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Guide to Kosher Cruises 2024 - 2025

Exciting kosher cruises for summer & fall 2024; winter 2025, by: rachel kops | updated: march 18, 2024.

• Mediterranean Cruise  on the Norwegian Escape: July 14 -23, 2024
• 8-Day Mediterranean - Adriatic Cruise  on the Norwegian Escape: August 14 - 21, 2024
• 12-Day Mediterranean - Adriatic Cruise  on the Norwegian Escape: August 21 - September 1, 2024
• Cruise from Southampton to Lisbon  on the Norwegian Star: November 12 - 22, 2024
• Canary Island Cruise  on the Norwegian Star: November 22 - December 5, 2024
• Cruise to Australia & New Zealand  on Holland America - Westerdam: January 5 - 19, 2025
• Alaska  on the NCL Jewel - July 1-8, 2024  
• Magical French Heritage Riverboat Sailing  - July 3-10, 2024 
• Mediterranean and Greece  on the NCL Epic - July 8-18, 2024 
• Scotland/Ireland/England/Belgium/France  on the NCL Dawn - August 15-26, 2024 
• Danube Jewish Heritage Riverboat Sailing  - August 15-22, 2024 
• Iceland & Greenland  on the NCL Star - August 22 - Sept 1, 2024 
• Delightful Douro – Portugal: May 30 to June 6, 2024
• Beautiful Bordeaux – France: October 28 to November 4, 2024
• Luxury Super Yacht - St. Martin to Barbados Caribbean Expedition: January 8-15, 2025
• Vietnam & Cambodia Mekong River Cruise: May 19-29, 2025
• Gems of Northern Italy: October 27 to November 3, 2025
• Custom Group Tours Available

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Royal caribbean cruise kosher review [guest review].

This specific cruise was a round-trip cruise from Baltimore (where the Grandeur of the Seas is based) to the Eastern Caribbean.

When making a reservation for a cruise, you can select kosher meals. We followed up a couple times with both the travel agent and cruise line weeks in advance to confirm. We also requested a mini fridge by filling out a special needs form with Royal Caribbean directly. This helped with some items we brought with us like bottled drinks. In our experience, all meals came from Weberman which is a kosher catering company in Miami. You are not able to request anything specific prior to sailing. The longer cruises and ones with more people requesting the meals will likely result in better variety. On this cruise, we found out that some meals came from a company we had not heard of before called Sterling Glatt Kosher Catering, also in Miami.

In our experience, being proactive about the food with cruise staff results in a smoother experience. After we boarded, we went straight to the dining room to speak to one of the head waiters. Reji from India took personal care of us the entire time. That personal attention and planning each day made for a much better experience. It cut down on wait times during each meal (while others at your table may be eating) and any confusion present in the dining room or in delivering the meals to the buffet area when the dining room was closed. Reji showed us all the kosher meals that were on board and we selected which ones we wanted to eat during the entire cruise. He also brought out paper goods each meal.

Each night, we pre-selected the next day’s lunch and dinner to cut down on wait time. We also explained to him what we were comfortable doing and what we were not comfortable with. For example, each day the dining room featured a salad bar for lunch. We were ok eating cut up cucumbers and tomatoes from there. We also checked the jar for the pickles and had those as well. The few fresh items that we could eat really enhanced each meal.

The staff was very accommodating in showing labels of things in the dining room or at the buffet. Many were not made on board. They include condiments (we carried around a bag with us each day), bagels (some were kosher), cottage cheese, pickles and fresh fruit. We also brought bagels and challah rolls with us and many other snacks to eat during the day. Sadly no cream cheese was kosher, but they had butter, jelly, peanut butter, and honey. Since one of us likes hot tea after some meals, we brought kosher tea bags with us (the brand they use on board has no heksher) and large to-go cups although they had disposable cups available in the dining room. We also brought parve cookies to have throughout the trip. It is worth mentioning that almost all kosher meals are meat. The only dairy options were gluten free pizza and veggie and cheese lasagna (which should be heated multiple times because it is very thick), and one type of salmon. You should check with your local Orthodox Rabbi on the above.

Since this was a honeymoon cruise, I had spoken for weeks to the Special Access Department about ordering a specialty kosher cake. While this took a lot of emails back and forth, in the end Royal Caribbean ordered the cake directly from Sterling Kosher Catering which we had to pay for. Originally we were told that we had to order it directly from the catering company, but Weberman catering instructed us that any order had to come from the cruise line. If this is important enough to you, try to arrange it far in advance. You could also carry on desserts from a local bakery.

Since this was a week long cruise, we were not able to avoid Shabbos. This took some coordinating, but we have done it before. In terms of the food, the Star K in Baltimore (our local kashrus agency) told us that packaged meals could be heated in the large ovens they use without a problem because it did not add any extra cooking to what was already going on. This applied to all meals except for the soup which is all liquid. We did not have any soup at any meal. We brought our own mini grape juice for kiddush and challah rolls. In terms of electricity on board, we spoke to guest relations before shabbos and explained to them that we would need their help getting into our room because of the key swipe card. We also spoke to our housekeeping attendant before shabbos and all were aware that we could not carry the key with us or open the doors. We also brought sticky notes and taped them to all the lights asking them not be touched. A do not disturb sign on the door could also be used to make sure no one enters your room and the lights are not changed during shabbos.

All in all this was a great cruise. We recommend Royal Caribbean for the excellent customer service and some experience with kosher travelers. This made a big difference for us. If you travel on the Grandeur of the Seas, please be sure to request Reji in the dining room!

–Noah and Fallon Saposnik

Baltimore, Maryland

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About the author.

Dani Klein founded YeahThatsKosher in 2008 as a global kosher restaurant & travel resource for the Jewish community.

He is passionate about traveling the world, good kosher food / restaurants, social media & the web, technology, hiking, strategy games, and spending time with his friends & family.

Good description. Indeed you have to be proactive and order each day for the next day’s lunch and dinner. My wife and I have done 57 cruises, and we cruise 8-10 times a year in 6 of the big-ship cruise lines. (Just got off the Norwegian Gem a few days ago; going on the Quantum of the Seas next week.)

For those who are comfortable with the ship cooking in foil, all the big ships know how to double-wrap fish and vegetables in foil and put that in the oven, and many keep a separate over for that purpose. And we’ve learned to get creative with what they can cook in foil, e.g. curry, stuffed peppers). Some ships have kosher chicken on board and will foil-wrap an entire chicken.

Cruising out of Europe is more difficult because there are fewer products on board with a hechsher.

Sterling is a bit better than Weberman’s, and Norwegian and some other lines now use Sterling. Cunard now carries Hermolis which used to be really good, but our experience with Hermolis packaged meals has been mixed.

David Sherman it would be very nice to hear your experiences on kosher cruising , 57 cruises WOW!!

For the cruises we’ve been on see http://www.davidsherman.ca/files/opener.php?file=Cruises%20list%20Feb15.pdf

See my posting above. Cruising’s a nice way to travel — unpack once for the entire trip. Cruise ships are one of the few remaining places that still have a culture of service; we always get treated very nicely.

David, if you’d like to do a ranking of your experiences for kosher/frum cruisers, I’d love to publish it here.

That would be awesome !

Hi I just wrote a post (with Pictures) about the food available on our Royal Caribbean cruise http://robotsforroboticists.com/royal-caribbean-cruise-kosher-food/ I hope this helps you.

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Royal Caribbean Navigates The Kosher Cruise Market

Sea travel has always posed formidable challenges—especially for Jews. Keeping kosher, observing Shabbat and venturing into a sea of people who aren’t Jewish isn’t easy for the strictly observant. The challenges are compounded on cruises, where numerous questions come up.

If most of the passengers are Jewish and the staff is not, is it permissible to cruise on Shabbat? If the ship docks on Shabbat, can you disembark?  How do you light candles when you are forbidden to light a flame? How do you negotiate the electronic locks on your cabin doors? But most importantly, how do you keep kosher and still feel like you’re on a luxury vacation? Let’s face it—food is a big part of the cruise experience, but for the kosher, it can pose challenges.

In 2017 Royal Caribbean International first contacted Rabbi Dovid Weberman and his wife Esther, to explore the options for observant travelers who want to enjoy the all-inclusive cruise experience from the Haifa port. Then came Covid and cruises stopped, and missiles from Gaza in 2021 stymied the program again. When cruises resumed in 2022, Rabbi Weberman was there, and somehow the word got out.  According to Dalia Stelzer, a travel consultant from the United States, the popular Fresh Kosher program has been selling out as soon as a new date is introduced, mostly by simple word of mouth.

Before Fresh Kosher, and on other cruise lines, kosher consumers were not getting the full cruise experience. Rabbi Weberman explained that while many traditional cruises offer frozen kosher meals, kosher cruisers would take it upon themselves to visit the kitchens to see if they could have salads, which needed to be prepared on a separate kitchen area. They watched other diners enjoying sumptuous arrays of food and wine selections while they picked at their limited frozen offerings.

Last year, according to Esther Weberman, the Fresh Kosher program provided buffet-style dining in the main dining room. One cruiser described the kosher spread as lavish, with ice sculptures, intricately carved watermelons and amazing food. However, it became confusing and difficult to monitor who was participating in the kosher program in the massive mixed dining room.

Now, for a price, kosher diners can have the full experience.

For $20 per person per day on Haifa cruises and $70 per day on cruises originating in the United States, sumptuous fresh meals are served. For the Haifa cruise this year, Fresh Kosher took over two specialty restaurants, making them exclusively kosher. Breakfast and lunch are hot and cold buffets and dinner is plated with choices of appetizers and entrees. In the United States, a small dining room offers buffets for all three meals.

“With gratuities, the $70 per person cost comes to $83 per person per day,” said Stelzer. “On an 11-night cruise that’s a total of over $900 dollars, a lot extra to pay considering that frozen kosher is free and available. Yet I have sold over $1 million on Royal Caribbean International cruises,” she added.

There are only 350 to 400 Fresh Kosher appointments allotted to each cruise, so the kosher program sells out quickly, many months before the actual cruise is sold out, according to Stelzer.

There are also options for cooking kosher frozen fish—salmon, perch or tilapia in foil in the kosher Park Café (pizza bar) ovens, which is what one Jerusalem-based couple did when they found out they had ordered kosher meals, but not Fresh Kosher. They said the food was tasty. Although they were initially disappointed, the cruise exceeded their expectations. But next time, they want in on the Fresh Kosher program.

Cornering the kosher cruise market with a fleetwide project to reach out to kosher passengers is another smart move for the already successful organization. Royal Caribbean International has a tendency to jump on trends, like switching its ship-based internet service to SpaceX’s Starlink service, and announcing its mammoth new 1,200-foot vessel Icon of the Seas , which will be launched shortly. According to June 2023 market share data, Royal Caribbean International, parent company to Celebrity, Silversea and Azamara, is number two in terms of market share, behind Carnival’s number 1.

Royal Caribbean International is expected to serve over 8 million passengers by the end of 2023, according to its CEO Jason Liberty. As of February 2022, the Miami-based company operated 64 ships. By comparison, Norwegian Cruise Lines had only about half the passenger load.

Sharon Gratt Leeds, U.S.-based travel agent who specializes in cruises, agrees that Royal Caribbean really has the market for the kosher traveler. “The three U.S. dates for August 2023 sold out. Of the three more in January, two Caribbean cruises from Orlando, on the Wonder of the Seas and another on Anthem of the Seas departing Bayonne, one has already sold out for Fresh Kosher. The price is great compared to going to a resort. You get three meals per day, entertainment—and it’s all included.”

When asked about Norwegian Cruise lines, Leeds said that while the ships are comparable, the food is not. Her customers aren’t interested in frozen meals.

Another option from Haifa is Mano, a privately-owned, completely kosher cruise line that serves the Israeli market. Mano also operates a 2,000-passenger ship that visits Greece and the Mediterranean.  Onshore tour excursions are given in Hebrew.

Fresh Kosher is offered on Rhapsody of the Seas ’ cruises to Greece, and in 2024 Jewel of the Seas will sail from Haifa. Six Fresh Kosher Haifa dates have been announced for 2024, from August 16 through October 13. Travel agents expect more Fresh Kosher dates to open soon in the United States as well. One Fresh Kosher Trip to Alaska cruised this year from Seattle. Stelzer suggests to be sure to use a travel agent who really knows the kosher market. Only after you book the cruise can you add on the Fresh Kosher option if available.

When Rabbi Weberman contracted to be the official Royal Caribbean rabbi and kosher certifier for the cruise line, he hired and trained a 14-member crew of his own “translators” to help guests feel more comfortable.

“The role of the rabbi is to take care of everyone,” Weberman explained.  “It’s a chaplaincy program. For the program to work the common denominator is family. Every person involved is part of one big family.”

The rabbi boards the ship a month before the first cruise is set to sail.  He interviews translators, first by Zoom and later in person, and hires the most service-oriented ones.

“Training is a large part of the compliance,” he explained. “Waiters, guest services, inventory staff, all must be trained to identify Hebrew certification on labels. Labels and specification sheets are examined to create farm-to-fork traceability of all products being used. Chefs are trained on how to facilitate kosher and non-kosher in mixed environments. Menus are modified to accommodate kosher substitutions, and chefs are taught to cook traditional Shabbat foods.”

Of course, the chefs add their own culinary flair to the traditional cuisine, under the kosher guidelines. The kitchens themselves aren’t made kosher until one day before the cruise.

Esther, his wife is on call to supervise Izumi, famed chef Travis Kamiyama’s Japanese specialty restaurant, which currently operates on 26 Royal Caribbean International ships worldwide. With separate cooking stations and various counters, Izumi on the Rhapsody of the Seas out of Haifa has a small kosher menu to offer guests an interesting specialty option and a taste of Japan. As a specialty restaurant there is an additional charge at Izumi for all diners, kosher and non-kosher. Kosher guests are seated separately on the second level of the restaurant.

Rabbi Weberman’s interest in the food business is genetic, he joked. His great grandfather had a kosher deli and was a shochet (ritual slaughterer) on Rivington Street in New York.  Raised in the Chabad neighborhood of Crown Heights, Weberman recalls asking the Rebbe (Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson) whether, as a teen, he should go to learn at camp or opt to work in the camp kitchen. The Rebbe answered him, “Feeding Jewish students is a very important job.”

That was when he began learning to be a mashigiach (kosher certifier).

He later went on to develop a company producing specialty pastas and kugels. He also catered for Kosherica, a cruise program introduced by tour operators who rent out a portion of ships to offer a complete package of kosher food and entertainment. They eventually assumed their own catering. So when Royal Caribbean approached him, he knew he was up for the job.

He designates one of his post-army translators to oversee religious services and help recruit Torah readers and cantors. Services are included on the Royal Caribbean app schedule, although the venue is not fixed and doesn’t offer a traditional synagogue with a women’s section, rather an unused lounge space or conference room. While it isn’t a formal program, the passengers and staff make it work, and the quorum is met each day for all three services. Others are trained to work in the kitchen and at the restaurants, and to answer questions.

Because candles cannot be lit aboard ship, electric candles are set out on a table outside one of the restaurants in conjunction with an opinion that in such cases, this is the permissible manner of lighting candles on Friday night. (There is no such option for Havdala, though.) Non-Jewish staff is trained enough to be very helpful over Shabbat, for instance to open electronic cabin doors without being asked. Guests are guided to permissible coffee and hot water urns and advised of the doors and self-flushing toilets that must be avoided on Shabbat.

Esther has even accompanied women in need of a mikvah to secluded places during shore excursions so they can take a dip. She helps clear up misconceptions about kashrut, both on the ship and for shore excursions. 

“We treat everyone—officers, staff, crew members and of course our customers, with courtesy and understanding,” said Rabbi Weberman.  “Questions come up, and we’re here. If Jewish cruisers just want to relax, that’s great. We don’t pressure. We just want to make it easy for people on and off the ship.  Our translators reach out to every passenger—Jewish and non-Jewish.”

Esther, a former teacher, is an expert in working with youngsters on the trip, ensuring the Jewish ones get kosher snacks in the Adventure Ocean kids facility. She is the resident expert in bar kashrut. She trains the bartenders so they can advise guests of which cocktails are permissible, and if they get stumped, she is a quick phone call away.

For the kosher cruisers, this means maximum participation. Dinner is a served meal with choices of appetizers and entrees. The popcorn given away outside the theatre? Kosher, with non-dairy butter for all to enjoy. The all-you-can-eat soft serve ice cream by the pool? Deliciously kosher. Starbucks drinks? Certified kosher. Even bar drinks, except for the ones with fruit punch, are kosher and available to guests. If you aren’t sure, just ask.  A nice kosher wine list is available as well.

Mitch Mandel, a resident of Karnei Shomron, has experience cruising on different lines, and recently returned from a Rhapsody of the Seas Fresh Kosher cruise with his wife and two children.

“Why should we be second-class citizens? It was a blast! Everything was to our expectations, and even more so. It was a very enjoyable experience and great value for the money,” he said.

When you’re on a cruise ship with 2,500 other customers, competing for resources like a spot in the pool or a plate at the buffet, the atmosphere can get unpleasant. Mandel pointed out that Royal Caribbean International attracts a refined and diverse crowd of customers as compared to some of his other experiences.

“The crowd on Royal Caribbean is much more global,” he added. “The rush for food and the lines on other cruise lines were out of control.  Bottom line, Royal Caribbean is an American cruise line, and it is run like one.”

According to Rabbi Weberman, the service the staff extends to customers makes the entire experience feel first-class. Cruiser Shelley Kohr, who was never a fan of frozen meals, said that Fresh Kosher made her recent seven-day cruise to Greece one of the best vacations she ever had. “It surpassed our expectations,” she said. “It’s surprising other cruise lines don’t offer this as the kosher market is so large. We hope to book another Royal Caribbean cruise with the Fresh Kosher program next summer to Alaska for our 40th anniversary.”

Produced in association with Jewish News Syndicate

Edited by Jason Reed and Newsdesk Manager

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2024 Kosher Dining Sailings

We are excited to announce our Fresh Kosher Dining. sailings for January and August 2024. Get ready for an extraordinary adventure of great food and celebration, while also exploring the thrilling excursions around the world. Your clients can reserve the Fresh Kosher package via online Pre-Cruise Planner or calling the Pre-Cruise Planner Desk at 1-800-398-9819.

Wonder of the Seas 7-NIGHT WESTERN CARIBBEAN & PERFECT DAY Departing January 14, 2024 7-NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN & PERFECT DAY Departing January 21, 2024 Sailing from Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida

Anthem of the Seas 11-NIGHT SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN Departing January 18, 2024 Sailing from Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey

Oasis of the Seas 7-NIGHT WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN VOYAGE Departing August 18, 2024 Sailing from Barcelona, Spain

Wonder of the Seas 7-NIGHT EASTERN CARIBBEAN & PERFECT DAY Departing August 18, 2024 Sailing from Orlando (Port Canaveral), Florida

Symphony of the Seas 7-NIGHT BAHAMAS & PERFECT DAY Departing August 18, 2024 Sailing from Cape Liberty, New Jersey

Ovation of the Seas 7-NIGHT ALASKA GLACIER Departing August 16, 2024 Sailing from Seattle, Washington

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*Features vary by ship. Itineraries subject to change without notice. ©2023 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: The Bahamas.

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• Royal Caribbean International

Kosher Dining Package

By cruisecookie , October 3, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International

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cruisecookie

Does anyone have any information or details about the Kosher Dining Package offered on some Royal Caribbean ships.  We will be cruising on the Oasis of the Seas January 22, 2023 sailing.  Suddenly, under dining packages  a "Kosher Dining Package" is offered for $420/pp (breakfast, lunch and dinner) in the Solarium Bistro. No specifics are given and I'm not having any luck so far speaking with Royal.  I'd love to know who certifies the kashrut, dining hours and if there is any other Jewish programming on this cruise.

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Here is RCI's link to kosher meals:

https://www.royalcaribbean.com/aus/en/faq/questions/can-we-offer-kosher-meals

As noted, all meals are prepared on shore in kosher kitchens, double sealed and frozen.  They will serve them to you in original double sealed packaging with disposable flatware.  This, however, is a no charge service.  What you are referring to is the Yeshiva Week package, described here:

https://cruisefever.net/royal-caribbean-offering-kosher-meals-for-yeshiva-week/

long4acruise

27 minutes ago, cruisecookie said: ... Kosher Dining Package offered on some Royal Caribbean ships.  We will be cruising on the Oasis of the Seas January 22, 2023 sailing.  Suddenly, under dining packages  a "Kosher Dining Package" is offered for $420/pp (breakfast, lunch and dinner) in the Solarium Bistro.

There was some prior discussions on this on another thread but I don't recall which one. Perhaps do a "search" and also check the roll call for the Jan 22nd sailing.

Hope you find the info you're looking for. 

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Royal Caribbean vs Carnival Cruise-Which Is Better?

R oyal Caribbean vs Carnival Cruise-which cruise line is better? Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International are two of the most popular cruise lines in the world. They offer a wide range of amenities and activities for families to enjoy during their vacation. Deciding between the two can be challenging, but it ultimately depends on your preferences and budget. In this comparison, we will take an in-depth look at Royal Caribbean vs Carnival cruise lines and compare them based on various criteria.

Ship Size and Amenities

Royal Caribbean is known for having the largest and most modern ships in the industry. The Symphony of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with a capacity of over 6,800 passengers. It features an impressive water park, 20 restaurants, a zip line, and a full-sized basketball court, among other amenities. On the other hand, Carnival has smaller and more budget-friendly ships. Their newest ships, the Mardi Gras and the Celebration can accommodate up to 5,282 passengers and features a roller coaster , water park, and a variety of dining options. 

Cabin Choices

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer an impressive range of cabins to choose from, catering to every budget and preference. Carnival’s standard cabins are cozy and comfortable, but the line is known for offering smaller balconies. Carnival also offers several different categories of cabins, including interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite cabins. The interior cabins are perfect for those looking for an affordable option while still enjoying the amenities offered on the ship. The ocean-view cabins offer a picturesque view of the ocean and are perfect for those who love to watch the waves. Balcony cabins are the most popular option and allow you to have your own private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze. Suite cabins provide an extra level of luxury and come with a range of exclusive amenities, such as concierge service, priority check-in, and access to private lounges and dining areas. 

On the other hand, Royal Caribbean offers an even wider range of cabin types, including interior, ocean view, balcony, suite, and even virtual balcony cabins. Their interior cabins are cozy and comfortable, with a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Ocean-view cabins offer a stunning view of the ocean, while balcony cabins provide a private outdoor space to relax and enjoy the views. Suite cabins are available in several different categories, including Junior Suite, Grand Suite, and Royal Suite. These offer more space, extra amenities, and exclusive access to areas like the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen restaurant. The ultimate in luxury is the Royal Caribbean’s Star Class suite, which comes with its own private butler and access to the Royal Genie, who can make all your onboard wishes come true.

Royal Caribbean’s virtual balcony cabins are a unique feature that allows passengers in interior cabins to enjoy a real-time view of the ocean on an 80-inch high-definition screen that spans nearly floor-to-ceiling. This feature allows passengers to enjoy the view of the ocean without paying the premium for a balcony cabin. 

In addition to their standard cabins, Carnival offers several unique cabin categories that cater to specific types of travelers. For families looking for more space, Carnival offers Havana Family Cabins on select ships. These cabins feature a large balcony with a hammock and patio furniture, as well as access to a private Havana pool and lounge area.

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Carnival offers Cloud 9 cabins. These cabins are located in a private spa area and include complimentary access to the ship’s thermal suite, which features heated loungers, steam rooms, and saunas. Cloud 9 cabins also include upgraded amenities such as spa bathrobes and priority spa reservations.

Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of unique cabin categories. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Royal Caribbean offers Suite Class, which includes access to a private suite lounge, a dedicated suite concierge, and exclusive dining options.

For families or groups traveling together, Royal Caribbean offers connecting staterooms, which allow for more space and privacy while still being close to each other. They also offer virtual balconies in select interior cabins, which feature a large screen displaying live footage of the ocean outside.

Both cruise lines offer accessible cabins for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues, and both have a range of cabin categories to suit every budget and preference. Ultimately, the choice of cabin type will depend on the individual traveler’s needs and preferences.

Dining 

Onboard dining is an essential aspect of any cruise experience, and both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line offer a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences.

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its casual, laid-back dining atmosphere. The cruise line offers a range of dining venues, from buffet-style restaurants to specialty dining options, including steakhouses and seafood restaurants. One of Carnival’s unique dining options is the “Chef’s Table,” which is a multi-course dinner hosted by the ship’s executive chef. This dining experience includes a tour of the ship’s galley and a private cocktail reception with the chef.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, offers a more upscale dining experience. The cruise line offers a range of dining venues, including main dining rooms, buffet-style restaurants, and specialty dining options. One of the unique dining options on Royal Caribbean ships is the “Jamie’s Italian” restaurant, which was developed in partnership with celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. This restaurant offers a range of Italian-inspired dishes, including pasta, seafood, and pizza.

Royal Caribbean also offers a flexible dining option called “My Time Dining,” which allows passengers to dine at their own pace and choose their preferred dining time. This option is ideal for those who want more flexibility in their dining schedule and do not want to be tied to a fixed dining time.

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer dining packages that can help passengers save money on specialty dining options. Carnival’s “Chef’s Table” and Royal Caribbean’s “Ultimate Dining Package” are examples of dining packages that provide passengers with access to specialty restaurants for a set price.

Overall, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line offer a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer casual dining or upscale dining, there is something for everyone on these cruise lines.

Onboard Activities

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a wide variety of onboard entertainment and activities for passengers of all ages. Carnival is known for its high-energy and lively atmosphere, with a focus on fun and entertainment. On the other hand, Royal Caribbean offers a more upscale and sophisticated experience, with a range of activities and entertainment options to suit all tastes.

Carnival’s entertainment options include Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, magic shows, and live music performances. The cruise line is also known for its outdoor parties and deck events, such as pool parties and dance parties. In addition, Carnival offers a range of onboard activities such as water parks, mini golf, and sports facilities. There are also kids’ clubs and teen clubs available, providing a range of activities and games to keep younger passengers entertained.

Royal Caribbean offers a similarly impressive range of entertainment and activities. The cruise line is known for its West End-style productions, featuring world-class performers, singers, and dancers. Other entertainment options include ice skating shows, acrobatic performances, and live music performances. Royal Caribbean also offers a range of onboard activities such as rock climbing, zip-lining, and surfing simulators. Kids can enjoy the “Adventure Ocean” program, which offers a range of educational and interactive activities, as well as age-specific clubs and hangouts.

Both cruise lines also offer a range of parties and events onboard. Carnival is famous for its “Fun Ship” parties, which feature live music, dancing, and entertainment. There are also themed parties and events such as 80s and 90s parties, white parties, and Halloween parties. Royal Caribbean offers a range of parties and events as well, including themed parties, such as Caribbean-themed parties, and formal events such as Captain’s cocktail parties.

Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean offer a wide range of onboard entertainment and activities to suit all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for high-energy parties and shows or more sophisticated and elegant entertainment, both cruise lines have something to offer.

Kid’s Clubs

One of the most important aspects for families when it comes to choosing a cruise line is the availability of activities for children. Both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line offer a wide range of activities and clubs for kids of all ages, but they differ in their approach.

Carnival Cruise Line’s Camp Ocean is a program designed for kids aged 2-11, divided into three age groups: Penguins (ages 2-5), Stingrays (ages 6-8), and Sharks (ages 9-11). The program includes arts and crafts, games, and other fun activities, all under the supervision of experienced youth counselors. Older kids and teenagers can enjoy Circle “C” (ages 12-14) and Club O2 (ages 15-17), which offer age-appropriate activities like dance parties, video game tournaments, and sports competitions.

Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Adventure Ocean program offers a similar range of activities for kids, divided into Aquanauts (ages 3-5), Explorers (ages 6-8), Voyagers (ages 9-11), and Teens (ages 12-17). However, Royal Caribbean’s program includes more educational and interactive activities, such as science experiments, theater workshops, and even scavenger hunts. The cruise line also offers a Royal Babies & Tots program, which caters to children aged 6-36 months and includes interactive playgroups for parents and babies.

Both cruise lines offer babysitting services for an additional fee, so parents can enjoy some adult time during the cruise. Carnival’s Night Owls program offers babysitting services until 1 am, while Royal Caribbean’s Late Night Party Zone offers babysitting services until 2 am.

Overall, both Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line provide a great experience for families with children. The choice between the two will depend on the specific needs and preferences of each family, as well as the age range of their children.

Private Islands

Private islands are a highlight of any cruise vacation, and both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer unique experiences on their respective islands.

Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, has been recently transformed into a massive water park that is a playground for both adults and children. This island boasts the tallest water slide in North America, Daredevil’s Peak, which stands at a staggering 135 feet tall, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. The water park is packed with exciting attractions like Splash Summit, a collection of four exhilarating slides, and the wave pool, which simulates the feeling of swimming in the ocean.

In addition to the water park, Perfect Day at CocoCay also offers a helium balloon ride that ascends 450 feet in the air, providing passengers with a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the island. Other activities on the island include snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, there are plenty of cabanas and hammocks scattered throughout the island where guests can relax in the shade and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

On the other hand, Half Moon Cay, Carnival’s private island in the Bahamas, is a serene and tranquil tropical paradise that is perfect for those who want to unwind and relax. The island has pristine white sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can also enjoy a variety of water sports such as parasailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Half Moon Cay also offers a range of excursions, including horseback riding, nature walks, and stingray encounters. The island has several bars and restaurants where guests can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal. There are also plenty of beach chairs and hammocks throughout the island where guests can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

While Perfect Day at CocoCay offers a thrilling and exciting experience for those who love water parks and adventure, Half Moon Cay offers a more laid-back and relaxing experience in a tranquil tropical setting. Both private islands offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the individual’s taste and interests.

Affordability

Carnival tends to offer more budget-friendly cruise options, making it an excellent choice for families on a tight budget. Their cruises typically last for 3-7 nights and start at around $200 per person. Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, tends to offer longer cruises and more upscale experiences. Their cruises can last for up to 14 nights and start at around $400 per person.

Itineraries

 Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer a wide range of destinations to choose from, including the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and more. Carnival tends to focus more on shorter, more affordable cruises, while Royal Caribbean offers longer, more luxurious itineraries. Royal Caribbean also has its own private island destinations, like CocoCay in the Bahamas and Labadee in Haiti. These private islands offer exclusive experiences like zip-lining, snorkeling, and beachside cabanas.

In contrast, Carnival has partnerships with port destinations like Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas and Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic .

Solo Sailing Options

Solo travelers can enjoy cruising with both Royal Caribbean and Carnival. Royal Caribbean offers single-occupancy staterooms, which are designed In terms of dining options, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Carnival’s dining experience tends to be more casual and laid-back, while Royal Caribbean offers a more formal and upscale experience. Both cruise lines also offer dining packages and specialty restaurants that cater to different tastes and budgets. For example, Royal Caribbean’s main dining room offers a three-course menu with multiple options for appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Carnival offers similar dining options but also offers unique features like Guy’s Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina, and The Steakhouse. Both cruise lines offer a variety of dietary options like vegetarian, gluten-free, and Kosher.

When it comes to solo sailing, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer options for solo travelers, but Royal Caribbean has more options for solo travelers, including solo cabins on some of their ships. These cabins are smaller than traditional cabins, but they offer a more affordable option for solo travelers who want to avoid paying the single supplement fee. Carnival also offers solo traveler meetups and social activities.

Royal Caribbean vs Carnival-Which One Is The One For You?

Royal Caribbean vs Carnival -which is better? Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival are excellent choices for families looking for a fun and memorable vacation. Both cruise lines offer a wide range of amenities and activities but with different strengths and weaknesses. If you’re looking for a more luxurious and upscale experience with a wide range of onboard activities and dining options, Royal Caribbean might be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back and affordable cruise experience, Carnival might be the way to go. Ultimately, the best choice for your family will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

The post Royal Caribbean vs Carnival Cruise-Which Is Better? appeared first on The Adventures Of Life-Spontaneous Travel, Food and Fun .

• The Colosseum

May 9th - July 10th

Ultimate Africa & Southern Europe Cruise

Ancient Civilizations, Fresh Adventures

Departing from Dubai, where dynamic high-rises meet gold souks and desert sands, make for new horizons on this extraordinary 63-night vacation, which takes in 44 astounding destinations. Cutting through the heart of the Middle East, unwind on Oman’s wild beaches, be wowed by rose-hued Petra before taking in Egypt’s ancient treasures. Explore the sacred city of Jerusalem and the Eastern Med, visiting Cypriot castles and Turkey’s Temple of Artemis. At the shores of the Black Sea, admire Bulgaria’s Byzantine architecture, Romania’s vineyards, Odessa’s museums and Istanbul’s cosmopolitan culture. Travel to Bodrum’s honey-colored sands and the rugged Greek Islands, ringed by the ultramarine Aegean Sea. Finally, discover the best of the Eastern Mediterranean including Venice’s waterways, the walled city of Dubrovnik, the Colosseum in Italy, before soaking up the glamor of the French Riviera, and Gaudi’s surreal architecture in Barcelona, where this segment ends.

Amenities Included in your adventure

Wash & fold service

Deluxe beverage package

Voom Surf & stream

The Western Mediterranean and the Adriatic

Cradles of Creativity

Packed with spectacular age-old landmarks and grand architecture, history comes thick and fast in the Western Med and the Adriatic. Journeying through Italy, wonder at the Colosseum and Pantheon - ancient reminders of Rome’s time as world’s largest empire - and wander Pompeii’s ruins, frozen-in-time after Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79AD. Against the bold blues and powder-white sands of the Adriatic, admire Slovenia’s Venetian-influenced buildings, the 4th-century pizazz of Split’s Diocletian's Palace, Dubrovnik’s dramatic Old Town, and Montenegro’s mighty forts. Whether genning up on the Knights of Malta in Valletta, discovering Napoleon’s childhood in Corsica, cruising along the French Riviera to Mallorca - where Arab and Balearic influences meet - or reveling in Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona, you’ll be enthralled by history at every stop on this story-filled vacation.

The legacy of the Renaissance - a cultural movement borne in 14th-century Italy, which spread throughout Europe shaping intellectual life, art, architecture and the arts can be seen in abundance as you travel through the region’s most extraordinary cities. Discover the mind-blowing art of the Renaissance masters at Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice and Rome’s Galleria Borghese, a 17th-century villa which houses art, sculptures and antiquities. See first-hand why Michelangelo’s dreamy ceiling frescoes at the Sistine Chapel, and the famed corridors of Florentine mega-museum The Uffizzi deserve a spot on every art-lover’s bucket list. Just as compelling are Kotor’s Maritime Museum, which reveals the area’s fascinating seafaring history, and Malta’s National Museum of Archeology, which houses masses of prehistoric art and Neolithic pottery. Altogether more contemporary, is Cannes, renowned for its glamorous film festival.

A warm climate, fertile landscapes and teeming waters make for a rather delicious roll call as you sail through the Adriatic and the Western Mediterranean. Live La Dolce Vita - or sweet life - in Italy, where cafe culture reigns, and staples include fresh pasta, pizza, gelato , and lashings of olive oil and wine. Try pillowy-soft burrata cheese in Puglia, Sicilian eggplant and ricotta signature pasta alla norma , and classic Neopolitan-style Margherita pizza in its birthplace, Naples. Seafood’s a real Adriatic superstar; don’t miss Slovenian seafood rizota (risotto) - with a glass of local white rebula wine - and Dalmatian pašticada (beef stew) and rožata custard pudding in Croatia. Corsica’s signature civet de sanglier offers heartiness aplenty, while socca (chickpea pancakes) are a French Rivieran favorite, Marseille’s seafood bouillabaisse packs a liquorice-y kick thanks to fennel and  pastis , while Barcelona excels at seafood paella and crema catalana , a Catalan take on creme brûlée.

Alongside a serious hit of history and culture, awaken your senses exploring the region’s sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear bays and breathtaking volcanic, forested landscapes. Take invigorating dips in Bari’s bays or sun yourself on Torre Sant’Andrea whilst admiring its dramatic sea stacks. Dubrovnik’s an adventure junkie’s dream; try cliff diving, kayaking, or scuba dive to see the Taranto wreck, and its quirky submerged tractors. Get your heart rate going hiking in Portofino Regional Park’s lush network of trails, and wonder at Mount Etna’s volcanic vineyards and lava pits in Sicily. For more natural thrills, travel to Corsica’s Scandola Nature Reserve to spot eagles soaring over stunning rock formations, or discover the Cuevas del Drach - Mallorca’s dragon caves - an underground lair full of limestone stalactites and stalagmites.

A rip-roaring journey packed with exhilarating through-the-ages adventures, the Ultimate Middle East & Med segment is a vacation that cannot fail to set your imagination on fire. Whizz up Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world for unrivalled city views, be moved as the history of age-old civilizations - of the Nabateans, the Pharaohs and Ancient Greeks and Romans - comes to life before your very eyes in pink-hued Petra, the wild Egyptian desert, dominated by the Pyramids of Giza, and Rome’s Colosseum and Athens’ Acropolis. Along the way you’ll connect with religious heartlands and sacred shrines, revel in Renaissance art and regal architecture and enjoy relaxing at a multitude of sun-kissed beaches, taking blissful dips in transformative turquoise waters.

Barcelona, Spain

Segment 3 World Wonder

Tales of armored gladiators, intense battles and frenzied spectators fuel the history of The Colosseum. Constructed in 80 A.D., this 80,000-seat amphitheater perfectly represents the power and spectacle of ancient Rome — and remains in impressively good shape. Just know that photos truly can’t compare to the emotion of exploring this World Wonder for yourself.

Explore Highlights

A rip-roaring journey packed with exhilirating through-the-ages adventures, the Middle East Treasures & Marvels of the Med Expedition cannot fail to set your imagination on fire. Whizz up Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world for unrivalled city views, be moved as the history of age-old civilisations - of the Nabateans, the Pharaohs and Ancient Greeks and Romans - comes to life before your very eyes in pink-hued Petra, the wild Egyptian desert, dominated by the Pyramids of Giza, and Rome’s Colosseum and Athens’ Acropolis.

Along the way you’ll connect with religious heartlands and sacred shrines, revel in Renaissance art and regal architecture and enjoy relaxing at a multitude of sun-kissed beaches, taking blissful dips in transformative turquoise waters.

Insider tips Good to know in every situation

When visiting religious sites such as churches, mosques or synagogues, dress modestly, particularly in the Middle East. Opt for long sleeves, and keep your shoulders, back and legs covered. A lightweight scarf or sarong can come in handy as a makeshift headscarf or coverup, which can be easily thrown on at the last minute if it’s unexpectedly required.

Sprawling ancient marvels and Europe’s cobblestone-lined, often narrow city streets are best explored on foot. To ensure you make the most of things, pack a well-worn-in pair of comfortable shoes, and some trusty blister plasters, just in case.

Temperatures in the Middle East and the Med can really soar, plus there’s plenty of time spent on beaches and in the desert on this segment, so invest in a decent wide-brimmed hat, eco-friendly sunscreen, and keep a refillable bottle of water with you as you explore.

Frequently asked questions

What is an Ultimate World Cruise segment?

The Ultimate World Cruise can be taken as a whole, or you can choose from the four available Ultimate Cruise segments to take a portion of the voyage instead. The names and dates of the four Ultimate Cruise segments that make up the Ultimate World Cruise are as follows:

Ultimate Americas Cruise: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024, 64 Nights, 36 destinations

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024, 87 Nights, 40 destinations

Ultimate Africa & Southern Europe: May 9, 2024 – July 10, 2024, 63 Nights, 39 destinations

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024, 63 Nights, 40 destinations

What is the starting price for the Ultimate World Cruise segments?

Considering all that’s included in your Ultimate Cruise segment fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate Cruise segment complimentary amenities like Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, and wash and fold laundry service.

Ultimate Americas Cruise

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise

Ultimate Middle East & Med Cruise

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

What benefits are included when booking the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four segments?

Guests who join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise will receive the following inclusions:

Embarkation Amenities

Round-trip business class airfare

Pre-cruise hotel and gala

Premium transfers between airport, hotel and ship

Onboard Amenities

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire voyage

VOOM Wi-Fi internet for entire voyage

Gratuities for entire voyage

Wash and fold laundry service

Our Crown & Anchor Society guests who hold Platinum status and above will also receive the exclusive benefit of included excursions to the New World Wonders.

Guests who join us for one of the four segments will receive the following inclusions:

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire segment

VOOM Wi-Fi for entire segment

Gratuities for entire segment

Wash and fold laundry service for entire segment

Ready for an adventure?

Segment 4 Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise

• +31 20 509 1000
• River cruise

Sea cruise calendar

The sea cruise calendar lists all the information about the arrival and departure of the cruise ships at Cruise Port Amsterdam

The terminal of Cruise Port Amsterdam is an all year round destination. In this calendar you’ll find all the information regarding the arrival and departure dates.

The times of arrival and departure are specified by the agent as a guideline, this is not fixed and could be changed at any time. Cruise Port Amsterdam attempts to keep the calendar up to date. However you should always check, the most up to date information with your booking agency, before departure.

No data available

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 09 Feb

08:00 - 07:30 uur Departure: 24 Feb

08:30 - 20:00 uur

Viking Saturn

08:00 - 18:00 uur

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 02 May

Norwegian Star

06:00 - 17:00 uur

Celebrity Silhouette

08:30 - 07:30 uur Departure: 06 May

Norwegian Prima

10:00 - 19:00 uur

Norwegian Getaway

10:00 - 18:00 uur

07:00 - 17:45 uur

Jewel of the Seas

07:00 - 16:00 uur

08:00 - 19:00 uur

Viking Mars

06:00 - 15:30 uur

Viking Star

Celebrity Apex

Norwegian Dawn

11:00 - 21:00 uur

07:00 - 19:00 uur

07:00 - 17:00 uur

Seabourn Ovation

08:00 - 21:00 uur

World Navigator

08:00 - 23:00 uur

07:00 - 18:00 uur

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 13 Jun

Seven Seas Navigator

13:00 - 02:00 uur Departure: 16 Jun

Seabourn Quest

08:00 - 18:30 uur

MSC Virtuosa

Vasco da Gama

06:00 - 18:00 uur

04:00 - 17:00 uur

06:00 - 16:00 uur

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 11 Jul

Seven Seas Voyager

10:00 - 16:00 uur Departure: 14 Jul

Nieuw Statendam

11:00 - 19:00 uur

07:00 - 21:00 uur

04:30 - 18:00 uur

08:00 - 17:00 uur

07:00 - 17:15 uur

10:00 - 22:00 uur Departure: 03 Aug

Carnival Legend

05:00 - 18:30 uur

Seven Seas Splendor

Seven Seas Mariner

18:00 - 17:30 uur Departure: 12 Aug

06:00 - 18:30 uur

08:00 - 16:00 uur

08:00 - 13:00 uur

Serenade of the Seas

Seabourn Sojourn

Resilient Lady

19:00 - 18:30 uur Departure: 25 Aug

Azamara Onward

18:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 31 Aug

18:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 01 Sep

12:00 - 22:00 uur

18:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 05 Sep

Disney Dream

06:45 - 19:15 uur

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 12 Sep

09:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 17 Sep

Viking Venus

14:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 20 Sep

18:15 - 17:00 uur Departure: 21 Sep

Hanseatic Spirit

10:00 - 14:00 uur Departure: 18 Oct

Silver Dawn

13:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 22 Oct

13:00 - 13:00 uur Departure: 26 Oct

Norwegian Encore

Queen Victoria

21:00 - 06:00 uur Departure: 18 Nov

07:00 - 17:30 uur Departure: 21 Nov

11:00 - 23:00 uur

Mein Schiff 3

07:00 - 22:00 uur

13:00 - 22:00 uur

07:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 17 Dec

07:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 27 Dec

07:00 - 06:00 uur Departure: 01 Jan

08:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 01 Jan