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One Day In Aruba on a Cruise - Royal Caribbean Cruise Blog

2/28/2025

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Day 4 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise was a port day in lovely Aruba.

We did not plan an excursion in advance and decided to DIY a low key day on the island and revisited a yummy foodie spot. 
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Free Shuttle from Aruba Cruise Port

After waking up to this gorgeous water view from our Oceanview cabin (room tour with photos and review here), we were eager to start our day on Aruba.

Conveniently, after exiting the ship's gangway there were shuttle buses waiting to take cruise ship passengers to the main gate. 
The shuttle buses were ​free (hooray!) and had comical names like "Honey Boy" and "Lady Blue".

They were clearly marked with the name of our ship, Symphony of the Seas.

Aruba Cruise Port


​For those with limited mobility, there is plenty of shopping to do in the main port area. 

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If you're able to walk a bit more you can check out the "local market".

​At the main intersection walk left, and you'll see the sign for the local market right across from the I ❤︎‬ Aruba sign. 
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Souvenirs in Aruba Cruise Port

There are plenty of classic t shirts, ball caps, and magnets available to purchase in port (pics to come), but there are also some more unique items from local artisans to consider!
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The colorful boho sandals were calling my name, but I restrained because I was afraid they were too flat for my feet. :( 
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Knock Off Ray Ban Sunglasses in Aruba Cruise Port

I got a kick out of this sunglasses display which announces that all of the $25 sunglasses are fake items. lol. 
But hey if you want some D&G, Chanel, or Ray Bans ....  
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Cute paintings and decorative signs for your home.

Cost of Souvenir Hats in Aruba


​Loads of souvenir hats and visors were available. As seen below the prices at this shop ranged from $5-8.

The Paddock

The Paddock is located in walking distance from the port in Oranjestad, Aruba. 
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A popular spot due to it's convenient location and vibe, a bucket of 5 local beers would set you back just $20 and a meal consisting of French bread, chicken salad, and fries ran $10. 
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If you want to leave your mark you can leave a $1 bill on the wall and sign your name and where you're from. 
I do believe this was also a spot where you could catch wifi in Aruba cruise port. 
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Walking Around Oranjestad 

Beyond the ornate, colorful buildings when you first enter the town, we strolled beyond the main strip of stores and toward the far end of the marina. 
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A pair of giant flamingos nuzzling stood between the yachts and the cruise ships in the distance. It looks like Carnival was also in port with us on this day. 
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This was just at the edge of the Renaissance Marketplace in the Aruba cruise port where we found a really cool store. 
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Mopa Mopa Aruba


This store was filled with unique and intricately decorated home decor.

​Have you heard of the Mopa Mopa Tree?
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Much to my surprise, these items are not painted. Rather they are decorated using a centuries old technique of extracting resin from the Mopa Mopa Tree. 
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Inside the store you could ask an associate and read other information to learn about this unique art form. They do accept all major credit cards, so if you don't have enough cash on you for one of these treasures, don't worry. 

I think this is a very cool store to walk around and learn about this unique craft even if you're not in the market for a piece. 
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Murals by Armando Goedgedrag


Absolutely incredible art murals can be seen on the sides of buildings in the Renaissance Marketplace which have been painted by the very talented Armando Goedgedrag. 
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It's very cool to see support for local artists like this and it really adds to the vibrance of Oranjestad, don't you agree?! 

Wilhelmina Park, Oranjestad


​Wilhelmina Park in Oranjestad is a well-manicured park with a nice walkway stroll through. 

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Here in this park you will see a statue of Anne Frank. 
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As well as Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands whom the park is named after. She reigned from 1890 until her abdication in 1948. 
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Queen Wilhelmina was the longest raining monarch in Dutch history. Apparently she was also the world's first female billionaire. 

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Her park is also full of iguanas!! It's hard to tell from the photo, but they are quite large!
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Mangroves and Beaches

There is a wooden boardwalk from Governors Bay Beach in Oranjestad which allows you to enjoy views of Banyan Trees. 

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These cool trees have aerial roots that grow into accessory trunks. Over time a Banyan tree can cover several acres - isn't that insane?!

It was hard to pass up an opportunity to walk down through this banyan tree and onto a beach via this sort of secret path. 
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The beach area here was quite narrow, but felt private. There was no one in sight although it was not that far from the main Governor's Beach area. 
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​When traveling, very often you are rewarded when you're willing to take just a few extra steps. 

Continuing on toward Surfside Beach, we passed some more incredible trees like this Acacia tree. 
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​And I found it fascinating how this tree looked like it was currently caught in a violent windstorm although the weather was calm. :) 

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We finally made it to Surfside Beach! 
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There were just a few families there.  With plenty of trees to catch some shade from or sit on, I really enjoyed this beach! 

​By the way, all beaches in Aruba are free. :) 

The Pastechi House


There was one last stop we wanted to make before heading back to our cruise ship after this day in Oranjestad.

That stop was The Pastechi House. 
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We visited The Pastechi House on an ABC islands cruise back in 2017 or around there and were thrilled to see it survived through the pandemic, though it was a struggle the owner shared. 

Pastechi House Menu with Prices

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Pastechi is an ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) version of an empanada and they are tasty!!


We also nabbed ourselves a fresh orange juice which was a tad bit more expensive than in Portugal. 
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​Just outside The Pastechi House was this spectacular rooster ... 
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Even more exciting was the exotic black, white, and orange bird in this palm tree! It appears to be a Venezuelan Troupial!
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Downtown Oranjestad


It was time to make our way back through downtown Oranjestad and to the cruise ship terminal, past the blue horse ... 
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Beyond all the cute buildings ... 

Took one last look at the cutest souvenirs for anyone who loves a cultural touch!
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Probably should have gotten a Where's my Pastechi at!? mug.

It was a cool honor system sort of set up where when the artist wasn't there in person (like the day we were there), you could snap a picture of what you wanted to by, message her on whatsapp and then send the payment to her! 
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I Heart Aruba Sign


Don't forget, you can't leave the island without snapping a pic of the I ‪‪❤︎‬ Aruba sign, can you?
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We got back on board Symphony of the Seas and headed to our room to get ready for dinner - Caribbean Night!
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We returned to a cute little towel animal welcoming us back and I put on the closest thing to a "Caribbean" themed outfit as I had for dinner in the main dining room.  

Outfit: Quince European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, Etsy Skirt, Nisolo Bag, Melrie Jewelry 

A Taste of the Caribbean Menu

After a lovely day exploring Aruba, we were ready for dinner in the main dining room onboard Symphony of the Seas.  Tap the menu to see what we ordered! 
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A Taste of the Caribbean Menu
  • A Taste of the Caribbean Dinner Menu
  • Wonder of the Seas Review
  • Utopia of the Seas Review
  • Symphony of the Seas Embarkation Day
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Utopia of the Seas Photo Review

2/27/2025

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Utopia of the Seas "The World's Biggest Weekend" Review in Photos 

Utopia of the Seas  began sailing in July 2024 as the sixth Oasis Class Ship in the Royal Caribbean Fleet and my lovely friend Evelyn enjoyed sailing during Utopia's inaugural season along with her husband and daughter in a 1D Ocean View Balcony 11658. 

​Please enjoy the photos she has graciously shared! 
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Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas

From elaborate displays as seen above and monkey scavenger hunts to unique art displays throughout the ship, Utopia of the Seas is a fun-filled short cruise vacation for anyone who wants to get away but doesn't have loads of time off. 

Boardwalk Neighborhood on Utopia of the Seas

An iconic feature of all Oasis Class ships is the carousel on the boardwalk. The carousel is free to ride as many times as you'd like and makes for a great photo with the ship name in the background and the mirrored purple Ultimate Abyss slides. 
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Carousel onboard Utopia of the Seas cruise ship

If you spend some time in the Boardwalk neighborhood, you may find one of the jewel eyed monkeys! 
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Jewel Eyed Monkey Scavenger Hunt on Utopia of the Seas
-> Boardwalk Balcony Stateroom Review <- 


​Central Park NEIGHBORHOOD ON UTOPIA OF THE SEAS

Central Park is a relaxing area of Oasis Class ships that allows you to feel as if you're strolling through New York City's famous public park in Manhattan. 

You are welcomed to the neighborhood with a map to orient yourself. 
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Central Park on Utopia of the Seas

Nestled between over 20,000 tropical plants (on a cruise ship!!) you will find unique art pieces like this elephant ... 

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Elephant Statue and Tropical Snake Plants in Central Park Utopia of the Seas

or this glorious metallic bonsai tree statue! 
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Bonsai Tree Statue in Central Park on Utopia of the Seas

All the plants you see, including this multi-story green wall, are live plants which is pretty neat when you think about the fact that you're in the middle of the ocean surrounded by a mini botanical garden! 
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Living Wall on Utopia of the Seas

In Central Park you can visit some specialty dining restaurants, do some shopping, enjoy live music with a cocktail, or take a romantic stroll through the park! 

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Central Park at Night on Utopia of the Seas


​Royal Promenade ON UTOPIA OF THE SEAS


​The Royal Promenade is a lively hub on Utopia of the Seas.  Live music, parades, balloon drops, and late night pizza slices await you!
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Royal Promenade on Utopia of the Seas

Large and unique art installations like these giant seashells are placed all around the ship for you to discover, admire, or shrug at. 
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Sea shell art installation on Utopia of the Seas


​Utopia of the Seas Art 

If you're trying not to bring back a kilo or two as a cruise souvenir, one of the best things you can do is take the stairs. You'll be rewarded with unique wall art on every floor! 

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Tropical Fruit Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas
For any who enjoy going to art museums, you basically have a mini art museum onboard the ship! Besides that actual art gallery you can combine exercise and art appreciation as you go up (or more likely down) stairs all around the ship. 
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Floral Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas

There is no one singular style, but something different for every taste - surprise waiting around every corner! 

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Tropical Island Vibes Wall Art on Utopia of the Seas
Have you ever made it a point to check out the artwork at the landing of each staircase on a cruise ship? 

Utopia of the Seas Pool Deck

After doing a few flights of stairs you're probably ready for a dip in the pool or maybe a nice cold beverage from Lime and Coconut pool bar. 
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View of Utopia of the Seas Pool Deck + Lime and Coconut Bar

If you want a quieter pool experience, try the adults-only solarium.
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Solarium on Utopia of the Seas

Ultimate Abyss Dry Slide

When you're done relaxing and want a quick thrill, grab a mat and slide from the deck 16 down to the Boardwalk on deck 6 with the Ultimate Abyss dry slide. 

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Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas

​The Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas ​ is 259 feet long, 43 feet longer than previous versions, making this the biggest thrill yet!


​Manta Rays on Utopia of the Seas

Even the elevators on Utopia of the Seas  are entertaining as you catch glimpses of five colorful suspended manta ray sculptures in the elevator shafts. 
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Artlink's Manta Ray Installation on Utopia of the Seas

​Learn about how Artlink created this 14 story art installation in this behind the scenes article. 

Crown & Anchor Society 

Crown and Anchor Society is Royal Caribbean's loyalty program, but even if it's your first RC cruise you can relax on this super cute boat couch! :)
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Crown and Anchor Society on Utopia of the Seas


​Can you find the wine window?


​Next time you're on Utopia of the Seas see if you can find this wine window. :) 

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Wine Window on Utopia of the Seas


​Pesky Parrot Bar Utopia of the Seas


​Pesky Parrot is a Polynesian themed Bar on Utopia of the Seas with edible candy straws!

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Pesky Parrot Tiki Bar on Utopia of the Seas

The Pesky Parrot actually replaced the Bionic Bar found on other Oasis Class ships. 
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​Perfect Day at Coco Cay, Bahamas


Utopia of the Seas ​ sailings are visiting the awesome Perfect Day at Coco Cay private island on Bahamas. 
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Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

​There's a lot to discover on this private island for Royal Caribbean (and Celebrity) guests, so plan to come back on a future cruise.
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Sand Sculpture on Perfect Day Coco Cay Private Island

Liberty of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas ​ side by side at Perfect Day at Coco Cay cruise port in Bahamas. 
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Utopia of the Seas and Liberty of the Seas dock side-by-side at Perfect Day, Bahamas


​Utopia of the Seas Review

I asked Evelyn what she thought of her Utopia of the Seas ​family cruise and here's what she said:
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Client Review of Utopia of the Seas

 Enough said..  :) The AquaTheater is pretty cool!
​

Until Next Time, Utopia!


Utopia of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's newest ships and is geared toward awesome short getaways out of Port Canaveral, Florida aka Orlando cruise port.

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Nothing beats a sunrise or a sunset from a cruise ship
Book a Utopia of the Seas Cruise Today!


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Legend of the Seas - Royal Caribbeans Newest Ship

2/18/2025

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Star of the Seas is yet to arrive (summer 2025) and Royal Caribbean has just announced the newest ship in the Icon Class - Legend of the Seas. 
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Book a Legend of the Seas Cruise


​Legend of the Seas Itinerary 

Legend of the Seas will be cruising Europe and the Mediterranean for the Summer 2026 season departing from Barcelona, Spain before making it's transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale, Florida for winter 2026 Southern Caribbean Cruises and Eastern Caribbean Cruises!
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Detailed itineraries are coming soon! 
​

Legend of the Seas Deck Plan

There are currently two versions of the Legend of the Seas Deck plans - profile 2416 for the Caribbean Cruises starting October 2026 and profile 2401 for the European Cruises from July - October 2026, as shown below. 
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Click here for a PDF version of the Legend of the Seas Deck Plan PDF
​

Icon Class Ships

Icon 3, aka Legend of the Seas, is the third ship in Royal Caribbean's Icon Class. 

The Icon Class consists of: 
  • Icon of the Seas - 2024
  • Star of the Seas - 2025
  • Legend of the Seas - 2026
  • Icon 4 - To Be Announced - 2027
    ​

Legend of the Seas Reviews

We are looking forward to sharing our honest Legend of the Seas reviews!
​Let us know what questions you have about Legend of the Seas. 

More Royal Caribbean Cruise News

For all of you Royal Loyal Fans, here is a look ahead of the next few years and some of the exciting things Royal Caribbean has in store for your cruise vacations! 
​
  • 2025
    • Launch of Star of the Seas, Icon Class 2
    • Royal Beach Club in Nassau opens
    • Celebrity Xcel Launches
  • 2026
    • Launch of Legend of the Seas, Icon Class 3
    • Royal Beach Club Cozumel Opens
  • 2027
    • Launch of Icon Class 4
    • Celebrity River Cruises launch from sister brand 
  • 2028
    • Launch of Oasis Class Ship VII - The 7th Oasis Class Ship!  
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Wonder of the Seas 7 Night Caribbean Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals

2/9/2025

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Wonder of the Seas 7 Night Caribbean Cruise June 1, 2025

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Don't Miss Bonus Onboard Credit on Royal Caribbean

​7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise
on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas
Sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida on June 1, 2025

Rates are total PER CABIN of two passengers! 🥳
  • Inside: $2614.40
  • Oceanview: $2993.40
  • Balcony: $3014.40
  • Suite: $5961.40

Email @marissa.books.travel for a 24 hour courtesy hold and the most up-to-date pricing and deals available for this sailing! 

Rates subject to change until fully deposited. ​
​
Request 24 Hour Courtesy Hold


​Exclusive Onboard Credit OFfer!

All Royal Caribbean Cruises fully deposited in February 2025 will receive up to $100 bonus onboard credit per stateroom! 8) 

7 Night Western Caribbean Cruise Itinerary 

  • Perfect Day at CocoCay Private Island in Bahamas 
  • Costa Maya, Mexico 
  • Roatan, Honduras 
  • ​Cozumel, Mexico
    ​

Follow for more Royal Caribbean cruise deals

@marissa.books.travel


​Subscribe For Cruise Deals on Youtube:

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Last Minute Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals February 2025

1/20/2025

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Last Minute Cruise Deals Royal Caribbean

​So you're pretty much sick of winter by now, right? 

Check out these last minute Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals so you can get away and replenish. your stores of Vitamin D in February. ;) 
​
Sun Sand and a Drink In my Hand Custom Cruise Tumbler Tumbler
Sun, Sand, and a Drink in my Hand Custom Cruise Tumbler

Last Minute Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals From Baltimore

  •  8 night Bahamas cruise on Vision of the Seas departing February 21, 2025
    Ports of call Charleston, Port Canaveral, Grand Bahama, and Nassau
    Oceanview Stateroom - from $1144.65 per person
Book Here!


​Last minute ROYAL CARIBBEAN cruise deals from florida

Last minute cruise deals from port everglades fort lauderdale

  • 4 night Bahamas cruise on Liberty of the Seas departing February 24, 2025
    Ports of call: Nassau + Perfect Day at CocoCay
    Inside from $444 
    Oceanview from $781
    Balcony from $727 
    Yes, balcony is cheaper than oceanview! ;) 

  • 6 night Western Caribbean cruise on Freedom of the Seas departing February 23, 2025
    Ports of call: Nassau, Falmouth Jamaica, Labadee Haiti
    Inside from $952 

  • 9 night Southern Caribbean cruise on Grandeur of the Seas departing February 21, 2025
    Ports of call: St. Maarten, Dominica, St. Kitts, San Juan Puerto Rico, Puerto Plata Dominican Republic
    ​Inside from $1076

Book Here!

Fort Lauderdale Travel Tips

Read all Ft. Lauderdale food + hotel reviews and cruise port blog posts

LAST MINUTE CRUISE DEALS FROM Port of Miami

  • ​3 night Bahamas cruise on Independence of the Seas departing February 21, 2025
    Ports of call: Nassau + Perfect Day at CocoCay
    Inside from $393
    Oceanview from $533
    ​Balcony from $635

  • 7 night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Symphony of the Seas departing February 16, 2025
    Ports of call: St. Maarten, San Juan Puerto Rico,  Perfect Day at CocoCay
    Inside from $1157
    ​
  • 10 night Southern Caribbean cruise on Explorer of the Seas departing February 6, 2025
    Ports of call: Puerto Plata Dominican Republic, San Juan Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, Dominica, Antigua, St. Kitts
    Inside from $1359
Book Here!

LAST MINUTE CRUISE DEALS FROM PORT Canaveral Orlando 

  • 5 night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Voyager of the Seas departing February 22, 2025
    Ports of call: Nassau, Labadee
    Inside from $538
    Oceanview from $617
    Balcony from $679

  • 4 night Bahamas cruise on Utopia of the Seas *new ship* departing February 17, 2025
    Ports of call: Nassau + Perfect Day at CocoCay
    Inside from $840
Book Here!

Symphony of the Seas reviews:

Read all Symphony of the Seas Reviews, Food Pics, and Tips here!

LAST MINUTE CRUISE DEALS FROM Tampa

  • ​5 night Western Caribbean cruise on Enchantment of the Seas departing February 15, 2025
    Ports of call: Costa Maya, Cozumel Mexico 
    Inside from $562
    Oceanview from $662
Book Here!

More Last Minute Cruise + Travel Deals:

See all last minute travel deals here :)
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4 Night Utopia of the Seas Cruise Deal

10/14/2024

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Utopia of the Seas Cruise Deal

Sailing Royal Caribbean's newest ships can come with a heft price tag these days thanks to such high demand. But don't worry :) 
​​

​This 4 night Utopia of the Seas Cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida is a great deal! 
​
​Ports of Call:
  • Nassau, Bahamas
  • Perfect Day CocoaCay, Bahamas
    ​
Sail from just $606 per person!
​December 1-5, 2025
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Tap to book!

​If you're looking for a short cruise on an exciting new ship that allows you to get away to some beautiful beaches for a few days - this is the sailing for you!

Book Here While Space Remains!

Prices valid through November 7, 2024. Missed the deal but love the itinerary?

​Message your  Royal Caribbean Travel Agent for prices on current inventory! :) ​
​

4 NIGHT Utopia of the Seas Bahamas CRUISE ITINERARY INTERACTIVE MAP:

Book this Cruise!

SUGGESTED EXCURSIONS FOR THIS CRUISE:

The world's best amusement parks in Orlando + Sea Turtles, Swim with Cute Pigs on Bahamas, Rum Tastings and more: 
  • Top Things To Do In Orlando
  • Port Canaveral Transfers & Activities 
  • Top Things To Do In Nassau

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​More cruise deals ;) 

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7 night Royal Caribbean alaska cruise Deal balcony from $204

10/14/2024

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Alaska cruise deals out of Seattle are great for Americans as you don't need to fly internationally for your cruise!
​

2025 ROYAL CARIBBEAN Alaska CRUISE DEALS From Seattle

​This 7 night Alaska cruise from Seattle on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas is sure to be unforgettable with stops in: 
​
  • Juneau, Alaska
  • Skagway, Alaska 
  • Sitka, Alaska 
  • Victoria, British Colombia

    Sail in a balcony stateroom from just $204 per person per night!
    September 19 - 26, 2025​
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Tap to book this cruise!
Book Here While Space Remains!

​Prices valid through November 7, 2024. Missed the deal but love the itinerary?

​Message your  Royal Caribbean Travel Agent for prices on current inventory! :) ​
​

7 NIGHT Alaska CRUISE From Seattle ITINERARY INTERACTIVE MAP:
​

Book This Cruise

Suggested Excursions For This Cruise:


​If glaciers, whales and huskies sound like an incredible combination to you - this Alaska cruise may be the perfect itinerary for your next cruise vacation!

  • What to do in Seattle, Washington
  • Top Shore Excursions in Juneau, Alaska 
  • Top Shore Excursions in Skagway, Alaska 
  • Top Shore Excursions in Sitka, Alaska 
  • Top Shore Excursions in Victoria, British Colombia

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More Cruise Deals ;) 

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7 night Greek Isles Cruise From $145 | 2025 Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals

10/14/2024

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Spring is one of the best times to sail the Mediterranean and enjoy pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds. 
​

2025 Greek Isles Cruise Deals 


​This 7 night Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey Cruise from Athens, Greece on Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas is heading to some bucket list ports: 
​
  • Santorini, Greece
  • Rhodes, Greece
  • Limassol, Cyprus
  • Bodrum, Turkey
  • Ephesus (Kusadasi) Turkey

    Sail from just $145 per person per night!
    May 23-30, 2025
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Tap to book this Spring Greek Isles Cruise

This cruise affords the opportunity to participate in unique and faith strengthening tours for those who love Bible history!
​

Book Here While Space Remains!
​Prices valid through November 7, 2024. Missed the deal but love the itinerary?
​Message your  Royal Caribbean Travel Agent for prices on current inventory! :) 
​


7 night greece, cyprus, turkey cruise itinerary interactive map:

Book This Cruise

SUGGESTED EXCURSIONS FOR THIS CRUISE:

  • Top Shore Excursions Santorini, Greece
  • Top Shore Excursions Rhodes, Greece
  • Top Shore Excursions Limassol, Cyprus
  • Top Shore Excursions Bodrum, Turkey
  • Top Shore Excursions Ephesus (Kusadasi) Turkey
  • Top Shore Excursions Athens (Piraeus), Greece
  • ​

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More Cruise Deals ;) 

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2025 Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals | 12 night southern caribbean cruise from $83 per night!

10/10/2024

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2025 Royal Caribbean Cruise Deals


Looking for a Spring 2025 Cruise Deal?
​
​This 12 night Southern Caribbean Cruise from Baltimore, Maryland on Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas is heading to some stunning ports: 
​
  • St. Croix, USVI
  • Philipsburg, St. Maarten
  • Castries, St. Lucia
  • Roseau, Dominica
  • Basseterre, St Kitts & Nevis

    Sail from just $83 per person per night!
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Tap to Book this Royal Caribbean Deal!
Book Here While Space Remains!
Prices valid through November 7, 2024. Missed the deal but love the itinerary?
​Message your  Royal Caribbean Travel Agent for prices on current inventory! :) 

Suggested Excursions for this cruise:

  • What to do in Baltimore
  • Top Shore Excursions in Saint Croix
  • Top Shore Excursions in St. Maarten
  • Top Excursions in Castries, St. Lucia
  • Top Shore Excursions in Roseau, Dominica
  • Top Shore Excursions in Basseterre
    ​

12 Night Southern Caribbean Cruise Itinerary Interactive Map:

Book This Cruise!

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More Cruise Deals ;)

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Symphony of the Seas Cruise Blog

9/17/2024

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Day 3 of our Southern Caribbean Cruise was another relaxing sea day. We took the opportunity to meet up with family for breakfast in the main dining room. 
​
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Sea Day View From Oceanview Cabin on Symphony of the Seas

In this post:

  • Cruise Food Blog: Breakfast In The Main Dining Room
  • Park Cafe in Central Park
  • Chops Grille Menu
  • Bionic Bar
  • Rising Tide Bar
  • Watch and Scotch Tasting Event
  • Free Mini Golf
  • A Taste of Italy Royal Caribbean Dinner Menu
  • Cruise Food Photos: Dinner
  • Johnny Rockets Cruise Ship Menu
  • Hiro AquaTheater Show
  • Free Symphony of the Seas Cruise Quote
 

Breakfast in the main dining room 


These photos of breakfast in the main dining room on Symphony of the Seas show just a sample of what you can order off the menu for breakfast on your cruise. 
​
All the classics are available: bacon, sausage, hash browns, fried eggs, scrambled eggs, eggs Benedict, pancakes, and French toast. 
​
Because you're on a cruise... you can also order dessert like this layered carrot cake with walnut topping after breakfast if you want. :p 
​
 
Return To Top ↑

Cruise Food Blog:

  • Royal Caribbean Main Dining Room Brunch Review
  • Crispy Calamari and Creme Brûlée on Symphony of the Seas 
  • Curry and Carrot Cake at Solarium Bistro 
  • ​Welcome Aboard Dinner Menu


​PArk Cafe 


Park Cafe is a free dining option in the Central Park neighborhood aboard Symphony of the Seas. It's meant to be a casual deli where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or grab an afternoon snack.

There is a case where you can just grab a ready-made sandwich and a piece of fruit which is very convenient. 
The Park Cafe Menu serves up soups and sandwiches, including the "legendary" Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich and the occasional Cuban Sandwich. 

You'll also find sweet treats like this Matcha Cream Puff, Raspberry Pound Cake, and Mudslide Cookies.

​You can dine in or do what we did - take your treats and Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich outside to enjoy in Central Park. 

 
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Greece Travel Blog.

  • One Day In Crete Cruise Port (Chania)
  • One Day In Mykonos Cruise Port
  • One Day In Athens Cruise Port
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​Chops Grille Menu

Chops Grille is a Classic American Steakhouse specialty dining restaurant on Symphony of the Seas. 
Check out the menu as seen in Central Park:
Picture
Chops Grille Menu
 
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The Bionic Bar

The Bionic Bar on Symphony of the Seas is located on deck 5.

​Here you can have your cocktails made by robots. Drinks are not free at the bionic bar. You pay, as you would in any bar, using your Sea Pass Card. If you have a beverage package, drinks are included up to the specified value. 

Picture
Bionic Bar on Symphony of the Seas
 
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The rising tide Bar

The Rising Tide Bar is a moving bar at sea which slowly ascends and descends over 3 decks on Symphony of the Seas. In the photo below we are looking up at the bottom of the floating bar.

The departure times are listed at the entrances on Deck 8 and Deck 5. Like the Bionic Bar, this is a novel bar concept that you should try at least once just for the fun of it. 
​
Picture
Rising Tide Bar on Symphony of the Seas
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Portugal Travel Blog.

  • Bubble Time Expo Review - Lisbon Bubble Tea Shop
  • Han Table Barbecue Review - Lisbon Korean BBQ Restaurant
  • Sushi Fixe Review - Lisbon Unlimited Sushi Restaurant 


​REgalia Watches

If you're looking for a luxury timepiece onboard Symphony, or maybe just window shopping, Regalia Watches is onboard. They also hosted a Watch and Scotch event on our cruise. 

Picture
Regalia Watches
 
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Watch & Scotch Event

The Watch and Scotch event featured Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky: Island Green, Gold Label Reserve, Black Label, and Red Label. 
​
Picture
Johnnie Walker Scotch Tasting
At the event you can enjoy a complimentary tasting and this is one of the opportunities for those with a tighter budget to get free drinks on a cruise!
​

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve.

Johnnie Walker Island Green 

I really enjoyed the complexity that the smokiness brought to Johnnie Walker's Island Green Blended Malt Whisky.
 
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Port Everglades Cruise Port

  • Port Everglades Hotel Review: Hyatt Place Cruise Port Fort Lauderdale
  • Are these the best hoagies in Ft. Lauderdale?
  • Starting a Cruise in Florda's Port Everglades


​Free Mini Golf on Symphony of the seas Cruise Ship

The mini golf course is located on deck 15 and it is quite cute with its very vacation-y theme. 
​
It is a lot of fun and can be a tad challenging depending on the winds at sea, but it is possible to get a hole-in-one! ;)
​ 
Few things will work up your appetite like cruise ship mini golf.. :) 
​
 
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A taste of italy menu - Main dining room 

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A Taste of Italy - Royal Caribbean Dinner Menu
 
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Crispy Parmesan Arancini. 

Arborio rice, portobello mushroom and provolone cheese rolled in panko and fried until golden, served with romesco sauce.
​

Golden Polenta Fries. 

Crispy baked corn polenta served with a chilled creamy hazelnut-red pepper spread.
​
See also: Eating Arancini In Italy
​

Lasagne al forno.

Layers of pasta, mozzarella, béchamel and hearty beef ragout drizzled with fragrant herb oil.
​

Tiramisu.

Layers of whipped mascarpone cheese, delicate ladyfingers, espresso and a hint of coffee liqueur.
​
Making our way from the Main Dining Room to the Aqua Theater for the evening showing of Hiro, we passed Johnny Rockets on the Boardwalk. 
​
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Italy Travel Blog.

  • Embarking a Mediterranean Cruise in Rome
  • Pizza in Naples
  • One Day in Naples Cruise Port


​Johnny Rockets

Johnny Rockets is a retro American dinner where you can grab diner classics like burgers, fries, and milkshakes not to mention a special performance if you time it just right. ;)
 

Johnny Rockets Menu on Symphony of the seas. 

Johnny Rockets is a casual dining option on Royal Caribbean Cruises. You do have to pay a surcharge to eat at Johnny Rockets, but on Symphony of the Seas breakfast is free! 
​
Tap a Johnny Rockets cruise ship menu below to enlarge it! 
If you are "Loyal to Royal" and have sailed with Royal Caribbean before you will also have a discount on Johny Rocket's Milkshakes loaded onto your account.

Just let the waiter know when you order one that you want to use your 50% off milkshake coupon. 

 
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Hiro aquatheater show

Hiro was the AquaTheater show on Symphony of the Seas and this fuzzy night time pic is all I got to prove I was there. :p 

It's amazing to see the use of the dive pool and acrobatics in a choreographed show like this. 

Royal likes to brag on their entertainment, but I can see why after our most recent cruise. 
​
Picture
Hiro AquaTheater Show

Royal Caribbean Cruise deals:

  • $100 Bonus Onboard Credit
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