shore excursions royal caribbean labadee

15 Best Things To Do In Labadee Haiti | Cruise Port Guide

Labadee is the Royal Caribbean’s private resort destination located on the northern coast of Haiti, within the arrondissement of Cap-Haïtien. Labadee is not an island, as many think! The resort lies on a Haitian peninsula that is leased to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., for the exclusive use of passengers of Royal Caribbean International.

Labadee is fenced and secured, and guests are not allowed to leave the property. Once in Labadee, you’ll meet locals hired by the Royal Caribbean, and also those allowed to sell their goods at the Artisan’s Market. In this Labadee cruise port guide, I share with you insider information on:

• Labadee port (getting around the resort, insider tips)
• Top 15 things to do in Labadee and best Labadee shore excursions

Visit also our cruise guides to Cozumel , Costa Maya ,  Perfect Day at CocoCay ,   St Maarten , Nassau

Labadee Haiti Port Overview

Labadee (Haiti) port consists of two docks that can accommodate 2 cruise ships simultaneously (1 berth can accommodate the Royal Caribbean’s largest cruise ships). Normally there is only one cruise vessel at a time in port, but sometimes there are two depending on the ship’s size.

The pier is flat, around 400 m (1315 ft.) long and it takes around 5-10 minutes to reach the entrance to the resort, depending on the walking speed. Wheelchair assistance is provided for guests with wheelchair devices and mobility issues, and there is usually a small cart to take these guests to the entrance of the resort.

When you reach the entrance, you’ll be welcomed by lively local performers and Royal Caribbean staff working in the resort who will show you the directions.

Getting Around Labadee Haiti

Labadee is relatively small and easy to get around, as it’s less than 1 km long (0.5 miles) and half a kilometer wide (0.25 miles). It covers an area of 260 acres, and it takes around 15-20 minutes walk to get from the entrance to the resort to its end. The resort is exclusively designed for cruise ship guests and everything is perfectly organized. The roads and paths are paved and well-marked and there are signs all over the place.

You’ll find Royal Caribbean’s friendly staff everywhere, happy to answer all your questions. The whole resort is accessible and there are beach wheelchairs available, so guests in wheelchairs can easily navigate the area.

You’ll spot a large map of the resort right by the entrance, as well as Information Center , a square where the tram stop is (next to a large wooden colorful chair), and a red building on your right where restrooms are (this area is marked as Dragon’s Plaza on the map below).

If you can’t or don’t want to walk, you can take a free tram at the Dragon Tram Station that will take you to Columbus Cove Tram Station at the end of the resort. There are two stops in between, one at Nellie’s Beach (Barefoot Tram Station) and Town Square Tram Station (where the flea market is). Alternatively, a walk to Columbus Cove will take you around 15 minutes.

Buccaneer’s Bay

Upon entering the resort on your right side you’ll see an area known as Buccaneer’s Bay. There is a shop  where you can buy t-shirts, insect repellents, hats, Royal Caribbean souvenirs, sunscreen, sunglasses, and other practical items. These items are charged to your SeaPass card , so don’t forget to bring it!

Note that everything you purchase or sign up for on Labadee (shore excursions, drinks in a bar, items in Buccaneer’s Bay, umbrellas, activities, and floating mats) will be charged to your Sea Pass card. You’ll need cash only for Artisan’s Market (flea market) if you want to buy things from local people.

At Buccaneer’s Bay, you can also sign up for some cruise line-sponsored shore excursions that will take you outside Labadee (such as Amiga Island escape, snorkeling tours, Paradise Cove, cultural experiences and a tour of the local village, deep-sea fishing, speed boat adventure, etc.), and for the activities such as parasailing and jet ski .

For helpful packing tips for your Labadee cruise, check out my article What to Pack for a Cruise – Top 55 Cruise Essentials

Labadee Restaurants and Bars

There are three open-air buffet-style restaurants in Labadee and the food is complimentary for all guests and crew. The food is the same in all three restaurants and is prepared onboard a cruise ship.

The food is barbecue style and consists of burgers, cheese, sausages, pork ribs, vegetables (corn, beans, salads), hot dogs, rice, fruits, and desserts. Water and a choice of soft drinks are complimentary, too.

The lunch is usually served from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, and you can choose to eat wherever you want. The three restaurants are located in three different areas in the resort (you can see the names of the restaurants on a map above):

• Dragon’s Café – This is the restaurant that you’ll spot right by the entrance, to your left, next to the Zipline sign-up hut.
• Café Labadee – This restaurant overlooks Adrenaline Beach, opposite Town Square and the flea market.
• Columbus Cove Café – Located on Columbus Cove beach, the furthest from the resort entrance.

Guests from suites have the right to use Barefoot Beach Club where they have their own, private beach and a bar restaurant.

As for Labadee bars , there are several bars where you can enjoy signature cocktails, drinks, and beers. There are 5 bars in Labadee:

• Floating Bar (Adrenaline Beach)
• Nellie’s Tavern (Nellie’s Beach)
• Columbus Cove
• Schooner Bar (Town Square)
• Dragon’s Breath Pub (right by the entrance).

If you have a drink package , you can use it in Labadee bars. If not, the drinks are charged to your Sea Pass card. Bring some cash if you want to tip a bartender.

Labadee (Haiti) Beaches

There are 3 main beaches in Labadee Haiti and they are all free to access. Every beach has a lot of sunbeds that guests can use for free. If you want an umbrella or a floating mat, these are for an additional charge and you need to sign up for them at the nearest signup hut.

1. Adrenaline Beach

This is the first beach that you’ll see upon entering a resort on your left. Adrenaline beach is the longest beach and you’ll easily recognize it as the zipline goes over it. It is called “Adrenaline” beach due to the waves and rocky bottom (only at one end of the beach), so some parts of the beach are not allowed to swim.

If you continue walking along this beach, you’ll reach an area with dozens of loungers and beach beds where you can swim. There is also a sheltered shallow area where the Floating bar is, one of the most popular bars in Labadee.

2. Nellie’s Beach

Nellie’s Beach is very popular with families due to its sandy bottom and shallow waters. It is located on the opposite side of Adrenaline Beach, on the right side of the resort entrance. To reach it, you can either take a free tram (and get off at the first stop) or walk for less than 10 minutes.

Nellie’s beach boasts warm water and you’ll easily identify it by the overwater and waterfront cabanas scattered around. Nellie’s Beach has a lot of shaded areas and gets crowded fast, so go there earlier to choose your preferred spot.

3. Columbus Cove

It is the remotest beach in Labadee, and it takes a 15-20-minute walk to reach it on foot. You can also take a free tram and get off at the last stop. Columbus Cove is a long beach ideal for kids and families. It boasts an aqua park, a waterslide, a restaurant, and a bar. Here you can sign up for activities such as the Arawak Aqua Park , waterslide , and kayaking . Beach bungalows are located here.

4. Barefoot Beach

This beach is exclusive for suite guests only. The beach is located next to Nellie’s beach and has its own private bar/restaurant exclusively for suite guests.

15 Best Things to Do in Labadee Haiti

I mentioned above that the food, beaches, and sunbeds are complimentary in Labadee for all cruise ship passengers. Additional activities and shore excursions are available for a fee. These are all offered by the cruise line, so you can’t book any activity or excursion with an independent tour operator.

If you are sure that you want to do an activity, I suggest you pre-book it before your cruise as the prices are normally lower. It is also advisable to pre-book it as many activities are quickly sold out due to limited space.

Alternatively, you can book your activities onboard or in Labadee on-site (if you book it on-site, you will be charged on your Sea Pass card once you go back onboard). The prices onboard and on Labadee sign-up counters are the same .

1. Labadee Wave Jet Tour

The jet ski sign-up hut is located at Buccaneer’s Bay, right at the resort entrance. Jet Ski ride usually takes around 1.5 hours and is guided by an instructor. There is limited availability on these tours so I suggest you book it as soon as possible if you want to do the activity.

It’s extremely fun, it allows you to enjoy a beautiful Haitian coast and capture some spectacular shots of the ship. There are lockers and changing rooms available at the Buccaneer’s Bay. Before the activity itself, participants need to fill out the waivers and watch a safety video before receiving safety equipment.

Insider Tip : If you want to do a jet ski, sign up for it in the morning because in the afternoon the activity sometimes gets canceled due to the strong winds.

2. Tandem Parasail

The sign-up hut is at Buccaneer’s Bay, next to the jet ski. I also suggest you sign up for it in the morning, because it often gets canceled in the afternoon due to the winds. There are weight restrictions on this activity, and you must sign a waiver before joining it.

3. Labadee Zipline

This is probably the most iconic and adrenaline-packed activity you can do in Labadee! Labadee zipline is the longest overwater zip line in the world and it stretches for 2,800 feet across the bay. The zipline starts 500 feet up the hillside and finishes on land at the opposite side of the bay, next to the Dragon’s Café. Before I tell you more, keep in mind that there are 2 zip lines in Labadee (Haiti) : Dragon’s Breath Flight Line and Dragon’s Fire Flight Line.

The main difference is in the position. Dragon’s Breath Flight Line is a seated position, and Dragon’s Fire Flight Line is head-first (flying like Superman). Dragon’s Fire zipline is more extreme, slightly higher, longer (2.800 feet), and only for the brave ones! Dragon’s Flightline sign-up hut for both ziplines is right by the entrance, on your left, next to Dragon’s Café, at Adrenaline Beach. There are two sign-up huts next to each other.

For Dragon’s Breath Flight Line, before the activity, you will receive a safety briefing and do a test ride before embarking on a truck that will take you to the hilltop from where you’ll zip down. For Dragon’s Fire Flight Line, there is no test ride and you go straight to the top of the hill.

The ride normally lasts around 2 minutes (the longest 2 minutes in my life) and is absolutely spectacular! I did Dragon’s Breath Flight Line (seated position) and I absolutely recommend it to anyone who wants to experience some adrenaline rush and (in my case) face their fear of heights.

Lockers are available for an additional fee at the zipline sign-up huts. Weight restrictions apply and a waiver must be filled out before the activity.

Insider tips : The two zip lines are two different activities, they have different briefings and start from different launch platforms. If you want to do it with a group of friends, make sure you all book the same activity at the same selected time.

Bring your GoPro with a strap as there is no professional photographer taking pictures of you. Wear sandals or close-toe shoes. You cannot bring anything on your zipline except for sunglasses, a phone (at your own risk – make sure you keep it secured), and closed-toe shoes.

4. Dragon’s Tail Coaster

Labadee coaster is another must-do activity in Labadee, as it goes through the lush forest and offers unmatched views of Labadee (Haiti) once you are at the top. Dragon’s Tail Coaster sign-up hut is at the end of Adrenaline beach, near Café Labadee and the Floating bar. This activity is suitable for families, as 2 people can ride in one cart (one is the driver, another one is the passenger).

You can sign up for this activity onboard but you can also do it at the resort because there’s always space. You can adjust your speed and brake if it goes too fast. I went on a roller coaster a couple of times and truly enjoyed it, even though I am afraid of heights.

Weight and age restrictions apply, and you need to sign a waiver. Lockers are available at the Dragon’s Tail Coaster sign-up counter.

5. Dragon’s Splash Waterslide

The waterslide is available at Columbus Cove and is mainly designed for kids (it’s not really for adults). A waiver is required to be signed.

6. Arawak Aqua Park

The aqua park is located at Columbus Cove and is an activity designed for kids. There are selected times that you can choose from and there is limited availability. If you purchase a ticket, it is available only for 1 hour. Age restrictions apply, and a waiver must be filled out. Kids under 4 (if memory serves me well) can’t go.

7. Kayak Adventure

Paddle a kayak along a beautiful Haiti coast onboard double kayaks that start at Columbus Cove. Weight and age restrictions apply, and you get a briefing and a waiver to sign before the activity.

8. Relax in a Cabana, Beach Bed, Beach Bungalow, or Beach Loungers

If you decide to spend a beach day, you can upgrade to one of the beach beds and cabanas for an ultimate stay in Labadee (Haiti).

• Beach loungers are the cheapest option. They are located on Adrenaline Beach and look like blue-white tents designed for two guests. The price is around $48 per lounger.
• Beach beds are located at the end of Adrenaline Beach, they offer more comfort and privacy. The price per beach bed is around $175 and includes 2 complimentary floating mats and a cooler with two bottles of water. Each is designed for two guests.
• Beach bungalows are located in Columbus Cove, they can accommodate up to 6 guests who get 6 complimentary bottles of water and 2 floating mats. They have curtains for privacy and comfortable padded patio-type furniture. The price per bungalow is around $260.
• Beach Cabanas – There are three different types of cabanas, they can accommodate up to 8 guests each and the price depends on the location (they range from $375 to $595 per cabana). They go from the lowest to the highest: Beach Cabana at Nellie’s Beach, Waterfront Cabana at Nellie’s Beach, Cabana over the water at Nellie’s Beach.
• Guests in Barefoot Beach Club can book their private Barefoot Cabanas .

Note: For updated prices and availability, check out the Royal Caribbean’s official website  or the Shore excursion desk if you are currently onboard. 

9. Amiga Island Escape

This island is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been in my life. It is located a 20-30-minute boat ride from Labadee, and you must book a shore excursion to get there (Amiga Island Experience and Island Escape are the two shore excursions that include a stop and free time on the island). The boat ride can be bumpy sometimes.

Amiga Island is secluded and consists of only one bar, restrooms, hammocks, sunbeds, and shaded areas where you can relax. The island is a true gem and small, so you can walk around it in 10 minutes. You can also snorkel in some parts, but make sure you bring your snorkel gear because you cannot rent it on the island.

To get more info about Amiga Island, check out my article 7 Private Islands in the Caribbean to visit on a Cruise

10. Labadee Snorkel Safari

Labadee beaches are sandy and not really good for snorkeling. If you want to go snorkeling, you need to book a guided snorkeling shore excursion named Labadee Snorkel Safari that usually departs twice per day (that’s why it’s better to either pre-book it or book it onboard to ensure your spot).

This snorkeling tour will take you to the open sea and stop at two beautiful snorkeling locations where you get to explore the fascinating Haitian underwater sea life. I haven’t done it, but I had dozens of guests coming to provide me with great feedback on a tour. Snorkel equipment is included in this tour.

Insider Tip : Book a morning departure as afternoon departures sometimes get canceled due to the strong winds and waves.

11. Cruise along the Haitian Coast

If you want to enjoy the gorgeous views of Haiti’s mountainous coast, you need to book a shore excursion for an extra fee. Royal Caribbean offers several sailing shore excursions that include fishing, sailing, snorkeling, complimentary food and drinks, sightseeing, adrenaline speedboat ride… There are normally one up to three departures a day for each tour, and I would suggest you always book a morning departure as the afternoon tours sometimes get canceled due to the windy weather.

I suggest you search on the Royal Caribbean official website for availability as not always all the tours are available. If you want to pay a cheaper price, I suggest you pre-book your shore excursion before your cruise to Labadee, and to ensure your spot on a tour – book it onboard latest!

These are some of the shore excursions you can book:

• A Luxury Sailing Yacht Experience
• Discover Haiti Coastal Cruise (a sightseeing cruise suitable for guests with walking difficulties!)
• Paradise Cove and Haitian Village Escape (includes a visit to a local village)
• Labadee Snorkel Safari
• Speedboat Ride and Adventure
• Amiga Island Experience
• Island Escape
• Labadee Sport Fishing

12. Haitian Village Sightseeing & Cultural Experiences

If you want to explore the culture and traditions of native Haitians, there are several Labadee shore excursions you can book. Some of them include a visit to a local village, while some include cultural workshops and a stroll around Labadee.

There are usually one to three departures daily, and tours last from 1-3 hours so you can enjoy some time in Labadee afterward. Some of the shore excursions are:

• Labadee Traditions (visit to a local village, cultural demonstrations, local dance)
• Paradise Cove and Haitian Village Escape (includes a stop at the secluded cove)
• Labadee Walking Tour (a 1-hour walk around Labadee resort, on this tour you don’t go to a local village).

13. Artisan’s Market Shopping Experience

If you want to go shopping in Labadee , you can head toward Town Square and Columbus Cove, and you will soon reach Artisan’s Village and Market, a large area where native people sell handmade clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, paintings, and much more!

You will need cash to pay for the items you buy from local people, however, if you buy something at a shop at Buccaneer’s Bay, you’ll need a SeaPass card as it is charged by Royal Caribbean onboard. Keep in mind that the local sellers are very pushy – that’s just the way they are and don’t feel obligated to buy something if you don’t want to.

14. Adventure Ocean Oasis

Adventure Ocean Oasis is located in the central part of the resort between Adrenaline Beach and Nellie’s Beach. This area is reserved for the youngest ones, and you can’t miss it as it’s on the main road where the tram stops! It has a water park and kids’ splash zone filled with toys, geysers, fountains, and a “wreck” of a pirate ship.

Adventure Ocean Oasis is free to use for everyone. There is a beautiful park right next to it, with flowers, plants, trees, hammocks, and wonderful views of Adrenaline Beach.

15. Labadee Beaches

Earlier in the article, I wrote about 3 main beaches in Labadee: Adrenaline Beach, Nellie’s Beach and Columbus Cove (and Barefoot Beach for suite guests only). If you decide not to spend any money on Labadee activities, excursions, or shopping, you can simply spend a day at one of the beaches.

Sunbeds are for free, and if you want to upgrade you can rent one of the loungers, beds, bungalows, and cabanas. There is a lot of shade all over the place, enough sunbeds, and all beaches are accessible for wheelchair users.

Wrapping Up

If you are planning a cruise to Labadee, get ready for an ultimately fun day and make sure you plan it ahead so you maximize your stay in the port of Labadee. To wrap up, here is a list of useful insider Labadee tips:

• Bring your towel from the ship, because there is no towel station in Labadee.
• Bring some cash if you want to shop at Artisan Market. If you want to purchase other activities, excursions, drinks (in case you don’t have a drink package), and items in the Buccaneer’s Bay shop, it will be charged to your SeaPass card (make sure you bring it with you).
• Labadee lies within a gated area and is secured by private security. Labadee is safe to walk around, however, always keep an eye on your belongings. It is strictly forbidden to leave the resort area (you are allowed to do so only on a guided shore excursion).
• You don’t need to bring your passport/photo ID. Bring only your SeaPass card .
• Lunch is usually served from 11:30 am until 1:30/2:00 pm, so make sure you plan your day and activities accordingly.
• If you want to book activities and excursions, I highly suggest you book morning departures (especially snorkeling/sailing excursions, jet skiing, and parasailing… ) because the wind picks up in the afternoon and excursions sometimes get canceled.
• Always check the age and weight restrictions when booking Labadee activities.
• Local people appreciate tips (street performers, dancers), as well as tour guides. These are not mandatory, though.
• Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a waterproof phone case, a camera (for the activities), light clothes, a hat, and sunglasses. You can purchase most of these items in the Labadee shop, however, they are more expensive there. Do not bring valuables with you.
• There is NO Wi-Fi available in the resort (not even the ship’s internet).
• Pre-book your activities and shore excursions to ensure you have space on a selected departure time.
• If an activity/shore excursion is canceled, you will be automatically refunded on board.

Visit also our cruise port guides to Aruba , Bonaire , Curacao ,  Falmouth Cozumel , Costa Maya , St Maarten , St Thomas , San Juan , Tortola , St Lucia , Puerto Plata , Punta Cana , Barbados , Antigua , Grand Turk

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean , Caribbean , Western Europe , Baltic & Scandinavia , USA & Canada , Australia & New Zealand

Please note that I am not affiliated with Royal Caribbean International and that this article is simply my review of Labadee as I visited it many times. For full information, please see my disclaimer  here.

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Labadee, Haiti: My Royal Caribbean Shore Excursion

Caribbean , Travel | December 3, 2019

On my recent press trip on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas in the Western Caribbean, a lot of the fun I had was – surprisingly – on sea days. But we also had three terrific port days during the action-packed seven night cruise.

Our first stop was Labadee, Royal Caribbean’s privately owned peninsula on the north coast of Haiti. This beach resort really is like a paradise island. I wouldn’t have minded being left there!

The shore excursions in Labadee can be pricey but this is the one port in the Western Caribbean where even anxious cruisers can relax and skip the excursions in favour of unwinding on the beach if they want to.

One of the major perks of booking a shore excursion on any cruise is the guarantee that you’ll be taken back to the ship on time, but in Labadee you can’t possibly miss back on board time. Like, even if you try your hardest to stay stranded in paradise.

All of the staff onshore are employed by Royal Caribbean so if they see you loitering too close to the time you need to be back on board, they’ll tell you to get a move on!

The best shore excursions in Labadee, Haiti

Because Labadee is owned by Royal Caribbean, you can use your Seapass to pay for your food, drink, lockers, activities etc onshore. It means the cashless experience at sea continues seamlessly on land, so you don’t have to worry about carrying local currency. I found this super convenient.

If you don’t want to book a shore excursion for Labadee, you can of course just laze on one of the several beaches. There are ample stretches of spotless white sand, and plenty of palm trees that provide shade.

Labadee even has its own signature drink: the Labadoozie, which is a blend of citrus juice and of course, rum!

Dragon’s Breath Flight Line

I’m proud to say that I braved the world’s longest over-water zip line in Labadee: the Dragon’s Breath Flight Line. This is probably the best excursion in Labadee for adventurous cruisers. It’s definitely not for those with a fear of heights.

After getting rigged up in our harnesses, we did a practice run on the ‘Little Dragon’, which is shorter than the main attraction, then clambered into an open-air safari truck and hurtled up into the hills.

The take-off point is 500 feet above sea level. The view from up there is just surreal: all lush greenery, turquoise water, silver sand and Harmony of the Seas residing majestically in her bay.

The flight line itself is 2,600 metres long. Strangely, it was very relaxing once you got going (at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour). Just look at those views!

The flight line doesn’t take up much of your day, so you can spend time chilling on the sand or swimming before you have to be back on the ship.

Other things to do in Labadee

I was pleased to find that there’s a local handicrafts market in Labadee, so the cruisers’ playground is contributing to the local economy.

Among other things to do in Labadee are kayaking, hiring one of the private cabanas, parasailing and an aqua park with giant inflatables. You can book a ‘snorkelling safari’ to see Labadee’s coral reefs.

If the Dragon’s Flight Line gets your adrenaline pumping, you might also like to try the Dragon’s Tail coaster, which reaches speeds of up to 30mph and also has spectacular ocean views.

If you’d prefer to learn about Haitian culture, you can book a walking tour of the island. Led by a local historian, the tour teaches you about events over the past 500 years, from Christopher Columbus to the ruins of Nellie’s Tower and Dragon’s Rock.

Our day in Haiti was so much fun and I’m really pleased we chose to do a shore excursion in Labadee. It meant combining a bucket list activity with downtime in the sun, which is just what a Caribbean cruise should be all about if you ask me!

Other excursions from our cruise

River tubing and partying in Jamaica

Mayan ruins and beach time in Cozumel

If you want to see all of my updates from my Caribbean cruise, follow me @danniellelily and check out my ‘Royal Caribbean Cruise’ highlight. I also wrote a full review of Harmony of the Seas , in case you’re thinking of sailing on her or her sister ship, Allure!

As mentioned at the beginning of this post, I was a guest of Royal Caribbean UK. Views are my own.

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Loved Snorkel Safari excursion in... - Labadee

• Caribbean    
• Haiti    
• Haiti - Things to Do    

Loved Snorkel Safari excursion in Labadee

Last week my husband and I and another couple did the Western Caribbean cruise on Royal Caribbean. The excursion that we did in Labadee was the Snorkel Safari, and it did not dissapoint. After our barbeque lunch provided by the ship, we walked over to Bucanneers Bay where we boarded our boat which took us out to a reef where we would snorkel. Everything we needed was included for one very reasonable price. I have to say that this may have been the best value for the money as compared to some other excursions. Our guide on the boat was Conrad, and he and his staff were great; they were fun, upbeat, and very helpful. They provided our life jackets, snorkel and mask, and flippers and made sure we knew how to use them correctly. At first I realized that I had done just what Conrad had said not to do, let hair get under my mask, because believe it or not that little piece of hair will allow water to get in which is annoying. So with that taken care of, I was off in the beautiful and pristine waters to view the most gorgeous fish, coral, and plant life beneath me. It was a great experience, and the water was absolutely perfect, warm as bath water and sparkling clean. It was amazing and a perfect excursion to really experience the waters of the Caribbean. When we returned to the boat later on they had a great complimentary rum punch for everyone with refills if you would like; as Conrad said "this isn't going to drink itself!". Lots of fun and highly recommended activity while in Labadee!

Royal Caribbean travelers to the Caribbean!! There is an excellent shore excursion you can take in conjunction with the stop at RCCL's private island, Labadee, Haiti. The excursion is to Sandbar Island and costs $45.00 per person and includes a complimentary rum punch. This is a relaxing and peaceful side trip about 20 minutes off shore to a beautiful little island. You get off Sandbar Island's boat directly into the water. Even on a hot day, the sand was cool and you could walk the beach in search of interesting shells. You can walk around the entire island in about 10 - 15 minutes. Refreshments on the boat are very reasonably priced, but the best thing is the staff .. friendly, gentlemanly, and very entertaining. To those folks who simply want a pleasant time away from the crowds, try this. BTW, there is a bathroom on the boat.

This past week I was on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas that stopped in Labadee. Pre-trip I had mixed emotions about this port on multiple levels, however when I read a review on trip advisor about the Haitian Cultural Tour my opinion changed. I signed up for the tour with RCL's excursion desk and to my surprise my family got the last 4 tickets of 6. The tour takes you by boat to a private beach that only the tour guests have access to. Once we arrive the beach a Haitian guide takes you an a short hike up some stairs to a replica of a Haitian Village. The cultural tour includes many aspects of the Haitian village life. We were shown multiple plants that are eaten on the island as well as plants that offer healing remedies. Once we arrive the village there are some crafts for sale. My husband and I purchased a beautiful hand carved wooden cane which was sold by the actual wood carver. It is beautiful and truly a piece of art. They are very eager to bargain and are not over aggressive or pushy. We got to see how peanut butter is hand made, coffee and bread made out of yuca and we also got to taste the peanut butter and bread. After the tour of the village we walk back down to the beach for a relaxing afternoon of sun bathing, floating on rafts or snokeling if you want. We brought our snokel gear and saw some interesting coral and fish. They also serve you some rum punch as part of the tour and have other drinks available for purchase. Overall it was a very interesting and relaxing tour. I would highly recommend it if you want to get an idea of Haitian life and see a nice beach.

it was a great tour!gayle great great great great great

Visited Labadee on April 11 2011 via RC- Allure of the Seas and wasn't going to go ashore but whilst the ship was docking on such a sunny day, the island looked so inviting. Totally changed my mind and had a good experience. Would recommend anyone to go ashore and just relax by the beach. Yes I agree you have to ignore the vendors but they are trying to make a living, just say NO! It sad to see others getting sucked in and the vendors using the children, I blame the parents, be strong with your child, they can not have everything they see, walk away and enjoy the scenery, you've already added to the economy, just by being there. Buy only what you need and not from the first vendor. e.g on arrival one vendor asked how many children have I got, so he placed 3 bracelets on my arm, I said no, so he said I can have one as a gift, I said thanks and walked away I have alot more to see and will pass back and have a look at his stall. Which I did, by then I knew that the bracelets were a dollar of which I gave him $2 for not hassling me. They were not all like him. Be strong and firm. No is no, I will deffo go again.

Recently I went on a cruise which stopped in Labadee, Haiti. One of our options was to go on the Haitian Cultural Tour at Paradise Cove so my friends and I decided to check it out. We were picked up right from the dock and taken on a 15 min boat ride. The whole time we were told interesting stories of the sites we were passing and general history of how Haiti came to be. The subjects and history was light but informative, and delivered in a way that taught you something without being burdensome. As we approach the beach I felt like I was in the opening scene of Jurassic Park. The approach was breathtaking. Words cannot describe the beauty of this location. Mountains on either side of this cove, and no one but us on this private beach. Since the groups are kept small (under 30) each person felt like it was their own private beach. After getting off the boat they immediately provide you with a drink and began the cultural tour. As you are walking through the woods on a nicely groomed path with hand rails enjoying your drink the tour guides point out things of interest. A short walk later you reach this compact village. It has small huts and working stations that allow you to get the full feeling of Haitian life in a small safe setting. They have stations set up to demonstrate how peanut butter, coffee, baskets, and bread are made. Personally, I am a foodie so I was ecstatic when I found out we could try everything they were making. The last station was a nice area with hand carved statues, artwork, and other trinkets that are all hand made by the locals and available for sale. It's a great place for souvenirs for the family back home. I was able to knock off half of my Christmas shopping in one stop! The tour ends back on the beach where you are given hotel style lounge chairs, and more drinks. You get to spend the afternoon enjoying the private beach and just relaxing. After a few hours they bring the boat around, and you have a relaxing boat ride back to the ship. In summary, I would give this excursion a 5 out of 5. The staff was cordial, informative, and went above and beyond to accommodate us in any way possible. It was great because you were able to get a cliff note experience of what Labadee was like. The information was delivered in such a way that you didn’t feel like you were being lectured to and frankly I didn't think I was learning anything until I left and realized how much I took from it. It was nice to not be on another beach chair on another hotel beach in another port that I will not remember. This excursion will stay with me for a very long time. I would absolutely go on this excursion again the next time I am in Labadee, and I recommended everyone try it if they had the chance.

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Indigo Sahara

Travel Reviews, Guides, Tips & Travel Hacking

What To Do In Labadee Haiti You Can’t Miss

By: Indigo Sahara, M.A. | Published: February 22, 2023 | Updated: January 17, 2024

Wondering what to do in Labadee, Haiti ?

From pristine beaches, mountainous blue lagoons, unforgettable excursions and more, you’re sure to love your Royal Caribbean day at Labadee.

Here, you’ll find the 10 best things to do in Labadee, Haiti .

Table of Contents

What is Labadee known for?

Labadee is known for its perfect beach days, tasty homemade tortillas and creole foods, and daredevil activities like zip lines and mountain coasters.

Of course, Labadee is also famous because it is one of Royal Caribbean’s private ports .

What To Do In Labadee Haiti

If you’re stopping at this port on your upcoming cruise, you’ll need to know what to do in Labadee, Haiti , ahead of time so that you can maximize your short port day.

Although you could easily enjoy Labadee by simply laying on the beach all day, here are 10 things to do on Labadee, Haiti , to help you plan your perfect one day Labadee itinerary .

1. Lay Out On Labadee Haiti’s Beaches

First, Labadee is home to numerous impeccable beaches , such as Adrenaline Beach, Dragon’s Beach, Nellie’s Beach, Columbus Cove and more. So, if you’re hoping for a beach day on your Royal Caribbean cruise, you’re in luck.

Each beach has unique features. For example, the zip line and mountain coaster, which we’ll discuss later, are located near Adrenaline Beach. Whereas, the beaches on the lagoon side of the Labadee peninsula offer more seclusion.

Regardless of whether you prefer beach days filled with fun adventure or pure relaxation, there is a beach on Labadee that caters to you. You can read about all of the different beaches in my full guide to Labadee Haiti Beach here.

2. Taste Traditional Creole Foods In Labadee

In between beach hopping, don’t forget to try the traditional Creole foods that the Labadee restaurants offer.

Haitian jerk chicken , rice , beans and corn on the cob are at all of the buffets. Even if you’re prone to stick with your usual hamburger, the jerk chicken is definitely worth tasting. Trust me.

Is food included in Labadee Haiti?

Yes, food is included in Labadee, Haiti. You can find the complimentary buffet-style meals at Dragon’s Cafe (closest to the ship), Cafe Labadee (near Adrenaline Beach) and Columbus Cove Cafe (near Columbus Cove).

Each of these restaurants serves similar menus , so don’t feel like you’re missing out if you only have time (or stomach space) to visit one.

3. Try A Legendary Labadoozie

Next, wash down your meal with a legendary Labadoozie .

The Labadoozie is an alcoholic beverage made with orange juice, pineapple juice, papaya juice, coconut cream, rum and grenadine . It’s basically a tropical beach day in a cup .

Alternatively, if you don’t drink alcohol or don’t have the alcoholic drink package, the virgin Labadoozie is equally (if not more) delicious . Bonus points if you swim to the floating bar on Adrenaline Beach to drink one.

4. Go On A Haiti Shore Excursion

One of the best things to do in Labadee, Haiti , is to go on a Haitian shore excursion .

Royal Caribbean hosts numerous shore excursions in Labadee, such as the ocean sandbar excursion , Amiga Island excursion , Haitian cultural tour , kayaking and jet skiing .

We had the opportunity to go on the ocean sandbar excursion, where we were boated out to a sandbar in the middle of the Caribbean Sea to swim in Tahitian-colored waist-deep water. As you could imagine, the views were absolutely breathtaking. The photos speak for themselves.

Best Royal Caribbean Excursions In Labadee, Haiti

The best Royal Caribbean excursions in Labadee, Haiti, are the sandbar excursion, Amiga Island excursion and Haitian cultural tour.

Although the jet skiing and other Labadee excursions are fun too, these three excursions actually give you the chance to leave the private port to experience more of Haiti outside of the tourist-oriented peninsula.

Otherwise, outside of the excursions, Royal Caribbean guests are prohibited from leaving the port boundaries.

5. Hike The Labadee Haiti Walking Trails

Now, if you’d like to experience the more adventurous side of Haiti, these next few things to do in Labadee are for you.

First, Labadee has 8 walking trails for you to freely enjoy: 3 leisure walking paths, 3 moderate walking paths and 2 strenuous (yet short) hiking paths.

Not only do these trails offer incredible views of the port landscape and ruins , but they also boast fantastic views of the cruise ship if you’re looking for the perfect cruise ship selfie.

You can find a map of Labadee with the trails here.

6. Zip Line Over The Ocean

Moreover, if you’re really looking for an adventure, you can actually zip line over the ocean at Labadee .

Zip line tickets do cost an additional fee unlike the beaches and walking trails; however, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity sparks the interest of many visitors each day, nonetheless.

Or, if zip lining doesn’t suit you, you can watch the other guests brave the zip line from both Adrenaline Beach and Dragon’s Beach .

7. Ride A Tropical Mountain Coaster

Similarly, take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride down a tropical gravity-driven mountain coaster during your day at Labadee .

The mountain coaster, named Dragon’s Tail Coaster , reaches incredible speeds with gravity alone. In fact, there is an unspoken challenge among visitors to ride the entire coaster without using the car’s built-in break . So if you think you have the courage to ride without breaking, this Labadee activity is sure to please.

Note, this activity does cost an additional fee .

8. Slide Down Labadee Haiti’s Waterslide

On the other side of the peninsula, at the lagoon, you can also ride down a waterslide named Dragon’s Splash Water Slide .

Like the zip line and coaster, the water slide does cost an additional fee . However, if you or your kids love waterparks, this may be the perfect thing for you to do in Labadee .

There are day passes and single-ride passes available for purchase.

9. Play On The Arawak Aqua Park

Additionally, adjacent to the waterslide on Columbus Cove, there is a massive aqua park to explore .

After you pay for the aqua park admission , you can bounce, climb, swim and jump your way through the giant inflatable obstacle course .

If you’re wondering what to do in Labadee with kids , this is it.

10. Shop In The Labadee Haiti Artisan Market

Lastly, pick up souvenirs and support the local Haitian people at the Labadee Artisan Market . Here, you’ll find Haitian trinkets , paintings and other pieces of artwork to purchase and remember your Royal Caribbean cruise by.

It is worth mentioning, though, that the sellers in the Artisan Market tend to be a little more aggressive sales-wise than we’re accustomed to in the United States . If you’re not interested, politely say, “No thank you,” and keep walking.

Remember, these Haitians are just trying to feed their families. If you were in their financial situations, you would be doing everything in your power to make a sale and feed your kids too. Thus, with this in mind, the sellers really aren’t as aggressive as they may appear.

For more tips on taking home souvenirs that actually matter, check out my free download here! – How To Save On Souvenirs.

Now, you know exactly what to do in Labadee, Haiti . What activities are you most excited for? Don’t forget to check out my Labadee Haiti Beach guide to help plan perfect your trip!

More Things To Do In Labadee Haiti

Labadee Haiti Beach: What You Need To Know Amazon Cruise Essentials You Need This Year How To Pack For A Cruise In A Carry-On (7+ Days!) Cruise Shoes For Ladies To Fit Your Every Need

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About Indigo Sahara, M.A.

Indigo Sahara, M.A., is the founder and CEO of the Indigo Sahara travel blog. Since earning her master's degree in global leadership, she has traveled to more than 20 countries. Now, her goal is to make travel accessible to all by teaching others how to travel on a budget. She writes world travel guides and travel hacking tips weekly.

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Labadee Haiti / Royal Caribbean Cruises – The Caribbean's Most White Sand Beach

Labadee Cabana Rentals: Unleash Your Caribbean Adventure in Style!

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Labadee, Haiti: A Secure Haven for Royal Caribbean Travelers

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Royal Caribbean’s Labadee Haiti Resort Shore Excursion

by Cruise Director | Jun 21, 2018 | Caribbean & Bahamas , Destinations | 1 comment

Royal Caribbean Explorer of the Seas

Labadee Haiti Resort is a privately leased port on the northern island of Haiti.  This Royal Caribbean’s Shore Excursion is a private resort and a common stop for the fleet in the Caribbean.    In the past, the ships would be tendered into the cove, however, with the larger  Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas in the Caribbean rotation, Royal Caribbean International invested millions of dollars in this resort and put in a large port.

Just your Sail Pass and some Cash is needed! ….and your beach attire too! The resort island is linked to the ship so your sail pass works just fine for charges.  Other than your beach attire, water shoes, you just need your sail pass and some cash if you plan to shop at the local flea market held by local Haitians that are permitted into the resort to sell their items.   You also need some small bills or  petty cash for tips to the local Haitians who assist you at the beach area for tips.    The ship’s crew brings everything over to the island.  All food, water, ice and drinks are supplied by the cruise ship.  If you have your own snorkel gear, you can bring that with your beach attire.      You want to bring your beach towels from the ship and pack a bottle of the water from your stateroom. Don’t forget the sun screen.

Aqua Park Labadee Haiti

Departing the Ship to the Resort

When you exit the ship and walk on the pier, you have a choice to walk to the right towards Columbus Cove and the Aqua Park, or take a water taxi to this area.   The ship provides wheel chair access from the ship to the central area.  There is also a tram car that take you from the central area down to the Columbus Cove beach area.   However, if walking, you head straight off the pier, you come into the center area.  To the left is a very nice beach area. You will see the end area of the Zip Line. The Artisan’s market.  Rest Rooms, and the eating area.  Towards the top of the hill you will see the Zip Line and the Dragon’s Tail Coaster ride.      To pick a beach, a local worker will be there to greet you as you start heading towards the beach chairs.   They will help you find a chair in the sun or shade, but do take cash tips.  While they work for the resort, there are local Haitians that work in the resort for cash tips.

Both areas have bars, rest rooms, and the eating pavilion.   In addition, the bar crew comes over to help serve your drinks just as if you were on the ship.        The aqua park is on the Columbus Cove beach area and requires tickets and there is a stand to purchase the ticket.   To the left of the Aqua Park, you have the private beach area called Columbus Cove.  That area is a sand beach and you will not find too much coral in this area.  It is a good spot to swim. This resort has much to do if you wish to sign up for activities on the ship. There is a huge zip line that goes from the top all the way down to the landing near the ship.   They also have kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, para-sailing, wave runners, and more.   Labadee® Luc’s Splash Bash for the kids is available and there are floats and mats that you can just relax on in the water.

Labadee Haiti

Artisan Market – Flea Market

After departing the pier and walking in to the center area, to the right you will find the Artisan Flea Market.  In this area are a select few merchants who sell a variety of locally made items.  There are many merchants in this area and they sell similar items, so you will want to shop and bargain with them.   There can be some sales pressure.

Of some of the nicer products the locals sell, the wood crafts are really exceptional. They have a variety of wood masks,  carved boxes, and carved plates.  A particular items that had much craftsmanship were the walking sticks and canes.  They had exceptional carved walking sticks and canes for sale.  The artisan’s market also had paintings and other small craft work for sale.

All in all, this is very nice port of call that Royal Caribbean International has put together.  Be sure to check out the excursion activities on board the ship.  However, if you just want to do your own thing and go to the beach area, that costs nothing, and you can enjoy the ship’s hospitality on the island with your sail pass.

If you like these type of cruise run resorts, check out the Half Moon Cay article on excursionstoday.com too!

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Royal Caribbean Shore Excursions in Labadee Haiti

Visiting Labadee, Haiti is a common itinerary day for sailing with Royal Caribbean. Review of the shore excursions and picks for how to spend your day on land in Labadee.

Royal Caribbean cancels visits to Labadee in Haiti amid continued violence

Royal Caribbean International has suspended stops at private destination Labadee in Haiti through the summer amid continued violence in the country.

“The safety and security of our guests, crew, and communities we visit are our top priority,” a spokesperson for the cruise line said in an emailed statement. “Our Global Security and Intel Team is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Haiti, and in an abundance of caution we have suspended all visits to Labadee fleetwide through September 2024.”

Royal Caribbean plans to “continue to monitor and reassess calls as needed” and will notify guests of any updates, the spokesperson added.

The line previously suspended numerous planned calls to Labadee following fresh gang violence that prompted the country to declare a state of emergency in early March.

Was your cruise itinerary changed?: What to do next

The U.S. State Department has had a Level 4 advisory – its highest warning against travel to the destination – in place since before President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in 2021. About 2,500 people were killed or injured as a result of gang violence in Haiti in the first quarter of 2024, according to the United Nations.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Icon of the seas: the best dining, amenities and more on royal caribbean's new ship.

This family-friendly megaship features plenty of activities, entertainment and restaurants.

Icon of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Key Takeaways

• Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with 18 passenger-accessible decks, eight different neighborhoods and 2,805 staterooms.
• Think of Icon of the Seas as an all-in-one adventure vacation contained on a ship. Young families and energetic travelers will enjoy it most.
• Itineraries originate from Miami , sail to destinations around the Caribbean and include a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

If you have any degree of interest in traveling or cruising, chances are you've heard the buzz around Icon of the Seas. Another record-breaking ship by Royal Caribbean International , Icon of the Seas debuted on Jan. 27, 2024, as the largest cruise ship in the world. It is epic in every sense, featuring 18 cruiser-accessible decks and stretching 1,196 feet from bow to stern.

With greatest-of-all-time soccer player Lionel Messi as the ship's godfather, the Icon of the Seas is truly iconic. Messi brought the entire Inter Miami team along for the opening ceremony and the big reveal of the team's new Royal Caribbean-sponsored jerseys. I was fortunate enough to attend this star-studded ceremony as part of the press preview sailing in the days leading up to the ship's grand debut to the public. It was everything I thought it would be and more, and nobody could have been more appropriate than Messi to send this ship on her maiden voyage.

Boarding a ship of this size can seem overwhelming, but not when you understand the layout. Icon of the Seas is broken up into eight distinct neighborhoods: AquaDome, Central Park, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, Suite Neighborhood and Surfside, a neighborhood built for young families looking for nonstop fun and kid-approved eats and treats.

In addition to these public areas, there are 2,805 staterooms spread across 12 decks. Icon of the Seas' capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, but with the plethora of public spaces and variety of things to do and see, you can choose your own adventure without encountering more crowds than you want to.

Find your perfect cruise

Skye Sherman

Icon of the Seas itinerary

During its inaugural 2024-2025 cruising season, Icon of the Seas offers seven-night eastern or western Caribbean adventures from Miami, stopping at a variety of tropical destinations. All sailings include a stop at Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas . Other destinations include Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis ; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico .

During the 2025-2026 cruising season, new destinations will include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands ). All sailings will originate from Miami.

No matter your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you'll visit beautiful places – but you can expect to feel torn about spending any time off the ship, because it's just that jampacked with things to do.

Who should sail on Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas appeals not so much to a demographic as to a psychographic; you're going to need to be someone who likes to live life in all caps. Royal Caribbean set out to create "the world's best vacation" contained on a ship, so Icon of the Seas is for anyone who would enjoy the combination of a beach trip, a resort stay, a water park adventure and island-hopping.

Fun-loving travelers and families with kids of varying ages will do best on this ship; it feels a little bit like Disney World with over-the-top everything and a truly massive sprawl. Older travelers who prefer a more quiet, refined experience may want to opt for a less kid-friendly ship. Still, even couples without children will find plenty of fun adult-friendly things to do and romantic places to tuck in.

The Royal Promenade can be quite loud and buzzy, but simply relocating to another onboard neighborhood can completely shift the vibe. Also, keep in mind that the ship really is huge, and walking from end to end can be a hike, so those with limited mobility or endurance might want to look into a smaller ship.

Icon of the Seas prices are high in its opening season, but cruisers with big dreams and small budgets can expect rates to drop by the time the next ship in the series debuts.

The stateroom

With a ship this overstimulating, it's imperative that your stateroom is a haven. Luckily, Icon of the Seas offers peaceful rooms, many of which feature ocean or Central Park neighborhood views. Cruise ship accommodations are stereotypically compact – even cramped – but the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in Icon of the Seas' cabins (with the exception of the windowless interior rooms) lend an airy, open feel. The cabin layouts are also optimized to provide the maximum amount of storage, floor space and comfort.

Stateroom decor is mildly nautical- and tropical-themed, with calming hues that mimic the scenery outside your window (think blues, beiges and whites). High-tech elements include smart TVs, LED mirrors and the ability to control many aspects of your room from an app.

My husband and I stayed in an Ocean View Large Balcony Stateroom, a 204-square-foot refuge from the hustle and bustle of the ship (the balcony adds another 65 to 70 square feet). This room type can sleep up to four people with a sofa bed for one or two; the room also features twin beds that convert to a king bed for couples.

My husband is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, and we were comfortable in our room, even though our quarters included a large bed, a bathroom, a sofa and a desk. We loved sitting on our private balcony and watching the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean flow by.

If money is no object, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – an over-the-top eight-guest, three-story pad with a private whirlpool on the balcony, three bathrooms, a slide that connects the second and main levels, an in-suite cinema, a dining room and a kitchenette – looks epic. But keep in mind, it costs nearly $100,000 for the week.

The Sunset Corner Suites (about one-fifth of the cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse, but still expensive) are also pretty sweet, with a wraparound balcony and a bed facing the sea.

Luckily, not all rooms break the bank; with four main stateroom categories (suite, balcony, ocean view and inside) and 28 subcategories, there's something for everyone.

Best amenities on Icon of the Seas

It's almost impossible to run out of things to do aboard Icon of the Seas.

For thrill-seekers, the largest water park at sea – Category 6 – features the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide on a ship) and the Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise vessel).

If you've tired of the seven swimming pools, six waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, escape room, sports courts, outdoor decks, theater, spa and all-day programming, simply take a stroll down the Royal Promenade for Las Vegas -style people-watching. The Royal Promenade has 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as a Starbucks that seems to have a line no matter what time you go. The neighborhood feels a bit like a shopping mall … if a shopping mall had floor-to-ceiling ocean views made possible by the world's largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl, a feat of engineering, is one of the most unique aspects of the ship's design. This art piece is actually a load-bearing structure supporting three decks, but it looks and feels like an interactive art experience designed solely for the enjoyment of guests. The multisensory immersive structure has 3,000 kinetic panels and moody ever-changing lighting. It is one of the first things guests will see when they walk on board, as it stretches from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park.

My husband and I spent most of our time at the FlowRider surf simulator – his favorite amenity – but we made sure to leave time for Taylor Swift trivia at Spotlight Karaoke and the superhuman stunts of the Aqua Theater show, a must on any Icon of the Seas voyage. The ship even has a massive ice arena called Absolute Zero for ice skating (the 20-minute sessions are complimentary) and impressive shows.

We also loved lounging in The Overlook Bar & Pods, an area at the very front of the ship (behind the AquaDome) that features two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. It felt airy and open, which can't be said about many cruise ship interiors.

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Best dining venues on Icon of the Seas

There are more dining options aboard Icon of the Seas than you can fit in on a seven-night cruise – but you can give it the old college try. Thirteen of the dining venues are complimentary, while 14 are specialty restaurants (which cost extra; fees vary). There are also 18 bars and lounges.

The best meal we experienced on the ship was at the Chops Grille specialty eatery. When we spotted Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty and a group of bigwigs at a table next to us, we knew we were in the right place. We loved sitting outside and enjoying the breezes of Central Park while we chowed down, but you can eat indoors for an elegant steakhouse experience and a view of the open kitchen and butcher's display, which shows off specialty cuts like high-grade wagyu and bone-in tomahawks.

While I'd never turn down a swanky steak dinner, grabbing quick poolside bites at El Loco Fresh and indulging in some food hall-style grazing at AquaDome Market were equally enjoyable. We also had no complaints eating several meals at Windjammer, the classic complimentary cruise ship buffet.

Even though we don't have children, we stopped into Surfside Bites for a very kid-friendly meal, complete with soft serve ice cream cones from Sprinkles (because no cruise is complete without soft serve). We didn't try anything from the open-air, lemonade stand-inspired Lemon Post bar, but its menu of cocktails and mocktails looked delicious.

And since you're on vacation, be sure to check out the milkshake bar Desserted, where the sugary creations are as photo-worthy as they are decadent. They're worth the upcharge.

Best excursions on Icon of the Seas

Depending on what's on your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you may be able to book activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, tropical jungle adventures, visits to Mayan ruins, volcano hikes, rainforest zip lining, relaxing beach days or cultural immersion tours.

Note that Royal Caribbean features the same options on many of its other Caribbean cruises; none of the excursions on offer are exclusive to Icon of the Seas.

Because our press preview sailing only visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, we did not experience any of the shore excursions. Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas was plenty of fun, even though we didn't plan anything in advance.

If we had made plans, we would have liked to check out the Up, Up and Away tethered hot air balloon, which wasn't running that day, and the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club, which were all booked. Thrill Waterpark (which features the tallest waterslide in North America), Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean) and the adults-only Hideaway Beach are other highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Overall impressions of Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean seems to be focused on superlatives. It has the biggest, best, tallest, largest and most of everything – especially when it comes to Icon of the Seas. If you like jampacked, adventurous vacations that squeeze a lot of adventure and relaxation into one memorable week, Icon of the Seas is probably for you.

While I love seeing Royal Caribbean push the limits of what cruises can be, the ship may almost be too big for some. It's an all-out Vegas-esque vessel that feels more like a floating city; you will probably forget (more than once) that you're not on dry land.

That's not necessarily a bad thing – if Icon of the Seas looks fun to you, it probably will be – but my husband and I tend to gravitate more toward authentic, immersive, on-the-ground cultural experiences when we travel. While Icon of the Seas is a lot of things, it's not that. We had a fantastic time and have already started planning a future Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends and family, but we also sympathize with the anticruisers of the world. Vacationing does not a traveler make.

Still, the shows are entertaining, the service is attentive, the music is jamming, and the architecture and design are incredibly impressive. I have no real complaints and suspect that most cruisers will have the time of their lives on Icon of the Seas – exactly as the minds at Royal Caribbean envisioned when they dreamed up this iconic ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Skye Sherman has been cruising since childhood, when her parents took her on her first cruise through the Caribbean. She has sailed various ocean cruise lines, gone off the grid for a six-day riverboat expedition deep into the Amazon River and even planned a European river cruise with 48 of her closest family and friends. She's a fourth-generation Floridian and hopes to visit every country in the world during her lifetime. She covers travel and lifestyle topics for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Royal Caribbean drink packages: Prices, inclusions and what to know before you buy

Royal Caribbean drink packages allow you to drink what you want, when you want without feeling like you are being nickeled and dimed. Isn't that most cruisers' dream? The all-inclusive, extra-fee beverage plans aren't necessarily for everyone, but they offer a nice way to enhance your cruise and take some of the stress out of in-the-moment vacation decisions.

Royal Caribbean ships offer a variety of packages, from a simple Water Package that keeps you and your crew hydrated during your cruise to a comprehensive plan that includes most alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Other than the Water Package, which is priced based on the quantity you order, drink packages on Royal Caribbean are priced per person, per day.

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The most common questions about Royal Caribbean's drink packages revolve around what each package includes, whether they are worth the price and when is the best time to buy your package. I've tried all of Royal Caribbean's drink packages. I've also cruised without a package. Here's what you need to know to decide if a beverage plan is right for you.

What's included in Royal Caribbean's drink packages?

Royal Caribbean offers a few different drink packages, and the inclusions vary based on your choice. All options include gratuities, and no Royal Caribbean drink package covers room service or minibar drinks. Also, unlimited alcoholic beverage packages may not be available while the ship sails in some locations, so package details may change based on the itinerary.

Related: Cruise drink packages: A line-by-line guide

Water Package

Royal Caribbean's Water Package is available in 12- and 24-packs of 1-liter bottles of Evian water. The bottles will be delivered to your cabin on embarkation day.

If you don't want to pay for a Water Package, you can find drinking water at complimentary drink stations in the buffet area and often in other locations on Royal Caribbean ships. Bring your own reusable bottle and fill it from these stations or straight from the faucet in your cabin. The water throughout the ships is not only drinkable but also better than what's available in many cities. You can also purchase bottles of water a la carte.

Why might you consider a Water Package? If you drink bottled water at home, you may prefer the taste. The package also allows you to have plenty of water on hand in your cabin or to take on excursions.

The downside is that 1-liter bottles are not the ideal size for lugging off the ship with you. You must either bring a reusable bottle or purchase single-serving bottles for port days. You can get these at bars or the gangway as you disembark in each port.

Classic Soft Drinks Package

Royal Caribbean's Soft Drinks Package is for the serious soda drinker. On select ships, the package comes with a souvenir Coca-Cola cup with a chip on the bottom to allow the holder to use the Freestyle soda dispensing machines throughout the ship. The "magic" cup gets you all the refills you want 24 hours a day, with your pick of sodas with add-in flavorings. (Orange Coke is my fave.) Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are available on 18 ships in the fleet.

You can also order a glass of soda at any restaurant or bar on board. Some venues only serve fountain sodas, but others have cans. One big bonus of the package is that sodas on Royal Caribbean's private island destinations ( Perfect Day at Coco Cay and Labadee ) are included. The only time you can't get a free soda with this package is with room service (because room service, other than continental breakfast, comes with a $7.95 service fee, no matter what you order) or from your cabin's minibar.

Related: 8 best drinks to order with a cruise ship beverage package (and 3 to avoid)

You can bring up to 12 cans of soda (or bottles up to 17 ounces) per person on board with you in your carry-on luggage when you board the ship. So, why would you want a Classic Soft Drinks Package?

It's a question of convenience. I've been known to take a couple of 16-ounce bottles of soda on board with me, but carrying on much more than that is a big hassle. With a Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can easily access your beverage of choice anywhere you are on board — including ordering sodas from roaming bar servers at the pool, in the casino or at events and shows — or on Royal Caribbean's private islands . You don't have to return to your room to grab a soda. It's also great for older kids and teens who might be roaming the ship with friends.

Refreshment Package

This is my favorite Royal Caribbean drink package. It includes still and sparkling water, sodas (with the included Freestyle magic cup), mocktails, premium coffees and teas (but not those from Starbucks stand-alone stores or kiosks) and freshly squeezed juices.

With this package, you can order almost anything nonalcoholic at bars and most restaurants on board. The Refreshment Package does not include shakes at Johnny Rockets, which are only included with the Deluxe Beverage Package.

Even the smoothies and protein shakes at Vitality Cafe and milkshakes at Johnny Rockets are included in this package, as is the sweet tea at Portside BBQ on Oasis of the Seas. Want a strawberry slushy? Order a virgin strawberry daiquiri. Want hot cocoa? Covered. How about a virgin mudslide? A bartender will happily blend up vanilla ice cream, coffee, hazelnut syrup and chocolate syrup into a perfect mocha shake.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks Package, you can order your nonalcoholic beverages, from sparkling water to fancy mocktails, from your pool lounger or blackjack table.

Plus, with the Refreshment Package, you've solved the problem of needing water to take off the ship with you for excursions and what to drink while on the private islands. It's all included in this package.

Deluxe Beverage Package

This package takes all that's available in the Refreshment Package (sodas, water, mocktails, premium coffee and tea, and fresh-squeezed juice) and adds cocktails, spirits and liquors, as well as beer by the bottle or can and wine by the glass.

There are some limits on brands available with the package, but the list includes imported, domestic and craft beer, an extensive wine list and commonly ordered spirit brands on drinks up to $14. Any bar server can tell you what's available on your cruise.

You also get a hefty 40% discount on bottles of wine up to $100 and a 20% discount on bottles over $100. It's handy for sharing a bottle with your travel partner at dinner.

As with the Classic Soft Drinks and Refreshment packages, you can use the Deluxe Beverage Package anywhere on board (except stand-alone Starbucks locations). Use it in restaurants, bars and any other venue where a bar server is present, as well as at either of Royal Caribbean's private island destinations. The Deluxe Beverage Package also includes milkshakes at Johnny Rockets.

This package comes with a few caveats. If one person in a cabin buys this package, everyone of legal drinking age in the cabin must buy the same package, according to cruise line policy. If someone in your room does not drink alcohol, don't worry. I've encountered many people who have called customer service and downgraded one or more non-drinking adults to a Refreshment Package.

Related: 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise

The package also does not include drinks that come with souvenir glasses, but you can order the same drink in a regular glass.

If your vacation plans include alcoholic beverages, buying this package is a nice way to pay your cruise bar tab in advance rather than deal with the shock of a high bill at the end of the cruise.

Cafe Select Coffee Card

This option is ideal for cruisers who prefer a little fancier caffeine fix than what a simple cup of coffee provides. This card entitles you to any 15 specialty espresso-based coffees throughout your cruise. (This package excludes beverages from Starbucks stores or cafes.) One shot of espresso equals one card punch. If you order a specialty coffee that includes two shots of espresso, you will pay for that one drink with two punches.

Unlike Royal Caribbean's other drink packages, the Cafe Select Coffee Card is not restricted to one person, and anyone in your cabin can use it.

What do Royal Caribbean drink packages cost?

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing on beverage packages the same way it does on cruise fares. That means you won't know the prices for each package before you book a cruise. Demand, destination and promotions play a big part in the pricing, especially for the Deluxe Beverage Package, causing them to fluctuate slightly.

Here's what you can expect a Royal Caribbean drink package to cost:

• Water Package : 12 bottles for $39; 24 bottles for $69
• Classic Soft Drinks Package : $12.99 per person, per day
• Refreshment Package : $29 per person, per day
• Deluxe Beverage Package : $56 to $105 per person, per day (depending on your ship and trip)
• Cafe Select Coffee Card : $31 per card

The prices listed above do not include an automatic 18% gratuity (which is also applied to the coffee card). You'll want to factor that amount into your travel budget if you decide to purchase a package.

You will notice that the Deluxe Beverage Package price range listed above is a bit wider than what is posted on Royal Caribbean's site. Posted price ranges include the disclaimer that prices on individual sailings may vary. We used a realistic range of prices from Royal Caribbean guests who have booked cruises and paid for drink packages in the past 12 months.

The best time to buy Royal Caribbean drink packages

You can purchase a beverage package as soon as you book your cruise, but should you? A lot depends on how soon your ship will depart. If you're sailing within a few months, go ahead and get any packages you plan to buy — unless Black Friday happens before you sail. Black Friday deals on drink packages are generally the lowest you'll find all year.

The package that varies most in price is the Deluxe Beverage Package. Its price is higher during peak travel times and on cruises with stops at private islands. Buying this package ahead of time is always cheaper than purchasing it once you're on board.

Royal Caribbean does advertise price drops and deals for pre-cruise purchases. If you're waiting and hoping for a deal, frequent cruisers report that you should look at the actual price per person, per day, not at the percentage off or BOGO deals, to determine if the package price is where you want it.

Related: How to get free or cheap drinks on a cruise

Is a Royal Caribbean drink package worth it?

Now that you know your choices and why you might want each package, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of whether these packages are worth purchasing.

The 1-liter bottles in the Water Package cost roughly the same as a 12-ounce bottle from a bar. That makes this package a deal, but only if you prefer bottled water over taps or dispensers. It's also convenient to have the water delivered to your cabin, eliminating the need to bring a case of bottles on board or search for a bottle when you want water on the ship.

When ordering an individual soda on the ship, your charge will be what you'd expect to pay at a land-based restaurant, plus an 18% gratuity added automatically. When you ask a bar server for a soda on the ship, you'll be charged just over $4 per soda with the tip, regardless of whether it comes in a can or from a fountain.

As the starting point for the Classic Soft Drinks Package is just over $15 per person, per day with the gratuity, you'll need to count on drinking a minimum of four sodas a day for it to be a good value.

If you prefer nonalcoholic beverages, you can expect to pay around $7 for mocktails and protein shakes, $5 for lattes at non-Starbucks locations and close to $9 for smoothies. These prices are before the automatic 18% gratuity.

Here's what your daily consumption might look like on the Refreshment Package: You could start with a morning latte ($6 after you add gratuity), grab water for your excursion ($3.84), enjoy a soda at lunch ($4), sip a couple of mocktails during the afternoon ($8.25 each), have another soda with dinner ($4) and enjoy another mocktail for the show or in the casino ($8.25).

That puts you at over $40 for the day, making the Refreshment Package a deal at $34 (with tip) per person, per day. Drink much less than that, and this Royal Caribbean drink package won't be worth it. The Refreshment Package price varies only slightly between sailings.

For alcoholic drinks, prices vary a lot based on your order. Beer and hard cider average $7 to $9. Wine by the glass is $9 to $25. Cocktails are $10 to $14, except for the drink of the day, which is $8. These prices do not include the 18% gratuity.

When deciding if Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package is worth it, be sure to factor in nonalcoholic drinks you are likely to have, not just those with alcohol. How many premium coffees do you drink each day, including one with your dessert at dinner? How many bottles of water and sodas?

The value of those often adds up to $25 or more per day. That leaves you with somewhere between $30 and $80 per day to spend on alcoholic drinks to break even.

If you're lucky and can purchase your package at the lowest possible price, almost anyone who drinks a combination of nonalcoholic drinks and a couple of cocktails daily would break even. But if your purchase price is somewhere in the middle of the price range (where most people land), you would need to consume a minimum of $55 per day beyond the average nonalcoholic beverages to break even. That equals six beers, or four or five glasses of wine or cocktails.

Related: Are cruise drink packages worth the price? What to know before you buy

For fans of specialty coffees, this package could save you money. Based on the price of a single espresso shot latte (about $6 after you add gratuity), you would only get five coffees for roughly the same cost as the coffee card. Since you get 15 single espresso shot beverages with the coffee card, you get more than double the number of coffees for the same price.

Whichever package you choose, your value may also depend on your itinerary and activities. On a Caribbean cruise that includes a sea day or two and a stop at CocoCay, you'll likely drink more — simply because you're relaxing more than touring, and the hot temperatures will make you thirsty.

But what about a port-intensive cruise in Europe where you are off the ship for long hours and likely to be sampling local beverages? In that case, the ship's beverage package might not come through for you.

Combined packages

If you mainly drink specialty coffees and sodas, one way to save a little money on your beverages is to combine the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package.

For example, you would need to purchase the Refreshment Package to get both sodas and premium coffees and teas, which is $29 per person, per day. The cost for the Cafe Select Coffee Card with the Classic Soda Package would run you $12.99 per day, plus a one-time cost of $31 for the card. So, for a five-night cruise, the Refreshment Package would cost you $145 per person; the combined Cafe Select Coffee Card and Classic Soda would cost $95.95 per person. You could spend even less if you're traveling with a partner and want to share one coffee card and each get your own soda package.

Additional factors

Before you decide if a Royal Caribbean drink package is worth it, there are two more things to consider: your Crown & Anchor loyalty status and your Casino Royale player status .

If you are a Diamond C&A member, your SeaPass card will be loaded with four free drinks per day. Diamond Plus members get five drinks, and Pinnacle members get six. Those can be water, specialty coffee or tea (other than from Starbucks and Desserted), sodas from bar servers, beer, wine or cocktails up to $14 (except at Bionic Bar).

As for casino perks, if your status is Prime or higher, you can drink free from the casino bar anytime it is open.

Those free perks could make the difference in which package you choose, if any. For example, a Diamond member might use her free drink allotment on cocktails and wine and save money with a Refreshment or Soda Package for her other daily drinks. Or, perhaps, the free drinks are enough that it's cheaper to buy a few nonalcoholic beverages a la carte.

Diamond Plus members also have a discount of 30% on Deluxe Beverage Packages when purchased on board. That's rarely a good deal unless you simply forget to buy in advance, as pre-purchase in the cruise planner or app is almost always at least 30% lower than the onboard price.

Bottom line: Is a drink package on Royal Caribbean right for you?

Now that you have all the facts, there are several ways to look at Royal Caribbean's drink packages to determine if you should get one.

First, consider every kind of drink you will likely pay for on board. Are you happy with beverages that are included in the cruise fare? Those include tap water, drip coffee, tea, milk, lemonade and juice from a dispenser at breakfast. Or, will your vacation only be complete with morning lattes, smoothies, fruity drinks by the pool and wine with dinner?

For some people, it's easy. If you're likely to drink four or five cocktails most days, plus specialty coffee, waters for excursions, soda and a glass of wine at dinner, your total, if purchased individually, would easily exceed $80 per day. Unless your sailing has a higher-than-average price for the package, go for it.

However, if you typically only drink a couple of glasses of wine at dinner, you aren't likely to break even — at least, not on the Deluxe Beverage Package. In that case, skip the package that includes alcohol and do the math on the Refreshment Package.

If you drink soda, the difference in price between the Classic Soft Drinks Package and the Refreshment Package is $16. Almost any combination of two other drinks — lattes, mocktails, smoothies or bottled water — makes the Refreshment Package a deal for you. If you can live without the extras, stick with the soda-only package.

If none of those looks like a bargain, pay as you go. Some people set a daily drink budget and check themselves (or their kids) against their folio in the Royal Caribbean app or on the interactive TV in their cabin. I've even met people who bring cash along to pay their drink balance daily at guest services to stay on track.

The other side of the equation is to factor the price of the drink package into the total vacation cost to make the cruise more of an all-inclusive vacation experience. Think about it like you would an all-inclusive land-based resort. When you vacation at one of those, you not only wouldn't know the price of the drinks you consume, but you also would not care.

If you're more interested in a stress-free vacation where you don't have to agonize about the cost of every drink you consume than you are in paying the least amount of money possible for your vacation, a Royal Caribbean drink package is totally worth it.

The bottom line is that drink packages on Royal Caribbean expand your choices. You can use packages to make your cruise as all-inclusive as you'd like (and maybe save some money in the process), or you can opt to cruise and drink in pay-as-you-go mode. Either way, you'll find plenty of fun cocktails and mocktails, as well as your favorite wine and beer, to enhance your vacation at sea.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Icon of the Seas: The Best Dining, Amenities and More on Royal Caribbean’s New Ship

U.S. News & World Report

May 9, 2024, 8:00 PM

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If you have any degree of interest in traveling or cruising, chances are you’ve heard the buzz around Icon of the Seas. Another record-breaking ship by Royal Caribbean International , Icon of the Seas debuted on Jan. 27, 2024, as the largest cruise ship in the world. It is epic in every sense, featuring 18 cruiser-accessible decks and stretching 1,196 feet from bow to stern.

With greatest-of-all-time soccer player Lionel Messi as the ship’s godfather, the Icon of the Seas is truly iconic. Messi brought the entire Inter Miami team along for the opening ceremony and the big reveal of the team’s new Royal Caribbean-sponsored jerseys. I was fortunate enough to attend this star-studded ceremony as part of the press preview sailing in the days leading up to the ship’s grand debut to the public. It was everything I thought it would be and more, and nobody could have been more appropriate than Messi to send this ship on her maiden voyage.

Boarding a ship of this size can seem overwhelming, but not when you understand the layout. Icon of the Seas is broken up into eight distinct neighborhoods: AquaDome, Central Park, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, Suite Neighborhood and Surfside, a neighborhood built for young families looking for nonstop fun and kid-approved eats and treats.

In addition to these public areas, there are 2,805 staterooms spread across 12 decks. Icon of the Seas’ capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, but with the plethora of public spaces and variety of things to do and see, you can choose your own adventure without encountering more crowds than you want to.

Icon of the Seas itinerary

During its inaugural 2024-2025 cruising season, Icon of the Seas offers seven-night eastern or western Caribbean adventures from Miami, stopping at a variety of tropical destinations. All sailings include a stop at Royal Caribbean’s award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas . Other destinations include Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis ; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico .

During the 2025-2026 cruising season, new destinations will include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands ). All sailings will originate from Miami.

No matter your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you’ll visit beautiful places — but you can expect to feel torn about spending any time off the ship, because it’s just that jampacked with things to do.

Who should sail on Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas appeals not so much to a demographic as to a psychographic; you’re going to need to be someone who likes to live life in all caps. Royal Caribbean set out to create “the world’s best vacation” contained on a ship, so Icon of the Seas is for anyone who would enjoy the combination of a beach trip, a resort stay, a water park adventure and island-hopping.

Fun-loving travelers and families with kids of varying ages will do best on this ship; it feels a little bit like Disney World with over-the-top everything and a truly massive sprawl. Older travelers who prefer a more quiet, refined experience may want to opt for a less kid-friendly ship. Still, even couples without children will find plenty of fun adult-friendly things to do and romantic places to tuck in.

The Royal Promenade can be quite loud and buzzy, but simply relocating to another onboard neighborhood can completely shift the vibe. Also, keep in mind that the ship really is huge, and walking from end to end can be a hike, so those with limited mobility or endurance might want to look into a smaller ship.

Icon of the Seas prices are high in its opening season, but cruisers with big dreams and small budgets can expect rates to drop by the time the next ship in the series debuts.

The stateroom

With a ship this overstimulating, it’s imperative that your stateroom is a haven. Luckily, Icon of the Seas offers peaceful rooms, many of which feature ocean or Central Park neighborhood views. Cruise ship accommodations are stereotypically compact — even cramped — but the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in Icon of the Seas’ cabins (with the exception of the windowless interior rooms) lend an airy, open feel. The cabin layouts are also optimized to provide the maximum amount of storage, floor space and comfort.

Stateroom decor is mildly nautical- and tropical-themed, with calming hues that mimic the scenery outside your window (think blues, beiges and whites). High-tech elements include smart TVs, LED mirrors and the ability to control many aspects of your room from an app.

My husband and I stayed in an Ocean View Large Balcony Stateroom, a 204-square-foot refuge from the hustle and bustle of the ship (the balcony adds another 65 to 70 square feet). This room type can sleep up to four people with a sofa bed for one or two; the room also features twin beds that convert to a king bed for couples.

My husband is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, and we were comfortable in our room, even though our quarters included a large bed, a bathroom, a sofa and a desk. We loved sitting on our private balcony and watching the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean flow by.

If money is no object, the Ultimate Family Townhouse — an over-the-top eight-guest, three-story pad with a private whirlpool on the balcony, three bathrooms, a slide that connects the second and main levels, an in-suite cinema, a dining room and a kitchenette — looks epic. But keep in mind, it costs nearly $100,000 for the week.

The Sunset Corner Suites (about one-fifth of the cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse, but still expensive) are also pretty sweet, with a wraparound balcony and a bed facing the sea.

Luckily, not all rooms break the bank; with four main stateroom categories (suite, balcony, ocean view and inside) and 28 subcategories, there’s something for everyone.

Best amenities on Icon of the Seas

It’s almost impossible to run out of things to do aboard Icon of the Seas.

For thrill-seekers, the largest water park at sea — Category 6 — features the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide on a ship) and the Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise vessel).

If you’ve tired of the seven swimming pools, six waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, escape room, sports courts, outdoor decks, theater, spa and all-day programming, simply take a stroll down the Royal Promenade for Las Vegas -style people-watching. The Royal Promenade has 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as a Starbucks that seems to have a line no matter what time you go. The neighborhood feels a bit like a shopping mall … if a shopping mall had floor-to-ceiling ocean views made possible by the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl, a feat of engineering, is one of the most unique aspects of the ship’s design. This art piece is actually a load-bearing structure supporting three decks, but it looks and feels like an interactive art experience designed solely for the enjoyment of guests. The multisensory immersive structure has 3,000 kinetic panels and moody ever-changing lighting. It is one of the first things guests will see when they walk on board, as it stretches from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park.

My husband and I spent most of our time at the FlowRider surf simulator — his favorite amenity — but we made sure to leave time for Taylor Swift trivia at Spotlight Karaoke and the superhuman stunts of the Aqua Theater show, a must on any Icon of the Seas voyage. The ship even has a massive ice arena called Absolute Zero for ice skating (the 20-minute sessions are complimentary) and impressive shows.

We also loved lounging in The Overlook Bar & Pods, an area at the very front of the ship (behind the AquaDome) that features two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. It felt airy and open, which can’t be said about many cruise ship interiors.

Best dining venues on Icon of the Seas

There are more dining options aboard Icon of the Seas than you can fit in on a seven-night cruise — but you can give it the old college try. Thirteen of the dining venues are complimentary, while 14 are specialty restaurants (which cost extra; fees vary). There are also 18 bars and lounges.

The best meal we experienced on the ship was at the Chops Grille specialty eatery. When we spotted Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty and a group of bigwigs at a table next to us, we knew we were in the right place. We loved sitting outside and enjoying the breezes of Central Park while we chowed down, but you can eat indoors for an elegant steakhouse experience and a view of the open kitchen and butcher’s display, which shows off specialty cuts like high-grade wagyu and bone-in tomahawks.

While I’d never turn down a swanky steak dinner, grabbing quick poolside bites at El Loco Fresh and indulging in some food hall-style grazing at AquaDome Market were equally enjoyable. We also had no complaints eating several meals at Windjammer, the classic complimentary cruise ship buffet.

Even though we don’t have children, we stopped into Surfside Bites for a very kid-friendly meal, complete with soft serve ice cream cones from Sprinkles (because no cruise is complete without soft serve). We didn’t try anything from the open-air, lemonade stand-inspired Lemon Post bar, but its menu of cocktails and mocktails looked delicious.

And since you’re on vacation, be sure to check out the milkshake bar Desserted, where the sugary creations are as photo-worthy as they are decadent. They’re worth the upcharge.

Best excursions on Icon of the Seas

Depending on what’s on your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you may be able to book activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, tropical jungle adventures, visits to Mayan ruins, volcano hikes, rainforest zip lining, relaxing beach days or cultural immersion tours.

Note that Royal Caribbean features the same options on many of its other Caribbean cruises; none of the excursions on offer are exclusive to Icon of the Seas.

Because our press preview sailing only visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, we did not experience any of the shore excursions. Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas was plenty of fun, even though we didn’t plan anything in advance.

If we had made plans, we would have liked to check out the Up, Up and Away tethered hot air balloon, which wasn’t running that day, and the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club, which were all booked. Thrill Waterpark (which features the tallest waterslide in North America), Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean) and the adults-only Hideaway Beach are other highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Overall impressions of Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean seems to be focused on superlatives. It has the biggest, best, tallest, largest and most of everything — especially when it comes to Icon of the Seas. If you like jampacked, adventurous vacations that squeeze a lot of adventure and relaxation into one memorable week, Icon of the Seas is probably for you.

While I love seeing Royal Caribbean push the limits of what cruises can be, the ship may almost be too big for some. It’s an all-out Vegas-esque vessel that feels more like a floating city; you will probably forget (more than once) that you’re not on dry land.

That’s not necessarily a bad thing — if Icon of the Seas looks fun to you, it probably will be — but my husband and I tend to gravitate more toward authentic, immersive, on-the-ground cultural experiences when we travel. While Icon of the Seas is a lot of things, it’s not that. We had a fantastic time and have already started planning a future Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends and family, but we also sympathize with the anticruisers of the world. Vacationing does not a traveler make.

Still, the shows are entertaining, the service is attentive, the music is jamming, and the architecture and design are incredibly impressive. I have no real complaints and suspect that most cruisers will have the time of their lives on Icon of the Seas — exactly as the minds at Royal Caribbean envisioned when they dreamed up this iconic ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Skye Sherman has been cruising since childhood, when her parents took her on her first cruise through the Caribbean. She has sailed various ocean cruise lines, gone off the grid for a six-day riverboat expedition deep into the Amazon River and even planned a European river cruise with 48 of her closest family and friends. She’s a fourth-generation Floridian and hopes to visit every country in the world during her lifetime. She covers travel and lifestyle topics for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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— The Best New Cruise Ships

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Icon of the Seas: The Best Dining, Amenities and More on Royal Caribbean’s New Ship originally appeared on usnews.com

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