Captain Johnny Faevelen announced his retirement from Royal Caribbean International. 

He began his career with the cruise giant in 1975 as an Ordinary Sailor, Abalbody Seaman, and Quarter Master, according to Faevelen's LinkedIn profile. 

Since then, he's worked as a Captain on ships ranging from one of the first modern purpose-built cruise ships, Nordic Prince, to Monarch of the Seas; Voyager of the Seas; Allure of the Seas; Harmony of the Seas; and Symphony of the Seas, just to name a few.  

"50 years has [passed], and it’s time to say [goodbye] to Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. 😢 It is with mixed feelings I have handed in my resignation," reads Captain Faevelen's Facebook post. 

"I have been in the thinking box for the last months, 😵‍💫 and come to the conclusion that after 50 amazing years working for such a fantastic company, it’s time to start a new career;🏆 As of January 26.2025 I will start...a new 'job'."

He plans on being "100%" present with his family, including his wife Sissel, two children Erlend and Eirin, and four—soon to be five—grandchildren ranging in ages from newborn to 10 years old. 

"I have met and worked with so...many wonderful people in my career, no one mentioned - no one forgotten. You know who you are 💞 Thank you all for [having] been a part of my life for 50 years. 🥳," he adds. 

He began working with the company in 1975 when he was just 20 years old

Captain Faevelen joined the Song of Norway as an Ordinary Seaman. 

The Song of Norway was the first cruise ship built for Royal Caribbean International and launched in 1970. She initially had a gross registered tonnage of around 18,000. 

However, the demand for cruising was so high that Royal Caribbean lengthened the vessel in 1978, increasing her GRT to 23,000.

Time as a 2nd Officer

Eventually, Captain Faevelen had to stray from the Royal Caribbean brand to gain experience to be considered for further promotion. 

"[This] is me doing celestial navigation...when I was a 2nd. Officer for the first time onboard Skauboard," he explains.

Royal Caribbean didn't have 2nd Officers, so Captain Faevelen sailed on cargo ships to gain the necessary experience and qualifications. 

The work paid off because he became a Captain in 1994

It took the accomplished sailor nearly 20 years to finally be promoted to Captain. 

His first contract was aboard the Nordic Prince in 1994. He didn't just cruise to the Caribbean; he was tasked with sailing through Alaska's icy waters. 

Ending as Captain of one of the world's largest cruise ships

Captain Faevelen's LinkedIn reveals that he's been the Master of Oasis Class ships since 2010 when he became Allure of the Seas' Captain. Since then, he's also been the Captain of Harmony and Symphony of the Seas. 

He's ending his 50-year stint as Symphony of the Seas' Captain. Symphony is currently the 4th largest cruise ship in the world behind Icon, Utopia, and Wonder of the Seas. 

Read more: Take a look inside a cruise ship captain's living quarters

Known for his flamboyant style

Captain Faevelen wasn't your average cruise ship Captain. 

While he is passionate about the sea and the well-being of passengers and crew members, he's also a motorcycle enthusiast and proud Parrot owner. 

Not only that but, as a Captain, he had the privilege of giving away and marrying his daughter on a cruise ship. 

Unfortunately, Captain Faevelen was diagnosed with Melanoma and shared tidbits of his journey on social media. 

"Back again at Kristiansand Cancer Center for my 5th. of 12 Immune Therapy treatments, to prevent further development of melanoma cancer. All good and...I’m in the best hands🥰 ," he wrote on X.

However, at the beginning of 2024, he optimistically shared that he finished his last immune therapy to prevent the cancer cells from returning: "A full PET scan remains, and then I'm ready for whatever 2024 brings!" 

Fond farewell

Sometimes, the crew is just as important as the ship, and it's safe to say that Captain Faevelen was one of the most popular Captains sailing for Royal Caribbean. 

"Best Captain ever on the high seas , you will surely be missed , good luck and enjoy the future with your family 🥰," commented Tracey Ann Lemon on Faevelen's Facebook post. 

Ken Muskat added, "Congratulations to you Captain Johnny. What an incredible career and it was a pleasure getting to know you from my time at Royal. Wishing you the best in your role as 100% family man!"

Millions of people will take a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025, and there are important tips to have a great vacation this year!

2025 is set to be a big year for Royal Caribbean with the launch of their second Icon Class ship, finally updating Allure of the Seas, and unveiling a new exclusive beach club experience in Nassau.

Whether you’re a devout Royal Caribbean cruiser or new to the brand, there are some important do’s and don’ts to consider when planning your cruise in 2025 to help you maximize your time onboard and minimize any pre-vacation stress.

As in previous years, you'll want to follow timeless cruise tips, such as pre-purchasing cruise add-ons, arriving the night before your ship is scheduled to depart, and repricing your cruise until final payment.

Here's our list of the best 25 do's and don'ts for your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025.

DO expect higher prices

You should expect higher prices for a Royal Caribbean cruise in 2025, and that's because of how red hot demand is for this type of vacation.

In looking at Royal Caribbean Group's quarterly results, customers are consistently paying more for cruises and booking them in higher numbers. As a result, Royal Caribbean Group executives plan for the higher pricing trend to continue into 2025 and beyond. 

While fares are higher, you can take an affordable vacation by staying in interior staterooms, sticking to complimentary dining, and cruising during the off-season.  

What this means is 2025 isn't the year of waiting for a price drop.

DO book your Royal Caribbean cruise through a travel agent

Travel agents are valuable resources for even the most seasoned cruisers because they act as experts for all things Royal Caribbean. Whether you can't decide between an itinerary, want advice on a cabin, or have some questions about the complimentary activities, you'll benefit from utilizing a travel agent when booking your 2025 Royal Caribbean cruise. 

Travel agents also have access to exclusive deals not available when booking directly with the cruise line, which means they'll save you time when planning your cruise and likely help you save money!

If you booked a cruise onboard at NextCruise, you can transfer your reservation to your travel agent once home. This lets you take advantage of the onboard booking bonus and the perks of an agent! 

DON’T fly into your embarkation city the day your cruise departs

One of the riskiest things you can do when making pre-cruise arrangements is booking your flight for the same day your ship departs. 

An unexpected flight delay or cancellation could cause you to miss your long-awaited cruise, and you might not have the opportunity to meet up with it at a later port of call. Even if you do, flying to the next port at the last minute will be expensive and stressful. 

To be safe, you should always fly into your cruise port at least the night before. Even if you think a 6:00am departure will arrive early enough, consider the time it takes to deplane, collect your luggage, and get to the port. Traffic delays are just as unpredictable as airfare!

DO purchase travel insurance

Speaking of missing cruise ships, travel insurance is crucial regardless of whether you're going on a 3-night Bahamas voyage or a 14-night transatlantic sailing. 

A good policy will cover things like trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delay coverage, baggage delays, emergency medical coverage, onboard medical expenses, and more. You don't want to be stuck with a hefty bill for onboard medical services because you neglected to purchase insurance. 

If you're a frequent traveler, consider an annual policy. It's easier and more cost-effective than purchasing insurance directly through Royal Caribbean for each sailing. Plus, it'll cover other land-based trips.

Read more: Cruise travel insurance and why you need it

DON’T forget to purchase add-ons through the Cruise Planner

Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner is the best place to begin planning your vacation. This is where you'll find cruise line-sponsored shore excursions, drink and Wi-Fi packages, specialty restaurants, and more.

You'll often save money by pre-purchasing your add-ons, rather than waiting until you're onboard. Once on the ship, you cannot take advantage of Royal Caribbean's pre-cruise sales, which can help save hundreds of dollars on everything from drink packages to excursions. 

Plus, you will have the most available options by making all your reservations in advance. It's not uncommon for shore excursions and specialty restaurants to sell out ahead of time. 

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner site

DON’T immediately book the cheapest stateroom

Inside cabins offer the best deal but are not the right choice for all travelers. These windowless rooms are typically the smallest onboard. 

If you're sailing on a ship like Utopia or Icon of the Seas, you might assume you’ll spend little time in your cabin. However, even if not in the room often, the cost of a balcony is still worth it for some because of the extra living space.

Moreover, the most affordable cruise fares are often on older ships, such as Enchantment of the Seas. The lack of amenities on older vessels can be disappointing to some. If you're looking forward to trying the FlowRider or ice skating at sea, avoid older Royal Caribbean ships. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin guide

DO take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s app 

Before arriving at the terminal, download Royal Caribbean's mobile app. 

It'll be your lifeline onboard, with everything from the e-muster drill to the daily schedule and your onboard statement available at your fingertips. 

Additionally, you can chat with other guests, book specialty restaurants, browse photos, and check out the rotating Main Dining Room menus whether you're relaxing in your cabin or moving about the ship.

DON’T expect your ship to be empty

Royal Caribbean ships are some of the most sought-after at sea, so it's not surprising to learn that a 2023 report revealed Royal Caribbean ships sailed at 102.1% capacity during the first quarter of the year. 

In fact, it's common for cruise ships to sail above capacity between 103% and 107%, as some cabins can accommodate three, four, five, and six guests.

Though crowds are inevitable on cruise ships, venues are designed to comfortably accommodate many guests at once. Activities are also strategically offered to disperse passengers, keeping them active around the ship.  

DO choose the right dining time

Royal Caribbean offers two dining options for dinner in the Main Dining Room: traditional and My Time Dining. If you select My Time, you are responsible for making your own dining reservations for each night of the cruise, whereas with traditional dining, you'll eat at the same time each night. You'll also have the same wait staff. 

Choosing the wrong dining time or preference can be a buzzkill. If, for example, you're used to eating around 6:00pm each day, you likely will not enjoy having dinner around 8:00pm. Likewise, if you choose My Time Dining but forget to make reservations for your preferred dining time, you might have to wait for an available table. 

Stop by the Main Dining Room to confirm your dining situation on embarkation day. If you choose the traditional seating, you can also look at your assigned table to see if it meets your needs and preferences. 

DON’T forget to check your travel documentation ahead of time

Suppose you're sailing on a round-trip cruise from Miami to the Bahamas. In that case, you can technically board with a government-issued photo I.D. and proof of citizenship, such as a driver's license and birth certificate or certificate of naturalization (if you're a U.S. citizen). 

However, passports are required for specific sailings, such as voyages from Barcelona or one-way cruises that depart from U.S. ports, including Los Angeles or Tampa. 

As soon as you book your cruise, locate your travel documentation. It's best to know when your passport expires ahead of time in case you must renew it. Passports must be valid for at least six months after your cruise's end date! For example, if you're going on a cruise in May 2025, your passport's expiration date cannot be before November 2025.

Read more: Can I cruise without a passport?

DO expect ports to be busier

In mid-2023, Nassau opened the first phase of its port expansion, which increased capacity to 10,000 guests with berths for six ships per day, including three Oasis or Icon Class vessels.

The expansion was a major success, with the popular Bahamas port reporting a record-breaking 5.6 million cruise guests in 2024. Nassau hasn't finished the project, either. They're planning on adding a multi-million dollar waterpark inside the secured port. 

It was also a record year for Juneau, Alaska. The state's capital shared that they welcomed 1.68 million cruise passengers in 2024, up from 1.64 million in 2023. In short, more people are cruising than ever before, and this is evident in port. 

DON’T be surprised by policy changes

Royal Caribbean implemented various policy charges in 2024, including no longer allowing guests to take unopened beer cans to their staterooms and increasing the daily gratuity amount. 

Looking back at these changes and those that occurred in 2023, additional policies may be added, changed, or removed altogether in 2025. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean changes policy on how it serves beverages

DO understand how Royal Caribbean’s gratuities work

As of November 2024, the gratuity rate for Royal Caribbean cruises is $18.50 per person, per day for standard cabins (Junior Suites and below) and $21.00 per person, per day for suites. 

This means a family of four in a standard stateroom on a 7-night cruise can expect to pay an extra $518 for the week. The same family would pay $588 in gratuities if cruising in a suite. 

You have two options when it comes to paying them. First, you can opt to pre-pay them before your cruise. This can be done when booking or by calling Royal Caribbean/your travel agent after placing your deposit. Alternatively, you can have them charged to your onboard account and settle the balance before disembarkation. 

DON’T assume bigger is better

Icon of the Seas finally entered service in 2024 as the largest cruise ship at sea. For over a decade, the title was held by Oasis Class ships. However, the new class of ship redefined the mega-cruise experience with a recording-breaking water park, brand-new neighborhoods, dining experiences, shows, and more. 

Utopia of the Seas also joined Royal Caribbean's fleet as the second-largest cruise ship. The new Oasis Class ship is packed with familiar amenities and new experiences, making her a perfect blend of innovation and tradition. 

That being said, bigger isn’t always better. Some cruisers prefer Royal Caribbean’s smaller ships, which can access more unique ports of call and offer a more intimate onboard experience. For example, while brand-new, Utopia of the Seas only sails on 3- and 4-night cruises to the Bahamas. If you've already visited Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, you may wish to cruise on an older vessel and visit new destinations. 

Read more: 7 Best Royal Caribbean cruise destinations you can visit

DO complete your muster drill

You must complete Royal Caribbean's muster drill on embarkation day even if you've sailed with the company before. Passengers who fail to complete the required safety drill will be hunted down by crew members. The drill is mandatory to ensure all sailing guests are familiar with emergency procedures. 

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean has made it easier to complete the muster drill. Instead of sitting through a lengthy in-person drill, passengers watch a few short videos on the mobile app or stateroom television. Then, they visit their assigned muster station. 

Before sailing away, the ship's Captain and Cruise Director will give a few more announcements over the PA system and sound the emergency alarm. However, nobody is required to report to their muster station at that time. 

DON’T be afraid to status match with Celebrity Cruises

Royal Caribbean Group announced a new Status Match Program in 2024 to enhance the experience for guests sailing with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. This program offers a new solution to loyal Royal Caribbean cruisers who were worried about losing valuable perks of the highest Crown & Anchor Society tiers. 

Now, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club members can match into the corresponding tier across all three brands. For example, Pinnacle Club members can now hold Zenith status with Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club and vice versa. Similarly, Diamond Plus cruisers can sail as Elite Plus members with Celebrity.

Though the benefits aren't identical as each line has its own perks, the Status Match Program guarantees that loyal cruisers still receive similar high-level privileges. 

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's new loyalty match program

DO complete online check-in as soon as it opens

45 days before your cruise, you can complete the first steps of Royal Caribbean's check-in process. The online portion requires you to input your travel documentation and credit card information, as well as select an arrival time at the terminal.

We recommend writing the date your check-in opens on your calendar to ensure you can snag the ideal arrival time for your party. The earliest times tend to go quickly, so if you want to be one of the first onboard, you won't want to forget this important date!

DON’T wait until the last minute to book airfare

Don't wait too long to book your airfare unless going on a last-minute cruise. Otherwise, you could pay hundreds of dollars more for the same flight that was cheaper a few months or even weeks prior. 

Start researching flights as soon as you've placed your deposit. Securing your ticket early ensures you lock in a better price, as airfares tend to rise as the departure date approaches. 

Plus, if you're hoping to use airline miles to reduce your out-of-pocket cost, airlines typically limit how many reward seats are available on each flight. 

DO check the price of your cruise ahead of final payment

Whether you want to cruise for as little as possible or have more money allocated for add-ons, nothing feels better than finding a great rate for your cruise fare! 

In the months leading up to your cruise, frequently re-price your sailing. If you notice the price has dropped, contact Royal Caribbean or your travel agent to lock in the lower rate. It can only be done before the final payment date. 

NOTE: this only applies to residents of certain countries, such as the United States and Canada. 

DON’T smuggle prohibited items onboard

Packing for a cruise is different than packing for a land vacation. Since you won't be minutes from your local drugstore, you must have all your essentials, from over-the-counter medications to toiletries and sunscreen. However, there are certain items you can't bring on board. 

For example, irons and steamers are banned from cruise ships because of the fire hazard they pose. They also recently added multi-outlet extenders to its prohibited item list. 

Similarly, Royal Caribbean doesn't allow marijuana on its fleet even if it's prescribed for medicinal purposes. You could be kicked off or denied boarding if you bring something illegal onboard. 

Read more: What can you not bring on a cruise

DO step outside your comfort zone

Have you cruised to the Caribbean countless times? Consider embarking on a new itinerary to Alaska, Europe, or the South Pacific! Because of Royal Caribbean's diverse range of destinations, you can cruise all over the world while receiving the same service and benefits. 

You can also step outside your comfort zone in familiar ports of call. For example, if you've called at St. Maarten before but never visited the famous Maho Beach, your upcoming Caribbean cruise could be the perfect opportunity to watch planes soar above your head as they land. 

Or maybe you'd like to try something new onboard, such as an art auction, craft workshop, all-access tour, or fitness class. 

Read more: I Tried Doing Every Activity on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas

DON’T wait until you’re home to resolve onboard issues

Don't wait until you are home to contact Royal Caribbean regarding discrepancies on your onboard statement. Instead, visit Guest Services while on your cruise. 

There are crew members onboard to handle various situations and ensure everything meets your expectations. Do not hesitate to speak out if you think something should be improved, such as the service in the Main Dining Room or the upkeep of your cabin. 

If you keep problems to yourself, you can't expect them to be resolved during your vacation. 

DO remain flexible

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean cannot control the weather. Sometimes, the ship's crew must cancel a port of call to keep everyone onboard safe. Inclement weather could also cause shows to be canceled. 

In other cases, you could find your favorite specialty restaurant or must-do excursion fully booked. Regardless of the issue, it's important to remain flexible when booking a cruise and make the most of your time onboard. 

For example, if you miss a port because of bad weather, consider splurging on a spa treatment to make the otherwise disappointing day more memorable. 

DON’T forget to leave your worries behind as you set sail

No matter what is going on when you board the ship, try your best to leave those worries behind. Vacation is your time to relax and recharge. Being present in the moment can help you enjoy all the experiences onboard.

Watch the horizon disappear as you sip on the first cocktail of your cruise. Afterward, venture to the Main Dining Room for a three-course meal knowing you don't have to clean any dishes afterward! 

Parents also don't have to worry about entertaining their children. While your kids are having a blast at Adventure Ocean, you can fully immerse yourself into a vacation mindset. 

DON'T overlook what’s new for Royal Caribbean in 2025

In addition to Star of the Seas joining the fleet, the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will finally open in Nassau. 

This new all-inclusive beach club is not included in the cost of your cruise fare; however, it promises an exclusive retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Nassau. Guests will enjoy private pools, beaches, bars, restaurants, cabanas, and more. 

Allure of the Seas is also set to receive a major renovation. The $100 million-plus Royal Amplification will add new dining venues, activities, and more to the beloved Oasis Class ship. The upgraded vessel will debut in Europe in spring 2025. 

Royal Caribbean offers some of its best loyalty benefits when you reach Diamond level, and one passenger got there as fast as possible.

Crown & Anchor Society rewards loyal cruisers with perks like free drinks, exclusive lounge access, Casino Royale FreePlay, laundry discounts, and more. However, the true benefits start once you've reached Diamond status. 

To become a Diamond Crown & Anchor member, you must accumulate 80 cruise points. Typically, guests receive one cruise point per night, meaning if you take a 7-night cruise in a standard cabin (i.e., interior, ocean view, or balcony), you'll get 7 cruise points. 

However, cruisers in suites and traveling solo get two cruise points per night, so they'd get 14 points for a 7-night cruise. Similarly, a Royal Caribbean passenger on a 3-night cruise in a Grand Suite would receive 6 cruise points. 

Considering you need 80 cruise points to reach Diamond status, it takes years for the average cruiser to climb to the fourth tier of the Crown & Anchor Society. 

To achieve this, you’d need to complete 12 weeklong cruises in a standard cabin or 6 in a suite. Alternatively, you’d have to take 20 4-night Royal Caribbean voyages if you prefer shorter cruises. 

Recently, one cruiser shared how they went from a Gold to Diamond C&A member in just one month. Shared to the r/royalcaribbean Reddit thread, macacofreco explained how he managed to fast-track his way to Diamond status by booking back-to-back cruises sailing various routes. 

He started his month-long journey with 21 cruise points. By the end, he had reached Diamond status, accumulating a total of 81 cruise points.

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

Delayed transatlantic cruise 

macacofreco received four free C&A points due to the delay of his transatlantic cruise, which resulted in a refund for two missed days. In addition, four ports of call were canceled during the journey. 

He got 26 cruise points for the 13-night transatlantic cruise on Adventure of the Seas. The sailing departed from Barcelona, Spain, and arrived in Port Canaveral, Florida, on Dec. 7. 

Despite not being on board for the entire 13 nights, the points he earned for the sailing helped him reach the highly coveted Diamond tier. Otherwise, he would have been three points short after his final cruise in 2024. 

Four ships from four different classes

Following Voyager of the Seas, macacofreco boarded Oasis of the Seas in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise, calling at Perfect Day at CocoCay; Falmouth, Jamaica; and Labadee, Haiti. He earned 12 cruise points during this sailing. 

After disembarking from Oasis, macacofreco remained in Fort Lauderdale overnight awaiting another 6-night Western Caribbean cruise on Freedom of the Seas. While he returned to Jamaica and Haiti, he also visited Grand Cayman, earning an extra 12 cruise points.

Finally, the determined cruiser spent Christmas aboard Grandeur of the Seas, a Vision Class ship that launched in 1996. For the 5-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to Haiti and Grand Bahama Island, he accumulated 10 more cruise points. He noted that he thought Grandeur should be retired. 

Read more: 4 lesser-known perks of Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Program

The average cost was $160 per day

There are two ways to earn more than one cruise point per sailing. The first is to cruise solo. Because you're paying double occupancy, Royal Caribbean rewards you with two points per night. 

The second is to book a suite. The category doesn't make a difference. In other words, if you book a Star Class suite, you'll receive the same two points per night as passengers staying in Sky Class cabins. 

To climb the ranks as quickly and affordably as possible, macacofreco sailed by himself in the cheapest cabin available, nothing that he had a window stateroom on two sailings. 

Because he ascended ranks during his month-long journey, he had to call the Crown & Anchor Society support team to credit the points to his account so he could benefit from Platinum and Emerald perks while on board. 

"I had to contact [the] C&A deck to upgrade me twice because the points [take] a week to be credited automatically, and they did it," he wrote.

"You might also need to contact [the casino] host to get the extra free play credits after the upgrade."

macacofreco also talked about The Key, stating he'd only purchase the VIP package again if he were to get internet. He added that it's only worth the extra cost if you appreciate the exclusive FlowRider session. 

The Key program includes priority terminal access during designated arrival times, carry-on bag drop off with delivery to your cabin, welcome lunch with an exclusive menu, access to fast lane at onboard events, private FlowRider time, priority departure at tender ports, dedicated seating for shows in select venues, VOOM Surf & Stream internet for one device, and choice departure and á la carte breakfast on disembarkation day, 

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean's The Key after hearing lots of negative reviews

Poor weather in November and December

Unfortunately, while macacofreco succeeded in reaching Diamond status in just one month, his journey was not without its challenges. 

"Many activities were canceled...due to bad weather," he explained. If the activity wasn't canceled, it was less enjoyable because of the inclement weather. 

"I would say the quantum class is the best option for [off-season] cruise[s] such as transatlantic, if you are an active [cruiser]," he added. 

Read more: Second cruise ship slams into Atlantic storm causing damage

Several passengers are suing Royal Caribbean after one of the company's former crew members was convicted and sentenced to 30 years in prison for placing hidden cameras in guests' staterooms and secretly recording young children. 

Aronfeld Trial Lawyers filed the 30-page lawsuit in the U.S. Southern District of Florida in Miami on Thursday on behalf of 12 U.S. plaintiffs, as reported by CBS News. 

Arvin Joseph Mirasol, a cabin steward from the Philippines, was arrested in March after a passenger onboard Symphony of the Seas reported finding a concealed camera in their bathroom. The device was discovered when the guest reached under the sink to grab toilet paper. 

He was arrested when the ship returned to Port Everglades on March 3, 2024. Mirasol's electronics were seized, and authorities uncovered videos of child pornography dating back to Dec. 2023. 

In addition to the recordings, he would hide under guests' beds while they were in the shower. He also claimed to pleasure himself while watching videos during a post-Miranda interview, adding he "wants to control it...but can't."

Mirasol was convicted in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in August, with U.S. District Judge Melissa Damian sentencing him to 30 years in prison. He also faces up to 15 charges of video voyeurism in Broward Circuit Court.

"The fact that many of the victims we represent still do not know if and how their images have been used or circulated is incredibly disturbing. Some of the plaintiffs are children - and once an image is on the internet it is there forever," said the plaintiffs' attorney Spencer Aronfeld in a news release.

Read more: Royal Caribbean crew member accused of hiding cameras to spy on guests

"We hope that RCCL will take full responsibility for the heinous and reprehensible conduct of its crewmember. And we hope that this lawsuit will motivate RCCL and the other major cruise lines to spend more effort screening their crewmembers so that this type of assault never happens again."

The law firm added that the plaintiffs have suffered "physical pain, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental and nervous disorders." 

The permanent and ongoing nature of the injuries has caused lasting harm. As a result, the plaintiffs seek a judgment for all damages allowable under the law, including punitive damages. 

Not the first lawsuit

In October, a Royal Caribbean guest, identified as Jane Doe, filed a class action lawsuit alleging that she was filmed by a hidden camera in her stateroom bathroom. 

The lawsuit accuses Mirasol of recording Doe "while undressed and engaged in private activities," and uploading images of Doe to the internet.

“Upon information and belief, Mirasol transmitted and/or uploaded images of the Plaintiff while undressed and engaging in private activities, to third parties and/or to the world wide web, including, but not limited to, the dark web, without Plaintiff’s prior knowledge or consent,” the complaint states. 

The lawsuit holds Royal Caribbean responsible for failing to provide sufficient security, training, or supervision to prevent sexual assaults. Additionally, it claims the cruise line didn't warn guests about the risk of such crimes and failed to notify passengers who stayed in staterooms serviced by Mirasol. 

The lawsuit suggests that as many as 960 passengers who sailed on Symphony of the Seas between December 1, 2023, and February 26, 2024, may have been affected by Mirasol's actions.

Symphony of the Seas is an Oasis Class ship based out of Florida

Symphony of the Seas currently sails from Miami, Florida, on 7-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. She's one of the largest cruise ships in the world, following Icon of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas. 

The 228,081 gross registered ton ship will relocate to Cape Liberty, New Jersey, in April 2025, primarily offering itineraries to the Bahamas. However, she'll make two 9-night cruises to the Eastern Caribbean on April 30 and July 4. 

Guests can take advantage of one of four pools, an ice skating rink, a miniature golf course, an outdoor AquaTheater, more than 20 dining options, a zip-line, Broadway-style entertainment, and more. 

Read more: I stayed in a $1,400 stateroom on Symphony of the Seas

Last year, Royal Caribbean canceled excursions to the popular Blue Lagoon Island in Nassau following a deadly boating incident. Having resumed operations, I booked a tour to Blue Lagoon Island on a recent sailing aboard Allure of the Seas to see how things had changed and whether safety measures had been improved. 

On November 14, 2023, a water taxi filled with cruise passengers en route to Blue Lagoon Island encountered rough seas. Due to the intake of water, the shuttle boat capsized and killed one guest. Thankfully, the shuttle was in shallow waters and didn't completely submerge. 

As a result of the fatal incident, Royal Caribbean canceled excursions to Blue Lagoon Island, and the island closed to undergo various inspections and reviews of its fleet of vessels, excursion policies, staff training protocols, and other safety operations. 

The Bahamas Port Authority approved reopening the island in January 2024. However, Royal Caribbean's suspension lasted through March 2024 while the company performed its own investigation. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cancels excursions to Blue Lagoon Island following deadly incident

Since I booked my 4-night Bahamas cruise at the last minute, the excursion to Blue Lagoon Island was pricey at $114.40 per person. However, if you purchase the tour in advance through Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner, you can snag a much better deal at around $71 per person.

Our meeting time was 10:30am, so we weren't in a rush to get off the ship. Instead, my dad and I enjoyed a leisurely breakfast in the Main Dining Room before making our way to the assigned location. 

This was my first time purchasing a beach excursion in Nassau. I usually avoid them due to their high costs. After my time at Blue Lagoon Island, I'm even more excited for Royal Caribbean to open the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island. Even if the price point is similar, the all-inclusive amenities at the Royal Beach Club will make it well worth the cost compared to places like Blue Lagoon Island. 

Read more: I paid $830 for a cheap last-minute cruise on Allure of the Seas

Hectic check-in

As we made our way to the Zone 1 meeting spot, we were met by hordes of other passengers waiting to check in for the excursion to Blue Lagoon Island. At first, it was hard to figure out where we were supposed to go, as there seemed to be a lot of confusion. 

Two groups were meeting at the same time—one for the Deluxe Beach Break and the other for the Dolphin Encounter. Once Royal Caribbean crew members stepped in and created two distinct lines, we finally checked in with one of the Blue Lagoon Island employees and got our wristbands and meal vouchers. 

Around 10:50am, we started heading towards the tender boats. Knowing what happened one year before, I was a little anxious. However, the staff members were attentive and gave clear instructions. 

Safety briefing

The 30-minute ferry ride to Blue Lagoon Island departed at 11:05am. 

Shortly after leaving, the crew conducted a safety briefing, informing guests where the life jackets were and demonstrating how to use them. They also asked if anyone would like to wear one during the ride. 

It was smooth sailing on the way there, though my dad laughed at their song choices. He didn't think "Sweet Home Alabama" fit the vibe of a boat ride to an island in the Bahamas!

Beautiful beach but not enough umbrellas

By the time we got there, most of the chairs and umbrellas close to the arrival area were taken by earlier groups. While the beach isn't massive, fewer umbrellas are available as you trek further down the shoreline, so we had to walk a bit to find a spot with some shade—a necessity for someone who burns as easily as I do. 

My dad and I initially settled on two seats that weren't directly in the sun. However, he decided that wasn't good enough and began hunting for a stray umbrella, as a few were lying on the ground. Another cruiser helped him find one and carried it back to our seats. 

We were grateful for the help, and once the umbrella was set up, the shade made all the difference. Since there was just one departure time back to Nassau, we were worried that without an umbrella, we would end up baking in the sun and overheating. 

The spot was comfortable enough for my dad to take a quick nap while I ventured into the chilly waters. However, we both agreed that if we were to return with a later arrival time, we'd likely spend the extra money on a clamshell, rather than waste time trying to find a shaded spot. 

The setup of the beach area reminded me more of Carnival's Half Moon Cay than Perfect Day at CocoCay, where umbrellas are plentiful. Half Moon Cay, however, charges guests $35 per umbrella, so they're scarcely seen on the beach. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay vs Carnival's Half Moon Cay

Having finally gotten situated around noon, it was time for lunch before we knew it

Lunch worked differently than at the cruise line private islands I've visited. To help control crowds, the ships were assigned different dining times. Allure of the Seas, along with Carnival Dream and MSC Meraviglia, were scheduled to eat from 12:00pm-1:30pm, while some ships, like Carnival Conquest, dined as early as 10:00am. 

As we were waiting in line, an employee collected our meal ticket, which was included in the excursion's cost. The cafeteria-style options at the Shifting Tides Restaurant featured a selection of cheeseburgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, veggie burgers, hot dogs, BBQ chicken, Bahamian peas and rice, and corn on the cob. There was also a toppings and condiments station, along with garden salad and green beans. 

The restaurant also had à la carte options for those who booked a tour that didn't include lunch—think chips & queso ($12.60), crispy chicken wraps ($19.80), fish & chips ($21.60), and Caesar salads ($14.40). However, since our $230+ excursion included lunch, we opted for the cafeteria-style offerings. 

The cheeseburger was surprisingly tasty. It's exactly what you'd expect at a beachside grill. The BBQ chicken was another solid option. The chicken was juicy and coated with a tangy yet sweet barbeque sauce. That said, I wasn't a fan of the overly cooked corn on the cob—it was too mushy for my liking. 

When we checked in for the excursion, we were given a drink ticket that we were excited to redeem for a tropical beverage during lunch. Unfortunately, we learned it was only valid for watered-down iced tea, fruit punch, or lemonade in the dining pavilion. 

Other non-alcoholic drinks, including water, were an extra cost. For example, a bottle of Dasani water was priced at $5.50, while sodas were $3.60 each. 

Other activities 

My dad and I finished lunch around 12:45pm. With about two more hours on the island, we returned to our shaded oasis for a little bit before deciding to explore the other amenities. 

The turquoise water was so inviting that I couldn't resist dipping my toes in for a while. However, the sand was rough and gritty, so I'd recommend bringing a good pair of flip-flops or water shoes! Also, don't forget a towel from your cruise ship and plenty of sunscreen.

Once we were finished with the beach, we wandered into the souvenir stores and tried a local hot sauce. Then, we ventured to the animal exhibits, watching people swim with dolphins and interact with sea lions. 

If spending all day lounging in a beach chair isn't your thing, you can pay for a water activity upon arrival, including a snorkeling kit ($20), kayak and paddle board ($20 for 30 minutes), or the floating aqua park ($20 for all day access). 

Want to do it all? Consider the Junkanoo Pass, which includes all the water sports activities for $30 or $45 depending on which excursion you booked. Adults can also upgrade to the adults-only beach for $65 per person. 

Other activities at Blue Lagoon Island include hair braiding, henna art, and a beach volleyball court. There's also complimentary Wi-Fi. 

The speed was what you'd expect with hundreds of people on a small island. It would randomly cut out at times, such as when I was trying to check in for my flight home. 

It served its purpose; however, I wouldn't necessarily rely on it for anything. The further down the shoreline you go, the more spotty it gets. It was nice to have included Wi-Fi while ashore, though. 

Return shuttle 

Allure of the Seas' return taxi was scheduled to begin boarding at 3:00pm with plans to depart the island at 3:15pm. However, we noticed guests lining up around 2:40pm. The staff let us begin boarding early, and we were on our way back to the cruise ship piers at 3:00pm on the dot. 

Thankfully, the ride back was smooth and uneventful. Like on the way to Blue Lagoon Island, the crew conducted another safety briefing to ensure guests knew where the lifejackets were located and where to disembark in the event of an emergency. 

While the calm turquoise waters were beautiful, I wouldn't spend over $100 on another excursion to Blue Lagoon Island

Despite the reassuring safety measures, the high cost of the excursion was hard to justify. In the end, I felt a little ripped off; however, that's partly because I booked the tour at the last minute without any discounts—$70 feels much more reasonable for what the Deluxe Beach Break offers! 

In the end, I wish my dad and I had considered an all-inclusive beach day. The Warwick Paradise Island, for example, offers inclusive day passes for $125 each. Similarly, Breezes Resort has a pass for just $100 per person. 

While guests are responsible for their own transportation, the price includes access to all food and drinks, which feels like a much better value for the money. 

When Royal Caribbean resumed cruises following the COVID pandemic, the cruise giant introduced e-muster drills that effectively replaced the traditional, in-person muster drills. While this move has allowed for a more efficient, less crowded process, the creator of the digital e-muster argues the true potential of the invention has yet to be realized. 

Gone are the days when Royal Caribbean passengers had to cram together in designated muster stations while listening to safety demonstrations. With the introduction of e-muster drills, passengers can complete their safety briefing at their convenience without worrying about baking in the warm Florida sun. 

Rather than listen to a crew member relay important safety information, passengers can watch a brief video and listen to the emergency alarm on their mobile app or stateroom television before heading to their assigned muster station to check in with the ship's crew within a specific time frame after embarkation. 

Before sail away, a few more announcements are made over the public address system, and the emergency alarm is sounded. However, guests are not required to report to their muster stations and may continue to lounge by the pool, explore the ship, or unpack. 

The digital approach was conceived before the pandemic to help better inform cruisers about essential information. Ensuring guests absorbed the safety information during traditional muster drills when crammed together like sardines was difficult. 

Not only that but the old muster drill was painstaking for parties with young children and elderly cruisers who often require extra assistance when navigating to their assigned assembly stations. 

The completion of the muster drill is required by maritime law. If you choose to not watch the required videos or show up to your assembly station before sail away, your name and stateroom number will be given to crew members who will track you down. 

In short, don't be that person. The sooner you complete the drill, the sooner you can get back to enjoying the first day of your cruise vacation. 

Read more: Years after Royal Caribbean revolutionized the cruise ship safety drill, it's still the best change in the industry

The e-muster is designed to be 100% digital

Nick Weir, the former Head of Entertainment for Royal Caribbean International, was the visionary behind the e-muster concept. However, he says there's room for improvement to make the process even more efficient. 

"The use of geolocation technology in combination with personal devices and/or wearables, is actually the main event of my big idea. By installing a network of locator beacons around each muster station (similar to the system that is being used to locate and guide the indoor drone swarms that I introduced to Royal Caribbean’s production shows), guests would be able to participate in the eMuster process without the need for crew participation," he explains in an X post. 

What does this mean? Instead of requiring tons of crew members to be positioned at muster stations on embarkation day, the digital muster system would leverage guests' personal devices to automatically track and confirm their presence. 

The abstract of the patent, which was filed on March 3, 2020, reads: 

"During the period, as each mobile device is sensed within a geographically defined area of a correspondingly assigned muster station, a record of the completion of the muster drill by the passenger associated with the sensed mobile device is recorded in the memory."

"These steps can be performed digitally," Weir continues, "The arrival of a guest at their muster station can be tracked, geolocated and confirmed automatically, without the need for deploying dozens of crew members to do the [time-consuming], repetitive manual work, standing on their feet all day." 

The overall plan still includes one crew member at each station to "tie up any loose ends" and answer questions. First-time cruisers may have extra concerns they want to address before departing, so it makes sense to have a trained crew member available to provide reassurance. However, their presence would likely be phased out as society evolves and technology improves. 

"The function of eMuster—as I intended when I created it—is for it to be a fully digital, fully automated system and fully in line with the norms of modern society," he says. 

Weir adds that there's the possibility of the guests' presence at their muster stations being confirmed using facial recognition. This would benefit passengers without mobile devices or families with younger children. However, this part of the patent needs to be developed.

An unruly Royal Caribbean passenger terrorized other guests and crew members shortly after departing from California. 

UPDATE: The man was detained and died shortly thereafter.

A cell phone video shows a man hurling threats and trying to kick down a door aboard Navigator of the Seas. 

The 139,999 gross registered ton vessel had departed San Pedro, California, and was bound for Ensenada, Mexico when the incident occurred. 

"The gentleman that was drunk said that he was gonna kill us, and then he started chasing us down the hallway," Christifer Mikhail told FOX 11. 

Mikhail was sailing aboard Navigator to celebrate his and his wife's birthdays and anniversary. They were traveling with a dozen family and friends. 

Less than an hour after departing San Pedro, Mikhail tried to return to his stateroom to charge his phone and grab a jacket to watch a movie on the pool deck when he encountered the rowdy guest. 

"I was waiting for them to say cut and come out of the rooms," he remarked, "I was kinda scared [because] I was like, 'Dude, I'm stuck in this hallway [and] everyone else is kind of behind something.'" 

The disruptive passenger kicked a crew member in the face and punched another. Mikhail sailed that the crew member who was punched was hit with such force that he "flew a couple feet back."

Eventually, the ship's security team—armed with pepper spray, zip ties, and handcuffs—was able to subdue the now shirtless guest who had also been spewing profanity and racial comments. 

"[They] kinda acted like [a] SWAT team and set up a barrier and then they attacked, so they just waited for him to kind of run out of energy," Mikhail recalled. 

Though the unidentified passenger was no longer at risk of harming Mikhail, the incident followed him throughout the rest of the cruise, as he had to speak with Royal Caribbean management and the FBI about the ordeal. 

The guest spent the cruise in one of the ship's two jail cells. "He kind of ruined [the vacation] for his family," said Mikhail. 

What happens when guests get violent on cruise ships?

Though Royal Caribbean hasn't issued a statement about the incident, it's safe to assume the passenger will be banned from sailing with the cruise line again. 

Earlier this year, a group of guests sailing aboard Carnival Paradise was banned after an argument turned into a violent fight in the ship's buffet. 

The footage, which Nick Richardson uploaded to YouTube and TikTok, depicts about 10 to 15 passengers screaming, slapping, and tackling one another to the floor. Things escalated even further when guests began throwing chairs. 

In an emailed statement to USA Today, Carnival confirmed the fight took place onboard Carnival Paradise. 

“Carnival Paradise’s security team intervened in an incident that took place on June 6. As is our policy, we will not tolerate such behavior and the guests involved were fined and will not sail on Carnival Cruise Line again," Matt Lupoli said in the statement. 

Incidents like these often result in immediate intervention by the ship's security staff, with offenders facing fines, legal action, and permanent bans from the cruise line, especially when crew members are assaulted. 

Unruly guests disrupt the experience for other passengers and risk the safety of guests and crew, which is of paramount importance to cruise lines. 

Navigator of the Seas is a Voyager Class ship that sails out of California year-round

The 3,968-passenger ship offers voyages ranging from 3 to 8 nights. 

The shortest cruises visit Ensenada, Mexico, while the longer ones sail to the Mexican Riviera, calling at ports like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Mazatlán. 

Read more: What it's like to cruise on Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas

Crew members travel very differently than guests aboard crew ships. They have separate dining facilities, fitness centers, laundry rooms, and smaller cabins. Though life at sea for crew members isn't as glamorous as it is for passengers, plenty of rewards come with the job. 

Ella, a dancer in Mamma Mia on Allure of the Seas, had a recent TikTok video offering a glimpse into her windowless cabin go viral, with over 1.4 million views and 44k likes. It sparked curiosity about what life is really like behind the scenes on a cruise ship.

"Have you ever wondered what a crew cabin on a cruise ship looks like?" she asks. 

The dancer shares the cabin with a fellow cast member

Ella and her roommate Samara prioritized making their small space cozy with tons of pictures on the walls, fake plants, and pineapple string lights—fitting as the ship is currently sailing to The Bahamas from Florida. 

"We wanted to really make our cabin look cozy because obviously when you're living here for nine months at a time, you want it to feel as homely as possible," Ella explains. 

The video also shows how Ella and her roommate utilize the cabin's magnetic walls by hanging up small magnetic hooks for their jewelry and shelves for more storage. 

Read more: I stayed in an inside cabin for 5 nights on a cruise ship. The lack of natural light was worse than expected

Because the cabin is windowless, Ella talks about the importance of their sunrise alarm clock: "This is our sunrise alarm clock, which is an absolute lifesaver because we don't have a porthole, so we never see natural light...this turns itself on in the morning, so we at least don't wake up in the pitch black every day." 

Another must-have item is her hanging shoe organizer. It's no surprise that their stateroom isn't the largest. To increase the amount of available floor space, Ella and Samara keep their shoes neatly arranged in the hanging organizer on the back of their door.

"If you are looking to do a cruise ship in the future, a shoe rack on the back of your door is an absolute essential because you are going to need to save that space in your cabin," she remarks. 

They also purchased two matching drawer towers for more storage space since they share a single wardrobe. Though she doesn't give viewers a peek into the closet, she shows her "bits and bobs" drawer where she keeps things like her sunglasses and wallet, and her snack drawer. 

Ella also talks about her recent whiteboard obsession, showing a smaller whiteboard with the roommates' weekly schedule, as well as a larger one with their monthly schedule and a whiteboard with a countdown until she returns home. 

When she posted the video, she had 21 weeks left onboard Allure of the Seas, meaning her contract is scheduled to end around the end of February—assuming she posted the TikTok around the same time it was filmed. 

Whiteboards have become popular cabin door decorations for passengers, too. While they don't serve as practical a purpose as they do for crew members, they can be used to leave messages for other travelers. Some guests will even ask daily questions for others to respond to, such as where you're from, your favorite port of call, and more. 

They also have a coffee corner in their cabin that's home to cute mugs, instant coffee from Trader Joe's, and coffee beans to brew a fresh cup. 

Above their coffee station is a bookshelf piled high with books to read during their downtime. 

At night, Ella transforms the space into a cozy retreat by adjusting the mood lighting. "Here's my bed," she says, "It's so cute and cozy. I've got my LED lights...and I've packed my walls with photos of my family, my friends, [and] my boyfriend." 

There's also a television screen at the foot of each bed with "loads of movies and TV shows to choose from." 

Read more: Photos show a tiny crew-only cabin on Icon of the Seas

Tiny yet functional bathroom

Ella doesn't spend much time in the bathroom, claiming it's not very exciting. Overall, it is a standard crew bathroom. It has everything they need, but it's a far cry from a luxury bathroom. 

They have a capsule shower with a curtain instead of a plexiglass door. The sink is also much smaller compared to guest cabins, with counter space noticeably absent. 

One thing she does emphasize is the importance of a filtered shower head "because the water on ships really dries your hair [out]." 

Read more: I paid $830 for a cheap tiny and windowless cabin on Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas is an Oasis Class ship launched in 2010

The 225,282 gross registered ton ship will undergo a $100 million-plus renovation in March 2025. 

Once the drydock is complete, the amplified Allure of the Seas will feature a redesigned resort-style pool deck, Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Perfect Storm waterslides, Splashaway Bay, Pesky Parrot Bar, two new specialty restaurants, El Loco Fresh, an escape room, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, the Ultimate Panoramic Suite, and revamped Adventure Ocean spaces. 

Following the renovation, Allure of the Seas will remain in Europe for the summer 2025 season, a first since 2015. She'll sail from Barcelona and Rome (Civitavecchia) on 7-night cruises to Spain, France, and Italy. 

Despite having been on 13 Royal Caribbean cruises, I didn’t try the Chef’s Table until my recent sailing on Allure of the Seas.

The Chef’s Table is the ultimate specialty restaurant for foodies. The 6-course meal includes a wine pairing and serves up delicious cuisine that puts the Main Dining Room to shame.

It’s usually pretty expensive, costing around $100 per person. However, my dad and I found a great Black Friday Deal on Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner ahead of our last-minute voyage on Allure.

The meal was $165.16 with gratuities, but we applied our $50 onboard credit to lower the price even more. The total per person ended up being $57.58 each!

Part of the appeal of the Chef’s Table is that it is more than just a meal. The experience lasts over two hours and lets you mingle with fellow passengers in an intimate setting.

Read more: I spent four days eating on a mega cruise ship. Here's everything I ate, including some dishes I'd skip

Our evening began in the Library on Deck 11. Our host, Alan, greeted us with champagne while we waited for the other parties to arrive. One couple was late, so rather than holding us hostage in the Library, Alan escorted the arrived parties through the Crown Lounge to a private dining area on Deck 12.

The table was elegantly set with charger plates and beautiful glassware for the wine pairings. The ambiance was sophisticated yet comfortable. There wasn’t a white tablecloth, and the quirky chandelier was made entirely of cutlery—forks, knives, and spoons.

To kick things off, Alan presented each person with drool-worthy bread that he argued was the best bread onboard, beating out 150 Central Park. 

Melted truffle oil butter perfectly accompanied the thyme and lemon bread loaf. Each bite had a burst of flavor, with the herbaceous thyme balancing out the truffle's richness. It had the right hint of saltiness, too. Although I didn’t sample every type of bread on Allure of the Seas, I’d be shocked if anything else on the ship surpassed it.

Then it was time for the real fun as we moved into the actual courses. The first was scallop carpaccio. The thinly sliced scallops were marinated for 24 hours before being served and plated with a delicate yuzu vinaigrette made with honey mustard and ginger.

The vinaigrette stood out the most. The scallops were a little bland, but when paired with the vinaigrette, the flavor of the otherwise mild scallops came out, and I thought the light, citrusy notes of the Pinot Grigio from Italy complemented the freshness of the scallops. 

The second course was one of my favorites. The roasted tomato soup had a smokey depth and was velvety smooth. Topped with a drizzle of crème fraîche, I wish I could have asked for a second bowl! In fact, one of our tablemates begged the chef for the recipe. 

The crispy garlic focaccia "croutons" were more like a side of bread than a traditional crouton. Still, it was perfect for dipping into the rich soup, and I appreciated how they weren't left in the liquid to get soggy. Paired with the soup was a California four-blend wine, which had notes of vanilla and pineapple to help offset the smokiness of the tomatoes. 

The Maine lobster salad fell short of my expectations. Though the fresh, sweet flavors of the wine-poached lobster were on full display, I didn't love the combination of vanilla dressing and hearts of palm. 

That said, I loved enhancing the flavor of the lobster with the provided pesto and citrus sauces. Additionally, Sauvignon Blanc isn't my favorite wine, but I could see why the more earthy wine was chosen to pair with the lobster.

Wanting to try something new, I approached the branzino with an open mind. While I am a seafood lover, I stray away from fish in favor of shrimp, calamari, scallops, and lobster. 

However, as someone who doesn't eat fish, I thought the skin easily peeled away to reveal moist and flaky meat.  Still, though, I couldn't get past the distinct flavor of the branzino, which was too "fishy" for my taste buds. 

If I had to pick two courses to eat on repeat, they'd be the roasted tomato soup and filet mignon. The filet was cooked to a perfect medium, served with creamy truffle potato purée, and drizzled with a rich bordelaise sauce.

I'm not a fan of red wine, so while I tried the Cabernet Sauvignon, I only took a sip. I much prefer light and refreshing white wines to full-bodied reds.

The dessert reminded me of The World served at Wonderland. It's a chocolate lover's heaven, with layers of rich chocolate mousse, silky ganache, and salted caramel ice cream encased in a dark chocolate shell.

The ice cream added a salty contrast to the otherwise chocolate-heavy dessert and paired perfectly with the salted caramel espresso martini. I don't think anyone at the table was disappointed with the dessert. 

The Chef's Table isn't cheap; however, if you're a foodie looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure, it's worth every penny, especially considering the price includes a wine paring. 

The intimate, multi-course dining experience is about more than food; it's also about the artist and craftsmanship behind each dish, with the chef personally guiding you through the process and explaining the work that went into each course. 

With Royal Caribbean's largest ship able to accommodate nearly 10,000 passengers and crew, have you ever wondered how there's always enough water for everyone onboard? 

Icon of the Seas, for example, boasts seven pools, along with a record-breaking waterpark featuring six slides and an indoor AquaTheater home to high-diving performances. On top of that, it's important to remember that guests also need water for everyday activities like showering, flushing toilets, brushing teeth, washing hands, and more.

The company takes immense pride in its state-of-the-art systems that allow ships to create, conserve, and treat every drop of water to ensure a constant, sustainable supply. 

More than 90% of the water on Royal Caribbean ships is created onboard by turning salty seawater into freshwater through reverse osmosis or evaporation. 

Reverse osmosis pushes saltwater through membranes to remove contaminants, while steam evaporation uses the heat from the ship's engine to boil the seawater and leave the salt as a byproduct. 

Public health guidelines then require the new freshwater to be mineralized for flavor before being distributed across the ship. 

Conservation efforts also dictate how water is moved around the ship. For example, they use aeration to create pressure to use less water, rather than forcing water out of faucets and shower heads at high volumes. 

Additionally, water is repurposed wherever possible. For instance, did you know Royal Caribbean ships reuse the condensation from the air conditioning units to do laundry? 

The company also hired a water specialist to oversee Perfect Day at CocoCay's Thrill Waterpark and the private island's irrigation system, which ensures that treated wastewater is used efficiently for landscaping. 

Speaking of wastewater treatment, Royal Caribbean's Advanced Wastewater Purification System treats water to standards twice as strict as many local municipalities. 

It uses bioreactors, UV light, and dissolved air to remove contaminants, so water can be safely returned to the ocean without impacting the fragile ecosystem. 

Royal Caribbean's comprehensive approach to water management highlights the company's dedication to minimizing its environmental impact while maximizing comfort for everyone onboard and ashore, whether on a port-intensive European cruise or a 3-night getaway to CocoCay. 

Commitment to sustainability

In addition to the company's water conservation efforts, Royal Caribbean strives to reduce the amount of food waste onboard its ships, hoping to reduce waste across the fleet by 50% by 2025. 

By focusing on the front end of the food system and addressing many of the main causes of food waste, including inventory management and over-preparation, they've already reported a 24% reduction in food waste.

Other food waste-specific initiatives include developing a proprietary platform to monitor food supply and accurately estimate how much food should be produced, prepped, and ordered on a given day; using artificial intelligence to adjust food production in real-time; introducing a dedicated onboard food waste role; tracking guest demand for specific items and adjusting preparation; and introducing a new food waste awareness captain in crew dining areas. 

Royal Caribbean Group's overarching sustainability goals are referred to as "Destination Net Zero." Everything from the reduction of food waste to water conservation helps the company work toward the delivery of a net zero emissions cruise ship. 

Read more: How over 6,000 people are served meals every day on the world's largest cruise ship