Why I Believe Royal Caribbean Is One of the Best Cruise Lines Today

I’ve been cruising since I was five years old. My first cruise was back in 1977, and over the decades I’ve sailed on every major cruise line—many of them multiple times. I’ve cruised as a kid, a teenager, a young adult, a parent, and now as someone who truly understands what makes a cruise great depending on who you’re traveling with and why.

With all of that experience, one thing has become very clear to me in recent years:

Royal Caribbean has positioned itself as one of the best cruise lines for families, young couples, and teenagers today.

Ships Designed for Modern Cruisers

Royal Caribbean isn’t just building ships—they’re building floating cities.

They’re currently investing heavily in:

• New, larger ships designed specifically for families, multi-generational travel, and nonstop onboard activities

• Newer, smaller ships that can reach additional ports and offer a more flexible cruising experience

These ships are designed so that the ship itself is the destination. Water parks, surf simulators, skydiving, ice skating, Broadway-level shows, teen zones, adult-only areas, endless dining options—it’s all built in.

Because of this shift, ports have almost become secondary. Many people now choose to stay onboard during port days simply because there’s so much to do.

Excursions: Ship vs. On Your Own

Even though the ships are incredible, I still strongly believe that ship-sponsored excursions outweigh doing excursions on your own, especially for families.

The reason is simple:

If something goes wrong on a ship excursion, the ship waits for you.

If something goes wrong on your own, the ship leaves without you.

That peace of mind alone is worth it—especially when traveling with kids or teens.

Realistic Costs to Plan For

Cruising today isn’t just about the fare anymore. Two expenses I consider necessary and recommend planning for ahead of time:

• Onboard Wi-Fi – Staying connected is now part of everyday life

• Prepaid gratuities – Paying these in advance removes stress once you’re onboard

Planning for these ahead of time makes the entire experience smoother and more relaxing.

Book Shows and Activities Before You Board

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until they’re onboard to plan everything.

Royal Caribbean allows you to reserve show times, entertainment, and activities before you even step on the ship—and you should absolutely do it.

Popular shows and experiences fill up quickly, and pre-booking ensures you get exactly what you want without scrambling later.

Every Cruise Is What You Make It

At the end of the day, you can sail with any cruise line you choose—and that’s the beauty of cruising.

Just know this:

• Every cruise line is different

• Every ship is different

• Every experience is what you decide to make it

Your cruise can be:

• Relaxing

• Exciting

• Focused on family time

• Nonstop fun

• Quiet

• Even boring—if you want it to be

Cruising is one of the few vacations where you truly control the pace and the experience.

For me, based on decades of firsthand experience, Royal Caribbean consistently delivers one of the most well-rounded cruising experiences available today, especially for families, young couples, and teenagers.

And that’s why it continues to be one of my top choices. 🚢