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Cheap Royal Caribbean Cruises out of Florida

• United States    
• Florida (FL)
• Royal Caribbean International

3 Night Cruise to the Bahamas

• You want a big-ship cruise to the most popular ports of call
• You want nonstop active entertainment by day and by night
• You want the latest features of Royal Caribbean's larger ships
• You don't like being upsold; extra cost activities abound
• You want to visit exotic, off-the-beaten-path ports of call
• You are looking for an intimate, traditional cruise experience

8 Night Cruise to the Southern Caribbean

• You enjoy active diversions, like skating, surfing and climbing
• You want lots of features but on a slightly smaller scale
• You are traveling with friends and need a ship for all
• You like a connection to the sea; this more like a resort
• You are looking for a more traditional cruise experience

4 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You a value-packed cruise on a ship with plenty of features
• You find Royal Caribbean's newer ships to be just too big
• You like to keep busy and want a full schedule of activities
• You want the wow factor of Royal Caribbean's big new ships
• You need spacious cabins; standard cabins are fairly tight
• You want all the latest bells and whistles to be onboard

7 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

• You want lots of high-energy entertainment options onboard
• You appreciate a value-packed cruise with lots of amenities
• You don't want to feel like one of a crowd on a bigger ship
• You want the latest flashy decor and knockout features onboard
• You like adventurous diversions, like waterslides and ziplines
• You prefer to have more spacious cabin accommodations

4 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You want solid entertainment and splashy, Broadway-style shows
• You like to keep busy, and want active days and vibrant nights
• You want a big ship cruise with plenty of bang for your buck
• You want longer cruises that explore uncommon destinations
• You prefer a more traditional, laid-back kind of cruise vacation

5 Night Cruise to the Western Caribbean

4 night cruise to the bahamas.

• You want mega-ship fun with innovative onboard features
• You need a cruise that is suitable for families of all ages
• You want your ships big and bold but with a touch of class
• You hate crowds; things can get competitive at the buffet
• You are looking for cruises longer than a week in duration
• You don't enjoy being upsold for promotions and packages
• You want a fun, big-ship cruise with classic nautical motifs
• You love open deck space; this ship has plenty to go around
• You want a variety of window-lined restaurants and lounges
• You want the gadgets found on Royal Caribbean's newer ships
• You think bigger is better and want a Vegas-style experience

7 Night Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean

• You are looking for one of the largest cruise ships in the world with lots to do onboard
• You want the greatest selection of activities and dining, specialty and included
• You seek the ultimate variety of entertainment at sea, from Broadway to ice and water shows
• You prefer a smaller ship with fewer fellow passengers and more space per guest
• You appreciate a greater destination focus with an observation lounge
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras
• You want to sail on the largest cruise ship in the world
• You want lots of choices for both dining and activities
• You like big, busy ships with theme-park-style diversions
• You dislike crowds; lines and congestion are still a reality
• You want a quieter cruise on a smaller, more intimate ship
• You care about visiting unique, off-the-beaten-path ports
• You want crazy onboard features, even a real merry-go-round
• You are traveling with kids and want everyone to be entertained
• You see the ship as the destination; where it goes is secondary
• You want diverse itineraries to exotic, smaller ports of call
• You dislike feeling like you're in a large resort at sea
• You're looking for a more traditional ocean cruise experience

8 Night Cruise to Bermuda

9 night cruise to the eastern caribbean, 6 night cruise to the western caribbean, explore florida.

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HIT THE DECK RUNNING ON DAY ONE

An easier way to plan ahead.

There's so much to experience on a Royal Caribbean International cruise and we want to make sure you make the most of your time with us. Cruise Planner is available to help you pre-plan your vacation right after you've booked your cruise. Now you can plan ahead and reserve shore excursions, book specialty dining, schedule spa treatments and more on your tablet or computer from the comfort of your home.

Board your cruise relaxed and worry free.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VACATION WITH YOUR CALENDAR

Now you and your party can customize your vacation together using the Cruise Planner calendar. Your calendar is automatically populated as you reserve. Each day of your trip is listed and broken down by location, date, arrival and departure times and what has been reserved by guest. It's a snapshot view of what your vacation looks like, reserved in advance the way you want it.

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The world is yours to explore.

Make the most of it by reserving shore excursions at every port in your itinerary. There's an excursion for everyone, from adventure seekers to foodies, history buffs to animal lovers. This is your chance to get to the heart of the most exciting destinations of the world.

Do it with a one-of-a-kind adventure you'll never forget

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Reserve your table at any of our specialty restaurants, from our signature steakhouse Chops Grille to the imaginative curiosities of Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Enjoy additional savings of up to 40% off when you purchase one of our Specialty Dining Packages.

Plus, enjoy the convenience of selecting a dinner time that fits your schedule with My Time Dining.

Restaurants vary by ship.

Quench your thirst onboard with a beverage package that gets you the best value on your favorite drinks, from Coca-Cola® to fine wine, premium and frozen cocktails to a full selection of beers, fruit juices to Evian® water.

Start your vacation with a beverage in your hand from the moment you get onboard.

Stay connected while onboard with VOOM - the fastest internet at sea. Share your adventure and upload content to Facebook and Instagram, post videos to YouTube, tweet on Twitter, and have face‑to‑face conversations via Google Hangouts and Skype. Plus, you can even stream movies, games and apps via your personal accounts with DIRECTV, Netflix, Hulu and more. VOOM makes staying in the loop easy and affordable.

Stay connected and go full stream ahead with VOOM.

Relive the memories from your vacation with professional photos of your favorite moments onboard. Our photographers capture the joy of your adventure — from embarkation to formal night — and all the fun in between. Plus you’ll enjoy savings of up to 20% when you purchase a print or digital package before you sail.

At the Vitality SM Spa, relaxation and rejuvenation rule. Indulge with a variety of treatments that will leave you feeling like new. Pamper yourself with invigorating massage therapies, body wraps and facials. Give yourself the gift of youth with medi-spa treatments such as BOTOX® and Dysport®.

Glam up for formal night with a new hairdo and a mani-pedi. With treatments for everyone from couples, teens and men, you're bound to find at least one amazing indulgence at our spa.

The gorgeous view isn't the only thing that will dazzle you onboard our innovative cruise ships. Our complimentary shows are sure to entertain you from beginning to end.

Sit back and enjoy a variety of incredible productions, including award-winning musicals from Broadway and the West End, original Vegas-style productions, live comedy acts, and aquatic and ice shows.

Only one cruise line offers the thrilling opportunity to learn to surf, to feel the rush of skydiving right on the deck of the ship with Ripcord by iFly or to go on a behind-the-scenes ship tour.

Reserve these signature activities and more in Cruise Planner.

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Best cruises from Florida: Our top 9 trips from the Sunshine State

Cruises from Florida are the most popular options for travelers who wish to sail from the United States. It was only this year that Miami was dethroned as the busiest cruise port in the world — replaced by rival Florida home port, Port Canaveral.

Not only do cruises from Florida allow you to see some of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean and Bahamas, but they also allow travelers to experience some of the biggest and best cruise ships sailing right now. The largest cruise ship afloat, Royal Caribbean 's Wonder of the Seas, sails from Port Canaveral; family-friendly rival Disney Wish, the newest Disney cruise ship in a decade, also home ports in Florida.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Families planning multigenerational getaways, couples seeking child-free vacations and groups of friends looking to have a good time can all find their perfect ship and itinerary departing from one of Florida's six departure ports.

To give you a taste of the diversity of options available from the Sunshine State, here are our picks for the best cruises from Florida.

Wonder of the Seas to the Western Caribbean 

Wonder of the Seas , Royal Caribbean's flagship and the largest cruise ship in the world, departs weekly from Port Canaveral (the cruise port closest to Orlando). The ship sails seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries, stopping at tropical destinations like Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay .

While the islands offer plenty of fun in the sun, the ship itself is filled with tons of family-friendly activities. Siblings or parents and kids can race each other to the bottom of the twin waterslides, named Typhoon and Cyclone. If you prefer to stay dry, hop into the Ultimate Abyss tunnel slide, where riders will glide down 10 stories of darkness before bottoming out on the ship's Boardwalk.

Kids ages 6 months to 17 years old have their own hangouts with dedicated programming supervised by fun counselors. While the kids play with new friends, adults can veg out in the glass-encased Solarium, relaxing on padded loungers or in a bubbling hot tub.

When it's time to come together for a meal, you'll please all palates at The Mason Jar , one of Royal Caribbean's newest restaurants that highlights Southern comfort food. The menu teems with tasty dishes like fried chicken, gumbo and po'boys that will leave you completely satisfied. Brunch here comes with a side of live country music.

Related: Wonder of the Seas 3 ways: Inside, balcony and suite compared

Freedom of the Seas to the Bahamas

Cruisers who are loyal to Royal Caribbean or those who want to test the waters with the brand without the commitment of a seven-night sailing can enjoy short, three-night sailings on Freedom of the Seas out of Miami.

The quickie voyages take you to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, and a day spent on Royal Caribbean's stunning island is reason enough to book this cruise. At this private Bahamian beach resort, cruisers can ride the slides at Thrill Water Park, rent a beachside cabana for a mix of shade and sun, or float about in a sheltered lagoon. A barbecue lunch is included, and passengers can utilize their onboard drink package.

The 4,635-passenger ship provides fun around every corner. Challenge one another to a round of minigolf, show off your skills on the FlowRider surf simulator or test your muscle on the rock climbing wall. Entertainment on Freedom of the Seas ranges from Royal Caribbean's iconic ice skating shows to live music in the pub. Pool parties, outdoor movies and laser tag are also included with your cruise fare.

With so much to do on board, plus the short sailing times, cruises on this ship can have a distinct party vibe. There's a reason that the College Party Cruise charter company uses Freedom of the Seas for its March spring break sailings.

No cruise is complete without great food, and this ship offers 11 different dining venues highlighting such cuisines as Italian, Mexican and Japanese.

Related: Caribbean vs. Bahamas cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Carnival Elation to the Bahamas 

Carnival Elation is unique because it's the only ship from any cruise line that sails from Jacksonville. Its four- and five-day sailings to the Bahamas stop at Nassau and a second destination that varies. Choose from cruises to Bimini, Freeport, Half Moon Cay or Princess Cays — the latter two are private beaches operated by the Carnival Corporation.

The 2,606-passenger cruise ship is one of Carnival Cruise Line 's smallest and oldest ships. Aboard the intimate vessel allows you to get to know the crew and other cruisers. Popular hangouts include Carnival's beloved Alchemy Bar, where you can order cocktails at a vintage pharmacy-themed bar.

For outdoor dining, head to Guy's Burger Joint, created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Order a loaded burger and perfectly golden-brown fries, then head to the Lido Deck near the pool for great people-watching.

Entertainment on this small ship is still plentiful. Cruisers can splash around at WaterWorks, the family-friendly water playground, or head up to the adults-only Serenity Retreat for a quieter experience. The Punchliner Comedy Club hosts a variety of comedians that will have kids and adults laughing throughout the night. Catch a live production in the main theater or sing along with the pianist at the popular Piano Bar.

Related: Visiting a cruise line's private island? Don't make these mistakes

Carnival Mardi Gras to the Eastern Caribbean

If you'd prefer to sample one of Carnival's newest and largest ships, you can sail from Port Canaveral on the line's Mardi Gras . Its Eastern Caribbean sailings visit island destinations like St. Thomas, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic and Grand Turk. Mardi Gras' six- to eight-night itineraries provide a good mix of sea days at the start and end of the sailings.

The impressive ship is known for its party atmosphere, which is highlighted by an onboard zone themed to New Orleans' French Quarter. Here, passengers will find Emeril's Bistro 1396, an homage to NOLA's cuisine developed in partnership with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. Don't miss the Brass Magnolia and the Fortune Teller bars, which start hopping when the sun goes down.

The Ultimate Playground on the ship's top deck is where adrenaline junkies and sports lovers will want to hang out. You'll get all the thrills with a ride on BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, or take a lap around the elevated ropes course. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, minigolf and a full-size basketball court await.

Related: Best Carnival cruise ships: Here's which ship you should sail, based on your travel style

Disney Magic to the Bahamas 

When the summer of 2024 rolls around, Disney Magic will set sail from Disney Cruise Line 's newest home port in Florida, Fort Lauderdale. The ship's shorter three- and four-night Bahamian itineraries include a visit to Nassau and either Castaway Cay, Disney's stunning private island, or Lighthouse Point, Disney's newest island destination . Longer five-night sailings include a stop at both private beaches or a double dip at Castaway Cay, along with a day at Nassau.

Disney Magic is among Disney's smaller ships, but fans love it for its intimate size and fewer crowds. Beloved Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse welcome you aboard with hugs and photo ops throughout your sailing.

Guests rotate each night among the ship's three dining rooms, including Rapunzel's Royal Table — inspired by Disney's animated "Tangled." There's also Animator's Palate, an homage to Disney's animation studios. You'll have the same servers at all restaurants, so they get to know your family and your dining preferences. At night the Walt Disney Theater features Broadway-caliber shows, like "Tangled: The Musical."

Families looking for some time apart will love that Disney has an included kids club where younger cruisers can enjoy fun activities under the watchful eye of the ship's youth staff. The Oceaneer Club features themed areas like Andy's Room from "Toy Story" and Tinkerbell's home at Pixie Hollow. Kids can also take superhero lessons from Thor. The Oceaneer Lab offers baking classes inspired by "Ratatouille" and sessions where kids learn how to draw their favorite Disney characters.

Adults can use their free time to savor a meal at the adults-only Italian restaurant, Palo, or kick back in the ship's multiple bars and live music venues.

Prefer to sail on a newer Disney ship? Check out Disney Wish , with three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral to Castaway Cay and Nassau.

Holland America's Rotterdam to the Southern Caribbean

Holland America is known for its elegant ships and longer itineraries, such as Rotterdam 's nine- to 16-night Southern Caribbean options out of Fort Lauderdale. The newest ship in the fleet, Rotterdam sails to Curacao, Bonaire, Aruba and Half Moon Cay on nine-night voyages, while its longer 16-day sailings add on Grand Turk, the Dominican Republic, and Key West.

With just 2,668 guests onboard, Rotterdam is homey and charming with a touch of luxury. The ship doubles down on live music; a live band plays all the rock hits at the Rolling Stone Rock Room, while an eight-piece band gets everyone on their feet when they play R&B favorites at B.B. King's Blues Club. For some daytime activity, the competition is on at the ship's pickleball courts , where cruisers can take lessons or play in tournaments against their shipmates.

Expect impeccable dining at specialty restaurants like Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French-inspired restaurant from Holland America's master chef Rudi Sodamin; Canaletto, an Italian bistro offering all of the classics; and Tamarind, where diners can sample regional dishes from China, Japan and Southeast Asia. For daytime snacks, don't miss the Dutch pancake bites called poffertjes or the French fries with peanut dipping sauce.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Holland America ship

Norwegian Encore to the Eastern Caribbean

If you're looking for a weeklong cruise out of Miami, consider sailing on Norwegian Encore to the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas and Tortola. Each island offers spectacular sandy beaches that give way to sparkling blue waters, plus options for water sports, museum visits and hikes to the top of lush mountaintops.

The itinerary also includes a stop at Norwegian Cruise Line 's private island, Great Stirrup Cay. There you can enjoy a relaxing beach day, where all you have to worry about is getting back to the ship on time from the tender dock.

On board the ship, zip around the Encore Speedway in a go-kart, play laser tag in an Atlantis-themed arena, splash around the AquaPark or experience virtual reality games inside the Galaxy Pavilion. For a calmer diversion, purchase a pass to the Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only retreat with lounge chairs, umbrellas and specialty food and drinks. The pass is good for the entire cruise, so you can come and go as you please.

There's a wide range of dining options, including complimentary and extra-charge restaurants. Belly up to the Local Bar and Grill for classic pub dishes and cocktails on tap. If you're willing to pay extra for a meal, Q Texas Smokehouse is worth a stop. The a la carte restaurant serves authentic Texas-style barbecue and all the classic sides. After dinner service, the restaurant turns into a country dance club with a live band and an open dance floor.

Celebrity Apex to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico

Celebrity Cruises' Celebrity Apex sets sail from Fort Lauderdale to some of the most picturesque islands in the Caribbean. From November 2023 through April 2024, Apex will offer weeklong sailings to Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, St. Thomas and the Dominican Republic. Two sea days give you time to relax and have fun on the ship.

What makes this itinerary special is that it features later all-aboard times in San Juan and St. Maarten, allowing guests to see the islands as they come alive in the sunset glow.

Celebrity Apex is part of Celebrity Cruises ' Edge class of ships, with standout features like high-end design and modern touches. One of Apex's highlights is the Magic Carpet, a suspended lounge that hangs off the side of the ship. When it's positioned by the pool deck, you can stop in to sip cocktails; when it's at water level, it serves as a platform for easy boarding of tender boats.

There are lots of chic spots to chill with your travel companions. Savor some kebabs or a flatbread pizza among live plants in the ship's Rooftop Garden, then watch the sun sink into the sea at the aptly named Sunset Bar. Submerge yourself in a martini-shaped hot tub out on the pool deck or enjoy a dip on a rainy day in the covered adults-only Solarium.

With 29 different food and beverage options on Apex, cruisers will never be bored at meal times. Specialty dining includes Le Grand Bistro, themed after a traditional Parisian boulangerie-patisserie, and the Eden Restaurant, with its tasting menu of international dishes.

If you don't want to spend extra money on food, stick with the ship's four themed main dining rooms and the Mast Grill, which serves juicy burgers and hearty salads. The Oceanview Cafe serves made-to-order breakfast and lunch offerings, while dinner features a rotating menu with international flair.

Related: Eastern Caribbean vs. Western Caribbean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?

Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady to Key West and Bimini 

Step aboard the adults-only Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady for a Fire and Sunset Soirees cruise to Key West, Florida and Bimini, Bahamas, from Miami. The four-night sailings are great for cruisers who want to try out Virgin Voyages or those who want a long weekend away.

You can book an excursion in Key West, but it's easy to explore on your own. Take a ride on the hop-on, hop-off bus or saunter down Duval Street and around Old Town. For local fare, swing by D.J.'s Clam Shack for fresh seafood or Garbo's Grill for Korean barbecue beef tacos. Both were showcased on the Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Treat yourself to key lime pie on a stick before you head back to the ship.

In Bimini, head straight to Virgin's exclusive beach resort, the Beach Club at Bimini . Here, you can enjoy floating in the pool, Caribbean-themed lunch and games on the beach.

Scarlet Lady is a playground for grownups. The Redemption Spa is a relaxing retreat where you can book a block of time to enjoy the thermal suite or try out a couples massage. For a permanent reminder of your cruise, get a tattoo at Squid Ink . The ship is known for its creative theatrical performances and rollicking nightlife. Head to The Manor for comedy and drag shows, plus late-night revelry. Don't miss Virgin's hyped-up Scarlet Night, which culminates in an epic pool party.

All of the table-service restaurants on Scarlet Lady are included in your cruise fare. You won't find a traditional main dining room. To secure your preferred mealtimes, book dinner reservations through the Virgin Voyages app as soon as you can. Restaurants that are not to be missed include Extra Virgin for Italian fare; The Wake, the fine-dining steakhouse; and Gunbae, the Korean barbecue restaurant where you start your meal with a drinking game.

Bottom line

You can find cruises from Florida to fit every traveler's wants and needs, from a weeklong family vacation to a shorter getaway for a couple or group of friends. Older-yet-intimate ships, newer mega-ships and everything in between depart from the Sunshine State to destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas.

Whether you choose one of our favorite sailings or find an itinerary that suits you better, you can't go wrong with a cruise out of Florida.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Cruises from Florida

Embark from Florida: A Gateway to Caribbean Wonders & Beyond

Southern Caribbean with Royal Caribbean

Florida welcomes many Royal Caribbean cruise ships throughout the year at Florida’s cruise terminals in Orlando (Port Canaveral), Fort Lauderdale, Tampa and Miami, offering best itineraries to Southern Caribbean. On Royal Caribbean’s Southern Caribbean cruises you can combine a glamorous vacation at an upscale resort with the charming allure of a small town. Boasting one of the world’s largest underwater cave systems, three national parks, endless beaches and crisp blue water, Southern Caribbean has it all.

The Southern Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. With miles of stellar beaches, chic shops, luxurious resorts, quaint towns, and friendly people, it’s easy to see why travelers come from around the globe to experience our islands.

Enjoy your Royal Caribbean cruise vacation to Southern Caribbean from Florida.

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, April 20, 2024

8-day cruise to Aruba, Curacao & Labadee on board Symphony of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: April 20, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, April 13, 2024

8-day cruise to CocoCay, Aruba & Curacao on board Odyssey of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: April 13, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Odyssey of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, April 6, 2024

8-day cruise to Aruba, Curacao & Labadee on board Symphony of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: April 6, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, March 30, 2024

8-day cruise to CocoCay, Aruba & Curacao on board Odyssey of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 30, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Odyssey of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, March 23, 2024

8-day cruise to Aruba, Curacao & Labadee on board Symphony of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 23, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, March 16, 2024

8-day cruise to CocoCay, Aruba & Curacao on board Odyssey of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 16, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Odyssey of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, March 9, 2024

8-day cruise to Aruba, Curacao & Labadee on board Symphony of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 9, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Symphony of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

Royal Caribbean, ABC Islands from Fort Lauderdale, March 2, 2024

8-day cruise to CocoCay, Aruba & Curacao on board Odyssey of the Seas Cruising from: Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida; Departure Date: March 2, 2024; Duration: 8-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Odyssey of the Seas; Ports of Call: Fort[…]

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Royal Caribbean Cruises from Miami

Departing from Miami, Florida , Royal Caribbean offers cruises to some of the world's most exotic locations and ports around the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise from Miami is the beginning of a magical journey to the enchanting Caribbean. The allure of azure waters, idyllic beaches, and vibrant marine life awaits every traveler who chooses this renowned cruise line. As the ship sets sail, guests are treated to a breathtaking panorama of Miami's skyline, signifying the start of an unforgettable adventure. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, one can expect not just a vacation, but an immersive experience that brings the captivating Caribbean landscapes to life.

Royal Caribbean stands as an innovative and pioneering force in the cruise industry, offering a blend of luxury and value. With an impressive fleet that varies from smaller, intimate ships to some of the largest passenger vessels in the world, Royal Caribbean provides an array of Caribbean cruise options from Miami. Each ship under the Royal Caribbean banner is a testament to the cruise line's commitment to quality, comfort, and guest satisfaction. Recognized for its exceptional service and outstanding on-board offerings, Royal Caribbean continues to be a top choice for Caribbean-bound travelers.

Royal Caribbean Ships

On Allure of the Seas , Explorer of the Seas , Freedom of the Seas , Icon of the Seas , Independence of the Seas , Oasis of the Seas , Symphony of the Seas , or any other ship operated by Royal Caribbean, there is always something fun to do. Aboard a Royal Caribbean ship, every day promises new discoveries and adventures. Each vessel boasts an array of amenities including fitness centers, a range of dining options, expansive pools, and world-class entertainment. From adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing and zip lining to relaxing spa treatments, there's something for everyone. The cruise line's award-winning Broadway-style shows and ice-skating performances are a testament to its commitment to provide unmatched entertainment. Simply put, Royal Caribbean's on-board experience ensures that the journey is as exciting as the destination.

Royal Caribbean offers a diverse array of packages and excursions on its Caribbean cruises from Miami. From luxurious suite accommodations to budget-friendly interior staterooms, there's a room for every type of traveler. An array of dining packages cater to all culinary preferences, while the drink packages offer everything from soft drinks to premium spirits. When it comes to exploring the destinations, Royal Caribbean's shore excursions span from thrilling adventures to cultural tours, ensuring that every guest can find an activity to match their interests.

Cruises from Miami

Miami serves as the main departure port for Royal Caribbean's Caribbean cruises, presenting passengers with an opportunity to explore this vibrant city before setting sail. Known as the "Cruise Capital of the World," Miami's modern cruise terminal facilitates a seamless embarkation process. The city's unique fusion of cultures, its thriving arts scene, and its sun-drenched beaches make it an exciting destination in its own right. Starting a cruise from this cosmopolitan city adds an extra layer of excitement to the Royal Caribbean cruise experience.

Royal Caribbean from Miami itineraries and cruise ship schedule

Opting for a Royal Caribbean cruise from Miami to the Caribbean is more than just choosing a trip—it's choosing an unforgettable adventure. From the moment the ship leaves the Miami port, passengers are immersed in a world of relaxation, entertainment, and exploration. The blend of captivating destinations, varied packages, and top-notch ship amenities ensures that every passenger has a personalized experience. The promise of exploring the Caribbean's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures, all while enjoying the comfort and services of a Royal Caribbean cruise, truly makes it a journey of a lifetime.

3-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Allure of the seas, royal caribbean.

Date: July 16, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Nassau, Miami; View Itinerary

5-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Independence of the seas, royal caribbean.

Date: October 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, CocoCay, Cozumel, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: September 20, 2024

4-day Bahamas from Miami, Fl

Date: November 4, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, CocoCay, Miami; View Itinerary

7-day Western Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Icon of the seas, royal caribbean.

Date: July 20, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Roatan, Costa Maya, Cozumel, CocoCay, MIami; View Itinerary

Date: September 7, 2024

Date: December 27, 2024

7-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: June 15, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, St. Kitts, St. Thomas, CocoCay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: November 2, 2024

Date: September 30, 2024

Date: July 29, 2024

Date: April 7, 2025

Date: September 2, 2024

Date: December 16, 2024

Date: November 25, 2024

Date: December 21, 2024

4-day Eastern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Date: August 1, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Labadee, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: May 9, 2024

10-day Southern Caribbean from Miami, Fl

Explorer of the seas, royal caribbean.

Date: January 16, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, St. Maarten, Antigua, Castries, St. Croix, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: November 9, 2024

Date: August 5, 2024

Date: September 16, 2024

Freedom of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Date: June 17, 2024

Date: November 7, 2024

Date: August 17, 2024

Date: January 30, 2025

Date: December 28, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Grand Cayman, Falmouth, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: December 19, 2024

Date: April 12, 2024

Date: December 20, 2024

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Schedule from Miami

Date: August 30, 2024

Date: January 17, 2025

Date: July 8, 2024

Date: February 15, 2025

Date: November 16, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, St. Maarten, St. Thomas, CocoCay, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: June 7, 2024

Date: July 5, 2024

Date: November 1, 2024

Date: January 25, 2025

Ports of Call: Miami, Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: March 14, 2025

Date: September 9, 2024

Date: August 29, 2024

Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean

Date: April 14, 2024

Ports of Call: Miami, Nassau, CocoCay, Labadee, Falmouth, Miami; View Itinerary

Date: October 26, 2024

Date: February 1, 2025

Date: April 5, 2025

Date: June 29, 2024

Date: September 23, 2024

Date: June 24, 2024

Date: November 23, 2024

Date: December 14, 2024

Date: July 1, 2024

Date: October 10, 2024

Date: February 3, 2025

Date: May 31, 2024

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A Sunshine State of Mind

Cruises from florida.

Cruises from Florida unlock endless adventures from the Panhandle to the Keys.

Dubbed the cruise capital of the world, Florida is also a top-ranked holiday destination in its own right. Hugged by the calm, blue-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico on its western coast and the cool, sapphire-blue waters of the Atlantic on its eastern coast, it's a true beach lover's paradise. Thanks to the Sunshine State's location, cruises from Florida provide some of the best and most preferred ports to eastern, western and southern Caribbean isles.

As there are so many things to do in Florida, it's worth dedicating a few days before or after your cruise holiday to discover its sleepy beach towns, vibrant multicultural cities and abundance of natural beauty. A Florida holiday getaway offers something for everyone!

Sailing from Florida on a Holiday Getaway

Voyage to holiday destinations in the Bahamas, Jamaica and more with the best deals on cruises out of Florida.

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Things to do in the Sunshine State

Whether you prefer to spend your days lounging on secluded beaches, teeing up on award-winning golf courses, kayaking through lush mangroves teeming with wildlife or salsa-stepping from dusk until dawn, cruises from Florida are the perfect opportunity to experience the best things the Sunshine State has to offer.

Enjoy Bolder Beach Days

Florida has beautiful beaches along three coasts. Relish the electric atmosphere of South Beach and Fort Lauderdale Beach, or enjoy the secluded shores of Cape San Blas.

Practice your Putting in Paradise

Florida is home to more than 1,250 golf courses – more than any other US state. Play a round of golf at the Tiburón Golf Club and the scenic Black Diamond Ranch.

Explore the Ethereal Everglades National Park

The Everglades is one of the Sunshine State's most iconic natural wonders – and exploring this National Park on an airboat safari or kayaking adventure is one of the best things to do in Florida.

Great Cruises Near Me from Florida

With four major ports, sailing out of Florida offers so many exciting options to explore on a day trip before or after your cruise. Find cruising near you from Miami , Fort Lauderdale , Orlando (Port Canaveral)  or Tampa and you'll find plenty of things to do to soak up the sun and culture in the Florida region.

See More of Mesmerising Miami

Immerse in local history at the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens in Miami during the day followed by the energetic nightlife when planning a short getaway before your holiday.

EXPLORE MIAMI CRUISES

Unforgettable Fort Lauderdale Day Trips

Plan a day trip in Fort Lauderdale to enjoy the relaxing Las Olas Beach boardwalk followed by a tour of the Historic Stranahan House Museum

EXPLORE FORT LAUDERDALE CRUISES

Family Fun in Orlando

Cruise out of Orlando, and you’ll be a short drive from a wide variety of thrill-filled family amusement parks as well as the ever fascinating Cape Canaveral Kennedy Space Centre.

EXPLORE ORLANDO CRUISES

Experience Tampa's Natural Landscapes

Before or after your cruise from Tampa, explore the sprawling national reserves and watch the sunset over Florida's prettiest, least-crowded shorelines along the tranquil Gulf Coast, like Indian Rocks Beach.

EXPLORE TAMPA CRUISES

Week-Long Wanders and Short Getaway Stays

Whether you only have a few days for a sun-soaked escape or are planning a longer cruise getaway from Florida, you'll find plenty of ways to fill every moment of your holiday with new discoveries.

Extended Florida Escapes

While you can certainly fit plenty of adventure into a short cruise from Florida, more time means more thrills – and more islands to explore. Set sail from Tampa, Orlando, Miami or Fort Lauderdale for a  week-long travel holiday  that hits some of the best ports in the Caribbean.

Explore Week-Long Cruises

Great Short Cruise Getaways

Only have a few days to spare on an unforgettable cruise getaway? No problem – choose from a wide range of two-, three- and four-night itineraries cruising from Florida to the Caribbean onboard several fleet-favourite cruise ships.

Explore Short Cruises

Pack plenty of sunscreen for your cruise from Florida. It's called the Sunshine State for a reason!

If you're planning to spend a few days exploring Florida, consider hiring a car. Driving is the easiest way to get around the state.

You'll be able to use much of your Caribbean cruise wardrobe while you're holidaying in Florida – sandals, swim suits, cover-ups and breezy linen.

Bold Flavours Experience Local Florida Favourites

Florida is a melting pot of people as well as cultures – and the food scene here certainly reflects that. To the south, you'll find lots of Caribbean and Latin American influence in every bite. Venture north, to taste the flavours of the state’s local vegetable farms and fresh fishing markets.

Dine on Delectable Conch Fritters

The local crispy, golden-fried conch fritters are a harmony of Caribbean and Southern cooking influences. You'll find them at seafood restaurants from South Florida all the way up the coast.

Tuck into Some Gator Tail

Though it sounds adventurous, gator tail actually tastes a little bit like chicken and is quite delicious when cooked properly. The tail is typically deep-fried and enjoyed either as a starter or an entrée with a spicy or sweet dipping sauce.

Taste the Top Key Lime Pie

The Florida Keys are famous for many things – key lime pie among them. Traditionally made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks and a crumbly vanilla pie crust and served cold, this sweet and tart treat is the perfect remedy for the Florida heat.

RELATED PORTS

Cruises from Florida take you to some of the most beautiful jewels of the Caribbean. Whether you choose to sail to Mexico, the Bahamas, Haiti or Jamaica, you're in for captivating shores, colourful coastal villages and plenty of island vibes.

St. Croix, US Virgin Islands

Roatan, Honduras

Labadee, Haiti

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Belize City, Belize

Philipsburg, St Maarten

George Town, Grand Cayman

Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas

Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico

Falmouth, Jamaica

Cozumel, Mexico

Key West, Florida

Banana Coast (Trujillo), Honduras

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Yucatan (Progreso), Mexico

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Huatulco, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Manzanillo, Mexico

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

La Romana, Dominican Republic

Ensenada, Mexico

Mazatlan, Mexico

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

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Royal Caribbean

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

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Royal Caribbean fleet

Star of the seas, icon of the seas, utopia of the seas, wonder of the seas, odyssey of the seas, spectrum of the seas, symphony of the seas, ovation of the seas, harmony of the seas, anthem of the seas, quantum of the seas, allure of the seas, oasis of the seas, independence of the seas, liberty of the seas, review of royal caribbean.

RCI (Royal Caribbean International) is a subsidiary company and largest brand of RCG (Royal Caribbean Group, fka RCCL-Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd). This Norwegian-American corporation is currently ranked the world's second-largest passenger shipping company (after Carnival Corporation /39% market share). However, RCG owns the world's biggest passenger ships . As of 2020, RCG controlled ~24% of the global ship cruising market (fleet passenger capacity), had full ownership of 4 brands (RCI, Celebrity , Silversea , Azamara ), 49% stake in Pullmantur (51% owned by Springwater Capital), 50% stake in TUI Cruises (50% owned by TUI AG), 19% stake in Wamos Air (fka Air Pullmantur).

Company History

RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (royalcaribbeangroup.com / renamed in 2020 from RCCL-"Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd") is based in Miami (Florida USA) and incorporated in Liberia. The company was formed in 1997 when RCCL (Royal Caribbean Cruise Line/1968-established) purchased Celebrity Cruises (1988-established). A decision was made to keep the two brands separate. As result, RCCL was re-branded RCI-Royal Caribbean International (RoyalCaribbean.com) and RCCL was founded as the parent company of RCI and Celebrity.

Royal Caribbean Group's current management team is led by Jason Liberty (RCG's Chairman, President, and CEO since January 2022) and includes Palle Laursen (RCG's Executive VP), Naftali Holtz (RCG's CFO), RCI's Michael Bayley (President and CEO), Jim Berra (Chief Marketing Officer, Senior VP Marketing), Vicki Freed (Senior VP Sales), Michael Goldner (VP Revenue Management), Jessie Ortiz (VP Finance and Administration), Gregory Purdy (Senior VP Marine Operations), Nick Weir (Senior VP Entertainment), Sean Treacy (Senior VP Hotel Operations), Laura Hodges Bethge (Senior VP Product Development), Bert Hernandez (President of Royal Caribbean China). RCG's Managing Director for China and Asia is Zinan Liu.

The name RCCL (initially "Royal Caribbean Cruise Line AS) was officially accepted in 1969 (on January 31st). Other suggested names for the company included "Pleasure Cruise Line" (PCL), "Holiday Cruise Line" (HCL), "Crown Cruise Line" (CCL), "Royal Caribbean Line" (RCL). RCCL's "crowned anchor" logo was designed by Morits Skaugen and accepted in March (1969).

Around 55% of RCI's total revenue comes from the USA. The brand's other major markets are Europe, Latin America and Asia-Pacific. As of 2020, RCI ships visit a total of 322 call ports worldwide, offering 4500+ shore excursions through local tour companies.

Since 2017, Royal Caribbean has joint ownership of Grand Bahama Shipyard (Freeport) , where major drydock refurbishments and ship maintenance works take place.

Company changes 2024

In January, Jason Liberty was appointed as the Chairman of CLIA's Board of Directors (CLIA/Cruise Lines International Association). Also in January was RCG's ever-strongest booked position (as both pricing and volume/staterooms), with North America being the primary source market (~80%) and the Caribbean being RCI's most demanded region.

In March, RCI introduced fleetwide a third (Middle) dinner time, added in between the traditional two dining times in the MDRs/main restaurants (Early/5 pm or Late/8 pm). The exact Middle dinner time depends on ship/itinerary, starting sometime around 7 pm.

In late-March 2024, RCG announced plans for Royal Beach Club Cozumel . Scheduled for opening and inauguration in 2026, the exclusive destination will feature several beaches (including adults-only and suite guests-only), kids' playgrounds, freshwater pools, various drinking and dining venues, live music and entertainment.

Company changes 2023

In January RCI opened a sales office in Limassol Cyprus and Spectrum OTS was reflagged from Bahamas to Cyprus.

Since January 2023, RCI's onboard messaging system is complimentary (provided free of charge fleetwide/via Royal App) regardless of cabin category and during the entire voyage. The service used to cost US$2 per day per device.

Since March 2023, RCI provides fleetwide once-per-day cabin housekeeping service to all staterooms in non-suite categories. The service is provided either in the morning or in the afternoon (at the passenger's discretion).

There are rumors that RCI may bring back the RFID bracelets (aka WOW bands) fleetwide. They were reintroduced in early 2023 (on all OASIS- and QUANTUM Class boats) at the cost of US$10 per bracelet. WOW bands are still provided complimentary to all passengers occupying Sky Class and Star Class suites.

RCI announced that starting in April, the Sky Pad Bungee Trampoline will be removed fleetwide, and the facility will be replaced with a new venue (tba).

In 2023, the music clubs "Jazz on 4" of all OASIS-class liners were converted into non-smoking Casino Rooms. Each Casino Royale Non-Smoking is fitted with 40-46x slot machines, 3x gambling tables (1x blackjack table, 2x 3-card poker tables), a kiosk and a cashier window.

On August 25th, RCI announced the exclusive partnership with Inter Miami CF (2018-established soccer club) to become its Official Vacation Partner. In July, Lionel Andres Messi (1987-born Argentine footballer) joined Inter Miami and the club won "2023 Leagues Cup" (an international tournament between MLS and Liga MX/held in Jul 21-Aug 19). 2023 Leagues Cup's 47 teams played at 29 stadiums (77 matches, 251 goals) and Messi was the top-scorer (with 10 goals).

Since October 2023, the Diamond Lounge has been renamed Crown Lounge (fleetwide).

On November 11th (2023), RCI's daily gratuities per person (automatically charged/both adults and kids) were increased to US$18 (Junior Suites and below categories) and US$20.50 (Grand Suite and above categories).

In November RCG appointed Diane Chiang as APAC (Asia-Pacific) Sales Director. She joined RCG in 2007 (as Business Analyst) and was later promoted to Revenue Manager.

In December RCI ended its partnership with Ben & Jerry's Homemade Holdings Inc (1978-founded company that manufactures premium ice cream, frozen yogurt, and sorbet). On 13 RCI ships, the Ben & Jerry's ice cream shops (previously offering the Vermont brand) now offer in-house brand ice cream.

In December, it was rumored that RCG was negotiating to purchase Freeport's Xanadu Beach Hotel. The deal could include a land area of 40-50 acres (16-20  hectares/0,16-0,2 km2) in Freeport Harbour. The Xanadu Beach Hotel (1968-built, capacity 215 rooms) in 1972 was purchased by Howard Robard Hughes Jr (1905-1976) and also included an 80-berth yacht marina.

In 2023, RCI's 26 vessels served 6+ million travelers (~23% increase from 2022's 4,6M) and visited 252 call ports (230 in 2022). The most visited were Nassau (Bahamas) and Cozumel (Mexico), both received 3+ million tourists.

Company changes 2022

On September 7th (2022), RCI's daily gratuities per person were increased to US$16 (interior, oceanview, balcony staterooms/Junior Suites and below categories) and to US$18,50 (Grand Suite and above categories).

On August 30th, RCG signed a deal with SpaceX/Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (2002-founded by Elon Musk) for using Starlink's satellites to provide faster and low-latency Internet connections across the global fleet (Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, and Silversea ships). Trials on the new Starlink Internet services were successfully conducted on Freedom OTS in June. Starlink Internet installations were scheduled to be completed fleetwide in 2023-Q1.

On June 15th, RCG signed with Eagle LNG Partners LLC (Eagle LNG) a contract for providing LNG (liquefied natural gas) and bunkering services to LNG-powered RCI liners, the first of which is Icon OTS. The gas supply is sourced from Eagle LNG's facilities in JAXPORT-Jacksonville Florida , shipped throughout the Caribbean and bunkered by Eagle LNG-owned newbuild vessels.

In March was launched the online booking service "Royal Caribbean Hotels" via partnership with Priceline (1997-founded online booking agency specializing in travel-related products/flights, hotels, cruises). The program (available only for residents of the USA, Canada, and Mexico) allows booking pre-/post-cruise hotel stays (in all RCI ports, including in Europe, Asia-Pacific. Caribbean-Americas) with exclusive discount rates and the guarantee that RCI will cover any hotel cancellation fees if the voyage is canceled or the itinerary modified.

Company changes 2021

RCG's 2021-Q3 report included Adjusted Net Loss USD 1,2B ($4,91 per share), liquidity ~$4,1B ($3,3B cash), 40 ships in operation (~65% fleet capacity), ~USD 2,8B in cruise deposits (of which ~1/3rd in FCCs/future credits).

In October was announced RCI's first " World Cruise " scheduled for Serenade OTS . The 274-night itinerary (Dec 10, 2023, thru Sept 10, 2024) is roundtrip from PortMiami and visits 150 ports/islands (57 new for RCI), 65 countries, 7 continents.

Since 2021, on all RCI ships passengers can use for US$ 2 per person per day a "guest-to-guest chat" feature (part of the Royal App) without purchasing Internet packages. The feature allows chatting between guests one-to-one, as well as group chats.

In September RCG signed with USVA (US Virgin Islands) an MoU for two future port developments - Crown Bay (St Thomas Island) and Frederiksted (St Croix Island). The agreement included increased calls to both islands and guaranteed by RCG minimum revenues.

In September RCG signed with TraceSafe a 2-year contract for "Tracelet" (trademarked by RCG in October 2020). These are wearable tracing bands used on RCG ships for identifying the close contacts of a COVID-positive passenger/crew. The technology was introduced on Quantum OTS when the boat restarted operations from Singapore.

On May 20th RCI patented "WATER-BASED PYROTECHNIC ILLUSION". The patent (number 20210146396) is about "systems and methods for firework water illusions" and includes a device with at least 1 rotating nozzle spraying water in a radial direction, with a system to illuminate the water and create an illusion of pyrotechnics.

RCG's 2020-Q4 financial report revealed US GAAP Net Loss of USD 5,8 billion (EUR 4,774B, or US$27,05 per share) and Adjusted Net Loss of USD 3,9 billion (EUR 3,21B, or US$18,31 per share). In 2020, RCG raised ~USD 9,3B (~EUR 7,655B) through bond issuances, loans, public common stocks) and as of Dec 31 had liquidity ~USD 4,4B (EUR 3,62B, including $3,7B in cash-cash equivalents plus $0,7B from a year loan).

In mid-February RCG established a USD 40 million fund for USA-based qualifying travel agencies. The program allows 3-year, interest-free loans (max US$250,000) via CruisingPower.com.

On January 19th RCG announced an agreement to sell the brand Azamara Cruises for USD 201 million (~EUR 165,8 M / ~GBP 147,6 M / carve-out transaction) to Sycamore Partners. Sycamore Partners acquired the entire brand and its 3 ships, plus all the associated intellectual property rights and goodwill. The all-cash transaction was closed on March 19, 2021. Azamara's CEO (Carol Cabezas) was appointed President. The deal was assisted by Perella Weinberg Partners (financial advisor for RCG), Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (legal counsel for RCG) and Kirkland & Ellis (legal advice to Sycamore).

After selling 8 ships - 3x Pullmantur (Horizon, Monarch, Sovereign), 3x Azamara (Quest, Journey, Pursuit), 2x RCI (Empress, Monarch), RCG's global fleet capacity decreased by 12316 berths (5984+2138+4194).

Company changes 2020

In February RCG purchased land ("multiple real estate parcels") on Paradise Island's (Bahamas) western coast, at the cost of ~USD 54 million (~EUR 50 million). In mid-March 2020 was announced RCI's second private resort property (after Fort James in St Johns Antigua ) - Royal Beach Club Bahamas (at Paradise Island , close to Nassau ).

On March 23rd RCG loaned USD 2,2 billion (~EUR 2,03 B) with maturity in March 2021 and an optional extension for 364 more days (till March 2022). With the new financing, RCCL now has USD 3,6+ billion of liquidity (cash deposits plus undrawn credit facilities). The money was secured term-loaned from 3 US banks (JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America Corporation, Goldman Sachs Group) plus the French banking group BNP Paribas.

On July 30th RCG was officially renamed to "Royal Caribbean Group". The logo was also changed.

In late-July RCI introduced "Muster 2.0" (patented, Internet-based safety drill conducted via the eMuster mobile app). The patent was filed on September 12, 2019 (issued March 3, 2020).

Company changes 2019

In April RCG partnered with IDEMIA (fka Morpho) - Paris-based French company specializing in security and identity solutions. In 2017, Morpho merged with Oberthur Technologies. IDEMIA's services will help speed up RCCL passenger disembarkation at select US homeports via the company's MFACE (high-speed 3D facial recognition) technology. The list of homeports, for now, includes NYC (Cape Liberty NJ) and PortMiami, with more Florida homeports to me added by the end of 2019. MFACE compares disembarking passenger's facial identity with those of embarking passengers, also matching against US Customs and Border Protection provided TVS (Traveler Verification Service). Passenger privacy is guaranteed as no photos are stored either by RCCL, IDEMIA or US Customs after the cruise's completion.

On June 4th the USA banned travel to Cuba (effective immediately). On June 5, RCCL officially canceled all pre-scheduled for 2019 Cuban cruises. On both affected RCI liners ( Majesty OTS and Empress OTS ) all Cuban ports were substituted with alternative Caribbean ports. All affected customers were provided with the option to either remain on the revised cruise and receive 50% refund (in OBC) or cancel the booking with a full refund.

In late-July on Symphony OTS was introduced "Fast Track" - expedited boarding program offered in all call ports of the current itinerary. Fast Track is available for passengers in Star-Sky Class suites, Pinnacle members, "The Key" (pre-purchased daily package that includes lunch at Chops Grille, Jamie's or Giovanni's specialty restaurants), disabled passengers, and families with strollers.

In October 2019 were open for booking RCI's new "Spa Cabins" offered fleetwide in the ship classes Radiance-Voyager-Freedom-Quantum-Quantum Ultra-Oasis. The new Spa staterooms (available since 2021) offer as bonus amenities priority Spa reservations, 50% discounted Spa treatments (1 per cabin), daily room service (coffee/tea), BOSE Bluetooth speaker, tranquil artworks (on the walls), plush bedding, feather pillows, upgraded bathroom amenities (Jacuzzi showerhead, premium brand toiletries, luxury slippers and bathrobes), cushioned balcony furniture, Welcome Aboard gift (fresh fruits).

In November RCI signed a 5-year partnership deal (until 2024) with Singapore Tourism Board (under Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry) and Changi Airport Group (Singapore airport operations and management). This 3-party deal is for promoting fly-cruises to Singapore mainly (from China, India, Southeast Asia, USA) on Quantum OTS with expected ~623,000 international tourists spending ~USD 430+ million on flight+cruise packages. This is ~60% growth in comparison to the previous tripartite partnership (2015-2018) when in Singapore was homeported Mariner OTS.

In December RCI sighed with Port Galveston an agreement for building Cruise Terminal 3. The new (USD 100 million) facility is scheduled for inauguration in November 2021.

Company changes 2018

Since March 2018, RCCL offers one login for RCI and Celebrity websites and mobile apps. The new policy allows one account to be used for loyalty program benefits, bookings, and reservations with both brands. Account security was also simplified and strengthened to ensure customers' personal data.

Since May 2018 fleetwide are used only cage-free eggs and gestation stall-free pork. By the year 2024, for all its USA-based ships, RCCL will purchase poultry only from GAP-certified producers/dealers. The corporation will require chickens to be slaughtered and processed in a manner that doesn't involve live dumping and shackling, thus eliminating conscious throat-slitting and scalding.

Since June 2018, RCI's ship bars serve cocktails with optional plastic straws (not by default) - a new policy aiming to reduce sea pollution. "Why no straws?" signs at onboard bars fleetwide now indicate that drink orders will not automatically receive a straw, but only upon request.

In June-July RCCL acquired 2/3 of the top-luxury brand Silversea . On June 14, 2018, RCCL and Manfredi Lefebvre D'Ovidio (Silversea's majority stock owner) announced an agreement for RCCL to acquire 66,7% equity stake in Silversea, at purchase price ~USD 1 billion. At the time, Silversea was valued ~USD 2 billion. RCCL financed the deal (through debt) in October. In addition to the cash money, Lefebvre family received ~472,000 RCCL shares. With the addition of Silversea (4 expedition ships) and the newbuild Celebrity Flora (Galapagos) , RCCL's expedition fleet in 2019 grew to approx 2,5% of the corporation's combined fleet (compared to 0,5% in 2018). By combined expedition cruise berths, RCCL is ranked the world's 4th largest operator - following Ponant , Hurtigruten and Lindblad . In July 2020, RCCL-Royal Caribbean Group purchased Silversea's remaining shares from Heritage Cruise Holding Ltd. The purchase was in the form of 5,2 million RCL shares (~2,5% of RCCL's total common stock).

(deposit program changes) Since November 2018, RCI customers booking non-refundable deposit fares don't receive onboard credit (US$100) per stateroom. Instead, they are promised the lowest pricing on the fare.

RCCL has a call center in Springfield OR, operated since 2006. The customized office resembles a cruise ship. In 2014, the company employed there over 700 people. In August 2018 was announced that RCCL plans to outsource most of its Springfield jobs (~90%, excepting only sales employees) to the company's call centers in Jamaica and Guatemala. This means that US sales agents will do the bookings, but when customers call back with issues they will be re-routed overseas.

On October 1st RCI announced that the company's 50th birthday cruise (themed "50 Years Bold Birthday Cruise") will be held on Symphony OTS (November 2-9, 2019). The 7-day Eastern Caribbean itinerary from PortMiami visited St Maarten, San Juan Puerto Rico, CocoCay Bahamas, and featured unique programming, special events, surprise guest performers.

All RCG-owned vessels are serviced by Wartsila ( Helsinki Finland -based corporation, marine equipment manufacturer and maritime services provider). In 2018, RCCL and Wartsila extended their service agreement to 2028. Under the agreement, Wartsila optimizes machinery efficiency through improved Turbocharger maintenance, also provides OEM (original equipment manufacturer) spare parts, workshop services, technical assistance for the entire RCCL fleet. The deal covers a total of 196 marine diesel engines on 46 vessels. Most RCCL liners are equipped with Wartsila-developed monitoring technology sending real-time engine data to a land-based center for analysis.

Royal Caribbean International (RCI)

Royal Caribbean is in the top 3 "best family cruise lines" (together with CCL-Carnival and DCL-Disney) and owns the world's largest and some of the most popular ships for young adults, kids, and teens. As a mass-market company, RCI is recommended mostly for young and middle-aged, active and sports-oriented travelers.

A signature feature of RCI ships is the "Viking Crown Lounge", introduced in 1970 with RCI's first ship MS Song of Norway (2013-scrapped as "Formosa Queen"). As RCI ships grew in size, this top-deck observation lounge also grew. On the VISION-Class ships (1995) its location was changed - from forward to midship-aft (near the smokestacks) allowing more space to be allocated for new amenities and entertainment.

In 2014 and 2015, RCI introduced the Dynamic Dining concept that replaced the Main Dining Room concept on QUANTUM-class ships.

• RCI vessels with Dynamic Dining don't have an MDR/Main Dining Room. Instead, they feature complimentary table service restaurants, each with its own theme and menu: "The Grande", "American Icon Grill", "Chic" and "Silk".
• Suite passengers have access to "Coastal Kitchen" (complimentary restaurant). Similar to the Freestyle concept on NCL Norwegian , passengers make reservations for their restaurant choice for each night in advance.
• Each venue maintains the same staff and menu throughout the cruise. Anthem OTS has a "Dynamic Dining Classic" option, allowing guests to rotate between dining venues but keep the same waiter, assistant waiter, and tablemates.

The company had planned to extend the Dynamic Dining to OASIS-class liners. During 2014-2015 drydock refurbishments , decor and signage were installed on the 3 levels of the MDRs of Allure OTS and Oasis OTS to prepare them to function as separate restaurants ("The Grande", "Silk", "American Icon Grill"), although the 3 levels continued operating as a single MDR. The suite-only restaurant Coastal Kitchen was also installed. However, on July 15, 2015, RCI announced that the dynamic dining concept would not be rolled out fleetwide.

Besides the multi-deck MDRs, RCI also features the "Chops Grille" (steakhouse(, "Windjammer Cafe" (Lido buffet restaurant), Johnny Rockets, Izumi (Japanese/Asian), poolside bars, 24-hour Room Service. "Cupcake Cupboard" is a ship bakery (available on the newest and refurbished ships) offering 30 gourmet cupcakes. Select RCI ships offer Starbucks Coffee at Sea.

RCI's new alcohol policy allows passengers to bring their own wine onboard and consume it in cabins (for free) or for a corkage fee (additional charge) in public areas.

(trademarks) New services, venues, trademarked ship names

Note: OTS="Of The Seas"

In January 2017 were trademarked (USPTO-registered) the ship names Valhalla OTS, Sunrise OTS, Icon OTS , Symphony OTS . On September 15, 2014, RCCL trademarked the ship names Spectrum OTS , Harmony OTS , Emblem OTS, Joy OTS, Apex OTS. In September 2015 were abandoned the trademarks Emblem OTS, Passion OTS, Pulse OTS, Apex OTS, Joy OTS, Spectrum OTS . Other currently trademarked by Royal Caribbean ship names include Gallant OTS, Phenom OTS, Valhalla OTS, Sunrise OTS.

In September 2018 were trademarked 3 ship names (could be used for future newbuilds) - Eon OTS, Gallant OTS, Phenom OTS. In October was trademarked Metropolis OTS.

In September 2018 was trademarked the OASIS-Class ships' smokestack area (located top-deck midship). The design features a crown-shaped bottom section with 2 slanted funnels above. In October 2018 was trademarked the hull's oblong-shaped stern. The design features AquaTheater Suites (with balconies), Ultimate Abyss (2 cascading waterslides) and RCCL's logo. In December 2018 was trademarked the name "Fly Rider" (amusement park ride/similar to a zip-line roller coaster ride).

In October 2019, RCI partnered with Funky Buddha Brewery (Oakland Park FL) for an exclusive beer label available only on CocoCay Island. The private beer label ("Chilla Thrilla") was trademarked on July 8, 2019. The craft beer (5% ABV) is a tropical ale (with mango and guava) packaged in 12-oz cans and is offered in different labels themed after CocoCay's areas.

In April 2020, RCG filed a trademark application for "Seaface" - its own sanitary mask brand ("medical apparatus") intended for cruise ship services.

In October 2020 were trademarked the names of 4 new shipboard venues - Vue Bar, Cask & Clipper (pub restaurant?), Wonder Playscape (kids playground?), Cantina Fresca (Mexican food bar).

In January 2020 were trademarked 15x names for new services and shipboard venues - Go Green, Roosevelt's Table, Royal Dueling Pianos, Royal Suite Club, Cloud 17 (adults-only sundeck), Lou's Jazz Club, Playaway Park (kids), The Overlook, The Yard, The Lemon Post (bar), Absolute Zero (ice bar), Challenger's (bar), Surfside (bar), Salty Sip (bar), AquaDome (glass roof over the pool deck).

In March 2021 was trademarked the phrase "America's Cruise Line" (software-related).

In October 2021 were trademarked 3x shipboard BBQ restaurant names ("The Mason Jar", "Savannah's Table", "Palmetto Room"), as well as "RCTV" (in-cabin TV programming), "Cruise Compass" (daily onboard newspaper), "RCG" (abbrev) and "Royal Caribbean Group" (shipowner).

In November 2021 were trademarked 6x names for ship waterslides - "Perfect Storm", "Hurricane Hunter", "Category 6", "Pressure Drop", "Storm Surge", "Storm Chasers".

In December 2021 were trademarked 23x possible ship names (all with OTS) - Magnificence, Melody, Fantasia, Paradise, Vibrance, Splendor, Grace, Sanctuary, Illumination, Unity, Intrigue, Aria, Awe, Aura, Eternity, Eden, Euphoria, Bliss, Utopia , Marvel, Nirvana, Haven, Divine. Also was trademarked "Royal Beach Club" (Nassau).

In January 2022 was trademarked "Accessory Place" (retail shop services that include selling jewelry) and "Cruiseverse" (virtual cruise ship services).

In June 2022 were trademarked the ship names Hero OTS, Majesty OTS, Marquee OTS, Monarch OTS, Nova OTS, Splendor OTS, Star OTS , Sun OTS, Titan OTS.

In September 2022 was trademarked "Icon of Vacations".

RCI cruise ships classes

RCI's fleet has vessels in the following classes:

Note: All vessels have an Outdoor Movie Theater (poolside large LED screen for movies), Solarium (adults-only pool deck), Aqua Park, Rock Climbing Wall, FlowRider (surf simulator), 3D Cinema, Virtual Balcony Staterooms.

• "Oasis Class" ships (Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony) feature Neighborhoods, AquaTheater, 3D Movies, Waterslides (Harmony, Symphony), Zip Line, 2 FlowRiders, 2 Climbing Walls, Carousel, Ice-Skating Rink, Loft Suites (2-deck cabins).
• "Icon Class" is a new design vessel with GT ~250K tons and passenger capacity 5600. The design is represented by 3x units ( Icon OTS , Apex OTS, Joy OTS) and features 8x neighborhoods and numerous fleet-firsts in technologies, venues, amenities, cabin types and categories.
• "Quantum Class" (Quantum, Anthem, Ovation) and "Quantum Ultra Class" (Spectrum, Odyssey) feature North Star (top-deck, mobile observation capsule/costs $25 pp), RipCord by iFLY (sky-diving simulator/$55 pp), Seaplex (large indoor sports complex), Two70 Lounge (3-deck high), Loft Suites, Music Hall (2-deck venue).
• "Freedom Class" (ships Freedom, Liberty, Independence) features Ice-Skating Rink, Royal Promenade (indoor street).
• "Radiance Class" (ships Radiance, Brilliance, Serenade, Jewel) features Glass Elevators, Gyroscopic Self-Leveling Pool Tables, Mini-Golf Course.
• "Vision Class" ships (Grandeur, Rhapsody, Enchantment, Vision) is the fleet's oldest, excepting only the "Sovereign Class" ships Majesty and Empress.

The Voyager-class, Freedom-class, and Oasis-class vessels have Royal Promenade. It is a centerline promenade in a multi-deck Atrium with a pedestrian (shopping mall-like) area lined with restaurants and shops. At night, the Royal Promenade turns into an entertainment venue hosting live parades and dance parties. Royal Promenade's upper levels have "Promenade Staterooms" (each with a large window overlooking the promenade below).

All RCI ships have an Escape Room (team-building, adventure gaming experiences/$20 pp), Flowriders (surfing simulator/private lessons cost $69-500), Gaming Arcades ($1-3 per game). Optional are the Behind the Scenes (ship tour/costs $49-129 pp), fitness classes ($12 pp), cooking classes ($35-70 pp).

The next aerial photo shows a VOYAGER-class ship (Adventure, Explorer, Mariner, Navigator, Voyager).

On February 18, 2019, RCI signed a shipbuilding agreement with STX France (Chantiers de l'Atlantique Shipyard in St Nazaire ) for a 6th OASIS liner (yard's 23rd vessel built for RCG). The ship ( Utopia OTS ) has volume 236857 GT-tons, LOA 362 m (1188 ft) and 2834 cabins (capacity 5634-6788 passengers).

On April 24, 2019, STX France started construction works on the 5th OASIS unit (Wonder OTS/2022), and on July 1st, 2022, on the 6th unit (Utopia OTS/2024).

The next aerial photo shows an OASIS/OASIS PLUS-class ship as looked from above.

Instead of Royal Promenade, Quantum-class liners have "Royal Esplanade" - a 2-deck high shopping complex without any overlooking "Promenade cabins".

Royal Caribbean ships offer a wide list of onboard facilities, the main of which include Grand-style productions Theatre, Live Comedy Club, Disco/Nightclub, Casino Royale, Library. Sports facilities include Studio B/Ice-Skating Rink, Rock Climbing Wall, FlowRider/surfing simulator, a Multiple Sports Court, Walking/Jogging Track, Golf Simulator, ZIP-Line, H2O Zone (Waterpark with Waterslide), Adventure Beach. Only Quantum ships have Bumper Cars, Skydiving Simulator, North Star/rotational capsule.

In 2016, RCI entered the "Guinness Book of World Records" in the category "Highest Viewing Deck on a Cruise Ship". The record was because of the "North Star" glass-walled observation capsule rising over 300 ft (91 m) above sea level and rotating upwards and over the ship's sides providing 360-degree views.

Next photo shows an ICON-class ship.

Families cruising with infants and toddlers benefit from RCI's nursery programs "Royal Babies" and "Royal Tots". Supervised children's club activities are available by RCI's children's program "Adventure Ocean".

CocoCay Island refurbishments 2018-2019 expansion

Since 2015, RCCL/RCG invests huge money in the corporation's private Bahamian island CocoCay .

In March 2018 was announced a USD 200-million project (named "Perfect Day Island Collection") for developing private land destinations in the regions of the Caribbean, Asia, and Australia-Oceania. As part of this project, on CocoCay will be built unique water attractions.

Thrill Waterpark attraction has 2 water towers (Daredevil's Tower, Family Tower) with a total of 13 slides. The Daredevil's Tower complex consists of North America's tallest waterslide (named Daredevil's Peak, height 135 ft / 41 m), Dueling Demons (2 drop slides), Manta Raycers (2 high-speed slides), Screeching Serpent (fully vertical slide), Green Mamba (coiling slide), as well as Caribbean's largest wave pool (Adventure Pool ) with obstacle course (lily pads), rock-climbing wall, . The Family Tower complex consists of all 6 waterslides, including 1 tubed (The Twister, capacity 2 persons sharing 1 raft), 1 zero-gravity (The Slingshot, capacity 4 persons) and 1 racing (Splash Speedway, with 4 lanes).

Caribbean's biggest freshwater swimming pool (named Oasis Lagoon) has a swim-up bar and water loungers.

Caribbean's only Zip-line with water landing has length 1600 ft (488 m) and crisscrosses the island at heights up to 50 ft (15 m).

The Bahamas' highest vantage point (an attraction named "Up, Up and Away") is a helium balloon flying up to 450 ft (137 m) above ground.

Newly added amenities include wave runner and boat tours, snorkeling, private cabanas and daybeds for rental, several beach bars with upgraded menus.

CocoCay has 3 new beaches - Chill Island Beach (private cabanas, daybeds), South Beach (designed for beachside activities/volleyball, basketball, soccer, paddleboards, glass-bottom sea kayaks, zorbs, has bungalows, daybeds, teepees/cone-shaped tents) and Coco Beach Club (overwater cabanas/rentals are inclusive of 1 hammock, 1 waterslide, dedicated service by an attendant). The complex also has a freshwater infinity pool, full bar, restaurant.

In May 2018 were announced plans to build permanent accommodations on CocoCay allowing Suite passengers to stay on the island overnight (or longer). The concept includes premium cabanas serving passengers on any of the RCI ships calling at CocoCay.

In 2017-2018 was constructed a new pier (can handle RCI's largest boats), as well as a basketball court, bocce ball court, bowling court, volleyball nets, large-size pool table.

In 2016 CocoCay was upgraded with a swim-up bar at Barefoot Beach, new cabanas, new island dock (for tenders), 35 beach bungalows (capacity 6 persons each) at Barefoot Beach.

In 2015, the island was upgraded with new trams (quieter and taller) and was added a new / shorter tram route and a new freshwater shower (at Barefoot Beach).

(NEW) Lucaya Resort Bahamas

In March 2019, the joint venture company Holistica Ltd (RCCL and ITM Group / Mumbai India ) signed a letter of intent with The Bahamas government for the purchase of Grand Lucayan Resort (an all-inclusive resort complex) and redevelopment of the Bahamian cruise port Freeport Harbor. The 2-year, USD 195 million project includes Grand Lucayan Resort's purchase (USD 65 million) plus USD 135 million for development works. The new (RCL-exclusive) cruise port is expected to bring ~2 million additional tourists to Grand Bahama Island annually. The project includes the construction of a theme park and a 5-star hotel. Grand Lucayan Resort suffered significant damages during Hurricane Matthew (October 2016) and was forced to close 2/3 of its property.

On June 24, 2019, RCCL and ITM Group established the Miami-headquartered joint venture company "Holistica" which specializes in cruise port development projects worldwide. Holistica's first project was the USD 275 million Grand Lucayan Resort in Freeport Bahamas . Developments by Holistica were also planned for Costa Maya (Mexico), Roatan Island (Honduras) and Kumamoto (Kyushu Island, Japan).

On March 2, 2020, RCCL officially announced Holistica's USD 300 million private cruise resort project "Lucaya Property". The investment includes redeveloping (expanding) the Freeport Cruise Terminal (to be renamed to "Harbour Village") and building a leisure complex with a large hotel (526 rooms), wellness facilities, shopping village, convention center (sized 40,000 ft2 / 3720 m2), theme park (with water slides, outdoor playgrounds, zip-lines).

Lucaya Property is approx 9 mi (15 km) west of Harbour Village (Freeport Cruise Terminal). At Harbour Village for tourists will be introduced new shopping and dining venues (bars, restaurants), live entertainment and nightlife programming, beach zones, new shore excursions, new transport infrastructure (serving ferries, buses, passenger vehicles). The Lucaya Property project is planned for completion in 2022-Q4.

RCI "VOOM" Internet

VOOM is the trademarked name of RCI's high-speed Internet service providing faster connectivity at sea, with almost the same Internet speeds as on land. The new satellite technology utilizes each ship specifically.

VOOM Internet has latency 120 ms, ping ~300 ms, download speed ~4,6 Mbps, upload speed ~5,2 Mbps. VOOM allows fast streaming of music and movies (incl YouTube, Netflix), uploading multiple (incl big-sized) pictures, also video chatting (FaceTime, Skype, conference calls), checking email, web surfing, stable and fast VPN connections. The onboard system is based on the 802.11b wireless connection (theoretical bandwidth peak of 11 Mbps).

• Onboard Internet access is integrated to the stateroom number and the personal onboard account. Following the log-on to the ship's wireless network "Royal WiFi", there is an option for creating an Internet account where the passenger can sign up for a particular Internet plan or pay by the minute. The charge is always applied to the cabin (onboard) account.
• While using the VOOM Internet package, passengers can switch between various mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops). However, the number of devices connected at the same time is limited by the Internet plan.
• The cruise ship also has several Internet workstations available for all passengers on an FCFS basis (a first-come-first-served).
• Among the cheaper alternatives to the VOOM are connecting onboard (while the ship is in ports of call) or ashore (in restaurants, bars, etc).

In August 2022 RCG signed a deal with SpaceX (2002-founded by Elon Musk) for using Starlink's satellites to provide faster and low-latency Internet fleetwide (RCI, Celebrity, and Silversea). The project was completed in 2023-Q1.

New Internet packages cost (2023 prices)

RCI's ship internet offering was revamped from only one plan into different per day packages with pricing based on the number of included devices. Two new packages are currently available for booking:

• Note: All below listed unlimited Internet package prices are CruisePlanner booking rates and include the 30% pre-cruise booking discount. Packages can be purchased onboard and also pre-purchased (before the cruise) via RCI's "Cruise Planner" booking system.
• "Voom Surf Voyage" is the "light package" providing high-speed Internet for general web browsing, e-mails and social media platforms (except video streaming). The "Voom Surf Voyage" Internet package cost (per day) depends on the number of mobile devices using it. "Voom Surf" pricing is as follows: $13 (1 device), $12 (2 devices), $10 (4 devices) and $20 (Single Day Pass per device / per day).
• "Voom Surf + Stream" is the "real deal", offering unlimited Internet activities, including high-speed video streaming (music, movies, video chatting, texting, VoIP apps /Internet phone calls). The "Voom Surf + Stream" Internet package cost (per day) also depends on the number of mobile devices included. Voom Surf + Stream pricing is as follows: $18 (1 device), $16 (2 devices), $14 (4 devices) and $28 (Single Day Pass per device / per day).

Occasionally, Royal Caribbean offers VOOM package discounts for passengers with pre-purchased online (via CruisePlanner) internet packages. Discounts are also offered for Royal Caribbean loyalty program members (Crown and Anchor Society) when the VOOM package is purchased onboard.

RCI's Cruise Planner packages & prices

Cruise Planner is an online booking system for adding/pre-purchasing shore excursions, specialty restaurants, beverage packages, internet packages, photo packages, gifts and gear, onboard activities (ship tour, special events), The Key (VIP access program), as well as making wellness reservations (massage and body therapies, treatments, teeth whitening, beauty services, fitness classes, personal training, etc).

Specialty restaurant dining packages currently offered by RCI include "Unlimited" (lunches, snacks, dinners), "3-Night" (3x dinners) and "Chops+1" (1x Chops Grille dinner plus 1x dinner at another restaurant).

Drink packages include Deluxe (all-inclusive), Refreshment (non-alcoholic) and Soda (unlimited refills with included a Coca-Cola souvenir cup).

The Key (VIP program offering exclusive onboard perks) must be purchased prior the voyage and is priced US$20-35 per person per day.

Arcade Gaming credit packages via CruisePlanner cost less ($20 vs $25, $40 vs $50, $80 vs $100).

Loyalty program (Crown and Anchor Society)

Through this program, regular customers accumulate points (booking 7-day and longer voyages) to become members and earn discounts and gifts.

Since January 2013, RCI's exclusive partnership with MGM Resorts International provides benefits to members of both companies' loyalty programs (Crown & Anchor Society/M life) and access and rewards at MGM Resorts' properties in the USA (casino gaming, hotel accommodations, dining, spa) and onboard RCI's liners. MGM Resorts' portfolio of resort brands includes properties in Las Vegas (Bellagio, MGM Grand, ARIA, Vdara, Mandalay Bay, Delano, The Mirage, Luxor, New York-New York, Excalibur, Park MGM, NoMad), Detroit (MGM Grand), Mississippi (Beau Rivage, Gold Strike Tunica ), Atlantic City NJ (Borgata), Oxon Hill MD (MGM National Harbor), Springfield MA (MGM Springfield).

GOLD Level (3-29 points)

Gold level members receive loyalty program-only benefits (Onboard Offers, Exclusive Rates, Desk for inquiries, member newsletter, exclusive email offers), priority notices (promo offers, new ships/itineraries), additional points (for bookings Suites and/or single cabins), various onboard discounts.

All above levels receive these perks by default.

These are exemplary discounts for Gold level members - up to 50% off wine-beer-soda by the glass/2x coupons per voyage, -25% Coffee Beverage/excluding Starbucks, -50% Johnny Rockets Milkshakes/2x coupons per voyage, -10% any VOOM-Internet Package, -10% Logoed Products/min purchase US$25, -10% any Spa Service/excluding Medi-Spa).

PLATINUM Level (30-54 points)

Platinum level members receive robes (onboard use only), Signature Lapel Pin, booking discounts (on Balcony cabins and Suites).

EMERALD Level (55-79 points)

Emerald level members receive Welcome Waters and Snacks (with Beverage Selection) and bigger booking discounts (on Balconies and Suites).

DIAMOND Level (80-174 points) perks

• Discounts on booking Suites and Balconies - US$225 discount per cabin (7-day itinerary)
• One day free VOOM internet access
• Exclusive access to Diamond Lounge (complimentary brand coffees, continental breakfast, light lunch option/sandwiches-fruits-desserts, evening happy hour/appetizers)
• 4x free drinks pp per day

DIAMOND PLUS Level (175-699) perks

• Two days free VOOM internet access
• 5x free drinks pp per day
• 1x BOGO offer (dining at any specialty restaurant paying 1x cover charge and the second person dines for free) - except Izumi Restaurant (Japanese) and Chef's Table (VIP Dining Room).

After 340 points is offered lunch with an officer (in the MDR/main dining room), with a special menu (champagne and wine included).

Lifeguards on RCI ships

Since 2017, all RCI ships have onboard licensed lifeguards by the line's "water safety program", implemented fleetwide. By the new program, water safety signs are placed throughout the ship.

Ship's lifeguards are dressed in special uniforms (in bright red and white) and stationed at every swimming pool, including the Solarium (adults-only retreat) during the complex's opening hours. All Royal Caribbean lifeguards are trained through the RCI's partnership with StarGuard Elite (Florida-based lifeguard training center).

• The water safety program includes a 15-min presentation (on embarkation day). The instruction is for by both kids and parents and held during Adventure Ocean's open-house session.
• Swim vests for all kids (aged 4-12) are readily available. Additional signage is added around swimming pool areas and in all cabins to encourage parents to use them.
• Kids under 12 require a parent or guardian to be present when swimming in any of the cruise ship's pools.

RCI's water safety program was rolled out fleetwide in 2017 (February-June). Next are listed all RCI boats and the itinerary dates (2017) when each implemented the new lifeguard service.

• Oasis (February 26-March 5)
• Harmony (March 7-11)
• Independence (March 11-16)
• Anthem (March 11-14)
• Liberty (March 12-19)
• Freedom (March 22-29)
• Allure (March 23-26)
• Brilliance (March 24-30)
• Quantum (March 26-31)
• Ovation (March 29-April 3)
• Navigator (March 31-April 5)
• Serenade (March 31-April 7)
• Jewel (March 31-April 4)
• Rhapsody (April 5-8)
• Majesty (April 21-24)
• Empress (April 24-29)
• Adventure (April 26-29)
• Enchantment (May 8-12)
• Grandeur (May 13-18)
• Explorer (May 15-26)
• Mariner (May 26-June 4)
• Radiance (May 28-June 6)
• Voyager (June 5-12)
• Vision (June 15-27)

The news made RCI the 2nd major cruise company with shipboard lifeguards - following DCL-Disney (employing certified lifeguards since 2013) and followed by NCL-Norwegian (in 2017 summer) starting with NCL's 4 largest vessels and employing onboard lifeguards fleetwide by 2018.

Shipboard poolside activities (listed in the newsletter "Cruise Compass") vary, but some of the common ones include watching movies (on the LED screen), playing bingo, hosting fun competitions, games, classes (scuba, fitness, dance, yoga, etc).

RCI "NextCruise" (onboard booking)

In August 2017, Royal Caribbean changed "Next Cruise" (onboard cruise booking program). NextCruise allows passengers to book a future RCI itinerary while on the ship. The old program included booking with reduced deposits.

Since August 2017, the deposit required for onboard booking is the same as the deposit required with shore bookings (ranging between USD 100-450 per stateroom, depending on itinerary length).

Since December 2017, NextCruise shipboard booking customers are eligible to pay a reduced deposit (USD 100 pp) regardless of voyage length - but only if they book with non-refundable fares. Refundable fare bookings still require a full deposit. This offer is available on all RCI cruises - excluding only China roundtrips. The USD 100 pp deposit is applicable when booking Interior Cabin up to Junior Suite.

• Grand Suite and above stateroom bookings require a full deposit.
• Group bookings are also not eligible for the USD 100 pp deposit.
• In case non-refundable fare bookings are canceled, "Future Cruise Credit" will not be issued.

Currently, the only benefit from onboard cruise booking is the future onboard credit (abbrev OBC), which is based on cabin type:

• 4-5 night itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 25 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 50), Grand Suite and higher (USD 150)
• 6-9 night itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 50 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 100), Grand Suite and higher (USD 300)
• 10-night and longer itineraries - Inside and Oceanview cabins (USD 100 per cabin), Balcony Stateroom and Junior Suite (USD 200), Grand Suite and higher (USD 500).

In May 2019, RCI introduced the "Book Later" booking option available at all ships' NextCruise Offices, in addition to "Book Now" (booking a specific itinerary). Book Later allows future bookings up to 2 months thus providing more time to consider itineraries while retaining the shipboard booking discount/bonus. Book Later requires a non-refundable deposit of USD 200 per stateroom (US$100 per cabin if booking a specific itinerary) and gives up to USD 600 in OBC or instant savings. Book Later deals expire within 1 year (after creating the onboard reservation) and the deposits paid will be lost.

RCI Cruise Cancellation Policy

Starting April 18, 2018, Royal Caribbean passengers who want to cancel an upcoming cruise without penalty have to do so farther out from the departure date than before. The new RCI cruise cancellation policy simplifies the penalty fee schedule by reducing the number of itinerary categories from 5 to 2: those of 1 to 4 nights and those 5 nights or longer.

• Under the old policy, travelers booked on 1 to 5-night-long itineraries could cancel up to 60 days prior to departure without a cancellation fee.
• The new RCI cancellation policy changes the cruise length/itinerary duration to 1 to 4 nights (including short holiday and mini-cruise deals) and requires cancellation at least 75 days before departure.
• Cruises 1- to 4- night-long canceled between 74 and 61 days out incur a fee of 50% of the total price. Cruises canceled 60 to 31 days out incur a fee of 75% of the total fare and any cruise canceled within 30 days or less of departure is not refunded at all (100% cancellation fee).
• The second tier of cancellations includes any itineraries 5 nights or longer, including cruise tours and holiday voyages. Under the old policy, cruises 6 nights or longer, holiday voyages 1 to 5 days, holiday voyages 6 nights or longer, and cruise tours had separate cancellation penalty schedules. By the new policy, itineraries 5 nights or longer must be canceled at least 90 days before departure date to avoid the cancellation fee. Previously, RCI customers could cancel 75 to 90 days before departure, depending on itinerary category.
• Cruises 5 nights or longer canceled 89 to 75 days before departure incur a penalty equal to 25% deposit paid. Cruises canceled 74 to 61 days incur penalties of 50% of the total price. Cruises canceled 60 to 31 days incur penalties of 75% of the fare Cruises canceled within 30 days or less of departure is not refunded at all (100% cancellation fee).

The previous time when RCI updated its cancellation policy was on March 7, 2016.

Shore Excursions Cancellation Policy

On June 15, 2017, Royal Caribbean International implemented a new "Shore Excursions Cancellation Policy" fleetwide. The new policy transitions from 1 day / 24-hour before land tour departure date to 48 hours before cruise port arrival date.

• Shore Excursions can be modified/changed or canceled up to 2 days / 48 hours before seaport arrival date without any penalty.
• Land Tours that involve travel by air/flights (international and domestic), trains, also special/themed events, overnight hotel stays and Private Journeys (customized tours) must be canceled 30 days before cruise departure date to avoid cancellation fees/penalties.
• In the event a land tour is canceled 48-hours before seaport arrival date, a full refund is provided to the passenger's onboard account.

At the end of March 2017, RCCL corporation launched its own land tour travel website - GoBe.com. The website is non-cruise travel-related and allows international travelers to book tours and excursions in 97 countries and 896 cities worldwide.

• As of 2017, tour prices (per person) ranged from USD 14 (Cape Town bus tour) to USD 3,785 (Rome helicopter tour).
• The new website is managed by Larry Pimentel (RCCL's Chief Destination Officer, also Azamara Club's President and CEO. The website provides full tour information, including duration, activity level, languages, etc.
• Optional custom itinerary planning is also offered.

On select voyages, RCI offers a behind-the-scenes "crew life" tour with duration 2 hours. The "All Access Crew Life Tour" (priced USD 79 pp) can be booked via CruisePlanner and offers a glimpse of what it is like to work and live on the ship.

RCI fly-cruise packages are via the company's Air2Sea program.

Non-Refundable Cruise Deposit Policy

On July 1, 2017, RCI implemented fleetwide a new, non-refundable cruise deposit program.

• USD 100 "cruise change" fee per person (pp) is imposed on each booked reservation (under "non-refundable deposit fare") opting to change the originally selected vessel and/or departure date.
• Multiple adjustments to the vessel/departure date result in the assessment of USD 100 pp change fee for each qualifying change made to the booked reservation. RCI doesn't limit the number of changes.
• Outside of final payment, when a non-refundable cruise deposit cancellation occurs, booked passengers receive "Future Cruise Certificate" in the amount of the cruise deposit, minus the USD 100 pp change fee.
• Non-refundable deposits are the only option for booking higher-grade Suites, and also for all guaranteed cabin categories.

In late February 2017, the RCCL corporation imposed a fee of USD 65 pp in case of leaving the cruise early (whatever the reason might be). Passengers who refuse to pay face the prospect of being banned from RCCL cruise ships FOREVER.

RCI pet/animal policy

In August 2018, RCI updated its "emotional support animals" policy by banning such animals fleetwide. Support/companion animals are not recognized by ADA. By definition, these are pets determined by a medical professional as providing benefits for handicapped people (cruise passengers with disabilities).

In an officially issued statement, RCI explained as the main reason for its policy change to differentiate support from service animals, the latter of which are trained and certified to help the disabled. Service animals traveling with physically / non-physically disabled passengers are still allowed on the ships. Pets are not allowed on RCI ships.

Photo packages prices

In late June 2017, RCI added two photo packages (available for online purchasing at CruisePlanner) both including two options - digital (unlimited photos are uploaded on a USB stick) and printed.

• The unlimited digital photo package costs US$250.
• The 50-prints/digitals photo package costs US$140.
• The 20-prints/digitals photo package costs US$200.
• The 10-prints/digitals photo package costs US$110.
• The 5-prints/digitals photo package costs US$70.

Before 2017, RCI offered photo packages for online purchasing on a separate website.

Private photo sessions can be also booked.

RCI "Cruise Compass" (onboard newsletter)

"Cruise Compass" is named the RCI's onboard newsletter delivered by cabin attendants each evening. This is a daily guide for news, onboard events, and activities on the cruise ship scheduled for the next day.

The newsletter also provides valuable information regarding forecasted weather, bars with drink specials, itinerary ports of call and shore excursions info, themed events (parties, lectures, seminars, etc), sporting events.

• Some of the events are not repeated, other activities change daily.
• RCI doesn't publish "Cruise Compass" guides for upcoming cruises in advance.
• age 1 is an overview of what to expect the next day, including port, weather report, specials, highlighted events, dedicated "Important things to know today" section.
• Page 2 lists more onboard events, sales, and special offers. The "Activity and Entertainment Highlights" section lists headlines of all evening show performances onboard,
• Page 3 lists all the ship's venues (bars, restaurants, food bars, lounges, Spa, Gym, etc) and their opening hours. Here is also the RCI's main dining room dress code. At the page's bottom is the "drink of the day" special - a discount-priced cocktail.
• Page 4 lists all the next day's activities broken down by time (morning, afternoon, evening) - all shipboard events, each has time, title and deck location.
• "Adventure Ocean" is another newsletter providing information about kids programming (small children and teens) scheduled on the cruise ship. Some of these events are also listed in the "Cruise Compass". "Adventure Ocean" newsletter has "Daily Planner" with kids and teen activities (broken up by ages).

The "Royal iQ" app is available on some RCI ships and features a "Cruise Compass" digital copy. This mobile app allows adding specific events directly to your own digital calendar. Via the app, you can make reservations (spa, dining, etc) or add activities directly from the "Cruise Compass" to your own calendar. Your own daily schedule will be automatically updated. Unfortunately, the app works only on Quantum- and Oasis-class ships.

RCI's shipboard All Access Tour (aka behind-the-scenes tour)

Like most mainstream brands, RCI offers a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship providing access to areas where passengers are otherwise not allowed to visit.

Conducted only on a sea day, the 2-hour "All Access Tour" is a walking tour of 6x areas - Galley/Kitchen, Navigation Bridge (the Wheelhouse and both bridge wings), Engines/control room, waste management (trash separation and disposal), laundry room (deck 1), food storage rooms, the Royal Theater (backstage). Participants are required to wear pants and closed-toed shoes, and are provided with earpieces to hear the tour guide's narration. The tour leader also often hands off the technical explanations to a crew working in the visited area for more detailed information on the facilities.

RCI's shipboard "DreamWorks Experience" program

"DreamWorks Experience" was a family-themed program via a partnership between Royal Caribbean International and Amblin Partners (DreamWorks SKG's owner company). Universal Pictures is the distributor of DreamWorks movie productions through its subsidiary company Touchstone Pictures.

RCI's DreamWorks programming featured 3D movies and DreamWorks characters meets-and-greets. It was introduced in June 2010 and terminated in March 2019. This new entertainment program was geared toward families and offered DreamWorks movie-themed activities on only 9 RCI ships (Allure, Oasis, Harmony, Anthem, Ovation, Quantum, Freedom, Liberty, Voyager). The list of such activities included:

• DreamWorks characters meetings and greetings (with photo ops). The list of characters included Po ("Kung Fu Panda" movie), Shrek, Fiona, Puss ("Shrek" series), Alex, Gloria, King Julien, penguins ("The Penguins of Madagascar" series, "All Hail King Julien" series).
• Character Breakfasts were offered (at surcharge pp) in the Main Dining Room restaurant.
• 3D DreamWorks movie screenings were available in the Royal Theater (Cinema Lounge), including first-run movies which premiered on the ship were on the same day they went at land-based theaters. Among the films were "Shrek", "Madagascar", "How to Train Your Dragon", "Kung Fu Panda".
• DreamWorks channel was part of the in-cabin TV programming.
• Themed activities and games (by ship's "Adventure Ocean" / complimentary youth program) included 3D animation workshops, storytime, themed dance parties, character story-based adventure games, regular character visits to kids facilities, onboard parades, meet-and-greets with photo ops (throughout the ship).
• DreamWorks shows were available in Studio B (ice rink theater) and AquaTheater (Oasis ships).

The DreamWorks-themed shows at Studio B and AquaTheater were replaced with new Royal Caribbean Productions. All cruises departing before April 1 (2019) had the DreamWorks program available for the entire voyage.

RCI's shipboard kids and teen programming

Also complimentary the company offers to kids and teenagers supervised activities at dedicated facilities and youth counselors on each vessel.

For toddlers (2-3 yo) on each liner are provided at-fee nursery services (hourly charge) via highly experienced and professionally trained staff.

RCI's children program (named "Adventure Ocean") covers ages 2-17 and features brand partnerships (with Fisher-Price, Crayola), Family Disco Hour. dedicated areas and facilities, including toddlers-only pools, computer rooms, video game arcades, separate kids- and teen-only clubs.

On September 30, 2018, RCI discontinued fleetwide its in-cabin babysitting service ("Sitters at Sea" program served by crew members, upon request). Service's only alternatives still available are the shipboard nursery (on some liners only, serving toddlers and kids up to 3 yo) and group sitting ("Late Night Party Zone" program for kids 3-11 yo, served by Adventure Ocean staff). The other two kids programs (Adventure Ocean, Royal Babies, and Tots) remained unchanged.

Shipboard VIP passenger program

Currently, RCI offers two VIP packages available for prepurchasing before boarding the ship - "The Key" and "Premier Pass".

VIP package The Key

On two liners (Liberty OTS and Oasis OTS) was tested the new VIP passenger access program "The Key". The program's test period was between November 2018 and March 2019. It was in limited quantity and available on select voyages.

The VIP package is available for purchase only via CruisePlanner. Currently, the package's cost is USD 25,99 per person per day. However, all roommates ages 6 and older must purchase the package to receive its benefits (available via SeaPass cards and starting on embarkation day).

"The Key" VIP package is inclusive of:

• Carry-on luggage service (max 2 bags pp) - drop off at Royal Theater or MDR (by 2 pm), cabin delivery
• Welcome MDR lunch (Chops Grille/steakhouse menu) on embarkation day between 11:30 am and 1:30 pm. Dining reservations are not required.
• Daily private visits (reserved hours) at signature shipboard facilities - including FlowRider, Rock-Climbing Walls, Ice-Skating Rink. VIP seating at live shows must be reserved online (via CruisePlanner) prior departure.
• Early access at the cruise terminal, priority check-in (embarkation day) and tendering (ship-to-shore ferry) service at call ports without docking facilities.
• Complimentary room service (during the entire voyage)
• 25% discount on all shipboard dining purchases
• Early access at the Theater's shows (reservations are required)
• Complimentary VOOM Internet ("Surf and Stream" package for 1 device).
• Priority debarkation with exclusive a la carte breakfast (between 6:30-9:30 am).

IMPORTANT: Currently, "The Key" package is not offered only on Majesty OTS , Quantum OTS and Voyager OTS . Priority check-in and boarding are not offered in Vancouver BC Canada and at Australian homeports.

VIP package "Premier Pass"

The "Premier Pass" package is for two passengers (sharing a stateroom) and includes the following perks:

• Welcome Champagne (bottle of Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin)
• Priority embarkation/tendering/debarkation
• All Access Tour (2-hour walking tour of 6x areas)
• Officer's lunch invitation (meal with an officer)
• Captain's Cocktail Reception (toast and photo)
• Exclusive food and wine pairing (with sommelier service and complimentary wine)
• Unlimited Internet (for 2x devices)
• Laundry service (1x bag per cabin)

The VIP package Premier Pass was introduced in March 2023.

Premier Pass costs US$89 (US$44,50 pp).

(NEW) RoyalUp - cabin upgrade bidding

On November 28, 2018, RCI introduced fleetwide bid-based cabin upgrade program called "RoyalUp". Booked customers receive an email if their cruise is eligible. They can browse through available for booking higher-grade staterooms on that voyage. Then select their bidding price for a particular cabin upgrade and submit the bid.

RoyalUp upgrades are priced per person, for the entire voyage, based on twin share. Only the first and second passengers in the cabin are charged the extra - regardless room's grade and max occupancy. These upgrades are based on availability. Cabin location can't be specified.

Group bookings are also included but without a guarantee that all reservations will be upgraded. If all reservations are upgraded, RCI doesn't guarantee that all upgraded staterooms will be located close together.

Booked customers are allowed to bid multiple cabin categories. Travel agents are also allowed to bid for their clients. Upgrade bids are accepted until 2 days prior departure. Passengers with accepted RoyalUp biddings are notified via email. They are allowed also to modify or cancel the upgrade (until 2 days prior departure) if the offer is not been accepted by RCI and their credit card is not been charged.

RCI's wedding packages and vow renewals

Call port/ashore or onboard cruise ship weddings and vow renewals are available by contacting RCI's weddings department a minimum 90 days before the itinerary's departure date. The company assigns dedicated coordinators for customizing the ceremonies and the reception events, as well as assisting with marriage licenses.

Standard wedding packages include priority services (dockside check-in and boarding), non-denominational officiant, pre-recorded music, 3-tier cake, chocolate-covered strawberries, a specialty restaurant dinner and in-bed breakfast (onboard), themed cabin decorations, 1-hour photo service, 1x champagne bottle (Moet & Chandon), keepsake wedding certificate (listing the ship/cruise port).

Wedding package add-ons may include beauty services (haircuts/styling, nails, barber), live music, DJ (private party), cocktail reception (at a VIP venue with bar service).

Wedding packages are priced between USD 2000-5600 (the couple plus 10-75 guests).

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, RCG suspended its global fleet's passenger shipping operations (RCI-Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity, Silversea) worldwide by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 15, 2020, through early-July 2021.

Next are listed all RCI ships and their first departure dates/regions/homeports - ADVENTURE OTS (June 12, 2021/ Caribbean from Nassau Bahamas ), ALLURE OTS (Aug 8, 2021/Port Canaveral), ANTHEM OTS (July 7, 2021/Europe-UK from Southampton), BRILLIANCE OTS (Dec 16, 2021/Tampa), ENCHANTMENT OTS (Dec 23, 2021/Bahamas-Caribbean from Baltimore), EXPLORER OTS (Nov 7, 2021/Caribbean from San Juan Puerto Rico), FREEDOM OTS (July 2, 2021/Miami), GRANDEUR OTS (Dec 5, 2021/ Caribbean from Bridgetown Barbados ), HARMONY OTS (Aug 15, 2021/Mediterranean from Barcelona), INDEPENDENCE OTS (Aug 15, 2021/Galveston), JEWEL OTS (July 10, 2021/ Mediterranean from Limassol Cyprus ), LIBERTY OTS (Oct 3, 2021/Galveston), MARINER OTS (Aug 23, 2021/Port Canaveral), NAVIGATOR OTS (Nov 19, 2021/Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles), OASIS OTS (Sept 5, 2021/Florida-Bahamas from NYC), ODYSSEY OTS (July 31, 2021/Fort Lauderdale), OVATION OTS (Aug 13, 2021 and May 5, 2022 / Alaska from Seattle ), QUANTUM OTS (Dec 1, 2020/ cruises to nowhere from Singapore, and May 4, 2022/Alaska from Seattle), RADIANCE OTS (April 23, 2022/LA to Vancouver-Alaska), RHAPSODY OTS (May 23, 2022/Europe-Mediterranean from Rome), SERENADE OTS (July 19, 2021/ Alaska from Seattle ), SPECTRUM OTS (Oct 14, 2021/ cruises to nowhere from Hong Kong China), SYMPHONY OTS (Aug 14, 2021/Miami), VISION OTS (March 7, 2022/Fort Lauderdale), VOYAGER OTS (April 15, 2022/Europe), WONDER OTS (March 4, 2022/ Maiden Voyage /Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale).

• ODYSSEY OTS was scheduled to start on June 2nd Eastern Mediterranean roundtrips from Haifa Israel. However, due to "unrest in Israel and the region", this Cyprus and Greece program was canceled in May.
• VISION OTS was scheduled to start on June 26th Bahamas roundtrips from Bermuda (King's Wharf), but the program was canceled.
• Royal Caribbean's Australia 2021-2022 winter program was canceled due to travel restriction uncertainties. Two ships were affected - QUANTUM OTS from Brisbane (planned restart October 30) and OVATION OTS from Sydney (planned restart December 13).
• VOYAGER OTS had scheduled an Asian 2021 program with homeporting in Tianjin-Beijing (China to Japan, starting August 1) and in Singapore (starting November 4), but in July 2021 the program was canceled through April 2022.
• In August 2021, RCI postponed the restarts of BRILLIANCE OTS (planned for Sept 4/Tampa), RADIANCE OTS (for Oct 15/Miami), and RHAPSODY OTS (for Dec 14/Tampa). The affected bookings were moved to similar out-of-Tampa voyages on SERENADE OTS.

All affected bookings received full refunds (100%), including on prepurchased through RCI cruise packages and services. With rebooking are offered 125% refunds in FCC (future cruise credit) to be used on itineraries that depart up to September 30, 2022. The FCC must be redeemed by December 31, 2021. Full cash refund or changing the FCC to a monetary refund (100%) must be done by March 31, 2021. Within 45 days (from the cancellation date), all taxes, port fees and pre-purchased (if any) packages/amenities are automatically refunded to the original form of payment.

RCI's Cancellation Policy (Cruise with Confidence) was extended to allow penalty-free cancellations up to 48 hours prior to departure (all itineraries) and receive an FCC. The policy was also enhanced with two new rebooking options - "Best Price Guarantee" (you can change the price and promo offers on the booking up to 48 hours prior to departure) and "Lift and Shift" (you can rebook the same itinerary departing within 1 month from the canceled date, with protected original price and promo offer and keeping the same cabin category).

In the period August-December 2021, all unvaccinated passengers (12 and older) on RCI cruises from Florida ports were required to have a valid insurance policy of a minimum US$25,000 pp (medical expense coverage) and US$50,000 pp (for onboard quarantine and COVID-related medevac). Before this new policy, RCI covered up to US$20,000 per person for Coronavirus-related costs. The money was for shipboard medical treatments and safe quarantine plus providing safe return-to-home travel arrangements. If a passenger tested COVID-positive while on the ship, RCI also provided a full monetary refund (100% of the cruise price) for the infected and his/her travel companions.

In mid-December 2020, RCI sold the ships Empress OTS (30-years-old) and Majesty OTS (28-years-old) were sold to an Asian company (undisclosed shipowner).

In Aug 2022, RCI announced that allows unused FCCs (future cruise credits left from a booking/remainder balance) to be redeemed as OBCs/onboard credits.

Itinerary of Royal Caribbean

RCI offers year-round roundtrip departures from Baltimore MD (South Locust Point Terminal) where is currently homeported Enchantment OTS. The ship cruises to ports in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Canada-New England. The fleetmate Grandeur OTS operated out of Baltimore between 2013-2020.

Comic-Con Cruise 2025

Serenade OTS is RCI's first ship to host a Comic-Con - an annual event by San Diego Comic-Con International (1970-inaugurated as "Golden State Comic Book Convention").

The special voyage (February 5-9, 2025, roundtrip from Tampa Florida ) is a full-ship charter by Entertainment Cruise Productions (Clayton Missouri-based company) specializing in themed voyages.

Royal Caribbean's Comic-Con cruise ship experience will feature various small group events (including Q&A sessions, trivia, fun contests), video gaming competitions, parties (dancing, karaoke, cosplay/costume play, DJs).

When the announcement was made (in July 2023) prices (per person) varied between US$990 (interior cabin) and US$5620 (Royal Suite) with double occupancy, while single occupancy was US$1240 (interior).

IMPORTANT/Itinerary changes 2024-2025 (Europe-Caribbean-Alaska-Australia)

RCI's Australia 2023-2024 season is based on 2x liners/homeports - Ovation OTS/Sydney NSW (9-11-night roundtrips, including around New Zealand), Quantum OTS/Brisbane QLD (3-13-night roundtrips). Enchantment OTS Sydney NSW schedule (8-11-night roundtrips) was canceled.

RCI's Australia 2024-2025 season is again based on the ships Quantum (Brisbane) and Ovation (Sydney).

RCI's Alaska 2025 program is based on 4 ships (Anthem, Quantum, Radiance, Serenade), mainly 7-day itineraries and homeporting in Seattle WA, Vancouver BC, and Seward AK. Quantum OTS visits destinations like Sitka, Skagway, Endicott Arm fjord, Dawes Glacier, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Victoria BC. Serenade OTS Inside Passage voyages visit Haines, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan. Radiance OTS operates between Seward and Vancouver and visits Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Hubbard Glacier.

In February 2024, RCI opened for booking Wonder OTS' short Caribbean voyages. Starting September 1st, 2025. the ship changes homeports (Port Canaveral to Miami) offering 3- and 4-night roundtrips out of PortMiami. Previously, (from Port Canaveral) were operated 7-day roundtrips.

Ultimate World Cruise 2023-2024 (Serenade OTS)

In October 2021, RCI announced the company's first World Cruise , which is also one of the world's longest.

The 274-night itinerary (themed "Ultimate World Cruise"/December 10, 2023, through September 10, 2024) is scheduled for Serenade OTS/wiki section .

The roundtrip from Miami visits 150 ports/islands (57 new for RCI) in 65 countries and on all 7 continents.

Shorter segments included:

• (Dec 10 - Feb 11) "Round the Horn: Americas and Antarctica Expedition" itinerary visits 36 ports/islands, 3 continents, and destinations in the Caribbean, Central and South America, Cape Horn, Antarctica, Rio de Janeiro (New Year's Eve overnight), Los Angeles (overnight).
• (Feb 11 - May 9) "Wonders of Asia and the Pacific Expedition" itinerary visits 40 ports/islands, 3 continents, and destinations in North America (Hawaii), Oceania (French Polynesia), New Zealand, Australia, Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, India, Japan).
• (May 9 - July 10) "Middle East Treasures and Marvels of the Med Expedition" itinerary visits 44 ports, 3 continents, and destinations in Arabia (Dubai, Jordan), Africa (Egypt), Mediterranean (Turkey, Greece, Italy, France, Spain), Adriatic (Croatia).
• (July 10 - Sept 10) "Capitals of Culture" itinerary visits 40 ports, 3 continents and destinations in the Mediterranean (Spain, Morocco), Baltic (Russia/St Petersburg, Norway), with the Transatlantic crossing from Europe to the USA (via Iceland and NYC New York) ending in PortMiami.

Full-paid early bookings (made by January 6, 2023) received a 10% discount. Additional costs include taxes-fees-port charges (USD 4667 USD pp).

A Balcony stateroom cost USD 75,000 ($136 pp per day), the 4-passenger Royal Suite cost USD 760,000.

In April 2023, RCI opened for booking more shorter segments of the Ultimate World Cruise 2024:

• 26-days (Dec 10, 2023 - Jan 5, 2024) "Ultimate Caribbean and South America" itinerary (Miami to Buenos Aires)
• 18-days (Jan 5-23) "Ultimate South America and Antarctica" itinerary (Buenos Aires to Valparaiso-Santiago)
• 19-days (Jan 23 - Feb 11) "Ultimate Central and South America" itinerary (Valparaiso-Santiago to Los Angeles)
• 29-days (Feb 11 - Mar 11) "Ultimate Hawaii, Tahiti and Australia" itinerary (Los Angeles to Brisbane)Papeete Tahiti), New Zealand (Auckland, Russel-Bay of Islands) and NSW Australia (Sydney, Newcastle).
• 16-days (Mar 11-27) "Ultimate Australia and Southeast Asia" itinerary (Brisbane to Hong Kong China)
• 12-days (Mar 27 - Apr 8) "Ultimate China, Japan and South Korea" itinerary (Hong Kong to Tianjin-Beijing China)
• 16-days (Apr 8-24) "Ultimate Japan, Vietnam and Singapore" itinerary (Beijing to Singapore)
• 15-days (Apr 24 - May 9) "Ultimate India, Sri Lanka and Malaysia" itinerary (Singapore to Dubai)
• 18-days (May 9-27) "Ultimate Jordan, Egypt and Israel" itinerary (Dubai to Piraeus-Athens Greece)
• 11-days (May 27 - Jun 7) "Ultimate Bulgaria, Romania and Turkey" Black Sea itinerary (Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul)
• 13-days (Jun 7-20) "Ultimate Greece, Turkey and Italy" itinerary (Istanbul to Ravenna-Venice)
• 11-days (Jun 20 - Jul 1) "Ultimate Italy, Croatia and Malta" Adriatic Sea itinerary (Ravenna-Venice and Civitavecchia-Rome)
• 9-days (Jul 1-10) "Ultimate Italy, France and Spain" itinerary (Civitavecchia-Rome to Barcelona)
• 16-days (Jul 10-26) "Ultimate Spain, Morocco and France" itinerary (Barcelona to Southampton England UK)
• 15-days (Jul 26 - Aug 10) "Ultimate Denmark, Germany and Sweden" Baltic Sea itinerary (Southampton to Copenhagen Denmark)
• 9-days (Aug 10-19) "Ultimate Norwegian Fjords" itinerary (Copenhagen to Amsterdam Holland)
• 22-days (Aug 19 - Sep 10) "Ultimate Iceland, Greenland and Caribbean" Transatlantic itinerary (Amsterdam to Miami)

RCI's World Voyage 2024 fares are inclusive of business class flights, land transportation, pre-cruise 5-star hotel overnight. Loyalty program's Platinum and above members (Emerald-Diamond-Diamond Plus-Pinnacle Club) receive as perks shore excursion package, Deluxe Beverage package, free Internet (VOOM Wi-Fi), free laundry service.

Panama Canal cruises 2024 (Rhapsody OTS)

For winter 2024, Rhapsody OTS has scheduled an RCI-first Caribbean and Latin America program based on 3x homeports - two in Panama ( Colon , and Panama City/Fuerte Amador ) and one in Colombia ( Cartagena ).

The 7-night roundtrips also visit Panama Canal and The Netherlands' ABC islands ( Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao ) in the Leeward Antilles. The Panama Canal itinerary (8x departures from Fuerte Amador) visits Cartagena, and Costa Rica's Puntarenas and Quepos .

Asia 2024-2025 ships and itineraries

In 2024-2025 (November-March) Anthem OTS is homeported in Singapore, replacing Spectrum OTS, which will be redeployed to China and homeported in Shanghai and Hong Kong.

Starting in April 2024, Spectrum OTS from Shanghai offers roundtrips to Japanese ports, including Yokohama, Tokyo, Osaka, Fukuoka, Nagasaki.

Starting in December 2024, Spectrum OTS has scheduled 8x roundtrips from Hong Kong (China) to ports in Japan, Taiwan and Vietnam.

Anthem's ex-Singapore itineraries are 3-4-5-night roundtrips visiting Malaysia (Penang) and Thailand (Phuket). The new 8-night "Bali Getaway" itinerary visits Bali Indonesia's ports Celukan Bawang and Benoa Harbour, as well as Lombok Indonesia's port Lembar. Another new itinerary is the 10-night "Vietnam and Thailand" voyage that visits Vietnam's ports Nha Trang, Phu My-Saigon, and Chan May-Da Nang, and Thailand's port Laem Chabang-Bangkok (overnight stay).

UK-Europe 2024-2025 summer deployment

RIC's European summer 2024 schedule lists 8 ships and 11 homeports. The program features the European debut of Oasis OTS (5- to 17-night itineraries). Odyssey OTS and Anthem OTS return to Rome and Southampton, respectively.

Europe Summer 2024 highlights include:

• Odyssey OTS sailing from Civitavecchia-Rome (for a 3rd year) offers 7- to 9-night Greek Isles voyages, as well as 12-night Holy Land cruises to Israel (Ashdod-Jerusalem), Cyprus (Limassol), Turkey (Kusadasi).
• Oasis OTS from Rome and Barcelona offers Western Mediterranean 7-night voyages visiting France, Italy, and Spain.
• Anthem OTS from Southampton offers 7-night roundtrips to the Norwegian Fjords, or to Atlantic Europe (Spain and France). 11- to 14-night ex-UK roundtrips visit also the Canaries.
• For Serenade OTS is scheduled the "Ultimate World Cruise" (274-night itinerary) also available in 2 segments - from Dubai and Barcelona.
• Explorer OTS sailing from Ravenna offers 7-night Med and Aegean itineraries visiting Chania (Crete), Argostoli (Greece), and Kotor (Montenegro).
• Voyager OTS (from Rome, Barcelona, Ravenna, and Athens) offers 7-night voyages to the Western and Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean Sea (Greece, Israel, Egypt).
• Jewel OTS (from Amsterdam) offers 11- to 17-night roundtrips to Iceland, UK-British Isles, Ireland, the Arctic Circle.

Enchantment OTS was to be deployed first in Australia (from Sydney) and in Alaska but was redeployed in Europe.

Europe 2025

RCI's 2025 European season (April-October) is based on 6 ships,

Independence OTS is homeported in Southampton and visits destinations in Iberia (Spain, Portugal) and Northern Europe/Baltic, Norway.

Allure OTS  is homeported in Barcelona and Civitavecchia-Rome for Western Mediterranean itineraries.

Brilliance OTS operates from Piraeus-Athens Greek Isles voyages until August 2025, when returns to Barcelona and Southampton.

Explorer OTS from  Ravenna Italy offers roundtrips to the Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea ports.

Odyssey OTS and Voyager OTS are both based in Civitavecchia and visit destinations in Italy, Greece, Turkey, and the Adriatic.

Australia 2024-2025 summer deployment (2 ships)

RCI's 2024 Australian schedule lists 2 liners (Ovation OTS and Quantum OTS) homeported, respectively, in Sydney NSW and Brisbane QLD .

Quantum OTS (from Brisbane) offers 3- to 13-night Queensland roundtrips to Airlie Beach and Cairns or discover the South Pacific by visiting Port Vila (Vanuatu) and Noumea (New Caledonia).

Ovation OTS (from Sydney) starts its 5th Australian season - with 20 voyages, including 9- to 11-night roundtrips to New Zealand (Bay of Islands, Milford Sound, Wellington), 3- to 9-night voyages around Australia (Adelaide, Eden, Hobart Tasmania), as well as sailings to the South Pacific islands.

RCI's Australia 2024-2025 season (October thru April) is again based on Ovation OTS and Quantum OTS and groups a total of 45 departures.

Quantum OTS (out of Brisbane) offers 12 different itineraries (7-8-nights) visiting Mystery Island ,  Port Vila (Vanuatu) , and  Noumea (New Caledonia) . Five sailings visit the Great Barrier Reef , while a 14-night voyage visits New Zealand.

Ovation OTS offers NZ and South Pacific voyages.

Both Australian ships also have scheduled 2-night and 3-night weekend getaways. Both are also deployed during summer 2025 in Alaska, and homeported in Seattle WA .

Caribbean and Bahamas 2024-2025-2026 fleet deployment

RCI's 2024-2025-2026 Caribbean schedule lists 8 ships and 20+ Caribbean destinations.

• Wonder OTS from Port Canaveral offers 7-night Western-Eastern Caribbean voyages, while Harmony OTS from Galveston offers 6- to 8-night Western Caribbean with CocoCay. Starting September 1st, 2025. Wonder moves to Miami for short itineraries (3- and 4-night roundtrips).
• In summer 2024, Symphony OTS offers 7-night Bahamas roundtrips out of NYC/Bayonne NJ, while Freedom OTS offers 7-8-night Western-Eastern-Southern Caribbean itineraries.
• Liberty OTS from Bayonne/NYC offers 4-5-9-night roundtrips to Eastern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England.
• Adventure OTS from Port Canaveral offers 6- and 8-night Southern-Eastern-Western Caribbean and Bahamas roundtrips.
• Enchantment OTS from Tampa offers 7-night Western Caribbean plus select 7-night Bahamas itineraries.
• Vision OTS from Baltimore sails 5- to 12-day roundtrips to Bermuda, Bermuda plus Bahamas, Florida+Bahamas, Southern Caribbean, and Canada-New England.

RCI's 3- to 6-night Caribbean cruises scheduled for 2025-2026 originate from six USA homeports (in Florida, California, and Texas). Utopia OTS and Wonder OTS are based in Port Canaveral/Orlando and Miami, respectively.

Navigator OTS and Quantum OTS are homeported in Los Angeles .

RCI's Caribbean fleet (Enchantment, Explorer, Freedom, Jewel, Liberty, Mariner) is based in Tampa FL , Port Canaveral, Miami, Fort Lauderdale FL , and Galveston TX .

Caribbean short breaks 2024-2025

RCI's Caribbean short break 2024-2025 itineraries are scheduled for 8 ships, including 1x OASIS-class (Allure OTS from Port Canaveral).

Year-Round 2024-2025 Short Getaways

Allure OTS (from Port Canaveral and PortMiami) is the first OASIS-class boat with year-round season of 3-4-night itineraries.

Independence OTS (from Miami) offers 5-night Western Caribbean plus CocoCay voyages, as well as 4-night Eastern Caribbean (with Labadee Haiti).

Mariner OTS (from Galveston Texas) offers 4-5-night roundtrips to Mexico (Cozumel+Costa Maya).

Navigator OTS (from Los Angeles California) offers 3-4-7-night voyages to Catalina Island, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Ensenada.

Seasonal 2024-2025 Short Cruises from Florida

Enchantment OTS (from Tampa Bay) offers 4-5-night Mexico (Cozumel+Costa Maya), and 7-night summer voyages (Roatan, Belize City, Cozumel, Costa Maya, CocoCay).

Grandeur OTS (from Tampa and Fort Lauderdale) offers 4-5-night Bahamas and Mexico (CocoCay, Cozumel) and during winter 5-night roundtrips to Labadee and Amber Cove Dominicana.

Liberty OTS (from Fort Lauderdale) offers 3-4-night roundtrips to Bahamas (CocoCay+Nassau).

Voyager OTS (from Port Canaveral) during winter offers 4-5-night Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages to CocoCay, Nassau, Cozumel, Amber Cove, Labadee.

RCI-Royal Caribbean itineraries by ship

Follows a review of the Royal Caribbean itinerary program scheduled itineraries. For sailing dates (departures, arrivals), ports of call times and RCI cruise prices per person follow the ship pages listed below.

Royal Caribbean's "Private Journeys" excursions

RCI passengers seeking personalized shore excursion experiences can take advantage of the company's "Private Journeys" program.

The USD 100 concierge service enables passengers to book port calls tailored to their interests, travel style and budget. Private Journeys (custom-made tours) allow access to 1 of 9 professional Destination Insiders who help planning every detail of the shore excursion before the cruise starts. Activities can include private yachting, cooking with Michelin-starred chefs, food tasting. The USD 100 fee for Private Journeys is applicable to excursion's final cost.

Private Journeys are offered as a 3rd excursion choice (besides independent and RCI-sponsored group tours). The new choice offers direct booking through RCI (ONLY via Royal Caribbean). Booked passengers have to provide Private Journeys' staff with their idea/basics of what they want (duration, preferred places, activities, meals, etc). Then they work with local (professional) tour guides to design the excursion. The contact with Private Journeys is by email or phone.

"Private Journeys" RCI tour deals guarantee: priority disembarkation, sure return to the cruise ship (if the tour runs late, the ship waits for you), convenient access to private tour vehicles, quality of service (reputable/insured operators in direct contact with the RCI cruise ship's personnel).

Royal Caribbean cruises to Cuba from Florida (Miami and Tampa)

Royal Caribbean operated Cuba cruises with the Miami -homeported (later in Tampa) Empress of the Seas . The first Cuban cruise was on April 19, 2017 (5-night Miami to Costa Maya and Havana).

The newly-refreshed Empress OTS had scheduled a total of 58 voyages (4- and 5-night itineraries) in the period January 2018 through March 2019, with more than half offering overnights in havana. Empress was homeported in Tampa for summer 2018, for 4- and 5-night itineraries to Key West, Costa Maya, Cozumel and Havana (on most voyages). For the winter 2018-2019 season, the ship repositioned to Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale).

On December 1, 2017, RCI added 2 new Cuban ports (Santiago de Cuba and Cienfuegos) included in 4- to 8-night long Caribbean itineraries on Empress of the Seas. The new 7-night "Best of Cuba" itinerary from Miami visits Cienfuegos , Havana, and Nassau. The 5-night itinerary visits Key West Florida and Havana (overnight). The 8-night itinerary visits Cienfuegos, Santiago de Cuba , Grand Cayman Island, and Labadee Haiti .

Majesty of the Seas offered 4- and 5-night itineraries to Havana (day visits and overnights) leaving roundtrip from Tampa (in the period April-October 2018) and from Fort Lauderdale (November 2018 through March 2019). In July 2017, RCI unveiled the company's 2nd ship to Cuba - Majesty OTS, homeported in Port Canaveral. Starting March 25, 2019, the liner offered a 4-night voyage calling at Havana.

On June 4, 2019, the US Government announced new regulations (economic sanctions) that ended group travel to Cuba, including via US-homeported cruise liners, effective immediately. The ban relates to "private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels". The US travel restrictions impacted hundreds of pre-scheduled cruise itineraries, which were adjusted to no longer stop in Cuban seaports.

Note: According to the current Cuban law, US citizens of Cuban origin (born in Cuba) are not allowed to visit the island country (including on cruise ships). Regardless of their US citizenship status, Cuba-born Americans were denied booking on cruise itineraries visiting ports in Cuba. However, the situation changed in April 2016, after Carnival Corporation negotiated with the Cuban government for allowing ships with Cuban-born passengers, as such US citizens are allowed to visit the country on USA-Cuba charter flights. The Carnival-fathom line started Miami to Cuba cruises in May 2016.

Alaska Airlines offers regular nonstop flights to Havana from Los Angeles (California USA). An 80-min ling JetBlue flight from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Havana costs less than USD 100. Previously, air travel from the USA to Cuba was thought charter flights only.

Royal Caribbean related cruise news

20-yo passenger jumps overboard from Royal Caribbean's cruise ship Liberty OTS

Passengers aboard RCI-Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas faced a distressing situation when a young man jumped overboard in the early hours...

Royal Caribbean and CTI win bid for future cruise terminal at Port of Barcelona (Spain)

The management board overseeing operations at the Port of Barcelona, Spain, has granted approval for the development and operation of a forthcoming...

Royal Caribbean and The Wiggles partner for family cruises in Australia

RCI-Royal Caribbean and The Wiggles, two renowned family brands, are collaborating to offer an extraordinary family holiday experience in Australia...

Silversea cancels Red Sea cruises (Suez Canal transits) due to ongoing unrest in the region

Silversea Cruises announced the cancellation of a couple of its Red Sea area voyages, due to the continuing unrest in the region. The itineraries...

RCI-Royal Caribbean to open second Royal Beach Club in Cozumel, Mexico

RCI-Royal Caribbean International is in the process of establishing its own private resort in Cozumel Mexico. Scheduled to debut in 2026 along the...

RCI-Royal Caribbean's ship Brilliance of the Seas cut voyage short due to propulsion problem

RCI/Royal Caribbean International's ship Brilliance of the Seas is facing an unexpected setback during the current South Pacific voyage, as the...

US Coast Guard conducts medevac from Symphony of the Seas near Puerto Rico

A 56-year-old American passenger's Caribbean voyage came to an unexpected halt on Friday, March 15th, following a medical emergency onboard. The...

RCI-Royal Caribbean unveils China deployment plan for 2025-2026 season

RCI-Royal Caribbean International unveiled its latest deployment plan for China on Tuesday, March 12, detailing the deployment of two cruises across...

Royal Caribbean suspends Labadee port calls amidst Haitian violence

RCI/Royal Caribbean International has decided to suspend cruise ship visits to its private resort Labadee (on Haiti's northern coast) amidst...

Royal Caribbean's ships Rhapsody and Grandeur homeported in Tampa for 2025-2026 winter

Tampa's maritime landscape is set to flourish with the arrival of two of RCI-Royal Caribbean's renowned vessels, Rhapsody of the Seas and Grandeur of...

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CUBA CRUISES

GET MORE THAN A GLIMPSE

THREE CUBAN PORTS TO EXPLORE

ADVENTURE LIKE NOWHERE ELSE

MOVE TO HAVANA'S BEAT

This is not a tourist trap. This is authenticity everywhere you look — exploring the culture, cuisine and artistry of Havana, Cuba with incredible days and overnight stays on Majesty of the Seas®.

CUBA'S BOLDEST SHORE EXPLORER

Go farther off the beaten path with stops in Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba. This is not itinerary idling. This is delving deep into shores that few have explored on the most adventurous cruise ship sailing Cuba — Empress of the Seas℠.

PICK THE PERFECT CUBA ADVENTURE FOR YOU

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LOCAL CUISINE FLAVOR RUMS AMOK 

A blend of Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisines, food in Cuba is a blend of tradition and island flavor. Rice, beans, plantains — and of course rum — are central to any meal you’ll enjoy here.

If you’re sailing to Cuba on Royal Caribbean, you’ll need a valid passport book.

You’ll need a visa to travel to Cuba — but we’ll take care of that for you.

We’ve created a simple checklist to make getting ready for your trip a breeze.

Check out this easy infographic to know all the travel documents you'll need.

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Florida Resident Cruise Hacks: 2023 Insider’s Guide

• August 14, 2023

Living in the Sunshine State has its undeniable perks, and one of the most best is the proximity to some of the world’s most popular cruise ports. If you’re a Florida resident, you’re in a prime position to embark on unforgettable cruise adventures without straying far from home. Welcome to our guide on “Florida Resident Cruise Hacks: Making the Most of Your Local Advantage.” We’ll give you tips and tricks to make the most of your next voyage. Your next adventure begins here- let’s cruise the Florida way!

Table of Contents

• The Florida Resident Advantage
• Pick the Right Port
• Timing Your Cruise
• Pack a Carry-On
• Don’t Park at the Port
• BYO Beverages
• Extend Your Vacation

1. The Florida Resident Advantage

 One of the best advantages of being a Florida resident is the access to exclusive deals and discounts. Some cruise lines such as Disney and Royal Caribbean often have a special Florida Resident Cruise Discount. Even if your party includes some non-Floridians, typically only one guest needs to provide a valid proof of a residency for everyone in your room to take advantage of the savings. Before booking, review your cruise line’s residency requirements to make sure you qualify for these special offers.

2. Pick the Right Port

Florida is home to five ports, four on the Atlantic and one on the Gulf Coast. While all of Florida’s ports have a wide selection of cruise lines and itineraries, one port stands out above the rest: Port Canaveral.

Port Canaveral is the #1 port in the world , beating Port Miami for the first time in modern cruising history. It is convenient, charming, and offers a variety of cruise options. This makes it an excellent choice for your next vacation. Situated on the stunning Atlantic coast puts this port just a short drive from major Florida cities, making it accessible for residents across the state.

This Central Florida port is home to some of the world’s largest and most innovative cruise ships including the Carnival Magic, Norwegian Epic, and Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. Royal Caribbean’s new Utopia of the Seas , dubbed “The World’s Biggest Weekend,” will also be making its home port in Port Canaveral in the summer of 2024.

It’s no surprise that Disney Cruise Line’s fleet also homeports on the Space Coast considering it’s close proximity to Orlando attractions. With theme parks, the Kennedy Space Center and beaches nearby, Port Canaveral is sure to have enjoyable activities for cruisers of all ages.

3. Timing Your Cruise

Timing is everything when it comes to planning a cruise and it’s not just about choosing the right season. Understanding when to book and when to set sail can really help you find some great cruise discounts.

Off-Peak Seasons: Florida ports are active year-round, even during off-seasons. Scheduling your tropical getaway between popular vacation times can save you the big bucks on cruise travel. Even if you don’t see a significant price drop on every off-season sailing, you can still count on most major cruise lines to promote their own value-added perks. These often include complimentary wi-fi, drink packages, shore excursions, spa packages or even extra onboard credit.

Last-Minute Deals: Flexibility can pay off when hunting for Florida resident cruise deals. Keep an eye out for last-minute offers that cruise lines sometimes release to fill remaining cruise cabins. If you’re looking to save money, setting sail on a whim can lead to remarkable savings.

4. Pack a Carry-On

In case you plan to leave your luggage at the pier for the staff to bring them to your room, it’s essential to pack a bag for the day. Your checked luggage may not arrive at your room until hours after the ship has left the port so keep any cruise essentials you need for the afternoon easily at hand. Stuff your sunscreen, swimsuit and a towel in your carry-on to make the most of embarkation day instead of waiting on your suitcase.

5. Don’t Park at the Port

Parking at the cruise terminal can cost you a pretty penny- upwards of $136 for a 7-day cruise. That seems a little steep for a place to just park your car. Instead of parking directly at the port, it’s a good idea to consider using an off-site parking lot to cut your costs. However, be sure to watch out for hidden fees including booking fees, taxes and even holiday or weekend price surges when searching for your off-site lot.

If you’re cruising out of Port Canaveral on the Carnival Mardi Gras , you’ll be able to take advantage of the best parking deal in the area! Go Port offers a parking package where you don’t need to worry about pay-per-day rates or hidden fees. 

6. BYO Beverages

Cruise companies are typically strict about carrying hard spirits onboard, but they usually allow you to bring a couple of bottles of wine or champagne in your hand luggage. However, be aware that if you choose to consume your bottle in the dining area, you might be charged a corkage fee. Some cruise lines also allow you to bring a limited quantity of sparkling water, sodas, juice or milk onboard.

Be sure to check your cruise line’s beverage policy for more information:

• Royal Caribbean 

7. Extend Your Vacation

Expert cruisers generally arrive a day or two before embarkation to avoid any travel mishaps and explore the surrounding port city. Especially in Port Canaveral, there’s no shortage of things to do. Cruisers can visit the theme parks in Orlando, explore the Kennedy Space Center or soak up the sun on Cocoa Beach – just to name a few. If you’re cruising out of Port Canaveral,  Go Port  offers packages including everything you need to extend your vacation and get to your cruise on time. Their  Snooze Park Cruise Package  which includes a hotel stay, cruise transfers and cruise parking exclusively for Carnival Mardi Gras is the most recommended option for Florida residents driving in.

Get the Inside Scoop from Go Port

Stay up-to-date with the latest Port Canaveral cruise news and travel tips!

Related Posts:

• Best Things to do in Nassau Bahamas: 2023 Insider's Guide
• Icon of the Seas: Insider's Guide
• 13 Biggest Cruise Mistakes to Avoid In 2023
• Best Cruises Out of Port Canaveral 2023
• Disney Cruise 2022: Port Canaveral Ship Guide
• Quick Guide: The Best Cruises for Couples
• Categories: Tips

David Leadbeater

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Crying Myself to Sleep on the Biggest Cruise Ship Ever

Seven agonizing nights aboard the Icon of the Seas

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Updated at 2:44 p.m. ET on April 6, 2024.

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MY FIRST GLIMPSE of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, from the window of an approaching Miami cab, brings on a feeling of vertigo, nausea, amazement, and distress. I shut my eyes in defense, as my brain tells my optic nerve to try again.

The ship makes no sense, vertically or horizontally. It makes no sense on sea, or on land, or in outer space. It looks like a hodgepodge of domes and minarets, tubes and canopies, like Istanbul had it been designed by idiots. Vibrant, oversignifying colors are stacked upon other such colors, decks perched over still more decks; the only comfort is a row of lifeboats ringing its perimeter. There is no imposed order, no cogent thought, and, for those who do not harbor a totalitarian sense of gigantomania, no visual mercy. This is the biggest cruise ship ever built, and I have been tasked with witnessing its inaugural voyage.

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“Author embarks on their first cruise-ship voyage” has been a staple of American essay writing for almost three decades, beginning with David Foster Wallace’s “A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again,” which was first published in 1996 under the title “Shipping Out.” Since then, many admirable writers have widened and diversified the genre. Usually the essayist commissioned to take to the sea is in their first or second flush of youth and is ready to sharpen their wit against the hull of the offending vessel. I am 51, old and tired, having seen much of the world as a former travel journalist, and mostly what I do in both life and prose is shrug while muttering to my imaginary dachshund, “This too shall pass.” But the Icon of the Seas will not countenance a shrug. The Icon of the Seas is the Linda Loman of cruise ships, exclaiming that attention must be paid. And here I am in late January with my one piece of luggage and useless gray winter jacket and passport, zipping through the Port of Miami en route to the gangway that will separate me from the bulk of North America for more than seven days, ready to pay it in full.

The aforementioned gangway opens up directly onto a thriving mall (I will soon learn it is imperiously called the “Royal Promenade”), presently filled with yapping passengers beneath a ceiling studded with balloons ready to drop. Crew members from every part of the global South, as well as a few Balkans, are shepherding us along while pressing flutes of champagne into our hands. By a humming Starbucks, I drink as many of these as I can and prepare to find my cabin. I show my blue Suite Sky SeaPass Card (more on this later, much more) to a smiling woman from the Philippines, and she tells me to go “aft.” Which is where, now? As someone who has rarely sailed on a vessel grander than the Staten Island Ferry, I am confused. It turns out that the aft is the stern of the ship, or, for those of us who don’t know what a stern or an aft are, its ass. The nose of the ship, responsible for separating the waves before it, is also called a bow, and is marked for passengers as the FWD , or forward. The part of the contemporary sailing vessel where the malls are clustered is called the midship. I trust that you have enjoyed this nautical lesson.

I ascend via elevator to my suite on Deck 11. This is where I encounter my first terrible surprise. My suite windows and balcony do not face the ocean. Instead, they look out onto another shopping mall. This mall is the one that’s called Central Park, perhaps in homage to the Olmsted-designed bit of greenery in the middle of my hometown. Although on land I would be delighted to own a suite with Central Park views, here I am deeply depressed. To sail on a ship and not wake up to a vast blue carpet of ocean? Unthinkable.

Allow me a brief preamble here. The story you are reading was commissioned at a moment when most staterooms on the Icon were sold out. In fact, so enthralled by the prospect of this voyage were hard-core mariners that the ship’s entire inventory of guest rooms (the Icon can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers, but its inaugural journey was reduced to 5,000 or so for a less crowded experience) was almost immediately sold out. Hence, this publication was faced with the shocking prospect of paying nearly $19,000 to procure for this solitary passenger an entire suite—not including drinking expenses—all for the privilege of bringing you this article. But the suite in question doesn’t even have a view of the ocean! I sit down hard on my soft bed. Nineteen thousand dollars for this .

The viewless suite does have its pluses. In addition to all the Malin+Goetz products in my dual bathrooms, I am granted use of a dedicated Suite Deck lounge; access to Coastal Kitchen, a superior restaurant for Suites passengers; complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream (“the fastest Internet at Sea”) “for one device per person for the whole cruise duration”; a pair of bathrobes (one of which comes prestained with what looks like a large expectoration by the greenest lizard on Earth); and use of the Grove Suite Sun, an area on Decks 18 and 19 with food and deck chairs reserved exclusively for Suite passengers. I also get reserved seating for a performance of The Wizard of Oz , an ice-skating tribute to the periodic table, and similar provocations. The very color of my Suite Sky SeaPass Card, an oceanic blue as opposed to the cloying royal purple of the standard non-Suite passenger, will soon provoke envy and admiration. But as high as my status may be, there are those on board who have much higher status still, and I will soon learn to bow before them.

In preparation for sailing, I have “priced in,” as they say on Wall Street, the possibility that I may come from a somewhat different monde than many of the other cruisers. Without falling into stereotypes or preconceptions, I prepare myself for a friendly outspokenness on the part of my fellow seafarers that may not comply with modern DEI standards. I believe in meeting people halfway, and so the day before flying down to Miami, I visited what remains of Little Italy to purchase a popular T-shirt that reads DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL across the breast in the colors of the Italian flag. My wife recommended that I bring one of my many T-shirts featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, as all Americans love the beagle and his friends. But I naively thought that my meatball T-shirt would be more suitable for conversation-starting. “Oh, and who is your ‘daddy’?” some might ask upon seeing it. “And how long have you been his ‘little meatball’?” And so on.

I put on my meatball T-shirt and head for one of the dining rooms to get a late lunch. In the elevator, I stick out my chest for all to read the funny legend upon it, but soon I realize that despite its burnished tricolor letters, no one takes note. More to the point, no one takes note of me. Despite my attempts at bridge building, the very sight of me (small, ethnic, without a cap bearing the name of a football team) elicits no reaction from other passengers. Most often, they will small-talk over me as if I don’t exist. This brings to mind the travails of David Foster Wallace , who felt so ostracized by his fellow passengers that he retreated to his cabin for much of his voyage. And Wallace was raised primarily in the Midwest and was a much larger, more American-looking meatball than I am. If he couldn’t talk to these people, how will I? What if I leave this ship without making any friends at all, despite my T-shirt? I am a social creature, and the prospect of seven days alone and apart is saddening. Wallace’s stateroom, at least, had a view of the ocean, a kind of cheap eternity.

Worse awaits me in the dining room. This is a large, multichandeliered room where I attended my safety training (I was shown how to put on a flotation vest; it is a very simple procedure). But the maître d’ politely refuses me entry in an English that seems to verge on another language. “I’m sorry, this is only for pendejos ,” he seems to be saying. I push back politely and he repeats himself. Pendejos ? Piranhas? There’s some kind of P-word to which I am not attuned. Meanwhile elderly passengers stream right past, powered by their limbs, walkers, and electric wheelchairs. “It is only pendejo dining today, sir.” “But I have a suite!” I say, already starting to catch on to the ship’s class system. He examines my card again. “But you are not a pendejo ,” he confirms. I am wearing a DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL T-shirt, I want to say to him. I am the essence of pendejo .

Eventually, I give up and head to the plebeian buffet on Deck 15, which has an aquatic-styled name I have now forgotten. Before gaining entry to this endless cornucopia of reheated food, one passes a washing station of many sinks and soap dispensers, and perhaps the most intriguing character on the entire ship. He is Mr. Washy Washy—or, according to his name tag, Nielbert of the Philippines—and he is dressed as a taco (on other occasions, I’ll see him dressed as a burger). Mr. Washy Washy performs an eponymous song in spirited, indeed flamboyant English: “Washy, washy, wash your hands, WASHY WASHY!” The dangers of norovirus and COVID on a cruise ship this size (a giant fellow ship was stricken with the former right after my voyage) makes Mr. Washy Washy an essential member of the crew. The problem lies with the food at the end of Washy’s rainbow. The buffet is groaning with what sounds like sophisticated dishes—marinated octopus, boiled egg with anchovy, chorizo, lobster claws—but every animal tastes tragically the same, as if there was only one creature available at the market, a “cruisipus” bred specifically for Royal Caribbean dining. The “vegetables” are no better. I pick up a tomato slice and look right through it. It tastes like cellophane. I sit alone, apart from the couples and parents with gaggles of children, as “We Are Family” echoes across the buffet space.

I may have failed to mention that all this time, the Icon of the Seas has not left port. As the fiery mango of the subtropical setting sun makes Miami’s condo skyline even more apocalyptic, the ship shoves off beneath a perfunctory display of fireworks. After the sun sets, in the far, dark distance, another circus-lit cruise ship ruptures the waves before us. We glance at it with pity, because it is by definition a smaller ship than our own. I am on Deck 15, outside the buffet and overlooking a bunch of pools (the Icon has seven of them), drinking a frilly drink that I got from one of the bars (the Icon has 15 of them), still too shy to speak to anyone, despite Sister Sledge’s assertion that all on the ship are somehow related.

Kim Brooks: On failing the family vacation

The ship’s passage away from Ron DeSantis’s Florida provides no frisson, no sense of developing “sea legs,” as the ship is too large to register the presence of waves unless a mighty wind adds significant chop. It is time for me to register the presence of the 5,000 passengers around me, even if they refuse to register mine. My fellow travelers have prepared for this trip with personally decorated T-shirts celebrating the importance of this voyage. The simplest ones say ICON INAUGURAL ’24 on the back and the family name on the front. Others attest to an over-the-top love of cruise ships: WARNING! MAY START TALKING ABOUT CRUISING . Still others are artisanally designed and celebrate lifetimes spent married while cruising (on ships, of course). A couple possibly in their 90s are wearing shirts whose backs feature a drawing of a cruise liner, two flamingos with ostensibly male and female characteristics, and the legend “ HUSBAND AND WIFE Cruising Partners FOR LIFE WE MAY NOT HAVE IT All Together BUT TOGETHER WE HAVE IT ALL .” (The words not in all caps have been written in cursive.) A real journalist or a more intrepid conversationalist would have gone up to the couple and asked them to explain the longevity of their marriage vis-à-vis their love of cruising. But instead I head to my mall suite, take off my meatball T-shirt, and allow the first tears of the cruise to roll down my cheeks slowly enough that I briefly fall asleep amid the moisture and salt.

I WAKE UP with a hangover. Oh God. Right. I cannot believe all of that happened last night. A name floats into my cobwebbed, nauseated brain: “Ayn Rand.” Jesus Christ.

I breakfast alone at the Coastal Kitchen. The coffee tastes fine and the eggs came out of a bird. The ship rolls slightly this morning; I can feel it in my thighs and my schlong, the parts of me that are most receptive to danger.

I had a dangerous conversation last night. After the sun set and we were at least 50 miles from shore (most modern cruise ships sail at about 23 miles an hour), I lay in bed softly hiccupping, my arms stretched out exactly like Jesus on the cross, the sound of the distant waves missing from my mall-facing suite, replaced by the hum of air-conditioning and children shouting in Spanish through the vents of my two bathrooms. I decided this passivity was unacceptable. As an immigrant, I feel duty-bound to complete the tasks I am paid for, which means reaching out and trying to understand my fellow cruisers. So I put on a normal James Perse T-shirt and headed for one of the bars on the Royal Promenade—the Schooner Bar, it was called, if memory serves correctly.

I sat at the bar for a martini and two Negronis. An old man with thick, hairy forearms drank next to me, very silent and Hemingwaylike, while a dreadlocked piano player tinkled out a series of excellent Elton John covers. To my right, a young white couple—he in floral shorts, she in a light, summery miniskirt with a fearsome diamond ring, neither of them in football regalia—chatted with an elderly couple. Do it , I commanded myself. Open your mouth. Speak! Speak without being spoken to. Initiate. A sentence fragment caught my ear from the young woman, “Cherry Hill.” This is a suburb of Philadelphia in New Jersey, and I had once been there for a reading at a synagogue. “Excuse me,” I said gently to her. “Did you just mention Cherry Hill? It’s a lovely place.”

As it turned out, the couple now lived in Fort Lauderdale (the number of Floridians on the cruise surprised me, given that Southern Florida is itself a kind of cruise ship, albeit one slowly sinking), but soon they were talking with me exclusively—the man potbellied, with a chin like a hard-boiled egg; the woman as svelte as if she were one of the many Ukrainian members of the crew—the elderly couple next to them forgotten. This felt as groundbreaking as the first time I dared to address an American in his native tongue, as a child on a bus in Queens (“On my foot you are standing, Mister”).

“I don’t want to talk politics,” the man said. “But they’re going to eighty-six Biden and put Michelle in.”

I considered the contradictions of his opening conversational gambit, but decided to play along. “People like Michelle,” I said, testing the waters. The husband sneered, but the wife charitably put forward that the former first lady was “more personable” than Joe Biden. “They’re gonna eighty-six Biden,” the husband repeated. “He can’t put a sentence together.”

After I mentioned that I was a writer—though I presented myself as a writer of teleplays instead of novels and articles such as this one—the husband told me his favorite writer was Ayn Rand. “Ayn Rand, she came here with nothing,” the husband said. “I work with a lot of Cubans, so …” I wondered if I should mention what I usually do to ingratiate myself with Republicans or libertarians: the fact that my finances improved after pass-through corporations were taxed differently under Donald Trump. Instead, I ordered another drink and the couple did the same, and I told him that Rand and I were born in the same city, St. Petersburg/Leningrad, and that my family also came here with nothing. Now the bonding and drinking began in earnest, and several more rounds appeared. Until it all fell apart.

Read: Gary Shteyngart on watching Russian television for five days straight

My new friend, whom I will refer to as Ayn, called out to a buddy of his across the bar, and suddenly a young couple, both covered in tattoos, appeared next to us. “He fucking punked me,” Ayn’s frat-boy-like friend called out as he put his arm around Ayn, while his sizable partner sizzled up to Mrs. Rand. Both of them had a look I have never seen on land—their eyes projecting absence and enmity in equal measure. In the ’90s, I drank with Russian soldiers fresh from Chechnya and wandered the streets of wartime Zagreb, but I have never seen such undisguised hostility toward both me and perhaps the universe at large. I was briefly introduced to this psychopathic pair, but neither of them wanted to have anything to do with me, and the tattooed woman would not even reveal her Christian name to me (she pretended to have the same first name as Mrs. Rand). To impress his tattooed friends, Ayn made fun of the fact that as a television writer, I’d worked on the series Succession (which, it would turn out, practically nobody on the ship had watched), instead of the far more palatable, in his eyes, zombie drama of last year. And then my new friends drifted away from me into an angry private conversation—“He punked me!”—as I ordered another drink for myself, scared of the dead-eyed arrivals whose gaze never registered in the dim wattage of the Schooner Bar, whose terrifying voices and hollow laughs grated like unoiled gears against the crooning of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”

But today is a new day for me and my hangover. After breakfast, I explore the ship’s so-called neighborhoods . There’s the AquaDome, where one can find a food hall and an acrobatic sound-and-light aquatic show. Central Park has a premium steak house, a sushi joint, and a used Rolex that can be bought for $8,000 on land here proudly offered at $17,000. There’s the aforementioned Royal Promenade, where I had drunk with the Rands, and where a pair of dueling pianos duel well into the night. There’s Surfside, a kids’ neighborhood full of sugary garbage, which looks out onto the frothy trail that the behemoth leaves behind itself. Thrill Island refers to the collection of tubes that clutter the ass of the ship and offer passengers six waterslides and a surfing simulation. There’s the Hideaway, an adult zone that plays music from a vomit-slathered, Brit-filled Alicante nightclub circa 1996 and proves a big favorite with groups of young Latin American customers. And, most hurtfully, there’s the Suite Neighborhood.

I say hurtfully because as a Suite passenger I should be here, though my particular suite is far from the others. Whereas I am stuck amid the riffraff of Deck 11, this section is on the highborn Decks 16 and 17, and in passing, I peek into the spacious, tall-ceilinged staterooms from the hallway, dazzled by the glint of the waves and sun. For $75,000, one multifloor suite even comes with its own slide between floors, so that a family may enjoy this particular terror in private. There is a quiet splendor to the Suite Neighborhood. I see fewer stickers and signs and drawings than in my own neighborhood—for example, MIKE AND DIANA PROUDLY SERVED U.S. MARINE CORPS RETIRED . No one here needs to announce their branch of service or rank; they are simply Suites, and this is where they belong. Once again, despite my hard work and perseverance, I have been disallowed from the true American elite. Once again, I am “Not our class, dear.” I am reminded of watching The Love Boat on my grandmother’s Zenith, which either was given to her or we found in the trash (I get our many malfunctioning Zeniths confused) and whose tube got so hot, I would put little chunks of government cheese on a thin tissue atop it to give our welfare treat a pleasant, Reagan-era gooeyness. I could not understand English well enough then to catch the nuances of that seafaring program, but I knew that there were differences in the status of the passengers, and that sometimes those differences made them sad. Still, this ship, this plenty—every few steps, there are complimentary nachos or milkshakes or gyros on offer—was the fatty fuel of my childhood dreams. If only I had remained a child.

I walk around the outdoor decks looking for company. There is a middle-aged African American couple who always seem to be asleep in each other’s arms, probably exhausted from the late capitalism they regularly encounter on land. There is far more diversity on this ship than I expected. Many couples are a testament to Loving v. Virginia , and there is a large group of folks whose T-shirts read MELANIN AT SEA / IT’S THE MELANIN FOR ME . I smile when I see them, but then some young kids from the group makes Mr. Washy Washy do a cruel, caricatured “Burger Dance” (today he is in his burger getup), and I think, Well, so much for intersectionality .

At the infinity pool on Deck 17, I spot some elderly women who could be ethnic and from my part of the world, and so I jump in. I am proved correct! Many of them seem to be originally from Queens (“Corona was still great when it was all Italian”), though they are now spread across the tristate area. We bond over the way “Ron-kon-koma” sounds when announced in Penn Station.

“Everyone is here for a different reason,” one of them tells me. She and her ex-husband last sailed together four years ago to prove to themselves that their marriage was truly over. Her 15-year-old son lost his virginity to “an Irish young lady” while their ship was moored in Ravenna, Italy. The gaggle of old-timers competes to tell me their favorite cruising stories and tips. “A guy proposed in Central Park a couple of years ago”—many Royal Caribbean ships apparently have this ridiculous communal area—“and she ran away screaming!” “If you’re diamond-class, you get four drinks for free.” “A different kind of passenger sails out of Bayonne.” (This, perhaps, is racially coded.) “Sometimes, if you tip the bartender $5, your next drink will be free.”

“Everyone’s here for a different reason,” the woman whose marriage ended on a cruise tells me again. “Some people are here for bad reasons—the drinkers and the gamblers. Some people are here for medical reasons.” I have seen more than a few oxygen tanks and at least one woman clearly undergoing very serious chemo. Some T-shirts celebrate good news about a cancer diagnosis. This might be someone’s last cruise or week on Earth. For these women, who have spent months, if not years, at sea, cruising is a ritual as well as a life cycle: first love, last love, marriage, divorce, death.

Read: The last place on Earth any tourist should go

I have talked with these women for so long, tonight I promise myself that after a sad solitary dinner I will not try to seek out company at the bars in the mall or the adult-themed Hideaway. I have enough material to fulfill my duties to this publication. As I approach my orphaned suite, I run into the aggro young people who stole Mr. and Mrs. Rand away from me the night before. The tattooed apparitions pass me without a glance. She is singing something violent about “Stuttering Stanley” (a character in a popular horror movie, as I discover with my complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream Internet at Sea) and he’s loudly shouting about “all the money I’ve lost,” presumably at the casino in the bowels of the ship.

So these bent psychos out of a Cormac McCarthy novel are angrily inhabiting my deck. As I mewl myself to sleep, I envision a limited series for HBO or some other streamer, a kind of low-rent White Lotus , where several aggressive couples conspire to throw a shy intellectual interloper overboard. I type the scenario into my phone. As I fall asleep, I think of what the woman who recently divorced her husband and whose son became a man through the good offices of the Irish Republic told me while I was hoisting myself out of the infinity pool. “I’m here because I’m an explorer. I’m here because I’m trying something new.” What if I allowed myself to believe in her fantasy?

“YOU REALLY STARTED AT THE TOP,” they tell me. I’m at the Coastal Kitchen for my eggs and corned-beef hash, and the maître d’ has slotted me in between two couples. Fueled by coffee or perhaps intrigued by my relative youth, they strike up a conversation with me. As always, people are shocked that this is my first cruise. They contrast the Icon favorably with all the preceding liners in the Royal Caribbean fleet, usually commenting on the efficiency of the elevators that hurl us from deck to deck (as in many large corporate buildings, the elevators ask you to choose a floor and then direct you to one of many lifts). The couple to my right, from Palo Alto—he refers to his “porn mustache” and calls his wife “my cougar” because she is two years older—tell me they are “Pandemic Pinnacles.”

This is the day that my eyes will be opened. Pinnacles , it is explained to me over translucent cantaloupe, have sailed with Royal Caribbean for 700 ungodly nights. Pandemic Pinnacles took advantage of the two-for-one accrual rate of Pinnacle points during the pandemic, when sailing on a cruise ship was even more ill-advised, to catapult themselves into Pinnacle status.

Because of the importance of the inaugural voyage of the world’s largest cruise liner, more than 200 Pinnacles are on this ship, a startling number, it seems. Mrs. Palo Alto takes out a golden badge that I have seen affixed over many a breast, which reads CROWN AND ANCHOR SOCIETY along with her name. This is the coveted badge of the Pinnacle. “You should hear all the whining in Guest Services,” her husband tells me. Apparently, the Pinnacles who are not also Suites like us are all trying to use their status to get into Coastal Kitchen, our elite restaurant. Even a Pinnacle needs to be a Suite to access this level of corned-beef hash.

“We’re just baby Pinnacles,” Mrs. Palo Alto tells me, describing a kind of internal class struggle among the Pinnacle elite for ever higher status.

And now I understand what the maître d’ was saying to me on the first day of my cruise. He wasn’t saying “ pendejo .” He was saying “Pinnacle.” The dining room was for Pinnacles only, all those older people rolling in like the tide on their motorized scooters.

And now I understand something else: This whole thing is a cult. And like most cults, it can’t help but mirror the endless American fight for status. Like Keith Raniere’s NXIVM, where different-colored sashes were given out to connote rank among Raniere’s branded acolytes, this is an endless competition among Pinnacles, Suites, Diamond-Plusers, and facing-the-mall, no-balcony purple SeaPass Card peasants, not to mention the many distinctions within each category. The more you cruise, the higher your status. No wonder a section of the Royal Promenade is devoted to getting passengers to book their next cruise during the one they should be enjoying now. No wonder desperate Royal Caribbean offers (“FINAL HOURS”) crowded my email account weeks before I set sail. No wonder the ship’s jewelry store, the Royal Bling, is selling a $100,000 golden chalice that will entitle its owner to drink free on Royal Caribbean cruises for life. (One passenger was already gaming out whether her 28-year-old son was young enough to “just about earn out” on the chalice or if that ship had sailed.) No wonder this ship was sold out months before departure , and we had to pay $19,000 for a horrid suite away from the Suite Neighborhood. No wonder the most mythical hero of Royal Caribbean lore is someone named Super Mario, who has cruised so often, he now has his own working desk on many ships. This whole experience is part cult, part nautical pyramid scheme.

From the June 2014 issue: Ship of wonks

“The toilets are amazing,” the Palo Altos are telling me. “One flush and you’re done.” “They don’t understand how energy-efficient these ships are,” the husband of the other couple is telling me. “They got the LNG”—liquefied natural gas, which is supposed to make the Icon a boon to the environment (a concept widely disputed and sometimes ridiculed by environmentalists).

But I’m thinking along a different line of attack as I spear my last pallid slice of melon. For my streaming limited series, a Pinnacle would have to get killed by either an outright peasant or a Suite without an ocean view. I tell my breakfast companions my idea.

“Oh, for sure a Pinnacle would have to be killed,” Mr. Palo Alto, the Pandemic Pinnacle, says, touching his porn mustache thoughtfully as his wife nods.

“THAT’S RIGHT, IT’S your time, buddy!” Hubert, my fun-loving Panamanian cabin attendant, shouts as I step out of my suite in a robe. “Take it easy, buddy!”

I have come up with a new dressing strategy. Instead of trying to impress with my choice of T-shirts, I have decided to start wearing a robe, as one does at a resort property on land, with a proper spa and hammam. The response among my fellow cruisers has been ecstatic. “Look at you in the robe!” Mr. Rand cries out as we pass each other by the Thrill Island aqua park. “You’re living the cruise life! You know, you really drank me under the table that night.” I laugh as we part ways, but my soul cries out, Please spend more time with me, Mr. and Mrs. Rand; I so need the company .

In my white robe, I am a stately presence, a refugee from a better limited series, a one-man crossover episode. (Only Suites are granted these robes to begin with.) Today, I will try many of the activities these ships have on offer to provide their clientele with a sense of never-ceasing motion. Because I am already at Thrill Island, I decide to climb the staircase to what looks like a mast on an old-fashioned ship (terrified, because I am afraid of heights) to try a ride called “Storm Chasers,” which is part of the “Category 6” water park, named in honor of one of the storms that may someday do away with the Port of Miami entirely. Storm Chasers consists of falling from the “mast” down a long, twisting neon tube filled with water, like being the camera inside your own colonoscopy, as you hold on to the handles of a mat, hoping not to die. The tube then flops you down headfirst into a trough of water, a Royal Caribbean baptism. It both knocks my breath out and makes me sad.

In keeping with the aquatic theme, I attend a show at the AquaDome. To the sound of “Live and Let Die,” a man in a harness gyrates to and fro in the sultry air. I saw something very similar in the back rooms of the famed Berghain club in early-aughts Berlin. Soon another harnessed man is gyrating next to the first. Ja , I think to myself, I know how this ends. Now will come the fisting , natürlich . But the show soon devolves into the usual Marvel-film-grade nonsense, with too much light and sound signifying nichts . If any fisting is happening, it is probably in the Suite Neighborhood, inside a cabin marked with an upside-down pineapple, which I understand means a couple are ready to swing, and I will see none of it.

I go to the ice show, which is a kind of homage—if that’s possible—to the periodic table, done with the style and pomp and masterful precision that would please the likes of Kim Jong Un, if only he could afford Royal Caribbean talent. At one point, the dancers skate to the theme song of Succession . “See that!” I want to say to my fellow Suites—at “cultural” events, we have a special section reserved for us away from the commoners—“ Succession ! It’s even better than the zombie show! Open your minds!”

Finally, I visit a comedy revue in an enormous and too brightly lit version of an “intimate,” per Royal Caribbean literature, “Manhattan comedy club.” Many of the jokes are about the cruising life. “I’ve lived on ships for 20 years,” one of the middle-aged comedians says. “I can only see so many Filipino homosexuals dressed as a taco.” He pauses while the audience laughs. “I am so fired tonight,” he says. He segues into a Trump impression and then Biden falling asleep at the microphone, which gets the most laughs. “Anyone here from Fort Leonard Wood?” another comedian asks. Half the crowd seems to cheer. As I fall asleep that night, I realize another connection I have failed to make, and one that may explain some of the diversity on this vessel—many of its passengers have served in the military.

As a coddled passenger with a suite, I feel like I am starting to understand what it means to have a rank and be constantly reminded of it. There are many espresso makers , I think as I look across the expanse of my officer-grade quarters before closing my eyes, but this one is mine .

A shocking sight greets me beyond the pools of Deck 17 as I saunter over to the Coastal Kitchen for my morning intake of slightly sour Americanos. A tiny city beneath a series of perfectly pressed green mountains. Land! We have docked for a brief respite in Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis. I wolf down my egg scramble to be one of the first passengers off the ship. Once past the gangway, I barely refrain from kissing the ground. I rush into the sights and sounds of this scruffy island city, sampling incredible conch curry and buckets of non-Starbucks coffee. How wonderful it is to be where God intended humans to be: on land. After all, I am neither a fish nor a mall rat. This is my natural environment. Basseterre may not be Havana, but there are signs of human ingenuity and desire everywhere you look. The Black Table Grill Has been Relocated to Soho Village, Market Street, Directly Behind of, Gary’s Fruits and Flower Shop. Signed. THE PORK MAN reads a sign stuck to a wall. Now, that is how you write a sign. A real sign, not the come-ons for overpriced Rolexes that blink across the screens of the Royal Promenade.

“Hey, tie your shoestring!” a pair of laughing ladies shout to me across the street.

“Thank you!” I shout back. Shoestring! “Thank you very much.”

A man in Independence Square Park comes by and asks if I want to play with his monkey. I haven’t heard that pickup line since the Penn Station of the 1980s. But then he pulls a real monkey out of a bag. The monkey is wearing a diaper and looks insane. Wonderful , I think, just wonderful! There is so much life here. I email my editor asking if I can remain on St. Kitts and allow the Icon to sail off into the horizon without me. I have even priced a flight home at less than $300, and I have enough material from the first four days on the cruise to write the entire story. “It would be funny …” my editor replies. “Now get on the boat.”

As I slink back to the ship after my brief jailbreak, the locals stand under umbrellas to gaze at and photograph the boat that towers over their small capital city. The limousines of the prime minister and his lackeys are parked beside the gangway. St. Kitts, I’ve been told, is one of the few islands that would allow a ship of this size to dock.

“We hear about all the waterslides,” a sweet young server in one of the cafés told me. “We wish we could go on the ship, but we have to work.”

“I want to stay on your island,” I replied. “I love it here.”

But she didn’t understand how I could possibly mean that.

“WASHY, WASHY, so you don’t get stinky, stinky!” kids are singing outside the AquaDome, while their adult minders look on in disapproval, perhaps worried that Mr. Washy Washy is grooming them into a life of gayness. I heard a southern couple skip the buffet entirely out of fear of Mr. Washy Washy.

Meanwhile, I have found a new watering hole for myself, the Swim & Tonic, the biggest swim-up bar on any cruise ship in the world. Drinking next to full-size, nearly naked Americans takes away one’s own self-consciousness. The men have curvaceous mom bodies. The women are equally un-shy about their sprawling physiques.

Today I’ve befriended a bald man with many children who tells me that all of the little trinkets that Royal Caribbean has left us in our staterooms and suites are worth a fortune on eBay. “Eighty dollars for the water bottle, 60 for the lanyard,” the man says. “This is a cult.”

“Tell me about it,” I say. There is, however, a clientele for whom this cruise makes perfect sense. For a large middle-class family (he works in “supply chains”), seven days in a lower-tier cabin—which starts at $1,800 a person—allow the parents to drop off their children in Surfside, where I imagine many young Filipina crew members will take care of them, while the parents are free to get drunk at a swim-up bar and maybe even get intimate in their cabin. Cruise ships have become, for a certain kind of hardworking family, a form of subsidized child care.

There is another man I would like to befriend at the Swim & Tonic, a tall, bald fellow who is perpetually inebriated and who wears a necklace studded with little rubber duckies in sunglasses, which, I am told, is a sort of secret handshake for cruise aficionados. Tomorrow, I will spend more time with him, but first the ship docks at St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, is more charming in name than in presence, but I still all but jump off the ship to score a juicy oxtail and plantains at the well-known Petite Pump Room, overlooking the harbor. From one of the highest points in the small city, the Icon of the Seas appears bigger than the surrounding hills.

I usually tan very evenly, but something about the discombobulation of life at sea makes me forget the regular application of sunscreen. As I walk down the streets of Charlotte Amalie in my fluorescent Icon of the Seas cap, an old Rastafarian stares me down. “Redneck,” he hisses.

“No,” I want to tell him, as I bring a hand up to my red neck, “that’s not who I am at all. On my island, Mannahatta, as Whitman would have it, I am an interesting person living within an engaging artistic milieu. I do not wish to use the Caribbean as a dumping ground for the cruise-ship industry. I love the work of Derek Walcott. You don’t understand. I am not a redneck. And if I am, they did this to me.” They meaning Royal Caribbean? Its passengers? The Rands?

“They did this to me!”

Back on the Icon, some older matrons are muttering about a run-in with passengers from the Celebrity cruise ship docked next to us, the Celebrity Apex. Although Celebrity Cruises is also owned by Royal Caribbean, I am made to understand that there is a deep fratricidal beef between passengers of the two lines. “We met a woman from the Apex,” one matron says, “and she says it was a small ship and there was nothing to do. Her face was as tight as a 19-year-old’s, she had so much surgery.” With those words, and beneath a cloudy sky, humidity shrouding our weathered faces and red necks, we set sail once again, hopefully in the direction of home.

THERE ARE BARELY 48 HOURS LEFT to the cruise, and the Icon of the Seas’ passengers are salty. They know how to work the elevators. They know the Washy Washy song by heart. They understand that the chicken gyro at “Feta Mediterranean,” in the AquaDome Market, is the least problematic form of chicken on the ship.

The passengers have shed their INAUGURAL CRUISE T-shirts and are now starting to evince political opinions. There are caps pledging to make America great again and T-shirts that celebrate words sometimes attributed to Patrick Henry: “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people; it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.” With their preponderance of FAMILY FLAG FAITH FRIENDS FIREARMS T-shirts, the tables by the crepe station sometimes resemble the Capitol Rotunda on January 6. The Real Anthony Fauci , by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appears to be a popular form of literature, especially among young men with very complicated versions of the American flag on their T-shirts. Other opinions blend the personal and the political. “Someone needs to kill Washy guy, right?” a well-dressed man in the elevator tells me, his gray eyes radiating nothing. “Just beat him to death. Am I right?” I overhear the male member of a young couple whisper, “There goes that freak” as I saunter by in my white spa robe, and I decide to retire it for the rest of the cruise.

I visit the Royal Bling to see up close the $100,000 golden chalice that entitles you to free drinks on Royal Caribbean forever. The pleasant Serbian saleslady explains that the chalice is actually gold-plated and covered in white zirconia instead of diamonds, as it would otherwise cost $1 million. “If you already have everything,” she explains, “this is one more thing you can get.”

I believe that anyone who works for Royal Caribbean should be entitled to immediate American citizenship. They already speak English better than most of the passengers and, per the Serbian lady’s sales pitch above, better understand what America is as well. Crew members like my Panamanian cabin attendant seem to work 24 hours a day. A waiter from New Delhi tells me that his contract is six months and three weeks long. After a cruise ends, he says, “in a few hours, we start again for the next cruise.” At the end of the half a year at sea, he is allowed a two-to-three-month stay at home with his family. As of 2019, the median income for crew members was somewhere in the vicinity of $20,000, according to a major business publication. Royal Caribbean would not share the current median salary for its crew members, but I am certain that it amounts to a fraction of the cost of a Royal Bling gold-plated, zirconia-studded chalice.

And because most of the Icon’s hyper-sanitized spaces are just a frittata away from being a Delta lounge, one forgets that there are actual sailors on this ship, charged with the herculean task of docking it in port. “Having driven 100,000-ton aircraft carriers throughout my career,” retired Admiral James G. Stavridis, the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, writes to me, “I’m not sure I would even know where to begin with trying to control a sea monster like this one nearly three times the size.” (I first met Stavridis while touring Army bases in Germany more than a decade ago.)

Today, I decide to head to the hot tub near Swim & Tonic, where some of the ship’s drunkest reprobates seem to gather (the other tubs are filled with families and couples). The talk here, like everywhere else on the ship, concerns football, a sport about which I know nothing. It is apparent that four teams have recently competed in some kind of finals for the year, and that two of them will now face off in the championship. Often when people on the Icon speak, I will try to repeat the last thing they said with a laugh or a nod of disbelief. “Yes, 20-yard line! Ha!” “Oh my God, of course, scrimmage.”

Soon we are joined in the hot tub by the late-middle-age drunk guy with the duck necklace. He is wearing a bucket hat with the legend HAWKEYES , which, I soon gather, is yet another football team. “All right, who turned me in?” Duck Necklace says as he plops into the tub beside us. “I get a call in the morning,” he says. “It’s security. Can you come down to the dining room by 10 a.m.? You need to stay away from the members of this religious family.” Apparently, the gregarious Duck Necklace had photobombed the wrong people. There are several families who present as evangelical Christians or practicing Muslims on the ship. One man, evidently, was not happy that Duck Necklace had made contact with his relatives. “It’s because of religious stuff; he was offended. I put my arm around 20 people a day.”

Everyone laughs. “They asked me three times if I needed medication,” he says of the security people who apparently interrogated him in full view of others having breakfast.

Another hot-tub denizen suggests that he should have asked for fentanyl. After a few more drinks, Duck Necklace begins to muse about what it would be like to fall off the ship. “I’m 62 and I’m ready to go,” he says. “I just don’t want a shark to eat me. I’m a huge God guy. I’m a Bible guy. There’s some Mayan theory squaring science stuff with religion. There is so much more to life on Earth.” We all nod into our Red Stripes.

“I never get off the ship when we dock,” he says. He tells us he lost $6,000 in the casino the other day. Later, I look him up, and it appears that on land, he’s a financial adviser in a crisp gray suit, probably a pillar of his North Chicago community.

THE OCEAN IS TEEMING with fascinating life, but on the surface it has little to teach us. The waves come and go. The horizon remains ever far away.

I am constantly told by my fellow passengers that “everybody here has a story.” Yes, I want to reply, but everybody everywhere has a story. You, the reader of this essay, have a story, and yet you’re not inclined to jump on a cruise ship and, like Duck Necklace, tell your story to others at great pitch and volume. Maybe what they’re saying is that everybody on this ship wants to have a bigger, more coherent, more interesting story than the one they’ve been given. Maybe that’s why there’s so much signage on the doors around me attesting to marriages spent on the sea. Maybe that’s why the Royal Caribbean newsletter slipped under my door tells me that “this isn’t a vacation day spent—it’s bragging rights earned.” Maybe that’s why I’m so lonely.

Today is a big day for Icon passengers. Today the ship docks at Royal Caribbean’s own Bahamian island, the Perfect Day at CocoCay. (This appears to be the actual name of the island.) A comedian at the nightclub opined on what his perfect day at CocoCay would look like—receiving oral sex while learning that his ex-wife had been killed in a car crash (big laughter). But the reality of the island is far less humorous than that.

One of the ethnic tristate ladies in the infinity pool told me that she loved CocoCay because it had exactly the same things that could be found on the ship itself. This proves to be correct. It is like the Icon, but with sand. The same tired burgers, the same colorful tubes conveying children and water from Point A to B. The same swim-up bar at its Hideaway ($140 for admittance, no children allowed; Royal Caribbean must be printing money off its clientele). “There was almost a fight at The Wizard of Oz ,” I overhear an elderly woman tell her companion on a chaise lounge. Apparently one of the passengers began recording Royal Caribbean’s intellectual property and “three guys came after him.”

I walk down a pathway to the center of the island, where a sign reads DO NOT ENTER: YOU HAVE REACHED THE BOUNDARY OF ADVENTURE . I hear an animal scampering in the bushes. A Royal Caribbean worker in an enormous golf cart soon chases me down and takes me back to the Hideaway, where I run into Mrs. Rand in a bikini. She becomes livid telling me about an altercation she had the other day with a woman over a towel and a deck chair. We Suites have special towel privileges; we do not have to hand over our SeaPass Card to score a towel. But the Rands are not Suites. “People are so entitled here,” Mrs. Rand says. “It’s like the airport with all its classes.” “You see,” I want to say, “this is where your husband’s love of Ayn Rand runs into the cruelties and arbitrary indignities of unbridled capitalism.” Instead we make plans to meet for a final drink in the Schooner Bar tonight (the Rands will stand me up).

Back on the ship, I try to do laps, but the pool (the largest on any cruise ship, naturally) is fully trashed with the detritus of American life: candy wrappers, a slowly dissolving tortilla chip, napkins. I take an extra-long shower in my suite, then walk around the perimeter of the ship on a kind of exercise track, past all the alluring lifeboats in their yellow-and-white livery. Maybe there is a dystopian angle to the HBO series that I will surely end up pitching, one with shades of WALL-E or Snowpiercer . In a collapsed world, a Royal Caribbean–like cruise liner sails from port to port, collecting new shipmates and supplies in exchange for the precious energy it has on board. (The actual Icon features a new technology that converts passengers’ poop into enough energy to power the waterslides . In the series, this shitty technology would be greatly expanded.) A very young woman (18? 19?), smart and lonely, who has only known life on the ship, walks along the same track as I do now, contemplating jumping off into the surf left by its wake. I picture reusing Duck Necklace’s words in the opening shot of the pilot. The girl is walking around the track, her eyes on the horizon; maybe she’s highborn—a Suite—and we hear the voice-over: “I’m 19 and I’m ready to go. I just don’t want a shark to eat me.”

Before the cruise is finished, I talk to Mr. Washy Washy, or Nielbert of the Philippines. He is a sweet, gentle man, and I thank him for the earworm of a song he has given me and for keeping us safe from the dreaded norovirus. “This is very important to me, getting people to wash their hands,” he tells me in his burger getup. He has dreams, as an artist and a performer, but they are limited in scope. One day he wants to dress up as a piece of bacon for the morning shift.

THE MAIDEN VOYAGE OF THE TITANIC (the Icon of the Seas is five times as large as that doomed vessel) at least offered its passengers an exciting ending to their cruise, but when I wake up on the eighth day, all I see are the gray ghosts that populate Miami’s condo skyline. Throughout my voyage, my writer friends wrote in to commiserate with me. Sloane Crosley, who once covered a three-day spa mini-cruise for Vogue , tells me she felt “so very alone … I found it very untethering.” Gideon Lewis-Kraus writes in an Instagram comment: “When Gary is done I think it’s time this genre was taken out back and shot.” And he is right. To badly paraphrase Adorno: After this, no more cruise stories. It is unfair to put a thinking person on a cruise ship. Writers typically have difficult childhoods, and it is cruel to remind them of the inherent loneliness that drove them to writing in the first place. It is also unseemly to write about the kind of people who go on cruises. Our country does not provide the education and upbringing that allow its citizens an interior life. For the creative class to point fingers at the large, breasty gentlemen adrift in tortilla-chip-laden pools of water is to gather a sour harvest of low-hanging fruit.

A day or two before I got off the ship, I decided to make use of my balcony, which I had avoided because I thought the view would only depress me further. What I found shocked me. My suite did not look out on Central Park after all. This entire time, I had been living in the ship’s Disneyland, Surfside, the neighborhood full of screaming toddlers consuming milkshakes and candy. And as I leaned out over my balcony, I beheld a slight vista of the sea and surf that I thought I had been missing. It had been there all along. The sea was frothy and infinite and blue-green beneath the span of a seagull’s wing. And though it had been trod hard by the world’s largest cruise ship, it remained.

This article appears in the May 2024 print edition with the headline “A Meatball at Sea.” When you buy a book using a link on this page, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic.

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Coast guard crews searching for man who fell from cruise ship.

Chris Gothner , Digital Journalist

MIAMI – U.S. Coast Guard crews from Miami are aiding in the search for a man who went overboard from a South Florida-based cruise ship Thursday morning.

It happened on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas, which, according to CruiseMapper , was on a four-day roundtrip voyage from Port Everglades.

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The 20-year-old fell from the ship about 57 miles off the coast of Great Inagua island in the Bahamas.

Authorities haven’t publicly identified the man or said whether he was a passenger or crew member.

Coast Guard Cutter Seneca and crews from Coast Guard Air Station Miami are leading the search, according to the agency.

#Breaking @USCG crews are searching for a 20-year-old man who went overboard from the Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles from Great Inagua this morning. USCG Cutter Seneca and Air Station Miami HC-144 crews are conducting the search. #USCG #SAR pic.twitter.com/zZPpKOdyCn — USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) April 4, 2024

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About the Author

Chris gothner.

Chris Gothner joined the Local 10 News team in 2022 as a Digital Journalist.

Local 10 News @ 11PM : Apr 09, 2024

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Coast Guard searching for man who went overboard from Royal Caribbean cruise

Officials said the man went overboard from the Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles off Great Inagua.

By NBC6 • Published April 4, 2024 • Updated on April 4, 2024 at 5:24 pm

The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for a 20-year-old man who went overboard from a Royal Caribbean cruise Thursday morning off the Bahamas.

"The ship's crew immediately launched a search and rescue effort alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, who has taken over the search," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said in a statement. "Our Care Team is providing support and assistance to the guest's family during this difficult time. For the privacy of the guest and their family, we have no additional details to share."

#Breaking @USCG crews are searching for a 20-year-old man who went overboard from the Liberty of the Seas cruise ship 57 miles from Great Inagua this morning. USCG Cutter Seneca and Air Station Miami HC-144 crews are conducting the search. #USCG #SAR pic.twitter.com/zZPpKOdyCn — USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) April 4, 2024

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