On a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to try boogie boarding or surfing right onboard the ship.

Picture yourself standing tall on rushing waves, surfing over a dark blue sea.

Royal Caribbean is the only cruise line to offer a surf simulator like this.

The FlowRider is a stand-alone surfing simulator with 30,000 gallons of water gushing over a curved surface.

Whether you’re an experienced surfer, or riding the board is something you’ve always wanted to try, you’ll be able to use the FlowRider for free on your cruise.

Essentially, there are two different activities you could try on the FlowRider.

You can Boogie board, which is just riding lying down, with your stomach on the board.

Once you gain more experience, then you can begin to stand up and start surfing the waves with your feet planted on the board. This is the traditional surfing technique.

Royal Caribbean has different requirements for each step of the activity.

What is the FlowRider?

The FlowRider is a surf simulator that quickly pumps rushing water over a curved, thick vinyl material. Guests can get on a board in the middle and attempt to ride the strong waves.

The FlowRider was originally created as a land attraction but has since combined with Royal Caribbean to bring the ride to cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean’s website states that using the FlowRider is an extreme sport with a high risk of injury. Falling in the wrong manner could result in serious injury to the head, neck, back, hips, arms, and legs.

You will be required to stretch, watch safety videos, and sign a waiver before riding. 

Royal Caribbean crew members take your safety very seriously when it comes to using the FlowRider.

The FlowRider is located on the following ships:

• Adventure of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey Of The Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Voyager of the Seas
• Spectrum Of The Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder Of The Seas
• Icon of the Seas

Oasis Class ships have two FlowRiders onboard. It is usually located on the aft of the ship on the highest deck.

How much does the FlowRider cost?

The FlowRider comes free of charge with your cruise fare.

However, you will have to wait in line with other guests to be allowed a turn. The lines can stretch on for quite some time, so keep in mind that the earlier you arrive, the shorter the line will be. 

For example, lines are shortest on embarkation day and early in the morning. The lines will be longest on sea days and in the afternoon or evening.

Private lessons, however, cost extra. 

For a 1-hour lesson, you can expect to pay $69 per person. These are group lessons, with a minimum of 4 people and a maximum of 8 people.

Read more: First ever FlowRider professional lessons offered on Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas

During this group lesson, staff will help you learn to properly stand up on the board and balance while on top of a wave.

You also have the option to rent the FlowRider area for 1 hour, for $345 total. Advanced riders who want more time on the waves can book this option.

Guests wanting a private lesson and access to the area for 1 hour can pay $552 total. This allows you to rent out the wave area and receive coaching with your entire group.

What are the restrictions for using the FlowRider?

Guests need to be at least 6 years old to ride the Flowriders. Ages 12 and under must also be accompanied by an adult.

Guests must also be at least 52 inches tall to use the bodyboard for Boogie boarding and 58 inches tall to use the flowboard for surfing. 

No footwear, jewelry, watches, goggles, or cameras are allowed.

We recommend that guests wear tight clothing or cover-ups over their swimsuits. Remember that this is a high-energy activity in the waves, so swim tops are likely to come loose.

Royal Caribbean provides surfboards for the experience, but you can bring your own board if it is one specifically made for FlowRiders. If you do, you will be required to sign a board waiver and staff will inspect it for any damage.

Additionally, you can perform any surf tricks you like, but the board must remain between you and the water.

How can I surf on the FlowRider?

If you’re new to the FlowRider, you’ll have to start by Boogie boarding. You will lie flat on your stomach and try to balance on the waves.

Look for the times on your Cruise Compass labeled “Boogie Boarding” or “Mixed Waves.”

You will need to first complete the safety briefing and sign a waiver. Once signed, staff will give you a blue bracelet that signifies you are ready to ride.

During these open sessions, everyone who completes the waiver will be given a wristband and cleared for their first attempt.

You can, of course, just lay on your stomach and ride the waves. Try to keep your elbows tucked in and your legs in the water.

However, if you want to try traditional surfing, you can advance to the next step of trying to stand up.

You can let staff know that you’re ready to try standing up. On your turn, you will usually receive two attempts to try and stand up, balancing on the powerful waves.

These two attempts are per day! Staff do not allow people to get back in line and keep trying.

For guest safety, Royal Caribbean has careful rules about who is allowed to continue stand-up surfing. (These are adjusted often, and not clearly posted anywhere.)

Read more: I learned how to surf on a weekend cruise. Here is my advice if you want to try it too

If you aren’t able to stand up on the board during your try and want to attempt stand-up surfing, this is where you may benefit from one of those group lessons. 

During your dedicated hour, staff will make sure you receive tips and coaching on how to balance on the board.

Usually, you will exit this lesson with a white wristband, denoting that you are a safe, advanced FlowRider.

The most common criteria are that you can start by standing up on the board, pushing yourself away from the wall and remaining steady on the waves.

The staff use their own discretion to make sure you will be able to surf safely.

Once you are an advanced FlowRider, you can surf during “Mixed Waves” or “Advanced Stand Up Surfing.”

This is a great opportunity because once you have your wristband you can go to the advanced sessions, getting more time on the board away from all the newbies.

For those attempting surfing for the first time, put all of your weight on your back foot. Stand up straight with an open chest, and keep both feet planted on the board. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are reservations required?

No, reservations are not required. For complimentary usage, you can wait in line with other guests.

If you are renting a private lesson, you can speak to staff about reserving time on the Flowrider at an extra cost.

Does it cost extra?

No, using the Flowrider does not cost extra!

However, if you want to book private lessons, prices start at $69 an hour.

What time is it open?

Times offered usually vary.

Check the Royal Caribbean app or Cruise Compass to see what times are offered.

Remember that you can Boogie board during “Boogie boarding” and “Mixed Wave.” You can surf during “Mixed Wave” and “Advanced Surfing.”

How does a cruise ship rotate 9,000 passengers and 20 trucks of provisions over the course of 8 hours?

If you’ve ever taken a cruise before, you might find yourself wondering how the ship gets ready for a sailing.

Most cruises happen back-to-back, meaning passengers disembark on the same day new passengers arrive.

Between sailings, cruise ships have a single “turnaround day,” when the guests from the previous sailing are disembarking and the new guests are entering.

At a Captain's Corner event on a recent Anthem of the Seas cruise, a passenger asked how staff prepare for all the logistics of a turnaround day.

Captain’s Corner is an informal Q&A, usually held with the ship’s captain, activities director, and hotel director. 

Guests can pose all their pressing questions, and have them answered directly.

The author with Captain Srecko Ban.

This 2024 Captain’s Corner event was attended by Captain Srecko Ban, hotel director Adrian Gheorghe, and cruise activities director Katie Knowles.

What goes on behind the scenes to get all the logistics in place?

The author with hotel director Adrian Gheorghe.

A guest asked what goes on behind the scenes to get the ship ready for sailing. 

“It seems like a huge undertaking with all the logistics to get stuff onboard,” they said. 

Anthem of the Seas’ hotel director, Adrian Gheorghe, answered this question. 

Hailing from Romania, he started out as a cleaner and worked his way up through guest services over the past 21.

Gheorghe has served as Anthem’s hotel director for the past 6 years.

Anthem of the Seas is a large Quantum Class ship, measuring 1,138 feet in length, 136 feet in width, and 168,367 gross tons. 

“Originally, when we started building our big, big ships, the discussion was around how many guests we [can] have on board our ship,” Gheorghe said.

Anthem is capable of holding 4,905 passengers and 1,500 crew members.

The ship has 2,090 staterooms and 16 guest decks, so that’s a lot of space to prepare for a sailing!

“But it’s all about how you never feel that you’re sharing with so many guests onboard.”

Gheorghe explained that the ships are designed so that you never feel overwhelmed by the amount of other people onboard. 

Through various spaces and lines, guests are moved around so that there are never too many people in one area at a time.

On turnaround day, you’d never guess that almost 9,000 passengers are rotating off and on the cruise ship!

Read more: What's the earliest time I can get off my cruise ship when it's over?

Cruise ships go straight from one cruise to the next 

Gheorghe said that turn-around day takes place over 8 hours, over which the cruise ship rotates about 9,000 passengers.

During this time period, the ship’s staff only have about one to 1.5 hours without guests onboard. 

It is “quite an intense operation.”

Several strategies ensure that guests aren’t packed together.

On disembarkation day, you’ll notice that departure times are usually very staggered.

Royal Caribbean divides guests into groups, depending on whether they are bringing luggage with them or receiving luggage assistance. 

Guests who are bringing their luggage off themselves usually receive the earliest disembarkation time, starting around 7:30 A.M.

With over 50 different groups departing at different times, Royal Caribbean can stagger guests and prevent a mass departure of almost 5,000 people at once.

Read more: 8 reasons to get off your ship as early as possible on disembarkation day

The cruise line also asks guests to wait for their departure out of the stateroom, so that staff has time to clean and get ready for the next guests.

On embarkation day, the ship arrives at port very early in the morning and usually allows guests to enter the cruise terminal around 10 A.M.

Arrivals into the ship are also staggered over 3-4 hours, usually starting around 11 A.M.

Guests who arrive earlier than their scheduled arrival time may be turned away. This ensures that guests don’t arrive at the cruise terminal or enter the ship all at once.

Staterooms are usually opened for incoming guests at about 1 P.M. on embarkation day, allowing enough time for staff to thoroughly clean and prepare every cabin.

Read more: 15 Royal Caribbean boarding process tips for a fast embarkation

The ship also needs new provisions loaded on

Gheorghe called turnaround day “one of our most intense experiences,” saying that it’s a huge accomplishment that crew members can make the day move along efficiently.

“Over the years, we learned the secrets of how to be effective in rotating the ship and preparing it for our guests.” 

Gheorghe explained that they work in four major steps, prioritizing preparation in order of which areas guests see first.

First, they start by preparing the main public areas like the pool decks and Royal Esplanade, making sure the spaces are empty and clear.

Then, the staff focuses on the staterooms: cleaning the room and bathroom and replacing linens, like sheets and towels. Everything is sanitized in preparation for the incoming guests.

Read more: 30 cruise ship embarkation day do’s and don’ts

The third focus is on back-of-the-house operations, loading trucks full of supplies and provisions.

The cruise ship will load all the supplies needed to operate over the length of the next sailing, such as provisions, alcohol, technical equipment, and supplies like toilet paper. 

A fact sheet passed out during the Captain’s Corner event had information on how many supplies Anthem of the Seas uses in a week.

In an average week, guests and crew members consume:

• 15,600 pounds of beef
• 16,000 pounds of chicken 
• 10,517 pounds of pork
• 1,800 pounds of lobster
• 11,000 pounds of seafood
• 4,000 pounds of salmon
• 86,400 fresh eggs

• 16,500 pounds of flour
• 3,500 pounds of sugar
• 1,500 pounds of coffee
• 45,000 pounds of fresh fruit
• 62,000 pounds of fresh vegetables
• 600 pounds of fresh berries

• 18,000 pounds of potatoes
• 8,000 gallons of ice cream
• 8,000 gallons of milk
• 5,800 pounds of cheese
• 10,200 bottles of beer
• 11,500 cans of soda
• 2,225 bottles of wine
• 175 bottles of whiskey
• 550 bottles of vodka
• 18,000 slices of pizza

Gheorghe said these provisions require delivery from 15 to 20 full trucks.

“Why is it that we always load booze first? Quality control. We have to open all the bottles and make sure they taste good,” he joked.

Lastly, staff loads all the luggage from the arriving guests. Luggage arrivals are also staggered, and delivery can stretch into the afternoon. 

Gheorghe shared that a high number of trolleys are moving the luggage, at the same time that cleaning, sanitation, and other preparation is going on.

This month, I sailed onboard Anthem of the Seas in the cheapest cabin possible. 

It turned out to be an interior virtual balcony room, with a high-definition screen.

Anthem of the Seas is a newer Quantum Class ship, originally launched in 2015.

She has 2,090 staterooms in total, able to hold over 4,000 passengers at double occupancy.

With 16 guest decks, Anthem is a large, comfortable ship great for families and cruisers looking for multiple activities. 

Anthem of the Seas provided a high-tech, comfortable cruise experience beyond my expectations.

For my cruise on Anthem, I booked the cheapest possible room through the guarantee cabin process.

The total for this 7-night cruise (including pre-paid gratuities) was $1914.38, which breaks down to about $137 per night, per person.

Royal Caribbean assigned me the cabin for a lower overall price.

However, this meant I wasn’t assigned the room until a few weeks before the cruise.

When I arrived onboard, I realized that I had been assigned a virtual balcony stateroom—my first time seeing this type of cabin.

A virtual balcony is a method cruise ships have introduced to bring an ocean view to windowless inside cabins. 

A high-definition, 80-inch screen replaces a window in the cabin, instead playing a live feed of the view outside. The screen shows you a real-time look at what is going on outside, almost as if you did have a balcony room.

Royal Caribbean first pioneered these cabins on Quantum of the Seas, Anthem’s sister in the Quantum Class.

Read more: 10 Awesome things to do on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas

I was excited to see the strong points of this stateroom category that I've never tried.

My stateroom was located on Deck 8 towards the front of the ship, a great middle location. This made it easy for me to walk down to the Royal Esplanade on Deck 5, or to take a quick elevator ride up to the Windjammer and pool area on Deck 14. 

Because Anthem's middle decks are all dedicated to guest cabins, my travel companion and I had a very quiet area to sleep in. 

We didn’t suffer from the banging noises of the anchor below or stomping feet above.

When we first walked in, I immediately noticed the large, glowing screen on the far wall. The virtual screen stretched from the floor to the ceiling, projecting a live feed of the outside area.

Although having a live feed in the room felt eerie at first, I found that it was actually very nice to get a peek at what was going on around me. 

When it was raining, I could take a look at the screen and see the wet weather right away.

When the ship arrived at Perfect Day at CocoCay, I saw the blue waters from the comfort of my stateroom.

In a regular interior cabin, you are more cut off from the ship’s surroundings, clueless to what’s going on unless you leave the room and head to another deck.

The feed stayed on 24/7, and although Royal Caribbean’s website says you can switch the screen off, I never found a way to do so.

Unfortunately, the bright screen kept glowing into the night, even though the view was nothing but black.

We could cover it with the white and blue curtains, but they didn’t serve to completely block the blue light.

This was one disadvantage of staying in a virtual balcony cabin because I usually love the deep darkness of a windowless inside cabin.

If the curtains weren’t adjusted perfectly in front of the screen, the light still shone into the room, keeping me up at night.

To the left of the screen, I saw a quality dresser with drawers and a lamp on top. Inside the dresser was the cabin’s mini-fridge, which I didn’t use enough to tell if it kept food cold. I just stored fruit or desserts inside.

Beside the dresser, I found the cabin’s vanity/desk. 

The white chair in front was stylish and had a useful handle on the back. I could easily grab the handle to pull the chair out from the desk.

Above the table space sat a few cubbies for storage, and various ports for charging. From American to European to USB ports, this area provided several options.

The only downside here was that we left all our devices to charge on the desk, cluttering up the area.

I liked the sleek, modern look and feel of this wood furniture, but the ring light seemed dimmer than in other cabins I’ve stayed in. 

Opposite the dresser and vanity sat a long, blue couch. It was large enough for both myself and my friend to sit on it, and also leave bags and clothes there when we needed them.

The cushions and pillows matched the dark blue shade of the stateroom.

The cabin's design felt very modern, and everything was clean and tidy. However, I had one major gripe with the cabin’s layout: storage.

Typically, Royal Caribbean staterooms have one large closet in the front of the room, and various drawers and shelves throughout.

This cabin split the closet into two parts instead: one on either side of the beds.

The left side held a closet with more shelf space and a safe for security. The right side had a more traditional closet, with space and hangers for tall clothes and jackets.

My travel companion and I had to decide if we would split our clothes into both sides, leaving us to walk around the beds and each other every time it was time to put together an outfit.

Or, we could compromise and one of us could have all the shelf space, while the other got to hang all her clothes.

We went with the second option, but I still felt annoyed that the closet was split into two separate areas.

I did love the extra shelf space above the beds—these cabinets were deep and wide, and there was one above each bed.

One design problem I noticed with my cabinet was that it opened from the top, and the corner would hit the closet door each time. 

The only way I could solve this was by leaving the closet door open whenever I opened up the cabinet. 

Between the beds, there were two nightstands with large shelf space. As I am now used to, there were no USB ports or outlets in these nightstands by the beds.

And above each bed was a warm, golden lamp.

Past these beds, I found the cabin’s bathroom.

Although it was small, I thought that it was one of the most modern-looking and clean bathrooms I’ve seen.

The shower had a wide, curved door, giving us just a little more space inside.

The bathroom counter was long, with a large sink. Strangely enough, the counter beside the sink was thinner than the sink itself. 

However, there was still enough shelf space above and below the sink where I could store toiletries.

The bathroom had several hooks for items, but the size and shape seemed ill-suited to hang towels on. When I tried to hang towels on the hooks, they would slide right off.

All-in-all, the room was clean and modern, with some design changes compared to the cabin layout I’m used to. 

While I enjoyed the cabin overall, some of these design changes were less efficient than others.

What’s the best way to get to a cruise port with limited airport access?

Port Canaveral has become one of the busiest cruise ports in the world, welcoming over 4 million cruise passengers in 2022.

Royal Caribbean ships like Wonder of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, and Adventure of the Seas regularly sail out of this port.

Royal Caribbean’s newest Oasis Class ship, Utopia of the Seas, will also begin sailing from Port Canaveral in the summer of 2024.

The port—which also serves cargo and shipping lines—makes 80% of its revenue from cruise business. 

It’s a popular location to embark on many exciting cruise adventures.

Read more: Utopia of the Seas: Itinerary, features, and more

However, Port Canaveral doesn’t have immediate airport access.

Airports range from 32 to 71 miles away, making it more difficult to travel directly to the port.

If your cruise ship sails out of Port Canaveral, you will have to do your homework to find the best way to get to your cruise.

There are four airports you can fly into to reach Port Canaveral: Orlando Airport (MCO), Melbourne Airport (MLB), Sanford Airport (SFB), and Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB).

Here’s a guide on how to choose the best airport for your trip.

Where is Port Canaveral?

Port Canaveral is the maritime gateway to Central Florida. 

It is located 45 minutes east of downtown Orlando, on the eastern coast of Florida in Brevard County. 

The location makes a cruise from Port Canaveral a great time to stop at the famous theme parks in Orlando. Several parks are located within driving distance, such as:

• Disney World (1 hour and 15 minutes from Port Canaveral)
• Universal Studios (1 hour from Port Canaveral)
• SeaWorld Orlando (55 minutes from Port Canaveral)
• Kennedy Space Center (30 minutes from Port Canaveral)

Access to the Cocoa Beach Pier, just 10 minutes south, also allows you to stop and enjoy the sunshine on a Florida beach.

With the distance between the airports and Port Canaveral, it makes sense to stop for a few days in Florida and appreciate the popular attractions in the area.

Extending your trip by a few days will give you a travel buffer for any mishaps and allow you to enjoy what the Orlando area has to offer.

How do I get to my cruise terminal?

There are a few transportation options between the airport and Port Canaveral. 

You could choose a rideshare app such as Uber or Lyft, and get dropped off at your cruise terminal.

If you research and book ahead of time, there are also shared or private shuttles that travel from the airport to Port Canaveral.

You can also rent a car at the airport and drive to the cruise terminal yourself.

Port Canaveral is an “L” shape, with a total of 6 cruise ship terminals.

Royal Caribbean ships usually sail out of terminal 1, called CT1. However, some Royal Caribbean ships also use terminal 5 (or CT5). 

Make sure you double-check where your ship will be on embarkation day. 

To get to Terminal 1, you will need to take exit 54B toward the south side of the port. To get to Terminal 5, you need to take exit 54A to the north side of the port.

Always double-check at each step in your transportation so you don’t miss your ship!

When should I get to my cruise terminal?

The Orlando area—specifically I-4—is infamous for rush-hour traffic, so be sure to budget plenty of travel time from the airport to the port.

You should always plan for your flight to arrive the day before your cruise begins, since a flight the morning of could be delayed or even canceled.

Many reputable hotels close to Port Canaveral make it convenient to stay the night there. 

In the morning, you can take advantage of the hotel's shuttle service directly to your cruise terminal.

This is the best way to avoid any delays. Remember that your ship is not required to wait for you, and you don't want to miss your entire vacation!

Read more: I've never been on a cruise, but spent a week researching what I need to know. My top 11 important lessons I think I learned

For your return flight, it’s recommended that you book your flight home after noon on the day of disembarkation.

Cruise ships return to the port early in the morning and usually start disembarkation by 7 A.M. However, it can still take 2-3 hours for everyone to get off the ship.

You could get off anywhere between 8-10 A.M., but delays are always possible.

Once you factor in travel time to the airport, plus check-in and security screening, it’s easy to see how an afternoon flight will give you the most peace of mind.

I would always rather wait in the airport hours before my booked flight than miss it altogether.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

The most popular and convenient airport in the Port Canaveral area is the Orlando International Airport (MCO).

MCO is located 45 minutes, or approximately 44 miles west of Port Canaveral.

It is one of the busiest airports in the country, with major service to the city of Orlando and its surrounding theme parks.

This means that MCO offers the highest number of options when it comes to airline and flight service. 

However, it can also become very congested, with longer wait times.

Security wait times range anywhere from 10 to 50 minutes, depending on the day and number of planes in the airport.

Even if you are flying domestically, we recommend that you get to the Orlando International Airport at least 3 hours before your flight.

You have a few options for your 45-minute drive from MCO to Port Canaveral.

A rideshare service, such as Uber or Lyft, ranges from $60 to $90. However, prices can vary greatly depending on the time and availability of drivers.

You can also book a shared shuttle service, like Go Port Canaveral or Port to Port Shuttles, ahead of time. These services usually cost (per person) $25 to $30 one way, or $50 to $60 round-trip.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)

Melbourne International Airport is the closest one to Port Canaveral, but also one of the smallest.

MLB is 25 miles south of Port Canaveral, but a drive still takes almost the same amount of travel time as MCO. Depending on traffic, it takes 40-45 minutes to get to Port Canaveral from MLB.

Only five domestic airlines service this airport; American Airlines, Avelo, Allegiant, Delta Airlines, and Sun Country.

Options might be slim when it comes to flying into MLB. You’ll want to do your research carefully before choosing an airport and flight time.

However, a benefit to the small size means that this airport will be less crowded, and take up less of your time at security and check-in. 

Because of the size of the airport, there also aren’t as many shuttle options available. 

Plan ahead by looking at the cost of Uber and Lyft in the area. Uber’s website currently lists a ride from MLB to Port Canaveral at $62 with an Uber X and $78 with an Uber XL.

Orlando/Sanford International Airport (SFB)

The Sanford International Airport is approximately 64 miles northwest of Port Canaveral. Travel time takes one hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic.

Although smaller and further away than Orlando International Airport, SFB offers a few discount flight options. 

SFB mainly features flights from Allegiant Airlines, Flair Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines.

Allegiant Airlines will be your best bet if you’re flying into SFB for a cruise. They offer cheap, domestic flights from many cities in the U.S.

Rideshare transport from SFB to Port Canaveral ranges from $65 to $90. Again, these prices are subject to change and can vary greatly.

Shuttle services are still going to run cheaper. For example, Port Canaveral Quick Shuttle offers one-way rides for $40, or $80 round trip.

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB)

Daytona Beach International Airport is the furthest airport on this list, located 71 miles from Port Canaveral. Travel time takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes.

Daytona Beach International Airport mainly offers domestic flights with Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and Avelo Airlines.

There are no shared shuttle services from DAB to Port Canaveral. 

Your best bet is a rideshare app. Uber rides start at $100 and can go up to $150 or even $200 depending on the time, availability, and type.

Can I drive to Port Canaveral?

Driving your own vehicle is a great way to save money on transportation to the port.

However, when you arrive you will have to park your car. Port Canaveral offers convenient parking with plenty of spaces, but it runs a little pricey.

Currently, parking costs $17 per day, including the days of arrival and departure. The terminal accepts major credit cards but not cash.

The terminal parking lots open at 10 A.M. for embarking passengers, so you can easily park and get directly onboard.

When I first started cruising in August of 2023, I thought I would never even learn the names of all Royal Caribbean’s different ships.

Royal Caribbean currently has seven classes: Icon, Oasis, Quantum, Freedom, Voyager, Radiance, and Vision.

With 28 ships to choose from—and more on the way!—it can feel intimidating to decide which one suits your preferences.

For the new cruiser, selecting the right class of ship to sail on takes a steep learning curve.

Fast forward to today, I’ve now sailed on five ships across four classes. This experience has given me a better grasp of what each class has to offer.

While the cruise line’s ships all stay true to specific branding and design, each class varies a lot when it comes to layout, amenities, atmosphere, and itinerary options.

The best fit for each person comes down to what they enjoy on their cruise vacation.

If you’re looking for a floating resort with activities available onboard, you might prefer a bigger ship. 

But if you’re interested in unique itineraries with multiple ports of call, a smaller class of ship will be a better fit.

Read more: Royal Caribbean ship classes ultimate guide (2024)

I prefer an ambient onboard experience while cruising

My cruising style focuses on the quality of the ship itself. I love ships that have many onboard activities, or a peaceful onboard atmosphere. 

While unique itineraries are fun, they’re not the major draw for me when choosing a cruise.

I don’t mind a not-updated or cheap stateroom, since I enjoy spending time out and about onboard. Most Royal Caribbean ships have a uniform stateroom design, anyway.

My perfect cruise vacation includes a packed schedule of relaxing by the pool, people-watching, enjoying tasty food, and then heading to the nightclub or other entertainment in the evenings.

I don’t usually spend extra money on specialty dining, so I don’t require ships to have many different options when it comes to dining venues. I prefer that the complimentary food tastes high-quality.

I usually cruise with fellow young adults, looking for parties and relaxing spots. I don’t cruise with children, so childcare or kid’s activities don’t factor into my decision-making.

While I enjoy having many different activities to choose from, I like that balanced with a peaceful atmosphere. I dislike too much noise or large crowds, so I prefer ships with a calm ambiance or at least a location where I can get some quiet.

The best kind of ship is one where I have enough to explore over the length of the cruise, but not too much to be overwhelming. 

Oasis Class: Boundless fun

Ships I sailed on: Wonder of the Seas, Allure of the Seas

There’s a lot to love about the Oasis Class. As a new cruiser, these ships blew me away with the breadth of activities and entertainment.

Read more: All about Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class cruise ships

The ships feel huge—packed with food venues, shops, and plenty of other cruisers.

I love how many activities are available onboard, from ice skating to surfing to walking in Central Park. The same applies to specialty dining: there are an endless amount of venues to choose from.

These ships feel less like ships and more like walkable cities. 

The energy is infectious onboard. Crowds gather around and cheer on live musicians, elegant dinners host couples and families, and nightclubs pop with activity and dancing.

I always meet the most people—and make genuine friendships—when I’m on an Oasis Class ship.

However, there are downsides to a ship of this size. I find that you don’t get as many connections with crew members onboard, due to the amount of cruisers and crew members spread all over the ship.

It’s also insanely easy to get lost: I usually need 1-2 days to get my bearings onboard.

And lastly, it’s difficult to book shows. Reservations fill up quickly ahead of time, so I either have to check the app frequently, or get in line half an hour before the show. 

There usually ends up being enough seating, but you have to plan to get into the venue.

Read more: 13 things I wish I'd done differently on my first cruise, from avoiding seasickness to eating at different venues

Freedom Class: Quiet luxury 

Ship I sailed on: Freedom of the Seas

If you want the activity and fun of an Oasis Class ship without all the noise and crowds, I recommend a Freedom Class ship.

This ship felt like an older, more chill version of Wonder of the Seas.

Read more: All about Freedom Class cruise ships

There was plenty to explore onboard, and the ship was in good condition. It also felt less crowded, but still had the fun parties and activities onboard that I enjoyed.

It was easy to reserve or find seating in the shows onboard, and they were fairly good quality! The entertainment wasn’t equal to what you might find on land, but it was plenty of fun for a cruise ship.

When it comes to downsides, the WiFi was incredibly slow on board—especially in the stateroom.

There also isn’t much variety when it comes to specialty food options, and the ship lacks a varied itinerary. 

Radiance Class: Vibrant community

Ship I sailed on: Radiance of the Seas

For a sense of fun yet serenity, Radiance of the Seas was one of my favorite ships.

She is a comparatively smaller ship but with a vibrant nightlife and ample activities.

On my Oasis Class cruises, we joined a community of fellow cruisers onboard. But on Radiance of the Seas, I felt as though I was joining the ship’s community.

Read more: All about Radiance Class cruise ships

Crew members seemed close, and recognized me when I walked around the ship. Captain Marek also brought a personal touch to the sailing by talking with and performing for guests.

Out of all my cruises, Radiance is the only ship where I’ve remembered the name of the captain and other crew members I met while onboard.

The tranquil size and close-knit community made for a peaceful yet warm atmosphere onboard the ship.

As a bonus, Radiance of the Seas is also small enough to attend many diverse ports. I loved getting to experience an entirely new country at our stops in Mexico!

If you’re looking for a pleasant onboard experience, but also want to see exotic ports of call, a Radiance Class ship is the perfect in-between.

Vision Class: Amazing itinerary 

Ship I sailed on: Enchantment of the Seas 

Honestly, I can see why people call Enchantment the worst Royal Caribbean ship.

She’s old—originally launched in 1996—and it shows.

I noticed that the ship was pretty rundown. Lights would flicker or crack in the stateroom, and the elevator also broke down for a full day during my cruise. 

Read more: All about Vision Class cruise ships

Despite the quality of the ship, I loved Enchantment’s complimentary food and ports of call. 

I sailed on her for a seven-day Mediterranean cruise, with a once-in-a-lifetime itinerary. Enchantment’s smaller size allows her to stop at small ports of call, including Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Palma de Mallorca, and Barcelona. 

Being able to visit so many new locations moved all my focus to tours and excursions, leaving little time or energy to explore much onboard.

For the type of cruise I was on, Enchantment does just fine. But a port-focus isn’t my favorite style of cruising.

Should you ask to have your stateroom attendant make up your room in the morning or evening?

Royal Caribbean switched to once-a-day cabin service in February 2023 for standard cabins, and that means you can choose morning or evening service instead of twice a day.  If you're in a suite, you still get twice-a-day service.

Every cabin gets assigned a stateroom attendant who is part of the ship’s housekeeping team. 

They work throughout your cruise to clean and tidy your cabin, take out the trash, replace linens, and keep the area fresh.

Your stateroom attendant also helps with any room requests you might have, such as ice or laundry.

In addition to getting your room cleaned at no extra charge, you will also have the opportunity to choose what time your stateroom attendant comes to clean the room.

On embarkation day, the attendant will introduce themselves and ask what time you prefer your room cleaned: morning or evening?

Read more: 15 Things To Do As Soon as You Get to Your Cruise Cabin

The choice is yours! And it all depends on the vacation schedule you prefer. 

What time you wake up, where you eat, and what activities you go to are all factors you’ll want to consider when selecting a time.

Personally, I always select the evening for the smoothest cruise vacation possible. There are several reasons this is a more efficient choice for many cruisers.

You won’t be rushed out of bed

On my first cruise, I requested to get my room cleaned in the mornings, and I regretted it.

Even on weekends, I’m used to waking up naturally by 8:00 or 9:00 A.M. 

I assumed that I wouldn’t be sleeping in for long on the cruise, and we would already be up and out of the room by the time the steward arrived.

But little did I know, staying in a windowless inside cabin would give me the soundest sleep of my life.

Without windows and natural light to wake me up, I would sleep soundly until 10:00 or even 11:00 A.M! 

Because we slept for so long, we were woken up almost every morning by our steward knocking on the door, ready to freshen up the room.

Of course, I can’t blame her—she wanted to finish cleaning at the time we had requested.

But if I had known how soundly I would sleep in that stateroom, I would have cleared my entire morning schedule.

Sleeping through the morning without a care in the world was a delightful part of that cruise.

By requesting to have your room cleaned at night, you’ll give yourself the freedom to wake up slowly and get dressed in a leisurely manner.

You’ll also be able to enjoy splitting your morning between breakfast, your room, and the pool area without disturbing your steward as they clean.

With an evening cleaning time, you won’t have to worry about your cabin attendant waiting on you to get out!

Read more: I tried the best inside cruise ship cabin hacks to see how well they worked

You’ll never have to make your bed post-afternoon nap

Some cruisers prefer the morning time because they can wake up, hop out of bed, and know that their attendant will come to make the bed soon.

When you’re traveling with a buddy, it’s reassuring to have all parts of cleaning taken care of: no one has to argue over who picks up what or how to make the bed.

Having your bed made after the last sleep of the day is a great idea.

But let’s be realistic; this is vacation! Taking the opportunity to rest as much as possible is the name of the game. 

Whether you prefer mid-morning or afternoon naps, you’ll likely hop back into bed at some point after that morning alarm.

If you choose to have your stateroom cleaned in the evening, naptime will be over and the attendant will come make the bed directly after.

You can gear up for the evening’s activities without worrying about making your bed.

You’re already consistently out of the room for dinner

In my experience, a cruise’s dinner schedule is a much more consistent routine than the breakfast.

Most people order room service for breakfast, make their way up to the Windjammer, or dine in the Main Dining Room in the morning. 

But dinners usually require a specific reservation and consistently take 1.5 to 2 hours.

In the Main Dining Room, you may be assigned a specific time to eat.

If you book a specialty restaurant, you’ll have a certain dinner reservation time to make.

This ensures that you’ll be out of the room at a specific time enjoying your meal and not worrying about if you’ll have to head back to the room at any time.

I prefer to ask my stateroom attendant to come during my traditional assigned time at the Main Dining Room. That way, I plan on heading out of my room anyway, and we all have a consistent time to look forward to each evening.

Sand from the day’s adventures gets cleaned up before bed

What’s a cruise without a day sunning yourself at the beach?

Whether it’s the private shores of Perfect Day at CocoCay, the pink sands in Bermuda, or the famous cool waters of Palma de Mallorca, you’ll likely have at least one beach day on your vacation.

Of course, a day at the beach is something we all dream of. 

But the reality is that the post-clean-up is not so glamorous.

When you come back to your cabin, you’ll likely track in sand and sea salt before you clean up for dinner.

Read more: 30 Cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

With an evening visit from your stateroom attendant, you can quickly shower off the grime, head to dinner, and then return to a fresh cabin without any lingering sand. 

Even if you don’t, many popular shore excursions involve hiking, biking, or long walks that leave you sweaty and tracking in dirt.

If you choose the morning time, you’ll have to languish in sand and dirty towels until the next day. 

By the time your steward comes in the morning, you might already be at your next messy adventure! 

Happy Sunday, and I hope you had a great week. It was a busy week of Royal Caribbean fun, and I have a round-up of all of it in this hand-dandy blog post.

It looks like there will be two Royal Caribbean ships based on the West Coast soon.

If rumors are correct, Royal Caribbean is poised to deploy a second cruise ship from Los Angeles, joining Navigator of the Seas, which started sailing from L.A. in 2022.

Cruise schedules for the second half of 2025 show that this ship could be Quantum of the Seas. 

While Royal Caribbean has been absent from the California market for the past ten years, this move shows a renewed commitment to the area.

Royal Caribbean News:

• Royal Caribbean Crown's Edge Review: Worth it or waste of money?
• 8 things Royal Caribbean didn't copy from other cruise ships on Icon of the Seas
• I spent $7,800 for a seven-night cruise on Icon of the Seas. Here's what everything cost, from $700 airfare to $1,000 in onboard expenses
• Photos show the cabin a dog lives in on the world's largest cruise ship
• 4 things I loved and 4 things I hated about Allure of the Seas
• Photos show why taking an Alaska cruise is worth it

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

We've just released the 526th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast. In it, Matt reviews a weekend cruise on Oasis-Class Allure of the Seas.

You can subscribe to the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast via iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher or RSS.

New RCB Video: What you'll want to know about getting free cruises in the casino

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — What you'll want to know about getting free cruises in the casino — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Sushi to-go on Icon of the Seas makes it easier than ever to snack beyond the usual

Icon of the Seas has more ways to snack than ever before.

Izumi is Royal Caribbean's designated Japanese cuisine, and with its location in Central Park, the venue is more popular than ever.

Now, Icon of the Seas features a walk-up sushi window in Izumi. 

You can grab a sashimi or nigiri roll, with edamame or seaweed salad, and take the portable container anywhere on the ship!

The worst months to cruise the Caribbean

Warm weather year-round is what makes the Caribbean the most popular cruising destination. Cruisers love visiting those sunny beaches at all times of the year.

But how can you avoid cancellations, those bad rains, and dangerous hurricanes?

Keep track of the worst months to cruise, and plan your sailing accordingly.

Icon of the Seas sought to make boarding day experience less lousy and feel more like vacation

We've all been there before: it's embarkation day, and everyone is racing to get onboard and explore as soon as possible. 

There are many tasks we can give ourselves in the first hours onboard a ship, from booking WiFi to reserving specialty dining.

To make the first day more like a vacation, Royal Caribbean sought to resolve this problem and make day 1 easy.

They've done this by eliminating lines and increasing the amount of preparation you can do before even getting onboard.

15 things cruise lines really do not want you to bring on ships

Packing the wrong item in your cruise luggage could lead to the delay or even cancellation of your beloved vacation.

You never want to bring a banned item onboard, so it's important to plan ahead and know what's restricted.

To keep your boarding day running smoothly, check out the top 15 things cruise lines do not want you to bring onboard. 

From irons to camouflage clothing, here's what you need to know.

A Royal Caribbean cruise provides an opportunity to see some of the most stunning natural landscapes still on Earth.

Alaskan itineraries will take you to glaciers and into fjords, and give you the opportunity to learn about diverse history and culture. 

From majestic scenery to exotic wildlife to delicious seafood, there’s so much to enjoy on a cruise to this rugged state.

However, planning a vacation can still intimidate the new cruiser. 

Are you still balking at the cost and magnitude of an Alaska cruise?

To show why cruisers love these itineraries so much, we asked readers on our Royal Caribbean Blog Facebook page to share the best Alaska cruise photos.

After sifting through hundreds of submissions, we’ve gathered 13 photos that show why taking an Alaska cruise is worth it.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise guide 

Bryan Lamb’s submission shows Mendenhall Glacier, in Juneau, Alaska. 

Almost all Alaska cruises will include a stop at the state’s capital city, Juneau.

Home to only 32,000 people, this small city is a great place to stop and explore.

One of its most popular attractions is the Mendenhall Glacier. It can be accessed via helicopter, boat, or car, and is only 20 minutes from downtown Juneau.

A shuttle bus is even located directly outside the pier where the ship docks in Juneau.

Mendenhall is a 13-mile-long receding glacier, one of the closest to an Alaskan port.

The recreation area offers five walks and hikes to choose from and an informative visitor’s center.

You can even take the 1.5-mile trail to Nugget Falls, a 377-foot waterfall. 

No matter which path you take, you’ll see stunning views of eagles in the trees, huge mountain peaks, or glacier calving across the lake.

Steve Cohen shared this photo of a cruise ship sailing by a snowy mountain.

One major benefit to choosing an Alaskan cruise is the stunning landscape and scenery that will surround your cruise ship.

Unlike a stay on land, on a cruise, you’ll be directly transported to and through these incredible sights, without even needing to lift a finger.

Lush forests, bubbling waters, and soaring mountains will all be visible right from the decks of the ship!

Alaska’s natural beauty suspends travelers in awe, as these photos show.

Imagine sailing through these massive mountains while having access to all the accommodation, dining, activities, and entertainment onboard a cruise ship. 

Your route is pre-planned for you, making a cruise to Alaska a convenient, streamlined way to visit. 

Allison Schwarz’s photo, captioned “along the Klondike Highway,” is a gorgeous example of the landscapes you’ll see on an Alaskan cruise.

Looking at this picture, you can practically feel the fresh air and smell those sweet flowers.

Looking for somewhere to escape those hot summer months?

During the summer, you may struggle to find a vacation that suits you. Your home is hot and humid, and you’re spending more and more money on A.C. every day.

The Caribbean begins a humid, dangerous hurricane season in June. 

To solve your problems, a cruise to Alaska provides the perfect opportunity to visit a cooler place.

Alaskan cruise season usually runs from April to October, with July and August being the most popular times. You do have a shorter sailing window when it comes to avoiding the extreme winter weather, so take advantage of a cruise to Alaska this summer.

Read more: Royal Caribbean releases new 2025 Alaska cruises to book 

Renee Gibbons shared this photo from Ovation of the Seas in June 2022.

Royal Caribbean currently sends Ovation of the Seas on Alaska cruises. This Quantum Class ship provides a lot of facilities to enjoy, whether indoors or outdoors.

No matter the weather, you’ll find something to love.

The state-of-the-art ship has indoor pools, the SeaPlex, an indoor skydiving simulator, and countless other activities.

Whether you’d like to lounge by the pool and watch glaciers go by, or try some fine dining, there’s a lot to enjoy on a Quantum Class ship.

Read more: I cruised on the oldest and newest cruise ships to Alaska: here’s how they compare

Lisa Wolfe’s son plays with sled dog puppies in Skagway, Alaska. 

“Highlight of my son’s trip. It still makes me smile,” she commented.

You can expect unique, memorable shore excursions on your Alaska cruise.

Whether you love the outdoors, want an exhilarating adventure, or love learning about other cultures, there’s something special for everyone.

Skagway is located north in Alaska’s Inside Passage and is packed full of tours involving Alaska’s gold rush history.

The sled dog camp tours are one such popular excursion. There, guests can experience the state sport of dog sled racing firsthand, and meet sled dog puppies.

You’ll be pulled by a team of 14-16 huskies, all led by a competent team of mushers. 

And afterward, you get to meet these charming puppies!

This cozy submission was shared by Marilyn Wescott. 

While the sight of campfires, snow, and mountains may not come to mind when you think of a cruise, you can find that and more in Alaska.

Beaches, snorkeling, and pools are almost synonymous with cruising. But what if the heat and sand don’t appeal to you, or you’re just sick of humid beaches?

Alaska is the perfect refreshing destination for hikers, nature lovers, or long-time cruisers looking for something new.

You’ll be able to find unique excursions, such as ziplining, train rides, rafting tours, glacier viewings, historic museums, and wildlife sanctuaries.

Read more: I tried the cheapest Alaska cruise I could find: here's how it went

And it doesn’t all have to be expensive! We’ve written a guide to cheap and free things to do on an Alaskan cruise.

“Leaving Icy Strait [in] July 2023,” Angie Foil Haeny commented. “We are ready to go again!”

Icy Strait Point is a smaller cruise stop that offers an intimate chance to study nature and history near Hoonah, Alaska.

The town has been founded, owned, and operated by the Huna Tlingit Native Alaskans since 2004. 

Popular outdoor attractions include whale-watching and ziplining.

You can also learn more about the culture and history of the Huna Tlingit people by visiting the Native Heritage Center Theater and viewing songs, plays, and dances.

Read more: Alaska cruise ports guide

Joan Firchow Peet’s submission shows a big chunk of ice calving off Hubbard Glacier.

Your Alaska itinerary will include at least one opportunity to see a majestic floating glacier.

One of the most popular glaciers to visit is Hubbard Glacier, a 400-foot tall and 6 miles-wide tidewater glacier.

It has been nicknamed the “Galloping Glacier” due to how swiftly and frequently it calves ice. In fact, the glacier is quickly advancing at 80 feet per year!

You can see this glacier on a cruise by first sailing into Yakutat Bay.

Read more: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay: which glacier is better to see on a cruise?

Carlos Varela’s photo of a brown bear in the snow sparks a little jealousy. What a cool snapshot to share with friends and family!

Have you ever seen a brown bear? What about a humpback whale, a sea otter, a bald eagle, a mountain goat, or a harbor seal?

Yes, Alaska is home to these unique animals and more.

Cruise ships offer access to wildlife excursions like whale-watching or bear-spotting tours, so you’re guaranteed a chance to get up close and see these creatures with your own eyes.

Alaska’s diverse ecosystems provide a view into the untouched parts of nature.

Andrea Hancock shared this photo of kids looking out over a balcony at a marvelous view.

To get this perspective outside your bedroom window, you’d want to book a balcony stateroom on your Alaska cruise.

But it’s not a requirement!

The best type of cabin for your cruise depends on what your travel preferences and needs are.

If you’re a budgeter looking forward to spending time out on the ship or on land, an interior cabin is a cheap, efficient option.

Traveling with family and kids who want their privacy? You can book two connecting rooms for extra living space.

For luxury, try a suite stateroom such as a Loft Suite.

Joelle Hotte captioned this picture: “Mom and baby at the end of an incredible whale-watching tour in Juneau.”

Whale-watching is just one of many incredible tours you’ll have the opportunity to take on your Alaskan cruise.

This picture makes us want to hop straight on a ship to Alaska! 

But, before you go, there are a few things you’ll want to prepare for.

For example, shore excursions like these can get expensive, adding it when it comes to creating a marvelous vacation.

To save money, look for last-minute cruise deals in the shoulder season, starting in March or April.

You’ll find lower fares on the Radiance Class ships that sail to Alaska: Radiance of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas.

Christina Topp’s family is all bundled up with smiling faces. 

Wondering what you should pack on an Alaska cruise? It’s not as difficult as it might seem.

We recommend packing lots of layers. Start with base layers, such as T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and leggings. 

Next, make sure you have some warm layers: pullovers, sweaters, fleece jackets, and crewnecks. Anything with down or fleece in it is likely to keep you toasty!

Make sure you also have something with a waterproof layer, like a rain jacket.

For bottoms, bring thick jeans and fleece leggings.

Read more: I’ve been on 5 Alaska cruises, and I see people making the same 12 mistakes: here’s how to avoid them

Ruth Madewell submitted a photo of the White Pass and Yukon Railroad Train, a popular attraction in Skagway, Alaska.

If you’re passionate about history or just want to learn more about Alaska's vibrant heritage, then there’s plenty for you to explore on an Alaskan cruise.

You can wander charming coastal towns, visit indigenous communities, or witness historic sites like in Skagway.

Booking a train ride on the White Pass Railroad offers a scenic route towards Canada’s Yukon territory. On your journey, a guide will offer nuggets of information about frontier Alaska, Skagway’s gold rush history, and modern insight into the town today.

It's eye-opening to think Allure of the Seas is almost 15 years old now, but she still delivers great cruises. Like any ship, there are a few things I liked and didn't like about it.

Built in 2010, Allure of the Seas stands apart from the other Oasis Class ships in that it never got the upgrades and new features that other ships received due to the global industry shutdown in 2020.

There are talks that the cruise line plans to schedule amplification for early 2025, but as of now, Allure of the Seas is the only Oasis Class ship with its original design.

Because of this, some people have called her the worst of the large Oasis Class ships. Other cruisers really love the untouched aspect of the ship.

No matter which side of the argument you prefer, there’s still a lot to love.

Allure of the Seas offers a destination onboard the ship, with boundless entertainment, world-class cuisine, and adrenaline-filled activities like surfing, ziplining, and ice skating.

As a cruise enthusiast—and a big fan of the Oasis Class—I looked forward to experiencing a 3-night cruise on Allure of the Seas.

I loved my cruise for the most part, and after disembarking, I would definitely call Allure one of my favorite cruise ships.

However, like any experience, there were both highs and lows.

Let’s delve into the four things that I enjoyed and the four aspects that left me wanting more.

I loved how many friendly people I met

There’s something magical about Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships.

Every time I’m on one, I seem to meet a selection of the most fun, welcoming people possible.

Surprisingly, I make actual friendships when I have conversations with people on these ships.

I’m not sure if it’s the size, the newness of the cruise ship, or the relatively expensive price that makes people open up more, but it always seems to happen when I get on an Oasis Class ship.

I love chatting with others in the elevators or having conversations with crew members at the bar.

I have a theory that larger ships make for even friendlier crew members. I spoke to one bartender who shared that a bigger ship makes it harder for crew members to stay around and connect with one another, so it makes sense that they would make conversation with the guests instead.

I hated that there were no plug-ins by the beds 

It’s typical on Royal Caribbean ships, but I’d hoped that Allure would be different, especially since I stayed in a Grand Suite.

However, there were no plug-ins by the beds, only at the desk and beside the couch.

This forced me to leave my phone and other devices across the room to change.

Especially when you’re going to bed, it’s definitely an inconvenience.

And if you’re traveling with a large group—or bringing a lot of devices—you might find yourself fighting over charging space.

I loved the innovative neighborhoods, especially Central Park

Allure of the Seas is home to 7 innovative neighborhoods: the Boardwalk, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Royal Promenade, Entertainment Place, the Youth Zone, Vitality Spa and Fitness, and Central Park.

I love that each neighborhood has a distinct theme, with its own ambiance. 

This also makes it less likely for you to get lost on such a large ship: you can easily remember which activity might occur where.

The neighborhoods provide an immersive, exciting environment, and my favorite of all is Central Park.

Modeled after the well-known location in New York City, with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, this is my favorite place to get away for a quiet moment or to peacefully enjoy live music.

At night, jazz bands and singers come and play here, while stars light the sky above you.

During the day, it really feels like you are inside a natural park—they even pipe in bird sounds through speakers around you!

I hated the lukewarm hot tubs

On previous cruises, I have loved spending time in the hot tubs. When we finish dinner and other evening entertainment, I usually race to grab my swimsuit and hop into one of the hot tubs still open.

I love ordering a drink and soaking in the hot tubs late into the night, preparing myself for a relaxing evening. 

Usually, Royal Caribbean’s hot tubs run very warm. On Freedom of the Seas, for example, I could barely sit in one for more than 20 minutes—it was so hot I had to take frequent breaks!

But Allure’s hot tubs felt lukewarm, almost cold. I consulted with other cruisers while we sat in there, and they agreed that the hot tubs were unusually chilly.

We even asked a crew member if the temperature could be adjusted, but he told us it wasn’t able to be changed.

It was a shame that the hot tubs were so chilly, especially when I wanted to lounge there late at night. 

I loved all the seating and bars by the pool area and Solarium

After sailing on the Oasis-class Wonder of the Seas, I expected that I might have to scramble for seating on Allure of the Seas.

But this wasn’t the case!

Especially when it came to the pool area, I could always find somewhere to relax: whether at the pool, sitting by the bar, or inside the adults-only Solarium.

I felt like Allure had enough bars and pools on the deck for everyone to have a spot.

Maybe my cruise on Wonder was more crowded, or Allure is less popular.

Either way, I enjoyed not having to fight to find a seat.

Read more: I tried some of the best strategies to beat the chair hogs on my cruise. Here's how it went

I hated all the crowds, especially on the Boardwalk and Royal Promenade

It makes sense that such a large ship would attract a considerable amount of passengers.

However, I really disliked the flow of crowds in long spaces like the Boardwalk and the Royal Promenade. Especially during peak times, the two areas serve as funnels to cram everyone together. 

I think that the design of having shops, events, and venues branching off these hallway shapes creates even more crowds.

Whenever I had to get through the Boardwalk and Royal Promenade, I had to prepare myself to weave around an overwhelming amount of people.

This also held up for lines at the Windjammer, and—of course—crowds around the elevators.

I hate standing shoulder-to-shoulder with large groups of strangers, so this was a major disadvantage for me.

I loved the fast and friendly service at the bars onboard

Allure of the Seas had some of my favorite bars and drinks I’ve experienced on a Royal Caribbean ship.

Despite the large crowds of people, the service was very quick, and the drinks tasted amazing!

I’m used to the drinks on cruise ships being poured very lightly, tasting just a smidge watered-down. But this wasn’t the case on Allure.

The drinks tasted just right.

In addition, so many of the bartenders were happy to make conversation with me or recommend drinks I might enjoy. They helped me have an awesome experience.

I hated the tasteless food in the Windjammer

I cannot explain why, but Allure’s was one of the worst Windjammers I’ve experienced.

While I usually love most of the food served at this complimentary buffet, the options on Allure of the Seas fell flat.

For example, my sister and I are huge fans of the beef stew found in the Windjammer. But when we tried it on our Allure of the Seas cruise, it was more chewy and tasteless than usual. Maybe we just had bad luck on this sailing.

Overall, the food tasted less seasoned and ran more cold than other cruises I’d been on. 

Even the hashbrowns I usually enjoy for breakfast were cold and too crunchy.

The only foods I still enjoyed were the more ethnic food, like the Indian options. Most of those were still flavorful and amazing.

In the excitement of planning for a cruise, there’s one important aspect you don’t want to mess up: packing.

Of course, you want to be sure to pack all the items you might need on your vacation.

But to prevent any mishaps, you’ll also want to look into the items that cruise lines prohibit you from bringing.

Each cruise line has its own set of rules, and if you end up packing a banned item, you could delay or even cancel your own vacation.

If you fail to follow cruise line guidelines, for example, you could delay the crew and your bags as they search your belongings.

Beyond the obvious—such as weapons and drugs—there are other items you should be mindful of before you head to the cruise port.

Even seemingly innocent items like extension cords could be banned onboard. 

Read on to discover the 15 items cruise lines really do not want you to bring onto the cruise ship.

1. Paint

Paint presents a risk to fire safety onboard. Royal Caribbean prohibits all dangerous chemicals, such as bleach or paint.

If it spills anywhere, the paint could cause damage to the ship. Cruise lines do not want you to make any permanent changes to the cabin door or stateroom’s appearance.

2. Your pet 

Icon of the Seas is welcoming guests with a family dog onboard, but this does not include your family dog!

Pets are not allowed onboard, with the exception of trained and pre-approved service animals.

No exceptions will be made, even for emotional support animals. 

Smuggling your furry friend onboard is also a bad idea. Recently, a cat smuggled onto Ovation of the Seas was discovered and almost euthanized, if it wasn’t for a crew member from Guest Services adopting it.

3. Weed

It might be legal in your home state, but marijuana is still prohibited on cruise ships. This includes weed in any form, even CBD products or oils.

Even if you use it medicinally, many countries that you will visit have laws against the consumption of marijuana.

Because cruise ships sail between many different countries, they have to comply with the laws of each one.

No illegal drugs or substances are allowed to be brought onboard, and the consequences for bringing marijuana on a cruise are not worth the risk.

You could be kicked off the cruise ship, banned from the cruise line, or even incarcerated on land.

4. Fireworks

If your cruise falls during the 4th of July, it’s natural to want to celebrate.

Royal Caribbean sets up plenty of decorations and events for the patriotic holiday, but there will be no fireworks onboard.

Any explosive or flammable items are prohibited onboard a cruise ship.

For everyone’s safety, leave the pyrotechnics at home.

Quantum Class ships, however, do have a virtual fireworks display in Two70.

5. Weapons

Be very cautious when it comes to bringing anything resembling a weapon.

Leave the guns, knives, nunchucks, crossbows, throwing stars, swords, brass knuckles, ammunition, and even toys like Nerf guns at home.

Cruise lines really do not want you to bring weapons onboard. Leave them behind, and enjoy a peaceful vacation instead.

Read more: 15 things you don't need to bring on a cruise

6. Extension cords

Cruise line staterooms are infamous for lacking outlets, especially near the beds.

Yes, you’ll want to problem-solve, but be careful what you pack!

Extension cords with a surge protector are not permitted on cruise ships, due to the risk of fire.

Typically, if you bring an item with a surge protector, the cruise line will confiscate it and return it to you at the end of the cruise.

Instead, bring a cruise-friendly power strip without a surge protector.

7. Pepper spray 

Self-defense items such as pepper spray and night sticks are not allowed on cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean makes an effort to prevent cruisers from packing anything resembling a weapon.

However, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about when it comes to personal safety.

Cruising is one of the safest forms of travel, with plenty of crew members and security onboard who want to make sure you feel secure.

As a matter of fact, you’re more likely to be injured on your way to the port than on your cruise ship.

In a worst-case scenario, the worst you’ll experience is probably some seasickness or contracting the flu. 

Pepper spray won’t do anything against errant waves anyway.

8. Irons

For fire safety, cruise lines are very strict about any items that produce a flame or generate heat.

This includes heating pads, clothing irons, electric kettles, coffee makers, and toaster ovens/microwaves. 

It’s very unlikely that you will need any of these items. For example, you can pack wrinkle-release spray or pay staff to iron clothes for you.

When it comes to heating appliances, Royal Caribbean does make an exception for grooming products such as hair straighteners.

9. Sunscreen 

While sunscreen is permitted onboard cruise ships, double-check before you pack whatever’s in your medicine cabinet.

Yes, of course, you want to be protected from the bright sun! 

However, many ports of call, including Cozumel, Mexico, and St. Thomas, are prohibiting sunscreen to protect their reefs and marine life.

Some locations only allow reef-friendly, biodegradable sunscreen, while others prohibit it completely.

Make sure to do your research before you pack any sunscreen.

10. Rollerblades

Wheeled items such as rollerblades, roller skates, skateboards, and Heely’s are prohibited onboard cruise ships.

This is for guest safety since cruise ships can rock and shift with the movement of the ocean and wind.

Additionally, passageways should be kept open and safe for all cruisers. No one wants to have a bad fall or crash in the middle of their vacation!

11. Knives

While some cruise lines do allow small pocket knives, Royal Caribbean is not one of them. They are very strict when it comes to anything that could be used as a weapon.

All knives are prohibited, and so are large scissors.

The only exception would be personal grooming objects and scissors with a blade smaller than 4 inches.

Read more: Things that can get you kicked off a cruise ship in an instant

12. Drones

Royal Caribbean is actually one of the few cruise lines that allows you to bring a drone onboard.

However, while onboard the ship, you must store the drone safely in the stateroom. If you do use the drone while onboard, Royal Caribbean will confiscate it until the end of the cruise.

Cruisers can only use drones on land and are responsible for obtaining the proper permits with local authorities.

Additionally, you are not allowed to use drones on Royal Caribbean’s private destinations such as Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti.

13. Alcohol

You are prohibited from bringing alcohol such as beer or liquor onboard. 

Security will examine all liquids, and throw away any alcohol that they find. If they find any prohibited alcohol on embarkation day, it will not be returned to you!

Royal Caribbean wants you to purchase their alcohol while onboard, but this doesn't mean that you have to splurge on the drink package.

Guests can pack up to 750 mL (one unopened bottle per adult) of wine or champagne on embarkation day. You will have access to these two bottles throughout the whole cruise.

However, if you purchase any alcohol on the ship or at a port of call, security will keep it safe for you until the last day of the cruise.

Alcohol will still be available for purchase onboard, whether or not you choose to purchase the drink package.

14. Pre-cooked food

Whether it’s home-cooked or leftover from a restaurant, cruise lines will not allow you to bring unpackaged food onboard.

If you try to bring open, pre-cooked food onboard, security will throw it away.

Additionally, you’ll have no need to pack food beforehand. Your fare will include access to many complimentary dining locations.

You can, however, pack pre-packaged snacks in your luggage.

15. Camouflage clothing

While this isn’t a cruise line regulation, knowing if your cruise travels to the Caribbean is important.

In many Caribbean countries, it is illegal to wear camouflage clothing or accessories because it is part of the military uniform.

Don’t pack any camouflage items if you’re traveling to these countries: Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Although enforcement varies, you could be detained, fined, or imprisoned. Authorities will likely remove the item and you risk being sent home.