Exciting destinations and great shipboard amenities make a Royal Caribbean cruise a solid choice for any family vacation. We’re breaking down all there is to know about Royal Caribbean’s offerings, from its fleet, itineraries, dining options, rooms and suites.
For a tailored report, consider planning your cruise with a Fora Advisor. They’ll help you navigate Royal Caribbean’s (impressively vast) lineup of itineraries, as well as the brand’s ship and room options, to ensure your cruise experience aligns with what you’re after.
First, what makes a Royal Caribbean cruise worthwhile?
A Royal Caribbean cruise checks a lot of boxes for family vacations. As a passenger, you get a snapshot of popular destinations around the world. Shipboard amenities keep you well-fed and entertained during travel times. And the inclusive, approachable price tag tends to be one of the best selling points.
(For tips and tricks when cruising Royal Caribbean, check out our Fora Advisor Kelsey Parry’s guide.)
Royal Caribbean cruises allow you to visit incredible destinations (if briefly)
Alaska, the Mediterranean, Japan, the Caribbean… Royal Caribbean cruises make port at great destinations worldwide. Most stops only last a day or two — if you’re interested in truly discovering a particular destination or venturing off the beaten path, you may want to consider a land-based vacation — but if you’re happy with the highlights, Royal Caribbean cruises are a great opportunity.
Many departure points are great destinations, too
Royal Caribbean operates cruises out of major ports around the world, like LA, Barcelona and Dubai. These departure points are often just as exciting as cruise destinations. Consider allowing a little extra time pre- or post-cruise to explore.
A Royal Caribbean Gulf of Mexico cruise, for example, might depart from New Orleans before voyaging out to places like Cancún, Cozumel or Roatán. Strolling the French Quarter and Canal Street before hitting the relaxing waves of the Caribbean isn’t the worst way to start a vacation.
By the way, a Fora Advisor can book your cruise and hotel, and help you plan a mini itinerary for the departure point.
Related article: 10 Unique Places to Stay in New Orleans: Cool Hotels & Neighborhoods
Shipboard amenities make traveling from port to port fun
For many travelers, the shipboard amenities are just as exciting as the destinations. Each ship is different (we’ll come back to this), but generally, expect a slate of live performances, elaborate pool decks — some of which are essentially mini waterparks — and more.
Most ships are also equipped with spas, indoor and outdoor lounge areas and fitness facilities.
Cruise lengths vary from a few days to months
The average Royal Caribbean cruise lasts between seven to 10 days. But there’s no shortage of options. You’ll find plenty of weekend getaways and extended routes that last weeks or even months.
Royal Caribbean cruises are family friendly
While you will find adult-geared entertainment and spaces on most ships, Royal Caribbean is known for being family friendly. Currently, the cruise line does not offer adults-only cruises.
(If you’re interested in kid-free voyages, check out Virgin Voyages adults-only cruises.)
Royal Caribbean shipboard amenities, accommodations & dining
Every ship in the fleet is equipped with a variety of onboard amenities, dining options and cabins.
The exact offerings change from ship to ship
Before we break down the options, it’s important to know that each ship’s offerings are somewhat different. Every ship carries the basics: dining halls, shows and onboard thrills — but the exact choices vary from ship to ship.
If there’s a particular set of experiences you’re interested in, connect with a Fora Advisor. They’ll make sure you not only get the right itinerary, but your desired shipboard experience, too.
Ships like Icon of the Seas headline Royal Caribbean’s fleet (and have the most to offer)
Royal Caribbean’s newest line of cruise ships takes the idea of a “floating city” to a whole new level. Dwarfing the average cruiseliner, ships like Icon of the Seas are quite literally floating metropolises, with nearly 3,000 staterooms, multiple neighborhoods, almost 40 restaurants and bars, a full waterpark, numerous pool decks and much more. Check out Fora Advisor Phelipe Cardoso Sekai’s overview of Icon of the Seas for more details.
Cabin options: standard staterooms & luxe suites
Every Royal Caribbean cruise ship has entry-level, mid-level and luxe staterooms. The smallest, most accessibly priced rooms measure around 150 square feet and sleep one to four people. Smaller rooms sometimes have options for ocean views (sometimes even with private balconies).
On the other end of the spectrum, Royal Suite Class accommodations measure up to 2,100 square feet. These choices often feature multiple decks, comfortably sleep up to eight people and host a wealth of high-end amenities. Additionally, Royal Suite Class passengers enjoy exclusive access to VIP areas throughout the ship.
As for décor, expect simple yet plush rooms in the standard staterooms and grandiose designs in the luxury suites. The exact theme varies by ship, but usually offers a fun and vibrant take on classic tropical designs.
Shows & entertainment
Every ship in the fleet hosts at least one venue for live performances. The everchanging lineup typically includes comedies, musicals, acrobatic displays and more — all of which are geared toward a general audience (although some late-night shows have an adult-oriented spin).
Children & teen programs
While Royal Caribbean cruises are overtly family friendly, every ship is equipped with child and teen programs. Most ships split their programs into groups and offer a wide range of age-appropriate activities, from fun science experiments and live shows, to arcades and arts and crafts. Exempting late-night programs (after 10 pm), these services are complimentary.
Some ships are even outfitted with nurseries for children six months and up; cruises are not recommended for infants younger than six months.
Nightlife
The nightlife on Royal Caribbean cruises is lively and diverse. Intimate concert venues, karaoke bars, dance clubs, pool areas and more are available across the fleet. The family-friendly atmosphere is generally maintained, but some ships have adults-only areas.
If there’s a particular vibe you’re interested in, you can always ask a Fora Advisor to find the right ship and itinerary for you.
Pool decks, casinos, waterparks & more
Royal Caribbean goes above and beyond when it comes to shipboard attractions. Every ship has multiple pool areas, but many also feature mini waterparks. Other attractions include casinos (check out Pro Fora Advisor Sharon Iannone’s guide to Royal Caribbean’s Casino Royale).
Dining options, casual to formal
Even the smallest Royal Caribbean cruise ships feature extensive dining options. Buffet-style and casual restaurant meals are usually included with your cabin. But optional specialty restaurants are available on every ship as well. These typically offer a more formal experience, requiring reservations, and feature elevated menus.
Destination excursions
Beyond shipboard fun, Royal Caribbean also works with partners on the ground to organize excursions and experiences at all their destinations. These optional experiences might include ziplining through dense jungles, snorkeling along coral reefs or guided tours of famous landmarks.
Passengers are also free to make their own plans (just be aware that the ship won’t stop if you’re not aboard before departure).
Royal Caribbean cruise destinations: over 300 options
Royal Caribbean cruises sail all around the world. Below, we’ll focus on broader regions.
The Americas: Mexico’s west coast, Canada, Alaska
Dozens of itineraries explore the North American theater. One fun option departs from Seattle to Vancouver, British Columbia, and then to various points along the Alaskan frontier. Otherwise, the western coast of Mexico makes up a strong majority of Royal Caribbean’s North American cruises (outside of the Caribbean, of course; see next section), with Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada headlining.
The Caribbean: Aruba, Jamaica, the Bahamas
Royal Caribbean offers over 200 different Caribbean itineraries throughout the year. Aruba, Jamaica, the Bahamas, the best places to visit in Puerto Rico — you name it. Most options last around a week, but there are shorter and longer itineraries too (12 nights is typically the max).
Asia & the South Pacific: China, Japan, Hawai‘i
Royal Caribbean’s Asia and South Pacific offerings are possibly the cruise line’s most far-flung. Destinations include Japan (see our Japan first-timer’s guide), Australia, China and many of the best places to visit in Hawai‘i, to name a few.
Europe: Spain, Italy, Greece
The cruise line’s European itineraries are mostly split between northern Europe and the Mediterranean. The former might include destinations such as Copenhagen, Oslo and Amsterdam, while the latter either focuses on Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece or Croatia.
Read more: Where to Go in Greece for the First Time: 5 Best Options
The Ultimate World Cruise & other specialty cruises
Finally, a select few Royal Caribbean cruises offer grandiose experiences, from traveling the world (seriously) to crossing the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. The 274-night Ultimate World Cruise touches all seven continents and over 60 countries. There are also four regional versions that run for about two months each. Alternatively, Royal Caribbean offers two-week Transatlantic, Transpacific and Panama Canal Cruises.
Book your Royal Caribbean cruise with a Fora Advisor
Between exciting destinations and indulgent amenities, a Royal Caribbean cruise is a family-friendly blast. To get the most out of your cruise, consider booking with a Fora Advisor. They’ll make sure your stateroom (or suite) and itinerary match your budget and preferences. Better yet, they’ll make sure you get the best available rate, including any special offers.
Royal Caribbean cruise FAQs
We’ve gathered a few answers to common questions about Royal Caribbean cruises.
What’s the average cost of a 7-day Royal Caribbean cruise?
There’s no simple answer to this question, as a lot can affect the total price of a Royal Caribbean cruise. Broadly speaking, you can expect a seven-day cruise to cost between $1,000 and $2,300 per person for entry-level cabins, including taxes. This includes most meals — you’ll need to pay extra for premium dining options and alcohol (a pass is available that can save you money) — and shipboard experiences like shows and other performances.
This total can easily jump several thousand dollars depending on your room and ship choice, though. For example, a seven-day cruise on the Icon of the Seas that visits numerous ports will likely cost around 50 percent more than the same itinerary and room selection on one of Royal Caribbean’s smaller cruise liners.
Does Royal Caribbean require passports?
Royal Caribbean requires that all passengers carry a valid form of government-issued ID to board their ships. Passports are highly recommended, but for some itineraries, they’re unnecessary. For children 15 and under, a birth certificate is usually sufficient. Some countries may also require that passengers obtain a visa before they can disembark from the cruise ship.
A Fora Advisor can help you navigate the specific requirements for your desired itinerary.
Does Royal Caribbean run special offers?
Royal Caribbean regularly runs special offers, sometimes with dramatic discounts. If you book with a Fora Advisor, they’ll automatically check for the best available rates and promotions.
What are Royal Caribbean’s departure months?
Royal Caribbean runs cruises all year, but most ports and itineraries are seasonal. In other words, your desired itinerary may only be available during part of the year, but there are always alternatives.
Are all Royal Caribbean itineraries concrete?
Generally, cruise itineraries are concrete. Occasionally, adverse weather conditions may force a cruise ship to take a longer route to certain destinations (or in extreme cases, skip it entirely).
Is sea sickness common on cruise ships?
Surprisingly, no. Barring severe, spontaneous weather, cruise ships are so large that most passengers don’t feel the waves. That said, the higher you are on the ship, the more likely you will feel the motion responsible for sea sickness. If you’re particularly worried about it, avoiding higher decks will mitigate your risk.
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