Royal Caribbean Blog

Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class cruise ships are among the biggest in the world, but is a 3-night cruise worth it?

When these mega ships were designed, Royal Caribbean wanted to pack them with more to see and do than any other ship before it.  To the point, they offer a floating array of choices and activities.

In late October, Allure of the Seas became the first Oasis Class ship to begin offering regular short cruises, with 3- and 4-night sailings from Port Canaveral.

Next year, Utopia of the Seas will enter service and will begin by offering 3- and 4-night cruises, which is equally unheard of because traditionally new cruise ships start off with 7-night cruises.

This change lead to a lot of questions about what it's like to sail on an Oasis Class ship for just the weekend, and is it worthwhile to do so.

Read more: Guide to weekend cruises

I went on the first 3-night sailing of Allure of the Seas, which began on November 3, to see for myself.

More activities packed into the sailing

One of the top questions people have about going on a short Oasis Class cruise is if all the shows are still available.

Like her sister ships, Allure of the Seas has three primary theaters onboard: the Royal Theater, the AquaTheater, and Studio B ice rink. There's shows in each venue, along with comedy shows, live music, and more.

Royal Caribbean's entertainment team consolidated the show schedule to fit into a 3-night cruise, but the difference between a 3- and 7-night cruise schedule is there will be more than one show each evening.

On a longer cruise, you can afford to skip the first show time and catch it later. With the short cruises, there may be just one evening to see it.  Luckily, there are still multiple show times for each of the shows.

Like other short cruises that Royal Caribbean has offered on other ship classes, you'll find lots of activities throughout the day. The difference is that Allure has more venues than smaller ships, so there's more competing choices.

Read more: How different is a 3-night vs 4-night cruise?

A short cruise is like a trip to a city

At first I also struggled with how to best see everything on such a short cruise, but then I questioned why I had to in the first place.

When I take a trip to New York City, I don't aspire to see every major attraction in Manhattan, let alone the surrounding boroughs. I prioritize a few very important attractions, hope on seeing a couple of others, and understand that I need to come back to do more.

In the same vein, why should we feel compelled to try to see everything on a cruise ship?

If you talk to someone that has taken a 7-night cruise on an Oasis Class ship, they'll probably admit a week wasn't long enough to "do it all", but that didn't stop them from trying it.

A short cruise is fleeting, but this is true on Grandeur of the Seas as much as Allure of the Seas.

It reminded me a lot of going to Walt Disney World, because you could spend a week in that resort and never come close to seeing every ride.  

Wanting to return to have the chance to sail again on cruise isn't a downside, it's an indication that you had a really good time and want more.

Once I came to this realization, I felt much better about going on a ship as big as Allure for just 3-nights.

Where to eat?

Arguably the most difficult choice may be where to eat dinner on a short Allure of the Seas cruise.

Oasis Class ships redefined the cruise experience in so many ways, including how many restaurants could be on one ship. Before Oasis of the Seas was built, if a cruise ship had two specialty restaurants, that was a big deal.  Today, a ship with two specialty restaurants is disappointing.

Negotiating with my family which three meals we would have may have been the toughest aspect of such a short cruise.

Specialty dining has become extremely popular, and when we sail on an Oasis Class ship, we'll lean heavily into the extra cost restaurants because of the sheer variety.

Even though I'm lucky enough to cruise a lot, it wasn't easy being limited to just a few restaurants. Ultimately, we narrowed it down to 150 Central Park, Izumi, and Samba Grill.

I think we made a good choice overall, and when we return again next year for a 3-night cruise, we'll change up which restaurants we visit.

Having too many choice is still better than not enough.

Cheaper out the door price

Something else that jumped out at me with a 3-night cruise on Allure of the Seas was the price.

On average, a 3- or 4-night cruise will cost less than a 7-night cruise overall.  Longer sailings may cost less per night, but the "out the door price" is usually cheaper.

This is a really attractive prospect, and it actually lead me to upgrade my cabin choice and try a suite because the cost was a lot less than I was used to.

The suite program on Oasis and Quantum Class ship is significantly better than the rest of the fleet.  By booking a suite on a weekend cruise, I could afford to splurge.

We booked the Royal Loft Suite, which had two levels to it, a giant wrap-around balcony with jacuzzi, and access to the services of the Royal Genie.

We never booked such an opulent suite before this because longer sailings made the price difficult to reach. But with a short cruise, it made more sense.

Even if you don't jump at a suite, it's quite likely you will find lower prices for a cabin on a 3-night Allure of the Seas compared to a 7-night cruise on Oasis of the Seas.

This means more people can try an Oasis Class without the premium price tag associated with a longer cruise.

Short cruises are aimed at new cruisers

Something else to think about is the strategy behind offering short cruises on Royal Caribbean's biggest ships.

Allure of the Seas' debut in this role, followed up by the brand new Utopia of the Seas undertaking it in 2024, is about attracting first-time cruisers.

All cruise lines covet new cruisers, because they are the single largest source of new customers and growth in the cruise industry. It's because the majority of the public has never cruised before, that's who Royal Caribbean wants to attract.

The problem is someone that has never cruised before may be leery of spending a week on any ship, even the brand new Icon of the Seas. So they tend to gravitate towards short cruises to give it a try.

So by offering cruises on their best cruise ships, Royal Caribbean is hoping to convert them into cruise fans with vessels that have all the latest and greatest features.

Read more: Royal Caribbean's plan to dominate short cruises with a new ship and private destinations

Was a 3-night cruise on Allure of the Seas worth it?

Without a doubt, I was glad to go on Allure of the Seas for just the weekend.

I would have certainly preferred to have more time and go on a longer sailing, but that isn't always in the cards. The school calendar and work obligations curtail most people's ability to cruise, and a short cruise is better than no cruise at all.

I like to work in weekend sailings as a way to augment my longer cruises. I don't plan weekend cruises as our primary family vacations, but they are great for "let's get out of the house for a few days".

Going into the cruise, I knew I wasn't going to try everything, and I found myself liberated without that burden. Plus, it gave me a good reason to come back and do it again. I'm never one to shy away from a compelling reason to book another cruise.

We had a really nice time on Allure of the Seas for just 3-nights, and I think this will introduce the Oasis Class ships to a lot more people who will fall in love with cruising.

Celebrity Ascent has officially joined Celebrity Cruises' fleet. The cruise line took delivery of the brand-new Edge Class ship at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France.

In addition to 1,400 Celebrity Ascent crew members, Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty; Celebrity Cruises President Laura Hodges Bethge; Laurent Castaing, General Manager of Chantiers de l'Atlantique; and Captains Dimitrios Kafetzis and Tasos Kafetzis were all present for the celebration. 

“Celebrity Ascent is yet another example of innovation driving our mission to provide the best vacations responsibly. The ship continues Celebrity’s ambition to redefine premium travel and take it to new heights,” said Liberty.

“I want to thank and congratulate the Chantiers de l’Atlantique team, our Newbuild and Celebrity Cruises’ teams, and their partners for the vision, craftsmanship, and passion that went into bringing this spectacular ship to life.”

“Celebrity Ascent features all the innovative and award-winning Edge Series signature experiences that launched a new era in cruise ship design, plus a few new enhancements, and I can’t wait to welcome our guests aboard,” said Hodges-Bethge. 

This is the first ship to be delivered to Celebrity Cruises since Hodges-Bethge became the CEO.

“It is a true honor to welcome this ship to our fleet and I am so grateful to everyone involved with all that goes into launching a new ship.” 

“I am convinced that Celebrity Ascent will meet the same success as the other ships in the prestigious Edge Series. Its fine exterior and interior design and its exceptional seaworthiness make it an outstanding ship, said Chantiers de l’Atlantique General Director Laurent Castaing.

"Celebrity Ascent embodies the strong bond between the Chantiers de l’Atlantique, Royal Caribbean Group and Celebrity Cruises teams."

While a few preview sailings are scheduled for late November, Celebrity Ascent is slated to make her official debut in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on December 3 with a 7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise sailing to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and the Dominican Republic.

Distinctive ship features and new experiences onboard Celebrity Ascent

Celebrity Ascent may be the fourth ship in the Edge Class, but she is not an exact copy of her sister ships. 

For the first time, Blu, the Aqua Class-exclusive restaurant, will have an outdoor dining terrace with the ability to seat 24 guests. Other dining venues, such as Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud and the complimentary Cosmopolitan dining room, have been newly redesigned. 

Related: What is the difference between The Retreat, AquaClass and Concierge Class on Celebrity Cruises?

Headed by KTGY Simeone Deary Design Group, Daniel Boulud's second restaurant at sea will offer an intimate fine dining experience that is based upon the Chef's travels. 

Entertainment is another selling point of the cruise experience for many passengers, and there is no lack of things to do onboard Celebrity Ascent.

Onboard, guests will have six new live productions, interactive gaming experiences, a transformative nightlife experience on the Resort Deck, and more to enjoy. 

Additionally, the redesigned casino will feature brand-new games for those who wish to try their luck at sea.   

There's also an expanded Rooftop Garden; upgraded Resort Deck with cantilevered float pools; multi-level, multi-terraced Sunset Bar; and two-story sundeck for guests staying within The Retreat. 

It wouldn't be an Edge Class ship without the return of the Magic Carpet, a multi-purpose cantilevered venue that serves as a gangway for tender boats during the day and an upscale dining venue and cocktail at night. 

Where will Celebrity Ascent be sailing to during her inaugural season?

From December through late April, she will sail to The Bahamas, Mexico, and Grand Cayman, as well as San Juan, Tortola, and St. Kitts on alternating 7-night voyages. 

During the summer, she'll be based in Europe with numerous different itineraries sailing from  Athens, Greece; Barcelona, Spain; and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy to choose from, such as a 9-night Italian Riviera and France cruise or 12-night Best of Greece and Italy voyage. 

She will return to Fort Lauderdale, Florida in November 2024. 

Following the release of 2025 Alaska cruises, Royal Caribbean has now opened bookings for 2025 European cruises.

A variety of different itineraries will be offered throughout the region. You can cruise to Northern Europe, Norway, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and more!

Six cruise ships will sail around Europe between April and October 2025, including Allure of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas.

Here's a breakdown of which ships will be deployed to Europe and where they will be sailing from:

Independence of the Seas will return to the UK and offer cruises from Southampton in 2025.  For the last six years, Anthem of the Seas has offered cruises there, but Royal Caribbean has made a change for the 2025 cruise season.

Independence of the Seas will offer cruises of varying lengths that visit Spain, Portugal, Northern Europe, Norway and more.

Allure of the Seas will return to Europe in 2025 and split her time between Barcelona, Spain and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

The schedule has Allure of the Seas conducting a transatlantic crossing in February 2025, and then there's a gap in her schedule until April 2025, fueling speculation of a long overdue refurbishment.

Allure of the Seas had her Royal Amplification ship upgrades cancelled in 2020 due to the cruise industry shutdown, and thus, hasn't received the same upgrades her other Oasis Class sister ships have.

Royal Caribbean has not made any official statements confirming Allure of the Seas will be amplified in 2025.

Allure will offer primarily Western Mediterranean cruises, along with a few shorter cruises at the beginning and end of the cruise season. 

Brilliance of the Seas will move from Miami to Barcelona in April 2025, and then reposition to Athens (Piraeus), Greece to offer Greek Isles cruises. In August 2025, Brilliance moves to Barcelona and then Southampton to presumably return to the United States for the winter.

Explorer of the Seas will call Ravenna, Italy its home and offer Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea cruises.

Odyssey of the Seas will move from New York to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy and visit destinations in Greece, Italy, and Turkey.

Read more: Why Odyssey of the Seas is worth your attention

Voyager of the Seas will also be based in Civitavecchia, and offer 7-night cruises to Greece, Turkey, and around the Adriatic.

The new sailings are available to book via Royal Caribbean's website.

What are the best months to take a European cruise?

In general, the best months to cruise the Mediterranean and Greek Isles are May, June, September, and October. While outside of the peak summer season, these months see more favorable weather. Plus, you'll find fewer land-based tourists at popular attractions. 

You are more likely to spend time visiting cities, rather than lounging on the beach like you would if you were taking a cruise to The Bahamas or Caribbean. Walking around ports Rome, Athens, and Barcelona can be uncomfortable in July and August. 

Because of the cooler climate, the summer months see lower temperatures in Scandinavia, the British Isles, and Iceland. You'll also have the most daylight. 

Related: When is the best time to go on a cruise?

Booking your 2025 European cruise as early as possible is the best way to ensure that you get the lowest price

The lowest available rate for Royal Caribbean cruises tends to be when itineraries are first released. This, however, does not mean that you cannot find a good deal on a shoulder season voyage closer to the sail date. 

Those with their hearts set on cruising during the peak season should book as easy as possible, though. Over time, prices will go up as more and more cabins are reserved.

Additionally, some highly desirable cruise cabins (i.e., suites and staterooms with unique layouts) sell out quickly or jump in price after the sailings are released. 

Plus, you will be able to be on the hunt for the best airline tickets when they're released and start budgeting for cruise add-ons like shore excursions, as they can be more expensive in Europe than in places like The Bahamas and Caribbean. 

More 2025 deployments coming soon

There's plenty more deployments coming for the 2025-2026 cruise season.

The new deployments will take a small break for the Thanksgiving holiday, and then we can expect 7-night Caribbean cruises to kick things back up in early December.

• Week of November 13, 2023: 7-night Caribbean (Phase 1)
• Week of December 4, 2023: 7-night Caribbean (Phase 2)
• Week of February 12, 2024: Short Caribbean, Los Angeles & Northeast 
• Week of February 19, 2024: Long Caribbean

Keep in mind the sailings could be released at any point within that week, and not necessarily on the first day of the listed week.

More about European cruises:

• 7 tips for a great Royal Caribbean Baltic cruise
• 7 tips for a great Mediterranean cruise
• 7 mistakes & 3 things I did right on my Royal Caribbean Norwegian fjords cruise
• I’ve been on 3 European cruises, and I see people making the same 12 mistakes: here’s how to avoid them
• UK vs. US cruising: What are the main differences?

Work continues on the new adults-only area at Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

After visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay on November 5th, I was able to get photos of the progress being made on the new expansion that will add an a haven for adults.

Read more: 41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips and secrets

Hideaway Beach will open in late January 2024 and will be open to only cruise ship passengers that are 18 years old or older.

This area is not included, and the exact cost to enter is priced dynamically based on your sailing and what time of year you're going. 

Here's a look at the changes and updates I saw while visiting this weekend.

Construction photo update

Hideaway Beach will be located on the western side of the island, essentially "behind" Thrill waterpark.

Access on foot is closed off to passengers, but we were able to get photos from the back of Allure of the Seas.

The most visible building under construction is On The Rocks, which is the first sports bar to be added to CocoCay.

Located on the rocky shore, it will be where to go to watch live sports and play games, such as pool and shuffleboard.

Looking further back, I can see the pool for The Hideout is starting to take shape. This is where you'll find poolside cabana with in-water loungers, outdoor shower access, Bluetooth speaker, floating beach mats, resort-style seating, a cooler, sink, mini fridge, charging outlets, ceiling fans, and private lockable storage space.

At the end of CocoCay is more construction work, that looks to be primarily staging for Hideaway Beach construction, along with new buildings going up.

New tram station added

When you walk down the pier, it's apparent they are adding a tram station near the current tram station to take guests to Hideaway Beach.

Royal Caribbean provides tram service around the island at no additional cost so that guests can easily get from point A to point B.

Currently, the new station is hidden behind planters to prevent guests from accessing the area.

Coco Beach Club cabana policy changes

I was also made aware of two changes to the Coco Beach Club cabanas during my visit to the island.

First, is cabana guests must wear wristbands, even when not leaving the cabana. 

The other policy change is for additional guests at a Coco Beach Club Cabana. 

If you want to add more than the 8 people included with a single cabana purchase, there is a charge of $50 per person, plus the purchase of a Coco Beach Club Day Pass per guest, for a maximum of 2 additional people.

Previously, only a Coco Beach Club Day Pass was necessary.

Royal Caribbean will offer its best lineup of shows and entertainment when Icon of the Seas debuts in January 2024.

Icon of the Seas is poised to become not only a popular new cruise ship, but the new standard within the cruise industry that all other new ships are judged against. The gangbuster demand Royal Caribbean has seen already is a strong indication that its new class of cruise ship is a home run.

As the ship wraps up construction, we have a look at the new shows you can expect to find onboard.

Royal Caribbean has traditionally been known for being a leader in the cruise industry from an entertainment standpoint.  Original productions are nothing new for Royal Caribbean, and the company continuously strives to ensure their entertainment is on par with Las Vegas.

Royal Caribbean Senior Vice President of Entertainment Nick Weir previewed the new shows coming to the ship, "If you’re a fan of full-scale productions on Broadway and the West End or live music and comedy in hot spots like Las Vegas, Icon has it all for every mood and style in one vacation – alongside never-before-seen twists only found on Royal Caribbean."

Here's a breakdown of all the new shows Royal Caribbean has planned for Icon of the Seas.

AquaDome

Within the AquaDome are two new shows.

More than 75 world-class performers are featured in the AquaDome, which is home to the next generation of AquaTheater.

The first is Aqua Action!, which is meant to indulge audiences with a lot high-energy.

This show incorporates Olympic-level high divers, skateboarders, aerialists, slackliners and synchronized swimmers. Plus, the cruise line is excited to introduce new technology, such as a double 3D flying system and robots doubling as diving boards and set creators.

The hope is it will, "blur the lines between live-action movie and theatrical experience."

The second show is Pirates vs. Mermaids, and it's a show geared towards the family that brings fairytale characters to the stage.

You can expect a lighthearted story that appeals to parents and children.

Royal Theater

The signature show on Icon of the Seas is arguably an original stage production of The Wizard of Oz.

Not to be confused with the Andrew Lloyd Weber musical, this is Royal Caribbean's take on the classic story with a modern twist to it.

You can expect to see characters in the show "soaring above the audience", along with a revolutionary set design with never-before-seen stage effects, more than 600 costume elements and an original score performed by a new 16-piece orchestra.

Royal Caribbean is also incorporating a show for music lovers, called SHOWBAND! Live. Music. Now.

A total of 16 musicians will take to the stage to offer, "an all-out sensory experience." 

Expect string, woodwind, brass and percussion instrumentalists to perform in this show.

Absolute Zero

The ice skating rink on Icon of the Seas will be the largest ice rink at sea.  It will have over 2,850 square feet of ice, and two shows in this space.

Starburst: Elemental Beauty is a performance that is an artistic interpretation of the periodic table of elements. The Olympic-level ice cast will dazzle the audience with high-speed choreography and tricks.

Expect bigger tricks because of the new oval-shaped ice arena. Along with the tricks will be digitally mapped backdrops and vibrant lighting displays.

Another ice show is the Once Upon a Time: The King’s Royal Ball, and similar to Pirates vs. Mermaids, is designed for families to enjoy.

"Timeless tales will take everyone on a nostalgic ride through their childhood with twists and surprising new details not part of the originals."

More entertainment

There is also more entertainment on Icon of the Seas in other areas of the ship.  Royal Caribbean is well-known for offering live music in many bars and lounges.

50 live musicians and comedians will perform throughout Icon and in more venues, including the new Lou’s Jazz ‘n Blues and Dueling Pianos, along with the Schooner Bar and the Point & Feather English pub.

The Comedy Club on Icon will have three comedians a night for adults to enjoy.

The Royal Promenade will feature a reimagined parade for families, Ships Ahoy!. 

Delivery is right around the corner

Icon of the Seas is nearing the finish line for physical construction.

In speaking with Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider last week, he estimated the ship is right between 92-94% complete, and delivery of the ship is, "right around the corner."

Delivery doesn't mean the ship is ready, however. 

Once Icon of the Seas is delivered, the ship will head to Cadiz, Spain, where post-delivery work will commence.  This is when aesthetic elements of the ship are added, such as art work, furniture and more.

Speaking of art, Icon of the Seas will feature a "significant art implementation" that is about double the amount of art found on Wonder of the Seas, which is the world's biggest cruise ship today.

Celebrity Xcel, the fifth ship in Celebrity Cruises' groundbreaking Edge Class, is set to launch in November 2025. 

The ship's name was revealed during the steel-cutting ceremony at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Executives from Royal Caribbean Group and the shipyard were present. 

“The Edge Series has shattered preconceived notions of cruising, and I am thrilled to announce our next bold step as a brand with Celebrity Xcel,” said Celebrity Cruises’ President Laura Hodges Bethge.

“True to her name, this next ship will ‘Xcel’ beyond her sister ships with entirely new experiences, yet to be revealed, but that will change the game all over again.” 

Celebrity Xcel will be based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida during her inaugural season

After her debut, Celebrity Xcel will sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on 7-night cruises to the Bahamas, Mexico, and Cayman Islands, as well as Puerto Plata, St. Thomas, and St. Maarten.

According to Celebrity's website, the maiden voyage is slated to take place on November 18, 2025, sailing to Bimini, Bahamas and Cozumel, Mexico. 

You can book your cruise onboard Celebrity Xcel by heading to Celebrity's website or through your trusted travel advisor. 

What features will be onboard Celebrity Xcel?

In addition to some distinctive Edge Class features, there are some differences and enhancements that will make the experience onboard this Edge Class ship different from others. 

First, the ship will have an expanded Rooftop Garden and Resort Deck with unique cantilevered float pools. 

Fans of the Sunset Bar will appreciate the multi-level, multi-terraced bar at the aft of the ship similar to the one that can be found on Celebrity Beyond. The cantilevered Magic Carpet will also return to offer impressive views of the sea's horizon. 

The three-story Grand Plaza will be redesigned, too, in order to create an open indoor venue. 

Of course, guests looking for a luxurious and upgraded cruising experience and splurge on a suite within The Retreat, Celebrity's ship-within-a-ship concept that will feature a two-story sundeck, as well as two-story villas with private plunge pools. 

Related: What is the difference between The Retreat, AquaClass and Concierge Class on Celebrity Cruises?

 What's a steel-cutting ceremony?

The steel-cutting ceremony for a brand-new ship is a maritime tradition and major milestone in a ship's construction process because it indicates that the groundwork has been set. 

Typically, executives from the cruise line, as well as shipyard personnel, are present. 

As of November 2023, there's no set date for the keel-laying ceremony, which is the next milestone and marks the official beginning of the ship's construction. 

Celebrity Ascent, the fourth Edge Class ship, is launching this month

Celebrity Ascent is set to join Celebrity's fleet as the fourth Edge Class ship, following Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, and Celebrity Beyond. 

In addition to Edge Class favorites, this ship will have a few experiences that cannot be found on her younger sisters, including a completely redesigned Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud; expanded martini menu at the Martini Bar; three brand-new production shows; redesigned casino; and outdoor terrance at Blu, the exclusive restaurant dedicated to AquaClass guests.

Related: Celebrity Cruises released details about its biggest ship yet: Celebrity Ascent

After spending eight days at sea, Icon of the Seas returned from her second round of sea trials. 

She departed from the shipyard early on October 29 after a short delay. Icon of the Seas was scheduled to depart the evening prior. 

"We're getting close to the finish line, and during Icon's final weeks at the shipyard, the ship will be getting her finishing touches before delivery, when it will be time for Icon to cross the Atlantic for her new home in the Caribbean," read a post published to Meyer Turku's Facebook page.  

An "extensive" test of every system

Icon of the Seas was pushed to her limits during the second round of sea trials. 

When she first sailed through open waters in June, she traveled hundreds of miles and had informal tests and certifications completed.

This time, however, the ship's noise, vibration, speed, fin stabilizers, automation, and main engine adjustments were formally tested to make sure everything was in working order and ready to welcome guests. In total, hundreds of tests and inspections were completed. 

"Building this ship is a challenging project, but I am proud of the shipyard workers and the fact that it is possible to build such a ship here at the Turku shipyard," said Tim Meyer, CEO of Meyer Turku in a recent interview given to YLE, Finland's national public broadcasting company. 

During the sea trials, Royal Caribbean learned that the ship is lighter and faster than they expected her to be.

Icon of the Seas is not quite ready to be delivered 

Even though Icon of the Seas is over 90% complete, Some final touches need to be made before she can be handed over to Royal Caribbean. 

According to Nick Weir's X page, Icon's carousel in Surfside was turned on and rotated for the first time on November 5. The video shows that, while it is functioning, there is still more work that needs to be done.  

Another post revealed an update on the largest ice rink at sea, Absolute Zero, which will be home to two different original productions: Starburst and Once Upon a Time. Additionally, guests can check the Cruise Compass to see when free skate sessions are offered. 

While the area has taken shape, some chairs still need to be moved into place.

An official delivery date has yet to be announced; however, there is post-delivery work that will have to happen. This will be completed in Cádiz, Spain. Things like art won't be brought in until the last minute. 

"This is a..significant art implement for us in comparison to size of vessel and quantity," remarked Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider. He estimated that it has close to double the amount of art onboard as Wonder of the Seas. 

Nearing two months until Icon's first-ever cruise

As 2023 draws to an end, we get closer and closer to Icon's debut month! She's scheduled to depart from Miami, Florida on January 27, 2024 after over two years under construction. 

She'll be based in South Florida though at least April 2026. By then, however, they'll be another Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, in service, although it's currently unknown where she will sail from. 

Onboard the 250,800 gross ton vessel, passengers will find 40 dining venues and bars, a water park, the largest ice skating rink at sea, an indoor ice skating rink, and seven pools. 

We love taking the family on weekend cruises as a quick escape, and when we got the chance to try the Royal Loft Suite on Allure of the Seas, it seemed like a great opportunity.

This is one of the biggest suites on Allure of the Seas and a cabin that has Star Class benefits, which means it has some of the best perks on the ship.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Suites Guide & Review

Ordinarily, a suite of this size would command a gargantuan price, but Allure of the Seas just shifted to doing short weekend cruises from Port Canaveral and that brought the overall price down to something more affordable.  For my family of 4, the price came out to $7,388.32 for the 3-night cruise.

I booked this cruise right when the itineraries were announced back in March of 2022, and that proved to be a good decision as the prices then were much lower than they later became.

Take a tour of spacious my hotel room at sea complete with two bedrooms, a jacuzzi on the balcony, and some of the best views from any cabin.

My suite was located on deck seventeen, which is deck reserved exclusively for suite cabins.

On this deck there are many other suites, along with the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen, an exclusive restaurant for guests staying in a suite (and Pinnacles too).

The layout of this deck is a "U-shape", and we were located on the aft facing port side.

When I tapped my room key card and opened the door, I walked into the living room.

The Royal Loft Suite has two bedrooms, a dining room, and large living room.  Let's start with the master bedroom.

Given that this suite has a loft configuration, there are two levels, with the master bedroom and bathroom being entirely located on the upper floor.  A staircase is how you access the second floor.

There is a king size bed, tv projector, and more closet space than you can possibly use.

There is no door to the master bedroom, but there is a remote controlled curtain that completely encompasses the upper bedroom to provide privacy and darkness.

The one noticeable feature missing compared to a newer cruise ship are power or USB outlets near the bed. The closest outlets were by the office desk closer to the staircase.

The office desk has a chair, and faces the balcony so you can have a view to enjoy.

Behind the bed is where all the storage space is located.  There are drawers and closets, and there seemed to be much more space than I could possibly fill.

The safe is also located in this area, long with a seating area with mirror.

The master bathroom is also enormous, with a toilet, bidet, two sinks, two showers, and a jacuzzi tub.

The showers have two adjustable heads, along with a rainforest shower.  All three can be used at the same time, or one at a time.

The second bedroom is located on the main floor, near the entrance to the suite.  It can sleep two people, and the beds can be separated if needed.

The second bedroom has its own door, which makes for better privacy for anyone sleeping here.

It also has its own television, along with desk and mirror.

Adjacent to the second bedroom is a full bathroom.

Each shower has upgraded shower toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

In the foyer is a piano, which you can play on your own or use an autoplayer feature.

There's also a library of books you can borrow for the duration of your sailing.

In the living room, you will find chairs, ottomans, sofas, and comfortable seating.

There is also a large television in the living room.

Behind the living room is the dining room, which is a very large table to enjoy meals delivered by room service.

The in-room coffee maker can make a quick cup of coffee anytime you want.

Stepping onto the balcony, there are three doors you can use: two from the living room, and one from the second bedroom.

The Royal Loft Suite has a wrap-around balcony that provides views of the ocean and Sports Deck below.

There is a wet bar outside that you can use, along with another dining table with lots of seats. When having food delivered to the suite, you have the choice of dining indoors or outdoors.

There are two giant loungers on the balcony that face the sports deck.

There are also comfortable loungers that face the ocean.

The "pièce de résistance" of the Royal Loft Suite is the private jacuzzi hot tub on the balcony, which faces the ocean.

The hot tub is available day and night, and is one of very few suites to have this feature.

Another compelling feature of this suite is the Royal Genie services, which provides VIP privileges to everyone staying in the cabin.

Of course, the Royal Loft Suite was far from cheap, but it's designed to offer one of the most luxurious accommodations you can find on Allure of the Seas.

I felt the suite delivered on the promise of a luxurious cabin for our family to enjoy on a short cruise.  We prioritized spending more time in the cabin and taking advantage of what the in-room amenities, along with the Royal Genie services.

If your family wants a lot of space, the absolute best perks, and are willing to spend a lot for it, then the Royal Loft Suite is a great choice for you.

More information:

• My advice for someone using a Royal Genie on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• What is the difference between suite concierge and a Royal Genie?
• A beginner's guide to sailing in Star Class
• What is the most expensive suite on Royal Caribbean?
• How to maximize the value of a cruise ship suite

Bimini, Bahamas may not be as popular of a cruise port as nearby Nassau or Perfect Day at CocoCay, but the small island chain still has a lot to offer visitors.

Located just 51 miles off the coast of Florida, Bimini is a chain of islands with turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and laid-back culture. It’s so close to Florida, in fact, that you can easily take day trips to the islands’ stunning beaches from Miami or Fort Lauderdale!

If your upcoming cruise visits Bimini, it’s helpful to know what there is to do in port to make the most of your day. From snorkeling around a shipwreck to jet skiing along the coast, here are the 21 best things to do in Bimini, Bahamas.

Go to the beach

Photo credit: Pietro (license)  

Like most cruise destinations in the Caribbean, visiting the beach is a popular activity. Many of the best beaches on Bimini are found on the western shore of North Bimini.

One of the most popular beaches is Radio Beach, which is located closest to Alice Town, Bimini’s largest town. At Radio Beach you can expect clear blue waters and soft white sand, and the beach has excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Related: 11 of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean

Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent at Radio Beach and you’ll find bars and restaurants nearby. Outside of Radio Beach, visitors can enjoy other beaches such as Blister Beach, Paradise Beach, and Spook Hill Beach.

Day pass at Resorts World Bimini

Resorts World Bimini is an upscale resort featuring facilities such as a beach club with pools, a casino, DJs, cabana rentals, and beach access. Located only ten minutes on foot from the cruise port in Bimini, many visitors choose to spend their day lounging in the sun at Resorts World.

To access Resorts World guests must purchase a day pass, which is around $40 USD per adult and $30 USD per child. The day pass gives visitors access to amenities at the Hilton at Resorts World as well as the beach and pools at Resorts World.

For those looking for a Las Vegas-style pool party experience, Resorts World is a great option. Several restaurants and bars are on-site for added convenience.

Note that Resorts World Bimini Beach is home to Virgin Voyages’ Bimini Beach Club, but passengers from other cruise lines can use the facilities when a Virgin Voyages ship is not docked.

Go snorkeling

Snorkeling is an easy way to get up close and personal with the diverse aquatic life in The Bahamas, and Bimini offers a wide array of snorkeling opportunities.

If you’re looking for a guided snorkeling tour, you can book a day trip through Bimini Scuba Center for $99. During this tour you can visit underwater destinations like the S.S. Sapona Shipwreck and Rainbow Reef.

If you don’t want to shell out money for a snorkeling tour, feel free to bring your own snorkeling gear to the island. We recommend this mask for snorkeling, as it offers a full-face view and is easily packable in a day bag.

Visit the S.S. Sapona shipwreck

Photo credit: Ines Hegedus-Garcia (license)

A few miles off the coast of Bimini is the S.S. Sapona, a half-submerged shipwreck providing world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities.

Following a hurricane in 1926, the S.S. Sapona was left damaged, and it was later used for bombing practice during the Second World War. Because the wreck is only half-submerged, snorkelers and divers can explore both above and below the water.

Related: Bahamas cruise guide

The ship’s “skeleton” is home to a variety of marine life, from stingrays to sea turtles, schools of fish, and colorful coral. Exploring the shipwreck is sure to be a highlight of any visit to Bimini.

Scuba diving

If breathing underwater is more your style, Bimini offers several scuba diving options to explore under the sea. Certified scuba divers can book dives through the Bimini Scuba Center in North Bimini—dives include tanks and weights.

Diving around Bimini is fantastic. The clear waters allow for great visibility and give divers the chance to spot sharks, dolphins, turtles, and swim near continental shelf walls.

Visit the Road to Atlantis

A popular snorkel site in Bimini is the Bimini Road, often called the “Road to Atlantis.”

The “road” is a half-mile underwater rock formation in perfectly straight alignment. Since the road’s discovery in the 1960s, some have speculated it could be an ancient road to the Lost City of Atlantis, although we cannot, of course, verify those claims.

Many snorkel and diving tours in Bimini visit Bimini Road, so if you’re interested in discovering “Atlantis,” this can be an intriguing excursion option.

Rent a bicycle

Photo credit: Eclipse Rentals Bimini

Few bike rides are as relaxing as those by the sea, and you can rent a bicycle for just $25 per day in Bimini.

Eclipse Rentals Bimini offers bike rentals and tours around the island. For those looking to explore the entire island of North Bimini, a bicycle can be a fun, eco-friendly option. Exploring by bike allows you to stop at whatever attractions or beaches interest you without having to worry about taxis, shuttles, or tours.

A bicycle is freedom on two wheels, and renting a bike while visiting Bimini is highly recommended.

Explore Bimini by golf cart

If powering a bicycle sounds like far too much exercise on your vacation, consider renting a golf cart. Golf carts are effective means of transportation to get around an island as small as Bimini, and most rentals should cost between $90-110 for the day.

When splitting the cost with a group of four or six, a golf cart is an economical way to explore Bimini. As another plus, it gives you full control over where you would like to visit on the island and how long you want to spend in each place.

Related: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

Full Island Tour

Photo credit: Daniel Piraino (license)

Whereas some cruise passengers prefer exploring ports on their own, many appreciate the convenience of a guided tour. If you’re looking for an all-around island tour of Bimini, why not book an organized excursion?

Bimini Island Tours is a local operator that offers tours of North Bimini and South Bimini. Tours bring guests to highlights around the islands, from shipwrecks to beaches, the straw market, and Dolphin House Museum.

Booking a tour means you don’t have to plan anything yourself. You can simply disembark your cruise ship, meet the tour guide, and have a memorable, stress-free day in Bimini.

Grab some drinks

Nothing screams vacation quite like a fruity cocktail near the beach, and grabbing a drink (or a few drinks) is certainly a fun way to spend your day in Bimini.

Whether you’re at the beach, eating lunch at a local seafood restaurant, or strolling around town, consider ordering a drink to put you into vacation mode. From fresh piña coladas to mango margaritas, a tropical cocktail will be extremely refreshing in the Bahamian heat.

As another perk, if you don’t have a drink package on your cruise ship, drinking in port can save you money compared to buying drinks onboard!

Go fishing

Some call Bimini the sport fishing capital of the world. The islands are located near the warm Gulf Stream in which fish can grow to record size. In fact, there have been dozens of record-setting catches around Bimini.

Whether grouper, snapper, bonefish, billfish, tuna, or wahoo, you never know which species of fish you’ll reel in. If you’re interested in fishing while in Bimini, we recommend contacting the Bimini Big Game Club to ask questions about fishing opportunities.

Ride the tram

There is a free tram on Bimini that transports passengers to areas of interest along North Bimini. Located just outside the cruise pier, boarding a tram is easy and convenient, and it lessens the amount of walking required in the heat.

You can take the tram to Kayak Beach, Fisherman’s Village, Resorts World Bimini Beach, and Paradise Beach. Note that if you are interested in venturing further south to Alice Town and Radio Beach you must take a taxi (around $5 per person) or rent a golf cart.

Visit the Dolphin House Museum

Photo credit: Dolphin House Museum

The Dolphin House Museum is an ocean-inspired museum in Bimini that is a must-visit upon venturing into Alice Town. Built by local Ashley Saunders, the museum features artwork made from ocean materials including conch shells and sea glass.

For $10 per person, visitors can tour the museum and learn more about the building’s history and craftsmanship from Saunders. As a plus, the building’s roof features one of the most beautiful views in all of Bimini—it’s the perfect spot for that Instagram shot.

Book a jet ski tour

There are few aquatic activities as adrenaline-inducing as jet skiing. Zipping through crystal clear water at over forty miles an hour is undoubtedly fun.

Passengers interested in jet skiing while at Bimini can book a tour through Bimini Blue Adventures, or through the cruise line if offered. While on the tour, visitors can ride the length of Bimini’s stunning coastline, offering a truly unique way to experience the islands.

Kayaking

If jet skiing sounds a bit too thrilling, why not try kayaking? Tour operators such as Bimini Blue Adventures offer kayaking tours, and you may be able to book a kayaking tour through your cruise ship as well.

While kayaking off the coast of Bimini you can enjoy pristine waters and view aquatic life up close. Because of the clear waters, it’s possible you’ll see several types of fish and stingrays while kayaking, and it can be a lot of fun for visitors of all ages.

Related: Top 10 cruise ship shore excursion mistakes to avoid

Try local cuisine

Trying local cuisine is a highlight of visiting any cruise port, and Bimini is no exception. From seafood to baked goods, your taste buds are sure to be delighted on your visit.

Here are some of our top food recommendations in Bimini:

• Bimini Seafood Company: this restaurant in Alice Town offers a Conch Bar, freshly caught seafood, and mouthwatering sandwiches
• Nate’s Bimini Breads: a local bakery famous for sweet breads, from cinnamon raisin swirl to guava and cheese, banana nut, and coconut bread loafs
• Big Mike’s Fresh Conch Salad: the perfect spot for beachfront conch salads and grilled meats

Bimini Nature Trail

Located on South Bimini island is the Bimini Nature Trail, a one mile looped pathway perfect for flora and fauna enthusiasts. Signage along the trail teaches visitors about the area’s wildlife and plant life, including the Bimini Boa and White-crowned Pigeon.

Unfortunately, visiting the nature trail while on a cruise ship can be challenging, as it’s not located on the same island where cruise ships dock. Nonetheless, if you find yourself in South Bimini near Bimini Cove Resort & Marina, the trail is a nice way to learn more about the islands’ natural world.

Swim with sharks

Yes, you read that correctly: you can swim with sharks in Bimini.

For most beach goers, sharks are something you want to avoid. Bimini, however, is home to a vast array of sharks, from hammerheads to tiger sharks, lemon sharks, nurse sharks, and bull sharks.

If you’re crazy enough to want to see these sharks up close, consider booking a swimming with sharks tour. On these tours, boats bring passengers out to reefs known for shark activity, and allow snorkelers to swim above the sharks.

Sure, it might be a little scary, but it’s sure to be exhilarating. 

Shopping at the Bimini Craft Center

Those in search of souvenirs should visit the Bimini Craft Center. This Bahamian straw market is where you can find a variety of knick knacks to remember your time in Bimini, from t-shirts to hats and bracelets.

It’s best to carry cash with you while shopping. Bahamian and US dollars are widely accepted.

Bimini Museum

Next to the Bimini Craft Center is the Bimini Museum, a complimentary museum which aims to preserve the history of the islands.

Inside the museum are artifacts, relics, stories, and pictures that tell the story of Bimini’s history, including memorabilia from Ernest Hemingway who once called Bimini home.

Visiting the museum in between shopping and the beach can make a nice addition to your day on the island, as it allows you to gain a better understanding of the region you are visiting.

Visit the legendary fountain of youth

Explorer Juan Ponce de León once heard rumors of a magical spring on Bimini that restored youth to the elderly who bathed in or drank the spring’s waters. Upon reaching Bimini from Puerto Rico in 1513, however, he neglected to find such a stream.

Nonetheless, there is a Fountain of Youth on Bimini today, although we can’t guarantee that it will reverse aging. Today’s Fountain of Youth is a small well carved out of limestone rock by groundwater several thousand years ago.

Happy Sunday! Temperatures may be dropping, but there is plenty of Royal Caribbean news to share.  This is your weekly summary of all the Royal Caribbean news from this past week, perfectly fitted for your consumption.

The daily gratuity rate is going up for your next Royal Caribbean cruise.

Beginning November 11, 2023, the automatic daily gratuity will go up to $18 per person per day for those staying in Junior Suites or lower cabins. Passengers in suites will pay $20.50 per person per day.

The old rate was $16.00 and $18.50, which was set back in September 2022.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean cancels 2024 Israel cruise season
• The Royal Promenade on Icon of the Seas will be a leap forward with new innovations
• Royal Caribbean cruise ship rescues individual who went overboard
• How does one of Norwegian's oldest ships compare to Royal Caribbean's oldest ship
• Why I don't mind sailing on small cruise ships
• I saved $240 on my cruise by letting Royal Caribbean choose my room
• How Royal Caribbean celebrates Halloween on its cruise ships
• Royal Caribbean's new adults-only beach is seeing "gangbuster" demand

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 517th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is available to enjoy, where Matt reviews his Canada & New England cruise.

Having taken his first cruise to the east coast of Canada, Matt shares what stood out from this sailing.

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

New RCB Video: Is it possible to cruise too much?

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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 — Is it possible to cruise too much? — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

2025 Alaska cruises

New Alaska cruises are available to book for the 2025 cruise season.

Royal Caribbean opened the new sailings this week, which are spread across four ships: Anthem of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, & Radiance of the Seas.

The new Alaska 2025 cruises are available to book between May and September 2025.

Royal Caribbean clarifies loyalty and suite lounge access

Royal Caribbean updated when it would limit the amount of top tier cruisers that could go to its loyalty lounges.

Effective immediately, if there is a sailing with a large amount of top-tier members, some of them may not be able to go to the Crown Lounge between 5pm and 8pm. During those hours, only Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club members have access. 

During the rest of the day, there would be no restrictions.

7 things that surprised me on my first Canada & New England cruise

Even though Matt has cruised a lot, taking a Canada & New England cruise had its own set of surprises.

From the beautiful landscape, to the terrific dining, and welcoming people, it was a fantastic kind of cruise.

Many parts of the seven-night cruise surprised Matt, such as how gorgeous everywhere we visited is how valuable time was ashore.

What our readers regretted packing for their cruise

Packing for a cruise isn't always the easiest thing, especially with overpacking.

Overpacking your suitcase can be stressful, and it just adds heft to getting to and from the ship.

Our readers shared hundreds of comments on the things they brought on a cruise and instantly regretted.

Royal Caribbean adds new express pass

Look for a new way to speed up the check-in process.

There's a new Express Boarding option being tested on Freedom of the Seas, that will reward those that do all the check-in steps pre-cruise with an easier way to get onboard.

Guests with this option can look for Express Boarding signs inside the Cruise Terminal.

Royal Caribbean will make specialty restaurants reservable pre-cruise if you have a dining package

Royal Caribbean is experimenting with a new way to allow guests that purchase a specialty dining package to make reservations pre-cruise.

The test is being conducted on Wonder of the Seas only, but the expectation is for it to be available across all ships in early 2024.

With this new upgrade, you'll be able to book reservations pre-cruise for specialty restaurants if you buy a dining package.