Royal Caribbean Blog

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 fauna 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

Plans have been revealed for Royal Caribbean's new cruise terminal in Miami.

While Royal Caribbean already has an amazing and new facility at Terminal A, it plans to upgrade Terminal G down the street.

Up until now, Terminal G has been the "other" terminal Royal Caribbean can use at PortMiami and has been traditionally where older or smaller ships have gone.

It was originally built in 1999 to house Voyager of the Seas when she debuted.  However, it is now notably dated compared to the new terminals that have been built over the past few years.

The upgraded terminal should be ready by 2027.

Demolition has already started this week. Once complete, it will be able to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers a day, thanks to a more efficient embarkation and disembarkation process.

Cruise fans will note a terminal that can accommodate up to 7,000 passengers means it could handle an Icon or Oasis Class ship. As of now, only Terminal A can accommodate ships that large.

Once fully operational, ships from Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea will be able to use it.

The multi-level terminal will strategically separate passenger flow by floor to help reduce congestion for cruises departing from the ship and those arriving for their cruise.

A multi-story parking garage will also be built with ground-level bus parking and designated passenger drop-off areas.

Just like Royal Caribbean's other new terminals, Terminal G will seek to achieve a LEED Silver certification. 

Sustainability is a critical aspect of this new terminal, as it has for LEED certification focusing on water and energy efficiency, renewable energy production, recycling and waste management, and sustainable sourcing of materials.

The upgraded Terminal G will be a benefit to cruisers, as it removes an outdated terminal and replaces it with an efficient one.

This means being able to board and disembark your ship quicker and easier. That's been one of Royal Caribbean's hallmarks for making it faster and easier to get from "curb to bar" in just a few minutes.

Thanks to upgrades and refinement of its mobile app, Royal Caribbean has one of the easiest processes for check-in of any cruise line.

Royal Caribbean’s app provides easy access to check-in, upload security photos, complete the health questionnaire, scan your passport photo and generate a mobile boarding pass. You can also select your arrival times for embarkation.

Once you’re at the terminal for cruising, you can continue accessing your boarding pass within the app or download the pass to your phone’s wallet.

Unlike Carnival Cruise Line, which still requires guests to print their boarding passes for embarkation day, Royal Caribbean’s app is much more convenient in this way.

Redeveloping PortMiami

The plans for Terminal G are part of a greater $2.8 billion deal that Royal Caribbean Group signed in 2022.

Terminal G was one part of this agreement, which includes a 36 year lease on the facility.

In addition to Terminal G, Royal Caribbean will be able to share another terminal with MSC Cruises. That terminal will be complete in October 2028.

Another big piece of this revamp of PortMiami is to build Royal Caribbean's new headquarters.

Under the deal, Royal Caribbean extends its lease of its headquarters on the southwest corner of Dodge Island through at least 2072.

Royal Caribbean's newest mega-ship has officially joined the fleet. 

Star of the Seas, the second-ever Icon Class vessel, was delivered to Royal Caribbean today at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. 

Measuring over 1,190 feet long with a passenger capacity of 7,600 at maximum occupancy, Star of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world.

Royal Caribbean executives, including Michael Bayley and Jason Liberty, took delivery of the ship at a special ceremony at the shipyard.

"The completion of Star of the Seas is another significant step in Royal Caribbean Group’s journey toward a completely new type of vacation experience," said Jason Liberty, C.E.O. of Royal Caribbean Group. "We are proud to bring this new generation vacation experience to life at Meyer Turku shipyard together with our esteemed partners."

Star of the Seas will leave the shipyard in mid-July en route to her new home: Port Canaveral, Florida. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean's new big cruise ship will take its maiden voyage later this year. Here’s what awaits guests

Royal Caribbean's 29th ship joins the fleet

The delivery marks a major milestone for Royal Caribbean, as it continues to expand its fleet with record-breaking vessels. 

Star of the Seas' sister ship, Icon of the Seas, debuted in January 2024. The long-awaited Icon Class ship redefined the cruise experience with a record-breaking waterpark, new onboard restaurants, an enclosed AquaTheater, over-water ropes course/zipline, and more. 

Although Icon and Star of the Seas are more similar than not, there are a few key differences that help give Star a defining personality of her own. 

First, Royal Caribbean is raising the entertainment bar even higher with its new theater production, Back to the Future: The Musical, which will have the largest orchestra at sea. Not only that, but there are also new shows in the ice skating rink and AquaTheater. 

The AquaDome Marketplace is getting a refresh, too. Instead of GNGR, Mac's, and Toast & Garden, guests will find Pig Out BBQ, Mai Thai, and La Cocinita. The new venues will focus on dishing up fresh barbecue, tasty Southeast Asian favorites, and Latin American street food.

Similarly, the Lincoln Park Supper Club is replacing the Empire Supper Club. The $200-per-person specialty restaurant will feature a Chicago-inspired theme with the cocktails, menu, and music reimagined to reflect the spirit of the Windy City. 

Read more: 9 big changes coming to Royal Caribbean's new mega-ship

One of the more exciting features is Royal Caribbean's pilot program for facial recognition cabins. While they won't be available throughout the entire ship, these innovative cabins use advanced technology to allow guests to unlock their stateroom doors with their face — no SeaPass or WOW Band needed. 

They're also making the Surfside neighborhood better by appealing to older and younger children. As such, guests can expect new features added to the Playscape and Splashaway Bay aqua park. The Water's Edge pool will also be enhanced to better suit kids. 

Speaking of water, one of the earliest changes announced for Star of the Seas was the addition of an extra hot tub. Initally planned for Icon, it was removed over weight concerns. 

Star of the Seas size

Gross tonnage: 248,663

Length: 1,196 feet

Passenger capacity (full occupancy): 7,600

Crew: 2,350

Staterooms: 2,806

Flag state: Bahamas

Godmother: Diana Ross

Star of the Seas will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean

Star of the Seas' inaugural voyage is scheduled for next month. The first sailing for paying guests is August 16, 2025. Following a few shorter cruises, Star will begin offering weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries out of Port Canaveral beginning on August 31. 

According to Meyer Turku, construction on the next Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas, is going well. Later this summer, the vessel will be moved from the construction dock to the outfitting dock. Legend will join Royal Caribbean's fleet in 2026. 

Cruising to the Norwegian fjords is one of the best cruises I ever took, but there are a few things I wish I had done differently or changed.

Regardless of where you sail, every cruise has its own approach. Even if I avoid the common cruise mistakes that would create major problems, there are still things that I wish I had done otherwise.

Across my 7-night sailing on Independence of the Seas to Norway, I walked off the ship with a lessons learned and new tips I'd share with someone trying it for the first time.

Hopefully these experiences will benefit you before you head to Norway for an equally amazing cruise.

How impactful the midnight sun is on sleep

You can read all you want about how there's so much daylight in Norway, but it's jarring every time you get ready for sleep and it looks like 4pm.

Balcony and oceanview cabins have curtains, but they are not blackout curtains.

It's an adjustment for sure, but I dealt with it better than others in our group. Our brains are conditioned to expect certain conditions for sleep, and it can be difficult to fall asleep swiftly if it's not met.

I don't regret booking a balcony cabin for my Norway cruise, but if someone were a light sleeper when it comes to light, I'd recommend an inside cabin.

While it's a shame for missing out on the views, I'd argue there are plenty of viewing opportunities from around the ship's public decks.  And a good night's sleep is worth something.

Weather forecasts are almost useless

After the first or second day, I started ignoring the weather forecasts.

The first sign they weren't very useful was when we'd all look up the forecast for the next day and get high temperature and precipitation predictions that never agreed.

But when we went into port and the sun shined most of the day and never rained, I started seriously doubting them.

My advice for anyone cruising the Norwegian fjords is to plan for all weather.

I wore a t-shirt, and brought a fleece jacket with me. If the weather forecast called for more than 50% chance of rain, I might bring my rain jacket but I often took a gamble with not bringing it.

I found it could be chilly in the morning, especially in the shade. But being able to take off or put back on my fleece kept things comfortable.  Plus, we did a lot of walking so as soon as we walked for a bit, I'd warm up naturally.

Just like Alaska, the weather is unpredictable so don't write off a day or assume any weather.  Have a backup plan, but go ahead with your excursions or walking, and make the best of it.

You're going to need a small backpack

After one port, I knew we needed a backpack.

I didn't pack a backpack or day bag, but it came in so handy to have somewhere to put a bottle of water, rain jackets, and perhaps a snack.

I just mentioned how important being able to put on or remove a jacket is, and it's a lot easier if you have somewhere to store them.

You should bring a packable backpack that can be stuffed in your luggage, but used during the sailing.

Water and drinks are very expensive

I knew Norway was an expensive country, but what really surprised me is how expensive soft drinks are.

Maybe I'm used to prices in the USA, but I thought 3.5 Euros or more for a bottle of water or soda was quite excessive. That was the price at a convenience store or take-out restaurant.  Sit down restaurants would easily charge more.

Plus, there aren't really free refills at restaurants.

I'm guessing the higher prices are the result of taxes, tariffs, import fees or something else, but it changed how I otherwise go out.

Almost immediately we started bringing bottles of water with us off the ship, which were essentially free thanks to one of my favorite Crown and Anchor Society perks.

Booking independent shore excursions was so much better than in the Caribbean

There are pros and cons of booking shore excursions through the cruise line or on your own, but it seems to heavily favor independent tours in Norway.

I booked excursions through both Royal Caribbean and on my own, and overall, was happier with the independent tours.

The tours I did on my own or with a third party had far less waiting. 

My bus tour with Royal Caribbean had a report time of 12:10pm, but between waiting in the theater for the tour to start and the bus taking forever to load everyone, we didn't actually depart until 1pm.

On the other hand, the Loen Skylift in Olden that I booked through an independent company had ticket pickup at the pier and buses running every 10 minutes.  

Speaking of the Skylift, do it.  It's the best excursion we did during our cruise.

We not only wasted far less time getting going, but we beat the cruise line excursions that came later. That meant less time waiting for the cable car.

There are good reasons to book a tour with Royal Caribbean, but I think the third-party tours worked better.

Fjords are best seen from a tour

Your ship will sail in and out of fjords, but I think you're best off seeing them on a tour rather than trying to enjoy them from the ship.

With the exception of perhaps Geiranger, the best views of the fjords aren't where the ship docks for the day.  

In fact, most times our sail into the fjord occurred in the middle of the night. And if you thought, "I'll see it on the sail out", usually dinner or a show conflicted.

I'd recommend booking excursions that take you to scenic vantage points, such as by boat, bus, or hike.

The North Sea can be rough

I've been on enough cruises to know sea conditions are unpredictable, but the North Sea has a well-deserved reputation for being rough.

The likely worst part will be when your ship crosses the sea between the English Channel and closer to the coast of Norway.

Winds, waves, and rain move in and out quickly.  I never got seasick, but the crew distributed seasickness bags around the ship. That's usually a sign others weren't so lucky.

I wouldn't skip booking a fjords cruise because you have to sail through the North Sea, but I would be prepared for the worst, just in case.

Plan to shop and walk cities in the afternoon

Other than the tourist shops filled with souvenirs, most shops in any of the towns and cities we visited did not open until later in the morning.

As we walked through Molde and Haugesund, it became clear shops, restaurants, and stores opened mid-morning or later.

In fact, many bars and restaurants did not open until 2pm or later.

My advice is spend your morning seeing a historic site, going for a hike, or some other excursion and save the walking the streets for the afternoon when most things are open.

Royal Caribbean is now putting the finishing touches on its new gargantuan ship, and the company has just released new details on what awaits guests on its maiden voyage later this year.

With a gross tonnage of 250,800 and capacity for around 6,000 passengers, the 1,197-foot Star of the Seas is poised to follow-up Royal Caribbean's hit Icon of the Seas.

The launch of Icon was so successful given all the positive reviews and innovations it introduced.  The result is a very high bar for Star.

Star of the Seas will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida, and offer 7-night cruises around the Caribbean. It's going to add a one-two punch with arguably the best ships in the world sailing from the two most popular cruise ports.

So what can guests expect to do with a week onboard?

The ship is filled with just about everything to create memories for families while on vacation.

There are eight distinct areas of the ship (called neighborhoods) that include The Hideaway, Chill Island, Thrill Island, Central Park, Aquadome, Royal Promenade, Suite Neighborhood, and Surfside.

There's a giant waterpark that has six slides, alongside various pools.  Each pool has its own theme, including an adults-only pool, swim-up bar pool, and a really deep pool.

Meanwhile, families with young children will find Surfside an entire area dedicated just for them. There's an enormous aquapark, pool, and different restaurants that cater to kid-friendly tastes. 

The idea behind Surfside is to make it as easy as possible for families with young ones to have everything they need without venturing too far.  The kids club is just steps away from the carousel, which is next to Splashaway Bay and the kids buffet restaurant.

My favorite area on Star of the Seas is Central Park, which a sprawling green space in the middle of the ship.  All of the plants, trees, and shrubs are real, and it's a beautiful space to enjoy.  Plus, there are bars, restaurants, and shopping here too.

When you board Star of the Seas, you'll walk right onto the Royal Promenade.  

One of the smart changes Royal Caribbean made with the Icon Class was opening up the Promenade to be wider, fully circular, and many more windows to provide views of the ocean.

Plus, it's where you'll find an improved version of The Pearl.

Royal Caribbean will make the the Pearl more spectacular visually. Instead of a single color light ring in the back of each of those 3500 plus tiles, this version will have full multicolor rings.

By far the biggest get on Star of the Seas is the addition of Back to the Future: The Musical.

Based on the '80s film, it's the kind of musical that even the least interested theater going fan can truly enjoy. A well-known plot along with great choreography and catchy songs.

It's a multi-generational show with wide appeal, and it's still being performed in the UK and around the U.S. on tour.

The fact Royal Caribbean includes admission to this musical in your cruise fare is incredible because of how much it costs to see this show in a theater on land.

Up in the Aquadome, there's a new show and a refresh to another hit Icon Class innovation.

Pirates & Mermaids is the new show that will be featured in the indoor Aquatheater.

It's a family-friendly show that features high dives, acrobatics, and incredible choreography.

Another change is the menu to the Aquadome Marketplace, the ship's food hall included with your cruise fare.

Three of the stalls are being changed on Star:

• Pig Out BBQ – A casual barbecue joint serving up smoky pulled pork, tender brisket, and other comfort food classics.
• Mai Thai – A Southeast Asian-inspired stall with dishes like pad thai and beef panang.
• La Cocinita – A Latin American offering focused on handheld favorites like hot empanadas and griddled arepas.

Aquadome Market was the surprise hit on Icon, and the new choices sound like an even better upgrade.

Speaking of dining, Star of the Seas will have more than 40 venues to dine and drink onboard.

Now nearly complete, Star of the Seas will set sail on a series of preview cruises before it's official maiden voyage on August 31, 2025.

The preview cruises were added after the inaugural was announced, and are shorter sailings that only visit The Bahamas.  The cruise line says these are more of a lead-up to the official first sailing.

Bookings are now available to be made on Star of the Seas through April 2027.

Royal Caribbean's decision to place Star of the Seas in the Orlando/Central Florida vacation market is designed to grab a bigger slice of the family vacation market.

Executives have talked about how they see a ship like Star as being the perfect alternative to pricier land vacations, such as the ones at the Orlando theme parks.

If two Icon ships aren't enough, a third and fourth ship are due to join the fleet in the next few years. And, the company has options in place to order even more.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for online shoppers, as Amazon Prime Day is finally here! Each year, Amazon features a multi-day sale with steep discounts on some of the most popular items online.

This year, Amazon Prime Day will take place between July 8 at 12:00am (Pacific Time) and end on July 11 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). The sale features exclusive deals for Amazon Prime members, although anyone can participate in Prime Day through a free trial membership. Only Amazon Prime members will have access to the Prime Day 2025 deals.

Each summer, Amazon Prime Day is a huge event for the online retailer with record-breaking sales. Because of its massive success, Amazon has expanded the sale from 48 hours to 96 hours, meaning shoppers have four days to take advantage of this year's Prime Day deals. Reuters states that sales are projected to rise nearly 30% during the four-day sale with Amazon recording $14.2 billion in sales from last year’s Amazon Prime Day.

Amazon has also introduced “Today’s Big Deals,” featuring themed daily discounts with some of the best deals of the event that are exclusive to Prime members. This includes big-name brands like Samsung, which is a great choice if you need new luggage for your upcoming cruise! Some deals are only available for a short amount of time, such as Lightning Deals, which are limited-time promotions with pop-up sales on products across Amazon.

As someone who loves to online shop, I look forward to Amazon Prime Day each year. I’ve been able to snag some great deals on travel and cruise gear for my upcoming adventures. A few of my absolute favorite products are steeply discounted this year, including Away Luggage, a portable sound machine, and Apple AirPods.  If you’ve been waiting to buy travel gear for your next cruise, now is the perfect time to shop.

With thousands of products on sale this year, it can feel overwhelming to find the best deals on cruise essentials and travel necessities. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you by combing through the top deals on travel and cruise must-haves! Here’s our list of everything you’ll want to pack for your upcoming cruise vacation.

Please note that we do receive a small commission if you purchase any of the products from our affiliate links below. You can also check out our Amazon Storefront for other essential cruise items that we recommend. Purchasing from the links below costs you nothing extra, but the small commission will help support Royal Caribbean Blog. 

All prices below were at the time of publication. Prices may change during the sale based on availability.

Cruise and Cabin Necessities

This year, many of the most popular cruise and cabin accessories are heavily discounted for Amazon Prime Day. I’ve also included some of our readers’ favorite cruise essentials and must-have items. From magnetic hooks for your cabin walls to handheld fans and clear luggage tags, you’ll find all the best picks in our list.

1. Magnetic Hooks

Cruise cabins are notoriously small, and magnetic hooks give you extra hanging space for hats, lanyards, jackets, and bags by attaching securely to the cabin’s metal walls. Many cruisers claim these are essential for their cabins!

Product Link: Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks,30lb+ Heavy Duty Earth Magnets with Hook for Refrigerator, Extra Strong Cruise Hook for Hanging, Magnetic Hanger for Cabins, Grill (Silver White, Pack of 10)

Price: $5.59 (44% off)

2. Cruise Luggage Tag Holder

You’ll need to attach a luggage tag to your suitcase before arriving at the cruise terminal, and these clear tag holders keep your printed tags protected and securely fastened to your bag. Last year, our embarkation day in Sydney, Australia was very rainy, and I was thankful to have these tags to keep my luggage tag dry and safely secured.

Product Link: Highwind 4 Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Suitcases - Compatible with Celebrity 2025 Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders Travel Essentials Cruise Lanyard

Price: $4.99 (9% off)

3. Portable Fans

If you’re heading somewhere hot and humid, having a portable fan for your days ashore or in your cruise cabin can keep you cool and comfortable. Some cruise ships tend to be warmer than others, so having a small fan is an essential for many cruisers. 

Product Link: TOPK 2 Pack 5000mAh Portable Desk Fan, Ultra-thin Strong Wind Digital Display 4 Speeds Adjustable Small Quiet Battery Powered Personal Travel Fan for Bedroom, Office, Cruise, Library, Outdoor

Price: $25.47 (27% off)

Product Link: Gaiatop Mini Portable Fan, Small and Powerful, Cute Design 3 Speed Personal Handheld fan and Desktop with Base, Lightweight USB Rechargeable for Travel Lash Makeup Girl Women Summer Gift Black

Price: $8.99 (10% off)

4. First Aid Kit

If you end up needing medication or first-aid supplies on board, you’ll likely pay inflated prices. It’s best to bring your own travel-sized first aid kit so you’re prepared for anything unexpected. A small first aid kit can provide peace of mind during your vacation.

Product Link: General Medi Mini First Aid Kit, 110 Piece Small First Aid Kit - Includes Emergency Foil Blanket, Scissors for Travel, Home, Office, Vehicle, Camping, Workplace & Outdoor (Red)

Price: $9.49 (32%)

5. Magnetic Door Decorations

Decorating your cruise cabin door has become increasingly popular in recent years. If you want to jazz up your stateroom door without taking up much space in your luggage, consider bringing a set of decorative magnets. You'll be among many with decorations! 

Product Link: Large Cruise Door Decorations Magnetic - Wxiben 4PCS Retro Family Cruise Ship Door Decorations Sea Navigation Tropical Drink Cruise Door Magnets for Carnival Cabin Refrigerator Party Ship Decor

Price: $7.99 (20% off)

Product Link: Family Cruise Door Decorations Magnetic - Wxiben 6PCS Vintage Hawaii Cruise Door Ship Decorations Magnets Glasses Palm Tree Sunset Drink Cruise Door Magnets for Family Vacation Carnival Cabin Decor

Price: $10.39 (20% off)

6. Travel Bottles for Toiletries

When packing for your cruise, make sure to bring some of your must-have toiletries from home. I always pack my own shampoo and conditioner for cruising, as the bathrooms are typically limited with products. These small bottles are also TSA approved for carry-on travel and color coordinated for easy organization.

Product Link: 16pack Travel Bottles for Toiletries, TSA Approved LeakProof Squeezable Silicone Toiletry Containers for Shampoo, Conditioner, 3oz Portable Refillable Traveling Size Liquid Containers (16Pcs/Colorful)

Price: $6.64 (5% off)

Suitcases and Luggage Sets

Whether you’re driving to your cruise port or heading to the airport for your next vacation, having reliable and high-quality luggage makes all the difference when traveling. I finally invested in more expensive suitcases a few years ago, and now I will never go back!

This year, some of the top brands are offering great deals for Amazon Prime Day. For example, my all-time favorite luggage brand, Away, has incredible discounts of up to 25% off their most popular suitcases. If you’re looking to invest in new luggage for your cruises, take a look at some of the discounted suitcases below.

7. Away Luggage

I have a full set of Away luggage (the Bigger Carry-On, Medium, Large Flex, and Trunk), and I’ve convinced my sister, husband, and parents to purchase their own set. It’s a pricey investment, but you’ll receive a lifetime warranty, sturdy luggage, buttery-smooth wheels and excellent customer service. By far, it's the best suitcase I've ever owned.

Product Link: Away Bigger Carry-On Luggage, Lightweight Hardside Large Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, TSA Lock, Airline Approved, Sorbet Orange

Price: $236 (20% off)

Product Link: Away Medium Checked Luggage, Lightweight Hard Shell Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, Durable Rolling Luggage, TSA Lock, 26 Inch, Cloud Gray

Price: $276 (20% off)

(My mom and I both used our Bigger Carry-On Flex suitcases on our recent Royal Caribbean cruise)

Product Link: Away Large Checked Luggage, 29 Inch Hardside Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, Lightweight & Durable, TSA Lock, Cloud Gray

Price: $300 (20% off)

Product Link: Away Large Trunk Luggage, 31 Inch Hardside Suitcase with Spinner Wheels, Lightweight & Durable, TSA Lock, Ideal for Long Trips, Cloud Gray

Price: $326 (25% off)

8. Samsonite Luggage

If you’re not wanting to splurge on high-end luggage, Samsonite is another popular brand for travelers. This year, Samsonite is having major discounts for their best-selling suitcases. Whether you’re needing a carry-on or checked bag for your cruise, these options are excellent choices for mid-tier suitcases.

Product Link: Samsonite Omni 2 Pro Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Pro Carry-on, MIDNIGHT BLACK

Price: $110 (50% off)

Product Link: Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable with Double Spinner Wheels, Black, 2-Piece Set (21/28)

Price: $240 (20% off)

Product Link: Samsonite Centric 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Caribbean Blue, 3-Piece Set (20/24/28)

Price: $279 (60% off)

Product Link: Samsonite Omni 2-2 Piece 19/28 Hardside Luggage with 360° Spinner Wheels - Scratch Resistant Hardshell - TSA, Airline-Approved - Expandable Polycarbonate Lightweight - Midnight Black

Price: $195 (50% off)

Luggage Accessories and Gear

In addition to suitcases, Amazon Prime Day features thousands of deals on luggage accessories to enhance your packing and organization. For example, packing cubes have become very hyped among travelers and cruisers. Other accessories our readers love include tech organizers, hanging toiletry bags and travel pill organizers.

Here are some of the best Amazon Prime Day deals for luggage accessories and gear that you should bring on your next cruise.

9. Packing Cubes

As a frequent traveler, I’d consider packing cubes to be an essential item that I never travel without, especially compression ones. Packing cubes help keep everything neatly organized in my suitcase and make unpacking super easy in my cruise cabin. My favorite set of compression packing cubes from Bagsmart is 30% off this year for Amazon Prime Day!

Product Link: BAGSMART 6 Set Compression Packing Cubes - Lightweight Travel Essentials, Durable Luggage Organizer

Price: $29.99 (30% off)

Product Link: Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes for Travel, Beach Vacation Essentials Accessories for Cruise Ship, Suitcase Organizer Bags for Luggage with Hanging Toiletry & Shoe Bag, Birthday Gifts for Women Mom Her

Price: $17.99 (40% off)

Product Link: BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes Luggage Organizer Bags for Travel Accessories-Cream

Price: $14.44 (42% off)

10. Electronics Organizer

If you pack multiple cords and chargers for your devices while cruising, an electronics organizer is a great way to keep both your suitcase and cabin clutter-free. You won’t have to worry about cords tangling in your luggage, either! Even once I'm onboard, I continue using my electronics organizer to keep the cabin vanity organized. 

Product Link: FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch Electronic Accessories Carry Case Portable Waterproof Double Layers All-in-One Storage Bag for Cord, Charger, Phone, Earphone Black

Price: $7.95 (39% off)

Product Link: BAGSMART Electronics Travel Organizer Case, Tech Accessories Cord Storage Bag for Phone, Power Bank, SD Card, Cables, Black

Price: $11.89 (15% off)

11. Insulated Coffee Mug with Lid

Cruisers love bringing their own insulated coffee mug onboard, as the mugs provided by the cruise line are often very small. The insulation keeps coffee warm while the lid prevents spilling - perfect for watching glaciers in Alaska from the top deck or sailing through the Norwegian fjords!

Product Link: ALOUFEA 12oz Stainless Steel Insulated Coffee Mug with Handle, Double Wall Vacuum Travel Mug, Tumbler Cup with Sliding Lid, Navy

Price: $10.75 (27% off)

12. Pill Organizer

If you’re someone who takes daily medication, a travel pill organizer is a necessity for your cruise to save space. It can also be handy for packing over-the-counter meds since onboard options are limited and expensive. 

Product Link: Holii Travel Pill Organizer, 8 Compartments Portable Pill Case, Daily Pill Box to Hold Vitamins, Small Pill Container for Pocket Purse Medicine Organizer（Khaki）

Price: $5.06 (15% off)

Product Link: Cute Pill Dispenser with 7 Large Compartments, Portable Pill Bottle Organizer with Wide Opening for Easy Use, Anti-Mix Pill Organizer for Travel, BPA-Free Pill Container, Pink

Price: $8.78 (37% off)

13. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Cruise cabins are tiny, but the bathrooms are even smaller. With limited counter space, having a hanging toiletry bag that hangs on the back of the door will save space and reduce clutter by keeping everything neatly organized. I've cruised with one for over 15 years, and it's one of the best investments I've made for traveling.

Product Link: BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Hanging Travel Makeup Organizer with TSA Approved Transparent Cosmetic Bag Makeup Bag for Full Sized Toiletries, Medium-Black

Price: $15.99 (43% off)

Product Link: Elviros Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men Travel Essentials 3-in-1 Large Waterproof Dopp Kit PU Leather Shaving Bag with Separate Compartments for Grooming and Toiletries Mens Gift

Price: $20.78 (23% off)

14. Jewelry Organizer

A travel jewelry case is perfect for keeping your jewelry organized and secure during your cruise, so you don’t have to worry about tangled necklaces or missing jewelry on vacation.

Product Link: BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer Case Foldable Jewelry Roll for Journey Rings, Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets, Mini, Black

Price: $13.59 (15% off)

Cruise Tech and Electronics

Amazon Prime Day is known for having some of the best deals on technology and electronics. Whether you’re looking for headphones, a portable charger, or other cruise essentials, it’s the perfect time to stock up before your next sailing. Some of my favorite cruise products are included here, such as my extra-long phone cord and portable sound machine.

15. Charging Stations

If you’re sailing with multiple people in your cruise cabin, you might find yourself fighting over the outlets to charge everyone's devices. The same is true if you’re sailing on an older ship, which often have only one or two outlets available. To expand your charging capabilities, bring a charging station to use in your cabin with additional USB ports.

Product Link: Anker Charger, 60W 6 Port USB Charging Station, PowerPort 6 Multi USB Charger for iPhone 14/13 Series, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, Galaxy S23/S22/S21, Note 20 Ultra, LG, HTC, and

Price: $19.99 (33% off)

Product Link: Anker Charger, 65W 4 Port Charging Station, PIQ 3.0 & GaN Fast USB Charger Adapter, PowerPort Atom III Slim Wall Charger - 45W USB C Port, Ideal for MacBook, Laptops, iPad Pro, iPhone, Galaxy, Pixel

Price: $23.99 (31% off)

16. Wireless Headphones

Anytime you’re traveling, it’s crucial to pack a pair of wireless headphones to use during your trip. This Amazon Prime Day, top brands like Apple AirPods and Beats are on sale, which makes this a great time to upgrade! I recently upgraded to AirPods after years of wired headphones, and I love the ease of connecting them to all of my Apple devices.

Product Link: Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds, Active Noise Cancellation, Hearing Aid Feature, Bluetooth Headphones, Transparency, Personalized Spatial Audio, High-Fidelity Sound, H2 Chip, USB-C Charging

Price: $149 (40% off)

Product Link: Beats Solo 4 - Wireless Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones, Apple & Android Compatible, Up to 50 Hours of Battery Life - Matte Black

Price: $97.99 (51% off)

17. Kindle Paperwhite

If you’re someone who likes to read on vacation, but you want to save space in your luggage, an e-reader can be a great solution. This year, Amazon has their latest model discounted 22% for Prime Day!

Product Link: Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 16GB (newest model) – Our fastest Kindle ever, with new 7" glare-free display and weeks of battery life – Black

Price: $124.99 (22% off)

18. Portable Charger

You should always travel with a portable charger, as this can provide extra charging capabilities whether you’re onboard or exploring ashore. Cruise lines are also relying heavily on passengers using their apps, which can drain your battery quicker than usual. Consider purchasing a portable charger with built-in fan for added convenience!

Product Link: Portable Charger with Built in Cables, Portable Charger with Cords Wires Slim 10000mAh Travel Essentials Battery Pack 6 Outputs 3A High Speed Power Bank for iPhone Samsung Pixel LG Moto iPad

Price: $18.99 (37% off)

Product Link: JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan, 3 IN 1 USB Rechargeable Portable Fan [12-19 Working Hours] with Power Bank, Flashlight, Pocket Design for Travel/Summer/Concerts/Lash, Gifts for Women (Pink)

Price: $12.74 (15% off)

19. Portable Sound Machine

Cruise ships can be very loud with clanking and clinging constantly. Not to mention, your cabin could be in a noisy location, like under the kids' club or near the pool deck. A portable sound machine drowns out the noise so you can sleep well at night. I absolutely never cruise without this sound machine - it's compact and easy to pack.

Product Link: Babelio White Noise Sound Machine for Adults Kids Baby, Travel Sound Machine for Sleep, Mini and Portable, 15 Non-looping Sounds, Timer, Memory Function, Easy to Pocket and Travel White

Price: $15.19 (31%)

20. Extra-Long Phone Charging Cord

You never know how far the outlet in your cabin will be from the bed or the sofa. If you’re someone who likes to scroll on your phone before going to sleep, make sure to bring an extra-long charging cord. I use mine all the time while cruising.

Product Link: White USB C Cable 10 ft, Long USB A to USB C Cable Fast Charging, USBC Charger Cord Braided Compatible with iPhone 16 15 Pro Max Plus, for Samsung Galaxy S21 Note 10, Pixel

Price: $5.98 (25% off)

Cruising is one of the best ways to travel with a multigenerational group. Growing up, I cruised frequently with my parents, grandparents, and extended family, creating many cherished family memories. 

Now, as an adult, I continue to cruise with my parents as a way to spend quality time together. Living across the country with my husband means we don’t get to see each other often - and cruising together allows us to travel, relax, and reconnect with one another.

In October, I traveled to Australia for a 15-night cruise with my sister and parents onboard Celebrity Solstice. The repositioning itinerary sailed from Sydney to Singapore with stops along the Australian coast. We also spent two unforgettable days in Bali, Indonesia during the sailing. After a canceled trip to Australia in March 2020, we were eager to plan a trip to the Land Down Under again.

As you might imagine, traveling in your 20s is a completely different experience than cruising as a baby boomer. My parents are in their early 60s, so their style of travel is a little different than mine. Their boomer travel priorities, vacation budget, and cruising habits sometimes clashed with my budget-friendly, millennial approach to travel.

Although cruising simplifies many aspects of the logistics, we still encountered some bumps in the road. Here are 7 ways we traveled differently on our Celebrity cruise to Australia.

1. Paying extra for a balcony cabin instead of saving money with a cheap interior stateroom

One of the biggest cruising differences between my boomer parents was our cabin preference. My parents opted to spend an extra $1,000 on their cruise fare for a balcony stateroom on Celebrity Solstice. This is always a top priority for them, as my dad prefers to have a balcony, especially on longer itineraries. Their balcony was technically an obstructed balcony; however, the obstruction was minimal.

On the other hand, my sister and I don’t mind booking an inside cabin when it saves us money. We were happy to save $1,000 between the two of us to have an interior stateroom. Our cabin was located at the very aft of the ship, surrounded by a linen closet and ice machine for the room service staff.

Luckily, our cabin location was mostly quiet and the configuration was quite spacious. Because our stateroom was nestled among storage closets, the cabin felt larger than other interior staterooms I’ve stayed in. 

In addition, we found our stateroom had better climate control as we sailed to warmer climates. My parents’ balcony cabin struggled to keep the cabin cool with the heavy humidity in Singapore and Indonesia; however, our inside cabin was an ice box! Although we initially regretted not booking a balcony stateroom, we were pleased with our selection given the large space and temperature control.

2. Booking excursions through the cruise line rather than independent exploration

Whenever I cruise with my parents, we typically book excursions through the cruise line rather than independent tours. These excursions offer added peace of mind, ensuring you’ll return to the ship on time without the risk of being left behind.

For example, we snorkeled in the Great Barrier Reef, which required sailing more than one hour away from the anchored ship. To reach the reef, we would be venturing far from the ship. We opted to book the $300 per person excursion through Celebrity Cruises because this was the most convenient option, even if it was more expensive.

The only port where we didn’t book an excursion was in Bali, Indonesia. The Celebrity Cruise excursions were expensive and limited, so we decided not to book any of these. Instead, we booked through Shore Excursions Group, per the recommendation of our travel agent, and saved hundreds of dollars.

Because we had an overnight stay, we didn’t worry about returning to the ship on time the first day and felt comfortable exploring all over the island. On the other hand, my sister and I rarely book excursions through the cruise line. Instead, we opt to explore independently when visiting ports of call because excursions are expensive. We enjoy wandering around the ports of call on our own, opting to walk whenever possible.

3. Splurging on specialty dining multiple times in leu of the main dining room

When my sister and I cruise together, we might book specialty dining for one evening. In general, we stick to complimentary restaurants, like the main dining room, unless we can get a really good deal on a specialty dining restaurant. Most of the time, we find the main dining room has plenty of options and delicious cuisine already included in our cruise fare.

During our cruise with our parents, we ended up spending three nights at the specialty restaurants on Celebrity Solstice. My dad really enjoyed the experience at Tuscan Grille, prompting a second return to the restaurant later in the sailing.

While my sister and I might not have splurged on the dining fee for these restaurants, we were happy to accompany our parents. Perhaps this is a difference in budget, but I prefer spending my travel budget in other ways, such as shopping in port or trying local cuisine.

4. Reserving transportation beforehand instead of ride-sharing

When it comes to transportation while traveling, my boomer parents prefer to prebook arrangements. Navigating the rideshare apps can be confusing and nerve-wracking for my parents, as they are usually unsure about Uber and Lyft.

During the travel planning process, my parents arrange for transportation from the airport to their hotel. These transfers are usually booked through Viator and reasonably priced, especially when our family travels with a lot of luggage.

In addition, they schedule a private transfer from the hotel to the cruise port for embarkation day. Similarly, my parents want to relax on the morning of their cruise instead of navigating public transport, squeezing into a taxi, or fumbling on their phones for an Uber.

Comparatively, I would rely solely on local transport and ride-sharing for logistics when cruising. As a millennial, I am very comfortable using Lyft or Uber in foreign countries. I also wouldn’t have an issue asking the hotel front desk to schedule a taxi or transfer, if needed. By not prepaying for transport, this allows for more flexibility with my schedule depending on my agenda for that day.

In fact, we were grateful for Uber when our prearranged transport failed to show up at the Sydney Airport after our arrival. The Uber XL showed up immediately and we ended up saving $100 total in the end. I'm not confident my parents would have known how to arrange an Uber on the spot like this, so I was thankful my sister and I were there to help. 

5. Wanting to get on the ship right away rather than exploring the city

When embarkation day arrived, I quickly realized that my parents had different priorities for boarding the cruise ship. My parents prioritize boarding as early as possible to maximize their day, while I prefer a more flexible approach. For me, embarkation day is usually an opportunity to explore the city before heading to the ship.

With our cruise departing from Sydney, we were very excited to explore all the city had to offer. We flew in two days before our sailing departed, giving us one full day to tour and two half-days to explore.

After two days of sightseeing in Sydney, I still had a few more places I wanted to check out before embarking on our cruise. Because our sailing was a repositioning cruise, we wouldn’t be returning to Sydney at the end of the voyage.

Read more: Australia & South Pacific cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Unfortunately, my parents and I clashed on when we wanted to arrive at the cruise terminal for embarkation day. All-aboard time was 3:00pm, but my parents scheduled our transfer at 11:00am. With so much to see in Sydney still, my sister and I would have preferred arriving to the port later in the day.

However, arranging separate transportation didn’t seem practical, either. We considered the possibility of checking in, dropping off our luggage, and getting back off the ship to explore more. Due to customs and immigration with our repositioning sailing, this would not be allowed for security purposes.

Ultimately, we found a compromise. My dad waited at the cruise terminal cafe with our luggage while my mom, sister, and I walked to the nearby street market to shop for trinkets. We walked around and shopped for about 90 minutes before it started to rain, which was the perfect time to board our ship.

6. Moving at different paces with varying priorities

It’s no surprise that my parents and I travel at different paces. While my parents are healthy and in great shape for their age, I was surprised by the difference in our travel preferences.   

Each evening, my parents would be waiting in line outside of the main dining room for our early dinner slot. Meanwhile, my sister and I would often arrive a little later, instead stopping to watch the sunset on the promenade deck or grabbing a drink at happy hour.

Similarly, my parents were always early to the excursion meeting spot, often fretting about whether my sister and I would arrive on time (for the record, we were never late). While I would be eager to get the best spot on the bus or tender boat, my parents were very nonchalant about it.

This difference was especially noticeable during our excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. I couldn’t wait to get my wetsuit on and start snorkeling in the reef. To my slight frustration, my parents were in no rush to disembark from the catamaran. This felt like wasting time in my opinion, although they were content to take their time.

In the end, we found a balance between our varying travel styles. In some ways, I appreciated my parents getting to certain places early, such as busy theatre shows. Similarly, I tried to maximize our port time by keeping the family on a steady travel pace.

7. Flying in premium economy seats over cheaper options

Traveling from the United States to Australia and back from Singapore involves very long travel itineraries. We spent upwards of 30 hours flying to and from our cruise with multiple layovers involved.

With such long travel days, my parents splurged on Delta’s premium economy seats for the long-haul legs of our trip. Considering the flight from Los Angeles to Sydney is 15 hours, they wanted to have more comfortable seats. This upgrade ended up costing about $1,500 more per person.

In contrast, my sister and I booked main economy of our travels. While we dreaded the flight to Australia in economy, I kept reminding her that we saved thousands of dollars! This price difference literally almost paid for our cruise between the two of us.

Although the flight was uncomfortable with a stranger sitting in our middle seat, my sister and I survived to tell the tale! After taking some sleeping medication and getting comfortable in my window seat, the flight passed quickly and we landed in Sydney before I knew it.

In the end, my parents said the premium economy seats were worth every penny for the international flights. They had bigger seats, more legroom, higher quality food, and more amenities. At their age, they said they probably will never take an international flight in main cabin again. They’ve already booked these same seats again on an upcoming long-haul flight.

Cruise ships today feel like floating cities, and their design is an incredible feat of creativity, engineering, and problem solving.

Royal Caribbean employs an army of people to bring a ship to life, and you might be surprised to know one of of their best partners in this process is an architectural firm based in Boston, Massachusetts.

Wilson Butler Architects (WBA) has worked for almost three decades to help Royal Caribbean push the boundaries of what is possible aboard a ship.

With the launch of the second Icon Class ship on the horizon, it's a good reminder how much work goes into these ships.

The scale and complexity of building ships like Icon of the Seas or Oasis of the Seas is incredible. New ships can take almost a decade to go from concept to launch and involve the coordination of thousands of professionals across continents. WBA's involvement begins often with a blank page and a single question: What could this ship become?

"We don’t come in after the design is underway," said A. Scott Butler, co-founder of the firm. "We’re at the table at the start, working with Royal Caribbean's Newbuilding & Innovation, along with their product development team, asking what this ship needs to be five years from now."

Helping design over 50 ships

WBA has designed fifteen prototype ships and contributed to 54 vessels across multiple Royal Caribbean Group brands, with seven more in progress. 

Their reach spans Voyager Class through Quantum and Icon Class, and the team of Wilson Butler Architects has been involved in many firsts. Among them:

• The first full-scale theater with orchestra pit and fly tower at sea (Voyager of the Seas, 1999)
• The first real-ice skating rink on a cruise ship (Voyager of the Seas, 1999)
• The first live plant park aboard a ship (Central Park, Oasis of the Seas, 2009)
• The tallest slide at sea (The Ultimate Abyss, Harmony of the Seas, 2016)
• The largest glass dome at sea (AquaDome, Icon of the Seas, 2024)
• The largest kinetic sculpture at sea (The Pearl, Icon of the Seas, 2024) 

Designing ships is a lot like urban planning, "You’re designing for density, for movement, for delight," said Principal Ben Marcionek. "We think in terms of districts, transit, intersections, light, and rhythm."

One of their most influential breakthroughs came in 2009 with Oasis of the Seas, which redefined ship architecture by splitting the central structure to allow open-air courtyards and “neighborhoods.” This innovation resulted in now-iconic spaces like Central Park and the Boardwalk.

"That split-hull design gave us the ability to bring daylight deep into the ship," said Butler. "It wasn’t just a stylistic choice—it changed how people interact with the space. Suddenly you could have a real park on Deck 8."

From steel to storytelling

The process of building the world's largest ships begins years before any physical construction begins. Working in concert with engineers, naval architects, acousticians, and outfitters, WBA helps define the experience, not just the structure.

Ship design includes physical models, virtual simulations, and, increasingly, immersive design tools. "Sometimes we’ll build scale models out of basswood to illustrate structural proposals, or we’ll create foam core tray models to show the vertical relationship of venues," said Butler.

Each space is developed with a dual mandate: create something novel, and ensure it functions under extreme conditions—movement, salt air, vibration, and code compliance.

"We’ve had to ask, how do you create an ice rink at sea? How do you build a three-story theater with aerial flying on a moving platform? There’s no textbook for this," Butler explained.

Building ships offers unique opportunities that set it apart from land-based architecture

Unlike land-based construction, cruise ship building is modular and sequence-dependent. Hull blocks are prefabricated offsite and welded together like a block puzzle. Every component of each block must be coordinated before the module is craned into position.

This is a challenging approach given how little room there in the building schedule to make changes later, "There’s no field adjustment,” Butler noted. "You can’t just move a beam or a sprinkler without impacting an entire assembly process of every small part."

"Our drawings are not just conceptual. They guide fabrication," said Marcionek. "We often produce 1:1 mockups of seating, lighting, or entry transitions to see how they work in real life."

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