Royal Caribbean could be getting close to finalizing an order for a new kind of cruise ship, according to a French media outlet. 

According to the report, Royal Caribbean Group is on the verge of ordering a new class of cruise ships from the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shi[yard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

The report claims the new order is for a class of medium to large tonnage ships for Royal Caribbean International — more specifically, the cruise line's long-awaited Discovery Class. 

The cruise line has been silent on an official announcement, but there have been rumors of the Discovery Class for years.

(Credit: Le Marin)

Royal Caribbean began hinting at a new, smaller ship class in July 2023. During a sailing on Allure of the Seas, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International's President and CEO, shared that the company was "deeply considering" expanding its fleet with smaller vessels. 

Over the years, Royal Caribbean’s Discovery Class has been one of the most intriguing rumors in the industry. Although the cruise line is known for building giants like Utopia and Icon of the Seas, many claim that the older ships are outdated and don't meet the standards of modern travelers. 

In September, Bayley seemed to confirm that the Discovery Class project was moving forward, revealing tidbits like where the cruise line expected to deploy the ships and their estimated size. However, he was firm in emphasizing that no formal announcement could be made at that time.

For example, although he didn't give exact measurements, Bayley said that Discovery Class ships would be small enough to sail through the Panama Canal. 

To date, the largest cruise ship to successfully sail through the Panama Canal was the Norwegian Bliss. Based on this fact, it's fairly safe to assume that the Discovery Class ships won't be larger than 168,000 gross tons and 1,094 feet long.

Additionally, instead of offering voyages to The Bahamas or the Caribbean, markets that are heavily dominated by Oasis and Icon Class ships, Discovery vessels will likely sail to exotic ports in regions like the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, and the South Pacific.

While details still have not been confirmed, the promise of a smaller class of ships that combines innovation with access to smaller ports has generated significant excitement among loyal Royal Caribbean fans. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean CEO talks rumored new ship size and where it could sail

What would the order of the Discovery Class ships mean?

If the French article is correct and an official Discovery Class order is in the foreseeable future, it would mean that Royal Caribbean is moving forward with a highly-anticipated project to modernize its offerings by phasing out its older ships. 

It would also mark a strategic shift in Royal Caribbean’s fleet composition, as the older ships would likely be replaced with vessels that are smaller but still packed with upgraded features and amenities, such as modern staterooms, new dining concepts, innovative entertainment options, and more. 

That said, based on past projects, even if the Discovery Class is ordered soon, passengers won’t see the first ship for several years. 

Royal Caribbean, for example, placed an order for the first Icon Class ships in Oct. 2016. Steel-cutting Icon of the Seas didn't begin until June 2021, with Icon's maiden voyage commencing in Jan. 2024. 

Similarly, in Feb. 2024, Royal Caribbean ordered the seventh Oasis Class ship from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard. This unnamed vessel isn't expected to enter service until 2028. 

Another ship class too?

In addition to this possible ship class in France, there's another project on the horizon.

In September, Royal Caribbean confirmed the order of the fifth Icon Class ship with Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. However, the announcement also alluded to the possibility of another ship class. 

"This multi-year agreement strengthens Royal Caribbean Group's relationship with Meyer Turku, one of the world's largest and most modern shipyards specializing in cruise ships, and readies Royal Caribbean Group for a new, game-changing class of ship beyond Icon," the press release said. 

This could possibly mean, because again, this is all speculation, that Royal Caribbean is actively planning more than one new class of ships. 

Even as the company looks forward to welcoming at least three more Icon Class vessels to the fleet, it appears that they're also focusing on long-term investment in innovation and fleet diversification.

Additionally, the mention of the "game-changing" class emphasizes that Royal Caribbean wants to maintain an edge in the cruise industry, a position it has held for well over a decade since the launch of Freedom of the Seas in 2006. 

Since then, Royal Caribbean has consistently pushed the boundaries of design, entertainment, and technology — both on board and ashore at private destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. 

To be very clear: We can’t confirm whether Royal Caribbean is planning a class larger than Icon or is on the verge of officially ordering Discovery Class ships. However, it's clear that Royal Caribbean’s ambitions are helping to shape the future of cruising for decades to come. 

Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group celebrated the groundbreaking of Cruise Terminal G at PortMiami, marking a major milestone in the continued evolution of one of the world's busiest cruise ports. 

The brand-new cruise terminal will cost $345 million and have the capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers. Once completed, it will feature a dedicated parking garage, an intermodal facility, and other essential infrastructure to accommodate the world's largest Icon Class vessels. 

Terminal G will be located adjacent to Virgin Voyages’ Terminal V at PortMiami at the northern tip of Dodge Island. Comparatively, Terminal A is situated on the opposite end of the port. 

According to officials, Terminal G's estimated completion date is late 2027. However, an exact date has yet to be announced. 

"Cruise Terminal G represents a major investment in Miami's future. Built with advanced technology and sustainable design, this new facility will deliver a smarter, faster, more seamless experience for guests sailing with our industry-leading brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea," said Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty.

"It reflects what matters most to us: innovation, collaboration, and delivering the world's best vacations responsibly — while creating jobs and supporting the local economy for years to come."

Terminal G initially opened in 1999 to house Voyager of the Seas. At the time, she was the largest, most innovative cruise ship in the world. Voyager was the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet to introduce the Royal Promenade and to feature the industry’s first ice-skating rink at sea.

Since the opening of Terminal A in November 2018, Terminal G has largely functioned as a backup terminal for Royal Caribbean Group. 

As such, it wasn't uncommon for itineraries on older and smaller vessels to depart from Terminal G, reserving Terminal A for mega-ships like Oasis and Icon Class vessels. 

Demolition of the former Terminal G began in July 2025, clearing the way for the future LEED-certified cruise terminal. 

Read more: First look at the new cruise terminal Royal Caribbean is building in Miami

Not only will the terminal highlight the company's sustainability efforts, but it will also showcase cutting-edge technology designed to streamline embarkation and disembarkation. 

"This world-class facility will enhance Miami-Dade County's skyline while marking another milestone in PortMiami's evolution. Our modern terminals are transforming how we do business and move people, delivering greater efficiency through innovative technology," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

PortMiami set a record for cruise passenger traffic in 2025

According to Miami officials, PortMiami set a passenger record for fiscal year 2025, which ran from Oct. 1, 2024, to Sept. 30, 2025. 

The Miami port welcomed 8,564,225 cruise passengers, representing a 4.02% increase in cruise passenger totals compared to the 2024 record of 8,233,056.

This growth reflects the fact that PortMiami is home to some of the world’s largest cruise ships, including Icon of the Seas and MSC World America.

Read more: PortMiami, Port Canaveral set yearly records for cruise passengers

These record-breaking totals translate to significant weekly traffic. Each Saturday, more than 10,000 passengers embark on 7-night sailings to the Eastern and Western Caribbean from the cruise hub between these two vessels alone.

To help meet the growing demand in South Florida, MSC Cruises also opened a massive new terminal in March. The 492,678-square-foot Terminal AA was designed to simultaneously accommodate up to three ships from MSC’s World, Seaside, and Meraviglia Classes. This equates to a maximum of 36,000 embarking and disembarking passengers. 

Can you cruise with a criminal record? The answer isn't cut and dry. 

Understanding how different countries and immigration authorities handle felony records is important to ensuring a hiccup-free vacation. 

In most cases, felons can generally go on a cruise, as there's no law prohibiting someone with a criminal record from boarding a ship. 

Ron Harper, a Licensed Paralegal and owner of OTD Ticket Defenders Legal Service, told Royal Caribbean Blog that lines can deny boarding to individuals with felony convictions.

Additionally, some countries have strict entry restrictions and may refuse entry to felons. Harper explains,

"Just having a ticket to board a ship does not mean you will be allowed to enter each and every port of call."

Cruise lines are allowed to perform background checks

Cruise lines reserve the right to deny boarding to anyone with a criminal history that could put the safety of other passengers and crew at risk. 

"Although there is no federal law that prohibits someone convicted of a felony from boarding a cruise ship, several large cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) perform criminal background checks," Harper said. 

According to Royal Caribbean's website, the cruise line checks booking details against law enforcement registers and its internal records for the safety of all customers.

Carnival Cruise Line also conducts criminal background checks to safeguard Carnival guests and crew members. 

Their website is even more specific, adding that felons convicted of physical and/or sexual assault, armed robbery, and other violent crimes may be denied boarding. 

Where are felons allowed to cruise?

Generally speaking, most convicted felons can cruise to places like The Bahamas and the Caribbean. However, certain countries may restrict entry to people with a criminal record. 

"Most of the travelers believe that if they remain aboard the ship when they visit a port, they are not in trouble, but the fact is that the border agencies know about the ship by its manifest at least 96 hours before arrival," Barry Nussbaum, Owner and Senior Lawyer at Nussbaum Law in Ontario, said. 

Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand are among the countries that felons cannot travel to, even if the departing cruise leaves from the United States. 

According to Canada's laws, anyone with a criminal record is banned from entering the country, regardless of the crime's severity or when it was committed. Even minor offenses, like a DUI from college, may prevent entry unless an application for individual rehabilitation or a temporary resident permit is approved.

"I have witnessed families spend up to $5,000 on non-refundable tickets because they failed to obtain a Temporary Resident Permit or a full-fledged rehabilitation prior to going to the terminal," Nussbaum added.

With Canada being on the itinerary for nearly all Alaska cruises, voyages to The Last Frontier are off-limits to felons. The same applies to Canada/New England sailings from ports like Bayonne, New Jersey; Boston, Massachusetts; and Baltimore, Maryland.

Moreover, Caribbean cruises with scheduled stops in Mexico should be avoided, including popular Western Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya, as well as Mexican Riviera destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas.

While less severe than Canada's laws, those who have committed a serious crime — think murder, smuggling, tax fraud, human trafficking, and vehicular theft — could be denied entry to Mexico. Generally speaking, minor infractions, like petty theft, are unlikely to prevent entry to Mexico on a cruise. 

Moving on, travelers must meet the country’s character requirements to enter Australia or New Zealand, demonstrating that they are of good character.

When applying for New Zealand's Electronic Travel Authority clearance, travelers are required to disclose any issues or activities that could affect the country's decision. This means you must tell them if you've been involved in criminal or human rights abuse activities, or removed or deported from another country.

Similarly, to obtain the needed Electronic Travel Authority to enter Australia, you must declare all criminal conduct that you've been charged with, even if it is still awaiting legal action. 

Nussbaum summarized that while destinations like The Bahamas or Mexico are generally less restrictive, countries such as Australia and New Zealand have strict character requirements that could make a vacation void before its commencement. 

Harper continued to explain that those on probation may face even more issues:

"Probation can create yet another layer of complexity because, in general, international travel (or even intra-state travel) will require authorization from the probation officer who is responsible for supervising the individual."

If you're like me, you like to make your birthday a multi-day occasion. From dinners with friends to bar hopping and spa days, there are tons of ways to celebrate at home. However, there's nothing like celebrating your special day at sea. 

In fact, my partner and I both decided to celebrate our birthdays on a cruise this year. With nonstop entertainment, multi-course meals, and more, a cruise felt like the ultimate way to ring in our late-20s. 

It won't be the first time I've celebrated someone's birthday on a ship, either. Years ago, I remember my sister’s face flushing with embarrassment on a Disney cruise when the crew surrounded our dinner table and began singing to her.

The best part about taking a cruise for your birthday is how easy it is to make the celebration feel even more special. And yes, you can do way more than blow out a candle at dinner. 

Here are 8 ways you can elevate your birthday cruise and make it even more memorable. 

DISCLAIMER: We’ve included Amazon affiliate links in this article. Shopping through these links won’t cost you anything extra, but Royal Caribbean Blog may earn a small commission on your purchase. Thanks for your support!

Tell your server in the dining room

Like in restaurants at home, cruise waitstaff will bring you a special dessert for your birthday free of charge — if you let them know. Plus, you (or your loved one) will become the center of attention for a minute as they crowd the table and sing a celebratory song.  

If you're traveling with a large party, you can purchase a full-sized cake for a nominal fee. According to the website, each cake costs $25.99 and comes in two flavors: spongy vanilla and decadent chocolate. Additionally, they're 6" round and serve 2 — 10 people. 

Let passengers and crew know you're celebrating with festive door decorations

Decorating cruise cabin doors is a fun and popular tradition. You don't have to be celebrating a birthday to spice up your door with fun magnets. However, it's not uncommon to see doors honoring someone's birthday with colorful décor and festive messages. 

In addition to pre-made birthday magnets, you can add a whiteboard, so fellow passengers can write dedicated birthday messages — just make sure the whiteboard has a magnetic dry-erase marker! 

Here are a few door decoration packs available from Amazon for inspiration: 

• LEIFIDE 12 Pcs Cruise Door Decorations
• Dazoratix Birthday Cruise Door Magnets
• 27PCS Cruise Door Decorations Magnetic, Large Birthday Cruise Magnets
• Xuhal 25 Pcs Birthday Cruise Door Magnets

Spruce up the inside of your cabin

Don't stop at the door! You can also decorate the inside of your cruise stateroom. Some guests prefer to bring their own decorations, including streamers and balloons. You can do this affordably at stores like Dollar Tree or Five Below, just be sure you have enough space in your suitcase to bring everything. 

Alternatively, you can buy Royal Caribbean's decoration kit. One advantage to this option, though more expensive, is that it will be set up upon your arrival if bought through the Cruise Planner. 

For an upcoming cruise on Utopia of the Seas in July 2026, the "Happy Birthday Decorations" pack costs $55.99 and includes a mirror cling, magnetic door sign, wire photo cable with clips, hanging ceiling décor, and one photo frame. 

There are also more expensive options that include fresh roses, a premium birthday cake, Moët Champagne, and more. 

Hide rubber ducks

Hiding rubber ducks has become a popular trend among cruisers, and some guests attach small notes or letters to the ducks to let others know where the hider was from and if they're celebrating anything. 

Instead of just letting your birthday sailor collect their own cruise ducks, you can also hide them around the ship, adding a small sticker or note to let finders know the ducks are part of a fun birthday celebration at sea!

Read more: Hiding ducks on a cruise got an upgrade

Bring a birthday sash

Before you head out the door, make sure you have a special birthday sash to wear on the ship! You can go one step further and wear a tiara, hat, and/or a t-shirt to really stand out. 

Wearing a themed birthday outfit not only makes the guest feel celebrated, but it also makes it easy for fellow passengers to wish them a happy birthday. I love seeing guests dressed up and try to say, "Happy Birthday" to everyone I see celebrating on the ship or ashore!

Here are a few birthday sashes available from Amazon for inspiration: 

• CAVETEE Birthday Crown and Sash for Women
• 2 Pack "It's my Birthday Sash"
• "It's My Birthday" Glitter Sash
• King Crown and Birthday Sash

Book a special dinner

Royal Caribbean ships offer several complimentary dining options, so you can enjoy the included food without spending extra. However, if you’re looking to make your birthday a little more special, treating yourself to a specialty restaurant is a great way to splurge. 

From the classic Chops Grille steakhouse to the lively Izumi Hibachi experience and whimsical Wonderland restaurant, there's a range of specialty venues to suit every taste. Each venue is more intimate than the dining room and promises an elevated dining experience with premium menu options and ingredients. 

Make sure you book in advance, though. This will ensure that you secure the best rate through the Cruise Planner and get your desired dining time. 

Read more: I'm a travel writer who cruises on Royal Caribbean every month. These 6 extra cost restaurants are worth booking and the 2 you can skip

Reserve a spa treatment

Another way to make your otherwise normal cruise feel more special is by booking a spa treatment.

Normally, I’m against cruise ship spas since they can be more expensive than similar treatments at home, but splurging on a massage, facial, or other pampering service for your birthday is worth it.

Like specialty restaurants, though, consider booking in advance. Another way you can save money on the cruise spa is by looking for port day specials. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean Spa Package Prices

Stay in a suite

Finally, for the ultimate birthday experience at sea, consider booking a suite instead of a standard cruise cabin. While more expensive, suites come with extra perks and upgraded amenities — like access to a private restaurant and sun deck — that can further differentiate your birthday cruise from the average vacation.

On older Royal Caribbean ships (i.e., Vision, Radiance, Voyager, and Freedom Class vessels), the suite program is more straightforward, while on Quantum, Oasis, and Icon Class ships, the top-tier Royal Suite Class rooms include perks like a Deluxe Beverage Package, Royal Genie service, and much more.

Even if you don't have thousands of dollars to blow on accommodations, consider an entry-level suite for added space. The larger balcony is perfect for enjoying breakfast at sea, while the tub-shower combo is ideal for taking a relaxing soak after a long day ashore.

Royal Caribbean has quietly updated its prohibited items list to tighten onboard safety and cybersecurity. 

Previously, "Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment" was listed under "Prohibited Items: What can’t you bring onboard?" 

However, the verbiage was recently updated to read: "Cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment (included satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, any other deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity)." The change was made sometime after December 10, 2025. 

Ships rely on digital systems for navigation, communication, and entertainment. As such, the clarification helps protect the critical systems from interference. 

Additionally, the new wording is much more precise and explicitly targets devices intended to hack, disrupt, or manipulate the onboard systems, including signal jammers, hacking toolkits, and unauthorized travel Wi-Fi routers. 

This means that ordinary electronics — think laptops, tablets, smartphones, and smartwatches — are still allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. 

Satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment were previously listed on the prohibited items list. However, the recent addition hones in on the purpose of the device.

While many passengers used travel routers to save money by extending one internet package's connectivity to multiple devices, they can also be used to create rogue networks that interfere with the ship’s Wi‑Fi system or even bypass security controls.

Royal Caribbean wasn't the first cruise line to ban travel routers, either. For example, Carnival's prohibited items list clearly states that "satellite dish[es], routers and other internet related equipment" are not allowed onboard.

Read more: What can you not bring on a cruise

Cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses

A new survey released by the consulting firm Protiviti found that cybersecurity is a top concern across organizations of all sizes, as reported by Cybersecurity Drive. 

According to the report, corporate leaders, including board members, chief financial officers, and chief operating officers, are "increasingly aware that cyber resilience must be embedded into enterprise strategy."

"This widespread prioritization underscores the almost universal recognition that cybersecurity is no longer a siloed IT issue but rather a strategic enterprise risk with implications for brand reputation, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance," Protiviti said. 

Following cybersecurity, third-party risks, or threats from outside vendors or partners that an organization works with, ranked second on the executives’ list of concerns. 

Royal Caribbean’s updated policy reflects a recognition that cybersecurity at sea is equally important as on land. 

By banning devices that could cause "deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity," the cruise line is ensuring that its digital infrastructure, along with the safety of guests and crew, remains secure. 

A Long Island travel agent has been charged with multiple counts of grand larceny and schemes to defraud after stealing over $50,000 from clients, police confirm. 

Tavia Thomas, 47, of Hempstead, New York, was the CEO and Destination Travel Specialist of her company, Destiny Travel. 

Authorities allege that she defrauded families by taking payments for vacations and failing to actually book them, PIX 11 reported. 

Some of the victims were hoping to sail on Royal Caribbean cruises. In July 2024, for example, she supposedly received $35,753.98 from nine people to book a Royal Caribbean cruise out of Bayonne, New Jersey. 

(Credit: LongIsland.com)

Unfortunately, when the victims arrived at the terminal to board their cruise, they were informed that their booking confirmations were fake, officials said. As such, they were denied boarding. 

Just one week later, Thomas was hired to arrange a resort reservation for a destination wedding through ALG Vacations. However, the reservation was never made, and the clients did not receive a refund for the $5,000 they had paid. 

LongIsland.com shared that several members of the wedding party also made payments to Thomas, totaling over $2,600, which were never refunded. 

A reporter from The Shade Room spoke with Denise Perez-Horton to learn more about the impact of Thomas' alleged actions. 

"Final payment comes, and I’m like, 'Okay, where’s the reservation number?'" she told Justin Carter. "…She’s like, 'Well, the resort had a child that was electrocuted in the pool…and they have mold...' downplaying the resort, and I’m like, 'What? What is going on?'"

Perez-Horton was then informed that the reservation was moved to another resort, though they still did not receive flight or hotel confirmations. When she called the resort, she learned that the business "never" got the booking from Thomas. 

In another case, a family of 50 paid Thomas over $10,000 for a celebratory birthday trip to the Dominican Republic. According to Nassau County police, she never booked the accommodations and failed to return the family’s money.

Thomas faces three counts of third-degree grand larceny, three counts of first-degree scheme to defraud, and two counts of fourth-degree grand larceny.

Her arraignment was held on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, at the First District Court in Hempstead. 

It's important to do your research before trusting a travel agent

A travel agent's job is to make your life easier by handling all the meticulous details of planning a trip, from confirming your stateroom to helping book specialty restaurants and arranging transportation. If they do it right, all you have to do is focus on enjoying your well-earned vacation.  

Unfortunately, as Thomas proved, not all travel agents operate with the same level of professionalism or client care as others.

That's why it is important to check reviews, verify credentials, and even ask for references before giving a stranger any payment information. 

If you aren't sure where to start, ask friends and family members for recommendations. You can also look for agents affiliated with reputable organizations, like the American Society of Travel Advisors (the world's leading association of travel professionals). 

At Royal Caribbean Blog, we love working with MEI-Travel. Having now booked over one dozen cruises with MEI, I can attest that their employees are professional, timely, and dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience possible from start to finish. 

Read more: I always ask my travel agent for 4 things on every cruise I book to make my cruise easier

Crew members typically don't have large cruise ship cabins. Oftentimes, they have to share a tiny stateroom with another coworker, with the cabins barely large enough to fit bunk beds, a small desk, and a closet. Cruise ship captains, however, live very differently. 

Captains oversee all onboard operations to ensure that the ship is safely operating during each and every voyage. As such, their living quarters reflect the level of responsibility they carry. 

Their luxurious staterooms often feature a spacious bedroom and living area, easy access to the Bridge, panoramic views, and more. 

TikTok user Allie Rae shared a rare look at a captain’s cabin, posting a 30-second clip of her father's living quarters aboard the Independence of the Seas. 

The video, which was shared on Wednesday, January 5, has already received over 190,000 views and 18,400 likes. 

Thoughtfully designed to balance comfort with functionality

Rae opens up the door to reveal an expansive entryway before heading into the main living area. The elegant columns have been wrapped with tinsel for the holidays. 

The living room is anything but cramped, with a large entertainment center, flat-screen television, a couch, loveseat, recliner, and dining table. 

Tucked into the corner is a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, while the bar has been fully stocked with wine and glassware. 

Finally, the living room is bathed in natural light from three portholes. This differs from most crew staterooms, as the majority of the cabins are windowless. 

The stateroom also has a large office with two massive portholes. As such, the captain has a quiet, functional space to review CCTV footage, plan routes, and handle other important administrative duties. 

Rae pans over to her father, who is hard at work in his office. "My name is Tor, and I work here," he jokingly says. 

(Credit: Tor I. Olsen/LinkedIn)

According to his LinkedIn page, Tor I. Olsen has been in the maritime industry since 1978. 

He began his career with Royal Caribbean in January 1987 aboard the Song of America and has since worked on several of the line’s most notable ships, including Empress of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas.

Rae's TikTok account also features videos highlighting the behind-the-scenes life of cruise ship crew members

For example, Rae posted a day-in-the-life video, showing her enjoying lunch in the Main Dining Room with her family before accompanying her father to help judge the crew's various holiday competitions, including the Christmas door, tree-making, and office decorating contests.

"After lunch, I got to go with my dad and the Executive Team here on board to judge some of the Christmas trees that were put in for a Christmas decorating contest," she says. 

"On top of that, I also got to go around with them and see the different doors that had entered in the door decorating contest. There were so many cute ones, [and] it was very hard to choose a winner," she adds. 

Passengers embarking on Quantum of the Seas' January 5, 2026, cruise out of Los Angeles were told to arrive later than planned. 

The Quantum Class cruise ship won't return to its homeport in California as originally scheduled due to a medical emergency on the previous voyage. 

"Due to a delay in our previous sailing, Quantum of the Seas will be arriving [at] the pier later than planned, and the terminal will be closed until 3:30 PM," read an email sent to impacted guests. 

The earliest arrival time was pushed from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., while the latest arrivals must check in at 6:30 p.m. All guests are required to be on the ship by 7:00 p.m.

(Credit: Andrew Schile/Facebook)

"If you have not completed check-in, please arrive at 6:30 PM. Arriving [at] the terminal earlier than your adjusted time will result in you being turned away until your new time," the email continued. 

In addition to later arrival times, passengers can't access the parking lot until 3:00 p.m, as they must wait until the current guests have left. 

Although the letter didn't explain why the ship was delayed, one guest shared that they were in Cabo San Lucas when one passenger "got critically ill." They had already departed but needed to return, so the guest could receive proper medical attention ashore. Consequently, they did not depart Mexico until around 9:45 p.m.

"Captain is really trying hard to make up time. There just isn’t enough time to do it. Captain told us today that we should expect to [dock] at noon to 12:30. 1st luggage will not be off [the] ship until 1:30 at the earliest," they added. 

(Screenshot showing Quantum of the Seas' location at 10:55 a.m. EST. Credit: Cruise Mapper)

According to Cruise Mapper, Quantum of the Seas was sailing off the coast of Encinitas, California, around 10:55 a.m. EST on Jan. 5. The vessel has yet to pass Catalina Island. 

Passengers will have more time to enjoy Ensenada, Mexico

Royal Caribbean doesn't offer many 2-night cruises. Although incoming guests will have less time to enjoy the Quantum of the Seas cruise ship, Royal Caribbean is adjusting the itinerary's schedule to give passengers more time in port. 

"Additionally, while we'll be departing from Los Angeles later than originally planned, this will not affect our arrival time in Ensenada," the cruise line said. 

"As a bonus, our departure from Ensenada will now be at 6:00 PM instead of 4:00 PM, giving you even more time to enjoy everything this beautiful destination has to offer."

About Quantum of the Seas

Quantum of the Seas is the namesake Quantum Class ship that debuted in 2014. The ship has 14 guest decks, over 2,900 cabins, and measures 168,666 gross tons. 

Known for its technological innovations, Quantum of the Seas is known for amenities like the Bionic Bar, Ripcord by iFly skydiving simulator, North Star observation capsule, and virtual balcony inside staterooms. 

Quantum of the Seas will offer cruises from Los Angeles, California, to Ensenada, Mexico, and the Mexican Riviera through Sept. 2026. Then, she'll reposition to Australia for a seasonal stint exploring the South Pacific. 

In April 2027, Quantum of the Seas will move to Seattle, where she will offer a series of Alaskan cruises, giving guests the chance to witness glaciers firsthand, try delicious seafood, and marvel at rugged landscapes. 

Read more: Quantum of the Seas Food Review

Royal Caribbean passengers should look at their Crown & Anchor loyalty tab for a possible cruise discount code. 

Just like Charlie in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," who discovered a golden ticket in a chocolate bar, loyal cruisers might find their own "golden ticket" in the form of a discount code.

Don't expect to receive an email about the special deal. Rather, the possible promotions are hidden in plain sight. However, not every cruiser is eligible.

For example, I'm a Diamond cruiser with 112 Crown & Anchor points. At the time of writing, I had three separate offers available to me. My father, who is an Emerald Crown & Anchor Society member with 52 cruise points, also had one offer worth up to $350 off. 

However, Pinnacle Club cruiser Matt Hochberg did not have any special promotions. Similarly, my partner, who shares my Diamond status but has only been on three Royal Caribbean cruises, had none. 

Promotions range from discounts of up to $200 on select cruises of 5 nights or less to savings of up to $400 on longer voyages. 

How to see if you have a Royal Caribbean discount code

When you log into your account, pay careful attention to the pop-ups. You might be alerted that you have a special offer waiting for you. If not, finding out if you're a chosen one is easy. 

After logging in, navigate to your profile by clicking "Hi, [insert name here]" in the top right corner. 

This is where you will see your upcoming cruises and can access the Cruise Planner. However, ignore your cruise countdowns and click on the "loyalty" tab. 

If you have any promotions, they will be available directly under the "Crown & Anchor Society" information that lists your total cruise points and recent cruises. 

What are the "secret" loyalty offers?

Offers vary, but these are the promotions that we're aware of. Again, not every cruiser is eligible for every deal (or any!). Moreover, if you see any deals in your loyalty account, take note of the expiration date. For example, my promotions expire on Feb. 2, 2026. 

2 - 5 Night Early Bird Savings Up to $300 off on select cruises of 5 nights or less

December Cruise Cash promo codes [are] applicable to new individual bookings made between December 9, 2025 and February 1, 2026  (“Offer Period”) on all sailings for the ship(s) or itinerary included in the offer, departing on or after January 2026 (“Offer Cruise”). Promo Code provides instant savings varying by cruise stateroom category as follows: $150 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $250 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $350 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $125 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $200 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $300 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less. (“Savings”) shown in USD and will be converted to currency used for cruise purchase and applied as dollars off at checkout during the Offer Period.

6+ Night Early Bird Savings Up to $350 off on select cruises of 6 nights or more

December Cruise Cash promo codes [are] applicable to new individual bookings made between December 9, 2025 and February 1, 2026  (“Offer Period”) on all sailings for the ship(s) or itinerary included in the offer, departing on or after January 2026 (“Offer Cruise”). Promo Code provides instant savings varying by cruise stateroom category as follows: $150 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $250 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $350 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $125 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $200 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $300 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less. (“Savings”) shown in USD and will be converted to currency used for cruise purchase and applied as dollars off at checkout during the Offer Period.

Save & Sail Before August 2026 Up to $200 off on select cruises of 5 nights or less

December Explore More promo codes [are] applicable to new individual bookings made between December 1, 2025 and February 1, 2026  (“Offer Period”) on all sailings for the ship(s) or itinerary included in the offer, departing on or after January 2026 (“Offer Cruise”). Promo Code provides instant savings varying by cruise stateroom category as follows: for sailings departing January 2026 thru August 2026: $75 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $125 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $275 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $50 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $100 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $200 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less and select Australia sailings; for sailings departing on or after September 2026: $125 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $200 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $400 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $75 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $150 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $300 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less. (“Savings”) shown in USD and will be converted to currency used for cruise purchase and applied as dollars off at checkout during the Offer Period.

Save & Sail After September 2026 Up to $400 off on select cruises of 6 nights or more

December Explore More promo codes [are] applicable to new individual bookings made between December 1, 2025 and February 1, 2026 (“Offer Period”) on all sailings for the ship(s) or itinerary included in the offer, departing on or after January 2026 (“Offer Cruise”). Promo Code provides instant savings varying by cruise stateroom category as follows: for sailings departing January 2026 thru August 2026: $75 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $125 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $275 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $50 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $100 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $200 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less and select Australia sailings; for sailings departing on or after September 2026: $125 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $200 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $400 USD on Suite for sailings 6 nights or more OR $75 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $150 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $300 USD on Suite for sailings 5 nights or less. (“Savings”) shown in USD and will be converted to currency used for cruise purchase and applied as dollars off at checkout during the Offer Period. 

Back Aboard Bonus - Up to $350 off

December Cruise-iversary promo codes [are] is applicable to new individual bookings made between December 9, 2025 and February 1, 2026  (“Offer Period”) on all sailings for the ship(s) or itinerary included in the offer, departing on or after December 1, 2026 (“Offer Cruise”). Promo Code provides instant savings varying by cruise stateroom category as follows: $75 USD on Inside & Oceanview and $150 USD on Neighborhood, Balcony, and $350 USD on Suite. (“Savings”) shown in USD and will be converted to currency used for cruise purchase and applied as dollars off at checkout during the Offer Period.

When it comes to cruise cabins, inside and balcony rooms are often pitted against each other. Interior staterooms are popular for the value, while balconies appeal to those who appreciate extra space and fresh air. This year, our team sailed in both on one of Royal Caribbean's biggest cruise ships.

In February 2025, Elizabeth Wright sailed in an interior cabin on a 7-night Western Caribbean cruise to Honduras, Mexico, and The Bahamas on Wonder of the Seas.

The mega-ship is one of the largest in the world, measuring 235,600 gross registered tons and accommodating around 7,000 guests. 

To close out the year, Royal Caribbean Blog's head honcho, Matthew Hochberg, also sailed on Wonder of the Seas. Matt, however, stayed in a balcony stateroom. 

He went on a short 4-night cruise out of Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau to check out the brand-new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. 

Take a look at how their accommodations varied in amenities and size, and why a balcony cabin might not be worth the extra money. 

Disclosure: Matt was hosted by Royal Caribbean, while Elizabeth paid for her sailing on Wonder of the Seas.

Elizabeth’s Royal Caribbean cabin came with a lower cost per day compared to Matt’s

(Interior cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

Although Matt was hosted for free, the difference in pricing between the two cabin categories is evident on other sailings. 

For a 7-night cruise, Elizabeth paid $2,292.10, which breaks down to roughly $163.72 per person, per day. According to Royal Caribbean's website, a 4-night cruise on Wonder of the Seas in Feb. 2026 starts at $799 per person for an ocean-view balcony. 

After factoring in gratuities, taxes, and port fees, the balcony stateroom totals $1,744.62. While that’s less than Elizabeth’s 7-night cruise, the shorter sailing means the cost averages out to $218.07 per person, per day.

Read more: I paid $2,200 for an inside cabin on a 7-night Royal Caribbean cruise. The tiny, windowless space was more comfortable than I expected

Matt's stateroom was in a more desirable location

Because Elizabeth booked the cheapest available rate, she could not pick her cabin's location. Instead, she was assigned #9116 at the front of the ship. 

Forward cabins can experience more motion, and in her case, the stateroom was also positioned next to a crew-only access door.

This meant that she and her partner were sometimes awoken as early as 7:45 a.m. as the housekeeping team prepared for their morning shifts. 

Conversely, Matt's room was located toward the aft elevator on Deck 7. Being sandwiched between other cabins meant that the overall experience was less noisy. 

Plus, Deck 7 is one deck below Central Park and one above the Boardwalk, making it ideal for navigating Wonder of the Seas. 

Elizabeth's cheaper cabin was smaller than Matt's balcony

(Interior cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

Elizabeth's stateroom was 172 square feet and came with a private ensuite bathroom, a Royal King bed, a vanity area, and storage space. 

Having sailed in inside cabins before, Elizabeth knew that the space would be tight but ended up appreciating its coziness. 

She and her partner quickly settled into their stateroom, utilizing the available closet space and drawers before neatly tucking their suitcases underneath the bed. 

(Balcony cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

On the other hand, Matt's balcony room measured over 230 square feet, including the interior living space and the private balcony. 

Matt found the amount of space in this balcony to be more than enough space for two people, making it feel uncramped. In fact, there was a large couch in the room that fit nicely, while still allowing for space to pass through from either end.

Without a couch or coffee table, the only places Elizabeth could enjoy her room service breakfast were in bed or at the vanity

Both kept the beds pushed together, but Elizabeth was smart in asking for a mattress topper

(Balcony cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

Royal Caribbean's standard cabins are outfitted with two twin-sized beds that can either be pushed together or separated to configure them as a Royal King-sized bed or two singles. 

Both Matt and Elizabeth opted to keep their beds pushed together. In Elizabeth's case, she was traveling with her partner, so it didn't make sense to split the beds. 

To make the bed more comfortable and reduce the gap between the mattresses, Elizabeth requested a mattress topper from her cabin steward. It improved her sleep experience and made the mattress feel more plush. 

(Elizabeth's mattress topper)

Although separating the beds can often make cruise cabins feel more spacious, Matt elected to keep them together even though he was traveling alone.

Matt admits he usually sleeps well on cruise ship beds but might have asked for a topper if it were a longer sailing.

Despite the differences, both cabins offered the same essential amenities 

(Balcony cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

As in standard Royal Caribbean cabins, Matt's balcony and Elizabeth's inside cabin were outfitted with a vanity area, mini fridge, phone, a television with streaming capabilities, hair dryer, full-length mirror, shampoo/body wash hybrid, and a bar of hand soap. 

The nightstands hugging the bed had lamps with built-in charging options, which is a feature exclusive to newer Royal Caribbean ships. 

In addition, both rooms had extra American outlets, European plugs, and USB ports near the vanity.

(Inside cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

The storage space was plentiful in the inside and balcony cabins, too. 

Between the two closets and the dresser, Elizabeth and her partner had enough room to unpack and organize all their belongings for the weeklong cruise. 

One thing Matt really likes about cabins on the newer Oasis Class ships is how much storage there is overall. He thinks in this instance, it's superior to even Icon Class ship cabins.

(Inside cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

Finally, the bathrooms were identical. The compact layout had a capsule shower, toilet, sink, and basic Salt + Breeze multi-use soap. 

As Matt is part of Royal Caribbean's Pinnacle Club, his bathroom also included extra complimentary toiletries, such as upgraded bath products. 

Matt relied on the upgraded toiletries since it was easier than packing his own for a short sailing. However, he finds the body wash to not be as good as the brand he uses at home for both fragrance and the sense of cleanliness.

(Inside cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

Both Matt and Elizabeth recalled the shower pressure was great.  Cruise ships usually have very good shower pressure to begin with. Matt joked on some ships the shower pressure is almost like getting a massage.

Ultimately, Matt and Elizabeth agreed that both rooms were comfortable and functional for a cruise on one of the world's biggest ships

(Balcony cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

As seasoned reporters who have been on over 130 cruises combined, Matt and Elizabeth are used to sailing in a wide range of accommodations, from wallet-friendly inside cabins to spacious suites. 

Elizabeth didn't feel like staying in an interior stateroom was a major compromise when on a ship like Wonder of the Seas. 

Between the world-class entertainment, waterslides, mini-golf course, zip line, and other amenities, there was so much to keep her busy that she didn't want to waste time in her stateroom. 

(Inside cabin on Wonder of the Seas)

However, although Elizabeth understands that getting assigned a less-than-desirable room is one of the risks of booking a guaranteed fare, she wishes her cabin had been in a different location. 

Matt felt a balcony in the winter is one of the times he'll find value from having a balcony cabin because it's comfortable enough to be outside and enjoy it. During the summer months, it can be oppressively hot and that limits his enjoyment of the balcony.

In the end, they agreed that the better choice depends on how much time you plan to spend in your cruise room, and whether private outdoor space and natural light are worth the extra cost.