Royal Caribbean Perfect Day at CocoCay Mexico - Everything I Know
Royal Caribbean Heads to Mexico to Create Another Perfect Day!
Royal Caribbean introduces Perfect Day Mexico located in Mahahual / Costa Maya including a beach club with activities, cuisine, and sustainable tourism focus.
When Royal Caribbean introduced Perfect Day at CocoCay, its private island in the Bahamas, it quickly became a new reason to cruise. Based on this success, Royal Caribbean purchased Costa Maya, a made-up cruise port in Eastern Mexico, near Cozumel. I love Costa Maya, even though it exists only for cruises. You can check out my tour of Costa Maya on my YouTube channel here.
Costa Maya has just the right amount of things to do, a bird aviary, souvenir shops, a few restaurants, 2 pools, and a dolphin experience. It’s great if you just want to get off the ship for a little while and do some exploring on your own.
So, I was surprised to learn that Royal Caribbean just announced that it purchased Costa Maya and it will be building another Perfect Day resort here.
Costa Maya is a stop for other cruise lines as well, but it appears that Perfect Day Mexico will only be available to Royal Caribbean cruisers.
Royal Caribbean is also building Royal Beach Club Cozumel, which is set to open in 2026. I expect Perfect Day Mexico will be very successful for Royal Caribbean western Caribbean itineraries with Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas and Star of the Seas.
I love this idea because the Caribbean ports are not exactly the most interesting - usually centered around beaches, bars, and t-shirt shops. There’s also a concern about safety if you wander off the beaten path.
It’s brilliant for Royal Caribbean to expand on the things that cruise vacationers like best: the private islands.
Now, it’s unclear right now if Costa Maya will still be an itinerary stop for other cruise ships like Carnival, and Disney Cruise Line. Will they have a place to dock, or will it be taken up by Royal Caribbean ships? And will other cruise lines even want to stop at Costa Maya, when the main attraction there will be Perfect Day Mexico?
Either way, Royal Caribbean is making so many great decisions lately and I’m excited to see how this all works out.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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I Try Out Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Sea, One the First Oasis Class Ships
This is my experience on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas.
Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships are my favorite because they are like full-service resorts at sea. But Allure of the Seas is a first-generation Oasis Class Ship built in 2010. She is missing some of the features of the newer ships. So, Is Allure of the Seas too outdated?
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If you’re new to my channel, welcome! I’m Darren from OrlandoParksGuy.com. One of the most frequently asked questions I get about Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is whether or not I think she’s too old.
Royal Caribbean is now up to the third generation in the Oasis Class with Wonder of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas which have a lot of improvements and offerings.
But having just sailed on Allure from Orlando’s Port Canaveral, I know firsthand what to expect and I’m sharing my standout moments with you.
When I walked onboard from the gangway, I was in the heart of the Royal Promenade, one of 7 neighborhoods on Allure. Neighborhoods are themed areas - similar to a theme park.
Royal Promenade
The Royal Promenade is the heart of Allure of the Seas with numerous shops, lounges, and entertainment. There are many pros and cons here. First, this is one of the areas of the ship where I got the sense that Allure was dated. The cobblestone and brick motif and earth-tone color pallet immediately jumped out at me making the ship feel old. It’s hard to imagine that we’re saying a ship from 2010 is already outdated but the newer ships have a modern and upscale decor - you don’t see the fake brickwork and cobblestone look.
As I’ve shared with you in other videos, Sorrentos is one of my favorite pizza restaurants and a staple on Royal Caribbean. Pizza in theme parks and tourist areas is usually unremarkable but this is great pizza. This is a thin-crust, New York-style pizza and you can have as much as you want - it’s included in your cruise fare. I went in for a slice every time I walked by.
Guest Services is located here which was extremely busy on the first day and last night of the cruise. This is typical for any cruise ship that I’ve been on.
There were a lot of sidewalk sales throughout my cruise where I found elaborate displays of alcohol, jewelry, and watches at seemingly discounted prices. You really need to know your prices here. In most cases, these items cost the same no matter where you go. The watches appear to be at a savings of 30% off, but I found the same prices online. It seems the only real benefit was that I didn’t have to pay sales tax. But it’s fun to look at nice watches and the salespeople were not there to high-pressure me.
One shop that I liked was the logo store. It has tons of Royal Caribbean and Allure of the Seas merchandise, much more than I have seen on ships. I usually buy a t-shirt from every ship I’ve been on and Allure had one of the largest selections I’ve ever seen, even more than newer ships.
I noticed right away that the Bionic Bar doesn’t exist on Allure’s Royal Promenade. If you’re not familiar with the Bionic Bar it’s a lounge where industrial robots make drinks to order. Cool to watch, but no one thinks of it as an actual bar. Allure’s champagne and martini bar predates the Bionic Bar concept and I think it’s much better. It’s a classy lounge and a place where people actually want to socialize. But this is about to change, I’ll reveal why at the end.
Cafe Promenade on Allure felt larger to me than other ships, and I think there was a lot more seating. This is one of my favorite places to go for coffee - this and the Park Cafe in the Central Park Neighborhood. I’m a morning person and tend to get up very early before the restaurants open. The Cafe is open 24 hrs so was able to get coffee early.
The Royal Promenade has other staples like an English pub that is one of the most popular bars on the ship. It’s very similar to the pubs on other Oasis ships. The same is true with Boleros, the Latin-inspired bar and dance club. There’s the Next Cruise office where you can get a discount by booking your next cruise while onboard. The excursion desk and photo center are also available here. I think it’s interesting that Allure still has the old photo binders even though they are no longer used. See, kids, in the old days you had to visit the photo center and flip through your binder of photos to select the ones you wanted to purchase. Today of course, this is done digitally on a touch screen.
The Rising Tide Bar travels from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park like a giant elevator. But this was the first time I saw the water feature actually working! This bar is located on all Oasis Class ships, but for some reason, the water was always turned off.
Central Park on Allure of the Seas
Oasis Class ships bring the outdoors in with Central Park, a revolutionary design in which the center of the ship opens to the sky and features lush, tropical grounds and dining.
I love the Central Park idea and I’m glad it’s even on Icon of the Seas. There isn’t much going on here and that’s kind of the point. It’s a great escape from the cruise ship atmosphere.
I love the serene pathways, gardens, and canopy trees. I checked every plant and yes they are all real in case you are wondering.
A few days into my cruise, I realized there was a Coach store in Central Park.
It’s a little easy to miss because it’s tucked away into a corner. I like this because it doesn’t make this area feel like a retail center, that’s what the Royal Promenade is for.
But Coach is an elegant store store with products for men and women and here’s a secret, they have a few Royal Caribbean exclusive items here, if you know where to look.
Central Park also has a collection of upscale dining like 150 Central Park, Chops Grille, and Vintages Wine Bar. You won’t find Vintages on the newer ships so this is a step back in time for sure - and I thought that was pretty neat. Most evenings jazz trios and guitarists were playing in the garden to a small, intimate crowd.
The Central Park Cafe is open for breakfast and lunch.
They serve complimentary coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s a great place to go for a light breakfast in particular and without all the crowds.
I just wish it was open in the evening because Central Park is a great place to hang out after dark when the gardens are all lit up.
The Boardwalk neighborhood is the family area on the Oasis Class fleet and Allures is fairly typical. One of my favorite things is that it still has Sabor Mexican Restaurant.
You won’t find Sabor on the newer ships so again, it’s like going back in time. It has an ala carte menu so it’s easy to just grab a snack but this is not included in your cruise.
Enjoy this gem while you can because this space is about to change - again stay tuned to the end.
Boardwalk on Allure of the Seas
Other areas of the Boardwalk cater to family time so you’ll see a carousel, which is free. But the ice cream shop and bakery called Cups and Scoops is not free.
They have cupcakes and several varieties of ice cream here, kids will love it. And speaking of kids, the Boardwalk also has Pinwheels a gift shop featuring toys and kids' clothes.
Pinwheels is connected to a whimsical candy store which is very popular with kids of all ages - including me.
There’s a Rock Climbing Wall here for those ages 6+
I recommend that you check the cruise planner for operating times and that you arrive 15 minutes early.
A long line will form and you’ll need time to fill out a waiver.
Remember to wear socks because the wall requires special rock climbing shoes.
The aqua theater is just like those on other Oasis Class ships.
Allure’s show is similar to the others in that it’s a Cirque-style show with acrobats and high dives.
I thought this was the best show on the ship and you can easily get your kids to watch without them complaining that it’s boring.
For some reason, I wasn’t able to make a reservation for the show on the Royal Caribbean app prior to my cruise, but I stopped at the box office on Embarkation Day and was able to get my family tickets. Tickets are free.
Allure is a mega resort-style ship designed for families. And while it’s great to have things to do as a family, there’s an adult-exclusive pool area known as the Solarium.
The Solarium
I got very spoiled with Wonder of the Seas because, on the newer ships, the Solarium is completely enclosed and climate-controlled. Allure’s Solarium is shaded but open to the fresh air.
When this ship isn’t moving, it gets very hot in there.
But some passengers told me they prefer the fresh air solariums of the older ships because it feels like you’re outside rather than in a glass dome.
Inside the solarium is the Solarium Bistro.
This wasn’t for me but if you’re looking for a healthy, Mediterranean-style buffet, you might enjoy this one. Everything we tried here was very good - it’s a lot of salads, yogurts, fresh fruit and that sort of thing.
I did notice that they do have a nice breakfast if you prefer healthy options and that there was hardly anyone here.
Kids must be age 16 or older to go in the pools but it’s not to popular with teens.
There are pools and hot tubs here.
We would go in the late afternoon and have the entire solarium to ourselves. But during the day, the entire place was pretty crowded.
Pools on Allure of the Seas
If there’s one area where Allure of Seas is dated, it’s the pool deck. Allure's three main pools are located on Deck 15, divided into several distinct pool areas: Main, Beach, and Sports, as well as an H2O Zone water play area for kids. I found that the majority of travelers without kids stick to the aft end of the ship in the Main Pool or the Solarium pool. Kids and families gravitate towards the Sports pool.
But I found it shocking that there are no water slides on Allure of the Seas. No one in 2010 had the foresight that people would want water slides on a mega resort-style cruise ship.
The pools were too crowded for me, there just wasn’t enough for a ship this size. By comparison, Symphony of the Seas has 4 pools, and that still wasn’t enough when I sailed on that ship. So you can imagine what the 3 pools were like.
I’m not a big fan of pools on cruise ships anyway. I Don’t know, I just feel like a bandaid is going to float to the top of the water and if that happens, there aren’t enough showers I could take just sayin’.
Sports Deck
The sports deck is behind the pools in the aft section of the ship.
There’s a zip line where you fly over the Boardwalk neighborhood, a basketball court where young adults play all day, every day except for when pickleball classes are offered, and the Flow Rider surf simulator which is super popular with kids and young adults.
Flow Rider gets very busy and I had to sign a waiver for my son, so you should arrive early. Check the cruise planner for operating times.
As an Oasis Class ship, Allure is missing the Ultimate Abyss slide, which is a dry slide that runs from Deck 15 down to the boardwalk on Deck 6. So this could be a major disappointment to your kids if they have sailed on other Oasis ships before.
Entertainment Place
One area that I loved on Allure of the Seas was the Casino. It’s located in the Entertainment Place neighborhood. I love casinos on cruise ships and the casino on Allure of the Seas is one of the biggest and best.
It’s larger than some casinos in Las Vegas I’m sure. Smoking is allowed but there is a smoke-free side as well.
I’ve been on ships where I can’t find a place to play because the casino is too small. I would like to see a better selection of slots. They didn’t have a lot of popular games like Wheel of Fortune and so on.
During the day Studio B, also located in Entertainment Place, was opened for ice skating.
All abilities are welcome. There is no cost to skate but you do need to wear pants. I recommend getting tickets for the ice skating show offered in the evenings.
This is an extremely popular show. You can reserve this through your cruise planner or by visiting the box office.
On other Oasis Class ships, Studio B is sometimes converted into a laser tag arena but that is not offered by Allure, unfortunately.
The entertainment place is also home to an adult comedy club and the ship’s main theater where they usually have a Broadway show playing. On my cruise, the show was Mama Mia! Personally, I’m not a big fan of shows so I skipped it, I went to the casino, but everyone I talked to onboard said it was great.
Rooms on Allure of the Seas
I loved our rooms on Allure of the Seas. We had 2 rooms booked, an Ocean View Balcony and a Central Park View Balcony. Both rooms felt pretty modern and on par with the newer Oasis ships but lacked USB charging ports.
I thought it was funny to see the 2010 clock radio / iPhone charging station still being used which is utterly useless today.
If you have a lot of phones etc, be prepared for only a few outlets in your room.
One of them is behind the bed so it’s not easy to get to.
I recommend bringing a USB charging hub with you - but do not bring a power strip. They are not allowed on cruise ships.
This was my first time booking a Central Park balcony room and I have to say it was terrific.
Being that this was our second room, we saved a ton of money on it compared to booking another ocean-view balcony. It had a great view, especially at night.
We loved being able to have access to the outdoors from our room even though it wasn’t looking at the ocean.
I would have no problems booking a Central Park balcony again.
Our stateroom attendants were beyond attentive, a trademark of Royal Caribbean.
You can tell they take guest satisfaction very seriously which is one of the reasons why I like this cruise line so much.
Dining on Allure of the Seas
Allure has over 25 restaurants onboard, about half of which are complimentary. I rarely do specialty dining, I’m perfectly fine with the free options that come with my cruise and I really like the main dining room on Royal Caribbean ships.
I live in Orlando so I am surrounded by touristy restaurants like hibachi grills etc.
I don’t feel the need to do these onboard the ship but I know that many people find them fun. For me, I don’t have any problems with the main dining room.
As with most Royal Caribbean ships, there are 2 seatings: early and late, plus My Time Dining - where you can just show up and take any available table.
But what Royal Caribbean doesn’t tell you is that you will be in a long line waiting for a table to become available.
So I don’t recommend My Time at all but this is another show.
The main dining room is also open for breakfast.
Most people head to the buffet in the morning but here’s a secret, there’s hardly anyone in the main dining room for breakfast.
Sometimes there are themed nights.
On my cruise, there was a Caribbean Night and a White Night, where guests were encouraged to wear all-white outfits.
I don’t like white clothes so I just didn’t participate.
That was perfectly fine. Many others skipped the theme as well.
These themed nights are optional, which is something I love about Royal Caribbean.
But if you are worried that you might feel out of place, you could always visit Windjammers Buffet.
Windjammers is just awesome, no matter which Royal Caribbean ship you’re on. And while it’s super crowded for breakfast, there is usually no one here for dinner. I found that Windjammers usually offers the same dinner menu as the Main Dining Room plus more options.
Earlier in the show, I mentioned there would be a big announcement and I think you’re going to like it. Starting in February 2025, Allure of the Seas will be undergoing a $100 million dollar renovation.
She will be drydocked through April 2025 so that doesn’t leave much time to blow 100 million dollars but I assume they have everything lined up and will just get to it.
Most notably she will be outfitted with an Ultimate Abyss slide (finally!), and she’ll have a Pesky Parrot Bar going where the Champagne Bar is on the Royal Promenade.
The Pesky Parrot made its debut on Utopia of the Seas.
There will be several updated restaurants - so Sabor will go away and become Playmakers Sports Bar, and she will be getting the much-needed water slides! She will also be getting laser tag she will get several more updates on the bars and lounges, plus an all-new teen club.
Now I didn’t get into the kids and teens clubs on Allure here because I have an entire video dedicated to that topic.
It has everything you need to know about taking kids and teens with you on Allure of the Seas, it’s a must-see if you have kids.
You can join me over there by clicking on this video here.
Video: Allure of the Seas with Kids
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Sneak Peek at Royal Beach Club in Nassau, Bahamas
An insider look at the new Royal Beach Club Paradise Island - Royal Caribbean’s new private beach in Nassau, Bahamas.
I just attended a workshop with Royal Caribbean about Utopia of the Seas but at the end, we were treated to a sneak peek of Royal Beach Club Paradise Island opening in Nassau, Bahamas sometime in 2025.
This was perfect timing because I was just in Nassau and could see that there was a lot of work taking place. I have been wondering what the finished product is going to look like.
Well now, I have pictures to share!
If you haven’t been to Nassau in the past few years, you’ll notice that it has been completely renovated. The port area is now bright, cheerful, and well-thought-out.
Previously Nassau was dingy, felt unsafe and there wasn’t anything worth doing. It’s all been cleaned up now.
Now you can go shopping, listen to live music, and get your hair braided, all in one complex without having to stray far from the ship. And that’s a good thing because Nassau is a big city with big city problems.
Royal Caribbean is taking things to the next level by developing a new beach resort for guests.
They purchased a strip of abandoned property that runs alongside the harbor, where the cruise ships park. If you’ve been to Nassau before, you might have seen this strip of land - it had an abandoned mansion on it and a few boat slips.
On the opposite shore of this island, the north shore, you’ll find amazing views of the ocean.
With more details to be revealed in the coming months, we now know that were will be family-friendly pools, chill pools with music, and adult-only areas.
There will three pools with swim-up bars and private cabanas, four island-style spots for quick bites and local fare, and experiences that feature local artisans and live music.
Here’s a first look at the one of the new cabanas coming to Royal Beach Club.
Once complete, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island is expected to host an average of 2,000 guests. Vacationers will access the beach club via a ferry ride from the Nassau Cruise Port and return through historic downtown Nassau near the world-famous Straw Market.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Are Royal Caribbean's Western Caribbean Ports Worth Visiting?
Do you need to book excursions on your Western Caribbean cruise? Let’s check out the port towns to see what there is to see and do on your own.
Are you considering a Western Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean? Stick around to see what the ports of call are like and if they are even worth visiting!' It’s coming up right now on…
A 7-night Western Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean usually includes two stops in Mexico - Cozumel and Costa Maya plus a stop at Roatan, Honduras.
Like most experienced cruisers, we look forward to port days because we pretty much have the ship to ourselves. This means no long lines at Flowrider, the Ultimate Abyss slide, and plenty of seating by the pool.
But we are on vacation and in a foreign country, so it can still be fun to get off the ship and do a little exploring. But what is there to do? And is there anything you need to be careful of?
I’ll take you on a tour of the 3 most popular ports of call so you can see for yourself.
Cozumel, Mexico
Cozumel, Mexico
We were on Wonder of the Seas from Orlando so our first stop was Cozumel, Mexico. Cozumel is the most authentic port I’ve seen in the Caribbean.
See, most of the Caribbean ports you visit whether it be Mexico, Jamaica, or St. Thomas, and so on, are all manufactured ports.
These are not rlittle towns that exist naturally. They are full-blown tourist traps. But that’s ok, we’re tourists. Orlando, Dollywood, and Las Vegas, all follow the same principles.
These fake little towns are in a high-security compound, so you’ll only find fellow cruise passengers here and licensed vendors.
The first thing you’ll notice about Cozumel is that it’s a bustling city - a real city. After getting off the ship you’ll stop for a quick security screening and then you're inside the port complex.
There are several bars like Margaritaville and Senor Frogs. Their main draw is that they promise a party atmosphere - similar to a college frat party. If this is your thing, more power to you, but they are famous for overpriced drinks, allowing people to get drunk rather quickly, and serving lousy food.
On our visit, we kept walking past the bars and entered the outdoor shopping district.
I like Cozumel in particular because the area is generally well kept and they have a lot to look at. Almost all of the stores sell the same things like t-shirts and Mexican-themed souvenirs. Other stores sell diamonds, silver jewelry, and leather goods.
I like to look for stores that might have something unique. Maybe they have someone making personalized souvenirs or offering hair braiding.
Now don’t be weirded out if the store owners call out to you. This is customary in Mexican culture. I saw some people get super offended by this and began yelling back.
Others stopped to offer an excuse. It’s perfectly ok to ignore them and just keep walking.
This is cultural and you will not hurt their feelings if you just walk by.
We continued walking and found a covered shopping area as well. The stores in here seemed to be a little nicer but still offered the same kinds of things.
I did a little research before our cruise and saw on a map that there was an additional shopping area across the street. It was a little hard to find the back exit, but eventually we got there.
I liked being out here because it felt to me like we were getting away from the fake Mexico and getting into more authentic territory - but without straying too far.
There was another outdoorsy mall but hardly anyone was there and some of the shops were closed. It looked like this was a failed attempt at expanding the port. But it was a nice area, maybe someday it will come back.
As we reached the end of the shopping area, we found ourselves across the street from a small resort right next to the harbor. I went to look around, I love to explore hotels. I spoke with the front desk staff and it turns out they sell day passes to use their pool and facilities.
There was a massage area and a restaurant. I wouldn’t go here if you’re looking to swim at the beach because you’ll be swimming in the harbor,
but the beach and pool are nice places to relax and get some great views of the ship. There are plenty of beach resorts if you want to book an excursion, but if you’re just looking to stay near the ship, this place would be great.
It’s called the El Cid Resort - and for about $65 US per adult, $33 US per child, you’ll get unlimited food and drinks, free WiFi, an open bar, 90 minutes of snorkeling and use of the facilities and pool.
There’s also a $25 package that includes wifi, use of the pool, 90 min. Or snorkeling. So basically it doesn’t include the food or drinks. Children on this package are $13 US.
Now being in Mexico, I wanted to see if I could find an authentic taco.
I live in Orlando the capital of chain restaurants. So I wanted tacos not one from the tourist areas, but a local place.
I had read about a guy who sells tacos out of a blue truck but didn’t know if it was any good.
I asked the bellman at the hotel where I could find authentic tacos. He told me to go see the guy in the blue truck two blocks away. Ok so now I know this guy must be legit.
It was a leap of faith because we had to leave the tourist area to walk down a busy road with barely a sidewalk. But Sure enough, we saw the blue truck.
He makes tacos in the bed of an old pickup truck. When we got there, the guy was using a machete to chop vegetables.
Now I must warn you, this is the ultimate Mexican street food ok, not the most sanitary so you need to be willing to overlook a few things.
But if I wanted to know what I’m missing when I go to Chipotle. This is what I was looking for - street food in Mexico.
The chicken tacos were awesome I watched him make them on a flat top. There were no cruise passengers around and the Locals were so happy that we were there.
They couldn’t stop talking about how good the tacos were. Everyone was very friendly. Oh, and he takes American money. Now if you want to find him, just search Google for Blue Taco Truck in Cozumel - you’ll find it.
After a couple of hours in Cozumel, we walked back to ship and enjoyed a really quiet day at the pool.
Roatan, Honduras
Day 2 was Roatan Honduras. Roatan is a large island just off the mainland of Honduras. It’s the smallest port town on Royal Caribbean’s Western Itinerary and it was recently refurbished to look like a small village.
The most popular excursions here are to visit the animal sanctuaries, ATV tours through tropical rainforests, and beach passes. Keep in mind that the cruise lines use different ports in Honduras. So if you’re on Royal Caribbean, be sure you look up Coxen Hole.
Other cruisers have told me this is one of their favorite ports of call and that may be true if you have an excursion, but if you’re just planning on getting off the ship to check out the port, I’m afraid it’s a little disappointing.
When I say the port is small, I mean it’s actually smaller than the cruise ship. There are just a handful of souvenir shops but they are still fun to walk through. I found them to be well-kept and organized. Most will take American money and credit cards.
The refurbishment added tiki huts and some water features, plus a few nice restaurants and bars. But you can walk through here in less than an hour..
Just for a little adventure, I wanted to see what was beyond the port complex like I had done in Cozumel. That’s where things took an interesting turn.
As soon as we left the secure boundary of the port, we were immediately swarmed with dozens of people asking if we wanted a ride.
They were negotiating and outbidding each other and I hadn’t even said I wanted a ride. I felt like Indiana Jones returning to the village after the quest.
There were so many guys, that it was nearly impossible to keep walking, it was not a great position to be in.
I found it disturbing that they had to post signs all over reminding us that human trafficking is a crime.
Hopeful that things would get better once we got away from the taxi drivers, we ventured out a little further. But several guys began following us and some approached us asking if we wanted a walking guide.
While everyone was friendly, I just got bad vibes.
The immediate area surrounding the port was not great - there were no sidewalks and there wasn’t anything to see.
We turned around and went back into the secure port.
My advice is to stay within the boundary of the port. If you do want to book an excursion, book it through directly Royal Caribbean so you know they are vetted and reliable.
We had a very short day in Roatan. Other passengers were telling me how much fun they on their excursions. But my advice is that Roatan is not a do-it-yourself port of call.
Costa Maya, Mexico
On Day 3 we returned to Mexico, this time Costa Maya. Of the 3 ports, this was our favorite. If you’ve been to Disney World and enjoy themed entertainment, you’ll like Costa Maya.
The port is quite large and oval-shaped, so you can walk around and return to the same place you started. There are a few side streets with additional shops within the compound as well.
Inside, there’s a resort-style swimming pool, but I don’t think it looks very appealing. Granted on the day I was filming it was raining, but even on previous trips, I hardly ever see anyone in the water.
You’d be surrounded by tourists and shoppers, not quite the best pool atmosphere.
There’s an elevated bird aviary that takes you above the rooftops, this is a popular activity, especially with kids. You’ll also find a few performances from mariachi bands and ancient Mayan dances.
If you would like to swim with dolphins without straying far from the ship, you can do that here right in the port.
The shops pretty much sell all the same things. Just like Cozumel, look for shops that have something a little unique or one that offers personalized souvenirs.
My son wanted a leather bracelet with his name on it. Watching it be made was pretty entertaining. It’s amazing to see the craftsmanship and how fast they can work.
By now you know I was on a quest for great tacos. On a previous trip, I found a great taco stand inside the port, so I was on a mission to go there once again. It’s located in the back, down a little alley. This one is clean and well-kept, not located in the back of a pickup truck.
The vendors here take American money and credit cards. The atmosphere is pretty relaxed here you won't have vendors calling out to you like Cozumel.
Now, if you didn’t book an excursion here in advance, but would like to, there are kiosks located in the port. On a previous trip, we rented a golf cart and drove it down to the beach where we found additional shops, bars, and restaurants. You can also take a taxi, but a golf cart is way more fun.
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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Royal Caribbean Family Vacation Offer Book Now through June 30, 2024
60% Off plus Kids Sail Free on Royal Caribbean - Book by June 30, 2024!
Royal Caribbean Summer Offer Alert
Take off on a vacation escape full of bold fun adventures for everyone.
Find beaches and shopping galore on the golden coasts of The Bahamas. Get up close and personal with colorful coral reefs in Aruba.
Take a tropical trek through the lush mountains of Jamaica. Or plunge down the tallest waterslide in North America on the award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Right now, you can score sunny savings — like up to 60% off your second guest, plus 30% off any additional guests. And for a limited time, kids sail free!*
Get all the Royal Caribbean discounts plus exclusive perks when you book with me!
For reservations and information, contact me today.
Hurry, offer valid June 1 — 30, 2024
Terms and Conditions
BOGO60 applies to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made 6/1 — 6/30/24 on sailings departing on or after 7/1/24 and provides 60% off the cruise fare of the second guest booked in the same stateroom as the first, full fare paying guest, as well as 30% off any additional guests. Savings applied to cruise fare at checkout. Kids Sail Free applies to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made 6/1 — 6/30/24 on select sailings 3 nights and longer departing 7/1/24 — 4/25/26 and provides $0 cruise fare for additional guests 12 years old and younger as of departure date booked in the same stateroom as the first full fare paying and second guests. Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and apply to all guests. Additional restrictions apply, for a full list of excluded sailings please visit https://www.royalcaribbean.com/terms-and-conditions/promotions. 2025 OBC Kicker applies to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made 6/1 — 6/10/24 on sailings departing in 2025 and provides an onboard credit ("OBC") up to $100 per stateroom. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00PM on the final night. Offer open to residents of US, Canada, Puerto Rico and select countries in the Caribbean. Changes to the booking may result in the removal of the offer. Prices and offers are subject to availability and change without notice, capacity controlled, and may be withdrawn at any time. Refer to www.RoyalCaribbean.com for complete terms and conditions. Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions and to change or update fares, fees and surcharges at any time without prior notice.
You received this message because you provided your e-mail address to Royal Caribbean. To ensure delivery to your inbox (not bulk or junk folders), please add royalcaribbeaninternationalsalespromotion@rccl.com to your address book. If you do not wish to receive any further communications from Royal Caribbean, please click here.
*Features vary by ship. ©2024 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships' registry: The Bahamas. All rights reserved. • 24014992
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Utopia of the Seas Train Restaurant - Royal Caribbean
Augmented reality restaurant on Utopia of the Seas will take guests on a journey by train.
We now know that Utopia of the Seas will have a virtual train car dining experience that transports diners to the golden age of rail travel.
Of course, the train cars won't actually move, but augmented reality screens in the car’s windows will take you on a virtual voyage as if you were moving.
Scenes can take you through different times such as the Wild West or far-off lands.
Performers will bring a train-inspired story to life during your meal.
Your culinary experience begins in the “station” where you and other passengers will meet for drinks.
Shortly after, a whistle will blow, signifying your train has arrived and that it’s time to board.
Royal Railway - Utopia Station is not included with your cruise fare, it will be part of the specialty dining options onboard Utopia of the Seas.
Reservations can be made on my Royal Cruise or on the Royal app
Utopia of the Seas arrives in Orlando's Port Canaveral this summer for 3 and 4 night cruises to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay.
Reservations for Utopia of the Seas are already being accepted. Start here >
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Liberty of the Seas Review and Tips - Royal Caribbean
My best tips for sailing on Liberty of the Seas - Royal Caibbean
Ship Summary
Liberty of the Seas is one a middle-aged cruise ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet. known for its vast array of onboard amenities and activities. Built in 2007 by Royal Caribbean, Liberty of the Seas was the largest cruise ship ever built at the time, joining her sister ship, Freedom of the Seas. She can carry 3,600 guests and 1,360 crew. Shortly after, Independence of the Seas was delivered rounding out the Freedom Class ship category in Royal Caribbean’s fleet.
Her last major refurbishment was in 2016 but she missed an important update scheduled for 2020 due to the pandemic.
Liberty is a fine ship, at one the pride and joy of Royal Caribbean’s fleet, but today her staterooms feel a little dated and she has fewer features than her sister ships Freedom and Independence.
For this reason, Liberty usually has bargain fares.
Why It’s Popular
Splashaway Bay Aquapark
Perfect Storm water slides
Ice skating rink
One of the few ships that still has Sabour Mexican Restaurant
Vitality Spa
Priced lower than other Freedom Class ships
Entertainment
Studio B (Deck 3, midship) is home to "Encore! An Ice Spectacular," which is performed twice on the cruise. You should arrive early to get a good seat, this is one of the most popular shows on the ship
Platinum Theater - Located on Decks 2, 3, and 4 aft. There are usually 2 performances of the show to accommodate early and late dinner seatings in the main dining room.
The popular shows are Broadway’s Saturday Night Fever which will let you step back in time to the days when disco reigned supreme in New York, and In the Air — an awe-inspiring celebration of flight that blends dazzling special effects, fascinating history, and electrifying choreography in one high-flying production.
Throughout the ship, there are various entertainers from piano players, to comedians, and live bands that play everything from jazz to rock and roll.
Casino Royale - a popular spot at night for adults who want to try their luck at slots, video poker, and table games. I recommend that you Join Club Royale rewards program, you’ll earn points every time you play. If you earn enough play, you’ll likely get offers and invitations to special events and tournaments, VIP seating at shows, priority dining reservations, and even complimentary cruises for two.
Liberty of the Seas Where to Eat for Free
Windjammer Buffet - Pop in during the morning for scrambled egg Bhurji served with roti, or home-style crispy chicken and waffles. Refuel in between adventures with a refreshing watermelon and feta salad or classic fish and chips. Or sample your way from Italy to India with dishes like traditional chicken marsala, savory pork vindaloo, tangy duck a l’Orange, and flavorful Caribbean goat curry.
Main Dining Room - In Liberty of Sea’s Main Dining Room, you can experience a rotating menu of dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that usually isn’t too crowded compared to Windjammer. You can book My Time Dining - which allows you to show up whenever you like, or a seated time, early or late. I do not recommend My Time Dining because there is often a long line to get in. You can make a reservation for My Time Dining on Day 1, which will help compared to walking up without a one.
Sorrento’s Pizza - Royal Caribbean has spent years perfecting the recipe at Sorrento’s. It’s great pizza! Order a slice or a whole pie, it’s all included at no extra cost to you.
Cafe Promenade - 24-hour coffee shop serving pastries and light sandwiches.
Liberty of the Seas Specialty Dining
Sabor Modern Mexican - A selection of small plates that include spicy beef empanadas, served with freshly grated tomato and garlic sauce. The fried chile calamari is a popular option. Sabor Modern Mexican lets you choose from a selection of proteins that come wrapped in house-made warm flour and corn tortillas. Go for the shredded beef short rib, spicy chicken, grilled cobia, succulent shrimp, or pulled pork — or mix and match a couple of each. Sabor cannot be found on the newer ships, so it’s great that the fan-favorite is still alive and well on Liberty of the Seas.
Chops Grill - As far as entrees go, the tender filet is one of the most popular items on the menu. If 9 ounces is a bit too much for you, opt for the smaller 6-ounce petite filet — it packs in just as much flavor as the standard cut. If you’re a traditionalist, complement your meal with an order of steaming Yukon Gold mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.
Giovanni’s Table - Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is served family-style. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics like traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes, and sautéed green beans.
Staterooms on Liberty of the Seas
Rooms come in 4 categories on Liberty of the Seas
Inside - no exterior view
Oceanview - window with exterior view (most are on lower decks)
Balcony - the most popular
Suites - Includes special VIP perks and extra space
Rooms have a slightly dated feel with pastel colors that were popular in the 2000s like the dark green accents on the wall and bed linens.
Bathrooms are small, typical for most cruise ships, and feel a little worn.
Most rooms sleep between 2 and 4 guests and connecting rooms are available.
Pool and Recreation
The pool and recreation options on Liberty of the Seas offer a variety of activities for guests of all ages. The ship features several pools, including an adults-only retreat area, a family-friendly main pool, and a designated splash area for children. Guests can enjoy sunbathing on comfortable lounge chairs or seek shade under umbrellas.
Aside from the pools, Liberty of the Seas offers an array of recreational activities such as rock climbing, mini-golf, sports courts for basketball and volleyball, and a FlowRider surf simulator for those looking to catch some waves. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the onboard gym facilities, fitness classes, and jogging track.
Whether you prefer lounging by the pool, staying active with sports, or trying your hand at something new like surfing, Liberty of the Seas provides a well-rounded selection of pool and recreation options to enhance your cruise experience.
My Top Ten Things to do on Liberty of the Seas
Movies under the stars poolside
Take in a show at one of the ship’s theaters
Try different restaurants, Liberty is known for great food
Karaoke at the On Air Club
Try your luck at the Casino
Scale the rock climbing wall
Relax in the adults-only Solarium
Let the kids play at Splashway Bay
Enjoy ice skating during open skate hours
Ride Perfect Storm and Tidal Wave water slides
Allure of the Seas - Royal Caribbean
See what is so special about Allure of the Seas, one of the largest cruise ships in the world.
Allure of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas offers a wealth of activities and amenities specifically designed for families. With its diverse entertainment options, kid-friendly spaces, and plenty of dining options it’s one of my favorite ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Oasis Class ships are likely to win anyone over, not just because of their incredible size, but they deliver on a memorable and exciting vacation for travelers of all ages.
One of the most remarkable features of the Allure of the Seas, or any Oasis Class ship for that matter, is its innovative neighborhood concept.
Divided into seven distinct areas, each neighborhood offers its own unique charm and a myriad of experiences.
Neighborhoods like Central Park with over 12,000 plants and trees, to the Pool and Sports Zone where you’ll find an adults-only Solarium pool and sanctuary, a family-friendly main pool, water slides, and sports courts.
Why It’s Popular
Oasis-class, one of the largest ships in the world, but not crowded.
Adult-only areas, kid’s clubs, and family entertainment
Ice skating rink, surf simulator,
25+ restaurants
A wide variety of staterooms and suite options
Entertainment on Allure of the Seas
When it comes to entertainment, the Allure of the Seas sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Witness the dazzling aquatic performances at the awe-inspiring AquaTheater, where acrobats and high divers captivate audiences with their gravity-defying stunts.
If you're in the mood for a Broadway-style show, head to the magnificent Amber Theater, where the best talent from around the world takes center stage with captivating performances.
Amber Theater: This three-deck masterpiece starting on Deck 4 seats 1,380 people and features Broadway styles shows.
AquaTheater: Brace yourself for the most daring stage at sea (Deck 6, aft)! With 2,000 water nozzles, acrobatic pools, and aerial feats.
The first 3 rows are rows are in the "splash zone."
This is the most popular show on the ship so you’ll want to arrive early for good seats, which I think are located in the back of the theater.
By sitting in the back, you get a more panoramic view of the stage.
I also recommend making a reservation.
If reservations are not available prior to sailing, then make your reservation on Day 1 of your cruise.
The Royal Promenade's On Air Club is a versatile venue that offers a range of activities during the day. Guests can participate in classes like towel folding, napkin folding, trivia, and bingo.
Studio B hosts dazzling evening ice shows, including the unique "Ice Games," a Monopoly-themed spectacle begging for audience interaction.
Most cruises have an electrifying Glow Party at least once per sailing, so be sure to check that out if it’s offered.
Ice skating on allure of the seas
Live comedy and jazz performances are offered nightly - I recommend making reservations on the Royal Caribbean app once onboard.
Casino on Allure of the Seas
Casino Royale
Try your luck at the ship’s massive casino with 450 slot machines, table games like Blackjack, roulette, and craps. Check your Cruise Planner for slot and poker tournaments.
Royal Promenade:
Dazzling Parades: Get your cameras ready for stunning parades that light up the Royal Promenade on select evenings.
Arrive about 20 minutes to get a good spot as this are of the ship does not handle large crowds well.
Karaoke Champions: Belt out your favorite tunes at the On Air Club, where karaoke nights promise laughter and unexpected talents. This is one of the most popular evening venues, it’s a good time.
Where to Eat on Allure of the Seas
Royal Caribbean offers a flexible dining option called My Time Dining, which allows you the freedom to choose when you’d like to dine in the main dining room.
If you prefer an assigned dinner time, you can choose from early and late seating times, usually around 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM but times vary by cruise.
Main dining room dress code is generally smart casual attire, but on formal evenings, formal attire such as suits, ties, tuxedos for men, and dresses for women is appropriate in the restaurant.
If you prefer not to get dressed up, you can still dine in the main dining room, no one is going to ask you to leave. But if you are worried that you might feel uncomfortable, you can dine at Windjammers which offers the same menu as the main dining room plus additional items.
Where to Eat for Free on Allure of the Seas
Main Dining Room
Open for Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Dress: Smart casual. On formal evenings, formal attire is appropriate in the restaurant.
Main dining room on allure of the seas
Windjammer Buffet
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Dress: Casual attire.
Solarium Bistro Restaurant
Mediterranean fare with a focus on healthy options.
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Dress: Casual attire
Cafe Promenade
Coffee, snacks, pastries, and sandwiches
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Sorrento’s Pizza
Quick-service pizza restaurant
Open for lunch, dinner, and late night.
El Loco Fresh
Quick-service Mexican restaurant
Open for lunch, dinner
Boardwalk Dog House
Quick-service hot dogs and specialty sausages.
Open for lunch, dinner
Boardwalk Donuts
Quick-service donut shop
Open for: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, late night.
Upgraded Dining on Allure of the Seas
Specialty restaurants on Allure are available at additional cost. While I think the included dining is absolutely fine, there may be times when you want to have a date night or perhaps celebrate a special occasion.
If you plan on doing several specialty restaurants, you may want to book a dining package, but if you are planning on just one or two meals, it’s better to charge the meal to your room.
150 Central Park - Upscale dining
Chef’s Table - Private table experience
Chops Grill - Steakhouse
Giovanni’s - Italian restaurant
Sabor - Modern Mexican fare
Samba Grill - Brasilian steakhouse
Izumi - Sushi and hibachi
Johnny Rockets - American diner
Bars and Lounges on Allure of the Seas
There are 16 themed bars on Allure of the Seas. Some are located in performance venues, near the pool, or in scenic areas of the ship.
Some of the most popular are the Rising Tide Bar, built on open elevator the rises between decks.
Schooner Bar is known for its cozy atmosphere and live entertainment.
Vintages is a world-class wine bar.
And English Pub offers live music and UK-themed spirits like the James Bond Martini and a massive selection of beer. This is one of the most popular bars on the ship.
Allure of the Seas Staterooms
Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas boasts over 20 cabin categories, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets.
Oceanview Balcony staterooms are by far the most popular, followed by inward-facing balconies: these balconies overlook the Boardwalk neighborhood or Central Park neighborhood but have no view of the ocean.
What the Staterooms are like on Allure of the Seas
Like any cruise ship, there is a mind-boggling number of stateroom categories. But Allure’s rooms are categorized primarily by location.
Other than that, they all look nearly the same.
They can also be distinguished by how many people they sleep.
Most sleep between 2 and 4 people.
Rooms that sleep 3, known as triples, and rooms that sleep 4, known as quads, sell out first. There are more doubles than triples and quads.
All standard staterooms have two twin beds that can be converted into converting into a queen bed upon request. Most rooms have a small sofa, flat-screen TVs, a closet, cubbies, and under-bed storage.
Standard balcony staterooms are about 183 square feet. Categories 1D, 2D, 3D, and 4D are all Oceanview Balcony staterooms.
Main Stateroom Categories
Oceanview balcony
Oceanview porthole
Boardwalk balcony
Central Park balcony
Inside view
Inside (no view)
Suites
Family rooms
Pools and Recreation
There are 3 main pools, all found on Deck 15:
main pool
sports pool
beach pool
The most popular pools are the beach pool and sports pool.
The beach pool is a zero-entry pool so guests can just wade right in.
There are thousands of lounge chairs on the top deck however the ones near the pool and kids’ areas go fast.
There’s an additional pool located in the Solarium for adults only (age 18+).
This is by far the best pool on the ship and it’s often not too crowded.
Those seeking a little more adventure will relish in the ship's two distinct FlowRider surf simulators, rock climbing walls, and captivating zip line, offering a perfect blend of excitement and rejuvenation.
Allure of the Seas - Ship Details by the Numbers
18 Total decks
2,054 crew
2,748 staterooms
5,496 guests
1, 187 feet long
Maiden voyage December 5, 2010.
Built by STX Europe in Turku, Finland.
November 2023 Cruise Offers from Royal Caribbean
This month’s cruise offers for 2024 and 2025 sailings on Royal Caribbean
NOVEMBER 2023 OFFERS
This month there are several offers available from Royal Caribbean with a very possible Black Friday sale coming as well.
30% Off Every Guest
Booking Window: November 1 - December 4, 2023
Sailing Window: All sailings departing on or after December 1, 2023
Offer details: All guests 30% off and
Kids Sail Free
Booking Window: November 1 - December 4, 2023
Sailing Window: All sailings departing between November 3, 2023 – April 25, 2026
Offer Details: Guest 12 and under sail free on 3 night or longer sailings
UP TO $500 USD OFF FLIGHTS
Booking Window: Air bookings between November 1, 2023 - March 31, 2024 Sailing Window: Alaska and European sailings departing between December 1, 2023 - October 31, 2024 Offer Details: Up to $500 off airfare
UP TO $500 OFF CRUISES
Booking Window: November 2-8, 2023
Sailing Window: All sailings departing on or after December 2, 2023
Offer Details: Up to $500 instant savings.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Fares + Kids Sale Free | Early 2024 from Orlando
The list below is for the lowest available rate which will generally be an interior stateroom (no view).
3 NIGHT Royal Caribbean Cruises
Bahamas & Perfect Day
Ship: Allure of the Seas. Allure is an Oasis Class ship - among the largest ships in the world.
Roundtrip From: Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida
Nassau, Bahamas
Ports of Call:
The list below is for the lowest available rate which will generally be an interior stateroom.
Oceanview and Oceanview Balcony staterooms are also available and in many cases, the fares are less than $100 more per person than an interior stateroom.
There are multiple Kids Sale Free cruise deals to choose from in early 2024. Prices are per person and do not include tax. Fares are subject to availability.
I recommend booking early because cruise fares increase in price steadily as the ship begins to fill up.
Ask me about transfers between Orlando International Airport and Port Canaveral.
January 2024
Tue, Jan 02, 2024 $592
Fri, Jan 12, 2024 $632
Fri, Jan 19, 2024 $373
Fri, Jan 26, 2024 $363
February 2024
Fri, Feb 09, 2024 $382
Fri, Feb 16, 2024 $452
Fri, Feb 23, 2024$412
March 2024
Fri, Mar 01, 2024 $352
Fri, Mar 08, 2024 $363
Fri, Mar 22, 2024 $452
Fri, Mar 29, 2024 $473
Perfect Day at CocoCay - Royal Caribbean’s private island paradise in the Bahamas
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Orlando (Port Canaveral) Will be Home to 2 of the Largest Cruise Ships in the World
Orlando will be home to 2 of the largest cruise ships in the world: Utopia of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas.
Upon completion, Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas will become the third largest cruise ship in the world, measuring 1,188 feet long, 211 feet wide, and featuring 18 decks to accommodate 5,668 guests.
Royal Caribbean has said it will call Orlando (Port Canaveral) home when it arrives in July of 2024.
Utopia of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Among its remarkable features, Utopia of the Seas will have 5 pools, 3 water slides, 21 dining venues, 23 bars, 2 casinos, 8 hot tubs, and will be the only Oasis-class ship to include 2 Solarium Suites.
Utopia of the Seas will run 3-night weekend cruises from Orlando to the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay followed by 4-night weekday cruises, also the Bahamas and Perfect Day.
Bookings are now open, you can request a quote for Utopia of the Seas here.
But Utopia of the Seas is not the only impressive ship homeported in Orlando.
Wonder of the Seas, currently the largest cruise ship in the world, is sailing from Port Canaveral doing 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.
Wonder of the Seas is currently the largest cruise ship in the world. It carries 5,734 guests at double occupancy (i.e., if every cabin held only two people) and 6,988 passengers when completely full.
There is about 2,200 crew members so you could possibly be on a ship with 9,000+ people onboard.
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Utopia of the Seas will Call Orlando Home and it's On Sale Now!
Orlando will be home to 2 of the largest cruise ships in the world.
Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas will become the second-largest cruise ship in the world, measuring 1,188 feet long, 211 feet wide, and featuring 18 decks to accommodate 5,668 guests.
Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas will be homeported at Orlando (Port Canaveral) and will be running shorter itineraries, similar to the Disney Wish, with 3-night weekend cruises and 4-night weekday cruises.
The ship will include stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas.
Utopia will join her sister ship, Wonder of the Seas establishing Port Canaveral as the homeport for two of the world’s largest cruise ships.
“Thank you so much for being so patient with us. We had a great first cruise. Your advice was spot on especially with the dining package. ”
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Things to do in Nassau, Bahamas Without Booking an Excursion
Did you know you can explore Nassau, Bahamas on your cruise without an excursion?
Did you know you can explore Nassau, Bahamas on your cruise without an excursion? While there are a number of things to do like chilling at the beaches, exploring Nassau’s historical sites, renting a jet-ski or visiting the Atlantis Resort, you can have a great day just walking around the port area on your own, without an excursion.
Both Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean almost always include a day at Nassau on their 3 and 4 night itineraries from Florida.
Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas (center) and Freedom of the Seas (right) are twins - both part of the Freedom Class.
It’s perfectly ok to get off the ship for a couple of hours, walk around the port, then go back to the ship for lunch and enjoy the pool with lower crowds.
Fun fact! Nassau was Royal Caribbean’s very first port over 50 years ago.
As soon as you leave the pier (and make your way through a few offers for a taxi ride) you’ll be in Nassau’s touristy shopping district. But that’s ok, you’re a tourist!
There are a number of t-shirt and souvenir shops, jewelry stores, bars and restaurants, an outdoor flea market and even places to get your hair braided - all within a short walk from your cruise ship.
A busy day in Nassau, Bahamas. The Disney Dream is pictured center and Anthem of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean Oasis Class ship is on the far left.
The Disney Fantasy at Nassau, Bahamas
Straw Market - Nassau
A 5 minute walk from the pier on Bay Street, you’ll find Nassau’s world-famous Straw Market.
The Straw Market - Nassau, Bahamas
Now, I don’t know how “world famous” it is but it’s home to local, handmade Bahamian crafts, souvenirs, and items such as hand-woven straw hats, bags, mats, dolls, conch shell jewelry, and wood carvings.
It’s also a great place to try your negotiating skills - it’s even expected. Most of the vendors inside will accept US currency and or credit cards.
The Straw Market is a 5 minute walk from the cruise port, right on Bay Street.
The Straw Market has t-shirts and apparel, but my favorite items are the wood carvings, sea shell crafts and other items made by the locals.
Before you commit to buying something, I recommend that you first walk the entire market so you can get a sense of what they offer here.
Shopping on Bay Street - Things to do in Nassau
Bay Street is a block over from the cruise port and lined with touristy shops. I like it because it’s not too far from the ship. Remember that it is a foreign country and a poor one at that. So, it’s best to stay in the well-traveled, touristy areas.
Bay Street on Nassau
Stores on one side of the street tend to be focused on inexpensive t-shirts and souvenirs while the opposite side tends to have more jewelry.
The stores have the same type of merchandise, for the most part, but there’s enough variety to make each one interesting.
Prices vary widely from place to place too so don’t from the first store you visit. Shop around a little.
Bay Street shopping at Nassau
Bay Street shopping at Nassau
Christ Church Anglican Cathedral - Things to do in Nassau
This Anglican church is over 100 years old and remarkably beautiful. It’s actually quite small even though it’s called a cathedral but Queen Elizabeth and Prince Harry have visited here over the years.
This isn’t a tourist destination necessarily and that’s exactly why I like it. In the midst of the t-shirt district, you come across a local church, beautifully maintained.
You are free to go inside, sit down, and just reflect for a moment or two.
Christ Church Anglican Cathedral is a nice break from the touristy things in the area
The church is about a 10 minute walk from the cruise port and just a few blocks up from the Straw Market and Bay Street shops.
Pirates of Nassau Museum - Things to do in Nassau
I found Pirates of Nassau by accident just walking around randomly with my son and although I was hesitant to walk in - he begged me to go inside.
Pirates of Nassau - Nassau, Bahamas
I pictured some disappointing tourist trap inside but it’s an excellent museum - one might say a real treasure here in Nassau!
This museum is one of my most recommended activities in Nassau while exploring on your own.
Pirates of Nassau - Nassau, Bahamas
Pirates were a very real part of the Bahamas including the notorious pirates you probably heard about like Black Beard.
And while they were a rough bunch, they were absolutely adored by people all over the world (except the British Navy).
Pirates of Nassau - Nassau, Bahamas
At this museum you’ll experience pirate life in a realistic setting, one that rivals Pirates of the Caribbean at Walt Disney World.
Admission is $13.50 for adults, kids ages 4-17 pay $6.75. It takes about 30 minutes to see the entire museum and it’s self-guided.
You can walk to the museum in under 10 minutes along the shops on Bay Street. It’s also right across the street from the Christ Church Anglican Cathedral.
So, is it worth getting off the ship in Nassau? Yes! I think it’s worth getting off the ship even if you prefer to skip the excursions (aka port adventures). Exploring on your own is a great way to spend the morning. But also take advantage of lower crowds onboard the ship.
Your day in Nassau is also a great time to enjoy the water slides or other activities onboard with fewer people.
If you prefer to book an excursion at Nassau, I personally only recommend Paradise Island (Atlantis Resort). I also recommend booking this with your cruise line as they often include transportation. It’s always best to book port adventures directly with your cruise line because they vet the tour companies and they are also responsible for you.
I’m often asked, do I need a passport for a cruise to the Bahamas?
No. Although I recommend a passport just in case, you do not need to show any form of government ID in the Bahamas. A birth certificate is sufficient when you reenter the United States.
But, if you have an emergency and need to fly home from Nassau, you will need a passport to board a plane. Passports can be obtained in about 8-10 weeks, so if you have time, it’s worth getting.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Icon of the Seas Shatters Records
SPOTLIGHT: All the ways Icon of the Seas is shattering records
Icon of the Seas is a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean adventure where you’ll have the time of your life, multiple times a day.
This cruise ship offers thrills you never dared to imagine and next-level chill you never dreamed possible.
And it’s shattering records in big, bold ways that will change the way you vacation — forever.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Will I Get Seasick on a Cruise?
All first-time cruisers are worried about seasickness. I know where the concern comes from and I have answers.
One of the most common questions first-time cruisers have is “What if I get seasick on my cruise?” As someone who avoided going on a cruise vacation for this very reason, I understand where the concern comes from, and I have answers.
In this article:
Why you probably won’t get seasick at all
How to prevent seasickness
Professional advice in case it happens
Symphony of the Seas | Royal Caribbean
Why you probably won’t get seasick at all
Ships today sail with thousands of passengers onboard, most are not hearty seafaring people that can take whatever the sea throws at them. Cruising wouldn’t be as popular if getting seasick was a common occurrence.
The cruise lines know this too. They want you to be loyal customers and to return for future cruise vacations.
Newer ships are built for passenger comfort and safety above all. They use innovative design and engineering technology that helps keep the ship steady, like stabilizers and sophisticated weather technology.
Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas compared to Titanic (photo credit: The Smithsonian Channel)
The sheer size of cruise ships today means that you’re not going to be bobbing around like a cork in the ocean. Cruise ships are floating cities, it takes a lot to move them.
Most of the time, I don’t even know the ship is moving unless I look out a window.
I like to use the water glass test - something I came up with while onboard, it’s the teacher in me.
While at dinner look at your glass of water. If the ship is rocking, you will see the water in your glass swaying back and forth, because water always tries to remain level. I have yet to see the water move, on any cruise I’ve been on.
How to prevent seasickness
Sometimes the best treatment is prevention.
Avoid excessive alcohol and overeating. Avoid reading small print as well. The only time I started to feel a little seasickness coming on was while I was trying to read a book. I put the book down and felt better right away.
“It’s best that guests who know they are prone to seasickness consult their doctor prior to departure,” says Dr. Shore, Chief Medical Advisor at Royal Caribbean.
If your personal physician thinks it’s appropriate, he or she can prescribe a patch that you can wear to prevent the onset of seasickness.
As a travel professional, I recommend a Bahamas cruise for your first journey out there. Waters between the coast of Florida and the Bahamas are known to be very calm. This is why cruising in the area is so popular.
Most Bahamian cruises are 3 or 4 nights, so it’s just the right amount of time to earn your sea legs.
What to do if you get seasick on your cruise
In the event that seasickness does develop, it’s unlikely to really interrupt your cruise.
Dr. Shore notes that there are lots of natural remedies that can help alleviate motion sickness.
“Anecdotally, ginger ale seems to be helpful, and some people find various aromas (like chamomile and peppermint) or eating dry crackers, even after the onset of seasickness, can help.”
If a few sips of ginger ale don’t do the trick, he also suggests going for a short walk to the center of the ship, the most balanced area onboard and therefore least likely to produce seasickness symptoms.
For this same reason, I recommend booking a midship room on a lower deck.
Cruise ships have motion sickness medications, like meclizine, readily available at the ship’s Medical Center.
“Additionally, for more troublesome seasickness, Royal Caribbean’s Medical Centers also carry promethazine and metoclopramide,” Dr. Shore says.
If you’re ready to plan your cruise with the care of a professional, click here to set sail on your next vacation.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Save Now, Sail Later with Disney Cruise Line in Early 2024
Disney Cruise Line Returns to Picture-Perfect Tropical Destinations in Early 2024.
Disney Cruise Line is about to release early 2024 itineraries to the Caribbean, Mexico, Bahamas, and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
Voyages will be from Florida (Orlando and Ft. Lauderdale), Galveston, and New Orleans, and San Diego.
Why book a 2024 cruise now?
I always say that the best way to save on a cruise is to book as far in advance as possible. As stateroom inventory goes down, fares go up and it happens quickly.
Experienced cruisers wait for these announcements and it’s why Disney Cruise Line loyalty club members have early booking perks, ahead of the general public.
Bookings open to the general public on Dec. 15, 2022.
Disney Cruise Line Castaway Club members may take advantage of the following extended early booking windows:
Platinum Castaway Club Members: Monday, Dec. 12, 2022
Gold Castaway Club Members: Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022
Silver Castaway Club Members, Disney Vacation Club Members: Wednesday, Dec. 14, 2022
Early 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries
The Disney Dream will begin early 2024 with an assortment of three- and four-night getaways to the Bahamas and five-night vacations to the western Caribbean.
All sailings from Florida will include a stop at Castaway Cay.
Caribbean Adventures from Texas and Louisiana
The Disney Magic will embark on Caribbean adventures ranging in length from four to six nights through the end of January.
Upon returning for another month-long stint between March and April, the ship will sail cruises ranging from four to seven nights to the western Caribbean during the popular spring break period.
New Orleans will welcome the Disney Magic back for a second consecutive year in February 2024 with four-, five- and seven-night cruises to the Caribbean.
Mexican Escapes from California
After returning from its inaugural season in Australia and New Zealand, the Disney Wonder will arrive in San Diego, California in March 2024 for three- to seven-night voyages to Mexico, including the Baja peninsula.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Insider Guide to Chill Island at Perfect Day at CocoCay
If your ideal beach day involves a quiet stretch of powdery shoreline, tranquil waters and plenty of rest and relaxation, you’ve come to the right place. Perfect Day at Coco Cay is Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas.
If you want to slow down, work on your tan and spend some time recharging, there’s Chill Island. Perfect for both couples and families, this area of Perfect Day at CocoCay is the best place to relax and soak up the island vibes.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Plenty of Shade
There’s no need to worry about getting ashore early to claim a beach chair and umbrella on Chill Island.
This part of Perfect Day at CocoCay has an abundance of loungers and umbrellas along its shores, and they’re all complimentary.
One of the best things to do at Chill Island if you’re visiting with a group of friends or your extended family — or if you want to upgrade your romantic getaway — is to reserve one of the Chill Island cabanas.
Each cabana accommodates up to eight guests and comes with attendant service.
Reserving a cabana on Chill Island is a great option for families who want an added level of comfort, or couples looking to elevate their day of relaxation.
Just remember they are subject to availability.
You Have the Option to Play
True to its name, Chill Island is really all about the chill factor — but that doesn’t mean you won’t have the option to break up all that shoreside lounging with a bit of action.
There’s a shack nearby where you can rent snorkel equipment to check out some of the vibrant coral reefs located just offshore.
Keep an eye out for the friendly manta rays that call the island home — they’re not shy and don’t mind swimming up close to snorkelers.
There’s also a dock in this area where you can join a jet ski tour of the island.
You can book water activities ahead of your cruise on Cruise Planner, onboard the cruise ship before you arrive at Perfect Day at CocoCay, or on the island during your time ashore.
Just remember that equipment and spots on the tours are subject to availability, so it’s usually recommended to book ahead.
If you’ve already booked your cruise and you’re ready to start planning your itinerary for Perfect Day at CocoCay check out Cruise Planner now.
Two Side - Two Vibes
Compared to most of the other areas on Perfect Day at CocoCay, Chill Island is definitely the most tranquil spot around.
But the north end is the calmer and more secluded side, and a preferred pick among couples.
The south end has more activity, since that’s where you’ll find the Snorkel Shack and the dock for jet ski rentals and tours.
Lunch and Lounge
One of the best things at Chill Island is that you don’t really have to leave the area for anything if you don’t want to.
Chill Island boasts the largest restaurant on Perfect Day at CocoCay, Chill Grill, serving a wide range of delicious options tailored to any kind of diet or preference.
You’ll find crisp salads, tasty sandwiches, build-your-own tacos, fresh fruit, and grilled favorites like BBQ chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs and more.
For dessert, there’s soft-serve ice cream, cookies and brownies.
The food is free at Chill Island so make sure you save room for seconds.
There’s also a towel station nearby, in case you forgot to grab one on your way off the cruise ship.
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Sip In Serenity
When you feel it’s time to unwind with an ice-cold brew or your favorite summertime cocktail, you have plenty of options right on Chill Island.
On either end of the beach you’ll find the Wacky Seagull and Wacky Seagull Jr. bars, both serving adult beverages.
And just offshore, the fan-favorite Floating Bar is easy to spot.
All you have to do is swim out to the gently-bobbing tiki hut to enjoy your Coco Loco with a side of sea views.
Beverage packages purchased on the cruise ship or via Cruise Planner app on Perfect Day at CocoCay, so all you need to bring is your SeaPass card.
No matter how chill you want to go while visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, Chill Island is the ultimate go-to spot for laid-back beach vibes.
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Have questions about planning your cruise vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Many consider Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort the best hotel at Disney World. Here’s why.