Thank you for joining us for this a look at all the Royal Caribbean news from this week. We had plenty to share, so let us jump right in!

Ready to book a 2026 cruise? You'll have to wait a few more months.

You can't book any cruises beyond April 2026 quite yet, but it's likely the cruise line will open more cruises to book in 2026 and 2027 very soon.

Based on historical data, Royal Caribbean typically puts out new cruises twice per year, beginning with new sailings appearing online in November.

Royal Caribbean News:

• Royal Caribbean's 9-month world cruise is about to end and passenger calls it "Bizarre" and "Sad"
• Mexico is adding a new tourist tax
• Royal Caribbean shows by ship
• 9 Best Royal Caribbean Bahamas Excursions
• Guide to Izumi Sushi and Hibachi restaurant (menus)
• 9 outfits you'll want to wear on a cruise to Mexico
• 8 foods you must eat on a Royal Caribbean cruise

New RCB Video: DON'T BOOK A CRUISE Without Knowing These 5 Things

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 — DON'T BOOK A CRUISE Without Knowing These 5 Things — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean tightens rules on kids sail free offer

Royal Caribbean has added a new restriction to its continuing kids sail free offer.

Per its requirements, children under the age of 12 can now sail for free when they stay with two paying adults in the same cabin on a sailing 3 nights or longer that doesn't fall during a blackout date.

New criteria now states that the cruise must be purchased at least 30 days before the sailing date.

Hiding ducks on a cruise ship is a "crazy" and popular trend - whether you like it or not

Why do people hide rubber ducks on their cruise?

The latest sailing trend is a global craze that began with a small start: a 10-year-old named Abby.

Today, the viral movement inspires cruisers to both hide and find ducks all around cruise ships, participating in the thrill of the chase.

5 mistakes I made during my European cruise kept me from making the most of my trip

Matt recently sailed in Europe on a 7-night Anthem of the Seas cruise, and shared his regrets of what he did wrong. 

While he had a good time, he also made a few mistakes—from taking public transportation to not grabbing cash sooner.

Cruise scams to watch out for

There's been a recent influx of cruise scammers—here's what you need to know.

A travel agent that frequently books Royal Caribbean cruises has noticed an uptick in the number of problems with scammers.

From imposter accounts on social media to fake phone numbers, scammers have a lot of strategies that can ruin your vacation plans.

Ready for that cruise to Mexico, but not sure what you'll need to wear during the trip?

Between the places in Mexico you'll visit, plus the events onboard your cruise ship, there's a need for different clothing.

While you can count on warm weather in Mexico, you'll need to plan to bring clothes needed onboard and in port.  Not to mention if your ship will visit more than one port in Mexico, you may need additional outfits.

Cover-ups, swimsuits, tshirts, shorts, are the sort of thing to bring for your visits around Mexico.  

You'll also want to prepare for onboard activities—whether you're looking forward to surfing or ice skating, you'll need to bring the right attire.

To make sure you're fully prepared on embarkation day, we've compiled this guide of the 9 most important cruise outfits you'll need.

Beach day

Looking forward to enjoying the clear beaches of Cozumel and Costa Maya?

You'll need to properly prepare for a beach day by packing a swimsuit, swimsuit cover-ups and shorts, and comfortable, waterproof shoes.

To get to the beach from the cruise ship, you'll need to exit the cruise ship, and find transportation or begin walking to the nearest beach.

A swimsuit cover-up will help you stay comfortable until you get to the water.

Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! You can easily get sunburned under that hot, tropical sun at any time of year.

Tropical night

Royal Caribbean cruises have themed nights on each night of the sailing. Caribbean cruises will often have a "tropical night," where guests can wear tropical-casual in recognition of the destinations the ship is visiting.

For tropical night, the dress code is casual. Be sure to wear fun patterns, tropical prints, and pastel colors. Outfit basics can be linen shirts, Bermuda shorts, or sundresses.

Complete the outfit with a hat, sunglasses, or beachy sandals for a classic tropical cruise look.

Read more: Caribbean tourist traps to avoid on a cruise

Touring Mayan ruins

One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of a Mexican cruise is the opportunity to visit and tour ancient Mayan ruins.

Whether it's the Mayan Ruins of Tulum, Kohunlich, Chacchoben, or Chichen Itza, you're able to purchase tours of these thousand-year-old palaces.

Your visit will involve riding on a bus as well as walking in heat and sun. Start with a pair of strong, comfortable shoes that you don't mind getting a little dirty.

I recommend wearing a T-shirt and shorts, and bring along a jacket; the AC can get cold on the buses.

Don't forget your hat, cameras, sunscreen, water, and sunglasses.

Casual dress code

It's time to unwind on the ship during a sea day, and the dress code is casual.

You're on a cruise vacation, so relax!

Bring along a swimsuit so you can visit the vessel's pools and hot tubs.

Feel free to kick back in golf shirts and Bermuda shorts at breakfast and lunch, or jeans and polos at dinnertime.

Pair these with T-shirts, blouses, or sundresses. You can wear simple, open-toed shoes like flip-flops and sandals.

However, remember that you should keep swimwear to the pool deck only.

Shopping and chocolate-tasting

All the cruise ports in Mexico are near to tourist-marketed shopping areas, selling tequila, hand-crafted sculptures, and other unique souvenirs.

Tours with companies like the Mayan Cacao Company can also teach you about the history of chocolate in the nation, complete with a tasting session and the opportunity to buy some to take home.

A calm shopping day is the perfect opportunity to wear flowing skirts, linen skirts, or long sundresses.

Don't pack too many items—you can purchase hats, sunglasses, and clothing at market stalls.

Formal night 

Royal Caribbean cruises feature a popular formal night, most often celebrated for dinner in the Main Dining Room.

This is your opportunity to go all out. Fancy, black-tie looks like suits and ties, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, or evening gowns are acceptable.

Formal night is a great chance to take family photos, so it's common for cruisers to take the dress code seriously.

However, if you want to dress a little less formally, that's fine too. You'll see many guests wearing cocktail dresses or button-up shirts.  Formal night and Dress Your Best night are essentially the same.

White night

Some Caribbean cruises that are 7 nights or longer have a white theme night. During "white night," you can wear any clothing that is all white!

For dinner at a more formal venue, bring a white dress or slacks.

For meals at a more casual venue, like the Windjammer or El Loco Fresh, you can stick to sundresses, white skirts, or white button-up shirts.

Not everyone participates in these theme nights, but they're a fun opportunity to dress up.

Meeting dolphins

Some Caribbean shore excursions bring guests to interact with dolphins, taking photos and even petting them.

Read more: Viral TikTok warns cruisers to avoid these three Caribbean shore excursions

You should wear non-slip shoes, sunglasses, hats, and swimwear or beach attire (I recommend swim shorts or athletic, waterproof clothing).

Depending on the area in which you purchase this tour, sunscreen could be forbidden. The National Marine Park of Cozumel, for example, forbids the use of chemical sun protection.

Check your shore excursion information, and if this is the case, pack a rash guard to protect from the sun.

"RED" nightclub experience

Some sailings have a special "RED" nightclub experience—a special evening where the nightclub takes over Studio B and a resident DJ plays special techno-dance mixes.

The night of this event can be found in your Cruise Compass or on the Royal Caribbean app.

This experience is the perfect opportunity to whip out these fancy cocktails dresses and heels, or cute clubbing outfits.

Wear dressy shoes and accessories, but pair them with a stylish jacket. Studio B also functions as the ice skating rink, and the RED nightclub experience can get chilly!

Food is a big deal on a Royal Caribbean cruise, and there are a few dishes I think you ought to try at least once.

Dishes from sushi and fried rice to milkshakes and hot dogs are available on a Royal Caribbean cruise. 

With the limitless opportunities for both free and extra-cost dining, choosing the best dishes onboard is a hard decision.

Even on a 7-day cruise, you might struggle to taste all the food onboard.

Read more: I spent a week eating on Icon of the Seas. These are the 11 best dishes I ate

What are the best foods and desserts across the fleet? Here are the top 8 dishes you must try.

Black Pepper Bacon Strip

Chops Grille, a quality, high-class specialty steakhouse, is featured on every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

It is known as one of the most popular and consistent specialty venues on Royal Caribbean's ships.

The strip of bacon is an appetizer at Chops Grille, and it's so much more than your typical piece of cured pork.

The thick strip comes in a sizable portion, a fatty strip of meat covered with black pepper, and a sweet and spicy glaze.

This bacon strip is a tasty, tender dish that you have to try as your appetizer.

You can find it at Chops Grille, on every Royal Caribbean ship.

Read more: Royal Caribbean menus from every restaurant

Kummelweck Sandwich 

Many of our Royal Caribbean readers seek out the kummelweck sandwich as soon as they board their cruise.

The kummelweck, a Western New York tradition, is a warm sandwich with sliced roast beef on a kummelweck roll.

A kummelweck roll has a hard, circular shape and is sprinkled with caraway seeds. Toppings include au jus, horseradish, and mustard.

You can find the kummelweck at the complimentary cafes onboard—Park Café, Café Promenade, or Café Two70.

These cafes are found on Allure of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Star of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas.

Rib "I" short rib

The Wonderland specialty restaurant is worth trying for its unique, Alice-in-Wonderland-inspired experience.

Guests will be greeted by the Mad Hatter and guided through a culinary experience unlike any other you've seen before.

Each dish is divided into natural elements: sun, fire, ice, earth, and sea.

One of the entrees, within the earth element, is a delicious, luscious Rib "I" short rib.

The short rib is slow-cooked for five hours and served with red and yellow relish, pumpkin sauce, and a beet puree. The generous portion is topped with a Bordelaise sauce made from white wine, onions, beef broth, and butter.

The Wonderland venue is located on Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas.

Escargot

Have you ever tried cooked snails?

Royal Caribbean's Main Dining Room provides the opportunity for guests to try escargot as part of their complimentary meal.

The baked snails are soaked in garlic and butter and served with a bread roll for dipping.

This salty, savory dish may have the chewy texture of a snail and isn't for everyone. But if you're brave enough to try something new, this is a must-eat dish!

Escargot is served in the Main Dining Room on Welcome Aboard, French Night, The Royal Night, Mexican Night, and British Night. You can check your Cruise Compass or Royal Caribbean to find the days of these themed nights. 

Funnel cake

If your Royal Caribbean cruise stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, you'll have the chance to try free snacks and finger food, including some delicious funnel cake.

The funnel cake can be found at any of the three different Snack Shack locations on the island: near Thrill Waterpark, Oasis Lagoon, or South Beach.

Deep-fried spirals of dough are topped with light powdered sugar, making for a sweet, warm, and greasy treat.

It's the perfect snack or dessert to enjoy by the beach, the pool, or before hopping on an exciting water slide.

Crispy Goat Cheese Salad

Another favorite at Chops Grille is the crispy goat cheese salad. 

The crispy goat cheese is served on top of the salad in a warm, fried ball. 

Topped with cranberries, green apples, candied walnuts, and balsamic dressing, this is an equally delicious and healthy dish.

Chops Grille is located on all Royal Caribbean ships and can be purchased separately or as part of a dining package.

Read more: Chops Grille is the best Royal Caribbean extra-cost restaurant, according to a passenger survey

Campfire Cookie 

Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade is a specialty, sports bar venue that also serves some classic eats, a la carte.

The campfire cookie is the venue's most popular dessert, a chocolate chip cookie topped with marshmallows.

The first layer is a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie that's been baked in a skillet. It is topped with a generous layer of toasted marshmallows and served with Nutella and caramel sauce.

The dessert also comes with a side of vanilla ice cream and milk shooters.

Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade is located on Freedom of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Star of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas.

Lobster Tail

Lobster night is one of the most popular nights to dine in the Main Dining Room for dinner.

The Maine lobster has become so popular with cruisers that Royal Caribbean started charging for extra servings.

It is a delicious broiled lobster tail served with melted butter—the waiter will crack and extricate the lobster from its shell for you. 

The lobster served in the Main Dining Room on Royal Night is complimentary (one per person), but you can optionally order an extra cost lobster tail any night from the Main Dining Room.  That lobster tail comes from the Chops menu.

Read more: 7 reasons to eat at specialty restaurants instead of the Main Dining Room on your cruise 

You can also find lobster served at Hooked specialty restaurant and the Coco Beach Club restaurant at Royal Caribbean's private island.

Royal Caribbean ships feature a diverse variety of cuisine, including Japanese-style sushi and hibachi

Izumi Sushi and Hibachi is a popular specialty restaurant found on most, but not all, ships.

For an extra cost, cruisers can enjoy fresh sushi, quality sashimi, or teppanyaki-style cooking, all within an elegant environment with quality service and input from trained chefs.

Read more: How does specialty dining work on Royal Caribbean?

So which Royal Caribbean ships have Izumi? How much does it cost, and how can you book a meal there?

What is Izumi Sushi?

Izumi is a classy, contemporary-style restaurant decorated in dark reds, greys, browns, blacks, and exposed metal. Rice paper and bamboo elements also add to the Japanese ambiance.

Fresh sushi is served in rolls on white and red plates, alongside tasty appetizers and drinks.

Izumi is located on the following ships:

• Adventure of the Seas 
• Allure of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Grandeur of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Icon of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Jewel of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas 
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Radiance of the Seas
• Rhapsody of the Seas
• Serenade of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Vision of the Seas 
• Voyager of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas
• Utopia of the Seas

Izumi sushi menu

The Izumi sushi menu is the same for lunch and dinner with no price difference. The menu for Izumi sushi is priced a la carte, meaning you pay per dish.

It's important to note Izumi on Quantum Class ships do not offer the entire menu found on other ships because they lack a full kitchen.

The menu lists starters as complimentary, with options such as vegetable fried rice and green salad with ginger dressing. 

There are signature rolls, which come in pieces of 8 and cost $13 total. These include tasty roll such as the Rainbow Roll, a spicy crispy tuna roll, and the crispy Philly roll. 

Chef’s signature rolls come at a higher price ($15 for 8 pieces), and include even higher-grade sushi such as the champagne lobster roll.

The sushi menu also offers an assortment of sashimi and a chef’s sushi selection, each listed at $17 for 8-12 pieces.

Bowls and soups are also available—spicy miso ramen, poke bowls, chicken teriyaki, and more. All of these range in price from $14 to $20.

The dessert options shine: crispy sesame balls for $5, assorted mochi ice cream for $6, green tea ice cream for $5, and chocolate lava cake for $5.

There is also an alternative option where you can pay one price—either separately or as part of a dining package—and get a pre-fixed amount of food included.

The price onboard is $34.99 per adult and $10.99 per child (for children between the ages of 6 and 12). Kids between the ages of 0 to 5 eat free.

The food included in the fixed-price option has varied over the years, but it currently includes:

• 1 small plate (e.g. a small serving like miso soup, tempura, or pork gyoza dumplings)
• 2 large plates (varying between sushi, rolls, or ramen bowls)
• 1 dessert (such as mochi ice cream)

Our team has tried the a la carte and fixed price options, and we recommend sticking with the a la carte options and skipping the fixed price offering because the sushi rolls are half sized with fixed price.

What is Izumi Hibachi?

Select ships also have Izumi Hibachi, a separate, teppanyaki-style area of the restaurant. This popular, fun dining experience features a chef who cooks food in front of the guests, cracking jokes and creating a personalized dining experience.

Sometimes referred to as “Japanese steakhouse,” the dining experience places guests in a communal table for an exciting, funny performance along with their live cooking. 

The hibachi area has three main cooking tables, each with a flat iron grill surface. The tables are surrounded by chairs, with each table seating about eight people.

If you book Izumi Hibachi with a party of less than eight, you can expect to be seated with other cruisers for the night. 

The following ships have Izumi Sushi and Hibachi:

• Allure of the Seas 
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Icon of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Utopia of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas

On Icon Class and Oasis Class ships, Izumi is split into two, with a sushi side and a hibachi side. They are separate, including separate reservations and availability. On other ships, hibachi and the sushi exist in the same large space.

The hibachi side often books up more quickly, because of its limited amount of tables and high demand.

The hibachi experience makes for a fun, unforgettable evening, perfect to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or just your latest cruise.

Izumi hibachi menu

This fixed-price option allows you to choose a variety of proteins for your entree.

Complimentary starters include vegetable fried rice and green salad with ginger dressing.

The classic option costs $45.99 for adults, allowing you to choose between chicken breast, beef tenderloin, and tiger shrimp.

Read more: How much does Royal Caribbean specialty dining cost?

The premier combo, on the other hand, costs $49.99 and offers combinations of meat: beef tenderloin and tiger shrimp, chicken breast and tiger shrimp, New York steak and chicken breast, and sea scallops with lobster.

A choice of dessert also comes with the meal: mochi ice cream, green tea ice cream, chocolate lava cake, or crispy sesame balls.

What is Izumi omakase?

Available only on Utopia of the Seas, Izumi omakase is a chef-driven Japanese dining experience.

The Omakase table is a communal dining experience, where six people are seated together across a rather large wood table. Yes, you will be seated with strangers.

The menu has eight courses, and each comes with a drink pairing.

The cost is $129.99 per guest, and it's an eight course meal that includes food and alcohol pairings. If you have the Unlimited Dining Package, there is a $59.99 surcharge. There is no kids pricing.

Where can I find Izumi in the Park? 

Royal Caribbean’s new ships have a brilliant concept on board: Izumi in the Park.

The specialty venue takes advantage of the beautiful, peaceful Central Park neighborhood located on Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

Izumi is so popular that the cruise line wanted to move it to a more high-traffic area, rather than tucking it in the corners.

Alongside the typical Sushi and Hibachi sections, Izumi in the Park also has sushi to-go options and ice cream bubble cones.

The photogenic space is the perfect easy-to-find, quick, and tasty meal.

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's new chef-driven Japanese restaurant, and it was a food journey that surprised me

When is Izumi open?

Izumi sushi is typically open for dinner between 5:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. Reservations are recommended, especially on larger ships, as the popular venue can fill up fast.

The sushi venue is also open for lunch on select sailings and ships, usually available between noon and 1:30 P.M.

Izumi Hibachi also opens for dinner at 5:00 P.M., but it stays open just a little later to accommodate the longer meals, closing at 9:30.

Izumi in the Park is open for lunch and all the way into the evening, opening at 11:00 A.M. and not closing until 10:00 P.M.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the dress code at Izumi?

Royal Caribbean's website advises that attire should be smart-casual.

For women, this can be blouses, skirts, or pants. Men should wear long pants such as jeans or chinos, and lightweight blazers.

Do I need to make reservations?

Reservations are recommended. Cruisers can call the restaurant from their stateroom phones, or simply walk in on embarkation day.

The online Cruise Planner also provides the option to book restaurants before the sailing begins.

Is there a kid's menu?

Yes, Izumi has a kid's menu. It includes smaller ratios of quality sushi, teriyaki, and more.

Newborns to kids aged 5 years old eat free.

Can I use my dining/drink package at Izumi?

Yes, you can use dining packages such as the Ultimate Dining Package or the 3-night dining package. 

Drink packages are also valid at Izumi.

Royal Caribbean offers many cruises to the Bahamas, and each visit is a new opportunity.

With hundreds of tours to choose from, what's the best shore excursion in Nassau?

The capital of the Bahamas is known for its tropical climate, colonial harbor, beautiful beaches, and small neighboring islands.

According to the Nassau Cruise Terminal website, the port hosts 4 million cruise visitors a year.

Read more: Your really dumb cruise ship shore excursion questions answered

Guests visiting the island can choose from a wide range of activities, from ATV adventures to snorkeling to beach breaks. 

You can have a fantastic day in port no matter what excursion you book. 

But certain activities stand out—here are the 9 best Royal Caribbean excursions to book for your day in Nassau.

1. Dolphin Encounter at Blue Lagoon Island

Blue Lagoon Island is located 30 minutes from Nassau Harbor, home to a dolphin program.

This life-changing trip includes an informative orientation and then the opportunity to stand in waist-deep water while meeting friendly, gentle dolphins.

Dolphins are beautiful and very intelligent—interacting with these animals is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will surprise you.

Phones and cameras aren't allowed on the animal platforms, but media staff will capture photos and videos of the experience.

Children between 4 and 12 years old must be accompanied by a ticketed adult to the excursion.

Read more: Best shore excursion in every Caribbean cruise port

Guests between 13 and 17 years old must have a waiver signed by an adult parent or guardian.

2. Pearl Island Beach Escape

One of our favorite excursions is the Pearl Island Beach Escape.

Pearl Island is a small, private getaway located a short boat ride from the port of Nassau.

On the way to the Island, you can view local architecture and learn the area's history.

At Pearl Island, guests can relax in the sun or shade, play on the white sand beach, go for a swim, snorkel, kayak, or play board games.

The island also has a bar, a small buffet-style restaurant, and an iconic lighthouse that provides a view of the neighboring islands.

This excursion is a great option for people of all ages because you can choose your level of activity while on the island.

Lifeguards also stand guard by the beach.

However, you will have to step up and down from the boat and should be mindful of seasickness while heading to Pearl Island.

3. Scale the Queen's Staircase

Fans of walking and history can tour the Queen's Staircase, a unique part of the island's history.

The 60-step staircase provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City and was carved between 1793 and 1797.

Enslaved Bahamians carved the staircase out of solid limestone.

You can absolutely tour the Queen's Staircase on your own for free, or join a walking tour excursion to hear a tour guide's knowledgeable perspective.

Read more: 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own

4. Food and Rum Tasting

The Caribbean produces most of the world's rum, and rum serves as one of the island's most popular beverages.

A food and rum tasting tour will take you on a journey of tasting traditional Bahamian dishes such as conch fritters and johnnycakes.

Read more: The cruise ship shore excursion mistake that sounds like a better idea than it really is

While discovering local culinary gems in the island's historical district, you'll wash each dish down with a glass of locally made rum.

5. Experience the luxurious Baha Bay Water Park

The Baha Bay Water Park at Baha Mar won a Tripadvisor's Choice Award in 2024 for its gorgeous beachfront, relaxing island, and luxe waterpark.

Baha Bay access is offered for Baha Mar Resort guests, but Royal Caribbean visitors can purchase a package with lunch included.

The waterpark features more than 30 attractions, including thrilling waterslides, a casino pavilion, and a dueling water coaster.

With the lunch-included Royal Caribbean shore excursion, you'll receive access to world-class dining options.

Guests can also lay back and relax on the Baha Bay beachfront sands.

The beautiful private island is the perfect tropical escape.

6. ATV adventure

While visiting Nassau, you'll notice many tourists enjoying a thrilling ride onboard a motorized all-terrain vehicle (ATV).

If you don't mind getting a little dirty, ATVs are a thrilling way to see the island.

This city tour allows you to follow a guide or explore on your own ATV, viewing famous landmarks and beautiful landscapes.

Depending on the tour, each guest will visit different places, but common spots include the Bahamas Rum Factory, the Caves, Fort Montagu, Queen's Staircase, Fort Fincastle, Fort Charlotte, and John Watling's Distillery.

Guests must have a valid driver's license to drive an ATV, and be at least 12 years old to ride one.

7. Sunken Sculpture snorkeling

Options abound on Nassau for anyone who loves snorkeling, but one shore excursion offers a boat ride to Sun Cay.

Equipment and life jackets will be provided. Guests can swim and stare through the clear waters to explore an underwater sculpture garden and encounter vibrant tropical fish.

After touring the local reefs, return to the white sand beaches of Sun Cay.

The minimum age to participate is 8 years old.

8. Visit the world-famous Atlantis resort

Atlantis Bahamas is located on Paradise Island, so you'll need to purchase a shore excursion or a taxi boat ride to visit.

The stunning oceanside resort features 3,000 hotel rooms over five distinct hotels: The Royal, the Beach, the Coral, the Cove, and the Reef.

Guests can enjoy the 123-acre water park, shops, the Atlantis Casino, celebrity chef restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, or the Madara Spa.

For animal-lovers, the Atlantic also has the world's largest open-air marine habitat.

Read more: 5 cruise ship shore excursions I tried and instantly regretted

Don't forget to plan ahead when it comes to getting back to the ship on time.

9. Enjoy Junkanoo Beach

Another free excursion option is to visit Junkanoo Beach. This is the closest beach to the cruise terminal and makes for a popular beach stop for cruisers.

It also has bathrooms, showers, and changing facilities available, so you don't have to worry about changing before you get off the ship.

After enjoying a day in the hot sun and splashing in the ocean, you'll find several bars and restaurants nearby.

Read more: 8 cruise ship shore excursions our readers tried and instantly regretted

We hope you enjoy your Labor Day weekend with friends and family! It has been a busy week of Royal Caribbean news and events, and we have a look back at everything that happened this week.

Royal Caribbean placed an order for a fourth Icon Class ship, with the possibility of two more beyond that.

The cruise line confirmed this week that it's ordered a fourth Icon Class ship, set to be delivered in 2027. Star of the Seas, the second Icon Class set, will launch in August 2025, with the third Icon Class ship being delivered in 2026.

No further details have been revealed about the fourth Icon Class ship, but Royal Caribbean also said that it has options to build fifth and sixth ships.

Royal Caribbean News

• Bahamas strikes $600M Deal: Inside the massive shipyard transformation set to dominate cruise repair
• I tried a free shore excursion instead of paying for a Royal Caribbean tour. It was so much better than I expected
• Royal Caribbean updates: Upgraded benefits for top tier members, free internet in Alaska, Beach Club update & more
• Royal Caribbean crew member gets 30 years for secretly filming kids
• I visited Bordeaux for the first time. I found there's so much more to love about the city than its wine
• Royal Caribbean adds new restrictions on free cruises from the casino
• Spotted: Long awaited Royal Caribbean dining package update rolled out
• Boarding my cruise ship in England was easier than most cruises in the United States
• One ocean in Europe is notorious for bad weather and rough seas. There was motion, but it wasn't as bad as I feared
• I spent two days in London before my European cruise. It gave me time to fight jetlag and explore this amazing city
• 3 hours in Paris? Why long bus ride cruise excursions are great and miserable
• Viral TikTok warns cruisers to avoid these three Caribbean shore excursions

New RCB Video: Uncomfortable Truths We Need to Tell You About Royal Caribbean

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 — Uncomfortable Truths We Need to Tell You About Royal Caribbean — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

I took an Anthony Bourdain inspired tour of a city in Spain during my cruise

Looking for a new way to tour your next port of call?

Matt tried an Anthony-Bourdain-inspired tour on his latest visit to Bilbao, Spain. 

His exploration blended culture, history, local customs, and food for a unique and surprising experience.

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

If you're not careful while packing, you could breeze through airport security but be banned from boarding the cruise ship.

Each mode of transportation is different, and there are some items that are safe to bring on a plane but aren't allowed on a cruise ship.

From handcuffs to irons, there are 9 things you should be wary of bringing.

Icon of the Seas vs. Utopia of the Seas: Comparing Royal Caribbean's newest and biggest cruise ships

Both of Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ships are also the biggest ships in the world.

They both have a lot in common—from waterpark activities to buffet dining—but each ship comes from a different class.

Some key differences between these two mega ships can affect your next cruise.

Which shore excursion to book in the Caribbean? One TikTok video advises against three common types.

Shore excursions provide the opportunity to see beautiful destinations and experience new activities. 

Booking through Royal Caribbean's app and website provides security in knowing that the tour has been vetted by Royal Caribbean and that the ship is contracted to wait for you before departing.

However, these tours come at a slightly more expensive price, and some of them aren’t worth the cost.

TikTok user @travelwithada took to the social media app to warn cruisers about three such Caribbean shore excursions.

Ada posts videos to “help you travel smarter with your money,” advising travelers based on her personal experience.

Her TikTok slamming Royal Caribbean shore excursions quickly went viral, and commenters began to agree with her opinion about these three wastes of money.

1. Dolphin encounter in Costa Maya, Mexico

The first shore excursion Ada regretted booking was the dolphin encounter experience in Costa Maya, Mexico.

Although the tour was advertised to last two hours, allowing guests to meet with and pet the intelligent sea creatures, the reality was much more disappointing.

According to Ada, guests on the tour had to line up and pet the dolphins one by one, only allowing about five minutes per person.

“The majority of the time, you’re just standing still in the water waiting for your turn,” she said.

Not only that, but they couldn’t snap any pictures of the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

She said that phones and cameras were not permitted.

A professional photographer was present, but “they have the audacity to charge you $40 for one photo.”

Added to the base price of $90 per person, Ada felt this tour wasn’t worth the cost, and neither were the additional pictures.

Royal Caribbean’s website doesn’t list a price for this shore excursion (prices can vary depending on the sailing and how far in advance you book them).

The listing does state that the actual time spent with the dolphins is 30 minutes and that photos are not included in the price.

2. Beach horseback ride and swim in Roatan, Honduras

Ada also warned cruisers about the Beach horseback ride and swim tour in Roatan, Honduras.

She stated that “this was a fun experience,” but it didn’t live up to her expectations. 

The photos showed images of riding deep in the ocean water, and the tour advised guests to wear swimsuits.

However, Ada said the horses “barely went into the water. A lot of them were too scared.”

According to Ada, the majority of the ride was spent in the forest, with about five minutes on the beach.

She didn’t end up needing a swimsuit at all, and for $110 a person, she felt misled.

The description for the tour on Royal Caribbean’s website advertises a 4-hour horseback ride “right onto a secluded beach and up to beautiful calm waters of the Caribbean Sea. Your horse may even join you for a refreshing dip in the water.”

3. Reef explorer in a semi-submarine in Cozumel, Mexico

The semi-submarine tour in Cozumel has a boat with glass windows at the bottom, so guests can look through and observe tropical fish and other marine life.

However, Ada paid $75 per person and felt like the experience wasn’t worth it.

“It was pretty disappointing because you really don't see much.”

Although they saw more fish near the end of the trip, for the majority of the tour Ada didn’t see anything interesting.

Additionally, she warned viewers that the boat was very rocky: “All of us ended up super nauseous by the end of the experience.”

The booking on Royal Caribbean’s website advertises a 1-hour and 15-minute boat ride and makes no mention of possible sea sickness.

Commenters jumped to agree with Ada, saying similar experiences are why they prefer to stay on the ship

Ada’s caption to the TikTok read: “I can see why some people don’t even get off the boats.”

“Shore excursions are ridiculously overpriced, forbid you to bring your phones and then charge $40 for a photo, the excursion description are highly exaggerated, overall I didn’t enjoy my excursions all that much.”

Over 300 comments were made on the video, with the majority of TikTok users agreeing with Ada’s experience.

Kay_riaa wrote: That’s exactly [why] I didn’t book anything I’m ok with just laying on the beach.”

“I’m for sure just gonna do that next time,” TravelwithAda responded.

Bad experiences with shore excursions have soured some cruisers’ opinions, leaving them preferring to take a beach break or simply stay on the ship.

“I get so tired of money grabs,” said agnesmiller548. “Things cost a fortune and the return that you get isn’t worth the cash paid.”

User lkg731 commented that they prefer to stay on the ship “because everything is already paid for plus there’s less people.”

Other TikTokers had even done the same shore excursions as the original poster, and they agreed with her assessments.

DioneAH157 commented that she did the horseback beach ride in Roatan, and her tour didn’t meet the advertised expectations either.

“I enjoyed it,” she wrote, “but you really are only on the beach for like 5 minutes and my horse did go in the water.’

Both Ada and the commenter agreed it’s the type of excursion someone should only try once.

Another commenter, user9553616688706, sympathized about the price of photos on the Dolphin encounter excursion.

“The pics they try to sell you are hundreds of dollars.”

Ada responded: “They forbid you to bring cameras and then charge $40 for a photo… I was SHOCKED.”

Although booking shore excursions with Royal Caribbean is convenient, many cruisers are losing their trust in the process.

Cruise line tours tend to be more crowded and come at a higher price.

To avoid these disadvantages, cruisers can book with third-party tours and shore excursion groups. These tours will have a smaller group, come at a cheaper rate, and often offer a more personalized experience.

A new $600 million deal to upgrade the Grand Bahama Shipyard means the shipyard partially owned by Royal Caribbean will become the largest cruise ship repair facility in the world.

In 2000, Royal Caribbean Group, along with Carnival Corporation and the Grand Bahamas Port Authority founded the Grand Bahama Shipyard.

Today, the location is a leader in dry-docking, afloat repairs, refurbishments, refits, and revitalizations. 

The shipyard serves vessels from the cruise to the commercial and offshore maritime industries.

Royal Caribbean holds a 40% share in the shipyard and sends many of its cruise ships to dry dock there, such as Radiance and Grandeur of the Seas in recent years.

Grand Bahama Shipyard has between 85 to 100 drydocks scheduled a year, and its new transformation is expected to surpass these numbers.

The shipyard is currently the biggest in the Caribbean, and the $600 million project is set to make it the largest cruise ship repair facility in the world.

Improvements will broaden the shipyard's range of vessels it can service

Improvements made in the shipyard will include the addition of two new world-class floating docks.

These docks will be the largest in the world, allowing the shipyard to service the entire range of cruise ships in the industry—even the mega ships.

The two floating docks are being built in Qingdao, China, and are expected to be delivered in 2025 and 2026.

The shipyard's current dry docks have a lifting capacity of 45,000+ tons and are capable of docking vessels up to 985 feet.

With these current measurements, the shipyard can currently handle ships such as Royal Caribbean's Radiance Class.

Radiance of the Seas is 962 feet long and measures 90,090 gross tons.

However, larger ships such as Royal Caribbean's biggest, Icon of the Seas, aren't close to being handled by the shipyard.

In contrast, Icon of the Seas weighs 250,800 gross tons and measures 1,198 feet long.

Reinforcing a commitment to Grand Bahama's tourism and economy 

Royal Caribbean has stated that it remains committed to supporting the Bahamian government's vision for the transformation of tourism offerings in Grand Bahama.

“I am proud of our enduring partnership with The Bahamas and the progress it has yielded over the decades,” said Jason Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. 

“By working closely together on the Grand Bahama Shipyard transformation project we are deepening the impact of this significant industrial investment and ensuring it reaches beyond our industry to create long-lasting opportunities for the Bahamian workforce and local communities.”

The Grand Bahama Shipyard is currently the largest private non-tourism employer in The Bahamas, and its expansion will only further employment in the area.

The $600 million project will bring billions of dollars to Grand Bahama's economy.

The shipyard's expansions and improvements are expected to further support local contractors and businesses. 

At the same time, hundreds of new, full-time jobs will be opened at the shipyard once it is in full operation.

The Grand Bahama Shipyard will also increase its apprenticeship program, welcoming 16-20 new apprentices a year. These young interns will undergo a 4-year training program, allowing them to gain valuable skills and positioning the Shipyard to maintain a knowledgeable base of employees.

According to the Minister for Grand Bahama, the Hon. Ginger Moxey M.P., the shipyard's expansion will further strengthen Grand Bahama's position as "The Home of Maritime and Logistics."

The Grand Bahama Shipyard is placed in an ideal location

Grand Bahama is the furthest northwestern island in the Bahamas, located 68 miles from Perfect Day at CocoCay and only 64 miles from Palm Beach, Florida.

The location grants the shipyard easy access to Port Miami, Port Canaveral, and Port Everglades.

Grand Bahama Island is one of the most popular in the Bahamas, featuring beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and golf courses.

Cruises to Grand Bahama dock in the city of Freeport.

Freeport is the second largest city in the Bahamas, with a population of 26,000 people.

Cruise ship passengers can enjoy a day at the beach, tours of downtown Freeport, local shopping, and dining.

Lucayan National Park also features mangrove trees and diverse ecology and geology.

Visitors can try everything from kayaking and dolphin watching to jeep safaris and scuba diving.

Royal Caribbean has announced some exciting changes and updates this week.

From a free WiFi initiative to environmental monitoring at Paradise Beach Club, we have a look at everything you need to know.

Updated Pinnacle specialty dining benefits

An email sent out to Pinnacle members this week announced an update to the top tier specialty dining benefits.

Members of the Crown and Anchor loyalty program who’ve reached the highest level—the Pinnacle—are rewarded with a $25 specialty dining coupon on sailings 5 nights and longer.

These cruisers can use the coupon at any specialty dining venue during 5+ night sailings on Oasis and Quantum Class ships.

Previously, the new Icon Class wasn’t included in the cruise line’s marketing materials, and some guests were told Icon of the Seas wasn’t included in the discount.

Effective from August 30th, 2024, and onward, the Icon Class is now included in the specialty voucher.

Royal Caribbean has also added more specialty restaurants to the stipend.

The voucher is valid at the following specialty venues:

• 150 Central Park
• Empire Supper Club
• Chef's Table
• Celebration Table
• Royal Railway
• Hooked Seafood
• Giovanni's Table
• Giovanni's Italian Kitchen
• Jamie's Italian
• Chops Grille
• Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
• Izumi in the Park
• Izumi Omakase
• Teppanyaki
• Samba Grill
• Sabor
• The Mason Jar
• Wonderland
• Wonderland by Da Dong
• Playmakers
• Fish and Ships
• Hot Pot
• Johnny Rockets
• Noodle Shop 
• Sichuan Red
• Pier 7 
• Portside BBQ

Free internet in Alaska

Royal Caribbean Group is partnering with Goldbest, an Alaskan Native corporation based in Juneau, to bring free WiFi to the area.

The cruise line was the first in the industry to start using Starlink, the world’s first and largest low-orbit satellites.

“Royal Caribbean Group greatly values its longstanding partnership with the City and Borough of Juneau. We are constantly striving to find innovative solutions to support our communities and enhance the travel experience for residents and cruise guests alike," said Preston Carnahan, Associate Vice President, West Coast Destination Royal Caribbean Group. 

"Our new pilot program aims to alleviate internet congestion and provide additional bandwidth for locals while providing internet connectivity for our guests from ship to shore."

The high-speed Internet will help the residents of Juneau while also enhancing the experience of vacationers and cruisers visiting the region.

Starlink installation will begin this week.

Environmental development at Royal Beach Club

Royal Caribbean announced it will be working with Bahamian-owned and based SEV Consulting Group, an environmental consulting firm.

The cruise line is committed to providing local, independent environmental monitoring for its new private beach club, Royal Beach Club on Paradise Island in Nassau, Bahamas. 

The 17-acre beachfront club is set to open in late 2025 and will meet Royal Caribbean's environmental commitments, Bahamanian law, and international standards.

Royal Caribbean's new private beach club will come at an extra cost for passengers, providing a day pass to experience pools, food, games, and private cabanas.

Partnering with a global loyalty currency

Royal Caribbean also announced that it will be partnering with IAG Loyalty, a currency that provides loyalty rewards across flights, travel, leisure, shopping, and financial services.

Cruisers who book with Royal Caribbean through the U.K., Spain, and Ireland websites will gain 3 Avios per $1 or Euro spent.

They can then redeem or join loyalty programs with British Airways ExecutiveClub, Aer Lingus AerClub, Iberia Plus, and Vueling Club.

Gerard Nolan, vice president of Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Royal Caribbean International said: “This partnership is introducing yet more ways holidaymakers can add phenomenal value to their holiday."

"Between enjoying the variety of dining experiences, show-stopping entertainment and the stunning destinations we visit around the world, now travelers can also earn Avios – and save – while making memories."

Royal Caribbean boosting tourism in Vanuatu

South Pacific Nation Vanuatu and Royal Caribbean Group have formalized an agreement to boost cruise tourism in the area.

The agreement allows Royal Caribbean to share research with the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO), a significant step in developing tourism and economic growth for Vanuatu.

Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director for Royal Caribbean International AUNZ, said: “We are delighted to support Vanuatu’s economic growth through cruise tourism. We are proud of our longstanding partnership with the Vanuatu Government and are excited to deepen our collaboration with the Vanuatu Tourism Office.”

Unique Camperi experience on Oasis of the Seas

The 2024 President's Cruise on Oasis of the Seas hosted a first-of-its-kind experience with Campari.

A major player in the global spirits and liquor industry, Campari hosted an Aperol Pool Party including giveaways and DJ Sets.

The summer, Caribbean-inspired party featured orange decorations, exclusive gifts, and Aperol Spritz.

The event then transformed into a Campari evening, complete with negronis, gifts, and photo ops.

There are certain items that you can pack on a plane but are banned on a cruise ship.

Each mode of transportation comes with its own set of regulations, and your packing list might be different depending on how you're traveling.

Regarding what you can bring on a cruise ship, the rules differ from those of TSA and airlines.

If you're not careful, you could safely pass through airport security only to be stopped before boarding the cruise ship.

Any prohibited items you've packed will be confiscated, and not all of them are returned at the end of the cruise.

To prevent an embarrassing moment and the loss of your items, make sure that you're not bringing these 9 banned things.

Read more: How early should I pack for my cruise?

1. Your pet

If you're going on a cruise, your furry friend will have to stay home.

Airline regulations allow guests to bring small pets on planes, provided they fit inside a zippable carrier.

Most airlines also charge an additional fee for passengers with pets, usually between $100 and $200.

However, Royal Caribbean ships do not permit any pets on board, other than registered service animals.

Royal Caribbean allows assistance dogs onboard when pre-approved by government authorities and with proof of the proper documentation.

However, any pets will have to stay with friends, family, or a sitter.

2. Fresh food

TSA allows you to bring fresh food—such as eggs, meat, seafood, vegetables, and fruit—through security.

While meats must be packaged in ice, and you cannot always bring fresh vegetables, in general, TSA will allow you to pack a considerable meal.

While you may be able to bring a home-cooked meal on a plane, you cannot carry fresh food onto a cruise ship.

Royal Caribbean only allows dry, packaged snacks onboard, like cookies, chips, crackers, or energy bars. These packages must be sealed and non-perishable.

Any fresh food will be confiscated, so finish your leftovers before boarding!

Plus, your cruise fare includes access to many great dining venues, so bringing food onboard is the least of your worries.

3. Hard liquor

According to TSA's requirements, you may pack any amount of an alcoholic beverage with 24% alcohol or less in a checked bag.

For alcoholic beverages with more than 24% percent (but less than 70%) alcohol, you're limited to 1.3 gallons (5 liters) per passenger in a checked bag, provided it is inside unopened retail packaging.

For a carry-on bag, you may bring miniature bottles that fit into a quart-sized Ziploc bag.

The requirements are quite different for cruising.

Although you can bring 1 bottle of wine per adult onto a cruise ship, you are not permitted to pack any hard liquor.

If you attempt to bring any hard liquor onboard on embarkation day, it will be confiscated.

Whether you choose to purchase tequila in Mexico or rum in Jamaica, you can, however, purchase liquor at ports of call.

If you do purchase liquor as a souvenir, crew members will take it when you re-enter the ship. They will label and keep the alcohol for you until disembarkation day.

4. Candles

We all want a refreshing fragrance for the cruise ship stateroom or bathroom, but you won't be able to bring a candle on your cruise.

Airplanes permit you to pack solid candles in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Read more: 21 Cruise Cabin Essentials Everyone Should Pack

However, flammable items and heat-producing items are strictly prohibited on a cruise ship. This includes candles and incense.

Any homemade candle or local incense purchases will have to wait until you get home.

5. Clothing irons

Because of the high risk fires present on a cruise ship, you are not permitted to pack or use a clothing iron on a sailing.

They are considered heat-producing items and will be confiscated on embarkation day.

There aren't any irons present in Royal Caribbean staterooms, and self-service laundry isn't an option on a cruise.

However, you can send out laundry for crew members to wash, dry, press, or fold for you.

Laundry prices vary depending on the service you're looking for, but you can pay $35 for a wash and fold special, sending out a small bag of clothes.

Read more: We asked our readers what one thing they regretted packing for their cruise

6. Steamer

Much like irons, steamers are a heat-producing, prohibited item on a cruise ship.

If you're cringing at the idea of paying for laundry services, there are a few hacks our team likes to get the wrinkles out of your outfits.

You can use a Downy Wrinkle Release spray (this is an affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use but supports this site), which smooths out clothes once you hang to dry.

Packing the right material of clothing also helps; polyester, denim, cotton, and linen tend to wrinkle less.

7. Handcuffs

Whatever your reason for bringing handcuffs along, they won't be permitted on a cruise ship.

While TSA does allow handcuffs, cruise ships do not.

Royal Caribbean bans cruisers from bringing any items that are considered restraining devices, so that includes zip ties, leg cuffs, and leashes.

However, both modes of transportation permit other adult toys, so...

8. Heating pads

Preparing to manage any cramps, aches, or pains?

While TSA permits heating pads in both checked and carry-on baggage, Royal Caribbean does not.

Again, heating pads are considered heat-producing items and will be confiscated from your luggage.

Instead, consider packing Epsom salt or using a warm towel for any aches you experience on the cruise.

9. Electrical extension cord

TSA has no limitations on the kinds of extension cords you can pack on a flight.

However, standard extension cords—including surge protectors—are not allowed on cruise ships. They are a fire hazard.

Instead, you can purchase cruise-safe power strips, or bring along a USB outlet.

Read more: 115 item Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF)