Harmony of the Seas just underwent a multi-million dollar transformation, becoming the largest cruise ship in the fleet to be royally amplified.
The upgrades were completed in May 2026 ahead of Harmony’s long-awaited European season. Although she wasn’t the most outdated vessel, some areas were noticeably lacking compared to its counterparts.
For example, several dining venues, including Sabor Modern Mexican and Mini Bites, have been largely retired from the Royal Caribbean fleet. As such, the highly anticipated Royal Amplification ensured there were new ways to drink and dine aboard the 226,963 gross-ton Oasis Class ship.
Moreover, the cruise line has become focused on adding more non-smoking casinos to its fleet. Consequently, two venues on Deck 4 were removed to help expand Casino Royale and create the largest casino in Royal Caribbean history.
Here’s an in-depth look at all the changes to Harmony of the Seas!
The pool deck was brightened up.
One of the most noticeable transformations to Harmony of the Seas was the brand-new Caribbean-style pool deck, which turned the ordinary outdoor space into a resort-like escape.
The vessel already had the Perfect Storm waterslide trio and kid-friendly Splashaway Bay. However, the space was brightened up with Caribbean-themed decor and not one, not two, but three Lime & Coconut bars!
The Lime & Coconut quickly became a fan-favorite for its solid selection of fruity, tropical drinks — hence why it has been added to ships ranging from Navigator of the Seas to Freedom of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas!
And yes, drink packages and Diamond vouchers work at these poolside bars!
The adult-only Solarium also got a major facelift.
Unfortunately, Harmony of the Seas’ Solarium still doesn’t have a pool. Additionally, the lower level of the Solarium on Deck 14 was removed to make way for additional staterooms, including the Ultimate Panoramic Suites. These come with prime ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows and exclusive Star Class perks.
However, there’s a nice new outdoor sun deck for those serious about soaking up all the rays they can get since it isn’t shaded. This was a popular spot for sailaway on our itinerary since it offered an unobstructed view of Barcelona’s shoreline as we departed the port.
Another major change made to the Solarium area was that Samba Grill, the cruise line's Brazilian steakhouse, was added to the Solarium Grill as a new specialty dinner option. Now, guests can pay extra for an all-you-can-eat feast with meats, appetizers, and desserts.
Multiple other venues were removed to make way for new cabins.
Over 30 new cabins were added to the Oasis Class ship, including a multi-story Ultimate Family Suite that overlooks the Pool and Sports Zone. However, some public venues needed to be removed from the vessel to make room for the expanded passenger accommodations.
For starters, there isn't a dedicated Vitality Café space in the spa anymore. Instead, you can find fresh-pressed juices and smoothies in a pop-up cafe in the On Air Club.
Additionally, Wonderland, the specialty restaurant themed after “Alice in Wonderland," was replaced to add more staterooms on Deck 14.
Similarly, the Conference Center is no longer on Deck 3. New cabins have taken over the previous space. On Deck 15, there's a new conference center area called Canvas. According to the cruise line, it's a "flexible, well-designed space suitable for corporate meetings, social events, and celebrations."
Royal Caribbean's all-new tiki bar, Pesky Parrot, replaced the Bionic Bar.
When Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis Class ship, Utopia of the Seas, launched in 2024, the cruise line debuted the first-of-its-kind Pesky Parrot bar in the Royal Promenade.
This fun tiki bar transports you directly to a lively Caribbean resort, regardless of whether you're sailing to culturally rich destinations in Europe or island hopping in The Bahamas.
Here, you will find an impressive lineup of unique, tropical cocktails, including the I-Land Negroni, Peanut Butter Piña Colada, and Tiki 'Mosa.
The Focus Photo Gallery and Shore Excursions area were combined.
The photo gallery and shore excursion planning area are now fully digital. The multi-purpose tablets on Deck 6 make it easy to view and purchase your professional photographs, along with fun tours for your port days.
Harmony of the Seas became home to the largest Casino Royale at sea.
The Attic and Crown Lounge were removed from Deck 4 to make way for an expanded Casino Royale. The new non-smoking area is directly outside of the Studio B ice rink.
This move reflects a broader trend across the cruise line’s fleet, replacing less popular venues with more casino space to drive higher revenue.
Although there’s no dedicated comedy venue aboard Harmony, you can still find an impressive lineup of variety acts in the Royal Theater. For instance, during my short three-night sailing, Paul Zerdin, a comedian and ventriloquist, performed multiple times.
Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade replaced Sabor Modern Mexican in the Boardwalk Neighborhood.
At long last, Playmakers has made its way aboard Harmony of the Seas. Of course, this means that the specialty Mexican restaurant is no more.
Playmakers offers casual bar food (available à la carte) in a casual environment. Passengers can splurge on dishes like the Pile On Nachos, Campfire Cookie, Crispy Onion Ring Tower, Buffalo Chicken Crunch Roll, and Truffle Burger.
El Loco Fresh serves up Mexican favorites on the pool deck.
Although Sabor Modern Mexican was removed from the Boardwalk neighborhood, cruisers can still find simple Mexican fare at El Loco Fresh, Royal Caribbean’s complimentary, grab-and-go Mexican restaurant.
It's on Deck 15 near the aft of the ship in the Pool and Sports Zone. Pro tip: it's also open for breakfast and offers a convenient (and less busy) alternative to the Windjammer and Solarium Bistro.
The Crown Lounge for loyal Crown & Anchor cruisers is now on Deck 15.
Before her amplification, Harmony of the Seas' Crown Lounge was located on Deck 4 in Entertainment Place.
Now, the Crown Lounge is located on Deck 15 and replaced part of the former teen-friendly Living Room. The lounge has ample natural light, comfortable seating, and the ever-popular espresso machine!
The teen club has been revamped with upgraded indoor and outdoor spaces.
Teens have access to an enhanced hangout space, Social100, which offers activities like video games on brand-new consoles, movies, and more for guests aged 13-17.
A new escape room was added to the vessel, too.
Harmony of the Seas' old escape room was previously closed, much to the dismay of many guests.
However, passengers can once again test their wits at "Escape V: Science Lab" to figure out a series of puzzles and clues to "escape" before time runs out. The entrance is found within Adventure Ocean on Deck 14.
