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

It was all about Icon of the Seas this week, as the new ship arrived in Miami and we got our first look all around the new ship!

New features on the ship include a more open Royal Promenade spanning two levels, The Pearl experience, Hideaway infinity pool, a revamped casino layout, and so much more.

Icon of the Seas has a design unlike any other cruise ship and is sure to keep guests engaged all throughout her eight neighborhoods.

Royal Caribbean News

• Photos show world's biggest cruise ship arriving in Florida
• Icon of the Seas Royal Promenade: What to expect
• Icon of the Seas Central Park: What to expect
• Icon of the Seas AquaDome: What to expect
• Icon of the Seas Surfside neighborhood: What to expect
• The 1-item upgrade for a better cruise ship cabin experience (it’s already in your house)

Video: First Look INSIDE Icon of the Seas: Sneak Peak!

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 — First Look INSIDE Icon of the Seas: Sneak Peak — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

World's largest cruise ship will have a family dog that lives on the ship

Royal Caribbean has innovated more than just the design of Icon of the Seas.

In addition to a host of other ‘firsts,’ the ship will also have a family dog living onboard.

Rover is the resident Mascot of Icon of the Seas and will permanently live onboard.

As a nod to Rover’s unique presence, the Royal Promenade on Icon of the Seas also features a large statue of a dog. This statue takes the place of the classic car that is traditionally placed in the Royal Promenade on Royal Caribbean ships.

First steel cut for Royal Caribbean's third Icon Class cruise ship

In addition to preparations on Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean has begun constructing a third Icon Class Ship.

As of yet, this ship is unnamed, and few details have been released. We do know that it is set to be completed in 2026.

The steel-cutting ceremony for the ship’s initial construction was held on January 12 at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. Representatives from both Royal Caribbean Group and Meyer Turku attended. 

Royal Caribbean menus 2024: Main dining room, specialty restaurants & more

What meals can you expect to be offered on your cruises this year?

We’ve compiled all available menus to share with you.

Royal Caribbean ships have various dining options, from complimentary venues to specialty dining. Each venue has varying menus, and meals can also change from ship to ship.

However, we’ve done our best to provide a complete look at the food available on Royal Caribbean ships in 2024.

Why you need to cruise the Mediterranean in winter with Royal Caribbean

Mediterranean cruises have a well-known charm, but few people take advantage of the itineraries in early winter.

Winter is the off-season for Mediterranean cruises and tourist spots as crowds flock to the Caribbean during the cold winter months. 

However–despite colder weather and occasional wind—a winter cruise is a perfect opportunity to explore the Mediterranean for the first time.

There are many reasons why you should consider Mediterranean sailing in the winter, from cruise deals to calmer crowds in tourist destinations.

I cruised on Enchantment of the Seas this November for my first Mediterranean voyage. 

Mediterranean cruises are not uncommon, but taking them in early Winter is not nearly as popular.

The 7-night sailing traveled from Athens, Greece, to Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Palma de Mallorca, and Barcelona, Spain. 

Despite the colder weather and occasional wind, this winter cruise was a perfect opportunity to explore the Mediterranean for the first time.

Winter is the off-season for Mediterranean cruises and tourist spots. The Mediterranean slows down as crowds flock to the Caribbean during the cold winter months. 

It’s the best time to take advantage of the cruise deals and calmer crowds in tourist areas.

Here are several reasons why you should consider sailing the Mediterranean in winter with Royal Caribbean. 

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

Avoid crowds 

Royal Caribbean’s European cruise season runs from April to October. The busiest and most popular cruises fall between July and August.

For a less crowded cruise, we recommend sailing during the off-season, such as in winter.

While Caribbean cruises will be crowded with passengers during the popular winter season, the Mediterranean has a peaceful off-season.

This is also a great way to enjoy a smaller ship—just like I did. Smaller ships will have an even smaller occupancy and are unlikely to be completely full in the off-season.

I noticed the benefit I gained from fewer crowds in nearly every aspect of the cruise.

For example, I bought my shore excursions only a week before the cruise, but hardly any had sold out!

When I got in line to take tender ships to ports, the process was speedy and required very little preparation beforehand.

When we embarked on our tours, they were unhurried and calm, with few crowds.

I could almost always find seating in the Windjammer and pool deck, famously difficult places to stake out a spot.  

During the wintery off-season, you can enjoy a peaceful, unhurried cruise.

Milder weather

If escaping extreme weather is a goal for your cruise vacations, don’t fear!

In general, the weather in the Mediterranean is mild, with only two distinct seasons: summer and winter. 

Cruising during winter is a great way to avoid the scorching summer heat. 

Since most European exploration requires a lot of walking, avoiding the hot weather is a great benefit for those of us who hate getting tired and sweaty.

While the weather cools down in the Mediterranean winter, it still isn’t as cold as other places with four distinct seasons. 

In early November, when I visited, it remained in the 60s and cloudly, with a few days of sunshine. 

The only unpleasant aspect of the wintery weather was some frequent wind, which made it hard to stay on the pool deck. However, this was also due to the speed of the ship’s movement on sea days.

It wasn’t too chilly while I was exploring tourist sites, and I appreciated that we weren’t getting hot and sweaty.  

Read more: ​​I’ve been on 3 European cruises, and I see people making the same 12 mistakes: here’s how to avoid them

Onboard comfort

Not only was the weather milder than other wintery places, the cruise ship was also a comfortable place to stay.

Royal Caribbean ships are equipped to handle many weather conditions. Being on a cruise ship provides a lot of protection from the elements because you don’t have to go far for anything you need.

If you stayed on land, you might have to walk from the hotel to the restaurant in the rain. 

But on a cruise ship, you can simply take an elevator up a few floors and be served a gourmet meal. Then, you can take the elevator up a few more floors for dance parties, bars, pools, and more! Everything is right at your fingertips.

Even on days when the pool deck was cloudy and windy, I could hop into the hot tub and warm up immediately.

If you are wanting to travel in the winter but need to branch out from the warm Caribbean, consider Mediterranean cruises! 

Take advantage of deals

I actually found my Enchantment of the Seas cruise in a list of Royal Caribbean last-minute deals. 

My cruise was the last Mediterranean cruise Enchantment offered before her re-positioning to Tampa, Florida. 

Booking immediately before or after a ship’s repositioning is a great way to take advantage of cruise deals.

Many ships transition from Europe to the Caribbean in winter, so try booking your Europe cruise right before they set sail!

This is the best way to get deals and smaller crowds on a cruise, but you can also find deals on land.

Since it’s the off-season, accommodations, and excursions also offer deals for tourists. 

Read more: What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

Authentic cultural immersion

One limitation of cruising is the quick, touristy stops at ports of call. When you only visit a port for one day, you only have time to visit the most popular tourist spots.

Sometimes, stopping at a cruise port feels like a disingenuous experience crowded with other tourists and overworked locals.

In an off-season trip, however, the tourist influence fades away, and local life quiets down.

I definitely sensed this difference on my winter cruise. 

Mediterranean destinations have such a rich, ancient cultural heritage and history. An off-season visit allowed me to get a more intimate immersion into this culture. 

I got the impression that I was visiting thriving, independent communities rather than seeing a false front for tourists.  

This could have the added disadvantage of locals trying even harder to get you to spend your money in an area, but that wasn’t my experience at this time.

I felt that shop owners and servers had a bit more time to care for each customer’s needs instead of feeling hurried. They also gave me a wide berth, so I wasn’t faced with the usual pushy hawkers. 

I also recognize that this change could be something unique about visiting Europe itself—rather than popular cruising destinations such as the Caribbean. 

Either way, it’s a great reason to visit the Mediterranean during an off-season and experience more authentic international travel.

Welcome to this week's round-up of all the Royal Caribbean news and happenings.  Hope you are staying warm and are ready to cozy up to the cruise happenings this week.

2024 just started, and this might be the year we get an official confirmation of a new smaller cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley posted on social media that something could be announced this year.

The cruise line has tip-toed around talking about a new ship class, but this is the firmest acknowledgement yet of a rumored new ship class.

Royal Caribbean News

• How much does a cruise ship cost to operate per day?
• Photos show Royal Caribbean's oldest and newest cabins - see how they compare
• I spent 10 days in a 170 square foot windowless cabin for $202 per night: take a look inside my Brilliance of the Seas stateroom
• 5 mistakes I saw people making on my cruise last week

Video: 5 big changes coming to Royal Caribbean in 2024

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 — 5 big changes coming to Royal Caribbean in 2024 — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Icon of the Seas is coming to Miami this week. Here's when and where you can see it

After much anticipation, Icon of the Seas is finally ready to take guests onboard.

Before that can happen, Icon needs a do a few things first. She will sail to Miami, where Royal Caribbean will host an arrival party on January 10th. Then, she will embark on shakedown and media cruises, which double as a dress rehearsal for staff and a chance for media and travel agents to preview the ship.

On January 27th, she will embark on her 7-night inaugural cruise, sailing from Miami, Florida to Perfect Day at Coco Cay, St. Thomas, and St. Kitts & Nevis. 

8 ways I saved over $2,000 on my recent Royal Caribbean cruise

Although cruising is one of the most affordable forms of travel, you still want to save all the money you can on your next cruise. And the more you put away, the more money you can put towards making another cruise great!

These hacks allowed her to save thousands of dollars on her recent Brilliance of the Seas cruise—a 10-night sailing to the South Pacific from Sydney, Australia.

From the cabin she booked to private shore excursions, here’s how she saved over $2,000 on her cruise.

5 best reasons to stay onboard the ship while in Perfect Day at CocoCay

Are you finding the frequent stops redundant? There are many reasons why the Perfect Day at CocoCay doesn’t have to be on the private island.

For example, if you enjoy the pool during quiet moments, and don't want to fight with chair hogs to grab a seat, you should consider staying onboard the ship.

If you also want to save money on spa treatments and more, consider staying onboard the ship.

24 Do's and Don'ts for your 2024 cruise

While you make your New Year’s Resolutions and plan for your next vacation, we have all the essential Royal Caribbean news to guide your way forward.

Whether you’re considering a cruise for the first time or are a devout Royal Caribbean cruiser, there are important do’s and don’ts to remember for your next cruise.

To prepare you for your best year of cruising yet, we’ve formulated a list of essential do’s and don’ts for your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2024.

Happy New Year! Before we pop champagne and toast to a better year next year, we have a look back at all the Royal Caribbean news from this week to share.

 We're less than a month away from Icon of the Seas debuting, and photos of the ship have begun to leak online.

As the new ship has gotten staffed up by crew members, some crew have shared photos and video of the ship.  Even Royal Caribbean has gotten into act by sharing snippets of what we can expect on their social media channels.

The first revenue cruise of Icon of the Seas is on January 27, 2024, with preview sailings in the week leading up to that cruise.

Royal Caribbean News

• Smuggled cat on cruise ship would have been euthanized until crew members saved it
• 6 million people took a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2023
• 5 big changes coming to Royal Caribbean in 2024
• Royal Caribbean's Best Moments of 2023
• The best cruise experiences I had in 2023
• Harmony of the Seas vs Allure of the Seas
• What Surprised Me on My First Australia Cruise
• One food item you need to order from each restaurant onboard Enchantment of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 522nd episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, which has a list of things for Royal Caribbean to change in the coming year.

From policy changes, to new ideas, Matt and Billy share the top 3 changes we would like to see Royal Caribbean make in 2024.

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.

Video: 11 cruise fees you should know about! 

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 — 11 cruise fees you should know about! — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Wonder of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas is an extremely popular ship to sail on, but which cabin should you choose?

Wonder of the Seas offers 2,867 staterooms you can stay in, but there are a few types of cabins you might want to think twice about booking.

Whether you’re worried about seasickness, loud noises keeping you awake, or getting the best view, it’s important to be aware of the more disappointing staterooms out there.

We scoured deck plans and online reviews to figure out the types of cabins you need to avoid.

Drama on 9-month world cruise? Not really

Royal Caribbean's first-ever world cruise sailed three weeks ago, and social media has blown up with videos about the "drama" onboard. But is there really any drama?

Certainly there's been plenty of attention so far online, but a lot of the perceived drama mentioned in TikTok videos are pretty much things that happen on any cruise.  Guest misbehaving, accidents, and strange occurrences aren't unique to a world cruise.

Here's a reality check on what's really happening on the world cruise right now.

15 bestselling cruise ship accessories our readers love

There are thousands of travel accessories out there, but which really stand out as the best ones for a cruise ship vacation?

Our goal is to make the decision of what to get easier in order to help you travel better, smarter and more comfortably.

We asked our readers for the one item they bought for a cruise that they cannot cruise without. If it works for them, maybe it's what you need to boost your holiday vacation before it begins.

6 Things I'll do differently on Royal Caribbean in 2024

A new year means a new opportunity to make changes, including how Matt takes a cruise.

Cruising is different for everyone, and Matt picked out a few ways he intends to change up his cruise habits in the new year.

From hitting the pool after dark to saving money on a drink package, here's what Matt will do differently in 2024.

Does Royal Caribbean have irons? How laundry works on a cruise ship

How is laundry done on a cruise ship? This question has been asked many times in recent weeks, especially with the launch of longer cruises such as the 9-month world cruise.

Royal Caribbean does not allow you to bring irons or steamers onboard. If you do, it will be confiscated and returned to you at the end of your cruise.

So how can you get your laundry cleaned and pressed?

Royal Caribbean does allow you to send your laundry away to be washed, folded, pressed, or dry cleaned. Suite guests also receive complimentary pressing on the first formal night of their cruise.

And if you don’t want to pay any extra charge to get clothes clean and smooth, there are several hacks cruise fans have devised.

Eating on a cruise ship is a major draw to going on this kind of vacation, so how does it compare on an older ship?

You may hear people discuss the value still left in older vessels.  For example, I sang the praises of my cruise on Enchantment of the Seas, an older Vision Class ship.

This ship was first launched in 1996 and has a lot to offer despite her small package. Enchantment has gone through massive overhauls in the years since her first launch. 

But if you’re anything like me, you might still be concerned about the quality of service and food onboard.

On a smaller ship with a cut-down selection of venues onboard, will you still find delicious food?

I took the plunge to find out and selected the best dishes from each food venue onboard.

Windjammer Cafe: Fruit

This complimentary buffet is one of the most well-known Royal Caribbean food venues.

The Windjammer features a wide selection of dishes three times a day.

In particular, the buffet never fails to amaze me with the variety of fruits available. There’s always something sweet and fresh to try, from figs to plums to pears. 

Even on Enchantment of the Seas, the Windjammer wasn’t proportional to the ship's smaller size. It was huge, with wide glass windows and multiple stations of all types of food. 

There were three separate drink stations and more than enough seating at any time of day.

Even better, the food was incredible. I think our Mediterranean destination had a lot to do with this because the ingredients seemed to be a much higher quality than I’d experienced before.

Large “Antipasti” stations were open at every meal. Antipasti is a plural term that refers to appetizers such as meat, bread, and cheese.

At the Windjammer, these stations were filled with gourmet items, like Prosciutto and brie. Paired with the variety of fruits available, these made for an incredible meal.

This was my favorite Windjammer I’ve ever eaten at! Even though I sailed on Enchantment for a total of 7 days, I never got tired of the meal options. 

In fact, I barely had enough time to try everything I wanted to.

Read more: Where can I eat on the first day of my Royal Caribbean cruise?
 

My Fair Lady Dining Room: Butter chicken

Royal Caribbean’s Main Dining Room has a consistent menu on all her ships, so there’s nothing to fear here.

If you going on Enchantment of the Seas—no matter the itinerary—I can recommend all types of chicken. Royal Caribbean usually makes quality food, but I feel that their chicken dishes shine. 

Cruise fans seem to agree that the cruise line's cooks make stellar sauces, from gravies to barbeque sauce. And I believe chicken meat pops with a good sauce. 

The main dining room’s butter chicken is flavorful, warm, and delicious.

The only complaint I could make is that the Main Dining Room serves a tiny amount of rice with all its Asian dishes—it’s a staple that I could use more of. 

Because it’s hard to pick just one favorite from the Main Dining Room, I will also recommend the fluffy, warm cheese buns. I’ve become addicted to them.

The waiter will bring a few in your bread appetizer, and you can always ask for more! 

Read more: 21 Tips for the Best Cruise Ship Main Dining Room Experience
 

Park Cafe: Pepperoni pizza 

I love the Park Café available on smaller ships. It’s a quick-stop venue, perfect for a mid-afternoon snack.

And with the Park Café being located in the Solarium on Enchantment of the Seas, it’s so convenient to stop sunning yourself on the pool deck and walk over to grab a bite. 

The Café offers salads, sandwiches, and soups—but my favorite is the hot, cheesy pizza.

To me, it beats the pizza at Sorrento’s on larger ships. I think that it is made more frequently, and it is never cold or even lukewarm.

Cafe Latte-tudes: Caramel Pot De Creme

While the coffee drinks cost extra at this café, the food and snacks are complimentary and similar to the offerings at Park Cafe.

You’ll find a changing variety of sandwiches and sweet treats available, so be sure to give them all a try!

Personally, I love the caramel pot de creme that comes in a small plastic cup.

It is sweet and rich, with a fluffy texture underneath the caramel topping and whipped cream.

Room service: Chocolate chip cookies 

I took full advantage of complimentary room service on this cruise.

Before this cruise, I had already made a habit of ordering continental breakfast at no extra charge. 

However, I also discovered that I could order food items from room service at other times of the day, such as nachos, cookies, and pizza.

When I had late-night cravings, I was able to place an order over the phone.

“How many cookies would you like?” A crew member asked me one night.

I hesitated, not wanting to sound greedy, and then asked for two.

When my food arrived, it turns out they brought me three chocolate chip cookies—which I thoroughly enjoyed. They were warm and soft and made all the sweeter by the care that went into making them.

Read more: Your really dumb cruise ship dining questions answered

Chops Grille: Grilled bacon 

For an extra charge, you can visit the renowned Chops Grille Steakhouse. 

In 2024, you can expect to pay $25 per person at lunchtime and $55 per person for dinner.

Enchantment also offers the 3-night dining package for $75 per guest or the unlimited dining package for $100 per guest. 

At Chops Grille, you’ll enjoy a private, modern atmosphere with a multiple-course dinner featuring quality cuts of meat and steak. 

My favorite dish at Chops Grille is an appetizer offered right at the beginning: their grilled black pepper bacon. 

You wouldn’t expect it from the unassuming name, but this appetizer is a thick, fatty strip of tender pork with a sweet and spicy glaze. 

If you’re willing to pay extra for your meal, go ahead and give this flavorful appetizer a try! 

Chef’s Table: Filet mignon

The Chef’s Table features an intimate dining experience at an extra cost. 

This private, 5-course dinner is a gourmet meal paired with a selection of fine red and white wines. It is presented by the ship’s Executive Chef and attentive waiters to a table of about 16 guests.

Without a specialty dining package, the evening costs $95, which includes the dinner and the wines. Specialty drinks and other alcoholic beverages will still come at additional menu pricing.

While everything is delicious, the 5th and main course features a tender grilled filet mignon, served with truffle potato purée, asparagus, and bordelaise sauce. 
 

Merry Christmas! The holidays are here, and so is our weekly round up of this week's Royal Caribbean news.

What kind of cabin can you get for $2,400 on Wonder of the Seas?

Matt stayed in an oceanview balcony room on Wonder of the Seas for seven nights, paying a total of $2,409.94. 

While Matt has stayed in balcony rooms on Royal Caribbean ships before, the cruise line continues to improve. 

This cabin included ample power outlets, and large closet, and the 50 square foot balcony. 

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean news: New cruise ship construction milestone, deployment schedule updated & more
• Freedom of the Seas vs Liberty of the Seas
• Norwegian vs Royal Caribbean comparison
• The guide to Royal Caribbean status match
• 10 habits of successful cruisers
• Travelers want cruise deals — here's where to find them
• I spent $3,214 on a 10-night Royal Caribbean cruise. Here's what everything cost, from my $1,273 flight to $230 catamaran tour
• Beyond the Buffet: Exploring Royal Caribbean's unique onboard cuisine

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 521st episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, with answers to all of your cruise questions.

This week is all about you as Matt responds to more listener emails! From prepaid gratuities to saving money with travel agencies, check out this episode to hear all your questions answered. 

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.

Video: 5 Royal Caribbean ships nobody talks about

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 — 5 Royal Caribbean ships nobody talks about — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Why the internet is obsessed with the world cruise

On TikTok, the #UltimateWorldCruise tag has more than 54.8 million views with a lot of social media attention to Royal Caribbean's first world cruise.

Many of the posts on TikTok are speculating on the prospect of drama between people living on a cruise ship for almost an entire year.

There's videos of passengers showing off their cabin, and how they're making it feel more like home.

First look at The Pearl on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas will be putting a new twist on the essential Royal Promenade on most Royal Caribbean ships. With the introduction of the Pearl, you can expect something completely new and unique.

The Royal Promenade onboard Icon will be 362 feet long, longer than the length of a football field.

If the Royal Promenade is the heart of Icon of the Seas, the Pearl will be her heartbeat.

Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer for Royal Caribbean International called the Pearl “a bit art, a bit sculpture, a bit experience, a bit WOW." 

Bored of typical shore excursions? Try a day pass to a resort

Are you struggling to find a shore excursion that excites you?

Getting a day pass to a resort is your opportunity to try a new side of a location you may have already visited, such as the more popular Caribbean islands.

A day pass to a resort can give you a luxurious stop, with access to pools, restaurants, bars, and other amenities. Many resorts are all-inclusive.

And booking your pass is easy: there are several websites where you can find resort day passes, especially for cruise ship passengers staying in a port for 8 hours or less.

What it's like to sail Royal Caribbean's smallest ship

Royal Caribbean’s oldest and smallest cruise ship is still sailing strong, and you might be curious what it's like to go on a ship of this size and age.

Angie recently sailed on Grandeur out of Tampa, Florida, and she was surprised at how well-maintained the ship is! Grandeur is still in quality condition, despite being almost 30 years old.

While the ship may not have the same attractions as newer Royal Caribbean ships, she offers a more intimate atmosphere. 

Is it worth booking an inside cabin for a Mediterranean cruise?

How important is your cabin choice when it comes to a unique Mediterranean itinerary?

Given that a Mediterranean cruise is such an exciting experience to take full advantage of, you want to be sure to choose the right cabin.

You may wonder if it’s worth saving money to book a cheaper, windowless inside cabin. Or should you splurge for a balcony cabin instead?

To make your decision, you can weigh several categories—such as port stops and ideal sleeping conditions—and consider the pros and cons of each.

A Mediterranean cruise feels like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so how important is your cabin choice for this itinerary?

A Mediterranean cruise offers a cruise that has visits to places to a captivating blend of history, culture, and landscapes. Naturally, you'll want to take full advantage of the experience.

One of the first decisions you'll make while preparing for your cruise will be choosing which cabin to book.

Depending on your personal preferences and budget, it can be a tough call to choose which type of cabin is best for your cruise. Is it worth saving money to book a cheaper, windowless inside cabin? Or should you splurge for a balcony cabin instead?

The Mediterranean is not like a Caribbean cruise that you may have experienced many times.  If it's your first cruise ever, you might be debating if the money saved with an inside cabin is going to lead to regret later.

To help you make your decision, I’ll delve into the pros and cons I experienced when I booked an inside cabin for my Mediterranean voyage.

Inside Cabin vs. Balcony

In my case, I knew pretty quickly that I could rule out purchasing a balcony cabin (or a suite).

The cost is steep, ranging from $1,000-2,000 more than an inside cabin.

Since I was traveling alone, it also didn’t make as much sense to spend a lot of money on a room I wouldn’t be sharing with anyone. 

I didn’t need the extra space or privacy, and a balcony isn’t as fun without someone to stargaze with you! 

Traveling solo also comes with a single supplement fee, meaning I was charged extra for traveling with just one person in a stateroom. It wouldn't make sense for me to make an even higher leap in price.

In addition to the extra cost, my Mediterranean cruise also took place in early November, meaning we were already entering winter. 

While the weather wasn’t extremely cold, it was windy and cloudy, with some choppy seas. 

On those windy days, I got too cold to even enjoy the sun on the pool deck.

In hindsight, this tells me that I would not have spent time on a balcony, where a roof blocks off from the sunlight but still exposes you to the wind. 

However, if it’s still important that you have a private outdoor space, you may want to consider booking a balcony.

For my personal needs, it didn’t make sense to shell out that extra money. 

Inside Cabin vs. Oceanview Cabin

With a balcony ruled out, I could next consider whether I wanted to book an oceanview cabin.

Cruise pricing can vary from ship to ship and sailing to sailing, but a standard oceanview cabin costs about $25-40 more per night than an inside cabin.

For my 7-night cruise, this would have added at least $200 to the price of booking. 

Since an inside cabin is more budget-friendly than an oceanview cabin, this made my cabin a smart choice.

While the cost wasn’t that significant of a difference, it made enough of a change that I could allocate money to other aspects of my cruise.

For example, saving $200 is $200 more than I could spend on a shore excursion or souvenirs at our destinations.

In the end, I chose to book a windowless inside cabin. I used several categories to determine if this decision made the most sense for my cruise.

Read more: I always stay in an inside cabin on a cruise ship. Here's why I actually like these rooms

Time spent in my stateroom

One unique aspect of a Mediterranean cruise is its frequent port stops at new locations. A Mediterranean cruise usually focuses on the destinations and cultural experiences. 

With the close multitude of islands in the Mediterranean Sea, you can expect your cruise to be port-intensive. 

If you plan on taking advantage of time at the ports of all, a cheaper cabin is a more practical choice.

With so much time spent off the ship, your cabin preferences can take a backseat since you’ll only be returning to sleep.

It makes more sense to spend time enjoying shore adventures and onboard activities than to waste money on a cabin.  

Better locations for seasickness

For those of us prone to seasickness, the location of your cabin may be more important than having a nice view.

Some find that being in the middle of the ship and on a lower deck helps minimize the feeling of motion and ease seasickness.

Inside cabins are more often located in the center of the ship, away from any windows and balconies. Not only that but there are also more to choose from on Royal Caribbean ships, making it easier to choose your cabin location when you book one.

For my cruise, my cabin was located midship on Deck 2, which is a perfect location when it came to seasickness and noise level.

Read more: The 5 best cabin locations on a cruise ship

Plenty of space

For a Mediterranean cruise, which requires days of travel from the U.S., taking a longer cruise is the best way to maximize your travel time.

I chose a 7-night sailing to get full advantage of my time in the area. 

And for this longer sailing, it makes sense to want a larger room with more space for all your luggage.

Space was an important factor for my Mediterranean cruise cabin, but an inside cabin still made the most sense for this situation.

Most standard oceanview cabins are about the same size as inside cabins. For an even larger room, I would have had to upgrade to a spacious or ultra-spacious oceanview cabin.

Since that would raise the cruise price even further, an inside cabin was sufficient space for me in the end.

Even though I was traveling alone, I felt that my stateroom would have had more than enough floor and storage space for two people traveling over a period of 7 days.

Ideal sleeping conditions

After a long day of walking around the pebbled streets in places like Greece and Spain, you’re going to want a good night of sleep.

For me, the best conditions for a sound 8 hours of sleep are the dark, cool, and quiet inside cabins on a Royal Caribbean ship.

Especially in a quiet location, I can sleep soundly without waking up at all through the night. It’s the perfect way to relax after a long day.

Read more: 9 ways to sleep better on a cruise ship

Merry Christmas! The holidays are here, and so is our weekly round up of the articles and news we shared about Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean is ending its partnership with Ben & Jerry's ice cream this year.

In an announcement to travel agents, the cruise line announced that they will be removing all Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shops onboard its cruise ships.

"Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Shop onboard 13 of our ships will be moo-ving out and making way for something sweeter," the announcement read, stating that December 15th was the last date to taste Ben and Jerry’s ice cream onboard.

Royal Caribbean will be replacing the brand with its own in-house Ice Cream parlor.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean in talks to buy hotel resort in Freeport Bahamas, report says
• Royal Caribbean names greatest soccer player ever as its "icon" for new Icon of the Seas cruise ship
• 8 advantages of booking a suite on your next cruise
• 11 cruise fees you should know about before booking
• Can you bring weed on a cruise?
• Wonder of the Seas vs Symphony of the Seas
• What is a cabin steward on a cruise?

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 520th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available at all our links.

This week, we’re responding to listener emails! From Matt’s most recommended cruises to traveling with babies, check out this episode to hear all your questions answered. 

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.

You can subscribe to the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast via iTunes, Google Podcasts, Stitcher or RSS.

Video: 8 Reasons Why Upgrading is Worth It for Your Cruise

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise!

Check out the link to view our latest video: 8 Reasons Why Upgrading is Worth It for Your Cruise

The best time to book cruises by day, month, and last-minute

Is there a secret scoop on the best time to book your cruise?

The truth is, waiting for that special moment is a mistake. The best time to book your cruise is when you see a price that fits your budget and needs.

Industry prices can change by the minute, with no specific pattern. Travel agents have also confirmed that there isn’t any best day of the week to book a cruise.

However, cruise lines often offer promotions around major holidays and “Wave Season,” which runs from January to March.

In the end, it’s most important to seize the deals that align with your needs rather than waiting for a specific time.

I took my first cruise alone and did these 7 things to make solo cruising more fun and less lonely

Taking a solo cruise sounds intimidating, but there’s no reason to be afraid.

Some opportunities are worth taking, even if you have to do it alone.

Calista felt nervous before her first solo cruise, but through the experience, she was able to develop helpful strategies. 

She lists seven tips she tried to make the experience more enjoyable and less lonely.

From making conversation onboard to staying connected online, she was able to minimize feelings of isolation and enjoy the cruising experience. 

The extra step you should take before your cruise for the fastest way on a ship

You’ve spent weeks planning and packing, and embarkation day is finally here.

As you enter the cruise terminal, the last thing you want is a delay before you can finally get onboard.

To get onto your ship the fastest, don’t forget this pivotal step!

The Royal Caribbean app facilitates your boarding process, and the line is now testing a new Express Boarding option. 

This express option, being launched in PortMiami, will reward passengers who complete all necessary pre-boarding tasks on the app. Most important of all: taking the right selfie.

7 things I liked better about Royal Caribbean cruises than Carnival

The debate runs deep—and everyone has their own preferences—but is Royal Caribbean really better than Carnival?

Elizabeth has always been faithful to Royal Caribbean but recently tried two Carnival cruises for the first time.

While she enjoyed her cruises on Carnival’s Celebration and Vista, there were some aspects of Royal Caribbean’s experience that she still craved.

Beginning with the digital embarkation process and continuing to faster Main Dining Room service, she shares everything that Royal Caribbean did better.
 

When it came to taking my first solo cruise, I was definitely nervous and unsure what to expect. 

When first I realized I would have the opportunity to travel to the Mediterranean—but I would have to do it alone—I wasn't sure if that would be a good fit for me.

In the end, I knew that some opportunities are worth taking, even if you have to do it alone.

I packed up and traveled the 18 hours to begin a cruise on Enchantment of the Seas, sailing from Athens, Greece, to Barcelona, Spain.

The 7-night cruise was an amazing experience and a chance to see part of the world I’d never experienced before. 

However, cruising alone was a challenge. Not only did I have to be hyper-aware of safety, but it was also a lonely task to travel alone for such a long period of time.

If you’re planning on taking a cruise alone, don’t fear! I developed 7 strategies to make my solo cruise more fun and less lonely. These tips can help you conquer your nerves and make a solo trip even more worth it.

1. Attend cruise ship activities

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of events to help cruisers meet each other and have fun. 

Self-guided groups are available on every Royal Caribbean ship for cruisers with every possible interest to meet up. The most common ones I’ve seen are for singles and solo travelers, members of the LGBTQ+ community, members of Alcoholics Anonymous, and groups for various religions. If you keep an eye on the ship’s schedule, you’ll see there’s something for everyone!

These groups are a great opportunity to people and make friends with common interests as you.

However, I will place a warning here: the self-guided groups are usually more sparsely attended. On my cruise, I attended the groups for solo travelers and members of the LGBTQ community but found that they weren’t always full of other people.

My advice is to go frequently, and if you don’t make friends at first, keep trying! There are many available groups, and often they are offered on multiple days over the cruise. 

2. Purchase WiFi for connectivity

This tip may not be for everyone, but it helped me!

Buying WiFi on a cruise is optional, and it also comes with an extra charge. Personally, I did not end up purchasing WiFi for the entire length of the cruise, so I paid about $30 per day on the days I chose to buy it.

Although having WFi can take your attention away from the natural wonders, the ship’s amenities, and many activities onboard, it helped me stay connected on my solo cruise.

Solo traveling has the potential to make you very lonely, as you’re cruising out alone and in a strange place. Staying connected through technology is a great way to alleviate that loneliness.

I was able to use social media, text friends and family, and make phone calls when I was feeling extra lonely.

When used sparingly, and mostly on sea days, it was a great way to stay in touch with my loved ones.

Additionally, having WiFi helps provide entertainment for the boring moments of traveling alone. 

3. Make conversation with crew members

Royal Caribbean’s crew members are there to ensure you have the best possible experience on board, and their kindness can extend beyond a simple “hello.”

I found so much social fulfillment in making conversation with crew members at the dining venues, pool areas, and events. 

Not only did I get the chance to spark up conversation on board, but the crew members I met hailed from all parts of the world and had different journeys to get to the ship. I even got to practice with Indonesian with some staff!

If you take the time to chat with crew members around you, you’ll find that they have advice, stories, and a fascinating perspective into the cruising world. It’s the perfect way to fend off loneliness and have an enriching conversation with a kind stranger.

Read more: 7 most important crew members to meet on your cruise ship

4. Stay busy with activities

Another method I used to keep my mind off my solo status was staying busy and taking advantage of all the activities around me. After all, solo traveling is done for a purpose, and what better way to keep yourself cheerful than reminding yourself why it’s worth it?

Onboard, there are many activities you can attend daily, from trivia games to poolside dance parties, to special casino deals. I would often wander around onboard and find an activity to join in on whenever the need arose.

Making the most of all the fun opportunities around you ensures that you’ll feel fulfilled on a solo trip and remind yourself why it’s all worth it.

5. Plan ahead by bringing entertainment

Bringing entertainment along with you is another great way to amuse yourself and stave off loneliness.

Before my cruise, I downloaded movies and TV shows onto my phone, fun games that I could play even off WiFi, and a number of books onto my Kindle. 

That way, I had all my favorites downloaded for days that I chose not to buy WiFi, or needed some extra activity. 

Planning ahead by bringing entertainment meant that I was never bored, even while sitting alone on many occasions. Having familiar forms of media—whether it’s your favorite songs or an old movie—with you can also be a comforting touch to a lonely cruise.

If you’re someone who’s afraid of sitting alone in public, such as at the dinner table, don’t worry!

On my solo cruise, all I had to do was pull out a book or put in some headphones, and the rest of the world would fade away. I could enjoy a meal or pool chair alone, and no one bothered me or looked at me strangely.

6. Take group tours

I was very grateful that I chose to purchase Royal Caribbean shore excursions on my cruise.

These organized group tours got me face time with other cruisers and brought together a community of travelers interested in one common goal.

I’ve always enjoyed getting to know tour guides on my cruises, so a solo cruise is also a great opportunity to have more time with them!

Other than that, I noticed that other cruisers would make conversation with me as we toured and explored. It was a lovely reminder that I was not completely alone and a fun opportunity to share the sights and sounds with others.

Traveling sometimes is better when you have someone to share it with.

7. Embrace the alone time

Most of all, it’s important to remember that a solo cruise is just that: solo. Instead of spending the majority of your trip fighting off feelings of loneliness and distracting yourself, don’t forget to embrace the time alone.

While it was a challenging cruise, I really enjoyed the peace of solo travel. You can move at your own pace, always have a quiet moment, and do whatever you’re in the mood for. Plus, I loved having hotel rooms and cruise staterooms all to myself!

Ultimately, solo travel is a great way to get to know yourself and spend some peaceful time on a vacation in a new location.

Take advantage of the trip, and embrace it! Set personal goals, try to meditate and journal, and relish in doing some challenging but exciting. 

Good news, we are all one week closer to our next Royal Caribbean cruise!  In case you missed any of the Royal Caribbean fun from this week, here is our weekly round up!

Royal Caribbean’s second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, is now available for booking.

Star will operate out of Port Canaveral, Florida and cruisers can now book 7-night Caribbean sailings beginning on August 17, 2025. 

Prices start at $​​2398 per person for an interior guarantee cabin.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean opens new slide at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Thrill Waterpark
• Royal Caribbean announces new photo perk for its loyalty program members
• Royal Caribbean's new cruise ship prices are more expensive than Celebrity's new premium ship
• Video shows Royal Caribbean's new cruise ship barely passed under a bridge
• 7 Best cruise ports in the Caribbean
• Is January a good time for a cruise?
• Vintage photos show how drastically cruise ships have changed during the last century
• I tried the new cocktails coming to Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 519th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, which has a review of Celebrity's newest ship.

Matt and Don sailed on Celebrity Cruise’s brand-new Celebrity Ascent. In this episode, they discuss what makes the Edge Class ship unique. 

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.

Video: Why I Chose a Smaller Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship

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Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — Why I Chose a Smaller Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Video shows look around Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach

Royal Caribbean has made progress on the adults-only beach expansion located on Perfect Day at CocoCay. Called Hideaway Beach, the location will cater to guests 18 and older.

A new video from inside the park, posted by Marissa Abreu, Royal Caribbean’s Director of Design, shows a first look at the progress made.

Hideaway Beach will be a paid add-on for adults seeking a child-free experience, spanning over 8 acres.

6 things I loved and 3 things I hated about my Brilliance of the Seas cruise

Every cruise ship has pros and cons, including Royal Caribbean’s older ships.

Jenna recently sailed on Brilliance of the Seas, a Radiance Class ship built in 2002. She provides a balanced perspective on both the positive and the negative aspects of a cruise experience on Brilliance of the Seas.

She loved the ship’s entertainment options, dining experiences, friendly crew, enjoyable excursions, spacious staterooms, and the overall cruise atmosphere.

On the negative side, Jenna experienced issues with the embarkation and disembarkation processes, crowded spaces at certain times, and limited specialty dining options. 

How long does it take to build a cruise ship

The process of building a cruise ship is no overnight feat, so how long does it take exactly?

With Icon of the Seas almost ready for her first sailing, we have a good example of the process and what goes into making an idea into a ship.

From concept, to steel cutting, to float out, and then launch, it's a multi-year process involving tens of thousands of people.

I went on four cruises and found the best way to protect Black hair on vacation

After four cruises, Calista has developed the best method to protect Afro-textured hair while on vacation.

Challenges such as weather, the elements, time limitations, and packing space can make it difficult to care for Black hair while on a cruise.

However, with the help of protective hairstyles, moisturization, and essential haircare products, you can prevent damage and maintain healthy hair during a cruise vacation.