While the free programming ends at 10 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at Adventure Ocean until 2 a.m., when it transforms into a supervised Late Night Party Zone. Related: The 9 most exciting new cruise ships of 2023. With your support, we can create more exciting content and share with everyone! This setup is ideal because you all can have some privacy, but still be within easy proximity for meeting up for activities. Guests can enjoy up to 10 dining experiences on the ship, including fine dining at Lumire. Onboard Shops 7. Your . The British-inspired sailings are all-inclusive; fares cover meals at all onboard restaurants as well as access to entertainment venues, Wi-Fi, and unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. In addition, some ships feature private restaurants just for passengers staying in suites along with top-tier members of the lines Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program. The Best Royal Caribbean Ships For Single Travellers: Ships in the Oasis Class include Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony and Wonder of the Seas. 1. These smaller ships accommodating a maximum of 702 guests sail waterways and rivers larger ships can't access, where they can dock in city centers and unique ports of call around the globe. Perhaps the most bizarre attractions ever conceived for a cruise ship, they are giant mechanical arms topped with glass-enclosed capsules that will take you soaring above the ships for the view. Gather the grown-ups and set sail on an ocean, river or expedition cruise around the world. Basketball. As noted above, the lines biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from theaters to comedy clubs; all manner of deck-top attractions; large casinos; full-service spas; and even ice skating rinks. Its six ultra-luxury ships and five expedition vessels range in size from 51 to 364 suites and feature spacious ocean-view accommodations most with private verandas. Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships. The vibe is always on at this off-the-grid. On Oasis-class ships, there also are 735-seat outdoor aqua theaters that are home to dazzling aerial and water shows. Note that, unlike airline frequent flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. Yes, with caveats. The world-renowned Global Culinary Ambassador for the line, Daniel Boulud, created the menu at this elegant venue, incorporating dishes inspired by his travels. See bold feats unleashed at Absolute Zero, our biggest ice arena ever. This tropical haven offers guests a truly unforgettable experience, with its white sand beaches and crystal-clear . The Best Overall Royal Caribbean Ships For Adults: While this is definitely a ship that families will love, there are some great features specifically for adults who are either travelling without kids or who just want to relax while their children are busy in the kids club. Got game? The high annual fee is only worth it if youre taking full advantage of the cards benefits. The Oasis-class ships have three distinct pool areas, as well as a watery play zone for kids. You don't even have to participate to enjoy it; you can sit back and watch everyone else run around and still share in the laughter. The line started with climbing walls to FlowRider surfing simulators, and has since added ziplining nine stories above deck, bumper cars, and even a sky diving chamber with RipCord by iFLY. We were cruising with a group of Royal Caribbean pros, and the first mention of Quest came on the first day of our cruise -- something like, "Oh good! This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). We finished with a bronze, and for the next two days, in-the-know passengers who stopped our pal to say, "Hello Savannah" were greeted with a big smile (and a little blush). Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels. A whole new way to explore and discover an underwater-themed world full of fun. The Best Royal Caribbean Ships For Seniors: Radiance-class ships offer floor-to-ceiling views perfect for taking in the sunsets and watching your destinations come into view. The Royal Tots program (for ages 18 months to 3 years) offers 45-minute interactive playground sessions with age-appropriate activities and toys. The only parade where every holiday is celebrated at once, Royal Escape Room - Mission Control: Apollo 18. Cruise fares include stateroom accommodations; select spirits, wine and beer; gratuities, nonalcoholic beverages like bottled water, specialty coffees and tea; and complimentary "AzAmazing Evenings" ashore or "Destination Celebrations" aboard the ship. Related: 15 ways that first-time cruisers waste money on a cruise. The newer classes of ships are better catered to younger adults and those seeking adventure, while the smaller classes of ships bring with them more port-intensive itineraries as well as a pared-back roster of activities, meaning there will likely be fewer children around. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at well-heeled travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to being on a luxury ship, and these truly are among the most spectacular accommodations at sea. An agent also can help you if something goes wrong before, during or after your voyage. No other cruise line has as broad a range of entertainment and activities on its ships as Royal Caribbean. You must be 21 to consume alcohol on sailings originating in North America or the United Arab Emirates. To find out the specifics, read our story oncruise line alcohol policies. Once on board a Royal Caribbean vessel, youll pay extra for most drinks (most beers will set you back $7.99, for instance; wine by the glass ranges from $8 to $14), extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things unless youve bought a package for some of these items in advance. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. If you are unhappy with the service you receive, you can adjust this amount at the Guest Services desk before disembarking. If anyone on our team wouldnt recommend it to a friend or a family member, we wouldnt recommend it on The Points Guy either. Most onboard activities, such as rock climbing and zip lining, are included in the fare, as are your lodging, meals (in non-extra-charge restaurants) and entertainment. Sip to the rhythm of live music and DJs at every turn at Chill Island. That makes them particularly appealing to families, including multigenerational groups. Fuel bolder bonding at Surfside the ultimate stay-all-day family neighborhood. Tee off for friendly competition at Lost Dunes, the ultimate mini-golf course. The smaller ships also appeal to a subset of Royal Caribbean fans who like a little more intimacy in a cruise vessel and dont mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. If your idea of getting away from it all includes a vacation without the kids, consider booking an adults-only or adults-oriented cruise. In the casino, only cigarette smoking is allowed, and only in designated areas on most ships (smoking in casinos is forbidden on sailings out of Australia and U.K. ports). While some lines provide a fully adults-only experience (i.e., children are not allowed on board), others offer adult-focused venues and activities on the ship to keep you separate from younger patrons. The venues feature ocean views, bars, plush seating and other amenities. Dare to conquer the Crowns Edge, a test of bravery like nothing youve ever seen. What It Is Quest is uproariously fun, supremely competitive, and it's definitely for adults only, which is why it's often scheduled after 11 p.m. While this isnt the biggest class for Royal Caribbean, its onboard facilities are more focused on technology, adrenaline-rushing activities and thrill-seeking, with plenty of adult-only options too. Some ships also have comedy clubs, and theres always live music in multiple venues nightly. The lines biggest ships are bigger than any other cruise vessels afloat, and theyre chock-full of more restaurants, bars, entertainment zones and attractions than youll find anywhere else at sea or even at many of the biggest land resorts. Single-day or multiday passes are available to all adult cruisers, while travelers who book a Haven suite can access Posh Beach Club for free. Yes. The "Seabourn Conversations" program is another highlight, where accomplished experts host adventures ashore and participate in meals and chats with guests on board the ship. Cruise line staff have strict instructions not to serve underage drinkers. Adults looking to relax will love the Chill Island area of the ship, which is home to four of the pools that she holds. All suite accommodations include a private veranda or terrace; butler service; state-of-the-art amenities; Egyptian cotton linens; and an in-suite minibar stocked with Champagne, wine and other personally selected beverages. A few lines (including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess and Norwegian) allow 18- to 20-year-olds to drink alcohol in international waters if their parent or adult guardian signs a waiver form. Like what you see? The new Swim & Tonic is your go-to for ice-cold drinks and sun-kissed beats. Itineraries span destinations in the Caribbean and Europe, as well as trans-Atlantic crossings. For something quieter and more pampering, Royal Caribbean ships also all have spas. Prices also include excursions in some ports of call, gratuities and chauffeur service from locations in the U.K. to the embarkation port. Quest is uproariously fun, supremely competitive, and it's definitely for adults only, which is why it's often scheduled after 11 p.m. Now it's time to enjoy the best of what Royal Caribbean has to offer - our exclusive onboard activities! The relaxing top-deck venue is available on all Princess Cruises ships and features plush lounge chairs; a spa-like setting; and Serenity Stewards who serve light bites, spa cuisine and other refreshments. Though Disney Cruise Line tends to attract families and younger travelers, it also offers multiple spaces and activities for adults 18 and older. Saga's boutique luxury ocean cruise ships carry a maximum of 987 passengers each. If youre more of a small boutique hotel sort of person or someone who just isnt happy around crowds, well this might not be the line for you. Polish your PADI skills and get dive certified on your vacation. Central Park is a popular venue which is situated in the centre of the ship and brings a neighbourly vibe. Arcadia, the newer of the two ships, carries 2,094 guests and 866 crew. Score prime waves all day every day on the FlowRider surf simulator. Regent Seven Seas has five luxury vessels in its fleet with the sixth ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, set to launch in 2023. The cruise director took the stage and warmed us up with a few jokes, along with some instructions that included warnings like, "Be careful" and "Don't run into each other." The Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts. In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Royal Caribbean ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night, including a seemingly endless array of bars, lounges and nightspots. TheWhat to Expect on a Cruiseseries, written by Cruise Critic's editorial staff, is a resource guide, where we answer the most common questions about cruise ship life -- including cruise food, cabins, drinks and onboard fun -- as well as money matters before and during your cruise and visiting ports of call on your cruise. Norwegian Encore, one of the line's newest ships, boasts an impressive two-level beach club. Swirl through a champagne bowl funnel in Supercell, part of The Perfect Storm, the boldest waterslides at sea. On any given night, one of three dress codes will apply casual, smart casual or formal. During the evenings, there is an official dress code, but it only applies to passengers entering the main dining room. Decode the mysteries of Mission Control in the latest Royal Escape Room challenge. Bid on bold masterpieces at an action-packed onboard art auction. Spice H2O is another adults-only venue on the Norwegian Bliss, Joy, Escape, Getaway, Breakaway, Epic, Star and Spirit vessels; access is complimentary. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. One of Royal Caribbeans great strengths is its theater entertainment, which can be mind-blowing at times i.e., you wont believe youre seeing what youre seeing on a cruise ship. One of these is Swim & Tonic, the first pool on a cruise ship to have a swim-up bar, while theres also Cloud 17, an adults-only pool. Other onboard activities include culinary classes at Scenic picure, invigorating spa treatments at Senses Spa, or just sitting back and relaxing with spectacular sea views while sipping Champagne on deck 10. Thrill Waterpark. Before dinner at either venue, enjoy a signature cocktail just outside Palo at The Rose. Enrollment required. But don't post those perfectly lit photos on social media sites. Become the star of your own show as you belt out all your favorite tunes, karaoke-style, at Star Moment. Adults can also enjoy pre-dinner cocktails in one of the lounges and nightly entertainment in the Constellation Theater; for a nightcap, sip a fine cognac in one of the ship's favorite hideaways, the Connoisseur Club. The drinking age on sailings from South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand is 18. The newest ships in the Royal Caribbean fleet are the Icon-class ships, with the debut ship being Icon of the Seas. The line charges a $15 corkage fee if you bring the wine or Champagne to an onboard restaurant or other public areas to drink. Cruise lines have strict policies that once you turn 18, you can no longer participate in teen activities, even if you are still in high school. This is an elevated area that has the first suspended infinity pool at sea, with a multi-level sun terrace offering plenty of spaces to relax. Related: The 12 cruise ships with the most spectacular attractions at sea. For more information about the difference between Royal Caribbeans classes, check out my guide: Royal Caribbean Ship Classes Compared. View Activities Gallery Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card. Oasis-class Zip Line 5. Soak up the thrills on all The Perfect Storm, the boldest waterslides at sea. Royal Caribbean has grown into the worlds biggest cruise line by passenger capacity for a reason. Whether youre seeking a relaxing oasis of calm in the adult-only solarium, looking to try your luck in the casino, or eager to dance the night away in the nightclub, Royal Caribbean features plenty of fun for the adults on board. As is typical for cruise lines, Royal Caribbean charges on a per-person basis, not per room, and it prices most cabins based on two people occupying a room. Depending on the ship, adult travelers can also dance the night away in a trendy club, watch live entertainment or a cabaret show, catch a sports game on satellite TV, or sit back and relax with an after-dinner cocktail at a bar or lounge. Whether youre taking a break from the kids while they play in the Adventure Ocean kids club, or youre honeymooning as loved-up newlyweds, there are a few spots and venues where children arent to be seen. The Quantum-class ships also have an indoor fun zone known as The SeaPlex that includes a bumper car pavilion. Gear up, grab a foil and get ready for an introduction into the art of fencing. Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar. Royal Caribbean has one of the most extensive childrens programs at sea, with programs and activities for children as young as 6 months old through the age of 17. For even more pampering, Senses Spa & Salon boasts treatment rooms with ocean views, luxurious spa villas and other amenities. 2. The first team to arrive with the requested item gets the most points, the second gets the second-highest and the third well, you get it. Also, under-21s will not have easy access to alcohol on the ship. Viking also hosts onboard enrichment programs like destination-themed performances, cooking classes and lectures by historians. Some of the extra-charge eateries come with a flat fee, usually around $35 to $50 per person, not including the cost of drinks. The newest ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet Celebrity Beyond provides a unique adults-only dining experience at Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud. As a parent, it is nice to have time now and then away from the kids to relax, and here are the top five things you can do on a Royal Caribbean cruise without kids! Of course, the casino offers slots and table games to try your luck at, if you want to combine your kids-free time with (hopefully) winning money. Its forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies, and those who violate this rule will face a $250 cleaning fee. And on the recently launched Norwegian Prima, an elevated beach club experience includes the line's first infinity hot tubs. The Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat (for ages 18 and older), offers cruisers an escape from the bustling public spaces on the ship. Related: The TPG guide to cruise line loyalty programs. Royal Caribbean Activities: Royal Caribbean is known as the pioneer of onboard innovation. Except they float. Spa 6. This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information. Access to the space is complimentary for passengers 21 and older; while there, guests can enjoy relaxing loungers, daybeds and whirlpools. Passengers will also enjoy luxurious amenities while on board the ship with eight public decks; multiple restaurants, bars and lounges; a two-story solarium with a swimming pool and whirlpool tub; indoor and outdoor observation areas; and a spa. Youll also find all sorts of other fun-focused attractions giant rock climbing walls, surfing simulators, zip lines, miniature golf courses and basketball courts, to name a few. If you know you want to eat at a few extra-charge restaurants during your voyage, you can buy one of several dining packages that offer meals at a discount. If you want them to be able to drink with you, choose a line that sets the drinking age at 18 in the region you're sailing. Azamara's four upscale boutique ships feature the line's signature Destination Immersion experiences geared toward adults. Balcony cabins on the same sailing started at around $683 per person, based on double occupancy. Other included-in-the-fare offerings found on some ships include Sorrentos pizza parlors, the Mediterranean cuisine-themed Solarium Bistro and the coffee bar Cafe Promenade. Then, contact one with a best-price guarantee and have them beat it! With multiple restaurants, fantastic entertainment and endless activities . That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises. Start with these stories: The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. These two vessels feature 132 oceanfront suites, a 26-person expedition team and two six-person submarines; and they visit five continents around the globe. The over-the-top super suites on some ships. Were particularly fond of the two-deck-high Music Halls on Quantum-class vessels. Smart casual is a step up to collared shirts, dresses, skirts and blouses, or pantsuits, with a jacket for men optional. If you're planning to take a cruise on Royal Caribbean, you should know that it offers something for everyone - from kids to teens to active adults and even grandparents. As of 2023, you can renew your passport online. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. 10 Fun Cruise Ship Games and Contests That Bring Out Your Inner Kid, Cruise Classes: 21 Things You Can Learn on Your Next Cruise, Q&A with a Cruise Ship Entertainment Director, 7 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your OceanMedallion Experience, 6 Cruise Memories That Will Warm Your Heart, Your Favorite Cruise Ship is For Sale? If its a sea day in a warm-weather destination, and youre bound for the top deck, that means looking like youre going to the beach T-shirts, shorts and bathing suits (with a cover-up to go inside) are just fine. Whatever thrills you seek, youll find all sorts of ways to fill your days onboard Royal Caribbean. Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cabins and suites. Other areas on the ship that make Royal Caribbean one of the most fun cruises for adults are activities such as the Quest Game Show (not for the easily offended), Silent Disco Parties, and. Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. The ships include the worlds five biggest cruise vessels Wonder of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas each of which can hold more than 6,600 passengers. These Florida Keys resorts are ideal for family getaways and romantic retreats. Lace up your skates and take a spin on the only rinks at sea. Grab a friend and race down The Perfect Storm twin waterslides Typhoon and Cyclone. Recently, Royal Caribbean soft launched their new Hyperlink Program onboard select vessels, and after reading some mixed reviews, I decided to see what the activities were all about while sailing on Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean has a point-based frequent cruiser program, the Crown & Anchor Society, that has six tiers ranging from Gold (requiring 3 points) to Pinnacle Club (700 points). Treat your whole crew to over-the-top milkshakes, including boozy adults-only options at Desserted. In Europe, Royal Caribbean ships mostly sail out of Southampton, England; Amsterdam; Copenhagen; Stockholm; Barcelona; Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome) and since 2021 Ravenna, Italy (which replaced Venice as a home port). Megan Johnson and Sharael KolbergMarch 3, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansMarch 1, 2023, Holly Johnson and Erin EvansFeb. Tags: Travel, Cruises, Couples Vacations, Solo Vacations, Vacation Ideas. On top of that, select ships feature a cascading lagoon for further relaxation. They are lively and fun. Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. Many cruise lines have a version of the Quest "scavenger hunt," so check out your daily cruise planner to see when it's scheduled. Lower tiers dont bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. Located on all of Carnival Cruise Line's cruise ships, this adults-only outdoor hideaway is a tranquil oasis hidden away from bustling venues and family-friendly areas. In 2021, the line introduced sailings out of Barbados. And thats just on the top deck. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, The best places to see cherry blossoms around the US this spring, Looking back: How my points and miles strategy has changed over the years, The best increased card offers to sign up for this March. Really. Royal Caribbean designs its ships to appeal to a broad mix of people, in part by offering a wide range of cabin types at varying price points. The incredible array of onboard activities. Get ready to shake your hips and find your Latin rhythm. Seabourn also features an all-inclusive adult-focused experience on its five luxury ocean vessels. Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship. Do you know about when you'd like to sail? All vessels operate on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. The entire room is a mystery to unravel in Escape the Rubicon, Browse and buy original art from our curated collection. For a less formal option, check out the Asian, Indian and Middle Eastern specialties and the intimate teppanayaki grill experience at Night Market @Koko's. At night, the space becomes an open-air dance club where you can spend the evening partying under the stars. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.