Ahoy, fellow cruisers! After countless voyages on Royal Caribbean’s majestic fleet, I’ve narrowed down my top four favorite spots on nearly every ship. Let’s dive into these hidden gems that can transform your cruise from fantastic to unforgettable!
1. The Royal Caribbean English Pub
Picture this: you’re walking down the bustling promenade when you hear the sweet strumming of an acoustic guitar. You follow the sound and find yourself at the Royal Caribbean English Pub. Whether it’s the Bow & Stern on Allure of the Seas or the Barnacle and Barrel on Mariner of the Seas, each pub sports a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Now, here’s where the magic happens. The bartenders quickly learn your favorite drink, and before you know it, your Heineken draft is ready as soon as you sit down. Talented guitarists, play a mix of old favorites and contemporary tunes, creating a vibe that’s pure magic. Picture yourself singing along to “Sweet Caroline” or “Take Me Home, Country Roads” with newfound friends. The pub shrinks the massive cruise ship into a quaint, friendly neighborhood bar.
2. The Solarium
Need a break from the energetic pool deck? Head to the Solarium, the serene, adults-only haven found on every Royal Caribbean ship. This oasis offers a pool, hot tubs, lounge chairs, and a bar—all within a covered indoor/outdoor space at the ship’s front.
With no kids allowed, the Solarium is a peaceful retreat where you can read a book, enjoy a quiet drink, or chat with fellow cruisers without yelling over loud music. The absence of poolside contests and bands makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some adult company. Imagine soaking in a hot tub, sipping on a refreshing cocktail, and sharing stories with new friends as the ocean breeze rolls in.
3. Playmakers Sports Bar
Sports fans, rejoice! Playmakers Sports Bar is a must-visit for anyone who loves catching a game while at sea. While not available on the oldest ships or Allure of the Seas (until its upcoming renovation), Playmakers is a staple on many of Royal Caribbean’s ships.
Located on the Royal Promenade or the Boardwalk, Playmakers is the place to be during playoff games or major sporting events. The atmosphere is electric, with fans cheering for their teams and playfully jeering their rivals. And the wings—oh, the wings! These buffalo wings are legendary, and for a time, Playmakers even offered a wing challenge. For $45, you could attempt to devour 100 of the hottest wings in 45 minutes for a commemorative T-shirt. While the challenge might be MIA, the wings still deliver a knockout punch.
4. Casino Royale
Feeling lucky? Casino Royale is the spot for you! Even if you’re not a gambler on land, the excitement of Casino Royale can be quite tempting. Remember, don’t gamble if it’s not your thing, but if you enjoy a flutter, this is the place to be.
The casino buzzes with energy, offering slots, video poker, and table games. It’s also a fantastic spot to socialize. The casino bar is a hidden gem, staffed by some of the best bartenders in the fleet. Share your flavor preferences, and they’ll craft something special just for you. Late at night, when the ship’s quiet, the casino still hums with life, often staying open past 2 a.m.
The Cherry on Top: Central Park
I couldn’t end this without a special mention of Central Park, an outdoor area available on Icon and Oasis-Class ships. This tranquil, green oasis is a miracle on a ship holding 8,000 people. Walking through Central Park, you’ll find lush gardens, quiet spots to read, and even open-air dining. It’s a surreal experience to be in such a peaceful setting while floating in the middle of the ocean.
Thoughts
Royal Caribbean continuously pushes the boundaries of what cruise ships can offer. Whether you’re belting out tunes at the English pub, unwinding in the Solarium, cheering on your team at Playmakers, or trying your luck at Casino Royale, these favorite spots will undoubtedly enhance your cruise experience. So, next time you board a Royal Caribbean ship, make sure to check out these gems and create your own unforgettable moments.
Bon voyage, and may your travels be filled with adventure, laughter, and maybe even a few Buffalo Wings!
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