Top Royal Caribbean Recommendations

There’s something truly magical about setting sail with Royal Caribbean. Whether it’s the endless ocean views, the jaw-dropping ships, or the thrill of exploring new destinations, every cruise feels like a fresh adventure. After multiple sailings and plenty of trial and error, I’ve put together a list of my top Royal Caribbean recommendations to help you plan your next (or first!) unforgettable voyage.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or new to life at sea, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time onboard and ashore.

Best Royal Caribbean Ships to Sail On

🚢 Symphony of the Seas

If you’re traveling with family or love nonstop entertainment, Symphony of the Seas is a dream come true. It’s part of the Oasis class—one of the largest cruise ships in the world—and it’s packed with fun: zip lines, water slides, Broadway-caliber shows, and more dining options than you can try in one sailing.

🚢 Wonder of the Seas

This is Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest ship (as of this writing), and it takes innovation to the next level. From the Suite Neighborhood to the Ultimate Abyss slide and brand-new dining experiences, Wonder of the Seas is perfect for anyone who wants the latest and greatest.

🚢 Odyssey of the Seas

If tech thrills and global flair appeal to you, Odyssey of the Seas is a standout. As part of the Quantum Ultra class, it features the North Star observation pod, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and virtual reality experiences—all while cruising to sun-soaked destinations.

💡 Pro Tip: Use Royal Caribbean’s ship comparison tool online to see which vessel fits your vibe best.

***🚢 Freedom of the Seas – A Personal Favorite*** A special consideration!

Having cruised on Freedom of the Seas twice, I can confidently say it’s one of the most well-rounded ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet. Part of the Freedom class, it strikes a perfect balance between big-ship amenities and a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the mega-ships. Freedom is a perfect ship for first timers. It has many amenities tailored for families without the overwhelming feeling of the mega-ships. If you're just getting your feet wet with cruising, my recommendation is this ship.

What I love most? It’s packed with updated features from the Royal Amplified program, including:

• The Perfect Storm water slides – great for thrill seekers of all ages.

• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – the go-to hangout for game days and late-night snacks. Might I suggest the wings or onion ring tower. They wont disappoint!

• Updated pool deck – colorful, lively, and full of island vibes.

It also offers fantastic Caribbean itineraries, often including Perfect Day at CocoCay. Whether you’re a family looking for fun, a couple after some downtime, or a solo traveler who loves a great bar scene, Freedom of the Seas delivers without overwhelming you.

💡 Tip from experience: Head to El Loco Fresh for quick, delicious tacos, nachos or quesadillas—it’s perfect after a pool day!

Top Destinations and Itineraries

🌴 Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas) My most recommended stop**

This private island is exclusive to Royal Caribbean guests, and it’s genuinely one of the best cruise destinations out there. From floating cabanas and the tallest waterslide in North America to a massive pool party scene, CocoCay is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Your beverage and wifi packages carry onto the island so feel free to DRINK UP! There is also many complimentary dining huts.

I have been to CocoCay. Once as a family adventure and the other as an Adults only get-a-way. I loved both times for different reasons! If seeking an kid free vibe, I HIGHLY recommend a day pass to Hideaway Beach. When bringing the littles along, I recommend camping out at Oasis Lagoon as it is the closest to Splash Away Bay for the tiny adventurers.

First Trip, Nov. 2023 (Family Vacation)

Second Trip, Feb. 2024 (Girls Trip)

🏝️Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Think turquoise waters, powdery white sand, and laid-back island charm. These itineraries often include stops like St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Puerto Rico—perfect for beach lovers and snorkelers.

❄️Alaska Cruises This is my next, so stay tuned**

A totally different experience—majestic glaciers, whale watching, and rugged wilderness. Alaska itineraries are great for nature lovers and anyone wanting a more serene, bucket-list type of cruise.

🇪🇺 Europe and Mediterranean Cruises

If culture, architecture, and history are your thing, Royal’s European routes are incredible. Imagine waking up in Barcelona one day and sailing to the Amalfi Coast the next.

Must-Try Dining Experiences

🥩Chops Grille

Royal’s signature steakhouse never disappoints. The filet mignon is excellent, and the atmosphere makes it perfect for a romantic night or special celebration.

🍣Izumi

If you love sushi or hibachi, Izumi is a must. It’s fun, flavorful, and often overlooked, which means shorter wait times and hidden-gem status.

🎩Wonderland

Dining meets theater at Wonderland, where the food is whimsical and imaginative. Think edible balloons, cotton candy appetizers, and food that looks like art. Come hungry and curious!

💡 Pro Tip: Consider purchasing a dining package if you want to try multiple specialty restaurants. It saves money and gives you more culinary flexibility.

Best Onboard Activities

🌊 FlowRider & RipCord by iFLY Watching cruisers take of the FlowRider is my favorite pastime**

For adrenaline junkies, these are non-negotiables. Whether you’re trying your luck surfing or floating in a skydiving simulator, these signature Royal Caribbean attractions are unforgettable.

🎭 World-Class Entertainment

Don’t miss the AquaTheater on Oasis-class ships—it’s like Cirque du Soleil at sea. Also check out ice skating shows, Broadway musicals like Hairspray or Mamma Mia, and live music throughout the ship.

🍹 Bionic Bar

This one’s just plain cool. Order a drink on a tablet, and a pair of robotic bartenders will shake, stir, and serve it to perfection.

🔫 Laser Tag & Escape Rooms

Great for families or friend groups. The escape rooms are surprisingly challenging, and laser tag is a fun way to bond (or battle!) with your cruise companions.

My Top Tips for Making the Most of Your Cruise

• Book ahead. Reserve your shows, dining, and excursions as early as possible using the Royal Caribbean app.

• Use port days wisely. If you’re not into excursions, enjoy the ship while it’s quieter—it’s the best time for spa visits, pool lounging, or even a nap!

• Pack smart. Bring magnetic hooks for extra storage and a refillable water bottle (staying hydrated is key).

• Arrive a day early. If you’re flying to the port city, give yourself a buffer in case of travel delays. Peace of mind is priceless. MY NUMBER ONE TIP

Final Thoughts

Every Royal Caribbean cruise has its own magic—whether it’s the thrill of trying something new, discovering hidden gems in the Caribbean, or just soaking up sunsets at sea. My top recommendation? Embrace the experience fully, and don’t be afraid to mix a little planning with a lot of spontaneity.

If you’ve cruised with Royal before, I’d love to hear your favorites in the comments. And if you’re planning your first trip—bon voyage! You’re in for something special.