Royal Caribbean Blog

Want a family cruise on the best cruise ship that offers just about everything? I think Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas is the perfect choice.

Ever since Icon of the Seas redefined what we expect from a modern cruise ship, Royal Caribbean has been hard at work to make it even better.

Legend of the Seas is the third ship in this class, which means it's a lot like the latest iPhone. It's not fundamentally different from the past couple versions, but you instantly know it's a step up from them.

This ship was built with one idea in mind: offer the best things on one ship so everyone in the family has an amazing time. 

I've been on Icon and Star of the Seas numerous times, so I can see where Legend of the Seas excels in delivering more to do.

Ship order is irrelevant, this is a ship with lots to do

Unless you follow Royal Caribbean everything like me, the fact Legend of the Seas is the third Icon Class ship doesn't matter.

What does matter is this is the cruise ship for everyone in your fam. It's uncompromising, has more than you could ever do in a week, and even visits some amazing places.

Almost any Royal Caribbean ship is designed to be the kind of vacation that has something for everyone, and Legend of the Seas is the perfect example of that.

It's a great example of "bigger is better" because with more space, you have more room for all the fun (and sometimes crazy) ideas Royal Caribbean can dream up.

This ship is 20 decks high, over 1100 feet long, and has six waterslides, 28 restaurants, 17 bars and lounges,  and 17 pools and whirlpools. It's giant, bright, and the second you get onboard I bet you'll be amazed.

That feeling of being amazed won't soon leave you, because there's so much happening every minute.

This ship is divided up into eight neighborhoods, with each one having a distinct look and feel to it.  It makes it easier to know where you are, and it helps with identifying what things to do are there.

To say the least, there are a lot of things to do. There's a lengthy schedule of events everyday you can navigate in the cruise line app. It's your choice to do all of them, or none of them.

Then you have the pools, waterslides, bars, live music, shows, and dance parties you can choose from as well. It's a bit overwhelming where to start, but you'll get the hang of it pretty quickly.

Legend of the Seas does three things best: food, water fun, and entertainment

If you want to boil this ship down to why you'd want to book it, it's for three main reasons.

The incredible assortment of entertainment on Legend of the Seas is what has made Royal Caribbean famous. To put it gently, you won't be bored on this ship.

There are three theaters onboard, each with its own show that you can't see on other ships.  There's also a "B show" that is also performed in these venues.

Then there's live music all around the ship, ranging from guitarists to a harpist, to a steel drum band. You can easily walk around the ship and run into some kind of a musician.

All of the entertainment is included in your fare, and its appeal encompasses all ages. I'm a big fan of Dueling Pianos, which is one of the best nighttime entertainment you can find (there is a family show on some afternoons).

The Broadway production of "Charlie and Chocolate Factory" is performed onboard, and it's an incredible production. It works for kids and adults, and is very fun.

The second thing this cruise ship is great at is all the ways to cool off in the water.

Royal Caribbean designed this ship to be a water wonderland. There are six waterslides and 17 pools and whirlpools, which ensures you can find the right pool vibe for you.

The Hideaway has a suspended infinity pool, while Swim & Tonic has a swim-up bar.  Both are for adults-only.

The other pools come in different sizes and views, making them appealing for different reasons.  I love to try as many as I can.

Lastly, there is so much food you can eat on this ship that it's difficult to try to get to it all in one sailing.

Most of the food is included, but there are extra cost options too.

The Aquadome Market is a food hall that prepares each order on the spot, and is my favorite included restaurant on any ship.

Of course, the Main Dining Room has table served food, and the Windjammer Marketplace is a buffet with so many options. 

There are two specialty restaurants that are new to Legend, and each is guaranteed to give you FOMO if you don't try them.

Royal Railway Legend Station is an immersive dining experience that simulates what it's like to be on a classic train. It's even more fun than that sounds.

Guests dine in train cars and thanks to technology, it looks and feels like you're on a moving train.

The Hollywoodland Supper Club is a multi-course meal featuring meals pairs to cocktails and live entertainment that celebrates the golden age of cinema from the 1920s to 1950s.

There's so much more offered than what's listed here, which makes trying to do everything nearly impossible.  It's a reason to rebook another cruise.

There's an entire section for families

It's worth highlighting the fact Legend of the Seas has the Surfside neighborhood, giving it a major advantage for anyone cruising with kids.

While all Royal Caribbean ships have kid-focused areas, this is an entire neighborhood with a buffet that has just kid food, a giant aquapark, climbing area, and many ways to play.

Surfside is one of the ship's neighborhoods, and it is designed for kids under the age of 9-10 years old.

There's a carousel with a very cutely themed rubber duck motif.

The carousel, and nearly all of Surfside is included in your cruise fare.  It's the kind of special area you can bring your kids and they will have full reign on so much fun.

Towards the back is a "mommy and me" bar at the Lemon Post.  There are cocktails for the parents, and mocktails for the kids. That way, everyone can enjoy a beverage.

Plus, there are special activities throughout the day to enjoy.  Limbo, dance parties, ice cream, and even nighttime bed stories that are read for children.

Surfside is the "easy button" for parents to bring their kids and let them have an all-out fun day.

What is different about Legend of the Seas compared to other cruise ships

Legend of the Seas is very similar to Icon and Star, but there are a few notable differences worth pointing out.

The Pearl is updated with better lighting and sounds to make it truly special. 

The Pearl has always been impressive, but now it's stunning.

There is a two story casino onboard, offering additional non-smoking space.

The second floor is on deck 3, and it features its own bar along with table games and additional slot machines.

Like all Royal Caribbean ships, the shows are completely different from other ships. 

• "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" in the Royal Theater
• "America's Got Talent LIVE" in the Royal Theater
• "Shockwave" in Aquatheater
• "Fusion" ice skating show in Absolute Zero

Each show was developed for this ship.

The addition of Royal Railway and Hollywoodland are both only on this ship. In addition, Aquadome Market has a completely different line-up of food stations.

Why you should try Legend of the Seas

Legend of the Seas is the best all-around cruise ship you can go on today, featuring the latest and greatest that Royal Caribbean has to offer.

Leaning on its family cruise line tradition, this ship has the most choices of what you can do for all ages. This makes it an excellent choice for multi-gen groups that need things for young kids, grandparents, young adults, and more.

Because it's the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, it has all of their best ideas in one. 

If the idea of going on the world's largest cruise ship sounds as fun as it is exciting to brag about to your friends, then this is the ship for you.

What's missing?

No cruise ship is perfect, and I'd argue there are a few downsides to consider before booking.

There are two adults-only pools (Hideaway and Swim & Tonic), but neither embody the traditional Solarium adult pool experience other ships have. 

If your idea of an adults-only space is a quiet area to read a book, that doesn't exist on this ship.

There aren't any solo cabins, which are staterooms designed for those cruising alone.  Royal Caribbean has moved away from that concept over the past few new ships, so it's not a new trend.  

Unlike the other two Icon Class ships, there is no conference center onboard.  The expanded casino took over that space. 

Where Legend of the Seas will sail

The inaugural season begins in the Mediterranean with summer cruises in 2026 that offer 7-night voyages primarily from Barcelona.

In the fall, Legend crosses the Atlantic and will offer winter cruises from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. These will be 6- and 8-night Western and Southern Caribbean cruises.

Cruises are available to book on Legend of the Seas through April 2028.

During the first-ever sailing aboard Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean executives sat down to discuss everything from future deployment plans to artificial intelligence (AI) and even Skipper, the ship's Chief Dog Officer. 

One of the most highly anticipated topics was its upcoming Discovery Class, though executives were careful not to reveal too much. 

Europe and Australia were also brought up, with hints at how future deployments could broaden the brand's footprint while accounting for seasonal demand and weather patterns. 

Accessibility and autism-friendly cruising came up, too, and executives reinforced the company's ongoing efforts to make vacations more inclusive and accommodating for all guests.

Here's a roundup of some of the highlights shared by executives like Jason Liberty and Michael Bayley during two conversations aboard Legend of the Seas in Europe. 

The Royal Beach Club Lelepa project is going to break ground in July

Once it opens, the Royal Beach Club Lelepa will be the first private cruise destination in the South Pacific, and Royal Caribbean is targeting October 2027 for the first guests to visit the beach club.

During the Q&A session aboard Legend of the Seas, executives confirmed that major groundbreaking is expected to start sometime this month. 

Not only that, but Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley hinted that the beach club's opening could determine how the company continues to curate sailings for the Australian market, with a growing focus on year-round sailings. 

"We think [the Royal Beach Club Lelepa is] going to really tick the box for the Australian market, and our intention would be over time to grow that market because of that destination," Bayley said.

Discovery Class is coming, but we won't know more until next year

As the name implies, Discovery Class ships will likely steer clear of traditional Caribbean voyages to ports like CocoCay, St. Thomas, and Cozumel. 

According to Bayley, there are three regions where we can expect Discovery Class ships to sail: Asia, Alaska, and Europe. 

"It is a class by its name that will go to Asia; it will go to Alaska; it will go to [Europe]. [And the ships] will be specifically designed for those types of more exotic experiences," he claimed. 

Discovery Class ships will also be small enough to sail through the Panama Canal, though that wasn't breaking news. 

Still, knowing that the vessel will meet the canal's size restrictions helps reinforce the notion that the cruise line plans on using Discovery Class ships for more unique itineraries. 

Beyond that, though, there's a lot that is being kept under lock and key, and Bayley said we can expect to learn more sometime during the second half of 2027. 

There's a reason why Royal Caribbean doesn't offer year-round Europe cruises

There's no denying that there's a strong European market for Royal Caribbean cruises. However, despite the demand, they strategically choose not to offer year-round sailings from ports like Southampton and Barcelona, with the primary reason being the weather. 

"You have to be able to operate it for a longer period of time, not just for the Christmas holidays, but it is the weather, right?" Jason Liberty, Chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, explained. 

Bayley added that customer satisfaction can drop by around 25 points when guests sail in less favorable conditions and pointed to the line's strong Caribbean presence in the winter.

"We've got a lot of beautiful ships in the Caribbean in the winter, and it's only a short little flight from London to Miami... We've got the best lineup of products on the planet with Perfect Day, with the beach clubs. I mean, come on. And it's almost guaranteed sunshine," he said. 

That said, Royal Caribbean has confidence in Europe as a key market, with executives claiming that demand remains robust, even if year-round deployment isn't viable. 

Looking ahead, Bayley hinted at the possibility of an Icon Class ship returning to Europe in 2028, pointing to the strong early performance of Legend of the Seas in the region before the vessel even welcomed paying passengers. 

"[Legend] is doing exceedingly well. It seems to be extremely popular. It's selling at great rates, so I think we're on a great track. And obviously, our plan is to put this kind of fantastic hardware into the European market. So fingers crossed it's all looking great [for 2028]," he stated. 

Royal Caribbean is an autism-friendly cruise line

Next, Royal Caribbean executives made it abundantly clear that the company takes pride in being such an autism-friendly cruise line. 

For starters, a dedicated access team works with travelers to help ensure that all reasonable accommodations are met. Sensory toys are also available onboard, along with quiet spaces that can help guests manage sensory overload. 

Additionally, they mentioned areas where they could continue to improve and expand these offerings, explaining why Q&A sessions and panels are so important. 

For example, when asked if adding sensory rooms to their fleet was an option, Bayley said the company is open to exploring it. 

He noted that the cruise line spends a lot of time designing new ship classes and refurbishing existing vessels. Part of that work includes reconfiguring and adding cruise cabins. 

As such, creating sensory-friendly rooms isn't totally out of the question, though he said they will need to investigate the idea further with their newbuild team.

Challenging cruise stereotypes and coming out on top

Although cruising has made a remarkable rebound after the pandemic, a lot of people still have outdated perceptions of what a cruise vacation is like. 

"There are a lot of people who will say, 'Cruising isn't for me,'" Liberty said, "They may look at the number of people on a ship, or they may just think that's not the kind of vacation they want."

However, these are the types of travelers that the company loves to welcome on board because they're five times more likely to cruise with them again once they've experienced everything Royal Caribbean Group offers. 

He attributed that to the company's focus on creating share-worthy vacations that cruisers can't help but recommend to friends and family, generating some of the best marketing out there: word-of-mouth. 

Artificial intelligence as a superpower

AI is a controversial topic, with concerns ranging from job displacement to privacy. To Liberty, however, AI is a superpower that can help enhance the overall guest experience. 

With the use of AI, for example, the company has been able to reduce food waste by around half. 

Not only that, but it's helpful when it comes to energy conservation. By using sensors in public areas, they can better manage systems such as lighting and air conditioning.

"[AI is] going to enhance our crew; it's going to enhance what we do on shore and how we operate our ships [and] how we design our ships into the future," he added. 

Honoring the original Legend of the Seas

Finally, Royal Caribbean executives discussed why they decided to reuse the name Legend of the Seas. In reality, it wasn’t a long, drawn-out process; it was a pretty natural choice to bring the name back for the Icon Class.

Legend of the Seas, which initially set sail in 1995, was a popular ship. Unfortunately, she was sold to Thomson Cruises (now Marella Cruises) in 2016 and now operates as the Marella Discovery 2. 

According to Bayley, many longtime cruise fans suggested reviving the name, letting the company's history live on through the next-gen Icon Class ship. 

(Credit: Aaron Hall)

"Legend was suggested by many of our former guests. It was an incredibly popular ship. It was an appropriate name for the [Icon Class]... And so that name just became a natural, top contender. And that's why we ended up with Legend of the Seas," he explained. 

The cruise industry is always growing, welcoming new, innovative, and mind-blowing ships like Legend of the Seas. However, does that mean you should avoid older vessels?

Recently, I sailed aboard Liberty of the Seas on a five-night cruise to Germany and Belgium from Southampton, England. Although she isn't the oldest in the Royal Caribbean fleet, she's a far cry from the record-breaking Oasis and Icon Class ships that dominate the cruise line's marketing strategy. 

Still, after spending five nights onboard, I came away impressed by just how much Liberty has to offer. Thanks to a recent Royal Amplification, the ship feels refreshed with new dining venues, updated public spaces, and new original productions.

That said, sailing on an older ship comes with a few trade-offs. While Liberty of the Seas offers many of the features that make newer Royal Caribbean ships so popular, there are also areas where her age is noticeable, such as her dated staterooms. 

In this article, I'll dive into what it's really like to sail on this older ship, exploring 10 things I liked and disliked about Liberty of the Seas — and why, despite her shortcomings, she offers one of the best values in the fleet. 

#1. I loved the new Western-themed ice skating show. 

During her Royal Amplification, Royal Caribbean replaced the Encore! An Ice Spectacular skating show in Studio B with Boots and Blades. As someone who isn't a fan of country music, I didn't think I'd like this production. 

And while the Western theme may not have been my first choice, Boots and Blades was a pleasant surprise and easily one of the highlights of my Liberty of the Seas cruise. 

The choreography, for example, was especially impressive — the lifts, spins, and tricks kept my attention throughout the 45-minute show, with the skaters making the difficult moves look a little bit too easy. 

I also thought that the costumes were a lot of fun, from the hobby horses to the sparkly getups. Even the sets felt a little more immersive than other ice shows that rely more on technology. At one point, one of the skaters hopped on a mechanical bull! 

#2. I disliked my outdated cruise room.

Wanting to keep our cruise costs low after a pricey pre-cruise visit to London, England, my fiancée and I booked the cheapest available cabin, a standard interior stateroom, aboard Liberty of the Seas.

Knowing that Liberty is a 19-year-old cruise ship, we knew that the cabin would feel dated. However, this was still a disappointment considering that the vessel had just completed its highly anticipated Royal Amplification. 

Many public areas received a facelift, including the pool deck. The cabins, unfortunately, remained largely untouched. For example, the couch in my inside stateroom looked worn, and the cabinets were chipped. Plus, there was a noticeable lack of charging options. 

In the end, it wasn't the worst cruise cabin I've ever stayed in, but it was a far cry from the more modern and luxurious rooms found on ships like Icon and Utopia of the Seas. 

#3. I loved the revamped pool deck. 

Unlike the staterooms, Liberty's pool deck got a much-needed refresh. In line with other Royal Amplified vessels and newer ships, the pool deck now features bright décor, creating a resort-like atmosphere.

The transformation turned decks 11 and 12 into a destination, rather than just a place to cool off on a hot day at sea. For starters, there are two Lime & Coconut Bars, each serving up the signature Lime & Coconut drink, along with other tropical beverages. 

Royal Caribbean brought its highly-rated El Loco Fresh and Cantina Fresca to the pool deck, too. This gives guests easy access to grab-and-go Mexican fare, like nachos, burritos, and quesadillas — at no extra cost! 

For those who don't want to battle the annoying chair hogs, casitas were also added to the pool deck. These shaded, private lounging areas are available to rent for the day, both in port and at sea, and provide a more relaxing retreat. That said, they don't come cheap, and Liberty has plenty of complimentary seating available, even if it is a short walk from the pools. 

#4. I disliked that Royal Caribbean removed the complimentary sauna and steam room. 

One of my biggest complaints about Liberty is that Royal Caribbean seemed to prioritize revenue-generating additions, like specialty restaurants and new stateroom categories, over refreshing the ship's existing features.

For example, the spa's complimentary sauna and steam rooms were removed to make way for new cabins on Deck 11. The new locker room is extremely tiny, with just two toilet stalls. 

I was looking forward to using the sauna, especially since access is a paid perk on newer ships with thermal spas. For example, my thermal spa pass on Utopia of the Seas cost $99 per person for a three-night sailing. 

#5. I loved the ship's European flair.

Because this was a European cruise out of England, the onboard atmosphere felt noticeably different from a typical Caribbean sailing, with a more international mix of passengers. 

However, beyond the clientele, Royal Caribbean made a few subtle changes to better cater to the European market. For example, the Rock Brit Street Party paid homage to famous British musicians, playing hits like "Revolution," "Levitating," and "Rock DJ."

The food options were tailored to the European market, too. Café Promenade, for example, frequently had a scone filled with berries and cream. Although it was far from the scones I had at high tea in London, it was a nice touch that I don't typically see on Caribbean or Bahamian sailings.

Even the bears in the classic car in the Promenade were sporting fun United Kingdom flag-inspired outfits. 

#6. I disliked the slow service in the dining room.

The service in the dining room was undoubtedly slow. One night, we had to ask our servers multiple times for a bread basket, and drink refills seemed nearly impossible. 

Normally, I choose My Time Dining. However, for this sailing, I decided to try traditional dining with a set table and assigned servers. Meals regularly stretched longer than expected, and the service felt less attentive than what I've experienced on other Royal Caribbean cruises.

The food was great, but the overall dining experience would have been much better with faster and more consistent service. As such, it left a sour taste in my mouth for traditional dining.

#7. I loved all the quiet lounge areas. 

Liberty of the Seas isn't packed from bow to stern with adrenaline-pumping activities like Oasis or Icon of the Seas — and that's one of my favorite things about the ship. 

Although there is an escape room, a FlowRider surf simulator, a rock climbing wall, waterslides, a mini-golf course, and more, the ship strikes a nice balance between constant stimulation and built-in downtime. 

There are plenty of tucked-away spots throughout the ship where you can relax with a drink, read a book, or simply enjoy the ocean views. My go-tos were the nooks near the aft elevator banks, the outdoor seating behind the FlowRider, and the Viking Crown Lounge.  

#8. I disliked that there wasn't a Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. 

As mentioned earlier, Royal Caribbean has been focused on adding more revenue-generating spaces, from specialty restaurants to cabins and casinos. 

On Liberty of the Seas, Casino Royale on Deck 4 was expanded to feature more table games and slot machines than before, replacing the former photo gallery area near Boleros. 

Instead, the shore excursions and Focus gallery were moved and combined on Deck 3, right outside Studio B. Unfortunately, these changes mean that the On Air Lounge no longer exists. 

Even worse, the expanded casino means that there was no room to add Playmakers, which has been a major disappointment to many frequent cruisers — myself included. I mean, you can seriously never go wrong with a campfire cookie for dessert!

#9. I loved the non-smoking casino. 

When I heard that Liberty was getting an expanded Casino Royale, I assumed that part of the casino would be non-smoking, while the original part would remain smoking. 

To my surprise, the entire casino aboard Liberty of the Seas was non-smoking during my sailing. Personally, I thought it was a great change — though my partner was a little frustrated she couldn't vape while cutting through the ship. 

Still, the space felt cleaner and more comfortable, and I appreciated how smoke wasn't drifting into popular spaces like Boleros or the Schooner Bar. 

#10. I disliked the long lines. 

Finally, we encountered some annoying lines on Liberty of the Seas, whether for a slice of pizza or an ice cream cone on the pool deck. Disembarkation in Southampton was hectic with just one gangway, too. 

The worst, however, was the seemingly constant line at Café Promenade for specialty coffee. Starbucks rarely had a wait, but that's because Diamond vouchers and drink packages don't work there. 

To avoid the crowd also trying to get their morning caffeine fix, we quickly learned that going earlier was better. As such, we'd often make our way to Deck 5 no later than 8:00 a.m., getting our specialty lattes in seconds. 

Is Liberty of the Seas a good cruise ship?

Overall, my fiancée and I were pleasantly surprised with our experience on Liberty of the Seas. Still, even with the recent Royal Amplification, she shows her age in many areas. 

The staterooms, in particular, are in dire need of attention, and I think it would have been smarter for the cruise line to allocate some funds toward the cabins versus more casino space or new accommodations. 

That said, in terms of value, Liberty of the Seas remains a strong option. She delivers a fun onboard atmosphere, solid dining options, and good entertainment at a competitive price point compared to newer, larger vessels. 

Although Liberty isn't the flashiest ship in the fleet, she offers a memorable cruise experience — if you go in with realistic expectations. For example, if you understand that some areas feel dated, rather than expecting modern cabins or the latest technology, you can have a great time aboard Liberty of the Seas. 

Royal Caribbean brought back Legend of the Seas, but it's nothing like the original.

The first Legend of the Seas launched in 1995. With a gross tonnage of less than 70,000 and a passenger capacity of around 2,000, the Vision Class ship was a far cry from the massive Icon Class vessel that carries the same name.

That said, she was pretty revolutionary at the time. Highlights included a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, an elegant atrium, two pools, a theater, and a fitness center. 

(Credit: Soma Biswas)

Moreover, she's considered one of the most well-traveled ships in the fleet, having offered voyages to places like Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific, Alaska, Central America, the Caribbean, the Baltic, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. 

In June 2016, it was announced that Legend of the Seas had been sold to Thomson Cruises (now Marella Cruises), with the vessel departing Royal Caribbean's fleet in March 2017. 

(Credit: Singaporevideo)

That said, the original Legend of the Seas is still sailing under a different name. Today, she continues operating as Marella Discovery 2. 

Marella Discovery is another Vision Class ship that was transferred from Royal Caribbean's fleet to Marella Cruises. She began her career sailing as Splendour of the Seas in 1996, eventually leaving the fleet in 2016.

(Credit: 臺灣賞船人Taiwan Ships Watchers)

Royal Caribbean's newest ship, also named Legend of the Seas, set sail on a special invite-only journey on June 29, 2026, ahead of her maiden voyage on July 4. 

Reusing ship names isn't unheard of in the industry. In fact, cruise lines like Holland America Line and Princess Cruises have revived names across multiple generations of ships, including MS Noordam and Sun Princess.

(Credit: Nathan Foley)

That said, it's the first time Royal Caribbean has reused the name of one of its former vessels. More than 30 years after the original vessel debuted, the Legend of the Seas name has returned aboard one of the world's largest and most technologically advanced cruise ships. 

Coming in at 248,663 gross tons with a passenger capacity of over 5,600, Legend of the Seas ranks among the largest cruise ships ever built, joining her Icon Class sisters, Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, at the top of the list.

In fact, she's more than three and a half times larger than the original Legend of the Seas, when measuring by gross tonnage, and can accommodate nearly three times as many guests. 

The size isn't the only thing that showcases just how dramatically Royal Caribbean's ships have evolved since the mid-1990s — it's also the amenities. 

On Legend of the Seas, you'll find everything from a rubber duck-themed carousel to an indoor AquaTheater, train car specialty restaurant, multi-deck casino, Ultimate Family Townhouse suite, upgraded Pearl, expansive Central Park neighborhood, and so, so, SO much more. 

Guests, for instance, can take advantage of more than 40 places to eat and drink, ranging from the complimentary Main Dining Room to the AquaDome Marketplace, El Loco Fresh, Chops Grille, Hooked Seafood, and Izumi Sushi and Hibachi. 

Legend of the Seas boasts an impressive lineup of attractions, ensuring that there's more than enough to keep busy on a six-, seven-, or eight-night cruise.

The record-breaking Category 6 waterpark is one of my favorite Icon Class features. However, there are also multiple pools and hot tubs, a surf simulator, sports court, mini-golf course, rock climbing wall, escape room, an ice skating rink, Crown's Edge ropes course/zip line hybrid, and dedicated youth spaces for every age group.

On a similar note, even spaces designated for relaxation have been elevated compared to older Royal Caribbean ships.

The AquaDome on Deck 15 combines panoramic ocean views with dining (Hooked Seafood and the Aquadome Marketplace), entertainment (AquaTheater), and relaxing nooks. 

Back in the 90s, however, the Viking Crown Lounge was one of Royal Caribbean's most recognizable design elements.

With its panoramic views and elevated position high atop the ship, it offered guests a low-key place to relax, enjoy a drink, listen to music, and take in the scenery. In other words, it was much less of a multi-purpose space compared to today's AquaDome. 

(Credit: Cruise Passenger)

The accommodations are another area where the differences between the original and new Legend of the Seas are really noticeable. 

In the 90s, the stateroom experience wasn't as important as it is today. As such, the original Legend of the Seas offered traditional layouts and fewer categories compared to its modern successor. 

(Credit: Tim Pixsson, PIXSSON photo)

On today's Legend, for example, there are over two dozen different types of cruise rooms, ranging from tiny inside cabins to lavish suites and even interior-facing balconies. 

Comparatively, the original Legend of the Seas placed a greater emphasis on windowless interior and ocean-view staterooms, rather than the variety of balcony categories common today. 

I can't forget to mention entertainment! When the original Legend of the Seas was built, the scale of the ship's entertainment offerings was nowhere near what passengers experience today.

For example, on today's Legend, you'll find everything from high-diving shows with synchronized swimmers and acrobatic performers to ice skating shows and even a Broadway-style production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the Royal Theater. 

(Credit: Adrian The Cruise and Travel Guy)

All of that to say, the two ships may share a name, but they represent completely different eras of cruising.

Modern-day cruisers often expect the ship to be a destination in and of itself, packed with restaurants, entertainment, attractions, and unique experiences designed to keep guests busy all day long. 

(Credit: Aaron Hall)

On the flip side, the original Legend of the Seas was built to transport cruisers to various regions across the world, offering a more simplistic onboard experience. 

Royal Caribbean's new immersive restaurant might be the most fun dining experience I've had in a long time.

Available on the new Legend of the Seas ship, Royal Railway Legend Station is a new offering of a restaurant they debuted a few short years ago. This new version is smoother, offers higher quality cuisine, and delivers the kind of meal you'll be talking about for a long time.

When Royal Caribbean invited me to try it on a preview sailing of the new ship, I was eager to see how this experience would measure up.  I had experienced the Wild West show on Utopia of the Seas and even went to an early test preview at Miami Headquarters. 

When you combine great food, technology, and entertainment, you get what might be the best elevated dinner experience that encapsulates everything Royal Caribbean wants in everything on its ships: a terrific memory maker.

After taking in every minute of the 90 minute meal, here's what my experience at Royal Railway was like.

Disclosure: Royal Caribbean invited me to sail on Legend of the Seas and dine at Royal Railway for no cost. I purchased separately Royal Railway on another upcoming sailing that I paid for on my own.

Royal Railway is a dinner show that looks like you're on a train

Located on the Royal Promenade, you'll find what appears to be a train station and this is all part of the story telling at Royal Railway.

Unlike traditional specialty restaurants on cruise ships that offer a specific type of cuisine, there's show and technology that aims to transport you to a different time and place.

It costs extra to dine at the Royal Railway, which should be booked before the cruise begins via the Royal Caribbean app. Yes, printed tickets are delivered to your cabin that you need to bring with you.

About 30 minutes prior to your train time, you can enter the station. This is where I already started getting impressed.

You walk onto a station platform that looks and sounds like a real train station. There's even a bar that has cocktails you can order for your ride.

The level of detail on the platform alone sets the tone for why Royal Railway is so impressive.

When it's time for your train (dinner and show), a conductor will call for everyone to board.

I was impressed by the variety and flavor of each course

Each train car has a table for two or four, where the full menu is waiting.

The story behind Royal Railway is you're following the Silk Routes that Marco Polo took on his journey back from the Orient to Europe.

Each region your train visits along his famous path represents a course of food and cuisine. Most of the food is served family style, but the main entree (Turkey) is ordered individually.

There's food from Persia, India, Turkey, China, and Italy.  Other than Turkey, all the food are small bites that are meant to be shared. All the food from Italy and China are served to each person as a sampling platter.

Before we talk about the show, I think the food should be recognized for being sophisticated, yet palate pleasing.  You don't have to be a foodie to enjoy eating here, as there's lots to choose from.  There's even a kids menu that anyone can ask for!

I was so impressed by the Silk Routes food, to the point I would go back just for the food options.

The original Royal Railway on Utopia of the Seas had a more family-focused menu and its food was good, but didn't wow me. The Silk Routes menu is a significant step up in variety and flavor.

Your journey begins in China, where a trio of appetizers are served to each person.

The Wood Ear Mushroom Spring Roll had such great flavor, and I was pleasantly surprised how much better it was than your average spring roll.

The Hoisin Duck Egg Rolls sounded strange (I don't ever order duck), but I really enjoyed it.

Moving to India, a platter of food is served for your table to share. 

I love Indian food so much, so this was the highlight of my meal. As someone that has eaten a lot of Indian on Royal Caribbean ships, this is not your garden variety Windjammer curry.

While Indian food might be somewhat polarizing, I think the flavors and spice level are quite balanced for novice tastes.  Nothing was overly spicy, but it retained plenty of flavor. Stick with the Butter Chicken and Potato Chop if you're new to Indian food.

In Persia, a palate cleanser is served to prepare you for your entree.

It's a tasty sorbet that was more like pre-dessert than anything, so I enjoyed it!

In Turkey, your entrees are served and we went with the two kebabs.  One is a beef kebab and the other an Impossible (vegan) kebab. 

Very similar flavor profiles for both, and I ate every bite.  This is when I started hitting my food limit because I had eaten everything from the Indian serving earlier.

At dessert, there's another sampler provided for everyone. 

Our table's favorite was the Stracciatella Gelato, but my wife really liked the Raspberry Bombolini.

This is the best use of technology on a cruise ship

What elevates Royal Railway beyond just another cruise ship specialty restaurant is the train experience.

Through the use of technology, it looks and feels like you're riding on a train.

As your train pulls out of the station, the windows open and you have a digital view of the places Marco Polo visited. The rumble of the tracks is felt in subtle vibrations in your seat.  The car itself gently moves to simulate movement.

In addition to following Marco Polo's route, each region you visit will celebrate a festival. Holi in India, Chinese New Year, and Hot Air Balloon Festival in Turkey, for example.

Each second of the ride has something else to see outside the window and what you see on one side is different than what's on the other side.

It's a convincing simulation, while your conductor hosts stops in periodically to narrate and explain the significance of the region, Polo's experience there, and what the food you're being served represents.

Silk Routes solves for most of the issues with the first restaurant

One major improvement with Silk Routes is the pacing and story telling is much better. There's more storytelling on Utopia, which felt like interruptions to a dinner meal many times.

I think there's a much better balance of show, food, and story this time around.

I loved my meal and show, but I recognize there are two possible problems with Royal Railway for some guests.

While the menu has a good deal of variety, it's not as familiar food as you might find in the Main Dining Room or a specialty restaurant like Chops Grille. 

My kids are very picky eaters, and would probably eat less than half the food served. 

The other issue is cost, because Royal Railway isn't cheap. For an upcoming sailings, the cost of one person is $165 (slightly cheaper for kids).  That's over $500 for dinner for four people.

Of course, this isn't your typical specialty restaurant and there's much more that comes with your dinner than just different food. Royal Caribbean calls it a real memory making experience.  Not once-in-a-lifetime, but certainly the kind of meal you might book to try and use it for a special evening.

Dinner you won't forget

As someone that's always looking for experiences that stand out as being unlike anything I can do anywhere else, this hits that target squarely in the center. There's no way you won't dine at Royal Railway and not come home and tell your friends about it.

Moreover, it's not just about it looking like a train. The show element is very well done, but the food stands out on its own as something I wish I could get more of separately.

Royal Caribbean's CEO revealed that one popular cruise destination could become year-round in the near future. 

While the cruise line is synonymous with epic Caribbean vacations, it also operates around the globe, including Alaska, Europe, South America, Hawaii, Mexico, and more.  

During a Q&A session on the newly launched Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley hinted that the company is working to better curate sailings for the Australian market, particularly when it comes to the Royal Beach Club Lelepa.

"There [are] a lot of differences [and] nuances between [the] Australian consumer and an American consumer. And we're creating that experience. So we think [the Royal Beach Club Lelepa is] going to really tick the box for the Australian market," Bayley said. 

He added that the company's intention is to grow the region's market, especially because they're proud of the work that's gone into developing Royal Beach Club Lelepa. 

"It's [an] exceptionally beautiful destination, and we're building something which is really in harmony with the environment. And it's going to be a really special place," Bayley stated. 

Lelepa is a long-time project that's going to really break ground in July

Royal Beach Club Lelepa will be the first cruise destination in the South Pacific, and Royal Caribbean is targeting October 2027 for the first guests to visit the private club.

During the Q&A session aboard the Legend, Royal Caribbean executives confirmed that a major milestone for the long-awaited project is upcoming in July.

Unfortunately, executives shared few additional details, leaving cruise fans in the dark as to what they can expect as development moves forward.

That said, we have an idea of the amenities available at the Royal Beach Club Lelepa. 

Located on the northwest side of Vanuatu, just northeast of Australia, the Royal Beach Club Lelepa will feature two stunning beaches, the family-friendly East Beach and "adventure-primed" West Beach, along with an adults-only area for passengers 18+.

Additionally, a specially crafted lineup of food and drinks will be available — all included at no extra charge. 

Speaking of what's included, unlike other Royal Beach Clubs (i.e., Paradise Island and Santorini), entrance to Royal Beach Club Lelepa will be included in your cruise fare.

This means you won't have to budget for a curated private island day, with everything from admission to tender transportation, lounge chairs, umbrellas, beach games, restrooms, food, and more included. 

Of note, there won't be Wi-Fi at the Royal Beach Club Lelepa, and unlike some of Royal Caribbean's other private destinations, guests won't find sprawling freshwater pools.

What ships sail to Australia?

Royal Caribbean cruise ships sail from Brisbane and Sydney, Australia, from October to April. Beginning in late 2027 and continuing into 2028, Anthem of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas will be based in the region. 

Anthem is a Quantum Class ship that launched in 2015 and comes in at 168,666 gross tons, while Voyager is a Voyager Class ship that hit the high seas in 1999. She's slightly smaller than Anthem, measuring around 137,000 gross tons.

According to Bayley, Royal Caribbean isn't planning on sending its upcoming Discovery Class ships to Australia. Rather, they will be deployed in regions like Alaska, Europe, and Asia. 

"Discovery Class is a class for Royal Caribbean. It is a class by its name that will go to Asia; it will go to Alaska; it will go to [Europe]," he said aboard Legend of the Seas. 

Royal Caribbean's CEO revealed where the new Discovery Class ships are likely to sail.

While the cruise line is still being tight lipped on just about every detail, it's becoming clearer the Discovery Class ships likely won't be doing traditional Caribbean voyages to the usual places.

Royal Caribbean has ordered two ships so far, with the first one ready to sail sometime in 2029. But beyond that, there hasn't been much additional information divulged.

While sailing on Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley answered a question about this new ship class and gave us a better idea of where these new ships are headed.

A new ship with exotic experiences

Mr. Bayley was keen to not share any significant news about the Discovery Class ships yet, but he elaborated on where they are headed.

There's been rampant speculation as to what Royal Caribbean's plans are for these ships, especially since they won't be as large as the Icon Class ships.

Mr. Bayley specifically called out three parts of the world we will see Discovery Class ships: Asia, Alaska, and Europe.

"Discovery Class is a class for Royal Caribbean. It is a class by its name that will go to Asia, it will go to Alaska, it will go to European itineraries," he said.

"That ship will be specifically designed for those types of more exotic experiences."

Previously, he had only alluded to the fact there would be more exotic destinations. Now we know more precisely which of those markets these ships are headed towards.

In September 2025, he confirmed the ships wouldn't be doing the same routes as the Icon and Oasis Class ships.

Part of that decision to send Discovery on more exotic routes is because of guest feedback, "We've learned about the segment of guests who want to go on these different types of itineraries. And we've packaged and built it into Discovery."

At Wednesday's meeting, he also repeated the fact Discovery Class ships will be able to fit in the Panama Canal, which will allow them to get from one part of the world to the other with less time.

"We'll be able to go through the Panama Canal... which changes access to more exotic destinations."

He explained having to go around South America is a 60 day journey, but going through the Panama Canal reduces that time to just about two weeks. That allows the ship to move around more efficiently.

One more small detail mentioned was these ships are sourcing the best ideas from Royal Caribbean's other ships.

"We've literally taken everything we've learned from all of the classes that have preceded Discovery, including this class, which is, we think, phenomenal class."

When we can expect to hear more details

I know what you're thinking: enough of the speculation, when will Royal Caribbean actually reveal everything about the Discovery Class?

According to Bayley, that should occur in late 2027.

"We'll be super happy to talk about Discovery about typically 18 to 24 months before the ship first sails."

What we know so far

The comments shared today reflect a new ship that is very much still in development, and that's part of why so few details are known.

Royal Caribbean announced they placed an order for two cruise ships earlier this year.

Both are being built at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France. The first will debut in 2029 and the second in 2032.

There are options for four additional ships to be built, should the cruise line exercise those options at a later date.

Thanks to filings with the U.S. government, we also have an idea of how big the ships are.

According to Royal Caribbean Group's form 10-Q filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, the new ship will have an approximate passenger count (berths) of 4,300.

That's about 1,300 passengers less than the Icon Class ships.

Royal Caribbean created a smarter balcony cabin for families, and it's a great idea.

Legend of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. Among the additions and changes, including the rubber duck-themed carousel, Hollywoodland Supper Club, and Royal Railway — Legend Station, is a new category of staterooms.

Royal Caribbean introduced the Family Ocean View Balcony (Category FB) on Legend of the Seas. These spacious accommodations measure 285 square feet, with an additional 50-square-foot private balcony.  

Generally speaking, these new cabins are similar to the Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony staterooms. However, they have a traditional verandah, replacing the controversial infinite balcony. 

According to the deck plans, Family Ocean View Balcony cabins on Legend of the Seas have space for up to six passengers. Each stateroom includes one Royal King bed (which can be converted into two twin beds), one double sofa bed, and one bunk bed with two twin-size beds.

That's not all, though. Many of the Family Ocean View Balcony cabins are connecting, so you can essentially create a "mini-suite" with significantly more space for families of up to 12. 

However, instead of a connecting door inside the cabins, these cabins feature a shared vestibule with two separate entry doors. The idea is that you can close the outside doors and keep your primary cabin door open or unlocked so you can easily go between them.

As such, if you don't know the family in the other connecting cabin, you don't have to share an interior door inside your stateroom. 

Here's a look at the new family balcony staterooms on Legend of the Seas. 

Legend of the Seas Royal Caribbean Balcony Room: PHOTOS + COST

During Legend of the Seas' preview cruise from Málaga, Spain, Royal Caribbean Blog toured cabin #12716, which is designated as a Family Ocean View Balcony (Category FB). 

Starting off, you're greeted by a long entryway. To the left are the split bathrooms. These innovative bathrooms separate the shower and bathtub from the toilet. 

This makes it easier for families to get ready after a long day ashore by allowing multiple passengers to freshen up without squeezing into one small bathroom.

Another advantage of split bathrooms is that they typically provide more storage space. For example, in cabin #12716, there are six shelves, along with vanity cubbies and two sinks. 

You'll find that Royal Caribbean didn't change much about the beloved Icon Class shower design, so guests can enjoy the spacious layout, glass shower door, and built-in bench. 

Moving on, much of the cabin is similar to standard balconies on Legend of the Seas. 

There's a flat-screen television, an expansive vanity area, two nightstands, and even a large couch that converts into a double bed. 

Being a new cruise ship, there's also no shortage of charging options. The vanity alone has one standard American outlet, one European outlet, and even a USB port. There are also American outlets and USB ports conveniently located by the bedside.

Unfortunately, the storage situation is largely unchanged from other standard Icon Class staterooms. 

While the stateroom offers more living and sleeping space for families, the closet and wire drawer space is on the limited side, especially considering that these rooms can accommodate up to six guests.

Of course, one of the highlights of this cabin is the balcony. Royal Caribbean's Icon Class was the first ship in the fleet (excluding Celebrity Cruises) to introduce Infinite Balconies. 

Although some praise their flexibility and spacious living areas, they remain controversial, with critics claiming they're nothing more than a glorified ocean-view stateroom. 

On both Icon and Star of the Seas, there were no standard Family Ocean View Balcony (FB) cabins. Instead, those who wanted ocean views had to book the Family Infinite Ocean View Balcony (IB). 

Legend of the Seas changes that by offering larger families a traditional balcony experience. Instead of the Infinite Balcony setup, the Family Ocean View Balcony features a true outdoor verandah where guests can step outside and enjoy the fresh ocean air. 

The private 50-square-foot balcony comes with two outdoor chairs and a small table, giving families a dedicated place to relax and watch the scenery. This is especially important during the cruise ship's European season, when she'll visit bucket list ports like Barcelona, Spain, and La Spezia, Italy.

That said, perhaps the best part about this specific cruise room is the private bunk bed nook. 

The innovative bunk space gives kids their own area while giving the rest of the family a little more privacy. Here, you'll find two twin-size beds, each with its own flat-screen television!

Additionally, the top bunk bed has a privacy curtain, and there are tons of smart storage solutions scattered throughout the area. 

For example, there are deep shelves built into the staircase, and there are a few drawers below the bottom bunk. Moreover, there's a narrow shelf above the top bunk that provides a convenient spot to keep a tablet, phone, or other small items. 

I don't know about you, but this setup is way more exciting than a standard pullman bed, and I would have loved sleeping here as a child!

So, how much do these staterooms cost? Although they aren't designated as suites, you'll still pay a pretty penny compared to standard balconies and interior cabins on Legend of the Seas. 

For example, a Family Ocean View Balcony (Category FB) on Legend of the Seas' July 18, 2027, sailing from Barcelona starts at $9,054.60 for a family of four, breaking down to around $2,263 per person. 

Comparatively, a standard guarantee (GTY) ocean view balcony costs $7,094.60. The roughly $2,000 price difference is significant, especially considering that European excursions are often more expensive than Caribbean alternatives. 

Not only that, but families also have to factor in airfare, which can add a substantial amount to the overall cost of the vacation. 

The price difference is noticeable on Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale, too. On the eight-night Southern Caribbean voyage departing on December 11, 2027, a Family Ocean View Balcony starts at $9,639.92 for a family of four. 

On the flip side, a standard GTY ocean view balcony on the same sailing comes in at around $6,199.92, or $1,550 per person. 

For some travelers, the added space and extra sleeping arrangements may easily justify the higher cost, particularly for larger families. Others, however, may find a standard balcony cabin to be the better value for a Legend of the Seas cruise.

While Legend of the Seas might not be that different from Royal Caribbean's other Icon Class ships, it does a few things differently and it's a win.

No matter how many cruise ships Royal Caribbean builds, each new one comes with a few tweaks and adjustments.  New shows and specialty dining are always going to be different, but other changes also get included.

I've scoured the newest Royal Caribbean cruise ship for everything on Legend of the Seas that is new or updated to see which ones truly stand out as being better than we saw before.

I think it's great that even if this is the third Icon ship, it's not a carbon copy of the ones that came before it. It keeps things fresh, even if they didn't remove the screechy wire baskets in the staterooms yet.

Here are 6 improvements Royal Caribbean made on Legend of the Seas that are better than Icon or Star of the Seas.

The Pearl is what we always wanted from it

As soon as you board Legend of the Seas, you will instantly notice The Pearl here is very different from what you've seen on other ships.

Inside it's brighter, more colorful, and animated.  It's stunning, and I dare you not to walk in front of it and not take a photo or selfie.

Earlier versions of The Pearl were impressive, but this one is on another level because of how beautiful it's interior is.  I think this version is the vision for this space all along, but it took a few iterations (and time) to get it right.

I remember there was a lot of hype for The Pearl when it first opened on Icon of the Seas, but now we have a version of it that lives up to it.

Expanding the casino to two decks is a big win

There is a two-deck casino, which adds an additional non-smoking section to deck 3. 

The lower level isn't as large as the main floor, but it does add quite a lot of new slot machines and tables.

There's a staircase in the middle that goes between both decks of the casino and a new casino bar at the base of the stairs. It reminds me of the stairs that lead to the casino on the Freedom and Voyager Class ships.

Royal Caribbean has prioritized more gambling space over the last few years, and in the case of Legend, the expanded casino replaces the ship's conference center.

Considering how popular Casino Royale has become in recent years, more slots and tables means less competing for them among fellow passengers.

Unlike the expanded casinos on the Oasis Class, this new area is connected to the main area so it feels less disjointed and you don't have to play the game of "I wonder if the other section is less crowded".

The rubber ducks carousel is undeniably cute

I never expected the new carousel design in Surfside to be as adorable as it turned out to be when a rubber duck themed design was revealed.

Everything in Surfside is meant to be for kids, but I can appreciate the carousel here has a cutesy look that fits so perfectly in.

In fact, Royal Caribbean has gone all-in with the rubber ducks on cruise ships idea with this new ship. The carousel embodies it, and there are plenty of duck shopping opportunities around the ship.

Each rubber duck on the carousel has a name and a backstory to it.  It's going to be a challenge for children, when given the choice, of which they want to ride first because inevitably I think they will have favorites.

As an adult, I might not be as infatuated with each individual duck. But I do recognize this carousel is a step-up from the previous versions because there's clearly been more thought in how to make this one stand out.

Removing the comedy club is a miss, but Royal Railway looks incredible

I think every cruise ship should have a comedy club, however, there's no question Royal Railway is a very impressive replacement.

Royal Caribbean sought to build an immersive experience that makes you feel like you're dining on a classic train. Now it really looks and feels like you've stepped onto a real train station with cars ready to whisk you away.

I was blown away by the platform design, both in size and scope. There's even a bar on the platform, which I'm told will be open to all guests to stop by and enjoy drinks there.

I have yet to experience dinner onboard (look for my review later this week), but there's no doubt the Product Design folks went all out to make you think you're really on a train. 

There are so many little details, including some very creative newspaper clippings near the bar. As a fan of quality design, I love how this new space really does make it feel like you've stepped from cruise ship to train station.

The crystal blocks are such a smart idea

Royal Caribbean shared a fun idea for their loyal members that reach a loyalty milestone while sailing on Legend of the Seas.

After getting 140 Crown and Anchor Society points, you're eligible for a crystal block gift.  You'll get another every 70 points thereafter.

For Legend of the Seas, someone at headquarters got creative because there's a limited-edition Legend of the Seas Inaugural Season Crystal Block.

It features the all-new Legend of the Seas on the front and the original Legend on the back. It's a wonderful homage to the legacy of this ship's name, and I think loyal cruisers will appreciate the connection to Royal Caribbean's past.

There are so many more shops with things you might actually buy

I'll admit I usually breeze past most shops on a cruise ship because they're more or less the same, but they've re-thought some of the retail spaces on Legend.

While there will always be fine jewelry shops on cruise ships, I think Royal Caribbean rethought some of its shopping spaces to be more practical. I think people on a cruise vacation are more likely to be inclined to buy a fun souvenir than an expensive one.

Instead of Royal Bling, there's now a Sol & Sea shop that has more everyday clothing to purchase. In Surfside, there are shops with fun souvenirs to browse.

On the Royal Promenade, you'll find Jellycats, blind boxes, Funko collectibles and more.  If you don't know, these are really popular among kids and collectors alike.

Oversold cruise ships aren't totally unheard of in the industry. 

Although not as common as oversold flights, cruise lines occasionally accept more bookings than a ship can accommodate because they know some guests will cancel due to last-minute travel changes.

For example, Royal Caribbean recently oversold two Alaska cruises aboard Voyager of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas. The Last Frontier is an extremely popular cruise destination with limited capacity, and demand far exceeds the number of available cabins during peak sailing seasons. They also oversold a Fourth of July sailing out of Florida aboard Freedom of the Seas. 

When a cruise is overbooked, the cruise line starts by reaching out to affected guests before embarkation, offering lucrative options such as generous compensation, future cruise credits, or alternative sailings to those willing to adjust their plans. 

Fortunately, most cruisers never experience this issue, though some actually hope they do because of the tempting perks. Still, the news headlines of overbooked cruises can be scary for those with strict travel plans and little wiggle room. 

Here's exactly what happens when a cruise ship gets overbooked — and why cruise lines oversell itineraries to begin with. 

Look for volunteers and offer generous incentives to change plans

In the weeks leading up to any cruise, Royal Caribbean monitors its bookings as part of its inventory management process. If it comes across a potential issue, the cruise line proactively reaches out to remedy the situation. 

For example, guests sailing on the July 16, 2026, Serenade of the Seas cruise received an email asking select cruisers if they'd consider rebooking a different voyage. 

However, as you might notice, the company did not use the words "oversold" or "overbooked." Rather, they were looking for passengers with "flexible travel arrangements."

(Credit: Marie Paulette / Facebook)

"Ahead of our Serenade of the Seas July 19, 2026, sailing, we are looking to see if you and your travel party have flexible travel arrangements. If your plans are set in stone, please mark this email as "Read" , and gear up for your upcoming adventure - although, there are some pretty sweet options below," the email reads. 

Royal Caribbean offered passengers the ability to transfer their booking to another 2026 sailing aboard Ovation of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, or Voyager of the Seas at no additional cost. 

In addition, guests would receive a full refund of the paid cruise fare, a 50% Future Cruise Credit (FCC), and reimbursement of any non-refundable, pre-purchased travel expenses. 

The second option stated that passengers could cancel their booking and receive a 100% refund, along with a 100% FCC to be used on a future Royal Caribbean voyage. 

Royal Caribbean also oversold a cruise on Voyager of the Seas. Like the overbooked Serenade of the Seas cruise, those sailing aboard Voyager were given the option to move to a different sailing aboard Serenade, Anthem, or Voyager of the Seas and receive a full refund of the paid cruise fare. 

Unlike the Serenade of the Seas sailing, however, Royal Caribbean did not offer an additional FCC to Voyager passengers who chose to cancel their upcoming cruise. 

(Credit: Jennifer Seitz / Facebook)

The only way to get an FCC in this case would be to fully cancel their upcoming Voyager of the Seas cruise. Those who accept this option would receive a 100% refund, along with a 100% FCC to be used on a future Royal Caribbean sailing. 

Finally, according to published coverage on Cruise Blog, the cruise line also oversold a Bahamian voyage aboard Freedom of the Seas over the Fourth of July, departing from Miami, Florida, on July 2, 2026. 

Guests were given the option to move to the July 16, 2026, Freedom cruise for a full refund of their cruise fare, excluding taxes. If passengers choose to sail in a similar stateroom category, no additional compensation will be provided.

(Credit: Dan PK / Cruise Blog)

However, if they choose a lower category cabin, they can receive a $300 non-refundable onboard credit per stateroom. Royal Caribbean will also reimburse for any non-refundable, pre-purchased travel expenses.

Passengers were also given the option to cancel their booking for a full refund and an FCC equal to 100% of their paid fare. Non-refundable, pre-purchased travel expenses will be reimbursed by the cruise line, too.

The idea behind these last-minute offers is to find people booked on the cruise who might sail frequently and can change their plans because they have multiple vacations scheduled. For these passengers, missing one sailing may not be as disruptive to their schedule, especially if the compensation offered makes it worthwhile.

Royal Caribbean is also searching for opportunistic deal hunters who wouldn't mind delaying their trip or switching ships for a refund and FCC. Of course, the exact compensation offered will depend on the situation, so don't take these examples aboard Freedom, Serenade, Voyager of the Seas to be the only scenarios you could encounter in an overbooked cruise email. 

Do cruisers ever get denied boarding because of an overbooked sailing?

Thankfully, it is extremely rare for a cruise to be oversold and have passengers denied boarding, but it has happened. 

In December 2023, a few people booked on Quantum of the Seas from Australia encountered a situation where they were unable to board after the ship reached capacity and ran out of available cabins, USA TODAY reported. 

According to the news article, Jai Raynor and his wife, Kaitlyn, were denied boarding for the eight-night South Pacific cruise. They had booked a guarantee (or GTY) cabin for around $1,900. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean will let you now pay $30 to find out your guaranteed cruise cabin sooner

Normally, GTY cabins allow the cruise line to assign passengers a room closer to the sailing date, often in exchange for a lower fare. Rarely, however, does the number of guests booked exceed the number of available cabins. 

"Unfortunately, efforts to accommodate all those who wished to sail fell short for a group of our guests, and some were unable to sail as planned," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson told USA TODAY.

"We take these disruptions seriously, and we apologize for the inconvenience this has caused," they added.

In the end, Raynor and the other impacted sailors were given a full refund, along with an FCC worth their entire paid fare and complimentary Deluxe Beverage Packages. 

Why do cruise lines oversell sailings to begin with?

Vicki Freed, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President, Sales & Trade Relations, talked about why cruise lines oversell cabins during a Q&A session aboard Ovation of the Seas in 2025. 

"Because of such high demand, we have been selling a lot more guarantees because travel partners said, 'Please have a lower price point,'" Freed explained.

Billy Hirsch, owner and founder of CruiseHabit, told Royal Caribbean Blog that overselling cruise cabins is actually a practical business approach since data shows that there are people who either cancel at the last minute or don't show up on embarkation day.

"Even if a sailing is totally booked weeks out, there will almost always be some number of guests who cancel at the last minute or fail to show up. Trying to fill cabins at the last minute is risky and can harm price integrity," Hirsch said.

As such, cruise lines will make an educated prediction, based on years of data, of how many empty staterooms they'll likely have ahead of any given sailing and sell that many extra cabins ahead of time.

Freed continued, saying, "Occasionally, we don't get the wash or the cancellations on the guarantees, and we are in an oversold situation." 

To be clear, Royal Caribbean prefers to avoid oversold sailings whenever possible. However, the cruise line also has to balance demand to keep its ships sailing as full as possible. As Freed said, "We're not trying to do an oversold situation. That's not our goal. But we have to make sure that our ships are sailing at full capacity."

According to Freed, there's a certain methodology that helps them choose which guests to reach out to when they realize a sailing is overbooked. Factors include whether passengers live near the cruise port, whether they have flight arrangements, and their ages.

"We'll just kind of say, do you think these people are flexible? And then we do offer them quite beautiful compensation to kind of go on to a different sailing with a nice upgrade," she adds.

"Usually forecasts work out, but when they don't, if those offers are so good that people are happy to accept them, then everyone leaves the port feeling good — whether on the ship or in a cab," Hirsch concluded.