The government will go into a shutdown effective Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. if Democrats and Republicans can't come to an agreement on federal funding.

Essentially, the two parties can't agree on spending levels and which programs to fund or restore, especially around health care, in the bill.

Should the government shut down, most federal agencies would halt non-essential work, and many government employees would be furloughed. 

Although essential federal workers — like air traffic controllers and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents — would remain on the job (albeit without pay), the government shutdown could still impact your upcoming cruise. 

How would the government shutdown affect cruises?

Based on previous government shutdowns, federal agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Coast Guard, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the TSA remain operational since they're essential. 

Additionally, port employees are considered essential, so there would likely be minimal disruptions to the cruises themselves. However, they would be working without pay during the shutdown. Instead, they'd get back pay once the funds are available.  

Although short-term operations wouldn't be impacted too much, the issue is the long-term strain, as hiring and training activities are typically paused during a shutdown. 

Will the shutdown impact air travel?

There isn't a concern about whether planes will fly (they will). The bigger issue is how smoothly airports function during a government shutdown. 

The TSA and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are essential services, so air traffic controllers and security screeners will continue to work — but without pay. That said, fliers could still feel the effects if the shutdown drags on and agents begin calling out of work in protest. 

In 2019, for example, TSA agents and FAA controllers began skipping work after two weeks of no pay. As such, it's not uncommon to see longer lines at airport security and more flight delays than usual, especially at major hubs. 

"The truth is, most people won't really feel much of a difference," Maya MacGuineas, the president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, told CBS News. 

"If you've got a vacation planned to a National Park, you're going to be [upset] and disappointed. But most people will go on with their everyday lives and interact with the government the same way they do, and not feel a big difference. That could get worse, the longer it lasts."

Can I renew my passport for my cruise during a shutdown?

TSA PreCheck, visa, and passport operations are fee-funded and not normally impacted by a shutdown. 

However, passport applications may be delayed, so you should not wait until the last minute to renew or apply for one. If a passport office is in a building run by a different shuttered agency, it could close, too. 

Global Entry is a different story. During the 2018-2019 shutdown, Global Entry appointments at a few enrollment centers were randomly cancelled with no rescheduled date available. 

Should I cancel my upcoming travel plans?

No, you should not cancel your cruise if the government shuts down on Oct. 1. That said, you should be extra patient, especially if you're flying to the cruise port. 

If cruise ports and airports are understaffed, check-in and security could take longer to clear. Additionally, it could take more time for the cruise ship to be cleared before guests can begin disembarking. 

Royal Caribbean Blog reader Don Goldstein noted that during a previous government shutdown, he was stuck on board when the ship returned to Florida:

"[We] came into port after a cruise, Port Everglades, I think, and it took us about 4 hours to get off the ship due to lack of ICE staffing at the port."

Because of this, it is crucial that you remain flexible and don't book the earliest flight home (you shouldn't do this regardless). 

If you cannot get off as early as you thought, don't panic; contact your airline or travel provider as soon as possible. They will help rebook you on the next available flight. 

Additionally, you should not fly to your cruise port on the day of embarkation. Arriving at least one day early gives you a buffer in case of flight delays or cancellations, which can be even more common during a government shutdown when essential airport employees might not show up.

Give yourself extra time at the airport, too. Even if your flight is on time, it may take longer to check your bag and go through security.

One woman's first cruise turned into a nightmare when she was slapped with a $13,000 medical bill after she began throwing up blood and losing consciousness.

Khiali Baxter was two days into her first-ever Royal Caribbean cruise with her boyfriend when she began feeling unwell. 

"So, I woke up. I started throwing up blood, unfortunately, and I had passed out on the ground," Baxter told KHOU 11, "I could feel myself kind of going in and out of consciousness. I was very cold and terrified."

She was taken to the ship's medical facility, then transported to a hospital four hours away from the cruise port in Costa Maya — but not before waiting four hours onboard and racking up a $4,000 bill.

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

While at the hospital, Baxter received over $9,000 in medical care, including several different procedures to help stabilize her.

However, before they would treat her, the staff asked Baxter's family for payment. Baxter's father, Craig, recalled the conversation with a hospital employee in an interview with KHOU 11, saying they'd work as far as $2,500 would take them.

"I've never heard this in my life," he said. 

(Credit: KHOU 11)

Back in Texas, Baxter's parents were scrambling to secure emergency passports to travel to Mexico. 

The last-minute flights and accommodations weren't cheap, but they were not going to leave their daughter in a foreign hospital. 

Travel insurance would have made a huge difference

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

Baxter was unaware of the steep out-of-pocket costs associated with international medical care and decided against travel insurance. 

"It was a very, very scary experience, and my main thing that I do want to say is that I really wish I would’ve gotten travel insurance," Baxter said.

Travel insurance is a valuable but often overlooked safety net. Although it might seem like an avoidable expense, it's one of those things you don't want to use but are thankful for when you need it. 

Read more: Travel insurance for a cruise: Why you need it for a Royal Caribbean cruise

(Credit: Jennifer Brown/GoFundMe)

A good insurance policy provides peace of mind in case of unexpected medical emergencies at sea. In Baxter's case, it would have helped recoup some of the expensive treatments she received, such as an endoscopy, colonoscopy, and blood transfusion. 

Even though Baxter didn't have insurance, a family friend set up a GoFundMe. Over 160 generous donors have helped raise $14,138, or roughly 88% of the $16,000 goal. 

Still, the family wants to share Baxter's story in hopes that it prepares others for the unexpected, especially when traveling far from home.

Travel insurance also helps cover things like lost luggage, travel delays, medical evacuations, and more. As such, the small upfront cost is worth the protection it provides during a costly emergency. 

"It was an eye-opening experience that I hope prepares other young people," Craig Baxter said.

Unfortunately, Baxter isn't the only cruiser to be hit with a large medical bill 

Vincent Wasney and his fiancée, Sarah Eberlein, were cruising on Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas when Wasney began suffering from a series of seizures. However, before the couple was allowed to disembark, they had to pay over $2,500 in medical bills.

As reported by KFF Health News and NPR, Eberlein heard Wasney make a pained noise before he had his first seizure. Blood began spilling from his mouth as a result of him accidentally biting his tongue.

Wasney's second seizure caused him to stop breathing, while the third seizure, characterized as a grand mal seizure, was even more severe. 

The vessel was close enough to their disembarkation port in Florida, so they could disembark early via rescue boat — but not before paying a $2,500.22 medical bill. 

The charges included $2,285.78 for general ward admission and observation, along with $97.99 for an i-STAT blood test, $104.55 for out-of-facility services, and $11.90 for medication.

Read more: Man was sick on a cruise and was hit with a big bill before being sent home

Royal Caribbean changed a Caribbean itinerary in an effort to avoid the strengthening tropical storm system in the Atlantic Ocean. 

Guests sailing aboard Star of the Seas' September 28, 2025, cruise were notified that they'd no longer be heading to the Eastern Caribbean. 

Instead, the 7-night Caribbean cruise will visit the Western Caribbean, calling at Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatán, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico.

"Our Captain, along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Zetzer, has been monitoring the expected development of a tropical storm near the northwest Bahamas and a hurricane in the Atlantic," reads the email.

"We have decided to change our itinerary to safely avoid the storm and large seas on our eastern route. As a result, we will now sail a Western Caribbean itinerary..." 

This sudden change means that guests won't visit Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas. Moreover, Star's inaugural visit to St. Kitts has been postponed. 

Star of the Seas will now call at St. Kitts for the very first time on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2025 — assuming that there aren't any future storm systems that further derail the plans. 

Although disappointing, Royal Caribbean emphasized that the safety and comfort of its guests and crew remain the company’s top priority.

"We're terribly sorry for this last-minute change caused by the weather - your safety is our top priority," the email continues.

"Please remember, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather." 

This is the first storm-related itinerary change for Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. She entered service for the cruise line in Aug. 2025. 

Read more: Cruising in hurricane season: What you need to know

Not a tropical storm yet

Although the strengthening disturbance isn't a tropical storm yet, the National Hurricane Center predicts that it has an 80% to 90% chance of developing by late Friday, Sept. 26, or over the weekend. 

The path of possible Tropical Storm Imelda prompted Royal Caribbean, as well as Disney Cruise Line, to reroute ships to ensure that all guests and crew members remain safe. 

According to the National Hurricane Center's 8:00 a.m. EDT report on Friday, Sept. 26, an area of low pressure will likely form along the wave by tonight as it moves near the southeast Bahamas. 

The low is expected to develop into a tropical storm when it's in the vicinity of the central and northwest Bahamas over the weekend. 

Even if the storm doesn't strengthen, it will bring heavy rains and gusty winds to places like Haiti, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Dominican Republic, eastern Cuba, and The Bahamas. 

Royal Caribbean is getting closer to making a formal announcement about its upcoming new ship class. While we don't have a lot to go on, President and CEO Michael Bayley let a few secrets slip about the Discovery Class. 

Bayley is currently sailing aboard the 2025 President's Cruise on Utopia of the Seas. During the Common Ground chat, he teased a few details about what’s coming next for Royal Caribbean. 

Rumors about the Discovery Class began circulating in July 2023 when Bayley said that they were considering and planning a smaller class of ships. Since then, speculation has only grown with more tidbits spilled by cruise line executives. 

However, Bayley seemed to confirm that Royal Caribbean is full speed ahead for the Discovery Class. 

"We've been working a lot on the Discovery Class...it takes a lot of work to design a ship...[but] we're getting really close," he said while on Utopia of the Seas.

"We can't make any announcements now, but I'm hopeful that in the coming months we will be able to make an announcement on that class." 

In other words, the Discovery Class ships will be happening, but there are still a lot of things that need to happen before the cruise line can formally introduce the ships to the world. 

In the meantime, here is the new information we’ve learned straight from Bayley about the ships.

Where will Discovery Class ships sail?

The Discovery Class was named because of where the ships will sail; they want guests to literally discover new and interesting ports of call. 

"We want the ship[s] to be able to really focus on...the more exotic itineraries," Bayley remarked. 

So, instead of sailing to The Bahamas or Caribbean (those markets are heavily dominated by Oasis and Icon ships, anyway!), guests can expect itineraries to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, Alaska, and the South Pacific. 

Royal Caribbean's smallest ships are also its oldest — think Vision and Radiance Class vessels. Although they've been updated throughout the years, they no longer reflect the modern design and amenities that Royal Caribbean is known for today.

As such, Royal Caribbean's goal is for Discovery Class ships to gradually phase out these aging vessels. 

"[Discovery ships] would...come in and start replacing the older hardware that currently operates in many of those itineraries," Bayley added.

How big will Discovery Class ships be?

Bayley didn't give any exact measurements, but he did reveal that Discovery Class ships will be small enough to sail through the Panama Canal. 

To date, the largest vessel to sail through the Panama Canal was Norwegian Bliss. As such, we know that Discovery Class ships won't be larger than 168,000 gross registered tons (GRT) and 1,094 feet long. 

"It'll go through the Panama Canal, which we think will be a real positive because it'll be able to go to Alaska in the summer, and it can get back into the Caribbean," Bayley said during the Common Ground chat.

Still, 168,000 GRT is considerably larger than Vision and Radiance Class ships, which measure anywhere from 73,817 to 90,090 GRT. 

Discovery Class ships will likely be large enough to offer Royal Caribbean’s signature experiences, but still small and versatile enough to visit ports that are inaccessible to the Oasis and Icon vessels. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean Ships by Size - Largest to Smallest

Royal Caribbean is sending two Vision Class ships to Puerto Rico in 2026 and 2027. 

Originally, Brilliance of the Seas was set to offer Caribbean cruises from Puerto Rico. However, Royal Caribbean decided to swap the ship. Now, Brilliance of the Seas will sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, while Vision of the Seas will depart from San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

Similarly, Radiance of the Seas was scheduled to offer cruises from San Juan. In the cruise line's latest deployment swap, Radiance will move to Tampa, Florida, while Rhapsody of the Seas will take over the cruises from Puerto Rico. 

Royal Caribbean let impacted travel advisors know about the change in an email.

"Our original plan for Brilliance of the Seas was to offer sailings in 2026 - 2027 departing from San Juan, Puerto Rico. Instead, Brilliance of the Seas will offer sailings from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Vision of the Seas will offer the sailings from San Juan, Puerto Rico," the first notice reads. 

The second email is similar, just indicating the Radiance and Rhapsody of the Seas will swap places. 

Both continue, "We're truly sorry for the impact that this has on your clients' vacation plans."

Options for passengers on Brilliance or Vision of the Seas

Impacted cruisers booked on either Brilliance or Vision of the Seas have two options:

• Re-book any other Royal Caribbean sailing
• Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

For those who want to re-book another cruise vacation, Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees. 

That said, guests are responsible for the difference in cruise fare, taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise fare items — think Wi-Fi, drink packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, etc. 

However, if the reservation was already paid in full, Royal Caribbean will provide a refund of the difference within 14 business days.

If there is no suitable replacement, impacted passengers may request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare, as well as non-refundable deposits and prepaid amenities.

The email states that if the cruise was booked using a Future Cruise Credit, Royal Caribbean will refund any new funds paid above the certificate amount and reinstate the original certificate.

Additionally, airfare booked through Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program will be automatically refunded.

Options for passengers on Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas

Impacted cruisers booked on either Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas have a few options, depending on their sail date:

• Re-book a similar sailing
• Automatically move to the same sailing on Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas
• Re-book another cruise on any Royal Caribbean ship
• Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

Option 1 only applies to guests aboard Radiance of the Seas on March 20 and 27, 2027, as well as April 3 and 10, 2027. 

Passengers who choose this option will have the original stateroom category price protected or reduced to the current cruise fare rate — whichever is lower. 

Note that this applies to the cruise fare only. Taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise items will be at the prevailing rate. 

If the booking was already paid in full, Royal Caribbean will automatically issue a refund for the difference. 

Guests booked on sailings outside of the aforementioned dates will be automatically moved to the same cruise aboard Radiance or Rhapsody of the Seas. 

The process is easy, as Royal Caribbean will move them to a like-for-like stateroom, and their original stateroom category price will be protected. 

However, they also have the option to re-book another cruise vacation, and Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees. They will be responsible for the difference in cruise fare, though. 

Finally, impacted cruisers can request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare. No other compensation will be provided. 

Guests on any of the four cruise ships have until October 15, 2025, to let Royal Caribbean know of their decision.

During this year's President's Cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean announced the date and ship for the next annual event. 

Royal Caribbean International President and C.E.O. Michael Bayley announced that the 2026 President's Cruise will be held on Icon of the Seas on the October 3, 2026, sailing. 

It is a 7-night cruise that departs from Miami, Florida, and visits the Eastern Caribbean. The President's Cruise will call at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's award-winning private island in The Bahamas. 

The past three cruises have been held on Oasis Class ships. The 2023 President's Cruise was on Allure of the Seas, while last year's was on Oasis of the Seas. 

Finally, this year's President's Cruise was on Utopia of the Seas, the newest Oasis Class ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet. 

What is a President's Cruise?

The Royal Caribbean President's Cruise is an annual sailing hosted by Michael Bayley, the President and C.E.O. of Royal Caribbean International. 

You don't have to hold a certain status within the Crown & Anchor Society to sail. As such, anyone is eligible to attend, whether you're a first-time cruiser or a loyal Pinnacle Club member. 

The President's Cruise is a great opportunity for Royal Caribbean fans to sail together with special events and exclusive merchandise. 

Ten-time Grammy winner Chaka Khan performed on the 2023 President's Cruise. Similarly, the '80s band Culture Club was on last year's President's Cruise aboard Oasis of the Seas.

There are also a lot of surprises and commemorative opportunities for those on board. For example, on this year's President's Cruise, guests were surprised with a celebrity appearance by Rev. Run of Run-DMC at Perfect Day at CocoCay's Hideaway Beach. 

The Red Bull Stunt Show was held right on the beach, too. 

There was also a party in Nassau (celebrating the cruise line's 50+ year partnership with The Bahamas), and partnered giveaways at CocoCay from brands like Aperol Spritz, Coca-Cola, and more. 

Finally, Pinnacle Club members got an exclusive tour of the upcoming Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau. Once completed, the beach club will be home to the world's largest swim-up bar, multiple private beaches, and more. 

"It's the most epic celebration at sea— and you’re invited! Set sail with President & CEO Michael Bayley for our annual tradition and get ready for an adventure like no other. A town takeover in Italy? We did it. Celebrity-studded concerts? Always! Surprise champagne attacks from Michael himself? It’s par for the course," says the Royal Caribbean website. 

"Plus, exclusive shore excursions, popping parties and unforgettable events take every moment to the max. Get in on the action, join us for the next one and find out for yourself what makes the President’s Cruise so special."

2027 will be a big one because it is the 10th President's Cruise

Royal Caribbean began its popular President's Cruise in 2016. The first-ever President's Cruise took place aboard Allure of the Seas in September 2016. 

The exclusive cruise was a thank-you event for loyal Crown & Anchor Society cruisers and featured tons of special events and performances, including one by Patti LaBelle. 

The Grammy-award-winning artist performed songs like "Lady Marmalade," "New Attitude," "On My Own," and "You Are My Friend."

There has been a President's Cruise every year since, except in 2020 when it was canceled due to the pandemic. That sailing was also supposed to take place on Allure of the Seas in Europe. 

As such, Royal Caribbean will go all out during the 10th President's Cruise in 2027. 

What to expect on Icon of the Seas

Icon of the Seas is, well, she doesn't need much of an introduction. The Icon Class namesake entered service in January 2024 after years of anticipation. 

It makes sense that the next President's Cruise will take place on an Icon Class ship, as she exemplifies the latest and greatest from the cruise line. 

Onboard, you'll find everything from the record-breaking Category 6 Waterpark to the Crown's Edge over-the-water attraction, an adult-only swim-up bar, the family-friendly Surfside Neighborhood, Empire Supper Club specialty restaurant, and so much more. 

Royal Caribbean wants to win over the younger generation of cruisers with more than adrenaline-pumping thrills and Broadway-style entertainment. 

By leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and other innovations, Royal Caribbean has turned its app into what Millennials are calling the cruise line's "biggest flex."  

Royal Caribbean's mobile app was first introduced in 2018 and quickly became a favorite feature amongst guests. 

The app made it easier than ever to browse the daily schedule, make dining reservations, and book shore excursions, and over the years, it's continued to evolve into a powerful digital companion. 

Today, it is praised for its personalization, ease, and seamlessness, particularly among Gen Z and Millennial cruisers.  

By meeting younger travelers where they are (i.e., on their cell phones), Royal Caribbean is not only modernizing the cruise experience but also building lifelong loyalty. 

"Technology isn’t just an add-on for us — it’s central to how we design vacations," said Rafeh Masood, Chief Digital and Growth Officer of Royal Caribbean Group. 

"By developing these tools in-house, we can anticipate what younger travelers want and deliver it in a way that feels seamless. That approach is winning over first-time cruisers and turning them into loyal guests who return again and again."

Gamified Loyalty & Digital Badges

In March, Royal Caribbean rolled out new mobile badges that awarded guests for each ship they've sailed on.

Later on, they added a feature that lets cruisers earn badges for the destinations they’ve visited — from Perfect Day at CocoCay to Europe, Mexico, Bermuda, and beyond. 

Millennials and Gen Z love sharing experiences, and tracking which ships they have sailed on to different destinations creates a sense of achievement and pride, almost like collecting new stamps in a passport. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean updated its virtual badges, and it's become a "Gotta Catch 'Em All!" craze

Smart Suggestions

Royal Caribbean's app gives guests "Netflix-style recommendations" for dining, nightlife, and excursions based on personal preferences. 

This makes it easier to discover what is trending onboard the ship without feeling overwhelmed by everything going on. 

The app will also send notifications for pre-cruise planner sales, so guests can save on their favorite add-ons like shore excursions, drink packages, Wi-Fi, and more.

Calendar-Friendly Notifications

Speaking of everything going on, it can be easy to forget what you've signed up for or were interested in. 

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean's mobile app sends smart, calendar-friendly notifications to remind passengers of their upcoming reservations, comedy shows, and sunset yoga classes that they signed up for.  

Real-Time Peace of Mind

Available exclusively on Star of the Seas (for now), parents can use the Royal Caribbean app to track their kids’ location onboard in real time.

The "Find My Kid" feature keeps tabs on children in public spaces across the ship, as well as in their stateroom. Children must be registered at Adventure Ocean and have a special WOW Band to utilize this service. 

Although it isn't a replacement for good parenting, it lets parents have a little peace of mind when letting their children go off on their own on the cruise ship. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean adds a way to track your kids on its newest cruise ship

Royal Caribbean uses AI for more than its mobile app

Artificial intelligence helps Royal Caribbean manage millions of daily price points and even reduce waste onboard its fleet of ships. 

"We manage about 15 million price points a day. That used to be done more or less with a couple 100 revenue managers, and today, those 15 million price points, 90-plus percent of them are all AI-driven," said Jacon Liberty, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, at the Skift Global Forum in New York City on Wednesday.

Liberty continued, adding that they've reduced waste on 69 of its ships (comprised of vessels operating under the Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea umbrellas) by 50%. 

One way they've done so is by leveraging AI to help adjust food production in real-time. For example, AI can help predict how many hamburgers and other food items the chefs should prepare.

It also helps crew members better estimate how much food should be thawed and prepped throughout the sailing.

"We’re using well over 50,000 eggs per day…We have 180,000 passengers, as we speak right now on our ships. Just being able to manage it at a deeper level and a more predictable level has huge savings for us on a waste standpoint," Liberty said. 

Read more: What does Royal Caribbean do with all its uneaten food?

One of the biggest complaints about Royal Caribbean's newest Oasis Class ship was that it lacked a place to grab fresh smoothies and juices — until now. 

When Utopia of the Seas launched in July 2024, word quickly spread that there wasn't a Vitality Café onboard. 

In fact, if you browse online discussion forums, it's easy to find cruisers upset about not having a dedicated spot for fresh, healthy smoothies and juices. 

"Utopia does not have a [fresh-pressed] juice machine on board. [My partner and I] got the alcoholic drink packages and were really excited about all the [fresh-pressed] juice that’s included...," one guest shared on Reddit.

"Unfortunately they did not add [the Vitality Café] to the boat and the spa had to tell several people. Very unfortunate." 

"I just got off the utopia and [am] dissatisfied that there is no vitality cafe. The only [fresh juice] is from the buffet with [a] charge. There is plenty [of] room in the lobby spa area to add this," wrote another guest on a Royal Caribbean Blog discussion forum. 

However, it seems that Royal Caribbean has listened to the feedback and made some changes to Utopia of the Seas. 

Blake Mathesie recently sailed aboard Utopia and reported that Royal Caribbean set up a makeshift juice shop in the Spotlight Karaoke lounge on Deck 5. 

According to Mathesie, the pop-up isn't found on the ship's deck plans, either on the app or website. However, it is available in the app under "Dining" → "Coffee & Snacks."

It's a recent addition, with crew members telling Mathesie they started offering the juices and smoothies a few weeks ago. 

Hours for Vitality Café on Utopia of the Seas are limited, likely because the crew needs to clear the space in preparation for the bar to open later in the karaoke lounge.

On embarkation day in Port Canaveral, it seems to be open from 10:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., while on other days, the Vitality Café is typically open from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

"Whether you've just finished a workout at the gym or enjoyed a rejuvenating treatment at the spa, Vitality Juice Bar offers a selection of delicious, healthful options — including our fresh juices prepared just for you at the Spotlight," reads the app's description. 

Not the first ship that has a makeshift Vitality Café

Part of Royal Caribbean's changes to Allure of the Seas included removing the Vitality Café, despite it being a favorite amongst health-conscious cruisers. 

While the café is no longer in the spa, a limited menu with juice and smoothie offerings is available at Sorrento's in the Royal Promenade. 

Similar to Utopia, there isn’t a dedicated icon for it on the ship's deck plan. 

Read more: 6 things I'm surprised Royal Caribbean didn't change on Allure of the Seas

Do drink packages work at the Vitality Café?

Yes, Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package and Royal Refreshment Package both work at the Vitality Café. Moreover, Diamond vouchers can be redeemed for smoothies and juices, along with most alcoholic beverages, soda, bottled water, and more.

Drinks at the Vitality Café cost over $8 each, so purchasing a drink package (especially if you plan on kickstarting your morning with a freshly-made juice or smoothie) can be a wise decision. 

The Royal Amplification program was designed to give new life to Royal Caribbean's older cruise ships. 

When the Royal Amplification program was initially announced in 2018, 10 ships were scheduled to receive updates over the course of 4 years; however, the initiative came to a halt during the pandemic as a result of the worldwide port and shipyard closures.

Before getting postponed, 6 ships were successfully amplified, including Independence of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, and Freedom of the Seas. 

For years, loyal Royal Caribbean fans had been left wondering when the program would be restarted, as ships like Allure of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas fell short compared to their upgraded counterparts. 

Thankfully, Royal Caribbean has officially restarted the Royal Amplification program. The long-anticipated upgrades are in full swing and resumed with Allure of the Seas in early 2025.

Curious about which ships have been amplified and which are on the docket? You're in the right place. 

Independence of the Seas (2018)

Independence of the Seas was the first ship to undergo Royal Amplification, re-entering service with her new upgrades in May 2018. The revitalization cost over $100 million and added a slew of new experiences to the Freedom Class ship, including:

• A SkyPad (a virtual reality trampoline, which has since been closed)
• Perfect Storm water slides
• Re-designed pool deck
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
• Splashaway Bay
• "Battle for Planet Z" glow-in-the-dark laser tag
• New escape room
• Panoramic Oceanview staterooms
• Sugar Beach candy shop
• Improved ice rink
• Fish & Ships
• New lounges

Mariner of the Seas (2018)

Royal Caribbean invested $120 million into the refurbishment of Mariner of the Seas, and the results made it one of the favorite ships of Royal Caribbean Blog founder Matt Hochberg. Mariner's Royal Amplification finished in June 2018 and added new ways to drink, play, and dine, such as:

• Perfect Storm racer water slides
• A SkyPad (a virtual reality trampoline, which has since been closed)
• "Battle for Planet Z" laser tag
• Royal Escape Room: The Observatorium
• The Bamboo Room (the cruise line's first-ever Polynesian-inspired, tiki-chic bar)
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Jamie’s Italian
• Izumi Hibachi and Sushi
• FlowRider surf simulator

Navigator of the Seas (Feb 2019)

The third ship to be royally amplified was Navigator of the Seas. She sailed into Miami, Florida, in February 2019 with $115 million of next-level features, including:

• The Blaster (Royal Caribbean's first aqua coaster)
• Riptide water slide
• Caribbean resort-style poolscape with a small kids' splash pad
• Johnny Rockets Express
• El Loco Fresh
• The Lime and Coconut
• Royal Escape Room: The Observatorium
• To Dry For stand-alone blow-dry bar
• Hooked Seafood
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• The Bamboo Room
• Redesigned Adventure Ocean with dedicated teen spaces

Voyager of the Seas (Oct 2019)

Voyager of the Seas wasn't the first Voyager Class ship to undergo a Royal Amplification. However, she was the first to debut in Asia following the upgrades. After a 41-day, $97 million transformation, Voyager arrived in Singapore in October 2019, ready to offer guests new staterooms, attractions, and more.

• Perfect Storm three-story water slides
• "Battle for Planet Z" laser tag
• Reinvigorated Vitality Spa and Fitness Center
• Redesigned kid and teen spaces

Oasis of the Seas (Nov 2019)

Costing $165 million, Oasis of the Seas' amplification was one of the cruise line's most expensive to date. The ship received everything from the Perfect Storm water slides and the Ultimate Abyss dry slide to new dining venues like Portside BBQ.

• The Ultimate Abyss
• Perfect Storm water slides
• Caribbean resort-style pool deck
• Splashaway Bay
• The Lime and Coconut
• Portside BBQ
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Bionic Bar
• El Loco Fresh
• Sugar Beach
• Spotlight Karaoke
• Music Hall
• Aqua80
• One Sky
• All-new Adventure Ocean
• Social298 for teens
• "Clash for the Crystal City" laser tag
• Royal Escape Room – Mission Control: Apollo 18

Freedom of the Seas (2020)

Freedom of the Seas might not be the newest ship in the fleet, but she holds a special place for Royal Caribbean Blog writer Elizabeth, who took her first-ever Royal Caribbean cruise aboard Freedom in 2009. 11 years later, Freedom of the Seas received a $116 million transformation in 2020 — and was the last ship to be amplified before the cruise industry came to a screeching halt. 

• Perfect Storm water slides
• Caribbean resort-style pool deck
• Splashaway Bay
• The Lime and Coconut
• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen
• El Loco Fresh
• Izumi Hibachi & Sushi
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• "Clash for the Crystal City" laser tag
• 360-degree transformation of Adventure Ocean
• Social033 for teens

Allure of the Seas (2025)

Allure of the Seas was scheduled to receive major renovations in 2020. However, her Royal Amplification process was indefinitely postponed due to the impacts of the COVID pandemic. She finally received her long-awaited transformation in early 2025 before returning to sail in Europe for the first time in a decade. 

• Perfect Storm water slides
• Caribbean resort-style pool deck
• Splashaway Bay
• The Ultimate Abyss
• Royal Escape Room – Apollo 18: Lunar Landing
• Glow-in-the-dark laser tag
• The Lime and Coconut
• El Loco Fresh
• Pesky Parrot tiki bar
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar
• Adventure Ocean refresh
• Social298 for teens
• Over 100 new cabins, including the Ultimate Panoramic Suites
• Aqua80Too

Ovation of the Seas (Planned 2026)

In June 2025, Royal Caribbean announced plans to continue upgrading older ships, starting with Ovation of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, and Harmony of the Seas. Ovation of the Seas is the first on the schedule. She will be out of service from March 15 until May 1. Upon Ovation's return to service, guests can expect the following changes:

• Expanded casino
• Sound Cellar (upper level of the former Music Hall)
• Starbucks
• Pesky Parrot tiki bar
• Izumi Hibachi
• Giovanni's Italian Kitchen
• New staterooms, including the Ultimate Family Suite

Harmony of the Seas (Planned 2026)

Royal Caribbean plans to amplify its largest ship ever, Harmony of the Seas, between April 1 and May 21, 2025. Following Oasis and Allure of the Seas, she's the third Oasis Class ship to be royally amplified. As one of the largest ships in the fleet, Harmony of the Seas already boasts impressive features; however, there are a lot of exciting changes coming to the 9-year-old vessel, including:

• The largest Casino Royale in Royal Caribbean's fleet
• Pesky Parrot tiki bar
• Caribbean resort-style pool deck
• The Lime & Coconut
• Refreshed adults-only Solarium
• El Loco Fresh
• Playmaker's Sports Bar & Arcade
• Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse
• New staterooms, including the Ultimate Panoramic Suites and Ultimate Family Suite

Liberty of the Seas (Planned 2026)

Liberty of the Seas is also getting her much-needed Royal Amplification next year. Currently, she's the only Freedom Class ship that has yet to undergo the transformation, and fans have been vocal about how dated she feels. Liberty of the Seas will be out of service from April 19 until May 29. Afterwards, she will offer a series of European cruises to showcase her new amenities.

• Expanded casino
• Izumi Hibachi
• Starbucks
• Royal Escape Room
• Caribbean resort-style pool deck
• The Lime and Coconut
• El Loco Fresh
• New staterooms

Explorer of the Seas (indefinitely postponed)

Two ships that were supposed to undergo the Royal Amplification process, Explorer of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas, have been indefinitely postponed.

Explorer was on the docket to receive over $100 million in upgrades in 2020, such as The Lime and Coconut, revamped Adventure Ocean, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, and more. 

Royal Caribbean hasn't provided any official updates on when (or if) Explorer's amplification will be rescheduled. It will likely be a while, though, as Explorer of the Seas underwent a dry dock in 2023 that added the Perfect Storm water slides. 

Adventure of the Seas (indefinitely postponed)

Adventure of the Seas' Royal Amplification in 2021 was also canceled. Like with Explorer, Royal Caribbean hasn't publicly announced plans to upgrade the 24-year-old ship. 

She's not totally out-of-date, though. In 2016, the Perfect Storm water slides were added to Adventure's aft. Likewise, Adventure of the Seas also features Izumi Sushi (not Hibachi) in the Royal Promenade. 

Royal Caribbean has big plans to upgrade Harmony of the Seas in 2026 with lots of new upgrades and changes.

Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean announced three of its ships will undergo a Royal Amplification to improve the onboard experience. 

Royal Caribbean Blog has already shared the plans for Ovation of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas, so in this article, but today we have a look at what changes are coming to Harmony of the Seas. 

Harmony of the Seas' Royal Amplification is scheduled to take place in April and May 2026. Harmony will depart from Galveston, Texas, on March 16, 2026, on a 16-night one-way cruise to Barcelona, Spain. She's not scheduled to re-enter service until May 21.

Although Harmony of the Seas isn't the oldest ship in Royal's fleet, there are a lot of exciting changes coming to the 9-year-old Oasis Class ship. Here's what's in store for Harmony post-Royal Amplification. 

Deck-by-deck changes coming to Harmony of the Seas

Starting on Deck 3, the Conference Center is being removed and replaced with 29 new inside cabins. Moving on up, the Attic comedy club and Crown Lounge are being removed to make way for an expanded casino (the largest Casino Royale in Royal Caribbean’s fleet!).

The move reflects a broader trend across Royal Caribbean's fleet, where less popular venues are being replaced with more casino space to drive extra revenue. 

Deck 5 is only seeing one minor change, which isn't too surprising: the Bionic Bar is being replaced with the Pesky Parrot Bar. The Pesky Parrot made its debut on Utopia of the Seas and has since been added to Allure of the Seas. Royal Caribbean also plans to add the Pesky Parrot Bar to Ovation of the Seas during the ship's Royal Amplification in 2026. 

A few notable changes are coming to Deck 6. First, the Vitality Cafe is being relocated to make way for new staterooms (6454, 6456, 6458, 6460, and 6462). Additionally, the Picture This photography studio will be moved next to the Focus photo gallery.

However, the most substantial change is that Sabor is being replaced with Playmaker's Sports Bar & Arcade — a move that also took place on Allure of the Seas during her long-awaited Royal Amplification earlier this year. Also new to Harmony of the Seas is the Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, which will likely be in the Solarium Bistro like on other ships. 

Decks 7, 8, 9, and 10 are remaining unchanged, except for one small modification in Central Park: Hublot will be moved next to Cartier and Omega, rather than on the left side of the Park Café. Surprisingly, Royal Caribbean isn't replacing Jamie's with Giovanni's Italian Kitchen. 

Higher up on the ship, Royal Caribbean plans on adding a few more interior cabins on Deck 11 towards the aft of the ship. These include staterooms 11900, 11902, 11904, 11906, 11908, 11910, 11912, 11914, 11916, 11918, 11922, and 11928. 

According to the deck plans, cabins 11920 and 11924 will be new balcony staterooms. Rather than having private verandahs that face across the Boardwalk, these will face straight aft toward the AquaTheater. 

The same is happening on Deck 12, with interior and two special balcony staterooms. However, to make way for the new cabins, Wonderland, the whimsical specialty restaurant inspired by Alice in Wonderland, will be removed. 

Deck 14 will see some of the most substantial changes. 28 new staterooms will replace the lower level of the adults-only Solarium and Adventure Ocean kids' club, particularly the Voyagers, Explorers, and Aquanauts rooms.  

Although the deck plans don't state it specifically, it appears that two of the new staterooms will be the Ultimate Panoramic Suites that were also added to Allure of the Seas. These spacious suites do not have balconies, but they have floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and a king-sized bed with a Duxiana mattress. 

Unfortunately, the new staterooms mean that the Solarium will have fewer seating options, as the lounge chairs near the bridge wings won't exist anymore. 

On Deck 15, the Pool Bar will be transformed into the Lime & Coconut to complement the new Caribbean-inspired pool deck. Moreover, the Crown Lounge will take over part of the Living Room, one of the dedicated teen spaces. Mini Bites will also become El Loco Fresh, allowing guests to enjoy casual poolside tacos, quesadillas, and burritos. 

Finally, while the new deck plans don't list the Ultimate Family Suite on Deck 17, it was previously announced that Harmony of the Seas would be receiving this popular suite as part of her Royal Amplification. 

First introduced on Symphony of the Seas, the Ultimate Family Suite is a special cabin for families seeking an over-the-top vacation experience. 

According to the deck plans, it seems that two Crown Loft Suites are being transformed into the Ultimate Family Suite on Deck 17. The brand-new suite 1730 will replace the former cabin 1730, as well as 1732.  

Read more: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide

Changes coming to two other ships

As mentioned earlier, Liberty and Ovation of the Seas are the other two ships getting major upgrades through Royal Caribbean's Royal Amplification process. 

The enhancements are meant to modernize older vessels and offer a more consistent guest experience across the fleet. 

For example, following Allure of the Seas' renovation, Harmony of the Seas is the only Oasis Class ship that doesn't have a Playmaker's Sports Bar & Arcade onboard.