Cruising with Royal Caribbean: A Comprehensive Guide for Those Used to Other Cruise Lines

Amanda Abraham
Jul 29, 2024
11 min read

Updated: Mar 15

Embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise offers a distinctive experience compared to other cruise lines. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or exploring Royal Caribbean Cruises for the first time, understanding what sets them apart can enhance your voyage. Royal Caribbean stands out for its innovation, variety, and lively atmosphere. It's a great choice for travelers looking for a modern, active cruise experience with plenty of entertainment options. This guide explores Royal Caribbean's unique offerings, from family-friendly features to ship design and dining options.

1. What Sets Royal Caribbean Apart?

Innovative Ship Design and Technology

Royal Caribbean is renowned for its cutting-edge ship design and technological advancements. Their fleet features various innovative amenities and design elements that make cruising with them a unique experience.

Icon-Class Ships

The Icon-Class ships are among the most exciting additions to Royal Caribbean's fleet. The first class, Icon of the Seas, was introduced in 2024. These ships are the largest in the Royal Caribbean fleet, boasting groundbreaking features like the largest waterpark at sea, the Central Park-style garden, and the latest sustainable cruising technology. The Icon-Class represents Royal Caribbean's commitment to innovation and luxury, offering cutting-edge design and eco-friendly practices.

Other notable technological advancements across Royal Caribbean's fleet include the Bionic Bar, where robotic bartenders craft your favorite cocktails, and the Royal IQ app, which allows guests to manage their cruise experience from their smartphones.

2. Ship Classes: Finding the Right Fit

Royal Caribbean's fleet is divided into several ship classes, each offering distinct features and experiences. Understanding these classes can help you choose the perfect ship for your vacation.

Ship Classes

Icon-Class: The latest and largest class in Royal Caribbean's fleet, Icon-Class ships such as Icon of the Seas set a new standard in cruising with their revolutionary designs and amenities. These ships feature the largest waterpark at sea, a multi-level Central Park, and cutting-edge sustainable technology. They offer diverse activities and spaces designed to provide an unparalleled cruising experience.
Oasis-Class: Known for their enormous size and extensive facilities, ships like Symphony of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas are famous for their unique neighborhoods, including Central Park, Boardwalk, and the AquaTheater. These ships provide a wide variety of activities and entertainment options, catering to both relaxation and adventure. The newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, introduces several new features, including Solarium Suites with panoramic ocean views and a unique dining experience called Royal Railway - Utopia Station, featuring themed meals in a vintage train car setting. It includes over 40 dining venues, such as the new food truck-style eatery, The Spare Tire.
Quantum-Class: Quantum-Class ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet are distinguished by their cutting-edge technology and innovative features. Notable elements include the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the versatile SeaPlex indoor activity space.
- Quantum Ultra Class: Quantum Ultra Class ships add features like the Sky Pad, a bungee trampoline with virtual reality, and exclusive areas such as the Suite Club for suite guests. The dining options are expanded with region-specific restaurants like Sichuan Red, catering to diverse tastes. The entertainment venues are also upgraded, with spaces like the Two70° lounge offering high-tech performances.
Freedom-Class: These ships are notable for their combination of exciting onboard activities and manageable size. They were the first to introduce the FlowRider surf simulator. They also offer a range of amenities such as rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, multiple pools, and the Royal Promenade—a bustling corridor filled with dining and shopping venues. The relatively smaller size of these ships compared to newer classes allows for a more intimate experience without sacrificing the diverse entertainment and dining options (Royal Caribbean Blog) (Cruise Critic) (Royal Caribbean Blog).
Voyager Class: ships continue to offer a distinctive and enjoyable cruising experience. Originally launched between 1999 and 2003, these ships were innovative for their time. Many Voyager Class ships have undergone the Royal Amplified program in recent years, enhancing their amenities and onboard experiences. For example, Navigator of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas have received significant updates, including the addition of the Perfect Storm waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator, and new dining venues like Jamie's Italian and The Bamboo Room.
Discovery Class? (Unofficial name): Looking ahead, Royal Caribbean is rumored to be developing a new class of smaller ships, tentatively referred to as the Discovery Class. This new class aims to access ports that larger ships cannot reach, offering more unique itineraries and destinations. While official announcements have not been made, the Discovery Class could feature vessels similar in size to the Radiance Class, which are known for visiting smaller and more exclusive ports. This development would cater to guests looking for varied and less repetitive cruise experiences (Royal Caribbean Blog) (Royal Caribbean Blog) (Cyprus Shipping News).

Royal Caribbean Fleet (Largest to smallest)

Ship Name	Class	Release Year	Capacity (Passengers)
Icon of the Seas	Icon	2024	7,600
Star of the Seas	Icon	2025 (Expected)	7,600≈
Wonder of the Seas	Oasis	2022	6,988
Utopia of the Seas	Oasis	2024	5,668
Symphony of the Seas	Oasis	2018	6,680
Harmony of the Seas	Oasis	2016	6,687
Oasis of the Seas	Oasis	2009	6,780
Allure of the Seas	Oasis	2010	6,780
Quantum of the Seas	Quantum	2014	4,180
Anthem of the Seas	Quantum	2015	4,180
Ovation of the Seas	Quantum	2016	4,180
Spectrum of the Seas	Quantum Ultra	2019	4,246
Odyssey of the Seas	Quantum Ultra	2021	4,198
Freedom of the Seas	Freedom	2006	4,515
Liberty of the Seas	Freedom	2007	4,960
Independence of the Seas	Freedom	2008	4,375
Navigator of the Seas	Voyager	2002	4,000
Mariner of the Seas	Voyager	2003	4,000
Explorer of the Seas	Voyager	2000	3,840
Voyager of the Seas	Voyager	1999	3,602

Central Park on Allure of the Seas — Central Park (Oasis Class Ships)

3. Unique Rooms Across Ship Classes

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of unique staterooms across its ship classes, catering to different preferences and needs.

Icon-Class

The Ultimate Family Suite: Designed for families, this suite includes a slide, a LEGO wall, and a private game room. The suite also features a spacious balcony with a whirlpool and dining area, providing ample space for family gatherings.

Oasis-Class

Central Park View Balcony Staterooms: These rooms offer a view of the ship's Central Park, providing a serene garden-like environment outside your window. Guests can enjoy lush greenery and a quiet retreat from the bustling ship activities.
The Loft Suites: These luxurious suites feature two levels of living space, a private balcony with stunning ocean views, a separate living area, and a well-appointed bedroom.

Quantum-Class

The Royal Loft Suite: This suite provides a luxurious experience with a private balcony, a dining room, a grand piano, and a large living area. It’s designed for those seeking the ultimate in comfort and style.
Virtual Balcony Staterooms: Perfect for guests who prefer interior staterooms but still want an ocean-view experience, these rooms feature floor-to-ceiling screens that display real-time outside views.

Freedom-Class

Owner’s Suite: This suite offers expansive living space, including a large balcony with a private whirlpool, a dining area, and a luxurious bedroom. It’s ideal for guests looking for extra space and comfort.
Grand Suite: With enhanced amenities such as a larger living area, a balcony, and upgraded furnishings, the Grand Suite provides a comfortable and elegant experience for cruisers.

4. Family-Friendly Features and Amenities

Royal Caribbean excels in catering to families, offering many activities and amenities for all ages.

Kids and Teen Clubs

Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean® Youth Program provides age-specific activities and spaces for kids and teens, including themed parties, educational programs, and supervised play areas. The teen program includes spaces like the Teen Lounge, designed for older children to hang out and enjoy activities tailored to their age group.

Family-Friendly Staterooms

Royal Caribbean offers a range of family-friendly staterooms, including spacious suites and interconnected rooms. The Family Suite, for example, provides ample space and amenities tailored to families traveling together, such as separate sleeping areas for children and adults.

Family Activities

From the Ultimate Abyss slide to the onboard ice skating rink, Royal Caribbean ensures plenty of activities for the entire family. The ships also feature family-friendly dining options, with many restaurants offering kid-friendly menus and casual dining experiences.

5. First Things to Do Onboard

When you first board a Royal Caribbean ship, key steps and tips ensure you make the most of your experience.

Reserve Activities and Dining

Before or after the muster drill, it's a good idea to use the Royal Caribbean app or visit the Guest Services desk to book dining times, shows, and excursions. This will help you secure spots for popular activities and ensure you don't miss out. It's best to book excursions before your cruise, but if you missed that, you should book them as soon as possible if there are any slots left. For information on what to do before your cruise, you can refer to the "Ultimate Guide on Preparing for a Cruise" page.

1887 Ice Show on Harmony of the Seas — 1887 Ice Show

Explore the Ship

Upon boarding, take some time to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout. Royal Caribbean ships are often large and feature multiple neighborhoods or zones, such as the Royal Promenade, Central Park, and the Boardwalk. Each area has its own unique offerings, so exploring early will help you navigate easily later.

Download the Royal Caribbean App

The Royal Caribbean app is essential for managing your cruise experience. It provides real-time updates on activities, allows you to make reservations, and offers a daily schedule of events. Download the app before your trip and familiarize yourself with its features to make your cruise more enjoyable.

6. Dining Options: A Taste of Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers diverse dining options to cater to various tastes and preferences.

Main Restaurants

Main Dining Room: The main dining room provides a classic cruise dining experience with various menu options. It typically offers a rotating menu of international cuisine and is included in the cruise fare.
Specialty Restaurants: For a unique dining experience, Royal Caribbean's specialty restaurants include options like Chops Grille (steakhouse), Giovanni's Table (Italian), and Izumi (Japanese). Reservations are often required, and there may be an additional charge.

Casual Dining

Casual dining options include the Windjammer Café, a buffet-style restaurant, and the Café Promenade, which offers light bites and coffee. These venues provide flexible dining options without the need for reservations.

7. Royal Caribbean’s Private Island: Perfect Day at CocoCay

Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, is a highlight of many cruises.

Island Features

Thrill Waterpark: This expansive waterpark features the tallest water slide in North America, a wave pool, a lazy river, and numerous other water attractions.
Coco Beach Club: For an upgraded experience, the Coco Beach Club offers an exclusive area with luxurious cabanas, an infinity pool, and a private beach.
Adults-Only Section: The new adults-only section, Chill Island, provides a serene environment with hammocks, an exclusive beach area, and relaxation options for adults seeking a more tranquil experience.

8. Preparing for Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

Pre-Cruise Preparations

Check-in Online: Before your cruise, complete your check-in process online. This includes uploading required documents and completing health questionnaires.
Pre-Pay Gratuities: Royal Caribbean allows you to pre-pay gratuities, which can streamline your onboard experience and ensure you’re prepared for additional charges.
Plan Your Itinerary: Review your ship’s daily schedule and plan your activities ahead of time. This helps ensure you don’t miss out on popular events and attractions.

Packing Tips

Pack Smart: Bring versatile clothing suitable for formal and casual dining, swimwear, and comfortable shoes for exploring the ship and participating in excursions.
Essentials: Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, medications, and travel documents. A small day bag for excursions can also be useful.

9. The Key

The Key is a program offered by Royal Caribbean that provides guests with exclusive benefits and amenities during their cruise. It is available for purchase per-day, per-person basis and includes a variety of perks designed to enhance the cruise experience. Here are some of the key benefits typically included with The Key:

Priority Access and Embarkation: Guests receive priority check-in and boarding, allowing them to bypass standard lines.
Exclusive Dining Perks: The program often includes a complimentary lunch at a specialty restaurant on embarkation day and exclusive seating for shows and events.
Priority Reservations: Guests can make reservations for onboard activities and dining ahead of other passengers.
Internet Access: The Key often includes Voom Surf & Stream internet access for one device per person.
Exclusive Debarkation: Guests enjoy a dedicated departure lounge and priority debarkation on the final day.
Specialty Seating and Access: The Key provides access to exclusive areas or reserved seating for shows and events.

Variations Depending on Ship Class

The specific benefits and offerings of The Key can vary slightly depending on the class of the ship. For instance, larger ships with more amenities, such as the Oasis Class or Quantum Class, may offer additional or slightly different perks due to the unique features and activities available on those ships. Smaller ships or older classes, like the Vision Class or Radiance Class, might have fewer offerings but still provide the core benefits associated with The Key.

Overall, while the essential elements of The Key program remain consistent, the experience can be influenced by the ship's class and the specific itinerary. It's always best to check the details for your particular cruise, as they can vary and change over time. For more information, visit Royal Caribbean's official website or consult your travel agent.

What a lot of people think of Other Cruise Lines

While Royal Caribbean is popular among families, couples, and adventure-seekers, it tends to attract a younger crowd, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. Here's how some other cruise lines compare:

Carnival Cruise Line: Known as the "Fun Ship" line, Carnival offers a lively, party-like atmosphere. It's geared more towards budget-conscious travelers and families. The vibe is casual and fun, sometimes a bit louder and more relaxed than Royal Caribbean.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Norwegian is known for its "Freestyle Cruising," offering a laid-back, flexible experience. The vibe can range from casual to upscale, focusing on entertainment and dining options. It's a good choice for those who prefer less structure and more freedom in their vacation.
Celebrity Cruises: As a sister brand to Royal Caribbean, Celebrity offers a more sophisticated and upscale experience. The vibe is elegant and refined, focusing on high-quality dining, service, and modern luxury. It's popular among couples and older adults looking for a more relaxed and stylish cruise experience.
Princess Cruises: Known for its relaxed, elegant vibe, Princess attracts a slightly older demographic. The atmosphere is more subdued and classic, focusing on enrichment activities, destination immersion, and quality dining.
Disney Cruise Line: Disney cruises offer a family-friendly, magical experience focusing on Disney characters and entertainment. The vibe is playful and whimsical, ideal for families with young children.

Conclusion

Cruising with Royal Caribbean offers a distinctive experience characterized by innovative ship designs, extensive family-friendly amenities, and diverse dining options. Whether you're exploring their Icon-Class ships, enjoying unique staterooms, or relaxing on Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean provides a range of experiences designed to cater to every type of traveler. Understanding the unique features and preparing accordingly can ensure a memorable and enjoyable cruise with Royal Caribbean.

Experience the best of Royal Caribbean with trip planning by DnA Escapes. Let us customize your perfect cruise itinerary at www.dnaescapes.com.

Sources

Royal Caribbean Blog. (2024). Freedom-Class Ships Overview. Retrieved from Royal Caribbean Blog
Cruise Critic. (2024). All about Freedom Class cruise ships. Retrieved from Cruise Critic
Cyprus Shipping News. (2024). New smaller cruise ship could be announced in 2024. Retrieved from Cyprus Shipping News

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