Royal Caribbean Blog

One of the best travel credit cards is getting overhauled, and it’s no longer the best option for cruisers.

As a credit card enthusiast, I always strategize to find the best cards to align with my spending. Each purchase is meticulously charged to the best credit card, which we pay off in full each month to avoid interest charges and fees. It’s essentially a part-time job, but the rewards are substantial.

Last year, my husband and I saved over $23,000 thanks to our portfolio of credit cards. The bulk of this savings comes from redeeming our points for travel with airlines, hotels, and rental cars. And yes, I track our credit card savings each month - I am a data analyst, after all!

For many years, the Chase Sapphire Reserve used to be one of the best credit cards for earning points on cruise purchases. This was my top recommendation for cruisers for many reasons, including the card’s generous 3x point multiplier on travel. With this, you could easily rack up thousands of points with your cruise purchases.

Because of this, the broad “travel” category earned 3x points on all cruise purchases. This included everything from your cruise fares to shore excursions, internet packages, specialty dining packages, spa treatments, and drink packages.

Unfortunately, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is receiving a drastic makeover, although most cardholders consider it a huge downgrade. Among many changes and restrictive redemptions, the broad 3x travel category is being eliminated.

If you’re wondering which credit card is now the best for cruise purchases, you’re not alone. I'm also personally impacted by these changes, and I am definitely not thrilled about it. Here are the travel credit cards I plan to use for cruising, including a few other options worth considering.

Here’s exactly what is changing with the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase recently announced a complete overhaul of the point-earning structure and provided benefits. Not only is the annual fee getting hiked from $550 to $795, but the 3x point earning on travel is being replaced with 4x points on airfare and hotels, but only when booked directly with the airline or hotel.

Removing the generic 3x points on all travel is a frustrating change for a top-tier travel card. For cruisers in particular, the removal of the 3x point benefit is a huge loss. Travel is easily my top spending category, so this downgrade was an unwelcome change for many. 

Additionally, the travel category also included all transport, including taxis, ride shares, tolls, parking fees, and public transportation. Even better, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is a Visa with no foreign transaction fee. While traveling abroad and taking public transport, the Chase Sapphire Reserve was my most-used credit card to maximize the earning potential.

Instead, Chase is adding a bunch of lifestyle coupons, such as credits for DoorDash, Peloton, AppleTV, and StubHub. These credits are divided into monthly, quarterly, or bi-annual usage, making them more difficult to actually use.

How the change would directly impact your point-earning potential

For this example, let’s say you spent $2,000 on your cruise fare, along with $2,000 for shore excursions, internet access, and a drink package. With the old structure, you’d earn 3x points on $4,000 worth of cruise purchases.

With the 3x points offer, this would equate to 12,000 points of Ultimate Reward points with Chase. You could then redeem those points through the Chase Travel Portal for 1.5 cents per point.

For 12,000 points, this would be worth approximately $180 towards travel redeemed through the Chase Travel Portal. Additionally, you could transfer the points to various travel partners, such as many hotel chains and airlines. For me, 12,000 points could be redeemed with Delta Air Lines for a flight worth about $200.

Now, you’ll only receive 1x points on that purchase, which would equate to only 4,000 points on that same vacation. Redemptions are changing too, so you could only redeem those 4,000 points for $40 worth for most travel purchases.

There is an opportunity for “Points Boost” offers worth up to 2x points with “top picked hotels and flights with select airlines through Chase Travel,” and all other redemptions will be reduced to a 1:1 rate.

Rather than having the option to redeem your points on any travel, you are now limited to the select offers provided by Chase for hotels and airlines. This limits how your points can be redeemed, although most strategic cardholders will likely transfer points to travel partners.

What are the best credit cards now for cruisers?

With all the overhaul, you might not be wanting to pay $795 for the Chase Sapphire Reserve anymore; and honestly, I wouldn’t blame you. There are many travel credit cards on the market, and there might be one that fits your travel spending better.

Following the disappointing change to the Chase Sapphire Reserve, I’ve been researching the best credit cards for cruising purchases. I’ll also be adjusting my spending strategy, as I always charged my cruises to my Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Of course, one of the top competitors to the Chase Sapphire Reserve is the American Express Platinum Card. Unfortunately, American Express isn’t as widely accepted as Visa credit cards when traveling internationally. This is one of the reasons the Chase Sapphire Reserve was always my go-to card when traveling.

However, there are other options from both American Express and other credit card companies. Here are my top recommendations for cruising purchases moving forward, along with a few caveats to know.

American Express Green Card

If you still want to earn 3x points on cruise purchases, you should consider signing up for the American Express Green Card. This is considered one of the best replacements for the Chase Sapphire Reserve because of its 3x points on all travel and transit purchases. 

Currently, the Amex Green has an annual fee of $150, making it more affordable than the Chase Sapphire Reserve. However, you will receive fewer luxury perks, such as the Priority Pass lounge access or the same level of travel insurance. 

Another perk of the American Express Green Card is how well it pairs with other American Express credit cards. If you already have another Amex, all of your Membership Reward Points will be automatically pooled together.

For instance, I have the Amex Gold (for 4x points on groceries and dining), the Amex Green (for 3x points on travel and transit), and the Amex Platinum (for 5x points on airfare). All of these points are combined in my Amex account, which I can easily transfer to a partner airline for redemption. 

The top spending categories for the Amex Green Card include:

• 3x points on travel: Cruises, airfare, hotel, campgrounds, car rentals, and vacation rentals
• 3x points on transit: Trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways
• 3x points on dining: Worldwide dining, takeout, and delivery

Other benefits include the following:

• $199 CLEAR Plus credit
• Travel Delay Insurance
• Baggage Insurance
• Rental Car Loss Insurance
• No foreign transaction fees

For cruisers, the Amex Green is one of the best choices on the market now. You’ll still earn 3x points on all travel and transit charges, which rivals what you would have been receiving with the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Wells Fargo Autograph and Autograph Journey

If you’re looking for another credit card with 3x points on all travel, Wells Fargo has two solid options to consider: the Autograph and Autograph Journey credit cards. Just like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can still earn 3x points on all travel and transit purchases, in addition to other categories like restaurants and gas.

The Wells Fargo Autograph credit card has no annual fee, while the Autograph Journey carries a $95 annual fee. With the Autograph Journey card, you’ll earn even more points on hotel and airline purchases. These accrued points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, and statement credits.

This makes both credit cards excellent options to rack up points with cruise purchases, along with other cruise-related and travel expenses. The low annual fee means you have high earning potential with your travel purchases, and you aren’t tied to a travel portal for redeeming your points.

Additionally, you’ll receive some included travel protection with the Autograph Journey card for your cruising. This includes travel accident insurance, lost bag reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption protection, and an auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Wells Fargo Autograph credit card includes 3x points on the following categories:

• Restaurants: Including dining in, takeout, catering, and delivery
• Travel: Airfare, hotels, car rentals, cruise lines
• Transit: Subways, ride shares, parking, tolls
• Gas: Gas stations and electric charging stations
• Streaming services and phone plans

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card includes the top spending categories and benefits:

• 5x points on hotels
• 4x points with airlines
• 3x points on travel and restaurants
• $50 annual statement credit: with a $50 minimum airline purchase

U.S. Bank Altitude Connect

Another travel credit to consider is the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature credit card. The credit card has no annual fee and includes a generous 4x points on all travel, although point redemption options are more limited. For casual cruisers not wanting to pay an annual fee for a credit card, this could be one of the best options.

You won’t be able to transfer your points to travel partners, but you can earn an eligible deposit into a U.S Bank account, along with some merchandise, travel, charity, and gift card options. Instead, you’ll want to think of this card as earning cash back for your travel purchases (around 2% to 4% essentially), which is a better option for casual cruisers who travel once or twice each year.

The top spending categories for the U.S Bank Altitude Connect include:

• 4x points on travel
• 5x points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked with the Altitude Reward Center
• 4x points on gas stations and EV charging stations, up to $1,000 each quarter
• 2x points on dining, groceries, and streaming services

Other benefits include:

• 4 Priority Pass lounge visits each year
• $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every 4 years
• Basic travel interruption, delay, and cancellation insurance

Capital One Venture X

Another popular choice among travelers is the Capital One Venture X credit card, known for its premium travel benefits and strong earning potential. With an annual fee of $395, the Venture X is considered a more accessible option compared to other high-end travel credit cards.

Although the Venture X credit card doesn’t offer cruise-specific perks or bonus categories for cruises, this premium credit card shines when it comes to covering general travel expenses.

The Venture X credit card earns the most miles when booking travel directly through the Capital One Travel portal, including hotels, airfare, rental cars, and vacation rentals. But, you’ll still earn 2x miles on everyday spending, including cruising. However, if you prefer booking with airlines and hotels directly, you might not maximize your point-earning potential with this card.

Other noteworthy travel benefits include a $300 annual travel credit when booking through Capital One Travel, along with lounge access and a statement credit for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

More importantly, your Capital One Venture X credit card offers strong travel protection that can provide peace of mind for your cruises. This includes trip cancellation, delay, and interruption coverage for unexpected circumstances. In addition, the Venture X has common carrier travel accident coverage, baggage insurance, and rental car collision coverage.

The top spending categories for the Venture X credit card include:

• 10x miles: When booking hotels and rental cars booked through the Capital One Travel portal
• 5x miles: When booking flights and vacation rentals booked through the Capital One Travel portal
• 2x miles: All other purchases

Some of the travel-related benefits and perks include:

• $300 annual credit towards Capital One Travel portal
• 10,000 annual bonus miles each anniversary
• $120 credit for PreCheck or Global Entry
• Priority Pass Lounge access
• Capital One Lounge and Landing Access

Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card

If you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on annual credit card fees, the Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card could be a great choice. With an annual fee of only $95, you’ll still receive some excellent travel perks and earn extra points on all travel purchases.

With the Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card, all travel and dining purchases earn 2x points while all other expenses earn 1.5x points. This means all cruise purchases would qualify for 2x points for all of your purchases. If you’re a member of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards loyalty program, you can earn even more points on travel purchases. This includes 25% to 75% boost in points, making the 2x points on travel increase to 2.5x to 3.5x points on travel.

Even better, the Bank of America Premium Rewards Card is a Visa credit card with no foreign transaction fees. That makes this credit card better suited for international travel, as Visa is widely accepted everywhere.

You will also receive flexibility for how you want to redeem your points. For instance, points can be redeemed for cash back in your Bank of America account or an eligible Merrill account (including 529 accounts). In addition, you could redeem points for a statement credit or gift cards through the Bank of America Travel Center.

Finally, you’ll receive travel insurance protections for delays, cancellations, interruptions, misplaced luggage, auto rental collision coverage, and baggage delays. The credit card also includes coverage for emergency evacuation and transportation for qualified events. 

Other benefits for the Bank of America Premium Credit Card include:

• $100 statement credit for airline incidentals
• $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck
• 10,000 annual bonus miles each anniversary

American Express Platinum Card

If you’re wanting to swap your Chase Sapphire Reserve for another top-tier, luxury travel credit card, then you might want to consider the American Express Platinum Card.

Regarded by many as the best travel credit card, the Amex Platinum is heavy on the benefits, but not necessarily as strong with earning potential. Currently, the Amex Platinum has an annual fee of $695, but many speculate this will be increased to align with the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

The top spending categories on the Amex Platinum include 5x points on all airfare purchases and prepaid hotels, but only 1x points for all other travel. While that’s not necessarily impressive, there are other lucrative cruise and travel perks that could be worthwhile, including access to many different airport lounges.

With the Amex Platinum, you are eligible to receive perks through the Cruise Privileges Program (CPP). When you book a cruise five nights or longer through the Platinum Travel Service, you can receive onboard credit between $100 to $300 per stateroom. The Cruise Privileges Program also provides unique amenities for each cruise line, along with 2x points on each dollar you spend per booking with American Express Travel.

Another enticing perk with the Amex Platinum is the comprehensive travel insurance for trip delay, cancellation, and interruption. Some of the most important coverage with the American Express Platinum Card includes medical assistance, which provides emergency medical coverage up to $250,000, evacuation up to $100,000, and accident insurance up to $500,000 in the event of injury. Luggage protection is also provided, and cruise ships are specifically mentioned in the coverage.

Additionally, you’ll receive many travel-related benefits with the Amex Platinum as well, including:

• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Baggage fees and other incidental credits
• $200 Hotel Credit: Select hotels prepaid through the Amex Travel portal, includes Fine Hotels & Resorts and Hotel Collection
• $200 Uber Credit: Available monthly in your Uber account
• Global Lounge Access: Access to the Delta SkyClub, Amex Centurion Lounges, and Priority Pass lounges
• TSA Precheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR Plus Membership

Should you take your passport with you off your cruise ship while on a shore excursion?

This is one of the most hotly debated questions among cruisers, as there seems to be quite a divide of what you should or shouldn't do.

I recently ran across a new thread debating the virtues of taking your passport off the ship on Reddit, and I think it's a simple decision to always take my passport with me off the ship.

If you're on the fence about what to do or haven't thought about it, I wanted to share my outlook on the debate.

While there's risk in losing it, the benefits of having it in case of an emergency outweigh any concerns.

Travelers should always be prepared

My mantra when traveling is the same as the Boy Scouts when I was a kid, "Be prepared".

You never know what might happen, and emergencies or accidents while in port are never something you see coming until it's too late.

I opt to bring my passport with me off the ship while I go on shore excursions so I have it with me, just in case.

Passports are essential, as you cannot fly home without it. So if we got stuck somewhere and missed the ship, having my passport would be critical.

Without a passport, you'd have to travel to the nearest embassy of your home country to get one.  Depending on the port, the nearest embassy might be many hours away drive by car.

On any tour, I'm often far enough away from the ship that running back to it is not practical.

The counterargument to my opinion is to leave the passport in your safe on the ship, as the cruise line claims if you're a no-show to returning to the ship, they'll clear out your belongings from your stateroom (including your safe) and leave it with the port.

That's a major leap of faith that I'm not willing to take because of the multiple chain of custodies involved.

I have less concern of theft as I do it not making it to me in the end, either due to negligence or someone not knowing where the items are when they were taken.

Photocopies of a passport are as useful as photocopies of cash

Some people will say they take a photocopy of their passport and then leave the real thing in the ship safe.

A photo of your passport is useless, as you cannot travel with it.  You still need the physical documents.

There's no benefit at all of having a photo of it in terms of actually being able to use it.

Three exceptions to my rule

I'll leave my passport in my stateroom safe if I'm in one of three ports of call.

First would be Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is Royal Caribbean's private island.

Because it's a cruise line operated place, it's basically impossible to be left behind. You'd have to hide in a bush to truly not make it back to the ship.

Over the years, I've encountered medical issues while on CocoCay with my family, and the first place they'll take you if it's anything remotely serious is back to the ship.

Ditto for Labadee, which is also a Royal Caribbean destination.

It just seems nearly impossible to be left behind or stuck in these spots.

The other place I'll be okay with leaving my passport behind is if I'm in a U.S. state or territory.

When my ship visits Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, or St. Croix, I'm fine with leaving my passport in the safe because I can travel home with just my driver's license.

As an American citizen, not having to rely on a passport for travel home while in a part of my country seems sufficiently safe to go off the ship with my driver's license.

It's a decision of risks

Ultimately, you have to judge which risk of taking or leaving your passport is higher and what the consequences of each risk would be.

Taking it with you means you can easily get home should you miss your cruise ship's return time for any reason, but the risk is having it lost or stolen.

But if you leave your passport on the ship, what happens if you miss the boarding time? And are you willing to risk that the ship would leave your passport and room contents at the port?

Personally, I won't go into a foreign country without my passport just to have myself covered. I think the risks of being stuck in the country without one is worse than the likelihood of losing it.

When I took my first cruise to Alaska four years ago, I never expected the trip to be my first of six to the state. Yet every summer, I find myself cruising back to Alaska to experience more of the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Alaska is wild, rugged, and magical, and a cruise is arguably the best way to visit the Last Frontier.

In between spotting whales, visiting glaciers, and tasting local cuisine, I fell in love with Alaska almost immediately on my first cruise to the region.

For me, the beauty of Alaska is simply unmatched amongst other cruise itineraries. I’ve been fortunate enough to visit some truly spectacular destinations, such as Antarctica and Patagonia, but I still find Alaska’s beauty among the most beautiful on Earth.

Here’s why I love visiting Alaska again and again, and why I’m already looking forward to planning another cruise to the state.

You can view Alaska’s scenery not only in port, but also from onboard the ship

After taking over thirty cruises, my favorite itineraries have been those that offer beautiful views as you sail from port to port.

When cruising to places like Alaska or Norway, you’ll have views of land for the majority of your itinerary. Whether passing through fjords or islands, cruising from place to place is impressively scenic.

Related: Alaska cruises on Royal Caribbean: Everything You Need To Know

Although I enjoy disembarking in Alaska’s cruise ports, my favorite moments of any Alaska cruise are when I’m watching the scenery from onboard my ship. There’s nothing more relaxing than lounging in the Solarium as the ship sails through remote, untouched landscapes.

Most Alaska itineraries even include a viewing day of a glacier, such as Hubbard Glacier, the twin Sawyer Glaciers, or Dawes Glacier.

After cruising to somewhere as gorgeous as Alaska, I find myself missing the mountain scenery when I’m on other cruise itineraries.

I also love the variety of outdoor activities available in Alaska

I love exploring the great outdoors, and Alaska cruises provide the perfect opportunity to get my adrenaline pumping. If you’re outdoorsy, it’s hard to go wrong with an Alaska cruise.

Without bear protection, I typically steer clear of secluded hikes, but fortunately, there are a lot of other ways to stay active.

Related: Royal Caribbean Alaska excursions: Recommended tours for each port

Ports like Sitka and Skagway offer easy (and relatively flat) hiking trails accessible right from downtown. A 1-mile loop at the Sitka National Historic Park, for instance, provides a peaceful escape from the crowds amongst thousands of spruce trees and eighteen Native totem poles.

Whenever I visit Juneau, I’ll never miss a hike to Nugget Falls. Located near Mendenhall Glacier, the 0.7-mile trail is busy, but I find the magnificent waterfall views totally worth it.

If hiking isn’t your thing, Alaska also offers opportunities to cycle, kayak, and canoe, among other outdoor pursuits.

One cruise, I even brought my own bicycle onboard to enjoy rides in every port of call. I cycled around Juneau’s nearby Auke Bay, rode to the ghost town of Dyea near Skagway, and explored off-the-beaten-path gravel roads in Sitka.

Even though you can find active excursions on other cruises around the world, Alaska offers adventure at an even grander scale.

The food is unbeatable, whether fresh salmon tacos or cinnamon-sugar fried dough

Let’s be real—a huge part of why I travel is to taste local cuisine. From spicy curries in Thailand to cheesy empanadas in Argentina, trying local food is a major highlight on any trip.

As such, one of the things I look forward to most when visiting Alaska is the state’s cuisine. The freshly-caught seafood is incredible, and it’s completely ruined me for eating fish—like salmon and halibut—anywhere else.

Whenever my ship docks in Juneau, I make my way to Deckhand Dave’s, a fish taco truck at a trendy food truck park right downtown. On my recent cruise, I enjoyed a plate of panko-crusted salmon tacos, and they were delightful.

Likewise, in Skagway, I never miss a stop to Klondike Doughboy, home to the famously-fattening Alaska fry bread.

The dough is fried to order and topped with a generous coating of cinnamon and sugar.

Other ports offer delicious cuisine, too, including the eclectic Sea Daddy fish shack in Sitka and Ketchikan’s scrumptious Jellyfish Donuts.

If nature isn’t enough, Alaska’s food scene is something that will have me booking cruises to the state again and again.

Wildlife is abundant, from sea otters to bears and whales

You’re almost guaranteed to spot at least some wildlife on an Alaska cruise, even if you don’t book a wildlife-viewing excursion.

Aside from exploring the outdoors, another reason I love Alaska cruises are for the wildlife encounters. Although I (fortunately) have not had any close encounters with bears, I’ve spotted a variety of other animals around the state.

Related: What is the best time of year to see wildlife in Alaska?

On my recent cruise, I watched dozens of adorable sea otters swimming along a channel, a group of seals resting on an iceberg, and pods of humpback whales near the ship. In Juneau, I even caught a glimpse of a mama bear and her cubs crossing the street near Mendenhall Glacier!

There’s something so beautiful about watching these animals in their natural habitat. During my cruises, I try to spend as much time on the outer decks of my ship to spot wildlife. It’s almost addictive.

Finally, I love the opportunity to sail both one-way and roundtrip itineraries

Even after six Alaska cruises, there’s still so much of the region I haven’t seen.

Most Alaska cruise itineraries are round trip sailings, meaning they start and end in the same cruise port—either Seattle or Vancouver. Yet some are one-way itineraries. These sailings start in Vancouver, Canada and end in Seward, Alaska (or vice versa).

I love having the flexibility to choose either a round trip or one-way sailing. The round trip itineraries are convenient for flight logistics, but one-way cruises allow you to experience even more of Alaska.

Out of my six sailings, I tried a one-way itinerary just once, but it was, by far, my most immersive visit to the state.

The one-way cruise brought me to four ports in Alaska, including to Icy Strait Point, which isn’t always visited on round trip itineraries. Additionally, one-way cruises often include a glacier viewing day at Hubbard Glacier. You won’t always find this glacier visit on round trip sailings.

Related: 10 Alaska cruise essentials to not forget

However, the best benefit to booking a one-way Alaska cruise is the chance to explore Alaska’s interior before or after the sailings. Regardless of whether you start or end your cruise in Seward, you should take the opportunity to visit nearby Denali National Park and Preserve.

Here, you can spot wildlife like eagles and moose, and you'll also see the tallest mountain in all of North America.

The beauty on an Alaska cruise is unmatched, and you should definitely give it a try

I’ve tried Royal Caribbean’s cruise itineraries all over the world. I’ve loved the crystal clear beaches in the Caribbean, enjoyed life-changing pizza in Italy, and sailed on a catamaran in the South Pacific.

Even after experiencing so many amazing trips, no cruises have been quite like those to Alaska.

Unless you see Alaska’s grandeur for yourself, it’s hard to put into words just how awe-inspiring the state’s landscapes truly are.

Some cruisers may gawk at the idea of trading swimsuits for jackets and the beach for a chilly mountain town, but don’t knock it until you try it.

I thought I would grow tired of Alaska after so many cruises to the region, but the pristine beauty just keeps calling me back.

With its rich history and culture, visiting Europe by cruise ship for two weeks is an incredible experience.

That's why I planned to take full advantage of our time by doing a back-to-back cruise on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas. If I'm going to spend the time and money to fly across the Atlantic, I wanted to get the most out of it.

Our cruises took us to the cities of Northern Europe, followed by a Norwegian fjord cruise.  Each had its own appeal: metropolitan offerings and natural beauty.

Here are the four best things I did during my trip and the two I'd skip next time.

Hands down, one of the best things I did was booked an independent tour on the Skylift

Olden was my favorite port of the Norwegian fjords cruise because of how picturesque the landscape was surrounding us.

Prior to my cruise, a friend strongly recommended we try the Loen Skylift up to Mount Hoven. At the time, the Royal Caribbean excursion was sold out, so I booked an independent tour to get me there.

Not only was the recommendation fantastic, but I did myself a great favor by booking it on my own instead of the cruise line.

The company we booked it through had continuously running shuttle service every 10 minutes, which meant very little time wasted waiting for transportation.  

Plus, being on our own schedule meant we beat the crowds that descended later in the day when the cruise line excursions arrived.

And then, of course, are the views.

The Skylift takes you over 3,000 feet up and is an incredible vantage point. The photos you see here do not do the spectacle justice.

If I had a heavier jacket and an Adirondack chair, I'd have been content to sit there all day.

When it comes to exploring cities in Europe, don't overlook independent tours as a great choice.

I drank with friends at a German beer garden

In every port we did a lot of walking and sightseeing, except in Hamburg, Germany, where I wanted to do one thing: experience a German beer garden.

I'd never been to a real one before (only the facsimile that is found in Walt Disney World) and I wanted to do it right.  A group of 30 friends joined me, and we went to a beer garden that's well-known around Germany.

Thanks to friends that lived in Bremen, Germany, we had the perfect introduction for what to expect.

We drank, sang, ate, and it proves the old saying that everything is better with friends.

Our time in Hamburg was rather short because of the port schedule, but the few hours we were there were well worth it, and I'd it's the perfect activity for a group to enjoy together.

I'm glad I included time in our schedule to wander

It's so easy to over plan for a cruise, but in my experience, including time to wander is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

Every port day, I purposefully left open time in the schedule to simply walk around and see what was around the next street.

This strategy not only helped reduce fatigue, pressure, and stress, but it's often led to unique discoveries.

In Molde, Norway, we stumbled upon a cart selling fresh strawberries.  In Copenhagen, we had beers and lunch at an open-air food hall.

Including time to wander and explore gave us a chance to truly soak in the atmosphere and feel more connected to each port and its people.

I'd add it's important to have a cellular connection while wandering.  

I purchased an eSim to use in port, and it was so helpful being able to search Google Maps where we were, what was around us, and how to easily get to and from anywhere.

My favorite one to use is Orange sim (this is an affiliate link, that costs you nothing extra but I make a small commission). 

Buying a dining package was the perfect add-on

I really like Royal Caribbean's food, but buying a dining package to mix things up was a great idea.

I like variety anywhere I eat, so two weeks between the Main Dining Room and the Windjammer buffet wasn't going to be ideal.

I purchased the 3-night dining package before my cruise began, and having a few nights out on each sailing to enjoy specialty dining ended up being a great idea.

I loved getting new cuisines, and breaking up the usual food options I saw.

Plus, I bought it pre-cruise, and got in on a good sale.  I paid just $228.88 for both me and my wife for the 3-night package.

I instantly regretted the bus tour

The only excursion I booked through Royal Caribbean was a bus tour of the fjords in Olden, and from the start it disappointed me.

The scenic spots we visited were lovely, but it embodied everything I dislike about cruise line excursions: lots of waiting, a slow pace, and wasted opportunity.

The tour said to arrive at 12:10pm, but we didn't actually board the bus and depart until 1pm.  That's almost an hour of time completely wasted.

In retrospect, I should have booked a small group or private tour to take us around the fjords.  I think it would have moved at a pace more conducive to our needs so we could have seen more in less time.  

I think cruise line excursions have a role to play, especially if you have mobility issues, but next time I'll search for a third party option to take me around.

I also need to double check how strenuous a hike will be

A friend and I spent hours looking up what to do in Molde, Norway, and we thought we found the perfect outdoor activity: a leisurely hike to enjoy a great view.

It sounded great, but we didn't take the extra step to cross reference the hike with a hiking website, such as AllTrails.

Had we done that, we would have seen it was rated as "moderately challenging" with steep sections.

It became clear very quickly this was not a trail for people that never go hiking.  

Never trust just photos, and do your due diligence so you can avoid your quads feeling like they're going to explode. 

A local court ruled that cruise ships can still visit Nice, France, despite the mayor's determination to ban them. 

On July 1, Nice and Villefranche enacted new rules banning cruise ships carrying more than 2,500 passengers from disembarking in the area. However, Voyager of the Seas still called at Villefranche-sur-Mer on July 3, arriving around 6:30am local time. 

The Voyager Class ship had 3,114 passengers and roughly 1,200 crew on board. Although port officials said it was a pre-approved stop, Christian Estrosi, the Mayor of Nice and President of the Nice Côte d'Azur metropolitan area, considered the ship's arrival a breach of the recently implemented ban. 

Estrosi boarded a police boat with a television crew, approached Voyager of the Seas, and requested to board with an official letter instructing the captain not to let guests ashore. 

"In accordance with these publicly announced commitments, I formally request that you refrain from disembarking any passengers from your vessel at the Villefranche maritime station or at any other metropolitan facility," the letter read.

"Given your clear non-compliance with our environmental and territorial regulations, I am bringing this matter to the attention of the Minister for Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion, as well as the Maritime Prefect of the Mediterranean. I am asking them to take, without delay, all necessary measures to order the immediate departure of your ship from the waters off Villefranche."

Voyager's crew didn't let Estrosi on and motioned for him to turn around. Frustrated, he was caught on camera shouting, "Where is the captain?" and ordering the crew to "get out of here." Estrosi later accused Royal Caribbean of ignoring local regulations and described the ship's crew as "arrogant." 

In a statement to local reporters, he doubled down on his stance: "I will not give up. I call on all relevant authorities to take the utmost firmness on this issue. I intend to strictly enforce the decision."

Days later, he issued an order to further restrict cruise ship access in the area. The ban would have limited cruise ships to just 450 passengers in Nice and 2,500 in Villefranche-sur-Mer. However, it was suspended on July 13 by the local Administrative Court in Nice, which sided with Laurent Hottiaux, the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes department.

Read more: Angry French Mayor yells at cruise ship

Estrosi wanted to cut down on cruise ship visits to help fight climate change and protect marine life

According to the ruling, only the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes department can regulate ship traffic. In other words, Estrosi doesn't have the legal right to impose maritime restrictions, despite his dual role as the Mayor of Nice and President of the Nice Côte d'Azur metropolitan area. 

Estrosi is "not competent to issue such measures," the court emphasized. Only the Prefect of the Alpes-Maritimes can, as it's "within the framework of his powers to police the waterway, [and] organize the entries, exits, and movements of vessels."

The court also stated that "these limitations go against the freedom of movement for cruise ship passengers and the freedom of trade and industry for cruise operators."

Still, Estrosi, who thinks that cruise ships are "three times worse than airplanes," isn't giving up. He has threatened to sue the State if they don't take action against large cruise ships. 

Had the ban gone into effect on July 11 as Estrosi intended, at least 12 cruise ships would have been forced to cancel their planned 2025 visits.  

To build a cruise ship like Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas or Star of the Seas, it's anything but a simple process.

Royal Caribbean's new cruise ships take years of research, design, and testing before actual construction can begin. It's an enormous engineering, research, and imagination feat before the first passengers are able to step onboard.

Royal Caribbean shared an inside look at the process, and it's a fascinating look at one of the most complex endeavors within the travel industry.

Step 1: It All Starts With an Idea

Royal Caribbean starts off designing a new ship with the conceptual stage, posing an important question: "Who are we building this for?".

According to the cruise line, their team begins by identifying which type of guests they want to attract. From there, they determine what those guests want, what they need, and how to exceed those expectations with something entirely new. 

As Jason Liberty, Royal Caribbean Group CEO, put it, "It’s in our DNA to wake up every day dreaming and innovating about what the future experience could look like."

They call it "ideation" and it's a brainstorming of process of what's possible to do on a floating hotel at sea. Many of the venues and attractions we take for granted today on a Royal Caribbean ship were born of this process.

Ideas are tossed around conference rooms filled with designers, architects, engineers, and brand experts to determine what sounds fun, and how practical it actually is.  The good ones make their way to a new ship.

Step 2: From Concept to Blueprint

With the ideas in place, Royal Caribbean moves on to take those ideas and turn them into designs.

According to Royal Caribbean, the design phase for a ship like Utopia of the Seas took over 1.5 million working hours. These hours go into creating detailed blueprints, renderings, and workshop plans. 

This step of the process can take a while, as the cruise line must account for every part of the ship.  Every room, hallway, panel, and accessway must be planned out.

Only after this intensive work is complete can construction begin.

Step 3: Selecting the Shipyard and Starting Construction

With a plan in place, a cruise line has to find someone to actually build it.

There are a handful of shipyards around the world that are capable (and knowledgeable) to build cruise ships.  Surprisingly, none of them are in the United States.

Royal Caribbean works with one of three major shipyards, depending on the size and class of the ship. 

The first construction milestone is the steel-cutting ceremony. This is the symbolic beginning of construction when the first sheet of steel is cut.

From that steel, a ceremonial silhouette of the ship is cut—marking the start of a long and complex building process.

Step 4: Building the Ship Block by Block

Cruise ships are built differently from buildings on land.

On a basic level, cruise ships are assembled by putting together blocks of pre-built units to create the ship's super-structure.

Each block contains portions of the ship’s structure, including framing, electrical systems, and plumbing. These blocks are assembled off-site and then transported to the shipyard, where they are connected piece by piece. 

The first block to go into place is the keel, which forms the backbone of the ship. 

As part of maritime tradition, there is a keel-laying ceremony where a pair of lucky coins are placed under the keel as a symbol of good luck.

Step 5: Welding, Cabling, and Engineering

Once the keel is laid, the blocks are added in stages over the next 12 to 18 months. This phase is highly technical. It includes:

• Installing engines, propellers, stabilizers
• Running miles of cables for power and data
• Connecting AC ducts, plumbing, and exhaust systems
• Welding together structural steel and sealing seams

All of this work is happening while cabins are being built separately in nearby facilities. 

These staterooms are fully fabricated off-site and then lifted into place using cranes. It takes about one year to complete the cabins and install them on board.

Step 6: Float Out

After all the major structural and mechanical systems are in place, the ship is ready for its float out.

At this point, the ship has a completed exterior with a bow, stern, and hull. The dry dock is slowly filled with water, and the ship floats for the first time. From this point forward, the ship will remain afloat.

Although the vessel now looks finished, there’s still a tremendous amount of work to complete.

Step 7: Sea Trials

Just like a new car, cruise ships must be tested to ensure their systems work and the vessel can handle sailing.

Sea trials are a series of tests that examine how the ship performs under real-world conditions. 

When sea trials take place, hundreds of specialists run tests to help assess different technical areas of the ship, and there were more than 450 specialists who helped to run the four days tests on the ship’s technical areas during this round of sea trials. 

The team evaluates:

• Speed and engine response
• Navigation systems and maneuverability
• Stabilizers and propulsion
• Emergency systems and alarms
• Compliance with performance guarantees

Sea trials allow certain navigation and technical systems to be tested that cannot be completed while the ship is docked. It's the final step of a ship's construction prior to being delivered to the cruise line and ensures that everything's in tip-top shape before officially joining the fleet. 

Step 8: Interior Finish and Final Delivery

The finishing touches will take place right after the sea trials are complete, and this is when things passengers will need are added.

Examples of this includes:

• Installing signage, art, and furniture
• Stocking bars, kitchens, and retail stores
• Programming lights, AV systems, and software
• Deep cleaning and setup of public venues

Royal Caribbean also uses this time for what it calls "owner’s work", which are minor adjustments or enhancements the brand decides to implement before opening the ship to the public. This might involve additional decor, layout tweaks, or testing of new experiences.

Once complete, the ship is officially delivered. 

This is when the ship is transferred to the cruise line, just like the keys to a new car being given to its owner.

Step 9: The First Guests Arrive

After years of planning and building, the ship is ready. Crews have trained, systems are tested, venues are polished, and the ship welcomes its first guests on board.

It's the culmination of all the work that took place to get the ship ready, from concepts to design to construction.

So, how long does it all take to complete?

Building a cruise ship takes five to seven years from initial concept to first sailing.

• Ideation & concept development: 1–2 years
• Engineering and detailed design: 1.5 years or more
• Construction and assembly: 3 years
• Float out: 1-2 days
• Sea trials: 3-11 days
• Final outfitting and pre-opening: Several weeks

That timeline means decisions made today will shape what guests experience half a decade from now. 

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

Royal Caribbean has banned hiding ducks in one spot on its cruise ships.

Photos have emerged of new signs placed in the Central Park neighborhood asking passengers not to hide rubber decks in the plants.

It appears this is to reduce the damage guests make to the plants when they inadvertently brush them aside to search for hidden ducks.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean's new big cruise ship will take its maiden voyage later this year. Here’s what awaits guests
• Royal Caribbean cruise ship stuck in port with propulsion problem
• How Royal Caribbean throws a party for crew members
• I went on a 7-day Royal Caribbean cruise for $4,200. Here's what it was like and why it was worth every penny.
• Inside look at the extraordinary process of building the world's largest cruise ships
• I paid $3,000 to cruise in an inside cabin to Alaska
• Independence of the Seas cruise ship review
• I spent 2 weeks cruising with my boomer parents. I was surprised to find 7 ways we travel differently
• 20 Amazon Prime Day deals for cruisers

Star of the Seas has been delivered to Royal Caribbean

At a ceremony this week, Royal Caribbean took ownership of its second Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas.

Star will be one of the largest in the world, and it's now officially built and delivered.

The new ship will enter service in August 2025, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

First look at new cruise terminal Royal Caribbean is building in Miami

New renderings have appeared for the upgraded cruise terminal coming to Miami.

Royal Caribbean is going to replace Terminal G with a new terminal that can handle the biggest ships in the world, as well as catch up to modern standards for getting passengers through the building.

The upgraded terminal should be ready by 2027.

What I wish I knew before I took my cruise this summer

Matt spent a week on a Royal Caribbean cruise to Norway, but there are a few things he wish he knew before it began.

Every sailing has its own approach, and certain nuances of this itinerary stood out.

In retrospect, there were good lessons for anyone else sailing there.

New RCB Video: First Class on a Royal Caribbean cruise

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 — First Class on a Royal Caribbean cruise — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Independence of the Seas ship review

Looking for a cruise ship that has lots to do, some of the best features, and doesn't come with a large price tag?

Our full review of Independence of the Seas shares what you can expect onboard, what stands out about the ship, and what areas need improvement.

Independence of the Seas is a cruise ship that doesn't compromise on things to do, places to eat, and competitive rates.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 570th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available.

Can Star of the Seas match the high standard Royal Caribbean has set with Icon? Matt debates if it's possible to exceed the very lofty expectations the new ship has.

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

Alaska cruises offer some of the world’s most striking scenery, so it’s no surprise that many cruise passengers book balcony cabins for these dreamy itineraries.

On my recent Alaska cruise, however, I opted for a windowless interior cabin instead. Although I loved the idea of cruising in a balcony stateroom, I didn’t want to spend hundreds more for the extra space.

The cruise wasn’t cheap to begin with, so I wanted to save money wherever I could.

At first, I thought I made the right decision. My inside cabin was surprisingly spacious. It also came equipped with a virtual balcony, which provided a live video feed of the outdoors.

As the week progressed, however, I started to regret my decision. The crowded ship had me longing for my own private balcony, and natural light would have been a bonus on Alaska’s long summer days.

Next time I cruise to the Last Frontier, I’ll bite the bullet and spend extra for the balcony instead.

I cruised to Alaska during peak season, and prices were high

Alaska’s short summer cruise season, which runs from May through September, leads to high demand. Cabins book up quickly, especially during the busiest summer months of June, July, and August.

Related: Alaska cruise weather: A Month by Month Guide

Last December, when researching Alaska cruises for this summer, I set my sights on a June 20th departure on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas. With summer daylight at its peak and a higher chance of sunny weather, June is arguably the best month to cruise to Alaska.

I knew cruise fares would be high in June, but they were even higher than I anticipated. The cheapest cabin aboard Anthem of the Seas, an interior guarantee stateroom for two adults, was nearly $3,000 for the week.

Just two years prior, also during June, I cruised to Alaska aboard Quantum of the Seas, and I paid $1,850 for a similar itinerary.

With rising prices, I didn’t even bother to consider an oceanview or balcony cabin. Rather, I decided to save money and allocate my savings toward other pre-cruise expenses like airfare and specialty dining.

Once onboard, I was pleasantly surprised with the interior cabin

In the weeks leading up to my cruise, I was so excited to explore more of Alaska that I almost forgot about my tiny inside room.
It wasn’t until embarkation day that I was forced to confront my decision.

Once onboard, I headed to the cabin feeling somewhat regretful about booking the cheapest room.

Related: The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship

Nonetheless, my worries subsided once I entered my stateroom for the first time.

My brother, who was joining me on the cruise, immediately remarked at how spacious and modern the cabin felt. He had previously cruised in an inside room on Rhapsody of the Seas, one of the oldest ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, so the cabin on Anthem was a major upgrade.

The room had a bed (which we later separated into two twin beds), an armchair, desk, dresser, closet, and private bathroom.

I liked the layout of the cabin, which placed the bed at the edge of the room. This configuration provided ample walking space in the main living area, so I never felt cramped.

Additionally, the room had a ton of storage. My brother and I easily unpacked our belongings and still had room to spare.

Overall, I had no complaints with the cabin. It was modern and had all the amenities for a comfortable stay.

At the time, I didn’t mind not having a balcony. I thought my inside room would be the perfect place to unwind during our 7-night cruise.

Outside my cabin, crowds were in full force, and I longed for the privacy of a balcony

One of the downsides of cruising to Alaska in the peak summer season are the high crowds. With over 4,000 guests onboard, our cruise was completely sold out.

Embarkation day is always somewhat chaotic, so I didn’t mind the crowds on day one. Yet on our first sea day, I felt overwhelmed with the crowded ship.

Related: 25 Alaska cruise tips to follow on your upcoming cruise

Whether the busy Windjammer buffet or crowded Solarium, I found myself wishing for a moment of tranquility. A balcony would have been the perfect place to relax away from the hustle and bustle elsewhere onboard.

Luckily, crowds seemed to dwindle as the cruise progressed. After busy days in port, it appeared that most passengers opted to rest and recoup in their stateroom instead of spending time in public areas.

Regardless, over the course of the week, I grew tired of navigating my way around the crowds. While I still enjoyed watching Alaska’s scenery from the ship’s public decks, I longed for a few moments of peace and quiet on my own private balcony.

The cabin’s virtual balcony was a nice perk, but it wasn’t a replacement for the real thing

One of the perks of cruising in an interior cabin on Quantum Class cruise ships like Anthem of the Seas are the virtual balconies.

On these ships, many interior cabins feature floor-to-ceiling television screens that project a live feed from outside the ship. This way, passengers staying in inside rooms can still enjoy the scenery and “natural” light.

Related: Is a virtual balcony worth the money on Royal Caribbean?

Virtual balconies are certainly a nice benefit, but they’re hardly a replacement for a regular balcony. Even the highest-quality screen can’t replicate the feeling of viewing Alaska’s scenery with your own eyes.

“The virtual balcony is just a reminder of what we don’t have,” my brother joked as we left the room for real-life views instead.

I have to admit his statement rang true.

There are some perks to booking an inside room, and I didn’t necessarily regret saving money

Despite longing for a balcony during my cruise, the savings were pretty hard to beat.

Had I spent $1,000 more for a balcony, I would have had a tighter budget during the cruise. With our savings, my brother and I had more money to spend on add-ons like internet packages and specialty dining.

We enjoyed three specialty restaurants during the week, which we may have skipped had we splurged on a balcony. I loved the elevated dining experience at venues like Chops Grille and Jamie’s Italian, and these meals were a highlight of our cruise.

Aside from the savings, a balcony wasn’t always necessary—or even the best choice. During our ship’s visit to Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, we enjoyed panoramic views from the pool deck.

One of the advantages to being on an outside deck was the ability to view the scenery and wildlife from both sides of the ship. Balconies only face one direction, so you might miss out with the limited viewpoint.

Had I booked a balcony room, I still would have headed to the pool deck to view the glacier anyway.

Even still, it’s hard to go back to an inside room after cruising with a balcony

Despite saving money, I still regretted not booking a balcony on my Alaska cruise.

I loved my time in port, and I didn’t mind viewing scenery from public decks, but I couldn’t shake off the regret about booking the cheapest cabin.

Initially, I was perplexed by my sudden shift in attitude toward budget cabins. As a cruise writer, I visit Alaska nearly every summer, and I always book inside rooms. I’ve never once regretted my decision.

This time around, however, I felt differently. Ultimately, I realized my expectations were shifted after my cruise to Norway last year.

Last summer, I sailed along the Norwegian fjords in a balcony cabin, and I absolutely loved having my own private space to watch the views. Whether cruising along the stunning Nordfjord or passing dozens of small islands around Molde, it was hard to beat a balcony cabin on such a scenic itinerary.

Related: When is a cruise ship balcony worth it?

Alaska cruises, like those to Norway, offer spectacular views on both sides of the ship. After experiencing a balcony cabin in Norway, I felt like something was missing on my cruise to Alaska.

Saving money has its advantages, but after spending a week in a windowless cabin in Alaska, I don’t think I’ll do it again. Next time, I’ll splurge on a balcony to fully experience all that the state has to offer from the comfort of my own cozy cabin.

Big cruise ships are the standard for the cruise industry, and Independence of the Seas remains one of the best choices for families looking to get the most out of a mega ship without the price tag.

Royal Caribbean introduced Independence of the Seas in 2008 as part of its Freedom Class.  At the time, these were the biggest ships in the world. While it may have been eclipsed by the Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships, these remain favorites of cruisers for good reason.

What I find when I sail on Independence of the Seas is a cruise ship that doesn't compromise on things to do, places to eat, and competitive rates.

Royal Caribbean moves Independence around quite a bit.  In summer, she's sailing around Europe, and then around the Caribbean in the fall.

To be fair, you won't find the cruise line's top tier attractions or restaurants onboard, but I don't know that's a bad thing either. Often people choose this ship because of the itinerary it's sailing or the fact you can save a lot of money compared to the bigger ships.

Plus, Royal Caribbean upgraded the ship with new features in 2018.  They added water slides, new restaurants, laser tag, revamped lounges, and added new staterooms too.

Over 4,000 passengers can sail on this ship, but it really doesn't feel that crowded.  I think the open deck space, variety of activities, and proper programming help spread passengers around.  I spent 15 nights onboard recently and it never felt overcrowded.

Easy to get around

You might think a cruise ship that stretches over 1,000 feet would be hard to figure out where you are, but its incredibly easy.

Independence has a few key public areas, and once you walk a little, I think it becomes apparent where everything is located.

• Royal Promenade: Grand concourse with bars and shopping (Deck 5)
• Atrium: Multi-deck space with bars (Decks 3, 4 and 5)
• Pool Deck: Waterslides, pools, and sports activities (Decks 11 and 12)
• Viking Crown Lounge: Indoor viewing lounge, with bar.  Suite Lounge and Crown Lounge also found here (Deck 14)
• Casino: Deck 4
• Youth Zone: Kids club areas, including the teen club (Deck 12)
• Vitality Spa and Fitness Center: Ship spa and gym (Deck 11 and 12)

You'll board the ship on deck 4 and from there it should be easy to get your bearings.  There are two elevator banks to make getting around easy enough. 

Cruise ship elevators are probably where you'll run into the longest waits, but it's rarely problematic.

I find the staircases practical for going up or down a few flights.

Variety of dining choices, included and extra cost

There are a number of restaurants on this ship, some that are included and others that have a cost to dine there.

Included restaurants

• Main Dining Room
• Windjammer buffet
• Fish and Ships
• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento's

Extra cost restaurants

• Chops Grille
• Giovanni's Table
• Izumi
• Playmakers Sports Grill and Bar
• Johnny Rockets
• Room service

The top question new cruisers have is always should they spend extra to dine at the specialty restaurants.

Specialty restaurants are pricey, but I like adding variety to my dining rotation.  There's certainly nothing wrong with the included dining options, but being on vacation means splurging a bit.

The beautiful three deck Main Dining Room serves breakfast and dinner every day, with lunch on sea days.

I ate in here most nights for dinner and found most of the food to be between "good" and "very good".  A few dishes were "excellent" and one or two were duds.  Luckily, you can order as many entrees, appetizers or desserts as you like, so I never went hungry.

I'm also a big fan of the ship's buffet. I love the variety of food, especially the international cuisine.  Just know that it gets very busy for breakfast on most days, so getting a table is difficult at peak times.

The grab-and-go food on the Royal Promenade are good for quick snacks. The food is nothing amazing, but when you need a late night bite, this is your best choice.

The three primary specialty restaurants have a cover charge to dine there. It's not cheap, but if you buy a dining package before the cruise begins, you can save around 50% off the regular cost.

Chops Grille is a traditional American steakhouse and it's perfect for steak lovers. I have yet to go wrong with the filet mignon, but there's also a few other cuts you can try.

Giovanni's Italian is quaint and has a mix of pastas and featured entrees. It's Italian comfort food, and I doubt you'll be disappointed from it, unless you're expecting something ground breaking.  

At Izumi, it's primarily a hibachi table restaurant with teppanyaki dining. This is where the chef cooks in front of you, and it's one of the best family experiences you can have in a specialty restaurant. 

Izumi also has a small sushi bar and a few tables, if you'd prefer to just eat sushi.

There's also room service aboard Independence of the Seas, where you can order food any time of day for a $7.95 surcharge  plus an 18% gratuity.  Keep in mind there's an overlooked complimentary continental breakfast option.

The bars and lounges are the best spots for evening entertainment

One thing I think Royal Caribbean does really well on Independence of the Seas is offer a robust choice of bars and lounges.

In fact, Royal Caribbean is probably the best cruise line for live entertainment these days, and it shows in the venues.

I found many fantastic choices each evening for drinks and a show

My favorite spot is on the Royal Promenade at the English Pub, where a guitarist plays each evening.  There's something about beers and bar songs that works so well.

If you're more of a wine aficionado, there's Vintages across from the Pub.  Alternatively, the champagne bar in the Atrium is a good choice for drinks with conversation. Both bars do not have entertainment.

Probably the most crowded bar each evening will be the Schooner Bar on deck 4.

There's trivia sessions throughout the day, and a piano player at night. If you want a seat, be sure to arrive early because it's a small venue and the shows get very crowded.

If you want more energy with your entertainment, check out Boleros in the Atrium on Deck 4. It starts out each evening with a classic rock band, but then turns into a Latin-themed party.

The Star Lounge is the ship's multi-purpose lounge, and it is where you'll find karaoke, musical acts, and trivia.

One of my go-to bars is Playmakers on deck 4.  I love the location here, attached to the Atrium and Casino.  

Unlike the Oasis Class ships, it's indoors, meaning it's air conditioned and not as hot and humid. 

Playmakers has a great drink menu of its own, along with food too.  You can order a snack or have an entire meal.

Speaking of drinks, you can pay for each drink you order individually or purchase an unlimited drink package.

Drink packages are very popular with cruisers because they're convenient and make it easy to budget for your drinks. Definitely pre-purchase before the cruise to save money on them.

Mix of family-friendly activities and adult-leaning fun

Royal Caribbean's core cruise experience is about offering more things to do onboard than you can possibly squeeze into a day, from trivia and silent discos to audience participation events.

You'll find dance parties and a balloon drop event on the Royal Promenade.  They're a bit hacky, but many people love them as an excuse to get out and enjoy themselves.

There are two theaters onboard with shows each evening.  You'll find the Broadway musical Grease performed in the Royal Theater on select nights (rumor has it Grease will be removed later this year), along with featured performers and comedians.  There's also an ice rink at Studio B, which has its own show and even lets guests skate on certain days there.

The casino is likely going to be busy each evening, as it's the highlight for many cruiser's evening fun.  Slots, table games, and poker are all available.  The casino is open as long as the ship is not docked or in a country's territorial waters. Good luck!

If you prefer more sun with your fun, there is a main pool on deck 11, with plenty of seating around it on both deck 11 and 12.

You'll find pools and hot tubs, along with a kids aquapark at Splashaway Bay.

Adults will gravitate towards the Solarium, which is reserved for passengers at least 18 years old. There's a pool and hot tub of its own here too.

On the back of Independence is where the thrills are located.

Three's a Flowrider surfing simulator, pair of water slides, and sports court.  

The sports court offers pickle ball, volleyball, basketball, soccer, and more.  It changes up the activity depending on the time of day.

What I loved to do on Independence of the Seas

Lots of live entertainment each night

The first reason I started cruising with Royal Caribbean was because of how much there is to do on it ships, and Independence won't disappoint in that regard.

There are bands, singers, shows, and more offered each day.  I liked we could jump between different venues and see what was happening at one, and then pop back to the other.

Independence is a big ship, but the venues with performances are conveniently located near each other. 

Great pool deck for families

Another advantage Independence has over smaller ships is how much pool deck space it has.

There's a pair of twin pools on the main pool deck, and it's perfect for cooling off and submerging yourself in them.

Equally compelling are the variety of hot tubs around the ship.  By far, the best are the whirlpools that cantilever out over the side of the ship. They're enormous, have great views, and even have televisions to watch.

Splashaway Bay is a great feature for the younger kids, and it's sure to keep them busy everyday.

Trying specialty restaurants

I bought a three night dining package for my cruise, and it made a big difference in my enjoyment of eating onboard.

Hibachi, steak, and pasta were lovely upgrades from the included food.  I'd be remiss if I didn't recommend a dining package as a good way to augment what you can get for free.

I also really like the food at Playmakers.  Because it's priced a la carte, you can stop in for just wings.  Or after a busy day in port, grab a burger, beer, and some fries.

Who should book a cruise on Independence of the Seas

The best reason to sail on Independence of the Seas is going to be the value it offers.

You'll get a big ship cruise experience that satisfies the needs of most people without the premium prices newer ships command.

Each time I sail on Independence, I'll almost always upgrade to a balcony or suite because the cost is quite reasonable.  

Of course, where Independence sails to is an equally important consideration.

I think the European cruises are its top choice.  If you can visit cities and destinations in Northern Europe, it's a wonderful escape.

The only warning I'd give for skipping this ship is for someone that wants Royal Caribbean's latest and greatest options.

If your standard is a ship like Star of the Seas, Independence will feel like a step down. It has a lot, but not as much as these enormous and newer vessels.

Itineraries and pricing

Independence of the Seas offers a mix of short getaways, classic Caribbean itineraries, and summertime European voyages through 2025, 2026 and into early 2027.

Most of the year, Independence of the Seas sails out of Miami, offering 3- to 7-night cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean. In the spring and fall, Independence of the Seas sails out of Bayonne, New Jersey, offering cruises to Canada and Bermuda.

An inside cabin will start at $358 per person for a quick Bahamas cruise, but you should expect to pay closer to $650 - $900 per person for most sailings.

Holiday sailings over spring break, Christmas, and summer will see much higher prices. Longer or premium Europe/Baltic voyages rise above $1,000.

I'd recommend booking about 6–12 months before the sail date for the best deals, and 12–18 months for maximum cabin availability.

You'll want to steer clear of Central Park the next time you plan on hiding ducks aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

Although the duck hunting phenomenon has taken the cruise community by storm, Royal Caribbean is drawing the line at disturbing the ships' live plants. 

A guest sailing aboard a Royal Caribbean vessel shared a photo of a new sign posted in the outdoor neighborhood in the Cruising Ducks Facebook group. The sign is politely asking passengers not to hide ducks in the plants. 

"Please help us protect our plants," the sign reads, "This is a duck free zone. Please don't hide ducks in Central Park." 

Found exclusively on Oasis and Icon Class ships, the lush Central Park neighborhood features thousands of real plants and trees that require daily maintenance. On Icon of the Seas, for example, there are over 33,000 plants. 

An intricate system of irrigation, fertilization, lighting, and drainage is in place to keep the plants alive and healthy. However, duck hiding makes the onboard horticulturalist's job even harder, as passengers purposely reach into the plant beds to retrieve them. 

In some cases, children may push, shove, and stomp through the plants in search of ducks, damaging the fragile landscaping. 

Read more: The flourishing garden on Symphony of the Seas has over 20,000 plants, and it's my favorite spot onboard

Positive reaction from cruisers

Many users in the Cruising Ducks Facebook group expressed their support for this restriction, agreeing that the Central Park neighborhood should be off-limits to duck hunters. 

"I am glad they put them out. I have seen people rip plants out getting ducks," commented one user. 

Another added, "Thank goodness. These people tear up these plants. I had a balcony [overlooking] central park and just watched them annihilate the foliage."

"The workers told me they have to do so much extra upkeep to keep the plants alive and looking good from kids (and adults) walking through the bushes and trees and moving branches and plants back and forth to hide or look for ducks. [I'm] so glad [they're] finally doing this. Tons of places on the ship to hide ducks," wrote someone else. 

Other places to hide ducks

Choosing safe and respectful locations that don't interfere with safety protocols or the ship's delicate flora is important for duck hunting to remain the popular tradition that it is. 

Outside of Central Park, there are tons of other places to leave rubber ducks that are less destructive. For example, cruisers often hide them in stairwells and elevators, behind lounge chairs, or tucked into fake plants. 

Your best chances of finding ducks are early in the morning or late at night, when other passengers also aren't on the hunt! 

And if you don't see a duck in a particular location one day, it pays to revisit. You never know when one might appear. 

Read more: Why some people hate hiding ducks on a cruise ship fad