Royal Caribbean Blog

Even the most well-planned cruise vacations can be met with annoying, unpleasant, and gross problems.

If you’re new to cruising, you may daydream about a perfect vacation. After all, you are spending a good chunk of your hard-earned money on a relaxing getaway. 

Sure, cruise vacations involve fruity cocktails on the pool deck, picturesque beaches, and world-class entertainment, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

From diarrhea to painful sunburns and uncomfortable bloating, here are the top 25 unpleasant cruise ship problems you probably aren't prepared for. 

Heartburn and acid reflux

Royal Caribbean cruises are known for their indulgent food options, from multi-course meals in the dining room to greasy pizza and poolside tacos. As such, most passengers indulge in more fatty and fried foods than at home, which can quickly lead to miserable heartburn.

Even if you don't frequently suffer from uncomfortable acid reflux, you should pack TUMS or other antacids. The chewy TUMS are my preferred go-to since the consistency is less chalky than the original tablets. However, whatever you have in your miscellaneous medicine cabinet, whether Alka-Seltzer, Pepcid, or TUMS, will suffice. 

You could also limit your 1:00 a.m. Sorrento's pizza trips. This does take more willpower, though, and it isn't always fun to monitor your diet on vacation!

Diarrhea

Another unfortunate problem many cruisers face while onboard is upset stomachs. The sudden change of diet, combined with new types of food and long hours of traveling, can wreak havoc on your digestive system.

This problem can get even worse if you eat questionable street food or drink contaminated water in a foreign country, such as Mexico or the Dominican Republic. 

Along with antacids, it's smart to pack anti-diarrhea medication for your cruise, as you never know when or if you will experience an upset stomach. 

Constipation

On the flip side, you could become constipated on your cruise. Again, when you go from eating balanced meals to heavier, richer foods, your digestive system can slow down, leaving you feeling constipated. 

Fiber-rich foods, including whole grains, beans, and fruits, can help keep things moving and support healthy digestion. You should also drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. 

It's okay to bring along a stool softener, too. Medications like MiraLAX, Colace, and Dulcolax can help you stay comfortable and enjoy your trip.

Bloating

With food being a central aspect of the cruise vacation, from indulgent chocolatey desserts to juicy cheeseburgers and rich soups, it's easy to find yourself feeling sluggish and bloated while on board. 

Bloating occurs when your digestive system fills with gas or air, which causes the stomach or intestines to feel tight and swollen. Not only is bloating super comfortable, but it can cause your formal dress to feel a little tighter than you remember. 

To reduce bloating, eat slowly, avoid carbonated drinks, stay hydrated, exercise regularly, and monitor foods that trigger discomfort, such as those that are high in sodium, dairy products, and bread.

Weight gain

Between the all-you-can-eat buffet, unlimited soft-serve, and three-course Main Dining Room dinners, it's easy to lose track of your fitness goals on a cruise. 

Although there's nothing wrong with treating yourself and indulging on vacation, it's important to be aware of the consequences of overeating high-calorie foods. 

Overindulgence can not only leave you feeling bloated and constipated, but you could also find that you weigh a few pounds more by the end of your trip.

To enjoy the ship's culinary delights without feeling too guilty, take the stairs instead of the elevator to burn extra calories. It's also smart to make healthier choices for at least one meal each day. For example, skip the greasy cheeseburger and make yourself a nutrient-rich salad in the Windjammer buffet. 

Painful sunburns

If you're like me, it seems that no matter what you do, you attract the sun like a magnet — and that can quickly lead to walking around the Royal Promenade looking like you're a distant cousin to lobsters. 

Depending on your cruise destination, the sun could be a lot stronger than what you’re used to at home, especially when traveling somewhere like the Caribbean or Mediterranean. As such, it's important to remember to apply and reapply sunscreen during your vacation. You may also want to consider a swim shirt to keep your arms, chest, and back covered. 

Additionally, packing aloe vera for your cruise is smart. Sunscreen or not, sunburns can still happen, and aloe vera is more affordable at your local drugstore compared to on the ship. 

Sweating

There’s nothing pleasant about sweating — or perspirating, as my grandmother often corrects me! Unfortunately, it’s pretty common on warm-weather cruises. Although you won't sweat much while cruising to Northern Europe or Alaska, you’ll likely be very sweaty in The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, and South Pacific. 

For example, in July, the average high in popular cruise ports like St. Maarten and Cozumel is typically around the high 80s to low 90s. If you’re not used to these warm temperatures, your body will overcompensate, leading to intense sweating.

As such, you'll see many passengers walking around with sweat stains on their armpits and back, which is an unfortunate reality of being on a cruise! However, there are some methods to combat the intense heat, including buying a small portable fan and cooling patches. You may also want to check out the ship's daily schedule and choose an indoor activity during the worst of the afternoon heat. 

Read more: I take my family every year on summer cruises. Here are 10 tips for surviving on a ship in the summer heat

Blisters

Generally speaking, you will walk more on a cruise than at home. Ships are big, and navigating the vessel results in passengers easily meeting (and exceeding) their daily step goals. 

Not only that, but many cruise ports and shore excursions are designed for exploration and require more walking than you may be used to. For example, if you are cruising to Europe, it's easy to walk several miles each day, whether sightseeing in Barcelona or strolling through Mykonos' cobblestone streets.

Walking is beneficial for your health — and a good way to ensure you don't gain a ton of weight during your vacation. However, if you don't pack the right shoes, you may develop painful blisters. As such, you will want to wear comfortable shoes that have been broken in!

Chafing

Along with blisters, you may also experience chafing during your cruise. Chafing is a type of skin irritation that occurs when skin rubs against skin or clothing and commonly happens when walking in shorts, skirts, or dresses.

One way I typically minimize chafing is by applying stick deodorant to areas prone to rubbing, like the inner thighs. This thin layer of product helps to reduce friction and keeps the skin from becoming painfully raw. 

Another tip is to wear anti-chafing shorts, which are breathable, lightweight slip shorts, under your clothing. 

Seasickness

Even the most seasoned cruisers can fall ill with the sudden onset of motion sickness, especially in rough seas. 

Some bodies of water are more prone to choppy conditions and unexpected swells, such as the North Sea and the Gulf of Alaska. However, you can encounter rough conditions virtually anywhere in the open sea. 

Thankfully, it's easy to treat common seasickness symptoms, including nausea, dizziness, and headaches. Along with over-the-counter medications like Dramamine and Bonine, natural remedies, such as ginger and green apples, can also help. 

Additionally, you may want to purchase motion sickness patches and book a cabin in the middle of the vessel, rather than one all the way toward the front or back of the ship. 

Norovirus

Speaking of feeling under the weather, norovirus is a common illness that spreads on cruise ships, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain. Norovirus is found in the stool or vomit of infected persons and can spread through contaminated food, liquids, and objects.

Although it isn't as common at sea as some may believe, it's always a possibility and can run rampant when infected people don't adequately wash their hands after coming in contact with the virus. 

As such, it's important to maintain good hygiene while on vacation. Regularly washing your hands with soap and warm water, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching your face can reduce your risk of infection and keep you healthy!

Other germs

Outside of norovirus, cruise ships can harbor a plethora of other germs. With thousands of passengers on a confined ship at the same time, illnesses like the flu and common cold can easily spread. 

Just like with norovirus, taking precautions, like washing your hands frequently and coughing and sneezing into your elbow, can help prevent the spread of common illnesses. 

That said, you should never board a cruise if you are sick. It's always a good idea to purchase travel insurance so you’re protected in the case of unexpected illness.

Expensive medical services

Travel insurance is also recommended in case you need medical attention while on the ship. Cruise ships have medical facilities and can provide basic care. However, it isn't cheap, and standard medical insurance typically doesn't cover international treatment. 

For example, one passenger, Vincent Wasney, had to pay over $2,500 for treatments received on Independence of the Seas before being medically evacuated to a hospital for more intensive care. 

According to articles posted by KFF Health News and NPR, fees included the general ward admission and observation ($2,285.78), level two observation ($320.00), i-STAT blood tests ($97.99), out-of-facility services ($104.55), and medication ($11.90). 

Few power outlets

Older ships, such as Vision of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas, were built during a time when people weren't glued to smartphones. As such, cabins on older vessels often have few electrical outlets, mostly concentrated near the vanity area. 

I like to bring a portable charger, so I can charge my phone beside the bed at night. However, you may also want to pack an approved multi-plug outlet (regular extension cords that you probably have shoved in a drawer at home are banned from the ship) and European power adapters. 

However, newer ships, such as Utopia and Icon of the Seas, were designed with more charging options, making a multi-plug outlet more of a convenience than a necessity. 

Expensive Wi-Fi

Royal Caribbean's cruise fares are not all-inclusive. As such, you will have to leave a little bit of room in your budget for add-ons like excursions, spa treatments, and alcoholic beverages. In addition to these extras, another cost many cruisers underestimate is Wi-Fi. Internet access on Royal Caribbean ships is not free. In fact, it can get pretty pricey for a large family, costing around $20 per day (if not more). 

One way to save money on VOOM Surf + Stream packages is to bundle devices under a single plan and share the connection. Rather than purchasing an internet package under everyone's name in your travel party, you can add multiple devices to a single plan and share the connection with other cruisers. 

Alternatively, you can limit Wi-Fi usage and encourage your kids to embrace being disconnected for a week. Instead of buying a connection for every device, you can simply purchase one plan and rotate the connection usage among travelers. 

Read more: Yes, you can share a Royal Caribbean internet package (and it can save you money)

Limited sightseeing time in port

As wonderful as cruising is, one of the downsides is that you don't have long in port. This means that you have to adjust your visit around the ship's schedule, whereas on a land-based vacation, you are in control of your schedule.

Most cruise ships typically are in port for around eight to ten hours, which gives you time to experience the destination's highlights. However, you don't have enough time to fully immerse yourself in the local culture or explore hidden gems. 

Nonetheless, a major advantage of a cruise is being able to experience multiple places in one vacation without having to constantly repack and drag your luggage through bustling airports and train stations. For many cruisers, this is a good enough trade-off for the limited time in each port of call. 

Busy cruise ports

Unless visiting a private destination, such as Perfect Day at CocoCay or Labadee, you likely will encounter large crowds in port. 

Some cruise ports, such as Nassau and Cozumel, can easily have over four or five ships docked at once! For example, on April 8, 2025, Nassau welcomed over 31,000 cruise passengers from different ships and lines. 

This means that popular attractions can be crowded with other guests. Not only that, but restaurants will likely be busy, along with the shopping areas and beaches closest to the pier. 

The good news is that a little bit of research can go a long way! You can find less crowded areas in your ports of call, potentially visiting unspoiled beaches and authentic restaurants that won’t have you competing with other people for an available lounge chair or table. 

Crowded pools

In addition to busy ports, your cruise ship is likely to be extremely crowded, too — especially if you're on a mega-ship like Oasis or Icon of the Seas. 

On beautiful, sunny days, the pool deck will be packed with other passengers. As such, if your idea of a relaxing day by the pool involves a quiet, serene experience, you’ll be disappointed.

To combat the crowds, head to the pool deck earlier in the morning or late each day when there are very few other passengers enjoying these amenities.

Chair hogs

Another reason to avoid the pool deck during the late-morning and afternoon rush is that you won't have to battle for a prime lounge chair. 

Chair hogs are annoying cruise guests who reserve a pool chair early in the morning by placing a towel, shoe, beach bag, or other item on the chair. However, instead of staying by the pool, they do other things, like grab breakfast. 

This move effectively "claims" their chair for later on and results in it being unavailable to other passengers who want to lounge on the pool deck. 

Packed elevators

On sea days, crowded elevators might not be an issue. However, if you try to board an elevator car on embarkation or disembarkation day, be prepared to be packed like a sardine.

This shouldn't come as a major surprise, considering the thousands of passengers on board, but being trapped in a hot, cramped elevator with barely enough space to keep your arms at your sides is far from enjoyable.

Thankfully, there's another alternative: taking the stairs. People who routinely take the stairs have about a 39% lower likelihood of dying from heart disease compared to those who don't, according to a meta-analysis presented at a European Society of Cardiology conference in 2024. 

This means that taking the stairs is not only beneficial for your overall well-being, but it also helps you avoid the crowds! 

Read more: Elevator or stairs on a cruise ship? Your choice could make you live longer, study finds

Lines

Regardless of whether you're on a cruise ship, in airport security, or at a theme park, waiting in line is an unpleasant experience. Unfortunately, it is something you will encounter a lot while at sea. 

Lines are common at popular dining venues, such as El Loco Fresh, and for activities like the FlowRider surf simulator and water slides. Although the lines move relatively quickly, it's always annoying to wait on vacation.

Our best advice to minimize time waiting in lines is to visit venues when they are less busy. Moreover, if you don't want to wait for a table in the dining room, be sure to make My Time reservations in advance — or go with one of the traditional seating options. 

Hangovers

It's natural to want to indulge more than normal on vacation. This is even more true if you splurged on Royal Caribbean's pricey drink package. However, although another round of shots at midnight may sound like a smart idea, you'll likely regret the decision when your alarm goes off the following morning. 

With so many unique bars and cocktails to choose from, it is easy to find yourself consuming more alcohol on a cruise compared to at home. Unfortunately, the increase in alcohol consumption also leads to a higher chance of hangovers, which can ruin any plans for the day.

You don't have to avoid drinking on the cruise, but it's best to pace yourself and drink plenty of water to avoid waking up with a pounding headache and nausea later on. 

Cheap toilet paper

If you’re used to soft three-ply toilet paper at home, you’re in for a rude awakening on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

The toilet paper on a cruise ship is far from luxurious. In fact, the toilet paper is so thin that you can pretty much see through it! This is purposeful, though, as the thin, easily flushable toilet paper prevents the ship's plumbing system from clogging up.

You shouldn't flush anything other than this thin toilet paper. Wipes, for example, can cause serious plumbing issues. Instead, this is just a part of cruising that everyone must accept!

Read more: The one thing we all hate about cruises that no one talks about

Expensive everyday essentials

Before walking out your front door, make sure you double (and triple) check your packing list. Although everyday essentials are sold on cruise ships, ranging from over-the-counter medication to phone chargers, sunscreen, and even perfume and makeup, it's more expensive to replace them than at your local drugstore. 

Royal Caribbean cruise ships sell toiletries, medications, and even electronic items in the onboard stores, but the prices are much higher than what you’ll find on land. Plus, there are fewer options available, meaning if you have a preferred toothpaste brand or hair care product, it may not be available. 

In addition to the higher prices are the limited operating hours for stores. Due to regulations, cruise ship stores can only open when the ship is in international waters. As such, stores selling necessities are closed on embarkation day and port days.

Sudden itinerary changes

Finally, traveling is unpredictable. Even if you purposely chose a cruise outside of the Atlantic hurricane season, you may wake up to a sudden announcement that your ship has to skip its next port of call due to high winds or local unrest. 

Royal Caribbean has the power to change your cruise itinerary (and even ship!) at any moment. For example, Royal Caribbean recently announced that Freedom of the Seas will replace Mariner of the Seas' scheduled Southampton sailings for summer 2027. 

Weather conditions can also affect whether or not your cruise ship can dock in a particular port. If winds are too strong, the weather could prevent your ship from docking in port, resulting in an extra day at sea. 

If you're a cruise fan that wants to earn free cruises, onboard credit, and useful benefits, the new Royal ONE card may be a strong addition to your wallet.

Plus, the Royal ONE Plus card has launched with a high-value welcome bonus that could be used for your next cruise, assuming you can meet its spending requirements.

A month ago, Royal Caribbean Group revealed it would launch two new cards to replace the current credit card, with the new cards offering new benefits that extend across all three brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea.

Here's what to know about the current offer on this new card for fans.

Royal ONE and Royal ONE Plus current offer

Royal Caribbean is launching its new credit cards with two different welcome offers, depending on which version you choose. Both bonuses are tied to a minimum spending requirement in the first 90 days, which is standard for travel rewards cards.

The Royal ONE card offers 45,000 points after you spend $2,000 within the first 90 days of account opening. That lower spending threshold may make it the more accessible option for casual cruisers or anyone who doesn't want to shift a lot of spending right away.

The higher-tier Royal ONE Plus card comes with a larger bonus of 70,000 points, but it requires $3,000 in spending within the first 90 days. For travelers who can meet that requirement, the extra points could go further toward onboard credit, cruise fare discounts, or other redemptions across Royal Caribbean Group brands.

As with most credit card welcome offers, the key is whether you can comfortably meet the spending requirement without going out of your way. If you can, the difference between 45,000 and 70,000 points is significant enough to factor into which card makes more sense.

The Royal ONE card has no annual fee, but the Royal ONE Plus card has a $99 annual fee.

How to apply for each Royal Caribbean credit card

If you’re interested in either card, Royal Caribbean has set up separate application pages for each option through its new Royal ONE program, which is powered in partnership with Bank of America.

You can apply directly using the links below:

• Apply for the Royal ONE card (no annual fee)
• Apply for the Royal ONE Plus card ($99 annual fee)

Both applications follow a standard credit card process, and approvals are subject to creditworthiness. The cards are available to U.S. residents, and once approved, you’ll be able to start working toward the welcome bonus right away.

Why you should apply for the Royal ONE cards

The new Royal Caribbean credit cards offer more ways to earn points and then use them on any of the RCG brands, including some extra perks too:

Royal One Card

• 3X points on purchases with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea
• 2X points on groceries, gas, and EV charging
• 1X point on all other purchases

Plus, cardholders get these perks for having it:

• Priority boarding on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises
• A $100 anniversary reward after qualifying spend
• No foreign transaction fees

Royal ONE Plus Card

• 4X points on purchases with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea
• 2X points on groceries, gas, EV charging, plus air, hotel, and dining
• 1X point on all other purchases

Extra benefits for this card include:

• Priority suite boarding across all three brands
• Priority luggage handling (Royal Caribbean and Celebrity)
• A $200 anniversary reward after qualifying spend
• A $120 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit every four years
• No foreign transaction fees

Considering the Plus card's $99 annual fee, there are plenty of ways to recoup its value by maximizing credits and rewards.

Bottom line

Choosing between the two cards, the choice mostly comes down to how much you plan to spend and whether the higher bonus and added perks on the Plus version justify the annual fee.

Compared to other travel cards, the best thing about the Royal One cards is you can earn points to be used on any Royal Caribbean Group brand ship.  No other credit card can offer that.

Moreover, these new cards are a step up from the old card that didn’t allow points to be used across all three brands. 

Royal Caribbean going even bigger on its biggest ships.

An announcement was made late on Monday night by Royal Caribbean Group that it has ordered two more Icon Class ships.

The unnamed newly ordered vessels, referred to for now as Icon 6 and Icon 7, will be constructed at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.

The two new ships will be delivered in 2029 and 2030.

Royal Caribbean Group had slots reserved for options to build Icon 6 and Icon 7, but now they've exercised those options and those plans are confirmed.

The Icon Class ships are the biggest in the world, measuring an 250,800 gross registered tons and can carry a maximum of 7,600 passengers. There are 28 different stateroom categories.

This is a clear indication Royal Caribbean believes its Icon Class formula is working, and it's betting heavily that demand for these mega-ships will continue well into the next decade.

A major expansion of ships

The addition of orders for Icon 6 and 7 come less than a year since they ordered Icon 5.  That's a significant jump in the orderbook.

Icon of the Seas made headlines for all the right reasons when she debuted in 2024, and it was clear that this class was a revolution.  Icon ships are now the new standard bearer that all new ships are judged against, regardless of line.

Legend of the Seas is set to debut this summer, which will be the third Icon Class ship. Hero of the Seas will join the fleet in 2027, followed by Icon 5 in 2028.

This means Royal Caribbean will build the most of any class of ships with the Icon Class (tied with Oasis Class). As a company as focused on profitability as Royal Caribbean Group, that's no coincidence that the experience is matching up to sales.

Why Royal Caribbean is doubling down

This isn’t just about building more ships. It’s about doubling down on a strategy that has clearly resonated with cruisers and the marketplace.

The Icon Class was designed as a "white paper" ship, which means they designed it from the ground up without a starting basis. Instead of simply adding more features, the company has focused on creating distinct "neighborhoods" onboard, each with its own identity, atmosphere, and purpose.

Part of the genius of these ships is that they work on so many levels, including families. It's a true multi-generational ship because families, couples, seniors, and kids can all find plenty to do. Often, together. That comes in the form of a massive water park, adults-only spaces, and high-end dining and entertainment.

That broad appeal has translated into strong demand.

Royal Caribbean executives have repeatedly pointed to the Icon Class as a key driver of bookings, pricing power, and overall guest satisfaction.

What we know about Icon 6 and 7

If you're looking for what will be different about Icon 6 or 7, you'll have to wait a bit longer for those answers.

Royal Caribbean has not yet announced names, where they will be based, or any features.  It's really just confirmation that they will build two more ships than they had previously disclosed.

Based on the pattern of Icon Class ships thus far, it's safe to assume Royal Caribbean will employ a strategy of maintaining much of the core Icon Class experience, but experiment with tweaks and changes to make it even better.

As an example, Hero of the Seas will see pools added and expanded, which reflect guest feedback from Icon and Star of the Seas.

Expect a similar evolution with future ships that take into account lessons learned from earlier vessels.

The brand new Royal Beach Club Santorini has opened to welcome its first cruise ship passengers.

The "Ultimate Santorini Day" is a new kind of excursion offered on the Greek island exclusively to Royal Caribbean passengers.

The first guests were welcome to a new private-style destination in Greece that blends a traditional port day with a curated, all-inclusive beach experience.

Unlike a traditional cruise line private island, this is a curated shore excursion that goes beyond what a third party can offer. Royal Caribbean built out an island visit that offers the very best experience based on what its customers have always wanted.

Think of it like a premium shore excursion built right into one of the most visited cruise ports in the world.

A different kind of excursion

The first guests arrived today to try it out, and we have our first look at what this is all about.

Royal Caribbean opted to takeover an existing beachfront location on the southern coast of the island and transform it into a branded experience that matches up to what its guests yearn for in a beach day.

In fact, they picked Santorini because the island had high appeal with guests, but low satisfaction scores. This has been a core part of Royal Caribbean's formula of picking ports that don't perform as well as they'd like and add a beach club to enhance it.

It started with Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau, and will expand to Cozumel as well later this year. 

A day pass includes:

• Transportation from the ship
• Access to black sand beach
• All-you-can-eat Greek cuisine
  • Unlimited Greek frozen yogurt
  • Gyros, Greek salads, food trucks
  • Complimentary welcome drink
  • House wine, draft beer, and more
• Visits and transportation to Oia and Fira

Odyssey of the Seas was the first ship to visit the island with paying guests, and Royal Caribbean Blog reader Nick J. shared photos of his experience.

Royal Beach Club Santorini is part of a packaged excursion called the "Ultimate Santorini Day," which combines sightseeing with a beach break.

Santorini has struggled with cruise overcrowding for years, and Royal Caribbean is trying to smooth out that experience by spreading guests across multiple locations throughout the day.

What the beach club itself offers

At its core, Royal Beach Club Santorini is a beach-first experience. The setting is a stretch of Santorini’s signature volcanic black sand coastline, with wide-open views of the Aegean Sea.

When you get to the beach, you can expect:

• Reserved loungers and umbrellas
• Towels and beach facilities
• A Mediterranean buffet and quick bites
• Draft beer, wine, soda, and water
• Wi-Fi access throughout the property

There's also a clear emphasis on local flavor. Instead of generic cruise fare, the food leans into Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

Who can access it

The beach club is open to:

• Guests sailing with Royal Caribbean
• Guests on Celebrity Cruises
• Guests on Silversea
• Local residents, depending on availability

There are no age restrictions, so it’s designed to work for families as well as adults.

The bigger strategy behind beach clubs

This opening is part of a much larger rollout.

Royal Caribbean Group plans to expand its land-based portfolio significantly over the next few years, including:

• Royal Beach Club Paradise Island
• Royal Beach Club Cozumel
• Perfect Day Mexico
• Royal Beach Club Lelepa

The goal is clear: give guests more controlled, predictable experiences that garner high satisfaction scores.

As Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty said, expanding these destinations gives guests "more ways to have unforgettable experiences."

I booked what is technically the cheapest of the top tier suites on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas so we could get the best perks that would spoil us.

A handful of suites fall into the Star Class category, which has practically everything included, priority access, and the services of the Royal Genie. If your goal is to splurge and treat yourself, this is the best way to go about it.

I booked the two bedroom Aquatheather suite for me and my wife, along with our two kids. The total cost of the room was $11,437. Steep, but a cheaper price than some of the much larger and lavish suites.

Since this was going to be my wife's birthday, I decided to book this type of a cruise ship stateroom so we could celebrate in style. After all, she misses out on some of my cruises I go to for work, so I wanted to treat her to something extra nice.

We sailed on a 3-night weekend cruise that departed from Port Canaveral with stops in Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.  A quick escape, so we wanted to maximize our time onboard with a really nice place for our family and friends to congregate.

Here's what it's like to stay in this mega suite, and what you get for the cost.

Aquatheater suites are massive, with lots of room for everyone

The first thing you'll notice about an Aquatheater suite is how giant this room is overall.

There are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and an even larger wraparound balcony. 

For families, this is easily the best suite option given that there are separate sleeping areas and two full bathrooms. That's a luxury not often found in many other suites.

At 823 square feet, plus 772 square feet of balcony space, you can spread out.  Not to mention we can easily invite friends to join us in the room and still not come close to making the room feel crowded.

The balcony is the real highlight of this cabin

The first thing you'll notice about this suite are the amazing views all around you.

From the living room, there are near panoramic views of the ocean and Boardwalk neighborhood. Stepping outside to the balcony, you're greeted with something to see all around you.

Aquatheater suites have a balcony that extends to both sides, offering a traditional ocean balcony experience on one side, and then a view of the Aquatheater and Boardwalk on the other.

At night, you have the perfect view for the aqua shows below.  

On Utopia of the Seas, the "Aqua80s Too" is the show that was performed two times per night on two nights of the cruise.

While your seating is to the side, it is an amazing vantage point to have and really gives you the proper perspective of the performance. Plus, there's no rush to get a seat or trying to squeeze your way out when the show is over.

Plus, our Genie brought the kids a DIY ice cream bar, while the adults had popcorn too.

During the daytime, there are loungers, a full table and chairs, plus a couple chairs on both sides of the balcony so you can enjoy the view from anywhere.

I only regret we didn't have a meal outside, but otherwise, the balcony was one of the top reasons we gravitate towards this type of suite.

The living room has lots of space, and doubles as a backup bedroom

Back inside the suite, the living room has a giant television that you can watch from the dining table or couch.

Because the living room is wrapped by the balcony, you'll find lots of living space here, which is perfect for entertaining friends.

The fridge is stocked with complimentary beers, soft drinks, and water. One of the many perks you get with a Star Class suite is having the beverage package included with your fare, along with a stateroom attendant that keeps your fridge stocked.

Plus, there's a coffee and espresso machine that you can use too. Personally, I prefer to have my Genie deliver Starbucks to my suite because that's another included benefit.

The couch can be expanded into a bed, allowing for a greater capacity or maybe just having the kids enjoy a "sleepover" there.

The master bedroom is the perfect enclave

Whenever we've stayed in an Aquatheater suite, we love having our friends come to visit and hang out.  However, it's equally nice to have a dedicated area just for me and my wife.

The master bedroom is as large as many interior cabins, but furnished much nicer.

There are two sets of massive closets on one side with more than enough storage space for all your clothes. Even if we were cruising for a week, there would have been ample space for everything.

There's even a door to the balcony, along with a window here.

There is a TV in this room as well.

Nearby is the vanity and seating area.  Not only is the large mirror located here, but you will find lots of power outlets too.  In fact, there are so many power outlets around this suite.  

I love that there are USB outlets on both sides of the bed. Dare I say, this is one suite you don't need to bring a power adaptor onboard.

The attached bathroom has a tub and shower, instead of a standup shower.

The bathroom isn't massive, but it's nice to have the tub.

There's a separate room for the kids, which is the kind of separation we look for in any cabin

A few steps away is a second bedroom that can sleep up to 4 people.

This is perfect for kids (or even their friends) because there are two beds on the ground (it can be combined into one bed), along with two pullman beds that fold down from the wall.

It has its own TV and vanity as well, which makes this room almost like an inside room within the suite.

There's no attached bathroom, so instead anyone sleeping in this room would need to walk across to the secondary bathroom of the suite.

This bathroom is your typical cruise ship bathroom.  Because it's accessible from the living room, it means anyone visiting can use it without needing to go into any of the bedrooms.

The best thing about this suite isn't the room at all

The balcony is massive and has great views, and even the suite itself has lots of space for a family. But the top reason to book this suite is for the Royal Genie services.

Star Class suites come with a Genie that you share with 2 or 3 other suites.

Think of the genie as a magic maker that's job is to ensure you get everything you want or need without much waiting.

They can arrange almost everything onboard for you, including shows, meals, room service, and more.  Since pretty much everything onboard is included with your cruise fare, the genie takes care of the rest.

Here are some examples of things the genie did for us on this sailing:

• Took care of my cabana location request for Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Arranged for Starbucks and breakfast to be delivered each morning
• Sent up afternoon snacks
• Booked all of our specialty restaurants
• Met us at the shows and dinner to escort us in
• Arranged for private elevator rides disembarking the ship

Of course, I could do most of these things myself.  But the point here is it's nice to let someone else take care of you instead.

Our genie really made us all feel like family while we were onboard and treated us as such. Having a genie is the "easy button" to how to cruise.

Our suite was massive and very expensive. But it's the perfect way to splurge

I would never try to convince anyone an Aquatheater suite is some kind of a good value, but I do think it's the perfect way to go big on vacation.

Everyone has different budgets, needs, and tastes when it comes to cruising. And there are always going to be some people that want an all-out celebration in an epic kind of suite.

Because this was only 3-nights, the $11k price tag was manageable. Had this been a weeklong cruise, I'm not sure I would have been able to justify the cost.

No one needs a suite like this, but my goodness, is it an incredible way to enjoy a cruise.

Soda isn't included on most mainstream cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Carnival. As such, guests can either buy a pricey drink package or purchase soft drinks individually. 

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival have soda-only drink packages, making it easy (and affordable) to sip on unlimited soft drinks during your vacation. 

Unlike the lines' respective alcoholic packages, the soda packages are more restrictive, including only fountain beverages. This means that bottled water, specialty coffee, and zero-proof cocktails all cost extra. 

Historically, I quickly glanced over a cruise line's soda package, assuming it wasn't something I'd benefit from since it didn't include alcohol. 

However, after beginning my sobriety journey earlier this year, I quickly discovered the freedom of a cruise soda package, even if it isn't the most inclusive option available. 

On the surface, Royal Caribbean and Carnival's soda packages seem nearly identical since both offer unlimited fountain soda for a set daily price. However, there are a few important — but subtle — differences between the two packages. 

Soda package Royal Caribbean price: How does it compare to Carnival?

For starters, it's important to understand how each cruise line prices its soda packages. 

The Carnival soda package has a set price, coming in at $11.99 per adult and $6.95 per child per day. This means that on a seven-night voyage, you could expect to pay around $58 to $100 for the line's Bottomless Bubbles soda package — after including the mandatory 20% service charge. 

Recently, I paid $79.80 for the soda package on a seven-night cruise on Carnival's Mardi Gras. This breaks down to roughly $11.40 per day. However, this was before Carnival suddenly raised the price of its soda package — along with its nightly gratuity rate. 

Comparatively, Royal Caribbean does not have a set price for its soda package. Instead, the cruise line dynamically prices its drink packages. As such, the price depends on factors such as the cruise ship, itinerary, and duration. 

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $9.99 and $18.00 per person per day, plus gratuity, for the Royal Caribbean soda package. 

To give a better example, I priced out the package for an upcoming three-day cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas. 

At the time of writing, the Classic Soda Package cost $10.99 per person per day. Once the mandatory 18% gratuity is added, the total cost comes out to just under $13 per day, or $38.88 for the full sailing.

Read more: Royal Caribbean soda package review: What you get and if it's worth it

Royal Caribbean soda package vs. Carnival soda package: What's included?

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival stock their ships with Coca-Cola® products, including Coke, Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Seagram's, and Mr. Pibb. 

Although the cruise lines have the same preferred beverage partner, Royal Caribbean enhances its soda package experience aboard many ships with its Coca-Cola Freestyle® machines.

The Classic Soda Package includes one Freestyle® cup per person, granting immediate and seamless access to over 100 drink combinations, from classic sodas to unique flavored variations and no-sugar options. 

Read more: What you need to know about the Royal Caribbean soda cup

Freestyle® machines are located in high-traffic areas aboard Royal Caribbean ships — think the Royal Promenade, Windjammer Marketplace, and teen clubs. On Icon Class ships, they're also found in the Surfside Neighborhood.

That said, Freestyle® machines are not available fleetwide and are not on Brilliance of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

On these ships, the soda package experience will feel similar to Carnival's, with guests ordering fountain drinks from bars and restaurants. 

Read more: Is the Carnival soda package worth it? What's included, cost, and review

That’s where Carnival's Bottomless Bubbles package feels most comparable. In most cases, drinks are simply ordered at the bar, with the available selection covering the major Coca-Cola® brand staples (i.e., Coke, Diet Coke, Coke Zero Sugar, Sprite, Sprite Zero Sugar, Fanta Orange, Barq's Root Beer, Mr. Pibb, Seagram's Ginger Ale, Seagram's Tonic, and Seagram's Seltzer). 

However, the Lido Marketplace buffet also features self-service drink stations, where guests can quickly grab a drink by simply tapping their Sail & Sign card and filling any cup. 

Personally, I found this option more convenient. Although the flavor combinations are more limited than those of Freestyle® machines, I didn't have to worry about hauling around the bulky compatible cup. 

Moreover, guests don't need a drink package to use Carnival's fountain soda machines, either. Those without a soda package will be charged per ounce. However, on Royal Caribbean, a drink package is required to use the Freestyle® machines, and guests with the Royal Refreshment or Deluxe Beverage Package must pay an extra $4.99 for the Freestyle® cup.

In terms of what's included, Royal Caribbean and Carnival are pretty similar, with the soda packages offering unlimited fountain beverages for the duration of the cruise. This means that other drinks, such as bottled water, mocktails, energy drinks, and specialty coffees, are only available for an extra charge. However, Carnival's soda package also includes select juices by the glass. 

Another big difference is that Carnival's soda package doesn't work at its private destinations in The Bahamas. In comparison, Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package can be used ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti. 

Also, note that on Carnival cruises, you may be charged tax when ordering soda in port. For example, I ordered a Diet Coke while the ship was still in Port Canaveral and was charged $0.26. 

Can you share a drink package on a cruise?

According to the terms and conditions for both Carnival's Bottomless Bubbles and Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package, drink packages cannot be shared between guests. Each package is linked to a specific Sail & Sign or SeaPass account and is intended for individual use only.

"Non-transferable and may not be shared. Guests or family members who would like to enjoy soft drinks through this program must purchase their own sticker," reads Carnival's website. Similarly, Royal Caribbean's website says, "All packages are for single guest use and cannot be shared by multiple people."

If you get caught sharing beverages with someone who does not have a cruise drink package, your package could be canceled without a refund. You could even be charged for the drinks you previously ordered.

How to add a drink package to your cruise

It's easy to pre-purchase a soda package before your cruise. All you have to do is log into your cruise line's respective online planning portal (Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner or Carnival's Cruise Manager) and navigate to the drink package section. 

If you're sailing with Royal Caribbean, it's smart to purchase your drink package ahead of time, as the cruise line offers pre-cruise discounts through the Cruise Planner. On the flip side, the Carnival soda package costs the same whether you buy it three months in advance or on embarkation day.

Royal Caribbean also has an earlier cutoff for pre-cruise purchases than Carnival. Reservations must be made at least two days before embarkation through the Cruise Planner. Carnival, on the other hand, allows online pre-purchases up until 11:59 p.m. the night before your cruise, or until 10:00 p.m. EST if booking through their call center.

Is a cruise soda package worth it?

Soda packages aren't for everyone. In my case, I've found myself to become an avid user of the soda package, whether aboard a Royal Caribbean or Carnival cruise. 

The package doesn't necessarily dramatically change the overall experience. However, as someone who is trying to cut out alcohol, it makes it easier to avoid the temptation of cruise drinking. 

Other soft drink fans will appreciate being able to freely order a beverage throughout their sailing without worrying about their final bill.

That said, both lines offer appealing zero-proof package options that are more inclusive, allowing guests to enjoy mocktails, specialty coffees, non-alcoholic beer, soda, and more for one set price. 

On the other hand, if you're someone who primarily drinks tap water, iced tea, lemonade, or only enjoys the occasional soda, you likely won't break even, making the package harder to justify. 

In the end, there's the perfect cruise drink package for everyone — it just depends on your personal drinking habits while on vacation. 

Happy weekend! In case you missed any Royal Caribbean news, here is a look at everything that happened this week!

Royal Caribbean has a new option for anyone booking a guaranteed cabin to find out their cabin for a fee.

For $30, the new Early Assign program offers a way to know your cabin assignment weeks earlier than normal.

The new option is being tested out as a way to give cruisers peace of mind while also generating extra revenue.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean just changed its casino comp cruises
• Royal Caribbean is planning a month-long party at sea with deals, giveaways, and surprises
• No, Royal Caribbean isn’t replacing lunch with brunch at one of it's restaurants
• Meet the most famous crew member on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• What happens if you miss the cruise ship safety drill?
• I always make a point to meet these 7 crew members on every cruise
• What are the biggest, longest, and tallest cruise ships in the world?
• I stayed in the cheapest cruise rooms on two major cruise lines. Here's how they compared, and which I liked better

New RCB Video: Five Forbidden Electronics Royal Caribbean Security Is Confiscating From Staterooms This Year

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! 

This week, we are sharing our latest video—Five Forbidden Electronics Royal Caribbean Security Is Confiscating From Staterooms This Year—don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!

Legend of the Seas begins sea trials

The next new Royal Caribbean ship is finally at sea.

Legend of the Seas has started her sea trials, which is a major milestone in the ship's progress.

This is when certain navigation and technical systems are put to the test.

Royal Caribbean is about to open a beach club in Santorini. Here's how it will be different

One of the designers of the new Royal Beach Club Santorini shared how this private destination will be different.

In a few days, a new Royal Beach Club will open in the Mediterranean, and it addresses a need in the market.

Royal Caribbean believes it will offer the ultimate way to experience the Greek islands.

I spent 12 days on Royal Caribbean's smallest ship

Ira spent almost two weeks on one of Royal Caribbean's smallest and oldest ships.

Vision of the Seas doesn't have all the features you'll find on a big ship, but it makes up for it in other ways.

Cruising on an older ship gets you a much lower price, as well as a more intimate cruise experience.

Inside an interior room on Symphony of the Seas

For $1,400, Elizabeth stayed in the smallest cabin for a week.

You'll pay a premium to sail on a bigger and newer ship, but this cabin has plenty of storage space.

At just 149 square feet, it's not big by any means, but there's so much happening onboard the ship, so how much time would you spend in it?

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 605th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! 

Matt lists three features he wants to see on the Discovery Class ships, and three he doesn't want onboard.

Please feel free to subscribe via YouTube, iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast! We’d appreciate it.

Royal Caribbean’s annual casino loyalty perks are starting to hit accounts, and longtime players are noticing something feels different right away.

Every year in April, those that gambled enough on Royal Caribbean ships to reach a higher tier are eligible to receive a complimentary cruise.

The complimentary cruise certificates that once followed a predictable set of rules have been replaced with a new system that, for some members, offers more flexibility than ever before, while others don't see as much return value.

For some, the update opens the door to longer sailings and even higher-tier cabins.

Here's what has changed.

Royal Caribbean gives you a free cruise every year, if you play enough in their casinos

Royal Caribbean offers perks for gambling in its casinos through the Casino Royale program.

This is a separate loyalty program from Crown & Anchor Society, and it resets every year.  Based on how many points you earn in a calendar year, you can reach higher tiers.

Prime is the level that offers perks, and it includes complimentary drinks in the casino while playing, no fee for cash advances, and a complimentary cruise each year.

The annual complimentary cruise offerings are different from last year

On April 21st, members who obtained the highest tier started to see their annual certificates appear in their account. 

In years past, you could choose any cruise that wasn't listed on an exclusion list. The excluded sailings were typically holiday sailings or event cruises. It was also limited to any sailing for 7 nights or less.  

The framework was simple: if a sailing wasn’t on the excluded list and was seven nights or less, it was fair game.

Craig Hart reached the highest casino status at Masters, and he said the Master’s list has changed from a list of excluded cruises to a list of included sailings up to 25 night and ranged from balcony to Grand Suite. 

On paper, that sounds like a major upgrade. Longer cruises and higher-end accommodations were rarely part of the annual certificate conversation before.

He thinks some people may see this as a great change, but others may not as much value in it.

Within the email sent out by Casino Royale, there were also talks of "new limited-time bonus offers and special perks throughout the year, so you have the chance to upgrade your annual cruise benefit." 

What this means, no one knows yet, but it may create more value for the casino players.

Win or lose? Casino players debate if they like the change

For some casino guests, the expanded list represents a clear win. Access to longer voyages opens up options that simply didn’t exist under the old rules, particularly for travelers who prefer repositioning cruises or extended itineraries.

The inclusion of higher-category cabins also suggests Royal Caribbean is willing to offer a more premium experience to certain players, at least on select sailings.

At the same time, the move from an "exclusion list" to an "inclusion list" changes how flexible the benefit feels. Instead of browsing the full range of sailings and ruling out a handful, players are now limited to a curated selection chosen by the cruise line. Even if that list is extensive, it can still feel restrictive compared to the previous system.

That perception matters, especially for a loyalty program built around repeat play and predictable rewards.

Craig is curious to see how these changes impact how cruisers look at the value in the program, "While more people obtain status in the casino because of the value in years past, Royal Caribbean ships are sailing at or over capacity.  As this new casino year progresses, new ships start sailing and ships continue to sell out, it will be interesting to see other changes that will be made this year."

Depending on your cruising preferences, the available ships and sailings are either useful or not.  Newer ships, such as the Icon Class are not very prevalent. On Reddit, there were plenty of opinions.

• "Prime used to be any 7 day in an interior with a list of exceptions (usually just new ships and holidays). Now its a 500 cruise list. Huge downgrade. Boo!"
• "Mostly older ships and shorter sailings."
• "Highly disappointing. Most of these are older ships that I get an offer for in the mail 3 times a week."
• "No Icon for prime. Mostly older ships ships and short trips."

The sentiment shared by some is they gambled last year with a certain expectation, but feel the new change wasn't expected.

One person on Reddit posted, "I purposely gambled far more than I normally do to achieve Prime in anticipation for an interior on any 7 day cruise, 2+ year old boat, minus holidays."

"Not getting that is being bait and switched."

If you’re cruising with Royal Caribbean this September, your vacation is about to come with a lot more than just the usual shows and pool days. 

The cruise line is bringing back its Royal Birthday Bash with special events, surprise giveaways, and even some deals that could save you money before you ever step onboard.

The promotion centers on sailings departing between September 1 and September 30, 2026, on cruises to the Caribbean and Mexico.

The Birthday Bash was first introduced last year, and this year's version leans heavily into both the onboard experience and the pre-cruise savings.

Here's what Royal Caribbean has planned if you happen to be cruising in September.

Royal Caribbean picked the month with the most birthdays

According to Royal Caribbean's research, the month of September has the most birthdays of any month. Therefore, they want to make every sailing feel like a birthday party.

Guests can expect themed events and pop-up surprises throughout their cruise, including special birthday cocktails, raffles and giveaways, and one of the more visible additions—a balloon drop party that turns a public venue into a full-on celebration.

Importantly, you don’t need to be celebrating your own birthday to take part. Royal Caribbean is opening the festivities to anyone sailing during the month. If you are celebrating a birthday, though, expect a few extra touches that lean into the theme.

Look for a special pre-cruise sale

Royal Caribbean is pairing the onboard celebration with a limited-time sale that runs from April 24 through May 7, 2026. 

During that window, there is a mix of discounts and incentives aimed at both new bookings and guests who already have a September cruise reserved.

One promotion is familiar: third and fourth guests sailing free. For families or groups booking a single stateroom, that can represent a meaningful savings, especially on shorter Caribbean sailings.

On top of that, the cruise line is adding up to $200 off stateroom pricing for September departures.

This isn't Kids Sail Free, it's any third and fourth passengers (taxes, fees, and overall pricing still apply). It's a good opportunity to bring friends and sail together.

For guests who already have a cruise booked in September, Royal Caribbean is also rolling out a set of pre-cruise deals that run slightly longer, from April 21 through May 12, 2026. These discounts focus on add-ons that many cruisers end up buying anyway.

Some of the notable discounts include:

• 50% off the Unlimited Dining Package
• 50% off admission to Thrill Waterpark
• 50% off admission to Hideaway Beach
• 40% off onboard Wi-Fi

Guests ages 12 and under can get up to 50% off refreshment and soda packages, along with 35% off arcade access.

One detail that may appeal to more experienced cruisers is that Royal Caribbean says these Birthday Bash offers can be combined with other promotions. That stacking potential is where some of the better deals tend to emerge.

A fun excuse to cruise

Whether you have a birthday or not in the month of September, Royal Caribbean is looking to give folks a reason to try a cruise.

While September may statistically have the most birthdays of any months, it's likely no coincidence that there are deeper savings for a cruise during the peak of hurricane season.

Early fall has traditionally been a shoulder season for Caribbean cruising, with lower demand compared to peak summer and holiday periods. Promotions like this can help fill that gap, while also giving guests an added reason to book a sailing that might already be priced more competitively.

Still, for guests already booked (or those considering a September trip), the Royal Birthday Bash adds an extra layer to the experience. It might save money or just add extra fun to everyone's vacation.

After multiple cruisers reported spotting a new brunch option aboard Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise line clarified that the new menu is simply being offered in addition to the affordable specialty lunch deal — not replacing it. 

The "Chops Grille — Brunch" option was first spotted on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Blog previously reported, with Cruise Planner listings stating the experience costs $60 per adult and $40 per child. The brunch also comes with an additional $30 upcharge per person for guests with the Unlimited Dining Package. 

Unsurprisingly, the new brunch option sparked immediate backlash among cruisers, with many stating that the price was too steep to justify. 

"That menu doesn’t look like anything special and certainly not something I would pay an extra $50 pp to experience," wrote one Redditor on the r/royalcaribbean thread. 

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Someone else added, "Nothing on that menu would cause me to choose over the [Main Dining Room]. You already paid [for] food. Is that menu worth a $50/pp premium over what you already get? I think not."

"Chops Lunch you at least get steak and it's usually less than $20. This is just paying $40+ for windjammer food with better seating," said another cruiser. 

Not only that, but many guests feared that the new brunch menu would replace the specialty lunch deal available at Chops Grille. 

"Chops and Giovannis lunches on sale are the best values you'll ever get on the cruise," chimed in one fan, while another guest noted that the specialty lunches are one of the best ways to avoid the embarkation crowds in the Windjammer buffet. 

Thankfully, a Royal Caribbean spokeswoman confirmed that the standard specialty lunch will not be phased out to accommodate the new brunch. 

"Brunch does not replace the lunch option, it is scheduled once a week only. Standard lunch at Chops remains an option," they said in a statement given to Royal Caribbean Blog. 

They did not specify which ships across the fleet will offer the new brunch menu. However, it's been spotted on vessels like Star of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas.

How much is Chops Grille on Royal Caribbean?

Pricing for Royal Caribbean's specialty steakhouse varies. However, it's more expensive for dinner than lunch, explaining why the afternoon deal is so popular among cruisers. 

For instance, on my upcoming Liberty of the Seas cruise, lunch is priced at $17.99 per person, while dinner skyrockets to $46.99 per person. 

These prices reflect current pre-cruise sales, meaning I could end up paying more for lunch or dinner at Chops if I wait until onboard to make my reservation.

It's cheaper to book Chops new specialty brunch through the Cruise Planner, too. On the same aforementioned Liberty of the Seas sailing, the brunch is offered for just $47.99 per adult, compared to the onboard pricing of $60 per person. 

Read more: Chops Grille: I visited the steakhouse that's on every Royal Caribbean cruise, and I was impressed by the quality of the steaks

What is the Chops Grille lunch menu like?

Compared to the dinner menu, the Chops Grille lunch menu is a little more simplified, offering just four appetizers, six entrées, and three desserts, along with six shareable sides. 

Despite the smaller selection, the Chops Grille lunch remains popular among cruisers for its strong value, with options like a colossal shrimp cocktail, filet mignon, Atlantic salmon, and warm chocolate cake for typically less than $20 per person. 

Lunch isn't available at Chops every day, either. While it's open nightly for dinner, it is usually only available for lunch on sea days. 

Chops Grille Royal Caribbean Brunch Menu (NEW 2026)

The new brunch menu is divided into eight different sections, giving guests a wide range of options from classic breakfast favorites to elevated steakhouse offerings. 

"Gather your crew for an irresistible specialty brunch experience at Chops Grille℠, featuring bold flavors and elevated favorites. Start with cheese and charcuterie selections, avocado toast, and freshly baked breads and pastries," reads the Cruise Planner's brunch description. 

"Dig into a variety of family-style sides like gooey mac and cheese and more. Then indulge in mouthwatering brunch favorites including the succulent Royal Crab Benedict or the Very Berry Waffle. And don’t forget to save room for crave-worthy desserts like the luscious Cherries Jubilee and fudgy Vegan Chocolate Brownie."

Beverages:

Aperol Spritz — Sparkling wine, Aperol, club soda, orange wheel garnish ($14)

Shirley Temple — Sprite, grenadine, cherry garnish ($7)

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Bakery (Selection of freshly baked breads and pastries):

Loaves

Croissants

Muffins

Danishes

Starters (Served family style):

Sliced fruit selection

Cheese and charcuterie selection

Scallops wrapped in bacon

Toast:

Avocado toast — Feta cheese, arugula, and cherry tomatoes 

Brunch sweets (Served à la carte):

Buttermilk pancakes — Fluffy, served plain, banana, and chocolate

Very Berry Waffle — Fresh buttermilk waffles topped with whipped cream, berries, and honey dairy-free whipped cream and caramel drizzle

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Hearty bowls (Served à la carte):

Steak & Eggs — Cooked to perfection tender filet mignon, topped with fried egg

The Royal Crab Benedict — Crab cake, two poached eggs, spinach, hollandaise, and English muffin

Grilled beef short ribs — Fork tender short ribs served with Romesco sauce 

Shrimp tortellini alfredo — Homemade Alfredo sauce poured over golden shrimp and cheese tortellini 

Grilled tofu — Peppers, shelled edamame, and sweet chili 

Desserts (Served à la carte):

Floating island — Silky meringue floating on vanilla cream sauce with spun caramel sugar

Cherries jubilee — Red cherry cooked in a wine cinnamon served with vanilla ice cream

Chocolate brownie — Rich, dark fudge with dairy-free whipped cream and caramel drizzle 

Sides (Served à la carte):

Mac & cheese

Roasted baby vegetables 

Mashed potatoes

Arugula and Parmigiano salad with lemon vinaigrette