Royal Caribbean has big plans for 2026, some of which will fundamentally shape the future of the cruise industry.

Royal Caribbean is in the midst of a building spree, with new ships and land destinations opening, and 2026 should be a catalyst for moving those plans forward.

Coming on the heels of launching Star of the Seas and its first beach club that will have opened in December 2025, we already have big things to look forward to in the new year.

Here are five big changes that we know about already for Royal Caribbean in 2026 that you should be tracking now. 

Legend of the Seas launches

We will get a brand new Royal Caribbean cruise ship in 2026 when Legend of the Seas joins the fleet.

The third Icon Class ship will have its first sailing July 11, 2026, and sail in the Mediterranean for the summer.

Then Legend moves across the Atlantic to call Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale) home for the winter, with the first North American sailing November 9th.

A brand new cruise ship is always a big deal because it not only adds a new option, but comes with new changes and innovations.

If you're shopping for a 2026 cruise, it's hard to overlook a new ship because it's the latest and greatest.

Royal Caribbean will feature a number of new offerings:

• Roald Dahl’s "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" musical
• Royal Railway Legend Station
• Hollywoodland Supper Club
• Reimagined Surfside
• New Aquadome Market options

Expect a lot of fanfare for the launch.

New beach club opens in Cozumel, Mexico

The second Royal Beach Club is set to open in the second half of 2026.

The first will open at the very end of 2025 in Nassau, Bahamas, but then work will shift to get the Royal Beach Club Cozumel open in December 2026.

Cozumel's beach club is all about providing the best day in the beach or pool, with lots of sun, food, and culture too. There are two heated pools, plus a fabulous beach.

All Royal Beach Clubs have an extra cost to go to them. Think of it like a shore excursion that's built and run by Royal Caribbean.

Located about 10 minutes away from where cruise ships dock in Cozumel, you'll be able to access it by bus, taxi and water transportation as well.

There will be a pool with a swim-up bar, along with a side that's toes in the sand that stretches over to the beach.

Full details haven't been released yet, but the cruise line is adamant this will deliver the best beach day.

Three cruise ships will get major upgrades

Royal Caribbean is reinvesting in its fleet by giving three ships the Royal Amplified treatment.

In early 2026, these vessels will go out of service for about a month to get upgraded:

• Ovation of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas

This means there will be restaurants, activities, suites, and even new suites on each ship.  The purpose is to bring each of them up to the standard set by newer ships.

The reason to be excited for these changes is it will truly enhance these ships. As newer ships come out, it can feel like older ships fall behind. But amplification work, like this, can make a big difference.

A return to Labadee?

We're crossing our fingers that Royal Caribbean ships will be able to return to Labadee again in 2026.

The cruise line halted all visits to its private beach spot in Haiti since April 2025, and it cancelled future stops until at least May 2026.

The issue is the civil unrest that's been plaguing the country, and the cruise line feels it's best to skip visits until the situation improves.

The change was made "in an abundance of caution" according to the cruise line, but there's no indication if visits will resume.

While this isn't the first time Labadee has been shut down due to problems in the country, it is the longest duration of continuously skipping visits.

If you have a cruise booked that is scheduled to visit Labadee, I would caution there's a chance your stop could be cancelled. Cruises that previously included Labadee have been re-rerouted to places like Turks & Caicos, Grand Cayman, or Cozumel.

However, I'm hopeful we'll see ships going back sometime in 2026.

A new homeport in SoCal

There will be a new homeport in California when Royal Caribbean starts sailing from San Diego.

Beginning in October 2026, Serenade of the Seas will offer a variety of sailings down to Ensenada, Mexico and the Mexican Riviera. Serenade will also visit La Paz, a new stop for the line.

Up until now, Royal Caribbean has only used Los Angeles (San Pedro) as its homeport in California.

Royal Caribbean announced it will add its second immersive dining experience on its newest Icon Class ship, and we have an early look at what you can expect.

Royal Railway – Legend Station is one of the big changes coming to Legend of the Seas when it launches in 2026. It's the follow-up to the original restaurant first opened on Utopia of the Seas where passengers can dine in a full-size rail car that looks and feels like a real train. This is a specialty restaurant that has a cover charge.

The experience relies on digital screens built into the windows, sophisticated sounds and vibrations, and crew members acting as conductors to weave together a story.

This time, there's a brand new story, destination, and menu to go with it. It's called "Silk Routes", and it traces the journey of famed explorer Marco Polo from China back to Italy.

There are stops in multiple countries, each country representing a course on the menu.

Having tried the Wild West version already, Royal Caribbean invited me for an exclusive first look to test out its new idea at its headquarters in Miami that is still very much in development as they fine tune the final version.

Mock-up of what we can expect

Deep inside its Innovation Lab at the cruise line's headquarters, Royal Caribbean built a scale copy of the train car that will eventually be onboard Legend of the Seas.

Along with about 20 cruise line employees, I got to try out the full meal and see, taste, and hear what passengers may encounter when they get onboard the new ship. 

This is still an early version of the restaurant, and the purpose of this test is to not only ensure the effects, crew members, and experience works like it should, but it's also an opportunity to gather feedback.

Royal Caribbean is adamant about taking guest feedback into account for the final product, and a prototype allows them to test and adjust leading right up to the ship's launch.

A journey through Asia and Europe

Silk Routes takes you half way across the world and visits five countries.

• China
• India
• Persia
• Turkey
• Italy

Each country corresponds to a course, and the cuisine is representative of those parts of the world.

We had a limited selection of food choices for this trial run, but passengers can expect a full menu when it opens on Legend.

Whether you've been to the first restaurant or not, I think your jaw will drop when the windows open and you're transported to China and each subsequent country.

In fact, I think this is the genius of Silk Routes. Because there are multiple countries and each has its own distinct look, the novelty of looking out the "windows" doesn't get old.

The digital screens rely on high definition computer renderings to portray the landscapes your train is passing by. I saw some seriously amazing vistas, such as Holi in India, Dolomites in northern Italy, or hot air balloons over Turkey. I hope these make it into the final version.

Along the way a conductor is your guide through the journey. 

The conductor not only announces which country and region you're passing by, but explains local traditions, significant landmarks, and shares some of the history too.

Your menu has not only what food choices you can pick from, but it has a map to explain where you're going.

Unlike the map from the fictitious Wild West version, this one is rooted in reality. Each region has an explanation of its history and what drew Marco Polo there in the first place.

More immersion

Besides the part of the world you're visiting, one change you should expect is less schtick with the conductors.

The conductor this time around is here to narrate, not act. 

It relies more heavily on great food and great drinks, and you get to enjoy the places your train takes you. Basically, immersion is turned up with Silk Routes.

Where Wild West was very family centric, I think Silk Routes will be more of an experience you'd want to go for to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy an evening out doing something special.

That isn't to say kids wouldn't enjoy this too, but don't expect a story telling aspect akin to the Wild West show.

Taking the food tour

In our preview, we got an idea Royal Caribbean has for the menu when Royal Railway – Legend Station opens.

There's a brand new menu, but don't assume anything shown on this menu will make the final cut. However, the idea is to lean into each region's rich culinary history to offer options from each.

We got to try Hoisin Duck Egg Rolls from China, Potato Chop from India, and more. Keep in mind the food was prepped with a ghost kitchen, so this is simply to give you an idea of the direction Royal Caribbean is leaning towards.

Hoisin Duck Egg Rolls

I hope the Potato Chop and Adana Kebab make the final menu, because they were incredibly tasty.

Potato Chop

Adana Kebab

As a fan of Indian food, I love Royal Caribbean is finally giving us a specialty restaurant that serves curry, biryani, and more.

When the restaurant opens, I'll have a hard time choosing between the various options.

Limone

Speaking of choices, this early version of the menu seems to have many more options to pick than the Wild West menu. I'm all for variety, so I'd love to see that stay on as well.

The new must-do restaurant?

When Royal Railway opened on Utopia of the Seas, it was instantly sold out and I think the version coming to Legend will be an even hotter ticket.

Not only is this the second version of the restaurant, but it's substantially different in the approach. I think that will get a lot of cruisers wanting to try Silk Routes, whether they've done Wild West or not.

Leaning into an international showcase of food is such a smart idea for Silk Routes, and it's something I think most people want. A greater variety of great food that goes well beyond "just another specialty restaurant."

The immersive factor cannot be understated with Silk Routes. Royal Caribbean designed the train restaurant to be a memory making super machine, and I think anyone dining here will be talking about it well after the check is delivered.

We don't yet know how much Royal Caribbean will charge for Silk Routes or when reservations may open for it. But when you are able to start booking it, I know I'll want to book a reservation.

Packing regret is real, and cruisers have all sorts of things they regretted not bringing on a cruise ship.

I've had my fair share of realizations onboard that I wish I had brought something to improve my cruise, as well as simply forgotten an essential.

While remembering to pack pants should be an easy item for your cruise packing checklist, there are other things that may not be as obvious to bring but really do make a difference.

I asked our readers to share one thing they really wish they had packed for a cruise, and a few them truly surprised me.

Less clothes

A number of our readers started off by saying they wish they had packed less clothes.

Overpacking for a cruise is an easy mistake to make, although I tend to overpack many times.

The issue with overpacking is you're lugging around clothes you never actually use. With so many theme nights, shore excursions, and plans for around the ship, it seems like you will need more clothes than you actually need.

I understand why some people feel "less is more" when it comes to packing for a cruise.  The experience is far less elegant than you might think.  A lot of new cruisers assume the dress code is more enforced and people dress up more than they actually do.

Ultimately, overpacking is only an issue in the sense it contributes to the heft of carrying luggage around, as well as airline luggage fees.

A pillow

I never thought to bring my own pillow, but some readers say they wish they had brought one along.

Just like a hotel room on land, you never know how comfortable or compatible a pillow will be with your head. But in most cases, pillows are just never going to measure up to your favorite pillow from home.

There's certainly no rule against bringing your own pillow, and if that's what it takes to get a great night sleep, it might be a good idea.

I brought my own pillow on a cruise for a few years until I accidently left it behind at a hotel in Newark Airport and never got it back. As long as you're less forgetful than me, this might be a great tip.

Medicine

When we cruise, my wife travels with what seems like a portable pharmacy with her, and it's actually quite helpful when we need something.

Readers mentioned wishing they had brough various medications with them to use during the cruise, such as Motrin, Miralax, or even Covid tests.

Bringing your own meds means it's quite convenient and you don't have to leave your cabin when you need it.  If you've ever had a hangover, you know how much just getting out of bed is a trek.

While there are some medications you can buy on the ship at the convenience store, there's a limited supply of what's available and the prices will be much higher than you can get at home.

I remember a woman last year that had an allergic reaction but balked when the ship's medical facility wanted to charge her $390 for Benadryl.

Many people commented she should have been traveling with some basic medicine for common situations, and it's great advice.

Comfortable shoes

I read Melissa Inzerillo's comment that she wish she had packed sandals that didn't give her feet blisters, and I think it's a good reminder for us all.

It's tempting to go buy new shoes for your cruise, whether to match your new outfit or more purpose based for an excursion.

Of course, you should go ahead and buy those shoes, but first break them in before your trip!

Wear them around the house, on errands to the store, or generally in short bursts so you can avoid trying to break them in on long days around the ship or in port.

If you're looking for a recommendation for comfy shoes, the Skechers Women's Summits Torre Trainers are highly rated and should blend well with most outfits. (This link contains an affiliate link that costs you nothing extra to use)

Jeans and socks to ice skate

If you want to participate in the ice skating onboard, you'll want to pack pants and socks.

It's easy to overlook packing these things if you're headed to a warm destination, but you can't ice skate without them.

Cruise ships with an ice skating rink allow open skating for passengers at certain times, but you absolutely need to have long pants and socks.

Ships with an ice rink include: Icon Class, Oasis Class, Voyager Class, and Freedom Class ships.

A pair of jeans and regular socks should do the trick. 

Snacks

I used to question why anyone would bring food on a cruise ship, but snacks are actually a genius hack.

While there is plenty of food onboard, there is a compelling need to have snacks in your stateroom.  I'm talking pretzels, chips, or crackers, and these items aren't generally available around the ship.

Our family will pack Goldfish crackers or Pringles potato chips to have in the room for my kids to nosh on at random times. If you're a fan of protein bars, nuts, or other healthy snacks, these are other good ideas to bring.

It's really a matter of convenience, as well as ensuring you have the kind of quick snack you prefer the most.

The only rule is it has to be prepackaged, so you can't bring mom's meatloaf with you.

Bathing suit

If your cruise is headed to Alaska or Norway, you might think it's crazy to pack a bathing suit.

Believe it or not, it can get quite warm in both destinations, and there will be people swimming.

Even if it's not warm enough for the main pool, the hot tubs are always the perfect temperature.

It's a good idea to pack a bathing suit, just in case. Otherwise, you'll have to pay for an expensive new one, or simply fold your arms in disgust that you didn't think to bring it.

Considering how you can shove bathing suits into any corner of your suitcase easily, they are worth bringing no matter how little chance you think there is to use them.

Oasis of the Seas ushered in the megaship era, instantly making every ship that became before it feel obsolete. In the years since, Royal Caribbean has built five more Oasis Class ships (with one more on the way). So how does the first one compare to newer ships?

I've sailed on Oasis of the Seas five times, and just went back onboard for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise to see what the ship is like now.

My first time on Oasis was a game changing experience because I couldn't fathom how a ship so big could offer so much to do. Like many people, I instantly fell in love with how much was packed into the ship.

Fast forward 16 years later, and we have an aging ship that belongs on the Mount Rushmore of cruise ships.

It's not the same ship from the beginning

The most important thing to know about Oasis of the Seas is while it may be the oldest Oasis Class ship, it's been updated.

Every Royal Caribbean ship goes in for maintenance work regularly, and in 2019, it got major upgrades. The Royal Amplification to Oasis had one goal in mind: update the ship so it fits in better with newer ships.

Royal Caribbean took the opportunity to innovate its newer Oasis Class ships with new restaurant ideas, activities, and things to do. 

This added water slides, specialty restaurants, and entertainment to the ship while refreshing other venues to make them more contemporary.

I loved the upgrades because it added enough to keep the ship competitive with newer ones. Having sailed on Allure of the Seas before she recently was upgraded, the amplification work was critical for keeping it fresh.

7 Neighborhoods to make the ship easy to navigate

When people hear there's a ship like Oasis that can handle over 6,000 passengers when at full capacity, they think it must be a crowded mess. However, it's really not like that at all.

Royal Caribbean designed the ship with the neighborhood concept, one of many innovations that was incredible for its time but we now take for granted.

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

One key difference between Oasis of the Seas and the newest Oasis Class ships is there isn't the eight Suite Neighborhood. Royal Caribbean added that to Utopia and Wonder of the Seas.

There are still suite areas on Oasis, but there's no question the suite neighborhood adds more dedicated space and a more cohesive experience for suite guests.

Neighborhoods make it easy to easily identify the area of the ship you're in, so there's less guessing where a certain venue might be located.

My top 3 favorite areas of the ship are the Royal Promenade, Central Park, and Boardwalk.

Each zone is creatively designed, and there's enough happening throughout the day and evening to make me want to go back again and again.

So many places to eat

Another big change Oasis of the Seas introduced was packing in so many more places to eat.

You'll find quite a few included and extra cost restaurants to choose from.

The core dining experience rotates around the Main Dining Room, Windjammer, and quick service venues like El Loco Fresh or Cafe Promenade.

Like all Royal Caribbean ships, the included food ranges between "good" and "very good". A few items are excellent and a couple are duds to avoid.

I made my way to El Loco Fresh a few times because I think it's especially very satisfying.

The Main Dining Room is a cruising institution, and I love going there for dinner. Each night there's a different dinner theme, with a few "fall back" dishes to order from too.

The Windjammer is the buffet, and it offers a fantastic variety of food. One issue is it's on the smaller side, especially compared to newer Oasis Class ships. As a result, it gets easily swamped with people and there can be lines to enter.

If you're willing to spend extra on specialty dining, there are a few terrific choices.

Specialty restaurants are a mix of cover charges or a la carte pricing.

The specialty restaurants revolve around a certain cuisine. There's a steakhouse, Italian, BBQ, or sushi restaurant, for example.

If you're going to eat any specialty dining, I'd recommend booking a dining package before the cruise begins to save money.  That can usually save up to half off the onboard price for dining at them otherwise.

My top three favorite specialty restaurants on Oasis of the Seas are Izumi, 150 Central Park, and Playmakers.

You don't have to spend extra on specialty dining to have a good time, but it certainly can enhance your cruise overall. 

Cabins are one place you'll notice the older design

While regular ship maintenance and upgrades have kept Oasis of the Seas up to par in many respects with newer ships, the cabins look about the same as they did in 2009.

As a general rule, Royal Caribbean doesn't update cabins and it certainly has an older motif if you've been on Wonder or Utopia.

I'm not an interior design expert, but I think most people will pick up on it.

The older cabin design means there is also less power outlets and no USB outlets in the room. It's a good reminder to pack an approved USB outlet extender for your cruise.

One other area lacking in these cabins is storage space. While I had enough drawers for my 7-night cruise, Royal Caribbean added much more storage space in cabins on newer Oasis Class ships.

It's not all bad news in the cabin, as it functions quite well. 

In fact, I like how big the shower is and how spacious the bathroom is for standard cabins.

I've stayed in a few different kind of cabins on Oasis of the Seas, but an oceanview balcony rarely disappoints.

One major difference you'll find on Oasis compared to many other cruise ships is the fact it has cabins that face inwards to some neighborhoods.

There are Central Park Balcony rooms, Boardwalk Balcony rooms, and Promenade Window cabins you could book.

The advantage of these rooms is you get a great people watching perspective. And they may be cheaper than an oceanview balcony.

The downside is they can be loud during the day when there are events occurring. Plus, there's not a lot of privacy.

Shows, parties, and music everywhere

If you're bored on Oasis of the Seas, it's because you're purposefully trying not to have a good time.

Oasis of the Seas is packed with theaters, bars, activities, and events happening. I'm impressed how much there is to do on a ship rapidly approaching 20 years in age.

I think the stage shows are the top draws, and there are three theaters to choose from: Royal Theater, Aquatheater, and Studio B ice rink.

The shows here are all included in your cruise fare, and each is pretty darn special.

The top two shows are Cats, the Broadway musical; and Aqua80s.

Cats is one of the most famous musicals of all time, and it's included in your cruise fare. It's a shortened version of the Broadway musical, but you'll get the bulk of the show.

Over in the Aquatheater is Aqua80s, which is a musical tribute to the 1980s decade.

What I love about this show is it combines great music with incredible acrobatic feats and diving performances.

It's one of those shows you have to see to properly understand, but I think it's a real crowd pleaser.

I think all of the stage shows are worth seeing when you're on any Oasis Class ship, and it's just the start of things to keep you busy.

There are nightly adult comedy shows, a guitarist in the Globe & Atlas pub, pianist in the Schooner Bar, and bands performing on the pool deck and in Boleros.

Plus, Royal Caribbean holds dance parties on the Royal Promenade that tie into a nightly theme. 

All of it is an excuse to get out there and have a good time, and I think Oasis delivers on that. This is what makes the Oasis Class ships such a good option: they have so much to see and do that you can't help but find lots happening.

Oasis is packed with pool deck fun too

Piggybacking on how much there is to do on Oasis of the Seas is what you'll find on its top decks.

Royal Caribbean designed Oasis of the Seas with more space and more to do than ships that came before it. 

There are a trio of water slides, a rock wall, two FlowRider surf simulators, a sports court, zip line, mini-golf course, and that still leaves four pools and an adults-only area.

This is what makes Oasis of the Seas such an attractive option for families, as the things to do are fun for all ages.

Oasis of the Seas pros and cons

If you're thinking about going on Oasis of the Seas, here are the best reasons to choose it.

There's so much to do onboard

Oasis of the Seas is packed with parties, pools, water slides, shows, and more. When you think of a cruise ship vacation, I believe this is the kind of ship that a lot of people want that appeals to all ages.

You certainly won't be bored onboard, and there's usually a lot happening every day to keep you busy. You don't have to worry about being bored.

Probably less expensive than other Oasis Class ships

One advantage Oasis of the Seas has over other ships within the class is it tends to cost less.

Generally speaking, cruise fares on Oasis of the Seas cost less because the ship is older.

For example, a 3-night Oasis of the Seas cruise in March 5, 2027 starts at $601 per person in an inside cabin. 

That same 3-night cruise on Utopia of the Seas starts at $648 per person.

Multiply those savings out across a family, and it adds up quickly.

Great mix of dining choices

I think there's an impressive array of places to eat around the ship, including both pay and extra cost.

Food is one of the top reasons why people book a Royal Caribbean cruise, and I think you'll find lots of it to enjoy during your sailing.

Portside BBQ, El Loco Fresh, and Izumi are my favorites, but there's plenty more.

Staterooms feel dated

Whether comparing your cabin to a newer Royal Caribbean ship or a hotel, you'll notice the cabins look a bit old.

The upkeep of the cabin is fine, but the look and feel is where it is noticeable.

In addition, there's a lack of storage areas compared to newer ships.

It lacks the newest concepts

Any cruise ship built more than 10 years ago is going to lack the latest and greatest innovations, and Oasis of the Seas is no exception.

It has the original Giovanni's Italian restaurant menu, still has a Bionic Bar, and doesn't have the newer restaurants and experiences you'd find on the Icon Class ships. It also doesn't have the suite neighborhood, like the newest Oasis ships have.

This only matters if you are particularly fond of a specific venue or prefer ships on the bleeding edge of what's new in cruising.

The shows are the same shows for over 10 years

If you've been on Oasis of the Seas before, not much has changed with its entertainment.

Royal Caribbean rarely updates the shows on its ships, so you can expect to find the same featured shows across its three theaters that have been there for a while.

To be fair, Aqua 80's and One Sky were added in 2019 during the refurbishment. But Cats and Frozen in Time have been there for a long time, and I doubt we'll see much change in the near future with any of the shows.

Oasis of the Seas offers megaship value

Ultimately, I think Oasis of the Seas is a great choice for a family vacation and still holds up very nicely.

While it may lack certain new features found on other ships, the price it usually commands is going to be less and I think it's the perfect blend of plenty to enjoy onboard for a good price.

When I look at any ship, I weigh what it offers, what it doesn't offer, and how much it will cost. I believe Oasis of the Seas tends to be one of the better deals when you consider those three pillars of evaluation.

There's no question it's a great cruise ship choice. You could argue spending more on a newer and bigger ship might get you meaningful upgrades, but you'll almost certainly pay more for it.

My week onboard the ship was great, and I enjoyed what Oasis had to offer and I'd love to cruise on it again.

A powerful nor'easter is hitting New Jersey that's caused one Royal Caribbean cruise ship to stay in port for a couple of days.

We've updated this article with new details on the revised itinerary.

Passengers on Symphony of the Seas have posted on social media they will not be able to depart as scheduled on Sunday.

Royal Caribbean's cruise ships operate out of Cape Liberty, New Jersey, which is located in Bayonne Harbor in Lower New York Harbor.

"It is now official, staying in port overnight per a ship announcement," one person posted on Facebook on Sunday afternoon. "Leaving dock briefly to make room for a container ship but then returning to the dock."

The storm was moving up the east coast of the United States, bringing bands of heavy rain and fierce winds.  The region is forecasted to experience sustained winds of 15-25MPH with 35-50MPH gusts.

An email sent to passengers on Thursday said Symphony would only set sail if it's safe to do so, "Along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, we have been closely monitoring a developing coastal low-pressure system forecast to impact the port of Cape Liberty beginning on Sunday. 

"Due to the deteriorating weather conditions, we will continue to monitor the ocean storm system and only depart once we deem it is safe to do so."

Symphony will remain in New Jersey until Tuesday

Due to storm conditions, Symphony of the Seas will not be able to depart until Tuesday. Not only are the storm conditions dangerous, but the Port of New York and New Jersey is temporarily closed to all incoming and outgoing vessels. 

A guest onboard the cruise ship says the new plan is to depart on Tuesday morning.

In the meantime, passengers are free to get off the ship and explore the surrounding area on their own. There's a Costco nearby the cruise terminal.

Royal Caribbean asked passengers to arrive earlier because of the nor'easter

Before the storm hit, the plan was speed up embarkation due to the arrival of the storm.

Guests booked on the October 12 sailing received emails on Thursday advising them that their check-in times would be much earlier.

"To ensure a smooth boarding process, please arrive two (2) hours earlier than your pre-selected arrival window!"

"All guests should be checked-in and onboard by 12:30 PM."

That's quite early, as usually check-in times don't begin until around 11am and end at 3pm.

Instead, boarding began as early as 8:30am. That's usually a time when passengers from the previous sailing are still onboard.

Symphony will sail a shortened cruise to CocoCay

Royal Caribbean updated the plans and will sail a revised itinerary.

The original plan was for Symphony of the Seas to sail a 7-night Bahamas and Perfect Day cruise. The ship is scheduled to have stops at Port Canaveral, Florida; Nassau, Bahamas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay; before returning to Cape Liberty on October 19, 2025.

Instead, Symphony will leave Bayonne on Tuesday. The ship will skip the scheduled visits to Port Canaveral and Nassau.  

Instead, Symphony will visit Perfect Day at CocoCay on Thursday from 11:30am to 6:30pm.

Afterwards, the ship will turn around and return to New Jersey.

The updated itinerary is a reflection of losing the first two days of the sailing due to the nor'easter.

Any prebooked shore excursions through Royal Caribbean will automatically be cancelled and refunded as refundable onboard credit.

By sailing a shortened itinerary, Symphony can return to Cape Liberty to start its next sailing on time.

Nor'easter wreaks havoc along east coast

The storm is in the midst of its height as it passes through the northeast United States on Monday.

New Jersey, which already declared a state of emergency, has seen flooding along the Jersey Shore. Other states will see the worst impact during high tide, such as in Connecticut and New York.

New York declared an emergency for eight southern counties Sunday evening.

Forecasters expect the rain to continue on throughout Monday. The expectation is the rain and wind will let up on Tuesday.

The fall temperatures may be dropping, but the Royal Caribbean news from this week is as hot as ever, and we have it all summarized for you in this week's round up!

Royal Caribbean revealed new features coming to Legend of the Seas.

Legend of the Seas will feature a Broadway musical, new restaurants, and new experiences too.

The new cruise ship enters service in 2026, and will offer an immersive dining experience sail in a full-size rail car.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean makes drink package change
• Cruiser records guest with mattress on balcony. Sparks debate about privacy
• NCL's new drink package rule leaves Royal Caribbean fans wondering if they'll do the same
• Tropical storm path forces Royal Caribbean ship to remain in Puerto Rico overnight
• Royal Caribbean changes cruise itinerary to avoid hurricane
• Royal Caribbean Cruise Director schedule
• What food is included at Perfect Day at CocoCay?

New RCB Video: Why Royal Caribbean is only building bigger ships

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise

This week, we are sharing our latest video: Why Royal Caribbean is only building bigger ships

Don't forget to like and subscribe!

Royal Caribbean clarifies drink card question cruisers have debated for years

It's official: that coffee card is more valuable now.

According to the cruise line website, you can re-use your coffee card on multiple sailings. Not only can you share it, but you can extend its value well beyond a single sailing.

This is significant because it used to only be limited to the cruise you bought it on.

Man breaks Guinness World Record on Royal Caribbean cruise

There's a new world record holder for running a marathon on a cruise ship.

The Guinness Book of World Records has confirmed Shane Wood ran a full marathon while on Ovation of the Seas.

Not only did he do it, but he finished it in under 3 hours.

I tried a whiskey tasting in the new Royal Railway train car

You can experience a classic train car experience along with high quality whiskey on one Royal Caribbean ship.

Matt got the chance to try out a whiskey tasting class that is held in the Royal Railway, which is an immersive train car restaurant.

Unlike the dinner option, this is a quicker way to see what this next-gen restaurant is really like.

Royal Caribbean changes kids club prices

Prices have gone up for Adventure Ocean and the nursery.

Royal Caribbean appears to have increased the price for after hours care at Adventure Ocean for when kids stay late past 10pm.

Likewise, the hourly charge for the nursery has gone up a few dollars.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 578th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! 

Matt is joined by Chris Gray Faust from Cruise Critic to look back at how cruising has changed from 30 years ago to today. Has it all been for the best?

We update our podcast weekly, so subscribe for more updates via YouTube, iTunes, Google Podcasts, or RSS.

You can also leave us a rating or review on iTunes, so go ahead and check it out! We appreciate your feedback.

Royal Caribbean has a whiskey tasting class that takes you on a virtual trip to the Old West for a multisensory experience.

When Utopia of the Seas launched, it had the first Royal Railway restaurant onboard that makes it feel like you're riding in a classic train car.

The immersive dining experience caught a lot of people's attention, and it's usually sold out on most sailings.

Since its debut, Royal Caribbean has added Royal Railway Utopia Station Whiskey Tasting as another way to leverage the new venue.

I wanted to see how a shorter duration experience compares, as well as try out top shelf whiskey!

Whiskey tasting in a train car

Alcohol tasting classes aren't new to Royal Caribbean ships, but holding them in a classic train car is not conventional.

If you're not familiar with the new train car experience, this is a custom built platform that simulates what it would look and feel like to ride in a classic train car.

Tickets are delivered to your stateroom, and there's even a platform to wait on to board the train.  

Once inside, the car has windows, jostles, rumbles, and does just about everything to evoke the feel of a late 19th century train without the coal or smoke.

The difference between the full restaurant and the whiskey tasting is how much of the story element is incorporated into it all.

The class features three varieties of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. As a novice whiskey drinker, I'm told this is an above average brand.

The cost of the class is $70, although I was able to get it for $59.00 because of a well-timed sale.

You'll be assigned a seat. Tables come in two or four top configurations, and they will seat strangers with you if there are open spots because the restaurant is so small.

Similar to the restaurant experience, your journey begins seated in the train with the simulated ride commencing and the windows opening up.

Each window provides a high definition view of the Old West, and it's so darn impressive to watch. 

The combination of the imagery, rumblings, and sounds all combine to make it truly seem like you're riding on a train.

The class is lead by a bartender, who is dressed from the time period.

In front of you are three shots of whiskey:

• Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey
• Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Whiskey
• Uncle Nearest Rye Whiskey

There's also a plate of nuts and cheese to snack on to help cleanse your palate between sips.

Unlike the restaurant, there's no real story here. The crew member leans into the Old West motif, but there's no bandit, gun fight, or any kind of arc to the experience. The focal point is sampling the drinks.

With each whiskey, you're given an explanation of what makes it different from the rest and how to properly sip it.

It's interesting the difference swirling the drink or not makes, as well as the first sip versus subsequent sips.

I never order whiskey on my own, so taking this class was about better understanding why I might prefer one variety over another. 

After you drink all three samples, an old fashioned cocktail is brought out made from the whiskey. 

While the straight whiskey is definitely strong, the old fashioned tasted very smooth. I guess I haven't graduated yet to enjoying straight shooting whiskey quite yet.

The entire class took about 35 minutes, which makes it a quick experience overall. In fact, I was a little surprised by how short the class lasted.

What I liked about the Utopia Station Whiskey Tasting is it combines an informative tasting experience with a fun venue.

I see this as a two part experience: alcohol tasting and train ride.

Royal Caribbean offers other seminars on drinks, such as wine pairings. Generally, they seem to all be well-received and this was no exception.

I appreciated the explanations of how one whiskey variety is different from another, as well as the opportunity to simply venture out and try it.

The x-factor is the train ride, because unlike other drink tastings, this one takes place in a really cool venue.

For those that haven't had the chance to experience the sit down meal, the whiskey tasting is a great example of why the tech behind it all is so impressive.

Royal Caribbean invested a lot into building out the train experience, and I really think it's a must-see.

Given the fact you're getting three whiskey shots and a full cocktail, the price is not unreasonable at all.

Cocktails usually cost about $14 each at a bar, and a shot of higher quality liquor can easily cost $12-14 each (if not more).  

Plus, the whiskey tasting is cheaper than the restaurant meal, so it allows you to get a sense of what the venue is all about without paying a higher price.

When Legend of the Seas launches, Royal Caribbean has big plans for how it will be different from the other Icon Class ships.

Entering service in 2026, Legend of the Seas will be the third Icon Class ship. But it definitely won't be a carbon copy of the ships that preceded it.

This is going to be one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, with a capacity of 5,610 passengers at double occupancy and 2,350 crew members working onboard.

The cruise line shared new details of the major changes on Legend, including entertainment, dining, and activities.

Here’s a look at the biggest changes guests can expect.

New experiences

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean, said in a statement Legend will be a bold push forward for the Icon Class, "With Legend of the Seas, we are bringing to life our most legendary vacation yet as we continue to push the boundaries with more of what guests know and love."

Royal Railway Legend Station will be on the ship, making it the first Icon Class ship to have the immersive dining experience.

First introduced on Utopia of the Seas, Royal Railway is a dining experience that combines food, sound, and visuals that makes you feel like you're on a classic train.

This version will be expanded into a five-course “expedition” along the Silk Routes, inspired by the travels of Marco Polo.

Guests will enjoy flavors and history through China, India, Italy and more.

Legend of the Seas will also be home to a Broadway musical.

Roald Dahl’s "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" has been confirmed as the musical onboard. 

The world of Willy Wonka will be brought to the stage, and it's included in your cruise fare.

Besides the Royal Theater Legend of the Seas will have shows offered in the AquaTheater and Absolute Zero ice rink.

The AquaDome AquaTheater will host divers, aerialists, robots, and dancers.

Absolute Zero, the largest ice arena at sea, will feature new skating productions.

Another change will be the a reimagined Surfside and Playscape. 

Royal Caribbean wants to offer even more for families with young kids, and promises a new carousel in Surfside and a redesigned Playscape for youngsters.

New dining

You'll also find new dining options on Legend of the Seas, with a mix of reimagined and new offerings. Legend of the Seas will have a total of 28 options to dine at.

The AquaDome Market will have all new food stands, along with a brand-new juice and smoothie bar serving freshly squeezed refreshments.

This is a food hall, where you can go throughout the day and night to enjoy quick bites made exactly the way you like them. It's not only complimentary, but has been consistently a fan-favorite dining area.

A new supper club will also be implemented, with the Hollywoodland Supper Club.

A brand-new concept blending gourmet dining, cocktails, and jazz with a journey through the golden age of cinema, from the 1910s to the 1950s.

Other returning restaurants confirmed for Legend include:

• Surfside Eatery
• Basecamp
• Chops Grille
• Izumi
• Hooked Seafood

There will be more than 20 bars on Legend of the Seas, including:

• Lou's
• Dueling Pianos
• 1400 Bar

The family fun you expect on an Icon Class ship

Legend continues Royal Caribbean’s tradition of adrenaline and relaxation with:

• Category 6 Waterpark: Six massive waterslides.
• Crown’s Edge: A part-zip line, part-skywalk suspended 154 feet above the ocean.
• Lost Dunes Mini Golf and Adrenaline Peak Rock Climbing for active fun.
• Seven pools

Sailing in 2026

Legend will debut with 7-night Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona and Rome, visiting destinations like Marseille, Naples, and Palma de Mallorca.

In November 2026, the ship will reposition to Fort Lauderdale for 6- and 8-night Caribbean itineraries, including Aruba, Curaçao, and Royal Caribbean’s top-rated private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Bookings are open for all of its sailings through April 2027.