Royal Caribbean is about to launch a brand new mega-ship this summer, but don't overlook their smaller vessels.
Cruise giant Royal Caribbean is ready for its best summer yet. While most eyes are hyper-focused on Star of the Seas' launch in August, there's a lot more worth talking about.
For example, Ovation of the Seas just began her first season sailing from Los Angeles to the Baja Peninsula.
Before the 168,666 gross-ton vessel set sail from California, the largest Royal Caribbean ship to call Los Angeles home had been Navigator of the Seas.
When Royal Caribbean returned to Los Angeles after more than a decade in 2021, Navigator signaled the company's commitment to expanding its West Coast presence.
Now, with Ovation of the Seas stepping in, they're even more excited to double down on their offerings out of California to ports like Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico.
Ovation, which launched in 2016, features next-level amenities like a skydiving simulator, an indoor multi-purpose venue, a North Star glass observation capsule, and more.
Anthem of the Seas makes her Alaska debut
This summer is filled with firsts for Quantum Class ships. In addition to Ovation sailing from Los Angeles, Anthem is heading to Alaska for the first time.
Anthem of the Seas launched in 2015 and has sailed across the globe, from Norway to Spain, Australia, and Japan. However, this marks her inaugural season exploring The Last Frontier.
Sailing from Seattle on 7-night itineraries every Friday through September 26, Anthem will call at iconic ports like Skagway, Juneau, and Sitka.
All the while, passengers can enjoy Anthem's signature Quantum Class features. The North Star observation capsule is a highlight, as it offers panoramic views of Alaska’s glaciers and snow-capped mountains from over 300 feet above sea level.
Amplified Allure of the Seas in Europe
Looking for a different kind of adventure? There's none more exciting than Allure of the Seas' summer season in Europe. Not only is this Allure's first time in Europe since 2015, but it follows her highly anticipated amplification.
Allure of the Seas was supposed to undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation in 2020; however, the plans were indefinitely postponed due to the global pandemic. 5 years later, she finally got the attention she desperately needed compared to newer Oasis Class ships.
Now, Allure sports a resort-style pool deck, Perfect Storm waterslides, Ultimate Abyss dry slide, Playmaker's, Mason Jar specialty restaurant, Pesky Parrot tiki-bar, a new AquaTheater show, and more.
In short, if you've been waiting to sail aboard Allure of the Seas, there's no better time than this summer, especially as she's set to visit culturally rich cities in Europe. Allure will remain in the Mediterranean through late October, when she'll reposition to offer Caribbean cruises from Fort Lauderdale.
Finally, Star of the Seas is set to sail from Port Canaveral, Florida
There's no denying that Icon of the Seas has been a smash hit. Building on that momentum, Star of the Seas promises to add to the experience with new dining options and shows.
For instance, Royal Caribbean is switching the theme of the upscale supper club. Rather than copying and pasting the same old-school NYC experience, the Lincoln Park Supper Club will pay homage to Chicago in the 1930s. Additionally, Pier 7 is being replaced by a new dining concept. There will be an extra hot tub, too!
Sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, Star will transport guests to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. All itineraries include a scheduled stop at Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Ahead of her maiden voyage on August 31, Star will embark on short 3- and 4-night showcase sailings starting on August 16, 2025. Ironically, her original inaugural cruise was scheduled for the 17th but was pushed back because of construction delays.
Read more: Royal Caribbean reveals 21 ways to party, dance, and show on its new Icon Class ship
