How does dining on a cruise ship work if you are vegetarian or vegan?

If you take a look at cruise ship marketing, odds are you will see an abundance of food. Cruise ships are known for their dining options, and for good measure. The cuisine on cruise ships is diverse and extra tasty. Whether you choose to eat at complimentary venues like the Main Dining Room or at specialty dining like Chops Grille, you will never run out of things to eat.

Those with dietary restrictions may be nervous about finding food they can eat on the ship. Will there be any vegan and vegetarian options? Will they have to survive on protein bars brought from home?

There’s no need to worry, as Royal Caribbean aims to provide plenty of dining options for vegetarian and vegan guests. With so many restaurants and dining options, though, it can be a bit confusing to keep them all straight. This list will help you pick the dining venues that are the most vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Vegetarian and vegan options at complimentary dining

The Buffet

The Windjammer Marketplace is Royal Caribbean’s signature buffet onboard. The buffet has an abundance of cuisines available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options at the Windjammer for every meal. Whether pasta with marinara, a salad, fresh fruit, oatmeal, soup, or avocado toast, you’ll certainly be able to find something to eat. Plant-based milks are also available on request for cereal and coffee.

One of the best options at the Windjammer are the live cooking stations, where you choose what you would like and a crew member will cook right in front of you. My favorite has been the stir fry station, where you can choose a variety of vegetables and a spice level to be cooked with either rice or noodles.

Another popular vegetarian option at the Windjammer is the Indian food. More often than not there is a vegetarian curry option available at every meal, such as chana masala, paneer masala, or dal. Served with rice and pita, this is a go-to protein-rich option for vegetarians.

The only problem with the Windjammer is that vegan and vegetarian options are rarely labeled. In my experience, I end up asking the crew member if something has meat or not. As a flexible pescatarian this works fine for me, but for stricter vegetarians or vegans this is not totally ideal, as the crew member may not be aware of every ingredient in the dish.

On my most recent sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas, though, there was an entire vegetarian and vegan section, which included Thai curries, quinoa salads, sautéed vegetables, and even vegan desserts. However, I have not seen this on other ships.

Main Dining Room

The Main Dining Room is one of the best places onboard for vegetarians and vegans to dine with ease. Royal Caribbean has implemented a special vegan menu each night in the Main Dining Room. This makes it extremely easy for vegans to find a dish that works for them. There are usually two appetizers, one soup, two entrees, and one dessert to choose from on the vegan menu.

The best place to see the day’s vegan menu offerings is on the Royal Caribbean app, as they usually will not be listed on the paper menu. Here were the vegan menu options during a recent 7-night cruise on Harmony of the Seas:

Day 1:

Appetizer: Spring Onion “Falafel”

Soup: Butternut Squash

Entrees: Edamame-stuffed Portobello Eggplant & Pan-roasted Green Asparagus 

Dessert: Tahini Banana Soft Serve

Day 2:

Appetizers: Corn Fritters & Romesco Oat Spread

Soup: Caramelized Parsnip & Coconut Soup

Entrees: Penne Pasta & Grilled Eggplant

Dessert: No-bake Lemon Tart

Day 3:

Appetizers: Zucchini Fritters & Avocado and Melon Salad

Soup: Cherry Tomato Gazpacho

Entrees: Vegan Risotto & Crunchy Tofu Tacos

Dessert: Chocolate Chip Cookie

Day 4:

Appetizers: Raw Vegetable Salad & Rice Paper Rolls

Soup: Tomato Soup

Entrees: Vegetable Pakoras & Orzo Pasta Stew

Dessert: Wild Berry Bar

Day 5:

Appetizers: Green Bean Croquette & Vegetable Tempura

Soup: Creamed Broccoli Soup

Entrees: Butternut Squash Curry & Vegan Eggplant Burger

Dessert: Vegan Crème Brulée

Day 6:

Appetizers: Grilled Avocado & Polenta Fries

Soup: Potato Soup

Entrees: Vegan Carbonara & Fried Rice

Dessert: Peanut Butter Caramel Rice Crisps

Day 7:

Appetizers: Ciabatta Salad & Grilled Peach and Panzanella Salad

Soup: Tortilla Soup

Entrees: No-egg Omelet & Vegan Spaghetti “Bolognese”

Dessert: Toffee “Cheesecake”

While there is no separate vegan menu available for breakfast and lunch in the Main Dining Room, requests can be made to cater to your dietary needs. Vegetarian options are available on the menu for both breakfast and lunch. Vegetarian Indian food is also often available on request.

Park Cafe & Cafe at Two70

Park Cafe (Oasis-class ships) and Cafe at Two70 (Quantum-class ships) are two complimentary dining locations open for breakfast and lunch. They have similar food options and concepts.

One of the tastiest options available at these two venues is the Create Your Own Salad station. With several options of lettuce, vegetables, legumes, starches, and dressings, you can create a salad any way you like.

My go-to salad at Park Cafe is a bed of romaine and spring mix topped with bell peppers, kidney beans, Israeli couscous, corn, carrots, croutons, and balsamic vinaigrette.

Soups and sandwiches are also available and, in my experience, there has usually been a vegetarian soup and sandwich option each day for lunch. The soup is not labeled vegan, so you would have to ask a crew member whether it is vegan or not.

For breakfast at these two venues you can choose from oatmeal, a bagel station, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, and pastries.

Solarium Bistro

Photo by an average Vegetarian, Billy of CruiseHabit.com

Available on Quantum and Oasis-class ships, Solarium Bistro is a complimentary venue offering dishes with a Mediterranean flare. Solarium Bistro is open for breakfast with a similar selection of food you can find elsewhere on the ship, but the main meal is at dinnertime.

Vegetarians and vegans will enjoy the wide array of appetizers available at Solarium Bistro for dinner. From greek salad to hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, pita, moussaka, grilled vegetables, arugula salad, and barley salad, there is no shortage of flavorful Mediterranean cuisine at Solarium Bistro.

Appetizers are served buffet-style, so guests are able to try as much as they desire. Desserts are also available and include baklava, torta de mele, and chocolate nocciola.

Sorrento’s

Sorrento’s Pizza is a surprisingly easy place to eat vegetarian or vegan. Not only does Sorrento’s offer a variety of cold plates, such as grilled vegetables and olives, but you can actually order a custom pizza all for yourself with or without cheese and topped with vegetables. To order a custom pizza, simply talk to a crew member at Sorrento’s and they will begin making the pizza for you.

El Loco Fresh

El Loco Fresh is a complimentary and casual Mexican venue located on the pool deck of select Royal Caribbean ships. At El Loco Fresh you can build your own tacos with rice, beans, and a salsa/topping station. There are also cheese quesadillas and a nacho station available.

Other complimentary venues

Outside of the venues mentioned above, you can find more places to dine as a vegetarian or vegan on a Royal Caribbean ship. Venues like Cafe Promenade, Vitality Cafe, and Mini Bites offer small sandwiches, fruit and vegetable cups, and other snacks throughout the day. 

Best specialty dining for vegetarians and vegans

While the complimentary dining options available on Royal Caribbean are plentiful, specialty dining can be a nice way to enhance your cruise experience. Not all specialty dining restaurants offer the same amount of vegetarian/vegan options, though, but there are a few I feel are the best for those with dietary restrictions.

Izumi

Izumi Sushi & Hibachi is a nice option for vegetarians and vegans due to how customizable the menu is. A vegetable roll is offered on the sushi menu, and if you talk to the sushi chef they will likely be able to customize another vegan or vegetarian roll for you.

Traditionally, the hibachi option includes egg and butter in the fried rice. The hibachi chef will ask guests if they have any dietary restrictions prior to cooking, so be sure to let the chef know what you can and cannot eat.

I’ve found that the vegetarian hibachi option has varied greatly by ship. On some ships, I was given just the fried rice and sauteed vegetables. On other ships, the chef cooked a tofu udon noodle dish in addition to the fried rice and vegetables.

Vegetarian appetizers include edamame beans and a ginger salad, and for dessert you can choose between mochi ice cream and crispy red bean sesame balls. The options are not labeled for dietary restrictions, so be sure to check whether the ginger salad dressing and sesame balls are vegan. The mochi ice cream contains dairy.

Jamie’s Italian and Giovanni’s Table/Kitchen

Royal Caribbean’s Italian specialty restaurants are one of the best specialty dining choices for vegetarians. Pasta and pizza are easy dishes to make vegetarian or vegan and Royal Caribbean’s Italian restaurants offer several options for those with dietary restrictions.

My favorite vegetarian Italian meal is the eggplant parmesan with penne pomodoro at Jamie’s Italian. The eggplant is not breaded, so there is no need for vegans to worry about the eggplant including eggs. The dish comes topped with cheese, but this could be removed for vegans.

In addition to pasta with marinara sauce, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen has an elaborate pizza menu which can be customized to fit dietary needs for both vegetarians and vegans.

Some pasta may be made with egg and sauce with cheese, so it’s a good idea to inquire about whether or not the pasta and marinara sauce at the Italian specialty restaurants are vegan. 

Playmakers

Royal Caribbean’s premiere sports bar is another great venue for vegetarians, and it has several dishes that can be customized for vegans as well.

Vegetarians can start their meal by snacking on Pile On Nachos, Playmakers Fries, Jalapeño Poppers, and the extra tall Crispy Onion Ring Tower. Vegans can request the fries without cheese and garlic sauce.

Both vegans and vegetarians can enjoy the Playmakers Impossible Burger. The plant-based burger is topped with lettuce, tomato, onion rings, and cajun mayonnaise on a brioche bun. While the burger patty is plant-based, vegans should order the burger without mayonnaise and check with the staff whether the bun and onion rings are vegan.

Johnny Rockets

Vegetarians and vegans will have no trouble dining at Johnny Rockets onboard as the menu features a vegan burger. The Streamliner burger is topped with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard on a wheat bun.

Apparently the buns at Johnny Rockets are not vegan, so either double check with the waiter or order the burger without the bun if you are concerned.

The menu also features grilled cheese as well as fries and onion rings.

150 Central Park

Located within Central Park on Oasis-class ships, 150 Central Park is an elegant dining venue that sources local ingredients for its dishes. The venue features several vegetarian appetizers, such as Caesar salad and roasted organic beet salad. It also has a vegetarian entree of cauliflower “steak”.

Vegans can eat at 150 Central Park by making substitutions to the selections, such as asking for no cheese and no yogurt.

Specialty dining with less options for vegetarians and vegans

Some specialty restaurants onboard do not offer as many options for vegetarians and vegans on their menus, although dietary accommodations can likely be made upon request.

Restaurants such as Portside BBQ, Chops Grille, Sabor, Samba Grill, and Wonderland do not have any entrees that are vegetarian or vegan, although there are vegetarian/vegan side dishes available.

The best bet for dining at a specialty restaurant without any specific vegan/vegetarian main courses is to call or walk into the restaurant and ask if they are able to accommodate your dietary needs. The chef may be able to make something vegetarian or vegan for you to enjoy.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay is one of the most frequented cruise ship ports in the Caribbean, and as it is a private destination, food and drinks are complimentary on the island (with the exception of the Coco Beach Club).

Chill Grill and Skipper’s Grill are the two best dining options for vegetarians and vegans at CocoCay. Both venues serve the same food in a buffet-style, and include a taco bar with rice, beans, and a salsa station, salads, a portobello and mozzarella sandwich, fresh fruit, dessert, and smaller side dishes like corn on the cob and french fries.

Snack Shack is another popular dining spot at CocoCay, but its menu is more limited for vegetarians and vegans, with salads, mozzarella sticks, and french fries available.

If you’re spending the day in the Coco Beach Club, you’ll have the opportunity to dine at the Coco Beach Club restaurant. This venue has more upscale offerings compared to the complimentary venues on the island.

The only entree available for vegetarians at the Coco Beach Club is a caesar salad, but Royal Caribbean states that “You’ll find gluten free and vegetarian options available at the Coco Beach Club as well as options to suit most dietary needs,” so it’s possible you are able to request a separate dish.

The appetizer spread will definitely be a favorite for vegetarians and vegans, though, as it features freshly made hummus, baba ganoush, vegetables, and pita. Desserts include exotic fruit salad, tropical fruit sorbet, and Bahamian rum soaked cake.

An Alaska cruise sounds like an amazing adventure, but how different is it from a Caribbean cruise?

Two of Royal Caribbean’s most popular cruise destinations are the Caribbean and Alaska. Both offer the chance to set sail on an impressive ship, enjoy onboard entertainment and dining, and create memories with your fellow passengers.

Aside from those similarities, though, there are a vast array of differences between a Caribbean and Alaska cruise. From swinging on a hammock in Mexico to walking on a glacier in Juneau, here are the top differences between these two cruise regions.

The scenery

In the Caribbean, sea days usually mean a day at sea with no views around you except the open ocean. And while this is a wonderful view, time spent at sea in Alaska could not look more different.

Most of the time spent on an Alaska cruise will be within the Alaskan or Canadian Inside Passage. The Inside Passage is a stretch of ocean that runs from Puget Sound in Washington and along the British Columbia and Alaska shoreline up to Skagway.

The Inside Passage offers unbeatable views of mountains, glaciers, and wildlife as you sail through awe-inspiring fjords. If you’re lucky, you may even spot whales swimming near the ship and, as fall approaches, the northern lights peeking out from the sky.

Cruise Tours

A unique aspect of Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruises is the possibility to book an Alaska Cruise Tour. These are 3-6 night land-based tours that you can book before or after your Alaska cruise.

For example, you can book a 7-night cruise leaving Vancouver on Radiance of the Seas, visiting Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, and Hubbard Glacier. The cruise will end in Seward, Alaska, where you will begin a 3-night tour on land visiting Seward, Talkeetna, and Denali, Alaska.

You can also do a land tour after a round-trip Alaska cruise. As an example, you can book a 7-night roundtrip cruise from Vancouver on Serenade of the Seas. The cruise will visit Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, and Tracy Arm Fjord. After the cruise, you will begin the “Mountain Resort Experience Cruisetour” which visits destinations in Canada including Calgary, Jasper, and Banff.

Booking an Alaska Cruise Tour gives you the opportunity to explore Alaska or Canada beyond the Inside Passage and see some of the region’s most magnificent and famous sites. Just like a cruise, the price includes lodging, transportation, and sightseeing. Air transportation, shore excursions, and meals ashore are not included unless otherwise noted.

Planning a port day is more important in Alaska

On a Caribbean cruise, the ports you visit are often a second thought compared to the ship you choose. Planning your time in port may simply mean choosing from a list of beaches where you can spend the day or strolling around the cobblestone streets of Puerto Rico.

You aren’t visiting Alaska just to spend the day sitting in a pool chair, though. Ports in Alaska require more planning. It’s important to research shore excursions and things to do in your port of call to ensure you don’t miss out on anything you are interested in.

Whale watching excursions, glacier visits, and historical train rides are just some of the unique shore excursion opportunities waiting for you in Alaska.

Shore excursions may be slightly more expensive in Alaska than what you are used to in the Caribbean. And while there are more expensive excursions, such as helicopter tours over Mendenhall Glacier, you will be able to find more budget friendly options too.

The food

Discovering new cuisines is an integral part of exploring a new place. Whether cruising to the Caribbean or Alaska, you will have the chance to taste new foods and drinks local to the area.

Caribbean food means fresh, tropical flavors. Spending the day in Puerto Rico? Order the original piña colada in old San Juan. Going to the Bahamas? Be sure to taste authentic conch fritters from a fish fry. Hoping for something healthy? Enjoy a fresh mango pineapple smoothie in St. Maarten.

Just like in the Caribbean, the food on an Alaska cruise will give you a look into the region’s history and cultural influences. One of the most popular foods to try in Alaska is freshly caught seafood. There are seafood restaurants available in every Alaska port, and Royal Caribbean even offers excursions that visit an outdoor salmon bake!

Other than seafood, you may want to taste Russian-influenced cuisine throughout Alaska or warm up with traditional Alaska fry bread and a hot chocolate.

Regardless of whether you are cruising to the Caribbean or Alaska, you are definitely going to enjoy some delightful meals.

The weather

Taking weather into consideration is much more important on an Alaska cruise compared to in the Caribbean. 

You will almost always encounter warm weather in the Caribbean. While the winter months may be a bit cooler and the summer months warmer, the weather mostly remains comfortable. Weather forecasts may show rain, but this usually means brief afternoon showers. And while the fall may be peak hurricane season, Royal Caribbean will change itineraries to avoid getting in the path of a potential storm.

Whereas weather in the Caribbean can be more predictable and comfortable year-round, weather on an Alaska cruise is always changing. The Alaska cruise season runs from May - September, and each month brings different weather conditions.

Early May and September, being the shoulder seasons, can see more unpredictable weather. June, July, and August are the busiest months to cruise to Alaska and will see the warmest temperatures. Late May and the beginning of June tend to have some of the best weather in the region during the year.

Regardless of the month you sail to Alaska, be prepared for the weather to change several times throughout the day. You may find yourself shivering in the morning and exploring a port with a t-shirt on in the afternoon!

Packing

Packing for a Caribbean cruise is relatively easy and means shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits, and a sweater or jacket if it gets chilly at night. Packing for an Alaska cruise could not be more different!

Choosing what to pack on an Alaska cruise can seem daunting. Whichever month you sail, though, layers are key to staying comfortable.

Our top recommendation for what to wear on an Alaska cruise is to pack the following:

• Base layer (lightweight t-shirts, long sleeve shirts, leggings)
• Warm layer (sweatshirt, hoodie, sweater, cardigan, jeans, etc.)
• Waterproof layer (rain jacket, rain pants)
• Beanie or other warm hat
• Water-resistant shoes or boots

Don’t make the mistake of only packing cold-weather clothes, though. You may find that a t-shirt is all you need during the day in the peak of summer or that it is warm enough to swim in the outdoor pools once you get closer to Seattle or Vancouver.

In addition, don’t make the mistake of packing way too many clothes for Alaska. Because it isn’t as hot and humid in Alaska compared to the Caribbean, your clothes may stay cleaner longer and you will be able to wear nearly the same outfit each day in port.

Another important packing tip is to bring a waterproof or water-resistant daypack with you in port. Whether you are walking around town or on a whale watching tour, it’s important to be able to keep your valuables dry in case of sudden rain.

Relaxation onboard

A Caribbean cruise is often a big party. Live reggae is played by the pool band as guests go down the waterslides, order a drink at The Lime & Coconut, and participate in pool activities such as the belly flopping contest.

And while a cruise to Alaska has its fair share of partying, the atmosphere of an Alaska cruise is a little more relaxed. You will often find passengers sitting quietly near windows or on the upper decks looking out at Alaska’s astonishing scenery. Instead of a morning at the pool, you may wish to attend trivia at Schooner Bar, listen to jazz at Two70, or just read a book on your balcony.

It can be hard to not want to spend the day doing nothing but relaxing and enjoying the views around you on an Alaska cruise.

Planning an Alaska cruise? Check out these articles:

• Comparing the Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska 2022
• What to pack for a cruise to Alaska?
• Top 10 tips for planning your Alaska cruise
• Cruising to Alaska: What I Did Right and Wrong
• Best things to do on an Alaska cruise

Wondering what it is like to go on a cruise by yourself? I recently had my first solo cruise experience with a 4-night sailing on Independence of the Seas and a 7-night sailing on Harmony of the Seas.

Before my cruises, I was feeling nervous about what it would be like to go on a cruise alone. 

While I have done travel days alone here and there, I had never done a full vacation solo. In the end, though, I had a wonderful experience and came back with a few tips and tricks that can really enhance a solo cruise experience.

Initial Concerns

I am an extrovert and get a lot of energy from being around and experiencing things with other people. Feeling lonely was my main concern going into my solo cruises. Would I not talk to anyone for 7 days? Would I be doing everything alone? Will I dislike not having someone there with whom I could share my experience?

Another concern I had was with dining. I don’t normally eat alone at restaurants at home, so I was not sure what my dining experience would be like onboard. Going into my cruises, I planned to eat most meals at the buffet and spend my days in port or at sea exploring solo.

In the end, my solo cruise experiences could not have been more different than I initially imagined. I ended the two cruises with new friends and memories made throughout the Caribbean. Most importantly, though, I learned a few key lessons that may help alleviate a few concerns if you are planning a solo cruise vacation.

Meeting other passengers is easy

As soon as I boarded Independence of the Seas for my first solo cruise, I quickly realized that you are never truly alone on a cruise ship. There are thousands of passengers and crew members all around you, so it’s never too hard to strike up a conversation.

During my time on Independence of the Seas, I would go to events onboard that skewed more social, such as trivia, and also chat with the bartenders and crew throughout the ship. 

After my cruise on Independence, I felt extra confident as a solo cruiser for my next sailing on Harmony of the Seas. My solo cruise on Harmony ended up not being very “solo” at all!

As soon as I got onboard, I met two guests, Zach and Collin, at the embarkation day lunch with The Key. We ended up spending a lot of time together throughout the cruise, whether at the Windjammer, Aquatheater, or Solarium.

As the week went on, we slowly introduced more people into our “cruise squad”. One place that proved to be a fantastic social environment onboard were the hot tubs! Hanging out in the hot tub always led to interesting conversations with fellow passengers, several of which I connected with throughout the rest of the cruise.

By the end of the week I had a group of five other passengers to hang out with onboard. From evenings in the Promenade to sunny afternoons on the pool deck, it was a blast. I certainly did not expect to meet such a fun group of people so easily as a solo cruiser.

On the last night we shared a dinner at Jamie’s Italian and it was a wonderful way to close out a “solo” cruise experience that ended up being one of my most social cruises yet.

Dining “alone” can be fun!

Dining is one of the biggest concerns for solo cruisers, but on my cruise I learned that dining alone does not have to seem so intimidating. I found that if I was eating alone, crew members would often stop by my table to get to know me. One morning at breakfast in the Main Dining Room, I was seated at a table next to another solo cruiser and we ended up chatting for around an hour! I rarely had a completely “solo” meal.

The best decision I made, though, was booking dinner at Izumi Hibachi on Independence of the Seas. Izumi Hibachi tables seat eight people. If your group is not a party of 8, multiple parties will be seated together at the same table.

My hibachi table had four separate parties and, as usual, the hibachi experience created an environment of conversation and laughter with plenty of mouth-watering food. I think Izumi Hibachi is the best choice for a solo cruiser looking to enjoy a more social dining experience onboard.

Time in port is really flexible when you’re solo

I thoroughly enjoyed my solo days in port, too. One benefit of cruising solo is that you can choose to do whatever you want while in port. You don’t have to plan around anyone else’s preferences, interests, and schedule. 

I spent my days solo exploring Nassau, cycling around St. Maarten, and chilling out at Perfect Day at CocoCay and had an amazing time, even if I did not share the experience with anyone else.

I also learned that booking excursions can also be an easy way to mingle with fellow passengers. In St. Thomas I reserved the Discover Scuba excursion, which took ten guests to an island off the coast of St. Thomas to learn the basics of scuba diving. The exploratory nature of the excursion fostered a social environment for everyone in the group, leading to a fun afternoon of conversation, diving, and snorkeling.

I spent my days relaxing solo at Perfect Day at CocoCay. If you’re looking to meet guests at Cococay, though, I’d say the best spot to meet people there is Oasis Lagoon. This always turns into a big party in the afternoon and can be a fun way to mingle with other guests (or just people watch as the party gets wild!).

Post-cruise thoughts

Cruising solo is not nearly as “scary” as I thought it would be and I actually enjoyed the independence and freedom it gave me to plan my cruise vacation. As an extrovert I did not feel lonely once, although I did enjoy having an internet package so I could still chat with friends and family back home.

Do I prefer cruising solo or with friends and family? I think I still prefer to cruise with friends or family because a huge part of traveling for me is making memories with those close to me. I feel that some things in life, whether discovering a new island or enjoying a fancy dinner, are better shared with friends and family.

However, I would definitely cruise solo again. Making friends onboard proved to be extremely easy and having a group to hang out with certainly enhanced my experience.

It’s also nice, though, that if I did not want to be social, I could have stayed to myself. There is no requirement to go on a solo cruise with the intention of making new friends or always chatting with other guests and crew. I, however, found the way that works best for me and I am already looking forward to my next solo cruise.

Planning a cruise? Check out these articles:

• Solo cruises on Royal Caribbean
• Top 10 tips for going on a Royal Caribbean cruise solo
• What are the different types of cabins on a cruise ship?
• What to expect on your first cruise
• The unwritten rules of going on a cruise
• Royal Caribbean frequently asked questons

I’m onboard Harmony of the Seas this week for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise. As this is my first time on an Oasis-class ship, I wanted to try out all the free signature activities this ship has to offer.

From water slides to a zipline and rock climbing, there was no shortage of things to do during my time onboard and I found myself trying a new activity every day.

The Ultimate Abyss

A unique activity only found on Oasis-class ships is the Ultimate Abyss. The Ultimate Abyss is a pair of two 70ft high slides (150 feet above sea level) located in the aft of Harmony of the Seas. The slide departs from the Sports Court on deck 15 and slides down to the Boardwalk neighborhood on deck 6.

The Ultimate Abyss is not a water slide, but is a dry slide in which you use a mat with a pocket for your feet and hold on to a handle. As there are two slides side by side, you can race to the bottom with a fellow passenger.

The slide starts by climbing through the mouth of an entrance designed like an anglerfish predator, with 35 teeth, two eyes, and a photophore (light source to attract prey). The entrance has a glass floor and views of the aft below, which gets your adrenaline pumping even before the slide starts.

This was probably my favorite new activity that I tried! The ride takes an average of 13 seconds from top to bottom as you twist and turn through a tunnel with sound effects, music, and lights. It was much more thrilling than I imagined it would be and I found myself wanting to do it again as soon as I reached the bottom!

I liked the fact that it wasn’t a water slide, so I didn’t have to wear a swimsuit in order to try it. Plus, the slide brings you to an entirely different neighborhood on the ship! Who needs elevators when you have the Ultimate Abyss?

The Ultimate Abyss has a minimum height of 44 inches and a maximum weight of 300 pounds.

Water slides

Harmony of the Seas has three water slides which comprise what is called the “Perfect Storm water slides”. These are one of the most popular activities onboard Harmony of the Seas, and for good reason. They are thrilling, tall, and a fun activity for guests of all ages. I had actually never done the water slides on any Royal Caribbean ship, so I was excited to try them out.

The first slide I tried was the blue one on the Cyclone and Typhoon slides. These are the yellow and blue racing slides on Harmony of the Seas which twist and turn several times as you race to the bottom.

To be honest, this slide made me feel uneasy as it was mostly pitch black and I had no idea where I was going and for how long I would be sliding down. It made me pretty claustrophobic and panicky! Because of this, I decided to skip trying the yellow slide. Other guests and especially kids seemed to be enjoying the Cyclone and Typhoon slides, though!

Next up was the Supercell side, otherwise known as the “toilet bowl”. This yellow and green-colored slide takes you on a couple twists and turns before sliding you into a giant “toilet bowl”. Once in the bowl, you will slide around a few times before falling into the middle.

I much preferred the Supercell slide over the Cyclone and Typhoon slides. I liked how there were no pitch black sections of the slide, so it was not as disorienting. The slide has both clear and rainbow-colored sections before sliding you into the bowl, where you are in the open air again. It was actually a ton of fun so I did it three times in a row!

Zipline

Who ever thought you would be able to zipline on a cruise ship? Oasis-class ships are the only Royal Caribbean ships to have a zipline. The zipline flies 9 decks above the Boardwalk neighborhood on Harmony of the Seas and spans 82 feet from start to end.

When you arrive at the zipline station, a staff member will put a harness on you and guide you to the launching area.

I felt confident in doing the zipline until it came to the point where the crew member clipped me in and told me to start. At this point, it really hit me that I was about to fly through the air! As you take your feet off the ground and start flying to the other side, though, you realize that it’s actually a lot more fun than it is scary.

I enjoyed the zipline overall, although it was a short experience so I’m not sure I would wait in a huge line for it. The zipline itself only takes around 10 seconds, but I think it is still a fun activity to try at least once on your cruise. Be sure to wear laced shoes or bring socks to borrow shoes, as non-lace tennis shoes, such as sandals, are not allowed.

Passengers must be at least 52” tall to ride the zipline and weigh between 75-275 pounds. 

Rock climbing

The next activity I tried was rock climbing. I go to a rock climbing gym at home and climb a few times a week, so this is always my favorite sports activity to do onboard. Royal Caribbean’s rock climbing walls have routes with varying levels of difficulty, making it a fun activity for any fitness level.

There are two rock walls on Harmony of the Seas which are located in the Boardwalk neighborhood, overlooking the Aquatheater and wonderful views of the aft.

Before you go to the rock climbing wall, make sure you have socks and are not wearing a bathing suit. My recommendation is to wear a t-shirt and shorts to ensure you have the proper attire on for climbing. The staff will give you rock climbing shoes and harness before clipping you into the wall!

I went up the wall twice in a row to get a quick workout in and was blown away by the 180 degree view of the ship’s wake from the top of the rock climbing wall.

My one complaint with the rock climbing wall is that the colorful holds on the wall are not properly tightened. When you grab many of the holds, they turn slightly. This is not ideal because you can unexpectedly fall when you grab something or when you put your foot on a hold.

The rock climbing wall is available for guests 6 and older and guests must be able to fit into the harness. Socks, dry clothes, shorts, or pants are required.

Carousel

Located in the Boardwalk neighborhood on Harmony of the Seas is a colorful, intricately-designed carousel that seems to transport you back in time. Animals of all kinds line the carousel and it is an activity available during both the day and evening onboard.

I thought the carousel was fun, although it is geared toward small children so it wasn’t the most thrilling activity I tried. For children, though, I think that the addition of a carousel on a cruise ship adds to the family-friendly environment created on Harmony of the Seas.

Guests must be at least 42 inches tall to ride the carousel without an adult. If under 42 inches, an adult must be standing next to the child and have their hands on the child at all times during the ride.

Flowrider

The Flowrider surf simulator is a common activity on Royal Caribbean’s ships, but it is one that I had never tried before. Harmony of the Seas has two Flowriders in the aft of the ship. 

I had never tried the Flowrider because I wasn’t sure I would be very good at it. While I took surfing lessons several years ago, I was not exactly the most skilled surfer out there (and that’s an understatement). However, I figured that after six Royal Caribbean cruises, it was finally time to give the Flowrider a chance.

As a beginner, I started off by boogie boarding. The staff give you a very brief introduction into how to hold the boogie board and how to launch into the water. As soon as I launched, I was nearly overtaken by the water rushing all around me and I kept getting sent all the way to the back of the Flowrider instead of boogie boarding around the middle.

To be honest, I was pretty bad at this and cannot imagine being able to surf standing up on the Flowrider! That being said, I did not wipe out and send the boogie board flying away, so I was pretty happy about that. It was fun, although it wasn’t my favorite activity which was probably due to my lack of skill. I think I will have to try it again in the future, though!

Be sure to wear a swimsuit to the Flowrider and be aware that there is the slight possibility of a loose swimsuit falling off as the water rushes around you. I would recommend a one piece swimsuit to avoid any potential mishaps… you’ve been warned!

Guests must be at least 52 inches tall to use the Flowrider.

Ice Skating

Harmony of the Seas has an ice rink onboard in Studio B, where the ship’s figure skating cast perform impressive ice skating shows throughout the cruise. During the day, though, the ice rink is often open for free skate sessions where passengers can test out their skills on the ice.

Guests must sign up for an ice skating session by heading down to Studio B when sign ups are listed in the Cruise Compass. When you arrive at your scheduled time, the staff will give you skates and a helmet and you are free to skate in any way you like.

I really enjoyed my time ice skating onboard as it was something I definitely don’t usually do at home. It is also a great indoor activity to do when the weather outside is not cooperating. There are rails on the side of the entire ice rink so if you are a beginner you can hold onto the side.

Parents must supervise minors at all times at the ice skating rink and must be on the ice with children under 6.

When Harmony of the Seas docked in St. Thomas yesterday, I was more than excited for the day ahead. Not only were we able to dock in Charlotte Amalie after originally thinking we could not, but I had a completely new experience booked for the day.

Photo credit: Underwater Adventure

I reserved the Discover Scuba Diving excursion offered by Royal Caribbean, which takes guests on a 4-hour beginner scuba diving experience with an instructor. This is available for all guests over the age of 12 and you do not need a scuba certification to participate.

Overview

With the Discover Scuba Diving excursion, you will learn the fundamentals of scuba diving and go on your first dive all within a few hours. 

The group met on the pier and began a 30-minute boat ride to Buck Island, a small wildlife refuge located just south of St. Thomas. 

On the way to Buck Island, our instructor gave us a detailed overview of scuba diving basics. We learned which hand signals to use while diving, when to use each piece of equipment, and how to breathe underwater. The instructor quizzed us on the content to make sure we were confident before beginning the dive.

When we arrived at Buck Island, we anchored the boat in Shipwreck Cove and it was time to put our knowledge to the test underwater. Our group of ten was split into two groups. One group would dive while the other was free to snorkel, swim, or relax on the boat.

The staff helped us put on our scuba gear and guide us on how to best jump into the ocean from the boat. Falling into the ocean and taking my first breath underwater was exhilarating, albeit feeling unnatural.

Photo credit: Underwater Adventure

Once our group was all in the water, we descended slowly into the water for a one-on-one knowledge test with the instructor, where we practiced the skills we had learned on the boat while becoming more comfortable with our gear and breathing technique.

After everyone proved their skills, we held onto the ropes attached to the boat and descended deeper into the ocean slowly until we reached the bottom. Lying at the bottom of the cove was the shipwreck of the Cartanza Senora, a 190 foot freighter that was abandoned and sunk in the 1970s.

Photo credit: Underwater Adventure

We let go of the ropes and our instructor led us on a swim around the shipwreck where we encountered colorful coral, numerous species of fish, and even an eel! On some days there are turtles, stingrays, and nurse sharks around the shipwreck, although we did not encounter any on our dive.

Once back to the surface, the other group took their turn to dive and we spent the rest of the time snorkeling in Shipwreck Cove before taking the boat back to the port.

The Discover Scuba Diving tour is operated locally by Underwater Adventure: Adventure Scuba & School. The excursion can be booked through Royal Caribbean and was $109 per guest when paying in advance. Wetsuit rentals are also available, although the water near the shipwreck was warm so they are not totally necessary.

Comments

I would 100% recommend the Discover Scuba tour for anyone interested in exploring the ocean beyond what you can see while snorkeling. It is the perfect way to test out scuba diving prior to getting certified, and this was one of my favorite excursions I have ever done.

The location of the diving was perfect for a first experience. Not only was the shipwreck much larger than I pictured beforehand, but it attracted sea life and vegetation. Being able to dive with the fish right around you as opposed to viewing them from above while snorkeling made me feel very connected to the ocean and environment around me.

The staff was also really patient and helpful throughout the day, which helped put me at ease when trying something I had never done before. I also appreciated that the tour group was quite small as it led to more personalized attention throughout the dive.

Keeping track of time was difficult to do when 45 feet underwater, so I’m not sure how long we were actually diving. However, I felt that the time underwater was the ideal amount for a first-time experience.

You do need to be a fairly good swimmer for this excursion. The scuba gear includes a lifejacket, which I found very helpful during the times we were learning and reviewing safety tips above water. If you can swim confidently while snorkeling or treading in a pool, you will be fine.

You should be aware that even though you book the scuba excursion, not everyone is always able to succeed in diving. Two members in our group found the ear pressure to be too intense to dive all the way to the shipwreck. However, the majority of the group was able to successfully reach the bottom and dive around the wreck, so it is definitely still worth a try if you are interested.

In addition, if you are prone to seasickness, you may want to bring medication or other remedies with you. The ride to Buck Island was a little choppy at times.

Overall, I am extremely happy I decided to book the Discover Scuba Diving excursion and I think I have found a new hobby! I can’t wait to get my scuba diving certification soon so I can explore more of the diverse underwater ecosystem in the Caribbean and around the world.

One of the most challenging parts of planning a cruise is figuring out what to do while in port. What activity should I choose? Which beach should I go to? Should I book an excursion offered by Royal Caribbean or explore on my own?

While planning days in port for my 7-night sailing on Harmony of the Seas last week, I kept asking myself these questions. Our original itinerary was switched, leaving me with little time to plan my day in St. Maarten. I wanted to make the most of the day as I had never been there before.

My solution? Go for a bike ride! Not just any bike ride, though. My plan was to loop the entire island on a bicycle to learn more about the island’s landscapes, cultures, and people. I felt prepared from a fitness standpoint as I cycle a lot at home, but I had no idea what my day on a bicycle in St. Maarten would entail.

Spoiler alert: it was one of the best days ever.

Rental

I rented my bike from Tri-Sport SXM, which is the main cycling company and bicycle tour operator on the island. I originally requested a road bike, but they suggested getting an ebike so I could explore more of the island and have some assistance in climbing steep hills.

I met JP from Tri-Sport at the port and he gave me a helpful overview of my bicycle and his recommended route. The total cost of the ebike rental was $55 for the day. The rental came with the ebike, a bike pump, helmet, and a lock.

The Route

I had an ambitious plan. My goal was to loop St. Maarten counterclockwise, starting and ending in Philipsburg. In doing so, I would cycle between two countries, visit both busy and secluded beaches, and explore the island’s culture.

I started the bike ride by cycling north out of Philipsburg and toward the eastern side of the island. This was definitely my favorite section of the ride. Once I got outside Philipsburg, the road heading north was not overly busy and led to some beautiful lookout spots. Crossing the border of the Dutch and French side was fascinating and required some photos.

I passed through the small French town of Quarter of Orleans before continuing to Orient Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches on the island, but is quite long, so it’s easy to find a secluded spot on the beach. There are also many restaurants, bars, and beach clubs open during the day as well.

I continued to the north of the island, grabbing a fresh fruit smoothie in the town of Hope Estate before cycling toward Cul-de-Sac. From here you can take a ferry to the nearby island of Isla de Pinel, where hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling opportunities are plentiful.

Because I kept stopping to take pictures, I was a bit behind schedule. The next section of road was fairly flat, so I quickly bolted toward the northwest of the island. The road was a bit too busy for my liking, though, so I took a detour to Friar’s Bay Beach.

This beach was unbelievably beautiful and not very crowded. As the weather was quite hot, I replenished my water supply, had a quick snack, and relaxed in the shade for a half hour or so.

I wanted to avoid the busy road, so I attempted to find a detour to Marigot. The “road” on Google Maps was the steepest section I had seen all day and was the only point at which I had to briefly walk my bike up the hill!

Whereas most riding so far had been a paved road or a well-maintained dirt path, this section was a mix of cobblestone, grass, and dirt! As I struggled up the hill, I chatted with a few locals who were very curious as to how I found myself on this “road”. 

Regardless, I was able to avoid the busy road, so I’d take that as a win in my books.

After the “road” I cycled to Marigot, the capital of the French side of the island. I found the French-influenced town to be quite cute and enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets on my bike.

In Marigot I stumbled upon Chez Fernand la French Bakery, which offers a variety of french specialties including patisserie, breads, savory snacks, and ice cream. Having already ridden my bike halfway around the island, I was feeling pretty hungry and French delicacies really hit the spot.

After fueling up in Marigot, I left the main part of the island and started my loop of the laguna. Originally I thought this would be a calm section of road, but it actually ended up being one of the busiest sections of the ride! All drivers were cautious of my biking, though, and the road was fairly flat, so it went by quickly.

I took a detour down a dirt path to Cupecoy Beach, which has an area with many small inlets surrounded by limestone. I found several empty or nearly-empty beaches here, and it almost felt like a secret hideway on the island.

My last stop was Maho Beach, which is arguably the most well-known beach on St. Maarten. This beach is located right across from Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten, and planes fly right over you as they land on the runway. Tourists flock here to marvel at the close proximity of airplanes and catch gusts of the powerful wind created when a plane takes off.

I thought it was a unique beach, although unfortunately no planes were landing when I was there! I would not recommend spending an entire day at the beach, though, as it was really crowded and not as nice as other beaches I had seen on my bike ride.

As it was now late afternoon, I began heading back to the cruise port. So did everyone else, apparently, because this section of the ride was the busiest of the day! I enjoyed taking in my final views of St. Maarten from my bicycle before a mellow ride through historical Philipsburg.

As I returned my bike and walked back to the ship, I could not believe how much fun I had cycling around the entire island. The total ride was around 34 miles up, down, and around hilly terrain, countless beaches, and historical towns. And while I certainly felt tired once I was back onboard, I don’t think there could have been a better way to see all that St. Maarten has to offer in a single day!

Safety

When I googled “renting a bike in St. Maarten,” I was shocked by the search results. Many people suggested not renting a bike on the island and saying it would be way too dangerous. Potholes, cars, and distracted drivers would be everywhere!

I decided to take this information with a grain of salt. As there was a reputable bicycle company on the island and St. Maarten has European roots, I figured it would not be as dangerous as the internet implied.

As I started cycling, I realized I was right. I did not encounter one aggressive driver passing me and found that drivers were courteous and patient, even waiting behind me as I struggled on the steepest of climbs. In addition, while there were some potholes on the road, I did not find the road conditions to be any worse than roads I have cycled on at home (with the French side having slightly better road conditions than the Dutch).

The locals on both sides of the island were friendly and helpful. I stopped to take pictures several times and many locals, spotting my bike on the side of the road, stopped to ask me if everything was okay. This definitely added to my feeling of security while cycling solo.

However, I would not recommend renting a bike and exploring on your own to beginner cyclists. While the ride on an ebike is doable for anyone with an average level of fitness, cycling in St. Maarten does require a high level of confidence on busy roads. The main roads are often unavoidable to get around the island, so you may find way more cars on the road than you are used to.

Therefore, the biggest consideration you should make before renting a bike in St. Maarten is your comfort level on busy roads. If you have never biked on a main road before, you may feel uncomfortable with the amount of cars passing you. There is little to no shoulder on the roads, so you have to stay as close to the right curb as possible to allow cars to safely pass.

What made me feel safer throughout the day were the attentive drivers behind me and the fact that all roads were just one lane on each side instead of multi-lane highways.

Guided Tours

There are two ways to go for a bike ride in St. Maarten: renting a bicycle or booking a guided tour. Many guests may opt for a guided tour, but what options do you have?

Royal Caribbean works with Tri-Sport SXM, and they offer a variety of guided tours, some of which are directly listed as Royal Caribbean excursions in the Cruise Planner.

The most popular tour offered is the Historical Philipsburg by Bicycle and Beach tour, which is a 6-mile guided ride through the Dutch-influenced capital of Philipsburg. This ride is suitable for beginners and families and will give a lesson into the history and culture of the city.

You may also choose to book a guided bicycle tour directly with Tri-Sport, as they offer more challenging rides that you cannot book as a Royal Caribbean shore excursion. One of the rides offered is the Tour de Lagoon, which takes you around the lagoon on the western side of the island with a stop at Maho Beach. These tours must have a minimum of two cyclists booking it, but offer a way to see more of the island in a smaller group.

If you are traveling with kids, I highly recommend booking a guided tour as opposed to riding on your own.

Pros and cons of renting a bike vs. choosing a guided tour

The pros of renting a bike instead of booking a tour are plentiful. Cycling on your own gives you the ultimate freedom to choose where you want to go. If you see something interesting, you are able to stop or switch your route in order to discover it more thoroughly. It also gives you the chance to cycle at your own fitness level, making the ride as challenging or relaxed as you want. I also felt that I was able to interact with locals in St. Maarten very easily as a solo cyclist, as they were generally curious about me, thus giving me a deeper insight into the island.

There are a few cons of renting a bike yourself, though. First, you will not have a local with you to help navigate your way around the island or fix your bicycle if something goes wrong. Second, you will attract less attention from cars on busy roads compared to a larger group. That being said, I did not find either of these problems to be an issue (and I never had a single problem with my bike).

Likewise, there are pros and cons to choosing a guided bike tour. The biggest pro is that everything is taken care of for you. There is no need to map out a route yourself and ask for directions whenever you get lost. You also stand out much more on the roads when with a group. A car that may try to quickly pass one cyclist will likely hold back on passing a group of twenty cyclists.

The biggest con I saw with a guided tour were the crowds. Cycling in a group means, of course, that you are with many other people, so you will not get as relaxing of an experience as in a smaller group or by yourself. Plus, many of the popular tours visit the most touristy spots on the island, such as Maho Beach and downtown Philipsburg. This means that not only are there more crowds in the destination you are visiting, but likely there is a busier road to get there in the first place.

Whether you select a tour or not, be sure to research the average temperature during the time of year you will be in St Maarten. I did this ride in mid-January and it was around 83 degrees. It was definitely doable, but I had to drink a lot of water and take occasional breaks in the shade. The good thing about riding a bike, though, is that you get a nice breeze as you ride which helps to cool you down. Plus, you can always take a break in the ocean! There are tons of markets and restaurants throughout the entire ride, so you do not have to pack much water with you on the bike.

Final thoughts

Cycling around St. Maarten put into perspective just how diverse the small island is, and being on a bike allowed me to travel at just the right pace. It was fascinating to see a mix of Caribbean, French, and Dutch influence in the island's cuisine, architecture, and lifestyle.

I've never been more intrigued by the linguistic diversity of a particular place. Not having done much research ahead of time, you can imagine my confusion when I arrived in St. Maarten and heard many locals speaking Spanish instead of Dutch, and that only a small minority of locals speak French.

I will definitely ride a bike again in St. Maarten and would recommend exploring via bike for any guest interested, whether with a guided tour or on your own.

Going on a cruise right now can be a little unpredictable. Protocols, entertainment, and dining options are subject to change from sailing to sailing.

I am onboard Harmony of the Seas this week for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day cruise, and I wanted to share what the experience is like by answering questions people might have.

We asked our followers on Facebook what questions they had about sailing on Harmony of the Seas this week, and here are our most requested answers:

How many guests are onboard?

Guest Services told me there were around 2500 passengers onboard.

Harmony of the Seas has a capacity of 5,479 guests at double occupancy, so the ship is a little under 50% capacity this week.

What is the entertainment this week? Is anything canceled?

Due to the omicron surge, there has been an influx of changes in entertainment offerings onboard Royal Caribbean ships. When I boarded the cruise on Sunday, I wasn’t sure what, if anything, would be offered in terms of headliner entertainment on Harmony of the Seas.

There have been several changes in entertainment:

• Grease: The Musical is not being performed this week
• Big Daddy’s Hideaway Heist is being performed in the Aquatheater, but the other show, The Fine Line, is not.
• 1887: A Journey in Time and iSkate Showcase are being performed in Studio B.
• Entertainment in the Royal Theater includes headliner vocalists, comedians, and game shows

While some entertainment offerings have been canceled or modified, there is still no shortage of things to do this week. Whether live music, comedy shows, dance classes, or signature activities, it’s easy to keep yourself busy onboard.

How is Adventure Ocean operating?

Adventure Ocean is currently operating at limited capacity with around 15-20 kids per room. Reservations are required and the amount of time slots a child gets in Adventure Ocean depends on the amount of children on a particular sailing. There will be more reservations available per child on a sailing with less kids onboard.

Walk-ins are available throughout the week, too, but are not guaranteed. However, I was told that parents have usually been able to drop their child off at Adventure Ocean on a walk-in during this cruise.

The teen clubs are open as normal throughout the day and there are still specific times for teens available at onboard activities like the Flowrider and Ultimate Abyss.

What restaurants are open for dinner?

The following restaurants and venues are open for dinner:

• Main Dining Room
• Windjammer
• Izumi
• Jamie’s Italian
• 150 Central Park
• Chops Grill
• Coastal Kitchen
• Wonderland

A few other dining changes to note:

• Johnny Rockets is only open for lunch from 11:30AM - 4PM on this sailing
• Sabor is not open for food, although the bar is open
• Solarium Bistro is not open for any meal

How did the testing go?

I tested before my cruise with the Abbott BinaxNOW Ag Card home test and I cannot recommend it enough! With the at-home test, you do not have to worry about finding a Covid test appointment and you can complete the test at whatever time works best for you.

Ordering a pack of these tests makes fulfilling the testing requirements a breeze. Each time I have done it so far, I have been completely done with the test in the same amount of time it would have taken me to drive to an appointment at CVS.

How was boarding the ship?

I had purchased The Key before my cruise, so I had priority boarding. With The Key, I was able to go through the priority boarding lane and got on the ship within 10-15 minutes total. The normal line to board seemed to be moving fairly quickly too.

Does this sailing offer any themed nightly activities?

There is the “Totally Awesome ‘90’s Party” and “Country & Western Line Dance Party” which are located in Studio B on days 3 and 4. On day 5 is the “70’s Disco Inferno Party” at the Aquatheater.

There are a variety of DJs and nightclub experiences throughout the week as well.

What are the port stops this week?

Our scheduled port stops this week were St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. When I booked the cruise we were originally supposed to go to Antigua, which was then replaced by San Juan… which was then replaced by St. Maarten!

Unfortunately, today it was announced that we will be unable to visit St. Thomas. I predicted this would happen because St. Thomas has been denying ships recently, but it is still a bummer! Having four sea days and only two ports is not the most ideal scenario. As it was known in advance that it was unlikely we would go to St. Thomas anyway, I do wish something else could have been planned.

Regardless, it is important to be flexible these days when going on a cruise.

Are you going to Labadee?

Our itinerary does not go to Labadee for this cruise, but next week’s sailing on Harmony of the Seas is scheduled to stop at Labadee. Labadee has not reopened since cruises restarted in June 2021, but it appears that Harmony of the Seas may actually be going there next week.

We have a full article about the possibility of Labadee reopening here.

Are they still doing “The Quest”?

They are not doing The Quest on this sailing. The Quest has also not been offered on the previous five cruises I have been on since the restart.

What are the best and worst specialty restaurants onboard?

This question is highly subjective, of course, and what is the “best” for one person might be the “worst” for another. In my opinion, the best specialty restaurants onboard Harmony of the Seas are Jamie’s Italian and Izumi Hibachi.

That being said, a restaurant like Wonderland is a dining experience that you should definitely try. I have also not had the chance to try Sabor or 150 Central Park yet!

How is the masking?

Last month, Royal Caribbean changed its mask protocols to require masks worn at all times indoors except when eating or drinking. Previously, masks were not required in vaccinated-only venues onboard.

This change has not been an issue for me personally. On my sailings before the protocol change, I would often wear my mask in crowded indoor spaces anyway. Plus, I live in a state with an indoor mask mandate so I hardly even notice. In addition, for a lot of the cruise experience, you are either outside or sitting indoors while eating or drinking, so often the mask is only used when walking from place to place.

I have not noticed anyone purposefully disregarding the masking rules on the ship. The only protocol not being followed well is the capacity per elevator. There are often way too many people in the elevator!

Why didn’t you invite all of us?

Sorry about that!

Be sure to check out the Royal Caribbean Blog group cruises here and join the party! Our two upcoming group cruises are an 8-night sailing on Mariner of the Seas in July and a 7-night sailing on Wonder of the Seas in December.

Nassau is one of the most popular cruise destinations. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been to Nassau plenty of times, planning your time in port will make your day go by much more smoothly.

On my recent cruise to Nassau, I decided to try out the day pass at the adults-only Warwick Paradise Island. This day pass is available to guests aged 16 and older.

I purchased a day pass to the Warwick Paradise island through ResortForADay.com, which sells day passes to hotels and resorts throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, and United States. A deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance to be paid upon arrival.

Day passes are available at the Warwick for $110 per person. As the hotel is all-inclusive, I felt this was a fair price to pay for pool and beach access as well as unlimited food and drinks.

You will need to take a taxi from the port area to the resort. The ride is only around ten minutes and the taxi fare will depend on the amount of people in your party. I paid $12 on the way there while sharing a taxi with a separate party and $15 in my own taxi on the way back.

Upon arrival at the hotel, I paid the remaining balance and presented my ID and vaccination card. The check-in process was quick and I was soon outside exploring the hotel.

The day pass is available from 10:30AM - 6:00PM and includes access to all outdoor and lobby amenities at the Warwick, including:

• Beach lagoon access
• Pool access
• Outdoor activities including volleyball, basketball, tennis, and cornhole
• Bicycles to use around Paradise Island
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from the Hog Bar
• Lunch at the Verandah buffet or Chickcharnie’s Pizzeria
• Towel service and lounge chairs at the pool or beach
• Use of fitness facilities
• Wi-fi service throughout the day

Beach & Pool

The Warwick is not beachfront, but is instead located in Nassau Harbor. This means that, while there is a small beach, there is no access to the open ocean and views are obstructed.

The beach itself has clear water, though, and is very calm, which makes for a relaxing swim. There is also a bridge in the water acting as a barrier for the beach and a walking path for guests.

The beach has lounge chairs and umbrellas available for use as well as hammocks and a volleyball net.

The pool area is where the Warwick really shines, though. The pool sprawls over a large area and has nice views of the harbor and beach. There is a lot of lounge chair space throughout the property, both right by the pool and further away. There is also a small hot tub available.

Additional areas and activities

If you get bored of laying on the beach or by the pool, there are other things to do at the Warwick.

In the lobby area, you will find a pool table, foosball table, ping pong table, and a few arcade games. There is also a small library stand where you can check out a book for the day.

Outside there is a tennis court available for those looking to get some exercise. You are also free to use the bicycles at the property to cycle anywhere on Paradise Island. Do be aware, though, that Bahamians drive on the left side of the road!

Near the pool, you will find a spacious deck with views of the harbor and a gazebo which offers plenty of shade.

Food & Beverage

The Warwick is all-inclusive so there is no need to worry about a price limit on food and drinks while at the resort.

There are two dining options available at the Warwick for day pass guests: Verandah buffet and Chickcharnie’s Pizzeria. Depending on the hotel’s occupancy, however, the buffet may or may not be open. When I visited the Warwick, lunch was only available at Chickcharnie’s Pizzeria.

Chickcharnie’s is located right near the pool and is a casual dining experience. The menu offers a variety of options including pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, quesadillas, and salads. 

First I ordered the conch fritters and a quinoa salad. The food was ready in around ten minutes and I thought both dishes were prepared well. I liked getting the chance to try the more traditional Caribbean dish of conch fritters, but I also enjoyed having healthy options on the menu too.

The portions were quite small, but since the resort is all-inclusive, you can order as much as you want. I also prefer having small portions so that there is less food waste. Another thing I appreciated was that there were labeled gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options on the menu. 

Later in the day I ordered a personal-sized cheese pizza. While it wasn’t the most gourmet pizza in the world, it was what I expected for food by the pool.

My dining experience at the Warwick was good overall, although I wish I had the opportunity to try the Verandah buffet. The buffet area looked nicer than the super-casual Chickcharnie’s by the pool. However, I was visiting the Warwick on a chilly day in mid-January. During a more busy time of the year, both restaurants would likely be open for lunch.

Drinks are available at the Hog Bar near the pool. My bartenders were extremely friendly and the piña colada I had was both colorful and refreshing! There was also a DJ near the bar. The resort has a cocktail menu available but you are free to order off the menu as well.

Final Thoughts

I think a day pass can be a good option for those passengers who do not have a Deluxe Beverage Package onboard and are looking to enjoy an all-inclusive for the day. Several day pass options at other resorts are not all-inclusive and instead give you a monetary credit for food and drinks. At these resorts, food and drink prices are often high, so the credit does not go very far. At the Warwick you can enjoy as many cocktails and food as you want without spending extra money out of pocket!

Before selecting the Warwick, though, make sure you understand the location’s offerings and decide if it will work for you. The Warwick is not the best option if you are looking for a beach day, as the beach is in the harbor and is also pretty small. However, the pool at the Warwick has more than enough space to enjoy the day. I'd say the beach situation is the most important thing to consider before selecting the Warwick over another hotel, though.

While the day pass at the Warwick Paradise Island is not the cheapest day pass option in Nassau, I liked the all-inclusive aspect of it. Would I do it again? I think so, but just like any day pass, I would check the weather before booking it. As everything included in the day pass is outdoors, it is probably not the best option for a cold, rainy, or windy day.

Overall, if you’re looking for a relaxing pool day in Nassau over a beach day and are wanting an all-inclusive option, the Warwick can be a great choice.

Other day pass reviews in Nassau:

British Colonial Hilton day pass review

Margaritaville Beach Resort day pass review

Today marks the start of a new adventure: my first Royal Caribbean cruise on an Oasis-class ship. I am onboard Harmony of the Seas this week for a 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise. Harmony of the Seas is currently, as of January 2022, the second biggest cruise ship in the world.

To say I was excited before the cruise is an understatement. After five sailings on Voyager, Freedom, and Quantum Class ships, I couldn’t wait to try out the ship class everyone talks so much about. As I planned my cruise, though, I wasn’t sure what I would think of Harmony of the Seas.

Read more: What's the differences between each of the Oasis class ships?

It seems many cruise fans love the Oasis-class because of the seemingly endless places to go and things to do onboard, but there are others who much prefer to cruise on smaller ships. Needless to say, I was ready to get onboard this morning and finally explore Harmony of the Seas.

First Impressions

The first difference I saw before boarding Harmony of the Seas was the amount of activities in the Cruise Planner. While all Royal Caribbean ships have an elaborate list of activities and events, I was shocked by the amount of programming listed in the Cruise Planner. From multiple dance classes per day to ziplining sessions and countless choices of live music, I was almost overwhelmed by options!

There is no shortage of things to do on any Royal Caribbean ship, but this is especially true on an Oasis-class ship.

When I got onboard, the first thing I noticed was that everything is bigger on an Oasis-class ship. The Royal Promenade is bigger, the spa is bigger, the pool deck is bigger, and even the elevators seem bigger!

I spent most of the day checking out venues that are only available on Oasis-class ships. First I tried a fresh smoothie at Vitality Cafe and later in the day I listened to live music at Jazz on 4. I always try to see the jazz shows on any ship, but having a special venue focusing only on jazz music is awesome! So far, it seems like there is something for everyone on Harmony of the Seas.

The sheer size of an Oasis-class ship really hit me, though, when I walked to the boardwalk. Seeing the ship’s aft split in two sides and the massive Aquatheater stage was unbelievable. I could not believe the scale of the ship and I found myself saying “Oh my gosh” over and over as I explored Harmony of the Seas.

Speaking of unbelievable, I had the chance to watch one of the ice shows, 1887: A Journey in Time, and it was also extremely impressive. The way that the show utilizes lights to create different scenes on the ice, such as traveling through space and being in the ocean, is unlike anything I have seen before.

While it's been a wonderful first day onboard, I cannot say yet whether I prefer the Oasis-class over another class of ship. Thus far in my cruising experience, I have not disliked any class of ship, but it’s hard to pinpoint which class is my favorite. The Voyager-class will always have a special place in my heart due to the fact that my first cruise was on Mariner of the Seas. That being said, I’ve also come to appreciate the expanded range of activities you will find in bigger ships like Odyssey of the Seas.

Harmony of the Seas is proving to be an incredible ship thus far, though, and I am excited to see what the rest of the week has in store.

The upcoming week

I will be staying in a balcony stateroom on this sailing. I had originally booked an interior cabin, but was upgraded to a balcony due to cabins being switched around due to distancing protocols. I’m definitely happy about the upgrade, and I even got $100 extra onboard credit for the “inconvenience”! Plus, it feels extra spacious after my small interior cabin on Independence of the Seas last week.

The only problem with having a balcony on a cruise with so much to do is that it is extremely tempting to spend the whole day relaxing on the balcony!

I will not be doing a live blog every day of this cruise, but will instead focus on highlighting activities, tours, and events throughout this sailing. Harmony of the Seas is set to visit St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay this week. While I’m not sure we will make the stop to St. Thomas (several ships have been denied entry there recently), I am confident we will be able to make the other two stops.

Here are my plans for this cruise:

1. Try complimentary onboard activities only offered on Oasis-class ships like the Ultimate Abyss, Zipline, and extra-high rock climbing wall
2. Explore everything St. Maarten has to offer via a bicycle rental
3. Try scuba diving for the first time in St. Thomas on the “Discover Scuba Diving” excursion

Read more: Top 25 free things you can do on Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class cruise ships

Covid protocols

As I am cruising in January 2022, things can be a bit unpredictable. Harmony of the Seas is operating at around 50% capacity with 2500 passengers onboard. So far the ship does not seem very crowded and everyone seems to be following mask protocols well.

There are a few changes to the week’s entertainment programming, though. Grease: The Musical will not be performed this week and only one Aquatheater show, Hideaway Heist, will be performed.  As of now it appears that both iSkate Showcase and 1887: A Journey in Time will be performed in Studio B.

Other than that, it appears that the Solarium Bistro is closed, and that only the bar at Sabor is open on this sailing. The Escape Room doesn’t appear to be open, either, but that has been the case on every ship I have been on since the restart.

While reading this may seem like a lot is closed onboard, it is just a tiny fraction of the venues available on an Oasis-class ship, so it is barely noticeable. I did plan to try Sabor, but I will have to do that on a future sailing.

Regardless, I feel safe onboard with the strict protocols in place and am looking forward to the rest of the week on Harmony of the Seas.