Royal Caribbean and Carnival are two of the most popular cruise lines at sea. Within the past year, I've sailed on multiple ships from both companies, from port-intensive Alaskan getaways to seven-night Caribbean sailings. 

Generally speaking, these two lines are more different than alike, catering to diverse crowds and offering distinct onboard experiences. Although I prefer the vibe on Royal Caribbean's vessels, that doesn't necessarily make it the best choice for every traveler. 

Recently, I returned from a weeklong cruise aboard the Carnival Mardi Gras ship, visiting The Bahamas and the Eastern Caribbean. She's one of the cruise line's largest ships, measuring 180,800 gross tons with a passenger capacity of over 5,200 at double occupancy. 

Still, Mardi Gras is a far cry from Oasis Class vessels. Wonder of the Seas, for example, comes in at 235,600 gross tons and can accommodate 5,734 passengers at double occupancy. 

Size does not always translate to a better onboard experience, though, especially when it comes to cruise rooms. From layout to storage and overall comfort, I noticed some key differences between my cheap interior cabins on Mardi Gras and Wonder of the Seas that would make me reconsider future voyages on Excel Class ships. 

Here's how my recent inside cruise rooms aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas and Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras compare.

Royal Caribbean inside cabins are small but cleverly designed

Generally speaking, inside cabins are the smallest rooms aboard a cruise ship. Still, having stayed in nearly a dozen windowless cabins on Royal Caribbean ships, I've found that, despite their size, they're usually cleverly designed and functional.

This was certainly the case aboard Wonder of the Seas. Although the cabin wasn't large — measuring around 170 square feet — it was designed to maximize the available space. The efficient layout had just enough room for the essentials, including a comfortable bed, desk, chair, dresser, and two nightstands. 

Plus, having launched in 2022, the stateroom was well-appointed with a modern aesthetic and amenities, including an abundance of outlets and TV streaming capabilities directly from your phone or tablet. 

Three American outlets, two USB ports, and two European plugs were available at the vanity, while the bedside lamps were outfitted with additional USB ports and standard American outlets.

This was a convenient touch that made charging devices at night much easier, rather than having to leave them plugged in across the stateroom. 

My room aboard Wonder of the Seas had a lot of storage space

For such a small room, I was surprised by the amount of storage space we had — from the closets to the built-in shelves and dresser. 

The closet had enough hangers for our dresses and blouses, while the built-in cubbies were great for stashing packing cubes, shoes, and other miscellaneous items. 

Moreover, the dresser drawers helped keep our swimsuits and undergarments organized and out of sight. 

My only complaint about my Wonder of the Seas cruise room is that it lacked hanging space. Consequently, the cabin's singular chair quickly became a catch-all place for beach bags and lanyards to help keep the vanity clear of clutter. 

Read more: I paid $2,200 for an inside cabin on a 7-night Royal Caribbean cruise. The tiny, windowless space was more comfortable than I expected

The bathroom was modern and spacious (for a cruise ship)

The modern bathroom was a highlight of the cabin, featuring bright tiles, solid storage space, and a spacious shower. 

The shelves provided more than enough room for essentials, and — combined with the added space from my hanging toiletries organizer — the bathroom felt organized despite its size. 

Additionally, the shower featured a curved door, rather than a clingy curtain, a small built-in rod to help prop up a leg while shaving, and had amazing water pressure. 

As expected, the bathroom wasn't stocked with many toiletries outside the basic bar of hand soap and the 2-in-1 shampoo-body wash hybrid.

Read more: I spent $4,700 for a 7-night cruise on Wonder of the Seas. Here's what everything cost, from $400 in airfare to $140 in excursions

On the other hand, my cabin aboard Mardi Gras felt cramped

I expected my room on Mardi Gras to feel small, but it felt even more cramped than anticipated, measuring under 160 square feet. What was even more shocking was that the cabin was designed to accommodate up to three guests with an additional pullman bed. 

With limited space, there wasn’t room for any extra seating beyond the bed and the small vanity stool. The vanity itself was also compact. 

Still, despite its size and shortcomings, the cabin was modern and clean. I especially loved the ambient lighting above the bed and the minimalistic artwork. Plus, the neutral light brown and blue hues made the space feel brighter and more spacious than it actually was.

There was also a good number of charging options available, including three standard American outlets and six USB ports — two of which were conveniently built into the headboard on each side of the bed.

Read more: I stayed in an $850-per-person inside cabin on the Carnival Mardi Gras cruise ship. Here's what it's like

There was not a lot of versatile storage space, either

Unfortunately, one area where the interior cabin on Mardi Gras felt short was the storage space. The vanity area, for instance, did not have any drawers for storage, just a few small shelves on the wall. 

Consequently, the two closets were the only real space for unpacking and settling in. Although they were relatively large, with plenty of hangers, built-in shelves, and two small wire drawers, the setup wasn’t the most organized.

For example, since there weren't any drawers, a lot of our clothing was thrown onto the shelves and toppled over. 

The bathroom was small but sleek

The bathroom was far more cramped than aboard Wonder of the Seas. However, it was functional and got rid of the annoying shower curtain found on older Carnival ships. 

Instead, the layout and bathroom design are more similar to Icon Class ships, with the shower positioned along the wall, rather than tucked into the corner. The door gives the bathroom a cleaner and more sanitary feel, too. 

However, the water pressure in the shower was disappointing and weaker than expected. This made rinsing out shampoo and conditioner take longer than usual. 

That said, I appreciated the deep, wide storage shelves. This gave us plenty of room to comfortably unpack our everyday toiletries and beauty products, meaning I didn't have to live out of my hanging toiletries organizer for seven nights!

Finally, like Royal Caribbean, Carnival minimally stocks its standard bathrooms with wall-mounted shampoo, body wash, and a small bar of hand soap. 

Read more: 7 things I liked better about Royal Caribbean cruises than Carnival

Overall, I think Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas had the better inside room

First, let's talk price. For my seven-night Wonder of the Seas cruise, the price of an interior cabin for two came out to be $2,292.10. Comparatively, my weeklong spring break cruise on Mardi Gras was significantly less, coming in at $1,702 for two passengers. 

The price difference is notable and reflected in the overall cabin experience on Wonder of the Seas, which felt more comfortable and thought-out. 

That's not to say my stateroom on Carnival Mardi Gras was horrible. It offered the essentials and just enough space to unwind amid a busy schedule, exploring different ports, playing mini-golf, riding the BOLT roller coaster, and lounging by the pool. 

However, the tighter layout and lack of versatile storage made it feel more cramped. It was also a connecting cabin. Sometimes, you can get lucky and have peaceful neighbors. We weren't lucky. 

We shared a stateroom wall with a couple who frequently fought during the cruise. On multiple occasions, we heard one of the passengers screaming at the top of her lungs — loud enough to wake us up at 4:00 a.m.

Our cabin on Wonder of the Seas was noisy, too, as we were located at the front of the ship near a crew-only area. This meant that we'd hear crew members prepping for their morning shifts as early as 7:45 a.m.

Still, I'd take the layout and comfort of the Wonder of the Seas cabin over Mardi Gras, even with the sudden early-morning wakeup calls. 

Read more: I tried Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas: Is a mega ship the best?

A milestone in the construction of Royal Caribbean's third Icon Class cruise ship has officially begun. 

(Credit: Meyer Turku / Facebook)

According to Royal Caribbean's social media accounts, Legend of the Seas has started her sea trials, which allow certain navigation and technical systems to be tested that cannot be completed while the ship is docked. 

It marks the final stage of a ship's construction before being delivered to the cruise line and ensures that everything is in working condition before joining the fleet. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / X)

"During sea trials, all critical systems and the vessel’s overall performance are evaluated under real operating conditions, including machinery, navigation, and hotel operations, to ensure everything functions as intended," the Meyer Turku shipyard wrote on Facebook. 

Legend's sea trials will take place over ten days, giving over 2,000 engineers and specialists plenty of opportunities to push her engines to the limit across 2,400 nautical miles.

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / X)

Icon of the Seas had two separate sets of sea trials since she was the first vessel in the brand-new class. Typically, subsequent ships in the same class have just one sea trial. However, the scope and number of sea trials are subject to change based on technical refinements and final performance evaluations. 

Read more: We got a first look at Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas. The world’s biggest cruise ship is almost ready

Legend of the Seas will set sail in July 2026

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / X)

Legend of the Seas will embark on her first cruise with paying passengers in July. Her first cruise has been moved up a few times because of the timely construction, which means the vessel will be ready ahead of schedule. 

Her first voyage is now scheduled for July 4, 2026, from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. The seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise will visit iconic destinations like Marseille, France; Barcelona, Spain; and Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / X)

Legend's inaugural season marks the first time that an Icon Class ship will offer European sailings. Both Icon and Star of the Seas begin their careers in Florida, sailing to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. 

Legend of the Seas will eventually move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. However, her time in the Caribbean will be short-lived, as she's scheduled to return to Europe in 2027. 

(Credit: Meyer Turku / Facebook)

She will measure 248,663 gross tons, 1,196 feet long, be able to accommodate over 5,600 guests at double occupancy, and host 2,500 international crew members, according to the cruise line. 

The fourth Icon Class ship is also under construction

At the same time, construction on the next-gen Icon Class ship is already well underway. Hero of the Seas is expected to launch in 2027, offering sailings from Miami, Florida. 

Although much of the ship will be similar to other Icon Class vessels, Royal Caribbean plans on refining and evolving the design to enhance the overall guest experience. 

For example, Hero of the Seas will feature new pools, a brand-new funnel raft slide, redesigned supper club, immersive train car specialty dining restaurant, three-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse suite, and more. 

"With more water, more thrills, and more choices for all ages, we're continuing to build on what our guests love about Royal Caribbean and delivering the experiences families are looking for when vacationing together," said Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean International's President and CEO. 

The cruise ship safety drill is a mandatory briefing that all passengers must complete on embarkation day. But what happens if you skip it?

If you've been on a Royal Caribbean cruise before, you have likely heard numerous announcements asking all guests to complete the muster drill. 

Years ago, the safety drill was a ship-wide event, with all cruisers required to visit their assigned assembly station at the same time. 

Now, however, passengers can complete the e-muster on their own time, rather than sit in crowded lounges or bake in the warm Florida heat while listening to the important safety information. 

Emergencies at sea are rare, but all passengers are required to complete the muster drill to become familiar with their assigned assembly station and other protocols. It's mandatory for all guests, even those who are part of the line's top-tier loyalty tiers, because the assigned assembly station will likely be different on each voyage.

Although muster drills look different today than ten years ago, they are still required according to maritime law. Still, you may find yourself wondering just what happens if you forget to complete it?

Read more: What to expect with Royal Caribbean's new virtual safety drill

Muster drills are for everyone's safety and well-being

(Credit: MarellaDePalma / Reddit)

One Royal Caribbean passenger shared what happened when they did not complete the muster drill aboard Navigator of the Seas. 

MarellaDePalma was sailing on a back-to-back cruise and received a letter in their stateroom at the beginning of the second half of their vacation. 

"Our record shows that you missed the mandatory Guest Muster Drill that was carried out today before departure. The guest muster drill is compulsory and is conducted in compliance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea," the letter reads. 

"This drill is for your safety, and you are required to attend, even if you have cruised with us before. Since there is important safety information that must be brought to your attention, you are kindly requested to attend a Muster Drill today at 6:00 p.m. at the Conference Room located on deck 2 forward." 

Continuing, the letter goes over standard cruise safety information, discussing the emergency signal (seven short blasts followed by one long blast) and what to do should this signal be broadcast.

The letter also mentions that throwing cigarettes or other smoking materials overboard is forbidden, as well as smoking in undesignated areas. 

MarellaDePalma added that they did not intentionally skip the muster drill. Rather, since they were on a back-to-back sailing, the ship's safety officer told them that they would be manually marked as present after departure.

"[I]t makes me sick people don’t take this stuff serious[ly]"

Completing your Royal Caribbean muster drill takes all of five or ten minutes. The mandatory videos on the app are short, and they do not ask much of guests beyond briefly visiting their assigned assembly station.

On the same Reddit thread, multiple cruisers talked about how frustrating it is that some passengers do not take the safety drill and informational videos seriously.

"[I]n a real emergency you are taking your safety and someone else’s in your hands. [Do your part] and go spend 30 minutes of your trip doing what you’re supposed to," damonlebeouf wrote. 

sirdrumalot added, "Watch the [safety] videos on the way to the port, walk on [the] ship, grab [a] drink and drop off bags in [the] room. Check in at muster, grab another drink and go unpack. So much easier than the past when we had to put on life vests from the room and all line up on [the] deck."

"Should turn off their sea pass card until their muster is complete. If you have time to get a drink at the bar, you have time to do your muster drill," ExpressionPerfect515 suggested. 

In fact, multiple lines implement a similar policy, cutting off bar service while the final safety announcements are being broadcast.

Some cruise lines go even further and limit the number of drinks passengers can order until they complete the safety briefing. 

"You are cut off after two drinks until you do the muster drill with Carnival. I honestly thought this was the case across other lines as well," said vikingstomp. 

Urban_Polar_Bear commented, "MSC [also does] this. I think they even shut the bars until a certain percent[age] of people have completed. This was my experience on MSC Euribia a few years ago." 

Read more: The cruise ship safety drill could be even faster and better with important changes, inventor says

Muster drills weren't always mandatory on embarkation day

It wasn't until 2012 that cruise ships had to complete the safety drill before sailaway. This was because 600-plus people hadn't been briefed on important safety information when the Costa Concordia cruise ship capsized off the coast of Italy shortly after departing from Civitavecchia. 

At that time, the safety drill could be held at any point within 24 hours of departure. However, most cruise lines chose to conduct it before leaving the embarkation port. Following February 2012, it became an international requirement for all cruise ships to complete the drill before sailing.

Then, cruise lines began implementing virtual muster drills after the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the industry, including Royal Caribbean. These e-drills allow passengers to watch the safety briefings from their smartphones or stateroom television before briefly checking into their assigned muster station in person.

Read more: Years after Royal Caribbean revolutionized the cruise ship safety drill, it's still the best change in the industry

Although Royal Caribbean's cruise fare includes unlimited food, you may want to consider paying extra for one of the ship's specialty restaurants. 

I know, I know — the idea might sound a little silly at first. I mean, why should you shell out an extra $45+ per person when multi-course meals in the Main Dining Room are "free?" 

After traveling on over 10 Royal Caribbean ships and even splurging on the line's Unlimited Specialty Dining Package add-on, I can confidently say that a specialty meal is always on my must-do list. Everything from the low-key ambience to the food quality and diverse cuisine options justifies the extra charge. 

However, many first-time cruisers might not get the appeal of specialty restaurants until they understand how it differs from the main dining experience.

In this article, we'll highlight 6 reasons why you should skip the Main Dining Room and try at least one specialty restaurant on your next cruise. 

Read more: How does specialty dining work on Royal Caribbean?

More intimate atmosphere

The Main Dining Room on Royal Caribbean ships is a multi-deck space designed to serve hundreds, if not thousands, of passengers at once. As such, it's far from a romantic or relaxed atmosphere, with dozens of waiters constantly moving around, taking orders, and delivering dishes. 

Comparatively, specialty restaurants are smaller and quieter, designed to feel more like an upscale restaurant at home. The smaller setting allows for more attentive, personalized service. 

Another perk is that some specialty restaurants have outdoor seating, such as Chops Grille on Oasis and Icon Class ships. Indulging in a juicy filet mignon while listening to live music in the Central Park neighborhood might just be as close to perfect as it gets on a cruise!

Greater menu variety

Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines, from Japanese to Italian, New England-style seafood, Southern comfort food, and classic bar favorites. 

Although the rotating Main Dining Room menus do provide variety — from escargot to bao buns, spaghetti, and more — they're more limited in scope compared to the specialty options. You won't, for example, find sashimi or oysters in the dining room. 

Similarly, specialty restaurants usually focus on a single cuisine. As such, you'll find more authentic presentations and dishes prepared with higher-quality ingredients than in the Main Dining Room. This is to be expected, as cooking for a few hundred people in a specialty restaurant is different than preparing meals for thousands in the dining room. 

Immersive dining concepts

Royal Caribbean ships, particularly the newer and innovative ones, are also home to unique dining concepts that you won't find anywhere else. 

For example, on Utopia of the Seas, you can dine in a "train car" at Royal Railway — Utopia Station. Everything — from the themed menu to the visual and auditory effects — is designed to create a fully immersive, story-driven experience centered around the Wild West. 

Similarly, the supper clubs aboard Icon and Star of the Seas pair a multi-course meal with handcrafted cocktails and live music. Empire Supper Club on Icon of the Seas is themed around the Big Apple, while Star of the Seas transports guests to an elegant lounge in Chicago. Either way, you don't feel like you're dining on a cruise ship! 

Read more: I ate at the most expensive restaurant on Star of the Seas, and it's even better than the original

Fun way to celebrate a special occasion 

Eating at the same restaurant each night can feel monotonous, even if the menu changes daily. Specialty restaurants break up the predictable routine by offering something different, whether that's a certain cuisine or a unique atmosphere.

Not only that, but having a specialty restaurant on the agenda gives you something extra to look forward to and is the perfect place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or, heck, even a divorce! 

Even if you find the Main Dining Room food perfectly acceptable, you're more likely to remember your special meal in one of the extra-charge restaurants, like hibachi at Izumi or a whimsical evening at Wonderland. 

Read more: I'm a travel writer who cruises on Royal Caribbean every month. These 6 extra cost restaurants are worth booking — and the 2 you can skip

You can choose your dining time

Unlike the traditional seating in the Main Dining Room, where you're assigned a set dining time and table, specialty restaurants give you the freedom to choose when you eat.

If, for example, you chose the early seating on your cruise but prefer a later dinner after a long day in port, you can reserve a specialty restaurant at your desired dining time. 

This flexibility allows you to enjoy the benefits of set dining (i.e., the same table and waiters) for the majority of your sailing, while mixing things up and planning certain meals around your schedule — without feeling tied to the buffet. 

Onboard credit can be used to lower the cost

Finally, if you don't know how to spend your onboard credit, you can apply it toward a specialty dinner on your cruise. Many travel agents offer onboard credit as a booking perk, and Royal Caribbean frequently runs promotions that include it as well.

Essentially, onboard credit is "free" money that can be used toward cruise add-ons, like drink packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, and specialty dining. 

Using it to dine at a specialty restaurant allows you to elevate your cruise experience without dipping into your overall vacation budget. 

Another way to save on specialty dining is to go for lunch instead of dinner, as the cover charge during the afternoons tends to be less.

For example, on an upcoming cruise aboard Liberty of the Seas, the starting price for lunch at Chops Grille is $17.99 per person. The cover charge increases to $46.99 for dinner. 

Royal Caribbean Group has launched a brand-new foundation and even announced its inaugural pledge to support medical residents in South Florida. 

The Royal Caribbean Group Foundation builds on the company's 30-year legacy of global investments in education, local economies, and environmental preservation.

It also advances the company's longstanding belief in tourism as an economic vitality engine and its commitment to creating positive community impact. 

The Royal Caribbean Group Foundation's inaugural pledge goes toward an emergency medicine residency program at Jackson Health System in South Florida. 

As such, the Royal Caribbean Group Foundation Emergency Medicine Residency Program will help strengthen and empower future physicians in South Florida.

Another goal of the foundation's philanthropic partnerships is to expand its ability to collaborate with global organizations and institutions that support economic opportunity, community well-being, and environmental stewardship.

"Strong communities are essential to delivering exceptional vacation experiences, and the Royal Caribbean Group Foundation reflects the company’s belief that tourism can be a force for long-term positive change," said Jason Liberty, chairman and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. 

"Supporting the education of emergency medicine physicians in South Florida is an example of how we invest in the long-term vitality of the places we operate, contributing to the essential systems that help communities thrive and sustain meaningful economic opportunity."

The new foundation aligns with Royal Caribbean's SEA the Future sustainability program

SEA the Future launched in 2023 and focuses on sustaining the planet, energizing communities, and accelerating innovation. 

The sustainability initiative helps Royal Caribbean Group protect the planet by enhancing energy efficiency, responsibly treating water, and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. 

Everything from reducing food waste to onboard recycling programs and water management policies helps the company work toward its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

In addition, Royal Caribbean Group employees have contributed thousands of volunteer hours supporting education, disaster relief, ocean conservation, and community development initiatives around the world.

And the Royal Caribbean Group Foundation is just another step in the company's mission to invest in the long-term vitality of the destinations people are eager to discover.

Other purposeful projects include:

• $15 million in scholarships awarded to 6,660+ students since 1998
• 235+ community partners supported across 85+ destinations in 2025
• $13 million invested in conservation efforts and transformational operations work with the World Wildlife Fund since 2016
• $1.6 million donated to disaster relief in 2025
• 15 years of operating L'Ecole Nouvelle Royal Caribbean (ENRC) school in Haiti with 4,600 graduates and 700 scholarships awarded
• 280+ scholarships awarded to United Kingdom Cadet Program maritime students
• 26 reimagined educational spaces impacting 26,000+ teachers and 400,000+ students over 20 years

Read more: Royal Caribbean reveals behind-the-scenes secret to how cruise ships make their own water

After plenty of speculation, Royal Caribbean is finally addressing why some of its popular water slides are currently closed, debunking the reason many people thought.

Guests aboard the world's largest cruise ships are complaining that multiple slides at the onboard water parks aren't operating. 

In total, Category 6, the largest water park at sea, is home to six record-breaking slides:

• Pressure Drop
• Hurricane Hunter
• Storm Chasers (duo mat-racing slides)
• Storm Surge
• Frightening Bolt

However, according to numerous Reddit threads, most of the slides at the Category 6 Waterpark have been closed for days during recent sailings. 

"I’m currently on Icon of the Seas with my son, and we specifically booked this cruise for the water park (Category 6). Unfortunately, the majority of the slides have been closed for multiple days, including sea days, with only ONE slide intermittently open," Particular-Bird-1235 wrote. 

Someone else added, "Just got off [Star of the Seas]. Two slides still down the entire week and at times only 2 were operational...Wasn't too happy since we paid a premium for the newest ship."

"Just did the April 5th to 12th on Star and the same two mentioned slides were down. It was pretty much the only thing I complained about in my survey. Paid [a] premium to go on my 2nd Icon class due to water slides for my two sons. Annoyed by the closures," Additional-Dish-6309 commented. 

Peter-Rabbi said, "I was on [Star] last week and two slides were down at first. Then three by the end of the cruise."

Read more: I went on the world's most family-friendly cruise ship without kids

Passengers and frequent cruisers have begun speculating about what’s behind the ongoing closures

Some argued that they could be part of the cruise line's cost-cutting measures in light of the recent fuel increases. However, this theory was quickly debunked by a Royal Caribbean representative, who said that repairs are underway to ensure the cruise line can continue offering a strong guest experience. 

"To clarify, the slide closures are not related to fuel costs or stabilizer usage—that rumor is incorrect. At this time, some slides are temporarily unavailable, and while we can't share specific details or timelines, efforts are ongoing with a strong focus on the overall guest experience," Emjae said. 

One guest aboard Star of the Seas reportedly heard that the green tube slide (Storm Surge) and the small yellow drop slide (Pressure Drop) share the same water system, which needs a replacement part from Germany to be fixed. 

Particular-Bird-1235 added that aboard Icon of the Seas, crew members are telling guests that the slides are closed because of "maintenance / manufacturer maintenance."

Additionally, Guest Services could not provide any compensation beyond a $20 arcade credit. 

Water slide maintenance has been a top priority lately

(Credit: @aaron.dv02 [left] / @fireal7 [right])

Last August, an incident involving a slide that injured a guest caused the same slide to be closed aboard Star of the Seas out of an abundance of caution. 

An adult male was injured while riding the Frightening Bolt, the biggest drop slide at sea with a terrifying trap door launch, after an acrylic glass panel broke off.

While he didn't fall through the gaping hole, other passengers reported seeing "skin laceration injuries from his legs to his hands."

(Credit: @maddietspmo [left] / @natalya.ash [right])

After the accident, Deck 15 was closed to prevent further injuries and allow crew members to assess the damage. The Frightening Bolt remained closed after the deck reopened, though. Royal Caribbean also closed the Frightening Bolt aboard Star of the Seas.

Slides on other ships — including Harmony of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, and Independence of the Seas — with similar acrylic panels eventually closed, too. 

Navigator of the Seas' Captain James confirmed that the acrylic tube parts were cracking and needed to be replaced with stronger fiberglass panels to ensure durability for years to come.

Because each fiberglass section is custom-made and cannot be pulled from existing inventory, the process is lengthier than simply swapping out a standard part. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean has closed waterslides across multiple cruise ships to reportedly conduct safety fixes

Royal Caribbean officially released Legend of the Seas' entertainment lineup, giving Royal Caribbean passengers a lot to look forward to on its next-level Icon Class ship.

From original stage productions to high-diving spectaculars, here's everything you can expect to find on Legend of the Seas, starting with the main theater. 

For starters, Legend of the Seas will be home to Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This was first revealed in October 2025 and brings the sweet excitement of Charlie finally getting his golden ticket to the high seas. 

The Royal Theater will also feature a new stage production inspired by a hit television franchise. America's Got Talent LIVE at Sea will be the first time the Got Talent format will appear on a cruise ship and underscores the cruise line's push toward increasingly large and elaborate productions at sea.

Guests can expect a dynamic lineup of variety acts from performers from around the world, including magicians, acrobats, musicians, and more. 

Moving on to the jaw-dropping AquaTheater, which first launched on Oasis of the Seas and has since become a fan favorite venue, Royal Caribbean developed a brand-new show exclusively for Legend of the Seas. 

Shockwave: A Battle for the Beat is a "heart-racing show that will leave you breathless with every beat, featuring spectacular stunts." 

Another favorite entertainment venue is the ice skating rink. Fusion, the show designed for Legend of the Seas, will allow guests to "watch nature's power, passion, and harmony come to life in [the] dazzling ice skating spectacle." 

Royal Caribbean introduced the first ice skating rink at sea aboard Voyager of the Seas in 1999. Although it quickly became a staple across the fleet, from Freedom to Oasis Class ships, the venue got a much-needed upgrade when the first Icon Class vessel launched. 

Now, Absolute Zero holds the title of the largest ice rink at sea and was carefully designed so that each seat was placed to provide the best possible view of the ice. 

In the family-friendly Surfside Neighborhood, Royal Caribbean will also debut a new block party centered around rubber ducks. The Quack Bash will include everything from face painting to music and other bubbly fun. 

Finally, a new parade will debut in the Royal Promenade. Dubbed Voyage to Adventure, this musical parade will celebrate unforgettable destinations around the world.

No shortage of late-night activities

From late-night silent discos to legendary dueling piano battles and smooth jazz in Central Park, the evening lineup aboard Legend of the Seas is impressive.

Overall, it's similar to what you can expect on other Icon Class vessels. You can sip on craft cocktails at 1400 Lobby Bar, sing along to your favorite tunes at the Ale & Arrow Pub, listen to karaoke at the Spotlight Karaoke lounge, or dance the night away at Boleros. 

In fact, to experience every venue on the ship, you’ll have to pack your schedule, hopping from one space to another to take it all in — regardless of whether you're on a seven-night European getaway or an eight-night Southern Caribbean itinerary. 

Legend of the Seas Royal Caribbean launch

Legend of the Seas is expected to make her highly anticipated debut in July, when she sets sail in Europe. This will mark the first time an Icon Class vessel will offer regular voyages around the Mediterranean. While in Europe, Legend will visit iconic destinations like Naples, Italy; Marseille, France; Barcelona, Spain; and more. 

Afterward, Legend will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she'll rotate between six- and eight-night Caribbean cruises. Following her five-month stint in Florida, she will once again return to Europe in April 2027. 

Legend of the Seas will measure 248,663 gross tons, accommodate 5,610 guests at double occupancy, and be 1,196 feet long according to the cruise line. 

Read more: We got a first look at Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas. The world’s biggest cruise ship is almost ready

One unlucky person thought they were getting a good deal on a Royal Caribbean cruise, only to be defrauded out of over $45,000 and end up without a confirmed reservation. 

Antonio Diaz, 65, and his wife, Maria Blasco Diaz, 64, of Miami, Florida, were arrested on April 7 for allegedly stealing over $200,000 from friends and family members under the guise of offering discounted luxury items, including high-end watches, jewelry, and travel packages, according to a press release from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO).

One of the victims asked Blasco Diaz for cruise advice since she was a frequent cruiser. She then allegedly claimed that she could get cruise discounts through a friend who works for Royal Caribbean.

"Ms. Diaz offered cruise excursions, drink packages, room upgrades, hotel stays, transportation, and travel insurance," said the arrest report cited by another media outlet. The victim then " paid Mr. and Ms. Diaz a total of $44,910 through Zelle, checks, and cash. Checks were all cashed by Ms. Diaz and the Zelle payments were sent to Mr. Diaz." 

The victim believed the offers were legitimate and looked forward to their Royal Caribbean cruise aboard Odyssey of the Seas, scheduled to depart on July 9, 2023. However, none of the promised travel arrangements were ever provided or confirmed. Blasco Diaz went as far as claiming that her friend had even been fired by the cruise line. 

Although the victim was given checks for partial repayment, they "were later determined to be drawn from a newly opened account with insufficient funds," an affidavit in the case reads. 

Eventually, the victim contacted Royal Caribbean directly, who informed them that, although the reservation number was valid, it was not assigned to her or any of her family members.

Blasco Diaz also promised to repay the victim the remaining funds using a home equity line of credit. Per the arrest report, however, that never happened. 

Travel wasn't the pair's only scheme. They reportedly took in nearly $139,000 in deposits for more than a dozen Rolex watches and a Patek Philippe watch, claiming buyers would receive a 50% discount through Diaz's job at a jewelry store.

Not the first cruise-related travel scam

(Credit: LongIsland.com)

This unfortunate story is just another example of why it's important to vet travel agents before handing over money. 

In January 2026, Tavia Thomas, 47, was arrested and charged with multiple counts of grand larceny and schemes to defraud after stealing over $50,000 from clients, police confirmed. 

Thomas was a Long Island-based travel agent and the CEO and Destination Travel Specialist of her company, Destiny Travel. However, she used that position to gain trust and defrauded families by taking payments for vacations and failing to book them.

One victim, for example, was planning to sail on a Royal Caribbean cruise out of Bayonne, New Jersey. They gave Thomas over $35,000 in cruise payments and assumed that they were good to go. However, when they arrived at the cruise terminal, they were told that the booking confirmations were fake and were denied boarding. 

Read more: Travel agent arrested after defrauding nine families out of over $35,000 for fake Royal Caribbean bookings

Travel agents are useful tools and can make your vacation planning process easier

Travel agents handle the meticulous details of planning a cruise, from confirming your stateroom to arranging transportation and booking add-ons. When done right, all you have to do is focus on catching your flight and having a memorable getaway. 

They should never create problems for you or keep important booking details from you, like the alleged scammers in Florida and New York. As Diaz, Blasco Diaz, and Thomas proved, not all travel agents or industry professionals operate with the same level of professionalism or commitment to client care. 

It also underscores your responsibility as a consumer to thoroughly vet any travel professional before giving your confidential payment information. 

In the case of Blasco Diaz's victim, the situation could have likely been avoided had they inquired about the alleged Royal Caribbean employee to book with them directly, rather than having a middleman "handle" the arrangements. 

If you aren't sure where to begin your travel agent search, I recommend asking friends and family members for recommendations. Another option is to find agencies affiliated with reputable organizations, like the American Society of Travel Advisors (the world's leading association of travel professionals).

Moreover, never let any friends handle your reservation on your behalf. If they recommend a travel agent, insist on working with them directly. And even then, you'll want to verify the agent’s credentials and avoid sending large sums of money through unsecured payment methods. 

Royal Caribbean is known for its wild and fun theme nights, and cruisers certainly dress the part. 

From White Night to Formal Night, Tropical Night, 70s Night, and more, you will want to pack accordingly to fit in with the masses.  

Some guests love to go all out with costumes and coordinated outfits among party members, while others prefer to keep it simple. 

Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society social media team recently took to its Facebook page to ask cruisers about their theme night packing lists. 

"Calling all theme night lovers! What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever packed for a theme night on board? 👀 Tell us in the comments!" the post reads. 

Within one day, over a dozen Royal Caribbean cruisers shared their most over-the-top theme night outfits — and you can certainly tell these weren't last-minute packing decisions.  

Read more: There are theme nights on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Here's what to expect and how to plan for it

Dress Your Best Night

(Credit: ErikChristy Bray / Facebook)

Although many associate Dress Your Best Night on Royal Caribbean ships with elegant gowns, button-down shirts, and even tuxedos, ErikChristy Bray's travel party took a different approach. 

Bray attached a photo of ten cruisers dressed as Mrs. Helen Roper from "Three's Company." One passenger even held a framed photo of Roper's husband, Stanley, in the popular '70s sitcom. 

Disco Night

(Credit: Yvonne P. Dumont / Facebook)

Disco Night is all about sparkles, flashy accessories, and funky shoes. 

While Yvonne P. Dumont certainly brought the shimmery clothing, she also went one step further with colorful wigs.

White Night

(Credit: Tom Place / Facebook)

Normally, White Night is cause for concern since it often aligns with Italian Night in the Main Dining Room (white shirts + red pasta sauce = disaster). 

However, Tom Place found a creative way to dress the part while keeping their clothing safe by simply wearing Royal Caribbean-branded robes!

Halloween

(Credit: Walter Robin Terry / Facebook)

Royal Caribbean encourages guests to dress up for Halloween. Just because you're in the middle of the ocean doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to wear a fun costume!

Walter Terry's family went the extra mile, dressing up as Gru, Lucy Wilde, and Minions from the beloved "Despicable Me" franchise. 

'60s Night

(Credit: Nella Gambrell / Facebook)

The '60s were a period of high optimism, revolutionary fashion and music trends, and cultural change. The iconic hippie style is one of the most defining looks of the era. 

Nella Gambrell's entire travel party definitely showed up for '60s Night — think wigs, flower crowns, tie-dye shirts, fringe vests, and peace sign accessories.  

'70s Night

(Credit: Jennifer Bell / Facebook)

My mom grew up during the '70s and once told me that she remembered when she got her first pair of bell-bottom jeans. Flared denim, however, wasn't the only popular trend during the decade. 

Jennifer Bell and her husband embraced the playfulness of the era with wigs, a fun maxi dress, and wide-collar shirts with colorful patterns. 

'80s Night

(Credit: Kathleen Donnelly / Facebook)

'80s fashion was bright and bold, which is why it makes such a great cruise ship theme night. 

Kathleen Donnelly shared an image of her family's '80s night costumes, complete with neon green lace gloves, tutus, bright pink headbands, and geometric-patterned shirts. 

Is a cruise ship balcony room worth the extra money?

I've been cruising since I was five years old and only sailed in balconies until I was in my 20s. At first, I was sure that — after 45 collective days with a private ocean-view verandah — I'd hate tiny, windowless inside cabins. In reality, that could not be further from the truth. 

Although nothing compares to stepping out onto your balcony and feeling the sea breeze, I quickly learned that it's a luxury, and staying in an inside cabin doesn't necessarily mean you'll have a crummy vacation. 

That said, the inside vs. balcony debate can get pretty heated, with some cruisers swearing off the windowless tomb-like rooms. On the flip side, some can't imagine spending more than they have to on the base fare. 

In this article, I'll go over the pros and cons of booking a balcony versus an inside cabin, including amenities, cost, and how each stateroom impacts your overall experience. 

Cruise Ship Room Amenities

Regardless of which stateroom category you end up choosing, the basic amenities will be the same. By this, I mean you will have an ensuite bathroom, two twin-sized beds that can be pushed together to make a Royal King, a TV, safe, storage space, telephone, hair dryer, vanity area, and a private thermostat. 

Most rooms are designed to accommodate two guests. However, there are inside and balcony cabins that can fit three or four people, typically using a sofa bed or a pullman bed.

All standard cruise bathrooms are nearly identical, with the main difference usually being the layout. You can expect a capsule-like shower (no bathtub), sink, toilet, mirror, and some shelves. Royal Caribbean also stocks its showers with a 2-in-1 body wash-shampoo hybrid. 

Additionally, all Royal Caribbean cruise rooms receive daily housekeeping service from a dedicated cabin steward. They will do things like make the bed, take out any trash, and refresh towels.  

That said, when it comes to comparing inside vs. balcony rooms, the biggest differences come down to natural light and space, rather than the amenities themselves.

That's a good thing, though, because if you are on a budget, choosing the most affordable inside cabin means you will not miss out on the overall cruise experience. 

Your cabin will come with housekeeping service, comfortable beds, standard amenities, and access to the ship's dining, entertainment, and activities. 

Read more: Cruise ship rooms on Royal Caribbean: How to choose the best cabin

Cruise Inside Cabin vs Balcony: Which is Better?

Knowing that the amenities are the same, how do you decide whether an inside or balcony cabin is right for you? 

Space

First, balcony cabins tend to be a little larger and offer a private outdoor area, which can make the room feel more open and less confined.

For example, a standard interior room on Freedom of the Seas measures around 162 square feet. However, a balcony cabin comes in at 188 square feet, plus an additional 46-square-foot balcony. 

Inside cabins, while definitely cozier, are functional and comfortable. However, if you want a little more space to relax, you're better off choosing a balcony. 

View

And then, of course, there's the view. With a balcony cabin, you can step outside to watch the sunrise as you pull into port, gaze at the endless horizon, or simply take in the fresh sea air. 

On some itineraries, such as a Caribbean or Bahamian getaway, a balcony may not be as important since there's less scenery to look at on sea days. 

However, if your itinerary includes scenic coastlines, towering mountains, or glacier viewing days, a balcony can greatly enhance your experience.

Cost

Enter the cost. Sometimes, the difference between an inside cabin and a balcony might be negligible, especially on sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean.

For example, on Jewel of the Seas in November 2027, a balcony cabin starts at $534 per person for a 4-night Bahamian getaway, while an inside room comes in at $434.

However, balcony staterooms on cruises to Alaska, Norway, New Zealand, etc., are often hundreds of dollars more since the destinations themselves are a major part of the experience, and balconies are in higher demand.

For instance, an interior cabin on an Alaska cruise departing from Seattle, Washington, in July 2027 starts at $879 per person. However, a balcony room on the same Voyager of the Seas sailing jumps up to $1,591 per person. 

Alaska excursions are notoriously more expensive than warm-weather tours, so saving money on the accommodation could mean you could book worthwhile experiences ashore. 

How Do You Pick a Balcony Room on a Cruise?

Once deciding you need a balcony, you’ll need to narrow down the type of balcony room you want.

Forward balconies, aft balconies, extended balconies, connecting balconies, Central Park balconies, Boardwalk balconies, Surfside balconies, infinite verandahs — need I go on?

Here's a brief synopsis of the different kinds of cruise balcony rooms to help you narrow down your options:

• Forward balconies are typically on the same side of the ship as the adult-only lounge (except on Icon and Vision Class ships). This makes them convenient for those who want to be a short elevator ride away from the Solarium. However, they are more likely to feel the ship rocking.
• Aft-facing balconies have the best wake views aboard the ship, but they are a farther walk from many of the main lounge areas and amenities.
• Extended balcony cabins are ideal for those who plan on spending a lot of time outside since they have larger balconies.
• Connecting balconies are best for families or friends. You don't want to be in a connecting room if you do not know the party beside you. 

• Central Park balcony cabins overlook the Central Park neighborhood on Oasis and Icon Class ships. They don't have an ocean view and lack privacy, but they are great for people watching.
• Boardwalk balconies are similar in that they don't directly face the ocean and instead have a view of the Oasis Class Boardwalk neighborhood.
• Surfside balcony cabins are exclusive to Icon Class ships and overlook the family-friendly Surfside neighborhood.
• Infinite verandahs are also only found on Icon Class ships. There are some that have ocean views, while others face the Central Park neighborhood. These rooms replace a traditional balcony with more interior living space and a massive floor-to-ceiling window that can be lowered to create the "balcony." 

Read more: Not all Royal Caribbean cruise balconies are created equal: How to avoid the wrong ones

What are the Best Inside Cabins on a Cruise Ship?

Compared to balconies, there are fewer variations of inside cabins. However, there are some unique layouts to be aware of:

• Virtual balcony inside rooms have a massive 80-inch LED television screen that provides live high-definition views from outside the ship directly into your cabin.
• Interior Plus rooms on Icon Class ships are redesigned inside cabins that feature a deluxe closet and dressing area.
• Interior cabins with neighborhood-facing windows (i.e., Central Park, the Boardwalk, and Surfside) are ideal for those who want to be awoken by natural light but don't necessarily care about the extra space of a private balcony. 

Bottom Line

There is no right or wrong when it comes to picking a balcony vs. inside cruise room. If you have the money to spare, a balcony can make for a memorable splurge. However, they certainly aren't necessary to have a great vacation. 

In many cases, you will likely spend more time on the pool deck, attending shows, exploring ports of call, and more, rather than staying tucked away in your stateroom. 

Still, even if you mostly explore the ship or the destinations, the perks of a private balcony, especially on a scenic itinerary, greatly enhance your overall stateroom experience.