Things to do on Royal Caribbean

Photos courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Great for families
Active lifestyle
Wonder of the Seas deck

Royal Caribbean – unmatched thrills and activities for every generation

Very Good

4.5 Stars

Waterparks & Slides

5 Stars

Pools & Splash Zones

4.5 Stars

Sports & Activities

5 Stars

Shows & Movies

4.5 Stars

Kids’ Clubs & Teens

4.5 Stars

Wellness, Spa & Fitness

4 Stars

Enrichment

3.5 Stars

Adult-only Areas

4 Stars

There are cruise holidays, and then there are Royal Caribbean holidays. This is a cruise line that has redefined what a ship can be, transforming it into a floating destination where sea days are as thrilling as any port of call.

For travellers who crave energy, creativity, and a touch of the spectacular, Royal Caribbean delivers an experience that is anything but ordinary. From West End-calibre shows to gravity-defying adventures, each moment is crafted to be memorable.

What to do on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Royal Caribbean has long been a leader in the world of onboard activities and entertainment. Its ships are designed for lively, varied, and imaginative holidays, ensuring there is always something new to discover. Whether it is the dazzling spectacle of a high-diving aquatic show or the simple pleasure of a quiet, adults-only sundeck, the fleet balances high-octane fun with restorative calm.

The Perfect Storm waterslide
The Perfect Storm waterslide

Entertainment

Entertainment is where Royal Caribbean truly excels. The line’s Oasis-class ships, such as Wonder of the Seas, feature the magnificent AquaTheater, an open-air amphitheatre where divers and acrobats perform against the backdrop of the ocean. Elsewhere, the ice rink hosts spectacular productions like 1977 and Blades, transforming the space into a glittering theatre of motion.

The entertainment extends to more traditional stages, too. On Anthem of the Seas, a ship that frequently sails from Southampton, guests can watch the full-length Queen musical, We Will Rock You. This is complemented by a lively programme of game shows, stand-up comedy, and live bands that fill the evenings. The quality rivals London’s West End, but with the added warmth of a Caribbean breeze.

Enjoy world class entertainment onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise
Enjoy world class entertainment onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise

Activities and attractions

For those with a taste for adventure, Royal Caribbean’s ships are giant playgrounds. Signature attractions like the FlowRider surf simulator and the RipCord by iFly skydiving experience offer rushes of adrenaline, while the Ultimate Abyss, a ten-storey dry slide on ships like Wonder of the Seas, provides a heart-stopping descent.
Inside, the SeaPlex is a versatile space that hosts everything from bumper cars to basketball games. Families can spend hours climbing rock walls, racing down waterslides, or simply floating along a lazy river. For quieter moments, there are trivia contests, dance classes, and craft workshops, ensuring a balanced pace for every kind of traveller.

FlowRider onboard Icon of the Seas
FlowRider onboard Icon of the Seas

Wellness and relaxation

Amid all the energy, Royal Caribbean understands the importance of slowing down. The Vitality Spa is a peaceful sanctuary with ocean-view treatment rooms and a serene Thermal Suite for quiet contemplation.
The adults-only Solarium, with its glass-roofed pool and comfortable loungers, offers a tranquil escape, particularly as the sun begins to set. For those who prefer to stay active, there are yoga and Pilates classes, guided sunrise strolls on the top deck, and whirlpools dotted around the ship, weaving wellness seamlessly into the holiday experience.

Royal Caribbean's Vitality Spa
Royal Caribbean’s Vitality Spa

Nightlife

When evening arrives, the ship comes alive with an array of bars and lounges. The Music Hall is the place for live rock and jazz bands, while Boleros turns up the heat with vibrant Latin rhythms. Across the fleet, lounges host karaoke nights and quizzes, creating a sociable and light-hearted atmosphere.
The newest ships, including Icon of the Seas, have introduced even more spectacular venues like the AquaDome. This futuristic space blends acrobatics, cocktails, and atmospheric lighting under a giant glass canopy, creating a destination for late-night entertainment and conversation.

Top tips

  1. Use the Royal Caribbean app to reserve seats for the AquaTheater and ice shows as soon as you board, as they fill up very quickly.
  2. Remember to pack activewear and closed-toe shoes if you plan to use the climbing walls, zip lines, or other sports facilities.
  3. On ships like Anthem of the Seas, the Two70 lounge offers incredible immersive shows that combine robotics, projections, and live performance with panoramic ocean views.
  4. For shorter queues at the FlowRider, head there early in the morning or during port days when the ship is quieter.
  5. The sailaway party on the pool deck is a Royal Caribbean tradition. It is a great way to start the holiday and soak up the festive atmosphere.