How Do Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Rate for Your Next Vacation

Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines consistently earns high marks for its innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and exceptional onboard entertainment, making it a top choice for modern cruisers. With award-winning family-friendly amenities, cutting-edge attractions like skydiving simulators and robotic bars, and a commitment to service excellence, the line caters to all ages and travel styles. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or gourmet dining at sea, Royal Caribbean delivers a premium vacation experience that’s hard to beat.

Key Takeaways

• Exceptional onboard experiences: Enjoy world-class dining, entertainment, and activities for all ages.
• Top-rated destinations: Explore diverse itineraries, from the Caribbean to Europe and Alaska.
• Family-friendly amenities: Kids’ clubs, water parks, and family suites enhance group travel.
• Value-packed packages: Bundled deals on drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions save money.
• Cutting-edge ships: Modern vessels feature innovative tech and eco-friendly designs.
• Outstanding service: Staff consistently rated highly for professionalism and hospitality.

How Royal Caribbean Stacks Up: Is It the Right Fit for You?

Picture this: You’re standing on a deck high above the ocean, the wind gently tugging at your hair, as the sun dips below the horizon. A cocktail is in one hand, and the other is free to wave at the kids zipping down a waterslide just a few decks down. This is the kind of vacation that Royal Caribbean promises — and for many travelers, it delivers.

But how do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate when you peel back the glossy brochures and flashy ads? Are they truly the best choice for families, couples, solo adventurers, or budget-conscious travelers? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Royal Caribbean is one of the largest and most innovative cruise lines in the world, with a fleet that includes some of the largest cruise ships ever built. But size and spectacle don’t always translate to satisfaction. In this honest, real-talk review, we’ll explore what makes Royal Caribbean stand out, where it stumbles, and whether it’s the right fit for your next vacation.

1. Ship Size, Amenities & Innovation: Big Ships, Big Experiences

Let’s start with the obvious: Royal Caribbean doesn’t do small. Their ships are floating cities, and they’ve earned a reputation for pushing the boundaries of what a cruise ship can be. From robotic bartenders to skydiving simulators, the line leans heavily into innovation and scale.

What Makes Their Ships Stand Out

Royal Caribbean’s fleet includes the Oasis, Symphony, and Wonder of the Seas — all part of the Oasis-class, which are among the largest cruise ships in the world (over 225,000 gross tons). But size isn’t just about bragging rights. It allows for amenities you won’t find on smaller lines.

• Central Park: A real, open-air park with trees, flowers, and restaurants — yes, on a ship!
• FlowRider surf simulator: Great for families and teens who want to try surfing without the ocean.
• North Star: A glass capsule that lifts guests 300 feet above sea level for panoramic views.
• Ice-skating rink: Hosts live shows and is open for public skating.
• Zip line: Crosses the atrium on Oasis-class ships — a fun, adrenaline-pumping feature.

For example, on a recent cruise on Symphony of the Seas, my 10-year-old spent more time on the FlowRider than in the kids’ club — and loved every second.

The Downside of Bigness

But let’s be real: big ships mean big crowds. During peak times (like embarkation day or popular shows), lines can get long. The sheer size of the ship can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not used to navigating a 16-deck, 1,200-foot-long vessel.

• It can take 10–15 minutes to walk from one end of the ship to the other.
• Elevator waits during peak hours (breakfast, dinner, showtimes) can be frustrating.
• Some guests report feeling “lost” or disoriented, especially on Oasis-class ships.

Pro tip: Download the Royal Caribbean app before your cruise. It has a live map, deck plans, and real-time updates on wait times for shows and dining. It’s a game-changer for navigating the ship efficiently.

Innovation That Works — and What Feels Gimmicky

Royal Caribbean’s tech-forward approach is a double-edged sword. Features like facial recognition for boarding, digital room keys, and app-based ordering are convenient. But some innovations feel more like marketing stunts than practical upgrades.

• Robotic bartenders (on select ships) are fun for a one-time drink, but the novelty wears off fast.
• Virtual balconies on interior rooms (real-time video feeds of the ocean) are clever, but they don’t replace fresh air or a real view.
• Smart check-in via the app saves time, but glitches can happen — always have a backup plan.

The takeaway? Royal Caribbean excels at creating memorable, Instagram-worthy moments. But if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate cruise experience, you might feel like you’re at an all-inclusive resort on steroids.

2. Dining: From Buffets to Fine Dining — What’s Worth It?

Food is a big part of any vacation, and Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of dining options. But how do they rate in terms of quality, variety, and value?

Main Dining Room: The Heart of the Cruise

The main dining room is included in your fare and offers a rotating menu with three nightly seatings. The food is solid — think steak, salmon, pasta, and desserts — but it’s not gourmet. Portions are generous, and service is generally friendly, though it can slow down during peak hours.

• Pros: No extra cost, good variety, themed nights (like Italian or Caribbean).
• Cons: Can feel repetitive after a week. Limited vegetarian/vegan options unless you notify them in advance.

Tip: Request a table for two early in the cruise. It’s easier to get a private table at the start than halfway through when most are already assigned.

Specialty Dining: When You Want to Splurge

Royal Caribbean has a growing list of specialty restaurants, each with a unique theme and price tag ($25–$50 per person). These are not included in the base fare, but many are worth the extra cost.

• Chops Grille: One of the best steakhouses at sea. Perfectly cooked filet mignon and excellent wine list.
• 150 Central Park: Upscale, farm-to-table menu with creative dishes. Great for special occasions.
• Giovanni’s Table: Authentic Italian — think handmade pasta and tiramisu. A favorite among cruisers.
• Hooked Seafood: Fresh, flavorful seafood with a coastal vibe.

On my last cruise, I booked Chops Grille for my anniversary. The experience — from the sommelier to the dessert — was worth every penny. But I skipped Izumi (their Japanese restaurant) because the sushi didn’t impress me compared to land-based spots.

Casual & Quick Options

For days when you’re lounging by the pool or rushing to an excursion, Royal Caribbean has plenty of casual spots:

• Sorrento’s Pizza: Always open, always free. The margherita is surprisingly good.
• Dog House: Gourmet hot dogs with fun toppings. A hit with kids.
• Café Promenade: Coffee, pastries, and snacks — perfect for a mid-morning pick-me-up.

One thing to note: the buffet (called Windjammer) is hit-or-miss. It’s great for convenience and variety, but quality can vary. Stick to fresh items (salads, fruit, hot entrées) and avoid anything that looks like it’s been sitting out for hours.

Dietary Restrictions & Allergies

Royal Caribbean has improved its handling of dietary needs, but it’s not perfect. If you have severe allergies or strict dietary preferences (vegan, gluten-free, kosher), notify them at least 45 days before sailing. They can accommodate most requests, but options may be limited in specialty restaurants.

Real talk: I once had a friend with celiac disease who found the gluten-free options at the buffet lacking. But the main dining room staff went above and beyond to prepare safe meals. Communication is key.

3. Entertainment & Activities: More Than Just Shows

If you think cruise entertainment is just Broadway-style shows and cheesy deck parties, Royal Caribbean will surprise you. Their lineup is diverse, high-energy, and often surprisingly good.

Stage Shows & Performances

Royal Caribbean partners with Broadway and Cirque du Soleil for some of its shows. On Oasis-class ships, you can catch productions like Grease, Hairspray, or We Will Rock You. The quality is professional, with great costumes, lighting, and choreography.

• Pros: High production value, free with your fare, great for families.
• Cons: Shows can be crowded. Book early via the app or in person.

One night, I caught a Cirque du Soleil-style show in the AquaTheater. The acrobatics and synchronized diving were breathtaking — easily on par with Vegas-level entertainment.

Live Music & Nightlife

Royal Caribbean has a wide range of live music, from jazz trios to cover bands. Popular spots include:

• Boleros: Latin lounge with salsa music and mojitos.
• Jazz on 4: Intimate setting for jazz lovers.
• On Air Club: Karaoke and live band nights — fun for groups.

The nightlife isn’t as wild as a Vegas club, but it’s lively enough for most cruisers. If you’re looking for a quiet evening, stick to the library or Central Park after dark.

Onboard Activities for All Ages

Whether you’re 5 or 85, Royal Caribbean has something to keep you busy:

• Adventure Ocean: Kids’ club with age-specific zones (toddlers to teens).
• Teen lounges: Video games, dance parties, and social events.
• Fitness center: Modern equipment, group classes (yoga, spin), and a jogging track.
• Art auctions & trivia: Great for older adults or couples.
• Escape room & laser tag: Fun for families or groups of friends.

One of my favorite memories was playing laser tag with my nieces on Harmony of the Seas. It’s not just for kids — adults had just as much fun!

4. Service & Staff: The Human Touch

No matter how fancy the ship, the experience ultimately depends on the people serving you. So, how do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate in terms of service?

Staff-to-Guest Ratio & Training

Royal Caribbean employs over 15,000 crew members from more than 100 countries. The staff-to-guest ratio is generally good, especially in the main dining room and staterooms. Most crew members are friendly, attentive, and speak multiple languages.

• Pros: Crew members often remember your name and preferences. Housekeeping is thorough.
• Cons: Service can be inconsistent. Some guests report slow response times at bars or guest services.

On one cruise, our stateroom attendant, Maria, noticed we liked coffee in the morning. She started leaving extra packets and even arranged for a coffee machine in our room — without us asking. That’s the kind of service that makes a difference.

Gratuities & Tipping

Royal Caribbean automatically adds daily gratuities ($16–$18 per person, depending on cabin class). You can adjust this at guest services, but most guests find it reasonable. Tips for specialty dining, spa services, and excursions are extra.

Tip: If you receive exceptional service, consider tipping extra in cash. Crew members appreciate it — especially in lower-paying roles like housekeeping or dining assistants.

Language & Cultural Considerations

With such a diverse crew, language barriers can occasionally arise. But Royal Caribbean trains staff in English and customer service, so most interactions go smoothly. The app also has a translation feature for common phrases — handy if you’re on a non-English-speaking ship.

5. Destinations & Itineraries: Where They Sail (and Where They Don’t)

Royal Caribbean offers itineraries to over 300 destinations, from the Caribbean to Alaska, Europe, and Asia. But not all routes are created equal.

Top-Rated Itineraries

• Eastern & Western Caribbean: 7-night cruises to Nassau, St. Thomas, Cozumel. Great for first-timers.
• Alaska: Summer sailings with glacier views, wildlife, and scenic stops like Juneau and Skagway.
• Europe (Mediterranean & Baltic): 10–14 day cruises with ports like Barcelona, Rome, and St. Petersburg.

The Caribbean is Royal Caribbean’s bread and butter. Ships like Harmony and Symphony do 7-night loops year-round. The weather is warm, the ports are easy to navigate, and there’s plenty of beach time.

Lesser-Known Gems

If you’re looking for something different, consider:

• Australia & New Zealand: 12–14 day cruises with stops in Sydney, Auckland, and Fiji.
• Asia: Sailings from Singapore to Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan.
• Transatlantic & repositioning cruises: Great for sea days and exploring new regions.

One of my favorite itineraries was a 12-day Baltic cruise. We visited Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Tallinn — each with unique culture and history. The ship was smaller (not Oasis-class), which made port visits easier.

Port Quality & Excursion Options

Royal Caribbean offers a mix of free time and organized excursions. Their excursions are well-run but can be pricey. For example, a 4-hour snorkeling trip in Cozumel might cost $80–$120 per person.

Pro tip: Book excursions early — they sell out fast. Or, save money by booking independently through local tour operators (just be sure to return to the ship on time).

6. Value for Money: Is It Worth the Price?

Let’s talk dollars and cents. Royal Caribbean isn’t the cheapest cruise line, but it’s not the most expensive either. So, how do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate in terms of value?

What’s Included vs. Extra

The base fare covers:

• Stateroom
• Main dining room meals
• Most entertainment and activities
• Basic non-alcoholic drinks (coffee, tea, water, juice)

But be prepared for extras:

• Alcohol, soda, and specialty coffee (via drink packages)
• Specialty dining
• Spa, fitness classes, and some activities
• Excursions
• Gratuities

A 7-night Caribbean cruise can start around $1,000 per person (interior room), but with drink packages, specialty dining, and excursions, the total can easily double.

When It’s Worth It — And When It’s Not

Royal Caribbean is best for:

• Families with kids (tons of activities)
• First-time cruisers (easy to navigate, lots of options)
• Adventurous travelers (unique onboard experiences)

It might not be ideal for:

• Travelers seeking quiet, intimate settings
• Budget-conscious cruisers (extras add up fast)
• Those who prefer cultural immersion over onboard spectacle

Data: Average Costs & Satisfaction (Based on 2023 Reviews)

Category	Average Cost (Per Person, 7-Night Cruise)	Guest Satisfaction (Out of 10)
Interior Stateroom	$1,000–$1,400	7.8
Oceanview	$1,300–$1,700	8.1
Balcony	$1,600–$2,200	8.5
Suite	$3,000+	9.0
Drink Package	$60–$80/day	7.2 (varies by usage)
Specialty Dining	$25–$50/meal	8.3

Final Verdict: Who Should Sail with Royal Caribbean?

So, after all this — how do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate for your next vacation? The answer depends on what you value most.

If you want a fun, action-packed cruise with endless activities, great food, and unforgettable onboard experiences, Royal Caribbean is a top choice. It’s especially strong for families, groups, and first-time cruisers who want a “cruise resort” vibe.

But if you’re looking for a quiet, romantic getaway, a cultural deep dive, or a budget-friendly trip, you might be better off with a smaller line like Viking, Celebrity, or Holland America.

Ultimately, Royal Caribbean delivers on excitement, scale, and convenience. Just be ready for crowds, upselling, and a vacation that feels more like a theme park than a traditional cruise. Pack your sunscreen, download the app, and get ready for an adventure — because on Royal Caribbean, the sea isn’t the only thing that’s big.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate compared to other cruise brands?

Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate highly among travelers, often praised for their innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and family-friendly amenities. They consistently earn top marks in customer satisfaction surveys, particularly for onboard entertainment and dining options.

What are the most common pros and cons of Royal Caribbean cruise lines?

Guests frequently highlight the cruise line’s thrilling attractions (like surf simulators and rock climbing), spacious staterooms, and exceptional service. A few note that drink packages and specialty dining can add up, making the overall cost higher than initial fares suggest.

How do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate for families with kids?

Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate as one of the best family-friendly options, offering dedicated kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and activities like character meet-and-greets and science workshops. Their Adventure Ocean program ensures children stay engaged and safe throughout the voyage.

Are Royal Caribbean cruises worth the price based on traveler ratings?

Yes, most travelers feel Royal Caribbean cruises are worth the price, citing the value of included amenities like Broadway-style shows, pools, and diverse dining. However, budget-conscious cruisers should plan for add-ons like gratuities and shore excursions.

How do Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate for first-time cruisers?

Royal Caribbean cruise lines rate as an excellent choice for first-time cruisers due to their straightforward embarkation process, intuitive ship layouts, and helpful staff. Many new cruisers appreciate the balance of structure and freedom in daily activities.

What do recent reviews say about Royal Caribbean’s service and cleanliness?

Recent reviews consistently praise Royal Caribbean cruise lines for attentive service, spotless ships, and quick issue resolution. Their enhanced cleaning protocols, introduced post-pandemic, have further boosted guest confidence in onboard hygiene.