PhillyLady

Seems simple enough to enforce a 5 and older rule for the main pools. Any child younger than 5 has to stay in the splash/kiddie pool area. Most children are bladder and potty trained by 4 so restricting younger than 5 should mostly fix the issue. It should be good with most people since almost every public play/rides have height, weight or age restrictions. Then its up to Royal to ensure there is some kind of wet play area for those under 5.

I have been buying photos on ships since the days when all they had were black and white prints that they displayed on boards.
Then a decade and a half later they moved up to color prints, and put them in slots on walls.
It was always a pain to walk around and search for your face.  Sometimes they missed some of your photos and stuck them with someone else!
One time I purchased ALL photos, and came home with 200 prints that weighed a ton, and many of the shots were not that great.
Now you find you photos online on a computer, and purchase digital and/or prints.
I stick to about the package of 10, and I always include my formal night photos, often our boarding photo, and maybe a dining room photo.  Sometimes we also purchase the port photos where you pose with the name of the place on a sign.  Many of the professional photographers take excellent photos, and they help you pose.  We try different backgrounds just for the fun of it.  Depending on the cruise line, some of the prints are exceptionally nice, and they also give you a cardboard display folder. 
I usually pre-purchase the package, just so I do not have to worry about having the costs added to my bill at the end. 
Do not wait until the end to purchase--check your photos out regularly so you have an idea what you want, and allow enough time to have them ready for you (usually the night before disembarkation). 
Enjoy your first cruise!!

There will definitely be prom-esque backdrops and these are popped up every night around dinnertime. The most will pop up on formal night and they will also usually stake out a spot by the prettiest stairs, the promenade bridge (on freedom and Voyager class), and the car (on oasis class). Off the ship, there are guaranteed photographers at the port stops right in the debarkation area that will either be set up to get the ship in the background or the cityscape. There will also be roaming photographers in the main dining room.
But the most interesting photos are the ones roaming around the pool, coco cay beach, the carousel, or other activities on board. There is *no* schedule for them and no way to know when or where they will be which makes it like a fun game of where's waldo.
Also! photographers at port tend to get ignored and if two happen to spot you, the one that doesn't take your room number directly will often have fun candid shots in black in white!

We just returned from a 8 night cruise on this great ship.
The big question is always food. 
Six nights we ate in the main dining room. Now we are not what you call foodies but we were happy with each meal.  The wait staff we had were great and very accommodating to requests. 
Another night we ate in Chops need I say anymore more. Delicious meal and staff. 
We did the hibachi another night great time and great meal.
For a relaxing breakfast some days try the main dining room it did not disappoint.
Entertainment Hiro again tops the list as a must see. Hairspray although a little long was great. Also the 2.0 ice skating show is another not to miss. The adult comedy show was just that adult comedy.
The crew once again was fantastic friendly and just fun.
Overall a fantastic 8 nights on board. 

I am not a long time poster, but I am certainly a long-time cruiser! 
I did not join any travel forums until the past few years when my work schedule became less crazy.
My father was in the Navy in WW II, and his love of water meant that our whole family cruised together starting more than 50 years ago!  Those were the days--one dinner time, one restaurant, no televisions, no casinos, bunk beds,--it was the ship, entertainment, and ports.  I guess it helped that our first cruise went from Venice all the way to the Black Sea for multiple weeks.
So, EVERYONE in our extended families after marriage and children has been on a cruise multiple times, many different lines.  In fact, I can name at least three or four lines we cruised on that no longer exist! But, we always liked the full-service cruises with all the bells and whistles.
This past year brother and I both did different Viking cruises (me-river, him-ocean). Okay, the river cruise boats are so small you can see the whole boat in about an hour!  Yes, it is kind of fun and relaxing, but extremely cozy, and it is a week without any kind of fun evening activities (many people just sit at the bar and drink).  We took a walking tour every day, as every day is a port.  Brother said he missed the non-stop evening activities on Viking Ocean, he missed the art auctions(?!), and also the dress-up night with photographers, although they enjoyed the tranquility.  Again, a different port every day.  The adults-only did not really affect us, although I am not sure that I would want to cruise on a ship that was more than 50% children. 
I have to say that depending on my travel mood or interest at certain years, different types of cruises will appeal to me at different times, including destination, cruise line, itinerary, price, etc. Just to be clear, we do many other different types of trips--all inclusive resorts, driving trips, tours, etc., etc., but I 100% agree that the serenity of the ocean and the glorious sunsets, the night sky full of stars, and all the great ship activities make us totally loyal to the cruise experience. 
I like RC just because of the big ships and all the crazy activities (husband ALWAYS attempts the rock-climbing wall!), and it is fun to hear what is happening currently on this forum. Last Summer we cruised the Med on Princess, this Summer back in the Med on Cunard, next Spring on RC in the Caribbean, and in-between several other types of travel and adventures (ski trips, tours).  We usually do an A-I resort every few years or so--we have great prices and great connections here on the East coast. 
The truth is, I love to travel, and I love to cruise, but remember, variety is the spice of life, so don't be afraid to try different travel experiences whenever you need a change! The ocean will always be waiting for you to return.  Bon voyage!

I am not a long time poster, but I am certainly a long-time cruiser! 
I did not join any travel forums until the past few years when my work schedule became less crazy.
My father was in the Navy in WW II, and his love of water meant that our whole family cruised together starting more than 50 years ago!  Those were the days--one dinner time, one restaurant, no televisions, no casinos, bunk beds,--it was the ship, entertainment, and ports.  I guess it helped that our first cruise went from Venice all the way to the Black Sea for multiple weeks.
So, EVERYONE in our extended families after marriage and children has been on a cruise multiple times, many different lines.  In fact, I can name at least three or four lines we cruised on that no longer exist! But, we always liked the full-service cruises with all the bells and whistles.
This past year brother and I both did different Viking cruises (me-river, him-ocean). Okay, the river cruise boats are so small you can see the whole boat in about an hour!  Yes, it is kind of fun and relaxing, but extremely cozy, and it is a week without any kind of fun evening activities (many people just sit at the bar and drink).  We took a walking tour every day, as every day is a port.  Brother said he missed the non-stop evening activities on Viking Ocean, he missed the art auctions(?!), and also the dress-up night with photographers, although they enjoyed the tranquility.  Again, a different port every day.  The adults-only did not really affect us, although I am not sure that I would want to cruise on a ship that was more than 50% children. 
I have to say that depending on my travel mood or interest at certain years, different types of cruises will appeal to me at different times, including destination, cruise line, itinerary, price, etc. Just to be clear, we do many other different types of trips--all inclusive resorts, driving trips, tours, etc., etc., but I 100% agree that the serenity of the ocean and the glorious sunsets, the night sky full of stars, and all the great ship activities make us totally loyal to the cruise experience. 
I like RC just because of the big ships and all the crazy activities (husband ALWAYS attempts the rock-climbing wall!), and it is fun to hear what is happening currently on this forum. Last Summer we cruised the Med on Princess, this Summer back in the Med on Cunard, next Spring on RC in the Caribbean, and in-between several other types of travel and adventures (ski trips, tours).  We usually do an A-I resort every few years or so--we have great prices and great connections here on the East coast. 
The truth is, I love to travel, and I love to cruise, but remember, variety is the spice of life, so don't be afraid to try different travel experiences whenever you need a change! The ocean will always be waiting for you to return.  Bon voyage!

I am not a long time poster, but I am certainly a long-time cruiser! 
I did not join any travel forums until the past few years when my work schedule became less crazy.
My father was in the Navy in WW II, and his love of water meant that our whole family cruised together starting more than 50 years ago!  Those were the days--one dinner time, one restaurant, no televisions, no casinos, bunk beds,--it was the ship, entertainment, and ports.  I guess it helped that our first cruise went from Venice all the way to the Black Sea for multiple weeks.
So, EVERYONE in our extended families after marriage and children has been on a cruise multiple times, many different lines.  In fact, I can name at least three or four lines we cruised on that no longer exist! But, we always liked the full-service cruises with all the bells and whistles.
This past year brother and I both did different Viking cruises (me-river, him-ocean). Okay, the river cruise boats are so small you can see the whole boat in about an hour!  Yes, it is kind of fun and relaxing, but extremely cozy, and it is a week without any kind of fun evening activities (many people just sit at the bar and drink).  We took a walking tour every day, as every day is a port.  Brother said he missed the non-stop evening activities on Viking Ocean, he missed the art auctions(?!), and also the dress-up night with photographers, although they enjoyed the tranquility.  Again, a different port every day.  The adults-only did not really affect us, although I am not sure that I would want to cruise on a ship that was more than 50% children. 
I have to say that depending on my travel mood or interest at certain years, different types of cruises will appeal to me at different times, including destination, cruise line, itinerary, price, etc. Just to be clear, we do many other different types of trips--all inclusive resorts, driving trips, tours, etc., etc., but I 100% agree that the serenity of the ocean and the glorious sunsets, the night sky full of stars, and all the great ship activities make us totally loyal to the cruise experience. 
I like RC just because of the big ships and all the crazy activities (husband ALWAYS attempts the rock-climbing wall!), and it is fun to hear what is happening currently on this forum. Last Summer we cruised the Med on Princess, this Summer back in the Med on Cunard, next Spring on RC in the Caribbean, and in-between several other types of travel and adventures (ski trips, tours).  We usually do an A-I resort every few years or so--we have great prices and great connections here on the East coast. 
The truth is, I love to travel, and I love to cruise, but remember, variety is the spice of life, so don't be afraid to try different travel experiences whenever you need a change! The ocean will always be waiting for you to return.  Bon voyage!

I am not a long time poster, but I am certainly a long-time cruiser! 
I did not join any travel forums until the past few years when my work schedule became less crazy.
My father was in the Navy in WW II, and his love of water meant that our whole family cruised together starting more than 50 years ago!  Those were the days--one dinner time, one restaurant, no televisions, no casinos, bunk beds,--it was the ship, entertainment, and ports.  I guess it helped that our first cruise went from Venice all the way to the Black Sea for multiple weeks.
So, EVERYONE in our extended families after marriage and children has been on a cruise multiple times, many different lines.  In fact, I can name at least three or four lines we cruised on that no longer exist! But, we always liked the full-service cruises with all the bells and whistles.
This past year brother and I both did different Viking cruises (me-river, him-ocean). Okay, the river cruise boats are so small you can see the whole boat in about an hour!  Yes, it is kind of fun and relaxing, but extremely cozy, and it is a week without any kind of fun evening activities (many people just sit at the bar and drink).  We took a walking tour every day, as every day is a port.  Brother said he missed the non-stop evening activities on Viking Ocean, he missed the art auctions(?!), and also the dress-up night with photographers, although they enjoyed the tranquility.  Again, a different port every day.  The adults-only did not really affect us, although I am not sure that I would want to cruise on a ship that was more than 50% children. 
I have to say that depending on my travel mood or interest at certain years, different types of cruises will appeal to me at different times, including destination, cruise line, itinerary, price, etc. Just to be clear, we do many other different types of trips--all inclusive resorts, driving trips, tours, etc., etc., but I 100% agree that the serenity of the ocean and the glorious sunsets, the night sky full of stars, and all the great ship activities make us totally loyal to the cruise experience. 
I like RC just because of the big ships and all the crazy activities (husband ALWAYS attempts the rock-climbing wall!), and it is fun to hear what is happening currently on this forum. Last Summer we cruised the Med on Princess, this Summer back in the Med on Cunard, next Spring on RC in the Caribbean, and in-between several other types of travel and adventures (ski trips, tours).  We usually do an A-I resort every few years or so--we have great prices and great connections here on the East coast. 
The truth is, I love to travel, and I love to cruise, but remember, variety is the spice of life, so don't be afraid to try different travel experiences whenever you need a change! The ocean will always be waiting for you to return.  Bon voyage!

I am not a long time poster, but I am certainly a long-time cruiser! 
I did not join any travel forums until the past few years when my work schedule became less crazy.
My father was in the Navy in WW II, and his love of water meant that our whole family cruised together starting more than 50 years ago!  Those were the days--one dinner time, one restaurant, no televisions, no casinos, bunk beds,--it was the ship, entertainment, and ports.  I guess it helped that our first cruise went from Venice all the way to the Black Sea for multiple weeks.
So, EVERYONE in our extended families after marriage and children has been on a cruise multiple times, many different lines.  In fact, I can name at least three or four lines we cruised on that no longer exist! But, we always liked the full-service cruises with all the bells and whistles.
This past year brother and I both did different Viking cruises (me-river, him-ocean). Okay, the river cruise boats are so small you can see the whole boat in about an hour!  Yes, it is kind of fun and relaxing, but extremely cozy, and it is a week without any kind of fun evening activities (many people just sit at the bar and drink).  We took a walking tour every day, as every day is a port.  Brother said he missed the non-stop evening activities on Viking Ocean, he missed the art auctions(?!), and also the dress-up night with photographers, although they enjoyed the tranquility.  Again, a different port every day.  The adults-only did not really affect us, although I am not sure that I would want to cruise on a ship that was more than 50% children. 
I have to say that depending on my travel mood or interest at certain years, different types of cruises will appeal to me at different times, including destination, cruise line, itinerary, price, etc. Just to be clear, we do many other different types of trips--all inclusive resorts, driving trips, tours, etc., etc., but I 100% agree that the serenity of the ocean and the glorious sunsets, the night sky full of stars, and all the great ship activities make us totally loyal to the cruise experience. 
I like RC just because of the big ships and all the crazy activities (husband ALWAYS attempts the rock-climbing wall!), and it is fun to hear what is happening currently on this forum. Last Summer we cruised the Med on Princess, this Summer back in the Med on Cunard, next Spring on RC in the Caribbean, and in-between several other types of travel and adventures (ski trips, tours).  We usually do an A-I resort every few years or so--we have great prices and great connections here on the East coast. 
The truth is, I love to travel, and I love to cruise, but remember, variety is the spice of life, so don't be afraid to try different travel experiences whenever you need a change! The ocean will always be waiting for you to return.  Bon voyage!

California residents must wait until 2pm to board

That, and I HAVE to fly to a good resort. I can drive to the ports and save a lot of money doing it

Just got off Icon this morning. I have mixed feelings. Loved everything about the interior of the ship. Shows were phenomenal, crew excellent.
The top decks were just too much/too busy. Flow was not good. Did not like The Hideaway and really missed the solarium. Don't really have a desire to sail that class again. Had a great time but it just felt chaotic at times. 
 
Oasis class is still my favorite. 
 
Really looking forward to Discovery Class
Have Celebrity booked next summer because Royal reduced European itineraries significantly IMO

Gross ton per passenger is a highly misleading since most of the space is not space passengers physically occupy.

But I ran the numbers a while back for RC ships


Ship Single Occ Full Occ Gross Tons SO space rate FO space rate Mariner 3114 3807 139863 44.9 36.7 Icon 5610 7600 250800 44.7 33 Star 5610 7600 250800 44.7 33 Adventure 3114 3840 138194 44.4 36 Explorer 3114 3840 138194 44.4 36 Voyager 3114 3840 138194 44.4 36 Independence 3634 4375 155889 42.9 35.6 Jewel 2112 2502 90090 42.7 36 Brilliance 2142 2543 90090 42.1 35.4 Radiance 2143 2466 90090 42 36.5 Serenade 2146 2476 90090 42 36.4 Oasis 5400 6780 226838 42 33.5 Utopia 5668 6788 236860 41.8 34.9 Navigator 3376 4000 139999 41.5 35 Freedom 3782 4515 156271 41.3 34.6 Symphony 5518 6680 228081 41.3 34.1 Harmony 5497 6687 226963 41.3 33.9 Wonder 5734 6988 236857 41.3 33.9 Allure 5492 6780 225282 41 33.2 Liberty 3798 4960 155889 41 31.4 Anthem 4180 4905 168666 40.4 34.4 Ovation 4180 4905 168666 40.4 34.4 Quantum 4180 4905 168666 40.4 34.4 Odyssey 4200 5510 167704 39.9 30.4 Spectrum 4246 5622 169379 39.9 30.1 Rhapsody 1998 2416 78878 39.5 32.6 Vision 2050 2514 78717 38.4 31.3 Grandeur 1992 2440 73817 37.1 30.3 Enchantment 2252 2730 82910 36.8 30.4

I have to admit that before my first cruise on an Oasis class ship - Allure of the Seas, I had the same concerns as the OP.  But when I went on the ship, I had a fantastic time.  I actually liked having all the activities to choose from.  Since I enjoy walking the jogging track and spent a lot of time on the upper decks, I didn't feel any lack of connection to the sea. I do agree with others though that it would be better if there were more indoor areas with ocean views.  I missed having a spot like the Viking Crown Lounge.

For us, the itinerary is everything, since we are traveling. I agree with OP that smaller ships make the sea more accessible. Medium-sized ships have a Promenade and quiet spots, too. I can also see the appeal of larger ships for family reunions.

I've been thinking about this for several months.  I don't want to sound like a grumpy or winey old man. I think, in the end, my wife and I are done with the big ships.  I know many here love them, and I've been trying to put my finger on why we didn't like our cruise last October on the Mardi Gras... yes, I know this is a Royal fan site, but Royal even more than Carnival is in the big ship game.  If this post offends you, please back out of it while I try to make a short, but I think relevant point that I think some here will agree with.
For my wife, it was simply the number of people jammed onto the ship, the poor service associated with managing 6500 people in such a small space, ect.  She probably wouldn't go back for free if offered.
For me, it was something different.  I didn't like the crowds that were everywhere all the time.  I didn't like having to use my phone on the ship to make reservations, but that really wasn't it.  I think it was the loss of connection with the sea.  It used to be when on a cruise, you were one with the sea.  There were great vantage points everywhere, and people would stand at the rail staring at it, being part of it, looking a the horizon, perhaps daydreaming of what could be or what could have been.
Now with all the activities and people, the ships are more like an amusement part, and the people are everywhere.  On the Mardi Gras, in the public areas, the rails are higher and set back from the side by an extra foot... the panoramic view is substantially cut for people of average height.  On these ships, the sea has become just another interstate.  It's nothing more than a way for the cruise line to kill time while they fill you with food, drink, and activities that drive revenue.
I haven't been to this site or posted as much in the last six months, and I think, sadly, it's because I've lost a lot of interest in cruising.  Again, not wanting to be a winey child, I've really tried to figure out why I didn't enjoy that trip at all, and wondered if any of the long time posters here have any of the same thoughts.

Multiple (bordering on endless) Facebook posts week after week, that at least one pool on Icon has been closed every single day of every cruise. This is due to parents allowing children who are not potty trained to go in the pools. Apparently many times it's the main large pool. Once it happens it's closed for the entire day to clean. People please don't be selfish. If your child is not potty trained, stick to splash pads. It literally takes a pool for 7000 people out of commission for the entire day. Selfish and ridiculous. 

Why isn't this in my cruise planner? And will it be 30% off pre-cruise?

Okay, errors happen all the time, but if you do not have a travel agent to oversee this, then you have to stay calm and try to negotiate what will be in your best interests.
Saying you will never set foot on a RC ship and they are a horrible company does not get too much cooperation from an agent.  Calm down, take a deep breath, and consider the options more rationally.  Yes, it was their error, so yes, they need to make it up to you as you are a loyal customer.
You also should ask to have the situation escalated to a supervisor.  If you do not go on the June 6th cruise, it will not be the end of the world.  Instead, you need to see what is the best possible alternative RC can offer you--upgraded cabin, additional onboard credit, bigger ship, longer cruise--see what else is out there that could be of potential interest. Maybe book two cruises for the price of the one you miss! Also, in the future, check your reservation every week or so, which is what travel agents have to do.
I mean, the ship could have had to go into dry dock for some kind of issue, and you would still miss the date, but you would probably not have to be so furious.  I have lost so many trips the past few years due to Covid, war in Israel, Russian invasion, etc., that anymore I consider it great if everything does work out perfectly.  Hopefully there will also be future opportunities for more travel!  Best wishes!

Here’s relaxing for you:

Okay, errors happen all the time, but if you do not have a travel agent to oversee this, then you have to stay calm and try to negotiate what will be in your best interests.
Saying you will never set foot on a RC ship and they are a horrible company does not get too much cooperation from an agent.  Calm down, take a deep breath, and consider the options more rationally.  Yes, it was their error, so yes, they need to make it up to you as you are a loyal customer.
You also should ask to have the situation escalated to a supervisor.  If you do not go on the June 6th cruise, it will not be the end of the world.  Instead, you need to see what is the best possible alternative RC can offer you--upgraded cabin, additional onboard credit, bigger ship, longer cruise--see what else is out there that could be of potential interest. Maybe book two cruises for the price of the one you miss! Also, in the future, check your reservation every week or so, which is what travel agents have to do.
I mean, the ship could have had to go into dry dock for some kind of issue, and you would still miss the date, but you would probably not have to be so furious.  I have lost so many trips the past few years due to Covid, war in Israel, Russian invasion, etc., that anymore I consider it great if everything does work out perfectly.  Hopefully there will also be future opportunities for more travel!  Best wishes!

Okay, errors happen all the time, but if you do not have a travel agent to oversee this, then you have to stay calm and try to negotiate what will be in your best interests.
Saying you will never set foot on a RC ship and they are a horrible company does not get too much cooperation from an agent.  Calm down, take a deep breath, and consider the options more rationally.  Yes, it was their error, so yes, they need to make it up to you as you are a loyal customer.
You also should ask to have the situation escalated to a supervisor.  If you do not go on the June 6th cruise, it will not be the end of the world.  Instead, you need to see what is the best possible alternative RC can offer you--upgraded cabin, additional onboard credit, bigger ship, longer cruise--see what else is out there that could be of potential interest. Maybe book two cruises for the price of the one you miss! Also, in the future, check your reservation every week or so, which is what travel agents have to do.
I mean, the ship could have had to go into dry dock for some kind of issue, and you would still miss the date, but you would probably not have to be so furious.  I have lost so many trips the past few years due to Covid, war in Israel, Russian invasion, etc., that anymore I consider it great if everything does work out perfectly.  Hopefully there will also be future opportunities for more travel!  Best wishes!

Okay, errors happen all the time, but if you do not have a travel agent to oversee this, then you have to stay calm and try to negotiate what will be in your best interests.
Saying you will never set foot on a RC ship and they are a horrible company does not get too much cooperation from an agent.  Calm down, take a deep breath, and consider the options more rationally.  Yes, it was their error, so yes, they need to make it up to you as you are a loyal customer.
You also should ask to have the situation escalated to a supervisor.  If you do not go on the June 6th cruise, it will not be the end of the world.  Instead, you need to see what is the best possible alternative RC can offer you--upgraded cabin, additional onboard credit, bigger ship, longer cruise--see what else is out there that could be of potential interest. Maybe book two cruises for the price of the one you miss! Also, in the future, check your reservation every week or so, which is what travel agents have to do.
I mean, the ship could have had to go into dry dock for some kind of issue, and you would still miss the date, but you would probably not have to be so furious.  I have lost so many trips the past few years due to Covid, war in Israel, Russian invasion, etc., that anymore I consider it great if everything does work out perfectly.  Hopefully there will also be future opportunities for more travel!  Best wishes!

Okay, errors happen all the time, but if you do not have a travel agent to oversee this, then you have to stay calm and try to negotiate what will be in your best interests.
Saying you will never set foot on a RC ship and they are a horrible company does not get too much cooperation from an agent.  Calm down, take a deep breath, and consider the options more rationally.  Yes, it was their error, so yes, they need to make it up to you as you are a loyal customer.
You also should ask to have the situation escalated to a supervisor.  If you do not go on the June 6th cruise, it will not be the end of the world.  Instead, you need to see what is the best possible alternative RC can offer you--upgraded cabin, additional onboard credit, bigger ship, longer cruise--see what else is out there that could be of potential interest. Maybe book two cruises for the price of the one you miss! Also, in the future, check your reservation every week or so, which is what travel agents have to do.
I mean, the ship could have had to go into dry dock for some kind of issue, and you would still miss the date, but you would probably not have to be so furious.  I have lost so many trips the past few years due to Covid, war in Israel, Russian invasion, etc., that anymore I consider it great if everything does work out perfectly.  Hopefully there will also be future opportunities for more travel!  Best wishes!