If you have an upcoming cruise onboard Freedom of the Seas or are just curious as to what you can expect on this ship, we have a first-hand look at what's happening onboard.

Freedom of the Seas is a Freedom Class ship that was initially launched in 2006. In early 2020, she underwent Royal Caribbean's Royal Amplification program and received $116 million in upgrades. This means that if you sailed onboard prior to the pandemic, you would have had a different experience, as the ship received new venues, as well as updated some of their old ones. 

Read more: Freedom of the Seas vs. Liberty of the Seas

This was not my first sailing on Freedom of the Seas. My first-ever Royal Caribbean cruise was a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise back in 2011, so I was eager to see how the ship compared to my childhood memories. 

Here is a look into what it is like to sail on Freedom of the Seas in 2023. 

The boarding process

On embarkation day, I arrived just a few minutes shy of my check-in time of 12:30pm. I left my hotel, which was located near the Miami International Airport (MIA), at 11:30am and, after a quick stop at Target to pick up sunscreen, was at the terminal by 12:20pm. 

Related: The costly cruising mistake newbies make planning their first cruise

There was minimal traffic driving into the port, and I was able to quickly locate a porter and drop off my luggage. 

There was no line to enter the terminal, either. In fact, they were instructing people with check-in times as late as 1:30pm to go ahead and go inside. 

As soon as you enter the building, you ascend up an escalator and are greeter by port agents who instruct you to an available check-in agent who will scan your Set Sail pass, verify your travel documentation (i.e., passport or birth certificate/photo I.D.), and update your security image, if not done beforehand. 

Afterwards, you go through security and head up another set of escalators to get your embarkation picture taken and officially board the ship. 

To date, I think this was one of the quickest check-ins that I have ever had. Usually, I select the earliest possible time and am often seated before being able to board. Since I had a later time, I was worried that I would be faced with long lines. Within fifteen minutes of arriving at the terminal, I was onboard and exploring the ship.

Rather than go to the Windjammer for lunch, I opted to head up to the pool deck and grab something to eat from El Loco Fresh. There was a short line, but it as nothing like the nearby Windjammer. Plus, the timing worked out great because as soon as I finished lunch, staterooms were ready to be accessed.  

When sail away rolled around, I was able to easily find a spot on Deck 12, despite showing up a few minutes into the party. I had a great view of both the passing scenery and lively atmosphere on the deck below, which was pretty crowded. 

Disembarkation

The only other times I have cruised out of Miami have been onboard Symphony of the Seas. Both times were hectic due to the amount of people trying to leave the terminal (and port) at once. 

When I got my luggage tags, I was assigned group 37. On disembarkation morning, however, my app said that I was group 35. Rather than waiting until 9:15am, I was able to get off the ship around 8:40am. Within twenty minutes, I was outside waiting for a Lyft. 

Since there was less traffic that I anticipated, I only had to wait ten minutes for my ride to make its way to the pick-up spot. Overall, it was a smooth and quick disembarkation! 

Accommodations 

My home for my 4-night cruise was an interior stateroom located in the aft on the ship on Deck 8.

A few weeks ago, I stayed in another interior stateroom onboard Navigator of the Seas and am truly a fan of Deck 8 on Voyager and Freedom Class ships. It is only three decks below the pool deck and Windjammer and three above the Royal Promenade, meaning that I found myself using the stairs more often than the elevators!

Related: What it's like to cruise on Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas in 2023

While the cabin was dated (as expected), it was comfortable and had everything that I needed, from a mini-fridge to keep my bottled water cool, safe in the closet, and plenty of hangers for my clothes.

If I was traveling with another person, the lack of outlets would have frustrated me, as there were only two located on the desk. 

I was pleasantly surprised by the water pressure in the bathroom, both in the shower and the sink! It was probably the best that I have experience on a cruise yet. I did not have any issues with water temperature, either. 

Dining

Since everyone has different tastes and preferences, cruise ship dining is a subjective topic. My favorite meal may be someone else's least favorite! 

On this particular sailing, I skipped the Main Dining Room for dinner. Instead, I ate at the Windjammer, Sorrento's, Playmaker's, and Izumi Hibachi, my favorite of which was Izumi. 

Out of the complimentary dining venues that I ate at, my favorite were El Loco Fresh and Sorrento's. They make for great quick-service bites; however, you can also make a full meal at either place depending on what you get.

A few slices for dinner while on a cruise may not be appealing to some, but it was exactly what I wanted after exploring Nassau and having a late lunch in port. 

Bar food is a favorite of mine, so a stop at Playmaker's is a must on any ship that has it. This was my first time trying the wings, and I was a little disappointed. While they satisfied my need for something spicy, the chicken wings themselves were not the best quality. They were actually some of the smallest wings I have ever seen! 

Teppanyaki is one of my favorite dining experiences, whether on a ship or not. While onboard Freedom of the Seas, I ate at Izumi Hibachi for the first time. In the past, I have stuck exclusively to the sushi. 

The chef was a lot of fun, and I was able to substitute sea scallops for beef tenderloin, meaning that I got to enjoy both lobster and steak! I thought that this meal was worth the splurge and would do it again, especially since I used my onboard credit for the majority of the cost and only paid $13.00 out of pocket. 

Entertainment

Freedom of the Seas does not have a Broadway-style production like some other Royal Caribbean ships do. That being said, they had offerings each night to satisfy those looking to catch a show.

The first night, I saw the ice skating show, FreedomIce.com. Perhaps it was because it was the very first show of the cruise, but, unfortunately, the skaters took quite a few falls. 

My favorite part of the show was the soloist who skated during Gwen Stefani's "Rich Girl." She was extremely talented and flawlessly landed each trick. 

The first production show that was offered in the Royal Theater was Marquee, which showcased a collection of Broadway songs. As expected, the quality was not that of their other Broadway-style shows, but it was an entertaining forty-five minutes. 

The following night was the only headlining act of the cruise: Mike Marino, a comedian who has performed on "The Tonight Show," "The Martin Short Show," "Comics Unleashed," and "The Boomed Show." While I have seen better comedians on ships, there were some jokes that had the crowd crying from laughing, including his impression of what announcements would be like if he was a cruise ship captain. 

The show on the last evening was Once Upon a Time. Personally, I preferred this production over Marquee. It highlighted different fairytales, such as Cinderella, Rapunzel, Pinocchio, Sleeping Beauty, and Little Red Riding Hood. 

Numerous different game shows were offered, too, including "Name that Tune," "60 Seconds or Less," "Majority Rules," "The Crazy Quest," "Friendly Feud," and "If You Know It, Dance It."

Onboard activities 

There was no shortage of things to do onboard Freedom of the Seas, from organized events to onboard activities. You will find a FlowRider surf simulator, Perfect Storm water slides, mini-golf, rock climbing, sports court, ice skating, and more.

The colorful resort-style pool deck cannot be found on many older ships, so Freedom stands out in this way. It definitely gives the ship a more tropical and "new" feel. 

When it came to organized activities, there were offerings ranging from trivia and sudoku to sporting competitions, bingo, laser tag, archery, and karaoke. Checking the daily planner is crucial to ensure that you do not miss out on anything that sounds intriguing to you, as the only announcements pertaining to activities were in the evenings to tell guests about the shows. 

My cruise had a single sea day, so I planned to get up early to find a comfortable seat in the Solarium. I was surprised when 11:00am rolled around and there were still open seats, albeit not a ton. 

Onboard internet 

With download speeds of 26.2mbps upload speeds of 5.92mbps, the internet was not as fast as what I had experienced on Navigator of the Seas a few weeks prior; however, it was sufficient to send and receive texts, browse social media, and more. 

Ports of call

Nassau, Bahamas

My 4-night cruise went to Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay, with the first stop being in Nassau. I was most excited for this port, as the first phase of their $300 million port revamp opened just a few months ago. In the past, Nassau has been one of my least favorite destinations, so I wondered if this would change my perception. 

Now, the port is able to accommodate up to six cruise ships per day, including tree Oasis or Icon Class ships, meaning that the port can see up to 30,000 cruise passengers per day. Prior to the revamp, Nassau could accommodate 20,000 guests. 

After a short walk from the cruise berths, you enter a peaceful port area filled with local vendors selling anything from t-shirts to straw hats, alcohol beverages, jewelry, and more. You no longer have to exit the cruise port to do your souvenir shopping. 

Moreover, I appreciated the taxi stand inside of the port. If you want to take a cab to Atlantis, Cable Beach, or Baha Mar, all you have to do is walk up and get in the correct line.  

Related: Nassau, Bahamas opened the first phase of its cruise port revamp. Here's what's new and different

When, and if, you are ready to leave the terminal, you will exit right across the street from Pirate Republic Brewing Company, which has some incredible mozzarella sticks, and The Bahamas Shirt Company. When you are ready to return to your ship, you will enter the terminal from the same area. 

Between the new port area and the upcoming Royal Beach Club in 2025, I can see Nassau becoming a more desirable port of call. 

Perfect Day at CocoCay

This was my fourth visit to CocoCay; however, it was the first time that there was only one ship in port. This gave the island experience a completely different feel. No matter when you strolled up to the beach, you could find a seat on the third or fourth row. 

Plus, there were plenty of tables at the Chill Grill for lunch. In the past, there have been times where I have struggled to find an open seat!  

If you would like to do something a little bit more active than lounge on the complimentary beach chairs, consider booking the Thrill Water Park. Here, you can ride the tallest water slide in North America: Daredevil's Peak.

There are numerous other water slides, as well as a fun wave pool, to keep everyone in your party entertained all day. You are also able to exit and re-enter the park with the tap of your SeaPass card, so you can explore the island in between rides. 

Those who want a more exclusive experience should look into booking a day pass to the Coco Beach Club. This section of the island has plush seating, a sit-down restaurant featuring more upscale dishes, and even its own pool. 

There are countless ways to enjoy your day at CocoCay; just make sure you research your options ahead of time!

One of the most common concerns of first-time cruisers is feeling seasick. No one wants to spend their vacation nauseous and miserable, so knowing a few tips and tricks to prevent seasickness is helpful before your cruise.

You never know when rough seas will hit, causing you to feel the motion of the ship more than usual. 

The good news, however, is that seasickness is not nearly as common as you might think, and many passengers hardly notice the ship moving at all! 

Some of these methods require you to purchase remedies in advance. 

Here are our top ways to prevent and relieve motion sickness on a cruise ship so you can enjoy your cruise vacation as much as possible.

Editor's note: Royal Caribbean Blog makes no warranties with regard to the safety or effectiveness of any seasickness remedy. It is always best to consult with a physician prior to taking any medication, especially if you have existing medical conditions, are pregnant, or you are taking other medications.

Seasickness 101 

You will begin to feel the effects of seasickness if there is a conflict between your eyes, motion of the ship, and vestibular system located within your inner ear. By sending information to your brain regarding balance, motion, and the location of your head and body in relation to your surroundings, the vestibular system helps create a sense of balance and spatial orientation. 

To sum that up, the onset of motion sickness is when what you see if different than what your inner ear senses.

The symptoms of seasickness range from mild to severe, and you may find yourself suffering with anything from dizziness to fatigue, headaches, irritability, loss of appetite, rapid breathing, nausea, vomiting, and cold sweats. 

Thankfully, each ship is headed by a skilled captain, who will do everything possible to avoid unfavorable sailing conditions. Moreover, ships are equipped with stabilizer fins that are meant to help reduce the motion felt by passengers.  

Reduce, however, does not mean eliminate. 

How to beat seasickness

There are numerous methods, both medical and natural, that aid in curbing the symptoms of motion sickness. What works for someone, however, may not work as well for someone else. That is why it is best to speak to your primary care physician if you are worried about getting ill on your cruise. They will be able to provide the best advice that takes into account your age and current health. 

Over-the-counter medications

Bonine and Dramamine are two popular medications that can be bought at practically any drug store that both have the goal of preventing you from feeling motion sickness. 

Having been introduced to the market in 1949, Dramamine is the older of the two. It's active ingredient is dimenhydrinate, an antihistamine which has a side effect of drowsiness. 

Likewise, Bonine uses meclizine, another antihistamine. This medication came into medical use in the early 1950s to treat nausea and vertigo and advertises itself to be less drowsy than Dramamine. 

For children, Dramamine manufactures Dramamine for Kids, the only over-the-counter medication motion sickness relief formula for children between the ages two and twelve. Rather than containing 50mg of dimenhydrinate per dose, it only contains 25mg. 

If you forget to purchase medication before you leave home, go to Guest Services or the onboard medical center and ask if they have any free packets of motion sickness medication available. 

Speak with a doctor about getting a prescription for scopolamine patches

Unlike some other remedies, if you are interested in getting a scopolamine patch, you will need to speak with a medical professional prior to leaving for your cruise. These patches work by delivering scopolamine to your body slowly over the course of several days, with one patch lasting up to three days. 

They are placed behind your ear around eight hours prior to when you need the medication to be in your system, making it more of a preventative measure. 

Purchase an acupressure band 

Acupressure pressure bands are a more natural remedy than over-the-counter medications. These wristbands work by applying pressure to the P-6 pressure point on your wrist. This is known to help reduce the feeling of nausea. 

These bands are not expensive, either. A single band can be purchased for less than $10 from Amazon. 

Choose the right stateroom during the booking process

The stateroom that you select can make a difference in how much you feel the rocking of the vessel. Rather than opt to save money on a guarantee cabin, you should choose one in a location that is less prone to feeling the ship's motion.

Staterooms that are located midship of the lower decks tend to feel less motion than those on higher decks or that are located in the forward or aft of the cruise ship. Moreover, since watching the horizon, as counterintuitive as it may seem, helps give you a sense of balance, you may want to consider booking a stateroom with either a balcony or exterior facing window. 

If you book an interior room, you will have to leave your cabin to head to a public space. 

Consider a port-intensive itinerary 

The more time you spend on and, the less you will have to worry about feeling the ship's movement while sailing. It is entirely possible to find a cruise with only one day at sea, even if it is 7-nights. 

Depending on your cruising preferences, you may even be able to find a sailing that spends each day in a different port of call. 

Not only will this reduce the amount of time onboard, but you will be able to cross off more destinations from your bucket list. 

Additionally, some bodies of water are more prone to strong winds and currents than others. These include the Bay of Biscay and Gulf of Alaska. The Caribbean can be hit with unpleasant weather during the latter part of hurricane season, too. That being said, any ocean can encounter unfavorable sailing conditions at any time.  

Watch your alcohol consumption

Whether you decide to splurge on a Royal Caribbean Deluxe Drink Package or not, you should watch your alcohol intake if you are prone to motion sickness; dehydration will not make the situation better. 

In fact, you should limit your caffeine, too. You want to try and drink as much water as possible. Moreover, staying hydrated will help with any digestive issues that may arise while onboard, as most passengers indulge on more fatty and fried foods than they normally would.

Related: 22 unpleasant cruise ship problems you aren't prepared for

Drink peppermint tea or ginger ale

6-gingerol, an active compound found in ginger, helps to reduce the feelings of nausea. For that reason, it is one of the best natural remedies for seasickness. While you can sip on ginger ale, you can also look for ginger tea, candies, and supplements. 

Similarly, the antibacterial properties found in peppermint tea help reduce nausea, too. It can also help ease stomach cramps since it works to relax your stomach muscles. 

Eat green apples

If you'd rather munch on something versus sip on tea or ginger ale, try and locate some green apples. They contain pectin, a type of fiber which helps to settle the stomach. 

In fact, make sure you eat in general!

While nausea may make your appetite disappear, that does not mean you should skip out on eating. If you are unable to stomach large meals, try snacking on crackers, bread, bananas, soup, or any other plain food. 

You should also avoid eating things that cause upset stomachs. This means that you will have to pass on the spicy, greasy, and fatty foods for the time being. If taking it easy at the Windjammer for a single day means you will be back to feeling like your sooner, it is worth it!

Avoid sitting backwards or sideways

Try sitting in the same direction as the ship's movement, as sitting in the opposite direction can further confuse your body. Rather than sitting backwards of sideways, find a chair that is facing forward.

This may help alleviate some feelings of motion sickness. 

Limit the time you stare at your phone screen

When you start to feel ill while at sea, it is best to put your phone to the side. Likewise, reading can often increase the effects of motion sickness, even if you are reading a handheld copy. 

If you have smooth seas, feel free to head up to the pool deck and read away. If you encounter rough weather, though, you will want to save the book for later. 

What is mal de debarquement syndrome?

When you disembark your cruise ship, do not worry if your body needs some time to adjust to being back on land. Some people feel like their body is swaying when they get off the ship, and it is completely normal! 

If, however, it has been a couple of days and your symptoms are beginning to interfere with your day-to-day life, make an appointment to speak with a medical professional, as you may be suffering from mal de debarquement syndrome.

Your next visit to Nassau, Bahamas is going to look different than you might remember.

Nassau spent $300 million upgrading their cruise port, which is referred to as Prince George Wharf, with the first phase of this redevelopment opening to the public on May 27, 2023. 

The port is now able to accommodate up to six cruise ships per day, including three Oasis or Icon Class ships. This means that Nassau is now able to host 30,000 cruise passengers per day, increasing their capacity by 10,000. By the end of 2024, it is estimated that Nassau will see four million cruise visitors. 

Construction will continue throughout 2023 and 2024 as builders work towards finishing the second phase. 

While the walk along the pier felt similar to previous visits to Nassau, the most noticeable difference is as you prepare to exit. No longer are you immediately met with individuals pressing you for tours or taxi rides. Instead, you can enjoy a peaceful walk through a plaza with shops.

It is only when you exit and cross the road that you are met with hagglers. 

Here is what you can expect when you visit the redeveloped Nassau Cruise Port. 

Related: Best things to do in Nassau on a cruise

Taxi stand inside of the port

Almost immediately after exiting the berth area of the port, you are met with a dedicated taxi stand. This makes catching a cab to Atlantis, Cable Beach, and Baha Mar much simpler. Prior to reaching that point, there will be an individual ushering guests to the water taxi to Paradise Island if you would prefer to take that route.

There is also a separate line for those who wish to book a tour.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide

Emphasis on local shopping, artists, and culture

As you exit the berth area, you will see the Nassau Cruise Port Junkanoo Museum, which is an immersive experience that aims to share the story of the national cultural festival. 

Junkanoo is a Bahamian festival and street parade that takes place in late December of each year. It features music, costumes, and dancing. 

Moreover, the cruise port is filled with local vendors selling goods, such as straw baskets, jewelry, and more, meaning that you do not have to exit for your shopping needs if you do not want to. Further down, you will find actual storefronts. 

The Port Marketplace is where you will find these individual vendors. There are also places to grab a drink, with prices ranging from $8 for three shots to $15 for cocktails. Close to the exit, there is a gelato shop, which is a great option for those looking to cool down with a sweet treat either before or after spending the day ashore. 

If you are a fan of hair braiding, this is also where you will find an entire setup dedicated to just that. However, walking past, nobody was overly pushy. When I walked outside of the port near the Straw Market, I was approached multiple times and repeatedly spoken to, even when I disregarded their attempts to strike up a conversation.

As you walk through the Port Marketplace, you will stumble upon an exhibit highlighting Theodore Turnquest II, a freelance photographer at Nassau Cruise Port. 

"As a young adult living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)," the informational sign reads, "Theo's photography hobby has become a great source of comfort and an outlet to express himself creatively in recent years."

"Theo's photos are used on our social media channels, in presentations, and in other promotional materials, helping us to tell the story of Nassau Cruise Port. We truly value his work." 

Exiting and re-entering the terminal

When you exit the cruise terminal, you will find yourself near Pirate Republic Brewing Company and The Bahamas Shirt Company. This is the same place you will enter when you are ready to return to the ship.

From here, you can expect roughly a fifteen-minute walk to the Queen's Staircase and a ten-minute walk to Junkanoo Beach. 

In total, it takes roughly ten minutes to get from the ship to the exit if you do not stop for pictures or shopping. Depending on where you are docked, it could take even less time. 

While on Freedom of the Seas, the ship was docked near Zones 6, 7, and 8; however, the only available gangway was located in the aft, which meant that I had to walk all the way to and from Zone 8. 

Royal Caribbean's partnership with The Bahamas

In 2025, Royal Caribbean is set to open The Royal Beach Club, an exciting new option for cruise passengers visiting Nassau. 

The exclusive beach club will be located on Paradise Island, encompassing 17 acres of property, and be available only to Royal Caribbean cruise passengers for an additional cost. 

The pass will include beach club access, lunch, and beach chair rental. Certain extras, such as alcohol, soda, cabanas, day beds, and water sport activities, will cost more. 

In addition to multiple different beaches, guests will be able to take a dip in a spacious swimming pool and utilize the water sports center. 

What makes The Royal Beach Club at Paradise Island stand out is that it will have a public-private partnership. This mans that Bahamians will be able to own up to 49% equity, and local businesses can take part in managing the majority of the experience.

Additionally, the construction phase and operation of the Royal Beach Club will create hundreds of jobs, with the economic impact estimated to be around $1 billion over the course of ten years.

Related: Royal Caribbean hires Bahamian business leader for head of new Bahamas beach club

When completed, this will give passengers sailing on Royal Caribbean ships to Nassau an option to enjoy a more relaxed day. With Nassau Cruise Port accommodating thousands of passengers from different cruise lines, the island can feel rather busy at times. 

In fact, the port broke its own record in 2023. On February 27, 2023, the port welcomed over 28,500 passengers on six different ships. 

Celebrity Cruises is increasing their gratuities for the second time in less than one year. 

Gratuities are service charges that go towards different crew members, such as the dining, bar and culinary services staff, stateroom attendants, and other hotel services teams.

Effective July 11, 2023, the automatic gratuity rate for all stateroom categories will increase: 

• $18.00 USD per person, per day for inside, ocean view, and veranda staterooms, increasing from $17.50.
• $18.50 USD per person, per day for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms, increasing from $18.00. 
• $23.00 USD per person, per day for guests of The Retreat, increasing from $21.00. 

The new rates will apply to all new bookings, regardless of sail date.

The gratuity increase only applies to cruisers who have not chosen an All Included or Always Included fare, as gratuities are included in the cost of those fares.

Retreat and AquaClass bookings made on or after July 14, 2022 are also exempt from automatic gratuities.

You are able to go to Guest Relations while onboard the ship to have the gratuity rate adjusted if you choose. 

Second increase in less than one year

Celebrity last increased their gratuities in October 2022. At the time, the rate for inside, ocean view, and veranda staterooms increased from $15.50 to $17.50; $16.00 to $18.00 for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms; and $19.00 to $23.00 for The Retreat. 

This means that they have raised their gratuity rate over 15% in just nine months. 

Note at the bottom of Celebrity's FAQ page, they state that the gratuity amounts are subject to change. 

What doesn't the automatic gratuity cover and how do they work?

The automatic gratuity does not cover onboard purchases, as it is a service charge that goes to the crew members. 

Per their website, there will be a 20% gratuity will be added to all beverage and mini bar purchases, as well as and beverage packages.

Similarly, an 18% gratuity will be added to all spa and salon purchases, as well as specialty dining cover fees, specialty dining packages that are purchased onboard, and room service.

If you do not prepaid for your gratuities, you will find a daily charge on your onboard account. 

If you do not wish to settle gratuities at the end of your cruise, whether that is via card or cash, you can prepay them before it begins. If you do not add them to your initial reservations, you may do so up to 48 hours prior to your sail date by calling Celebrity Cruises or speaking with your travel agent. 

Related: Should you prepay gratuities for a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Will Royal Caribbean also increase their gratuities?

Celebrity Cruises is part of Royal Caribbean Group, which also owns Royal Caribbean International. At the time of writing, Royal Caribbean has not announced any increases to their gratuities. 

They last raised their rates in September 2022, with standard cabins (i.e., Junior Suites and below) increasing from $14.50 to $16.00 per day and suites from $17.50 to $18.50. Prior to 2022, the last time that they raised their gratuities was in January 2018. 

Celebrity is not the only cruise line that has increased their gratuities in 2023. Carnival raised their standard rate from $14.50 to $16.00 and suite rate from $16.50 to $18.00 in April. In fact, most cruise lines have seen an increase within the last year, whether it be late 2022 or early 2023. 

With over 4 million passengers sailing from Port Canaveral each year, there is no wonder that it was recently designated as the busiest cruise port in the world, effectively stealing the title from Miami. 

Unlike the latter, though, Port Canaveral is not located close to a major international airport. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located about 45 miles from the cruise port, whereas Miami International Airport (MIA) is less than 10 miles away. 

This means that transportation to Port Canaveral requires a little bit more time and money. 

Related: How to get to Port Canaveral for your Royal Caribbean cruise

Currently, Royal Caribbean has three ships deployed out of Port Canaveral: Independence, Mariner, and Wonder of the Seas. Between now and April 2025, though, a total of seven ships will call Port Canaveral their home, including the brand-new Utopia of the Seas, which will operate 3- and 4-night cruises to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Keith Grice is a retired Fire Chief and Paramedic who has lived in Brevard County for 35 years. During the summer of 2022, he began working as a ride share driver, focusing on transporting guests from MCO, as well as Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB), to Port Canaveral. He also does private rides since his vehicle meets the standards for Uber Black. 

When he and his wife cruise, they stick with Royal Caribbean and currently hold Emerald status through the Crown & Anchor loyalty program. He is looking forward to his European sailing on Odyssey of the Seas in 2024.  

Here is his advice for riders who are flying into the Orlando area and are weighing their transportation options. 

How to secure the best (i.e., least crowded and lowest priced) ride share from Port Canaveral

The earlier you get off of the ship, the lower your fare will be due to the abundance of ride share drivers waiting outside of the port. 

Grice gave the follow prices (keep in mind that they are an estimate) for rides that commence prior to 9:00am: 

• Uber X - $74.00 for up to 4 people
• Uber XL - $105.00 for up to 6 people
• Uber Comfort - $90.00 minimum for 4 people

Note that Uber Black is not available for passengers leaving Port Canaveral, but you can order an Uber Black ride from MCO to the port for approximately $145.00.

Moreover, these prices are estimates for rides that begin at Terminal 1 in Port Canaveral and conclude at MCO's Terminal B. 

Another way to save money is to buddy up with other travelers. If, for instance, you have friends or family members heading to the airport at the same time, order an XL car and split the costs, rather than ordering two X rides. 

Related: 8 reasons to get off your ship as early as possible on disembarkation day

How to decide what to tip

Per Grice, if the driver is friendly and actively helps to load your luggage into the nicely maintained vehicle (i.e., clean, no smells, etc.), 15-20% is ideal. 

"Like every service job," he said, "it can go down easily from there and up if the situation dictates." 

Additionally, drivers prefer to be tipped in cash. If, however, that is not an option, you can easily leave a tip through the mobile app. 

Is there a way to make getting picked up easier?

It is no surprise that the pickup areas located near the terminal are subject to crowds during disembarkation. To help your driver, you should turn the location option on. This way, they will be able to see your exact location. 

Additionally, it is helpful when you text your driver a descriptive location of where you are standing. Are you located near a large concrete column or sign? Plus, you can let them know what you are wearing. Grice suggests wearing brightly colored clothing. It is easier for them to spot someone wearing a bright green t-shirt than someone wearing navy!

When you see that they are approaching, do not be afraid to wave them down to get their attention. This helps them single you out amongst a sea of other individuals trying to find their drivers. 

"With so many people in a tight area," said Grice, "the drivers need help." 

These are things that will help them locate you in as timely of a manner as possible. 

Are ride share apps safe methods of transportation? 

Absolutely! The Port Authority requires that all ride share drivers be registered with the port in order to be eligible to pick up passengers. 

They have enforcement officers that roam the waiting lots and pickup areas in search of unregistered drivers. 

"Routinely, these same drivers try and solicit cash rides in the middle of the pick up area's, and the authorities work hard at running them off and issuing trespass tickets," remarks Grice.

"We have seen, on occasion, the authorities...catch them and force passengers out of the vehicles and order the driver to cancel."

As always, before getting into a vehicle, make sure you check the license plate and have the driver confirm your name. 

Common mistakes cruisers make when getting to and from Port Canaveral

Shuttles are an inconvenient mode of transportation. While the cost is similar when it is a single couple traveling, you will be subject to making multiple stops before reaching your destination. A ride share is much more comfortable and will take you directly to your final destination, whether that is the airport or cruise terminal. 

GoPort is a popular company that provides shuttle transportation between MCO and Port Canaveral. Per their website, pricing starts at $29.99 per person.

This means that if you have a family of four, you will be paying close to $120 per way for a shuttle. You will also be subject to their terms and conditions, which state that all shared shuttles operate on a first-come, first-served basis and will depart when only they are filled.

Grice also suggests to price out flights to and from MLB. While this airport is not as large as MCO, they do have a decent number of daily flights. Plus, hotels in this area are cheaper than those found by MCO, and the airport is only a little over 25 miles from the port.

Since it is a smaller airport, you will not have to worry about dealing with MCO's security, either. 

Related: Best hotels near Port Canaveral before the cruise

When booking a cruise vacation, you are faced with the decision of what stateroom category you would like to stay in at the time of booking. 

The cabin that you book will impact your cruising experience, whether it is an interior stateroom to help save money to allocate towards other incidentals or splurging on a suite for an upgraded cruising experience.  

Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis Class ship, Utopia of the Seas, offers guests a wide variety of staterooms to choose from, including larger interior cabins and brand-new suites. 

Overall, Utopia of the Seas will have the same staterooms that are found on Wonder of the Seas, with the addition of three new categories and a few other enchantments. 

Here is a breakdown of all the cabin options onboard Utopia of the Seas to help you make the best decision.

Related: Your really dumb cruise ship cabin questions answered

Standard staterooms

Interior cabins

The cheapest accommodations onboard any cruise ship are interior staterooms with no windows. Utopia of the Seas, however, will debut a new category of interior stateroom. Rather than having a rectangular shape, these cabins will be square to allow for more floor space. 

And as always with Oasis Class ships, you may select interior rooms with a window that overlook the Royal Promenade, Central Park, or Boardwalk. Note that all with a view of Central Park will be located on Deck 9 mid-ship, while those overlooking the Royal Promenade are located on Deck 7. 

These staterooms range from 172 square feet for a standard interior to 199 square feet for those with a view of Central Park. 

Wonder of the Seas was the first Oasis Class ship to include virtual balconies off of the bat; they were added during amplifications to other ships. Like Wonder, Utopia will have virtual balconies. These staterooms include 80-inch LED televisions that provide live HD views from outside the cruise ship, so while you may not have a window or sliding door to allow fresh air to flow into your room, you will be able to see what is going on outside!

Ocean view cabins

Ocean view cabins do not have any direct access to the outdoors like balcony staterooms do; however, you will be able to wake up each morning to natural light! When deciding between an interior and ocean view, this is a selling point for many people.

At 179 square feet, they are larger than the basic interior cabins. Plus, some feature a forward facing view of the ship overlooking the helipad on higher decks.

Balcony cabins

Oasis Class ships were the first cruise ships in the world to feature interior facing balconies, meaning that you could book a cabin with a balcony facing the ocean or one of the interior neighborhoods. These staterooms will return on Utopia of the Seas! 

All balcony cabins have 182 square feet of interior space, as well as 50 square feet of balcony space. Unless, that is, you book a Central Park balcony. With 52 square feet of balcony, they are slightly larger than Boardwalk and ocean view balcony staterooms. 

Likewise, ocean view staterooms with large balconies have more space outdoors, with a balcony of 80 square feet. 

Suites

Sea Class

As with other ships with the Royal Suite Class, the only suites included in the Sea Class are standard Junior Suites. These tend to be the smallest suite options and come with fewer perks than suites in higher tiers.

You, for instance, will not be able to access Coastal Kitchen for breakfast or lunch. Likewise, wi-fi will be an additional expense, and you will not be able to utilize the concierge service. 

One of the primary benefits is the additional living space, as these suites are 287 square feet with an additional 80 square feet of balcony. And, of course, they are cheaper than other Royal Suites. 

Related: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Sky Class

The new Sky Junior Suite will be similar to standard Junior Suites; however, those staying in these specific suites will receive Sky Tier benefits, meaning that they will have access to the Suite neighborhood, as well as dining at Coastal Kitchen any time of day and complimentary wi-fi, among other perks. 

Other Sky Class suites include Grand Suites, Owners Suites, Crown Loft Suites, and One-Bedroom AquaTheater Suites.

The total square footage of these suites ranges, as One-Bedroom Grand Suites clock in around 371 square feet, while One-Bedroom AquaTheater Suites are a little over 600 square feet.  

Related: 10 things to know about Sky Class suites on Royal Caribbean

Star Class

Suites within the Star Class are the only ones to include a Royal Genie, who serve as personal butlers and concierges for the duration of your cruise. In fact, their services begin prior to your vacation, as they can help arrange specialty dining reservations, entertainment seating, and shore excursions. This, among other benefits, is what makes this suite tier a costly investment. 

Solarium Suites are brand-new to Royal Caribbean and are only available on Utopia of the Seas. Each of the two suites will be located above the bridge wings on the port and starboard side of the ship on Deck 14. The stateroom numbers are 14130 and 14530. 

The panoramic windows will offer guests sweeping 280 degree views of the ocean from the large living space.

And while neither suite will have a balcony, it will offer the infinite balcony technology introduced on Icon of the Seas. With the push of a single button, the windows will lower to provide fresh air!

The cruise line is also bringing back the Royal Loft Suite, Ultimate Family Suite for up to ten guests, and Two-Bedroom AquaTheater Suite. These are some of the most luxurious and fun suites available on any cruise ship. Who wouldn't want to watch the AquaTheater show from the comfort of their own balcony or play a game of ping pong in one of the most colorful and kid-friendly suites at sea? 

Note that the Royal Loft Suite will be a bit different than on Wonder of the Seas. Outside on the balcony, guests will find a brand-new outdoor shower. Plus, the primary bathroom will have a spa tub. In terms of square footage, though, you can expect to still over 1,500 square feet of living space. 

And if booking the Ultimate Family Suite is on your bucket list, you should plan on booking far in advance. Since there is only one of these suites onboard the entire ship, they tend to go quickly, despite the large price tag. 

What are the benefits to each Royal Suite Class?

Not all suites are created equally, both in terms of design and perks. If you book a standard Junior Suite, you may be disappointed when you board and discover that you have a limited number of benefits compared to higher tiered -- and more expensive -- suites. 

Star Class Benefits

• Complimentary gratuities and internet
• Expedited embarkation and disembarkation
• Reserved premium seats in select entertainment venues, as well as priority entrance to many onboard activities
• Access to Suite Lounge and Suite Sun Deck
• Royal Genie service
• All-day access (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner) to Coastal Kitchen
• Complimentary specialty restaurants, Deluxe Beverage Package and/or Refreshment Package
• Still and sparkling water replenished daily
• Complimentary minibar stocked with Coca-Cola, beverages, and water
• Complimentary laundry and pressing services
• Luxury mattress, pillows, and bathroom amenities
• Frette linens
• Royal Caribbean plush bathrobes for use onboard
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

Sky Class Benefits

• Concierge service
• All-day access to Coastal Kitchen (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Specialty bottled water upon arrival
• Complimentary internet 
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation
• Priority dining reservations
• Access to Suite Lounge and Suite Sun Deck
• Royal Caribbean plush bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury pillow top mattress and bathroom amenities
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

Sea Class Benefits

• Dinner at Coastal Kitchen based on availability
• Royal Caribbean bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury pillow top mattress and bathroom amenities
• Lavazza Espresso coffee maker

At the heart of every Royal Caribbean cruise vacation are the crew members who work to make sure each guest has a memorable experience. 

Royal Caribbean shared an inside look at how they designed the crew's neighborhood onboard the highly-anticipated Icon of the Seas, which will have over 2,300 crew members from 80 counties. They will have their own indoor and outdoor pub, gym, and even salon. 

"Building Icon of the Seas and putting all these amazing neighborhoods and 'wow; moments on there," said Jason Liberty, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, "that's really the beginning of the experience. But in order to deliver on that experience, it will require what makes Royal Caribbean so special, which is our crew."

The crew neighborhood spans four decks and will feature redesigned accommodations

"Well, the good thing about a new class of ships is that we really get a chance to start from scratch and elevate the crew life onboard," said Henrik Loy, Captain of Icon of the Seas.  

Royal Caribbean sent our surveys to crew members asking them what they wanted to see onboard Icon, and at the top of the list was a place their home away from home: their cabin. 

In fact, the new design has been patented for its unique L-shaped layout. Other features include privacy curtains, enhanced finishes and materials, as well as easier to climb beds. 

"This [L-shape] accommodation allows each crew member to have their own private space where they can really relax and have their own time," said Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO.

After architects designed what they thought crew members wanted, Royal Caribbean gave crew the chance to sit down and be involved first-hand in the process. Over 1,000 crew members reviewed the mockups in person, and they were not all the same position. 

In total, the represented members were from 25 different nationalities and from 25 different onboard positions, with the estimated age range begin 22- to 55-years-old. 

Crew amenities 

For the first time, the finishes that are found throughout the passenger areas will be similar to those found in crew spaces. 

"One of the things that we've enhanced is what's called The Clubhouse," said Robert Hines, Newbuild Human Resources Manager for Royal Caribbean International.

"It's an area at the front of the ship, and it's our space to really chill out and relax...It's our space to really bond as a team."

Here, they will be able to grab anything from a coffee to a cocktail while relaxing in a massage chair, or they can challenge a fellow crew member to a game of ping pong, foosball, or pool. 

Plus, there will be four digital windows that allow for real-time views outside. 

Onboard, crew members will be also able to take care of their grooming needs with a crew-only salon. There will also be a crew store, as well as a gym. 

Dining and lounge options

"The crew can looking forward to in the crew Windjammer a lot of the same options that we serve to our guests," said Rebecca Burns, Senior Manager of Restaurant Operations for Royal Caribbean International, "That was something that was very important to us when developing the menus."

In addition to both hot and cold food stations, Icon of the Seas will be the first to feature live cooking stations in the crew buffet.

And the best part is that there will be ocean views from the crew Windjammer through port hole windows.

When it comes to crew bars, there is both an indoor and outdoor space that have forward facing views. 

There is also a multipurpose room that is meant to give crew members an area to host celebrations. It is not just an entertainment venue, either, as it can also be used for trainings. 

For gamers, there is a dedicated game room just for them. This room will feature seven divided spaces that allow for everyone to have their own nook.

"There's a degree of practicality that has to be applied for all of our crew spaces because we have a lot of crew, so you've got to find that balance between functionality, practicality, and comfort and design," said Bayley. 

Icon of the Seas progress

In June 2023, Icon of the Seas completed her first round of sea trials. On June 22, the ship returned to the Meyer Turku shipyard after spending four days at sea. 

During the trials, she traveled hundreds of miles and had the main engines, hull, brake systems, steering, noise, and vibration levels tested by hundreds of specialists. 

Despite her initial departure being delayed, all tests were completed on time as outlined in the schedule. 

A lot still has to be done in preparation for Icon's maiden voyage on January 27, 2024. There is, for instance, another round of sea trials set for later in 2023.  

If Celebrity Cruise's announcement that it will begin visiting Royal Caribbean's private island surprised you, you should know that the line is responding to customer demand.

Starting in April 2024, Celebrity Cruises is going to begin sailing from Florida to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, to meet a need its customer base has been clamoring for.

Celebrity Beyond is being redeployed to the Caribbean in 2024 and taking over Celebrity Reflection's sailings, rather than cruising through Europe. Guests booked on the 6- and 8-night sailings on Celebrity Reflection will automatically be transferred to Beyond. 

Those booked on Celebrity Beyond have the opportunity to be transferred to another European voyage. 

Instead of making 6- and 8- night sailings, Celebrity Reflection will make shorter cruises to The Bahamas: 3-night sailings departing every Friday and 4-night cruises departing every Monday. Currently, you can find 3-night sailings on Celebrity Reflection for under $300 per person for an interior cabin. 

"...having the opportunity to now have these short 3- and 4-night itineraries answers really a demand that we have in the market to have something new, something exciting, something elevated, and something quick to be able to really experience that short and quick getaway still in the Celebrity style," said Jennifer Suarez, Associate Vice President of National Accounts and Inside Sales for Celebrity Cruises.  

Related: 20 Celebrity Cruises Tips & Tricks

What sailings will be offered?

Celebrity Reflection will sail 3-night and 4-night cruises from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The 3- and 4-night cruises will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay and either Nassau, Bimini, or Key West. 

Celebrity Beyond will be taking over Reflection's longer sailings that alternate between cruises to Grand Cayman, The Bahamas, Mexico, and the Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao.

Will All Included be active on the island?

When you are booking a Celebrity cruise vacation, there are two options for fares. The first is a standard rate that includes accommodation, transportation between ports, entertainment, and select food and beverages.

The second is known as "All Included," which adds the Classic Beverage Package, gratuities, and Wi-Fi to the cost of your cruise. It is meant to give passengers a more inclusive experience.  

Whether you select this rate or purchase each package individually, those docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay on a Celebrity ship will be able to utilize the benefits of their package(s). 

Which ages and demographics are sailing on Celebrity Cruises?

The ages and demographics for Celebrity sailings to the Caribbean vary based on length.

51% of guests, for instance, on 7-night cruises are 60-years-old and older. This number drops to 37% for short Caribbean cruises, while it increases to 75% on long Caribbean cruises. 

On all Caribbean cruises onboard Celebrity vessels, Baby Boomers make up the majority of guests onboard, with anywhere from 47% to 63% of all guests coming from this generation. The total percentage of Millennial and Gen Z passengers is typically no more than 25%. The lowest percentage of this age group is found on short cruises, with the total percentage around 6%. 

Moreover, the percentage of families with children is currently below 15%, regardless of the duration of the sailing. 

And while Royal Caribbean remains the best cruise line to provide the ultimate family vacation, there is a distinction between traveling for and with children. 

"...[you] are going to start to see meaningful ways in which how we show up at Celebrity Cruises to ensure that traveling with your family and with your kids in engaging, is exciting, and is active in the right way for the Celebrity clientele," said Katina Athanasiou, Senior Vice President of Sales & Services, The Americas for Celebrity Cruises. 

Will there be other ships docked at Perfect Day at CocoCay?

Due to the popularity of the island, there is a good chance that if you are sailing on Celebrity Reflection or Beyond, you will be docked beside of a Royal Caribbean ship. 

In any port of call, though, it is likely that your ship will not be the only one there. If you think about Nassau or Cozumel, you may be one of two, three, or even four ships in port that day. 

With Perfect Day at CocoCay, it is guaranteed that there will be a maximum of only two ships in port that day, and the island has been built to accommodate a high number of passengers. 

"...[This island] is specifically built for family of brands' guests, and so everything on there is very much controlled by us...it is literally just the Royal Caribbean Group guests joining the amazing destination for an amazing day," said Suarez. 

Booking incentive

If you book a cruise onboard Celebrity Reflection or Beyond between June 27 and July 31, 2023 that departs between May 1 and September 30, 2024, you are eligible to receive double club points through Celebrity's Captain's Club, the the cruise line’s loyalty program that provides exclusive perks and events to repeat cruisers. 

If you have yet to sail with Celebrity Cruises but have status with Royal Caribbean through their Crown & Anchor program, you may be eligible for their reciprocity program. 

Note that status matching does not extend to the highest levels for each cruise line. In other words, if you are Pinnacle with Royal Caribbean, you will not become Zenith with Celebrity. Celebrity's Elite tier is the highest level that you can match.

When Oasis of the Seas launched in 2009, it was the first time a cruise ship had ever had interior facing balconies. This increased the total number of balcony cabins available for booking on any given sailing. 

In addition to the standard ocean view balconies, Royal Caribbean added cabins that overlook the two open-air neighborhoods: Central Park and the Boardwalk. 

Other than the view, they are identical to traditional balcony staterooms. Often, they are cheaper, meaning that you can still experience having your own personal outdoor verandah at a lower price, allowing you to allocate additional money towards other incidentals. 

For some, it may make more sense to stay in a cheaper cabin if that means you will be able to purchase experiences to enhance your overall vacation, like specialty dining meals, shore excursions, and more. 

Here's a breakdown of Boardwalk and Central Park balconies. 

Related: Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean

Stateroom features

Until Icon of the Seas launches in 2024, interior balconies can only be found on Oasis Class ships. You will not have the option when looking at other classes, such as Voyager and Freedom. 

Every balcony cabin comes with the same interior features: two twin beds that can convert to a queen, vanity area, sofa, television, minibar, and, of course, the balcony furniture. 

They are all about the same size, too, measuring roughly 180 square feet with a 50 square food balcony. 

The most notable differences are the view and location.  If you want to look at the ever-changing scenery, you will want to make sure that you book an ocean view balcony. 

Related: Everything about Royal Caribbean's Central Park View Balcony Staterooms

If, however, you are looking to save some money, Boardwalk and Central Park staterooms are great options. Compared to ocean view balconies, they are less windy and each offer a distinct experience. 

A cabin overlooking the Boardwalk means that you will be able to view the AquaTheater.

Depending on where your stateroom is located, you might have a prime viewing spot, especially if it is closer to the back of the ship. Plus, due to the neighborhood's open concept, Boardwalk staterooms may include an ocean view, allowing you to soak up some wake views from the comfort of your cabin. 

Central Park staterooms offer a more tranquil vibe, as they overlook the lush garden.

This neighborhood is also home to many specialty restaurants, and it boasts a more relaxed environment at night, unlike the Boardwalk, which is more lively at night. You will find people dressed up to enjoy dinner at Chops or listen to live music outdoors. 

Related: Are Boardwalk balcony cabins too loud?

Central Park is located midship on Deck 8, meaning that all balconies overlooking the neighborhood are on Deck 10 and higher; Deck 9 is where you will find staterooms with picture windows. 

The Boardwalk can be found at the aft of the ship on Deck 6, with balcony cabins starting on Deck 8. 

Related: What is the best location on a cruise ship?

If you have a preference in regard to midship or aft, Central Park staterooms are located closer to the middle of the ship, while Boardwalk cabins are located further back. 

Is privacy a concern?

When you book a Central Park or Boardwalk stateroom, the balcony is visible by everyone in the neighborhood, as well as those staying across on the opposite side of the ship, meaning that you will not have much (if any) privacy when sitting outside. 

When getting ready in the morning, it is best to keep the curtain closed to avoid having someone peek into your room while you are changing. 

If you are someone who enjoys people watching, these cabins are great options. 

Pricing

The cost of a cruise varies on multiple different factors, such as time of year, length, and ship's age.

A Boardwalk stateroom on a cruise on Wonder of the Seas in July will be more expensive than a Boardwalk cabin onboard a voyage on Allure of the Seas departing in October.

Looking at Royal Caribbean's website, a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Wonder of the Seas departing on July 21, 2024 currently starts at $2,173 per person for a Boardwalk balcony, $2,241 for a Central Park balcony, and $2,303 for a traditional ocean view balcony, meaning that you can save over $120 per person if you opt for a Boardwalk stateroom. 

The cost for the same cruise in October drops significantly, with an ocean view balcony costing less than the Boardwalk in July.

On the sailing that departs on October 13, 2024, the current rates are $1,718 for a Boardwalk balcony, $1,772 for a Central Park balcony, and $1,848 for a traditional ocean view balcony. 

If you do not have a preference, you can always book a guarantee rate. This means that Royal Caribbean will assign your cabin closer to the sail date with whatever staterooms have yet to be booked. Sometimes, this can save you hundreds of dollars per person!

Related: I saved $100 by letting Royal Caribbean choose my cruise ship cabin location, and I would let them do it again

While nothing beats a private oceanfront balcony, if you are looking to save some money and still be able to enjoy the benefits of a balcony, consider booking a Boardwalk or Central Park stateroom for your next cruise. Central Park tends to be quieter; however, select Boardwalk cabins located further in the aft will give you a sliver of ocean to look at. 

Whether you have a cruise coming up on Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, or you're curious what to expect on a ship like this, we have a first-hand look at what's happening onboard.

I recently boarded my first-ever cruise onboard Navigator to the Seas. Not only was this class of ship new to me, but it was also my first time sailing out of Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera. 

Navigator of the Seas is a Voyager Class ship that was initially launched in 2002. Since then, however, she underwent the cruise line's Royal Amplification program and received $115 million in upgrades, meaning that if you sailed on her in 2018, you would have a different experience than you would if you sailed on her today. 

Here's what it is like to sail on Navigator of the Seas in 2023. 

Related: 23 Do's and Don'ts for your Royal Caribbean cruise in 2023

The boarding process

As soon as online check-in for my sailing opened, I was able to secure an arrival time of 10:30am. I knew that I wanted a full day to explore and orient myself with the ship, rather than board later in the day just to sleep in. 

Since I flew into LAX the night before, I stayed relatively close to the airport, meaning that I had about a thirty minute drive to the port, which is actually located outside of Los Angeles in San Pedro, California. 

Related: The costly cruising mistake newbies make planning their first cruise 

I was surprised to find that security was in tents outside of the physical terminal building. Plus, you go through security prior to getting your documents (i.e., passport or birth certificate) checked. 

After going through security, I was instructed to go inside of the terminal, where I was greeted by a port agent who proceeded to scan my Set Sail pass, take a photo of my passport, and update my security image.

After that, I had a brief wait before we were able to officially board the ship since there were other groups who had priority, such as suites, The Key, and Pinnacle guests. 

I was on the ship by 11:00am and opted to wait to grab lunch at the Windjammer after staterooms were ready at 1:00pm to avoid the rush. As someone who is used to sailing on Oasis Class ships, I prefer to skip Windjammer and go to Park Café for lunch.

On Navigator of the Seas, however, is this not an option, and waiting to go to lunch was the best decision because the buffet was not nearly as hectic as I had pictured it. 

Disembarkation

When, sadly, disembarkation day arrived, the process to get off the ship was seamless. I had a later disembarkation time of 9:00am; however, all groups were called by 8:45am.

I was able to get off the ship, grab my luggage, go through customs, and order an Uber in less than forty-five minutes. Plus, someone in my travel party had a birth certificate, so she had to wait in a separate line. 

Accommodations 

In January, I sailed onboard Liberty of the Seas and was a bit disappointed in how dated the staterooms were, so I did not have high expectations since I knew that Navigator is an older ship. 

While you could tell that my stateroom was older, as it lacked the modern finishes that the newer ships have, it was in relatively good condition. You could tell that it was older, as it lacked the modern finishes that the newer ships have. 

What was the most frustrating, however, was the lack of outlets. In my stateroom, there were only two, and both were located near the desk.

Thankfully, the charging cords that I had were long enough to reach both beds. Had I brought standard three feet ones, neither myself nor my travel companion would have been able to use our devices in bed! 

Despite staying in an interior cabin, which is often the smaller stateroom onboard any given ship, there was more than enough storage space for two people. Three people, however, would have been a tight squeeze.

Dining

It is no surprise that food onboard a cruise ship can be a hit or miss. That is understandable, though, as the team is trying to serve thousands of people within a few hours! 

While my favorite meal was lunch at Jaime's Italian, I was pleased with the quality of the complimentary options, too, including El Loco Fresh, which was my favorite poolside treat on sea days. 

The food in the Main Dining Room was better than when I sailed onboard Symphony of the Seas earlier this year. I had some of the same dishes and could definitely tell a different in preparation. 

Related: I tried Royal Caribbean's new main dining room menus, and here's what I thought

Out of all the menus, I was most excited for "Taste of the USA," as this menu was not yet available last time I did a weeklong Royal Caribbean cruise in February. 

As basic as it sounds, one of my favorite foods is macaroni and cheese, and the lobster mac and cheese did not disappoint. In fact, both myself and my travel companion, who is also a self-proclaimed macaroni and cheese connoisseur, agreed that we each could have ordered another. 

The Bamboo Room is a bar that is only available on two ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet: Navigator and Mariner of the Seas. As soon as you walk in, you are greeted by a sign that reads "It's Tiki Time." I loved the tropical vibe of this venue located in the heart of the Royal Promenade. 

It was a fun place to grab a refreshing cocktail and definitely makes this ship stand out amongst others. 

My Time Dining

For this cruise, I had selected My Time Dining versus a traditional seating. This meant that I was responsible for booking my dinner reservations each night or would be subject to whatever wait time there was when I arrived. 

Most nights, I made reservations for around 8:00pm, and when I got to the Main Dining Room on Deck 3, there was a line to both check-in for reservations and to secure a spot on the wait list. Regardless, we were seated in less than ten minutes with our reservations. 

The earliest that I ate was at 7:15pm, and I found that both lines were shorter. In fact, they were practically non-existent! If you did not have a reservation, you probably would have been seated in less than five or ten minutes. 

In terms of the service, we were seated with a total of three different teams. Every night, our service was concluded within an hour and fifteen minutes, with our conversations over dessert keeping us there longer. In theory, we could have quickly eaten dessert and gone elsewhere to enjoy our coffee. 

Entertainment

Personally, I find the entertainment on the smaller ships to lack in comparison to offerings on larger ships. There's nothing quite like AquaTheater shows or Broadway-style musicals while at sea!

For a Voyager Class ship, though, I found the options to be entertaining. None of the shows were over forty-five minutes, which was a good length. 

While onboard, I saw the ice skating show, original production that was a tribute to show girls, and The Quest. What I appreciated most about the ice skating show was that it did not try and stick to a plot and seemed to focus more on the skaters' abilities. Plus, the costumes got more elaborate as the show progressed. 

On the last night, I went to the farewell performance that featured a live band, comedian, and performance by the ship's singers and dancers; it was my favorite of the entire sailing! 

Finally, I found there to be quite a few live music options each evening, whether it be at Boleros, the pub, Schooner Bar, or Royal Promenade. 

Onboard activities 

There was enough to do onboard, from water slides to mini-golf, the resort-style pool deck, ice skating, rock walls, the sports court, and, of course, the entertainment.

I do not usually attend trivia; however, I went to general trivia the first few days. Perhaps I just do not have enough general knowledge, but I was stumped by many of the questions. My travel companion, however, said that it was not challenging enough. 

On the night of the 80s party, I went to attend the 80s dance class in the Royal Promenade; however, no other attendees showed up, and the event organizer eventually left. To be fair, it was at 5:30pm on "Dress to Impress" night. Had this program been in the morning, I think it would have been more of a hit. 

Normally, I prefer my cruises to have a even mix of port and sea days; however, I would have been okay with only two full days onboard Navigator! I think that would have given me enough time to experience everything that I would have liked to do. 

The limited amount of seating in the Solarium was apparent on the second sea day. The weather on the first was less than desirable (i.e., chilly and windy), so I opted to spend the majority of the day indoors. On our return to Los Angeles, however, the weather was extremely pleasant, especially in the Solarium.

I am glad that we staked out our chairs early in the morning and made ourself comfortable for the day. Those who arrived later in the afternoon were unable to find groups of chairs together, especially in the sun. This is not an uncommon cruise issue, though. 

Related: How to beat the chair hogs on your cruise ship

Onboard internet 

With download speeds of 140.1mbps upload speeds of 5.33mbps, the internet was above average in regard to what I have experience on other ships this year, including Symphony of the Seas.

I still had some issues sending and receiving photographs via iMessage; however, I have found that to be normal on most cruises. 

Ports of call

Cabo San Lucas

My previous trips to Mexico have been exclusively to Cancun, Cozumel, and Costa Maya, meaning that traveling to the Mexican Riviera was going to be a new experience for me! 

The last time I tendered to any port was in 2016 when I visited Grand Cayman on a Disney cruise, so I was unsure how the tender process would work onboard a Royal Caribbean ship. 

The night before we docked in Cabo San Lucas, which was our first port of call, I received a letter from my stateroom attendant with instructions about how to retrieve tender tickets; they were required to go ashore unless you had an excursion booked. 

Tickets were given out starting at 10:00am in the Main Dining Room on Deck 5. The earlier you lined up, the earlier you would be able to disembark. 

Around 1:15pm, the line to get off the ship was pretty long. People were crowding on Deck 2 waiting for their group number to be called. If getting off the ship early is important to you and your day in Cabo, it is advisable to get to the Main Dining Room at least thirty minutes prior to when they begin handing out tickets. Otherwise, you may find that you cannot get off the ship until over an hour after the ship docks. 

Mazatlán

In Mazatlán, I did a scenic boat tour that was booked through Royal Caribbean. Like with any cruise line sponsored excursion, I found it easy to locate the guide with the corresponding paddle in hand. Since the tour was less than tour hours, that meant that I had the rest of the day to explore the city center. 

Unfortunately, it was scorching hot. After less than two hours walking around, I was ready to return to the ship for lunch. My advise for Mazatlán, if going off on your own, would be to draft a plan prior to setting off. That way, you are not wasting time in the heat researching what you want to see. 

It was easy to reach the city center, though, as all you had to do was follow a blue line from the cruise terminal straight into the heart of the city. In total, the walk took around fifteen or twenty minutes. 

I ended up visiting a neat church that, supposedly, was partially funded by a wealthy Jewish donor. If you look up at the stained glass, you can see where the Star of David was incorporated as a token of appreciation.

Puerto Vallarta

An all-inclusive resort is the way to go in Puerto Vallarta, especially if you are looking for some time in the sun and/or beach. I visited Hotel Riu Vallarta, which was located about thirty minutes from the cruise port.

Note that transportation was not included and cost around $20 per person for the round-trip fare. I also discovered that wi-fi was not included in the rate; however, it was available for purchase. 

Check-in was simple and required handing the front desk a printed copy of the confirmation of our day passes, provided identification (i.e., valid driver's license or passport), and then receiving a towel card. Afterwards, the group was free to roam throughout the resort, whether that was staking claim to a chair on the pool deck or heading down to the beach. 

Since it was all-inclusive, all drinks -- both alcoholic and non-alcoholic -- were included, as well as food. At 11:30am, a small poolside buffet open that consisted of limited options, such as a burger, chicken, fries, and chili. At 12:30pm, though, an expansive buffet opened in the main resort. 

What I appreciated most was the fact that the staff was very attentive to everything going on. Whenever a child would try and sneak into the adults-only infinity pool, they were quick to blow their whistle and inform them that they had to go elsewhere. 

There was plenty for children to do, too, as they had their own dedicated pool area. In the afternoon, there was even a foam party for all-ages!

What it is like to sail from Los Angeles versus Florida

When deciding whether to cruise from Los Angeles or Florida, you should be aware of a few key differences. The first being that you will have fewer ship and itinerary options. From Port Canaveral, there are three Royal Caribbean ships deployed there in June, July, and August 2023: Wonder, Independence, and Mariner of the Seas. 

The more ships you have to choose from, the more itineraries you have to choose from, too. Between these three ships, you can take a cruise as short as 3-nights to the Bahamas or as long as 8-nights to the Caribbean onboard the world's largest cruise ship. Mariner of the Seas is even making a few trips to Bermuda! This also means you have more flexibility when making your travel plans. 

Currently, Navigator of the Seas is the only Royal Caribbean ship sailing from Los Angeles, meaning that if you are hoping for a 7-night cruise during a specific week, you may be disappointed to find the only options are 3- and 4-nights. 

In regard to embarkation, though, this means that you do not have to battle traffic from other ships. If you have sailed from Miami at any point in 2023, you know the frustration of arriving and sitting in traffic or waiting for an Uber to arrive on disembarkation day. When I got to the port in San Pedro, it was easy for my Lyft driver to pull right up to the terminal building. 

Overall, though, the cons of sailing from Los Angeles are minimal. Navigator of the Seas, despite her age, is in great condition and offers sailings to a beautiful ports of call that you simply cannot visit when departing from Florida.