Summer is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to cruise to Europe. Whether you’re wandering through Rome’s 2000-year-old streets or watching the sunset from Santorini, there’s a lot to see, do, and experience when cruising the continent.

Although you’ll find cruises all over Europe, two itineraries are more popular than the rest. First are Western Mediterranean cruises, which visit ports like Barcelona and Naples, and second are those to the Greek Isles, which call upon destinations like Mykonos and Athens.

Of the six Royal Caribbean ships sailing to Europe this summer, five are based in one of these two regions.

I cruise to Europe every year, and I’ve been lucky enough to try both itineraries several times. This year alone I cruised to the Western Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas and also boarded Explorer of the Seas for a cruise to Greece and Croatia.

Aside from the obvious differences in ships — the newer Allure of the Seas offers more varied amenities — I largely preferred my experience in Greece and the Adriatic.

This sentiment rang true on previous cruises, too. After three sailings to the Western Mediterranean and two to the Greek Isles, I’d pick the latter every time, and here’s why.

There’s just too much to see in one day in the Western Mediterranean

It’s impossible to see a city like Rome in a month — let alone a single day.

Western Mediterranean cruises may visit bucket-list destinations, but you’d be hard-pressed to see even just the highlights on one port visit.

Take Naples, as an example. Aside from being the birthplace of pizza, there’s a lot more to discover in and around the famous Italian city.

You can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, stroll the cobblestone streets of Sorrento, and marvel at cliffside views from Positano. Those hoping to stay closer to the ship may opt for a street food tour in the city center, or perhaps make a visit to the National Archaeological Museum.

Related: 7 mistakes you'll want to avoid on a European cruise

Even if your ship is docked in the city for twelve hours, there’s no chance you’ll see all of the region’s highlights in that time. I’ve spent several weeks in the Amalfi Coast myself and have barely scratched the surface.

The same could be said about a city like Athens, which is frequently visited on cruises to Greece, but many Greek Isles cruises visit smaller cities and towns, too.

On my recent cruise, the itinerary included a port stop in Split, Croatia. The city, home to just over 160,000 people, is significantly more relaxed than a destination like Rome or Barcelona.

In just eight hours, I felt I saw most of the city’s highlights. I took a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace, tried pastries at a local bakery, and strolled the waterfront promenade, which was lined with dozens of restaurants and bars.

In Mykonos, a short water taxi brought me right into the island’s traditional village of Chora. I walked around the labyrinthine streets, visited a nearby beach, and spent time in a 600-year-old cafe before returning to the ship.

Related: 11 things Americans should know before they travel to Europe this summer

At the end of most port days in the Greek Isles and Adriatic, I feel ready to get back onboard the ship satisfied with what I saw in the destination.

On Western Mediterranean cruises, though, I often find myself wishing I had more time. If anything, it gives a small taste of a region I can explore on a future land-based trip.

Booking excursions is almost a must in the Western Mediterranean, but I like exploring on my own

Speaking of trying to see a city like Naples or Rome in a single day, you'll find that shore excursions help maximize your time.

If your ship visits Rome, you’ll dock in the city of Civitavecchia, located an hour’s drive from Rome’s city center. For first-time visitors, navigating the metropolis can be confusing, so many passengers opt for shore excursions.

Shore excursions can take you to sights like the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain in a single day without having to worry about how you're going to get there.

Related: 3 times you shouldn't book a shore excursion during your cruise vacation

Many cruise ports in Europe are easy enough to explore without a tour, but even I’d argue the benefits of shore excursions in the biggest Western Mediterranean cities are worth it.

What I enjoyed about my two Greek Isles cruises was that I didn’t feel like I needed to plan excursions in every port.

When docked in Chania, Crete, I took a shuttle bus from the port to the city’s old harbor, which had enough restaurants, bars, and shops to keep me busy on my port day.

Later, when visiting Kotor, Montenegro, I found the town easy enough to explore without a tour. The city’s small size meant there was no need to take trains, buses, subways, or other transit to get around.

Yet on my first visit to Marseille, one of the most popular Western Mediterranean ports, I regretted not booking a tour. I paid $18 for a cruise line bus transfer into the city center, but didn’t find the area particularly interesting.

On my next visit, I splurged on a tour to nearby Aix-en-Provence, which was significantly more charming. I didn’t love feeling like I had to book a tour to make the day more enjoyable, however.

Of course, not all Mediterranean ports require a tour, and, on the contrary, some Greek Isles ports may be better explored with a tour. Some passengers book excursions in Santorini to avoid long waits for tender boats, whereas those visiting Athens may find a tour more convenient to reach the Acropolis.

Nonetheless, I generally find it easier and more interesting to explore Greek Isles and Adriatic ports on my own. Even though I may still book a short walking tour here and there, I enjoy the flexibility to explore without a full-day excursion.

For me, the best of both worlds is to combine a land-based trip with a cruise

Given the option between a Western Mediterranean cruise and a Greek Isles itinerary, I’d choose the cruise to Greece every time. Despite this, I definitely think the most popular Western Mediterranean ports are worth a visit.

Sure, cities like Naples and Palermo can be chaotic, loud, and packed with tourists, but they’re popular for a reason. For first-time visitors to Europe, a Western Mediterranean cruise can be an excellent way to get a taste of the region without worrying about planning transportation logistics from place to place.

Related: 5 things to know before taking a European cruise

Even still, you could regret having such little time in each port. When fellow Royal Caribbean Blog writer Allie cruised to Iceland, for example, she regretted not booking a land-based trip to the country instead. She felt as though four port days were not enough to see all the country had to offer.

When I fly to Europe for a cruise, I want to make the most of the time, money, and effort it takes to get there. Because of this, I always try to add extra days for land-based travel before and/or after my cruise.

When I sailed the Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas in April, I made sure to plan extra time before and after the cruise to explore more of Spain. If I arrived the evening before embarkation day (or worse, the morning of embarkation day!), there would be no time to visit places like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

So, if you’re cruising from somewhere like Rome, try to plan a few days to see the city before or after your cruise. It’s easy to feel exhausted when exploring these places on port days, so extra days help cut down on feeling rushed.

Ultimately, pick the ports that interest you, but know what to expect

Everyone’s travel style is different, and although I may prefer Greek Isles cruises over the Western Mediterranean, others may think the opposite.

At the end of the day, the most important thing you can do is pick a cruise itinerary with ports you actually want to visit. Ports can be drastically different from one itinerary to another — even within the same region.

While my Greek Isles cruise visited Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Split, others may visit Rhodes, Crete, and Kefalonia. Likewise, a Mediterranean cruise could visit larger cities like Florence and Rome, but others may call upon lesser-visited ports like Ajaccio, Corsica.

Related: 10 reasons people end up disappointed with their cruise vacation

No one wants to be disappointed in their cruise itinerary, so you want to be prepared with the right expectations.

If you’re expecting to see all of Florence in a day, you might regret visiting the city on a cruise. Or, if you’re hoping for a calm, relaxing day in port, the crowds of Santorini could quickly leave you overwhelmed.

Either cruise destination is sure to offer a memorable vacation, but I’ll probably reserve the Western Mediterranean for land-based trips instead.

I tried Royal Caribbean’s drink package for the first time, but I didn’t get my money’s worth. That being said, I loved the convenience of the package, so it might be worth a try on your next cruise.

Drink packages are one of the most popular add-ons to purchase before a Royal Caribbean cruise. The Deluxe Beverage Package offers unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and it is a must-have for many cruisers.

Having access to unlimited drinks allows passengers to relax and unwind during their vacation, whether onboard the ship or at Royal Caribbean’s private destinations of Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee.

Despite cruising with Royal Caribbean over 20 times, I never purchased a drink package. While I enjoy a cocktail here and there, I never thought I could drink enough to make the cost of a drink package worth it.

On my most recent sailing on Utopia of the Seas, though, I tried a Deluxe Beverage Package for the first time. I booked a Star Class suite, which included a drink package in the cruise fare. During my short, 3-night cruise, I tried to make the most of the drink package to get my money’s worth.

Unfortunately, it turned out to be a waste of money for me, and I probably wouldn’t try it again.

Most drink packages cost between $80 and $90 per day

Royal Caribbean’s drink package price varies from sailing to sailing, but you can typically expect to pay around $80 to $90 per day with gratuities.

Drink prices onboard vary, too, but cocktails are usually around $14, with beers and seltzers priced around $8.

Related: How much is a Royal Caribbean drink package?

Therefore, to “break even” on the drink package, passengers need to drink at least 6-7 drinks per day. This is an easy number to reach for some cruisers, especially those celebrating a special event, like a bachelorette, onboard.

For others—myself included—it can be a challenge to drink enough to find value in the package.

I didn’t think I could drink enough to break even on the daily cost

Even though my drink package was included in the cost of my luxury Star Class suite, I still technically paid for the package in my base cruise fare. Knowing that the package would cost around $270 for my 3-night cruise, I doubted I could drink enough during the weekend to break even.

Plus, as a Diamond Plus member of Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society, I already receive 5 free drinks per day. This would effectively bring my “break-even” number to over 11 drinks per day.

For the purposes of this review, I’ll keep my break-even number to around 6-7 drinks per day, as most Royal Caribbean passengers do not receive free Diamond drinks.

Immediately, I felt a sense of pressure to order drinks

As soon as I boarded the ship, I felt as if a clock were ticking. If I wanted to make the drink package worth it, I needed to start ordering drinks soon.

I grabbed a latte after boarding, as specialty coffees are included in the drink package. At only $5, though, I still had a ways to go.

Embarkation day can be hectic. In between completing my muster drill, unpacking my suitcase, and exploring the ship, I realized I hadn’t ordered a drink in several hours. Hoping to “make up” for this lost time, I grabbed a glass of white wine to enjoy while getting ready.

Later that evening, I ordered a cucumber martini at dinner, followed by a bourbon mule at The Mason Jar, Royal Caribbean’s southern-inspired restaurant and bar.

In total, the four drinks I ordered on embarkation day hardly made a dent in the daily cost of a drink package.

As the weekend continued, I shifted my mindset on the drink package

One of the biggest advantages of having a drink package is ordering drinks without receiving a large bill at the end of the cruise. For some cruisers, a prepaid drink package provides peace of mind. It allows them to relax without worrying about the price of each individual drink, whether they order 5 per day or 15.

On the second day of my cruise, I realized the drink package wasn’t only about breaking even, but also about enjoying drinks without stress.

Related: 21 drinks to order if you have a cruise drink package

I began to order drinks more frequently throughout the day, whether two glasses of wine with lunch or an Aperol spritz by the pool.

I also started carrying my included Coca-Cola souvenir cup around the ship, which provided unlimited soft drinks from the Coca-Cola freestyle machines.

In short, I stopped worrying about counting each individual drink—the stress of doing so kept me from enjoying my cruise to the fullest. I realized one of the best benefits of the package is the convenience factor; it provides a more all-inclusive experience to a Royal Caribbean cruise.

I tried nearly a dozen new drinks while onboard

One of the biggest benefits of Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package is the ability to try new drinks. There are dozens of cocktails available on Royal Caribbean’s ships, and many bars offer totally unique drink menus.

When paying for drinks individually, it’s easy to stick to the status quo. Most cruisers, after all, do not want to waste $15 on a drink they may not enjoy. Because of this, it’s common to stick to tried-and-true favorites, like a classic piña colada or familiar brand of beer.

Yet with a drink package, there’s no pressure to actually finish each drink. If you order a beverage and don’t like it, you can order another for no additional cost.

Related: Royal Caribbean Drink Package Info, Tips, Pros & Cons

During my 3 nights onboard, I loved trying new-to-me cocktails. I sipped on a boozy banana float while listening to live country music at The Mason Jar and grabbed fruity coladas at the tropical-themed Pesky Parrot bar.

The drink package gave me the freedom to try new drinks without worrying about whether or not I would like them.

After a while, however, drinking and eating too much made me feel lethargic

One of my favorite aspects of sailing on a new Royal Caribbean ship like Utopia of the Seas is trying the diverse dining options.

In addition to a Deluxe Beverage Package, I also had an Unlimited Dining Package for the sailing. This package included meals at Utopia of the Seas’ specialty restaurants, including Izumi Sushi, Hooked Seafood, and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to Royal Caribbean's Unlimited Dining Package

Like most cruise dining experiences, specialty restaurants offer multi-course meals. From creamy pumpkin bisque to tender lobster and fried cheesecake, each meal was unquestionably delicious, but also extremely rich.

I planned to order drinks with each meal, but it often felt too overwhelming. As much as I love an espresso martini, for example, it felt too heavy to pair with an already indulgent meal.

A glass of water or a diet soda provided a lighter option so I didn’t feel overly full.

The drink package wasn’t right for me, and I’ll stick to included beverages on my next cruise

Despite trying new drinks during my cruise, I almost certainly did not break even on the drink package. Even though I stopped counting each drink individually, I’d guess I only drank around half of my break-even number.

Despite the convenience factor of the drink package, I found that I was not always in the mood to drink. Even though I could enjoy nonalcoholic beverages like specialty coffees and mocktails, I was just as happy to grab a complimentary glass of iced tea or lemonade instead.

Related: What drinks are free on your Royal Caribbean cruise?

I’m more of a social drinker than anything else, so perhaps my experience would have been different if I were sailing with a large group or celebrating a special event.

Ultimately, I am perfectly comfortable with sticking to the included beverages in Royal Caribbean’s cruise fare. If I want a cocktail while onboard, I’ll just purchase one individually. Daily drink specials and Crown & Anchor Society beverage coupons can help save money on drinks, too.

Nonetheless, you might still want to consider a drink package for your Royal Caribbean cruise

I won’t be purchasing another Deluxe Beverage Package, but it might be the right choice for your cruise vacation.

If you’re only cruising once a year, for instance, it could be worth the splurge to book a drink package. There’s no sense worrying about drink prices on your well-deserved vacation, and a drink package could definitely enhance your experience.

Likewise, those cruising with a group of friends or large family may find value in a drink package. These situations may foster a more celebratory atmosphere compared to cruising with a smaller group.

Finally, if your cruise visits one (or both) of Royal Caribbean’s private destinations, a drink package can offer an even better value. Your packages work at these ports, so you can make use of the benefits while ashore.

There’s no set answer as to whether or not a Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it on a Royal Caribbean cruise. For some passengers, it’s a no-brainer. For others, such as myself, it might not offer the best value.

I cruise to Europe every summer, and there are a few mistakes I never make to ensure my trip goes off without a hitch.

Europe is full of exciting cruise destinations, and I’ve been fortunate enough to sail all around the continent, visiting everywhere from the Mediterranean to the Norwegian Fjords and Arctic Circle.

Throughout my seven cruises in Europe, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes. In between packing the wrong footwear, neglecting to research ports, and spending too much on shore excursions, I’ve certainly learned a few valuable lessons along the way.

These are the seven mistakes I always avoid on a European cruise so that I have the best trip possible.

I avoid picking the first itinerary I see — there are more options than you’d think

Dreaming of a European cruise? You’ll want to make sure you pick the best itinerary for your travel style.

A common mishap when planning any cruise is selecting the wrong itinerary. Every port offers something unique. History-lovers will gravitate toward the ancient ruins of Pompeii, whereas nature-focused cruisers might enjoy destinations like Norway and Iceland.

Instead of booking a European cruise based solely on price, look carefully at all the options. You might be surprised to find itineraries to the Canary Islands, northern Spain and France, and even as far east as Istanbul.

Related: What I wish I knew before taking a Mediterranean cruise

I always research itineraries thoroughly before booking. By doing so, I’ve been able to discover hidden gems around the continent.

My first European cruise, for instance, took me to the small city of La Rochelle, France. This city was nowhere on my radar to visit before coming across the cruise itinerary online, but I was blown away by the city’s quaint harbor and traditional crêperies.

Don’t limit yourself to only the most popular ports. Take a look at every itinerary the cruise line offers to find which one works best for you.

I avoid confusion in port by paying attention to logistics

Most European cruise itineraries include anywhere from three to five ports of call, but they’re not made equally. Some ships dock in the center of town, such as in Split, whereas others require a boat, bus, or train to reach the city center.

On my recent Greek Isles cruise, I paid careful attention to the logistics of each port before disembarking. Fortunately, Royal Caribbean’s app provides detailed information on any necessary tender boats, water taxis, and other local transportation.

Related: What does tender mean on a cruise ship?

By doing so, I was prepared for each port day. I lined up early for a tender ticket in Santorini, had cash ready for a water taxi in Mykonos, and reserved a disembarkation day shuttle bus to our next destination.

Doing just a few minutes of research beforehand helped me avoid unnecessary confusion in each port of call.

I avoid packing a huge suitcase — my carry-ons fit everything I need

A common mistake many travelers make when visiting Europe is overpacking.

If you plan to take any form of public transportation in Europe—whether trains, buses, or subways—you’ll quickly regret packing a large-sized suitcase.

I’ve utilized public transportation all over the continent, and I’d never bring anything larger than a carry-on suitcase. Although it’s possible to navigate transit systems with large luggage, I don’t find it worth the headache.

Related: European cruise outfits and packing guide for women

Many trains have limited luggage storage space, and subway systems can be crowded enough without a giant suitcase.

Instead, I always travel to Europe with my Away carry-on suitcase and spacious personal item-sized backpack from Amazon. The two items provide adequate space for a week’s worth of clothes and are easy enough to navigate through local transport.

I don’t limit myself to cruise line excursions

When planning port days, it’s convenient to stick with tours offered by Royal Caribbean. The tours leave directly from the ship, work with a vetted tour provider, and guarantee your arrival back to port if the tour encounters a delay.

That being said, shore excursions booked directly through the cruise line can be expensive. Royal Caribbean acts as the “middleman” between you and the tour provider, thus raising prices.

Related: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

I rarely book shore excursions through Royal Caribbean. Instead, I look at independent tour operators, which may offer more variety and lower prices.

On my most recent cruise to Athens, I booked a guided tour of the Acropolis through GetYourGuide.com. The tour, which included my entrance fee, was $70 per person—less than half the price of tours offered through the cruise line.

When booking on your own, though, you’ll want to account for ground transport. In Athens, I took a local bus and subway to reach the Acropolis.

Some travelers may prefer the convenience of private transport through cruise line excursions instead.

I avoid wearing new shoes, and always ensure my footwear is comfortable

If there’s only one tip you follow from this list, it should be to pack proper footwear for your European cruise.

I frequently log 20,000 steps while exploring ports of call in Europe. Most destinations are best explored on foot, and there’s a lot of ground to cover each day.

On a prior cruise to the Mediterranean, I made the mistake of wearing a brand-new pair of sneakers in port. Soon enough, my ankles were covered in blisters, and I had to live with my mistake for the rest of the trip.

Nowadays, I never pack new shoes when cruising to Europe. I’ll pack a trusty pair of worn-in sneakers instead. I usually pack a pair of sandals with an ankle strap, too, which are nice to wear on warmer port days.

Related: What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

If your itinerary visits a notoriously wet destination, such as Iceland or Ireland, you’ll want to avoid sneakers with a mesh exterior. A rainy day or accidental step into a puddle will quickly leave your shoes (and socks) soaking wet, which is far from ideal when exploring port.

I love cruising with a pair of white, water-resistant sneakers like these from Adidas. Not only do they match nearly every outfit, but they also keep my feet dry on rainy days.

I avoid cruising to Southern Europe in July and August. Venture north instead!

If you’re set on cruising to Europe in the peak summer months, consider heading north instead.

Destinations like Rome, Santorini, and Lisbon frequently see extreme temperatures during the months of July and August. Sightseeing in 90-degree temperatures can be downright miserable!

Visiting the Norwegian fjords, as an alternative, can be an excellent choice for a summer cruise. Temperatures in the low 70s are perfect for exploring the region. Whether hiking to the spectacular Pulpit Rock or strolling along the charming streets of Stavanger, you’re unlikely to be overwhelmed with the heat.

Related: What I did right and wrong on my Royal Caribbean cruise to Norway

Outside of Norway, you can also find cruises to destinations like Iceland, the British Isles, and Denmark, all of which should offer more pleasant summer temperatures compared to countries like Italy and Spain.

Lastly, I avoid booking my European cruises too late. Itineraries can (and often do) sell out

Despite taking so many cruises to Europe, I’m still learning the ins and outs of cruising around the continent.

One mistake I’ll never make again is waiting too long to book my cruise.

Last fall, I had been eyeing Royal Caribbean’s Greek Isles itineraries, but I was in no real rush to book one. Even though I was hoping to cruise sometime in May, I figured I could bite the bullet on a booking at a later date.

So, when I finally decided to sit down and book the cruise in December, I could no longer find the itinerary on Royal Caribbean’s website. As it turned out, the cruise was fully booked.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

My procrastination had cost me my dream cruise—or so I thought.

Fortunately, a few cabins opened up the next day, perhaps due to a cancellation or expired hold. I immediately emailed my travel agent to book the cruise, and I snagged one of the last staterooms on the ship.

Needless to say, I learned my lesson about booking cruises too late. Royal Caribbean’s European itineraries are in high demand, so if you want to book your dream cruise, it’s best to do it sooner rather than later.

I just got back from a trip to Europe, and I packed a few essentials that made a big difference during my flight.

Despite flying dozens of times each year, I absolutely hate being on a plane. The tiny, uncomfortable seats, inedible economy meals, and long layovers make the experience far from relaxing.

So when I flew to Barcelona last month to board a cruise on Allure of the Seas, I knew I wanted to make my flight more enjoyable. I browsed Amazon for useful items that could enhance my flight while still taking up minimal space in my carry-on and personal item.

Although there’s a limit on how enjoyable an economy flight can really be, these 13 travel essentials were a lifesaver on the long-haul journey.

Passport Organizer Case

It’s easy to lose track of your belongings on chaotic travel days, but my passport organizer keeps everything in one place.

While traveling, it’s important to keep your passport protected. Water damage and ripped pages can deem your passport invalid, and you don’t want to risk being denied entry on a flight or cruise.

I love my passport organizer case from Amazon. Aside from fitting up to four passports, it features slots for credit cards, three zipped pockets, a pen holder, detachable keychain, wrist strap, and RFID protection.

The case makes it easy to stay organized on even the longest of travel days, and I never go on a trip without it.

LINK: RFID Family Passport Wallet Holder Waterproof, Travel Document Organizer Credit Card Clutch Bag for Men Women

PRICE: $9.99

Kindle Paperwhite

A good book is one of the easiest ways to stay entertained on a long-haul flight, so I made sure to pack my Kindle Paperwhite on my flight to Barcelona.

The Kindle takes up far less room in my bag compared to a regular book, and it can also hold thousands of books at one time.

Just remember to download books before your flight takes off, as you’ll need a wifi connection to do so.

LINK: All-new Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (16 GB) – Our fastest Kindle ever, with new 7" glare-free display and weeks of battery life – Black

PRICE: $159.99

Travel Dental Kit

The day before my flight to Europe was hectic, to say the least. In between working, packing, and getting my dog’s belongings ready for his sitter, I had little time to prepare.

Therefore, I was happy I purchased this travel-sized dental kit before my trip. Inside the kit was everything I needed for my 1-week trip, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash.

I always brush my teeth before and after long-haul flights, so I loved having this kit handy. I didn’t need to remember to pack each item individually, either, which was a major plus.

LINK: Practicon Adult Dental Care Kit, Travel Size Bundle w/Toothbrush with Cover, Crest Toothpaste, Floss, Tongue Cleaner and Scope Mouthwash, TSA Compliant Oral Care Kit

PRICE: $8.99

Sleep Aid

I always pack a small bottle of sleep aid for long flights, especially when flying to Europe.

Most flights from North America to Europe depart in the evening and arrive the following morning. My flight to Barcelona, for instance, left Dallas at 6PM and arrived the following day at 10AM.

To avoid feeling miserable on my first day, I took a sleep aid pill shortly after boarding the plane. The softgel pills contain diphenhydramine, which helped me get some rest before landing.

As someone who struggles to sleep on planes, I find sleep aid to be the best solution. They're also helpful when trying to adjust to the local time zone.

LINK: HealthA2Z Sleep Aid, Diphenhydramine Softgels, 50mg, Supports Deeper, Restful Sleeping, Non Habit-Forming (100 Counts)

PRICE: $5.95

Travel Neck Pillow

I’ve always avoided travel neck pillows when flying. Despite their promise of comfort, lugging around a bulky pillow for an entire trip seemed cumbersome.

Yet once I found a compact neck pillow on Amazon, I decided to give it a try. The memory foam pillow packs into a portable travel bag, shrinking the size in half for easy storage.

I was impressed with the pillow’s comfort, and the neck support proved useful when trying to sleep. However, the item still took up considerable space in my luggage. I would love to bring it with me on future trips, but only if I had room to spare.

LINK: napfun Neck Pillow for Traveling, Upgraded Travel Neck Pillow for Airplane 100% Pure Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Flight Headrest Sleep, Portable Plane Accessories, Light Grey

PRICE: $13.86

Portable Charger

Packing a portable charger for long flights is a no-brainer.

Even though most long-haul planes offer charging ports at each seat, there’s no guarantee they’ll work. On more than one occasion I’ve had a defunct USB port at my seat. Without a portable charger, I would have been out of luck.

It’s extremely important to keep your phone charged on long travel days. You’ll use it for nearly everything upon landing, whether ordering an Uber or navigating public transportation.

LINK: INIU Portable Charger, Slimmest 10000mAh 5V/3A Power Bank, USB C in&out High-Speed Charging Battery Pack, External Phone Powerbank Compatible with iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 Samsung S22 S21 Google iPad etc

PRICE: $15.99

Kleenex On-The-Go

When flying to Japan last year, I suddenly got a bloody noise mid-flight. I was stuck in the window seat with no tissues within reach. Needless to say, it was a disaster!

After that experience, I’ll never fly without Kleenex again.

I love these travel-sized packs of Kleenex. Each pack comes with ten tissues, and they fit perfectly into the side pockets of my backpack. You never know when you’ll need an emergency tissue, so it’s a good idea to be prepared.

LINK: Kleenex On-The-Go Facial Tissues, 8 On-The-Go Packs, 10 Tissues per Box, 3-Ply (80 Total Tissues)

PRICE: $2.48

Noise Cancelling Headphones

If there’s just one item you pack for a long-haul flight, it should be a pair of noise cancelling headphones.

Noise levels on airplanes can range from 85 to 105 decibels, which is far from comfortable for most passengers. It’s hard to relax with the constant background noise, but my noise cancelling headphones make it easier.

I wore my headphones for the entire duration of my flight to Barcelona. My $60 pair is an economical option, but I might invest in a higher-end option for my next flight for even better noise-blocking power.

If you’re planning to watch in-flight movies, don’t forget to pack an Aux cable or bluetooth connector, too.

LINK: ZIHNIC Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, 40H Playtime Wireless Bluetooth Headset with Deep Bass Hi-Fi Stereo Sound,Comfortable Earpads for Travel/Home/Office

PRICE: $56.99

Packing Cube With A Change Of Clothes

I always pack an extra pair of clothes for long flights. For my flight to Europe, I kept a spare outfit organized in my Thule packing cube, which I then placed in my personal item.

Having a change of clothes is essential on long-haul journeys; I like the security of an extra outfit. Whether I accidentally spill red wine on my shirt or the plane is warmer than expected, it’s nice having a change of clothes in case I need it.

If you’re traveling with checked luggage, this is even more important. Should your luggage get unexpectedly lost or delayed, it’s crucial to have an extra pair of clothes available in the meantime.

LINK: Thule Compression Packing Cubes

PRICE: $48.49

Collapsible Water Bottle

Reusable water bottles are an eco-friendly item to pack for any vacation, but they take up valuable luggage space.

As an alternative, I tried out this collapsible bottle to save space in my personal item.

I was initially hesitant the bottle would spill, but the leak-proof locking cap worked flawlessly. Once emptied, the bottle rolled up nicely to fit in my backpack.

Sometimes I forgo packing my larger reusable water bottle when luggage space is tight, so this collapsible option is a great alternative.

LINK: Collapsible Water Bottles with Straw 20oz, Leak Proof, BPA-Free, Foldable Silicone Travel Sports Water Bottle for Traveling, Hiking, Outdoors

PRICE: $17.99

Liquid IV

Speaking of my reusable water bottle, I was glad I packed Liquid IV for my flight.

Liquid IV is an electrolyte drink mix that promises enhanced hydration. With electrolytes, vitamins, and nutrients, the drink mix claims to hydrate more efficiently than regular water.

Regardless of the validity of such claims, I found the citrus flavor of Liquid IV refreshing. If anything, I was more likely to drink the flavored beverage as opposed to plain water.

The drink mix kept me hydrated, leaving me more alert and refreshed once I stepped off the plane.

LINK: Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier - Lemon Lime | Electrolyte Powder Drink Mix | 1 Pack (16 Servings)

PRICE: $21.11

Chapstick

One tiny item that makes a huge difference on long-haul flights is a tube of chapstick. The air on a plane can be extremely dry, so it’s important to keep your lips moisturized.

Chapstick not only takes up negligible space in your bag, but most brands are affordable on any budget. I always purchase a pack of three for just $4, which come in fun flavors like cherry, s’mores, and strawberry.

LINK: ChapStick Moisturizer Original Lip Balm Tubes, SPF 15 and Skin Protectant - 0.15 Oz, 3 Count (Pack of 1)

PRICE: $3.88

Compression Socks

The last item I packed for my long-haul flight to Europe was a pair of compression socks.

Compression socks improve circulation when flying, as they keep blood from pooling in your legs, ankles, and feet. This helps reduce swelling and discomfort.

The socks were absolutely hideous—they traveled all the way to my knee. Luckily, they were concealed under my leggings for the flight.

Wearing compression socks was an easy switch from my typical ankle socks, and they didn’t feel uncomfortable at all.

Given the health benefits, I’ll probably wear compression socks on my next long-haul flight, too.

LINK: CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation (3 Pairs) 15-20 mmHg is Best Support for Athletic Running Cycling

PRICE: $13.99

I recently disembarked a 4-night cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas. During the short trip, I called a tiny, windowless inside cabin my home away from home.

Although inside cabins are extremely basic, they’re the most budget-friendly option on cruise ships. There’s no natural light in the room, but you’ll still find essentials like a bed, vanity, and private bathroom.

For my short itinerary, I paid $1,260 for the inside room. The price included the cruise fare, taxes, and prepaid gratuities for two adults. At $157 per person, per night, I found the price fair for a cruise on one of Royal Caribbean’s biggest ships.

Let’s take a look inside my interior cabin on Allure of the Seas to see what the cheapest cabin option is really like.

Allure of the Seas just completed a $100M renovation, but cabins were not updated

Allure of the Seas launched in 2009, but she recently completed a major amplification to modernize the vessel.

New restaurants, bars, and activities were added, and minor aesthetic changes were made to existing venues around the ship.

Read more: A look inside Allure of the Seas' $100M amplification

One aspect of Allure of the Seas that was not updated, though, were the cabins.

Royal Caribbean rarely updates cabins when renovating cruise ships in its fleet. With thousands of cabins onboard, the cruise line forgoes this massive undertaking in favor of updating other areas.

Therefore, cabins on Allure of the Seas appear slightly outdated. There are fewer power outlets compared to Royal Caribbean’s newest ships, for example, and passengers should expect more wear and tear throughout the stateroom.

I loved my cabin’s location on deck 11

After boarding Allure of the Seas, I headed to my cabin to drop off my carry-on and check out my stateroom for the first time.

When I booked my cruise nine months before departure, I selected an interior guarantee cabin. This was the cheapest option, and it meant Royal Caribbean would assign me a stateroom location closer to the sail date.

Read more: Royal Caribbean cabins to avoid

I was assigned room 11273, located near the aft of deck 11 on Allure of the Seas. The room was conveniently located just steps from the aft elevator lobby and stairwell.

Some passengers may be wary of cabins near the elevators, but I didn’t encounter any noise issues during my cruise. Plus, I loved the easy access from my stateroom to anywhere else onboard.

The tiny room felt surprisingly spacious

Interior cabins aren’t winning any awards for their size—most inside rooms on Allure of the Seas measure between 150 and 180 square feet.

That being said, I was pleasantly surprised with the size and layout of my interior cabin.

The bed was pushed against the back wall, so I never had to walk around it to reach other areas of the room.

There was a couch, too, which is always a nice perk. Many interior cabins on cruise ships have a small chair in lieu of a couch, so I appreciated the expanded seating area.

The couch’s upholstery was definitely showing its age, however, and I thought it was in need of a refresh.

A full-length mirror was next to the couch, which both reflected light in the cabin and made it appear more spacious.

My inside stateroom was packed with storage

Storage is an important feature in cruise ship cabins. Given their compact size, it’s helpful to have an abundance of storage throughout the room, whether closets, drawers, or shelves.

My Allure of the Seas cabin had a surprising amount of storage space.

First, there were three drawers next to the mini fridge. These drawers were easy to access, and they were convenient for storing smaller items like socks and shorts.

There were also two additional shelves under the desk as well as a narrow column of shelves above it.

Additionally, a closet provided extra shelving and hanging space.

Most older cruise ships lack significant storage, so I was nervous my room wouldn't have enough space to unpack my belongings. Luckily, this was not the case, and I was pleased with the number of closets, shelves, drawers.

The storage variety made it easy to unpack and stay organized for the duration of my cruise.

Storage was abundant, but outlets were not

One thing I wish I could have changed about my Allure of the Seas cabin were the number of electrical outlets.

Outlet availability was extremely limited, with just three outlets on the desk and one in the bathroom. I traveled with a laptop, wireless headphones, my phone, a Kindle, and camera, among other electronics. It was a hassle to charge everything with just three outlets.

I also missed having a USB charging port by the bedside.

The lack of outlets was another area where my cabin showed its age. I regretted not packing a USB hub, which would have increased the room's charging capacity.

Lastly, I was impressed with the cabin’s bathroom

Tiny cruise ship bathrooms aren’t glamorous by any means, but I thought my Allure of the Seas bathroom had nice features and a calming color scheme.

Everything in the bathroom seemed to be in great condition, from the vinyl floor to the backsplash and storage shelves. I loved the blue tile, which gave a clean aesthetic to the small space.

Next to the sink were shelves and a drawer. This was extremely useful for storing my toiletries, and a metal bar kept items from falling off the shelf due to ship movement.

Read more: 7 bathroom hacks to use in your cruise ship cabin

I also liked how the bathroom had a glass shower door.

This is far preferable to the cloth curtains used on older ships.

If I cruised on Allure of the Seas again, I’d pick one of the new cabins added during amplification

My short stay in cabin 11273 was comfortable, but I’d pick a different room next time.

During Allure of the Seas’ amplification, a number of new cabins were added to the ship. These include interior rooms on decks 6, 11, and 12 along with the Ultimate Panoramic Suites above the ship’s bridge.

Presumably, the new cabins feature more updated furnishing and decor. When Liberty of the Seas was refreshed in 2016, for instance, Royal Caribbean added 86 cabins to the ship. These rooms look more modern compared to other cabins on the vessel.

Read more: We tried 4 cabins on Liberty of the Seas: here's how they compared

The next time I cruise on Allure of the Seas, I would specifically book one of these new cabin locations. Although cruising in a cabin built in 2009 wasn’t a dealbreaker, I’d certainly prefer sailing in a 2025-style stateroom on the same ship.

Royal Caribbean just finished updating Allure of the Seas with so many new changes, and I wanted to be the first to see it all.

Following a $100M amplification, the vessel was modernized to include new activities, dining venues, and updated entertainment.

With all the enhancements, whether the tropical Pesky Parrot bar or Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade, I couldn’t wait to get onboard and check out everything new on the amplified ship.

I paid $1,260 for an interior cabin

I booked my Allure of the Seas cruise nine months prior to departure. I was set to sail on the first cruise following her amplification, a 4-night Mediterranean itinerary from Barcelona.

Expecting high airfare costs, I hoped to save money on the price of my cabin, opting for an interior guarantee room over a balcony or suite. The guarantee rate meant my small, windowless stateroom would not be assigned until closer to the sail date.

There’s some risk involved with guarantee cabins, such as being assigned a room in an unfavorable location, but still, it helped me save money.

In total, I paid $1,260 for my cruise fare. This included the price of the cabin for two adults along with taxes, fees, and prepaid gratuities.

My room wasn’t anything special, but choosing the cheapest cabin option allowed me to spend more money elsewhere.

At $1,360, my economy flight to Europe was more expensive than my cruise fare

Because Allure of the Seas’ first cruise following her amplification left from Spain, I knew my flight would be expensive. I paid $1,360 for a round trip flight to Barcelona. While somewhat expected, this was, admittedly, more than I hoped to pay.

I fly to Europe every summer for both cruises and land-based travel. Coming from the west coast of the US, I usually find savvy ways to save money on airfare.

Read more: 6 things to consider before booking a flight to your cruise

Sometimes I fly to the cheapest destination, such as London, and buy a budget hopper flight to my cruise embarkation city. I also typically search for deals in the months leading up to my cruise, keeping travel dates somewhat flexible in order to find the best option.

For this cruise, I didn’t have as much flexibility due to schedule constraints. As a result, I spent more for my flight than on previous trips to Europe.

A pre-cruise hotel in Barcelona was $252

It’s always recommended to arrive to your embarkation city the day before your cruise begins.

This is especially true in Europe. Arriving a day early not only gives you extra time to make it to the port in case of delays, but it also helps you recover from jet lag before your cruise begins.

Before embarking Allure of the Seas, I booked a one night stay at Hotel Rec, an adults-only hotel near Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf. At $252, I thought the price was fair for the city center, and I was impressed by the location and facilities.

A rooftop bar provided excellent views of the city. As another plus, I was just steps away from some of Barcelona's most iconic attractions.

It was the perfect place to catch up on rest before heading to the cruise port the following day.

My in-country transportation was only $30

Something I love about cruising in Europe are the well-connected ports and city centers. One way I saved money on my Allure of the Seas cruise was by utilizing public transportation to and from the airport, my hotel, and the cruise port.

Instead of taking a $40 taxi from the airport to my hotel, for example, I took the airport bus and subway, setting me back just $11. In total, I spent around $30 for all in-country transportation before and after my cruise.

Taking public transportation can be a great way to save money, but only under the right circumstances. I traveled with just a carry-on suitcase and backpack, so it was easy to navigate the transit systems.

If I were with a larger group or had heavy luggage, sharing a taxi might be more cost-effective and less stressful.

While onboard, I spent nothing extra aside from tips

It wasn’t necessarily intentional, but my bill at the end of my Allure of the Seas cruise was $0.

Royal Caribbean cruises include a lot in the cruise fare, but most passengers still spend extra onboard. Whether a spa treatment, specialty dining meal, or drink at a bar, it’s easy to find ways to spend money around the ship.

For my short 4-night cruise, I found enough variety in dining options and activities that I didn’t feel the need to spend anything extra. While I would have enjoyed a meal at Izumi Sushi or Giovanni’s Table, there were more than enough complimentary dining venues to keep me satisfied.

Likewise, my five daily drink vouchers through Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society meant I never needed to spend extra on drinks. I loved using these vouchers to try cocktails around the ship, including those from Allure’s new Lime and Coconut bar and the Trellis Bar in Central Park.

Aside from tipping a few crew members at the end of the cruise, I didn’t spend anything extra onboard.

I spent $53 on a shore excursion in France and $120 while exploring port

My 4-night Allure of the Seas cruise included two ports of call: Marseille, France and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

I rarely book organized shore excursions when I cruise, but I knew I wanted to plan a tour in Marseille. After visiting the port last year, I felt as if I had already seen most of Marseille’s highlights.

This time, I wanted to visit a small town near the city, but I was nervous to travel far distances on my own. With just eight hours in Marseille, I didn’t want to risk missing the ship.

Instead, I spent $53 on a tour to Aix-en-Provence. This small city is known for its charming architecture and lively markets, and it’s just a half hour drive from the cruise port. The tour, Aix On Your Own, included transport to the city, four hours of free time upon arrival, and transport back to the cruise port.

I originally booked the tour for $71, but later noticed a price drop. As a result, I canceled the tour and rebooked through Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner site, saving me $18 in the process.

In addition to the excursion cost, I also encountered additional expenses exploring ports of call. From a $3 latte to $10 crêpe, I spent around $120 total in Spain and France.

Spending $3,075 was costly for a 4-night cruise. Next time, I’d book a longer itinerary.

After spending $3,075 for my short trip to Europe, I don’t think I would ever do it again. Flying to Europe takes significant money and effort. Booking a longer cruise would have made the expenses more justified.

Some travel purchases, like a pre-cruise hotel and airfare, are set in stone regardless of whether I book a 4-night or 12-night European cruise.

So although the cruise fare may be more expensive on a longer itinerary, the price per day (when taking into account airfare and hotels) is typically much lower.

Read more: Lessons learned after trying a Mediterranean cruise

At the end of the day, I’m glad I got to sail on the amplified Allure of the Seas. It was a beautiful ship and I love all the new features Royal Caribbean added to the vessel.

On future trips to Europe, though, I’ll definitely book a longer itinerary or even back-to-back cruises. There are so many unique itineraries on the continent and I wish I had more time to discover them all.

What's the oldest Royal Caribbean ship and how much older is it than the newest one? Our readers ask us this question a lot because they want to compare which Royal Caribbean cruise is best for them.

There are nearly 30 ships in the fleet today. The oldest Royal Caribbean ship is 28 years old whereas the newest launched in 2024. Ship age isn't everything, but the onboard experience can vary greatly between an older ship compared to the newer ones in terms of what there is to do onboard.

Utopia of the Seas holds the distinction of being the newest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet, but that will be surpassed when Star of the Seas launches in August 2025.

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.

Star of the Seas (coming in 2025)

• Inaugural sailing: August 31, 2025
• Passenger capacity (double occupancy): around 7,600
• Gross tonnage: around 250,800

Star of the Seas will be the second Icon Class cruise ship, and is slated to debut in August 2025.

It's expected that Star will be the same length as Icon, but her exact gross tonnage may differ slightly.  That won't matter much to passengers, as the amount of things to do and experience will be the same as Icon.

The ship is currently under construction at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. 

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 newest 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: 7,600
• Gross tonnage: 250,800

Icon of the Seas is the world’s largest cruise ship. As the first ship in Royal Caribbean’s new Icon Class, Icon of the Seas offers an impressive array of activities and amenities 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 7-night Caribbean itineraries visiting destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean along with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

In 2025, Wonder will shift to offer short weekend cruises only from Miami, similar to Utopia of the Seas.

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 Singapore, but she will begin offering cruises from Shanghai in April 2024. These cruises will 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 has typically offered European cruises from Southampton, England, visiting destinations in Norway, the Mediterranean, and the Canary Islands. In the winter, Anthem of the Seas has offered Caribbean cruises from Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

In October 2024, however, Anthem of the Seas will reposition to Singapore and offer cruises in Asia for the first time.

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 Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific itineraries from Brisbane during the Australia cruise season.

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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Royal Caribbean made a lot of changes to Allure of the Seas with her amplification, but I was surprised they didn't do more.

Allure of the Seas recently completed a major $100M amplification to modernize the 15-year-old vessel. The ship saw significant changes, but I was surprised to see the cruise line keep select features I thought would be updated.

While you can find new, exciting features like waterslides and The Mason Jar bar, the cruise line didn’t change everything on the vessel. Several old restaurants remain onboard, for example, and cabins are still lacking in power outlet availability.

From keeping the Italian restaurant to moving the smoothie bar, these are the 6 things I’m surprised Royal Caribbean didn’t change during Allure of the Seas’ amplification.

I’m surprised Royal Caribbean kept Boardwalk Donuts

Allure of the Seas is the only Royal Caribbean ship with Boardwalk Donuts, a casual donut shop in the ship’s Boardwalk Neighborhood.

Each morning, passengers can indulge in all-you-can-eat donuts free of charge, whether a pink-frosted or classic glazed. Complimentary drinks, like coffee and orange juice, are available at the venue, too.

During Allure’s amplification, Royal Caribbean made significant changes to the Boardwalk Neighborhood. They added an Ultimate Abyss slide and removed Sabor Modern Mexican in favor of Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade.

I thought Boardwalk Donuts might be removed as part of the renovation. Donuts can be found elsewhere onboard, and the venue was never as busy as restaurants like Park Cafe or the Windjammer buffet.

I was surprised, therefore, to see Boardwalk Donuts still present on the Boardwalk. For those in search of a quick, sugary breakfast, it’s a great option.

I can’t believe they kept Samba Grill

Allure of the Seas is one of only two Royal Caribbean ships with Samba Grill, a Brazilian rodizio specialty restaurant. The venue serves all-you-can-eat meat and a selection of Brazilian side dishes and salads. It’s located in the Solarium Bistro in the evenings.

I never expected this restaurant to remain post-amplification; it’s far from the most popular specialty restaurant on Royal Caribbean. Given that the line only added the venue to two ships, I thought they would use Allure's amplification as an opportunity to remove it.

Other Oasis Class ships also serve dinner in the Solarium Bistro, but it’s a complimentary, Mediterranean-inspired menu. I assumed this is what the venue would be used for on Allure of the Seas, too.

Yet I was bewildered to see Samba Grill remains post-amplification. For meat-loving passengers, it’s a unique dining opportunity to enjoy onboard.

I wish Royal Caribbean added destination elevators to the ship

Royal Caribbean has outfitted its newest vessels with destination elevators, so I was hopeful they would add these innovative elevators to Allure of the Seas. The cruise line had even been testing destination elevators on Allure last year, so I assumed they would add them to the ship.

Destination elevators differ from traditional elevators in that instead of selecting a deck once you step inside the elevator, you pick your deck number in the lobby via a touchpad. You’re then assigned an elevator number with other passengers heading to that same deck.

Destination elevators cut down on wait times on cruise ships with thousands of other guests. It also helps prevent elevators from stopping on every floor.

Unfortunately, Allure of the Seas still has traditional elevators, so passengers can expect lengthy waits at busy times of the day.

I’m surprised Vitality Café is now in the pizzeria

When I boarded Allure of the Seas, I headed to the spa to check out the facilities. To my surprise, Vitality Café was no longer there.

Vitality Café is a staple of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships, and it’s a favorite amongst health-conscious cruisers. The café serves a selection of fresh-squeezed juices, smoothies, and protein shakes at an extra cost.

It appears Royal Caribbean is phasing out Vitality Café, as it was not added to Utopia of the Seas, the newest Oasis Class ship.

Nonetheless, I was still surprised to see the venue removed on Allure of the Seas… until I realized it was moved to the pizzeria.

While grabbing a quick slice from Sorrento’s, I noticed a sign for fresh juices and shakes at the pizzeria’s bar. During her amplification, Vitality Café was moved to this area, albeit with a more limited menu.

Sorrento’s seems like a weird spot for a health bar, but I’m glad I can still order my favorite juices and smoothies onboard. The venue is open between 6AM and 3PM each day. At 3PM, the bar in Sorrento's begins serving alcoholic beverages.

I thought my cabin would have more power outlets

Cabins on Royal Caribbean’s newest ships are filled to the brim with power outlets, whether traditional plugs or USB hubs.

I knew Allure of the Seas had limited outlets prior to her amplification, but I thought the cabins would be modernized with additional charging sources.

To my disappointment, they were not, and outlets are still extremely limited in the cabin. There are no charging ports by the bed, and only three North-American style plugs are located on the desk.

Read more: 30 cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

I naively assumed there would be more charging options in my cabin, so I decided against packing power cubes for my USB cables. I immediately regretted that decision. With such limited outlet availability, charging my electronics has been a headache compared to on the fleet’s newer ships.

Lastly, I thought Giovanni’s Table would be upgraded

Like most Royal Caribbean cruise ships, Allure of the Seas has an Italian specialty restaurant. For a cover charge, guests can dine at Giovanni’s Table, which serves a variety of Italian specialties including pastas, steak, and seafood.

There are three Italian specialty restaurants in Royal Caribbean’s fleet: Giovanni’s Table, Jamie’s Italian, and Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen.

Giovanni’s Table is the oldest of the three restaurants. It was added to Allure of the Seas for her initial launch in 2009, and has remained a popular choice for those looking for a more elegant dinner onboard.

Yet I’m surprised they kept the venue during Allure’s amplification. Although there’s nothing wrong with the restaurant, it’s considered older in terms of restaurants on Royal Caribbean. The fleet’s latest ships feature Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen. This is the line’s newest rendition of an Italian specialty restaurant, which serves both pizza and pasta.

I expected Giovanni's Table to become Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen during Allure's amplification.

At the end of the day, both restaurants serve a nice meal—I actually prefer Giovanni’s Table to the newer version—but keeping the old restaurant was still a surprise.

Allure of the Seas just completed her $100M+ amplification, and I’m onboard to check out all of the latest upgrades and enhancements.

Let’s take a look inside the ship to see what has changed!

After 2 months, Allure of the Seas has completed her long-awaited renovation

For years, Allure had been considered the most outdated of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class cruise ships. Having launched in 2009, the ship had yet to receive any major upgrades to onboard venues and activities.

There were no waterslides, for instance, and several of the ship’s restaurants, like Sabor Modern Mexican, have largely been retired from Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Allure of the Seas was set to receive her amplification in 2020, but it was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Five years later, however, she has finally received her much-anticipated amplification. Here’s everything that has changed on the vessel, both the minor upgrades and major renovations.

The pool deck has completely changed, both in decor and amenities

One of the most notable changes to Allure of the Seas is the Caribbean-style pool deck; it has been totally transformed.

The ship now has three waterslides: the Perfect Storm racing slides and the Supercell, a champagne bowl slide.

These waterslides are a welcome change to the ship, which was the only vessel in the Oasis Class without them.

In addition, Splashaway Bay has replaced the H2O Zone. This aqua park features splash areas, a water dump bucket, and a small slide designed for younger children.

There is no pool nor are there hot tubs in this area—these were removed during the switch to Splashaway Bay.

As a result, two hot tubs were added to the upper pool deck on deck 16, fitting the resort-style vibe.

All bars on Allure of the Seas’ pool deck have been remodeled to The Lime and Coconut. This Caribbean bar features vibrant decor and a selection of fruity, tropical drinks.

Aside from The Lime and Coconut, Caribbean-themed decor is found elsewhere on the pool deck. Colorful seating is placed around the deck, and there are also private cabanas available to rent.

Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade can be found in the Boardwalk Neighborhood

Royal Caribbean’s beloved sports bar has finally launched on Allure of the Seas.

Replacing Sabor Modern Mexican, Playmakers offers a variety of casual bar food with an extra cost, à la carte menu. Passengers can indulge in fan-favorites like the Pile On Nachos, Buffalo Chicken Crunch Roll, and Truffle Burger.

Read more: Guide to Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade

Of course, you can’t forget to order the Campfire Cookie, a skillet-baked chocolate chip cookie topped with toasted marshmallows and Nutella.

Royal Caribbean’s all-new tiki bar, Pesky Parrot, is now on the Royal Promenade

When Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, launched last summer, the cruise line premiered an all-new bar concept for the line: Pesky Parrot.

This bar is designed to transport guests straight to a Caribbean resort. Pesky Parrot combines beach-themed decor with tropical cocktails, whether the Peanut Butter Piña Colada or Tiki ‘Mosa.

Given the success on Utopia of the Seas, it’s no surprise to see Pesky Parrot added to Allure of the Seas on the Royal Promenade. This venue replaces the Champagne Bar, and it was jam-packed on embarkation day.

The Mason Jar offers southern-inspired cuisine, a live country trio, and inventive cocktails

Allure of the Seas is the third Royal Caribbean ship to feature The Mason Jar, and given the venue’s beloved reputation, it’s sure to be a busy spot onboard.

The Mason Jar is divided into two sections: a southern restaurant and a country bar with live music.

The restaurant serves southern favorites for brunch and dinner, whether the Stuffed French Toast or Lobster n’ Crawfish Gumbo, and comes with a cover charge.

The bar is open to all guests regardless of whether or not they dine in the restaurant.

While you can find a variety of drinks available, the menu shines in its bourbon cocktails, such as the Mint Julep and PB&J Old Fashioned.

Read more: Royal Caribbean's best bar scene is at The Mason Jar

On most evenings, a country trio performs in the bar, which absolutely can’t be missed.

Compared to the venue on Wonder and Utopia of the Seas, the bar space on Allure has more seating.

El Loco Fresh serves up Mexican favorites on the pool deck

Although Allure of the Seas removed Sabor Modern Mexican from the Boardwalk Neighborhood, passengers can still find Mexican favorites at El Loco Fresh, Royal Caribbean’s complimentary, grab-and-go Mexican restaurant.

Prior to her amplification, the ship was retrofitted with a temporary El Loco Fresh in the Wipe Out Café. Now, though, the venue has officially changed to El Loco Fresh and is complete with the restaurant’s branding and decor.

The AquaTheater show has been upgraded

With high divers, aerialists, and slackliners, production shows in the AquaTheater are a highlight of any Oasis Class cruise. Royal Caribbean has retired OceanAria, Allure’s old AquaTheater show, for a new one: Aqua80Too.

Also available on Utopia of the Seas, Aqua80Too is the sequel to Aqua80 found on Oasis of the Seas. The show features classic AquaTheater stunts set to the tune of the biggest hits of the 1980s.

Adventure Ocean has been revamped with upgraded kids and teens clubs

Families boarding the amplified Allure of the Seas can look forward to new and improved youth programming facilities in Adventure Ocean.

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean provides childcare for passengers aged 0 to 17, and offers specific venues for each age group. Allure’s existing Adventure Ocean has been retrofitted with the cruise line’s more modern take on the facilities.

Read more: Ultimate Guide to Adventure Ocean

New additions include:

• Adventure Ocean Theater, offering movies and a small space for performances and shows
• The Workshop, offering craft and science experiments
• Play Place, an unsupervised play area for young cruisers (parents must be present)
• The Arena, designed for sports and physical activity

Teens have access to an enhanced hangout space, Social298, which offers activities like video games, movies, and music for guests aged 13-17.

The Crown Lounge is now on deck 15

Royal Caribbean’s exclusive lounge for Diamond members and above in the Crown & Anchor Society has been moved to a new location on Allure of the Seas.

Prior to her amplification, Allure’s Crown Lounge was located on decks 11 and 12, and it was one of the biggest locations in the fleet, offering views of the Boardwalk Neighborhood below.

Now, the Crown Lounge is located on deck 15 next to The Mason Jar. The lounge has ample natural light, differentiating itself from the interior, windowless Crown Lounge on most other Oasis Class ships.

Cabins were added to the ship, too

Over 100 new cabins have been added to Allure of the Seas during her amplification.

By moving the Crown Lounge, a large space became available for additional interior cabins on decks 11 and 12. Aside from these rooms, Royal Caribbean added Ultimate Panoramic Suites above the ship’s bridge. These cabins provide 200-degree ocean views through floor-to-ceiling windows and come with exclusive Star Class perks.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Luxury Star Class Suite Review

As far as existing cabins go, no major renovations were made. In my interior cabin, furnishings like the couch did not get replaced or reupholstered, and no new outlets or USB ports were added to the room.

There are three new activities passengers can try

As if there wasn’t enough to do on Allure of the Seas before her amplification, now passengers can try even more activities.

First, the Ultimate Abyss has been added to the ship’s aft. Like with waterslides, Allure of the Seas was previously the only Oasis Class ship without The Ultimate Abyss, a dry slide taking guests from the Sports Deck to the Boardwalk.

This slide is complimentary for guests, and it’s undoubtedly the most thrilling way to get from one place to another onboard.

An escape room was added to the vessel, too. Passengers can test their wits at Mission Control: The Lunar Landing, where they’ll navigate a series of puzzles and clues to “escape” the room before time runs out.

This activity costs $44 per passenger for the 30-minute experience.

Finally, laser tag is now available, and it’s included in guests’ cruise fares.

Vitality Café has been removed from the spa

A change some cruisers may be surprised to see is the removal of Vitality Café.

Prior to amplification, Vitality Café served juices, smoothies, protein shakes, and snacks in the ship’s spa. Aside from a few food items, the venue came with an extra cost.

Now, the area is used for additional seating. Based on deck plans, it appears additional cabins were added behind this area.

The good news is the Vitality Café menu is still available!

You can find it at Sorrento's.

Photo area has been converted

The photo gallery is now fully digital.

Instead of printed photos to peruse, any photos that the ship's photographers take are now easily viewable from a kiosk.

Likewise, the Shore Excursion desk is now digital too and has a refreshed look.

Shaved Ice Bar added

Royal Caribbean added another feature from Utopia of the Seas, with the Shaved Ice Bar.

Located at Wipeout Cafe near the entrance to the Ultimate Abyss, you can purchase flavored shave ice here, including adult beverages that come with alcohol.

New location for Chef's Table

Chef's Table has been moved to deck 4.

It's located in the same area as Izumi, but on the other side.

It's strange to say, but after 22 Royal Caribbean cruises, I absolutely loved my first Carnival cruise.

Even though I'm a loyal Royal Caribbean cruiser, I occasionally like to try new-to-me cruise lines. It keeps cruising from feeling monotonous, and I like to compare and contrast what each line offers.

When I tried MSC Cruises, I loved the low price, but wished there were more complimentary restaurants. Later, when sailing with Princess Cruises, I thought the atmosphere was somewhat dull for my age demographic.

Prior to this month, I had never booked a Carnival cruise, and I was somewhat wary of the line. Online, some cruisers referred to Carnival Cruise Line as the “Walmart of the Seas,” with adjectives like trashy and wild to describe the fleet’s ships.

Curiosity finally got the best of me, though, and after coming across a cheap, last-minute cruise fare on Carnival Firenze, I booked it to see what Carnival Cruise Line was really all about.

I paid just $850 for 2 adults on a 4-night cruise from Long Beach, California. The ship, originally launched for Carnival’s Italian brand Costa Cruises in 2021, was transferred to Carnival in 2024.

Because I was sailing on a new ship, I had higher expectations than I would on one of the fleet’s oldest vessels. Yet I still had hesitations about my Carnival cruise. Would it live up to the stereotypes? Would I spend the whole cruise wishing I had sailed with Royal Caribbean instead?

After 4 nights onboard, here’s what I loved about Carnival Cruise Line and missed about Royal Caribbean.

First, I loved Carnival’s flexible dining—I never had to plan when to eat dinner like on Royal Caribbean

Dinner in the Main Dining Room is a staple of any cruise vacation, whether sailing on Carnival Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean.

Most cruise lines allow guests to choose between a traditional and flexible dining option. With traditional dining, guests eat at the same table each evening with the same wait staff. Flexible dining gives guests more flexibility to change their dining times each night.

I’ve always avoided flexible dining, otherwise known as My Time Dining, on Royal Caribbean cruises. If you don’t remember to make reservations ahead of time, you’ll have to wait in a line for a table each evening. After seeing long lines time and time again, I've sworn off flexible dining on the cruise line.

On Carnival Firenze, however, I tried the flexible dining option and loved it! There was no need to make reservations in advance. When I was ready to eat dinner, I simply checked in on the Carnival app. I received an estimated wait time, and once a table was ready I would head to the dining room to be seated.

I never had to wait more than 15 minutes for a table, and the digital process meant there was no need to wait in a physical line.

Carnival’s ropes course was more fun than Royal Caribbean’s, and it was free

Last year while onboard Icon of the Seas, I tried the Crown’s Edge, Royal Caribbean’s rendition of a ropes course and zip line thrill ride. I paid $90 for the 1-minute experience (the price has since been lowered), and I didn’t think it was worth the cost.

Sure, zip lining off the side of the ship was fun, but it wasn’t as exhilarating as I imagined. I found the complimentary zip line on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships to be just as fun.

Many of Carnival’s ships feature a ropes course, where passengers walk on ropes and planks around the top of the ship. Unlike the Crown’s Edge, Carnival's ropes course is free.

I gave it a try aboard my cruise, and it was far more thrilling and challenging than I thought it would be. I love a good thrill, but I had to muster up some serious courage to get through the entire course.

Compared to the 1-minute experience on the Crown’s Edge, it took me around 10 minutes to get through the ropes course, and I loved how it was included in my cruise fare.

The energy of Carnival’s programming was out-of-this-world

I never knew I could laugh so hard on a cruise ship.

During my 4 nights onboard Carnival Firenze, I tried to attend a variety of activities around the ship—the daily schedule was packed with things to do. I was curious to see how the programming differed from Royal Caribbean’s.

Some activities were similar. Both cruise lines offer programming like a sailaway party, trivia, game shows, and karaoke, but Carnival’s had a more lively atmosphere.

Related: 15 free things to try on your next cruise

When watching Deal or No Deal, I couldn’t believe how loud and passionate the audience acted as they cheered on the contestants. The next day during karaoke, the crowd roared for each and every passenger taking the stage.

I caught a comedy show in the Punchliner Comedy Club, too, and while the content was wildly inappropriate, it was, by far, the funniest comedy show I’ve ever seen on a cruise ship.

Carnival Cruise Line may have a reputation for a rowdy atmosphere, but there was certainly never a dull moment onboard.

For casual dining, Carnival had more enticing options than Royal Caribbean

Carnival Cruise Line is known for offering an impressive selection of casual, complimentary restaurants, and I was excited to try them during my short vacation.

Whether the famed Guy’s Burger Joint or Mexican-inspired Blue Iguana Cantina, I heard great things about Carnival’s included (albeit slightly unhealthy) dining options.

Tomodoro, the ship’s Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant, served up tacos and burritos for breakfast and lunch. I found the selection of ingredients and salsas diverse, with options like shrimp and fish, which aren’t available at Royal Caribbean’s El Loco Fresh.

Later, I tried a veggie burger and fries from Guy’s Burger Joint, which came topped with marinara sauce and fried cheese. Yes, fried cheese. My arteries wished I went for the nearby salad bar instead, but it was totally worth it.

I didn’t love the individual pizzas at Carnival’s Pizzeria del Capitano, but they were comparable to Royal Caribbean’s Sorrento’s.

I also thought Carnival’s buffet, the Lido Marketplace, was somewhat lackluster in its options, especially compared to Royal Caribbean’s Windjammer Cafe.

Nonetheless, I was generally impressed by Carnival’s complimentary options. I found Guy’s Burger Joint, for instance, more enticing than hot dogs at Royal Caribbean’s Boardwalk Dog House. Plus, I found there to be a wide selection of vegetarian and pescetarian options.

I missed my Crown & Anchor Society benefits on Royal Caribbean, especially the free drinks

As far as I’m concerned, Royal Caribbean has one of, if not the best, loyalty programs in the cruise industry.

As a Diamond Plus member on Royal Caribbean, I receive numerous elusive benefits, including access to the exclusive Crown Lounge, a free bag of laundry, 2 free days of wifi, and discounts on specialty dining, among other perks.

My favorite loyalty benefit of all are the 5 free drinks I receive each day of my cruise. I love using this perk to enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or a cocktail on the pool deck.

I wanted to try fun cocktails on my Carnival Firenze cruise, but the prices were off-putting. Even though drinks were advertised at around $13, they were nearly $17 with added tax and gratuity.

Personally, I didn’t want to spend $17 for basic cocktails during my cruise, and I missed having access to my Diamond drinks on Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean’s boarding process was significantly more organized than Carnival’s

I’m always amazed how cruise lines manage to swiftly board thousands of passengers onto their ships. These days, it’s not uncommon to arrive at Royal Caribbean’s cruise terminals and be onboard in less than 15 minutes.

Related: 15 Royal Caribbean boarding tips for a fast embarkation

Unfortunately, the same promptness could not be said about the embarkation process on Carnival Firenze. After arriving at the Long Beach terminal on time, I was met with absolutely insane lines. Organization was lacking, and it appeared most passengers (and even some employees) were overwhelmed and confused.

It took nearly 45 minutes of waiting in line outside just to enter the cruise terminal. Luckily, once inside, the rest of the embarkation process took under 15 minutes.

Waiting an hour to board isn’t necessarily the end of the world, but I was disappointed with Carnival’s lackluster embarkation process. It made me miss the more efficient service I’m accustomed to when boarding Royal Caribbean’s ships.

Most importantly, I missed Royal Caribbean’s unlimited bread basket

After a long, busy embarkation day, I was excited to sit down for my first dinner in Carnival Firenze’s dining room. Hungry and tired, I expected to be promptly served a bread basket filled with a variety of freshly-baked breads.

Royal Caribbean’s bread baskets are one of my favorite aspects of eating in the Main Dining Room. Simply put, I’m a carboholic, and nothing can stop me from indulging in breads of all kinds on a cruise, from cheese-crusted rolls to crispy baguettes.

Related: 21 Tips For The Best Cruise Ship Main Dining Room Experience

You can imagine my disappointment, therefore, when I realized that Carnival Cruise Line does not offer a bread basket. Instead, waiters walk around placing a sole, sad piece of bread on each passenger’s plate with a tiny slab of butter.

Although the bread varied from day to day, only one type of bread was offered each dinner—usually a variation of a French roll. One evening, though, Carnival offered raisin bread, which I found quite peculiar for dinner.

Of course, passengers can ask the waiters for more bread (I definitely did!), but the measly bread offerings couldn’t compare with Royal Caribbean’s more varied bread baskets.

Finally, I missed Royal Caribbean’s innovative cabin designs

Because Carnival Firenze is a new ship, I expected my cabin to feel thoughtfully-designed, but this wasn’t the case.

Once onboard, I was disappointed to see little storage in the room. Aside from 2 extremely narrow closets, there were few places to put my belongings. The desk had no storage, the bathroom had just a few small shelves, and the limited storage in the nightstands was hard to reach.

In comparison, Royal Caribbean’s newest ships offer significantly more storage space. When I stayed in a room on Odyssey of the Seas, it had 2 closets, a dresser, above-the-bed storage, and shelves in the nightstands. Both ships launched the same year.

With just two guests in the cabin, it was challenging to unpack on Carnival Firenze. I opted to live out of my suitcase for my 4-night cruise, but I felt like I was always tripping over my belongings.

The lack of storage space really made me appreciate how Royal Caribbean designs cabins on their newest cruise ships.