Royal Caribbean Blog

Guests with sailings booked on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas are receiving emails from the cruise line that their itinerary has changed due to a speed restriction.

Emails similar to this one that Royal Caribbean Blog reader scottvfl shared, were sent to guests informing them of the itinerary change.

Royal Caribbean has not indicated the nature of the issue exactly.  Based on emails sent to guests, it appears the changes mostly affect Eastern Caribbean itineraries, with St. Thomas often being replaced with San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Propulsion problems are not uncommon among cruise ships, resulting in slower speeds until the issue can be addressed in port. Anthem of the Seas had a similar issue in March 2017, Liberty of the Seas in 2015, Freedom of the Seas in 2014, and even Allure of the Seas back in 2013.

There is no indication yet as to how soon the issue will be resolved.

Royal Caribbean's Chief Meteorologist shared a forecast for what eight cruise ships can expect to see when the Great American Eclipse occurs later this week.

James Van Fleet provided an update on when guests on eight Royal Caribbean ships can witness the eclipse. Not all eight ships will be able to see the full eclipse, but at the very least a partial view is possible.

In addition, Van Fleet shared on his Facebook page a weather forecast for August 21, which has Oasis of the Seas placed in a clear-skied position.

Royal Caribbean has been planning for Oasis of the Seas to follow the eclipse route and provide a perfect viewing angle of the meteorological phenomenon.  In fact, the Oasis of the Seas sailing has been themed around the event, with special events and performances by Bonnie Tyler and DNCE.

With this latest forecast, guests can plan on when they can be on deck to view the eclipse when it happens.

This week's podcast episode is ready to go, as we present episode 211 of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast for your downloading pleasure.

This week, Matt walks new cruisers through what to expect when it comes to the food they can enjoy on a Royal Caribbean cruise.  From what is included, to the specialty dining options available, this is the perfect primer for a (hungry) first time cruiser.

Here’s the podcast page for Episode 211. And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast via RSS or on iTunes!

Take a listen and as always, let us know what you think! Please rate and review the podcast on iTunes and leave your comments below!

Guests aboard Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas Total Eclipse Cruise will be able to have a very meta experience, with pop singer Bonnie Tyler singing her hit song during an actual eclipse.

Time is reporting Tyler, who sang the 1983 hit song, "Total Eclipse of the Heart," will be featured aboard Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas special sailing centered around the upcoming Total Eclipse Cruise.

Tyler is a special guest on the Oasis of the Seas for a few days of the week-long cruise, which departs from Port Canaveral on Aug. 20. Her performance is in addition to pop-rock band DNCE.

In addition to these performances, guests on Oasis of the Seas will be treated to other eclipse-themed activities, including dance parties, trivia, interactive science fun for kids and their families, and tasty cocktails and dishes.

UPDATE: Royal Caribbean will stream Bonnie Tyler's performance on Instagram on Monday 8/21, 1pm EST.

Turn your bright eyes to our IG Live to witness Bonnie in all her Eclipse glory. Monday 8/21, 1pm EST. https://t.co/ZVFZL4vzfH

— Royal Caribbean (@RoyalCaribbean) August 16, 2017

Royal Caribbean has a new pre-cruise purchase option on select sailings that combines the deluxe beverage package and the ultimate dining package in one.

The Deluxe Beverage and Ultimate Dining Package offers a bundle of the Deluxe Beverage Package and Ultimate Dining Package for one price.  With this package, you will enjoy

• Unlimited beverages
  • coffee
  • juices
  • sodas
  • bottled water
  • beer, wine
  • spirits
• Discount of 40% off bottles of wine under $100 and 20% off bottles above $100 while dining in specialty restaurants
• Dine at specialty restaurants every night and
• Dine at specialty restaurants at lunchtime on sea days

For restaurants with a la carte pricing, you will receive a $50 food credit.

Thus far, we have spotted this option on Oasis class ships.

Thanks to Royal Caribbean Blog reader Andrew Punch for alerting us to this new offering.

After months of speculation, Royal Caribbean revealed the name of its newest cruise ship for China and celebrated the occasion with a steel cutting ceremony.

At the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, Royal Caribbean announced its new Quantum Ultra class ship will be named Spectrum of the Seas and marked the official start of construction by cutting the first piece of steel.

Spectrum of the Seas is set to debut in 2019 and will be the first Quantum Ultra ship that will specifically be designed for guests in China and the Asia-Pacific region, and will feature cutting-edge and unprecedented experiences and amenities.

“Today is a very special day in the development of our new Quantum Ultra ship, Spectrum of the Seas. We are now one step closer to delighting our guests in Asia Pacific with this remarkable ship,” said Michael Bayley, President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Spectrum will be another giant leap forward in vessel design and guest experiences that will provide travelers with ample opportunities to create unforgettable memories.”

Royal Caribbean had trademarked the name Spectrum of the Seas in June, but had not commented on the trademark registration until now.

Royal Caribbean has designed Allure of the Seas with the word, "fun" in mind.  In short, there is a ton of activities and things to do on Allure of the Seas. From the spectacle of the AquaTheater shows to the challenge of the mini golf course, you will find no shortage of things to each day of the cruise.

We combed the list of things to do on Allure of the Seas, and came up with our list of nine cannot miss favorite things to try on Allure of the Seas.

Zip lining at sea

Allure of the Seas features its own zip line that is 9 decks above the Boardwalk neighborhood of the ship, and stretches 82 feet from start to finish.  Going for a ride on the zip line means not only a terrific vantage point all around you, but a great family-friendly thrill experience.

Passengers must be at least 52" tall to participate and weigh a maximum of 275 pound, also must at least weigh 75 pounds.

Guacamole from Sabor

The Sabor restaurant on Allure of the Seas serves up a lot of tasty Mexican cuisine, but at the top of the list has to be a bowl of custom ordered and freshly made guacamole.

The handmade guacamole put Sabor on the map when the first Sabor restaurant debuted on Navigator of the Seas in 2014. Since then, legions of Sabor fans have made reservations at Sabor specifically to enjoy this heavenly dish.

See Mamma Mia! Broadway musical

One of the most successful and beloved Broadway musicals, Mamma Mia!, is available for guests to see onboard Allure of the Seas.  Did we mention there is no additional cost to see the show?

Mamma Mia! features the songs of 70's band ABBA, and is featured on every Allure of the Seas sailing.  Mamma Mia! is the story of a girl getting married and wanting to meet her estranged father. Mamma Mia! played on Broadway for over 10 years.

Guests can pre-book reservations online prior to their cruise, or get tickets once onboard.  Ideally, try to get tickets before your cruise to ensure a smooth and effortless show experience onboard.

Hear the singer in the English Pub

Almost every evening, the English pub on Allure of the Seas is home to a talented singer who plays the kind of bar songs we have all come to enjoy over the years.

Located in the Royal Promenade, you should make an effort to stop by at least one evening to take in a set and sing along to songs you probably know the words to, while enjoying a beer or cocktail.  In fact, the pub is where you will find the widest selection of beers and liquors to choose from.

See the Aquatheater Show

OceanAria is the breathtaking show performed in the AquaTheater on Allure of the Seas and it is a must-see while onboard.

Embark on a mystical adventure under the sea as the ancient underwater civilization of Oceanaria comes to life at the AquaTheater in this original Royal Caribbean production. Aerialists and acrobats spring into action with fountains dipping and playing along to a mesmerizing soundtrack.

Be sure to avoid the first three rows of the theater if you do not want to get wet.

Take a behind-the-scenes tour

Royal Caribbean offers an all access tour for guests to join, where they can peek behind the proverbial curtain and see how a ship as massive and impressive as Allure of the Seas functions.

Guests are escorted through a number of critical areas of the ship, including the galley, bridge and engine room.  It is a fun way to take a glimpse of what it takes to keep Allure of the Seas functioning, and even get those nagging questions you have always wondered about finally answered.

The All Access Tour is available to purchase through the Cruise Planner prior to the cruise.

Be sure to also look out for a complimentary tour of Central Park. The tour offers an interesting look at what it takes to have keep all of those plants and trees be so beautiful. The exact day and time will be listed in the Cruise Compass, onboard Allure of the Seas.

Enjoy a drink on the Rising Tide bar

There is something undeniably cool about a bar that moves between decks, and Allure of the Seas has a bar that does just that.

The Rising Tide Bar continuously moves between the Royal Promenade and Central Park, offering some great views while you enjoy your favorite cocktail. There's just something very cool about being on a bar that moves through the air and with a drink in hand, it's a great place to watch all those people that are watching you.

Have a Kummelweck sandwich

There is a lot of great food on Allure of the Seas, but a hidden gem has to be the roast beef sandwiches from Park Cafe.

These sandwiches are just amazing and no trip to Central Park is complete without one of these tasty (and complimentary) treats.

Go for a ride on the carousel

No cruise aboard Allure of the Seas is complete without a ride (or three) on the Carousel.  Regardless of age, guests of all ages can enjoy the classic nature of this attraction.

Located in the Boardwalk neighborhood, you will find a full-sized, traditional hand-crafted carousel that was specially designed for Royal Caribbean.

Be sure to bring your camera, because there are bound to be terrific photo opportunities and ride during the evening and day to get completely different experiences. Also, check out the carousel at night because like the fairs of the past, nighttime is when these rides really shine when they are all lit up.

Your thoughts

Have you been on Allure of the Seas?  What do you think is something that everyone should try onboard? Share your thoughts in the comments for the blog post!

Chances are if you are sailing on a three or four-night cruise with Royal Caribbean you are stopping in Nassau, Bahamas. This has been a very popular port of call for the cruise line for many years. The actual distance from Miami to Nassau is only 184 miles, so this is usually the first or last stop of the cruise.

There are many excursions offered my Royal Caribbean in the cruise planner for Nassau, but there are not many options for those who might be on a budget. Let’s take a look at my top 5 things to do in Nassau without breaking the bank.

5. John Watling’s Rum Distillery

No matter what bar you visit in Nassau, you will notice they serve John Watling’s Rum. That’s because the distillery is right here in Nassau, in a home that’s over 200 years old. When I visit the distillery I always walk, but it does take 20-25 minutes and a rather large hill up getting there. So if that’s concerning to you just jump in a $10 cab ride.

When you arrive you are greeted with a sample of their famous piña colada. They then give you a quick 10-15 minute tour of the grounds and you end up in their gift shop where you can take the rum home with you. The tour and visit the property is completely free. They do have a nice bar where you can sample their three types of rum or order a full piña colada you sampled coming in.

4. Graycliff Hotel

Visiting this hotel is a pretty unique experience when you compare it to big resorts. The property itself is not very large and open to explore. They do offer day passes around $99pp, but let’s not forget we are looking for ways to save money and still enjoy all that Nassau has to offer. They have a few dining rooms in the hotel and really amazing to see the table setups. You can order pizza here, which is what they are famous for which is around $20.

Once you leave the hotel, right beside it is the Grayliff Chocolate factory. They make everything on the property and hand out free samples once you walk in the gift shop.

3. Queens Staircase

The Queen’s Staircase is almost hard to describe other than using words like, breathtaking. The walk here is only 10-15 minutes and very safe along the way, just look for the Nassau Hospital and the staircase is directly behind it.

Slaves carved the staircase in 1793 and there are a total of 66 steps down into a protected area for the Queen during that time. The area is totally shaded and feels really cool walking through it. Again this option is free to the public, but watch out for the locals trying to act like tour guides and expecting a tip. There is also a little fort outside the staircase you can explore too.

2. Baha Mar Resort

There is a lot of history around building the Baha Mar Resort on Cable beach. However, it’s finally open as of Spring 2017. The resort is on the other side of the island from where you dock, so you must take transportation over. In Nassau they have a city bus that the locals take for $1.25pp and you jump on it near McDonald’s. I know you must be thinking, how did the Atlantis not make this top 5 list, but this property is brand new and being over on Cable beach is a win for me.

My first time to the resort on the side of the island, I could not believe how beautiful and clean it was. Unfortunately, you can’t take use of the pool or beach on the property while visiting but you can gamble, shop, bar and explore the grounds.

1. Junkanno Beach

Coming in at number one is Junkanno Beach; you can’t be in the Bahamas and not enjoy their beautiful beaches. This beach is a short walk from the port and is open to the public. I discovered this beach many years ago and have been visiting ever since. I like being able to walk and leave whenever I want and the best part they have very cheap drinks at the tiki hut on the beach, like $2 beers.

They also have clean public restrooms on the beach that are fairly new. If you are looking for that free Wi-Fi they have that too! A few years ago I wrote my first blog post just on this beach so you can find more about the beach here.

Let me know what you enjoy doing in Nassau below, I’m headed there in a few weeks and would look to try something new on the island!

Happy Sunday! We hope you’re 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 announced changes coming to its private destination of Labadee, with enhancements to Adrenaline Beach.

Beginning August 14 and running through October 2017, the footprint and quality of the beach and surrounding areas will be nourished. In addition, reef balls will be added to increase the tranquility of the water and to provide exciting new marine habitats and snorkeling paths for cruise line guests.

Work will not take place when guests are on the island.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean released a new smart phone app this week.
• A new sale was kicked off for this weekend.
• Top things to do on a sea day on a Royal Caribbean cruise.
• We shared our readers' favorite cruise photos.
• 7 ways to learn everything you can about your Royal Caribbean cruise online.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 210th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available, where we debate if upgrading your stateroom makes sense in a variety of scenarios.

Often cruisers discover prior to their cruise an opportunity to upgrade their stateroom for more money, and on this week's episode, Michael Poole and Matt discuss what they would do in different scenarios that have been posted online.

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.

Royal Caribbean Around the Internet

Royal Caribbean shared the story behind the cruise line's use of body cameras.

eBaum's World shared a video of Harmony of the Seas guests cheering on a pair of pier runners.

Cruise Habit posted news of Celebrity appointing its first female sea captain to command a Galapagos cruise ship.

Cruise Fever has 9 tips for your next Royal Caribbean cruise.

ZDNet talked with Royal Caribbean's CIO about how Artificial Intelligence plays a part in the cruise line's operations.

Moms of the Seas shared tips for bathing young children while on a cruise.

Browsing the iTunes App Store has revealed a new smartphone app that is only supported currently on Allure of the Seas.

The Royal Caribbean app was released on August 10, 2017 and might be part of the highly anticipated new smartphone app promised as part of a new digital strategy refresh.

The app description describes the new app as a new, official app for the cruise line, "The new, official Royal Caribbean mobile app gives our guests all the information they need to make the most of their cruises. We’re introducing it on Allure of the Seas®, and as we test and adjust this new app, we’ll gradually roll it out across our entire fleet."

The app is available on the iTunes App Store and Google Play Store.

The current version features include

• Learn about the hundreds of activities, movies, and shows available onboard
• Explore off-ship adventures in places like the Bahamas, St. Thomas, Cozumel, and more
• Peruse complete restaurant menus and bar and lounge options
• Plan a day of indulgence with our array of Vitality Spa offerings
• Use deck plan illustrations to navigate the ship

Royal Caribbean has been hinting at a new app ever since Royal Caribbean CIO Michael Giresi mentioned it in an interview in January 2017. Since then, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Chairman and CEO Richard Fain has referenced it during earnings calls with analysts, but feature sets have not been divulged.

Dubbed internally as, "Project Excalibur," this new app will offer new ways for guests to have a simpler experience onboard.

"Starting over two years ago, we have found intuitive digital applications to make the guest experience simpler and more comfortable," Fain announced during the an earnings call earlier this year. "You'll be able to open the door to your room without pulling out a card or a key, request a beverage real-time from the comfort of your lounge chair, and get recommendations for your traveling companion based on their preferences."

"We take our guest vacation time seriously, and technology is a great enabler to improve the use of that."