Looking for the best Alaska excursions to try on your Royal Caribbean cruise? I've compiled a list of the best ones based on reader reviews.

Planning an Alaska cruise is exciting but choosing the right shore excursions can feel overwhelming fast. Every port promises glacier views, wildlife encounters, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, but not every tour is worth your time or money. With limited hours in each destination, picking the right excursions can make the difference between a good cruise and an unforgettable one.

Our team has been on various Alaska cruises over the years, and we've experienced many different tours. Plus, our readers have shared their own recommendations for the best options.

Updated for the 2026 Alaska cruise season, here are the best Alaska cruise excursions to consider at every major Royal Caribbean port. These tours consistently stand out for their scenery, unique experiences, and the chance to see the Alaska most travelers dream about.

Note: We make no guarantees about any of these tours. It's a list to consider based on feedback and our experiences. Book these tours at your own risk.

Best Alaska Cruise Excursions on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

If you're planning a Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise, the excursions you choose can make or break the experience. Alaska is famous for wildlife encounters, glacier viewing, and historic Gold Rush towns, so the best tours take you beyond the port and into the region’s natural landscapes.

On this page

1. Juneau
2. Ketchikan
3. Skagway
4. Sitka
5. Haines
6. Icy Strait Point

Juneau shore excursions & tours

Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Ultimate Whale Watch Combo: Great if you want both. You’ll have about 90 minutes at Mendenhall Glacier which is plenty of time to walk out to Nugget Falls and enjoy the views before heading out whale watching.Website

Mt. Roberts Tramway: If the weather is clear, you can easily take the Mt. Roberts Tramway to the summit and enjoy spectacular views below. This is not a full-day tour, so you could combine this with another tour.  Website

Whale watching with Jayleen's Alaska: Many cruisers recommended this tour company, and it has received high accolades, including being named the #1 Water Tour in Juneau, Alaska. Website

What watching with Alaska Tales Juneau: Another highly rated whale watching tour, where you can not only view whales, but they offer a money-back guarantee if you don't see any. Website

Whale watching with Harv & Marv: Another often recommended whale watching tour. They also offer lighthouse tours. Website

Juneau Whale Watch Adventure: A 3.5 hour whale watching tour with only 20 guests which makes it feel like a VIP experience! Small boat, friendly naturalists and fantastic close up whale sightings. Website

Jeep tour: Take a self-guided tour of Juneau in your own Jeep Wrangler. There's a GPS and narration provided to allow you to move as fast or slow as you want. Website

Sled Dog Discovery: Dog sledding is a great family-friendly tour that combines history and the opportunity to meet the dogs. Website

Glacier and Guided Walk: If you're feeling adventurous, try a helicopter tour that brings you to Mendenhall Glacier. Website

Mendenhall Glacier by Helicopter & Dog Sledding: Take a helicopter flightseeing tour with dogsledding and land on the lower level of the Herbert Glacier. Website

Read more: Top 10 things to do in Juneau, Alaska

Ketchikan shore excursions & tours

Misty Fjords Flightseeing Tour: See this glacier-carved wilderness from the air. It's everything Alaska is known for in one. Website

Salmon Fishing in the Salmon Capital of the World: Looking for a good salmon fishing excursion? This is a great choice. Website

Ketchikan All In One: Small group tours that offer wildlife viewing, salmon fishing, and learning about the indigenous heritage of the area. Website (affiliate link)

Kayak Eco-Tour: Kayaking is a fun way to get close up to many of the natural wonders, and it's easy to pick up (even if you've never done it before). Website

Rainforest Walk and Totem Park:  A two-hour guided experience that brings you right into the heart of Tongass National Forest. You’ll walk past giant trees, waterfalls, and maybe even spot some wildlife. Website (affiliate link)

Combo helicopter tour: See the best views of the mountains and valleys surrounding Ketchikan Lakes and Mahoney Falls. Website

Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: An entertaining spectacle of lumberjacks showing off their skills of carving wood using chainsaws, tree-climbing gaffs, and six-foot saws. Website

Totem Bight and Rain Forest Tour: Learn about the native history of Ketchikan while exploring a rainforest. Website

Fishing expedition: If you want to try to catch halibut, salmon, and more, a deep sea fishing expedition might be what you want. Website

Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour: Educational & interactive Alaskan fishing tour meant to evoke the same style of fishing as seen in Deadliest Catch. Website

Ketchikan Duck Tour: Combining land and water exploration aboard amphibious vehicles, visitors enjoy narrated tours through downtown landmarks before transitioning to a scenic cruise along the waterfront.  Website (affiliate link)

Skagway shore excursions & tours

White Pass Scenic Railway: By far the most popular excursion in Skagway, see beautiful views from the comfort of the train. Website

Skagway Musher's Camp and Sled Dog Adventure: Go on wheeled dogsleds that are pulled by a team of sled dogs, and then meet puppies after. Website

Ghosts and Goodtime Girls walking tour: Storytellers take you around town to share what it was like for the women of the Klondike Gold Rush. Website

E-Bike rental: Get around Skagway on your own with an e-bike. Website

Jeep tour: Explore Skagway and the nearby Yukon Territory in a Jeep rental, which includes, maps, mile-by-mile guide as well as an interactive tour guide. Website

White Pass Train & Bike Tour: Take the White Pass train up, and then bike back down. Website

Sitka shore excursions & tours

Whale watching with Captain Gary: Many people swear by Gary, who is from Sitka and knows the area well. Website

Fortress of the Bear: Animal rescue center, that includes bears. Many tours include a stop here, but you can do it yourself if you prefer. Website

Alaska Raptor Center: A medical treatment center for eagles and any injured wild birds. Website

Small group wildlife and scenic boat tours: Offers the chance of viewing seals, sea lions, sea otters, whales, porpoises, and Sitka black tail deer. Website

Wildlife Quest & Fin Island Lodge: Boat tour to see wildlife, including sea otters, whales, and coastal brown bears. Lunch at Fin Island. Website

Totem Trail & Sitka Historic Park: The Totem pole park offers a hike through the rainforest. Website

Premier Whale Watching and Wildlife Tour: A small-group tour run by locals who know exactly where to look for whales, eagles, sea otters, and more. Website (affiliate link)

Whale Watching and Wildlife Shore Excursion: Explore Sitka Sound with a small group tour led by a born-and-raised Sitkan. Website (affiliate link)

Haines shore excursions & tours

Chilkoot Lake Nature and Wildlife Viewing: Opportunity to see a turquoise lake surrounded by snowy mountain peaks, a salmon-filled river flowing into the sea, and important Tlingit cultural sights. Website

Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve: Run by the State of Alaska, has around 100 bald eagles you can see at once. Website

Icy Strait Point shore excursions & tours

Icy Strait Point ZipRider: Go across six 5,330’ ziplines that will let you soar 300 feet above the rainforest below. Website

Whale watching with Glacier Wind Charters: See humpback whales, along with other wildlife. Website

Whale watching with Icy Strait Whale Adventures has a custom-built whale-watching vessel that has large windows that allow unrestricted viewing while getting up close and personal to whales. Website

Whale watching with Hoonah Travel Adventures offers an intimate small boat experience to their customers that have large viewing decks and oversized sliding windows. Website

Fishing charter: Offers group and private fishing trips. Website

Tree Top Adventure Park & Ropes Course: Self-guided courses with varying difficulty levels that allows you to advance through the obstacles at your own pace. Website

Wonderful Whales and Wildlife Tour: Small group, local captain, and tons of charm for whale watching. Website (affiliate link)

Why aren't there Royal Caribbean shore excursions on the list of recommended tours?

There are two reasons we did not include shore excursions sold by Royal Caribbean on this list.

First, it's difficult to ascertain if a specific tour sold by one ship on a particular sailing is the exact same tour as another sold on a different sailing and/or ship. Truthfully, it just wasn't practical to come up with a list given the generic names Royal Caribbean gives to their tour names and verify it's the same tour for anyone else booking it.

To be clear, there's nothing wrong with Royal Caribbean's shore excursions and I've often booked them myself. It was just easier to come up with a list of third-party vendors.

In addition, Royal Caribbean's tours are operated by third parties that the cruise line vets. The cruise line acts as a "middle man" in organizing it, so one way or another, you're going to end up with a third-party tour.  

In many cases, if you do a Google search for the Royal Caribbean Alaska shore excursion the exact tour appears from the vendor.

Granted, booking with Royal Caribbean does include certain benefits, such as ensuring the ship will wait for you if your tour is late getting back. 

In short, it's easier to research third party excursions. Plus, finding a great tour is one of the Alaska mistakes not to make.

How much do shore excursions cost in Alaska?

While it’s possible to find great deals on cruise fares to Alaska, shore excursions can often be more expensive than what you are used to on a Caribbean cruise. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend on Alaska cruise excursions can better help you budget your vacation while still having an incredible cruise experience.

Shore excursions can run anywhere from $50 to well over $500. If you're trying to save money, check out our list of cheap or free Alaska shore excursions.

To give an example of how varied prices can be, here are a few examples you may see for Royal Caribbean excursions:

Juneau

• Whale Watching and Wildlife Quest ($158.99/adult, $110.99/child)
• Helicopter Glacier Walkabout ($406.99)
• Mendenhall Glacier River Rafting ($141.99)
• Mount Roberts Tramway ($59.99)

Skagway

• Klondike Bicycle Tour ($115.75)
• Ghost and Goodtime Girls Walking Tour ($45.99)
• White Pass Scenic Railway ($140.99/adult, $74.99/child)
• Glacier Discovery by Helicopter ($379.00)

Sitka

• Taste of Sitka ($78.99/adult, $62.99/child)
• Siginaka Islands Cruise & Kayak Adventure ($163.99/adult, $125.99/child)
• Tongass Forest Nature Hike ($84.99/adult, $60.99/child)
• Native Cultural and Historical Tour ($55.99/adult, $42.99/child)

Shore excursions booked through independent providers are often cheaper than Royal Caribbean’s pricing, so be sure to look outside of Royal Caribbean for better deals.

Do I need a shore excursion on an Alaska cruise?

It’s not necessary to book a shore excursion on an Alaska cruise. In fact, some passengers prefer to explore on their own to have maximum freedom over activities, dining, and travel pace. While excursions are an “easy” option due to the fact that all logistics are handled by the tour operator instead of yourself, they can be a bit too limiting for some travelers.

Luckily, Alaska cruise ports are small and walkable, allowing visitors to experience the town’s history, culture, and nearby nature on foot. Even Juneau, the largest Alaska cruise port, still has plenty of walkable areas and ways to get around without booking an excursion, such as the Goldbelt Tramway and Mendenhall Glacier shuttle bus.

Some activities, like kayaking, whale watching, and ziplining, tend to be easier with a shore excursion than without, as all equipment, lifejackets, transportation, etc. is provided for you. Others, like hiking, visiting museums, and trying Alaska’s cuisine can easily be done without a pre-booked excursion.

Depending on what activities you book, that could impact what you need to pack for an Alaska cruise.

After taking over 30 cruises, I finally tried an all-inclusive resort. There were some upsides to the experience, but in the end, I still prefer cruising.

I love visiting multiple destinations in one week on a cruise ship, so I was always wary of booking an all-inclusive. I didn’t want to feel “bored” or “trapped” in one place for an entire vacation.

Yet recently, I spent three nights at Palmaïa: The House of AïA in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. This 5-star all-inclusive resort places a strong emphasis on wellness, and the property is designed for guests to feel rejuvenated and connected with nature during their stay.

I was blown away by the property’s amenities, including a cenote, infinity pools, beach access, and multiple restaurants. Nonetheless, there were some major downsides, such as the high price.

Here’s how I’d compare my first experience at an all-inclusive resort to a Royal Caribbean cruise.

First, let’s talk price

Cruise fares can vary significantly, and the same goes for all-inclusive resorts. Just as you can find low fares on an old ship like Grandeur of the Seas, you can also find cheap deals at older all-inclusive resorts.

Palmaïa: The House of AïA opened in 2020, and prices reflected that. The wellness resort offers an upscale atmosphere, and rooms run anywhere from $950 to $1,500 per night at double occupancy. This rate is all-inclusive.

Royal Caribbean cruise prices can vary greatly. For most ships in the fleet, you can expect to pay around $2,500 to $3,500 for two adults in an interior cabin on a 7-night cruise. This brings the nightly cost to around $200-$300, which is significantly less than a night at the resort.

Although extras like drink packages, specialty dining, and shore excursions aren’t included in the Royal Caribbean cruise fare, they’re unlikely to add up to the roughly $800-per-night difference between Palmaïa: The House of AïA and a cruise.

Given the price difference, I think cruises offer a better value, even if the fares aren’t all-inclusive.

My suite at the all-inclusive was unlike any cabin on Royal Caribbean

Cruise ship cabins are notorious for their tiny size, with most standard cabins ranging between 160 and 200 square feet. The size of cruise cabins has never really bothered me before, as I spend most of my time onboard outside of my cabin.

After staying in a suite at an all-inclusive resort, though, I’m not sure how I’ll ever go back to a closet-sized cruise room.

My room at Palmaïa: The House of AïA was nothing short of spectacular. I stayed in a Queen Suite that measured 538 square feet, which is over double the size of most cruise cabins. The room featured two queen-sized beds, two showers, and best of all, a patio that led directly to one of the resort’s pools.

Having direct access to the pool was unbelievable, and it’s something that isn’t even possible in Royal Caribbean’s biggest and most expensive suites.

By and large, all-inclusive resorts have more spacious and well-appointed rooms.

I prefer the dining experience on Royal Caribbean

Dining is one of my favorite aspects of any Royal Caribbean cruise. Whether I’m enjoying a sit-down meal in the Main Dining Room or grabbing a quick crêpe from the AquaDome market, I love the variety of flavors and dining venues throughout the fleet.

Yet not everything is perfect with Royal Caribbean’s dining. Quality can be hit or miss, and there’s a clear quality difference between the complimentary and extra-cost options.

Palmaïa: The House of AïA focuses on wellness, and that translates into the food as well. Most menu items are vegan by default, but guests can request meat, fish, egg, and dairy options.

I ate at four different venues during my stay, and I enjoyed every dish, from spicy chilaquiles to fresh açaí bowls. However, there were a few downsides. Portions were significantly smaller than standard dishes on Royal Caribbean, and the resort had limited quick-service options. There was no buffet, and even the casual cafe often had a long wait.

Additionally, I missed the personalized service found on a Royal Caribbean cruise. I still received excellent service at the all-inclusive, but it didn’t feel quite as personal as having friendly chats with my Main Dining Room waiters or other staff around the ship.

One positive at the all-inclusive was the lack of a busy schedule

On my first day at Palmaïa: The House of AïA, I felt a strong sense of tranquility that I generally don’t feel onboard a busy cruise ship. I first attributed this to the resort’s wellness vibe, but later realized it was from something totally different—a lack of a set schedule.

Most cruisers keep a busy schedule during their vacation. While onboard, it’s common to plan your day around activities and entertainment. In port, you have to constantly check the time to ensure you don’t miss the ship’s departure.

At an all-inclusive, there’s no need to think about the time beyond your dinner reservation. Personally, I preferred this type of atmosphere, even if there weren’t as many activities as a cruise.

You can truly enjoy time at the beach or pool without worrying about what comes next.

I was also surprised by the lack of crowds at the all-inclusive. I was told the resort wasn’t at full capacity, but it seemed to be almost empty. I never struggled to find pool chairs, and I certainly never had to walk around crowded hallways and thoroughfares to get from one place to another.

I missed visiting multiple destinations, though

As a destination-focused cruiser, I love any chance to cross new islands, cities, and countries off my travel wishlist. At the same time, I hate not being able to experience these destinations for more than just a few hours.

I thought staying at an all-inclusive resort might be a nice change from the fast-paced nature of a cruise, but honestly, I missed visiting multiple destinations. After three days of being in the same place, I was ready to go somewhere new.

Being at the resort felt somewhat stale in comparison to planning diverse activities on each port day while cruising. Next time, I’d plan a few activities outside the resort so I don’t feel as trapped.

Despite the positives of an all-inclusive, I’d still rather book a cruise

All in all, I had a wonderful experience at my first all-inclusive resort, but I still don’t think it’s my preferred type of vacation.

I absolutely loved spending time at the beach and pool, and in my spacious room, but part of me missed the variety of activities available on a cruise. Relaxing all day can be fun, but I missed having the chance to attend programming like AquaTheater shows, live music, trivia, and the infamous bellyflop competition.

The cost of an upscale resort like Palmaïa: The House of AïA felt prohibitive, too. I’m not a heavy drinker, and I didn’t feel I got the most out of the all-inclusive experience. I far prefer being able to pick and choose which add-ons to buy on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

I’m not opposed to staying at an all-inclusive resort again, but I might pick one that is more budget-friendly. Even still, I don’t think I could spend an entire week at this type of resort. It’s hard to beat the variety of destinations and activities I can experience on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

The newest and oldest Royal Caribbean cruise ships are more than 30 years apart in age. We're often asked what are the newest ships and which ones are among the oldest.

With nearly 30 ships in the fleet today, the oldest one was launched back in 1996 and just hit 30 years in age.  However, the newest ship entered service in 2025.

The age of a ship isn't the most important detail, but newer ships tend to have more to do and are bigger compared to older ships.

Star of the Seas holds the distinction of being the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, but that will be surpassed when Legend of the Seas launches in July 2026.

Older ships vary in what they offer and what you can do onboard, as well as price.  Generally speaking, you'll pay a premium for a newer ship over an older ship, but isn't absolute. There are other factors influencing the price, but new ships definitely command higher prices.

An older ship would be anything built before 2010, and they might be half or two thirds the size of today's new megaships. There are less venues onboard, but they're still a fun ship to sail on with enough going on to keep you busy. After all, Royal Caribbean's reputation for offering the best onboard activities is no secret.

If you’re planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s helpful to have an idea of which ships belong to Royal Caribbean’s fleet. It can be difficult to keep track of each ship, its age, and amenities, so we’re putting everything you should know into one place.

Here’s our list of Royal Caribbean ships ranked from newest to oldest.

List of Royal Caribbean ships by age, newest to oldest

This listing has every Royal Caribbean cruise ship from newest to oldest, as well as which ship class and important details about each.

Legend of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: July 11, 2026
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy): around 7,600
• Gross tonnage: around 250,800

Scheduled to launch in 2026, Legend of the Seas will become the third Icon Class ship and borrow the name of a ship that has since been retired.

We expect Legend of the Seas to be about he same size of Star or Icon of the Seas. It will have a gross tonnage of about 250,800, a length of 1,198 feet, and a width of approximately 213 feet. 

Legend of the Seas will feature 2,805 staterooms across 20 decks and bring a few new updates and experiences that will be unique to that ship.

Star of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: August 31, 2025
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy): 5,610
• Gross tonnage: 248,663

Star of the Seas is tied with Icon of the Seas for the title of world's largest cruise ship. It's the second Icon Class ship, which added a few tweaks to make it even better for families.

There is the Category 6 waterpark action, Surfside for families, AquaDome views, and more dining. It builds on Icon’s design with refinements cruisers asked for modern, flexible vacations at sea in 2025 launch.

Star of the Seas offers 7-night Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Utopia of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: July 19, 2024
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy): 5,668
• Gross tonnage: 236,860

Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean's latest Oasis Class ship, and she stands out because she flipped the script with her deployment. She is the sixth ship in the cruise line’s Oasis Class, and only offers short cruises from Florida to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean did this to create a new and big ship that will primarily appeal to first-time cruisers who tend to prefer short cruises to start out with.

Icon of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: January 27, 2024
• Maximum passenger capacity: (double occupancy): 5,610
• Gross tonnage: 250,800

Icon of the Seas is one of the world’s largest cruise ships. As the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class, Icon of the Seas set a new standard with all the innovations and things to do onboard.

Guests will love the new AquaDome neighborhood, the Category 6 Waterpark, and family-friendly Surfside neighborhood.

Icon of the Seas offers 7-night Caribbean itineraries from Miami, Florida.

Wonder of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: March 4, 2022
• Maximum passenger capacity: 6,988
• Gross tonnage: 236,857

Wonder of the Seas launched in March 2022. She is the fifth Oasis Class ship, yet has slightly different design elements than her sister ships, which include The Vue bar, The Mason Jar southern restaurant, and a suites-only neighborhood.

Wonder of the Seas sails short weekend and 4-night cruises from Miami, Florida.

Odyssey of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: July 31, 2021
• Maximum passenger capacity: 5,510
• Gross tonnage: 167,704

Odyssey of the Seas is the fifth and final ship in Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class. Quantum Class ships are known for their technology-driven designs and activities.

Highlights of a cruise on Odyssey of the Seas include RipCord by iFLY, an indoor skydiving simulator, and the SeaPlex, an indoor sports arena with activities like bumper cars and rollerskating. Adults will enjoy the enclosed, climate-controlled Solarium as well as a tropical-themed pool deck with The Lime & Coconut bar.

Odyssey of the Seas sails to the Caribbean in the winter months and spends the summer season in Europe, offering Greek Isles and Holy Land cruises from Rome.

Related: Odyssey of the Seas Guide & Review

Spectrum of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: April 18, 2019
• Maximum passenger capacity: 5,622
• Gross tonnage: 169,379

Spectrum of the Seas, the fourth Quantum Class ship, is based in Asia year round—the ship was designed for the China cruise market.

Onboard you’ll find extra casino space, a suites-only Solarium, and a specialty restaurant with Sichuan cuisine.

Spectrum of the Seas currently sails from Shanghai, China and offer cruises that visit destinations in Japan, China, and Vietnam.

Symphony of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: April 7, 2018
• Maximum passenger capacity: 6,680
• Gross tonnage: 228,081

Symphony of the Seas is the fourth Oasis Class ship and is perfect for passengers who love having an abundance of options when it comes to entertainment, dining, cabin choices, and activities.

Symphony of the Seas offers Western Mediterranean cruises and Caribbean cruises.

Related: Supplying the fun: Symphony of the Seas cruise review

Harmony of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 29, 2016
• Maximum passenger capacity: 6,687
• Gross tonnage: 226,963

Harmony of the Seas, the third Oasis Class cruise ship, offers Caribbean cruises year round. She currently sails from Galveston, Texas.

Harmony of the Seas includes updated Oasis Class features like the Ultimate Abyss dry slide and Perfect Storm waterslides. This makes her an even greater option for a fun-filled getaway to the Western Caribbean.

Related: Harmony of the Seas Guide & Review

Ovation of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: April 14, 2016
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,905
• Gross tonnage: 168,666

Ovation of the Seas is the third ship in the Quantum Class. Like other Quantum Class ships, she was built to sail in all weather conditions, from chilly Alaska to the tropical South Pacific. 

Throughout the ship you’ll find several indoor spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows, such as the Two70 lounge, which allow you to enjoy views of your destination rain or shine.

In the summer season, Ovation of the Seas offers 7-night Alaska cruises departing Seattle. As the Alaska season comes to an end, she repositions to Sydney, Australia to offer South Pacific and New Zealand cruises.

Related: All about Quantum Class ships

Anthem of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: April 22, 2015
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,905
• Gross tonnage: 168,666

Anthem of the Seas, the second Quantum Class ship, has sailed to a wider variety of destinations than her sister ships in the class.

During the summer, Anthem of the Seas offers cruises from Seattle to destinations in Alaska.  She then moves to Asia for the winter cruise season.

Related: Anthem of the Seas Guide & Review

Quantum of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: November 2, 2014
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,905
• Gross tonnage: 168,666

Quantum of the Seas is the first ship in the Quantum Class, the second newest class of ships after the Icon Class.

Quantum of the Seas sails a wide range of itineraries. She offers Alaska cruises from Seattle during the summer and shifts down to Los Angeles for winter cruises that visit the Mexican Riviera.

Allure of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: December 1, 2010
• Maximum passenger capacity: 6,780
• Gross tonnage: 225,282

Royal Caribbean updated Allure of the Seas in summer 2025 with all new features that include the addition of waterslides, new shows, and new restaurants too.

We love the updated pool deck, which looks fantastic.

Allure of the Seas still offers the classic features cruisers love in the Oasis Class, which include an AquaTheater, ice-skating rink, Central Park, and Boardwalk neighborhood.

Oasis of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: December 5, 2009
• Maximum passenger capacity: 6,780
• Gross tonnage: 226,838

There was no other ship like Oasis of the Seas when she launched in 2009. As the first ship in the Oasis Class, Oasis of the Seas was unlike any vessel to ever set sail.

Fourteen years later, the Oasis Class is still the most popular class of ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Guests have come to love the large, activity-filled ships in the Oasis Class, as there is no shortage of things to do and see onboard.

After her 2019 amplification, Oasis of the Seas had new dining venues, waterslides, a revamped pool deck, and new cabins added to the ship.

Related: Oasis of the Seas guide: Cabins, itineraries, what to expect

Independence of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 2, 2008
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,375
• Gross tonnage: 155,889

Independence of the Seas is the last of the Freedom Class ships. She received an amplification in 2018 that added waterslides, an escape room, and a kids aqua park to the ship.

The ship makes an excellent option for a short cruise, as she offers cruises visiting destinations in the Caribbean, as well as summer cruises from the United Kingdom.

Related: All about Freedom Class cruise ships

Liberty of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 19, 2007
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,960
• Gross tonnage: 155,889

Liberty of the Seas is the second Freedom Class ship, and like her sister ships, she offers short cruises from Florida.

Don't let her age fool you, this is a big ship experience. It has a giant Royal Promenade, where there is plenty of shopping and bars.  It has a pair of water slides and is the only ship with a boomerang slide. It's a great ship for families that don't want to compromise on what you can do onboard.

There are many dining choices onboard too, meaning you'll have a good variety of choices where to dine.

Freedom of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: June 4, 2006
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,515
• Gross tonnage: 156,271

Freedom of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s best ships for a short weekend getaway. After a 2020 amplification, Freedom of the Seas received upgrades including a tropical-themed pool deck, waterslides, and updated dining venues and bars.

It's a megaship, but doesn't feel as crowded as the Oasis Class ships do. Its upgrades certainly stand out as a good reason to sail on Freedom.

She currently offers 6, 7, and 8-night Caribbean cruises.

Related: Freedom of the Seas Guide & Review

Jewel of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 8, 2004
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,502
• Gross tonnage: 90,090

Jewel of the Seas is the last ship in the Radiance Class, and the last Royal Caribbean ship to be built with a multi-story atrium as opposed to a Royal Promenade thoroughfare.

She offers longer itineraries than most newer Royal Caribbean ships. She spends the summer season in Europe and repositions to the Caribbean during the winter months.

Related: All about Radiance Class cruise ships

Mariner of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: November 16, 2003
• Maximum passenger capacity: 3,807
• Gross tonnage: 139,863

Mariner of the Seas, the fifth Voyager Class ship, is a favorite ship among cruise fans, and many argue she offers the best value in a cruise vacation that Royal Caribbean has to offer.

Amplified in 2018, Mariner of the Seas features many of the same activities and dining venues as the fleet’s newer cruise ships, yet cruise fares are often much lower than ships like Symphony and Wonder of the Seas.

Mariner of the Seas sails in the Caribbean year round, offering cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Related: Mariner of the Seas Guide & Review

Serenade of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: August 1, 2003
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,476
• Gross tonnage: 90,090

Serenade of the Seas, a Radiance Class ship, is Royal Caribbean’s most well-traveled ship. Serenade completed the cruise line’s Ultimate World Cruise, a 274-night journey to all 7 continents.

As a Radiance Class ship, she is well-designed for such a colossal journey, and offers indoor spaces like a climate-controlled adults-only Solarium and indoor movie theater.

Navigator of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: December 14, 2002
• Maximum passenger capacity: 4,000
• Gross tonnage: 139,999

West Coast cruisers will love sailing on Navigator of the Seas, a Voyager Class ship that sails from Los Angeles, California.

Navigator of the Seas features amenities like record-breaking waterslides, a tropical-themed pool deck, a tiki bar, and Hooked Seafood restaurant, all of which were added to the ship during her 2019 amplification.

Cruisers can visit destinations along the Mexican Riviera on Navigator of the Seas such as Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.

Related: Navigator of the Seas Guide & Review

Brilliance of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: July 19, 2002
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,543
• Gross tonnage: 90,090

Brilliance of the Seas may be a small cruise ship by Royal Caribbean standards, but she makes up for her size with exciting itineraries in the Pacific.

During the summer she sails from Vancouver, Canada, offering 7-night Alaska cruises. In the Australia season, she offers unique itineraries in the region.

Adventure of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: November 18, 2001
• Maximum passenger capacity: 3,807
• Gross tonnage: 138,193

Adventure of the Seas, the third Voyager Class ship, sails from Florida and offers 6 and 8-night cruises to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean.

Unlike sister ships Mariner of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas did not receive an amplification. While she still has Voyager Class features like an ice-skating rink and outdoor Solarium, she does not have the cruise line’s most updated dining venues, lounges, and entertainment.

Related: Adventure of the Seas Review & Guide

Radiance of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: April 7, 2001
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,466
• Gross tonnage: 90,090

Radiance of the Seas is the first ship in the Radiance Class, which was designed to offer comfort while sailing through a variety of climates and landscapes.

Splitting her time between Alaska and the Caribbean, she does just that, and guests will appreciate the comfortable indoor spaces on either type of itinerary.

She differs from other ships sailing to Alaska in that she offers one-way Alaska cruise itineraries. These itineraries start in Vancouver and end in Seward, Alaska (and vice versa), allowing guests to combine a 7-night cruise with a land vacation in the state’s interior.

Explorer of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: October 28, 2000
• Maximum passenger capacity: 3,840
• Gross tonnage: 138,194

Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager Class ship splitting her time between the Caribbean and Europe. During the summer, she offers itineraries to the Greek Isles and Adriatic, and in the winter months she sails to the Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean.

Waterslides were added to the ship in February 2023, making the vessel more equal to her sister ships.

Voyager of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: November 21, 1999
• Maximum passenger capacity: 3,840
• Gross tonnage: 138,194

Voyager of the Seas turned heads when she launched in 1999—she featured the cruise industry’s first-ever Royal Promenade, an indoor thoroughfare running down the center of the ship.

The Promenade has been a staple of Royal Caribbean ships since, and it’s where guests will find retail stores, bars, lounges, and other venues like Guest Services and Next Cruise.

Voyager of the Seas sails from Port Canaveral, Florida, and European destinations such as Ravenna, Barcelona, Rome, and Athens.

Related: All about Voyager Class cruise ships

Vision of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 2, 1998
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,514
• Gross tonnage: 78,717

Vision of the Seas is the namesake for Royal Caribbean’s Vision Class. Vision Class ships are, when compared to other Royal Caribbean ships, relatively small.

Despite having a capacity of over 2,000 guests, they lack features like a sports court, waterslides, and other amenities found on the fleet’s newer ships.

Nonetheless, their small size enables them to fit into a wider variety of ports. Vision of the Seas is the only Royal Caribbean ship sailing from Baltimore, Maryland, where she offers cruises to the Caribbean, southeast coast, and Bermuda.

Related: All about Vision Class cruise ships

Enchantment of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: July 13, 1997
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,730
• Gross tonnage: 82,910

Enchantment of the Seas is the only Royal Caribbean ship to have been stretched, during which she was split into two sections and new cabins were added in between both ends.

Related: 3 surprising facts about Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas

After being stretched, she is still among the fleet’s smallest vessels, but is longer and heavier than her sister ships in the Vision Class.

Enchantment of the Seas is currently offering Western Caribbean cruises from Tampa.

Rhapsody of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: May 19, 1997
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,416
• Gross tonnage: 78,878

Rhapsody of the Seas is the second Vision Class cruise ship, and she offers some of Royal Caribbean’s most intriguing itineraries.

The ship is currently sailing to the Southern Caribbean from San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Grandeur of the Seas

• Inaugural sailing: December 14, 1996
• Maximum passenger capacity: 2,440
• Gross tonnage: 73,817

The oldest Royal Caribbean ship is Grandeur of the Seas at 28 years old.

Small but mighty, Grandeur of the Seas offers a traditional cruise experience and sails Caribbean cruises from Florida (Tampa and Fort Lauderdale).

Read more: Trying Royal Caribbean's oldest & smallest ship, Grandeur of the Seas, was better than we envisioned

Should I sail on an old or new Royal Caribbean ship?

Most passengers prefer cruising on newer ships, as these offer the most variety when it comes to activities, cabin categories, dining options, and entertainment.

Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships can all be considered “newer” ships whereas Vision and Radiance Class ships are considered older.

Even though the Radiance Class technically launched after the Voyager Class, Voyager Class ships feel newer with activities like waterslides and design elements like a Royal Promenade and ice-skating rink.

Related: Pros and cons of sailing on an older Royal Caribbean cruise ship

When you put Royal Caribbean’s newest and oldest ships side by side, you’ll find similarities and differences. The classic Royal Caribbean experience is still the same, as you can enjoy meals in the Main Dining Room, attend nightly entertainment shows, and grab your favorite signature drinks from the bar.

Where the experience differs, though, is in the amount of programming and activities available. While you might have just a few restaurants to choose from on a Vision Class ship, for example, you could choose from 8 or 9 on an Oasis Class ship.

One advantage of old ships, of course, are the variety of itineraries available. You won’t find the fleet’s newest ships traveling to destinations like Greenland and Costa Rica—many new ships are located in either the Caribbean or Europe.

Before booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, take the time to research the fleet’s ships to ensure you book a ship that fits your travel style. Some cruisers may prefer sailing on older, smaller vessels whereas others enjoy the variety of amenities on Royal Caribbean’s newest, biggest ships.

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I took four Royal Caribbean cruises in 2025, and I booked an interior cabin for each and every sailing. Although I knew to expect a windowless cabin on every ship, I was surprised at how much these rooms can vary from one ship to another.

Naturally, interior cabins on older ships will be more outdated than those on Royal Caribbean’s newer vessels. Knowing this, I wrongly assumed that a newer cabin would always be the most well-designed.

After sailing on Allure of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Star of the Seas, I found things I liked and disliked about each cabin. My room on Anthem of the Seas, for example, featured abundant storage options, whereas my Star of the Seas cabin had the most modern aesthetic.

In order to properly rank these cabins, I judged the rooms in four categories: storage, connectivity, layout, and cost. In addition, I allocated three bonus points for positive features in each room, whether for the bathroom or seating areas.

All prices listed are for two adults in a guarantee inside room, including taxes, fees, and gratuities.

So, after spending four cruises in interior cabins this year, here’s how I’d rank them from best to worst.

Anthem of the Seas

• Storage: 10/10
• Connectivity: 8/10
• Layout: 7/10
• Cost: 4/10 ($210 per person, per night)
• Virtual balcony bonus: +3 points

Total Score: 32/40 (29/40 + 3 bonus points)

In June, I spent a week cruising to Alaska on Anthem of the Seas, and my interior cabin was a cozy place to call home during my time onboard.

Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum Class cruise ship. This is my favorite class of vessels in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. I love the modern decor, ship layout, unique itineraries, and innovative cabins found on Quantum Class ships.

I cruised to Alaska in the peak summer season with a June 20th departure, and I paid $2,937 total for the room. Although I loved the additional hours of sunshine and warmer weather, the price reflected that.

Even with the high price, though, it was still my favorite interior cabin of the year.

Pros:

All interior cabins on Anthem of the Seas feature a virtual balcony, which is a large floor-to-ceiling television screen that projects a live feed of the outdoors during the sailing.

I wouldn’t consider this a balcony replacement, but I still enjoyed being able to “see” the scenery from my inside stateroom.

Read more: Virtual balcony cruise cabin review

Connectivity was great in the cabin, too; there was an outlet on one side of the bed along with outlets at the desk.

As far as storage, there was more than enough space to unpack. The room featured a vanity with five drawers, shelves above the desk, storage cabinets above the bed, and a closet with shelving and hanging space.

The layout also offered plenty of walking space. I shared the cabin with my brother, and we never felt cramped in the room.

Cons:

Aside from the high price, I didn’t have many complaints with my interior cabin. If anything, I wish the room featured a couch instead of a small chair so we had extra seating space.

Some interior cabins on Anthem of the Seas do have a couch, but because I booked a guarantee inside the room, I couldn’t choose my exact cabin location.

Read more: A full photo tour of my Anthem of the Seas inside cabin

Allure of the Seas

• Storage: 8/10
• Connectivity: 4/10
• Layout: 7/10
• Cost: 8/10 ($150 per person, per night)
• Couch bonus: +3 points

Total Score: 30/40 (27/40 + 3 bonus points)

I boarded Allure of the Seas for a 4-night cruise following her amplification in April, and I was excited to see all the new changes and upgrades made to the vessel.

Cabins, however, were not upgraded during the amplification. Allure of the Seas launched in 2009, so I expected my cabin to be somewhat outdated.

I paid $1,260 for the 4-night cruise, bringing the cost to $315 per night for two adults, which included taxes and gratuities. At just over $150 per person per night, I thought the price was fair to sail on a renovated cruise ship.

Pros:

As a whole, I found the room layout optimal. Even though it was the smallest room category on the ship, there was ample room to walk around the cabin.

Storage was abundant as well, although not quite to the same standard as Anthem of the Seas. The vanity was packed with shelves and drawers, and the closet had built-in shelves and space for hanging clothes.

The bathroom was modern, and it also had significant storage space next to the sink.

Finally, I appreciated a bigger couch in the room instead of a small chair, and there was even a small coffee table.

Cons:

Connectivity was severely lacking in the cabin. There were just three outlets on the desk and one in the cabin’s bathroom. I missed having outlets by the bedside, as it makes charging my phone at night more convenient.

Aside from connectivity, the furnishings were in need of a refresh. In particular, the couch’s upholstery was stained and well-worn.

Despite a few faults, I was pleased with my cabin on Allure of the Seas. It offered a great value for sailing on a ship with so much to see and do onboard.

Read more: A full photo tour of my Allure of the Seas inside cabin

Explorer of the Seas

• Storage: 7/10
• Connectivity: 4/10
• Layout: 7/10
• Cost: 8/10 ($154 per person, per night)
• Couch bonus: +3 points

Total Score: 29/40 (26/40 + 3 bonus points)

Explorer of the Seas was the oldest Royal Caribbean ship I sailed on in 2025, having launched in 2000. Knowing this, I expected my cabin to feel outdated, but I was actually pleasantly surprised by the room.

I initially booked my 7-night cruise to Greece with my mom, and we paid $2,149 for the room, or $307 per night ($154 per person). A few months later, however, my dad joined the cabin, raising our total cost to $2,830, or $404 total per night ($135 per person).

Given the dreamy Greek Isles itinerary in May, I thought the price was more than reasonable.

Pros:

I shared my small interior cabin with both of my parents, but it felt spacious enough that we never felt too cramped. With the beds separated, there was significant walking space in the main living area, and I appreciated the couch for extra seating.

The amount of storage space was a nice surprise; we all unpacked without much hassle.

The closet had built-in shelves and hanging space, and the desk had plenty of storage. There were nine drawers below the desk in addition to shelving above the TV and behind the mirror. The cabin’s nightstands also had storage space.

Cons:

I didn’t have any major complaints with my cabin. The number of outlets was limited, but this was to be expected on a 25-year-old cruise ship.

In order to share the cabin with both of my parents, one of us had to sleep in the room’s pullman bed. I certainly didn’t love sleeping on the tiny, thin mattress, but most guests won’t need to use this feature of the room.

Read more: A full photo tour of my Explorer of the Seas inside cabin

Star of the Seas

• Storage: 5/10
• Connectivity: 10/10
• Layout: 4/10
• Cost: 3/10 ($276 per person, per night)
• Bathroom bonus: +3 points

Total Score: 25/40 (22/40 + 3 bonus points)

This might come as a shock, but the “worst” interior cabin I sailed in this year was on Royal Caribbean’s newest cruise ship.

I booked an interior cabin on my 4-night Star of the Seas cruise in August, and paid a whopping $2,210 for two adults. At around $552 per night, it was my most expensive cabin of the year, but still somewhat reasonable for a brand-new cruise ship.

Even though the ship itself was nearly perfect, I found a lot of room for improvement in my cabin.

Pros:

Whereas older cruise ships lack cabin connectivity, Star of the Seas had more than enough outlet options. Strangely enough, there was a charging outlet on only one side of the bed, but there were enough other outlets and USB ports elsewhere in the room.

The room had a clean, sleek aesthetic. Because it was the inaugural sailing, everything was shiny and completely brand new.

I also appreciated the cabin’s extra spacious bathroom, which featured a larger-than-typical shower with a bench seat.

Cons:

Although my cabin was modern in its decor, it lacked storage space, and the layout felt extremely cramped.

The desk lacked the same amount of storage found in my cabins on Allure, Explorer, and Anthem of the Seas. There were just two shallow drawers with an awkward diagonal configuration.

The closet, too, lacked functionality. There were no built-in shelves like I found on other ships, and instead of drawers, the closet had four pullout baskets.

I cruised on Star of the Seas with my mom, and we had trouble unpacking completely with the limited space. She opted to live out of her suitcase in the back corner of the room.

Aside from storage, the cabin’s layout was awkward. A small armchair was crammed between the bed and closet, and the desk’s location was inconvenient, as it was directly in the main walkway at the cabin’s entrance.

My mom and I kept running into each other when going about the cabin.

Read more: A full photo tour of my Star of the Seas inside cabin

Interior cabins differ greatly, so you have to make the cabin work for you

Despite staying in the cheapest, smallest cabins onboard, I enjoyed all of my Royal Caribbean cruises in 2025. The four cabins were far from equal, but I found things to like about each and every one.

If there’s one thing I learned about cabins this year, it’s to always come prepared. Your cabin might have fewer outlets than you expect, so be sure to pack extra USB hubs and long cables to make charging your electronics easier.

Likewise, consider bringing items like magnetic hooks and over-the-door shoe organizers if sailing on a ship with fewer storage options.

Read more: Inside cruise ship cabin hacks you need to try

Overall, even my “worst” interior cabin of the year was still a cozy place to call home during my vacation.

At the end of the day, a cabin is just a small part of your cruise experience, so I wouldn’t necessarily pick one ship over another just because of the cabin features.

Instead, pick a ship or itinerary that interests you the most, and learn to make the cabin work for you and your travel party.

It’s easy to stick to the status quo when cruising, but this year, I made it a goal to step outside my comfort zone. After taking four Royal Caribbean cruises in 2025, I tried a handful of new activities and shore excursions that took me by surprise.

Instead of saying “I’ll try that activity someday,” I made the most of my cruises and experienced all that the ships (and ports of call) had to offer.

In the process, I discovered some new must-dos... and some things I probably wouldn’t do again.

Whether riding down waterslides on the world’s biggest cruise ship or trying out a walking tour, these are the eight new things I tried this year. One even became my new favorite thing to do onboard.

First, I dared the Category 6 Waterpark

Cruisers rave about the Category 6 Waterpark on Icon Class ships, but I ran out of time to try it on my Icon of the Seas cruise last year. So, I gave it a try on this year’s Star of the Seas cruise. I wondered if it would live up to the hype.

In the past, I tried the Perfect Storm waterslides on ships like Freedom of the Seas, but they weren’t as thrilling as I expected. At one point, the water moved so slowly that I even had to push myself down the slide!

Read more: Icon of the Seas vs. Star of the Seas: Which ship should you choose?

Fortunately, the Category 6 Waterpark was everything I hoped it would be. I particularly loved the raft slides, which bring guests up, down, and around crazy twists and turns—and even over the side of the ship!

Unsurprisingly, the waterpark gets crowded during the day, and especially on sea days. I waited until dinner time to try the slides, and lines were minimal. If you’re hoping to avoid crowds at the waterpark, try to visit outside of peak times.

I attended onboard lectures on my Alaska cruise

Alaska is one of my favorite cruising destinations, and I spent a week aboard Anthem of the Seas this summer for a trip to the Last Frontier.

While onboard, I spent most of my time enjoying Alaska’s stunning scenery from the outdoor decks. From time to time, though, I attended activities around the ship, trying everything from trivia to craft classes, archery, and karaoke.

Read more: I did these 5 small things before my Alaska cruise that made a huge difference

My favorite activities to attend, however, were the onboard lectures. Royal Caribbean partners with Voyij, an Alaska marketplace, to bring local Alaskans onboard the fleet’s ships. These locals give lectures to guests about life in Alaska, sharing what it’s like to live in remote mountain towns.

A Haines-based artist was onboard my ship, and she gave several lectures about life in her small town of 2,000 residents near Skagway. I loved attending these lectures during my cruise, as it gave me a better insight into my ship's destination.

I booked an “On Your Own” shore excursion in the Mediterranean

When I set sail on the amplified Allure of the Seas from Barcelona this spring, I knew I wanted to book an excursion during our visit to Marseille.

Because I had been to the port twice before, I wanted to explore somewhere different from Marseille’s city center. After browsing excursions on Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner, I came across one that intrigued me more than the rest: an “On Your Own” tour to Aix en Provence.

This tour, as advertised, would allow me to explore the charming French city “on my own” instead of with a guide. The excursion included roundtrip bus transport to Aix en Provence, and we received around four hours of free time upon arrival.

For $52.99, I found the price reasonable for the convenience. I preferred the flexibility of exploring on my own versus following a rigid schedule on a guided tour.

I would book this type of excursion again, especially if I want to experience a city further from the cruise port.

I tried Luggage Valet for the first time on disembarkation day

A little-known disembarkation day hack on Royal Caribbean is to sign up for Luggage Valet.

With this service, you place your luggage outside your cabin door on the last evening of your cruise, and you don’t see it again until you arrive at your home airport. The luggage is transported from your ship to the airport and directly onto your flight.

Luggage Valet is only offered at select ports, and I used the service on my Alaska cruise from Seattle. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport offers the service free of charge aside from any applicable baggage fees from your airline.

Read more: Luggage Valet review on Royal Caribbean

It was extremely convenient. I disembarked my ship without worrying about picking up my luggage, and I bypassed all of the baggage lines at the airport.

I would definitely use this service again, as it made my disembarkation day totally stress-free.

I tried sharing a cabin with my parents, and it wasn’t as bad as I expected

I love cruising with friends and family around the world, but sharing a cabin with both of my parents wasn’t initially on my 2025 to-do list.

Last year, I planned a summer getaway to Greece with my mom on Explorer of the Seas, but my dad decided to join the trip just a few months before our May departure. At that point, most staterooms had sold out, so we added him as a third guest to our tiny inside cabin.

Read more: What it was really like sharing a 150-square-foot cruise cabin with my parents

I initially thought sharing a room would feel too cramped, but it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. During our week onboard, the three of us spent little time in our room, as there was so much to experience both on the ship and in our four ports of call.

My one gripe with sharing the room was sleeping in an uncomfortable pullman bed, but I would still share a cabin again if necessary.

I booked a historic walking tour in port

On my Greek Isles cruise, I booked a historic walking tour in Split, Croatia. It is now one of my preferred ways to explore a new port.

You can find walking tours through Royal Caribbean, but I booked my tour through GetYourGuide. The 90-minute tour was less than $20 per person, and it provided a convenient way to learn about the port’s history.

What I liked about the walking tour was that it only took up a small portion of my day. Following the tour, I was able to explore Split on my own for several hours.

Tours through Royal Caribbean can be convenient, but they're often more expensive than tours through independent providers. I’ll continue to book walking tours on cruises around the world, as they offer a great value and insight into local history and culture.

I attended the Love & Marriage Game Show, but it wasn’t my favorite activity

The Love & Marriage Game Show is a staple activity on every Royal Caribbean ship, but I never got around to attending it until this year.

The famous game show brings three married couples onstage to ask them lighthearted (and personal) questions about their life together. Although the game show is technically family-friendly, the answers are known to get a little spicy, to say the least.

I watched the show on Anthem of the Seas, and while it was entertaining, I realized that I prefer game shows with more direct audience participation. The Quest, for instance, brings all guests into the competition.

After learning far too much about my fellow passengers during the show, I don’t think I need to attend it again on future cruises.

Finally, I watched sunset from The Hideaway on Star of the Seas, and it’s my new favorite thing to do onboard

Of all the new things I tried on Royal Caribbean in 2025, swimming in The Hideaway’s infinity pool was my favorite.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships feature The Hideaway, an adults-only pool area in the aft of the ship. The neighborhood features a bar, hot tubs, and a picture-perfect infinity pool with unbeatable views of the ocean.

I couldn’t wait to swim in this pool for the first time during my Star of the Seas cruise. It was too stunning to pass up.

I headed to the pool around sunset on the last evening of my cruise, when most passengers had already left to get ready for dinner. With few guests around me, I enjoyed a magical sunset over the ocean. It was the best way I could think of to end a memorable vacation.

On future Icon Class cruises, I’ll be sure to visit The Hideaway for stunning sunset views, whether I’m taking a dip in the pool or sipping a fruity drink from the bar with live DJ tunes.

How do the adults-only beach clubs at Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and Carnival’s Celebration Key compare?

Adults-only areas are in high demand not only on cruise ships, but also at cruise line private destinations.

Last year, Royal Caribbean opened Hideaway Beach, the cruise line’s adults-only beach club at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Carnival Cruise Line soon followed suit with the opening of Pearl Cove Beach Club at the brand-new Celebration Key.

Read more: Perfect Day at CocoCay vs. Celebration Key

I spent the day at both cruise lines’ adults-only areas to see what makes them similar and different from each other.

On the surface, these two adults-only areas share many similarities. They are reserved for guests 18 years and older, come with an extra charge, and offer a pool, beach, swim-up bar, and dining options.

Yet during my visits to Hideaway Beach and Pearl Cove Beach Club, I realized that each cruise line had a different approach. Royal Caribbean’s beach club offered a bigger party vibe, whereas Carnival’s focused more on tranquility and relaxation.

Here’s what I thought of each adults-only beach club, and how the two destinations compare.

Royal Caribbean offers a dynamic pricing model to enter Hideaway Beach

Like all cruise add-ons offered by Royal Caribbean, a day pass to enter Hideaway Beach can fluctuate depending on a variety of factors. Certain ships and times of year may see higher prices, and sales can cause prices to rise or fall throughout the year.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $40 and $100 per person for entry to Hideaway Beach.

Read more: Is Hideaway Beach worth the cost?

Fortunately, Royal Caribbean allows you to cancel and rebook add-ons if you notice a price drop up until 48 hours before your cruise. So, if you book your Hideaway Beach day pass for $85 and later notice a price drop to $60, you can cancel and rebook at the lower price.

After visiting Hideaway Beach, I would definitely pay $40 or $50 for entry, but I’d question the value of entry if the price got above $60. Although the beach club offers exclusivity, there are plenty of other places around Perfect Day at CocoCay to unwind without spending extra.

Carnival, however, has three separate entry options for Pearl Cove Beach Club

Unlike with Royal Caribbean, you can expect predictable prices for admission to Pearl Cove Beach Club at Celebration Key.

Whereas Hideaway Beach only has one entry option, Pearl Cove Beach Club offers three.

First is the Pearl Cove Beach Club: All-Inclusive entry. For $180, the entry includes admission, lunch at the Pearl Cove Beach Club restaurant, and up to ten alcoholic beverages from a limited menu.

Then there’s the Pearl Cove Beach Club: Open Bar entry. At $140, this entry is cheaper than the all-inclusive option, but it still includes up to ten alcoholic beverages. It does not include lunch at the on-site restaurant.

Finally, you can book the Pearl Cove Beach Club Access entry. This is the cheapest option at $100 per person, but it does not include lunch at the on-site restaurant. No drinks are included either, with the exception of a welcome drink upon arrival.

I paid $100 for the most basic access to Pearl Cove Beach Club on my visit. Later, however, I realized the open bar admission offered a much better value.

For just $40 extra, I could have enjoyed up to ten drinks, effectively making each drink just $4 on top of my admission fee. Paying $100 without any inclusions felt high for what was offered.

Hideaway Beach has a higher capacity (and bigger party vibe) than Pearl Cove Beach Club

After visiting both Hideaway Beach and Pearl Cove Beach Club, I’d argue that Pearl Cove Beach Club is more similar to the Coco Beach Club than Hideaway Beach.

Coco Beach Club is an exclusive (but not adults-only) beach club at Perfect Day at CocoCay. It’s laid out very similarly to Pearl Cove Beach Club, with an infinity pool, on-site restaurant, and private beach.

Read more: Coco Beach Club review at Perfect Day at CocoCay

While Hideaway Beach also has an infinity pool, the space is significantly larger. Hideaway Beach can accommodate 1,800 guests. Capacity numbers have not been released for Pearl Cove Beach Club, but I imagine the capacity number is much smaller given the limited space.

Hideaway Beach, therefore, provides a louder, more energetic atmosphere. If I’m being honest, I don’t find it to be the most tranquil space to relax at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A live DJ blasts music from the swim-up bar, and it’s more akin to a Las Vegas-style pool party than a peaceful adults-only retreat. It's definitely fun, but don't expect a soothing environment.

I found Pearl Cove Beach Club to be quieter than Hideaway Beach. Admittedly, I was aboard one of the first cruises to Celebration Key, and the beach club was not crowded at all.

There was music playing near the small swim-up bar, but overall, the atmosphere reminded me more of the Coco Beach Club rather than Hideaway Beach.

If you’re looking for a Hideaway Beach party vibe at Celebration Key, I’d head to Calypso Lagoon instead. There, you’ll find a party at Long Necks Swim Up Bar, and the area is available to all guests without an extra cost.

Both beach clubs feature infinity pools and a beach

The infinity pool at Hideaway Beach is 18,000 square feet, whereas the one found at Pearl Cove Beach Club is 11,000 square feet. Hideaway Beach’s infinity pool is heated, but Carnival has not stated whether or not the pool at Pearl Cove Beach Club is heated.

On my visit, it didn’t appear to be heated, but it was exceptionally refreshing in the extremely humid July temperatures. Come February, it could feel cold on a chilly day.

That being said, some guests complain that the heated pool at Hideaway Beach is too warm in the summer months, so there are pros and cons to either option.

As far as beaches, I prefer the beach at Hideaway Beach. It’s located in a manmade cove, and the water is calm with soft sand.

At Pearl Cove Beach Club, the beach is more rocky and has somewhat rougher waters.

Food is included at Hideaway Beach, and drink packages work ashore

When it comes to food and drink, there are a lot of ways to indulge at CocoCay’s Hideaway Beach.

The adults-only club features two complimentary restaurant options, both of which are casual, grab-and-go venues.

Hideaway Hut offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and small bites like mozzarella sticks. Here, you can choose between classic American fare like a cheeseburger, or opt for a Caribbean favorite like coconut shrimp and a crispy fish sandwich.

The second restaurant is Slice of Paradise, which serves up an array of pizzas and empanadas.

Both restaurants are included in entry to Hideaway Beach, and there’s no limit on how much you can order during your time ashore.

On my visit, I grabbed two slices of pizza for lunch. The food wasn't anything special, but for what it’s worth, Hideaway Beach is the only place at CocoCay to enjoy a slice of pizza.

Next time, I’d probably try the coconut shrimp, as I’ve heard many cruisers rave about the dish.

Like on the rest of the island, drink packages, as well as Crown & Anchor Society drink vouchers, are honored at Hideaway Beach. Guests with drink packages can enjoy unlimited cocktails, mocktails, beers, and soda while ashore.

Food and drinks come with an extra cost at Pearl Cove Beach Club

At Pearl Cove Beach Club, the rules around food and drinks are more strict than those at Hideaway Beach.

There is one on-site restaurant at Pearl Cove Beach Club, and unlike the grab-and-go venues at Hideaway Beach, this restaurant offers a full-service, sit-down meal.

Guests who purchased the all-inclusive entry to Pearl Cove Beach Club receive a Mediterranean platter for an appetizer, one entrée, and one dessert. There are nine entrée options, including a wagyu burger, grilled octopus, seafood pasta, and lobster tail. For dessert, guests can enjoy either baklava or chocolate cake.

Those who did not purchase the all-inclusive option can order food from an à la carte menu. This menu includes the same items as the all-inclusive menu, but also offers sushi rolls and additional appetizer options.

If guests do not want to spend extra on food at Pearl Cove Beach Club, they can dine elsewhere at Celebration Key and return to the beach club after lunch.

I opted to grab lunch at the nearby Captain’s Galley Food Hall, but it was somewhat cumbersome to go back and forth between the beach club and other dining venues. Plus, Celebration Key only offers one meal to each guest throughout the day, so if I got hungry again, I would have to spend extra.

Read more: What I loved and hated about visiting Celebration Key

As far as drinks, whether or not they’re included at Pearl Cove Beach Club depends on your entry ticket. Carnival’s drink packages do not work at Celebration Key, and you can only receive included drinks at the beach club if you purchased the open bar or all-inclusive ticket.

My basic entry included a welcome rum punch on arrival, but I didn’t want to spend $17 each for additional cocktails. Next time, I would definitely book the open bar or all-inclusive option to enjoy drinks without worrying about the cost.

Cabanas are offered at both destinations, but I preferred those at Hideaway Beach

Private cabanas are popular upcharge items offered at cruise line private destinations. Around both Perfect Day at CocoCay and Celebration Key, you can find a wide selection of cabanas.

There are basic cabanas offered on the sand near the beach as well as luxury, over-the-water cabanas at each destination.

Read more: Guide to CocoCay cabanas

Hideaway Beach and Pearl Cove Beach Club offer their own variations of cabanas, and rentals include admission to the adults-only beach clubs.

After touring cabanas at both private destinations, I preferred those at Hideaway Beach.

All cabanas at Pearl Cove Beach Club are on the sand, and they offer close access to both the infinity pool and beach. At Hideaway Beach, though, you can find the Hideout Cabanas, which offer a cabana experience unlike any other at CocoCay.

These cabanas have direct access to their own private infinity pool, making the exclusive beach club even more exclusive.

Overall, Pearl Cove Beach Club offers a more luxurious experience, but there’s more to do at Hideaway Beach

My time at Carnival’s Pearl Cove Beach Club felt more upscale than my day at Hideaway Beach, even though the latter offered more to do, see, and eat.

Subtle differences made Carnival’s adults-only club stand out. Pool and beach loungers are padded, for example, making them more comfortable than the unpadded loungers at Hideaway Beach.

The welcome drink was a nice touch, too, and it's something that is not included at Hideaway Beach. Plus, having access to a sit-down restaurant provides a more peaceful dining atmosphere than the quick-service options at Hideaway Beach.

Yet in terms of things to do, Hideaway Beach offers more choices. The pool is significantly larger, there’s live music at On The Rocks bar, and having two restaurants provides more options to guests.

I prefer how Royal Caribbean honors drink packages at Hideaway Beach, although the $140 open bar admission at Pearl Cove Beach Club is still a great value.

Although I’m usually a loyal Royal Caribbean cruiser, I enjoy trying other cruise lines from time to time. My first visit to Celebration Key left me impressed, and Pearl Cove Beach Club certainly lived up to my expectations.

However, if I were looking for an experience akin to Pearl Cove Beach Club at Perfect Day at CocoCay, I would probably book admission to Coco Beach Club rather than Hideaway Beach.

Regardless, I wouldn’t say one destination is necessarily better than the other. It’s hard to go wrong with an adults-only getaway, and I would gladly book another day pass to Hideaway Beach and Pearl Cove Beach Club again.

If I'm going on Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships, I'll instantly change my approach to how I cruise.

Sailing on an Icon Class ship is far from an ordinary cruise experience. When I boarded Icon of the Seas for the first time last year, I couldn’t believe just how much there was to see, do, eat, and experience aboard the ship. I soon realized that if I wanted to experience it all, I had to totally change my cruising style.

Whether that meant skipping traditional dining venues or staying onboard for a port day, there were a few strategies I used to experience the ship to the fullest.

Then, when I cruised on Star of the Seas last month, I took my lessons learned from Icon to make my second Icon Class experience even better.

After two Icon Class cruises, my main takeaway is that you want to have the right approach before you board. If you expect your cruise to offer the same experience as any other Royal Caribbean ship, you’re going to be surprised.

So, after sailing on both Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas, these are the 9 things I do differently whenever I’m onboard.

I skip the Main Dining Room and buffet

Food is (almost literally) around every corner on Icon Class ships. These vessels feature over 20 unique restaurants, the majority of which are included in your cruise fare.

The Main Dining Room and Windjammer buffet are two classic restaurants found on every Royal Caribbean cruise ship. They’re usually a staple for me when I cruise, but I often skip these venues on Icon Class ships.

The buffet, for example, is a typical stop for cruisers on embarkation day. On Icon Class ships, however, I head to the AquaDome Market instead.

Related: AquaDome Market on Star of the Seas review

This food hall features five different stands, which serve up everything from Thai curry to arepas and brisket sandwiches. Here I can enjoy lunch with far fewer crowds and more unique options than you’ll find elsewhere onboard.

Likewise, I avoid the Main Dining Room for dinner on Icon Class ships. As an alternative, I might dine at a specialty restaurant, head back to the AquaDome Market, or grab an early dinner at El Loco Fresh.

One of my favorite dinner spots is the wine bar at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. Whereas the restaurant itself requires reservations and comes with a cover charge, the wine bar offers an à la carte menu on demand.

On my recent Star of the Seas cruise, I spent just $7 on a margherita pizza, and it was much tastier than the pizzas found at nearby Sorrento’s. Plus, I loved the ambiance of eating in the middle of the Royal Promenade. The wine bar provides a prime spot for people watching.

I’m not opposed to eating in the Main Dining Room or at the Windjammer on Icon Class ships, but I’m more likely to dine elsewhere.

I actually use the elevators

On most Royal Caribbean ships, I steer clear of the elevators.

Wait times can be long, and more often than not, it seems like the elevators stop at every single floor. So, unless I’m going up more than six or seven decks, I usually opt for the stairs instead.

On Icon Class ships, however, I always use the elevators.

The class is equipped with destination elevators, and this makes them much more efficient. With destination elevators, you select a deck number while you’re still in the elevator lobby. You’re then assigned a specific elevator number, and that elevator will bring you to your destination.

In my experience, the destination elevators on Icon Class ships are significantly quicker than regular elevators. Even on a ship with over 6,000 passengers, I rarely had to wait more than a minute for an elevator.

Once inside, it often went directly to my destination rather than stopping at every floor along the way.

I attend all of the signature shows

Production shows can be hit or miss on cruises, especially on older ships. Sometimes they lack storylines, and, after watching dozens of shows, I find they start to feel repetitive.

On new cruise ships, however, and especially on Icon Class ships, this is not the case.

While I might skip a theater show on a ship like Radiance of the Seas, I’ll never skip a signature performance on an Icon Class ship.

Related: Mastering your Icon of the Seas cruise with the best tips

Both Icon Class cruise ships feature Broadway musicals, and they are of extremely high quality. I laughed so hard during Back to the Future: The Musical on Star of the Seas that I wish I could have seen it again before I disembarked.

The ice-skating shows, too, are out-of-this-world. I thought I had seen all that an ice-skating show can offer, but the shows on Icon Class ships proved me wrong. Not only is the rink larger than that on other ships, but the digital projections transport the audience directly into the story.

Royal Caribbean puts a ton of effort into its entertainment on these ships, and it’s always well worth attending the shows.

I ride the slides at Category 6 Waterpark

Many Royal Caribbean cruise ships have waterslides, but few compare to those available on Icon Class ships.

Icon Class ships feature the Category 6 Waterpark, a dream for thrill seekers onboard a cruise ship. As the name implies, the waterpark has six slides, and they’re all totally unique.

There are two raft slides onboard: Storm Surge and Hurricane Hunter. These slides accommodate up to 3 and 4 guests, respectively, at one time, and Storm Surge extends off the side of the ship for an even bigger thrill.

Then you’ll find Frightening Bolt, the tallest drop slide at sea, along with Storm Chasers, which are two side-by-side mat-racing slides.

Related: Icon of the Seas vs. Star of the Seas: Which ship should you choose?

Finally, there’s Pressure Drop, where you can plummet at a 66-degree incline for a major adrenaline boost.

When I’m onboard Icon or Star of the Seas, I make sure to slide down the waterslides at least once. Although many other Royal Caribbean ships feature waterslides, I find the slides at Category 6 more intriguing. The raft slides in particular are extremely fun, and overall, I just love the variety of slides to choose from at the waterpark.

I’m more likely to skip a port day and stay onboard

On Icon Class ships, I treat my cruise ship itself as the destination rather than the places I visit.

Generally speaking, I am a destination-focused cruiser. I always search for itineraries that take me to unique ports around the world, whether a remote island in Vanuatu or a small town in Alaska.

Icon Class ships, however, don’t visit off-the-beaten-track cruise ports. Due to their size, the ships are somewhat restricted in port options. They typically visit common ports like Nassau, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, and St. Thomas.

Related: 7 reasons to avoid booking ships with a lot of ports

I can visit these ports on dozens of other ships, so I’m never hard-pressed to find things to do in port while sailing on an Icon Class ship.

Instead, I am likely to skip a port day and enjoy all of the amenities onboard instead (with far fewer guests onboard, might I add).

I watch the sunset from a pool

There’s nothing quite like a sunset at sea, and something I do differently on Icon Class ships is watch the sunset from one of the many pools onboard.

Icon Class ships feature seven swimming pools, and each offers a distinct atmosphere. There’s the Swim & Tonic pool for party vibes, the Water’s Edge pool for younger cruisers, and the Royal Bay pool for a more traditional pool experience.

For sunset, though, none compare to the pool found at The Hideaway, the adults-only neighborhood on Icon Class ships.

Related: Daybed review at The Hideaway on Icon of the Seas

This neighborhood features an infinity pool right at the ship’s aft, providing absolutely stellar views of the ocean. Whenever the sun sets along the aft of the ship, I make sure to put on a swimsuit and watch the scenery from the Hideaway Pool. It’s truly a sight to see.

If the sun is setting in another direction, I’ll head to either the Cove Pool or Cloud 17 Pool, as these pools jet up directly to the side of the ship.

I skip classic Royal Caribbean bars for newer venues

It’s almost unfathomable how Royal Caribbean could pack Icon Class cruise ships with so many things to do.

Not only will you find Royal Caribbean's classic bars like Schooner Bar, Boleros, and the English-style pub onboard, but you’ll also find a variety of new concepts for the line.

Whenever I cruise on Icon Class ships, I find myself skipping the classic venues in favor of Icon-specific bars and lounges.

For example, I might skip live music at the pub in favor of the jazz band at Lou’s Jazz n’ Blues. Or, instead of listening to live piano music at the Schooner Bar, I’ll opt for a show at Dueling Pianos.

There’s nothing wrong with the classic Royal Caribbean entertainment venues, but I love how many more choices are available on Icon Class ships.

I enjoy my morning coffee with a view

One thing I especially like about Icon Class cruise ships is having access to ocean views. It seems like you can see the ocean from everywhere onboard, whether from the Royal Promenade, Surfside Neighborhood, or even from Central Park.

When cruising on Icon or Star of the Seas, I always start my morning with an iced coffee. There are several spots to grab specialty coffees on Icon Class ships, including Starbucks, Pearl Café, and the Rye & Bean.

Related: Royal Caribbean coffee card review

Regardless of where I grab my coffee, I make sure to enjoy my coffee with an ocean view.

If I order from Pearl Café, I’ll relax in front of the café’s massive, five-deck-high windows. If I grab a shaken espresso from Starbucks, I’ll sip it outdoors on the Promenade Deck. Lastly, if I order my coffee from Rye & Bean, it’s hard to beat the spectacular views from the AquaDome.

When I cruise on other ships, I miss having these sweeping ocean views in every direction.

I end my evenings with freshly-made crêpes

I might start my mornings with a coffee on Icon Class ships, but I’ll always end the day with a crêpe.

One benefit of cruising on Icon Class ships is the selection of late-night food options. On most other Royal Caribbean ships, food after 9PM is limited to pizza from Sorrento’s or small snacks from Cafe Promenade.

Fortunately, Icon Class ships have a lot more choices.

The AquaDome Market is open until midnight, which means passengers can choose between savory bites like empanadas or sweet treats like a scrumptious, freshly-filled crêpe.

Crème de la Crêpe features four crêpes on their menu, but you can also customize your order to your liking.

For research purposes, I’ve tested all four crêpes, but my favorite is the hazelnut and bananas option. The gooey, chewy crêpe dough mixed with sweet hazelnut sauce and perfectly ripe bananas is unbeatable.

No matter how many other desserts I’ve had throughout the day, I never miss a nightly crêpe at the AquaDome Market.

I just cruised on Royal Caribbean’s newest and biggest ship, but I booked the cheapest and tiniest cabin onboard.

Star of the Seas is the latest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, and I couldn’t wait to get onboard myself to experience the best that the cruise line has to offer. With sky-high prices, however, I chose to book the most basic cabin available.

I sailed in an interior cabin for my 4-night cruise to The Bahamas. This meant my cabin had no windows or natural light, and it was exceptionally compact.

Nonetheless, I was willing to sail in the cheapest room if it meant I could sail on a ship as exciting as Star of the Seas. And while my cabin wasn’t perfect, it offered everything I needed for my time onboard.

Let’s take a look inside my interior cabin on Star of the Seas.

My interior cabin cost $2,210 for two adults, or $552 per night on my 4-night cruise

Star of the Seas is shiny and new, and prices certainly reflect that.

For my 4-night cruise, I reserved an interior guarantee cabin for $2,210 total. The guarantee rate meant I could not choose my cabin location within the ship, and it would be assigned to me at a later date.

Related: 4 signs an inside cruise cabin is what you need

The price included my cruise fare, taxes, port fees, and gratuities for two adults.

At $552 per night (or $276 per person, per night), it was far from the cheapest cruise offered by Royal Caribbean. Yet despite the high price, I was excited to sail on the newest and biggest cruise ship in the world.

A 4-night cruise is not a typical length for sailings on Star of the Seas. Although the ship offered a few short sailings immediately following her launch, she currently sails 7-night cruises.

So, if you’re booking a 7-night cruise on the vessel, you should expect to spend around $4,000 or more for an interior cabin.

At 156 square feet, the cabin was small, but it still had modern features

I booked the smallest, most basic cabin on Star of the Seas, so I wasn’t expecting anything close to luxurious. At just over 150 square feet, my cabin was anything but spacious, but it still provided all the essentials.

The cabin featured a bed, a vanity, a small armchair, a wardrobe, and a private bathroom.

The majority of the room was taken up by the bed. In general, interior cabins are meant for sleeping, showering, and changing. With so much to do elsewhere onboard, most guests staying in these basic rooms will spend little time in their cabin.

There were nightstands on each side of the bed, but a USB charging port was only available on one side.

Related: 30 cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

The cabin’s TV was on the wall near the foot of the bed, along with four small shelves. These shelves are tiny, but they’re ideal for storing items like sunscreen, sunglasses, and other pocket-sized items.

A USB charging port is also located on one of the shelves.

In the “living room” of the cabin, you’ll find a desk/vanity, armchair, and the wardrobe. The desk had several outlets and USB options for charging electronics.

Overall, the cabin was nothing fancy, but it included everything I needed for my time onboard Star of the Seas. The modern color scheme and decor exuded a calm, relaxing atmosphere, which made the cabin an ideal place to rest on an otherwise busy cruise ship.

I didn’t love the storage options, but it wasn’t a dealbreaker

If my cabin had a fault, it was in its storage options.

I’ve stayed in over a dozen interior cabins, and storage options vary significantly from ship to ship. As a general rule of thumb, cabins on older ships have fewer storage options than those on newer ships.

This was not the case on Star of the Seas, though. I was disappointed in the amount of storage in my interior cabin, and I found it challenging to properly unpack my belongings.

Related: Royal Caribbean cruise ship cabin and suite guide

Typically, cruise cabin wardrobes feature both shelves and space for hanging clothes. My cabin on Star only had hanging space, but I would have found shelving more useful.

In addition, the closet featured pull-out baskets instead of drawers.

I actually grew to like this feature, as it allowed me to completely pull out the basket when necessary. Even so, I think that traditional drawers are more practical.

My vanity, too, lacked storage. Most new ships provide significant storage space in the vanity. On Utopia of the Seas, for example, the vanities feature five drawers in addition to a mini fridge. My cabin on Star of the Seas had just two narrow drawers with an awkward, diagonal configuration.

Compared to a ship like Odyssey of the Seas, which has cabins with an overabundance of storage options, I felt like my Star of the Seas cabin fell flat in this regard.

Related: Odyssey of the Seas interior cabin tour

Ultimately, the storage wasn’t a dealbreaker, and it wouldn’t keep me from sailing on the ship again. Next time, though, I’d pack items like magnetic hooks and an over-the-door shoe organizer to keep my belongings better organized.

I appreciated the bathroom’s layout and spacious shower

One area where my Star of the Seas interior cabin shined was in the bathroom.

I was impressed with the layout of the bathroom, which featured a larger-than-average shower. The shower had a small seat, and it was rectangular in shape, providing extra room in comparison to showers on older ships.

Storage was impressive as well, with shelves behind the toilet, inside the vanity, and above the vanity near the mirror.

It’s clear Royal Caribbean put a lot of thought into the bathroom design for Icon Class ships, and they’re a major upgrade from those found on other vessels.

On a future cruise, I would choose a different cabin location

I booked a guarantee rate for this cruise, so I couldn’t choose my exact stateroom location. Although this saved me money, I ended up regretting my decision during the cruise.

I was assigned cabin 14345, and there were two issues with its location.

First, it was at the very aft of the ship. On a cruise ship as big as Star of the Seas, distances from place to place can be substantial. After a while, walking all the way down the hallway felt cumbersome. I much prefer staying in a midship cabin for quicker access to all of the amenities around the ship.

Related: Royal Caribbean cabins to avoid

Second, my cabin was located directly below the bar at The Hideaway, the adults-only pool neighborhood on Star of the Seas.

 Throughout the evening and into the night, live music blasted right above my cabin, and I had trouble sleeping with heavy bass vibrating through the ceiling.

Booking a guarantee cabin is always a risk, as you’re essentially given whichever cabins are left over from the booking process.

Until this point, I’ve had good luck with guarantee rooms, but in this case, I wish I had spent a little more money to pick a better location.

With so much to do onboard, I barely spent any time in my cabin

Despite a few faults with my interior cabin on Star of the Seas, I would book it again. It wasn’t the most spacious interior cabin I’ve stayed in on a Royal Caribbean ship, but it was cozy enough for my time onboard.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships have a hefty price tag, and realistically, I’ll always try to save money by cruising in the cheapest room possible. At the end of the day, I’d rather sail in an inside cabin on an Icon Class ship than in a balcony cabin on an older and smaller ship.

Related: Icon of the Seas vs. Star of the Seas: Which ship should you choose?

It’s hard to put into words just how much you can see, do, eat, and experience on Star of the Seas. Throughout my four days onboard, I spent little time in my cabin aside from sleeping.

Instead of lounging around my tiny stateroom, I spent my time attending shows, riding the waterslides, and hopping from pool to pool during sunset. One day during my cruise, in fact, I left my cabin for breakfast and didn’t return until it was time to get ready for dinner!

In the end, there’s nothing wrong with booking the smallest, cheapest room on a cruise ship as long as you have the right expectations.

Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas are the biggest ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, but which one should you choose?

If you’re planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s hard to go wrong with an Icon Class ship. These megaships are the largest in the world and offer unbeatable amenities and attractions. Whether it's the Category 6 Waterpark or the indoor ice-skating rink, there are endless ways to have fun onboard.

Currently, there are two ships in the Icon Class: Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas. For the most part, the two vessels are identical. You’ll find many of the same restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, and cabins onboard.

Even still, there are a few differences between the two ships that may make you choose one over the other.

Here’s everything you should consider when choosing between Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas.

First, where do you want to embark on your cruise?

Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas depart from different cruise ports in Florida, so it’s important to consider where you’d like to sail from before you book.

Icon of the Seas calls Miami home, whereas Star of the Seas sails from Port Canaveral.

As far as transportation logistics, both ports offer pros and cons.

Port Canaveral is located somewhat far from Orlando International Airport. Driving from the airport to the port takes just under an hour, and rideshare prices can be as high as $80 each way. Shuttles are available, too, which start around $25 per person.

The Port of Miami, on the other hand, is closer to Miami International Airport. You can expect to spend around $30 for the 20-minute ride. You also have the option of flying into Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which is a 40-minute drive from the Port of Miami.

It’s always recommended to arrive in your embarkation city the day before your cruise departs. Both Orlando and Miami offer plenty to do before you embark.

If you’re cruising on Star of the Seas from Port Canaveral, you might consider spending a few days at Universal Studios or Disney World before your cruise. This can be a great way to extend your trip and experience Orlando’s top attractions.

Those cruising from Miami on Icon of the Seas can enjoy the city’s highlights before embarking. You might choose to spend the night in South Beach, explore nightlife in Brickell, or take a street food tour in Little Havana.

Either embarkation port is an excellent choice. Ultimately, I recommend searching flight options from your home airport to Orlando and Miami. If flight itineraries and prices are significantly better at one airport, you might want to consider cruising from that port instead of the other.

Is one ship less expensive than the other?

Icon Class cruise ships may offer an unbelievable number of things to do onboard, but they aren’t cheap. For most 7-night itineraries, you can expect to pay between $1,300 and $2,000 per person for an interior cabin.

Star of the Seas launched a year after Icon of the Seas, but prices are similar between the two vessels. You’ll find little difference in cruise fare, and prices may vary drastically depending on the month you sail, as well as how far in advance you book the cruise.

Related: The best time to book a cruise by day, month, and last-minute

Sometimes Icon of the Seas might be priced higher than Star of the Seas, and vice versa.

Let’s take a look at a few itineraries to gauge how prices might vary:

7-night Western Caribbean itinerary during hurricane season
Interior cabin, taxes and fees included:

• Icon of the Seas: $1,205 per person
• Star of the Seas: $1,483 per person

7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary in November
Interior cabin, taxes and fees included:

• Icon of the Seas: $1,628 per person
• Star of the Seas: $1,607 per person

7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary in June
Interior cabin, taxes and fees included:

• Icon of the Seas: $2,048 per person
• Star of the Seas: $2,096 per person

For the most part, price differences between the two ships are negligible. As always, you’ll want to book your cruise further in advance to snag the lowest deal. Plus, you can always reprice the sailing up until the final payment date to save money if the price drops.

Entertainment is similar, but Broadway shows differ

Like all of Royal Caribbean’s new ships, both Icon and Star of the Seas offer stellar entertainment options.

Even an entire week isn’t long enough to experience the vast array of entertainment choices. Whether live jazz music in Central Park or a high-energy piano performance at Dueling Pianos, every evening offers a wide selection of things to experience.

When it comes to live music and activities, Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas are on an even playing field. You’ll find the same bars and lounges on both ships, including fan favorites like the Schooner Bar and English-style pub.

The signature shows, however, differ between the two vessels. There are three main entertainment venues: the Royal Theater, the AquaTheater, and the Absolute Zero ice rink.

Related: Royal Caribbean shows by ship

Shows in the AquaTheater and Absolute Zero are similar on both ships. Despite having different themes and soundtracks, you’ll see many of the same stunts, dives, and jumps during any show.

The main difference in entertainment is in the Broadway shows in the Royal Theater.

On Icon of the Seas, the Broadway show is Wizard of Oz, whereas Star of the Seas showcases Back to the Future: The Musical.

Both shows are equally entertaining, but some guests may prefer seeing one show over the other. If Broadway shows are an important part of the cruising experience for you, you may want to take the two shows into consideration before picking a ship.

Dining options are almost the same, but come with two major differences

Food is an important aspect of any cruise vacation, and there’s no shortage of places to eat on Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas.

Most dining venues are exactly the same between the two vessels. You’ll find classic restaurants like the Windjammer buffet and Main Dining Room, but also Icon Class-specific eateries like Pearl Café and Surfside Bites.

Still, there are two differences in dining to note between Icon and Star of the Seas.

First are the food stalls in the AquaDome market. The AquaDome market is a staple of the Icon Class ships, and it offers quick-service bites from a variety of cuisines around the world.

There are five food stalls on each ship. Two—Crème de la Crêpe and Feta Mediterranean—are offered on both vessels. The other three differ from ship to ship.

On Icon, you can enjoy mac n’ cheese at Mac’s, sandwiches at Toast & Garden, and Chinese classics at GNGR. Star of the Seas, however, features BBQ favorites at Pig Out BBQ, spicy Thai food at Mai Thai, and Latin American street food at La Cocinita.

Related: Royal Caribbean updated its food hall, and it's even better than the original

Likewise, the supper club varies from ship to ship, too. This elegant, fine dining restaurant combines curated cocktails with a regionally-inspired menu.

The concept is similar between the two ships, but they differ in their theming.

On Icon of the Seas, the Empire Supper Club features a 1920s New York theme, whereas Star of the Seas’ Lincoln Park Supper Club transports guests to 1930s Chicago.

Related: Lincoln Park Supper Club review on Star of the Seas

For the most part, though, subtle variations between the AquaDome market food stalls and the supper club make little difference in the overall experience onboard Icon or Star of the Seas.

I wouldn’t necessarily recommend picking one ship over the other just because of these minor differences. Rather, if you’ve already sailed on Icon of the Seas, consider sailing on Star to try out the new dining options.

Overall, the ships are nearly identical, and either option is a fantastic choice

Both Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas offer, for the most part, the exact same experience.

There are small differences between the ships, but they’re much more alike than they are different. They have the same layout, neighborhoods, pools, activities, and onboard thrills.

Differences in artwork, dining venues, and entertainment productions are minor in the big picture of your vacation.

In addition, despite having different homeports, the two ships offer the same itineraries. Both sail 7-night cruises to the Eastern and Western Caribbean, which include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

When choosing between the two ships, I’d argue there are only two things to really consider:

1. Where you’d prefer to embark on your cruise
2. The price difference between the ships for a particular week

If you’re hoping to sail in mid-March and Star of the Seas is $500 more expensive than Icon, you’re better off choosing the latter. Likewise, if cruise fares are similar but a flight to Orlando is $300 cheaper than to Miami, Star of the Seas would be a better choice.

Regardless of which ship you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a one-of-a-kind cruise experience on an Icon Class ship.

I visited both Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay and Carnival’s Celebration Key in The Bahamas. Either private destination is an excellent addition to any cruise itinerary, but each comes with pros and cons.

Perfect Day at CocoCay opened in 2019 and offers a blend of thrill and chill experiences. The private island features crystal-clear beaches, exclusive beach clubs, a stunning lagoon, and the massive Thrill Waterpark.

Celebration Key, on the other hand, just launched in July of 2025. Unlike CocoCay, the destination is not on its own island. Rather, it’s on a private area of Grand Bahama Island.

Ashore, you’ll find beaches, a sprawling lagoon, waterslides, swim-up bars, an adults-only beach club, and dreamy cabana rentals.

I’ve been to Perfect Day at CocoCay 10 times, but visited Celebration Key for the first time last month. After spending eight hours ashore, I couldn’t help but compare the two private destinations.

From the pools to beaches, food, bars, and atmosphere, here’s how Perfect Day at CocoCay and Celebration Key compared.

For pools, Celebration Key is the clear winner

Without a doubt, Celebration Key has the most impressive pool of any cruise line private destination.

Oasis Lagoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay is a major highlight of Royal Caribbean’s island, measuring 33,175 square feet. Yet it pales in comparison to the lagoon at Celebration Key, which measures a whopping 275,000 square feet.

You read that right—Celebration Key’s lagoon is over eight times larger than CocoCay’s Oasis Lagoon.

The lagoon is split into two sides: Starfish Lagoon and Calypso Lagoon.

Starfish Lagoon focuses on families. It’s where you’ll find Guppy Grotto, Celebration Key’s splash pad, which also features a two-foot wading pool perfect for younger cruisers. Of course, there is more than enough space for adults to unwind at Starfish Lagoon, too.

Calypso Lagoon, however, is more adult-focused. Here’s where you’ll find Long Necks Swim Up Bar, home to the biggest pool parties on all of Celebration Key.

Although CocoCay’s Oasis Lagoon is no stranger to parties, it’s hard to beat the live DJ set and 166 in-water seats at Calypso Lagoon’s premier swim up bar.

Plus, the sheer size of Celebration Key’s lagoons make it easy to escape the crowds. I often struggle to find peace and quiet at Oasis Lagoon, but I could always find a relaxing spot to swim at Calypso Lagoon and Starfish Lagoon.

However, I prefer the beaches at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Celebration Key may have Perfect Day at CocoCay beat when it comes to pools, but I prefer beaches at CocoCay.

Because CocoCay is an island, there are beaches in every direction. Celebration Key only has beaches on one side.

There are two beaches at Celebration Key: Starfish Beach and Calypso Beach. They are effectively a single beach (they’re on the same 1-mile strip of sand), but are split in half by the pier.

Don’t get me wrong—the beaches at Celebration Key were gorgeous. Despite the cloudy weather on my day ashore, the water was still a stunning shade of turquoise.

Yet I missed the variety of beaches at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Each beach offers different scenery, atmospheres, and things to do.

Related: What you should expect on a visit to CocoCay

Chill Beach, for instance, is popular with snorkelers, kayakers, and swimmers alike. South Beach, on the other hand, is famous for its floating tiki bar, making it a popular spot for partygoers.

The main focus of Celebration Key seems to be on the lagoon, whereas Perfect Day at CocoCay has a more balanced blend of both beaches and pools.

CocoCay wins for food and drinks, offering plenty of included options

Both Perfect Day at CocoCay and Celebration Key offer a wide selection of restaurants and bars, but CocoCay provides a more inclusive experience.

My main complaint at Celebration Key was the stingy dining and beverage rules. For starters, Carnival doesn’t honor drink packages ashore, so all drinks come with an extra charge.

I didn’t cruise with a drink package on my visit, but this rule makes me even less likely to purchase one on future Carnival cruises. Why buy a drink package when I can’t use it at Celebration Key?

Dining rules were ungenerous, too. Carnival limits passengers to one free meal during the day, and any additional food comes with an extra cost.

There is no buffet at Celebration Key. Instead, passengers can order complimentary food at food trucks and at Captain’s Galley Food Hall, the destination’s main dining venue. For an extra charge, guests can dine at a variety of full-service sit-down restaurants, too.

I was impressed by the variety of complimentary food options, such as Bahamian fish tacos and lamb shawarmas, but felt limited by the strict dining rules.

For lunch, I grabbed a personal pizza from Celebration Key’s main food hall. It was tasty, but I can’t imagine it would keep all passengers full for an entire day ashore.

Fortunately, at Perfect Day at CocoCay, there are no strict dining or beverage rules.

Drink packages work ashore, along with loyalty drinks for guests in Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society. Likewise, meals are not tracked at CocoCay. Passengers are able to enjoy unlimited meals and snacks throughout the day.

Related: 11 food favorites at CocoCay that never disappoint

Sometimes, for example, I might grab mozzarella sticks at Snack Shack for a mid-morning snack, create build-your-own tacos at the buffet for lunch, and enjoy a creamy cone of soft serve later in the afternoon.

At Celebration Key, I could never have such flexibility without spending extra.

Both destinations offer equally impressive cabana rentals

What I love most about cruise line private destinations is how much is included in your cruise fare.

Whether at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Celebration Key, MSC’s Ocean Cay or Disney’s Castaway Cay, you can have an amazing day ashore without shelling out even a dime.

Still, some passengers enjoy purchasing add-ons to enhance their port day, and one of the most popular add-ons are cabana rentals.

Related: Guide to CocoCay Cabanas

Both CocoCay and Celebration Key rent cabanas, and I’d argue that these rentals are on even playing fields.

CocoCay’s Overwater Cabana at the Coco Beach Club is undoubtedly majestic. Yet the Over-The-Lagoon Super Villa at Celebration Key is just as unforgettable. It includes a sectional sofa, bar, dining table, hammock, in-water loungers, and a private water slide.

There are also cabanas on the beach at both private destinations, but Celebration Key might have a slight edge due to the number of cabanas available with direct lagoon access.

At the end of the day, though, you can’t go wrong with a cabana rental at either destination.

CocoCay provides more thrills, whether at Thrill Waterpark or on the zip line

When comparing Perfect Day at CocoCay and Celebration Key, the former definitely offers more for adrenaline seekers.

You’ll find Thrill Waterpark ashore, which is home to a wave pool, adventure pool, and over a dozen waterslides. The 135-foot Daredevil’s Peak slide is the tallest in the entire Caribbean!

Related: Guide to Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day at CocoCay

The waterpark comes with an extra cost. Prices vary by sailing, but typically range between $80 and $160 per person.

Other thrills at CocoCay include kayak rentals, snorkel rentals, jet ski tours, a zip line, and a helium balloon ride, all of which also cost extra.

There are a few complimentary thrills included, too, which cater to children. First is Splashaway Bay, which features splash buckets, small slides, and water sprayers. There’s also Captain Jill’s Galleon, a splash and water play area in the shape of a pirate ship.

At Celebration Key, you’ll still find some thrills, but the destination caters more toward relaxation.

There are two waterslides, called the Suncastle Racing Slides, which cost $15 total for unlimited rides throughout the day.

Celebration Key does not offer a zip line. Instead, you can book excursions to nearby Pirate’s Zipline and Water Park. This is outside of Celebration Key, though, so you'll have to leave the private destination.

Rentals inside Celebration Key include paddle boards, kayaks, and snorkel gear.

Between the two, CocoCay wins for thrills based on the sheer size of Thrill Waterpark. Even though Celebration Key offers waterslides, it simply can’t compare to the amount of things to do at Thrill Waterpark.

Both feature adults-only retreats, but with totally different vibes

If you’re in search of a kid-free getaway, you’ll find adults-only areas at both private destinations.

I tried the adults-only retreats at both CocoCay and Celebration Key, but they were more different than alike.

Hideaway Beach is Royal Caribbean’s adults-only area at CocoCay, and it’s known for its party vibe. The exclusive area of the island can accommodate around 1,800 passengers.

Related: Hideaway Beach review at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Here, you’ll find an 18,000-square-foot infinity pool, private beach, two complimentary restaurants, a bar with live music, and a variety of cabana rentals.

Cabanas include the Hideaway Cabanas, located near the main pool, and the Hideout Cabanas, which feature direct access to a VIP infinity pool.

Admission to Hideaway Beach varies greatly depending on the sailing, but you can expect to pay between $40 and $90 per person. The cost includes food and basic drinks like water, but does not include alcoholic beverages, soda, and mocktails.

At Celebration Key, the adults-only area is called Pearl Cove Beach Club. While capacity numbers have not been announced, it's smaller than Hideaway Beach.

In general, the atmosphere of Pearl Cove Beach Club reminds me more of CocoCay’s Coco Beach Club compared to Hideaway Beach.

Related: Coco Beach Club review at CocoCay

Pearl Cove Beach Club features an 11,000-square-foot infinity pool, private beach, full-service restaurant, cabana rentals, and a variety of bars, including a swim-up bar.

The main difference between Pearl Cove Beach Club and Hideaway Beach is the pricing model.

Pearl Cove Beach Club offers three admission options. The first costs $100 and includes your entry and a welcome drink. The second, which costs $140, includes 10 drinks from a limited menu. Finally, the third costs $180 and includes 10 drinks in addition to an exclusive lunch at the Pearl Cove Beach Club restaurant.

Drinks are not included in the admission to Hideaway Beach, although Royal Caribbean’s drink packages and loyalty drink vouchers work ashore.

After visiting both, I wouldn’t say one is better than the other. Hideaway Beach definitely offers more of a party vibe whereas Pearl Cove Beach Club is more akin to the tranquil atmosphere offered at the Coco Beach Club.

Both Perfect Day at CocoCay and Celebration Key have pros and cons, but you can’t go wrong with either

After visiting both private destinations, I wouldn't say that one is better than the other.

There were definitely some things I liked more at Celebration Key than CocoCay, such as the giant lagoon and Long Necks Swim Up Bar. However, CocoCay offers more inclusivity by honoring guests’ drink packages and not limiting guests to just one meal.

You really can’t go wrong with a day at either private destination. Each offers the ability to fully unwind without the need to plan shore excursions or research the port in advance.

Whether at CocoCay or Celebration Key, you can simply disembark your cruise ship and spend the entire day soaking up the tropical Bahamian sun.