A passenger staying in suites can get to the Diamond Plus level with just 13 seven-night cruises. The timing of when you book can also matter. Related: The 9 best meals you can have at sea. The ultimate infinity pool for serene ocean views with sun-drenched action always close by. Enrollment required. Meanwhile, in just over a year, Royal Caribbean will begin to roll out a series of cruise ships even bigger than the giant Oasis-class vessels. Our opinions are our own, and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by our advertising partners. 4 things youll love about Royal Caribbeans Odyssey of the Seas, even bigger than the giant Oasis-class vessels, The 9 most exciting new cruise ships of 2023, The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship, The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cabins and suites, What it takes to get concierge lounge access on a cruise ship, The 12 cruise ships with the most spectacular attractions at sea, A peek at Perfect Day by CocoCay, Royal Caribbeans private island, Everything you need to know about tipping on cruise ships, How fast is the internet on Royal Caribbean ships? We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Its time to take your pool game to the next level. If anyone on our team wouldnt recommend it to a friend or a family member, we wouldnt recommend it on The Points Guy either. You want someone who knows all 34 of those cabin categories that we mentioned above and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see them firsthand. While Quest might be the worst-kept secret in cruising, some people believe that (much like Fight Club) it shouldn't be discussed -- so read on only if you don't mind spoilers. Get ready to shake your hips and find your Latin rhythm. If youre sure that Royal Caribbean is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. The Best Royal Caribbean Ships For Single Travellers: Ships in the Oasis Class include Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony and Wonder of the Seas. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. I'm so sorry that this post wasn't useful for you! Youll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless inside cabins measuring just 149 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to massive, multi-room suites that are more than 10 times that size. Here's how it worked: The cruise director would instruct a member or members of the team to bring him a certain requested item. This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. After dinner, enjoy live entertainment or dancing at the show lounge Carmen's, or watch larger productions at the ritzy 652-seat Curzon Theatre. Extraordinary tech meets top-notch talent and epic imagination at Two70. Royal Caribbean What Is Royal Caribbean's 'The Quest?' "The Quest" varies based on who's leading, but it's a mildly adult (to sometimes very adult) game/competition designed to be more. Royal Caribbean ships offer an inordinate amount of teen- and tween-friendly attractions everything from some of the largest waterslides at sea to bumper car pavilions. And this is just one example. 6 Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Families. On many ships, there are extensive dedicated spaces for the different groups. $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Skip to Content. 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. Many cruise lines have a version of the Quest "scavenger hunt," so check out your daily cruise planner to see when it's scheduled. While not necessarily the focus at Royal Caribbean, these smaller ships, which in general are the lines older ships, allow it to offer itineraries to places that arent as easy for big ships to visit. The high annual fee is only worth it if youre taking full advantage of the cards benefits. 10:00 pm - 10:45 pm Last Laughs Adult Comedy Show (18+) Royal Theater Deck 4; 10:30 pm - 11:45 pm Hush! All vessels operate on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. The top decks of Royal Caribbean ships are where things get crazy. If you're an athletic traveler, there's no shortage of competitive cruise ship games that will keep you active. Published: 11/19/2021 - Last updated: 02/28/2023. Royal Caribbean is known for offering a wide range of accommodations on its ships. No. Oasis of the Seas. With each step-down in size, youll find fewer restaurants, bars, entertainment offerings and attractions. The ship also has a Polar Class 6 rating, enabling it to sail to destinations like Antarctica. However, even the smallest of Royal Caribbean ships still have quite a bit to offer. Every Royal Caribbean ship has a casino, and on the lines bigger vessels, these are big operations. Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles. Related: The 9 most exciting new cruise ships of 2023. An agent also can help you if something goes wrong before, during or after your voyage. Dont worry if you dont want to go that fancy, though. If youre a megaresort lover, youll surely love the lines biggest ships, particularly the giant Oasis-class vessels. 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. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Royal Caribbean Blog. 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. So thats another option if you want an epic action-packed experience. $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline. In some cases, the shows are cut down slightly (though some still run nearly two hours), and the casts arent the A-team youll find on Broadway. Passengers can sip Champagne at Intermezzo, the ship's cocktail and Champagne venue, or enjoy a pre-dinner aperitif at the yacht-inspired Spinnaker Bar. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Foreign cruise lines, such as the U.K.'s P&O Cruises or Italy's MSC or Costa Cruises, set the drinking age to 18 in non-U.S. destinations to reflect the normal drinking age abroad. 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. 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. Some Royal Caribbean ships even feature ice skating rinks. Fresh blood." 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. This sprawling oasis is the largest pool at sea with over 40,000 gallons of water. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. Related: 15 ways that first-time cruisers waste money on a cruise. Brave six record-breaking slides at Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea. For top-notch steaks, contemporary Italian cuisine and panoramic ocean views, make a reservation at the Cogsworth-inspired Palo Steakhouse. Youve scored a one-way ticket to funky-town. The most common one found across the fleet is Chops Grille, the lines signature steakhouse. The Best Overall Royal Caribbean Ships for Adults. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics, Ultimate Abyss Slide on Royal Caribbean Cruises, Snorkeling in Alaska with Princess Cruises, Surfing on a Cruise Ship: We Try the FlowRider on Royal Caribbean, What's Your Cruise Critic Story? Related: How fast is the internet on Royal Caribbean ships? The Captain invites all guests to a formal night reception held in their honor. Check Price. 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. Viking's exploration program boasts special access to behind-the-scenes experiences curated for travelers interested in history, food or science. There is a larger class of ship now available too the Icon Class, with one ship currently available to book which is Icon of the Seas. As of 2023, you can renew your passport online. In exchange for the annual fee, you'll unlock access to the Amex Membership Rewards program that let you access airline and hotel transfer partners, along with new lifestyle and travel credits. The line charges a $15 corkage fee if you bring the wine or Champagne to an onboard restaurant or other public areas to drink. Gather the grown-ups and set sail on an ocean, river or expedition cruise around the world. Gear up, grab a foil and get ready for an introduction into the art of fencing. Hes sailed on more than 150 ships. The most adrenaline-amping adventures converge at Thrill Island only on Icon of the Seas. The top spot for any adult looking to spend time without children around is to head to the Solarium pool area. Your . Two more ships Resilient Lady and Brilliant Lady are slated to launch in 2023. Treat your whole crew to over-the-top milkshakes, including boozy adults-only options at Desserted. At Redemption Spa, relax or recharge in the mud room or salt therapy chamber. A few lines have meet-and-greets for young adults to meet other cruisers their age, but it's assumed that passengers age 18+ will just participate in the regular cruise activities: hanging out by the pool, joining in dance classes or trivia games, playing ball on the sports court, etc. They are lively and fun. Mini Golf. These include the solarium, casino, nightclub, spa and certain adult-only bars and lounges. And when it's time for an after-dinner drink, sample one (or several) of more than100 whiskeys available at Scenic Lounge Bar. Solarium Included SUN AND SERENITY Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The company offers itineraries in Europe, the Caribbean, the U.S. and Canada, and also Greenland and Iceland. The line typically sends three to four ships every summer to Alaska. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. A growing number of vessels also have USB ports in cabins. Youll see most men wearing suits or sports coats and women in cocktail dresses. The best class of Royal Caribbean ships for couples is the Quantum Ultra Class. The Solarium is an adults only pool on all Royal Caribbean ships where children under 16 years old are prohibited from lounging. Spa 6. 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. Whether you cruise multiple times per year or you're new to cruising, the goal of Royal Caribbean Blog is for it to bea useful resource for keeping up to date with what's new and exciting with Royal Caribbean. Prove it on one of our interactive Game Shows. For more cruise guides, tips and news, sign up for TPGs cruise newsletter. 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. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. 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. Find the best travel insurance for you with these U.S. News ratings, which factor in expert and consumer recommendations. The line's two ships, Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure, feature all-balcony cabins and depart from either the Dover or Southampton cruise ports in the U.K. And don't miss the new two-story Sunset Bar, reimagined by interior designer and TV personality Nate Berkus. In 2021, the line introduced sailings out of Barbados. Dine at the same time every evening at club-style restaurant Alexandria, or opt for a more flexible schedule at The Beach House or Medina. The ship departs from Southampton in the U.K. and sails to the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal; the British Isles; Norway and Iceland; and the U.S., Caribbean and Canada. On these expedition-style voyages, the ship will carry only 200 guests and a total of 192 crew. Note that such voyages are on hold of late due to travel restrictions in China related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cruisers can also sit down for a tasty meal at The Glass House, which serves casual bites paired with wines from around the world. Since there are few (or no) activities geared toward younger cruisers and no babysitting services, you typically won't find parents with young children on these ships. Youll receive a SeaPass card that you can use to make charges. Theres another neighborhood just for adults as well, which is The Hideaway. If all that seems like too much to fit on a cruise vessel, consider this: The biggest Royal Caribbean ships are 18 decks high, nearly 1,200 feet long and capable of carrying nearly 7,000 passengers. With your support, we can create more exciting content and share with everyone! On the line's newest ship, the 684-passenger Azamara Onward, adults can grab a pre-dinner drink at Atlas Bar, which serves innovative craft cocktails like the London Fog Martini or Tuscan Delight. Royal Caribbean has one of the fastest Wi-Fi systems at sea so fast that you're able to watch Netflix from your room on your mobile device. While a few of Royal Caribbeans smallest ships have relatively limited dining options, most of the lines vessels offer so many choices that it can almost be overwhelming. Specialty restaurants offer top-notch steak and seafood at Prime C or, if you prefer, Italian fare at Aqualina. Don't worry if you don't win. In fact, the line likes to boast that it employs more world-class professional skaters than any other company in the world. If you take yourself too seriously, you won't have fun at the Quest game on Royal Caribbean. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. The most out-there deck-top attractions on Royal Caribbean ships are surely the North Star rides found on Quantum-class ships. On some lines, like Holland America, that "chaperone" age is as high as 25. The annual airline fee statement credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards. Quest is uproariously fun, supremely competitive, and it's definitely for adults only, which is why it's often scheduled after 11 p.m. Think you can get a bullseye? 28, 2023, Up to 60% Off + Exclusive 5% Guaranteed Priceline Coupon, Up to 50% Off Travel Plans with Top Expedia Promo Code, Discount Travel Plans with 50% Off on Hotels.com bookings, 50% Discount on Getaways with Barcel Resort & Hotels, Booking.com Promo Code Up to 50% Off + Extra 10% Off. Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Start with these stories: The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. For a special treat during your cruise, don't miss "Caviar in the Surf." It takes one cruise to hit the first tier, Gold. 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. You can find out more aboutcruise line age policiesin our story. 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. Oasis-class Zip Line 5. 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. The Vitality spa and fitness center is another kids-free enclave on Royal Caribbean, where you can go for relaxation or a great workout. So, your 19-year-old can go biking, kayaking or hiking, while you take a leisurely day cruise or coach-based sightseeing tour. 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. Ship Waterslides 4. Got game? 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. Some veterans of the game bring along purses or tote bags packed with items they expect might be asked for; others consider this "cheating." 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. Solarium is Royal Caribbean International's complimentary, child-free space open to guests 16 and older. Basketball. 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. Located at the front of every ship in the fleet, this indoor-outdoor oasis (indoors only on Quantum Class ships) offers impressive vistas and endless views of the sea. Thanks to a full glass canopy over the interior space, adult passengers can enjoy quiet lounging areas, swimming pools and whirlpool tubs with a view, no matter the weather. Arcadia, the newer of the two ships, carries 2,094 guests and 866 crew. You can even order a bottle of Champagne for yourself or friends anywhere on the ship via the Virgin Voyages Sailor app's secret "Shake for Champagne" feature. Check out the full list of Perfect Day CocoCay Bahamas activities below. Mellow out to live Caribbean music in this open-air sanctuary thats high above ordinary. U.S. News rates the cheapest travel insurance options, considering expert and consumer recommendations. . Cruise fares cover door-to-door transfers from home to the ship, including airfare (business class in some destinations) and pre- and post-cruise hotel stays. While Royal Caribbean dont place an age limit on their sailings, there are still plenty of options for guests seeking an adult-only experience. Plentiful smaller and affordable cabins, included casual dining options, and a plethora of bars and onboard attractions give Royal Caribbean ships a for-the-masses feel and make them accessible to travelers on a budget. The North Star is generally free to ride. What Royal Caribbean event has you sharing your underwear, putting lipstick on strangers and screaming at the top of your lungs? With more than 10,000 plants and flowers, its a true tropical hideaway. The lines remaining eight vessels, split among two classes, are relatively smaller, with maximum occupancy topping out at around 2,500 passengers. Travelers 18 and older are welcome aboard Viking's adults-only ships, which feature destination-focused itineraries around the world. Two clans collide in an icy new glow-inthe-dark laser tag faceoff for control of a mystical frozen city. Royal Caribbean has grown into the worlds biggest cruise line by passenger capacity for a reason. Read more about Royal Caribbeans Quantum Class. 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. Situated on deck 14 and boasting more than 4,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space this luxurious accommodation features one of the largest balconies at sea with a Treesse mini-pool, two bedrooms and a private in-suite spa. As you might expect, pricing for all ships will generally be less during offseason periods such as September and October. Related: 4 things youll love about Royal Caribbeans Odyssey of the Seas. In the evenings, diners can choose between French cuisine at Chartreuse; creative Asian fare at Pacific Rim; aged steaks at Prime 7; Italian cuisine at Sette Mari at La Veranda; or seafood, steaks and vegetarian options at Compass Rose. This isn't just the newest ship, but it's also the largest - with a gross tonnage of 250,800 and a maximum guest capacity of 7,600. I've always loved cruising, and am thrilled to see a return to the seas for the major cruise lines. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Score prime waves all day every day on the FlowRider surf simulator. The Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. But don't post those perfectly lit photos on social media sites. When you're ready to plan your adventure on the high seas, the following cruise lines provide upscale amenities, immersive excursions, sophisticated dining options, lively nighttime entertainment. Also, overlaid across most ships are high-end suites, eateries and services that are at a luxury level, and the line draws a good number of luxury-seeking travelers. If you're not easily offended and love to cut loose on a cruise, this is a must. No other cruise line has as broad a range of entertainment and activities on its ships as Royal Caribbean. Some parents set rules that their children should not go into another passenger's cabin or that someone should always stay sober if a group is out drinking. That said, it's not uncommon for teens to find ways to drink onboard (just as they do at home). Brush up on your Spanish skills in an interactive onboard class. 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. Breeze through security with CLEAR lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Launch yourself into a virtual world on a bungee trampoline experience Sky Pad. On some vessels, such as the Quantum-class ships, youll find a dedicated space with games and a widescreen TV called The Living Room where teens can hang out, plus a teens-only disco called Fuel. The heart of the program, called Adventure Ocean, has free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3 to 12. Cruises are a great way to meet people -- at dinner, in the hot tub, on shore excursions or at the bars. The Oasis-class ships have three distinct pool areas, as well as a watery play zone for kids. Rock climb to the top of Adrenaline Peak for unmatched views. Whether you are taking a break from the kids after dropping them off in Adventure Ocean, or cruising without kids, there are a few good spots and activities to look for where children will be far from view. Bahia Principe Luxury Bouganville - Adults Only All Inclusive. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. Both ships in this adults-only cruise line feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. 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. Be the first to rate this post. This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. There is stuff you just wont see on any other vessel at sea. The version of the Royal Promenade on Oasis of the Seas, for instance, offers the Bionic Bar, where a robot makes the drinks, along with the equally innovative Rising Tide Bar, which rises between the Royal Promenade and the outdoor Central Park area three decks above while you drink. Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar. The Sanctuary, an adults-only retreat (for ages 18 and older), offers cruisers an escape from the bustling public spaces on the ship. 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 name on your reservation must be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. Be the detective at Mystery Dinner Theater, an evening of intrigue. When you're ready to plan your adventure on the high seas, the following cruise lines provide upscale amenities, immersive excursions, sophisticated dining options, lively nighttime entertainment and time for relaxation among like-minded and similarly aged travelers. Silversea's all-inclusive luxury ocean and expedition cruises offer voyages to more than 900 destinations around the world. The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Young Adults, The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Couples, The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Seniors, The Best Royal Caribbean Ships for Solo Travellers, The Best Overall Royal Caribbean Ships for Adults, Read more about Royal Caribbeans Quantum Class, The Best & Worst Royal Caribbean Ships By Reviews. Many cruisers will tell you that the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). 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. Wine aficionados will enjoy pairing limited-production and rare vintages from the Wine Cellar with dinner and joining wine tastings held in the Mosaic Caf. Lower tiers dont bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. Others are a la carte.