Celebrity Cruises celebrated a significant milestone today as the fifth ship in its Edge series, Celebrity Xcel, marked its keel-laying in a special ceremony on June 13, 2024. The ceremony took place at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France.
Coins are placed in a ship’s keel to bring good luck and protection to the vessel and its crew. Known a “keel-laying,” officials gathering for the occasion included Chanteriers de l’Atlantique’s General Manager Laurent Castaing and Celebrity Cruises’ President Laura Hodges Bethge.
Celebrity Xcel Keel Laying (Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruise)
As part of maritime tradition, coins were placed in one of the 44 blocks that will comprise the new 141,000-gross-ton Edge Class ship. The coins are engraved with the symbols of the Paris Olympic Games, taking place in France July 5 through 27, 2024, and NASA’s Saturn V rocket to “pay tribute to the values of team spirit, commitment and respect” as well as to the “innovative characteristics of the ship.”
Owned by Royal Caribbean Group, President and CEO Jason Liberty was also on hand for the event. He said, “Today we not only mark the start of construction, but we are laying the foundation on which countless memories will be created.”
Liberty also attended the handoff ceremony of Royal Caribbean International’s newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, alongside Castaing, who exalted the close collaboration, saying, “We know and trust one another, and work in harmony to offer a unique and sustainable experience for passengers.”
Celebrity Xcel, which began construction with its steel cutting on November 7, 2023, at the same shipyard as its Edge-class sisters Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent, completed in 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2023, respectively, will be the first in Royal Caribbean Group’s fleet to feature a tri-fuel capable engine.
Celebrity Xcel Keel Laying (Photo Courtesy: Celebrity Cruises)
“Each new ship also represents an opportunity to advance our journey to net zero and with Xcel we are building our first methanol-capable ship, which helps advance our transition to the energy platform or the future,” said Liberty.
Celebrity Xcel to Offer Innovative Luxury
Construction on Celebrity Xcel is set to be completed by November 2025, when the ship will begin offering 7-night itineraries in the Caribbean. Like Celebrity Ascent, the ship will sail from Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades.
A standout feature of Celebrity Xcel will be The Retreat, an exclusive area for suite guests offering a resort-within-a-resort experience, highlighted by a two-story sundeck.
The ship’s accommodations will be designed for modern tastes with guests able to choose from two-story villas with private plunge pools to stateroom with infinite verandas.
Celebrity Xcel Cruise Ship
The expended Rooftop Garden and Resort Deck will be additional notable features to enhance the outdoor experience for guests. The garden will provide a serene outdoor space while the deck will include unique cantilevered float pools. A redesigned Grand Plaza, spanning three decks, will provide an airy and open indoor space central to the ship’s design.
At the ship’s aft, the multi-level Sunset Bar will offer panoramic views across a multi-terraced design. For dining, Celebrity Xcel will feature a new restaurant by renowned Chef Daniel Boulud to provide a fine-dining option at sea. Dining will also include the innovative Magic Carpet cantilevered platform, providing uninterrupted ocean views for passengers while they float above the sea.
Celebrity Xcel will also offer a variety of entertainment and activities as passengers enjoy alternating routes between the Bahamas, Mexico, and the Cayman Islands, as well as Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and St. Maarten.
MSC Cruises announced a major enhancement of its family programs with new activities and public spaces onboard MSC World America, currently under construction in France and slated to enter service in April 2025.
The ship’s new programming was created with the LEGO Group, the famous toy manufacturer that forged a partnership with MSC Cruises a decade ago and whose themed play spaces are found across the fleet.
Aboard MSC World America, youngsters will enjoy the fleet’s largest Doremiland kids’ area, consisting of more than 10,000 square feet of dedicated spaces in seven venues.
MSC World America SportsPlex
Age-appropriate activities will be offered to children and teens up to age 17, and all of the Kids’ Club spaces will be open from 9 a.m. to midnight daily. The centerpiece of Doremiland will be Family Aventura, a LEGO Family Zone area where kids and their parents can build all manner of LEGO structures.
The focal point of Family Aventura will be The Harbour, a new outdoor park with activities such as a high ropes course, an over-water swing ride, and a playground inspired by the lighthouse at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private destination in The Bahamas.
“We set ourselves the goal to create the most exceptional kids and family offering at sea with MSC World America. Our aim is to give our smallest guests the freedom to express their creativity, play, socialize and explore with amazing spaces and programs that have to be seen to be believed,” said Steve Leatham, head of entertainment at MSC Cruises.
The 215,863-gross ton ship accommodates up to 6,700 guests and is under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The ship recently reached a major milestone when she was floated out of her construction bay on April 7, 2024. Work has moved to the interior of the ship, the final building stage.
Along with the Family Aventura space, MSC World America’s LEGO partnership has developed several new fun-filled events for youngsters and their parents.
Among them are a LEGO Parade, which will be held once per sailing, marching from the Family Aventura space to the World Promenade; the LEGO Game Show, where families can participate in Master Builder competitions; the Boxes Family Game Show, in which “mystery boxes” contain challenges that families can solve to win prizes; and the Doremix Family Disco, a dance competition for kids and adults.
MSC World America Young Club
Youngsters also can participate in the line’s MasterChef at Sea Juniors program, which features cooking competitions. For teenagers, MSC World America will offer virtual reality and other high-tech experiences.
MSC Cruises revealed in April 2024 that the 22-deck ship will feature seven districts, each themed with activities for families and children, plus adult-only spaces, and dining and shopping areas.
The ship also will offer guests the line’s exclusive luxury area, MSC Yacht Club, an all-suite area with a dedicated lounge and restaurant, a private pool and sun deck facilities, and 24-hour concierge and butler service.
Ship Will Homeport in Miami Following 2025 Launch
MSC World America is the line’s second World-class ship following the launch of MSC World Europa in 2021. Both ships are environmentally advanced, powered by LNG (liquified natural gas), and with shoreside power connectivity.
MSC World America Cruise Ship
A third in the class, MSC World Asia, is also under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard and is due to enter service in 2026.
MSC World America is scheduled to be christened on April 9, 2025, during a ceremony at PortMiami. The ship will homeport there and operate 7- and 14-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises.
A 7-night Eastern Caribbean voyage will call at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
Royal Caribbean International has officially taken delivery of its newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard. The ceremony, which took place on June 13, 2024, at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, marks the delivery of the sixth Oasis-class ship to the Royal Caribbean fleet.
Nearly 2,300 crew members who will serve onboard Utopia of the Seas under Captain Gus Andersson joined Royal Caribbean Group’s senior leadership team, including President and CEO Jason Liberty and Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International.
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Under Construction
They accepted the ship during an official handover ceremony with leadership from Chantiers de l’Antlaniuq, including Laurent Castaing, general manager.
The delivery ceremony featured traditional maritime rituals, including the signing of the competition of the shipbuilding contract, a ceremonial exchange representing the transfer of the ship, and the lowering of the shipyard’s flag followed by the raising of Royal Caribbean’s flag, signifying the change of ownership.
It also provided a tour of the ship’s key features, including its advanced liquified nitrogen gas (LNG) propulsion system, which promises greater energy efficiency and reduced emissions.
The ship, which began construction in April 2022 with a steel-cutting ceremony and a keel laying in July 2022, is the second-largest in the world after Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, overtaking sister ship Wonder of the Seas.
The 236,860-gross-ton Utopia of the Seas will begin bringing 5,668 passengers across 18 decks on 3- and 4-night weekly getaways from Port Canaveral (Orlando) to Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas. Its maiden voyage is set for July 19, 2024.
A New Era for Oasis Class
Designed for short yet immersive cruises, Utopia of the Seas will offer a variety of experiences for guests of all ages. One of its highlights is the much-anticipated Ultimate Abyss, a 259-foot-long dual-racing slide, making it the longest dry slide at sea. The pair of slides travel 10 stories from Deck 16 to Deck 6’s Boardwalk.
Additional attractions include a zip line, the FlowRider surf simulator, five swimming pools, eight hot tubs, and three water slides called Cyclone, Typhoon, and Supercell that complete the “Perfect Storm.”
Utopia of the Seas Stats
Dining options will be plentiful on Utopia of the Seas with 21 different venues and 23 bars. Among these will be the new Pesky Parrot bar, which replaces the Bionic Bar, and the Mason Jar, which returns after its success on Wonder of the Seas and features live music. The ship will also feature a new specialty restaurant offering an immersive dining experience that takes guests on a train journey while they eat.
For those seeking relaxation, Utopia of the Seas is introducing two new Solarium Suites, offering an adult-only area with its own pool, whirlpools, bar, daybeds, and panoramic ocean views.
Accommodation options have been expanded with 20 new room types, including the luxurious Royal Loft Suite. This suite can host up to six guests and features a bathroom with a spa tub, an expansive living area, a private balcony with a whirlpool, and stunning ocean views.
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas
Entertainment and leisure will not be forgotten as the ship includes two casinos for those wanting to try their luck. The ship will be also equipped with 23 bars and five live music venues, including the Music Hall, which will feature high-energy live sets, and Schooner Bar’s piano bar, where guests can participate in singalongs.
Passengers will also enjoy the exclusive Perfect Day at CocoCay, which features Thrill Waterpark, Splashaway Bay, and expansive beaches.
In February 2024, Royal Caribbean announced a seventh, as-yet-unnamed Oasis-class ship. A sister ship to Utopia of the Seas, the ship will debut in 2028.
One of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most popular specialty dining venues, Cagney’s Steakhouse, has just undergone a menu refresh.
The award-winning steakhouse can be found on all 19 of Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships, and is so popular that reservations are typically required to dine here.
Indeed, the fine dining establishment is famous for serving up delicious choice cuts of premium Certified Angus Beef, such as T-bone and prime rib, as well as beloved starters and sides like crab cake and parmesan dusted truffle fries.
But cruisers who are planning to eat at Cagney’s soon may be surprised to find that the menu looks quite different. NCL quietly changed the menu and eliminated several options, with the current online menu dated as updated on May 28, 2024.
The earlier version of the menu offered a four course meal, allowing guests to choose from four starters, two soups and three salads, five premium cuts of steak, including two different serving sizes of filet mignon; three seafood entrees, four featured selections (which are also entrees), and 10 different side dishes.
The new, simplified menu, really only allows for a three-course meal, which has stirred up some controversy on social media from disappointed cruisers.
The appetizers have been combined into one section instead of separating by starters and soups & salad, and the cruise line removed the beefsteak tomato salad, Oysters Rockefeller, and Ahi Tuna Tartare that were previously offered. The three missing appetizers were replaced with grilled thick-cut bacon.
Looking at the steak choices, the new menu allows guests to choose between four cuts instead of five. The 20 oz porterhouse steak that used to be offered for $47 (USD) is no longer available.
The featured selections have also been simplified, now offering three instead of four dishes by removing the double-cut pork chop. The slow roasted prime rib, surf & turf, and double-cut Australian lamb chops can still be ordered.
Likewise, there are now two seafood options available instead of three. The grilled fisherman’s platter, which includes a mix of seafood, and the grilled jumbo shrimp skewer are still on the menu – but the cedar plank steelhead trout is now a thing of the past.
Even the side dishes have been consolidated from 10 options to seven. The grilled zucchini, potatoes au gratin, and onion rings won’t be offered anymore.
While no statement has been released from the cruise line about the change, it’s quite common for restaurants – on land and at sea – to update their menus every few years or so to balance elements related to supply and demand and to keep things exciting for their patrons.
Specialty Dining Onboard Norwegian Cruise Line Ships
Like the other major cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Line offers multiple signature dining restaurants onboard all of its ships – which are elevated dining venues that are not included in the cost of the cruise fare.
Cagney’s Steakhouse just so happens to be one of the cruise line’s most popular options. In addition to the delicious food, guests on NCL’s Breakaway and Breakaway Plus-class ships enjoy the ambiance that comes with the oceanfront dining at this venue.
And to allow for greater capacity at the upscale steakhouse to meet the ever-present demand, Norwegian Aqua – the third of the Prima-class ships – will debut with a larger Cagney’s that has more seating when she begins sailing in early 2025.
Cagney’s Steakhouse on Norwegian Gem
Just to name some of the other specialty dining venues, select NCL ships feature Food Republic (Asian cuisine), Hasuki Japanese Steakhouse (Teppanyaki grill), La Cucina (Italian fare), Le Bistro (French dishes), Los Lobos (authentic Mexican), Moderno (Brazilian-style barbecue), and Ocean Blue (seafood).
Since specialty restaurants are often fancier or of better quality, they come with an increased cost. Some cruise lines will allow guests to pay in advance when they make their dining reservations, while others will bill onboard accounts once the meal is over.
The billing method is largely dependent on how the cost of the meal is assessed. Some cruise lines list a set fee per guest for dining at select venues, while others – Norwegian Cruise Line included – still charge guests by item like a restaurant on land would.
That said, the Miami-based cruise line does do something a little different by offering a specialty dining package at a cost-benefit to guests. The packages start at $99 per person for a minimum of two specialty meals and range up to $469 for 14 meals.
Considering a visit to Cagney’s could easily cost over $50 per person, with entrees ranging in price from $31 to $55 without including cocktails, appetizers, sides, or desserts, this is a pretty good deal.
The packages, which are purchased on an individual basis, are honored in Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic, Italian, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Moderno Churrascaria, Pincho Tapas Bar, Q Texas Smokehouse, Raw Bar, Seafood, Sushi and Teppanyaki, as well as some entertainment-based dining venues.
The Port of Seattle has become the first port in the U.S. to independently mandate that 100% of all cruise vessels homeported in Seattle be shore-power capable and utilize shore power by 2027. The new order was passed by the Port of Seattle Commission.
“Ensuring all homeported cruise ships utilize shore power by incorporating a requirement in our commercial agreements, the Port continues to demonstrate how we can generate economic opportunities while minimizing our impact on communities and the climate,”said Fred Felleman, Port of Seattle commissioner.
Shore Power Connections (Photo Courtesy: Port of Seattle)
Felleman went on to acknowledge the mandate advances the previous goal set for 2030 by three years, citing the investments made by the cruise industry as enabling the decision.
“In passing this order, the Commission turns the Port’s 2030 goal of universal shore power use into a 2027 requirement, which is only possible due to the significant investments made by the cruise industry and the Port on both the ships and shoreside facilities,” said Felleman.
The Commissioner also noted that the change would appeal to the environmental interests of travelers cruising to Alaska, as Seattle is a frequent homeport for the region.
Currently, the world’s largest cruise lines operate heavily out of Seattle to visit Alaska, including Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean International, Ocean Cruises, and Carnival Corporation, which has three Carnival Cruise Line ships, two Princess Cruises and Holland America Line ships, and one Cunard Line ship sailing out of the Port of Seattle this season alone.
The mandate would require all cruise lines planning 2027 itineraries to employ ships with shore power capabilities.
Only 30% of today’s ships, representing 40% of capacity, are currently able to handle shoreside power capabilities, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
It said all CLIA-member ships constructed through 2028 are being fitted with shoreside power capabilities.
“Cruise lines are committed to connecting to shoreside electricity when it is available and to working closely with ports to make this possible,”said CLIA Germany’s National Director, Helge Grammerstorf.
CLIA Supports Ports Utilizing Shore Power
CLIA is a champion of cruise ports updating their infrastructure to provide shore power, highlighting that emissions are reduced by up to 99%, greenhouse gases are reduced by more than 20%, soot particles by 98%, sulfur oxides by 99%, and nitrogen oxides by 85%.
However, it says only 3% of ports will have shoreside power by 2025.
The Port of Seattle’s announcement means the Pacific Northwest port will be the first in the U.S. to require shore power connections. Currently, the port offers two shore power connections at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91.
Cruise Ship Docked at Port of Seattle (Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators)
Its Pier 66 cruise berth is expanding to add shore power before the end of the 2024 season, which means each cruise berth operated by the Port of Seattle will have shore power connections this year.
CLIA’s 2023 State of the Industry Report revealed only 29 ports globally offer at least one cruise berth with shoreside power. In the U.S., Seattle is one of nine ports offering partial shoreside power. The others are Brooklyn, New York; Juneau, Alaska; Miami, Florida; and Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, San Diego, and San Francisco, California.
The Port of Miami is the first U.S. port on the eastern seaboard to offer shore power to five cruise berths. Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, will add shore power to eight cruise berths.
In the European Union, all essential ports will be required to use shore power connections by 2030 as part of the EU’s Fit for 55 program.
Lindblad Expeditions, one of the world’s elite cruise lines specializing in the adventure market, is on track to double its ship deployments to the Galapagos Islands with the planned purchase of two expedition ships from Celebrity Cruises.
The cruise line, which operates Galapagos itineraries as part of a long-term partnership with National Geographic, announced on June 12, 2024 that it will acquire the 48-guest Celebrity Xpedition and the 16-guest Celebrity Xploration in a transaction slated to close in January 2025. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Following renovations of both vessels, they will join the 96-guest National Geographic Endeavour II and the 48-guest National Geographic Islander II, which currently operate in the Galapagos year-round.
New Linblad Vessel
Lindblad plans to open bookings for the two new ships by the end of June 2024 and also will reveal the vessels’ new names.
The expedition line, founded by Sven-Olof Lindblad, is considered the pioneer of Galapagos cruising and was the first to offer itineraries to the destination in 1967. Before that time, cruising in the region, made famous by the wildlife observations of Charles Darwin in the mid-1800s, was mainly for scientific purposes.
The island chain is located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador and is known for its endemic animal species — wildlife not found anywhere else — including the giant Galapagos tortoise, the Galapagos penguin, the flightless cormorant, and the marine iguana.
“When my father, Lars-Eric Lindblad, led the first international citizen expedition to the Galápagos nearly 60 years ago, I don’t think he ever could have dreamed it would serve as the foundation for ecotourism in the archipelago and would be the catalyst for meaningful, positively impactful connections,” said Lindblad Expeditions founder and CEO Sven-Olof Lindblad.
“We look forward to not only bringing more Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic guests to the islands with the growth of our fleet, but also to having a greater positive social impact supporting conservation, education and the creation of livelihoods,” Lindblad added.
New Linblad Vessel
The decision to sell two of its expedition ships leaves Celebrity Cruises with just one vessel offering Galapagos Islands itineraries, Celebrity Flora, a 100-guest ship that launched in 2019. Through 2024, the cruise line has all three ships, Celebrity Flora, Celebrity Xpedition, and Celebrity Xploration, scheduled to sail 7-day cruises in the region.
Ships Set to Join Fleet Are Both Luxury Level
Both of the ships Lindblad Expeditions is buying are luxury vessels. Celebrity Xpedition, which entered service in 2001, has two restaurants, 13 balcony cabins, and 24 outside cabins. Celebrity Xploration, launched in 2007, is much smaller. The 8-cabin catamaran is ideal for small groups and private charters.
Leading conservationists applauded the Lindblad Expeditions’ plans to expand operations in the Galapagos Islands.
Smallest Cruise Ship in the World (Photo Credit: Celebrity Cruises)
“Together with community leaders, farmers, scientists and researchers, as well as Ecuadorians from Galápagos and the continent, Lindblad Expeditions has helped to uplift local communities and safeguard the archipelago’s precious species and habitats,” said Rakan Zahawi, executive director of the Charles Darwin Foundation.
While Celebrity Cruises has offered no reason for planning to sell the ships, it is possible the move could be tied to the civil strife that unfolded in Ecuador early this year. Celebrity Cruises issued an alert to booked guests in January 2024, when political unrest enveloped the country, and specifically the city of Guayaquil, the launch port for Galapagos cruising.
It was on January 9, 2024 when the Ecuadorian government declared a state of emergency in the country due to an “internal armed conflict.” Celebrity Cruises on January 10, 2024 cancelled all pre- and post-cruise land programs and offered refunds to all booked guests, but did not cancel any sailings.
Carnival Cruise Line has reached out to guests booked aboard upcoming sailings for Carnival Paradise to notify them of a shift in departure times – for more than two years’ worth of future sailings.
Instead of departing from Port of Tampa, Florida at 4 p.m. as originally planned, the ship will now be setting sail 30 minutes earlier, at 3:30 p.m.
This may seem like a minor change, but it can have a significant impact on passengers who may be planning to drive to the cruise port or who have already made pre-cruise travel arrangements.
Carnival Paradise Cruise Ship in Tampa (Photo Credit: fitzcrittle)
This can be especially true for anyone who prefers a late embarkation, perhaps due to their travel time or because of work, school, or other commitments earlier in the day before beginning their vacation.
The change will take effect for Carnival Paradise departures beginning on July 4, 2024 through and including the October 14 departure, as well as the October 24 through and including the December 28 departure. Similarly, all Carnival Paradise sailings in 2025 and 2026 – every cruise – will depart at 3:30 p.m. instead of 4 p.m.
Carnival Cruise Line is notifying guests early to ensure they have adequate time to shift their travel plans, and urges all passengers to be sure they don’t miss their final boarding time.
“So we can get the fun started, all guests must be on board no later than the final boarding time specified on the boarding pass,”the notification read.
At this time, there are no itinerary changes for Carnival Paradise other than the homeport departure time change. The ports of call and times in port have not been shifted.
Depending on the departure date and cruise length, Carnival Paradise visits top destinations such as Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Bimini, Nassau, Belize, Roatan, Key West, and Jamaica.
Beginning in August 2025, Carnival Paradise will also be adding the new Celebration Key private destination in the Bahamas to select departures, bringing eager travelers to this highly-anticipated new port of call.
Why Is the Departure Time Changing?
Carnival Cruise Line has provided no details about why the departure time for Carnival Paradise has been shifted a half hour earlier for the foreseeable future.
Typically, the final boarding time for each sailing may be 60-90 minutes before departure, depending on the size of the ship. Carnival Paradise is one of the smallest ships in Carnival’s fleet, which means she has fewer guests, crew members, and supplies to board before each cruise.
Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov / Shutterstock
The 71,925-gross-ton Carnival Paradise is only slightly larger (by gross tonnage) than the 71,909-gross-ton Carnival Elation, her sole remaining sister ship in the Fantasy class. Carnival Paradise can only welcome 2,124 passengers at double occupancy (2,697 when fully booked), while Carnival Elation can welcome 2,190 travelers (2,697 at full occupancy).
Final boarding times are determined not only by ship size, but also by the practical time necessary to first debark all guests from the prior sailing. Then, any supplies must be loaded to provision the ship and it may be necessary to refuel the vessel while incoming guests arrive.
Other port operations, as well as tide schedules, navigational challenges in the harbor, and other ships in port, can also impact departure times for individual ships. The work schedules for harbor pilots and other port staff can also affect cruise ship departures.
Fortunately, with so much notice about changes, guests setting sail on Carnival Paradise should have no trouble adjusting their pre-cruise travel plans to ensure on-time embarkation to get their trip to paradise started 30 minutes earlier.
Royal Caribbean International has released a behind-the-scenes video for the upcoming Utopia of the Seas, detailing the installation of the popular Ultimate Abyss slide onboard.
In the dramatic shipyard footage are enticing details about what is new and different about the slide, a popular feature on most of the cruise line’s Oasis-class ships.
The Ultimate Abyss is a 10-story pair of racing dry slides, and Utopia of the Seas has the honor of bearing the longest dry slide at sea at an astonishing 259-feet (78 meters) in length. This is 43 feet longer than the previous versions of the attraction on Utopia of the Seas‘ sister ships.
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Ultimate Abyss Installation
The extra length isn’t the only new feature of this bigger, better, and more ultimate Ultimate Abyss. The slide on Utopia of the Seas also features transparent “racing windows” for the ultimate view, as well as “zoom booster rollers” for the ultimate speed.
The pair of slides were manufactured in Germany in 41 sections. Those sections were then assembled onboard the ship at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where Utopia of the Seas is undergoing her final phase of construction. Each section must be precisely fitted for a smooth, flawless ride for thousands of guests on every sailing.
The Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas is more than just a simple slide, however. The tubes are equipped with 300 LED lights for an energetic experience of swirls and colors.
The entire slide is topped with the menacing anglerfish that has become synonymous with the Ultimate Abyss. The 22-foot-tall purple fish with its 38 gleaming fangs guards the entrance to the slide as riders prepare for their 10-story drop that begins 150 feet above the ocean. The fish itself was manufactured in France.
The average ride on the Ultimate Abyss is a thrilling 19 seconds from Deck 16 to the Boardwalk neighborhood on Deck 6, with curves, swirls, and drops along the way.
Riders must ride feet-first in custom sacks that keep feet safe, and elbows must be tucked in to prevent rubbing on the narrow tubes. Riders must be at least 44 inches tall and the slide has a maximum weight limit of 300 pounds.
Utopia of the Seas is just over a month from her debut from Port Canaveral on July 19, offering 3- and 4-night short getaways visiting the Bahamas.
Each sailing will visit Nassau as well as Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, while the 4-night sailings will also include a full day at sea for guests to enjoy all the new ship has to offer.
Why the Ultimate Abyss Was Changed
It is not unusual for the same features on sister ships to have subtle differences, as each experience can be refined with more guest feedback from previous versions. This can keep the feature fresh for returning cruisers and attract more guests to a similar vessel.
The Ultimate Abyss first debuted on the third Oasis-class vessel, Harmony of the Seas, when she joined the fleet in 2016, and has been a feature on each successive ship in the class – Symphony of the Seas (2018) and Wonder of the Seas (2022).
Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Ultimate Abyss Installation
Oasis of the Seas (2009) and Allure of the Seas (2010) did not originally have the slide. The Ultimate Abyss was added to Oasis of the Seas during the ship’s 63-day “Royal Amplification” renovation in 2019. Allure of the Seas was due to begin similar renovations in March 2020, but that project was delayed due to the industry shutdown.
To date, Allure of the Seas has not yet received her Ultimate Abyss, though the slide may be installed during a future dry dock when extensive renovations are possible.
The seventh, as-yet-unnamed Oasis-class ship, a sister ship ordered in February and scheduled to debut in 2028, will also likely have her own Ultimate Abyss, perhaps with enhanced features similar to the slide now ready to welcome guests on Utopia of the Seas.
If you’ve already booked a Royal Caribbean cruise and are looking forward to your upcoming vacation, you may think that, between now and embarkation, all you have to do is pack your bags and be careful not to forget your sunscreen. However, you may want to take a few moments to book a few additional things for your cruise.
Booking certain Royal Caribbean amenities and packages ahead of embarkation can save you big money — up to 40% in some cases. Plus, you can even cancel and rebook those amenities and packages if you see they’re available at a lower cost at a later date!
Pre-booking can also save you time once you’re aboard the ship. After all, who really wants to spend their vacation time planning shore excursions or purchasing drink packages, when you could just show up and enjoy those things?
If you’re not sure where to start, here are the top Royal Caribbean amenities you should consider pre-booking before your cruise.
There are many different things you can choose to do when visiting the various ports along your cruise itinerary.
You can, of course, opt to go it on your own and explore the destination solo, including booking activities and tours that align with the time you’ll be in port.
However, the good thing about booking shore excursions directly with Royal Caribbean is that you’re always guaranteed to actually make it back to the cruise ship on time. The last thing you want is to end up in a destination, watching the cruise ship leave you behind. It’s a logistical nightmare and a sure way to ruin your vacation.
Booking shore excursions ahead of your cruise will, again, save you money and then time once you’re actually on your cruise. Additionally, it will ensure that you actually get a spot on the tours or excursions you most want to experience, before all the spots sell out.
Specialty Dining
Traveling foodies will absolutely want to make plans to dine at some of Royal Caribbean’s specialty restaurants. Particularly on the cruise line’s newer ships, you’ll find that you get a plethora of cool restaurants to choose from, and you won’t want to miss these experiences.
When booking specialty dining ahead of your cruise, you get a few options. You can book exclusive dining experiences, such as the Chef’s Table experience, and save 10% if you book ahead of time. You can also make one-off dinner reservations and likewise save 10%.
Chef’s Table on Quantum of the Seas
Booking a specialty dining package is an option as well, with either a three-restaurant dining package that gives you three meals at three different specialty venues, or an unlimited dining package that allows you to eat dinner at the specialty restaurants throughout your entire cruise, for free; you also get discounts on wine.
Do note, though, that even if you book a specialty dining package before your sail date, you do have to actually wait to make your dinner reservations for the particular restaurants you want, and the days you want, until you’re on the ship.
Once you’re on the ship, on embarkation day, you can go to any specialty restaurant and the maître d’ can help you book all your reservations, except for dining at Izumi Hibachi, for which reservations must be booked at Izumi Hibachi.
Just like with shore excursions, restaurant reservations on some cruises can go very quickly, so if you really want to dine at certain restaurants, consider booking in advance.
My Time Dining
If you’ve booked My Time Dining for your cruise, which allows you to eat in the ship’s main dining room at any time you like, while dinner is being served, you may want to reserve your preferred dining times ahead of your cruise.
Sure, some cruisers like My Time Dining because of the flexibility and you can kind of go with the flow and visit the main dining room whenever you feel like it (and try to get a seat— you’re not guaranteed one).
Dining on Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship (Photo Credit: Solarisys)
However, other cruisers purchase My Time Dining because they don’t want to be assigned a time for the main dining room. They want to pick their own time.
It’s for these latter cruisers that reserving your table in advance is a smart idea, so you’re guaranteed to have access to the main dining room at the exact time you want, every evening.
Internet
If you purchase a Royal Caribbean internet package ahead of your cruise, you could save up to 25% off the cost per user. Royal Caribbean’s most basic internet packages start at under $20 per device, per day, and come with a basic level of connection that will allow you to access websites, send emails, etc.
Photo Courtesy: Royal Caribbean / Celebrity Cruises
For a more robust package, like the VOOM Surf + Stream package, you will pay a little more — just a few dollars more per device per day — but you’ll be able to basically use high-speed WiFi like you’d use at home, allowing you to stream video.
If you wait to purchase your WiFi connection for your cruise, and only do so once you’re on the ship, you may find that your options are a little more limited and also more expensive. And don’t forget that Royal Caribbean now uses the much faster Starlink Internet.
The Key
The Key is like a VIP program that comes with special perks and benefits, and it’s only available to book prior to sailing.
The Key’s benefits include priority access during a designated arrival time for all Key guests, luggage delivery to your stateroom, an exclusive welcome lunch in the main dining room, faster and exclusive access to onboard activities (like the Flowrider surfing simulator), priority departure at tender ports of call, dedicated seating in various entertainment venues, limited WiFi and breakfast on debarkation day.
Cruise Ship Baggage Drop off
In short, purchasing The Key is almost like buying some of the VIP amenities you might get if you were to stay in one of Royal Caribbean’s suites, but without the need to actually book a suite.
Entertainment
While attending the theatrical shows on Royal Caribbean cruise ships are free, tickets can go quickly, so it’s a smart idea to pre-book your tickets.
You can pre-reserve show tickets for your cruise starting the first day of the month before sailing, and up to four days before your sail date. You’ll be able to choose the shows you want to see, as well as the days and times you want to see them.
AquaTheater at the Aft of the Ship
If you really enjoy the on-board entertainment, such as the theatrical performances and music reviews, pre-booking ensures you get to see the shows you want, without trying your luck at the on-board box office.
For your best chances at getting the tickets you want, be sure that you’re pre-reserving those tickets as soon as they’re available, on that first day of the month before sailing!
Gifts and Gear
Are you celebrating something special during your cruise? If so, you may want to pre-purchase some of Royal Caribbean’s celebratory packages. Doing so ahead of your cruise will save you up to 20% off in some instances.
Royal Promenade
For example, if you’re celebrating an anniversary, you might book a package that gives you Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries in your stateroom. If you’re celebrating a birthday, you might book a package that comes with a chocolate cake and birthday décor for your cabin.
You can even pre-purchase Royal Caribbean-branded gear and souvenirs and save a little with items like Royal Caribbean towels or coolers stocked with your favorite beach beverages.
Drink Packages
If you plan on purchasing a drink package for your cruise, doing so ahead of time will, again, save you a substantial amount, as you can find drink package deals like buy one package, get one package 50% off.
However, before purchasing a drink package — particularly the deluxe beverage package that comes with unlimited cocktails, spirits, liqueurs, beer and wines — think about the cost.
Sports Bar on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas
Even with discounts, the drink packages can be pricey, and may not be worth it unless you’re the type of traveler to spend the large majority of your vacation with a drink in hand.
In addition to pre-booking the deluxe beverage package, you can also pre-book a coffee card that comes with 15 specialty coffees during your cruise, or an Evian water package, for a case of bottled water at a 40%, pre-booking discount.
Gratuities
Yes, you can actually pre-pay for your gratuities before your cruise! There are few reasons why you might want to do so. For one, it just gets the expense paid for and done with, rather than allowing the gratuities to be charged to your credit card, after your cruise.
Additionally, it ensures you can lock in a gratuity rate, in case the rate randomly increases before your sail date (which isn’t unheard of in the cruising industry).
Boardwalk View Stateroom With Balcony
As of late 2023, Royal Caribbean charges an $18 daily gratuity fee per person for guests in staterooms and junior suites, and a $20.50 daily gratuity fee per person for guests in all other suites.
If you’re dissatisfied with this amount during your cruise, though, and can point to dissatisfactory service, you may be able to lower this fee by speaking with guest services.
Additionally, beverages and mini bar purchases come with an 18% gratuity and spa and salon purchases come with a 20% gratuity.
Amenities on Royal Caribbean’s Private Islands
If your cruise includes a stop at one of Royal Caribbean’s private islands (Labadee or Perfect Day at CocoCay), you can book amenities to enjoy on the islands, ahead of time. For example, you can reserve a private cabana, an offering that goes very quickly.
In fact, they go so quickly that, if you wait to book one until you’re on the ship, you may find that they’re all already booked. Cabanas come with privacy and cabana service, among other features.
Celebrity Cruises, perfect Day at CocoCay (Photo Credit: EWY Media / Shutterstock)
You can also pre-book certain private island activities, like a ride on the Up, Up and Away helium balloon at Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Pricing for all of the amenities and activities on these private islands is always cheaper if you pre-book, versus waiting until you actually get on your cruise.
Onboard Activities
Certain Royal Caribbean onboard activities can be pre-booked ahead of your cruise as well.
For example, if you’re sailing on a Quantum-class cruise ship and know you really want to experience the highly acclaimed North Star observation capsule, you might want to pre-book a time to do so.
Spectrum of the Seas Open Deck, Main Pool Area (Photo Credit: EnthusiasticPhotographers)
While taking a ride in the capsule is one of the free things you can do on certain ships, it’s a highly popular activity. Pre-booking will ensure you actually get to do so without waiting in overly lengthy lines.
Similarly, you can book your turn on the iFly sky diving simulator or in one of the ships’ escape rooms, ahead of time as well.
Arcade Credits
If you’re traveling with a kiddo who you know is going to be all about that on-board arcade, you may want to purchase arcade credits ahead of time. Doing so will get you the credits at a discounted rate.
Is There Anything You Definitely Shouldn’t Pre-Book?
One of the only cruise experiences that you should maybe think twice about pre-booking? Spa services. You can actually wait until the cruise is underway and get great deals on spa treatments during port days, when demand is lower.
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Docked in Miami (Photo Credit: Felix Mizioznikov)
Additionally, you can purchase photo packages ahead of your cruise, for a discount, such as a package that includes up to 100 photos for you and everyone else staying in your stateroom.
However, photo packages on cruise ships are generally a poor purchase, regardless of whether you buy them during or before your cruise. You’ll save a ton of money by simply taking your own photos and then having them printed once you get back home.
