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This month, we're diving into the exciting world of Royal Caribbean International, acruise line that continues to redefine what's possible at sea. From the revolutionary Icon Class ships - the most advanced and sustainable vesselsever built - to the stunning $100 million transformation of Allure of the Seas, RoyalCaribbean is setting new standards in innovation, entertainment, and family fun. We’re also spotlighting Independence of the Seas, a fan-favourite returning to sail fromSouthampton in 2025, making it easier than ever for UK travellers to embark onunforgettable adventures. Whilst also looking ahead to the 2026 season, as well as somuch more in this jam-packed edition of your favourite travel magazine.Inside this Edition:C O N TACT Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KMeet Royal CaribbeanShip Classes ExplainedCabin TypesIcon Class Deep DiveIndependence of the Seas (2025 UKSailings) Spotlight on Allure of the SeasAccessibility at Sea2025 - 2026 Europe ItinerariesPerfect Day at CocoCayT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O N
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NWith a fleet that includes the world’s largestcruise ships, Royal Caribbean offers something forevery kind of traveller - whether you're seekingadrenaline-pumping thrills, luxurious escapes, orfamily-focused fun. Floating DestinationsTheir ships are floating destinations, completewith neighbourhood-style layouts, surf simulators,skydiving experiences, and even ice rinks at sea,and they sail to over 240 destinations across 61countries, including the Caribbean, Europe,Alaska, Asia, and beyond. The brand is also leading the charge toward amore sustainable future, with cutting-edgeinitiatives like liquefied natural gas-powered ships,onboard water treatment systems, and anincreasing focus on eco-conscious operations.Unforgettable MomentsWhether you're planning your first cruise or yourfifteenth, Royal Caribbean promises more thanjust a holiday - it delivers unforgettable moments,exceptional value, and a chance to reconnect withthe world in style.Since 1968, Royal Caribbean International has been setting new standards in the cruise industry- revolutionising the way we travel, relax, and explore the world.
ICON CLASS:Ships: Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas (2025),Legend of the Seas (2026)Perfect for: Families, Thrill-seekers, TrendsettersHighlights: Largest cruise ships in the world8 Neighbourhoods including Surfside forfamiliesCategory 6 - biggest waterpark at seaSustainable design (LNG-powered)C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NFROM MEGA THRILLS TO INTIMATEESCAPES - FIND THE PERFECT SHIP FOREVERY KIND OF CRUISER.OASIS CLASS:Ships: Wonder, Symphony, Harmony, Oasis,Allure of the SeasPerfect for: Multi-generational families andEntertainment loversHighlights: Central Park with real plantsZip line, Boardwalk, AquaTheaterBroadway shows & extensive diningQUANTUM CLASS:Ships: Anthem, Odyssey, Spectrum, Quantum,Ovation of the SeasPerfect for: Tech-forward travellers, all-weathercruisersHighlights: North Star observation capsuleRipCord by iFLY skydiving simulatorTwo70° immersive entertainment space
FREEDOM CLASS:Ships: Freedom, Liberty, Independenceof the SeasPerfect for: Active families, UK cruisers(Independence of the Seas)Highlights: FlowRider surf simulatorSplash zones & waterparksIce-skating & large pool decksVOYAGER CLASS:Ships: Voyager, Explorer, Adventure,Mariner, Navigator of the SeasPerfect for: First-timers, budget-friendlyfamily tripsHighlights: Royal Promenade shopping streetRock climbing & mini golfRecently refreshed with new featuresRADIANCE CLASS:Ships: Radiance, Brilliance, Serenade,Jewel of the SeasPerfect for: Scenic cruisers, nature loversHighlights: Floor-to-ceiling glass - stunning viewsSolariums & relaxed atmosphereIdeal for Alaska and coastal itinerariesVISION CLASS:Ships: Vision, Enchantment, Rhapsody,Grandeur of the SeasPerfect for: Culture-focused travellersHighlights: Smaller ships for more intimate feelUnique ports of callClassic cruising vibeC O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O N
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NRoyal Caribbean offers a wide range ofstateroom options to suit every traveller -from budget-conscious couples to largefamilies looking for luxury. Whether youprefer waking up to ocean views or enjoyingthe convenience of an inside cabin, there's aperfect space for you on board.Interior StateroomsPerfect for travellers who spend most of theirtime exploring the ship, these cabins arecosy, affordable, and comfortable. Somefeature Virtual Balconies - real-time sea viewsstreamed onto floor-to-ceiling screens.Ocean View StateroomsThese cabins include a window orporthole for natural light and a glimpse ofthe sea, ideal for those who want outsideviews without stepping onto a balcony.Balcony StateroomsEnjoy private outdoor space and fresh sea airwith your own balcony - perfect for morningcoffees, sunset watching, or quiet moments.SuitesFor more space, elevated service, and luxuryextras, Royal Caribbean’s suites range fromJunior Suites to the spectacular Royal LoftSuites. Suite guests enjoy exclusive access tolounges, dining, and concierge service.Family & Connected RoomsMany ships offer family staterooms andinterconnecting cabins - great for groupsneeding more room and flexibility.From solo cruisers to multigenerationalfamilies, Royal Caribbean stateroomscombine comfort with thoughtful design -ensuring every guest feels right at home,wherever they sail.
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NBIGGER. BOLDER. ICONICRoyal Caribbean’s Icon Class isn’t just a new shipclass - it’s a game-changing evolution in cruising. Launched in 2024 with Icon of the Seas, this classis home to the largest, most advanced cruiseships in the world, combining innovation, luxury,and fun on an unprecedented scale. With Star of the Seas setting sail in 2025 andLegend of the Seas following in 2026, the future atsea looks brighter than ever.Standout InnovationsCommitted to being bigger, bolder and iconiccomes with some standout innovations at sea,including: Category 6 Waterpark – Includes FrighteningBolt, the tallest drop slide at seaRoyal Bay – The largest pool at seaAbsolute Zero – Royal Caribbean’s biggest-ever ice arenaAquaDome – First-of-its-kind entertainmentvenue with immersive shows and ocean viewsSustainable Design – Powered by liquefiednatural gas (LNG) and equipped withadvanced water/waste systemsUltimate Family Townhouse – A 3-storey suitewith slide, cinema room, karaoke, and privateSurfside access
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NNEIGHBOURHOODS TO EXPLORE:Each Icon Class ship features eight themedneighbourhoods, designed to deliverunforgettable moments for everyone:Thrill Island – Home to the biggestwaterpark at sea, featuring six record-breaking slidesChill Island – Four pools including RoyalBay, the largest pool at seaSurfside – A family-focusedneighbourhood with splash zones, familysuites, and casual diningAquaDome – Daytime oasis, nighttimeentertainment hub with aerial shows anda 50-ft waterfallThe Hideaway – Suspended infinity pooland DJ-fuelled beach club vibesCentral Park – Real greenery, wine bars,and peaceful strollsRoyal Promenade – Ocean views, shops,cafés, and a buzzing atmosphereSuite Neighbourhood – Private dining,sun deck, lounge, and exclusiveexperiences for suite guestsDINING & ENTERTAINMENTIcon Class ships offer 20+ dining venues, fromelegant evenings at Empire Supper Club tofamily-friendly favourites like Surfside Eateryand The Lemon Post. Quick bites arereimagined at AquaDome Market, whileIzumi in the Park brings fresh sushi with agrab-and-go twist.Entertainment shines with AquaTheatershows, ice performances at Absolute Zero,live music, comedy, and themed barsthroughout the ship.WHY ICON CLASS?Perfect for families, thrill-seekers, andtravellers who want it all - Icon Class is afloating resort packed with thrills, relaxation,and world-class dining - cruising, reimagined.
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NRoyal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seasreturns to Southampton in 2025, offering avariety of cruises from short breaks to longerEuropean voyages. This Freedom-class ship is known for itsfamily-friendly atmosphere and excitingonboard activities.Thrilling ExperiencesGuests can enjoy thrilling experiences like theFlowRider® surf simulator, Perfect Storm℠waterslides, Sky Pad virtual reality bungeetrampoline, laser tag arena, escape room, andmini-golf course. Dining options range from Izumi Hibachi &Sushi to British-inspired Fish & Ships, alongwith casual spots like Playmakers Sports Bar& Arcade and Sugar Beach for sweet treats. Entertainment includes Broadway-styleshows in the Alhambra Theater and livelyevents along the Royal Promenade.In 2025, Independence of the Seas will sail arange of itineraries including 12-night cruisesto the Canary Islands with stops in LasPalmas, Tenerife, and Funchal; 7- to 9-nightcruises visiting Spanish and Portuguese portslike Vigo, Lisbon, and Bilbao; NorwegianFjords cruises calling at Molde, Olden, andHaugesund; as well as some shorter breaks toHamburg, Rotterdam, and Zeebrugge forquick getaways. These itineraries offer a blend of culturalexploration, stunning scenery, and relaxationto suit all tastes.
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NBIGGER, BRIGHTER, BETTER THAN EVER.Fresh from a spectacular $100 millionupgrade, Allure of the Seas is making wavesonce again - blending mega-ship excitementwith the very best in next-level luxury, entertainment, and endless family fun. As part of Royal Caribbean’s revolutionaryOasis Class, Allure is designed to impressfrom bow to stern, with something new todiscover around every corner.Fun-Filled & RevitalisedAt the heart of this revitalised ship are sevendistinct neighbourhoods, including thetranquil greenery of Central Park (home to10,000+ real plants), the fun-filled Boardwalk,and the high-energy Pool & Sports Zone withits signature FlowRider surf simulators andzip line. Whether you're catching a Broadway-styleshow like Mamma Mia!, enjoying jaw-dropping acrobatics at the AquaTheater, ordining al fresco under the stars, Allure of theSeas offers world-class experiences at sea.Families will love the refreshed AdventureOcean youth programme, redesigned teenspaces, and upgraded water attractions. Littleones can ride the carousel, take on laser tag,or cool off in the splash zones, while parentsrelax with cocktails, spa treatments, andadult-only escapes.Dining is just as exciting, with 20+ venuesranging from elevated steakhouse classics atChops Grille to family favourites likeGiovanni’s Table and Izumi for fresh sushi andteppanyaki. The upgrade also includes newlounges and enhanced staterooms.Multi-generational AppealWith its dazzling entertainment, reimaginedspaces, and multi-generational appeal, Allureof the Seas is perfect for families, Broadwayfans, and anyone craving a cruise thatdelivers more of everything - more fun, moreflavour, more wow.Allure of the Seas is the ultimate escape forthose who want it all - on a ship that trulylives up to its name.
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O N
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NRoyal Caribbean believes unforgettableholidays should be accessible to everyone. The cruise line has made major strides toensure guests with disabilities or specialneeds can enjoy their holiday with comfort,dignity, and ease.From embarkation to shore excursions,accessibility is integrated into every step ofthe guest journey. Many ships feature accessible stateroomswith wider doors, roll-in showers, grab bars,and lowered sinks. These rooms span variouscabin categories - from interiors to suites -making inclusive travel practical andluxurious.Onboard, guests find accessible public areasincluding theatres, restaurants, pools withlifts, and lounges. Elevators are available ship-wide, with clear signage. Royal Caribbean offers priority boarding,assistive listening devices, closed-captionedTVs, and sign language interpreters (availableupon request with advance notice)For guests travelling with mobility aids orservice animals, accommodations ensure asmooth experience. Many shore excursionscater to limited mobility, letting everyoneenjoy destinations and onboard amenities.Tailored SupportGuests are encouraged to complete a SpecialNeeds form at least 30 days before sailing,allowing tailored support. The team is trainedin disability awareness and guest assistance,so inclusivity is a true practice, not just policy.Whether it’s your first cruise or fiftieth, RoyalCaribbean’s focus on accessibility means youcan cruise with confidence, knowing yourneeds are met and anticipated.
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NIn 2025, Royal Caribbean will deploy sixships across Europe, including the returnof Allure of the Seas to Barcelona for thefirst time since 2015. Other ships such as Odyssey,Independence, Explorer, Voyager, andBrilliance of the Seas will offer voyagesranging from two to 12 nights. These cruises will explore destinationslike Greece, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Spain,and France, departing from portsincluding Athens (Piraeus), Barcelona,Ravenna, Rome (Civitavecchia), andSouthampton.For the 2026 season, Royal Caribbeanplans to operate five ships in Europe:Harmony of the Seas, Odyssey of theSeas, Explorer of the Seas, Liberty of theSeas, and Brilliance of the Seas. These vessels will offer itineraries rangingfrom two to 14 nights, visiting over 60destinations across the Mediterraneanand Northern Europe, includingMykonos, Dubrovnik, and the Norwegianfjords. Departures will be available fromAthens, Barcelona, Rome, Ravenna, andSouthampton.WHERE TO NEXT
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O N
C O N T A C T Y O U R L O C A L A G E N T T O B O O KT H E M I N I M A G - J U N E E D I T I O NWhat if your cruise included a full day inparadise - designed entirely around adventureor pure relaxation? That’s exactly what RoyalCaribbean offers with its Perfect Day IslandCollection, exclusive private destinations builtjust for its guests.At the heart of this is the award-winningPerfect Day at CocoCay, set in the Bahamas.Recently transformed into a vibrant islandplayground, it offers the best of both worlds:adrenaline-pumping thrills and serenebeachfront bliss.Guests can conquer North America’s tallestwaterslide, float along in the Caribbean’s largestwave pool, or take to the sky in the Up, Up andAway helium balloon. For something more laid-back, Coco Beach Club offers overwatercabanas, a private infinity pool, and elevateddining with unbeatable ocean views.And now, Royal Caribbean is expanding theexperience even further with a brand-newdestination: a private island in Mexico’s YucatánPeninsula. This highly anticipated additionpromises immersive cultural touches, sun-soaked beaches, and the same blend ofinnovation and indulgence that defines thePerfect Day brand.at CocoCayPerfect Day