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Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Largest to Smallest

Emrys Thakkar
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Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Largest to Smallest

Royal Caribbean’s current largest cruise ships are in the Icon-class, at 248,663 gross tons (they are also the largest cruise ships in the world overall), and its smallest cruise ship is Grandeur of the Seas, at 73,817 gross tons.

Each Royal Caribbean ship, though, comes with its perks, and you may find that you prefer smaller ships to bigger ships, or vice versa.

Here are all the current Royal Caribbean cruise ships by size, so you can compare and contrast your options as you book your next cruise. And just a heads up that this list will change even further as Royal Caribbean orders and builds new vessels!

In This Article:

Hero of the Seas (248,663 GT)

Hero of the Seas

Hero of the Seas will become the fourth Icon-class cruise ship for Royal Caribbean and built by Meyer Turku. The vessel follows the same design as its sister ships and will join the fleet in August 2027. Construction officially started in September 2025 and will introduce a new Coconut Cove pool and family raft slides when the ship begins sailing from Miami on week-long Eastern and Western itineraries.

  • Gross Tonnage: 248,663
  • Guest Capacity: 5,610
  • Length: 1,196 feet
  • Width: 219 feet

Legend of the Seas (248,663 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas (Photo Credit: Jouni Niskakoski)

Legend of the Seas is the third Icon-class vessel for the cruise line, continuing the line’s tradition of building the largest ships in the world! The ship is just about identical to its sister ships and was also constructed at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland.

The giant ship was delivered to Royal Caribbean on June 10, and its maiden guest voyage departed from Rome’s homeport, Civitavecchia, on July 4. Guests can experience a wide range of features across eight neighborhoods, including 28 dining venues, seven pools, and 17 different bars and lounges.

  • Gross Tonnage: 248,663
  • Guest Capacity: 5,610
  • Length: 1,196 feet
  • Width: 219 feet

Star of the Seas (248,663 GT)

Star of the Seas Departing Port Canaveral
Star of the Seas Departing Port Canaveral (Photo Credit: Melissa Mayntz / Cruise Hive)

Star of the Seas is another giant cruise ship that is jointly the world’s largest, with Icon of the Seas. The vessel was constructed at the popular Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland and is part of the Icon-class. The ship was finally delivered to Royal Caribbean in July 2025, and following a series of early preview cruises, Star of the Seas departed on its inaugural voyage out of Port Canaveral on August 31.

So why is Star of the Seas so big? The ship features eight neighborhoods, with each offering a different experience. There are more than 30 cabin categories, 13 complimentary dining venues, 14 specialty dining venues, six kids’ spaces, 18 bars, and many other amenities.

  • Gross Tonnage: 248,663
  • Guest Capacity: 5,610
  • Length: 1,196 feet
  • Width: 219 feet

Icon of the Seas (248,663 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas (Photo Credit: Just dance)

The lead ship of the Icon class and the newest ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, Icon of the Seas, is not just the largest ship for the cruise line to date, but also the current largest cruise ship in the world.

The ship is longer than three football fields. It also weighs about five times the amount that the Titanic weighed.

As has been the case with so many other Royal Caribbean cruise ships before it, Icon of the Seas set records not just for size, but also for unique features.

Read Also: How Much Did Icon of the Seas Cost to Build?

In addition to featuring the largest waterpark at sea, with some ground-breaking first-at-sea water slides, the ship also boasts the largest pool at sea. It provides more than 40 dining and drinking options. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 248,663
  • Guest Capacity: 5,610
  • Length: 1,196 feet
  • Width: 219 feet

Utopia of the Seas (236,473 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas (Credit: Royal Caribbean)

Utopia of the Seas debuted right around the same time as Icon of the Seas, and it takes second place among Royal Caribbean’s largest ships.

The ship is the latest in the Oasis Plus Class, and, interestingly, even though it’s technically smaller than Icon of the Seas by gross tonnage, it actually has a greater passenger capacity, just due to how the staterooms and suites are split up across both ships.

There are many similarities between Utopia of the Seas and Icon of the Seas, but Utopia of the Seas still manages to stand apart in a few key ways.

Worth Reading: Utopia of the Seas vs Icon of the Seas – A Giant Comparison

For example, this ship introduced the Royal Railway, a new dining concept for Royal Caribbean that features a dining car-esque environment. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 236,473
  • Guest Capacity: 5,668
  • Length: 1,188 feet
  • Width: 211 feet

Wonder of the Seas (235,600 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in the Bahamas
Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas in the Bahamas (Photo Credit: Bruce Alan Bennett)

Wonder of the Seas is a similar Oasis-class ship. The vessel is slightly smaller than Utopia of the Seas, but can ultimately hold more overall passengers at double occupancy, due to stateroom and suite configuration.

This ship offers lots to love, including 40-plus restaurants, bars, and lounges; Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Abyss slide (now featured on multiple ships), the tallest dry slide at sea; and nearly 3,000 different staterooms and suites to choose from when booking. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 235,600
  • Guest Capacity: 5,734
  • Length: 1,188 feet

Symphony of the Seas (230,000 GT)

Symphony of the Seas Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock

Symphony of the Seas took its maiden voyage in 2018 and held the title of largest cruise ship in the world for multiple years, before Wonder of the Seas surpassed her.

The ship’s highlights include the Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Caribbean-exclusive feature; that Ultimate Abyss dry slide, the longest in the world; and The Perfect Storm trio of waterslides.

Read Also: Symphony of the Seas vs Titanic – A Giant Comparison

Otherwise, the ship includes a wide array of restaurants and bars and lounges, as well as all the amenities that Royal Caribbean fans have come to expect on the line’s newer ships, such as seven neighborhoods, rock climbing walls, surfing simulators and more.

  • Gross Tonnage: 230,000
  • Guest Capacity: 5,518
  • Length: 1,188 feet
  • Width: 215 feet

Harmony of the Seas (226,960 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas (Photo Credit: Roger ARPS)

Harmony of the Seas was also the largest cruise ship in the world when it first debuted, in early 2016. This was the ship to introduce the Ultimate Abyss Slide. It also features a large waterpark and multiple waterslides, as well as an ice-skating ring, surfing simulators and zip lines.

The ship has plenty of dining and drinking options, just like its Oasis-class sister ships. However, one unique feature you’ll find on this ship but not necessarily on some of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships is the Bionic Bar, with its robotic bartenders.

  • Gross Tonnage: 226,960
  • Guest Capacity: 5,480
  • Length: 1,188 feet
  • Width: 215 feet

Allure of the Seas (225,282 GT)

Allure of the Seas Docked in Miami, Florida
Allure of the Seas Docked in Miami, Florida (Photo Credit: Adam McCullough)

Debuting in 2010, Allure of the Seas was Royal Caribbean’s second Oasis-class ship, and she continued on offering all of the industry-rocking elements that Oasis of the Seas introduced just a year before. As such, Allure of the Seas offers the seven-neighborhood layout that’s become standard on Royal Caribbean ships.

Royal Caribbean also boasted about this ship’s environmental friendliness when it debuted. For example, Allure of the Seas features an advanced wastewater purification system that treats more than half a million gallons of water per day. It also features an advanced emissions purification system that removes 98% of the ship’s sulfur emissions from the environment.

  • Gross Tonnage: 225,282
  • Guest Capacity: 5,400
  • Length: 1,187 feet
  • Width: 215 feet

Oasis of the Seas (220,900 GT)

Oasis of the Seas Size
Oasis of the Seas Size (Photo Credit: Palephotography)

The first Oasis-class ship, Oasis of the Seas changed the cruising industry and Royal Caribbean forever, when it debuted in 2009. It set the standard for Royal Caribbean’s future and shook up the cruising world like no other vessel had before, and no other vessel has to date, thus far, except for maybe Icon of the Seas.

This is in part thanks to the unique seven-neighborhood layout that Oasis of the Seas introduced, with similar activities and environments grouped together in the neighborhoods dubbed Central Park, The Pool and Sports Zone, Vitality at Sea Spa and Fitness Center, Boardwalk, Royal Promenade, Youth Zone, and Entertainment Place. The ship also featured the first park at sea, with the Central Park neighborhood. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 220,900
  • Guest Capacity: 5,400
  • Length: 1,181 feet
  • Width: 215 feet

Spectrum of the Seas (168,800 GT)

Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Ship
Spectrum of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Nate Hovee)

The next-largest Royal Caribbean ship is actually a fair amount smaller, by about 50,000 GT or so. Still, Spectrum of the Seas is nothing to ignore.

This Quantum Ultra-class ship still provides plenty of staterooms and suites, restaurants, bars and lounges and highlights like the North Star ride and skydiving experience by iFLY.

Worth Reading: What Is a Royal Caribbean Quantum-Ultra Class Cruise Ship?

Interestingly, though, while Spectrum of the Seas is much smaller than Oasis of the Seas, it is also much newer. In fact, Spectrum of the Seas set sail for the first time in 2019, a decade after Oasis of the Seas’s launch.

  • Gross Tonnage: 168,800
  • Guest Capacity: 4,245
  • Length: 1,139 feet
  • Width: 135 feet

Anthem of the Seas (168,666 GT)

Anthem of the Seas Docked in Southampton
Anthem of the Seas Docked in Southampton (Photo Credit: Skyshark Media)

A member of the Quantum class, Anthem of the Seas launched in April 2015. While definitely not the first Quantum-class ship, Anthem of the Seas still offered a range of exciting features when it debuted.

Particular highlights include Two70, a multi-level common space that features 270-degree sea views and massive glass walls; the SeaPlex indoor entertainment space with activities like bumper cars; the Music Hall live music venue; the North Star capsule ride; and the RipCord by iFLY surfing simulator. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 168,666
  • Guest Capacity: 4,180
  • Length: 1,142 feet
  • Width: 136 feet

Ovation of the Seas (168,666 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas Cruise Ship
Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Zilcheqs)

Ovation of the Seas is actually newer than Anthem of the Seas, debuting in 2016, though she is smaller — not by gross tonnage, but just by one little foot of length, a difference you’ll hardly notice. Otherwise, this ship is very similar to the other Quantum-class ships.

Ovation of the Seas features the RipCord by iFLY surfing simulator, North Star capsule experience, Two70 common space and SeaPlex entertainment venue. It also offers just over 2,000 staterooms and suites, spread out over 14 guest decks.

  • Gross Tonnage: 168,666
  • Guest Capacity: 4,180
  • Length: 1,141 feet
  • Width: 136 feet

Quantum of the Seas (168,666 GT)

Quantum of the Seas in Alaska
Quantum of the Seas in Alaska (Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani)

The lead ship in the Quantum class, Quantum of the Seas, introduced many of these standout features that you’ll find on the other Quantum-class ships, such as the SeaPlex space, Two70, North Star, and skydiving simulator. It was also the first ship to feature the bionic bartenders.

Quantum of the Seas took its maiden voyage in 2014. It’s only slightly smaller by gross tonnage than its sister ships, and the same length as Ovation of the Seas.

  • Gross Tonnage: 168,666
  • Guest Capacity: 4,180
  • Length: 1,141 feet
  • Width: 136 feet

Odyssey of the Seas (167,704 GT)

Odyssey of the Seas
Odyssey of the Seas (Photo Credit: Aerial-motion / Shutterstock)

The second Quantum Ultra-class ship, alongside just one other ship in this class (Spectrum of the Seas) Odyssey of the Seas is very similar to her sister ship, feature many of the same amenities and activities.

However, one thing that Odyssey of the Seas did have, uniquely, when she was rolled out in 2020, was a new hull design featuring the ship’s name in big letters, something that can now be seen on other Royal Caribbean ships. 

Compared to Spectrum of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas is just a bit smaller, with room for about 50 passengers fewer.

  • Gross Tonnage: 167,704
  • Guest Capacity: 4,198
  • Length: 1,138 feet
  • Width: 162 feet

Liberty of the Seas (160,000 GT)

Liberty of the Seas Cruise Ship Docked in Bermuda
Liberty of the Seas Cruise Ship Docked in Bermuda (Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia)

When you get down to Liberty of the Seas, you’re starting to get into some of the older Royal Caribbean ships that may not offer all the same features and amenities you’ll get with the Quantum-class ships and newer.

Still, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, especially if you like a more low-key, less crowded cruise, keeping the focus on your port days and relaxation more than on on-ship bells and whistles.

Delivered in 2007, Liberty of the Seas is a Freedom-class ship. While it is more than a dozen years older than Odyssey of the Seas, it’s only slightly smaller, at less than 10,000 GT smaller, and holding only about 400 fewer passengers. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 160,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,798
  • Length: 1,112 feet

Freedom of the Seas (160,000 GT)

Freedom of the Seas
Freedom of the Seas (Photo Credit: Wangkun Jia)

Another Freedom-class ship (as you probably could’ve guessed by the name), Freedom of the Seas was the largest Royal Caribbean ship when it first set sail in 2006. Compared to other, newer ships, though, Freedom of the Seas today offers far fewer amenities, including fewer restaurants, bars and lounges.

Still, this ship has been updated over time. Now, if you take a Freedom of the Seas cruise, you’ll see newer additions such as The Lime & Coconut resort-style pool and bar areas, as well as the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 160,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,634 
  • Length: 1,112 feet

Independence of the Seas (154,407)

Royal Caribbean's Independence of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas (Photo Credit: Roberto Sorin)

While Independence of the Seas is the newest Freedom-class ship, built in 2008, it’s also the smallest. That said, it’s not tiny by any means. When compared to the world’s overall cruise ships, Independence of the Seas still ranks within the 40 largest cruise ships, from all cruise lines.

Worth Reading: Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in the World

Like other Royal Caribbean cruise ships of this age, Independence of the Seas has received various renovations. It was most recently overhauled in 2018.

  • Gross Tonnage: 154,407
  • Guest Capacity: 3,858
  • Length: 1,112 feet

Navigator of the Seas (142,000 GT)

Navigator of the Seas Cruise Ship
Photo Credit: ATGImages / Shutterstock

Navigator of the Seas is a member of Royal Caribbean’s Voyager class. While it is the largest ship in this class, though, it isn’t the newest. Launching in 2002, the ship is about 12,000 GT smaller than Independence of the Seas, and can carry about 700 fewer people.

Over its 14 guest decks, this ship offers over 10 dining options, as well as over 10 bars and lounges. Newer features that have been added since the ship’s initial launch include the Lime & Coconut resort-style bar area, as well as El Loco Fresh.

  • Gross Tonnage: 142,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,114
  • Length: 1,020 feet

Voyager of the Seas (142,000 GT)

Voyager of the Seas Port Canaveral
Voyager of the Seas Port Canaveral (Photo Credit: Port Canaveral)

The lead ship for the Voyager class, when Voyager of the Seas debuted in 1999 (more than 25 years ago!), it featured a few landmark amenities that would make Royal Caribbean stand out.

In fact, some of these features can still be found on Royal Caribbean ships today, namely the ice-skating rink (the first at sea) and the rock climbing walls.

Voyager of the Seas is still pretty small compared to today’s latest and greatest from Royal Caribbean, though, with relatively fewer amenities, restaurants, bars and lounges. That said, if you like a smaller ship with less crowds, this ship may be just up your alley.   

  • Gross Tonnage: 142,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,114
  • Length: 1,020 feet

Mariner of the Seas (138,000 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Mariner of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas (Photo Credit: Darryl Brooks)

Newer than Voyager of the Seas, but still smaller, Mariner of the Seas joined the Royal Caribbean fleet in 2003. It most recently received some renovations in 2018, though, so there are touches and amenities that are relatively modern.

The refurbishment was expensive, costing $120 million and increasing the ship’s size. Newly added amenities and features include the Sky Pad, multiple waterslides and updated restaurants. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 138,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,114
  • Length: 1,020 feet

Adventure of the Seas (138,000 GT)

Adventure of the Seas cruise Ship
Photo Credit: NAN728 / Shutterstock.com

Another Voyager-class ship, Adventure of the Seas, initially debuted in 2001. Like Mariner of the Seas, it also underwent dry dock renovations in 2018, bringing this ship up to more contemporary standards. Both Adventure of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas are the same size.

Aboard Adventure of the Seas, you’ll find, across the 14 guest decks, more than 1,500 staterooms and suites, just under 10 dining options, 10 bars and lounges and highlight amenities like the FlowRider surfing simulator and the Perfect Storm trio of waterslides.

  • Gross Tonnage: 138,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,114
  • Length: 1,020 feet 

Explorer of the Seas 

Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas (Photo Credit: Nancy Pauwels)

The second Voyager-class ship and setting sail on the high seas for the first time in 2000, Explorer of the Seas has, like the other ships in this class, been updated to feature newer, more modern amenities. For example, the FlowRider surfing simulator was added, as was an ice rink.

Still, this ship is on the small side, measuring in at exactly the same size as both Adventure of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas.

  • Gross Tonnage: 138,000
  • Guest Capacity: 3,114
  • Length: 1,020 feet

Radiance of the Seas (138,000 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas (Photo Credit: Just dance)

A member of the Radiance class, Radiance of the Seas is significantly smaller than Explorer of the Seas. It’s nearly 50,000 GT smaller and holds a thousand fewer people.

As such, while these ships are right next to one another in the ranking of Royal Caribbean’s ships from largest to smallest, you’ll notice a big difference if you go from cruising on one to the other.

Despite this, Royal Caribbean manages to pack a lot of fun onto this ship’s small footprint. You’ll find 11 dining options, 11 bars and lounges and highlight entertainment-related features such as a rock climbing wall and miniature golf. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 90,090
  • Guest Capacity: 2,100
  • Length: 1,050 feet

Brilliance of the Seas (90,090 GT)

Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Ship
Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Benson Truong)

Brilliance of the Seas measures in at the same gross tonnage as sister ship Radiance of the Seas, but it’s about 100 feet shorter. Despite this, Brilliance of the Seas can actually hold more guests than Radiance.

Read Also: What to Expect on a Small Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship

This ship first set sail for Royal Caribbean in July 2002, and, across its 12 guest decks, features eight restaurants, 11 bars and lounges and amenities such as a rock-climbing wall and multiple pools. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 90,090
  • Guest Capacity: 2,188
  • Length: 965 feet

Serenade of the Seas (90,090 GT)

Serenade of the Seas Cruise
Serenade of the Seas Cruise (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)

Serenade of the Seas is newer than Brilliance of the Seas, as it entered service in 2003, but, while it’s the same gross tonnage and length, it has a lesser guest capacity, equal to that of Radiance of the Seas. 

Serenade of the Seas features 12 guest decks, eight restaurants, 11 bars and lounges and amenities like a spa and sports court. It also was used for Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise, which lasted nearly an entire year over 2023–2024, and visited seven continents, eight world wonders, 65 countries and more than 150 destinations. 

  • Gross Tonnage: 90,090
  • Guest Capacity: 2,100
  • Length: 965 feet

Jewel of the Seas (90,090 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Jewel of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Jewel of the Seas (Photo Credit: Studio Porto Sabbia)

She may be small, but out of all the Radiance-class ships, Jewel of the Seas is the newest, officially making her debut in May 2002. The ship was refurbished in 2016. 

Jewel of the Seas features 12 guest decks, seven dining options, 11 bars and lounges and both a mini golf course and rock-climbing wall. There are just over a thousand staterooms and suites to house the ship’s maximum 2,100 guests.

  • Gross Tonnage: 90,090
  • Guest Capacity: 2,100
  • Length: 962 feet

Enchantment of the Seas (80,700 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Enchantment of the Seas
Photo Credit: Tiffany Marie Green / Shutterstock

Enchantment of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s smallest and oldest class of ships: the Vision class. Enchantment of the Seas debuted in 1997.  

This ship is the largest of its class, but it’s still significantly smaller than the smallest Radiance-class ship, Jewel of the Seas, at about 10,000 GT less. However, Enchantment manages to hold its own in terms of guest capacity, with nearly the same capacity as Jewel, with only about a 150-person difference.

  • Gross Tonnage: 80,700
  • Guest Capacity: 1,950
  • Length: 919 feet

Rhapsody of the Seas (78,490 GT)

Rhapsody of the Seas Cruise Ship
Rhapsody of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)

This was the second Vision-class cruise ship, also debuting in 1997, like Enchantment of the Seas. Rhapsody of the Seas, though, is just slightly smaller. 

This cruise ship features 12 total decks (with fewer guest decks) and eight dining options, alongside five bars and lounges. Amenities and similar features are mostly limited to pools, a rock climbing wall, the theater, the casino, and the fitness center.

  • Gross Tonnage: 78,490
  • Guest Capacity: 1,996
  • Length: 919 feet

Vision of the Seas (78,490 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas (Photo Credit: StudioPortoSabbia / Shutterstock)

Vision of the Seas is actually newer than both Enchantment of the Seas and Rhapsody of the Seas, debuting in 1998. The ship is fairly similar, though, measuring the same as Rhapsody.

This cruise ship features just 10 guest decks and just over a thousand staterooms, with eight dining options, six bars and lounges and a handful of amenities like a rock climbing wall, theater, casino and pools.

  • Gross Tonnage: 78,490
  • Guest Capacity: 1,996
  • Length: 919 feet

Grandeur of the Seas (74,137 GT)

Royal Caribbean's Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Ship
Royal Caribbean’s Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald)

This is the smallest ship that Royal Caribbean is currently operating. It’s also the oldest ship in the Vision class, debuting in 1996, which likewise makes it the oldest ship that Royal Caribbean currently uses overall.

Worth Reading: Are Royal Caribbean Cruises All Inclusive?

With only a select number of restaurants and bars, and fewer than a thousand staterooms and suites, this ship is limited in what it offers — but that’s exactly what some cruisers prefer. Amenities and other features include the spa, rock-climbing wall, an arcade, two pools, and six whirlpools.

  • Gross Tonnage: 74,137
  • Guest Capacity: 1,950
  • Length: 919 feet

What is Royal Caribbean’s Smallest Cruise Ship in 2026?

Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Ship
Grandeur of the Seas Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Leonard Zhukovsky)

Royal Caribbean’s smallest and oldest ship, Grandeur of the Seas, stands in very stark contrast. This is cruising from decades past. It’s low-key, un-rushed and unworried. For some cruisers, this is exactly what they want, and they’re fine with cruising on an older ship if that’s what they get.

Read Also: Royal Caribbean Ships By Age: Newest to Oldest

For a more relaxed cruise where all you really have to worry about is getting a good deck chair, small, older ships like this deliver. Just note that if you’re traveling with kids or those who feel the need to pack their travel itineraries to the brim, they might be a little bored.

Additionally, even with its older age, Grandeur of the Seas still manages to carry that fun and friendly Royal Caribbean spirit — the factor that some may say is the most important of all when booking any cruise.

Parents Can Now Track Their Kids on Royal Caribbean’s Newest Ship

Catie Kovelman
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Parents Can Now Track Their Kids on Royal Caribbean’s Newest Ship

Key Aspects:

  • Royal Caribbean has introduced the “Find My Kid” service onboard Legend of the Seas.
  • The offering allows parents and guardians to track their child’s location in the Royal Caribbean App after the purchase of an Adventure Ocean WOW Band.
  • Legend of the Seas is the second Icon-class ship to get this feature, after Star of the Seas.

One feature that parents love onboard Star of the Seas has been expanded to Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon-class ship.

The “Find My Kid” feature has been added to the Royal Caribbean App for guests sailing onboard the newly debuted Legend of the Seas, which officially entered service with the embarkation of her maiden voyage on July 4, 2026.

For parents of kids between the ages of three and 12, the app lets them see their child’s real-time location on the deck maps for the 248,663-gross ton vessel anytime they want.

As cruise vacations are often the first time many children get a taste of independence, or kids can sometimes get separated from their families in crowds, this feature adds peace of mind for their guardians.

Cruise Hive previously reported that the service was rolled out onboard Star of the Seas in 2025 after an early version was tested onboard Icon of the Seas in 2024. It is currently available on the second and third Icon-class vessels.

How Does “Find My Kid” Work?

In order to take advantage of the “Find My Kid” feature, parents will first need to purchase an Adventure Ocean WOW Band, which makes the location tracking possible.

Parents will need to register their kids for the Adventure Ocean youth program after embarking, purchase the WOW Band for $14.99, and then sign up for “Find My Kid” in the Royal Caribbean app.

Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas

Guardians can then designate additional adults in their travel party who are allowed to track their child’s location during the sailing in the app.

“You can sign up your kids for the Find My Kid feature at Adventure Ocean®, our award-winning youth program. There, you can register them for the Adventure Ocean program overall, purchase the Adventure Ocean® WOW Band℠ that makes the location service possible, and sign up for Find My Kid,” Royal Caribbean’s website advises.

“You will need to download the most current version of the Royal Caribbean app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store and connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi network. No internet package is required,” the cruise line continues.

Thankfully, the accessory is reusable, so families can bring them on subsequent sailings on any Royal Caribbean ship that supports the “Find My Kid” service without paying a second time.

It’s also not required to purchase an internet package (which typically costs between $18 and $40 per device per day) to use “Find My Kid” tracking, though parents will need to be signed in to the onboard Wi-Fi.

Bonus Benefits of WOW Bands

In addition to making the “Find My Kid” feature functional, Royal Caribbean’s WOW bands have some additional benefits.

Perhaps most importantly, the band’s snap closure shows the child’s muster location in the event of an emergency.

This allows crew members to help children who may have been exploring independently get to safety (and to their families) as quickly as possible when time is of the essence, especially if they aren’t carrying their SeaPass cards.

Finally, the WOW bands are equipped with RFID chips, which means they can be used to unlock cabin doors and make onboard purchases if children are authorized to do so by a parent or guardian.

Propulsion Repairs Shorten Every Port Visit for Norwegian Bliss

Melissa Mayntz
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Propulsion Repairs Shorten Every Port Visit for Norwegian Bliss

Key Aspects:

  • Norwegian Bliss is adjusting every port visit on the 7-night Alaska cruise departing July 11, 2026.
  • Ongoing repairs to a propulsion component require the ship to sail at a slower speed but onboard operations are not impacted.
  • The propulsion issue first arose in late May and there is no indication if this will be the last itinerary impacted.

Just two weeks before embarkation, booked guests have now been notified that every port visit on the July 11, 2026 departure for Norwegian Bliss has now been adjusted.

The 168,028-gross-ton ship is undergoing a propulsion repair that necessitates a slower sailing speed. Because of this, every port visit has been shortened on the 7-night Alaska cruise.

“Norwegian Bliss is currently completing required maintenance on a propulsion component that is being replaced with care,” the cruise line confirmed with the itinerary change notification.

The email is clear that the ship’s safety is not compromised in any way, but a “slightly reduced speed” is necessary while the work is completed.

“With this in mind, we’ve refined the timing of our visits to Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, and Ketchikan, Alaska,” the email explained. “Additionally, Victoria, British Columbia will now be a brief technical stop, which means we will dock for a short time to meet local requirements, and guests will remain on board while in port.”

Norwegian Bliss will still depart Seattle on Saturday, July 11 at 4 p.m. as planned and Sunday will remain a day at sea. The arrival to Sitka will now be 90 minutes later, however, at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, July 13 rather than at 10 a.m. as originally scheduled.

On Tuesday, the ship will arrive to Juneau 30 minutes later (7 a.m. instead of 6:30 a.m.).

Both planned departures from Sitka and Juneau remain as originally scheduled at 6 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., respectively.

Likewise, Norwegian Bliss will arrive at her next two destinations at 6 a.m. as planned. Wednesday, July 15 the ship will be in Icy Strait Point, while on Thursday, July 16 the ship will be visiting Ketchikan. At both ports, however, departure is now 30 minutes earlier: 2:30 p.m. from Icy Strait Point and 12:45 p.m. from Ketchikan.

The visit to Victoria is most impacted. The original itinerary had Norwegian Bliss spending the evening in British Columbia from 8 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Now, the ship will arrive at 11 p.m., and guests will not be permitted to leave the ship. While the ship will still dock, the visit is effectively cancelled for guests.

Norwegian Bliss Docked in Seattle, Washington
Norwegian Bliss Docked in Seattle, Washington (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)

These itinerary changes are identical to those made for the ship’s July 4 sailing. Cruise Hive has reported on these and other itinerary changes for the 4,002-guest ship, which first began experiencing propulsion difficulties in late May.

Guests are reminded that even though the visit to Victoria is just a technical stop, proper documentation to enter Canada is still required for everyone aboard. Exact documentation will vary depending on guests’ nationality and all guests are responsible for having the proper documentation at embarkation.

Compensation Offered as Onboard Credit

Because of the inconvenience and the loss of a total of seven hours of port time (which effectively includes the complete cancellation of the visit to Victoria), Norwegian Cruise Line is providing guests with a $100 non-refundable onboard credit for each stateroom. This will be credited as $50 each for the first two guests on the reservation for each room.

If guests have booked shore excursions through the cruise line for the visit to Victoria, those excursions will be automatically cancelled and refunded back to the original form of payment.

NCL also says that any impacted tours for other ports on the cruise will be adjusted to new arrival times as needed. If tours cannot be accommodated on the revised schedule, they will be automatically cancelled and refunded.

Other than the port visits, no onboard operations are affected. The ship’s entertainment, dining, activities, music, and hotel services are all operating as planned.

When Will the Ship Be Fixed?

Repairs to Norwegian Bliss have been ongoing for several weeks since the difficulties first arose. While this is currently a known issue, the cruise line is not adjusting itineraries far in advance in the hope that the repairs can be completed and original itineraries preserved.

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Because this most recent letter notes that the ship is “completing” the maintenance with a component replacement, it is hoped that Alaska cruises later in the season may not need these itinerary adjustments. Norwegian Bliss remains in the Last Frontier through her October 3 departure.

Booked guests should stay in close communication with Norwegian Cruise Line in case of further updates.

Italian Court Halts Royal Caribbean Cruise Port Near Rome

Lissa Poirot
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Italian Court Halts Royal Caribbean Cruise Port Near Rome

Key Aspects:

  • An Italian court overturned environmental approval for Royal Caribbean’s proposed €600 million cruise port in Fiumicino.
  • Judges ruled the project was improperly reviewed and must undergo a new approval process.
  • Construction is on hold until new approval is provided.

Royal Caribbean’s plans for a new cruise port near Rome have hit a major setback.

An Italian court has overturned the environmental approval needed for the €600 million project, preventing construction from moving forward until developers complete a new approval process.

The proposed port, located in Fiumicino near Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, will allow cruise passengers to board ships much closer to the airport than the current cruise gateway at Civitavecchia, about an hour away.

The Royal Caribbean Group-backed project is being developed by Fiumicino Waterfront and calls for a new cruise terminal, a marina with more than 1,200 berths for recreational boats, commercial space, restaurants, a hotel, shops, public waterfront parks, and other supporting infrastructure.

Judges ruled on July 3, 2026, that the project was approved under the wrong classification. Because the cruise terminal is a major part of the development, they said it should have been reviewed as a commercial port rather than a tourist marina.

Because of that decision, the court overturned the environmental approval issued by Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security. Without that approval, construction cannot move forward.

Cruise Ships Docked at Port of Civitavecchia
Cruise Ships Docked at Port of Civitavecchia (Photo Credit: Alessia Pierdomenico)

While the ruling does not cancel the project itself, developers must obtain new approvals before construction can begin.

In a statement to Italian media, Fiumicino Waterfront CEO Galliano Di Marco said it will appeal the decision. 

The lawsuit was brought by 18 local residents along with several environmental organizations that argued the project was too large and should have undergone a broader environmental assessment.

Why It Matters for Cruise Passengers

Plans call for the new waterfront district in Fiumicino to include a cruise pier, marina, hotel, restaurants, shops, public green space, and a large waterfront park. It will also redevelop the former lighthouse area of Isola Sacra, just south of Rome’s international airport.

Developers say the terminal is expected to handle more than 1 million passengers a year, with a dedicated pier capable of accommodating one large cruise ship at a time. The port will operate as a homeport for about 200 days each year, allowing passengers to begin and end Mediterranean cruises much closer to Rome’s main airport.

Today, most passengers sailing to or from Rome fly into Leonardo da Vinci International Airport before traveling about an hour to the Port of Civitavecchia. A terminal in Fiumicino would shorten that transfer and allow passengers to reach their ship within minutes of landing.

According to project plans, the development will create thousands of jobs, improve local infrastructure, and help meet growing demand for cruise and yacht facilities in the Mediterranean. Plans also call for ships to connect to shore power while docked, reducing the need to run onboard engines in port.

Opponents, however, say the project will permanently change one of the last undeveloped stretches of coastline near Rome. Environmental organizations have raised concerns about dredging, new breakwaters, impacts on protected bird habitats, and the area’s traditional wooden fishing huts built on stilts that have long been part of the local landscape.

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The recent ruling in Italy marks the second major setback this year for one of Royal Caribbean’s high-profile infrastructure projects.

In May, Mexico’s environmental ministry rejected the company’s environmental permit for its planned Perfect Day Mexico private destination in Mahahual. While the two projects involve different legal issues, both have stalled because of environmental concerns.

Why Royal Caribbean Is Reassigning Cabins on This Alaska Sailing

Catie Kovelman
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Why Royal Caribbean Is Reassigning Cabins on This Alaska Sailing

Key Aspects:

  • Some guests booked to sail on Ovation of the Seas’ August 14 voyage may be getting new staterooms.
  • Due to new occupancy limitations, certain travel groups may need to be moved to cabins that are better suited to accommodate their group.
  • The Royal Caribbean ship recently completed a major refurbishment in dry dock, during which time it received 40 new cabins and refreshed existing accommodations.

Many cruise guests strategically book their staterooms to fit their needs, such as being close to elevators or to minimize the rocking motion for passengers prone to seasickness. 

However, some future guests of Ovation of the Seas have learned that the staterooms they originally booked won’t be their cruise cabins after all.

One passenger booked on the August 14, 2026, sailing to Alaska received an email that they were being reassigned to a new stateroom because their chosen cabin (a Sky Junior Suite) could no longer accommodate their group.

For reference, the sailing in question is a 7-night voyage that sails one-way from the newly opened cruise terminal in Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia.

“During a recent review of your reservation, we identified that your stateroom’s assigned occupancy needs to be adjusted,” Royal Caribbean wrote in a letter, which the guest posted on Facebook.

“To ensure your accommodations are just right, we’re in the process of reassigning your party to a stateroom that comfortably accommodates your entire group – either within the same category or in an upgraded category,” the cruise line continued.

Several other passengers booked to sail on the 4,182-guest ship also commented to say that they had received the same letter.

Ovation of the Seas in Sitka, Alaska
Photo Credit: Royal Caribbean

While the room reassignment process is underway, guest reservations will reflect a guaranteed (GTY) status instead of a stateroom number.

New stateroom assignments, which will be in the same or a better cabin category, will be shared as soon as possible. The passenger who posted on Facebook had already been waiting for a new assignment for three days.

Why Are Staterooms Changing?

Royal Caribbean has not specifically confirmed the reason behind the shifting stateroom assignments, although some are already wondering if the August 14 voyage might be overbooked.

Cruise Hive recently reported on several instances of Royal Caribbean attempting to lure passengers away from oversold Alaska sailings with generous perks, such as free cruises.

But based on the way the letter is written, it seems more likely that the cause is related to changes made to the 168,666-gross ton vessel during its month-long overhaul in dry dock, which concluded in April of 2026.

“Following the recent amplification, Ovation of the Seas was refreshed with an even more vibrant experience,” Royal Caribbean wrote.

“From standout dining venues like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Izumi Teppanyaki to can’t miss nightlife at Pesky Parrot and Sound Cellar, along with a refreshed pool deck and additional staterooms,” the cruise line continued.

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As part of the revitalization, the 2016-launched ship gained 40 additional staterooms across decks 5, 9, 12, 13, and 16. Existing cabins would have also been refreshed or upgraded as necessary, which could easily lead to changes in occupancy.

With this in mind, it’s possible that guests booked on other voyages onboard the Quantum-class ship (aside from the August 14 sailing) may also receive similar updates.

FBI Charges Cruise Ship Hairstylist For Assaulting Guests With Fake Massages

Catie Kovelman
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FBI Charges Cruise Ship Hairstylist For Assaulting Guests With Fake Massages

Key Aspects:

  • A hairstylist who worked onboard Brilliant Lady is accused of molesting female passengers.
  • The crew member allegedly offered unsanctioned massages to female passengers who booked hair appointments with him.
  • If convicted, the Virgin Voyages’ employee could face two years in prison for each charge.

A former crew member who once lived and worked onboard Brilliant Lady has been criminally charged after allegedly sexually assaulting at least two female passengers.

Pranit Narayan Pawar, a 26-year-old, was hired to work as a hairstylist onboard Virgin Voyages’ newest ship and reportedly used his role to gain access to female guests.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington, the citizen of India molested multiple salon guests under the guise of giving them a free massage.

Pawar is accused of offering massages to women who booked hair appointments during the 9-night Alaska sailing that embarked on June 23, with the alleged assaults taking place on or around June 26, 2026.

For example, Pawar appears to have convinced one of the women to book two more salon appointments with him in order to receive a complimentary massage.

Looking just at the two cases that are charged in the complaint, Pawar allegedly moved the victims into a small, private room next to the salon to conduct the “massage,” where he put his hands under their shirts and touched them in inappropriate places without consent.

In at least one instance, the crew member closed and locked the door before touching the cruise passenger.

For reference, legitimate spa services are available in the Redemption Spa on Deck 5, but not in the Dry-Dock Salon or in the Stubble and Groom men’s barbershop.

During an interview with FBI Special Agents, the stylist also admitted that massage was not part of his job description, nor was this service offered in the salon or the barbershop onboard the 110,000-gross ton vessel.

The FBI Pursues Charges

This case is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted in federal court because the crimes occurred at sea within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States.

At this stage, Pawar has been formally charged with two counts of abusive sexual contact. If found guilty, the now ex-crew member could face up to two years in prison for each count.

Per the complaint, Pawar told FBI Special Agents that he has taken a total of four to five women into the onboard barbershop for massages, which suggests more charges could potentially be coming.

Cruise Hive learned that Pawar made his first court appearance related to the charges on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 2 p.m. PDT in Tacoma, Washington.

The FBI also used this situation as an opportunity to remind cruise passengers to immediately report potential crimes to the onboard security team and to the FBI.

No Tolerance From Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has not publicly commented on the charges, but based on the brand’s policies, it is highly likely that the adults-only cruise line would have immediately terminated Pawar’s contract and fully cooperated with authorities.

In its code of conduct, Virgin Voyages makes it clear that there will be consequences from the cruise line and law enforcement agents will be contacted in response to any potential crimes.

“Any criminal acts or allegations of such acts, including but not limited to the following, will be addressed on board through de-escalation or acting to end the apparent criminal act, and will be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency,” the code of conduct reads.

Uninvited physical contact and sexual misconduct are strictly prohibited in the listed examples. And in a later point, the policy states that crew members are not allowed to have physical relationships with guests or to interact with guests beyond their professional duties.

Pawar was interviewed by FBI agents on July 2, 2026, which was the day the 2,770-guest ship returned to Seattle for debarkation. Given the timing, this suggests that Pawar was detained during the voyage and separated from passengers.

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When necessary, cruise ships will detain crew members in an onboard holding cell (aka “the brig”) or by confining them to their staterooms with security guards stationed at their doors 24/7.

Brilliant Lady is operating normally as her inaugural Alaska season continues with a series of 7-night sailings based out of Seattle, Washington.

Ruby Princess Battles New Illness Cases on Sailing Right After Outbreak

Melissa Mayntz
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Ruby Princess Battles New Illness Cases on Sailing Right After Outbreak

Key Aspects:

  • Seven new gastrointestinal illness cases are now reported aboard Ruby Princess on her July 2, 2026 sailing.
  • The new cases follow the 125-case outbreak on the ship’s previous cruise.
  • No report has yet been made to the CDC for the new outbreak as it is not widespread enough to require investigation.

Additional cases of gastrointestinal illness have been reported aboard Ruby Princess just days after a serious norovirus outbreak onboard the ship was reported to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

According to the Juneau Independent, at least seven cases are now onboard the ship: six crewmembers and one passenger. All of those impacted were following isolation protocols on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

Cruise Hive reported the previous outbreak on the 113,561-gross-ton ship, which impacted 125 individuals. Of those reported cases, 102 were guests and 23 were crew members. As protocol dictates, because the total number of cases was greater than 3% of everyone onboard the ship, that outbreak was reported to the CDC.

No additional report has yet been made to the CDC for investigation. Because Ruby Princess can welcome 3,080 guests and is home to 1,100 crew members, seven cases is approximately 0.17% of those onboard, well below the mandated reporting threshold.

Nevertheless, Princess Cruises is likely continuing sanitation protocols to minimize any further spread of the illness, including extra cleaning and encouraging thorough handwashing. Should more cases be reported, adding up to the 3% threshold, an official report will be made to the CDC.

Ruby Princess was slightly delayed departing San Francisco to start this 10-night sailing on July 2. The extra time was needed for deep cleaning following the larger outbreak.

The ship visited Sitka as planned on July 5 and Haines on July 6, with no change in itinerary or port destinations. Scenic glacier cruising plus visits to Ketchikan and Prince Rupert are still on the schedule in the coming days before Ruby Princess returns to San Francisco on July 12.

Ruby Princess in San Francisco Bay
Ruby Princess in San Francisco Bay (Photo Credit: Lisa Bronitt)

Consecutive Cruise Outbreaks Not Unusual

Despite the intense measures cruise ship crew members will take to minimize contagion, it is not unusual for a ship to have consecutive outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness on multiple sailings.

This can happen when crew members may be ill, as it is possible to pass on diseases such as norovirus for several days after feeling recovered. According to the CDC, “you are most contagious when you have symptoms of norovirus illness or during the few days after you feel better.”

Because norovirus is widespread in many areas where crowds are common, including airports, sporting events, and restaurants, it is also possible the two outbreaks are unrelated. The CDC notes “each year, there are about 2,500 reported norovirus outbreaks in the United States.”

Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Sea Bird had illness reports on multiple consecutive sailings, though only two voyages crossed the 3% reporting threshold. The CDC has followed up to investigate the outbreak on that vessel.

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In March 2023, Royal Caribbean’s Enchantment of the Seas also had two outbreaks on consecutive voyages. In total, 272 cases were reported in those incidents.

In February and March 2025, two different voyages of Holland America Line’s Rotterdam also reported outbreaks totaling 278 cases. While those two voyages were separated by two weeks, it is likely they may have been part of a larger outbreak that simply didn’t meet the reporting threshold for the sailings in between.

Principal Banned for Manipulating School Calendar to Fit Cruise Trips

Lissa Poirot
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0
Principal Banned for Manipulating School Calendar to Fit Cruise Trips

Key Aspects:

  • A UK school principal lost her teaching career after changing school term dates to take cruises.
  • The disciplinary panel found the changes negatively affected attendance and disrupted families and school staff.
  • Investigators did not identify the cruise line or itinerary.

A pair of luxury cruise vacations ultimately cost a school principal in England her teaching career after authorities concluded she changed her school’s academic calendar so she could sail on luxury cruises.

Joy Ballard, the former principal of Ryde Academy, a public secondary school on England’s Isle of Wight, has been permanently banned from teaching after a professional misconduct panel appointed by England’s Teaching Regulation Agency found she acted dishonestly.

According to the panel’s findings, Ballard moved the end of the fall term and delayed the start of the spring term so the school schedule matched her personal travel plans. 

Investigators also found she missed a teacher workday on January 3, 2024, because she was still returning from one of the cruises. It was also discovered she left another teacher workday early in February 2023 to board a separate cruise.

The panel determined the changes disrupted families, students, and school employees who had already planned their own travel and childcare around the previously published academic calendar. The last-minute changes also negatively affected attendance.

Acting on behalf of England’s education secretary, Decision Maker Marc Cavey agreed with the panel’s recommendation, writing that Ballard had behaved, “dishonestly and lacking in integrity.”

He added, “In my view, it is necessary to impose a prohibition order in order to maintain public confidence in the profession.”

Additional unrelated financial and governance violations were also uncovered. The panel found Ballard regularly used a Peugeot 5008 purchased with school funds for personal travel between 2022 and 2024, including a family vacation to France.

It also concluded school money had been used to purchase camping equipment, televisions, and a karaoke machine without appropriate oversight.

Carnival-Owned Ships in Southampton
Carnival-Owned Ships in Southampton (Photo Credit: Ssisabal)

According to local media reports, current principal Will Doyle told the hearing that staff members feared retaliation if they challenged Ballard’s decisions.

Ballard admitted the factual allegations during the proceedings and expressed regret for her actions. However, the panel felt she had not demonstrated enough insight into her misconduct and said there remained a risk of similar behavior reoccurring.

She can apply to have the prohibition order reviewed after two years.

Why Off-Peak Cruises Are So Appealing

Although investigators never identified the cruise line, ship, or departure port involved in Ballard’s cruises, the Isle of Wight is an island just off England’s south coast near Southampton on the mainland.

Southampton serves as one of the UK’s busiest cruise ports and is home to major cruise lines like Cunard, Princess Cruises, and P&O Cruises.

The case highlights how off-peak cruises while schools are in session may be enticing for passengers, as they are often among the least expensive. For example, following the holiday travel season in December, cruise lines frequently reduce fares on January sailings as demand softens.

For guests without school-age children, retirees, and those with flexible schedules, sailing during these quieter periods can translate into lower cruise fares, reduced airfare, and fewer crowds onboard and at ports of call.

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However, those off-peak windows can create scheduling challenges for parents and educators because they fall during the academic year. In both the United Kingdom and the United States, school calendars are typically established months in advance to allow families to plan vacations, childcare, and other commitments.

The disciplinary panel investigating Ballard did not criticize her for taking a cruise or vacationing during the school year. Instead, it concluded she improperly used her position as a principal to change the calendar for her own plans.

Carnival Patriotic Meetups Wow Guests But Only on Some Ships

Melissa Mayntz
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0
Carnival Patriotic Meetups Wow Guests But Only on Some Ships

Key Aspects:

  • Carnival Cruise Line’s July 4th meetups offered fireworks at Celebration Key and many onboard events.
  • Not all guests were happy with the different activities and some ships did not seem to offer much.
  • It is possible the cruise line may begin offering annual July 4th celebrations, but this has not been confirmed.

The US hasn’t seen July 4th celebrations this big and bold in 250 years, and Carnival Cruise Line joined the fun with meetups of multiple vessels at both Celebration Key in the Bahamas and in San Diego.

As “America’s Cruise Line” it’s very appropriate that Carnival went all out for the 250th anniversary of the US declaring independence, with onboard parties, special activities, and a brilliant fireworks display at Celebration Key.

Depending on the ship, there were red-white-and-blue balloon drops, patriotic music and movies, themed inflatables, American menu favorites, ice sculptures, special veterans’ gatherings with commemorative America’s 250th Birthday pins, and more.

The fireworks at Celebration Key were a special favorite for many guests aboard the seven ships meeting there: Carnival Venezia, Carnival Elation, Carnival Conquest, Carnival Glory, Carnival Celebration, Carnival Sunrise, and Carnival Vista.

While the fireworks display did launch as planned on Saturday evening, not all guests on every ship had an equal view. A number of guests reached out to John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line’s brand ambassador, with their disappointment.

Heald answers hundreds of guest comments and questions every week and was quick to explain the logistics of why the fireworks offered different views for different ships.

“Yes, there were two or three comments that said the fireworks were ‘[too] far away’ and one that said the fireworks were ‘boring,’” he noted. “That was for safety reasons of course.”

Regulations would require that each ship not only be a certain distance from the fireworks launching site, but also a certain distance from other ships to ensure adequate maneuvering room in case of emergency.

Depending on where individual ships were positioned and where guests were on the outer decks, the view could vary considerably and other ships at the meetup may have blocked some of the firework bursts from view.

Fortunately, the show was safe and offered a unique and fun experience for guests and many travelers enjoyed the parties.

In San Diego, Carnival Cruise Line was an official sponsor of the “Big Bay Boom” fireworks show. Carnival Luminosa, Carnival Radiance, and Carnival Firenze were anchored nearby for the festivities.

In addition to the onboard parties, Cruise Hive has already reported on the homeport celebrations Carnival Cruise Line organized to honor veterans and military members on this very special holiday.

Not Every Ship Joined the Party

Guests on some vessels not involved in the at sea meetups did report less than patriotic experiences. Specifically, guests aboard Carnival Freedom and Carnival Jubilee reached out to Heald with their disappointment.

Carnival Freedom departed Port Canaveral on July 4th to begin a 5-night Bahamas itinerary. Of course, the ship could not be part of the meetup that evening, but onboard celebrations also seemed lackluster.

“I’d expected a little bit more on the Carnival Freedom,” one guest wrote to Heald.

“I figured Carnival Freedom = Independence Day so with the correlation this ship may have done something extra. Leis and pins at the sail away party and a couple of themed desserts was the extent of it. Which is fine but seeing what was on other ships we were left with a lot left to desire and disappointment.“

Some guests onboard Carnival Jubilee were also disappointed at the timing of patriotic events. The Excel-class ship departed Galveston on July 4th for a 7-night Western Caribbean itinerary.

“Carnival Jubilee showed the movie Wicked for our 250 year celebration. We DID NOTHING,” a guest claimed.

Heald noted that there was a Lido deck party onboard Carnival Jubilee and a balloon drop, but the guest replied that the balloon drop was scheduled for 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 5 and the deck party was at sailaway, not a special event.

Even with patriotic celebrations and special events onboard, every ship also had other activities throughout the day. It is possible that some guests simply chose alternative activities or missed the patriotic festivities because of other events.

Has Carnival Started a New Tradition?

With the festive meetups and fireworks displays successful, many guests are now wondering if Carnival Cruise Line will start offering special Fourth of July events every year.

There has been no announcement or confirmation that any new annual events may be planned, but the cruise line is always adapting its onboard offerings and schedules to what guests enjoy most.

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