When you hear “private island,” you may think of a secluded and deserted getaway with miles of sand and undeveloped beaches. In reality, they’re small developments on larger islands that provide exclusive experiences for cruise travelers. Almost all the private islands in North America are in the Bahamas, and CocoCay is one of the Berry Islands in the center of the Bahamas archipelago.

Note: only Royal Caribbean and sister-cruise like Celebrity are allowed to stop at this island.

What’s Perfect Day at CocoCay Like?

In the morning, your ship will dock at a pier that can accommodate up to two Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships. No long lines, no bumpy tender rides; just walk right off the boat and onto the island. It makes it so much more convenient to go back to the ship (see why we prefer these types of ports to those with tenders).

With the new Perfect Day, you walk up through a new pier dotted with colorful arches and awnings. You pass by a huge CocoCay sign with water geysers that erupt and lead you to the island. It feels much more like a theme park than it used to, or than other islands do.

A winding path circles the island of CocoCay, taking visitors through many different zones. These zones help spread out the visitors and make the island, which can hold up to 13,000 people, feel much less crowded. A tram is available to help visitors get around the island and get back to the ship if it’s too hot to walk or they have mobility issues.

How Much Does Perfect Day at CocoCay Cost?

There’s no cost to get onto the island itself; just walk off the ship and enjoy. I’ve easily spent a day on the island and didn’t spend an extra dime on shore, which was nice.

Tip: If you have a drink package or Wi-Fi package on the ship, they will extend to the island, which is really nice.

Some attractions and features may cost extra if you are interested in them. You can use your SeaPass card for almost anything on the island, except the Straw Market, so it makes it easy to be cash-free on the island.

Royal Caribbean adjusts the pricing based on specific cruise itineraries and ships. They’re also known to offer discounts upfront as well. The prices below are based on what we’ve seen and heard from other cruisers. For the most accurate pricing and special deals, view your Cruise Planner before your cruise.

Various Costs on Perfect Day at CocoCay

What Is There to Do at CocoCay?

Oasis Lagoon – One of the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas

Filled with over 800,000 gallons of water, Oasis Lagoon was the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas when it was built. That’s the equivalent of almost 60 inground pools! Kids and adults will love this pool, with shallow zone-entry areas for younger children and a swim-up bar with 23 seats for adults. You can find secluded coves with benches, in-water seating, or swim out to one of the three islands in the pool with seating. The pool can hold up to 1,750 people, but it rarely feels crowded because of its size and layout.

For a cool effect, dive underwater and listen to some tunes. You can’t hear them when you’re above water, but as soon as you’re submerged, you’re hit with some energizing Caribbean music.

The loungers and umbrellas are all free. Don’t worry if you forgot your towel; towel stations are available and provide complimentary towels with your room key (just make sure to return it before you head back to the ship).

Traditional Beach Fun on Chill Island or South Beach

More of a beach person than a pool person? Check out Chill Island or South Beach. With beautiful turquoise waters and soft sand beaches, it’s the perfect way to enjoy your Caribbean vacation.

Stop by South Beach and visit the sports courts. They have traditional basketball courts, beach volleyball, cornhole, and more. Because this beach is further away than the others, it’s usually easier to find lounge chairs here if you get to the island later in the day.

Chill Island is what used to be the main section of CocoCay before Royal Caribbean built Perfect Day. It’s a better section to visit if you’re interested in snorkeling or water sports. You can bring your own snorkeling equipment or rent some there for between $22 and $27. Personally, I recommend bringing your own if you’re interested in snorkeling. I paid the same price to get one from Amazon (see the snorkel) and I’ve used it at least three times since then. When I go on a regular cruise excursion, I just use what the vendor provides, but since this is just right off the boat, it’s easy to bring your own. While you’re there, swim out to the floating bar for a cocktail in the middle of the ocean.

Harbor Beach Offers a Quiet Lagoon

Play Areas for Kids – Splashaway Bay & Captain Jill’s Galleon

Splashaway Bay keeps the kids busy with five mini water slides, two dumping buckets, countless fountains, water cannons, and pools. It’s a great way to help your kids get all the energy out. It’s right by Thrill Waterpark, but it is complimentary.

If it’s a cooler day or your kids just don’t like being splashed as much, try the splash area called Captain Jill’s Galleon. Shaped like a traditional pirate ship, it has a tunnel slide and scramble net. It’s right by the pier, so your kids won’t have to wait long before going crazy.

Tip: Kids swim vests are available in case you forgot to bring swimmies (or you want to save room).

Grab Some Food While on the Island

Feeling hungry while at Perfect Day? You have the choice of three venues that offer complimentary food: Skipper’s Grill, Chill Grill, and the Snack Shacks.

Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill are two large, self-serve buffet-style venues. If you’re looking for traditional beach food, like burgers, hot dogs, and fries, you won’t be disappointed. They also have a salad bar, pre-made sandwich station, and taco bar. It’s usually open from around 11:00 am – 3:00 pm, but that depends on the sailing.

If you don’t mind paying extra for some food, stop by Captain Jack’s, a cool themed bar with specialty drinks and wings. You don’t pay admission here, so you can just stop by for a drink and play some bar games or swing on the swing seats. The food pricing is a la carte.

Grab a Refreshing Cold Beverage

Perfect Day at CocoCay has a lot of bars dotted around the island. You never have to walk too far to try a refreshing Daiquiri or Bahama Mama.

If you have a beverage package, you can use it at any of the bars or restaurants that Perfect Day at CocoCay. That’s a huge benefit since you’ll be there for quite a few hours and you can have many cocktails while relaxing. It’s a nice change compared to Carnival or Princess, who make you pay for drinks on their private islands, even if you have a drink package.

If you don’t have a drink package, the drinks cost the same on land as they do onboard. That’s about $7.25 for a beer or $11 for a standard cocktail like a Hurricane or Bahama Mama.

Want to see if the drink package is worth it for you?

Thrill Waterpark (additional cost)

While not the island’s main attraction, the Thrill Waterpark is the first thing anything notices about the island, mostly because of its colossal slide tower. The unique-looking and colorful structure houses the tallest water slide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak, as well as several 6 other body slides.

You enter the waterpark by using your SeaPass card to enter. You can come and go as often as you’d like over the course of the day.

Tip: complimentary lockers are available for guests in Thrill Waterpark.

Once inside, you have 13 different water slides to choose from as well as the largest wave pool in the Caribbean and an adventure pool with swings, ropes, and obstacles for kids to try. Free lockers are available in the park so that you can store your towels, cell phones, and other personal belongings easily.

The park can get crowded from late morning until mid-afternoon. Get there before 10 am to beat the lines. The biggest attraction is the record-breaking Daredevil’s Peak, which can have lines of up to an hour. For the rest of the water slides, the wait is usually 10 to 30 minutes per slide, which is on par with other water parks I’ve attended.

Noticeably absent is a lazy river. It seems like every waterpark has one (the one in Atlantis Bahamas is excellent), but this one does not. Also, the freshwater pool and kids splash areas are actually outside of the waterpark, so it’s weird. In essence, you’re just paying to ride the water slides or use the wave pool. If you have younger kids who just want to splash around, save your money and use the free facilities.

Costs will vary, but here are some ballpark costs. Be on the lookout for bundles with the zip line to save money or Thrill Waterpark Cabanas, which may make it cheaper (those cabanas include admission for up to 6 people).

• Full-day Thrill Waterpark Admission $44-$99 per person depending upon the season
• Children aged 0-3 are free
• Thrill Waterpark and Zip Line Bundle $99-$179

Up, Up and Away Hot Air Balloon (additional cost)

Get a unique perspective of CocoCay by flying up in its signature hot air balloon. Just like the Thrill Tower, you see this gigantic balloon in many of the ads for CocoCay. Up to 30 guests can get in and slowly rise 450 feet in the air for a beautiful view. The balloon only runs in good weather with low winds, so don’t get your hopes up too high. Because of this issue, you can’t pre-reserve tickets for it and instead need to book when you arrive on the island.

Pricing is usually between $39 – $99 for ages 13 and up and $24 – $64 for ages 4 to 12.

Zip Line (additional cost)

If you want a bit of a thrill, try out the zip line on Perfect Day at CocoCay. It’s over 1,600 feet long and has three segments lasting 20 seconds each. Riders must be between 50 and 300 pounds, and closed-toe shoes are required.

The prices for a standalone zip line run from $79 – $139 per person, but we’ve seen packages where you can get it along with the waterpark or hot air balloon for as low as $10 more. Personally, it doesn’t seem worth the steep standalone price, but for a small add-on, it can be fun for a thrill seeker.

Coco Beach Club (additional cost)

This beach club is the premier private island experience. If you want to go all-out and spend your day in the lap of luxury, try the Coco Beach Club. You can get day passes which include access to a premium beach, clubhouse, infinity pool, the exclusive restaurant Grille at Coco Beach Club, beach chairs, and umbrellas. They also have cabanas here, both on the island and the only overwater cabanas in the Caribbean.

The cost for a day pass can range between $54 – $99 per adult and $34 – $69 for children 4 – 12. Children 0 to 3 years old are free.

You can also book private cabanas in this area. The beautiful overwater cabanas, for up to 8 people, can range from $949 to $1,549 which includes admission to the beach club.

Hideaway Beach (additional cost)

Hideaway Beach is the only adults-only section at Perfect Day at CocoCay. It first opened in 2024 in a whole new part of the island previously unused by guests. This area includes a large heated infinity pool, a swim-up bar, and hundreds of loungers, and a calm lagoon to cool down in.

To get there, guests can take a dedicated tram from the Arrival Plaza for a quick 3-minute ride. Once there, guests don’t really have to leave for anything.

Hideaway Beach has two grab-and-go restaurants. Snack Shack serves similar items to the ones found on the rest of the island, but it also has special dishes like ceviche and coconut shrimp. The area also has Slice of Paradise, the one place at Perfect Day at CocoCay for pizza, and it also serves empanadas. Both of these options are completely complimentary.

The area also has several bars, including a huge swim-up bar, On the Rocks, a shaded bar area overlooking the water with live music, and several smaller bars.

Guests who want to upgrade can also book cabanas in this area. There are two types of cabanas. The Hideaway Cabana typically costs around $1,599 and includes passes for up to eight adults. The Hideout Cabana typically costs around $1,739 and includes access to a dedicated infinity pool available only to The Hideout cabana guests. It also includes passes for up to eight adults.

The cost for a day pass can range between $50 and $104.

Cabanas and Daybeds (additional cost)

While there are tons of free loungers and umbrellas available, some people prefer to upgrade to daybeds or cabanas. If you’re with a family or a group, it is nice to have a set meeting place that’s just yours to relax and enjoy. Cabanas typically come with complimentary bottled water and a safe to use.

When you book online, you have a choice of where to pick your cabana. It’s not just about location, but what you want to do and how you want to spend your time on the island. The Oasis Lagoon cabanas are usually louder and busier since they’re close to the pool. Thrill Waterpark Cabanas usually include admission to the park for up to 6 people. Chill Island and South Beach Cabanas typically include snorkeling gear and floating mats. Cabanas give you access to a cabana concierge who can help you get drinks, towels, food, etc.

Tip: If your whole family will be going to the Thrill Waterpark, check out one of their cabanas. The cabanas come with admission for up to 6 people, so it can be cheaper than buying admission separately. Just be sure to book early!

If you are considering a cabana or daybed, book early using your Cruise Planner! They fill up quickly, especially during peak season or when there are two ships at the island on the same day. Usually, pre-booking will always get you a better price as well. If you do ever see it go on sale after you book, give them a call, and they’ll usually offer you a credit. 

Here is the price range of some of the items. Again this will vary depending on demand and time of year. 

• Full-Day Beach Bed Rental: $199 – $569 for 4 guests
• Oasis Lagoon Cabana: $499.99 for 8 guests
• Chill Island Cabana: $499.99 for 8 guests
• Thrill Waterpark Cabana: $299.99 for 6 guests

Beach Rentals (additional cost)

Want to float on the ocean on a comfy foam mat? Or maybe you want to kayak or jet ski across the beautiful blue waters. You can rent these while you’re on the island to add some adventure to your day.

Sea-Doos / Jetskis are usually around $110 while kayaks are around $43. If you prefer to snorkel, you can rent equipment for that as well at around $22 – $37 per person (or bring your own).

Straw Market

The Straw Market offers traditional, handmade Bahamian crafts. This area is one of the only things on the island you will need cash for, as these vendors aren’t employed by Royal Caribbean.

How to Book Activities?

The best way to book these activities is by using your Cruise Planner, either the website or through the app. Since Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, the cost, discounts, and bundle promotions can change often.

Tip: Booking usually opens 6 months before your cruise. Book early; things sell out quickly. Also, Royal Caribbean usually uses dynamic pricing, which means things will be more expensive as they get full.

Is CocoCay Right for You?

As always, there’s no clear answer; everyone has their own tastes and opinions. Before I first stepped foot on the island, I was afraid it would feel like a massive theme park. But on my first visit, I realized I was wrong. Yes, it’s developed, but Royal Caribbean has painstakingly planted thousands of plants and designed the areas so everyone can find what they’re looking for, whether that’s peaceful relaxation, a thrill, or a party vibe.

You might like Perfect Day at CocoCay if…

• You have kids
  • There’s tons to do on the island that don’t require extra money. Little kids love just swimming and playing in the sand; here, they can do that at no cost. 
• You’re with a group
  • Planning excursions with a group is such a hassle. With Perfect Day, you just walk off the boat and enjoy.
• You like waterparks
  • How can you say no to trying the tallest water slide in North America?
• You don’t like spending a lot of money on excursions
  • There are lots of ways to spend money on CocoCay, but you don’t have to. If you just want to relax by the beach or in the pool, you don’t have to spend a single penny, and food is included. You won’t find that in many other excursions at other ports. 

You might not like Perfect Day at CocoCay if…

• You want to learn about local culture, cuisine, architecture, or history.
  • Perfect Day at CocoCay is basically the equivalent of a theme park. Most people who work on the island live on the island, so you won’t be sharing culture. There are no visiting museums or historical points of interest either. 
• You don’t like outdoor or sun-based activities
  • While there are many opportunities for shade on CocoCay, you have to walk in full sun to get to them, and there’s no air conditioning. If you prefer being indoors or excursions in air-conditioned buses to museums, then you won’t like CocoCay.
• You like to shop
  • There is a small Straw Market on the island, but if you like to go to different stores to find deals and tax-free merchandise, you won’t find much to do here.
• You like to find secluded getaways not many people know about
  • This island is not a “hidden gem”; it’s a very well-known beach getaway visited by almost every Royal Caribbean ship sailing in the Caribbean.  

Follow Along on Our Visits to Perfect Day?

Read our blog when we visited Perfect Day on Star of the Seas

Read our blog when we visited Perfect Day on Celebrity Reflection

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Ovation of the Seas

Amplified Debut: May 15, 2026

It seems a bit early for Ovation of the Seas to get an Amplification. Usually, this program is reserved for older ships, but this Quantum Class ship will be just 10 years old when it gets the refresh.

Updated Pool Deck

The pool deck will be “revamped,” which will likely not have the Caribbean-inspired theme of the newer ships since it’s not mentioned specifically in the press release (it makes sense since this ship usually sails cool-weather cruises). We do know they’ll add new private casitas and add a new whirlpool.

Casino Royale Will Expand and Sound Cellar Will Be Added

The release mentions that Casino Royale will be expanded, but it doesn’t specify how. They also mention a new place to “dance the night away” called Sound Cellar. Putting those two facts together hints that the two-story Music Hall may be going away and split into a one-floor dance venue and one-floor casino.

Dining and Bar Changes

Wonderland will be removed, and Teppanyaki tables will be added to Izumi, which currently only serves sushi on Ovation.

The Bionic Bar will be replaced by Pesky Parrot, the tiki-themed bar that debuted on Utopia of the Seas and was recently added to Allure. Jamie’s Italian will be replaced with Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen.

Suite Updates

The ship will also receive an Ultimate Family Suite, which has become a signature suite option across the fleet.

After the Amplification, Ovation of the Seas will sail Alaskan adventures starting in spring 2026.

Harmony of the Seas

Amplified Debut: May 21, 2026

Like Ovation, Harmony of the Seas is relatively young for an Amplification, having debuted in 2016. As the third Oasis Class ship, it was the first in the class to feature water slides and the Ultimate Abyss dry slide. Now, it’s being brought up to speed with its newer siblings.

Pool and Deck Updates

The pool areas will be re-themed with vibrant Caribbean-style décor, and the pool bars on Deck 15 and 16 will become The Lime & Coconut.

The adult-only Solarium will be “refreshed.” While they didn’t provide specifics, we hope that includes finally adding a pool. Harmony is currently the only Oasis Class ship without a dedicated Solarium pool.

Dining and Bar Changes

Sabor, the Mexican-themed restaurant currently located in the Boardwalk neighborhood, will be replaced by Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade.

Mini Bites will be replaced with El Loco Fresh, the casual Tex-Mex venue.

Surprisingly, Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse will be added. This specialty venue is only found on two other ships in the fleet, Allure and Radiance of the Seas. On Oasis Class ships, Samba Grill typically takes over the Solarium Bistro during dinner service, while breakfast and lunch remain complimentary.

Casino Expansion

Casino Royale will be expanded to become the largest casino in the fleet. If the expansion follows the same pattern as on other Oasis Class ships, The Attic comedy club and the Crown Lounge (formerly Diamond Club) on Deck 4 may be removed to make room for a larger non-smoking casino.

After its updates, Harmony of the Seas will spend the summer of 2026 sailing the Mediterranean before repositioning to Port Canaveral for 5- and 7-night itineraries.

Liberty of the Seas

Amplified Debut: April 3, 2026

Of the three ships, Liberty of the Seas is most in need of an Amplification. It was originally scheduled for upgrades pre-COVID, but Royal Caribbean delayed those plans while sister ships received their updates. Now, it’s finally Liberty’s turn.

Pool Deck and Outdoor Changes

The entire pool deck will be “completely reimagined.” Royal Caribbean plans to add The Lime & Coconut bars and private casitas. Hopefully, they keep the excellent kids’ pool area, which currently is one of the best in the fleet, which includes a pool with a waterfall, a large Splashaway Bay, and two dedicated kids’ hot tubs.

Restaurant and Bar Changes

Izumi Teppanyaki will be added and is likely to replace Sabor on Deck 4.

El Loco Fresh will also be added. Based on the layout, it will likely take over the Squeeze Bar space near the kids’ pool on Deck 11.

A dedicated Starbucks will also be added to the ship.

It wasn’t highlighted in the press release, but hopefully this ship will finally get Coke Freestyle machines; it’s one of the few ships in the fleet that don’t have them.

Escape Room Added

The Chapel will be replaced with a Royal Escape Room, in line with what we’ve seen on other Amplified ships.

After its Amplification, Liberty of the Seas will offer summer sailings from Southampton, visiting destinations like the Norwegian fjords, Bruges, and Copenhagen. For winter 2026, the ship will reposition to Galveston, Texas.

My Take: Some Much Needed Improvements, but Is It Really “Amplified”?

When Royal Caribbean first introduced the term “Amplification,” it referred to large-scale ship overhauls that cost upwards of $100 million. While no budget was disclosed this time, these changes seem more like moderate refreshes than full-blown transformations.

Still, it’s great to see Royal Caribbean making efforts to keep their fleet consistent and up to date. Guests appreciate a familiar, modern experience regardless of which ship they sail. Liberty of the Seas was the most in need, but all three ships will now feel more in line with Royal Caribbean’s newest and most popular offerings.

Some decisions are a bit puzzling, though. Why didn’t they add Mason Jar on Harmony? No Playmakers for Liberty of the Seas? And are they really still not adding a pool to the Harmony Solarium?

That said, having personally sailed on all three ships in the past few years, I think these upgrades are welcome changes. It really proves Royal Caribbean’s whole point of doing these upgrades. Even though I’ve sailed on all three of these ships over the past five years, I’ve never had the chance to visit a Lime or Coconut Bar, Playmakers, or El Loco Fresh, some of the most talked-about venues on the new ships. These changes will harmonize the Royal Caribbean experience.

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The most popular cruise ship adaptations of Broadway shows are jukebox musicals, or plays consisting of popular songs everyone knows brought together under a singular plot. Most shows are also shortened versions of the Broadway productions; they remove the intermission and some scenes to get the shows closer to 90 minutes.

Here, we take a look at all the shows currently being performed on the high seas.

Royal Caribbean Broadway Shows

Back to the Future: The Musical – Star of the Seas

Back to the Future: The Musical is a musical adaptation of the beloved 1985 film starring Michael J. Fox. It opened in Manchester, England, in February 2020 before transferring to the West End in 2021. The show made its American debut on Broadway in August 2023, with a North American tour starting in June 2024.

Unlike many of Royal Caribbean’s other Broadway offerings, Back to the Future: The Musical is not a jukebox musical; most songs are original compositions specifically created for this production. While cruise lines often lean toward jukebox musicals for their familiarity and broad appeal, the Back to the Future brand itself is likely to attract audiences on its own merit. The show follows the misadventures of Marty McFly as he gets sent back into the past and has to find his way home.

Cats – Oasis of the Seas

Cats is one of the most quintessential Broadway shows. Created by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cats debuted on Broadway in 1983, winning 7 Tony Awards that year. The show ran for 17 years on Broadway and has been performed around the world. It’s even seen a reinterpretation recently in New York City with Cats: The Jellicle Ball, reimagining the show in the Ballroom scene.

The show Cats is set in a magical junkyard and revolves around the Jellicle cats as they make the Jellicle choice, determining which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer. The show is best known for its amazing cat costumes and extraordinary choreography. It’s also known to be one of the most polarizing shows, with some people loving it and others hating it. While the plot is relatively light, you’ll at least recognize the song “Memory,” made famous by Barbara Streisand.

Hairspray – Symphony of the Seas

The Symphony of the Seas hosts Hairspray, a vibrant musical set in 1960s Baltimore. Based on the 1988 John Waters movie starring Rikki Lake, this show follows Tracy Turnblad, a teenager with big dreams of dancing on “The Corny Collins Show.” Since its Broadway debut in 2002, “Hairspray” has won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Hairspray tackles themes of racial integration in the ’60s along with body positivity, all while delivering infectious music and lively performances. The uplifting show is filled with catchy songs like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” You’re sure the leave the Royal Theater with a smile on your face.

Mamma Mia – Allure of the Seas

Set to the music of ABBA, Mamma Mia! is a jukebox musical that has captivated audiences worldwide. It debuted on Broadway in 1999 and has been showing on Allure of the Seas since the ship launched in 2009.

Guests will follow the story of Sophie, a young woman who invites three men to her wedding, hoping to discover which one is her father. The musical’s lively score features hits like “Dancing Queen” and “Take a Chance on Me,” making it a fun and energetic performance. You’re sure to see audience members singing along in this feel-good musical.

Saturday Night Fever – Liberty of the Seas

This jukebox musical is based on the 1977 film starring John Travolta. Set in Brooklyn, Saturday Night Fever story follows Tony Manero, a young man who escapes his everyday life by dancing at the local disco.

The stage version of the show debuted on Broadway in 1998 and ran for 501 performances. While it wasn’t nominated for any Tony Awards, its energetic score kept audiences coming back. The show features music by the Bee Gees, including hits like “Stayin’ Alive” and “Night Fever,” which helped define the disco era.

The Wizard of Oz – Icon of the Seas

If you think of The Wizard of Oz, your mind likely goes to the 1939 film classic starring Judy Garland. The show has actually been adapted three times for stage performances, the most recent appearing on Broadway in 2011. While most of the songs are from the original film, new songs were added to flesh out the stage production. The musical includes classic songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “Follow the Yellow Brick Road.” It also has all the beloved characters, such as the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion.

Icon of the Seas brings this enchanting world to life with a new interpretation. The production is modern and has an avant-garde take on the costumes and sets. When the ship debuted in 2022, guests were wowed by the production level of the performance, far surpassing anything they were expecting.

We Will Rock You – Anthem of the Seas

While We Will Rock You is not technically a Broadway show, it ran for 12 years at the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End. The show is a jukebox musical featuring the music of Queen. Set in a dystopian future where musical instruments are banned, a group of rebels sets out to bring back rock and roll. The show features many of Queen’s greatest hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “We Are the Champions,” and, of course, “We Will Rock You.” It’s been running in the Royal Theater on Anthem of the Seas since it debuted in 2015.

Norwegian Cruise Line Broadway Shows

Unfortunately, in recent years, Norwegian Cruise Line has been removing the Broadway shows from their ships. While they mostly received fantastic feedback from guests, they have removed Kinky Boots, Six, and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical from their ships. It’s not known if they’ll also remove Jersey Boys and Million Dollar Quartet when their agreements are up.

Beetlejuice – Norwegian Viva

You’ve undoubtedly heard of the Beetlejuice movie, Tim Burton’s 1988 comedy classic featuring big names like Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Catherine O’Hara, Winona Ryder, and Michael Keaton. And you may have seen Beetlejuice, the animated series which ran from 1989 to 1991. But you may not know Beetlejuice was adapted into a musical and ran on Broadway for nearly 700 performances between 2019 and 2023. Nominated for eight Tony awards, the show was widely viewed as a fun comedic take on the movie but suffered a relatively short run due to the pandemic. 

Beetlejuice debuted on the Norwegian Viva when it set sail in 2022. The 90-minute production takes place in the Viva Theater. Norwegian worked with some of the original Broadway crew to design this performance’s exquisite sets and amazing costumes.

Note: Beetlejuice will close March 27, 2026

The Choir of Man – Norwegian Escape, Encore, Bliss

The Choir of Man is another not-quite Broadway show, although it has been performed on the West End since 2021. The show originally debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2017, where Norwegian licensed this show for their new ship at the time, the Norwegian Escape.

The show combines live music, dance, and foot-stomping fun. Set in a British pub, The Choir of Man features a group of nine talented performers who deliver an energetic mix of pop songs, folk tunes, and pub anthems. With hits like “Some Nights,” “500 Miles,” and “Under the Bridge,” this show is a celebration of camaraderie, music, and the joy of being together. The casual atmosphere and interactive nature of the show make it a favorite among many guests.

What About Disney?

While Disney Cruise Line does offer Broadway-caliber shows on board all of their ships, these are productions created specifically for the cruise ships and not an adaptation of the Broadway production. For example, the Aladdin show on Broadway introduces new songs and a trio of friends rather than the money Abu. The Disney cruise ship version sticks closer to the original movie and doesn’t include any of the changes that were seen on Broadway.

That being said, these shows are incredibly well done, with special effects and casting that will rival anything you’ll see on Broadway. They are relatively light on the plot, though, as they squeeze each production into a 30 to 45-minute show.

• Aladdin – Fantasy and Wish
• Beauty and the Beast – Dream and Treasure
• Frozen: A Musical Spectacular – Destiny, Fantasy, Wonder
• The Little Mermaid – Wish

A Sea of Entertainment Awaits

Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or new to the world of musicals, these performances offer an unforgettable experience that rivals the stages of New York and London. Even better, none of these shows have an additional cost, meaning if you’re not typically someone who enjoys shows, you can try one out. From the nostalgic beats of classic jukebox musicals to the dazzling reinterpretations of timeless tales, the seas are brimming with options that will entertain and inspire you. So next time you find yourself onboard, make sure to catch a show—you might just discover your new favorite musical.

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Is it worth the extra cost? That’s up to you, but here are some alternatives you could take to save thousands without sacrificing.

Celebrity Xcel

Want to try a premium cruise line? Royal Caribbean’s upscale cruise line, Celebrity Cruises, will also launch a new ship in 2025. It’ll be called the Celebrity Xcel, and it’ll be another in the popular Edge-class of ships.

While this ship isn’t as family-focused as Royal Caribbean, kids are still welcome, and for kid-free travelers, it offers an elevated experience over Royal Caribbean. The Xcel will offer beautiful outdoor areas, classy bars, and high-end dining options. 

Booking a 7-day sailing on this ship will save you quite a bit compared to Star of the Seas. An interior cabin on the Xcel would save you $1,141. A balcony cabin, or infinity verandah in this case, would save you over $2,000 compared to Star of the Seas. This Celebrity rate includes the standard alcoholic drinks package and Wi-Fi as well. 

Carnival Celebration

If you want a more family-focused ship, the Carnival Celebration is a great option. While it’ll be three years old by December 2025, it’s still a very modern cruise ship and can give Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class ships a run for their money. 

Like the Oasis-class ships, the Celebration is split into zones to accommodate a large number of passengers without feeling crowded. It has the “Ultimate Playground,” an excellent area for kids with mini golf, a large splash park, a ropes course, and the BOLT roller coaster.

The Celebration also has more included dining options compared to Star of the Seas and some excellent casual dining options. 

Just how much can you save if you cruise on the Carnival Celebration? We looked at a similar 7-day sailing for an interior cabin for two adults and two children. 

The Star of the Seas would cost you $4,574. The Celebration? It’d be half the price at $2,290. 

If it’s an adult’s only trip, you’ll still save. We looked at a sailing with two adults in a balcony cabin. You could actually take two cruises on Celebration versus one on Star of the Seas (ever want to try a back-to-back cruise?). You’d still have $50 left to put towards an excursion. 

See all Carnival Celebration restaurants and activities

Norwegian Aqua

Norwegian Cruise Line will also launch a new ship in 2025, the Aqua. The ship is a balance between the two previous ships. It’s a Prima-class ship offering a more upscale experience than other Norwegian ships. But even with that, it has some more family-friendly features like an AquaCoaster, Splash Park, and a dry thrill slide. 

Norwegian Aqua has lots of dining options. Although it has more specialty restaurants than the Star of the Seas, which might cost more, the Indulge Food Hall and 24/7 restaurant, The Local, both offer delicious food at no extra cost. 

A balcony on the Norwegian Aqua will save you about $2,000 compared to Star of the Seas. This rate uses Norwegian’s Free at Sea package which comes with Unlimited Open Bar, two specialty dining, meaning it’s an even bigger savings.

See all the Norwegian Aqua dining options and activities.

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

If you don’t need the Category 6 Waterpark and dedicated family neighborhood, you’ll save a lot by trying one of Royal Caribbean’s older Oasis-class ships. These ships will offer a mega-ship experience at a fraction of the cost. 

While all the schedules for all the Oasis-class ships aren’t out yet, you can save nearly $3,000 by booking a balcony cabin for a 7-day sailing on Harmony of the Seas out of Galveston. 

See all the Harmony of the Seas restaurants and activities.

Lots of options if you’re not willing to pay Star of the Seas’ sky-high prices

If you don’t have your heart set on Royal Caribbean’s newest and largest ship, you can save a lot of money by trying other ships. These are just some of the latest options, but there are plenty of alternatives out there. Do your research and decide what’s really important to you. 

Here’s an honest look at how the two ships compare.

About cruise ship classes

Before I start, a bit of background for people new to cruising. Cruise ships are broken into classes, where ships in the same class are very similar. That means, for the most part, the insights I share below can be applied to all the sister-ships of the Harmony of the Seas and Celebration. 

Harmony of the Seas is part of the largest class of cruise ships in the world, the Oasis-class. Royal Caribbean has six ships in this class that will, for the most part, have a similar experience: Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, with Utopia of the Seas coming in next year. 

The Carnival Celebration is part of the Excel-class, Carnival’s newest and largest class of ship. You’ll have a similar experience on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, Celebration, and upcoming Jubilee.

How the size compared

The Carnival Celebration and Harmony of the Seas are both really big ships. While the Carnival Celebration is about 19% smaller than the Harmony of the Seas, they’re both the largest class of ship by these two cruise lines and both are clearly megaships. Both also hold roughly the same amount of people, around 6,600, at full capacity. Megaships aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but that’s not what this comparison is about. We’re looking at one megaship versus another.

How the look and feel of the ships compared

Harmony of the Seas 

Royal Caribbean tries to walk a fine line with Harmony of the Seas. They try to make it feel classy and sophisticated without feeling pretentious and stuffy. The stairwells and walkways are filled with art, which is typically more modern and whimsical than stuffy and classical. But there’s no real clear personality on the ship.

The outdoor areas on the Harmony of the Seas feel very industrial, with lots of plain metal and white paint. Royal Caribbean has started adding more color to their newer ships with Caribbean-themed pool areas and the vibrant Lime and Coconut Bar, but Harmony of the Seas still has the more old-school, blank canvas-like design.

One notable exception is Central Park. With over 12,000 live plants, you feel like you’ve been transported into another world. This lush neighborhood is so peaceful. The sea breeze rustles the leaves as a soundtrack of birds and crickets fills the space, making it feel more natural. While it was one of my favorite parts of the ship, it didn’t feel very “Caribbean.” 

The Royal Promenade, a large multi-story venue that runs through the ship at Deck 5, also stands out. It’s a hot spot day and night, hosting dances and serving as a main thoroughfare. But the Promenade can also feel like a mall with its layout of stores along the sides. 

My biggest problem with Harmony of the Seas was the lack of ocean views. Looking through the hundreds of pictures I took on this sailing, only a handful had the ocean in it. Very few venues have windows looking out, and the pool decks all focus inward, which kind of takes away one of the main reasons for cruising.

Carnival Celebration

The Celebration has a distinct feel you get from the minute you walk on. It integrates whimsy with classier decor, like statues of flamingos roller skating in front of a crystal staircase or the vibrant confetti-themed color-changing ceiling in Celebration Central. If you’ve sailed on Carnival’s older ships, the Celebration feels completely different. They’ve tried to elevate the look and atmosphere of the ship without making it feel like a Hyatt. 

It’s almost shocking at the difference in ocean views on the Celebration compared to the Harmony of the Seas. The ship has two aft-facing pools with bars that overlook the ship’s wake, providing a relaxing view both day and night. There are so many places to grab a lounger or table and enjoy the panoramic views of the ocean.

Inside the ship, their main hub, called Celebration Central, has floor-to-ceiling windows that span three decks and overlook the ocean. While these windows are often blocked with screens for performances that happen in the area, when they’re open and uncovered, the views are impressive. 

On the Celebration, most bars and dining rooms also look out at the ocean and provide some kind of views. While the main pool is interior-focused, most other loungers on the ship face the water, not the inside. 

One thing that stuck out about the Celebration was the lack of art. Stairwells were all empty and just had a colored wall. That very well may change as they were adding a Park West gallery as I was leaving the ship.

How the ship layout compared

Both Harmony of the Seas and Carnival Celebration use zones, or neighborhoods, to disperse crowds evenly across the ship. Royal Caribbean was the first to do this on their Oasis of the Seas, and it was highly effective at managing the thousands of people. Carnival copied this concept on their Excel-class ships. 

Harmony of the Seas Neighborhoods

• Royal Promenade
• Central Park
• Boardwalk
• Pools and Sports Zone
• Vitality of the Sea and Fitness Center
• Entertainment Place
• Youth Zone

Harmony of the Seas is relatively easy to navigate as long as you can remember what neighborhood most stuff is in. But things are really spread out, which means lots of walking. The ship has only two elevator banks instead of the traditional 3, making it a longer walk between elevators. Walking to the nearest elevator means walking 1/3 of the ship instead of 1/4 of the ship with the three-elevator bank design. 

The Harmony of the Seas has a split superstructure design, which creates two internal neighborhoods that are lined with interior cabins and open at the top. In the middle of the ship is Central Park and the Boardwalk is at the back. The rest of the neighborhoods are less well-themed and more of a grouping of venues in a certain part of the ship.

Carnival Celebration Zones

• Celebration Central
• Summer Landing
• 820 Biscayne
• The Gateway
• Lido
• The Ultimate Playground

Carnival’s zone layout is much more well-themed, carrying out the unique concept of the zone throughout all venues in the area. For example, in 820 Biscayne, a Miami-themed zone, you’ll find Miami Slice pizza place and a bar serving Miami-inspired cocktails while art-deco, Miami-themed decor sets the space apart from the rest of the ship. 

The layout of the Celebration is closer to that of a traditional cruise ship, so it’s a bit easier to navigate and requires less walking. Venues and activities are still spread out but clustered better, so you’re not constantly walking back and forth through the ship. Most activities are on the lower decks (6, 7, and 8) or the upper decks (16, 17, and 18). 

Carnival puts stairs between all the levels in the main promenade areas and thoroughfares, making it easier to get between spaces without waiting in the long elevator lines (although those stairwells are often closed in the evening for pictures). 

Comparing shows and entertainment

Carnival Celebration

Entertainment on the Carnival Celebration was fast-paced and diverse. Rarely did a show or activity go more than 40 minutes, and their daily schedule was jam-packed full of activities. 

The Carnival Celebration had two main venues for shows: the main theater and Celebration Central. In the main theater, they had game shows and production shows with choreography and cover songs. 

In Celebration Central, the 3-story atrium in the ship, they had more artistic performances where the actors would be amongst the audience. The seating in this area was very poorly thought out, but the shows themselves were impressive. Their Celestial Strings and Most Magnificent Circus shows were some of the best I’ve seen from Carnival.

The Celebration also had a really strong comedy program. Over the course of my 7-day sailing, they had four different comedians performing in three different venues. While the comedy clubs were small, they ran seven different showings a night, meaning you could get in at least one show as long as you got there 15 minutes or so early. 

Harmony of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas had three main venues offering shows: the Main Theater, the AquaTheater, and the Studio B ice skating rink. The shows themselves were impressive. 

The AquaTheater and Studio B had Olympic-level performers executing impressive movements and stunts during artistic shows. In the main theater, they had a production show with dancing and cover songs as well as a version of the Broadway show Grease. 

Their programming is a bit more avent-garde, though, sometimes choosing to be too artsy rather than appealing to everyone. For example, some of the shows had custom music no one knew, and made it harder to appreciate. 

For comedy, I can’t comment on how it was because Royal Caribbean only had one venue for comedy, and it held only 206 people. I wasn’t able to get into any shows during my cruise. 

Ship activities compared

If you want a ship with lots of things to do for people of all ages, you’ll be happy on either the Harmony of the Seas or the Carnival Celebration. 

Harmony of the Seas activities

Harmony of the Seas has plenty on board to keep you entertained on sea days. The ship has a FlowRider, zipline, merry-go-round, ten-deck thrill slide, climbing wall, basketball court, splash pad, waterslides, mini golf, and an ice skating rink. 

While the sheer amount of things to do was impressive, I was equally impressed that Royal Caribbean doesn’t charge extra for these activities. They are all included in the cruise fare, which means the whole family can try these activities without racking up a big bill at the end. 

While I was on Harmony of the Seas, I tried the FlowRider surf simulator for the first time and loved it. The feel of the water rushing beneath me as I laid on the boogieboard was exhilarating, and I loved being pushed up the hill by the waves when I wiped out. 

The Harmony of the Seas has three sizeable pools open to everyone and a splash pad for kids. Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean decided not to put an adults-only pool in the solarium, a colossal misstep (all other Oasis-class ships have one). 

Carnival Celebration activities

The Celebration has similar activities; you’ll find a mini golf course, a massive splash park, big waterslides, and a basketball court. For Carnival and Royal Caribbean, these are pretty much staples at this point. 

The Celebration has a few differentiators. In the Ultimate Playground, the Celebration has a massive ropes course on the ship’s top deck with a zip line portion that goes right over the ship’s side. The ship also has a roller coaster mounted to the top called BOLT. You’ll also find an area with cornhole and shuffleboard for casual games. 

Most of these activities are included in the cruise fare, but unfortunately, Carnival charges $15 a person for the rollercoaster, which seems steep for a 90-second ride. 

In terms of pools, the Carnival Celebration has the same number of generally available pools, although they have much better views. The Celebration also has a nice-sized adults-only pool in the Serenity Area. 

How the food compared

Food is very subjective, so your experience may differ, but on both ships, I thought the food was solid. Over the course of the sailings, I had both amazing and lackluster experiences. At no point would I send anything back, but it was puzzling how I could have starkly different experiences on the same ship, restaurant, and sailing.

Dining options

Because both ships have a lot of options, I found I only went to the main buffet on each ship once. Instead, I’d go to alternate restaurants that were less crowded and had shorter waits. Avoiding the buffet on both ships really increased my cruise experience both times. This is something that is unique to both of these classes of ships; they have so many more dining options than the smaller and older ships. 

Upcharge restaurants

One difference that stood out is that Royal Caribbean really tries to push the upsell dining options, while Carnival has many more included venues. Carnival does have specialty restaurants available for an extra charge, but the cost of these restaurants is typically half of what Royal Caribbean charges. Also, three specialty dining options (Cucina del Capitano, Guy’s Pig and Anchor Smokehouse, and ChiBang) on the Celebration were included for free (the first time at these restaurants is free, and the second is $10 per person). That being said, the quality of these included specialty restaurants was much lower than those with a charge. 

Main dining room

For the most part, the main dining room experience was similar for me. Both cruise lines have notably cut back on the quality of the food and dishes they offer. Back in the 90s, you’d get amazing meals in the main dining room with high-end service like you’d see at a steakhouse. Now, it’s much closer to what you’d see at a restaurant at home. In my experience, it’s better than a chain restaurant like TGI Fridays or Applebee’s, but don’t expect steakhouse-level dining for free anymore. If that’s important to you, consider a premium cruise line or a dining package. 

Casual Food

While the main dining room experience was the same on both, in my opinion, the fast-casual options on the Celebration were much better. Typically, these options are grab-and-go for lunch. Carnival brands their options and really puts a lot of focus on them. Guys Burger Joint, in cooperation with Guy Fieri, is still one of the best burgers I’ve ever had. Blue Iguana Cantina makes delicious tacos and burritos that I always look forward to. I was also blown away by the newest addition, Shaq’s Big Chicken, which offered flavorful fried chicken and sandwiches.

The Harmony of the Seas didn’t have a lack of food, but you could tell they didn’t focus on it. The Park Cafe and Cafe Promenade offer small sandwiches and salads throughout the day. There’s no dedicated Mexican/fast casual place on Harmony of the Seas, and if you want a burger, you’ll have to settle for a rubbery precooked patty from the buffet. 

The Harmony of the Seas did have Sea Dogs in the Boardwalk that offered four choices of premium dogs, but oddly, the place didn’t offer chips or fries to go with it, making it more of a snack than a meal. The ship also had “Mini Bites,” a small buffet line conveniently located near the sports area and kids’ decks. It has traditional American, kid-friendly fare like fries and chicken nuggets, but I definitely wouldn’t call it high quality. It wasn’t bad at all, but it also wasn’t anything I’d write home about.

How the drinks and cocktails compared

You won’t struggle to find a drink on either ship. Both ships have a large number of bars both inside and outside; you’re rarely far from being able to get a cocktail. 

Bar menus and options

In terms of menus, Carnival far surpasses Royal Caribbean. First off, they actually have menus and high-quality ones. When I was sailing, Royal Caribbean still forced us to use apps to pull up the menus, which really stopped people from ordering things other than their “usual.” You can see the Royal Caribbean drink menus here.

Nearly all of Carnival’s bars had dedicated menus with completely unique cocktails. On the Celebration, I had my favorite new drink, The Japanese inspired Sakura, served with a bubble on top, and my favorite, Cucumber Sunrise from Alchemy Bar. You can see all the Carnival bar menus here.

On the other hand, on Harmony of the Seas, most bars had a menu that was 95% similar, with one of two different cocktails. From my Harmony of The Seas cruise, I can’t recall a single drink that stood out. Everything just seemed so boring compared to the offerings on the Celebration.

Bar service

In terms of service, both ships seemed to be fully staffed. The longest I waited for a drink was 5 minutes, but it was often less than that. Harmony of the Seas had bartenders and waiters circulating the pool decks constantly, while on the Celebration, they were hard to find. On the two days I spent on the pool deck in the adult-only Serenity area, I wasn’t approached by a server once. 

Soda and Coffee

In terms of other nonalcoholic beverages, the Celebration is a Pepsi ship and Harmony of the Seas is a Coke ship. If you have a soda package on Royal Caribbean, you get a cup and can use the self-serve Coke Freestyle machines (you can also get sodas at any bar by ordering from the bartender). 

The Celebration had self-serve machines, but they were often broken for our sailing and had much fewer choices.

If you like coffee, Harmony of the Seas had Starbucks and Celebration had their own coffee shop called Java Blue Cafe. 

Drink Costs

In terms of cost, Royal Caribbeans’ prices were around $2 per drink more expensive, which added up over a 7-day cruise. 

Both ships have drink packages available. Carnival’s Cheers Package costs $64.95 a day, but it maxes out at 15 alcoholic drinks a day (soda, coffee, water, and mocktails are unlimited). 

Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, so the drink package price fluctuates for each ship and sail date. For our sailing, the cost was between $72.99 – $77.99 per day. 

To see if a drink package is worth it, use our drink package calculator.

How the crowds compared

When I sailed on both ships, they were at full capacity. For Harmony of the Seas, it was “Jersey Week,” where all New Jersey schools are off, so many families go down to Florida for vacation. For the Celebration, it was during the Miami-Dade County spring break. That meant this was as full as the ships would get, and there were a lot of kids. That meant around 6,600 guests on both ships. 

Overall, both ships handled full capacity really well. Neither felt overly crowded, and I’ve experienced worse crowding on much smaller ships with fewer people.

The key is the neighborhood design that splits people up. At no point is everyone in one place on the ship. At dining times, the restaurants are spread throughout the ship, splitting people into different areas. For shows, one would happen in the front of the ship while another was at the back end.

There were two exceptions, though. The pool areas on both ships felt crowded on sea days. They were standing room only, and most were filled with kids splashing and jumping. The Celebration’s felt more crowded because the layout created a mass of people in the central area around the lido pool.

The other crowded area was the Celebration’s Biscayne 820 zone at night. This area featured a very popular bar, an outdoor smoking area, a pizza place, and a sandwich place. At night, this area was very congested and filled with a lot of kids. On top of that, they squeezed a lot of photo areas in the hallway making it feel even more cramped.

Overall, though, on either ship, you’d never guess you had 6,000 people sailing with you. Since these sailings, I went on an older and smaller ship, Liberty of the Seas, and was shocked by how much more crowded and congested it felt. 

How the overall attitude/atmosphere compared

In terms of atmosphere, the two ships had a slightly different feel. 

With a Carnival ship, you know you’re in for fun. The energy is in the air the moment you board, and other guests are quick to strike up a conversation. The entertainment staff is all over the ship, and although this specific sailing wasn’t up to Carnival’s usual standard, they were much more present than Harmony of the Seas. 

On Royal Caribbean, the entertainment staff was much more removed and had less energy and passion. On both ships, though, I encountered incredibly friendly and helpful staff who always greeted me with a smile.

If you read online comments, you’ll see that people often refer to Carnival as the Walmart of cruise lines and hear about awful and unruly passengers. A lot of that has to do with the ship and sailing. Shorter, cheaper cruises on older ships will attract a more rowdy, party-heavy atmosphere on both cruise lines. These being the newer and larger ships that command a higher price, I saw a similar atmosphere and clientele on both. That being said, a cruise’s atmosphere can wildly vary depending on who’s sailing with you. If there’s a senior tour onboard, it’s going to feel different than if it was a massive amount of family reunions. 

Both are impressive ships

Honestly, both ships were great, and I’d sail again on either in a heartbeat. It’s amazing to see how far cruising has come since I first sailed on the original Carnival Celebration back in 2004. They both represent decades of learning and improvements in technologies and philosophies of cruising. I was really blown away by both experiences. 

Overall, the ships were more similar than different, but there are a few key differences. 

If you love the ocean

The Carnival Celebration is a better choice. The ocean views available all around the ship far surpass anything you’d find on the Harmony of the Seas.

If you love food

There are a few caveats here; I found the main dining room on both to be serviceable but inconsistent. I had good and mediocre food on both ships. For fast casual, grab-and-go food, the Celebration comes out with better options in terms of quality and selection. If you prefer specialty or fine dining, Harmony of the Seas has more of those options, and they are generally good quality, but they’ll cost you.

If you want a group cruise

Both ships have tons to offer, so they’re good for a group cruise where people may have different tastes and preferences. The layout of Harmony of the Seas makes it a bit harder to bump into others in your group spontaneously, as most areas are self-contained. But at the same time, they offer free chat between guests on the ship, while Carnival charges $5 per person.

If you’ve never cruised before

Both ships are great for new cruisers, but just a warning, you’re setting the bar high. They will break the most common expectations and misconceptions new cruisers have. They may be intimidating, though. 

You may want to skip either of these ships if…

You want an intimate atmosphere

There’s something to be said about older, and smaller cruise ships. With fewer bars and restaurants, you get to know the staff well, seeing the same bartenders and waiters every night. You also bumped into the same guests repeatedly. It makes the ship feel more homey and familiar. 

You won’t get that on either of these ships. In fact, by the end of the two sailings, there were still bars and restaurants I hadn’t got to try. 

You want a high-class cruise experience

Both of these ships are mass-market ships made to appeal to a wide variety of cruisers of all ages. If you want luxury-level accommodations with higher-end food, you should look at the higher-end offerings from these companies (Celebrity and Princess Cruises are their premium counterparts). 

You have mobility issues

Even with well-designed layouts, there’s no getting around the fact that these ships are big. On sea days, I was walking between 4 – 6 miles on each ship just getting around. If you have mobility issues, a smaller ship will make it easier to get around and enjoy your vacation. 

Follow along on my two sailings for all the details

Carnival Celebration Cruise

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 1 – Miami

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 2 – Sea Day

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 3 – Cozumel

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 4 – Costa Maya

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 5 – Roatan

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 6 – Sea Day

Carnival Celebration – Cruise Blog - Day 7 – Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Carnival Celebration

Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas Cruise

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 1 – Fort Lauderdale

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 2 – Sea Day

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 3 – Costa Maya

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 4 – Cozumel

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 5 – Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

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The first AquaTheater at Sea on Oasis of the Seas

The AquaTheater, a groundbreaking concept, made its debut when the Oasis of the Seas first set sail in 2009. This ship had a new split super-structure design that created neighborhoods in the center of the ship. At the back of Deck 6 was a new neighborhood called the Boardwalk. The jewel of this neighborhood was a new open-air theater at the back called the AquaTheater. 

Originally, Royal Caribbean planned to make this space available to guests throughout the day, and have performances at night. In the original press release for the Oasis of the Seas, Royal Caribbean said, “By day, guests can swim in the theater’s magnificent kidney-shaped pool, relax on sun loungers located on tiered platforms surrounding the pool, and even participate in SCUBA lessons in the afternoon.” That dream went by the wayside, and the AquaTheater space goes largely unoccupied during the day and is often busy with performers practicing the shows. 

State-of-the-art AquaTheater facility

The AquaTheater is an architectural marvel featuring state-of-the-art technology and design elements that create a mesmerizing entertainment venue. Here are some key features:

Deepest Pool at Sea
At the heart of the AquaTheater is the deepest pool at sea at nearly 18 feet. It contains a staggering 137,000 gallons of water to provide a safe space for performers to dive into. 

Twin 30-Foot Diving Platforms
Flanking the pool are two towering 30-foot diving platforms. These platforms serve as launchpads for high divers, adding an element of daredevilry to the shows.

Moving Floors and Platforms
The AquaTheater boasts moving floors and platforms that can adjust the depth of the pool and create dynamic performance spaces. The floors can seamlessly move up and down in the water, creating spectacular effects where a performer can be walking on the floor at one point and, seconds later, disappearing beneath the water’s surface. 

Fountains and Powerful Water Nozzles
The AquaTheater facility has hundreds of nozzles that can shoot water in all directions. Both the front of the stage and the bridge between the two towers are lined with jets of water that can shoot up to 65 feet high. 

Giant Trampoline
In between the two diving towers is a giant trampoline that allows performers to perform impressive acrobatics and flip into the pool. 

The evolution of the AquaTheater

Since its introduction on the Oasis of the Seas, the AquaTheater has appeared on every Oasis-class ship, but that doesn’t mean Royal Caribbean was done innovating. They’ve tweaked its design with each iteration. 

In the most recent incarnation, the Wonder of the Seas, the designers put a shell at the back of the theater. This large structure helps significantly reduce winds and makes performances more reliable and safer for performers. It also gives them a canvas for projects to use projection mapping to create otherworldly visual effects. 

The concept will evolve even further with the introduction of the Icon of the Seas. Here, the Aqua Theater is moved to a new location, at the top of the ship, in a structure called the AquaDome (read more here). This fully enclosed structure will house a new type of stage and new technologies like robotic arms to create new performances. The AquaTheater in the AquaDome will be fully enclosed, hopefully reducing the number of times the show can’t be performed due to rough water. 

Captivating AquaTheater shows across different Royal Caribbean ships

The AquaTheater creates an unforgettable entertainment experience that combines the beauty of water with the artistry of performers. It’s not a Broadway-style show or a pure stunt spectacular. Instead, Royal Caribbean presents an artistic show showcasing amazing acrobatics, state-of-the-art lighting and effects, and a unique musical score. 

Each ship has a large team of entertainment professionals behind these shows, which includes a cast of 20 talented athletes, among them world-renowned slackliners, high divers, aerialists, synchronized swimmers, and more. They deliver unforgettable performances on a stage that leverages advanced technology to engage all the senses.

Each ship has its own unique shows that feature different set pieces, tricks, and stunts. 

The Fine Line (Harmony of the Seas)
Immerse yourself in a 360° show that pushes the boundaries of aquatic entertainment. High liners, slackliners, whip crackers, high divers, street dancers, and 3D flyers come together to redefine your AquaTheater experience.

Hideaway Heist (Harmony of the Seas)
Step into the world of a 1950s holiday resort in Hideaway Heist. This comedy aqua show combines high-diving escapades with laughter as you follow an undercover detective’s pursuit of a crafty burglar.

Aqua Action (Icon of the Seas)
Aqua Action is the new show that will debut on Icon of the Seas. The show will take advantage of the many unique features of the AquaTheater at the AquaDome, including robotic arms, hydraulic lifts, and projectors. 

Aqua80 (Oasis of the Seas)
Take a nostalgic journey back to the 1980s with Aqua80, where jaw-dropping feats, high dives, and acrobatics are set to iconic tunes from the era. It’s a radical blast from the past brought to life by extreme athletes.

Splash (Oasis of the Seas)
Olympic-class divers and synchronized swimmers make a splash in a captivating showcase of high dives and thrilling stunts.

Hiro (Symphony of the Seas)
Prepare to be amazed by high-flying feats, unexpected stunts, and extraordinary acrobatics in this cutting-edge production. Hiro’s ever-changing nature ensures each show is a unique experience.

AquaNation (Symphony of the Seas)
AquaNation showcases world-class high divers, trick liners, synchronized swimmers, acrobats, trampolinists, and aerialists in a thrilling display of adrenaline-pumping feats.

Aqua80 too (Allure of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas)
A follow-up to the very popular Aqua80 that debuted on the first Oasis-class ship. The show brings back a new set of 80s tunes and combines them with new feats and acrobatic stunts. It also using the new semi-enclosed AquaTheater backdrop for amazing projections.

InTENse (Wonder of the Seas)
Experience the maximum intensity of AquaTheater entertainment with high-energy performances that include pool plunging and tightrope teetering. It’s a high-octane show that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats. InTENse also features the first all-female diving cast.

How much does it cost to see an AquaTheater show?

The AquaTheater shows are included in your cruise fare and have no additional cost. You will need to make a reservation to get in or wait in the standby line, but it doesn’t cost anything. 

Tip: Be prepared for canceled shows. The stunts the performers are executing are challenging, and a strong wind or sway in the ship can make some stunts life-threatening. The shows are frequently canceled due to high winds, rough seas, or rain. Sometimes, a performance may stop midway as well. 

How to see an AquaTheater Show on a Royal Caribbean ship

To secure your spot at these breathtaking AquaTheater shows, you should book ahead of time using the Royal Caribbean app. Depending on the ship and sail date, you either book ahead of time or book as soon as you arrive on the ship and connect to the ship’s wifi. 

The theater only seats around 600-700 people (or roughly 10% of the guests), so the performances book up quickly. If you can’t secure a reservation, there will be a standby line for each performance. 

Tip: Even if you have a reservation, it’s important to arrive early to a performance. Your reservation secures you a spot but not a specific seat. The AquaTheater has a mixture of seating available, from single beach-style chairs to large benches. 

My experience at the AquaTheater on Harmony of the Seas

I had the chance to go to the AquaTheater on a cruise on the Harmony of the Seas (follow that cruise here). It was my first time on an Oasis-class ship, and so my first chance to check out the AquaTheater. As soon as I boarded the ship, I connected to the wifi and used the Royal Caribbean app to book my group of seven a chance to see “The Fine Line” show. We booked it for the second showing on the first day of the cruise.

We arrived 30 minutes early to ensure we got a good seat. I wanted to be sure to get one of the backed lounge chairs, not the bench seating. The AquaTheater was mostly empty at this point. 

I was immediately impressed by the space. The circular-style seating in the amphitheater provided excellent views for everyone, unlike some theater setups. The pool looked much larger in person than it appeared in the pictures. 

As we were sitting there, the sky opened up and started pouring. The AquaTheater wasn’t covered, so everyone ran to get shelter under the upper decks. Thankfully, it was a quick rain, and everyone returned to their seats once it stopped but had to sit in wet seats. 

The show started with a performer standing in the middle of the stage and spinning in circles for quite a while. It made me wonder if seeing the show was worth our time. Thankfully, once it started, I was much more impressed. 

Not to give any spoilers, but close to the beginning of the show, there was a moment that had everyone’s jaw drop and set the tone of the show for the evening.

The setup very much reminded me of the Cirque du Soleil production of “O” that’s in the Bellagio in Las Vegas. I loved how they used the pneumatic stage to mess with your mind. One second, a performer would walk across the stage, and seconds later, he would take a step and fall beneath the waves. I was constantly surprised by what they managed to do. 

In terms of plot, I couldn’t explain what was going on. There’s no dialogue you have to follow, but it clearly had a story it was trying to tell. No one in my group was able to figure it out, though. Nevertheless, we were all really impressed by the performers. 

Unfortunately, halfway through the performance, they had to shut it down because it was unsafe for the performers due to the rough seas. It was the second cancellation of the show that sailing. Of course, I wanted the performers to be safe, but it seemed like such poor planning on Royal Caribbean’s part to develop shows that are subject to the weather and seas. Hopefully, their new design on Icon of the Seas, avoids these programs by having the AquaTheater inside the AquaDome.

You can find the AquaTheater on the following ships

• Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Hero of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Star of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

Ultimate Abyss is often mistaken for a waterslide when people see it in the distance, but it’s really a dry thrill slide. That means guests can easily participate without having a bathing suit and a towel like a water slide. 

Staring straight up from the bottom, Ultimate Abyss is an intimidating sight; twisting and sloping steel suspended 92 feet above you. Its purple hue has a menacing tone, and the spirals seem extreme. 

Even entering the Ultimate Abyss itself can be intimidating. The entrance is through a large angler fish sculpture with large eyes and two-foot-long teeth. Once you get to the top of the stairs, you step foot onto a glass floor that overlooks the AquaTheater and the ocean way, way, way below you (150 feet). That’s the same height from the base to the torch of the Statue of Liberty!

The introduction of Ultimate Abyss

The Ultimate Abyss debuted on the Harmony of the Seas in 2015. It was an interesting addition. The Harmony of the Seas was the third in the Oasis-class, and typically sister ships don’t get new features that change the look of a ship very much. With the Ultimate Abyss though, the rear profile of the ship significantly changed. 

When it was launched, it was the tallest slide at sea, and years later, it still holds the record. But other ships have started adding massive thrill slides as well. MSC’s World Europa has since added a thrill slide that’s the “longest at sea,” and the Norwegian Prima’s The Drop slide has the highest g-forces at sea.  

With the success of Ultimate Abyss on the Harmony, Royal Caribbean included it on every Oasis-class ship after it. They even retrofitted the original Oasis of the Seas with the Ultimate Abyss in 2019. The only Oasis-class ship that doesn’t have it now is the Allure of the Seas since it never received its multi-million dollar refurbishment (or “Amplification,” as Royal Caribbean calls it) due to the pandemic shutdown. 

How do you ride the Ultimate Abyss thrill slide?

To ride Ultimate Abyss, you just walk up to the entrance on Deck 16. You don’t need any advanced reservations. It’s impossible to miss; look for the huge angler fish. The ride is typically open throughout the day. You can find the hours in your daily Cruise Compass or the Royal Caribbean app once onboard. 

You get in the queue, and the attendant will tell you the rules and the best position to sit in as you approach the front. Then they’ll give you a black, carpet-like mat. Because it’s a dry slide, the mat is used to help reduce friction, similar to the potato sacks used on wavy slides found at state fairs. 

The line moves pretty quickly. In my experience, it took about a minute for every two people in front of you (if both sides were running). 

What is the Ultimate Abyss ride like?

You start the ride by placing your mat on the slide entrance and sitting down. The front of the mat has a pouch that you put your feet into. In the past, you weren’t allowed to bring bags or loose items with you, but on my November 2022 sailing, I was allowed to put those possessions in the pouch.

Once settled in, you wait for the light above to turn green and for the attendant to tell you to go. And then you’re off…kind of. There’s almost no slope to this part of the slide, so you need to shimmy and hop far enough in for gravity to take over.

When you finally get to that spot, you start picking up speed. Keep your elbows in and sit as straight up as possible. Otherwise you’ll get friction burn on your skin (I made this mistake on my first ride and got a small, rug burn-like welt). 

With a name like Ultimate Abyss, you’d expect the entire ride to be pitch black, but surprisingly it’s not. Instead, halfway through your journey, you’re blasted with a magical effect created with 300 different LED lights and sound effects. 

Once you pass through that part, you complete two spirals at the bottom of the slide. The Ultimate Abyss lets you out at the end of the Boardwalk neighborhood. Then you step off and give the attendant your map. The whole ride takes about 13 seconds on average, according to Royal Caribbean. 

Because there’s no water, attendants grease up the slide throughout the day. Your speed will vary depending on several factors, like the level of grease in the slide and humidity in the air (which can slow you down).

Overall, it’s a fun ride. While people who are afraid of enclosed spaces may be wary, it doesn’t feel too tight or confined. 

You can see more about it in Royal Caribbean’s video below:

How much does a ride on ultimate Abyss cost? 

Ultimate Abyss is included in the cruise fare, and there’s no extra cost to ride. You can ride as many times as you like. 

What are the requirements to ride the Ultimate Abyss?

There are a few restrictions for guests who want to try this ride. Riders must be at least 44 inches (for those, like myself, who don’t know how tall children are, that’s typically a child between 6 and 8). 

There’s also a weight limit. Riders must be less than 330 pounds (although, unlike some other cruise ship attractions, they didn’t require riders to step on a scale). 

No wet clothing is allowed on the ride. On my last cruise, I had been on a waterslide about 30 minutes before, and the attendant said I was still too wet. The water would get onto the mat and then the slide, ruining the experience for others. 

Children must be accompanied by a guest 16 years or older, but only one person can go in at a time, so you don’t have to ride with your child. 

Which cruise ships have the Ultimate Abyss?

You can ride Ultimate Abyss on the following Royal Caribbean ships:

• Royal Caribbean Allure of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas

HIT – Neighborhood layout 

The Harmony of the Seas, and its other Oasis-class siblings, use a neighborhood layout to make the ship easier to navigate and break up crowds. Royal Caribbean first implemented this concept on the Oasis of the Seas and the success was immediately apparent. It was an innovative way to deal with a massive amount of people sailing on these mega-ships. This idea has since been copied by other cruise lines, like Carnival’s Mardi Gras and Celebration, that use “zones” to group things together. 

Each neighborhood has its own distinct feel that makes it easy to remember when thinking about where things are located. They also each have a variety of bars, restaurants, and other attractions in each area. 

The most noticeable neighborhoods are Central Park, the Boardwalk, and the Royal Promenade. They’re where you’ll spend more of your time. Central Park was easily my favorite, with a unique feel. Filled with lush greenery and paths that wind through it, it’s something you won’t find on other cruise ships (except for other Oasis-class ships). 

MISS – Lack of ocean views 

One big problem I had with the Harmony of the Seas was its lack of ocean views. Most of the time you’re on board you don’t even notice you’re on a cruise ship. When I reviewed all my photos from this trip, I realized there were almost no photos of the ocean in my camera roll. 

Most of the bars and restaurants don’t have any ocean view and there are few places on deck where you can relax and enjoy the vista. 

One of my favorite views on a cruise ship is watching the wake as we sail at night, and on the Harmony, there wasn’t a good place to do that. You could either sit at the rear area of the jogging track or sit on high stools at the top of the ship. Unfortunately, even the bar at the rear of the ship didn’t take advantage of these views. 

That’s not to say the ship isn’t beautiful. The Central Park Neighborhood is gorgeous, with thousands of living plants, but it doesn’t feel like a cruise ship. Instead, it feels more like a high-end hotel or resort. Much of the time, you barely realize that you’re in the middle of the ocean. 

You can solve this problem by getting an ocean balcony rather than an interior balcony, but it is something that’s noticeably missing from this ship. If I were to take a cruise to somewhere where the scenery was important, like the Mediterranean, I would be disappointed by this ship. 

HIT – Lots of included attractions

If you’re looking for things to do while on board, you’re not going to spend a lot of extra money on the Harmony of the Seas. You can zipline ten stories over the boardwalk, scale a 40-foot rock wall, surf on the FlowRider, ride a carousel, play minigolf, splash down on three water slides, ice skate, or test your fears on a 10-story dry thrill slide called the Ultimate Abyss all at no additional cost. 

When you look at ships like the Norwegian Prima, which charges $15 for a go-kart ride or even for minigolf, you see the value here, especially for families. 

Of course, if you want to spend money, you can. You have traditional arcades, the spa, massages, the casino, bars, etc., but in terms of activities to keep you or your family busy, there’s a lot included on Harmony of the Seas. 

MISS – No adults-only pool in the Harmony of the Seas’ Solarium

The Solarium is a large area at the front of the ship that is reserved for adults only (which Royal Caribbean defines as age 16 and up). It’s a huge area and a nice place to get away, with tons of comfy seating options and a dedicated bar and bistro. It’s typically one of my favorite spots on a Royal Caribbean ship. 

This space is on every Oasis- and Quantum-class ship. The big difference with the Harmony of the Seas is that Royal Caribbean made the odd choice not to have a pool in this area. On every other ship, there’s an adult-only pool in this area, as well as hot tubs. For some reason, Royal Caribbean decided that for Harmony of the Seas, they’d put an odd misting sculpture instead. It is a huge miss. 

Harmony of the Seas has three other pools and a dedicated kid’s play area called Splash Away Bay. However, kids will still be jumping in and splashing in the three pool areas, especially on summer vacation when more than 1,000 children can be onboard. 

HIT – Not much more full feeling than other ships

When I tell people about the Harmony of the Seas or its siblings, the first thing people usually mention are crowds or the fear of being trapped with so many people. However, that was not the case at all with Harmony of the Seas. 

The Harmony of the Seas can hold 5,479 guests when sailing with two people per cabin and as many as 6,687 when at full capacity. That’s a lot of people. But, surprisingly, it didn’t feel that way. 

I’ve been on ships large and small, and Harmony of the Seas didn’t feel any worse than any other ship I’ve sailed. In fact, the improved emphasis on people distribution and flow made it feel less crowded than some smaller ships. At no point did I feel like I was on a ship with 6,000 other people. 

Even on sea days when every passenger is on the ship looking for something to do, lines to activities and attractions were reasonable. The key to this is offering a variety of options (like two FlowRiders, three pools, and multiple dining options) so that no one thing is too crowded. They also utilized scheduling to make the ship seem less full. By having their main production show, Grease, at the same time as the AquaShow, it effectively splits the crowds. 

MISS – Lack of outdoor, shaded seating options 

While there are literally thousands of lounge chairs available on Harmony of the Seas, finding one that’s not in direct sun can be challenging. 

The sun deck, one deck above the pools, has lots of seating available, but it’s all in the direct sun, which can be oppressive during a sailing in the hot Caribbean summer. 

On the main pool deck, there are areas under the overhang over deck 15 which offer some shaded options, but these much-coveted loungers are hard to come by.

It also doesn’t help that the Solarium on the Harmony of the Seas is only partially enclosed. The area has wind panels across the top, but mostly the sun is pushing in at full force. 

If you want to be outside but not baking in the sun, it might be a challenge. 

HIT – Variety of food options for breakfast and lunch (most included)

In the old days of cruising, you had two food options: the buffet and the main dining room. Now, ships have diversified their offerings with multiple smaller venues. On Harmony of the Seas, Royal Caribbean put 21 different restaurants across the ship. 

Many of these venues are included with the cruise fare for breakfast and lunch and have no additional charge. In fact, it’s entirely possible to go the whole cruise without even stopping in the buffet. Some of my favorites on Harmony of the Seas were the Solarium Bistro for breakfast, the Park Cafe for lunch, and Mini Bites for a quick snack throughout the day. 

Harmony of the Seas also has a lot of specialty restaurants available for an additional charge. You can go for a date night at Royal Caribbean’s signature Chops Grill Steakhouse, have a delicious dinner at Jamie’s Italian, experiment with the unique food offerings at Wonderland, or enjoy a dinner with a show at Izumi Hibachi. And those are just a few examples. 

Unfortunately, these specialty restaurants are quite pricey when you consider you already paid for three meals a day in your cruise fare. The cheapest, Sabor, was $20.99, and the most expensive was Chops Grill at $54.99. That being said, some people love these specialty dining options and are okay with paying extra. 

MISS – Hard to find each other

While the Harmony of the Seas’ large size makes it great for group travel, it also presents a challenge. Finding and staying in touch with your group members or family is rough on a ship so big. 

If you’re traveling on a smaller ship with a group, it’s easy to stumble across your friends while going through your day. For example, you’ll bump into them while walking to the buffet or on your way back from dinner. 

But Harmony of the Seas is so massive that you could easily not see anyone in your group if you don’t plan for it. The sheer number of restaurants, bars, and lounges, makes it harder to get together without planning ahead. 

You can always get an internet plan to stay in touch, but that can be costly, running $13.99 – $19.99 per person per day. Royal Caribbean has a chat feature in their app that you can use between guests on board, but they charge $1.99 per guest per day for it, and it has very mixed reviews. Thankfully, it’s been reported that Royal Caribbean will be offering its chat service for free at some point in 2023. That’ll make staying in touch with members you’re traveling with easier. 

HIT – Cabin options and overall design

Another hit on the Harmony of the Seas is the cabins. With 2,745 cabins onboard, you have a variety to choose from based on your personal preferences and budget.

The Harmony of the Seas, and its sister Oasis-class ships, have a new type of cabin that’s unique to Royal Caribbean called interior balcony cabins.

On any other ship, these cabins would be interior cabins with no windows. But because of the Harmony of the Seas neighborhood layout, these interior-facing cabins have balconies. So rather than overlooking the ocean, these cabins overlook Central Park and the Boardwalk, almost like apartments in a city that might overlook a courtyard. It’s great for people who find an interior cabin too claustrophobic but don’t care about ocean views.

The Harmony of the Seas also has the more traditional cabins you’d expect, like interior, ocean view, ocean balcony, and a variety of suites.

The cabins feel spacious and are easy to get around. In terms of size, the standard cabins are pretty run-of-the-mill compared to other Royal Caribbean or Carnival ships (although they will feel quite roomy compared to Norwegian ships).

The cabins on Harmony of the Seas are well-appointed with a subtle, contemporary design. Nothing about the cabin design sticks out, and they don’t have a ton of personality. But they are well designed.

One of my favorite parts is the closet design. Rather than having a crowded, claustrophobic entryway lined with bulky closet doors, the designers put the closets further in the cabin. They’re split into two separate closets that straddle the bed or couch, depending on the room. This design not only breaks up the room visually, but it means two people can each be in a closet at the same time.

The bathrooms have a lot of storage, although they’re not huge. The shower can feel a bit small, but the curved plexiglass shower door makes it feel larger than ships that use curtains. The bathroom also has another smart design choice; a small light in the bathroom that stays on all the time. It makes it easy when you have to use the restroom in the middle of the night.

MISS – Elevators 

Elevators are a problem on most cruise ships; it’s just a fact. And everyone complains about them. The Harmony of the Seas is no exception. The ship has 24 guest elevators to shuttle passengers up and down its 18 decks, but it just can’t keep up during peak times. 

Unless one of the cruise lines figures out a way to revolutionize the elevators (Carnival tried on their Vista-class ships and sorely failed), it’s just going to be something that is destined to frustrate passengers. 

The reason that I mention it specifically here is that Harmony of the Seas is a big ship. If you have mobility issues or would like to take the stairs, look at booking a cabin close to the main pool deck, 15, or between the Royal Promenade and Boardwalk, Deck 6. That way, it’s less of a walk. We booked a cabin on Deck 10, thinking it’d split the difference between the two main areas, but in reality, it just made it equally inconvenient to use the stairs either way. 

Also frustrating is that on the Harmony of the Seas, the buttons in the elevators didn’t light up very brightly when people pushed them. It led to confusion as guests got on and thought it wasn’t registering their button push. 

Verdict: Large ship with something for everyone

Not everyone will want a large cruise ship, but for those that do, the Harmony of the Seas is one of the best. It has a variety of attractions, dining, bars, and entertainment options. But it may be too large. On our five-day sailing, there were bars, restaurants, and venues we never even saw. 

You might like Harmony of the Seas if…

You like adventure

Zip lining, ice skating, rock climbing, surfing–there’s just so much adventurous stuff to do on Harmony of the Seas. So if you want to combine a little thrill with your relaxing vacation, this ship is a good fit. 

You’re new to cruising

If you’ve never cruised before, Harmony of the Seas is a good way to get your feet wet. There’s something for everyone on here, every age, every type of vacation, and every type of cuisine. Also, for people who fear being on the ocean, the way Harmony of the Seas is designed takes the emphasis away from the fact that you’re sailing in the middle of the water. 

You want to sail on one of the largest ships in the world

Some people love the superlatives. They want to be on the tallest, fastest, and newest. The Harmony of the Seas is currently the third largest ship in the world, and it’s not drastically smaller than the first and second. It’s a great way to experience the biggest of mega-ships. 

You might not like Harmony of the Seas if…

You like ocean views

Harmony of the Seas feels more like a gorgeous resort than a cruise liner. Few bars, restaurants, or lounges have actual views of the water, and ocean lovers might miss that connection with the sea.  

You don’t want to walk a lot

Even though it has a well-designed layout, the fact that it’s one of the world’s largest ships means you’ll have to walk around a lot on the Harmony of the Seas. If you have mobility issues, this ship might not be for you. On a sea day, you could easily do as much walking as you would at Disney World (we did 6 – 8 miles a day). 

You want a homey feeling ship

Some people like the feel of a smaller ship, where there’s just a handful of bars and venues to go to. While the Harmony of the Seas doesn’t feel crowded, if you prefer going to the same bar every night and dinner at the same restaurant, a smaller ship might be a better fit. 

Follow along on the rest of our Harmony of the Seas cruise

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 1 – Fort Lauderdale

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 2 – Sea Day

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 3 – Costa Maya

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 4 – Cozumel

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 5 – Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

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Day 5 Overview

• Harmony of the Seas Day 5 – Cruise Compass
• Noisy neighbors mean an early start
• Johnny Rockets for breakfast
• Kid’s activities in the Boardwalk
• Pool decks on a sea day
• Park Cafe for lunch
• Game of Thrones Trivia in On Air
• Big Daddy’s Hideaway Resort at the AquaTheater
• Rock Climbing on Harmony of the Seas
• Last dinner in the Silk Dining Room
• Putting our bags out the night before leaving
• 1887 Show in Studio B Ice Rink
• Finishing the evening at Boot and Bonnet English Pub again

Harmony of the Seas Day 5 – Cruise Compass

Noisy neighbors mean an early start

My day started with a jolt as the two children in the cabin next door started screaming and jumping loudly. It was the second morning that I woke up to this kind of commotion. I can’t remember the last time I heard my neighbors on a cruise (besides their door slamming closed). I don’t know if the walls were too thin or the kids were unreasonably loud. Either way, it meant I didn’t sleep in on the last sea day. 

Johnny Rockets for breakfast

For breakfast this morning, we decided to try Johnny Rockets. Located in the Boardwalk neighborhood, Johnny Rockets is an old-fashioned hamburger joint. You may have seen them in malls in the ’90s and early ’00s. They have a retro vibe and mini-jukeboxes on the tables. 

Johnny Rockets has an additional fee for lunch and dinner, but on Oasis-class ships, it’s open for free breakfast. Don’t worry; you don’t have to eat a hamburger or hot dog at 8 AM. They have a separate breakfast menu with various options like pancakes and breakfast sandwiches. 

We headed down to the Boardwalk around 8:30 AM for breakfast. It was a relatively cool morning. It rained overnight and you could feel the dampness still hanging in the air. We walked up to Johnny Rockets and saw some from our group were already seated in the outside seating area, so we joined them. 

We were seated immediately, but the service after that was lacking. Despite the restaurant being only about one-third full, it took almost 15 minutes before someone came by to take our orders. Then, it took a while before our food showed up. After they dropped off our food, we didn’t see our server again for the rest of the meal. 

I ordered the pancakes and hashbrowns, which were good but similar to something you’d get from IHOP or Dennys. The french toast had a nice batter on it, and the bacon that came with it was nice and crispy. 

Overall, the breakfast was pretty ok, but nothing special. It had the benefit that I didn’t have to wait in buffet lines, but it took a while to get served, and the food was no better than other venues. Then again, it provided a nice place to eat outside and had no extra cost. 

Kid’s activities in the Boardwalk

I hadn’t spent much time on the Boardwalk, so I got to look closer at some kid-friendly attractions in this area. Besides the carousel in the middle, the Boardwalk also had a video arcade and a kid’s climbing structure. It was the first time on any of the cruises I’d been on to see a dry activity for kids. Many ships had splash areas, but if it was cold or kids didn’t want to get wet, they had little to do. This play area was a neat idea, and the kids seemed to enjoy it.  

Royal Caribbean has doubled down on this concept. When they debuted the Wonder of the Seas, they removed one of the two FlowRiders and put in a whole dry kid’s play area. They have even more elaborate plans for their upcoming ship, Icon of the Seas, which transforms the Boardwalk into a family destination called Surfside. 

Pool decks on a sea day

We figured we’d spend the morning on deck enjoying the last day of warm weather before we headed back to the frigid North East. I brought my Kindle loaded with a book for this vacation, but so far, I’d only made it about two chapters in, so I was hoping to make a good dent in it. 

The pools were moderately crowded when we arrived, but they filled up quickly throughout the morning. Finding loungers in the shade was challenging, but plenty of loungers were available if you were ok with sitting in full sun. 

After some searching, we managed to grab some shaded loungers near the kid’s Splashaway Bay area. I wasn’t thrilled with the location, but the kids were busy running around and sliding down the little slides, so the noise wasn’t much worse than anywhere else on the deck.

Over the course of the morning, I hopped into the pool for a quick cool down. Plenty of people were around the edges, hanging with friends and drinking cocktails, but the centers of the pools were still pretty open. 

Park Cafe for lunch

It was a little after noon, and since you can’t go more than two hours on a cruise without eating, we figured it was time for lunch. We decided to check out the Park Cafe in the Central Park neighborhood for lunch. 

We took the elevator down and walked through Central Park to the Park Cafe. At that point, the neighborhood was much less busy than the pool decks above. The Park Cafe had no lines at all, and plenty of tables were available in the outside area.  

I started with a Kumelwack sandwich that I’ve seen people rave about on forums. It’s a dish that originated in the Buffalo area. It’s roast beef and an au jus served on a crusty hard roll that’s usually topped with caraway seeds and salt. The roast beef and au jus were very tasty, but I wasn’t a fan of the hard roll. I like a softer bun for that kind of sandwich. I didn’t understand what all the fuss was over. I thought it was good but not mind-blowing. 

Then I went back and got a fresh, made-to-order salad. Park Cafe had a variety of ingredients and toppings here, and everything tasted very fresh. If you want to eat healthy on the Harmony of the Seas, the Park Cafe probably has the best breakfast and lunch options for you. 

We finished around 1 PM and Central Park was starting to get more full. All the tables at the Park Cafe were taken by that point, and a steady stream of people walked up and down the neighborhood. 

Game of Thrones Trivia in On Air

After lunch, we went to check out the Game of Thrones trivia. This event was held in the On Air lounge on the Royal Promenade. I had yet to visit this venue, so I was curious to see why the trivia was here and not at the Schooner Bar, where Royal Caribbean had most of the other trivia.

On Air is where they host most of the karaoke events. It’s a decent-sized venue that can hold up to 113 people. With tiered levels, ample booth seating, a dedicated bar, and screens all over, it was literally made for karaoke. 

In this case, those screens also helped with the trivia because it was video based. The host came out and had everyone get pens and paper to prepare for the trivia. It was the host’s first week on the ship and his first time running this game. You could tell. He tried hard but his lack of knowledge of Game of Thrones was evident. You have to at least pretend that you’re interested in what you’re presenting. 

It was a full house for the trivia. The room fell silent as the first video and photo clues came up. It was harder than I expected. We had twenty questions to answer, and you could see people racking their brains. One question led to a very spirited debate between two hardcore fans. It felt like it was about to turn into a brawl, but luckily the host was able to put it to rest. 

Big Daddy’s Hideaway Resort at the AquaTheater

Our plan after lunch was to try out the rock climbing wall, but they were closed because an impromptu show was playing in the AquaTheater. The cruise director came on and said they were doing a dress rehearsal of a new show, and anyone who wanted to attend could stop by the theater. Since we were already in the area, we stood in the back and watched. 

The show was called “Big Daddy’s Hideaway Resort,” and while the cruise director indicated it was a “new” show, there are YouTube clips of the show going as far back as 2017. I’m assuming it was new for this specific cast, but he was very misleading in his statement. 

This show had a much different feeling than The Fine Line show that we saw a few nights ago (read more here). That one was very artsy and serious. This show was much more of a light-hearted affair. It felt very vaudevillian, with slapstick comedy, over-the-top costumes, and silly choreography. 

Every time I saw a show at the AquaTheater, I was astounded by the skill and the performers. They’d jump from the high dive, perform synchronized swimming, and execute difficult flips and tricks. While I preferred The Fine Line better, this show felt like it had more impressive stunts and was visually more interesting. 

Rock Climbing on Harmony of the Seas

After the show ended, we headed up one level to the rock climbing wall. The Harmony of the Seas has two climbing walls, but we never saw them open at the same time. Because everyone was already in the area for the show, the line rapidly grew. Thankfully, it moved quickly, and within 10 minutes, we were suited up and on the wall. 

I started by checking in at the desk where they give you some climbing shoes and a harness. Then I got in line and waited for my turn. The climbing wall on Harmony of the Seas is 40 feet tall, but it feels so much higher. Because it’s on a raised portion of the deck, it feels at least 15 feet higher and even more if you look at the water line. It was intimidating. 

People of all ages attempted the wall, and both kids and adults seemed to enjoy it. The rock climbing wall uses an auto-belay system which keeps you safe if you slip. They could run three people at a time with that system. 

Each section of the wall had grips of differing colors and difficulty. The attendant could tell you the most challenging path if you were serious about climbing. I just wanted to get as high as I could, so I opted to go for any grip I could reach for. 

It was my turn and the attendant made sure I was secure in my harness and hooked me up. I started my ascent. If you’re nervous about climbing in front of an audience, you’ll be fine on the Harmony of the Seas. The rock wall doesn’t really have a place for people to stand to watch; they’re off to the side, where it’s much more difficult to observe. But that also means it’s hard for your loved ones to get pictures of you.

I only made it about halfway up the wall before I slipped and the auto belay system slowly lowered me back to safety. It was a disappointment because I did much better when sailing on the Ovation of the Seas earlier this year (read about that here), but I didn’t want to get in line to try again. 

Last dinner in the Silk Dining Room

The rest of the afternoon went by quickly, and before you knew it, it was dinner time again (Royal Caribbean moved the 5:30 seating on this sailing to 5:15 because of demand, so it felt really early). 

Overall, I was really impressed by the service and food quality on this sailing. But remember, food is very subjective. While everyone in my group had great experiences in the main dining room, in the Facebook group for our sailing, opinions varied from “the best food I ever had” to “they served us slop.” It’s tough to get a true picture. All I know is that when I sailed in May on Ovation of the Seas, I never got a second dish, and there was nothing I wanted more of. On the Harmony of the Seas, I had seconds and thirds and everything was so tasty. 

Since this evening was the last dinner, they did “showtime,” where the staff would dance around the dining room. This event happens every night on Carnival, but I guess Royal Caribbean only does it once. Because it’s a 3-story dining room, you couldn’t see the maitre’d on the first floor, but you heard him on the loudspeaker and saw the staff at the front. 

This evening’s dinner was 90 minutes, which felt a bit long, but it was still enjoyable. We thanked our hard-working waiters with an extra tip at the end of the meal and headed out to enjoy the rest of the night. 

Putting our bags out the night before leaving

After dinner, we all ran to our cabin to pack our bags. Royal Caribbean gives you two options when leaving the ship. The first is self-assist, where you carry your bags off with you. The second is regular departure, where you put your bags out the night before and pick them up in the terminal the next morning. Self-assist guests are the first ones off the ship at around 6:45. Regular departure guests are assigned times between 7:40 and 9:00 AM. 

Our flight home was at 2:30, so we were in no rush to get off the ship. Because of that, we picked regular departure and requested the latest departure time possible. But that meant we had to pack our bags and have them outside our room by 10 PM the night before. 

Tip: If you’re doing regular departure, take a picture of the baggage tag they give you. The number on the tag tells you when to leave the ship, and it’s where your bag will be in the terminal. 

1887 Show in Studio B Ice Rink

This evening, we’d be checking out the show “1887: A Journey in Time” Ice Spectacular. The show required reservations, but we had no problem making them using the app. In the Royal Caribbean app, the show was just listed as “1887,” so when we were making reservations on Day 1, we didn’t realize it was an ice show and we didn’t book it. On Day 3, we found out it was the ice show, and we were able to get seven seats for the 8:15 PM performance. 

The show takes place in Studio B on Deck 4. It’s a theater/ ice rink that is used throughout the cruise for other events as well. We were looking forward to trying ice skating in Studio B, but unfortunately, they didn’t have public skating available on this sailing. But, at least we could see an ice show during this cruise.

We showed up about fifteen minutes early and were easily able to find seats in the third row along the side of the rink. Once we sat down, I was immediately struck by how small the venue was. It couldn’t have been much larger than a high school basketball court with stadium seating. However, there wasn’t a bad seat in the house. I had seen Ice Capade shows when I was younger in NBA basketball arenas, but this was much more intimate than expected. 

Studio B can hold 775 guests, and it seemed about 3/4 full for this performance. For the earlier show, the cruise director came on the intercom right before to tell people that seats were still available. For some reason, the show just didn’t seem high on people’s lists. 

The show itself was visually impressive. The production values were so high quality. You could see they spent a lot of money on this show. Large set pieces would move around the ice, and projection mapping added different effects on the ice throughout the show. 

The skaters were incredibly skillful, doing jumps and turns on the ice. I can’t imagine how hard it is to do that on a ship that’s bobbing up and down on the ocean. A few times performers slipped and fell, but the audience cheered for them, and they didn’t seem to miss a beat. 

As for the topic, the Cruise Compass described the show as, “Beginning their journey on the frozen River Seine, Juliet and her mysterious time traveling companion, the Tempus, travel in multiple dimensions to discover the wonders of the world, and of the heart. World-class skaters and breathtaking technology combine in a unique way that is guaranteed to leave you both breathless and emotionally touched.”

It had something to do with Jules Vernes’ stories and traveling through time. There wasn’t any dialogue, so it was more of a “theme” than an actual play you had to follow. Some in our group understood what was happening; others just liked the performances. Overall, it was an excellent show. I enjoyed it much more than I thought and was blown away by its quality. 

Finishing the evening at Boot and Bonnet English Pub again

Even though it was the last night, the Cruise Compass had events scheduled throughout the night. I wanted to try the Silent Disco, but that was at 11:30 PM, and I was just too tired after the early start we had that morning. 

Instead, we returned to the Boot and Bonnet to listen to live music with Nicole. It seems every cruise I go on, I find one musician I really appreciate, and it becomes the go-to spot for late-night entertainment. For this cruise, this was it. 

We grabbed a table and some drinks and listened to a ’90s acoustic set. Since it was the last day of the cruise, I treated myself to some cookies from Cafe Promenade and then a slice of pizza from Sorrento’s across the way. It was the perfect way to end a fantastic cruise. 

After Nicole’s set, we returned to the cabin for our last sleep before leaving the beautiful Harmony of the Seas.  

Follow along on the rest of our Harmony of the Seas cruise

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 1 – Fort Lauderdale

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 2 – Sea Day

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 3 – Costa Maya

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 4 – Cozumel

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 5 – Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

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Harmony of the Seas in Cozumel Overview

• Starting the day on Harmony of the Seas
• Exploring Cozumel International Cruise Terminal
• Catamaran Snorkel with Rays and Sharks with Beach BBQ
  • Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Cozumel
  • Stingray Encounter at Stingray Beach
  • Swimming with Rays and Sharks
  • Beach BBQ Time
• Back to Cozumel Port
• Harmony of the Seas Pool Deck Activities
• Dinner in Silk Dining Room
• English Pub for Live Music
• Love and Marriage Show in the Royal Theater
• Good luck getting into the comedy show

Day 4 Cruise Compass

Starting the day on Harmony of the Seas

On most of my other cruises, I’d start my day by opening the curtains and stepping onto the balcony to get a feel for the weather and take in the ocean views. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the option on this cruise because I had a Boardwalk Balcony cabin. I could step out onto the balcony, but I wouldn’t be able to see the ocean, and everyone could see me because there are balconies right across the way. It’s just another thing I missed from an oceanview balcony. Nevertheless, it was a beautiful morning and would be a perfect day to explore Mexico. 

Another quiet breakfast at Solarium Bistro 

The ship arrived and docked in the wee hours of the morning. We booked an excursion for 9 am, so we had time for a leisurely breakfast before heading out. We decided to check out the Solarium Bistro for breakfast again. 

As we walked from the back to the front of the ship, I noticed the pools and chairs were all completely empty, a stark contrast to the sea day earlier this week. No chair hogs today. 

The Solarium Bistro was a bit more crowded than the first time we went, but it was still way more empty than the traditional buffet. People started to learn about the peaceful breakfast here, but there was still plenty of room.

Exploring Cozumel International Cruise Terminal

Everyone returned to their cabins to get their bags, and we headed down to the gangway together. The lines were almost non-existent, and we walked right off the ship and onto the pier. 

Because of the time it took to get off the ship yesterday, we got left early and gave ourselves plenty of time to get to the excursion meeting point. We booked our excursion through Royal Caribbean, which meant we’d get off the ship and meet the tour group in the port. This pier was a much shorter walk than Costa Maya, and with no lines, we were 45 minutes early for our meeting time. 

Cozumel has three different cruise terminals where ships can dock. For this sailing, our ship was at the International Cruise Terminal. The port itself was a bit more stark and didn’t have the same vibe we felt the day before in Costa Maya (ready about it here). The buildings all had a distinct Mexican influence in the design, but the port had less of a tropical feeling. The walkways were wide, but the passages were confusing to navigate, so you’d have to pay attention to where you were going. There wasn’t a ton of shade, and I could see that being a problem in the summer. 

Unlike Port Costa Maya, this port wasn’t meant to be a full-day destination on its own. You won’t find any pools or activities besides shopping at this port. The two main restaurants were Senor Frogs and Margaritaville, which gave it a Spring Break vibe. For example, it was 9 am, and Senor Frogs had a shot girl blowing a whistle in people’s ears and pouring liquor right into their mouths. 

Trouble finding our excursion

As it got closer to our excursion time, we walked to the beginning of the port and tried to find out group. For all excursions purchased directly through the cruise line, you’d meet your group at the port entrance. Staff stood throughout the central plaza holding signs with the excursion names. Most excursion names sounded similar here, making it more complicated. Your excursion ticket also has a number on it, so it’s easier to use that to find your group. 

We walked through the mass crowds. A Royal Caribbean employee was on site to try to help guests who were having problems finding their group and he directed us. Our sign wasn’t up yet because our guide was still setting up the group before us. It was chaotic and unorganized compared to other ports, but eventually we found our guide.

Catamaran Snorkel with Rays and Sharks with Beach BBQ

We booked our excursion about four months prior using Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner website. We ended up booking “Catamaran Snorkel with Rays and Sharks with Beach BBQ,” which is grammatically a lousy title, but it describes the actual excursion pretty well. We wanted a tour that would bring some new experiences to the group, and this one had snorkeling, sea life, and lunch, so it sounded perfect. We paid $99 per person, but the cost varied from $93 to $119 over the months before the cruise.

Tip: Always pay attention to prices on Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner. The prices often fluctuate and if you see a lower price, you can cancel and rebook at the cheaper price online. The lowest prices for excursions don’t always coincide with the best drink package or internet sales. They seem to change based on demand and availability. 

We started out by signing waivers and then our group had to follow the staff member through the chaos of the port to the boat we were taking. When they said catamaran, I pictured a fancy sailboat-type boat. In reality, it was just a single-level boat close to the water. It was nice, but not what I imagined from the description. The group was a good size, with 25 guests and about 5 crew members on board. 

Snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Cozumel

The catamaran took us from the Cozumel pier and headed into the water. It hugged the shore, and we passed close by two other cruise ships also docked in Cozumel.

The snorkeling location was in deep water, but it wasn’t the open ocean; we could still see the shore and even the Carnival Vista at the terminal. All our belongings went into blue Rubbermaid totes under the seats to keep them dry. The crew gave us life vests, masks with snorkels, and flippers. We had to wear all of it and jump in the water with the vest inflated (you could uninflate it once you were in if you wanted). 

The seas were rough that day, so they asked us to jump in quickly and the boat would float away so there would be no safety risk. I shuffled to the end of the boat and stepped off into the water. I splashed in and the feeling of the cool water enveloped my body. I got my bearings and floated out a bit, looking for my party (everyone looked the same in a yellow vest and snorkel). 

The waters were crystal clear, and I could easily see the bottom of the ocean (The instructors said the water was about 15 to 20 feet deep). The current was strong, making me work harder to swim around than I had experienced on previous snorkeling trips. Four people from the excursion quickly became overwhelmed and asked to get out. The crew was attentive and ensured those guests were safe and back on board without problems. Then the rest of us proceeded to follow the lead crew member. 

We swam along a ridge where coral dotted the sea floor. Small fish were swimming all around us, between our legs and fins. I’ve been snorkeling several times before, but I always find it so mesmerizing how fish swim around and through us like we’re nothing.

One thing that stuck out to me was how plain the colors were. In my previous snorkeling adventures in the Bahamas, both the fish and coral were vibrant colors. Here, the colors were much more muted. I don’t know if that’s the area or due to global warming, but it was noticeably different. 

After about 20 to 30 minutes of snorkeling, the crew helped everyone get back on board, and we headed to our next stop. We kept our flippers and snorkels as we’d use them in the next place as well. 

Stingray Encounter at Stingray Beach

After a short ride, we arrived at Stingray Beach, where we’d spend the rest of the excursion. First, we entered a large amphitheater, and a wildlife expert told us some facts about stingrays. On top of providing information to tourists, this facility works to help restore and conserve local corals. They also release their captive-born stingrays back into the wild to help increase their population in the Mexican Caribbean. 

First, we’d go in the water and feed and pet the stingrays. The facility debarbs all the stingrays so they pose no threat to the guests. They asked if we had any sunscreen on (reef-safe, mineral, or otherwise) to wash it off. It’s the law in some national parks and protected waters in Mexico. If you’re going on an excursion like this, bring a shirt and hat with UPF protection built in; it’s the only way to protect yourself from the sun. You’ll also want water shoes as the ground here is very rough. The excursion provided some water shoes if you didn’t bring any. 

At this point, they gave us mesh bags to put our belongings in that they’d store behind the desk as we were in the water. Some group members complained that it wasn’t a secure locker, but it felt completely safe to me. 

We walked into a part of the shore that was roped off and formed a line. The water was about waist-deep where we were standing. An assistant came around and gave us all a small fish. Once given the green light, we’d lower the fish into the water, and the stingrays would swim around and grab them. Because their mouth is on the bottom, we had to put the food as low as possible.

Squeals filled the air as some younger girls in our group were bushed by the stingrays. There were at least five stingrays, anywhere from the size of a dinner plate to about 2 feet wide. It was an interesting sensation to have them sliding around between your feet. 

After that, the instructors got two stingrays so we could pet them and have a photo opportunity. Kissing a stingray is supposed to be good luck, so that was an option if you wanted a photo of that.

One by one, we approached. The stingrays were incredibly calm and relaxed. I was surprised at the texture of the stingray; it was both hard and boney and soft and slimy at the same time. 

After everyone got a turn, we headed to the next activity. 

Swimming with Rays and Sharks

In a netted-off pen next to us was a deeper section filled with other stingrays and nurse sharks. In this area, we’d wear snorkels and fins and swim with the animals. 

The water ranged in depth from a couple of feet to about 15 feet. Most people in the group participated in this part, even if they couldn’t participate in the open water snorkeling. 

Watching the stingrays glide effortlessly through the crystal clear waters was astounding. They seemed like such majestic and gentle creatures. They were pretty active, swimming around the large enclosure and zooming past rocks. But, since we had no food, they paid little attention to us.

In the corner, a group of four or five nurse sharks hid in the shade. They were big, maybe 6 feet or more, but they wanted nothing to do with anyone and just hung in one corner. I wouldn’t have spotted them if the staff hadn’t pointed them out. 

Beach BBQ Time

It was about 12:30, and we finished all the activities on board. Next was the “Beach BBQ” part of the excursion. When I originally read that in the description, I pictured we’d be eating on a huge white sand beach with hammocks and a fire pit. 

In reality, it was more of a patio next to the ocean with a large grill. It wasn’t bad, but if you booked this thinking it was part beach day, you might have been disappointed. 

The staff grilled up some delicious beef, chicken, and pork tacos. A fixings bar was next to it with fresh salsa, onions, cheese, and some tortilla chips. It was tasty, not as mind-blowing as the taco lunch at Maya Chan the day before, but it was very good food. The excursion also included Mexican beer or rum punch, which hit the spot after all the activity. 

After lunch, we headed to a room where they showed us photos taken during the adventure, both during the snorkeling and the stingray encounter. If you wanted to buy the photos, you paid per person. For seven people, it was $85, which wasn’t a bad deal if you look at the cost per person. 

Back to Cozumel Port

After our lunch, we headed back onto the catamaran and our original guides took us back to the cruise port. On the way back, they played music and had people dancing around. At one point, they had people doing the Cha Cha Slide, which is an interesting choice because there’s only a limited amount of space to move on the deck and the dance requires some sliding around. 

We got back to the International Cruise Terminal and explored some more. It was much less crowded than the Costa Maya port was the previous day. The stores were easy to walk through and we didn’t have to worry about getting lost in massive crowds of people. 

Since we didn’t purchase many souvenirs in Costa Maya, we checked out a few shops to look for typical tourist stuff like T-shirts and magnets. We also picked up some delicious chocolate bars. One of the convenience stores was selling Corona beers for $2 each, so we bought a round for the group as well. As with many cruise ports, all of the shops took US currency and most accepted credit cards. 

After we finished up, we headed back towards the ship. As we approached, we saw long lines stretching out of security. Each ship had its own line. For this port, rather than screening guests on the ship, they did it at a terminal beforehand. It felt a bit sloppy and unorganized but thankfully didn’t take too long. Once we got back to the Harmony of the Seas, we just showed our SeaPass and walked right on. 

Harmony of the Seas Pool Deck Activities

Since it was only about 3:30 and we were already in swimsuits, we decided to check out some of the pool deck features again. Some in our group decided to try the FlowRider. I opted for the waterslide, as I enjoyed the bowl slide. This time, there was no line at all. With no line, you realize how many steps it takes to get to the top of the slide platform. It felt like I had hiked up a hill by the time I got to the top of the stairs, but it was worth it. 

Once I was done, I met up with the group at the FlowRider. While they were waiting, I got a drink at the Wipeout Bar. It’s located in between the two FlowRiders, but has no seats making it a grab-and-go bar. It’s a shame that Royal Caribbean wasted some prime aft space on this ship and didn’t put more seating that can look out at the ocean. In fact, this whole trip, I didn’t have one opportunity to look out at the ship’s wake. I always find that so relaxing, watching the ship’s tail as we glide through the water, but there wasn’t a good view. There was some bar-height seating at the back of the ship, but the chairs were very uncomfortable. It seemed like it was an afterthought, especially after just sailing on a ship like the Norweigan Prima, which has so many comfy seating options overlooking the water (read about our cruise on Norwegian Prima here).

Once our group was done with the FlowRider, we planned to take the Ultimate Abyss slide back to the room. Unfortunately, the attendant stopped us and said we had to be completely dry to slide. Although I had gone on the water slide about 30 minutes earlier, I was still wet, and he said we couldn’t go. I completely understood since the water could pass through to the mat and slow down the ride for everyone, but I was surprised I was still wet enough at that point. 

Dinner in Silk Dining Room

Our group returned to our rooms to change and met again for dinner in the Silk Dining Room. Our waiters greeted us as we walked right to our table. I know a lot of people prefer my time dining because of the flexibility, but I really like having no waits and having the same waiters every night. 

During this meal, we had an extended chat with the manager who spent most of the cruise helping those in our party with special dietary needs. Her name was Mitzy, and she did a fantastic job ensuring everyone was taken care of. 

Our party asked her about eating in the Windjammer. She said that although they have a gluten-free section that’s quite good, she recommended that if guests have an actual allergy (as opposed to a preference for gluten-free), they don’t eat from the buffet-style section. Although the food is prepared separately and is safe, in a buffet setting, there could be cross-contamination. Instead, she said always ask for the manager when you arrive, and they’ll get the food directly from the galley. At no point did they ever make it feel like the dietary restrictions in our group were an imposition. 

English Pub for Live Music

After dinner, we headed to Boot and Bonnet English Pub for some live music. For this cruise, they had an acoustic guitar player named Nicole Springer performing. She had a singer/songwriter vibe and a beautifully rich voice. We had seen her for a bit the previous night, but now we wanted to see her whole set. 

We sat inside the pub (they also have seating on the Promenade) and waited for service. This bar was busy most evenings. While they had five bartenders behind the bar, drink service usually took some time because the servers would take your drink orders, make them all, and bring them out (rather than having separate servers and bartenders).

Again, I was annoyed by the lack of a physical menu at the bar. They had a tent on the tables with the highlighted cocktails and a QR code for the whole menu, but it was not as fun to look through. A digital menu doesn’t have the same impact as a print one. Sure, Royal Caribbean saves money by not printing menus, but I know for sure I would have ordered more drinks if I had an enticing menu in front of me, so they lost money there. 

We all relaxed and enjoyed the music as we lounged around. Nicole played some great covers and songs you wouldn’t expect. Everything from Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” to REO Speedwagon’s “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” The crowd was really enjoying her.

If you weren’t in an acoustic guitar mood, you could have checked out live Latin music in Boleros, a classic Quintet in Central Park, or party music in Dazzles. Royal Caribbean gives you a lot of options for live music; there’s something for everyone’s taste. 

Love and Marriage Show in the Royal Theater

This evening, Royal Caribbean was holding the Love and Marriage Game Show at 9:30 pm. The show is a play on the Newlywed Game and is pretty standard on every cruise line in North America. They bring up one newlywed couple, one who’s been married for around ten years, and one who has been married the longest. Then the cruise director gets to ask them embarrassing questions on stage. 

The show took place in the Royal Theater, which we hadn’t checked out yet. Located at the front of Decks 4 and 5, the two-story venue was impressive. Decorated with rich reds and gold hues, it felt like a traditional theater from the old days. This venue is where they’d host larger-scale shows, headliner acts, and a production of Grease.

We got there about 20 minutes early, found some comfy seats in the middle of the orchestra section, and waited. The room filled up but wasn’t so packed that people couldn’t find a seat. It seemed like there was room for everyone. 

The show started with an assistant cruise director, Gemma, who came out and tried to line up the couples. I don’t know why Royal Caribbean always makes the assistant cruise director do this part of the show. It feels like it’s beneath the cruise directors to talk to the guests, so they have the assistants do it. I’ve witnessed it twice on Royal Caribbean ships and it always leaves a bad taste in my mouth. 

I always find Royal Caribbean takes too much time to find the contestants. It gets dull. Usually, they find the newest and oldest married couples and then have the mid-range couple compete. in this case, the newest couples had to compete by having the guy do his best Tarzen call to his “Jane.” Then for the mid-range couple, they had to reenact a scene from Dirty Dancing where they say, “no one puts baby in a corner,” but somehow that evolved into everyone attempting the “I Had The Time Of My Life” dance lift. It did not go well. Thankfully the assistant director had great energy and a good sense of humor. 

After the three couples were selected, the cruise director Jeffery came out. He seemed to be absent during most of the sailing, and we barely heard any announcements from him except when a show was delayed. It was day four of our cruise, and I couldn’t have identified him in a lineup if I had tried. 

He introduced himself but then had this odd concept for the show. He wanted us to pretend we were a studio audience and like we were filming it live for TV (technically, it would air on the cruise ship channel the next day). Then he asked everyone to be quiet and “counted in” as the music played, and he introduced himself. It felt very cheesy and inauthentic. 

The show was amusing, but I thought the questions they asked the contestants weren’t as funny as others I’ve heard. I also wasn’t appreciating Jeffery’s vibe, but two in my group were laughing so hard they were literally crying, so it’s subjective.

Overall, the show was fun, and I definitely recommend you check it out on your next cruise. 

Good luck getting into the comedy show

After the show, we were looking for what else to do. We looked at the Adult Comedy show that was happening right after the Love and Marriage show, but unfortunately, it was completely booked. In fact, during the whole cruise, we couldn’t get into one comedy show. All the comedy during this sailing took place in a little venue called “The Attic,” and reservations were all gone when we looked to book at the end of the first day. They had a standby line available, but it was also long.

I don’t know why cruise lines insist on putting comedians in such small venues. It’s not just Royal Caribbean. I’ve had the problem on Norwegian and Carnival as well. Comedy is a very popular attraction, especially the late show, and yet they put it in a venue that holds a hundred people at most. I know that comedy shows usually have an intimate feel, but I’ve also seen them in huge theaters on land that hold up to a thousand people, and they were just as funny. It’s like the people who build these ships and plan these events have never cruised and tried to see the nightlife. 

Back to the room

Since we couldn’t get into the show, we headed back to the cabin. It was 10:45, and I could still hear the AquaTheater show through the door. Thankfully, I wasn’t trying to go to bed at that minute, but it would have been very difficult if you were trying to. 

I also realized we didn’t get a physical copy of the Cruise Compass yet again, even though I requested it. It would have been helpful because it would have come with the departure information about how to schedule our debarkation time. I found it very frustrating that Royal Caribbean made it so difficult to get basic information like that. While the app is good, it can’t replicate the information provided in the physical copies guests can receive. 

Follow along on the rest of our Harmony of the Seas cruise

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 1 – Fort Lauderdale

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 2 – Sea Day

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 3 – Costa Maya

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 4 – Cozumel

Harmony of the Seas – Cruise Blog - Day 5 – Sea Day

5 Hits and Misses on Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas

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