The fleet: Royal Caribbean International sets standards The cruise line with its Norwegian roots took off in 1968 as Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. The Song of Norway was the company's first ship to set sail. Royal Caribbean International today stands for an active, adventurous vacation with a variety of sports, recreation and entertainment options on board for an international audience who appreciates varied cuisine and exciting shore excursions.
The innovations also include places where guests can immerse themselves exclusively: Since 1986, a beautifully situated beach on the Labadee peninsula in northern Haiti has only been visited by Royal Caribbean cruise ships. Holidaymakers can relax there while swimming and diving in a wonderful setting.
The cruise line is a subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. And in 2014, they started a new expansion phase for the US cruise port Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey. The Royal Caribbean International liners also dock exclusively in this port.
Royal Caribbean International continually sets new size standards with its ships and writes cruise history. The Sovereign of the Seas was considered the largest cruise ship in 1988, but in 1999 it was replaced by Voyager of the Seas - also from Royal Caribbean International.
A few years later, the Freedom class broke the record. The Oasis class set completely new standards: The Oasis of the Seas was presented for the first time in 2009. Up to 5,400 passengers can travel on the cruise liner, which is over 360 meters long and has 16 passenger decks. It is a ship that is considered an architectural marvel at sea. What is unique is the open rear with the Aqua Theater, which offers a view straight into the belly of the luxury liner.
The sister ship Allure of the Seas followed in 2010. The Harmony of the Seas can accommodate up to 5,480 guests. The fourth sister ship of this class and therefore the newest member of the Oasis class, the Symphony of the Seas, set off on its maiden voyage in 2018. With a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers, she is currently the largest cruise ship on the world's oceans. In November 2020 she will be replaced by the fifth sister ship, the Odyssey of the Seas.
With the Quantum of the Seas, the cruise line also introduced a completely new class of ship in 2014 that sets trends in entertainment and ship technology. These include the Ripcord by iFly skydiving simulator and the North Star viewing glass ball, which lifts guests up to 90 meters above the sea and gives them unusual views.
The Anthem of the Seas followed in 2015. The Ovation of the Seas is the third Quantum class ship built at the Meyer shipyard. The fourth Quantum ship was also built there, the Spectrum of the Seas, which was delivered in spring 2019. The technology in this class sets standards and also benefits the environment: with a more efficient hull, new engines and LED lamps, the energy consumption is reduced.
Other ship classes: visions in series A new form of travel came onto the scene in 2006 with the Freedom class: that was when the Freedom of the Seas embarked on its first voyage. With the water paradise H2O zone, climbing wall and ice skating area. The class also includes the Independence of the Seas and the Liberty of the Seas. The Voyager class, introduced in 1999, was the first to feature the Royal Promenade, which extends over four decks. The class includes the Voyager of the Seas, Navigator of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, Adventure of the Seas and the Explorer of the Seas. The Radiance-class ships entered service between 2001 and 2004. Glass elevators and large windows provide spectacular views. These include the liners Jewel of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas. In the 1990s, the cruise line had the Vision class ships built. After extensive modernization, they offer new attractions and even more beautiful cabins than before. They are also among the smaller and at the same time one of the fastest ships in the Royal Caribbean International fleet. The Vision class includes Enchantment of the Seas, Grandeur of the Seas, Vision of the Seas, Rhapsody of the Seas and Legend of the Seas. The Sovereign class ships were the first megaliners in the fleet, leaving little to be desired with an open atrium, pools, bars and lounges.
Brand new Icon Class: Royal Caribbean is building three more ships Mega liner with space for around 5,000 passengers each was commissioned. The two ships are expected to enter service in 2023 and 2025. A third ship of the new Icon class was ordered in July 2019 and is scheduled for delivery in 2025.
The cruise ships are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which significantly reduces emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOX), sulfur oxides (SOX) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Cabins and suites: luxury within your own four walls You can retreat to comfortable and stylishly furnished cabins that radiate real comfort. Royal Caribbean International has also set new standards in guest accommodation. The rooms and suites are just right for you to relax thoroughly after eventful days on board - or after an extended shore excursion. There is a cabin to suit every taste at Royal Caribbean International. All accommodations have a television, telephone and a private bathroom with shower and hairdryer.
Inside cabins This category offers the best comfort at a good price. Depending on the ship, the cabins give you eleven to 16 square meters of privacy. There is a choice of a double bed or two single beds, a minibar or a fridge, a seating area and a safe. The cabin service completes the equipment; a surcharge applies for the night service.
Inside cabins with “view” In some ships, Royal Caribbean International offers its guests a surprise: you can enjoy a sea view even from inside - from inside cabins with a virtual balcony. Two meter wide displays ensure attractive views. This innovation has been available since 2014 on the ships Navigator of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Voyager of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas. Equipment and service corresponds to the other inside cabins; But these are also impressive because of their size. Between 14.5 and 17 square meters of space are available to guests.
Outside cabins Spacious, comfortable and with the best views – these are the outside cabins of the Royal Caribbean International fleet. Depending on the ship, they offer enough space to feel comfortable on up to 18 square meters. And you can see the sea through the porthole or a large panoramic window. If you book a cabin on an Oasis class ship, you have the alternative: then - thanks to spectacular architecture - the view can sweep over Central Park or the boardwalk.
Balcony cabins Equipped with all the comforts that the cabins of the cruise line already offer, this category also comes with a private balcony. This means you can enjoy the view of the hustle and bustle on the ship or at sea even more intensively. Between 14 and 19 square meters of space are available to guests; the bathroom is spacious.
Suites Royal Caribbean International offers a lot of space for luxurious suites, which can also have several rooms, large balconies and a private bar or piano. Depending on the ship, the sizes vary. With dimensions between 16 and 152 square meters, they allow a lot of freedom. The Presidential Suite, Owner’s Suite, Royal Suite, Grand Suite and Junior Suite can be booked, among others. Suite guests also enjoy free concierge service (except Junior Suites).
Family cabins For families and groups of five or more people, the cruise line offers particularly spacious rooms in the family cabins. Whether inside, outside, with a balcony or as a suite – these cabins offer their guests exceptional comfort when on the move. Depending on the ship and category, you can choose from cabins measuring 24 to 110 square meters. Newer ships such as the Symphony of the Seas or Wonder of the Seas offer particularly exciting luxury for the whole family with the Ultimate Family Suite. The two floors of the suite are connected by a cabin slide. The surprises also include a 3D cinema, air hockey table and table tennis on the balcony. A 24-hour cabin service takes care of guests' needs.
Food and drinks: American to Mediterranean cuisine Anyone who experiences a lot surely needs plenty of energy. Aboard Royal Caribbean International's luxury liners, dining is always pure enjoyment. And with full board: On the cruise you can choose between different restaurants to enjoy your breakfast, lunch or dinner. Of course, snacks and desserts are not neglected either.
Dynamic Dining: the new era of dining on Royal Caribbean International cruise ships The new reservation system Dynamic Dining allows you to choose where and when you would like to have dinner. Five restaurants are already included in the price on the Quantum class ships: The locations include the American Icon Grill, the Chic with contemporary cuisine, the Silk with exotic delights and The Grande - the restaurant in the design of classic ocean liners and intended for guests are to wear formal attire. Tip: The Coastal Kitchen combines Mediterranean dishes with Californian cuisine – definitely try it!
Main restaurant: the classic way On every cruise ship (except the Quantum class), guests can expect an elegant multi-story main restaurant with international cuisine and perfect service. You can enjoy multi-course menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Every evening you can choose from a new daily menu with finely selected dishes. Guests have two fixed meal times available - or you can use the flexible My Time Dining.
Windjammer buffet restaurant: good and casual
Sometimes you just want to enjoy your meals in a relaxed and informal way. Or you are not sure about the selection and want to try different delicacies. Then the buffet restaurant is exactly the right choice. There, guests help themselves from the wide range of offerings in a casual atmosphere. The kitchen crew serves, among other things, salad, pasta, various main courses, soups, sandwiches, fruit and desserts. Free house drinks such as water, iced tea or the house's own lemonade are available and if you have booked one of the drinks packages, you can also get alcohol such as wines, beers or cocktails all inclusive!
Specialty restaurants: celebrity chefs pamper your eyes, nose and palate British star chef Jamie Oliver has been known for fresh cuisine and unusual ideas for years. He opened his first restaurant at sea exclusively aboard the Quantum class: Jamie’s Italian is the name of this restaurant, where you can enjoy the Italian way of life in combination with the chef’s popular recipes. The Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine can also only be experienced on the Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and the Symphony of the Seas. With dreamlike arrangements and surreal-looking creations such as truffled egg in the shell, liquid lobster or arctic equator chocolate, this restaurant is a fine taste wonderland.
Aboard Quantum, Oasis, Freedom, Radiance and Vision Classes, Chops Grille Steakhouse offers guests cooked-to-order steaks and fine seafood. The Italian Ristorante Portofino offers the whole variety from antipasti to tiramisu (aboard many Freedom and Voyager class ships as well as on the Jewel of the Seas). As a trattoria with rustic Italian cuisine, Giovanni’s Table pampers its guests (on many Voyager, Vision, Radiance and Freedom class ships). For traditional Asian dishes, head to Izumi on some Vision and Radiance-class ships, as well as aboard Quantum-class cruise ships.
Award-winning chefs create exceptional 7-course meals aboard the Oasis ships, Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas - at the gourmet restaurant 150 Central Park. However, as with most cruise lines, the specialty restaurants are not included in the price of the cruise.
Snacks & more: originals on the plate With Royal Caribbean International you can also enjoy a hearty treat or small snacks in between. Juicy hamburgers and crispy fries are available at the American diner Johnny Rockets. This restaurant, decorated in the 1950s style, serves American cuisine. Light and healthy meals are available at the cafes aboard many Oasis, Voyager, Radiance and Vision class ships (included in the cruise price).
Or feel like you’re in an original New York pizzeria at Sorrento’s Pizza and choose from the diverse menu aboard the Quantum, Oasis and Freedom class ships. On these sea cruisers, as well as aboard other cruise ships, guests can also discover winemaking traditions from Bordeaux. The Chateau Lafite Rothschild winery provides exquisite products for wine tastings at sea.
Bars and lounges: pubs, robot bartenders and wine bar What would nightlife on a luxury liner be without a start or finish at an exclusive bar? The Royal Caribbean International cruise ships offer the right ambience for every taste. Be it with an open view of the sea, like at the Viking Crown Lounge. Or with freshly tapped beer at a British pub. Exclusively aboard the Allure of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and the Symphony of the Seas, guests float from the Royal Promenade all the way up to Central Park along with the Rising Tide Bar.
If you fancy Latin American rhythms and even want to dance, you should visit the Boleros Bar. Things get really maritime at the Schooner Bar, where ship lovers get their money's worth. Finally, good wines are served at the vintage wine bar. A futuristic ambience awaits guests aboard the Quantum ships: at the Bionic Bar, the art of mixing meets technology when robot bartenders mix the cocktails that you have previously put together via an app on a tablet PC.
Drink packages: enjoy comfortably A frequently asked question: are there drinks packages on the Royal Caribbean International fleet? Yes, sure! And with these relatively inexpensive drink packages you can save a lot compared to purchasing them individually. They are practical and can be booked before or at the start of the cruise. The following packages are available:
- The Classic Soda Package is perfect for all-day enjoyment of soft drinks such as Coca-Cola, Sprite or Ginger Ale
• Premium soft drinks, water, non-alcoholic cocktails, coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice are part of the refreshment package.
• With the Deluxe Drinks Package you have the best possible flexibility and can combine several offers.
• With the bottled water package (Water Package), you can conveniently stock up on bottles of water that are delivered directly to the cabin.
Sport and wellness: an indescribable number of options for customized holidays
Pilates, yoga or zumba: active relaxation on board Take a deep breath and recharge your batteries or would you rather spend a few wonderful hours full of activity to your heart's content? Aboard Royal Caribbean International's cruise liners, guest can fulfill their own vision of their dream vacation. With relaxing hours at the wellness area, a good book from the library, swimming in the swimming pool or doing sports in the fitness facilities, for example.
Keep fit on the cruise too. Modern strength and endurance equipment is available at the spacious fitness centers. The range of courses ranges from Pilates to spinning to yoga and offers professional instructions (some courses are subject to a fee). Some ships also have mini golf courses, places for ball games such as volleyball and basketball, and sports decks with facilities for inline skaters.
The climbing wall is included in the price of the cruise and is available on all ships. Whether you're a beginner or a professional: just climb new heights and try out new climbing routes. With the FlowRider surfing simulator, sports fans always have the perfect wave - high above the sea. The fun for surfers is available at no extra charge or reservation (Allure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas).
A special feature of Royal Caribbean International is the Zipline on the Oasis ships. Glide high above the boardwalk in an adrenaline rush (included in the cruise price). The Oasis class, as well as the Freedom and Voyager ships, offer speed rushes on skates with the onboard ice skating rink. In the evening it turns into a stage for professional ice skating shows.
Pure wellness: relax on your cruise! On Royal Caribbean International ships, your own cabin is a nice place to retreat. The numerous wellness offers on the liners also ensure relaxing hours. So you can relax at the Solarium pool area and then enjoy a snack at the Solarium Bistro. Or you can visit the whirlpool aboard one of the Oasis or Freedom ships, which rises four meters above the side of the ship and offers a magnificent view of the water. After a personal consultation with a trainer, you can spend further relaxing hours at the Vitality Spa (on all ships). Nothing stands in the way of an invigorating sauna session (included in the travel price).
Children and families: vacation for all generations Cabins tailored to families, frequent promotions with attractive children's prices and discounts for young people, as well as exciting entertainment offers for every generation - with Royal Caribbean International, the cruise becomes family fun. So that even the youngest ones don't miss out, there are professionally supervised mini clubs.
Adventure Ocean: entertainment programs for kids and teens With the free Adventure Ocean Youth Program, the cruise company has launched a concept that combines attractive offers and professional support.
Children aged three to five can join the Aquanauts group and try their hand at finger painting, camp games and animal bingo. Older children up to eight years old go on discoveries with the Explorers. Challenging games, pajama parties and also scientific experiments are on the program. The Voyager group is for children between nine and eleven years old. With karaoke, sports competitions or scavenger hunts there is no chance of boredom.
For teenagers, the Adventure Ocean Youth Program offers its own zones; with plenty of space for computer games with the Xbox, dancing, listening to music, workshops or watching films together. There, too, the cruise line pays attention to age-appropriate offers. There is a group for 12 to 14 year olds and young people up to 17 years old.
The supervisors also look after the young guests on land. With excursions together, beach volleyball and beach parties, for example. The onboard library offers the Adventure Family Library, a section specially designed for children and families. Or you can organize the evening bedtime ritual for your little ones in a completely different way: at the Royal Bedtime Stories, you can experience how the care team reads bedtime stories and sings lullabies in the company of your family.
Exclusively a board the Oasis and Freedom ships, children will find an adventurous water landscape at the H2O zone with huge sculptures that also function as fountains, jets and water cannons. Royal Caribbean does not provide a separate babysitting service in the cabins. However, parents can use the services of the Late Night Party Zone to treat themselves to a little break in the evening or to attend the shows. Between 22.00 and 01.00., trained specialist staff look after children aged three and over.
Special meal offer for parents and children: My Family Time Dining This option can be reserved before the start of the cruise or directly on board: it is intended for families with children between 3 and 11 years old. At this age, sometimes the meal can't be over quickly enough to get back into the colorful life. That's exactly what the offer is aimed at: the children are served their food within 40 minutes and are then looked after at the Adventure Ocean - the parents stay relaxed and enjoy their food, a delicious dessert or good wine.
Small children on board The Royal Babies & Tots Nursery is for children aged six to 36 months. These are activities specially developed for this age group and carried out by professional carers (for a fee).
Cruises around the globe: discover the world with Royal Caribbean International
Which sailing areas does Royal Caribbean's fleet sail to? The choice is almost endless! The vastness of the oceans, beautiful islands, the far north or Mediterranean culture - with the ships of Royal Caribbean International you can travel to the most beautiful sailing areas in the world.
Destinations: cruises to Asia, the Orient, North America, the Caribbean and Europe In Asia the ships head for an exotic cultural landscape. Japan, Singapore or Vietnam and China are fascinating countries to discover. In Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Muscat you will get to know the Orient, including its culture and cuisine. America's North - Alaska, New England and Canada - is open to guests and offers vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes. Rough, rougher, Northern Europe: unique fjords and wonderful mountain landscapes can be experienced in Norway. Hawaii, the Bahamas and Bermuda welcome the cruise ships with tropical paradises.
The classic among cruise routes: One of the most popular European travel destinations has always been the Mediterranean with its dreamy coasts and cities steeped in history such as Barcelona, Venice or Istanbul. Antiquity, the Middle Ages, modernity and fine Mediterranean cuisine are highlights on these cruises. Royal Caribbean International cruises also take you to the coasts of the Baltic Sea and the Baltics, through the Panama Canal and to South American places full of joie de vivre and untouched wilderness. Or immerse yourself in the deep blue atmosphere of the South Seas.
Shore excursions: traveling between cultures
No matter which trip you book with Royal Caribbean International, you can take part in many shore excursions. Whether kayaking, shopping and exploring major cities, walking in seemingly endless dunes or marveling at the flora and fauna of a rainforest: the Royal Caribbean International team will be happy to provide you with licensed tour guides who will do whatever you want to do with you. Simply book one of the excursions offered in the locations visited on the cruise in advance of your cruise.
Entertainment on board: strong shows and short nights Shows and Musicals Famous musicals can be experienced on some Royal Caribbean International ships. The company stages some of the most beautiful and spectacular Broadway plays on selected ships. On every cruise ship in the fleet, guests can also enjoy impressive shows, famous singers and brilliant acrobats at the main theater.
Two70° event room The Two70° is exclusive to the Quantum class ships. During the day, the 270 degree panoramic view that the event room opens up is fascinating. At night it is the scene of breathtaking shows. High-tech is also used there: six roboscreens stage their own shows; The glass walls of Two70° are illuminated with lively scenes and take guests into other worlds.
Ice shows Figure skating under the hot Caribbean sun? With Royal Caribbean International that's no problem! The cruise line has taken on a pioneering role in passenger cruises when it comes to “entertainment on skates”: they have been staging fascinating ice revues on their ships for more than ten years. Talented figure skaters impress with their performances on the Freedom, Oasis and Voyager class ships.
Water and acrobatics shows
On the Oasis ships Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas you can experience impressive diving and acrobatics shows in the Aqua Theater. The Vision class ships also impress with newly designed centers after modernization. They are the backdrop for unique acrobatic shows at dizzying heights. Artists seem to float weightlessly through the air to rousing music.
Dreamworks Experience and 3D Cinema The heroes from animated classics such as Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and Madagascar travel exclusively on Royal Caribbean International cruise ships. Fans young and old can meet characters at photo shoots, at breakfast or at colorful parades. (Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas). The latest Dreamworks cinema hits can be seen at the 3D cinema aboard the Allure of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Liberty of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas and the Symphony of the Seas, among others.
Always an experience at Royal Caribbean: parties and parades They give a cruise the right spice and a good mood: At theme parties and parades, guests can look forward to wonderful decorations, beautiful costumes and colorful hustle and bustle. The parades of fantasy and fairy tale characters are particularly popular with families.
Casino Feel like you're in the colorful, glittering world of Las Vegas - that's possible at the casinos on every Royal Caribbean International cruise ship. Roulette, gaming tables and slot machines await guests who want to try their luck.
Specials and service: extras for your dream vacation From travel planning to onboard services to the highlights of each cruise, Royal Caribbean International offers many world-class services. These are just a few of the many reasons why Royal Caribbean International consistently scores highly in reviews from experienced cruise passengers. For example, the Allure of the Seas received the Best Entertainment award from the Cruise Critic Cruiser's Choice 2017 and the Jewel of the Seas received the Best Family Ship award in 2019.
Which inclusive services are included in the travel price? Anyone traveling with Royal Caribbean International can sit back, relax and enjoy. Full board, cabin service, in-house drinks with meals, shows and entertainment programs, childcare and many leisure activities – all of this is included in the price of the cruise.
The most beautiful day in your life: wedding aboard Royal Caribbean ships The cruise line makes it easy for those wanting to get married to enjoy a beautiful wedding ceremony and celebration. The Royal Romance specialists advise couples and relatives. The wedding takes place on board or on one of Royal Caribbean International's private dream beaches. Matching floral arrangements and wedding cakes are also provided.
Crown & Anchor Society: club with many benefits Guests who are members of the Crown & Anchor Society receive many advantages - membership is possible after the first cruise. In addition to discounted cruises, there are bonuses for bookings on board, voucher books and invitations to exclusive events. There is also a bonus if friends or relatives book their first cruise on a Royal Caribbean ship based on a recommendation.
Online check-in The onboard manifest is mandatory: Cruise ships need important information from all passengers for their cruises, and there is also the option of depositing onboard credit so that you can pay cashless on the ships. Royal Caribbean International makes it easy for its guests. Instead of time-consuming filling out forms at the pier, check-in can be done conveniently via the Internet. Online check-in is also possible in German. Speaking of language: the onboard service is multilingual; the most important onboard languages on the ships include English, German, Italian and French.
Dress code The dress code is casual: sporty and casual clothing is welcome aboard during the day. Casual doesn't mean there are no rules. Swimwear belongs to the pool area and not at the restaurant. The cruise line recommends a greater variety for the evenings on board. Then, in addition to the casual wardrobe, there can also be neat evening wear with a dress or trouser suit for women and a sports jacket or blazer for men. Shorts in the evening at the restaurant are not allowed. For gala events, formal evening wear with a cocktail or evening dress as well as a suit or tuxedo is recommended.
Medical service Specialist staff are available for medical purposes. Expectant mothers are allowed to travel until the beginning of the 24th week of pregnancy. People with disabilities find excellent facilities and services aboard the ships. Most areas are barrier-free and, if required, priority boarding or facilities for guests with visual or hearing impairments and special diets are possible.
Where can I smoke on board? Whether cigarette, e-cigarette, cigar or pipe: Royal Caribbean International does not permit smoking in public areas, cabins and suites or on their balconies. However, for those who cannot do without the blue haze, there are designated smoking areas in the outdoor areas and also within the casinos and the connoisseur clubs aboard the Freedom and Voyager class ships.
Internet and technology: Royal Caribbean International sets standards Calls via the cabin telephone or with your own cell phone are possible for an additional fee. Added to this are the roaming costs for your own mobile phone. Internet access is guaranteed via hot spots: for this purpose, the ships are equipped with WI-FI ships of the Quantum and Oasis classes provide a high-speed connection. Internet usage prices vary. The Quantum-class ships are considered “smartships” because of their sophisticated technology.
WOW wristbands equipped with reading technology serve as cabin keys and enable cashless payments on board. Two apps help guests with smartphones and tablets to organize their stay on board. The internet speeds offered are also phenomenal thanks to special satellite technology on the Quantum ships. You can stream videos or use web telephone services in the middle of the sea. There is an area reserved for Xbox players atthe Seaplex indoor sports and leisure complex. Guests of all ages can choose from many Xbox games and compete with friends from around the world. These innovations, which are currently exclusive to the Quantum class, will gradually be expanded to the entire fleet.
