With a fleet comprised of the world’s largest ships, six of then exceeding 135,000 tons, Royal Caribbean has continually offered more innovative features than any other mass market cruise line. Beginning in 1969 with the trademark Viking Crown Lounge offering top-of-the-ship wraparound views, more recent ships introduced the Royal Promenade, a vast multi-deck-high interior boulevard of shops, bars and eateries, rock-climbing walls (all ships), in-line skating, ice skating rinks, water parks, and hot-tubs cantilevered over the side.
Fleet
The fleet, now numbering more than a score, has the most attractive mega-ship profiles, balanced, sleek and not boxy, and arguably the most tasteful and warmest interiors. Soon the line will introduce by far the largest ships, 220,000 tonners with nearly 6,000 berths. Most passengers once aboard may decide never to leave during ports of call, and no doubt RCI will welcome the onboard spending.
Itineraries
The itineraries cover North and South America, the Mediterranean and once again the Western Pacific
Dining and Decor
While Royal Caribbean has designed some of the most dramatic multi-level and big-windowed dining rooms afloat, the mass market food does not quite match the surroundings. The winsome dining settings, if not always the food, also include Portofino, a reserved-seating Italian restaurant, a1950s-style Johnny Rockets diner and sprawling buffets, rescued by some great sea views.
Programs
The ships are loaded with activities including elaborate programs for children.
Onboard Experience
Royal Caribbean ships, virtual cities at sea, draw all age groups, and are busy places all day and well into the night around the pools, in the show lounges and bars and on the biggest ships, along the Royal Promenade.
Competitors
If Carnival ships are glitzier in decor and Norwegian offers far more restaurant choices, Royal Caribbean offers the most bells and whistles.
