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HIT THE DECK RUNNING ON DAY ONE

An easier way to plan ahead.

There's so much to experience on a Royal Caribbean International cruise and we want to make sure you make the most of your time with us. Cruise Planner is available to help you pre-plan your vacation right after you've booked your cruise. Now you can plan ahead and reserve shore excursions, book specialty dining, schedule spa treatments and more on your tablet or computer from the comfort of your home.

Board your cruise relaxed and worry free.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VACATION WITH YOUR CALENDAR

Now you and your party can customize your vacation together using the Cruise Planner calendar. Your calendar is automatically populated as you reserve. Each day of your trip is listed and broken down by location, date, arrival and departure times and what has been reserved by guest. It's a snapshot view of what your vacation looks like, reserved in advance the way you want it.

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Make the most of it by reserving shore excursions at every port in your itinerary. There's an excursion for everyone, from adventure seekers to foodies, history buffs to animal lovers. This is your chance to get to the heart of the most exciting destinations of the world.

Do it with a one-of-a-kind adventure you'll never forget

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Reserve your table at any of our specialty restaurants, from our signature steakhouse Chops Grille to the imaginative curiosities of Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Enjoy additional savings of up to 40% off when you purchase one of our Specialty Dining Packages.

Plus, enjoy the convenience of selecting a dinner time that fits your schedule with My Time Dining.

Restaurants vary by ship.

Quench your thirst onboard with a beverage package that gets you the best value on your favorite drinks, from Coca-Cola® to fine wine, premium and frozen cocktails to a full selection of beers, fruit juices to Evian® water.

Start your vacation with a beverage in your hand from the moment you get onboard.

Stay connected while onboard with VOOM - the fastest internet at sea. Share your adventure and upload content to Facebook and Instagram, post videos to YouTube, tweet on Twitter, and have face‑to‑face conversations via Google Hangouts and Skype. Plus, you can even stream movies, games and apps via your personal accounts with DIRECTV, Netflix, Hulu and more. VOOM makes staying in the loop easy and affordable.

Stay connected and go full stream ahead with VOOM.

Relive the memories from your vacation with professional photos of your favorite moments onboard. Our photographers capture the joy of your adventure — from embarkation to formal night — and all the fun in between. Plus you’ll enjoy savings of up to 20% when you purchase a print or digital package before you sail.

At the Vitality SM Spa, relaxation and rejuvenation rule. Indulge with a variety of treatments that will leave you feeling like new. Pamper yourself with invigorating massage therapies, body wraps and facials. Give yourself the gift of youth with medi-spa treatments such as BOTOX® and Dysport®.

Glam up for formal night with a new hairdo and a mani-pedi. With treatments for everyone from couples, teens and men, you're bound to find at least one amazing indulgence at our spa.

The gorgeous view isn't the only thing that will dazzle you onboard our innovative cruise ships. Our complimentary shows are sure to entertain you from beginning to end.

Sit back and enjoy a variety of incredible productions, including award-winning musicals from Broadway and the West End, original Vegas-style productions, live comedy acts, and aquatic and ice shows.

Only one cruise line offers the thrilling opportunity to learn to surf, to feel the rush of skydiving right on the deck of the ship with Ripcord by iFly or to go on a behind-the-scenes ship tour.

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The best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for every type of traveler

What's the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship? We get this question a lot, and our answer always is the same: It depends.

It depends on what sort of traveler you are. Royal Caribbean is the world's biggest cruise line, and it has more ships than any other major line, including vessels in a wide range of sizes and with a wide range of amenities. While they all have a lot in common, they have some major differences, too, that make them more or less appealing to different types of travelers.

Some Royal Caribbean ships — such as the line's Oasis-class vessels and recently launched Icon of the Seas — are built with far more family-focused activities than others. Some, such as the two-year-old Wonder of the Seas, have added features that appeal to luxury-loving travelers. Other Royal Caribbean ships operate on particularly low-cost itineraries that are best for budget travelers.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

In short, the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for you, if you're traveling with children, might not be the same as the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a solo traveler or the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for a retiree.

Here, we list our top picks for the best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for five different types of travelers.

Icon of the Seas: Best ship for families

The best Royal Caribbean ship for families, in the unanimous view of TPG's cruise editors, is a ship that just debuted earlier this year: Icon of the Seas.

Sailing since January 2024, Icon of the Seas is the biggest cruise ship in the world — more than 6% bigger than the next-biggest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. That means greater space for the family fun zones that are a hallmark of Royal Caribbean ships, from children's clubs to water parks.

But it's not just its larger size that makes Icon of the Seas the best Royal Caribbean ship for families. As TPG saw during an early sneak peek at Icon of the Seas in January, Royal Caribbean has designed the vessel — the first of a new class of ships — specifically to cater to families in a bigger way.

For starters, Icon of the Seas has an increased number of cabins that offer extra bunks to accommodate families with multiple children, including new room designs. Some family suites even feature separate rooms for the kids.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

Many of these family-friendly accommodations are near a new-for-the-line outdoor "neighborhood" called Surfside, which is dedicated to families with young children. Surfside features splash areas for babies and kids, pools and lounge spaces for parents, family-friendly eateries and shops, and a bar with "mommy and me" matching mocktails for kids and cocktails for grownups.

Icon of the Seas also features the largest water park ever built on a cruise ship, with a record six top-deck waterslides and a cool new ropes course. Your teens will never want to sail on another ship.

Related: The ultimate Icon of the Seas review and guide

Icon of the Seas is just the first of three family-focused sister ships Royal Caribbean has on order for delivery by 2026 that will make up its new Icon class. The second ship in the series, Star of the Seas, will debut in 2025 and already is open for bookings.

Wonder of the Seas: Best ship for luxury lovers

There's no doubt about it, Wonder of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to book if you're looking to live the high life (and are willing to spend big bucks to do so). Unveiled in 2022, the world's second biggest cruise ship (after Icon of the Seas) was the first Royal Caribbean vessel with a private suite complex for the fancy set — a swanky hideaway with an upscale private lounge, restaurant and sun deck (the new Icon of the Seas has one of these, too, but we still rank Wonder of the Seas as our top Royal Caribbean ship for luxury).

If you book a suite in the complex on Wonder of the Seas, you'll be getting a luxury experience of the sort you won't find almost anywhere else in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

Related: What's it like in Wonder's suite complex? We spent $11,000 to find out

Called the Suite Neighborhood, the complex offers some of the biggest (and priciest) suites at sea, including the sprawling, two-deck-high Royal Loft suites that measure more than 1,500 square feet.

A booking for one of the suites also comes with a bevy of perks, from complimentary Wi-Fi to private beach access at Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private beach destination in Haiti. Among the best perks: Access to private concierges who set up shop daily in the suite complex and will ensure you get prime seats at the ship's shows or a table at the always crowded Mason Jar eatery . On a ship that can carry more than 6,000 people, such reservations are a must.

Note the suite complex is a gated community — one where you'll only be surrounded by other swells who have paid top dollar for exclusivity. Nobody can get into the area unless they have a keycard showing they're a resident.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

With access to a stylish rooftop pool, loungers at the suite area's private sun deck and higher-level food in its private Coastal Kitchen eatery, you may never want to leave the enclave. However, this being Royal Caribbean, you'll also have access to a seemingly endless array of amusements from waterslides to aerial water shows just steps away.

Freedom of the Seas: Best ship for budget travelers

Freedom of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship to pick when you're looking for a quick and affordable getaway — something that isn't a big commitment and won't break the bank.

Based in Miami, the 16-year-old vessel operates short three- and four-night voyages to the Bahamas that are often on sale for just $250 per person or less. That's not per day, mind you, but for the entire cruise. It's a lot more affordable per day than the two ships mentioned above, which are the belles of the ball in the Royal Caribbean fleet and command significantly higher rates.

For would-be Royal Caribbean cruisers, Freedom of the Seas serves as a sort of "test the line" ship. Its short sailings and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't have the time of your life. It caters heavily to first-time cruisers as well as Florida locals who can book on short notice and drive into the port for a quick escape.

One of three ships in the line's Freedom class that date to the mid-2000s, Freedom of the Seas is no longer the creme-de-la-creme of the Royal Caribbean fleet (though it was when it debuted). At around 156,000 tons, it's about 30% smaller than Royal Caribbean's newer Oasis-class ships and has fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces.

Related: The 7 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

That said, Freedom of the Seas still has a huge amount to offer for all sorts of travelers, from couples to families with kids. The ship was, notably, the first in the Royal Caribbean fleet to feature a FlowRider surfing simulator on its top deck — now a signature attraction for the line.

The vessel also has multiple pool areas, a water park, a miniature golf course and a rock climbing wall on its top deck. It also has one of Royal Caribbean's signature Royal Promenades in its interior — a mall-like space filled with eateries, bars and shops.

The only things you won't find are the most over-the-top Royal Caribbean attractions found on newer Royal Caribbean ships, such as zip lines, skydiving simulators and bumper car pavilions.

Quantum of the Seas: Best ship for solo travelers

Royal Caribbean isn't particularly known as a major draw for solo travelers. In recent years, it's doubled down on the family market more than ever. That doesn't mean that solos aren't welcome on its ships or won't have a great time.

If you're looking for the best Royal Caribbean ship for solo travelers, you'll want to start with Quantum of the Seas and its Quantum-class sisters. It's the class of ships where Royal Caribbean made the most effort to appeal to solo travelers.

In designing the vessels, Royal Caribbean took a page from solo-targeting Norwegian Cruise Line 's playbook and added several cabins specifically for solos. Quantum of the Seas offers 28 of these dedicated studio cabins, each measuring from 101 to 119 square feet.

What's more, unlike Norwegian's solo digs, some of these cabins are ocean-view rooms with balconies. Others have a virtual balcony that, at first glance, looks like a veranda but is actually a digital screen projecting a real-time view of the outside. (It may sound corny, but it works.)

Related: The best cruise ships for solo travelers

While the solo cabins on the Quantum-class ships don't come with a dedicated solo lounge as they do on Norwegian ships, solo travelers will find Royal Caribbean-hosted meetups for solo travelers on the vessels. It's a great way for single travelers to find others in the same boat, so to speak.

There's also quite a bar scene on Quantum-class ships, with a lot of counter-style seating in bars that are a great place to find other solo travelers. We recommend one of the two large bars at the Music Hall, where you can make new friends while sipping musically inspired cocktails and listening to live bands. If the Music Hall is too noisy for chatting up other solos, head to the sometimes quieter Schooner Bar.

In addition, Quantum of the Seas ships is particularly known for its unusual range of activities, from skydiving simulators to bumper cars that you can enjoy just fine as a solo traveler.

Rhapsody of the Seas: Best ship for retirees

For older travelers looking for a Royal Caribbean ship that isn't jammed full of children, it's hard to beat Rhapsody of the Seas.

Dating to 1997, Rhapsody of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks nearly all the gee-whiz attractions for families found on newer Royal Caribbean ships. You won't find big water parks, kiddie splash zones, zip lines or bumper car pavilions on this ship.

For the most part, its top deck only offers pools, whirlpools and sunning areas, as is typical for ships built in the 1990s. As a result, it draws far fewer families than the vessels above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Rhapsody of the Seas is also the ship that Royal Caribbean deploys on some of its most destination-focused itineraries, the type that have particular appeal to retirees looking to see more of the world.

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Over the next two years, for instance, Rhapsody of the Seas is sailing out of such less-common home ports as Colon, Panama; Cartagena, Colombia; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The sailings out of Colon and Cartagena offer the chance to visit Southern Caribbean ports such as Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao that aren't on most Royal Caribbean itineraries in the Caribbean. The sailings out of San Juan will also get you into the Southern Caribbean, while the sailings out of Israel and Cyprus offer a destination-heavy tour through the Eastern Mediterranean, including stops at multiple Greek islands.

At 78,808 tons, Rhapsody of the Seas is a third the size of the biggest Royal Caribbean ships. Expect a more intimate experience than what you'll find on the bustling Icon-class, Oasis-class, Quantum-class and Freedom-class ships mentioned above.

The vessel is one of four in the line's Vision class, featuring ships much smaller than the typical Royal Caribbean vessel. With this class, the experience has more to do with the ports the ships visit than the onboard experience.

Bottom line

Royal Caribbean is the world's largest cruise line, with a large fleet of ships that cater to a wide range of traveler types.

While its biggest focus of late has been on the family market, it has ships that will appeal to luxury travelers, budget travelers, solo travelers and retirees as well.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Find the best royal caribbean cruise, why should i book a royal caribbean cruise.

If you're looking for an unforgettable vacation, Royal Caribbean cruises are a perfect choice. Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines in the industry, with a successful history of providing excellent service and luxurious experiences. The Royal Caribbean cruise vacations take you to some of the world's most beautiful and fascinating destinations. They’re sure to have features to please everyone in your group.

How to find the best Royal Caribbean cruise deals?

There are many different Royal Caribbean cruise deals to choose from depending on your destination and the experiences you would most like to enjoy. These deals let you include additional features for a lower price to make your vacation even more comfortable. You can find the best deals by searching for your destinations, and filtering by your desired cruise lines. This way only the companies you wish to travel with will appear. You can also sort your results by price and length of time.

How to choose your cruise with Royal Caribbean?

If you want to book aRoyal Caribbean cruise there are plenty of amazing Royal Caribbean cruise deals available. Add your destination, cruise vacation, and number of travelers. Then you can sort your results by price, duration, and departure date. You can also filter by cruise line, cruise ship and cabin type. You’ll find different amenities to suit your vacation needs on each Royal Caribbean cruise. For example, youth programs, fitness facilities, and spa facilities.

What do I need to look out for when booking a Royal Caribbean cruise?

When booking your 2025 Royal Caribbean cruise it’s important to consider a few practical tips. Check what the cost covers, and what you may need to budget for or need insurance for. Think about any amenities or onboard service you’ll require, depending on the length of the Royal Caribbean cruise. For example, youth programs, entertainment, fitness facilities, spa facilities, and room service. Secondly, research the weather conditions for your journey and destination. In some locations, summer and winter weather can vary a lot. Another tip is to go over the ship layout to see where you’d like to pick a cabin. Don’t forget to check visa requirements and any flight logistics.

When is the best time to book a Royal Caribbean cruise?

You can book a Royal Caribbean cruise as early as you like depending on availability. There’s a higher chance of finding cheaper Royal Caribbean cruise prices by booking between 6 months to 12 months in advance. But there are also lots of last-minute cruise deals closer to your preferred departure date, but this will depend on your flexibility.

Are last minute deals available with Royal Caribbean?

Yes, you can find last-minute Royal Caribbean cruises on Expedia. Add your travel dates to the cruise finder and sort your results to find the best price available. Cruise deal discounts are indicated by a green box above the Royal Caribbean cruise price.

How do I book a cruise with Royal Caribbean?

To book a Royal Caribbean cruise on Expedia select your Royal Caribbean destination and filter by cruise line. You can also browse our extensive selection of pre-selected cruise deals and find the perfect cruise for you. Once you have found the one you want, choose your dates and the port of departure. You can also refine your search by cabin experiences, or cruise ship. Each ship will have amenities to suit your needs including room service, spa facilities, and fitness facilities.

Is Royal Caribbean great value for money?

Royal Caribbean cruises are excellent value for money if you're looking for an enjoyable and relaxing cruise vacations. A Royal Caribbean cruise offers a high standard of service, a great selection of dining, modern amenities, friendly staff, and exciting activities. The exceptional quality of the experience is worth the price.

Can I cancel a Royal Caribbean cruise booking?

Yes, you can cancel your Royal Caribbean cruise. We all have unfortunate circumstances where we need to cancel a booking, so Expedia makes it easy to do so. All you have to do is head to your My Trips page on Expedia and click on the cancellation button. Another option is to contact customer service, where you’ll receive help with cancelling. Do make sure that you’re aware of the refund policy that applied to your booking, to see if you’re entitled to a full refund.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Guide

In the last 10 years, Royal has delivered the biggest and most modern ships in the market. From rock-climbing walls, crazy water slides and infinite food selection, Royal Caribbean continues to deliver a vacation of a lifetime.

Stemming from the idea that everybody should cruise, Royal offers cruise activities such as the Flowrider – Surf simulator and Zip-lining for active vacationers, as well as the adults-only Solarium for those who simply want to relax and unwind.

In 2019, Royal Caribbean revamped their private Island, presenting “Perfect Day at CocoCay” as a new port of call in many of their Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. This hidden island features an overwhelming number of activities such as the Daredevil’s Tower Aqua Park, Splash Summit, the Wave Pool and more!

The line also holds the distinction of debuting the Central Park and the Royal Promenade neighborhoods, two distinct areas found in many Royal ships, where guests can find many eateries, shops, bars and live entertainment throughout the day.

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Royal Caribbean Articles

HOW TO SPEND THE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Heather McManus - May 2, 2019

Royal Caribbean has taken the private island experience to the next level. Check out all the amplified awesomeness that make this private island a must see port of call.

View Article

YOUR GUIDE TO WHEN CRUISES WILL RESUME SAILING

Expedia - April 16, 2021

Cruise lines continue to adapt their sailing plans to these measures with diligence and enthusiasm and are beginning to announce sailings dates for a return to the sea. Want to be prepared to sail too? Here is everything you need to know about the restart of cruising.

4 REASONS ROYAL CARIBBEAN MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU

Heather Mcmanus - February 2, 2020

The megaship vacation style isn’t necessarily for everyone, but if you’re considering hopping onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s 26 ships, here are four reasons this cruise line could be the right fit for you.

Royal Caribbean Ships

• Anthem of the Seas
• Empress of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Jewel of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Serenade of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Adventure of the Seas
• Radiance of the Seas
• Grandeur of the Seas
• Voyager of the Seas
• Vision of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Rhapsody of the Seas
• Enchantment of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas

More Cruise Lines to Explore

• AmaWaterways
• Avalon Waterways
• Azamara Club Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruise Lines
• Crystal Cruises
• Cunard Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Lines
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Uniworld River Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Viking River Cruises

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Odyssey of the Seas

Launched in July 2021, the Odyssey of the Seas holds 5,498 passengers and 1,550 crew members. Royal Caribbean's latest ship is the first Quantum Ultra Class vessel to sail in the United States. As a member of this class, Odyssey of the Seas offers standout amenities like RipCord by iFLY, billed as the only skydiving simulator available at sea, and the FlowRider, a 40-foot-long surf simulator. There is also the North Star observation capsule, which hoists guests 300 feet above sea level over the cruise ship to enjoy unparalleled views below. 

In addition to these thrilling activities, the ship comes equipped with standard facilities like pools, an arcade, a spa, a fitness center with classes, kids clubs and shopping venues. There are also 15 dining options, ranging from Japanese fare to all-you-can-eat buffets to Starbucks. For drinks, the ship offers nine bars and lounges, giving passengers plenty of places to enjoy libations. Entertainment options include theatrical performances, live music, a casino, outdoor movie nights and more. 

As far as cabins go, cruisers can choose between Interior, Ocean View, and Balcony staterooms, as well as suite accommodations and new Virtual Balcony rooms. These technologically advanced cabins feature floor-to-ceiling displays that project real-time views of the sights and sounds from the outside of the ship. 

Odyssey of the Seas sails to ports in Europe, as well as to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

Symphony of the Seas

The 6,680-passenger, 2,200-crew-member Symphony of the Seas set sail in 2018 and features 18 decks packed with activities.

For heart-pounding fun, travelers will find a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line and a 10-story slide. Meanwhile, relaxation seekers can unwind in the spa, sip cocktails made by robotic bartenders or stroll through the Central Park -inspired neighborhood.

Onboard snacks and meals are served at 20 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The Main Dining Room is where the ship's traditional, complimentary dinners are provided nightly, but specialty options like a steakhouse, a bistro and a Johnny Rockets outpost are also available. What's more, cruisers can dine at Jamie's Italian, a restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

After filling up on gourmet fare, passengers can retreat to their cabins, all of which include work desks, flat-screen TVs and minibars. Guests can choose from 149-square-foot Interior Staterooms, some of which have virtual balconies with real-time views of the ocean, or opt for upgraded cabins with furnished balconies and up to 1,524 square feet of space. Select suites also feature two bedrooms, whirlpool tubs and dining rooms.

Symphony of the Seas departs from Cape Liberty, New Jersey, Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Rome and Barcelona for sailings throughout the Caribbean and Europe.

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re on one of the 19 Royal Caribbean ships that have a FlowRider, like Symphony of the Seas (which has two!), reserve a private lesson with a pro. For a small fee, you'll save yourself some embarrassment and get more ride time. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas, which embarked on its maiden voyage in March 2022, holds 7,084 passengers and 2,204 crew members. The ship measures 1,188 feet long and 215 feet wide, and it weighs 235,600 gross tons. It surpasses its sister ship, Symphony of the Seas , as one of the largest cruise ships in the world.  

Guests can enjoy plenty of thrill activities on board, such as the Ultimate Abyss – a 10-story dark tunnel slide – or the 40-foot-long FlowRider surf stimulator. The ship also offers a fitness center, shopping venues, rock climbing, a carousel and clubs for kids and teens. When it's time to dine, cruisers have the option of 21 dining venues ranging from Italian fare to Southern cuisine. Travelers can also indulge in a few cocktails at 14 bars and lounges.

Accommodations include Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite staterooms. If you're looking for something more spacious, check out the ship's all-new Suite Neighborhood. Located on the upper decks, these suites offer guests ample private quarters to recharge during the cruise. Amenities included in the exclusive suites include priority boarding, a members-only dining facility and a dedicated check-in line. For families, the new neighborhood may be of particular interest because it features the Ultimate Family Suite. The family suite offers two floors of space with stunning ocean views, in-suite movies and video games and a kids slide between the floors.  

Wonder of the Seas sails from Orlando , Florida, to ports in the Caribbean.

Allure of the Seas

The 6,826-passenger Allure of the Seas, unveiled in 2010, is among the largest cruise ships in the world. There are a whopping 2,054 crew members on board to cater to passengers' needs. Along with signature line amenities like rock climbing walls and ice skating rinks, the ship houses seven unique neighborhoods with a variety of activities, shows and dining options. The ship underwent a $165 million refurbishment in 2020, which added approximately 50 new staterooms, the Ultimate Abyss (the tallest slide at sea), redesigned kids and teens spaces, new dining venues and more.

Other standout features include a zip line that descends 10 decks, two surf simulators and a science lab. Plus, with 19 dining options – and a Starbucks at sea – every member of the family will be satisfied.

In terms of lodging, about 65% of cabins feature balconies, and all staterooms are appointed with TVs and minifridges. Interior staterooms are the most economical option, but those who splurge on Suites are granted larger balconies and concierge service. Crowd-free areas might be difficult to find due to the outrageous capacity of the ship, but some recent cruisers praise the nonstop activity and entertainment. 

Allure of the Seas departs from Miami, Orlando, Florida, and Galveston , Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean.

Harmony of the Seas

Welcoming up to 6,687 passengers and 2,200 crew members, Harmony of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016 and tuned up in 2021, the ship features Royal Caribbean staples like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, as well as innovative amenities like the Ultimate Abyss (a 10-story slide) and three multistory waterslides. Plus, while younger passengers play in the arcade or at age-appropriate clubs, adults can relax at the spa or sip cocktails at multiple bars and lounges.

After working up an appetite, guests can choose from 20 dining options. Past cruisers especially praised the multitude of specialty restaurants, which range from Mexican to Japanese fare and require reservations and an additional fee.

When it comes to lodging, Harmony of the Seas offers a wide variety of cabin categories, with more than 70% of cabins featuring balconies. While Interior staterooms are the most economical choice, those looking for a little more space and luxury should consider upgrading to a Suite, which range from Junior Suites to four-bedroom Villa Suites. While all cabins offer flat-screen TVs and minibars, suites include access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck.

Harmony of the Seas sails from Miami and Galveston, Texas , to destinations throughout the Caribbean.

Mariner of the Seas

Introduced in 2003 and overhauled in mid-2018, Mariner of the Seas features passenger favorites like the Escape Room, the Izumi Japanese restaurant and a surf simulator. During the ship's refurbishment, Royal Caribbean also added 100 new staterooms, updated cabins and public spaces and added fan-favorite restaurant Jamie's Italian by chef Jamie Oliver.

Though the 4,000-passenger ship features a 1-to-3 crew-to-passenger ratio, recent cruisers said the vessel still maintains a high level of customer service. When it comes to dining, the ship offers 11 venues, including a multilevel main dining room. The ship's 10 bars and lounges and onboard entertainment, which includes Broadway-style shows, earn a consistent nod of approval from past cruisers. Kids have plenty of age-appropriate entertainment, too, including youth programs and teen lounges. Mariner of the Seas touts three pools and six whirlpools. These areas of the ship attract a high concentration of children.

Past travelers were generally complimentary of the staterooms. Similar to its sister ships, Mariner of the Seas offers four stateroom categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. All staterooms include flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi accessibility. 

Mariner of the Seas departs from  Orlando , Florida, and Galveston, Texas, for sailings in the Caribbean, Bermuda and the  Bahamas .

Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas (first launched in 2001) underwent an extensive renovation in January 2018. It boasts modern amenities like an outdoor movie screen and Wi-Fi (for an extra fee). Other highlights include an ice skating rink, a surf simulator and a rock climbing wall. 

There are seven dining venues across the ship, the newest of which is the Izumi Japanese specialty restaurant. While adults can relax at the ship's nine bars and lounges, youngsters can mix and mingle at age-appropriate youth clubs and a teens-only disco. Among other onboard amenities, Adventure of the Seas features an abundance of pools and whirlpools, including an indoor/outdoor pool and lounge area exclusive to adults called the Solarium.

When it comes to lodging, recent cruisers found staterooms to be comfortable and spacious. Cabins come in four categories – Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite – and about 60% offer ocean views. The ship's 2018 revamp brought with it new Interior and Ocean View staterooms, as well as a new Suite Lounge. While it may be difficult to find quiet spaces on the 3,807-passenger ship, recent guests were still complimentary of the service on board and the 1-to-3 crew-to-guest ratio. 

Adventure of the Seas sails to various destinations in the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale , Florida and Orlando , Florida. The ship also completes transatlantic voyages.

Oasis of the Seas

The 6,771-passenger Oasis of the Seas saw an extensive refurbishment in late 2019, unveiling the line's first dedicated karaoke venue, a live music space with a large dance floor, brand-new dining options (including a barbecue restaurant), three waterslides, new bars and more. 

While this ship is not for those seeking secluded spaces, most cruisers say the seven distinct onboard neighborhoods make up for that. The behemoth ship features designer boutiques and larger staterooms than other ships in the fleet.

Like other Royal Caribbean vessels, Oasis of the Seas offers four cabin categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior rooms average about 150 square feet, while Suite category cabins can span anywhere from 287 to 1,524 square feet and include added amenities like Jacuzzis and expansive balconies.

While recent cruisers were impressed with the ship's abundant amenities, they noted that with 2,109 crew members, there aren't many tailored onboard experiences – especially when the ship is filled to capacity. Oasis of the Seas caters to those looking for nonstop onboard action.

Oasis of the Seas sails from Miami , Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Barcelona and Rome to destinations in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Europe and the Mediterranean. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Oasis-class ships, stop at Vitality Café for protein shakes and fresh juices. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Vision of the Seas

Most recently updated in late 2018 (with the exception of routine maintenance in 2022), the 2,514-passenger, 742-crew-member Vision of the Seas offers Royal Caribbean staples like diverse dining venues and nonstop entertainment. Past cruisers especially praise the ship's appealing decor and the Solarium, an adults-only pool and lounge area. 

In terms of food, travelers can choose from the main dining room, the buffet and several casual eateries. Cruisers recommend springing for a meal at the ship's specialty restaurants, which range from the Chops Grille steakhouse to the Izumi Asian venue. Food in the main dining room received mixed reviews, but travelers praised the service around the ship.

When it comes to daytime activities, guests can try rock climbing, swim in the pools (which can become crowded) or play games in the casino. There are also sushi- and cupcake-making classes available.

In terms of lodging, Vision of the Seas touts four staterooms categories: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite. Interior cabins range from 136 to 252 square feet, while Suites on the opposite end of the spectrum range from 243 to 1,140 square feet. Opt for a balcony-equipped Suite and you'll enjoy cushier extras like whirlpool bathtubs. All cabins include amenities like flat-screen TVs and vanity areas. 

Vision of the Seas departs from Baltimore for itineraries in the Caribbean, New England and Canada.

Anthem of the Seas

Debuted in 2015, Anthem of the Seas offers impressive amenities like the first at-sea skydiving simulator and a 360-degree observation pod that allows cruisers to dangle 300 feet above the sea.

Staterooms also boasts innovative features, including family-friendly adjoining cabins and Interior rooms outfitted with "virtual balconies" that show real-time views of the ship's location. All cabin categories (Interior, Ocean View, Balcony and Suite) include flat-screen TVs and minifridges.

Guests won't need to spend much time in their cabins, though. The ship offers a multitude of activities, ranging from daytime spa treatments, rock climbing and bumper cars to nightly shows and casino games. When it's time to eat, travelers can choose from 14 dining venues, including six signature restaurants for an extra fee. Guests praised the new technology on board, including smart wristbands that eliminate the need for room keys.

With a capacity of 4,905 guests and 1,500 crew members, Anthem of the Seas passengers can expect crowded common areas during peak times. 

Anthem of the Seas departs from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Cape Liberty, New Jersey,  Singapore and Southampton, England, for sailings in the Bahamas , the Caribbean, Asia and Europe. The ship also offers transatlantic voyages.

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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17 Royal Caribbean Cruise Tips for First-time Passengers, According to Experts

Here's how to maximize your Royal Caribbean cruise, whether it's your first or fifth time on board.

Elizabeth Heath is a writer and editor living on a hill in Umbria, from where she writes about travel in Italy, the rest of Europe, and farther afield.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruise

If you’re shopping for a traditional cruise, chances are you’ll consider Royal Caribbean. The household name among big-ship cruise lines is the second-largest carrier on the seas (after Carnival). It has 27 ships in its fleet, including the new Icon of the Seas , the world’s largest cruise ship, with room for 7,600 passengers. Another four mega-ships are under construction. Even Royal Caribbean’s smallest vessels hold more than 2,400 passengers, so by any definition, they’re big.

If you’ve never sailed with Royal Caribbean, it can take a while to learn the ropes — nautical reference intended. And since your vacation time is precious, we asked some cruise line experts how to make the most of your first voyage. Here are their tips and tricks for first-time Royal Caribbean guests.

Don't wait to book.

It’s a piece of advice that goes for most cruise lines. Matt Hochberg of Royal Caribbean Blog , a fan and information site that's not affiliated with the company, says to book your Royal Caribbean cruise “as early as possible — as in now. It’s not like airfare where you can wait on the chance that prices will go down. Cruise prices stay where they are and only go up, and right now, demand is as high as it’s ever been. Your best bet is to book as early as you can, like 12 to 24 months out, to lock in the lowest price.”

Make show reservations in advance, too.

“Would you show up in New York for a theater weekend and simply cross your fingers and hope you get tickets to the shows you want?” asks Rob Clabbers, a Travel + Leisure A-List advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel . The answer is probably not, so use the "Manage My Cruise" feature on the Royal Caribbean website and book the shows you don’t want to miss. “You’re more likely to get the reservations you want and you’ll avoid having to scramble for seats or stand in line on your first day on board,” he adds.

Study the ship layout before your cruise.

If you’re like me, the anticipation of a cruise is half the fun. Use the weeks and months before your sailing to study deck plans and hone in on your favorite amenities. The largest Royal Caribbean ships are like small cities — the Icon and Oasis class ships even have their own neighborhoods. If you already have your bearings before embarking, you’ll waste less time riding the wrong elevator or wandering the wrong deck when trying to get to your destination — or back to your stateroom.

Get a jump on online check-in.

As soon as you book, access the "Manage My Cruise" portal on the Royal Caribbean website (the Royal Caribbean app has some of the same features). Then, as soon as online check-in opens, get right on it so you can secure the earliest possible window. “It makes the cruise terminal experience way faster,” says Hochberg. “About 30 days in advance, they’ll give you a check-in window. Arrive right around that time and you’ll breeze through — you don’t even stop moving.”

Opt for a drinks package.

You won’t go thirsty on a Royal Caribbean cruise, but free drinks are limited to standard coffee and tea, tap water, hot chocolate, milk, and a few other basics. Everything else costs extra — often a lot extra. “Even if you don’t drink alcohol, it may be worth checking out the options in advance, if you’re into premium coffees, sodas, juices, or bottled waters," says Clabbers. “Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions on the ‘Manage My Cruise’ [portal] that may save you money on certain beverage packages.”

Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on.

“Royal Caribbean ships have so many great pools and water features,” says Hochberg. And they get really crowded. Get ahead of the other passengers by packing a swimsuit in your daypack or carry-on. You can enjoy the pools, water parks, or the popular FlowRider surf simulator while you wait — often several hours — to access your cabin. “Embarkation day is one of the best times to go to the pools,” Hochberg adds. If you’re traveling with kids, you'll be glad you stashed those suits in your bag.

Splurge on a suite.

“Royal Caribbean ships can feel large and busy, so maybe you want to upgrade to a suite,” says Clabbers. Most suites start at around 300 square feet and go up from there — both in dimensions and price. You can expect to pay about twice as much for a suite, but the additional space may offer a welcome break from all the hubbub on board. Clabbers adds, “Depending on the category and ship you choose, you may enjoy suite-only restaurants and lounges, VIP treatment and embarkation, and even Royal Genie butler service.”

Asses how much drinking you’ll really do.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package — the only one that includes alcohol — follows a dynamic pricing model between $56 and $105 per day, per person, with prices varying depending on the ship, itinerary, and other factors. Alcoholic and soft drinks are expensive on board, but you still have to indulge a lot to make the package worth the investment. If you’re not sure how much you'll drink (and don’t want to feel obligated to do so simply because you’ve paid for a package), consider going a la carte for the first few days of your cruise. You can always add a drinks package later, as long as you still have at least four days left on your sailing.

Find your place in the sun.

If you want a poolside lounge chair, you'll have to arrive by 10 a.m. at the latest on most Royal Caribbean ships, according to Hochberg. “People who sleep in and roll up at noon are not getting a chair by the pool,” he says. That said, the ships do have plenty of outdoor space, even if it’s not right by a pool. “If you just want to be outside, there are other chairs. Walk to the front or back of the ship. The further away you are from the pool, the more chairs you’ll find,” he adds, noting the promenade deck on any Royal Caribbean ship is always a great spot to read.

Consider a balcony cabin.

Like most cruise lines, Royal Caribbean is adding more balcony cabins and suites on its ships, and that’s, of course, due to customer demand. “Balconies are the most popular option,” says Hochberg. Though they cost more than an interior or non-balcony room, they’re still reasonably priced compared to suites. Hochberg adds, “They offer more space and fresh air, and if you do get seasick, the view and fresh air help.”

Choose an older ship.

If your vacation is more about the destination than the journey, you should consider an older, smaller Royal Caribbean ship, especially given the demand for their newer Oasis and Icon vessels. Radiance and Vision classes are among the oldest and smallest in the fleet, but still offer plenty of big-ship amenities without the “city at sea” feel. Hochberg calls these ships “much more manageable,” to the point that you probably don’t even need to make show or specialty dining reservations in advance — though you might still want to book once you’re on board.

Look for no-kid zones.

Royal Caribbean is a family-friendly cruise line — there are a slew of facilities and programs made just for kids. But if you prefer a more adult experience, Royal Caribbean offers options. “Certain areas are adults-only, such as the casino and nightclubs,” says Hochberg. While bars and lounges technically allow children to enter, he says it’s rare to see kids in these areas in the evening. Later dinner seatings also mean fewer young kids. Almost every ship in the fleet offers the Solarium, an adults-only section with a pool and whirlpool, a sundeck, and a bar. On the brand’s private Caribbean island playground, Perfect Day at CocoCay , Hideaway Beach is the adults-only pool and beach, though entrance is for a fee. Hochberg also says that “on longer sailings — those past seven nights — the amount of kids drops precipitously.”

If you can’t snag a show reservation, try walking in.

Because booked passengers scoop up show reservations as soon as they’re offered online, you may not get your first choice when it comes to the many show offerings, which include ice-skating performances, aqua theater, and Broadway-quality productions. But don’t give up, says Hochberg. “Show up at least 30 minutes before the show, even if it's sold out,” he says. “You’ll almost certainly be able to get in, as people blow off their [advance] reservations.”

Cost out The Key program.

Clabbers says Royal Caribbean cruisers should look into The Key program , the paid upgrade that’s akin to the Genie+ service at Disney theme parks. “It provides priority boarding access, a welcome lunch, high-speed internet access, fast lane access to onboard activities, private time at the FlowRider surf simulator, dedicated theater seats at shows, and other niceties.” Prices fluctuate, though, so before you purchase, compare the cost of The Key versus that of Royal Caribbean’s Voom Surf & Stream internet package. If there’s not much difference in cost (remember, it’s per user, per day), The Key benefits are worth springing on. However, if there’s a big price difference — or you want to disconnect during your cruise — you can skip The Key.

Look into third-party excursions.

Shore excursions must also be reserved in advance, and depending on when you book, you might not get your first choice of activity or time slot. But that doesn’t mean you have to stay on board or near the port all day. “Of course, Royal Caribbean offers shore excursions wherever they go,” says Clabbers. “But if you like more options and potentially smaller groups or lower fares, take a look at excursions offered by third-party providers.” Clabbers likes Shore Excursions Group and Project Expedition . “If you prefer private [excursions], Context Travel offers cultural and historical tours and activities in cities around the world.”

BYOB — to a point.

Perhaps you don’t want to buy a beverage package, but you’d like to have a glass of wine or two during your cruise. Royal Caribbean lets you bring one 750-milliliter bottle of wine per cabin guest, per cruise, and for many light drinkers, that’s plenty. Don’t try and bring more than this, and don’t put it in your checked luggage — it will be confiscated and returned at the end of your journey, as will any alcohol you buy in ports of call. You can also bring up to 12 containers (bottles, cans, or cartons) with up to 17 ounces each of soft drinks per stateroom. If you bring your bottle of wine to a restaurant or other public area, you’ll be charged a corkage fee.

Skip the transatlantic cruise if you're a first-timer.

Transatlantic repositioning cruises are not ideal for first-time Royal Caribbean passengers, according to Hochberg. “Transatlantic cruises are like a fine wine. Once you’re more acclimated and know you like the shipboard experience, they offer great value priced per night,” he says. But you don’t want to get on board and find that you don’t like the brand, or worse, don’t like cruising. “They are long cruises with lots of sea days, and are very susceptible to the weather.”

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6 Tips For Cruise Room Upgrades

By Donna Heiderstadt | Published on May 21, 2024

Everyone loves an upgrade — and they're especially memorable if you booked an inside-stateroom but dream of balcony views or suite indulgences. The good news: Scoring cruise room upgrades is simpler than you think.

Royal Caribbean offers several ways to earn stateroom upgrades. You can also use loyalty points accrued from previous sailings or apply credit card points to offset part of your cruise fare. Other tactics for scoring cruise room upgrades require a bit of a gamble, including a program called Royal Up.

To take advantage of potential upgrades, the best strategy is to book the least-expensive stateroom you'll be content with during your cruise and then plot your way to a next-level upgrade — from an inside to an ocean-view stateroom or an ocean-view to a balcony stateroom, for example. With continued loyalty and a bit of savvy planning, you might even be able to upgrade from a balcony stateroom to an exciting suite. Read on for everything you need to know about upgrades before your next sailing.

1. Bid For An Upgrade With Royal Up

There's nothing to lose and a lot to gain with Royal Up , Royal Caribbean's bid-based stateroom upgrade program. Once you've booked your room on any Royal Caribbean sailing, you can see if your cruise is Royal Up eligible. If so, you'll be able to bid for an upgrade to a higher category — everything from ocean-view and balcony cruise staterooms to spacious cruise suites.

The process is simple and straightforward. At some point after you've booked, you'll be invited to browse all available stateroom categories and select a dollar amount you're willing to pay for an upgrade. There will be a minimum bid listed, but it's advantageous to make an offer that's a bit higher than the minimum. You can also bid on multiple staterooms, which increases your chances of getting upgraded. Don't worry: You'll only pay for the one upgrade you are offered.

After placing your bids, watch for an email from Royal Caribbean notifying you that a bid has been accepted. This can happen anytime up to two days before your sailing. You can't reject the upgrade, and you'll be charged immediately for the amount you bid. If your bid isn't accepted, however, you'll keep the stateroom you originally booked and you won't be charged anything extra.

Every Royal Up bid is priced per person based on two people occupying a stateroom. The good news for families or groups of friends sailing in the same stateroom: You'll only be charged extra for the first and second guest, even if you have third, fourth or fifth guests staying with you. That makes cruise room upgrades for the entire family — or a cabin full of your besties — that much sweeter.

2. Book Your Cruise During A Free Upgrade Promotion

During certain times of the year, especially the cruise industry's annual "wave season" from January to March and the early fall shoulder season, you might see free balcony upgrade promotions online or in your email inbox. With these deals on select sailings, you can snag a balcony stateroom for the same fare as an ocean-view stateroom or even an inside stateroom. Extra tip: Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor® Society members get notified first, so make sure to join if you haven't already.

3. Gamble On A Guaranteed Stateroom

When you make what's known as a guarantee (GTY) booking with Royal Caribbean, you'll get the lowest price and be guaranteed a room within the category you booked, whether that's interior, ocean-view, balcony or suite. There's even a chance, depending on which categories of cruise staterooms sell out, that you could be bumped to the next category or even higher. It's a gamble though because you don't get to choose your stateroom location and won't know its location until close to your sail date or even until check-in. But if you're a risk-taker or don't particularly care where you sleep, you could find yourself enjoying an unexpected free upgrade. So long, ocean-view and hello, balcony stateroom!

4. Consider Using Crown & Anchor® Points

By cruising often with Royal Caribbean and accruing points with its Crown & Anchor® Society loyalty program , you become eligible for discounts on balcony and suite accommodations; depending on the cruise's length and price, this can be equal to a free upgrade. Discounts begin at the second-level status of Platinum, which is achieved when you earn 30 points, the equivalent of 30 nights in a cabin or 15 nights in a suite. The discounts increase in value with every subsequent level reached. If you book a cruise that's more than six months out, the discount will be greater.

The ultimate score when it comes to upgrades is a free cruise. Crown & Anchor members will receive a Milestone Cruise Certificate for a free sailing for two people in a balcony stateroom when they reach the top-tier status of Pinnacle Club (700 points). A complimentary sailing for two in a junior suite is available at 1,400 points — and then every 350 points thereafter.

5. Use Credit Card Points To Upgrade

Using credit card points to pay for an upgrade is also a smart strategy. Depending on your specific credit cards, you might be able to use points to pay for a portion of your cruise fare. For example, if you see an inside stateroom fare for $800 per person and a balcony fare for $1,100 per person, you might be able to book the balcony by using points to pay for the $600 fare difference for two people, thus earning a free upgrade. If you are a Royal Caribbean loyalist, having the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature Card  (with no annual fee) can earn you a sea of rewards — including a fast track to cruise room upgrades.

6. Track When Prices Drop

If you book a Royal Caribbean cruise and reserve an inside or ocean-view stateroom because a balcony is priced several hundred dollars higher, make it a point to track stateroom prices on royalcaribbean.com  regularly. You'll need to do this before your voyage's final payment and cancellation date, which is 75 or 90 days before departure, depending on cruise length. If you find a lower price for a balcony, request an upgrade by calling Royal Caribbean customer service or your travel adviser and asking to switch your booking to an available balcony.

To check out the latest Royal Caribbean cruises, visit royalcaribbean .com .

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Royal Princess ®

A welcoming ambience and innovative offerings create the perfect way to see the world.

Most Popular Cruise Ship

Cruise Critic

Inaugural Cruise:  June 16, 2013

Christener:  Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge

Guest Cabins:  1,780 total

Number of Decks:  19

Tonnage:  142,229

Length:  1,083 feet

Height:  217 feet

Your vacation – effortless. Personalized.

Make your vacation truly yours on a Princess MedallionClass® cruise that features next-level technology, now on all ships. Enjoy fast, reliable Wi-Fi, TrulyTouchless™ experiences, food and drinks delivered wherever you are and so much more.

Accommodations

From the moment you step aboard, we want you to feel welcomed and right at home. And with attentive service from a friendly crewmember that knows what hospitality means, you’ll find your Princess® ship truly is your home away from home.

Photos, floor plan diagrams, amenities, and furnishings represent typical arrangements and may vary by ship and stateroom.

• Reserve Collection
• Deluxe Balcony
• Wheelchair-Accessible

Most Luxurious Accommodations at Sea

Surrounding you with deluxe accommodations, a spacious Suite with balcony includes all the amenities of a Reserve Collection Mini-Suite^^, plus incredible premiums. Enjoy more living space, a sofa bed and separate seating areas, and wonderfully enhanced amenities that range from priority embarkation and disembarkation to a complimentary mini-bar setup in suite and so much more.

Includes all the fine amenities of a spacious Reserve Collection Mini-Suite plus:

• Approx. 440 to 1,500 sq. ft., including balcony
• Luxury balcony furniture including 2 loungers, 4 chairs, table and ottoman
• 2 floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Separate sitting area with sofa bed, chair and 2 tables
• One complimentary mini-bar setup and free daily bottled water
• Spacious closet
• Complimentary laundry and professional cleaning services
• Complimentary Specialty Dining Dinner on embarkation evening ^
• Priority specialty dining and shore excursion reservation
• Priority disembarkation at tender ports
• Comfortable queen or two twin beds ▲
• Refrigerator
• Two flat-panel televisions
• Private bathroom with tub and separate shower
• 100% cotton, high-thread count linens
• 24-hour room service †
• Desk with chair
• Hair dryer & fine bathroom amenities
• Digital security safe

▲ 3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. ^ Applicable on cruises six days or longer. Reservations can be made once onboard your ship. † Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply. ^^ Full suite guests enjoy a complimentary mini-bar setup and do not receive the 750ml bottle of wine.

Mini-Suite with Exclusive VIP Touches

A premium stateroom category featuring our best located Mini-Suite staterooms, as well as the great amenities found in all Mini-Suites — plus premier dining benefits and luxurious perks. Each night, enjoy Reserve Dining, an exclusive dining area featuring expedited seating with no wait, additional menu options, dedicated wait staff and tableside preparations. Other amenities include priority embarkation and disembarkation, a complimentary one-time wine set-up and so much more! ^

^Includes one 750 ml bottle of wine on embarkation day^^. ^^For mini-suite guests only: A one-time set-up for a 750ml bottle of wine on embarkation day. Full-suite guests enjoy a complimentary mini-bar setup and do not receive additional bottles of wine.

Standard Amenities :

• Approximately 323 sq. ft., including balcony
• Balcony with 2-4 chairs, table and ottoman
• Bathroom tub and massage shower head with upgraded amenities
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors
• Separate sitting area with sofa bed & coffee table
• Complimentary welcome glass of bubbly on embarkation day
• Luxury mattress topper and pillows

Upgraded Amenities & Services:

• The Princess Luxury Bed
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation at the beginning and end of your cruise
• One-time complimentary wine set-up ^
• Evening canapés, upon request
• Luxurious terry shawl bathrobes

Reserve Dining: *

• Exclusive area of the Main Dining Room
• Expedited seating with minimal to no wait
• Additional menu options
• Dedicated waitstaff
• Uniquely-styled décor (Premium table linens only)
• Table-side preparations

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. ^Includes one 750 ml bottle of wine on embarkation day. †Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply. *Open every evening for dinner. Open for breakfast and lunch on sea days.

Add an Element of Luxury to Your Stay

Choose a luxurious Mini-Suite with balcony which is substantially larger than a Balcony stateroom and receive a complimentary welcome glass of bubbly. Mini-Suites include a separate sitting area with sofa bed and two flat-panel televisions. For families or groups needing a little extra space, Mini-Suites offer an appealing and affordable option.

• Bathroom tub and massage shower head
• Hair dryer & bathroom amenities

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins. †Guests may call for room service delivery or order through OceanNow® in the Princess® Cruises app at any time of the day or night. Guests with the latest Princess Plus and Princess Premier packages enjoy OceanNow® and room service delivery with no charge. Otherwise, a one-time access fee of $14.99 USD per person per voyage will apply for OceanNow® delivery and a $5 USD room service fee will apply for each order placed by stateroom phone. Limitations, restrictions and conditions apply.

Spectacular Views from Your Room

Choose this enhanced version of a Balcony stateroom with more space and a comfortable sofa bed. Enjoy a larger balcony with more room to view the beautiful scenery as you sail from destination to destination and take in the ocean breeze for a wonderful and romantic evening or morning. 

• Approx. 233 to 279 sq. ft., including balcony
• Balcony with 2 chairs and table
• Flat-panel television
• Private bathroom with shower

Front Row Seat for Beautiful Scenery

This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a balcony and gives you more space than a standard stateroom. Enjoy your own private outdoor space with a table, two chairs, and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the ocean or a new city to explore. It’s also perfect to enjoy cocktails before dinner or a leisurely breakfast.

• Approx. 214 to 222 sq. ft., including balcony
• Refrigerator.

▲3rd/4th berths available in select cabins.

Our Most Affordable Option

These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. Our most affordable option, featuring two twin beds or a queen-size bed. Other amenities include a refrigerator, hair dryer, TV, closet and bathroom with shower.

• Approx. 158 to 162 sq ft.

For Guests with Limited Mobility

Princess offers a selection of staterooms that provide full wheelchair-turning space. In addition, these staterooms include a roll-in shower equipped with grab bars and a fold-down bench seat, an easy access closet and accessible writing desk.

Note: ADA accessible stateroom shown is on board Royal Princess®. Amenities and stateroom arrangements vary by ship. Certain stateroom categories may vary in size and configuration by ship. Call Princess for more information or send inquiries to the Access Office via email at  [email protected] .

Dining Options

Indulge your appetite whenever you wish on board Princess®. Every hour, our chefs are busy baking, grilling and sautéing great-tasting fare from scratch. Princess offers unparalleled inclusive dining options throughout the ship with a wide range of culinary delights to suit any palate, from endless buffet choice to gourmet pizza, frosty treats, decadent desserts and much more. 1

Dining Reservations

Dine when, how and where you like

With this new offering, you can customize every aspect of mealtime. Make reservations for the main dining room or specialty restaurants at your preferred time each day. Fit in a formal dinner before a show, or order food and drinks to your poolside perch with OceanNow®. The choice really is up to you.

A (seafood) fan favorite returns!

We’re bringing back the Crab Shack, a unique pop-up dining experience with everything from clam chowder and popcorn shrimp to a steamer pot (crab legs, shrimp, clams!). Look for this lunchtime sensation in the World Fresh Marketplace.

Exclusively available on Alaska voyages.

Nominal fee applies.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria

Hand-tossed pizza, hot out of the oven

Named for our former Master Chef, Alfredo Marzi and voted "Best Pizza at Sea" by  USA TODAY , this charming sit-down venue offers an enticing menu of freshly prepared individual-size pizzas along with beer and wines by the glass. The open kitchen design allows you to watch as the chefs create pizza by hand and serve them straight out of the oven.

Venues and menu items vary by ship and are subject to change.

Horizon Court

An ever-changing selection of favorites

Our World Fresh Marketplace menu is offered in Horizon Court. Enjoy an endless selection that changes throughout the day to satisfy the most discriminating palate. Indulge in a delightful array of worldwide cuisine, freshly baked breads and regional comfort foods, in a casual setting at breakfast, lunch or dinner. Enjoy fresh fruits, signature pastas and desserts galore along with your favorite beverages and customizable features like create-your-own salads and sandwiches.

Beverage charges apply. Venues and menu items vary by ship and are subject to change.

International Café

Sip and snack around the clock

Open 24-hours a day, the International Café located in the Piazza is the place for an ever-changing array of small bite meals, treats and gourmet beverages. Grab a freshly baked croissant to start your day, snack on pies and quiche or choose from a wide variety of salads and sandwiches at lunchtime, and indulge in decadent desserts in the evening. Coffee and tea fans will love the New Grounds Crafted Coffee menu featuring a variety of specialty espresso-based drinks made from a custom blend of coffee beans, as well as iced tea fusions.

Trident Grill

Traditional Southern BBQ, with Poolside Ease

In addition to the hot dogs, hamburgers and chicken sandwiches that passengers love at the Trident Grill, this poolside eatery transforms into a traditional smokehouse-style barbecue each evening, serving up hearty plates of jumbo chicken wings, Route 66 beef chili, Texas-style barbecue brisket, Kansas City Sweet & Smoky Pork Spare Ribs, and North Carolina Pulled Pork. Enjoy delicious southern flavors, poolside!

Specialty Dining

Dining on board a Princess® cruise ship is a joyful celebration and our specialty restaurants always deliver an extraordinary experience. They are among the best at sea – or anywhere. We serve dishes made with the freshest ingredients, and our menus reflect regional flavors from around the world. You'll find our specialty restaurants are the perfect place to celebrate any occasion. 1

• Chef's Table Lumiere
• Sabatini's℠ Italian Trattoria
• Crown Grill℠
• Vines Wine Bar
• Ocean Terrace
• Ultimate Balcony Dining

A Dazzling Dining Adventure

An extraordinary treat for both gastronomes and gourmet novices, the Chef’s Table Lumiere is a perfect culinary journey for any special occasion. Indulge in champagne and hors d’oeuvres, followed by an extravagant multi-course dinner created and hosted by the ship’s executive chef. Perfect for celebrating an anniversary or milestone, or just making your cruise vacation even more amazing.

Limited capacity, reservations required. Additional charge applies.

A Taste of Italy, Enjoyed in Luxury

Our Italian specialty restaurant has been voted one of the “Best Cruise Ship Specialty Restaurants” at sea by  USA TODAY . Savor Sabatini’s authentic offerings featuring signature pastas, Italian wines and an irresistible selection of delectable desserts, all celebrating our Italian culinary heritage.

Additional charges apply. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.

Timeless Steakhouse Traditions

With a rich wood décor and a theater-style kitchen, it’s no wonder Crown Grill was named among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses” by  USA TODAY . Featuring premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, this specialty restaurant offers an intimate dining experience in a classically elegant setting and an open kitchen where chefs prepare and cook to order top-quality cuts of beef, chops and seafood.

Additional charge applies.

A (Seafood) Fan Favorite Returns!

Wines from around the world.

Voted one of the “Best Wine Bars at Sea,” by  USA TODAY  and located in a charming corner of the Atrium, Vines boasts an extensive collection of wines, fine Champagne and sparkling wines and regional offerings for purchase. The menu also includes wine flights and a selection of unique wines by the glass. Gourmet delicacies, such as antipasti and tapas, are complimentary with any wine purchase.

Charges apply. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.

Celebrate Seafood

The Ocean Terrace seafood bar is ideal for those who love to feast on the bounty from the sea. This stylish bar offers an array of ocean treasures, including sushi and sashimi along with chilled sake, cocktails, and wine by the glass. A la carte pricing makes it easy to pick and choose.

Additional charge applies. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.

A Private Breakfast with a View

A luxurious breakfast experience at sea all served right on the privacy of your own balcony by our dedicated waitstaff. Treat yourself to this unparalleled indulgence and savor food, views, and memories that will never be forgotten.

Additional charges apply.

A Sweet Treat from Italy

Get a taste of “la dolce vita” at  Gelato , our gelateria on board. (Fun fact: gelato isn’t ice cream. While it’s creamy, it has less butter fat and fewer calories.) Choose from a variety of flavors – hazelnut, tiramisu, pistachio and more – which you can enjoy by themselves or in combination.

On every Princess ship, you'll find so many ways to play, day or night. Explore The Shops of Princess, celebrate cultures at our Festivals of the World or learn a new talent — our onboard activities will keep you engaged every moment of your cruise vacation.

Discovery at SEA Programs

Discover even more with Discovery™

Our exclusive partnership with Discovery™ lets you come back captivated with Stargazing on our top deck; activities featuring Discovery™ hit shows such as  Shark Week  and  Finding Bigfoot ; plus our new Encounters with Discovery at SEA speaker series. Get more out of your travels with shore excursions recommended by two of the most trusted names in world travel—Discovery™ and Animal Planet™.

Vegas Style Casino

For novices, casual players, or high rollers

From gaming lessons to the latest slot machines to prize tournaments, our Casinos offer fun and excitement. If you enjoy blackjack, or “21,” and Texas Hold 'Em, our tables play by Vegas rules and if you relish the challenge of roulette, we offer the American version.

The Seawalk®

Unparalleled views of the sea

A dramatic over-the-ocean glass walkway, the SeaWalk ® is the first of its kind at sea. At 60 feet long, cantilevered 128 feet above the waves and extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship, it affords thrilling vistas of the ever-changing seascape. Just as the Captain can look through glass panels in the floor of the bridge, passengers can now share in that breathtaking experience. Across the ship, the SeaView Bar goes one step further with a glass paneled floor and drinks prepared during exciting shows with flair.

Princess Live!

Lights, sound, action!

Ever want to be part of a live television studio audience? Here’s your chance to be part of the fun or go behind-the-scenes of our onboard television shows*. Princess Live! provides non-stop entertainment throughout the day and each evening with interactive culinary shows, live concerts, and late night comedy and game shows. You can also see what it takes to put on a working television show, which airs in your stateroom.

*On select sailings.

Take a stroll into the European-style piazza

Discover Old World charm as you stroll through our breathtaking Piazza—a hub of activity, inspired by the vibrant squares of Europe. Roving street performers, quaint boutiques, a spiral staircase and several glass-walled lifts provide panoramic views. Visit the International Café for gourmet coffees, or marvel at the wine selection at Vines, voted one of the “Best Wine Bars at Sea,” by USA Today.

The Shops of Princess

Tax and duty-free shopping

It’s no surprise The Shops are awarded “Best Onboard Shopping” from  Porthole  magazine year after year. On board, you’ll find a fabulous range of fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tissot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. And everyday tax- and duty-free savings can add up to as much as 30% off suggested U.S. retail prices.

Art Gallery & Auctions

Art lovers rejoice—enjoy exquisite art aboard

Great art, like the destinations we visit, can be awe-inspiring. Peruse our extensive art gallery, or attend an art history lecture highlighting some of the world’s greatest masters. And don’t miss our exciting Champagne Art Auctions, which give you the chance to view and bid on a wide range of fine art, including pieces by famous artists like Thomas Kinkade, Peter Max, and Michael Godard. There is no charge to attend these lively events.

Freshwater Pools & Hot Tubs

Soak in a world of relaxation

Take a dip in our sparkling freshwater pools and leave your everyday world behind. Unwind on a padded lounger and soak up the sun, catch up on reading, listen to music or dream of your next adventure on board or ashore. And what better way to relax and revitalize after a day exploring the world than a long soak in one of our whirling hot tubs. And don’t forget, there is always a server nearby to bring you a refreshing cocktail or favorite beverage.

Sports Court

Get in the game with a variety of activities

Feel the court under your feet and the thrill of victory as you sink the ball in for two points. No matter your athletic ability, there’s nothing like shooting a few hoops out in the middle of the ocean as you watch the sun set and the stars come out. Our Sports Court is not only set up for basketball but also for volleyball. Pick up a game, compete against fellow guests for bragging rights, or start your own dream team.

MedallionNet® Wi-Fi

The best Wi-Fi at sea

MedallionNet Wi-Fi is fast, reliable and wherever you are. Stream your favorite shows, movies, music and sports. Stay connected to the internet anywhere on board so you can text, post photos, video chat and more.

Afternoon Tea

Celebration of tasty teas and divine desserts

Afternoon tea is a treasured tradition whether it’s a special occasion, an intimate moment for two, a mother-daughter tea party or just quiet time for reflection. Enjoy a wide selection of teas, or coffee if you prefer, served by attentive waiters in our dining room. The setting is elegant, with a delicious selection of tasty treats: freshly prepared finger sandwiches, cookies and cakes.

Entertainment

Original musicals, dazzling magic shows, feature films, top comedians and nightclubs that get your feet movin’ and groovin’. There’s something happening around every corner; luckily, you have a whole cruise of days and nights to experience it all. 1

Movies Under the Stars®

A reel treat day or night

Throughout the day and night, our exclusive open-air poolside amphitheater is the go-to destination for feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events such as live football games. Cozy up under a fleece blanket in the comfortable lounger and feast on complimentary fresh-popped popcorn in the evening or delicious cookies and milk during the day, and enjoy that exciting car chase or mystery thriller on the giant screen.

Princess® Watercolor Fantasy Show

A spectacle of water dances to music

Invite everyone in the family to behold the sight of water as it comes to life during this dazzling outdoor extravaganza. Everyone will ooh and aah as the night sky lights up with a mesmerizing spectacle of water dancing to the sounds of music. While brightly colored lights illuminate the water, you’ll see a captivating show of waltzes, pirouettes and fountains shooting water up to 33 feet high all choreographed to music.

Original Musical Productions

Great venues large and small

Crafted by some of the world’s top directors and choreographers, our remarkable and dynamic Princess productions transport you to realms as exotic as the destinations we visit. Imaginative shows created in-house feature dazzling stage sets, Broadway classics, popular hits and original numbers performed by some of the largest and most talented casts at sea.

Music & Dancing

Dazzling entertainment every day and night

When it comes to music and dancing we’ve got everything that your musical palette may desire. Whether it’s tapping your toes to cover bands, singing along in the piano bar, relaxing to classical strings or dancing the night away in the nightclub, you’ll be satisfied!

Featured Guest Entertainers

At night, the stars shine bright on our stages

Grab a seat, order a cocktail and be prepared to be entertained by our lineup of world class entertainers. From magic to comedy, singers to instrumentalists, jugglers to balancing acts and much, much more, we search the globe for top talent to be featured on our ships. So get ready to be amazed, entertained, mesmerized or just laugh the night away!

Princess Theater

Broadway-style productions at sea

With dazzling stage sets, artists from around the globe, modern hits and timeless classics, the Princess Theater, our largest theater yet, showcases lavish, original productions with dynamic cast members in sumptuous surroundings. In this ultramodern theater, relax in a plush seat with unobstructed sight lines as the velvet curtain goes up, a state-of-the-art lighting system illuminates the stage, and it’s on with the show!

Lively nightlife

If all you want to do is dance, dance, dance, then Club 6 is your ultimate destination. A full-service bar, this club is the perfect place before or after dinner or a show. Chic and sleek, it offers a vibrant space with an intimate atmosphere and contemporary decor. You can grab a cocktail and dance to your favorite hits and the resident DJ keeps the party going whether you just want to people-watch or get up and move to the beat.

Good Spirits At Sea

Good spirits, good stories

Good Spirits takes viewers around the globe in search of extraordinary everyday people, sharing stories of spirits and collecting farm-fresh, local ingredients to inspire one-of-a-kind cocktail creations. Immerse yourself in the region as skilled bartenders lead you through an immersive cocktail experience.

Joyful Rejuvenation

Revitalize and refresh body, mind and soul with Princess®. From rejuvenating spa treatments and the tranquility of a top-deck retreat reserved just for adults to our state-of-the-art fitness centers, you’ll find all the elements to come back new.

• The Sanctuary
• Lotus Spa® Fitness Center
• The Enclave® at Lotus Spa®

Experience the Ultimate Night of Sleep at Sea

With your overall wellness in mind, we’ve collaborated with a board-certified sleep expert to create the ultimate in blissful comfort. Our luxurious new beds feature a scientifically engineered mattress and bed springs, a plush two-inch pillow top, European-inspired duvets and 100% luxurious Jacquard-woven linens-to assure that at the end of your voyage, you come home feeling refreshed and renewed.

The Princess Luxury Bed is available across the fleet except for Regal Princess, where most staterooms have been updated. On Regal Princess all Full Suites and Reserve Collection staterooms have been updated and we are continuing to convert the few remaining beds.

Relax in a Tranquil Retreat Just for Adults

Take a break and indulge in a private getaway at The Sanctuary, our exclusive adults-only retreat offering a relaxing alternative to the myriad outdoor activities and entertainment available elsewhere on the ship. With signature beverages, light meals, and al fresco massages, Serenity Stewards attend to your every need, whether it’s to be on hand to provide chilled face towels or Evian water atomizers.

Go Ahead, Be Pampered – You Deserve It

Named "Best Spa on a Cruise Ship" by Spafinder Wellness 365™, the Lotus Spa® offers a variety of relaxing treatments, such as facials, aroma stone therapy massages, detoxifying ocean wraps and an aromatherapy thermal suite. Or get ready for a night on the town at the salon which features women’s styling color, men’s haircuts and shaves, manicure and pedicure choices and teeth whitening.

A Host of Ways to Get an Energizing Workout

The Lotus Spa Fitness Center offers fitness programs designed to help you maximize your wellness with Tour de Cycle, personal training and classes such as Pilates, Yoga, Body Sculpt Boot Camp, Results Based Training and TRX suspension training. The Lotus Spa Fitness Center also features state-of-the-art equipment so you can tone on your own.

Luxuriate in Our Largest-ever Thermal Suite

Open the door to The Enclave, home to Princess’ largest-ever thermal suite and a dramatic hydro-therapy pool with a cascading rain shower and therapeutic air jets. Relax on heated stone beds or soothing water beds. Features include: The Hammam – a Turkish-style steam bath, and from Roman times, the Caldarium –a light steam chamber infused with herbal aromas and the Laconium – a heated, dry chamber to help with purification and detoxification of the body.

Kids, Teens & Family

From family-friendly stateroom options to enriching youth and family programs, quality time is time well spent. Onboard activities spark curiosity and fuel creativity while excursions ashore engage and inspire!

• Just For Kids 3-7
• Just For Kids 8-12
• Just For Teens 13-17

Explore the Treehouse

Even the littlest guests will delight in this whimsical, forest-themed world that inspires playtime and invites exploration. Kids, ages 3 to 7, can dance, enjoy pajama movie nights, create art projects like Animal Planet™ puppets and masks or compete in a Lego® boat-building contest.

Step into the Lodge

Inspired by the great outdoors, this cozy center keeps kids busy with games, dancing and kid-sized Olympic competitions. Their minds stay busy, too, with California Science Center programs like rocket building, or they can explore outer space with Stargazing and learning how to build a model roller coaster. Exciting events like talent shows, theme nights, and treasure hunts encourage new friendships and family togetherness.

Hang Out in the Beach House

This contemporary lounge is "the place" for teens — perfect for hanging out and socializing with late-night movie viewing, hip hop dance classes, video game tournaments and sports competitions like dodgeball and basketball. But that’s just the beginning. They’ll dazzle on the red carpet with our Rock the Boat teens-only party, complete with awards and "mocktails."

Quality Time Together

Princess makes it easy to sail together in comfort. There is a wide selection of staterooms accommodating up to four guests, and you’ll enjoy substantial savings on your third and fourth guests. There are also connecting stateroom options, as well as Two Bedroom Family Suites, with room for up to eight guests, which offer more living space, a balcony and two bathrooms, including a full bath tub.

1 Activities, dining and entertainment options vary by ship and are subject to change. Photos represent typical arrangements and may vary in detail or configuration.

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Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals

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Royal Caribbean

• 60% OFF 2nd Guest + Kids Sail FREE + Instant Savings + FREE GRATUITIES or Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

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• 50% OFF Cruises + Take All FREE + BOGO Airfare + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America

• Up to 45% OFF + Up to $1,000 Onboard Crerdit + 50% Reduced Deposit + 3rd & 4th Guests FREE

Princess Cruises

• Up to 35% OFF + 3rd & 4th Guest FREE + Up to $1,785 Onboard Credit

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• Up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest + FREE Amenities Included: FREE Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

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With Royal Caribbean Cruise deals you won't just see the world, you'll explore it. Take the family on a fun trip to the Caribbean or travel in style in the Royal Suite Class, it's up to you. Discover what cruising is all about on a Royal Caribbean cruise to exotic locations like the Arabian Gulf or European destinations like venice and all the worries and stresses of life will be behind you.

Royal Caribbean Cruises offers a wide variety of dining options that will keep the whole family happy as you travel to stunning locations. There are plenty of activities onboard for everyone to enjoy. At night, make your way into the exciting casinos on one of the outstanding ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Research and compare Royal Caribbean Cruise deals now and book the cruise of your dreams.

Featured Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals

Best royal caribbean cruise deals by destination.

• Up to $1700 ONBOARD CREDIT: EXCLUSIVE OFFER
• INSTANT SAVINGS up to $500 Instant Savings: per stateroom on select sailings & categories
• EXCLUSIVE: FREE GRATUITIES
• Kids Sail FREE: Guest 12 & under SAIL FREE (select 3 night or longer sailings)
• BOGO60 Sale: 60% OFF 2nd Guest + 30% OFF 3rd/4th Guests
• $50 Onboard Credit on select Royal Caribbean Cruises!
• PERFECT DAY AT COCO CAY
• FREE SPECIALTY DINING for 2: on select categories, ships and sail dates
• $100 Onboard Credit on select Royal Caribbean Cruises!

All offers are based on select sailings and categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. All rates are per person based on double occupancy.

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Royal Caribbean's latest innovation will impress passengers

S ometimes you hear older cruisers refer to the new megaships being built by Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC Cruises as "floating amusement parks." That's meant to be derisive and it refers to the fact the the newest cruise ships offer water slides, really a full waterpark on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the seas, and other theme-park-style attractions. 

Some cruisers are wistful for the days when ships offers little more than pools, nighttime entertainment, and things like trivia and card games. In reality, while the latest cruise ships from the family-friendly brands do offer amusement park-style attractions, they still also offer all the classic cruising elements.    

Related: Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise issue warning for cruise fans

Yes, most Royal Caribbean Oasis-Class ships have a huge dry slide that takes you from an upper deck to the Boardwalk. It also still has stairs and elevators and the cruise line does not make anyone ride the slide.

Yes, Carnival's Excel Class offers the Bolt Roller Coaster, but passengers can still opt for trivia, card games, and other more classic forms of entertainment. The reality is that while Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC Cruise have incorporated amusement park-like offerings onto their ships, they're additions.

Ships have more pools, more classic shows, and many more entertainment options even if they also offer things that once seemed impossible on a ship. Royal Caribbean's next innovation, however, seems like it would literally fit in at Disney World or Universal Studios, but it's not just for kids and it has the potential to offer experiences for all ages. 

Royal Caribbean builds a versatile new attraction/restaurant

In what's essentially the basement of Royal Caribbean's headquarters, the cruise line builds full-scale models of any new experiences it plans to add to a a ship. Whether it's a restaurant, a ride, or something else, the cruise line has a team that constructs a working model in order to get things right before it's added to a ship.

The cruise line's next ship, the Oasis-class Utopia of the Seas, will have a first-of its kind experience, Royal Railway - Utopia Station. A full-scale replica of that new restaurant/experience has been built on the cruise line's campus as the final details get worked out for its launch on Utopia in July.

Mary Reilly, Royal Caribbean International's head of special projects for product development, showed off the nearly-complete restaurant during my visit to the company's headquarters in Miami. She shared that while some of the finishes might not be as nice as the shipboard version, since the model would eventually be destroyed, it was otherwise an exact copy.

Diners enter the experience by seeing their name on a departure board as they enjoy a welcome drink, and wait to be seated with other passengers. Once you enter the train venue, Reilly's team has built an immersive dinner show where the scenery shown on the windows transports you to the Old West.

It's not what Royal Railway will be at launch that makes it intriguing., Instead, it's what it could become.    

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Royal Railway could offer multiple experiences

When Utopia of the Seas begins sailing, it will offer a dinner show themed to the Old West on the Royal Railway. It's meant to be an all-ages experience with live actors being part of the show, along with video, and special effects including seats with butt-shaking speakers, sound effects, and more.

Reilly shared that other experiences could be added and that not all the offerings would be family friendly. The venue, as an example, could be used for a liquor or wine tasting with the train passing through wine country or wherever the liquors being tasted are made.

Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise.

"Short form would be whiskey tasting through the Tennessee mountains, or when we do our wine tasting today, we sometimes do it in the Main Dining Room. It would be much better to do a wine tasting in a room like this where...you're flying through Napa and can...pair wines with things as that kind of immersion,"  said Royal Caribbean Chief Product Innovation Jay Schneider at a media preview for Utopia Station, the Royal Caribbean Blog reported.

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• Your Health
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Bill Of The Month

He fell ill on a cruise. before he boarded the rescue boat, they handed him the bill.

Bram Sable-Smith

On the last full day of a Bahamas excursion, Vincent Wasney had three epileptic seizures. While being evacuated, he received a bill for expenses incurred during the cruise. Kristen Norman for KFF Health News hide caption

On the last full day of a Bahamas excursion, Vincent Wasney had three epileptic seizures. While being evacuated, he received a bill for expenses incurred during the cruise.

Vincent Wasney and his fiancée, Sarah Eberlein, had never visited the ocean. They'd never even been on a plane. But when they bought their first home in Saginaw, Michigan, in 2018, their real estate agent gifted them tickets for a Royal Caribbean cruise.

After two years of delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, they set sail in December 2022.

The couple chose a cruise destined for the Bahamas in part because it included a trip to CocoCay, a private island accessible to Royal Caribbean passengers that featured a water park, balloon rides, and an excursion swimming with pigs.

Bill of the Month is a crowdsourced investigation by KFF Health News and NPR that dissects and explains medical bills. Do you have an interesting medical bill you want to share with us? Tell us about it !

It was on that day on CocoCay when Wasney, 31, started feeling off, he said.

The next morning, as the couple made plans in their cabin for the last full day of the trip, Wasney made a pained noise. Eberlein saw him having a seizure in bed, with blood coming out of his mouth from biting his tongue. She opened their door to find help and happened upon another guest, who roused his wife, an emergency room physician.

Wasney was able to climb into a wheelchair brought by the ship's medical crew to take him down to the medical facility, where he was given anticonvulsants and fluids and monitored before being released.

Vincent had had seizures in the past, starting about ten years ago, but it had been a while since his last one. Imaging back then showed no tumors, and doctors concluded he was likely epileptic, he said. He took medicine initially, but after two years without another seizure, he said his doctors took him off the medicine to avoid liver damage.

Wasney had a second seizure on the ship a few hours later, back in his cabin. This time he stopped breathing, and Eberlein remembered his lips being so purple, they almost looked black. Again, she ran to find help but, in her haste, locked herself out. By the time the ship's medical team got into the cabin, Wasney was breathing again but had broken blood vessels along his chest and neck that he later said resembled tiger stripes.

Wasney was in the ship's medical center when he had a third seizure — a grand mal, which typically causes a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. By then, the ship was close enough to port that Wasney could be evacuated by rescue boat. He was put on a stretcher to be lowered by ropes off the side of the ship, with Eberlein climbing down a rope ladder to join him.

But before they disembarked, the bill came.

The patient: Vincent Wasney, 31, who was uninsured at the time.

Medical services: General and enhanced observation, a blood test, anticonvulsant medicine, and a fee for services performed outside the medical facility.

Service provider: Independence of the Seas Medical Center, the on-ship medical facility on the cruise ship operated by Royal Caribbean International .

Total bill: $2,500.22.

Shots - Health News

A mom's $97,000 question: how was an air-ambulance ride not medically necessary.

What gives: As part of Royal Caribbean's guest terms , cruise passengers "agree to pay in full" all expenses incurred on board by the end of the cruise, including those related to medical care. In addition, Royal Caribbean does not accept "land-based" health insurance plans.

Wasney said he was surprised to learn that, along with other charges like wireless internet, Royal Caribbean required he pay his medical bills before exiting the ship — even though he was being evacuated urgently.

"Are we being held hostage at this point?" Eberlein remembered asking. "Because, obviously, if he's had three seizures in 10 hours, it's an issue."

Wasney said he has little memory of being on the ship after his first seizure — seizures often leave victims groggy and disoriented for a few hours afterward.

But he certainly remembers being shown a bill, the bulk of which was the $2,500.22 in medical charges, while waiting for the rescue boat.

Still groggy, Wasney recalled saying he couldn't afford that and a cruise employee responding: "How much can you pay?"

They drained their bank accounts, including money saved for their next house payment, and maxed out Wasney's credit card but were still about $1,000 short, he said.

Ultimately, they were allowed to leave the ship. He later learned his card was overdrafted to cover the shortfall, he said.

Royal Caribbean International did not respond to multiple inquiries from KFF Health News.

Once on land, in Florida, Wasney was taken by ambulance to the emergency room at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, where he incurred thousands of dollars more in medical expenses.

He still isn't entirely sure what caused the seizures.

On the ship he was told it could have been extreme dehydration — and he said he does remember being extra thirsty on CocoCay. He also has mused whether trying escargot for the first time the night before could have played a role. Eberlein's mother is convinced the episode was connected to swimming with pigs, he said. And not to be discounted, Eberlein accidentally broke a pocket mirror three days before their trip.

Wasney, who works in a stone shop, was uninsured when they set sail. He said that one month before they embarked on their voyage, he finally felt he could afford the health plan offered through his employer and signed up, but the plan didn't start until January 2023, after their return.

They also lacked travel insurance. As inexperienced travelers, Wasney said, they thought it was for lost luggage and canceled trips, not unexpected medical expenses. And because the cruise was a gift, they were never prompted to buy coverage, which often happens when tickets are purchased.

When a quick telehealth visit yields multiple surprises beyond a big bill

The resolution: Wasney said the couple returned to Saginaw with essentially no money in their bank account, several thousand dollars of medical debt, and no idea how they would cover their mortgage payment. Because he was uninsured at the time of the cruise, Wasney did not try to collect reimbursement for the cruise bill from his new health plan when his coverage began weeks later.

The couple set up payment plans to cover the medical bills for Wasney's care after leaving the ship: one each with two doctors he saw at Broward Health, who billed separately from the hospital, and one with the ambulance company. He also made payments on a bill with Broward Health itself. Those plans do not charge interest.

But Broward Health said Wasney missed two payments to the hospital, and that bill was ultimately sent to collections.

In a statement, Broward Health spokesperson Nina Levine said Wasney's bill was reduced by 73% because he was uninsured.

"We do everything in our power to provide the best care with the least financial impact, but also cannot stress enough the importance of taking advantage of private and Affordable Care Act health insurance plans, as well as travel insurance, to lower risks associated with unplanned medical issues," she said.

The couple was able to make their house payment with $2,690 they raised through a GoFundMe campaign that Wasney set up. Wasney said a lot of that help came from family as well as friends he met playing disc golf, a sport he picked up during the pandemic.

"A bunch of people came through for us," Wasney said, still moved to tears by the generosity. "But there's still the hospital bill."

The takeaway: Billing practices differ by cruise line, but Joe Scott , chair of the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said medical charges are typically added to a cruise passenger's onboard account, which must be paid before leaving the ship. Individuals can then submit receipts to their insurers for possible reimbursement.

He recommended that those planning to take a cruise purchase travel insurance that specifically covers their trips. "This will facilitate reimbursement if they do incur charges and potentially cover a costly medical evacuation if needed," Scott said.

Royal Caribbean suggests that passengers who receive onboard care submit their paid bills to their health insurer for possible reimbursement. Many health plans do not cover medical services received on cruise ships, however. Medicare will sometimes cover medically necessary health care services on cruise ships, but not if the ship is more than six hours away from a U.S. port.

Travel insurance can be designed to address lots of out-of-town mishaps, like lost baggage or even transportation and lodging for a loved one to visit if a traveler is hospitalized.

Travel medical insurance, as well as plans that offer "emergency evacuation and repatriation," are two types that can specifically assist with medical emergencies. Such plans can be purchased individually. Credit cards may offer travel medical insurance among their benefits, as well.

But travel insurance plans come with limitations. For instance, they may not cover care associated with preexisting conditions or what the plans consider "risky" activities, such as rock climbing. Some plans also require that travelers file first with their primary health insurance before seeking reimbursement from travel insurance.

As with other insurance, be sure to read the fine print and understand how reimbursement works.

Wasney said that's what they plan to do before their next Royal Caribbean cruise. They'd like to go back to the Bahamas on basically the same trip, he said — there's a lot about CocoCay they didn't get to explore.

Emmarie Huetteman of KFF Health News edited the digital story, and Taunya English of KFF Health News edited the audio story. NPR's Will Stone edited the audio and digital story.

KFF Health News , formerly known as Kaiser Health News (KHN), is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFF — the independent source for health policy research, polling, and journalism.

• medical bills
• broward health
• travel insurance
• cruise ship
• royal caribbean

'No washy, no food': Meet Washy Washy, Royal Caribbean's singing public health character

Some of the best entertainment on Royal Caribbean International’s cruise ships happens at the sink.

Crew members throughout Royal Caribbean's fleet play Washy Washy, a character who reminds guests to stop at hand-washing stations when they enter various dining venues. They perform public health-themed covers of popular songs. Videos featuring their takes on hits like Bob Marley and the Wailers’ “No Woman, No Cry” (“No washy, no food”) and the Pussycat Dolls’ “Don’t Cha” (“Don’t cha wish your girlfriend washy washy like me”) have gone viral on social media in recent months.

The role – whose actual title is host or hostess of the venue – has been around for more than 15 years, with cruise ship employees adding their own spins, according to Rebecca Burns, the line’s Senior Manager of Restaurant Operations.

“Over time crew members have gotten very creative incorporating costumes, dances, and songs bringing excitement and happiness to guests,” she said in an email. “We love that there is an opportunity for each of them to make it their own and bring out their personalities.”

Washy Washy also helps the cruise line promote good hand hygiene. “The health and well-being of our guests, and the overall guest experience, are top priorities for Royal Caribbean,” Burns added. “Washing hands before dining is an important step to staying healthy, and this unique approach of integrating entertainment reminding guests to do so has made it more effective.”

USA TODAY spoke with five crew members who play Washy Washy on the line’s newest ship, Icon of the Seas : Neilbert Mar Morilla Saluta, 34; Jay Arenas, 33; Argel Symbol, 36; Jester Javier, 30; and Aaljon Nogaliza, 30. The employees, who are all from the Philippines, answered questions via email about their typical days, their repertoires and more.

Question: What does a typical day as Washy Washy look like? What are your responsibilities in that role?

Answer: We welcome guests to the restaurant we are attending and encourage them to wash their hands before dining by taking popular tunes and creating new words to include “washy washy” or “wash your hands.” A typical day for some of us starts as early as 6 a.m. at the opening of breakfast and, for others, continues through to the end of dinner.

Our goal as Washy Washy is to make this important task something fun for guests of all ages. Hand washing is very important for health.

How do you come up with the funny takes on popular songs (like “Don't Cha,” for example)? What other songs have you put unique spins on?

We choose songs that are popular for all our different guests – little kids, older kids and the adults; all the ages. Then, with each song, we find how to sprinkle in the important reminder to “wash, wash your hands” before coming in to eat with your family. This way, everybody has music that is familiar and catches their attention – we do songs in Spanish, too. The best is the smiles and dancing at the washy washy station.

We have so many favorite songs and all different types because our guests come from all different places, they are all ages and we like to have something for everyone, from kiddie music to popular songs today and from many years ago. Some songs we do washy, washy versions of are “Mamma Mia” and “Dancing Queen” by ABBA; “Footloose” by Kenny Loggins; classic family songs like “Hokey Pokey” and “Y.M.C.A.” by the Village People; and we do “La Bamba” in Spanish, “para lavarse las manos, para lavarse las manos…”.

The five of us who are part of Washy Washy make up lyrics on our own, we do it together, whenever we have ideas. Many times, lyric changes happen and new lyrics happen when we are performing because of reactions we see. We like to do music that matches the season; for December, for example, we sing Washy Washy holiday songs.

What is the response from Icon guests to Washy Washy?

They absolutely love it! And we love it! Washy Washy has been part of Royal Caribbean for a long time. It is different across the ships because the Washy Washy teams are all different – some crew members play an instrument, sometimes it’s about funny accessories – but most important is that we are friendly and happy, and we remind people to wash their hands. Because Icon is the best family vacation with lots of “wows,” we wanted Washy Washy to be a “wow,” like Icon. 

Before Icon, vacationers were surprised when they encountered Washy Washy. Now guests come find us because of all the beautiful videos guests put on social media.

People really like the Washy Washy teams because it’s unexpected – happy, jolly songs that make you dance while washing your hands – most important is for everyone to wash hands. No one thinks they’re going to find us there singing and dancing about washing hands – and people can’t help but smile. We see guests of all ages, but especially kids, singing and dancing along. Sometimes they even request us to repeat songs they’ve already heard us sing or ask for an autograph!  We feel so special!

Do you have any favorite memories from interacting with guests as Washy Washy?

Interacting with kids and seeing their faces light up is priceless. Recently, there was a little girl who came into Windjammer with her parents, crying, and when she saw our Washy Washy performance, her mood totally shifted – she turned that frown upside down!

We also love it when guests recognize us in other venues around the ship, on Perfect Day at CocoCay when we are not wearing costumes, or even on different Royal Caribbean ships. This is extra special because we know we’re helping people make memories with us, and that’s what this is all about! We form bonds with guests and love making them happy. We’re always sad when they leave at the end of their vacation.

Short vs. long cruises: Here's how they compare

What do you hope guests take away from their interactions with Washy Washy?

We want to inspire our guests to have fun and enjoy every part of their vacation, even things like washing their hands. That’s why we created Washy Washy, and we are most happy when people smile and dance with us. We hope to be a lasting part of their Icon memory and that they’ll still be singing our catchy tunes when they go home.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

• Cruise News

Man in Critical Condition After Jumping from World’s Largest Cruise Ship

Doug Parker

• May 26, 2024

A man was rescued after jumping into the ocean from Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas on Sunday morning as the ship sailed towards Roatan, Honduras.

The incident occurred one day after departing from Miami, Florida, for a seven-night Western Caribbean cruise, approximately 40 miles north of Santa Lucia, Cuba.

The ship’s AIS (Automatic Identification System) showed that the vessel deviated its course to launch a rescue craft to locate the man overboard.

A guest confirmed with Cruise Radio that an announcement was made stating that the individual was rescued shortly after the rescue craft had been launched.

Later that morning, the Icon of the Seas’ hotel director addressed Crown and Anchor members in a top tier in event in the show theatre that the man was in the ship’s intensive care unit with his family.

The ship is now back on course for its first port of call in Roatan, where it is scheduled to dock early Monday morning.

Cruise Lines International Organization (CLIA) reported in 2020 that out of 212 man-overboard situations, only 28.2% had successful rescues.

This is Royal Caribbean’s tenth man overboard since 2020.

Icon of the Seas sails alternating Western and Eastern Caribbean cruises every other week. Its current sailing is scheduled at Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel, and the company’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

We have contacted Royal Caribbean for a statement and are awaiting a response. This story will be updated as details become available.

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He fell ill on a cruise. Before he boarded the rescue boat, they handed him the bill.

By Bram Sable-Smith

Updated on: May 24, 2024 / 6:33 PM EDT / KFF Health News

Vincent Wasney and his fiancée, Sarah Eberlein, had never visited the ocean. They'd never even been on a plane. But when they bought their first home in Saginaw, Michigan, in 2018, their real estate agent gifted them tickets for a Royal Caribbean cruise.

After two years of delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, they set sail in December 2022.

The couple chose a cruise destined for the Bahamas in part because it included a trip to CocoCay, a private island accessible to Royal Caribbean passengers that featured a water park, balloon rides and an excursion swimming with pigs.

It was on that day on CocoCay when Wasney, 31, started feeling off, he said.

The next morning, as the couple made plans in their cabin for the last full day of the trip, Wasney made a pained noise. Eberlein saw him having a seizure in bed, with blood coming out of his mouth from biting his tongue. She opened their door to find help and happened upon another guest, who roused his wife, an emergency room physician.

Wasney was able to climb into a wheelchair brought by the ship's medical crew to take him down to the medical facility, where he was given anticonvulsants and fluids and monitored before being released.

Wasney had had seizures in the past, starting about 10 years ago, but it had been a while since his last one. Imaging back then showed no tumors, and doctors concluded he was likely epileptic, he said. He took medicine initially, but after two years without another seizure, he said, his doctors took him off the medicine to avoid liver damage.

Wasney had a second seizure on the ship a few hours later, back in his cabin. This time he stopped breathing, and Eberlein remembered his lips being so purple, they almost looked black. Again, she ran to find help but, in her haste, locked herself out. By the time the ship's medical team got into the cabin, Wasney was breathing again but had broken blood vessels along his chest and neck that he later said resembled tiger stripes.

Wasney was in the ship's medical center when he had a third seizure — a grand mal, which typically causes a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. By then, the ship was close enough to port that Wasney could be evacuated by rescue boat. He was put on a stretcher to be lowered by ropes off the side of the ship, with Eberlein climbing down a rope ladder to join him.

But before they disembarked, the bill came.

The Patient: Vincent Wasney, 31, who was uninsured at the time.

Medical Services: General and enhanced observation, a blood test, anticonvulsant medicine, and a fee for services performed outside the medical facility.

Service Provider: Independence of the Seas Medical Center, the on-ship medical facility on the cruise ship operated by Royal Caribbean International .

Total Bill: $2,500.22.

What Gives: As part of Royal Caribbean's guest terms , cruise passengers "agree to pay in full" all expenses incurred on board by the end of the cruise, including those related to medical care. In addition, Royal Caribbean does not accept "land-based" health insurance plans.

Wasney said he was surprised to learn that, along with other charges like wireless internet, Royal Caribbean required he pay his medical bills before exiting the ship — even though he was being evacuated urgently.

"Are we being held hostage at this point?" Eberlein remembered asking. "Because, obviously, if he's had three seizures in 10 hours, it's an issue."

Wasney said he has little memory of being on the ship after his first seizure — seizures often leave victims groggy and disoriented for a few hours afterward.

But he certainly remembers being shown a bill, the bulk of which was the $2,500.22 in medical charges, while waiting for the rescue boat.

Still groggy, Wasney recalled saying he couldn't afford that and a cruise employee responding: "How much can you pay?"

They drained their bank accounts, including money saved for their next house payment, and maxed out Wasney's credit card but were still about $1,000 short, he said.

Ultimately, they were allowed to leave the ship. He later learned his card was overdrafted to cover the shortfall, he said. Once on land, in Florida, Wasney was taken by ambulance to the emergency room at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, where he incurred thousands of dollars more in medical expenses.

He still isn't entirely sure what caused the seizures.

On the ship he was told it could have been extreme dehydration — and he said he does remember being extra thirsty on CocoCay. He also has mused whether trying escargot for the first time the night before could have played a role. Eberlein's mother is convinced the episode was connected to swimming with pigs, he said. And not to be discounted, Eberlein accidentally broke a pocket mirror three days before their trip.

Wasney, who works in a stone shop, was uninsured when they set sail. He said that one month before they embarked on their voyage, he finally felt he could afford the health plan offered through his employer and signed up, but the plan didn't start until January 2023, after their return.

They also lacked travel insurance. As inexperienced travelers, Wasney said, they thought it was for lost luggage and canceled trips, not unexpected medical expenses. And because the cruise was a gift, they were never prompted to buy coverage, which often happens when tickets are purchased.

The Resolution: Wasney said the couple returned to Saginaw with essentially no money in their bank account, several thousand dollars of medical debt, and no idea how they would cover their mortgage payment. Because he was uninsured at the time of the cruise, Wasney did not try to collect reimbursement for the cruise bill from his new health plan when his coverage began weeks later.

The couple set up payment plans to cover the medical bills for Wasney's care after leaving the ship: one each with two doctors he saw at Broward Health, who billed separately from the hospital, and one with the ambulance company. He also made payments on a bill with Broward Health itself. Those plans do not charge interest.

But Broward Health said Wasney missed two payments to the hospital, and that bill was ultimately sent to collections.

In a statement, Broward Health spokesperson Nina Levine said Wasney's bill was reduced by 73% because he was uninsured.

"We do everything in our power to provide the best care with the least financial impact, but also cannot stress enough the importance of taking advantage of private and Affordable Care Act health insurance plans, as well as travel insurance, to lower risks associated with unplanned medical issues," she said.

The couple was able to make their house payment with $2,690 they raised through a GoFundMe campaign that Wasney set up. Wasney said a lot of that help came from family as well as friends he met playing disc golf, a sport he picked up during the pandemic.

"A bunch of people came through for us," Wasney said, still moved to tears by the generosity. "But there's still the hospital bill."

The Takeaway: Billing practices differ by cruise line, but Joe Scott , chair of the cruise ship medicine section of the American College of Emergency Physicians, said medical charges are typically added to a cruise passenger's onboard account, which must be paid before leaving the ship. Individuals can then submit receipts to their insurers for possible reimbursement.

He recommended that those planning to take a cruise purchase travel insurance that specifically covers their trips. "This will facilitate reimbursement if they do incur charges and potentially cover a costly medical evacuation if needed," Scott said.

Royal Caribbean suggests that passengers who receive onboard care submit their paid bills to their health insurer for possible reimbursement. Many health plans do not cover medical services received on cruise ships, however. Medicare will sometimes cover medically necessary health care services on cruise ships, but not if the ship is more than six hours away from a U.S. port.

Travel insurance can be designed to address lots of out-of-town mishaps , like lost baggage or even transportation and lodging for a loved one to visit if a traveler is hospitalized.

Travel medical insurance, as well as plans that offer "emergency evacuation and repatriation," are two types that can specifically assist with medical emergencies. Such plans can be purchased individually. Credit cards may offer travel medical insurance among their benefits, as well.

But travel insurance plans come with limitations. For instance, they may not cover care associated with preexisting conditions or what the plans consider "risky" activities, such as rock climbing. Some plans also require that travelers file first with their primary health insurance before seeking reimbursement from travel insurance.

As with other insurance, be sure to read the fine print and understand how reimbursement works.

Wasney said that's what they plan to do before their next Royal Caribbean cruise. They'd like to go back to the Bahamas on basically the same trip, he said — there's a lot about CocoCay they didn't get to explore.

Bill of the Month is a crowdsourced investigation by KFF Health News and NPR that dissects and explains medical bills. 

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