Royal Caribbean is ready to restart cruises on the world's biggest cruise ship.

In a rare move, the cruise line previously canceled Icon's 7-night sailing that was set to leave on September 28th.

Now, Icon of the Seas is set to return to her scheduled sailings on October 5th, 2024. 

The cruise line informed passengers and travel agents booked on the next sailing they've completed the necessary repairs.

"As you are aware, we were conducting unplanned maintenance onboard Icon of the Seas, and we're happy to share that it's complete!"

On September 23rd, guests and travel agents received word by email that the entire sailing was being canceled due to "unplanned maintenance."

The email did not specify what unplanned issue ended up affecting the ship, or what kind of maintenance was being done.

Icon of the Seas made major headlines as the world's largest cruise ship when she launched this year.

Surpassing Wonder of the Seas in size, length, and gross tonnage, Icon introduced a new class of Royal Caribbean vessels. At maximum occupancy, Icon carries 7,600 guests and 2,350—almost 10,000 people altogether.

The 248,663 gross ton vessel sails 7-night itineraries from Port Miami to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

However, the cruise line informed guests that the ship would need to remain docked for several days for the necessary work to be completed.

"While our crew is working hard to address this as quickly as possible, there is still some work that needs to be done over a few days while the ship is docked," the email read.

Icon resumes sailings on October 5th

Just a week after Icon's unplanned maintenance, Royal Caribbean is confident that the ship is ready to return to the sea.

Guests scheduled on the October 5th sailing received notification that their sailing will proceed as scheduled, leaving from the Port of Miami on a 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay cruise.

"The ship is ready, our crew have missed our guests, and we are looking forward to resuming our normal itineraries as of our October 5, 2024, sailing," the email read."

Read more: Two Royal Caribbean megaships in drydock at the same time

At this time, sailings are continuing as previously planned.

The planned cruise sails out of Miami and visits St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The cruise line went on to thank guests for being patient: "Thank you for your understanding. We look forward to seeing you soon."

Any further updates about sailings on Icon of the Seas will be sent to passengers.

Refunds for the canceled cruise

Royal Caribbean extended its apologies to guests on the September 28th sailing. 

"We understand the disappointment this news may bring and we're truly sorry for the impact to your vacation plans."

Passengers scheduled on the cruise received a 100% refund, including all additional expenses, such as taxes, fees, gratuities, amenities, pre-paid packages, and shore excursions.

In addition to a full refund, Royal Caribbean also provided guests with a Future Cruise Credit worth 100% of the cruise fare.

Guests can use this Future Cruise Credit within the next 14 business days to purchase another sailing.

Essentially, passengers on the canceled cruise received all their money back, plus the equivalence of the fare to use toward another sailing.

As for passengers who pre-booked their travels, such as airplane flights, passengers who booked directly through Royal Caribbean had their flights automatically refunded.

Passengers who purchased plane flights and transfers separately were reimbursed by Royal Caribbean, up to $200 per guest for domestic travel and $400 USD per guest for international travel.

What was wrong with Icon?

With 18 guest decks and 2,805 staterooms, Icon is built with guest comfort in mind. She features multiple engines, some of which don't all run at once.

This allows to cruise line to rely on multiple venues if one system fails.

Nevertheless, the ship did have to be sent in for repairs, docking at the Grand Bahama shipyard to complete her maintenance.

Royal Caribbean never clarified what the unplanned issue is, but many cruisers speculate that it was some kind of propulsion issue.

Guests onboard the September 21st sailing of Icon reported that the ship began to slow does when repairs were announced.

She also skipped a visit to St. Thomas in order to get back to Miami in time.

Reddit user ArrogantAlmond posted from the ship: "I'm on Icon now, and we just got word that we're skipping St Thomas (which was Wednesday) because the ship has maintenance issues. We have to sail slower, so we need the extra day to get back."

Because propellers control a ship's speed, slower movement could indicate a problem with the vessel's Azipods, or propeller systems.

Propulsion issues aren't unheard for cruise ships.

Earlier this year, a cruise on Radiance of the Seas was canceled due to propulsion problems slowing the ship.

Bermuda is a beautiful cruise destination, but not every month is a good time to sail the region.

Bermuda is a popular cruise destination thanks to its beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly culture, and English-speaking background.

Although many travel materials imply that Bermuda is part of the Caribbean, Bermuda is actually located solo in the Atlantic Ocean (around 650 miles east of North Carolina).

This also means that the weather is different than in the Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean's cruises from the Northeast to Bermuda offer North American guests a convenient escape from wintery North American weather.

The region is well-known and loved for its warm ocean waters and pink sand beaches.

Cruisers love this destination because it's easy to explore, mixing English tradition with a unique local culture.

Because of its distance, itineraries to the archipelago often include an overnight stay.

Royal Caribbean usually sails to the archipelago between April and October, but—as with any destination—certain months are better to sail than others.

The summer months are the busiest time to visit

The high season in Bermuda falls between May and October, when the weather remains warm and breezy, with sunny days to lounge on the beach.

Cruisers love visiting Bermuda when the ocean water is warm. It's the perfect time to enjoy snorkeling, boat tours, jet skiing, kayaking, and beachgoing.

The capital city, Hamilton, throws a huge Bermuda Day party during the Friday before the last Monday in May.

Read more: Why you should take a cruise to Bermuda

Plus, Bermuda's Carnival—a four-day festival of live music, feathered costumes, and dancing—usually falls in June.

Because of these popular time frames, the region is most crowded during the summer months. Not only does this increase the risk of large crowds, but it will also raise cruise and hotel prices between June and September.

The fall can bring hurricanes and bad weather

The hurricane season in Bermuda falls during the summer and fall—from May to November.

Hurricanes are most common during September and October.

Although direct hits to the archipelago are rare, hurricanes threaten to change or even cancel cruise ship itineraries.

For example, Royal Caribbean had to cancel a Liberty of the Seas sailing to Bermuda in August due to Hurricane Ernesto.

A cruise ship is one of the safest places you can be during a hurricane, but not every traveler appreciates their plans changing.

Spending your money on a sailing that might change due to a hurricane is only a good idea if you're able to remain flexible.

Plus, even smaller tropical storms come with their own set of bad weather, like torrential rains and strong winds.

Despite the risk of hurricanes, summertime is the most popular season to cruise to Bermuda.

The winter has colder weather but lower prices

Depending on your preferences, the winter could be a better time to cruise to Bermuda.

December through February are the slowest months in terms of visitors.

These months are great times for an inexpensive, peaceful cruise to the region. Tourism slows during the winter, leading to cheaper prices and fewer crowds.

You'll find cheaper deals on cruises, hotels, airfare, and tours alike.

However, unlike the Caribbean, Bermuda's weather does cool down during the winter months, and Royal Caribbean usually sail to the region from November to April.

You could expect temperatures between the middle 60s and the low 70s, with chilly ocean water. Nevertheless, cruisers will experience less humidity, especially as the months turn to spring.

Read more: Unexpected perks of cruising during the off-season

April and November for example—the shoulder season of the region—offer warmer temperatures at lower dew points.

The shoulder season is in April and November

In general, one of the best times to cruise to any destination is during the region's shoulder season.

The shoulder season happens in the sweet spot of lower cruise fares, fewer cruises, but relatively nice temperatures.

For Bermuda, the shoulder season falls between mid-October and November, and then between late March and April.

April and May are considered Bermuda's early season, and these months see the lowest cruise prices and comfortable, breezy weather. 

Temperatures usually sit in the 70s, with cooler ocean water. If you're sensitive to cold water, an early cruise might not be the best time for beach activities, but there's plenty more to enjoy in Bermuda.

Cruisers can enjoy local celebrations, horseback riding, world-class golf, and famous rum.

These months come with lovely weather—warmer temperatures, balmy ocean breezes, and low humidity.

As a bonus, nature and wildlife lovers should consider sailing to Bermuda during March and April.

Thousands of humpback whales migrate towards Canada during these months, passing by Bermuda. Whale-watchers can find incredible tours—or simply stay on the cruise ship for a great view!

Plus, crowds tend to die down when school is in session, usually between August and May.

Fewer crowds mean lower prices for both cruise sailing and shore excursions, as well as other onboard add-ons.

However, Royal Caribbean doesn't always offer cruises during the entire shoulder season, sometimes beginning its Bermuda season in June and ending it in October. 

How much is a cruise to Bermuda?

Cruise prices also range depending on the season, which requires you to balance your weather preferences with your budget.

Sailings around the shoulder season (October or May) come at cheaper prices than sailings in the peak of summer (July and August).

A 5-night Liberty of the Seas sailing departing from Cape Liberty (New York), for example, varies hundreds of dollars depending on the month.

A May 10-15th sailing in 2025 costs as little as $677 per person (or $135.50 per person, per night).

The beginning of the cruise season to Bermuda is one of the cheapest times to buy a cruise.

In contrast, prices rise over the summer as more travelers start flocking to the region.

A high-season sailing from August 2nd to 7th jumps to $1,007 per person (over $200 per person, per night). 

Nearing the end of the season, a Liberty of the Seas cruise from October 11th to 16th starts at about $813 per person (that's $162 per person, per night).

Royal Caribbean's latest and largest ships offer many room categories, including new innovative categories.

Both launched in 2024, Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas are the world's newest and largest cruise ships, and the staterooms onboard reflect that.

For example, more than half of the cabin categories on Icon of the Seas are completely new to the cruise line.

Royal Caribbean wanted to develop new types of staterooms to meet every cruiser's preferences.

After all, choosing a cruise ship stateroom is all about picking the right home on the seas.

You'll need to find a cabin that suits you and your crew's needs, from your budget to space to amenities.

If you're planning a cruise on Royal Caribbean's newest ships, here's how to select the best cabin with exciting features.

Cruising with family: The Ultimate Family Townhouse

If you're cruising with a large family, the Ultimate Family Townhouse on Icon of the Seas is worth splurging on.

This one-of-a-kind suite can sleep up to 8 passengers, but it's not just the size that appeals to families.

The cabin comes with a striking amount of amenities that will entertain and pamper your entire crew.

The Ultimate Family Townhouse comes with Star-Class suite benefits, 2 bedrooms, three floors, a slide, a private movie theater, a private balcony jacuzzi, and a secret entrance to Surfside neighborhood.

The room spans 1,772 square feet, with a 251 square foot backyard, and two balconies. It's decorated in fun primary colors and angular patterns, sure to charm kids of all ages.

A stay in this suite promises non-stop fun, with everything you'd need to stay occupied as a family.

There is only one Ultimate Family Townhouse, and it's on Icon of the Seas.

Read more: Icon of the Seas cabins to avoid

Ocean view on a budget: Virtual Balcony

Utopia of the Seas, the 6th Oasis-Class vessel, debuted in 2024 and also features built-in virtual balconies.

The virtual balcony feature allows guests to see an ocean view from an interior stateroom. Think of it more like an upgrade from an inside cabin than a replacement for a regular balcony.

A virtual balcony cabin can be an intriguing alternative to other types of balcony rooms.

These cabins have an 80-inch, floor-to-ceiling HD television screen that provides a live view from outside the cruise ship.

While a virtual balcony still does not offer a window or door for fresh air, guests still get a live view and sounds of the ocean.

Staying in one is an affordable way to get an ocean view without sacrificing the quiet and dark of an inside cabin.

If you love sea days: Spacious Infinite Balcony

Icon of the Seas pioneered the infinite balcony, a space-saving, efficient strategy for giving guests a great ocean (or neighborhood) view.

The infinite balcony is a balcony inside the stateroom, with a sliding window that can be controlled by a button. Instead of walking outside, guests can press a single button to be greeted by fresh air and an ocean breeze.

The Infinite Balcony comes in many variations on Icon of the Seas, offering an ocean view, a Central Park view, or a Surfside view.

A Spacious Infinite balcony adds even more square footage to the cabin, offering guests a large room with all the benefits of a balcony.

If you're sailing an itinerary with a lot of sea days, love staying onboard the ship, or want a convenient, private balcony, an infinite balcony category might be the stateroom for you.

Traveling with young kids: Surfside Family Suite

The Surfside Family Suite on Icon of the Seas was designed specifically for the needs of families traveling with young kids (around 6 years old or younger).

The Surfside Family Suite features two bathrooms, a King-size bed, a living area, a fold-out bed, two televisions, and a balcony overlooking Surfside Neighborhood.

This stateroom comes with Sky-Class suite benefits and is located right next to the kid-friendly Surfside neighborhood.

Surfside features a playscape, a splash pad, family-specific dining venues, and other amenities that appeal to children.

It can accommodate up to four guests and is the perfect choice for a spacious stateroom that allows you to keep an eye on your kids.

The Surfside Family Suite is only available on Icon of the Seas.

Read more: Boardwalk vs. Surfside: What to expect in Royal Caribbean's family neighborhood

Extra cabin storage space: Interior Plus

No matter who you're traveling with, storage space can always be an issue in cruise cabins.

Cruises include a lot of different activities, themed nights, and shore excursions that require you to pack various outfits and supplies.

If you love having extra storage space but don't want to shell out the money for a balcony or suite, Icon of the Seas has a third option for you.

The Interior Plus cabin is a 157-square-foot room that sleeps two passengers.

It has a distinct dressing area, separate from the bedroom and bathroom. The dressing area features the cabin's vanity, a full-length mirror, a wide closet, and multiple drawers and baskets for storage.

Interior rooms are great cabins for those who prefer an inexpensive and dark place to sleep, and the Interior Plus offers the bonus of a little extra storage space.

An adults-only cruise: Solarium Suite

Utopia of the Seas introduced brand-new Solarium Suites to Royal Caribbean.

These two suites are located on Deck 14 above the bridge wings, one on each side of the ship.

Panoramic windows offer sweeping, 280-degree views of the ocean.

While kids can of course stay in this stateroom, it's the perfect opportunity for an anniversary or honeymoon cruise because of its proximity to the Solarium.

The adults-only pool area is right next door, offering instant pool access, hot tub nights, or bar service.

The Solarium Suites span 839 square feet, have a large living area, and come with Star-Class suite benefits.

Neither suite has a balcony; instead, they feature modern infinite balcony technology. Instead of walking out onto a veranda to enjoy the fresh air, you can lower the suite's windows with the push of a single button.

There are two Solarium Suites, offered only on Utopia of the Seas.

There are a few kinds of balcony cabins, but what's the difference between each one?

Royal Caribbean's balcony staterooms are a popular choice because they offer increased space in the living and bathroom areas, in addition to a private balcony where you can enjoy an ocean view.

Typically located on the outer portion of the ship, balcony cabins provide guests with a view of the ocean.  

All balcony cabins include at least one Royal King bed that can be split into two twins, a private bathroom and shower, a sitting area, a television, a mini fridge cooler, a stateroom attendant, and of course, a private balcony.

Most balcony cabins are around 180 square feet (not including the balcony size). 

However, Royal Caribbean offers different types of balcony cabins that range in size and guest capacity.

The cruise line's newest and biggest ships especially have a variety of balconies cruisers can choose from.

Balconies can reach up to 298 square feet, and accommodate up to 8 guests in certain rooms.

From standard to spacious to virtual balconies, how can you tell the difference?

Standard balcony

A standard balcony is the typical size of balcony cabins. The exact area varies depending on the specific ship.

A standard balcony cabin on Freedom of the Seas, for example, comes in at 188 square feet, with a 42 square feet balcony.

In contrast, one on Ovation of the Seas is about 198 square feet, with a 55 square foot balcony.

Every Royal Caribbean ship offers standard balcony cabins for booking.  

Standard balcony cabins also come with some variation, including large balconies, connecting balconies, obstructed balconies, and neighborhood balconies.

Quantum-Class ships offer studio balconies, providing a one-person room for solo travelers to enjoy.

Read more: 5 Royal Caribbean cruise ship balcony cabins to book (and 2 to avoid)

Large balconies

Some ships also offer standard balcony cabins with a large balcony, increasing the square footage of the balcony by about 10-15 square feet.

The large balconies on Ovation of the Seas, for instance, are 65 square feet.

Although the size of the stateroom remains the same, these cabins are in a location for a little bit larger balcony.

Large balconies are available on Oasis Class and Quantum Class ships. They are available on other classes of ship but they are not listed as a separate category of cabin - you just have to know which ones have the larger balcony (usually at the stern).

Connecting balconies

Larger groups or families needing more space can also book connecting balconies. Each room is the same size as a standard balcony, but the two are connected through a private door.

Connecting cabins allow families to get extra space, essentially combining two separate cabins into one large, multiple-room cabin.

With connecting balcony staterooms, you'll get two private bathrooms and two private balconies.

Connecting balconies are available on all Royal Caribbean ships.

Obstructed balconies

Some balcony cabins will be listed as obstructed. This means that an object (usually a bright orange lifeboat) covers at least some of the view from the balcony.

While the inside of these cabins is just as quality as any other, they come at a discounted price because the outside view is essentially ruined.

Read more: Cruiser complains about "obstructed" balcony and sparks Internet backlash

All Royal Caribbean ships have obstructed balcony cabins onboard.

Neighborhood balconies

Oasis and Icon Class ships also pioneered neighborhood balconies, which face inward, over neighborhoods such as Central Park, the Boardwalk, and Surfside. 

These cabins don't have an ocean view, but provide a great opportunity for people-watching.

The neighborhood balconies on Oasis Class ships are Central Park and Boardwalk balconies, while Icon Class ships offer Central Park and Surfside views. 

Spacious balcony

The spacious balcony staterooms feature more space on the inside, but the same size balcony.

These cabins are perfect for guests who want that extra space or need to sleep more people inside a balcony stateroom.

They come at a great value, providing more space and the opportunity for more guests to fit into one room.

On Freedom of the Seas, the spacious balcony cabins are around 214 square feet, with a 42 square foot balcony. 

Some of these rooms sleep up to 4 guests, with a double sofa bed to accommodate the extra passengers.

Spacious balcony cabins are available on Royal Caribbean's Vision Class, Radiance Class, Voyager Class, Freedom Class, and Icon Class.

The Oasis Class even takes the balcony size a step further, offering "ultra-spacious" balconies that can sleep 6 guests.

On Oasis of the Seas, for example, the ultra-spacious balcony option measures 374 square feet, with a 108 square foot balcony.

Two Pullman beds and a sofa bed, in addition to the regular twin beds, provide sleeping arrangements for all. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cabins for 5 or more people

Ultra-spacious balcony cabins are found on Oasis Class ships.

Virtual balcony

Virtual balcony cabins are actually interior cabins that feature a virtual balcony, projected through an HD screen.

Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class pioneered this innovative feature.

Live cameras play a real time feed of everything happening around the ship to screens inside the cabins.

These staterooms are still the size of regular inside cabins and don't feature any windows.

Because of this, they come at the same price as interior staterooms but still offer a balcony view.

On Ovation of the Seas, these cabins come out to 187 square feet.

On her sister ship, Quantum of the Seas, the cabins are even smaller, measuring 166 square feet. 

However, the balcony screen will remain the same size in all cabins, covering the back wall from floor to ceiling.

The virtual balcony feature provides a view of the world outside the ship at a more affordable price.

Some Quantum Class ships offer these balcony staterooms as connecting cabins or studio cabins, allowing guests to adapt their accommodations depending on their group size. 

Read more: We stayed in every type of cabin on a Royal Caribbean cruise—from a $670 inside cabin to $2600 suite—and here’s how they compared

Virtual balcony cabins are available on all Quantum Class ships, as well as Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

The Oasis and Quantum Classes make up some of Royal Caribbean's latest and greatest ships, so which is the best to sail on?

If you're trying to choose between these two classes, it can be hard to know which is the best option. These are not just some of the biggest cruise ships, but also two of the most popular classes in the fleet.

Cruise ships are organized into ship classes, and it's based on the general design and layout of the ship. Both classes of vessels make for great first-time cruise experiences. They're not only best for families, but they offer just about something for everyone.

Royal Caribbean has invested a lot into each ship, and they all come with great amenities.

Although you can't go wrong when choosing a cruise, each vessel has distinct attractions that appeal to different guests' preferences.

As you're making your decision, you should consider your preferred activities, cabins, and entertainment.

Let's look at some of the key differences between two of the most popular classes in the fleet.

Activities

Quantum Class ships shine when it comes to unique activities. 

Each ship has a SeaPlex indoor sports center, complete with bumper cars and sports courts.

They also feature the North Star, an observation pod that takes passengers 300 feet above the sea for a view all around the ship.

 For an even more exciting adventure, try the Ripcord by iFLY sky-diving simulator.

Guests can experience the fun of sky-diving without the panic of jumping out of an airplane inside this high-speed wind tunnel.

Quantum Class ships also feature the FlowRider surf simulator, allowing guests to ride the waves right onboard the cruise ship.

As for the activities on Oasis Class ships, cruisers will find that there is more than one can do in a week. The Oasis Class ships are not just big, but some of the biggest cruise ships in the world.

Seven to eight neighborhoods on each ship provide a range of interests and activities, such as the Central Park and Boardwalk areas.

Read more: I've only sailed Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships: Will I be disappointed if I try other ships?

Activities include two rock climbing walls, ice skating, zip lining, mini-golf, running tracks, a carousel, laser tag, escape rooms, and two FlowRider surf simulators.

Oasis Class ships excel when it comes to waterparks, featuring three Perfect Storm waterslides.

This Class of ship also features the tallest dry slide at sea: the 10-story Ultimate Abyss ride (except on Allure of the Seas).

If you're looking for more unique, technology-focused activities, a Quantum-Class ship might be the vessel for you. On the other hand, if you like to stay active and busy, Oasis-Class ships will have an overwhelming amount of activities available.

Cabins

Each class of ship offers different variations of the classic Royal Caribbean cabin categories.

Oasis Class ships, for example, have interior staterooms that also include oceanview staterooms, and Promenade view staterooms.

These ships offer unique staterooms by neighborhood, such as the Boardwalk view balconies, Central Park view balconies, and AquaTheater suites.

Larger groups and families traveling together will find many options onboard, and more than five guests can sleep in one room. 

The larger suites onboard, such as the Royal Loft Suite, Ultimate Family Suite, and Villa Suite, even sleep up to 14 passengers.

Quantum Class ships, on the other hand, have fewer staterooms for large groups onboard.

Families of five or more who want to book a single stateroom have one option: The Royal Loft Suite.

However, connecting cabins are always available.

Quantum Class vessels excel when it comes to pioneering technological advances in the staterooms onboard.

These vessels were the first to offer virtual balconies. These staterooms are a great plus for guests who want to save money by booking an interior cabin but still get an ocean view.

A floor-to-ceiling HD screen inside the stateroom offers real-time views, with sound, of the outside view.

Spectrum and Odyssey of the Seas have digital keys available on the Royal Caribbean app, which guests can use to open the door with their phone, instead of fumbling around to find their SeaPass card.

Entertainment

Both Quantum and Oasis Class ships feature high-quality entertainment onboard.

Some of them even share similar shows. Spectrum of the Seas (a Quantum-Class vessel) was the first to release The Effectors, a popular original show written by Royal Caribbean. Its sequel, the Effectors II was later debuted on Wonder of the Seas, an Oasis-Class ship.

However, Broadway fans are better off seeking an Oasis Class cruise.

Harmony of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas are all Oasis-Class ships that feature Broadway musicals, while the only Quantum-Class to feature one is Anthem of the Seas.

Both types of ships have a large Royal Theater, but also feature two very different entertainment venues.

Royal Caribbean designed an entirely new venue on Quantum Class ships called Two70. The indoor, two-story amphitheater is located on the aft of the ship, offering sweeping (270º) views of the ocean.

Guests can experience marvelous shows inside, combining visual effects, acrobats, and six robot screens that move and synchronize with the show.

Oasis-Class ships, on the other hand, have the AquaTheater, an outdoor amphitheater also placed at the aft.

The pool goes down to a depth of 17.9 feet on some ships, making it one of the deepest pools at sea.

The AquaShows performed in the Aquatheater combine dance, acrobatics, diving, extreme sports, and lights and music for a one-of-a-kind performance.

Picking the right one for you

New and seasoned cruisers will love both the Oasis and Quantum Classes because of all the activities and amenities they have to offer.

You can't go wrong picking either class—each vessel will be its own adventure.

However, different classes have distinct attractions that might appeal to individual guests.

You should lean towards picking a Quantum Class ship if you're...

Cruising with teens

Bumper cards, Ripcord by iFLY, dance clubs, and sports centers make the Quantum Class a great choice for teens, tweens, and older kids.

There are a lot of fun, self-guided activities onboard that are perfect for older children.

Read more: Anthem of the Seas vs. Oasis of the Seas

Wanting to cruise Alaska

Royal Caribbean stations multiple Quantum-Class ships on Alaska itineraries each year.

These ships make for great options to sail to the region. 

Quantum Class ships have indoor pools, the North Star observation capsules, indoor sports activities, and more features that make them the perfect, high-class ships to explore the region.

If seeing the "Last Frontier" is on your bucket list, a cruise on a Quantum Class vessel makes for a luxury adventure.

Read more: I cruised on the oldest and newest cruise ships to Alaska: here’s how they compare

Love technology

Quantum Class ships focus on the latest technology, with RFID bracelets, robot bartenders, virtual balcony cabins, and more.

These vessels are all about presenting the latest advances that can enhance cruisers' experiences.

Lovers of technology will appreciate all that a Quantum Class ship has to offer.

On the other hand, you should consider sailing on an Oasis Class ship if you...

Want to stay busy 

Oasis Class vessels are mega-ships that have a staggering amount of activities and events onboard.

If you like having more options than you can do in one day, an Oasis Class ship is for you.

Read more: I tried every Oasis Class cruise ship, here's how I would rank them

With the variety of activities onboard, you'll always have a lot of choices, and never a dull moment.

Love getting active

For cruisers who like to get busy and stay active, Oasis Class ships are a great fit.

Two FlowRiders, two rock climbing walls, ice skating, zip lining, mini-golf, running tracks, and more are available for those who enjoy a good physical challenge.

The sports facilities and dance classes on Oasis Class ships are an impressive choice, offering many unique opportunities to stay fit while onboard.

Need lots of dining options

If you want or need a lot of dining options, whether because of dietary restrictions, picky eaters, or just a love of food, the Oasis Class will offer a ton of choices.

While Quantum Class ships don't slack in the dining department, the Oasis Class cannot be beaten.

These ships have bars, restaurants, and lounges all over the ship, offering a variety of cuisine, from sushi to Southern comfort.

Royal Caribbean has the biggest cruise ships in the world and it proves exactly why size matters.

The cruise line's fleet of 28 vessels comes in a range of sizes, with the largest ships being in the Icon Class and Oasis Class.

While you can have a great vacation on a big or small cruise ship, the world's largest cruise ships stand out for more than just their size. 

These ships feature exciting amenities you wouldn't expect to find on a cruise ship, from waterparks and ice skating rinks to immersive dining experiences.

Unique events and venues on these ships continue to draw people in, even 15 years after the first Oasis Class vessel debuted.

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO explains why mega cruise ships are so popular 15 years after their inception

Let's dive into what makes Royal Caribbean's 5 biggest mega-ships so special. 

5. Harmony of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 226,963 GRT

Length: 1,188 feet long

Passengers: 5,479 (double occupancy)

When she was launched in 2016, Harmony of the Seas was the biggest cruise ship in the world. 

As another iteration in the ground-breaking Oasis Class, Harmony both continued and expanded on the mega-ship concept.

Read more: See how Royal Caribbean ships stack up by size (2024)

The vessel is split into seven neighborhoods:

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

Each area focuses on a different attraction, allowing like-minded cruisers to join together in one location. These neighborhoods hint at exciting features you can only experience on a Royal Caribbean mega-ship.

Read more: What’s the difference between a large and small cruise ship?

Harmony of the Seas features the 10-story Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Splashaway Bay kid's waterpark, an ice skating rink, the AquaTheater, Perfect Storm waterslides, ziplines, Flowrider surf simulator, Bionic Bar, Rising Tide Bar, and rock climbing.

The ship also offers 20 dining venues, including popular choices such as Jamie's Italian, Izumi, Chop's Grille, and Johnny Rockets.

4. Symphony of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 228,081 GRT

Length: 1,188 feet long

Passengers: 5,518 (double occupancy)

Symphony of the Seas debuted in 2018. As the fourth Oasis Class ship, her success proved just how popular Royal Caribbean's mega-ships are.

Symphony of the Seas features the same seven neighborhoods as Harmony of the Seas, with a stellar Central Park that grows 20,700 live plants.

The vessel also added a laser tag experience—the Battle for Planet Z—and an escape room for even more onboard activities. 

If a family is looking for the best Royal Caribbean ship and also looking for a luxurious accommodation, they can stay in the Ultimate Family Suite, a 1,346-square-foot cabin.

Popular features also include the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Perfect Storm waterslides, AquaTheater, FlowRider surf simulator, Bionic Bar, and rock climbing wall. 

Popular dining venues include Hooked Seafood, Wonderland, Izumi Sushi and Hibachi, and more.

The mega-ship also features a Broadway-level production of Hairspray!

3. Wonder of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 236,857 GRT

Length: 1,188 feet long

Passengers: 5,734 (double occupancy)

In 2022, Wonder of the Seas was released as the next Oasis Class ship.

Royal Caribbean went above and beyond by adding an eighth neighborhood to the popular Oasis Class format. 

The Suite neighborhood on Wonder of the Seas provides a private, exclusive experience for suite guests, with its own plunge pool, bar, Coastal Kitchen venue, and Suite Lounge.

In addition to a luxury neighborhood focused on suite guests, Wonder also has the classic Oasis Class amenities, such as a stellar AquaTheater show, water slides, the Ultimate Abyss dry slide, laser tag, rock climbing walls, FlowRider surf simulator, zip line, carousel, Splashaway Bay, and arcade.

Wonder of the Seas features the Effector II show, a sequel to the popular, most technologically advanced show in the cruise industry.

Read more: Boardwalk vs. Surfside: What to expect in Royal Caribbean's family neighborhood

She was also the first vessel to feature the specialty Southern comfort food venue, the Mason Jar.

2. Utopia of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 236,860 GRT

Length: 1,188 feet long

Passengers: 5,668 (double occupancy)

Just launched in July 2024, Utopia of the Seas continued Royal Caribbean's reputation for breaking records. She became the biggest Oasis Class ship released thus far, beating out Wonder of the Seas by 3 gross tons.

Utopia was also the first mega-ship to debut by offering short sailings, focusing on becoming "The World's Biggest Weekend."

The ship features 8 distinct neighborhoods, 21 dining venues, 5 pools, and 8 hot tubs.

She introduced several innovations to the Oasis Class, such as outdoor seating in Giovanni's, a brand-new bar called the Pesky Parrot, a multi-story Lime and Coconut Bar, The Spare Tire food truck/eatery, and an extended Ultimate Abyss dry slide. 

One of the must-see highlights on Utopia of the Seas is the Royal Railway dining experience, an immersive, train-car-themed specialty restaurant.

1. Icon of the Seas

Gross Tonnage: 250,800 GRT

Length: 1,198 feet long

Passengers: 5,610 (double occupancy)

Icon of the Seas became the largest cruise ship in the world upon her debut in 2024.

She is the first ship in the Icon Class, introducing an entirely new way of cruising, with brand-new dining venues and bars.

The mega-ship features 8 neighborhoods in a completely unique layout:

• AquaDome
• Central Park
• Surfside
• Royal Promenade
• Chill Island
• Thrill Island
• The Hideaway
• Suite Neighborhood

She introduced many unique features, some of which will continue in subsequent Icon Class ships.

The Pearl, for example, is a unique art installation and sensory experience guests can walk through.

Icon also introduced the complimentary AquaDome Market, the cruise line's first food hall, which serves five unique types of cuisine: mac 'n' cheese, Asian food, soups and sandwiches, crepes, and Mediterranean bowls.

Destination elevators also first came out on Icon of the Seas, solving the issues of crowding and long wait times previously experienced on Oasis Class ships.

Read more: Icon of the Seas size comparison

Not only did guests receive an upgraded adventure onboard, but crew members did, as well. The cruise line listened to employees about what they needed to develop a new, crew-only neighborhood.

Happy Sunday, and welcome back to an edition of our Royal Caribbean news round-up. We'll summarize all the latest news from the cruise line, so just sit back, relax, and read on.

Royal Caribbean has quietly updated its banned item list to include something many people bring on a cruise.

The list has many items you'd expect to find on the list, such as weapons or illegal drugs, but the latest change is a headscratcher.

The inclusion of multi-outlet plugs on the list means keeping devices charged in a cabin on older cruise ships will be more of a challenge going forward.

Royal Caribbean News

• See the massive record-breaking 367-ton dome Royal Caribbean added to its next megaship
• I stayed in the cheapest cabin on Vision of the Seas.
• Royal Caribbean luggage tags & holders you must have
• Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Features on Royal Caribbean's Smaller Ships
• Boardwalk vs. Surfside: What to expect in Royal Caribbean's family neighborhood
• Strange Texas law could limit your drinks on the first day of your cruise
• How Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society works for kids and teens
• 5 things to know before taking a European cruise
• The secrets to achieving Diamond status quickly on Royal Caribbean
• Best cruises to maximize Crown & Anchor loyalty benefits

New RCB Video: 5 things to avoid on Royal Caribbean (and what to do instead)

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 things to avoid on Royal Caribbean (and what to do instead)—and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Influencers left kids alone in cruise ship cabin sparks controversy

Two famous social media influencers recently sparked outrage after leaving their children alone in a cruise ship cabin.

While onboard Navigator of the Seas, Matt, and Abby Howard posted that they left their 1 and 2-year-old children unattended during dinner.

The Internet had a lot to say regarding the matter.

What cruisers are doing instead of buying a drink package

Drink packages have never been more expensive, and cruisers are starting to look for other options.

Deluxe drink packages are a popular add-on, but prices are regularly rising to over $100 a day, per person. 

Many cruisers are moving on to other, less expensive ways of purchasing alcoholic and specialty drinks onboard.

How to earn Crown & Anchor Society points faster

Looking to move up in the loyalty society levels?

Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society provides some great benefits for its loyal cruisers, and there are strategies one can use to earn more points.

From staying in a suite to cruising solo, you can move up the loyalty ladder faster with a few tricks.

Cruise mistakes you’ll only make once

There's a good chance these cruise mistakes are so bad, that if you ever made them, you'd never do it again.

Among the many things you could do differently on a cruise vacation, a handful stand out as major oopsies.

You can easily avoid these mistakes by knowing what to do instead.

Royal Caribbean's loyalty program offers some of the best benefits in the cruise industry, but you can only utilize them while on a cruise.

As much as you might want to cruise frequently, vacationing is a luxury, and it can be hard to find time to plan your next sailing.

So while on those infrequent cruises, how can you best maximize your Crown and Anchor Society benefits? 

The program offers great value at every level: you can expect to receive discounts, vouchers, and even free cruises as part of your rewards.

Specific cruises will offer the best value for loyalty members who want to utilize their benefits.

If you'd like your next sailing to use all the advantages available from the Crown and Anchor Society, certain cruise ships, itineraries, and ship classes will help you maximize your experience.

Icon and Oasis Class ships offer more ways to redeem

When booking your cruise, you'll want to think about the amount of opportunities you'll have to redeem your reward vouchers and discounts.

Depending on your tier of the loyalty program, you'll get discounts on drinks, complimentary specialty beverages, free casino plays, and even BOGO dinners at specialty restaurants.

Every tier of the Crown and Anchor Society receives:

• 50% off coupon for any glass of wine, beer, or soda
• 25% off any coffee beverage
• 10% off any wine, beer, or soda by the glass

Ships with more venues will offer more opportunities and varied choices when it comes to redeeming these coupons, so Royal Caribbean's mega-ships (such as its Oasis and Icon Class) are your best bet for maximizing these benefits. Plus, kids get these benefits too.

From the amount of casino machines to bars onboard, everything about these ships offers more ways to cash in.

Read more: How to earn Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society points faster

Icon of the Seas, for example, has 14 specialty restaurants and 18 bars and lounges—offering a wide selection of menus and themes.

Throughout the length of your cruise, you could redeem complimentary daily drinks at an assortment of bars.

Use drink vouchers on a stop at a private island

Those drink vouchers turn into complimentary daily drinks once you reach the Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle tiers of the Crown and Anchor Society.

And since drink discounts and packages also apply while on Royal Caribbean's private destinations, booking a cruise that visits Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, Haiti will grant you extra time to take advantage.

Since most discounts only apply on the ship, you might be tempted to stay onboard during port days to make the most of free WiFi and drinks.

However, stopping off at a Royal Caribbean private destination allows you to still use both while enjoying beautiful beaches and luxurious cabanas.

Booking a sailing that stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, Haiti is a great way to maximize even more benefits.

Read more: What being a Pinnacle member means to me

Get discounts when you book a balcony or suite

The Crown and Anchor Society also offers discounts to its members who are booking balcony cabins or suites, so look at upgrading when you book your next cruise.

Starting at 30 points, cruisers can get discounts when booking balcony and suite staterooms.

While spending more on a cabin might not sound like a good deal, you'll be rewarding yourself with more luxurious accommodations while also taking advantage of loyalty offers.

Not only that, but cruisers also receive an increased discount for making a reservation more than six months ahead.

Royal Caribbean tends to reward guests for booking further ahead of time, so booking a balcony or suite stateroom far in the future will give you extra deals.

Consider the Crown Lounge onboard 

Royal Caribbean has a dedicated area on all of its ships just for passengers that have reached at least Diamond level.

Access to the Crown Lounge is included in benefits for the Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle tiers.

Open 24/7, this exclusive area features complimentary food, coffee, access to the Diamond concierge, and nightly happy hours.

To ensure that you're making the most of this benefit, you can research the Crown Lounge onboard specific Royal Caribbean ships.

Cruisers like to discuss their preferred size, layout, and style of the Crown Lounge, so look for a ship that best suits your preferences.

Some members prefer a bigger lounge, where they can spread out and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Others visit the exclusive venue for the social aspect, enjoying meeting other loyal Royal cruises, so they look for a more intimate experience.

Whatever your tastes, look for a specific ship to meet those needs.

Book an Alaska, Asia, or Europe sailing for your free cruise

The highest tier of the Crown and Anchor Society is rewarded with a free cruise.

Once passengers reach 700 points, they receive a free 7-night cruise in a balcony cabin (at the prevailing rate of a Caribbean cruise). Once they reach 1,400 points, the 7-night cruise is upgraded to a Junior Suite.

A free cruise sounds like a dream come true.

Royal Caribbean does not allow guests to book this sailing on a brand-new ship (it must be more than a year old), so you'll want to maximize these benefits by booking more expensive itineraries. 

The cruise line visits destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, France, Spain, Greece, Singapore, and Japan—all of which can be booked on your yearly free cruise.

Read more: I planned out 6 years of cruises so I could reach Royal Caribbean's highest loyalty tier

However, the free sailing doesn't include taxes, fees, or transportation, so you'd still have to pay for travel to and from the cruise port.

Use package discounts on shorter cruises

3-5 night sailings are a great opportunity to save money on WiFi and drink packages—with fewer days onboard, the daily packages cost even less.

When purchased onboard Diamond Plus members get 30% off deluxe drink packages, while Pinnacle members get 40% off.

Gold, Platinum, and Emerald members get discounts on Internet packages purchased onboard, while Diamond guests get one free day of internet access.

Diamond Plus cruisers earn two free days of Surf & Stream internet package per sailing, and Pinnacle Club members get a free Internet package for the length of the cruise.

Royal Caribbean just finished installing an architectural and engineering feat onto its new cruise ship.

The AquaDome is one of the signature areas onboard Star of the Seas, which will be one of the biggest cruise ships in the world.

The ship is being built at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Turku, Finland, where Icon of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Allure of the Seas were also built.

The installation of Star of the Seas's AquaDome made history as the largest glass and steel structure ever lifted and installed onto a cruise ship, a Herculean task that took 80 hours to complete.

Photo by Niko Alakoski.

The multiple-day process took months of planning for a single feat of huge proportions.

Now, its completion marks the beginning of the next phase of construction. 

Royal Caribbean can start to bring it all to life, building out neighborhood restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.

Star of the Seas will debut in August 2025, out of Port Canaveral, Florida.

Even lifting the dome off the ground was a massive undertaking. 

Photo by Niko Alakoski.

Royal Caribbean had to build a custom, 155-ton rig to move the dome into place.

1,640 feet (500 meters) of suspension cables connected the rig to the dome. These cables are longer than the height of the Empire State Building!

To complete the lift, the shipyard had to rely on the wind to stay calm. If wind speeds reached 10 miles per hour (or 16 kilometers per hour), the entire operation would come to a halt.

In the end, the dome traveled over 1,200 feet (366+ meters) in the air and rested on top of the vessel.

Workers completed 6 hours of precise welding and other work to fully attach the dome.

The dome was first built alongside Star of the Seas, a process that allowed it to be constructed in tandem with ship construction.

This strategy is commonly used in cruise ship building to complete multiple facets of the process at the same time.

Read more: Royal Caribbean unveils changes to make Star of the Seas even better than Icon of the Seas

Cabins, ship blocks, neighborhoods, and other features are often built elsewhere, then assembled and added later at the shipyard.

The AquaDome is 82 feet (25 meters) tall, 164 feet (50 meters) wide, and weighs 367 tons (332 tonnes). 

The dome has 12 modules that were assembled over 8 months, composed of 673 glass panels and 712 aluminum panels.

But installing the dome is just the beginning. 

Next, the cruise line will work to bring the AquaDome to life.

Construction must add all the interior pieces, such as lighting, bars, lounges, restaurants, sculptures, seating, the central waterfall, and the AquaTheater.

The innovative, beautiful space will serve as a peaceful gathering place during the day and a lively, entertaining spot at night.

Once the AquaDome is complete, guests will experience 220-degree ocean views, restaurants, bars, nightlife, stunning entertainment, and a 55-foot-tall waterfall.

The AquaDome was first introduced on Icon of the Seas as a completely new neighborhood concept that was built on the AquaTheater in Oasis-Class ships.

Located atop decks 15 and 16, the neighborhood includes innovative features like the brand-new AquaTheater and the cruise line's first AquaDome Market.

Photo by Mediascope Productions.

Construction on Star of the Seas began in February of 2023 when steel was first cut in the shipyard.

Once construction is complete, Star of the Seas will sail to Port Canaveral, Florida.

The ship was originally scheduled to be delivered in mid-August of 2025, but delays in production and construction forced the cruise line to push back her original inaugural sailing.

Photo by Mediascope Productions.

The inaugural sailing will now take place on August 31st, 2025.

Cruisers can expect Star of the Seas to stay around the same dimensions as Icon of the Seas.

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer has stated that the ship's attractions are more important than the total size. 

"That's never been a focus for us," he said. "The world's best family vacation was never about size for us. It still isn't."

That places the cruise ship at around 250,800 gross tons total, with a capacity for 5,610 passengers (or up to 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy).

The Icon Class has been specifically marketed to draw in the family vacation market, especially appealing to families with younger children.

The cruise line has already ordered another Icon Class ship, due to be delivered in 2026. No further details have been revealed about Icon 3.

Leave those power strips, surge protectors, and multi-outlets at home.

Royal Caribbean cruisers might be surprised to see additions to the items prohibited onboard.

Royal Caribbean updated its prohibited items list. While you won't be surprised to see things like guns, drugs, or knives on the list, the cruise line also restricts some unexpected items.

Cruise ships have different requirements than planes and other forms of travel, so paying attention to each cruise line's policies is key.

Packing a banned item on your next cruise could result in it being confiscated, wasting your money and luggage space.

The cruise line posts banned items on its website, but not every traveler reads them carefully or follows the list to the letter.

To prevent issues on embarkation day, Royal Caribbean has further updated and expanded the list of prohibited items. 

Now the cruise line bans an item many cruisers bring along to get extra space for their electronics to charge.

Multi-plug outlets are now forbidden

Previously, the website listed electrical extension cords, including power strips or surge-protected strips, as banned items.

They've now added "multi-plug outlets" to the list, "Extension Cords and Multi-Plug Outlets/ Power Strips" is what the website lists as prohibited.

Read more: 15 things you don't need to bring on a cruise

The line doesn't exactly specify what constitutes a "multi-plug outlet", and it stands to reason multi-plug USB adaptors are still permissible.

Many cruise ship staterooms, especially on older vessels, tend to lack enough outlets to charge every device, especially for families traveling together.

Our team recommends this USB hub as a good alternative. (Contains affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use)

Cruisers may find that the new rule limits their ability to charge and use electronics like phones, tablets, e-readers, electric shavers, hair dryers, and cameras.

Why are power strips prohibited?

Power strips and extension cords are a risk to cruise ships because if they overload, they could cause electrical damage or start a fire.

These items are listed on the new list in a section titled "flammable items."

"All items with open flames or heating elements are strictly prohibited, with the exception of hair curling irons and hair dryers which are permitted onboard," the section states.

Fire is the top threat to cruise ships as it can spread quickly in a confined space.

These items include:

• Candles
• Clothing Irons
• Travel Steamer
• Hot Plates
• Incense & Burners
• Tea Cup Immersion Heaters
• Aerosols (except for personal care toiletries)
• Fuels, including cooking fuels and any flammable liquids
• Gasoline
• Gas Torches
• Lighter Fluid
• Flares
• Flammable Paints
• Turpentine & Paint Thinner
• Realistic Replicas of Incendiaries
• Hookahs & Water Hookah Pipes
• Car batteries
• Hoverboards

Updates to the website list more examples of banned items

Royal Caribbean also expanded its banned list to include expanded examples of prohibited items.

The sharp objects section, for instance, now mentions not just knives and scissors, but also box cutters, ice picks, meat cleavers, utility knives, razor blades (shaving safety razors are still allowed), sabers, swords, and fencing foils.

Recreational diving knives are also still allowed but must be held in the custody of the Chief Security Officer.

Read more: 9 things you can bring on a plane, but not a cruise ship

A note also explains that personal grooming items like nail scissors and clippers are permitted onboard.

Prohibited chemicals include chlorine, spray paint, bleach, tear gas, transformers, spillable batteries, small compressed gas cartridges, and fire extinguishers.

Despite the high-risk fire presents on a cruise ship, you don't need to bring your own fire extinguisher onboard!

Updates to the website also added a new section, "tools," listing items from commonplace supplies like hammers, drills, saws, wrenches, pliers, and screwdrivers, to surprisingly obscure items, like cattle prods, axes, and hatchets.

The cruise line especially wants to be sure that guests don't bring any dangerous items.

Any types of firearms or weapons are prohibited, such as rifles, shotguns, pistols, revolvers, replicas of guns, BB guns, paintball guns, flare guns, ammunition, spear guns, pellet guns, and starter pistols.

The website doesn't mention toys or unrealistic replicas, like Nerf guns.

Royal Caribbean also doesn't want guests bringing explosives such as fireworks, dynamite, hand grenades, or gunpowder.

The list also prohibits self-defense items, including:

• Billy Clubs
• Black Jacks
• Brass Knuckles
• Kubatons
• Mace / Pepper Spray
• Martial Arts Weapons
• Night Sticks
• Nunchakus
• Stun Guns / Shocking Devices
• Throwing Stars
• Handcuffs
• Bows & Arrows