How Is Royal Caribbean Cruise Line in Europe A Complete Review

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line in Europe delivers a dynamic mix of modern amenities, diverse itineraries, and exceptional service across top destinations like the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. With innovative ships featuring Broadway-style shows, gourmet dining, and adventure-packed activities, the line caters to families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Its seamless blend of comfort, entertainment, and cultural exploration makes it a top-tier choice for cruising Europe in style.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean excels in diverse European itineraries, from Mediterranean to Northern Europe.
• Onboard amenities shine with innovative dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
• Service quality stands out with attentive staff and multilingual support for international guests.
• Book early for deals on Europe sailings, especially during peak summer months.
• Accessibility is a strength with well-designed ships accommodating mobility and sensory needs.
• Port experiences vary—research shore excursions to maximize cultural immersion.

How Is Royal Caribbean Cruise Line in Europe? A Complete Review

Imagine waking up to the gentle sway of the Mediterranean, your balcony door opening to a postcard-perfect view of the Amalfi Coast or the sun-kissed shores of Santorini. That’s the magic of a Royal Caribbean cruise in Europe—a blend of modern luxury, immersive destinations, and the kind of onboard energy that makes you feel like you’re part of something bigger. But is it really as amazing as it sounds? As someone who’s sailed with Royal Caribbean across Europe twice—once in the summer and again during the shoulder season—I’ve got the inside scoop on what’s worth your time, what might surprise you, and whether it’s the right fit for your travel style.

Europe is a dream destination for many, and cruising offers a unique way to explore multiple countries without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. Royal Caribbean, known for its innovative ships and family-friendly vibe, brings a distinctly American flavor to European waters. But does it mesh well with the old-world charm of the continent? From the bustling ports of Barcelona to the quiet fjords of Norway, I’ll walk you through the highs, the lows, and the little details that make a big difference. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this review will help you decide if Royal Caribbean is the right cruise line for your European adventure.

Onboard Experience: What to Expect from Royal Caribbean’s European Fleet

Royal Caribbean’s ships in Europe are a mix of older, classic vessels and newer, high-tech mega-ships. During my trips, I sailed on Symphony of the Seas (one of the world’s largest cruise ships) and Anthem of the Seas, both of which offer a very different experience. Here’s what you need to know about the onboard vibe.

The Ships: Modern Marvels and Classic Charm

Royal Caribbean’s European fleet includes ships from the Quantum and Oasis classes, known for their futuristic features. On Anthem of the Seas, I was blown away by the North Star, a glass capsule that lifts guests 300 feet above sea level for panoramic views. It’s a must-try, especially when approaching a port like the Norwegian fjords. Meanwhile, Symphony of the Seas has the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story dry slide that’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying.

But not all ships are created equal. If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, consider smaller vessels like Jewel of the Seas, which still offers great dining and entertainment but with fewer crowds. Pro tip: If you’re traveling with kids, the newer Oasis-class ships have Adventure Ocean kids’ clubs with STEM activities, while Quantum-class ships feature RoboWaiter—a robot that delivers drinks to your room. Yes, really.

Entertainment and Activities: Something for Everyone

Royal Caribbean’s entertainment lineup is one of its strongest selling points. On my Mediterranean cruise, I caught a Broadway-style show (Mamma Mia!), a high-energy ice skating performance, and even a 3D movie. The Royal Theater seats over 1,300 people, and the acoustics are fantastic. For something more low-key, the Music Hall offers live bands and dance floors that stay packed until late.

But here’s a reality check: The entertainment is heavily Americanized. If you’re looking for traditional European performances (think flamenco or opera), you’ll need to book a shore excursion. That said, the onboard activities are diverse. I loved the FlowRider surf simulator (though it’s not for beginners) and the zip line that crosses the top deck. Just be prepared for long lines—especially on sea days.

Food and Dining: A Mixed Bag

Royal Caribbean’s dining scene is a mix of hits and misses. The main dining room offers a rotating menu with European-inspired dishes (think paella and moussaka), but the execution can be hit-or-miss. On my cruise, the lamb in Barcelona was perfect, but the “Italian night” pasta was underwhelming. The Windjammer buffet is convenient for breakfast and lunch, though it gets chaotic at peak hours. Pro tip: Skip the buffet on port days and opt for the quieter Café Promenade, which serves great coffee and pastries.

For special occasions, splurge on the Chef’s Table (a 10-course tasting menu) or Chops Grille (their signature steakhouse). But if you’re on a budget, the complimentary dining options are sufficient. One thing I appreciated: Royal Caribbean caters well to dietary restrictions. I’m gluten-free, and the crew made sure to label dishes and offer alternatives without making me feel like a hassle.

Ports and Itineraries: Exploring Europe the Royal Caribbean Way

One of the biggest draws of a Royal Caribbean cruise in Europe is the chance to visit multiple countries in one trip. But the way they handle ports can make or break your experience. Let’s break it down.

Popular Itineraries: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Beyond

Royal Caribbean offers three main European itineraries:

• Mediterranean: Barcelona, Rome, Naples, Santorini, Mykonos. Great for first-timers, with a mix of history and beach time.
• Northern Europe: Copenhagen, Stockholm, St. Petersburg, Tallinn. Ideal for culture lovers, with longer port days.
• British Isles & Scandinavia: Dublin, Edinburgh, Oslo, Reykjavik. Perfect for nature enthusiasts.

I’ve done the Mediterranean and Northern Europe routes, and my biggest takeaway is this: port days are shorter than you think. In Barcelona, we had only 6 hours ashore, which meant rushing through the Sagrada Família and barely tasting tapas. In St. Petersburg, the ship docks for two days (a rarity), but you’ll need to pay extra for a Russian visa—even if you’re just on a cruise.

Shore Excursions: Are They Worth It?

Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions are convenient but pricey. A half-day tour of the Vatican cost me €120, while the same tour booked independently was €45. That said, the excursions are well-organized and include perks like skip-the-line tickets and expert guides. I loved the Amalfi Coast boat tour (worth every penny) but regretted the Paris day trip—it felt rushed, with only 3 hours in the city.

My advice? Mix and match. Book the must-see excursions (like the Vatican or the Louvre) through the cruise line, but explore smaller towns or beaches on your own. In Santorini, I skipped the official tour and took a local bus to Oia—saving money and avoiding the crowds. Just make sure you’re back at the port on time. Royal Caribbean won’t wait for you.

Port Tips: Maximizing Your Time

• Arrive early: The best excursions sell out fast. Book as soon as your cruise opens.
• Pack light: You’ll be walking a lot, and cobblestone streets are brutal in heels.
• Use local transport: In cities like Rome or Barcelona, public transit is cheaper and faster than taxis.
• Check visa requirements: Some ports (like St. Petersburg) require advance paperwork.

Family-Friendly Features: Why Royal Caribbean Stands Out

If you’re traveling with kids, Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines in Europe. But there are some nuances to consider.

Kids’ Clubs and Activities

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean program is stellar. My niece (age 8) loved the science experiments and art projects, while my nephew (age 12) spent hours in the video game lounge. The clubs are well-staffed and open until late, so parents can enjoy date night. Teens get their own hangout (the Living Room) with pool tables and karaoke.

One downside: The kids’ clubs can get crowded, especially on sea days. Arrive early to secure a spot. Also, the splash zone (water play area) is smaller than on Caribbean cruises, so it fills up quickly.

Family Accommodations

Royal Caribbean’s family staterooms are a game-changer. We booked an interconnecting balcony room, which gave us privacy but also easy access between rooms. The ship also offers family suites with extra bathrooms and living space—ideal for larger families. Just be prepared for the price tag. A suite can cost 2-3 times more than a standard room.

Teen-Friendly Vibes

Teens won’t be bored. The Arcade, rock climbing wall, and mini-golf are all teen favorites. The DJ nights and pool parties are also a hit. But if your teen is shy, they might feel overwhelmed by the high-energy atmosphere. Consider a smaller ship or a quieter itinerary (like the British Isles).

Value for Money: Is a Royal Caribbean Cruise in Europe Worth the Cost?

Cruising isn’t cheap, and Royal Caribbean’s European sailings are no exception. Here’s how to make sense of the pricing.

What’s Included (and What’s Not)

Royal Caribbean’s base fare covers:

• Your stateroom
• Main dining and buffet meals
• Basic entertainment (shows, pools, kids’ clubs)
• Port fees and taxes

But you’ll pay extra for:

• Specialty dining (steakhouses, sushi bars)
• Shore excursions
• Alcohol (except in some drink packages)
• Spa treatments
• Wi-Fi (which is slow and expensive)

On my 10-day Mediterranean cruise, the base fare was $2,500 per person, but add-ons (excursions, drinks, Wi-Fi) pushed the total to $4,200. That’s steep, but comparable to other premium cruise lines.

Money-Saving Tips

• Book early: The best cabins sell out first.
• Skip the drink package: If you’re not a heavy drinker, buy drinks à la carte.
• Use the free activities: The pool, fitness center, and trivia games are all included.
• Book excursions independently: You’ll save 30-50%.

When to Book: Seasonal Pricing

Europe cruises are most expensive in summer (June-August) and cheapest in shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October). I booked my September cruise for 20% less than the same itinerary in July. Plus, the weather was fantastic, and the ports were less crowded.

Areas for Improvement: Where Royal Caribbean Falls Short in Europe

No cruise line is perfect, and Royal Caribbean has a few pain points in Europe.

Crowds and Lines

The bigger ships (like Symphony of the Seas) can feel overcrowded, especially at peak times. The Windjammer buffet is a madhouse at breakfast, and the pool decks get packed. On my summer cruise, I waited 45 minutes for the FlowRider. The solution? Go early or late, or book a smaller ship.

European Flavor: Missing the Local Touch

Royal Caribbean’s onboard experience is very “American.” The entertainment, dining, and even the crew’s accents don’t always reflect the destinations. If you’re looking for an authentic European vibe, consider a local cruise line (like Costa or MSC) or plan more independent exploration.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

The Wi-Fi is slow and unreliable, especially in remote ports like the Norwegian fjords. If you need to stay connected, consider buying a local SIM card ashore.

Data Table: Royal Caribbean Europe Cruise Quick Facts

Feature	Details
Ships in Europe (2024)	Symphony of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas
Popular Itineraries	Mediterranean (7-10 days), Northern Europe (10-14 days), British Isles (7-10 days)
Best Time to Sail	April-June, September-October
Average Cost (per person)	$2,000-$4,000 (varies by season and cabin)
Family-Friendly?	Yes—excellent kids’ clubs, family cabins, and activities
Best For	Families, first-time cruisers, those who want a mix of relaxation and adventure

Final Verdict: Is Royal Caribbean the Right Choice for Your European Cruise?

So, how is Royal Caribbean cruise line in Europe? It’s a fantastic option—if you know what you’re getting into. The onboard experience is top-notch, with world-class entertainment, innovative activities, and family-friendly features that few competitors can match. The itineraries cover the continent’s highlights, and the logistics are smooth (no need to stress about flights or hotels).

But it’s not perfect. The crowds on mega-ships, the high costs of add-ons, and the limited local flavor are drawbacks to consider. If you’re a solo traveler or a culture-seeker who wants to dive deep into European traditions, you might prefer a smaller cruise line or independent travel.

For most travelers, though, Royal Caribbean strikes the right balance. It’s the kind of cruise where you can relax on the deck with a cocktail, let the kids have the time of their lives, and wake up each morning to a new European destination—all without the stress of planning. Just remember to book early, pack smart, and mix in some independent exploration. That’s how you’ll get the most out of your Royal Caribbean cruise in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Royal Caribbean cruise line in Europe stand out from other cruise lines?

Royal Caribbean cruise line in Europe distinguishes itself with innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and exceptional onboard amenities like skydiving simulators, surf machines, and Broadway-style shows. Their focus on modern luxury and family-friendly activities makes them a top choice for European voyages.

Which European destinations can I visit with Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to popular European destinations like the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the British Isles, and the Greek Isles. Ports of call often include Barcelona, Rome, St. Petersburg, and Reykjavik, with options for both short and extended itineraries.

How is the dining experience on Royal Caribbean cruises in Europe?

The dining experience is diverse, featuring complimentary main dining rooms, casual buffets, and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille and Izumi. European-themed menus and local cuisine options add a unique touch to the onboard culinary offerings.

Is Royal Caribbean a good choice for families traveling in Europe?

Absolutely! Royal Caribbean is renowned for its family-friendly amenities, including kids’ clubs, teen lounges, water parks, and Adventure Ocean programs. Their European cruises also offer shore excursions suitable for all ages.

What are the best Royal Caribbean ships for a European cruise?

Ships like Symphony of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, and Odyssey of the Seas are highly rated for European sailings, offering cutting-edge entertainment, dining, and activities. Smaller ships like Rhapsody of the Seas provide a more intimate experience in ports with size restrictions.

How does Royal Caribbean handle excursions and tours in European ports?

Royal Caribbean partners with local operators to offer curated shore excursions, from historical tours to adventure activities like hiking and wine tasting. Their app allows easy booking, and many excursions include transportation and expert guides for a seamless experience.