Cruise – Royal Caribbean- Utopia of the Seas

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My First Royal Caribbean Cruise

I finally did it! I went on my very first cruise, and I must admit – I had an epic experience on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas! 

I will be the first to confess that after all these years, I hesitated to book a cruise because I didn’t know if I was a “cruise” type of person.  I am not someone you will find ziplining or doing crazy water slides or full days at water parks. I always worried that the pools and hot tubs would be too crowded, and I am not one for crazy nightlife either. I like relaxing, people-watching, reading, enjoying food and cocktails, watching shows, live music, sunsets, and ocean views.  So, I have always been conflicted about whether a cruise would really be my vibe.  Welp, I am happy to report – even if you aren’t a cruise ship amenity thrill seeker, there was something for everyone! 

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Magic Bound Travel Cruise

When the opportunity came up to travel with my new work family at Magic Bound Travel on a Familiarization trip aboard the Utopia of the Seas, I couldn’t think of a better way to experience my first cruise than with people with extensive knowledge and cruise experience.  

Plus, there is no better way to bond with others than to travel in a group! Believe it or not, this was the first time that many of us had ever met in person, and it felt like we’d known each other forever and had been traveling together for years!  

What is Utopia of the Seas?

Utopia of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s newest Oasis-class cruise ship, launching in July 2024. It is designed as the ultimate weekend getaway focusing on short, action-packed cruises (3- and 4-night itineraries) from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas.

Utopia of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas is known as The World’s Biggest Weekend and is currently the second largest ship in the world next to Royal Caribbeans Icon of the Seas.  If you’re looking for an action-packed weekend getaway with tons of activities, food, and entertainment, Utopia of the Seas is seriously the perfect choice!  It makes a great escape for the weekend, or tack it on to your Orlando vacation to enhance it.  After all, Port Canaveral is an easy drive from all the theme parks! 

We embarked on the Utopia of the Seas on Friday, January 24, 2025, from Port Canaveral for a three-night cruise to the Bahamas. Upon boarding the ship at 10 AM, we explored the ship until our rooms were ready to enter at around 1 PM. This gave us plenty of time to explore the incredible neighborhoods and amenities. Buckle in—it’s mind-blowing that this all fits into one weekend!!

Utopia of the Seas Neighborhoods

Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas features eight distinct neighborhoods offering unique experiences, dining, and entertainment. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Central Park

• A lush, open-air park with over 20,000 real plants.
• Dining & Bars: 150 Central Park, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, Park Café, Trellis Bar.
• Shopping: Luxury boutiques featuring designer brands.
• Entertainment: Live music and a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

2. Boardwalk

• A lively, carnival-inspired area with an ocean view.
• Dining & Bars: Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, Johnny Rockets, Sugar Beach (ice cream/candy store).
• Attractions: Handcrafted carousel, AquaTheater featuring high-diving stunt shows.

3. Royal Promenade

• The ship’s central hub has restaurants, bars, and entertainment.
• Dining and bars include The Lime & Coconut, Starbucks, Spotlight Karaoke, Boleros, Schooner Bar, and Giovanni’s Wine Bar.
• Entertainment: Royal Theater, live music, karaoke, and themed parties.
• New on Utopia: The Pesky Parrot, a tropical-themed bar, and The Attic, a comedy club.

4. Pool & Sun Deck

• The ultimate relaxation and party area.
• Pools & Attractions: Resort-style pools, Splashaway Bay water park, three Lime & Coconut bars.
• New on Utopia: The Spare Tire, a new poolside food truck.

5. Suite Neighborhood

• An exclusive enclave for suite guests.
• Dining & Bars: Coastal Kitchen (suite-only restaurant).
• Amenities: Private lounge, sun deck, and infinity pool.

6. Entertainment Place

• The nightlife and show district.
• Venues: Royal Theater (Broadway-style shows), Casino Royale, Music Hall, The Attic (comedy club), Studio B (ice-skating arena with performances).

7. Vitality Spa & Fitness

• A wellness-focused neighborhood.
• Facilities: Full-service Vitality Spa, thermal suites, state-of-the-art fitness center, juice bar.

8. Youth Zone

• A dedicated area for kids and teens.
• Attractions: Adventure Ocean® (kids’ club), Teen Lounge, and an arcade.

Amenities and Activities

• Pools and Whirlpools: Multiple pools and whirlpools, including an adults-only Solarium.
• Water Slides: Thrilling water slides for guests of all ages.
• FlowRider® Surf Simulator: A surf simulator offering the thrill of surfing at sea.
• Zip Line: An exhilarating ride nine decks above the Boardwalk neighborhood.
• Rock Climbing Walls: Challenges for both novice and experienced climbers.
• Mini Golf: A fun course suitable for the whole family.
• Sports Court: Facilities for basketball, volleyball, and other sports.

• Fitness Center: State-of-the-art equipment and fitness classes.
• Vitality Spa: A full-service spa offering a range of treatments.
• Royal Theater: Hosts Broadway-style shows and live performances.
• AquaTheater: An outdoor venue featuring high-diving acrobatics and aquatic performances.
• Casino Royale: A casino offering various games and slot machines.
• Music Hall: A venue for live music and entertainment.
• Outdoor Movie Screen: Poolside movies under the stars.
• Royal Escape Room: An interactive escape room experience.
• Carousel: A handcrafted carousel located in the Boardwalk neighborhood.
• Central Park: An open-air park with live plants, walking paths, and boutique shops.
• Adventure Ocean®: A youth program offering activities for kids of all ages.
• Teen Spaces: Dedicated areas and activities tailored for teenagers.
• Arcade: A variety of video games and classic arcade favorites.

Room Types on Utopia of the Seas

When it was time to enter our rooms, a large group from three travel agencies did quick tours of many other room types together.  It’s incredible how many different configurations and options there are! 

Utopia of the Seas offers a variety of staterooms and suites, ranging from budget-friendly Interior Rooms to ultra-luxurious Royal Suites with VIP perks. Like most ships, you can choose from Interior, Outside with a variety of views, Balcony with a variety of views, and Suites, plus connecting rooms depending on your needs.

I roomed with my new bff Taylor from Magic Bound Travel.  We both started our TA journey with MBT at the same time and found out we are basically the same person, LOL! We both love Disney, RunDisney, and traveling, and we read the same book on the trip! 

We shared an Interior room with a Central Park view, and it was perfect for two friends on a three-night adventure.  Yes, the beds can be split into two separate beds! All you do is contact guest services; they can swap everything out! Some rooms also offer a pull-out couch. It was a great room with plenty of storage, and we loved the location.  We were on the 9th deck in room 655, which was centrally located to everything on this massive ship! 

Additional Room Information

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of accommodations onboard:

Interior Staterooms (Budget-Friendly)

These rooms do not have a window or balcony but offer a comfortable and affordable stay.
Types:

• Interior Stateroom – Standard, cozy room with basic amenities.
• Promenade View Interior – Features a window overlooking the Royal Promenade.
• Virtual Balcony Interior – A floor-to-ceiling digital screen displays live ocean views.

Ocean View Staterooms (Window, No Balcony)

These rooms have a window that provides natural light but no outdoor space.
Types:

• Ocean View Stateroom – Features a large porthole window.
• Promenade View Stateroom – Features window overlooking the Promenade and shopping
• Central Park View Stateroom – Features a window and window seat overlooking Central Park – This is what we had!

Balcony Staterooms (Most Popular)

These rooms feature a private balcony, offering fresh air and ocean views.
Types:

• Ocean View Balcony – Standard private balcony facing the ocean.
• Boardwalk View Balcony – Overlooks the lively neighborhood (good for people-watching).
• Central Park View Balcony – Overlooks Central Park, a serene area with lush greenery.

Suites (Luxury & Extra Perks)

Suite guests enjoy priority boarding, exclusive dining, and access to the Suite Neighborhood.
Types:

• Junior Suite – Entry-level suite with a larger balcony and extra perks.
• Grand Suite – More spacious with priority perks & access to Coastal Kitchen.
• Owner’s Suite – A large luxury suite with a spacious balcony and VIP treatment.
• Crown Loft Suite – Two-story loft-style suite with a stunning ocean view.
• Royal Loft Suite – The most luxurious suite onboard, featuring multiple bedrooms, a massive balcony, and private dining options.

Utopia of the Seas Dining Venues

Let’s take a moment to appreciate the food! Cruise food and cocktails are not to be missed as a huge reason you should go on a cruise!  I opted only to eat what was already included in my cruise fare and didn’t buy anything besides my drinks! (I did NOT buy a drink package for this cruise, but I would next time!)

Dining Venues
Complimentary Options:

The Spare Tire℠: A new poolside food truck offering quick bites and handheld favorites.

Main Dining Room: A multi-level venue serving diverse, multi-course meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Windjammer Café: A casual buffet offering global cuisines and American favorites with panoramic views.

Solarium Bistro: Located in the Solarium, this spot provides lighter, health-conscious options for breakfast and lunch.

Coastal Kitchen: Exclusive to suite guests and Pinnacle members, blending California and Mediterranean flavors.

Park Café: Offers made-to-order deli items, including the signature “Kummelweck” roast beef sandwich.

Vitality Café: Ideal for post-workout refreshments, serving fresh smoothies, wraps, and healthy snacks.

Café Promenade is open 24/7 and serves coffee, snacks, pastries, and sandwiches, perfect for late-night cravings.

Sorrento’s: Authentic New York-style pizzeria with traditional and rotating specialty pizzas.

Boardwalk Dog House: A food truck-style venue offering gourmet hot dogs with various toppings.

El Loco Fresh®: Serves burritos, tacos, and quesadillas near the poolside.

Specialty Dining

Specialty Dining (Additional Fee) Options:

• Chops Grille: Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse known for perfectly seared cuts of beef.
• Izumi in the Park: A takeout window offering a selection of sushi rolls and Japanese sweets.
• 150 Central Park: An upscale dining experience with a seasonal tasting menu.
• Chef’s Table: An intimate dining experience featuring a multi-course meal paired with fine wines.
• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: Classic Italian dishes paired with an extensive wine selection.
• Johnny Rockets: An American diner experience serving burgers, fries, and shakes.

Nassau – Port Day

This weekend’s sailing ports were Nassau, Bahamas, and the Royal Caribbean private island of Perfect Day at CoCo Cay.  

Our day in Nassau, unfortunately, was cloudy and on the “chilly” side, and we spent most of the morning in a training session learning all about Royal Caribbean from our outstanding representative, Mechelle.  I wasn’t eager to leave the ship but decided I might as well step off the boat and say I was officially in Nassau, so that is precisely what I did.  It was worth it to have the experience of leaving the ship and getting back on in port.  It was a simple process, and I was so happy to see our GIANT ship next to my dream cruise ship – the Disney Wish. Someday, I hope to sail on it! Overall, this was a nice day to enjoy lesser crowds on the ship and enjoy my book while everyone was exploring Nassau. 

We enjoyed the Rising Tide Bar, dinner in the dining room, and the Aqua Theater that evening.  Don’t worry, I’ll touch on the entertainment next!  The Rising Tide Bar – You could call it a cocktail lounge elevator. It’s also the coolest way to move between Central Park and the Royal Promenade onboard all Oasis Class ships. Sip your favorite cocktail, beer, or wine while you enjoy a smooth ride and skylight views. 

Entertainment on Utopia of the Seas

The entertainment on the ship was so much better than I expected.  I absolutely love Broadway shows and was honestly worried about how cruise ship entertainment would compare, but it was surprisingly good! 

By far, my favorite was Aqua80too, followed by All In! Although the YouTopia show was also impressive, seeing them was well worth the time. I didn’t take many photos out of respect for the performers, but I will share some short video clips on my social media platforms!

Aqua80too

Venue: AquaTheater
Description: This high-energy show is a sequel to the popular Aqua80. It blends impressive acrobatics, diving, and synchronized swimming with iconic 1980s music. The AquaTheater’s open-air setting enhances the experience, offering a dynamic and thrilling performance.

All In!

Venue: Royal Theater
Description: An original Royal Caribbean production, “All In!” combines music, dance, and storytelling to deliver a captivating theatrical experience. The show features talented performers, elaborate costumes, and state-of-the-art technology, making it a must-see for guests seeking Broadway-style entertainment at sea.

YouTopia Ice-Skating Show

Venue: Studio B
Description: Utopia of the Seas continues offering spectacular ice skating shows. While the specific theme of each show may vary, guests can expect professional skaters to perform intricate routines, jumps, and spins on the ship’s ice rink. Combining skillful choreography and stunning visuals creates a mesmerizing experience for all ages.

Additional entertainment options, including live music at venues like the Music Hall, comedy performances at The Attic, and various themed parties throughout the cruise, complement these shows. For the most up-to-date information on showtimes and reservations, it’s recommended to check the Royal Caribbean app or consult the Cruise Compass during your voyage.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

My favorite part of the weekend was Perfect Day at CocoCay – it was perfect!  The sun was finally shining, and the beautiful blue skies and turquoise waters were perfect to chase the winter blues away. We took a fantastic tour of the entire island, and I learned so much. I can’t wait to go back, but for now, here is everything I learned!

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is a private island in the Bahamas, offering a blend of complimentary and premium experiences. Here’s a guide to the island’s areas and activities, categorized by what’s included in your cruise fare and what incurs an additional charge.

Complimentary Areas and Activities:

1. Chill Island:
   • Description: A tranquil beach area with clear waters and powdery sands.
   • Amenities: Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas.
   • Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling (bring your own gear).
2. Harbor Beach:
   • Description: A family-friendly beach with calm, shallow waters.
   • Amenities: Ideal for young children and families.
3. South Beach:
   • Description: A lively beach area catering to adults.
   • Amenities: Sports courts for basketball and volleyball.
   • Activities: Beach games and access to a floating bar (drinks at an additional cost).
4. Oasis Lagoon:
   • Description: The largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
   • Amenities: Swim-up bar (drinks at an additional cost), complimentary loungers, and umbrellas.
   • Activities: Swimming and relaxation.
5. Splashaway Bay:
   • Description: A complimentary water park for kids.
   • Amenities: Waterslides, drenching buckets, and spray fountains.
6. Captain Jill’s Galleon:
   • Description: A pirate ship-themed play area.
   • Amenities: Slides, climbing nets, and water cannons.
7. Sports Courts:
   • Description: Facilities for various sports.
   • Activities: Basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and other games.
8. Dining:
   • Complimentary Venues: Several dining options are included, offering a variety of cuisines.
9. Transportation and Amenities:
   • Tram Service: Complimentary trams to navigate the island.
   • Towels and Showers: Available at no extra charge.
   • Beach Chairs and Umbrellas: Provided free of charge.

Premium (Additional Cost) Areas and Activities:

1. Thrill Waterpark:
   • Description: An adventure water park with various attractions.
   • Attractions:
     • Daredevil’s Tower: High-speed waterslides.
     • Splash Summit: Multi-rider slides.
     • Wave Pool: The Caribbean’s largest wave pool.
     • Adventure Pool: Obstacle courses and water activities.
2. Up, Up and Away:
   • Description: A helium balloon ride offering panoramic island views.
3. Zip Line:
   • Description: A 1,600-foot zip line course ending over the harbor.
4. Coco Beach Club:
   • Description: An exclusive beach club with premium amenities.
   • Amenities:
     • Infinity Pool: Overlooking the ocean.
     • Private Cabanas: Including overwater options.
     • Upscale Dining: Elevated culinary experiences.
5. Hideaway Beach:
   • Description: An adults-only beachfront paradise.
   • Amenities:
     • Private Beach and Pools: Exclusive access.
     • Dedicated Bars and Dining: Tailored for adults.
     • Live Music: Entertainment throughout the day.
6. Cabanas and Day Beds:
   • Availability: For rent across various island locations, including Chill Island, South Beach, and Oasis Lagoon.
7. Excursions and Rentals:
   • Snorkeling and Kayak Rentals: Available for a fee.
   • Jet Skiing and Scuba Diving: Formal excursions offered at an additional cost.

Adults Only – Hideaway Beach

✨ What’s Special About Hideaway Beach?

Hideaway Beach is Royal Caribbean’s first adults-only retreat on CocoCay, designed for a chill, party-like atmosphere with premium amenities, private cabanas, a DJ, and multiple bars.

🏖️ Key Features & Activities

✔️ Private Beach – Soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and plenty of loungers.
✔️ Exclusive Pools & Swim-Up Bar – Relax with a drink in hand at the infinity-edge pool.
✔️ Live DJ & Entertainment – A fun, upbeat vibe with music and activities.
✔️ Private Cabanas – Rentable cabanas with VIP service for extra luxury.
✔️ Multiple Bars & Dining Options – Exclusive food and drinks just for Hideaway Beach guests.

Dining & Bars at Hideaway Beach

🍔 The Hideout Bar – Full-service swim-up bar inside the infinity pool.
🍹 On The Rocks – Outdoor bar with ocean views and cocktails.
🌮 Slice of Paradise – Pizza, sandwiches, and island-inspired food.

Coco Beach Club

What Makes Coco Beach Club Special?

✔️ Exclusive Private Beach – Quieter, less crowded, with upgraded cushioned loungers & daybeds.
✔️ Infinity Pool – A stunning oceanfront pool with plush seating and drink service.
✔️ Gourmet Dining – Complimentary upscale restaurant with steak, lobster, and more.
✔️ Overwater Cabanas – The first overwater cabanas in The Bahamas, featuring a private slide into the ocean, a personal concierge, and lounge seating.
✔️ Premium Service – Attentive beachside service for drinks and food.

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Dining at Coco Beach Club

Unlike the rest of CocoCay, Coco Beach Club offers a complimentary elevated dining experience with high-end options like:
Steak & Lobster (included in the entry fee!)
Garlic Tiger Shrimp
Mediterranean-style salads
Island-inspired desserts

💡 Pro Tip: This is the best dining experience on CocoCay—worth the upgrade if you’re a foodie!

CocoCay Over the Water Cabanas

• Day Pass Required – Pricing varies but typically ranges from $100-$200 per person
• Overwater Cabanas – $999+ for the entire cabana (includes entry for up to 8 guests).

After touring both exclusive areas – Hideaway Beach and Coco Beach Club are well worth their money if you want an elevated paradise experience.  Both options can be booked ahead of time with your travel advisor.  10/10!!! 

As someone initially hesitant about cruising, my experience on Utopia of the Seas completely changed my perspective. Every moment exceeded my expectations, from the incredible dining and top-notch entertainment to the unforgettable day at Perfect Day at CocoCay. I loved the mix of relaxation and adventure, the variety of activities, and the seamless way everything was designed for fun and convenience. Cruises are an excellent option for an escape that is as simple or adventurous as you want and so easy to customize. Now, I can confidently say I’m hooked—and I can’t wait to set sail on my next cruise adventure!