mariela, to join me on a short 2-night sailing on Oasis of the Seas. She didn't immediately accept the invitation, as she had always been wary of going on a cruise. 

"I never was interested in cruising. I was afraid of being around so many people and being on the open ocean," she said. 

When she finally said yes, I handled all the travel details, from booking flights and the pre-cruise hotel to making dinner reservations. In fact, she didn't even remember the name of the ship when we got to the airport! 

As such, she experienced everything from a blank slate: no research and no real expectations. Here's what Mariela thought of her first cruise — and why she's already planning another. 

First impressions of Royal Caribbean

Oasis of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. The namesake ship of Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class redefined what a cruise could be when she debuted in 2009, and she is still just as jaw-dropping today.

With only two nights onboard, I knew we needed to make the most of our limited time on the ship. Although we had a 1:30 p.m. arrival appointment, we showed up at Fort Lauderdale's Terminal 18 around 11:15 a.m. 

We had no trouble dropping off our luggage, going through security, and having our documents checked, and Mariela was setting foot on her first-ever ship by 11:30 a.m.

"Getting on the ship was easier than I thought," she recalled, "I thought it was going to be crowded and disorganized, but everything is so well planned. You don't feel stressed. There are people everywhere to make the process quick and tell everyone where to go." 

After we were on board, Mariela immediately took notice of how clean the ship was. Being stuck on a dirty ship was one reason why she had never taken a cruise before. 

However, she didn't find anything out of place. There weren't any fingerprints or smudges on the elevators, and the buffet was spotless. She especially liked the famous "washy washy" station before entering. 

Not only that, but the crew members were polite and helpful. Even though she was traveling with a seasoned pro, she appreciated how approachable and attentive the crew was, particularly during the muster drill. 

Moving on, she was satisfied with our inside cabin:

"I think, for everything the ship offers, you don't need anything more than an interior stateroom," she said, "You use the cabin just to shower and sleep because the ship offers so much that you don't want to be in the room."

The bed and pillows were comfortable, and she was surprised when she learned that we could split it into two smaller beds, which our stateroom attendant happily did. 

For two people, she thought it was plenty big and didn't mind not having a view. In fact, she preferred it! Not seeing the pitch-black ocean gave her peace of mind as we sailed from South Florida to Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Similarly, she did not mind the small cruise bathroom. "I don't care if the bathroom is small if it is clean," she added.

Something she didn't expect was the towel animal left by our cabin steward. It was a cute touch, and she loved the hanging monkey. 

When I explained that the longer the cruise, the more towel animals you usually get, her eyes lit up. 

Oasis of the Seas cruise ship amenities 

Throughout the entire two days onboard, Mariela couldn't stop saying how beautiful and wonderful everything was. 

"Two days is not enough, especially for your first time. The ship has too many things to do, " she claimed. 

We kept ourselves busy and were never bored. Still, we barely scratched the surface of everything Oasis has to offer! For instance, we didn't spend time on the pool deck and didn't do the water slides, zip-line, mini-golf course, or Ultimate Abyss dry slide. 

For Mariela, the AquaTheater and ice skating shows were a highlight. Initially, it seemed as though the weather was not going to cooperate; the seas were a bit too rough for the high dives to be performed safely. 

We got a shortened performance with the dancers, which she thought was impressive. However, I suggested that we return around 10:25 p.m. to see if the later show would go on as scheduled. 

Although the seats on Deck 6 were full (minus those in the splash zone), we found standing room on Deck 7 near the rock climbing wall. 

Mariela was mesmerized by the water effects and aerialists, and she held her breath as the tightrope walker balanced 114 feet above sea level. 

"The water show was good. It's great for everyone, like families with kids or solo travelers. Everyone can enjoy the tricks," she added. 

For her, the ice skating show was just as awe-inspiring. When it ended, she learned over and whispered, "I could watch ice skaters all night and never get bored." 

Not only were the skaters talented, but the costume line-up was impressive, featuring everything from sparkly ensembles inspired by the underwater world of The Little Mermaid to larger-than-life duck costumes. 

We did not slow down after the shows. On the first night, we went dancing at Boleros. Mariela, who was born and raised in Colombia, was impressed with the live music. 

"The Latin bar was so nice. Oasis is a good ship because there's something for everyone. My husband [who is of Puerto Rican descent] would love Boleros," she said. 

The next night, we watched karaoke in the Spotlight Karaoke lounge. Mariela was not sure what to expect from the adult-only session, but she enjoyed herself. 

"You don't need to be drunk to have a good laugh. Everyone was so friendly, too. It was good entertainment," she added. 

Finally, Mariela liked the ship's layout. She loved the Boardwalk and Central Park, two of the ship's most unique neighborhoods, and couldn't believe that all the plants in the latter were real. 

"I love Central Park in New York City; it's like a mini LEGO version on the cruise," she said. Conversely, she thought that the Boardwalk was great for families and appreciated how the entire ship did not feel overcrowded. 

Oasis of the Seas food review

Mariela was shocked by the sheer volume of food available on Oasis of the Seas. As one of the largest cruise ships, there's food everywhere you look, from the Windjammer buffet to pizza in the Royal Promenade, tacos from El Loco Fresh, and, of course, multi-course meals in the Main Dining Room. 

With just two days on the ship, we tried to sample as much as we could, starting with lunch in the Windjammer Marketplace.

"The buffet was good. The burger was absolutely delicious, and my tongue has a good taste for burgers," she said. 

When dinner rolled around, she couldn't believe the menu in the dining room. She ordered a shrimp cocktail, Caesar salad, prime rib, and cheesecake. 

What surprised her even more was the quality of the food, especially considering the price of the cruise. Not a single dish was disappointing. 

The next day, we had breakfast in the Windjammer, lunch ashore at CocoCay, and dinner at Chops Grille. 

Chops was her favorite meal during our short getaway cruise. Although she didn't think the Caesar salad was much different from the dining room's (minus the croutons), she couldn't get over her NY Strip steak and sauce. 

That said, she mentioned that she might not want to pay for a specialty restaurant on every cruise. The Main Dining Room felt formal, had quality dishes, and did not cost anything extra. In her opinion, if you don't know any differently, you won't be disappointed if you only eat at the included restaurants on a cruise. 

"I think I gained 10 pounds in two days," she joked.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

A few years ago, Mariela and her family visited Atlantis on Paradise Island. However, after crossing Perfect Day at CocoCay off her bucket list, she says she isn't sure she would return to the former. 

"CocoCay is very relaxing, and the fact that there is something for everyone is nice. You have so many options that it never feels crowded," she said. 

We spent our morning at Chill Beach before moving to the Oasis Lagoon pool after lunch. Even though people hung around the swim-up bar, there were so many other areas to escape to in the pool. 

She tried the island's famous Coco Loco drink and thought it was a perfect drink for a day in The Bahamas — though if you're not a big drinker, one is enough. 

Plus, the food on the island was good with options for everyone. She especially loved the brownie from the Chill Grill and added soft-serve on top!

Read more: What's Free on Perfect Day at CocoCay and What's Not

Seasickness on a cruise

One reason Mariela had never taken a cruise was that she was worried about seasickness. She isn't alone, either! Many cruisers, even experienced ones, are susceptible to motion sickness. 

She did feel the ship rocking a little bit, but she came prepared with Dramamine and a motion sickness patch. 

Funny enough, she loved the sensation of the ship swaying through the ocean at night! 

Read more: I tried the most common seasickness hacks on my cruise. Here’s what works best

Is Royal Caribbean a good cruise line for a first-timer?

Although we were only on Oasis of the Seas for two days, there was very little that Mariela was unhappy with. 

Everything from the food to the entertainment and private island experience exceeded her expectations, and she did not feel ripped off. In fact, she felt like Royal Caribbean was giving too much for the money!

"For two days, you can't say anything bad. What are you going to complain about?" she remarked. 

"Oasis is really a ship that you can find anything for anyone to do. If you get bored, you have a problem," Mariela concluded, "I only spent two days on the ship, and I am already wanting to go back. That tells you how good it was."

Oasis of the Seas ushered in the megaship era, instantly making every ship that became before it feel obsolete. In the years since, Royal Caribbean has built five more Oasis Class ships (with one more on the way). So how does the first one compare to newer ships?

I've sailed on Oasis of the Seas five times, and just went back onboard for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to see what the ship is like now.

My first time on Oasis was a game changing experience because I couldn't fathom how a ship so big could offer so much to do. Like many people, I instantly fell in love with how much was packed into the ship.

Fast forward 16 years later, and we have an aging ship that belongs on the Mount Rushmore of cruise ships.

It's not the same ship from the beginning

The most important thing to know about Oasis of the Seas is while it may be the oldest Oasis Class ship, it's been updated.

Every Royal Caribbean ship goes in for maintenance work regularly, and in 2019, it got major upgrades. The Royal Amplification to Oasis had one goal in mind: update the ship so it fits in better with newer ships.

Royal Caribbean took the opportunity to innovate its newer Oasis Class ships with new restaurant ideas, activities, and things to do. 

This added water slides, specialty restaurants, and entertainment to the ship while refreshing other venues to make them more contemporary.

I loved the upgrades because it added enough to keep the ship competitive with newer ones. Having sailed on Allure of the Seas before she recently was upgraded, the amplification work was critical for keeping it fresh.

7 Neighborhoods to make the ship easy to navigate

When people hear there's a ship like Oasis that can handle over 6,000 passengers when at full capacity, they think it must be a crowded mess. However, it's really not like that at all.

Royal Caribbean designed the ship with the neighborhood concept, one of many innovations that was incredible for its time but we now take for granted.

• Royal Promenade
• Central Park
• Boardwalk
• Entertainment Place
• Pool and Sports Zone
• Youth Zone
• Vitality at Sea Spa & Fitness Center

One key difference between Oasis of the Seas and the newest Oasis Class ships is there isn't the eight Suite Neighborhood. Royal Caribbean added that to Utopia and Wonder of the Seas.

There are still suite areas on Oasis, but there's no question the suite neighborhood adds more dedicated space and a more cohesive experience for suite guests.

Neighborhoods make it easy to easily identify the area of the ship you're in, so there's less guessing where a certain venue might be located.

My top 3 favorite areas of the ship are the Royal Promenade, Central Park, and Boardwalk.

Each zone is creatively designed, and there's enough happening throughout the day and evening to make me want to go back again and again.

So many places to eat

Another big change Oasis of the Seas introduced was packing in so many more places to eat.

You'll find quite a few included and extra cost restaurants to choose from.

The core dining experience rotates around the Main Dining Room, Windjammer, and quick service venues like El Loco Fresh or Cafe Promenade.

Like all Royal Caribbean ships, the included food ranges between "good" and "very good". A few items are excellent and a couple are duds to avoid.

I made my way to El Loco Fresh a few times because I think it's especially very satisfying.

The Main Dining Room is a cruising institution, and I love going there for dinner. Each night there's a different dinner theme, with a few "fall back" dishes to order from too.

The Windjammer is the buffet, and it offers a fantastic variety of food. One issue is it's on the smaller side, especially compared to newer Oasis Class ships. As a result, it gets easily swamped with people and there can be lines to enter.

If you're willing to spend extra on specialty dining, there are a few terrific choices.

Specialty restaurants are a mix of cover charges or a la carte pricing.

The specialty restaurants revolve around a certain cuisine. There's a steakhouse, Italian, BBQ, or sushi restaurant, for example.

If you're going to eat any specialty dining, I'd recommend booking a dining package before the cruise begins to save money.  That can usually save up to half off the onboard price for dining at them otherwise.

My top three favorite specialty restaurants on Oasis of the Seas are Izumi, 150 Central Park, and Playmakers.

You don't have to spend extra on specialty dining to have a good time, but it certainly can enhance your cruise overall. 

Cabins are one place you'll notice the older design

While regular ship maintenance and upgrades have kept Oasis of the Seas up to par in many respects with newer ships, the cabins look about the same as they did in 2009.

As a general rule, Royal Caribbean doesn't update cabins and it certainly has an older motif if you've been on Wonder or Utopia.

I'm not an interior design expert, but I think most people will pick up on it.

The older cabin design means there is also less power outlets and no USB outlets in the room. It's a good reminder to pack an approved USB outlet extender for your cruise.

One other area lacking in these cabins is storage space. While I had enough drawers for my 7-night cruise, Royal Caribbean added much more storage space in cabins on newer Oasis Class ships.

It's not all bad news in the cabin, as it functions quite well. 

In fact, I like how big the shower is and how spacious the bathroom is for standard cabins.

I've stayed in a few different kind of cabins on Oasis of the Seas, but an oceanview balcony rarely disappoints.

One major difference you'll find on Oasis compared to many other cruise ships is the fact it has cabins that face inwards to some neighborhoods.

There are Central Park Balcony rooms, Boardwalk Balcony rooms, and Promenade Window cabins you could book.

The advantage of these rooms is you get a great people watching perspective. And they may be cheaper than an oceanview balcony.

The downside is they can be loud during the day when there are events occurring. Plus, there's not a lot of privacy.

Shows, parties, and music everywhere

If you're bored on Oasis of the Seas, it's because you're purposefully trying not to have a good time.

Oasis of the Seas is packed with theaters, bars, activities, and events happening. I'm impressed how much there is to do on a ship rapidly approaching 20 years in age.

I think the stage shows are the top draws, and there are three theaters to choose from: Royal Theater, Aquatheater, and Studio B ice rink.

The shows here are all included in your cruise fare, and each is pretty darn special.

The top two shows are Cats, the Broadway musical; and Aqua80s.

Cats is one of the most famous musicals of all time, and it's included in your cruise fare. It's a shortened version of the Broadway musical, but you'll get the bulk of the show.

Over in the Aquatheater is Aqua80s, which is a musical tribute to the 1980s decade.

What I love about this show is it combines great music with incredible acrobatic feats and diving performances.

It's one of those shows you have to see to properly understand, but I think it's a real crowd pleaser.

I think all of the stage shows are worth seeing when you're on any Oasis Class ship, and it's just the start of things to keep you busy.

There are nightly adult comedy shows, a guitarist in the Globe & Atlas pub, pianist in the Schooner Bar, and bands performing on the pool deck and in Boleros.

Plus, Royal Caribbean holds dance parties on the Royal Promenade that tie into a nightly theme. 

All of it is an excuse to get out there and have a good time, and I think Oasis delivers on that. This is what makes the Oasis Class ships such a good option: they have so much to see and do that you can't help but find lots happening.

Oasis is packed with pool deck fun too

Piggybacking on how much there is to do on Oasis of the Seas is what you'll find on its top decks.

Royal Caribbean designed Oasis of the Seas with more space and more to do than ships that came before it. 

There are a trio of water slides, a rock wall, two FlowRider surf simulators, a sports court, zip line, mini-golf course, and that still leaves four pools and an adults-only area.

This is what makes Oasis of the Seas such an attractive option for families, as the things to do are fun for all ages.

Oasis of the Seas pros and cons

If you're thinking about going on Oasis of the Seas, here are the best reasons to choose it.

There's so much to do onboard

Oasis of the Seas is packed with parties, pools, water slides, shows, and more. When you think of a cruise ship vacation, I believe this is the kind of ship that a lot of people want that appeals to all ages.

You certainly won't be bored onboard, and there's usually a lot happening every day to keep you busy. You don't have to worry about being bored.

Probably less expensive than other Oasis Class ships

One advantage Oasis of the Seas has over other ships within the class is it tends to cost less.

Generally speaking, cruise fares on Oasis of the Seas cost less because the ship is older.

For example, a 3-night Oasis of the Seas cruise in March 5, 2027 starts at $601 per person in an inside cabin. 

That same 3-night cruise on Utopia of the Seas starts at $648 per person.

Multiply those savings out across a family, and it adds up quickly.

Great mix of dining choices

I think there's an impressive array of places to eat around the ship, including both pay and extra cost.

Food is one of the top reasons why people book a Royal Caribbean cruise, and I think you'll find lots of it to enjoy during your sailing.

Portside BBQ, El Loco Fresh, and Izumi are my favorites, but there's plenty more.

Staterooms feel dated

Whether comparing your cabin to a newer Royal Caribbean ship or a hotel, you'll notice the cabins look a bit old.

The upkeep of the cabin is fine, but the look and feel is where it is noticeable.

In addition, there's a lack of storage areas compared to newer ships.

It lacks the newest concepts

Any cruise ship built more than 10 years ago is going to lack the latest and greatest innovations, and Oasis of the Seas is no exception.

It has the original Giovanni's Italian restaurant menu, still has a Bionic Bar, and doesn't have the newer restaurants and experiences you'd find on the Icon Class ships. It also doesn't have the suite neighborhood, like the newest Oasis ships have.

This only matters if you are particularly fond of a specific venue or prefer ships on the bleeding edge of what's new in cruising.

The shows are the same shows for over 10 years

If you've been on Oasis of the Seas before, not much has changed with its entertainment.

Royal Caribbean rarely updates the shows on its ships, so you can expect to find the same featured shows across its three theaters that have been there for a while.

To be fair, Aqua 80's and One Sky were added in 2019 during the refurbishment. But Cats and Frozen in Time have been there for a long time, and I doubt we'll see much change in the near future with any of the shows.

Oasis of the Seas offers megaship value

Ultimately, I think Oasis of the Seas is a great choice for a family vacation and still holds up very nicely.

While it may lack certain new features found on other ships, the price it usually commands is going to be less and I think it's the perfect blend of plenty to enjoy onboard for a good price.

When I look at any ship, I weigh what it offers, what it doesn't offer, and how much it will cost. I believe Oasis of the Seas tends to be one of the better deals when you consider those three pillars of evaluation.

There's no question it's a great cruise ship choice. You could argue spending more on a newer and bigger ship might get you meaningful upgrades, but you'll almost certainly pay more for it.

My week onboard the ship was great, and I enjoyed what Oasis had to offer and I'd love to cruise on it again.

Would you live on a cruise ship for over two months?

Jack Reynolds, who runs the digital marketing and social media agency SizzleHQ, is doing just that. Reynolds set sail on August 31, 2025, with plans to spend 78 days on cruise ships. 

Earlier this year, he began receiving casino offers through Royal Caribbean's Club Royale website, many of them from September through November. Seizing the opportunity, he decided to try and get on as many cruises as he could, especially on ships he hadn't been on yet. 

Altogether, his journey spans 88 days, including travel days from the United Kingdom and a post-cruise visit to Walt Disney World, and he plans to record his own content while onboard. 

In an interview with Reynolds, which has been edited for length and clarity, we spoke about why he chose to take 18 back-to-back cruises and what he hopes to gain from the experience. 

Why did you decide to book 18 back-to-back cruises? 

(Credit: Jack Reynolds)

I chose 18 cruises because it was almost at the maximum limit of what I could achieve within my 86-day total period, while still having an element of variety and giving myself space in case of emergencies! 

They aren't strictly back-to-back, as I will be travelling from Fort Lauderdale to Miami to change vessels, and I will spend one day traveling from Miami to Tampa by bus to get on the smaller cruise ships.

Other than that, I only have around 4 days on land! Most of those will be at the end of the journey when I go to Walt Disney World in Orlando!

Was there some sort of catalyst that helped you set your mind on it?

Recently, I sold my house, so there was nothing holding me back! It was the perfect time to travel on a trip like this. 

I just turned 30, and it's been a stressful year! I am also using the weather, access to good food, and free access to a gym for 3 months as a catalyst to get healthy. 

How long did it take you to plan and book all 18 cruises?

Not too long, maybe 3-4 weeks. 

One of the most drawn-out parts was waiting to make sure that my visa wasn't going to run out in the middle of my travels. The ESTA visa waiver is 90 days, so 18 cruises for a total trip length of 86 days was pretty much the maximum I could do.

I also kept my eye on the casino website for more suitable offers. 

What's the rough estimate for how much this experience is costing you? 

This whole journey will cost me roughly £4,300, including my flights, tickets to Disney, food on land, etc. Thankfully, a lot of that is frontloaded before the cruises start. Some costs, like hotels and transfers, can be paid on the day of, helping to split the costs up nicely. 

I also have no living costs, so I'm spending roughly £52 per day, which is less than it costs me to live in the UK! Plus, I noted down the collective cost for this. If they weren't casino comps on cruises alone, it would be £19,600 — I think I got a deal!

Read more: How much is a Royal Caribbean cruise?

What's been the biggest logistical challenge in planning 18 back-to-back cruises?

Really, it's giving myself enough time to get to each port and not overplanning. Also, figuring out what I actually need/want to do is another challenge; it's a total mental health reset for me, but I know Royal looks after me! 

I've had nothing but great experiences on all classes of their ships!

Did you have a strategy to help you maximize your "free" days at sea?

Strategy? Not really. I have my own budgets. 

I don't really spend that much in the casinos, but I try and spend a little bit on each cruise. I have some free play (a total of about $350) on these cruises, so this will contribute to extra excursions or internet! 

In terms of casino strategy, I guess I do the $1.50 x 8, $3 x 4, then $6 x 2 trick to double the chances of getting money back. Of course, this also means that I've been known to rinse through money very quickly. I've gotten a few hand-pays in my time, though!

How many ships are you going on?

I'm going on 8 different ships, 6 of which I've never been on before: Oasis, Wonder, Jewel, Utopia, Adventure, Grandeur, Radiance, and Liberty.

Out of the 8, Wonder and Jewel of the Seas are the only ships I've sailed on before. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean ships by age — Newest to Oldest

How often are you switching cabins, and what stateroom categories do you have booked?

(Credit: Jack Reynolds)

I'm having to switch cabins quite frequently. 

Because this has been preplanned, I've let the cruise casino know beforehand, and my cabin steward takes my luggage to the next room free of charge, though I do tip when I can. Thankfully, my setup is very easy and portable.

There will be a couple of occasions where I stay in one cabin, though. 

I've mostly selected interior cabins or whichever comps were on the certificates I received — a few of the certificates rewarded me with an ocean-view room!

On a recent cruise around Africa, I didn't use my balcony much. The main benefit I got from the more expensive cabin was the sunlight!

Will you be alone for the entire cruise?

Not in the strictest sense! I've found cruises are a fantastic way to meet new people in one of only a few ways that almost keep you within the vicinity of like-minded people in your adult life, along with school and work. In fact, I still have friends from cruises I took 2 years ago! 

However, I am traveling solo, which has its benefits and perks! I'm also working each morning on the cruise, so I definitely will be able to be in touch and productive while onboard. Additionally, I phone my family regularly on WhatsApp.

Over the last 4 weeks and 6 cruises, I've made more friends than I have in the last 3 years. Cruises fix loneliness, genuinely!

Do you have any favorite spaces that double as great offices at sea?

(Credit: Jack Reynolds)

To be honest, I work best when it's quiet, so I can focus. I tend to stick my laptop in my room, because I can play games on it as well, then stay out of my room for the rest of the day! 

I will be taking days where I go into ports and record content, or even just days off. Although I thought burnout was impossible on a cruise ship, I spent the first two weeks resting and taking it easy. 

Read more: I work remotely from a cruise ship all the time, and a lot more people are doing the same thing

Did you book many pre-cruise add-ons (like drink packages, shore excursions, specialty restaurants, etc.)?

My first three cruises were aboard Oasis of the Seas. I prebooked internet and a soda package, as I'm a fiend for soda. After these cruises, though, I became a Diamond cruiser within the Crown & Anchor Society (I'll actually have hit 92 points after those 3, as I get double cruise points and sail for 14 nights total). 

Because of my new status, I will take the free 4 drinks a day vouchers and buy a soda or two. If I become Prime in the casino, I can always get drinks for free there, too!

In terms of dining, I have experienced most of the specialty restaurants on Royal's ships, and I must say that I generally enjoy the Main Dining Room and included options. The value I get going into a specialty restaurant is limited. Maybe I'll go to a Chop's lunch or something, but I am not really planning on doing so yet!

How much is Wi-Fi costing you for 78 days on a cruise ship?

For the first 14 days, it cost $15 per day (so $210), but after that, as a Diamond cruiser and potentially Prime in the casino, I get 1 free day and 30% off per cruise, and some of the cruises are only 3 nights! This means that I'll book on board for those. 

Later on in the trip, after the 12th cruise, I'll become Diamond Plus, so I will get 3 free days of Wi-Fi per cruise and 5 drinks per day! In total, I've calculated around $850 or £630 for nearly 3 months of internet at sea. 

What are you looking forward to the most?

(Credit: Jack Reynolds)

I'm looking forward to the weather, rest, no responsibility (except where I'm eating), and the Royal Caribbean experience! I love Royal (although I'm not totally loyal), but above all, I love cruising! It's an amazing way to see the world and places that I have never been before!

I write music professionally and personally, so I also brought an electric guitar (with headphones, don't worry) to record and play music to keep me occupied in my relaxation time!

Oasis of the Seas was the first of Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class, but Wonder of the Seas introduced so many improvements to these ships.

Both ships are among the largest in the world and are in the process of shifting to shorter Caribbean cruises in a move meant to attract more new cruisers.

While Oasis and Wonder are separated by over 10 years in their debuts, they're still more similar than different.

However, there are notable differences between the two worth considering before you choose one.

Ship overview

Oasis of the Seas was a gamechanger when she debuted in 2009, and it's difficult to properly convey how this one ship completely changed the cruise industry overnight.

Not only was this ship the biggest in the world, but Oasis was revolutionary for its design and how much there was to do onboard.

Oasis measures 226,838 gross tons and can carry 5,602 passengers at double occupancy. 

While that's really big, Wonder is even bigger. Wonder of the Seas was also the biggest cruise ship in the world at the time of her launch. This ship weighs 235,600 gross tons and can carry 5,734 passengers at double occupancy. 

Today, Wonder is the fourth largest ship behind and Oasis is eighth.

Wonder of the Seas currently sails 3 and 4-night cruises out of Miami, visiting the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Oasis of the Seas is offering 6- to 9-night Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. In 2026, Oasis moves up to Cape Liberty, New Jersey to offer cruises from the New York City area.

Here's a look at the two ship's statistics, compared:

*at double occupancy

Neighborhoods

Oasis of the Seas introduced the concept of neighborhoods as a way to make it easy for passengers to find their way around massive ships..

The idea is simple: distinguish areas with a common theme so that you'll instantly recognize where you are without memorizing the ship deck plans.

One key difference between Oasis and Wonder is there's an extra neighborhood on Wonder of the Seas.

1. Royal Promenade: Main thoroughfare filled with bars, shops, and entertainment
2. Central Park: Outdoor park with real plants and trees. You'll also find specialty dining, and shopping
3. Boardwalk: Open air section on back of the ship with the Aquatheater, along with classic carousel and restaurants
4. Pool and Sports Zone: Resort themed pool deck, featuring pools, waterslides (The Perfect Storm), the FlowRider surf simulator, and rock-climbing walls
5. Vitality Spa and Fitness Center: A wellness-focused neighborhood offering spa treatments & fitness facilities
6. Youth Zone: Adventure Ocean and teen clubs where supervised age-specific programming is offered
7. Entertainment Place: A district dedicated to evening entertainment, including the ship's main theater, casino,  & ice rink
8. Suite Neighborhood: Only on Wonder of the Seas (and Utopia), reserved area.

Oasis has a suite sun deck, but the expanded Suite Sun Deck on Wonder is truly more impressive and feels more like a resort than simply a reserved area of the pool deck.

I think the Suite Sun Deck is so impressive on Wonder, that if you're considering booking a suite and trying to decide between ships, I'd pick Wonder for that reason.

Dining

You'll find lots of dining choices on both ships, but there are a few key differences.

Each ship has plenty of included restaurants as well as specialty dining. There's sushi, steak, a sports bar, and tropical themed pool bars.

There is room service on both ships, although it has a service fee with it (continental breakfast is free).

In comparing the ships, certain restaurants aren't available on both. You'll find Wonder has a few extra venues not available on Oasis.

It's primarily in the specialty dining where there differences. Oasis of the Seas has Portside BBQ, which is a barbecue restaurant offering turkey legs, brisket, mac 'n' cheese, pulled port and more. It's priced a la carte, although there are combo offerings.

Both ships have a Giovanni's Italian restaurant, but the version on Wonder is updated. This version has a newer menu that offers an expanded menu and updated recipes.

Another difference on Wonder is it has the Mason Jar, a restaurant serving Southern American comfort food, with live music at the popular bar area.

*suite guests only

Staterooms

The choice in staterooms on Wonder of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas are fairly similar, with one notable suite exception.

Wonder of the Seas has 2,867 cabins, while Oasis has just 2,801 cabins. It's a small difference, made up primarily of inside rooms added in places that are public areas on Oasis.

The biggest difference is that Wonder of the Seas has the Ultimate Family Suite, and Oasis does not.

This is a two story epic suite that is designed to wow and amaze just about everyone. It includes an in-suite slide, private jacuzzi, movie room, bunk beds, giant TV, and a LEGO wall.

As you might imagine, the Ultimate Family Suite is quite expensive and often costs as much about $14,000 per night!

If you'd prefer something less expensive, you'll find plenty of other cabin choices.

Both Wonder and Oasis have balcony cabins that overlook the ocean, Central Park, or Boardwalk.

Both ships also have virtual balcony cabins, which include a floor-to-ceiling screen that projects a live view from outside the ship.

Entertainment and activities

Royal Caribbean designed both cruise ships to offer as much as possible onboard, and they won't leave you disappointed with there not being enough to do.

There are shows in three different theaters, live music, pools, casino gambling, surfing, laser tag, and rock climbing abound on both vessels.

One key difference is Oasis of the Seas has a full Broadway show onboard, whereas Wonder relies on shows produced by the cruise line.

"Cats" is performed on each sailing of Oasis of the Seas, and it's included in your cruise fare.  

Both ships have amazing performances in the Aquadome, where there are high dive acrobat shows.

I prefer the Aqua80s show on Oasis of the Seas because of the tribute to the music of the 80s!

It's also worth noting Wonder of the Seas has the Vue Bar, whereas Oasis does not.

As its name implies, the Vue Bar offers sweeping ocean views from the pool deck.

Each night you'll find bars and lounges that feature live music. The two ships, however, do vary in entertainment venues. 

Another change between the ships is at the back of the ship, where Oasis has two FlowRider surf simulators, but Wonder has one.

Instead of two FlowRiders, Wonder has a Playscape.  This is an outdoor kids play park.

One difference (for now) is that Oasis of the Seas is sailing weeklong voyages, whereas Wonder of the Seas has transitioned to weekend cruises.

Royal Caribbean wants Wonder to have more of a party vibe to it, making it appealing to new cruisers who want to try it out.

Wonder is nicknamed, "Miami’s New Weekend Wonder" and has 10 next-level parties.

This includes:

• Bring the Beat Back: A Party Through the Decades
• Sailaway Party
• Plunge Day Pool Party
• Royal Kappa Chi (college party)
• Silent Toga Party

Oasis of the Seas isn't a floating library by any means. You'll find lots of parties and events happening. Both ships have themed nights and dance, DJ, and street parties.

How different is Anthem of the Seas from Oasis of the Seas?

Both Royal Caribbean ships come from different classes, but are similar in that they've become cruiser favorites. 

Both ships have been known to sail similar itineraries, both offering a host of exciting activities onboard.

So which one is better, and how do the two compare?

The most obvious difference is that the two ships are from different Royal Caribbean classes. Think of it ship classes like car models in how they are grouped together.

Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2009, was the first ship in the famous Oasis Class.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Oasis Class Ships by Age

Anthem of the Seas, in contrast, was released later, in 2015, as the second vessel in the Quantum Class.

Oasis is larger, with the capacity for more passengers

Although Oasis of the Seas was released before Anthem of the Seas, the oldest ship still wins out as more spacious.

Anthem has a capacity for 4,905 passengers, while Oasis of the Seas carries almost 2,000 more guests at 6,780 passengers.

Oasis of the Seas also measures 1,187 feet long to Anthem's 1,141 feet and 225,282 gross tons versus Anthem's 168,666 gross tons.

The Oasis Class as a whole, is one of Royal Caribbean's biggest classes of ships (rivaled only by the Icon Class).

While the Quantum Class features innovative and large ships, Anthem's size doesn't compare to Oasis.

Oasis of the Seas even has distinct neighborhoods to break up a large amount of space. The seven neighborhoods onboard are The Boardwalk, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Royal Promenade, Central Park, Entertainment Place, Youth Zone, and Vitality Spa and Fitness.

Oasis' age isn't necessarily a downside. She was Amplified in 2019, and now has new dining venues, waterslides, and a re-designed pool deck.

Dining venues and bars abound on both ships

Both ships have a variety of options when it comes to dining venues and bars.

Although the two share a few venues, some vary between them.

Anthem of the Seas has the following complimentary dining venues onboard:

• The Main Dining room
• Windjammer
• Seaplex Dog House
• Solarium Bistro
• Cafe @ Two70
• Sorrento's
• Cafe Promenade
• Coastal Kitchen (for suite guests only)

In contrast, Oasis of the Seas has a few more complimentary venues: 

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

If specialty dining is a priority for you, it's important to know that Anthem has fewer options than Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has the following specialty venues:

• Chops Grille
• Chef's Table
• Jamie's Italian
• Wonderland
• Izumi Sushi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• La Patisserie

Both ships feature cruiser favorites in the dining arena, such as Chops Grille and Chef's Table.

However, if you're looking for something more unique, venues such as Wonderland and Jamie's Italian put a special spin on the Royal Caribbean dining experience.

Oasis of the Seas has a multitude of specialty dining onboard, making it a great option if you're considering purchasing a specialty dining package onboard.

Oasis has 12 specialty venues:

• 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
• Johnny Rockets

Bars abound on both ships. Nearly every pool area and lounge will have a bar nearby, as well as many of the restaurants. 

Both ships have the popular Bionic Bar, featuring robot bartenders.

There are 14 bars on Anthem of the Seas:

• Schooner Bar
• Music Hall
• Boleros
• Pool bar
• North Star bar
• Solarium Bar
• Casino bar
• Bionic Bar
• Two70 Bar
• Vintages
• Brass & Bock Pub
• Diamond Club
• Suite Lounge
• Sky bar

Oasis of the Seas has 16 bars:

• 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

Anthem features tech-savvy virtual balcony cabins

Because Anthem is a newer ship, she features technological innovations that outshine Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has dozens of unique stateroom categories.

One innovative stateroom onboard is the virtual balcony, an HD screen that brings a live ocean view to all windowless cabins onboard.

This budget-friendly method gives cruisers the price of an interior cabin, combined with the views of a balcony cabin.

Anthem also has great staterooms for families, and even for solo travelers, such as her studio balcony cabins.

However, Oasis of the Seas has 706 more cabins onboard, with 2796 cabins to Anthem's 2090.

If you're looking at popular sailings on each ship, your preferred stateroom category on Anthem of the Seas could sell out faster. 

Read more: Oasis of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

What activities are available on each ship?

When it comes to activities and pool areas, both ships have a lot to offer.

Anthem of the Seas features the SeaPlex (an indoor sports court), the Ripcord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the North Star observation capsule.

Oasis of the Seas has gained notoriety for its range of activities. Cruisers can ice skate, play mini-golf, ride on a zipline, use dry and water slides, play laser tag, and ride a carousel while onboard.

Both ships also have multiple pools and hot tubs, as well as the FlowRider surf simulator.

Anthem of the Seas makes for a much better ship for cold-weather sailing, thanks to its indoor facilities and activities.

On the other hand, Oasis of the Seas is a popular ship for Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Its size ensures that there's no end to the fun onboard.

Both vessels have Broadway musicals but differ in entertainment venues

Both Anthem of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas feature high-quality, non-stop entertainment.

However, the two ships have very different entertainment venues onboard.

Anthem's main entertainment venues are the Royal Theater, Two70, and the Music Hall.

The Royal Theater is a two-deck venue that hosts popular production shows, such as "We Will Rock You," a tribute to Queen's biggest hits.

The two-hour Broadway musical first debuted in London and has toured all over the world.

Two70 is located on Deck 5, covering the entire aft wall with panoramic windows. Six LED screens above the stage are controlled by robots to add to the visual effects.

"Spectra's Cabaret" plays inside the Two70 venue, as well as various trivia, events, and games.

The Music Hall serves as a two-deck venue suitable for live music, nightclub events, and karaoke.

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

CATS shows in the Royal Theater. The ship’s Broadway musical tells the famous story of a tribe of cats. 

The Royal Theater also hosts comedians, game shows, and guest performers during any Oasis of the Seas sailing.

The outdoor AquaTheater features Aqua80, a thrilling water show with high diving, swimmers, acrobats, and aerialists performing to 80s era music.

Oasis of the Seas shook up the cruise industry when she launched over 15 years ago, and she still has many amenities cruisers will love.

Royal Caribbean's goal with the Oasis Class mega-ships is for families to travel together, separate to enjoy their interests, and then meet again in the evening for a quality dinner and a show.

With seven distinct neighborhoods, there's something for everyone.

The Boardwalk appeals to North American nostalgia and childlike fun, while Central Park offers a quiet, natural area for relaxation.

For the sports and thrill-lovers, the Pool and Sports Zone houses the ship's pools, hot tubs, slides, and other activities.

Cruisers of all ages can find shops, dining venues, and parties on the main thoroughfare, the Royal Promenade.

For kids and teenagers, the Youth Zone hosts Adventure Ocean and teen programs.

The Vitality Spa and Fitness Center offers a self-care moment for the body, whether a hot rock massage or an afternoon in the gym.

Oasis' Entertainment Place is the hub for nightlife onboard, from the comedy club to the casino to ice skating shows.

These are our top 13 favorite features onboard Royal Caribbean's first Oasis Class ship.

1. The Bionic Bar

Royal Caribbean's unique technological wonder, the Bionic Bar, is certainly different.

Guests can order drinks on a tablet and watch robot bartenders mix cocktails.

Drinks at the Bionic Bar cost the same as in other venues, and provide an exciting opportunity to see robotic arms creating alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

2. Ultimate Abyss

When Oasis of the Seas was Amplified in 2019, she received a number of new features, including the then-tallest dry slide at sea.

Read more: What was added to each Royal Caribbean ship during its Royal Amplified refurbishment

The huge purple slide spans 10 decks, taking guests down a 100-foot drop.

Not only is the slide 150 feet above sea level, but it also features exciting twists and turns, and a glass platform that reveals just how high up its riders are.

Kids, families, and thrill-seekers will appreciate free access to this slide while onboard Oasis.

3. Portside BBQ

Oasis' Royal Amplification also added the cruise line's first barbecue restaurant, Portside BBQ.

It is a specialty venue, priced a la carte, per dish.

The food is worth it: cruisers can choose from tender brisket, pulled pork, chicken, beef ribs, burnt ends, and turkey legs.

Sides include homestyle cornbread, mac 'n' cheese, and baked beans.

4. Aqua80 Show

Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships go above and beyond with aquatic shows that combine high diving, swimming, and acrobatics.

The Aqua Theater onboard Oasis of the Seas was the first-ever aquatic amphitheater on a cruise ship. 

The show, Aqua80, features a soundtrack of '80s classics that all generations will love.

In fact, Aqua80 has been called the best show in the fleet.

5. Central Park

Central Park is a personal favorite—a gorgeous, open-air venue modeled on New York City's famous park.

The area is meticulously maintained, with a 25-foot tall plant wall and an accompanying soundtrack of birdsongs or crickets, depending on the day.

The Central Park on Oasis of the Seas also has access to the library, upscale dining at 150 Central Park, Park Cafe, the Vintages wine bar, Giovanni's Table, and several classy shops.

6. Laser Tag

Did you know you could play laser tag on a cruise ship?

Both children and adults can face off in an exciting Clash for the Crystal City.

Access to the laser tag is free but may require reservations.

Guests should wear close-toed footwear and will receive all other necessary equipment when they arrive.

7. Splashaway Bay

Made especially for kids, the Splashaway Bay Aqua Park features exciting cruise water adventures.

Children of all ages can experience waterslides, fountains, pools, whirlpools, and water cannons.

Two drench buckets also tip over for more splashing fun, and tethered hammocks offer a place to lay down nearby.

Read more: Oasis of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

8. CATS: The Broadway Musical

Musical lovers will be excited to find CATS onboard Oasis of the Seas.

The Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is performed live in the Royal Theater.

With an incredible stage setup and cast costumes, the show tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles.

9. The Rising Tide Bar

The Rising Tide is another unique, awe-inspiring bar onboard.

The drink station with live bartenders functions much like an elevator, moving slowly between the Royal Promenade and Central Park (decks 5 to 8).

Comfortable seats and stools provide plenty of room for passengers to sit with a drink and enjoy the ever-changing view.

10. Ice Skating Rink

Studio B hosts the vessel's ice skating rink, and features "Frozen in Time," a gorgeous, colorful performance.

The show is based on the fairytales of Hans Christen Anderson and includes a lights show alongside talented ice skaters.

And this rink doesn't just host performances, either—guests can book an ice skating experience of their own on the Royal Caribbean app.

11. Zip Line

When she first launched, Oasis had the first zip line on a cruise ship.

Cruisers can still ride the zip line today, taking a thrilling 82-foot ride suspended in the air.

9 decks of open space will stretch below your feet as you glide above the Boardwalk.

For thrill-seekers and anyone looking to try something new, this free ride is an exciting amenity.

12. The Solarium

The adults-only pool area on Oasis of the Seas is a relaxing venue with comfortable seating, a shallow wading pool, a bar, and several hot tubs.

A large outdoor sundeck is available through the back of the Solarium, where guests can tan and read.

Glass walls and windows allow the light to come in and for guests to see the beautiful ocean view all around.

Read more: I chose an inside cabin on my recent Oasis of the Seas cruise because it was the cheapest option, and I actually loved how much space it had

13. The Escape Room

Oasis' Amplification also added the Apollo 18 escape room.

Inside, you work as a team with other passengers to quickly solve clues and figure out how to escape before time runs out.

The activity does cost extra and must be reserved.

I went on my first solo cruise to Europe on a mega ship in June on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas for seven nights around the Western Mediterranean.

I booked a 7-night Mediterranean cruise, sailing round-trip from Barcelona, Spain to Palma de Mallorca, Florence, Rome, and Naples, Italy.

Sailing on such a thrilling ship with exotic destinations was the perfect opportunity to choose a cheaper cabin, so I booked an interior guarantee stateroom. 

The total cost of the cruise was $2070.02 (including pre-paid gratuities). 

Since I cruised solo, the price came out to $295 per night.

A few weeks before my cruise, I saw that I'd been assigned room 7452, a windowless inside cabin located far forward on deck 7.

Read more: Should I book a guarantee stateroom on a cruise?

Guarantee staterooms are usually located in less-desirable spots onboard since Royal Caribbean assigns the leftover, unpurchased cabins before the cruise.

However, I ended up loving the position of this cabin.

It was conveniently close to the forward elevators, and being on deck 7, rather than a lower floor, helped me not feel seasick inside.

Royal Caribbean's deck plans indicate that the cabin measures 149 square feet in total.

When I first walked in, I was surprised to discover that the room felt quite spacious. 

To the right of the door was a large couch, which could seat at least three people or expand into a double sofa bed. 

Since I was traveling alone, I left it as a couch, and it made for a great place to leave my bags or clothes for the next day. 

Thanks to the sofa bed, the cabin could sleep four guests in total, so it was a lot of space for one person.

Next to the couch was a large closet, complete with seven shelves, the stateroom's safe, and a large amount of hanging space and hangers.

I loved this space—especially since it was all in one area, making it convenient for me to keep all my clothes and swimsuits in one spot.

It was large enough to hold all my clothes and luggage. I also liked that the hanging space had a sliding door, so I could close it to hide my luggage and dirty laundry. 

To the left of the front door, I found the vanity/desk of the stateroom.

The left side had a set of shelves and a large mirror complete with a ring light.

The right side held the cabin's TV, which displayed over 20 free channels.

Below the TV were a set of three drawers and a mini-fridge, which kept my food so cold that I regretted leaving brownies in there.

The only thing I found inconvenient about the desk area was that there wasn't a chair in front, and the couch was too far away to use it to sit at the desk.

If I wanted to do my makeup at the vanity or otherwise use the desk, I had to stand up.

Past the desk and the couch, I faced the large Royal King bed.

Above the bed were decorations and paintings, and two bedside tables sat on each side.

Each table had an adjustable night light, and the left side held the stateroom's telephone, which I could use to call any services onboard.

The bed was so huge for one person, and I found it very comfortable.

Read more: Everything you wanted to know about Oasis of the Seas

Back to the front of the room, I found the door to the bathroom.

Though it was small, the space was well-organized, and I didn't have any problem using it for all my needs.

I was also very happy to see that the shower had a real door and tube encasing it, instead of a plastic curtain.

While the water pressure and temperature were great, the water spout got easily tangled, and I often had to wrangle it around my body to get the right flow.

The only provided toiletries in the bathroom were a bar of hand soap and a two-in-one hair and body wash. 

While I used the hand soap and had no problem with it, I stayed far away from the body wash, finding it drying and too strongly perfumed.

A cute blue backsplash under the wide mirror continued the Royal Caribbean ocean theme.

Under the sink were a series of shelves, as well as extra towels and toilet paper.

Although the counter was narrow, it ended up being long enough that I had space to store anything I needed.

Above the counter, there were also more shelves. Again, they were a weird shape, running deep rather than wide. I felt like I had to reach my arm far in to grab my products.

Additionally, they each had a small metal bar in front, perhaps to prevent items from falling if the ship rocked.

Despite the strange shapes, I found that the bathroom had plenty of shelves and hooks for all my items.

Even though she's the oldest Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas doesn't feel 15 years old.

The only aspect of the room that felt more aged was the lighting, which seemed dimmer than in other Oasis Class ships I've been on.

However, I was dissatisfied with the cleanliness of the cabin. I found items that I shouldn't have if the room had been thoroughly cleaned, such as tape on the walls and old earrings on the floor.

Altogether, the cabin was great and had more than enough space for me to store all the items I needed for 7 days of travel.

Since the itinerary was very port-heavy and the ship had so many amenities to explore, I didn't spend much time in the cabin.

In fact, there was so much to see that I barely slept at all!

I'd recommend avoiding certain cabins on Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas so you're not disappointed later.

Oasis of the Seas is the namesake ship of the Oasis Class. Until 2024, these ships were the largest in the world, holding the record for over one decade— until Icon of the Seas officially joined the fleet. 

While not the largest ship in the world anymore, Oasis of the Seas is not small. She measures 1,187 feet long and 225,282 gross registered tons. 

In 2019, she received a $165 million amplification to help modernize the ship. This added new dining and bar venues, as well as a revamped pool deck, updated youth programming, and new activities. 

While everyone's cabin preferences vary, we can assume that nobody wants to be woken up by screeching pool chairs in the early morning hours. Likewise, if you are someone who enjoys retiring early, you probably won't want to hear the thumping of the nightclub into the late hours of the night.  

With nearly 2,800 staterooms onboard that can accommodate roughly 7,000 guests, there are certainly a few that you will want to avoid on Oasis of the Seas. 

Cabins on deck 3 below public venues

Deck 4 is home to Entertainment Place. This is where you will find tons of entertainment venues including Studio B, Casino Royale, and the lower level of the Royal Theater. 

If you book an ocean view or interior cabin on Deck 3, you will likely be kept awake by the excitement above, whether it is an ice show, thumping of the Blaze nightclub, or cheers of someone winning a late-night casino jackpot. 

Those who like to go to bed early will want to avoid Deck 3. You must prioritize your rest, especially on a ship as large as Oasis. You will not want to waste any time trying to catch up on your sleep in the morning because you were kept awake. 

Cabins on deck 6 above the Royal Theater

Speaking of noise bleed, the Royal Theater hosts numerous different events throughout the cruise, whether it's an original production show or a game show featuring other guests. 

While the lower level of the Royal Theater is located on Deck 4, the upper level is on Deck 5, meaning that certain cabins on Deck 6 should be avoided. These include those located closest to the Vitality Fitness Center:

• 6130 - 6164
• 6530 - 6564

Cabins above the Royal Theater are ocean view balconies and interior rooms. 

Connecting rooms that you didn't book both sides

Unless you're traveling with family members staying in the adjoining room, booking a connecting cabin will not do you any good. 

Families, of course, will benefit from the extra living space and two bathrooms, and parents will not have to worry about children being located down the hall or on a different deck. 

Connecting staterooms have a door that adjoins them, so you do not have to leave one cabin to enter the other. The issue, however, is that the adjoining door isn't as insulated as a standard wall, meaning you could be subject to noise bleed, depending on how noisy your neighbors are. 

An example of connecting rooms on Oasis of the Seas' deck plan (above) are rooms 10270 and 10272, 10282 and 10284, 10294 and 10296, 10310 and 10312, 10299 and 10301, 10311 and 10313, 10670 and 10672, 10682 and 10684, 10692 and 10696, and 10710 and 10712. 

If you're a family looking to increase the amount of living space you have while cruising on Oasis, that's great! There is no need to worry about booking connecting cabins. If, however, you're going to be sharing that adjoining door with a stranger, it is best to avoid these cabins. 

Light sleeper? Avoid Boardwalk balcony rooms

When launched, Oasis of the Seas was the first cruise ship in the world to feature interior-facing balcony cabins. For a cheaper price, you can enjoy a private verandah that overlooks either Central Park or the Boardwalk. Of course, you'll have less privacy than you would if you splurged on an ocean view room. 

The Boardwalk is a livelier neighborhood than Central Park, with AquaTheater shows often going on late at night. Playmakers is located on the Boardwalk, too, so it's not uncommon for patrons to get noisy during a sports game. 

Those looking to book an interior-facing balcony but who also want some peace and quiet should consider Central Park instead. Plus, these cabins are located mid-ship, whereas Boardwalk balconies are located in the aft (or back), meaning you won't have to walk as far to reach the Main Dining Room or Royal Theater.  

Read more: Royal Caribbean's Boardwalk: Everything you need to know

Any cabins under the pool deck

With three pools, a kid splash zone, and two whirlpools located on Deck 15, there's no denying that the pool deck on Oasis of the Seas is expansive. On sea days, it's a hub of activity. 

While people will stagger in after breakfast, crew members use the early morning to arrange the deck chairs. This means that if you book a cabin underneath the pool deck, you will hear the crew dragging chairs around to get them ready for guests to use. 

Those staying in a balcony won't be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of their personal verandah during the day, either. Noise bleed from children running around and live bands playing will interrupt any hope of a relaxing nap! 

Read more: How to beat the chair hogs on your cruise ship

Avoid staterooms at the front of the ship to prevent motion sickness

Cabins in the front of the ship are more likely to feel the motion of the waves than rooms in the middle of the vessel. Nobody wants to feel ill in their cabin, especially when they're trying to rest after a long day ashore! 

Of course, everyone has a different tolerance for motion. If you decide to book a stateroom in the middle of the vessel, there aren't any guarantees that you will avoid getting seasick. 

Cabins in the front (or bow) of the ship should be approached with caution if you're worried about getting motion sick, though. 

Read more: How to beat seasickness on a cruise ship

Obstructed view staterooms

Even if you think that an obstructed view will not bother you, there's a chance that the bright yellow lifeboat or bulky piece of machinery will get in the way of any aesthetic ocean views that you're hoping for.  

Although they're cheaper than unobstructed cabins, it is not worth thinking you can deal with them just to save money. Ocean view rooms at the front of the ship, for instance, will be obstructed by the ship's bow. 

While you'll be able to watch Oasis pull into port, you will have to deal with the helipad in your view for the duration of your cruise. 

Additionally, Central Park balconies on Deck 14 have the chance of being obstructed by the bulky walkway that connects the port and starboard sides of the pool deck above. These cabins include 14207 - 14217, 14607 - 14617, 14229 - 14235, and 14629 - 14635. 

Finally, if you are staying in a Boardwalk balcony, you shouldn't expect to get a clear view of the ocean, as the Ultimate Abyss causes the majority of these cabins to have an obstructed view of the ship's aft. 

A room you let Royal Caribbean pick your location

If you have a specific location you want your stateroom to be (i.e., by Adventure Ocean or near the aft elevators for easier access to the Main Dining Room), you won't want to let Royal Caribbean assign your cabin to you. 

Guarantee staterooms are cheaper cabin options that Royal Caribbean offers in exchange for allowing them the right to choose your exact room closer to the sail date. This means you trade the option to select your stateroom for a cheaper fare.

While you might think that you won't care where your balcony cabin is located (you're onboard the ship regardless, right?), you might be displeased if you get one that's located at the back of the ship since you will have to walk further to the entertainment venues. 

Read more: 6 reasons to refuse to upgrade your cruise ship cabin