Is Royal Caribbean the best cruise line for first-time cruisers?

Cruising for the first time can be daunting. We investigate if Royal Caribbean will make your maiden voyage a memorable experience, for all the right reasons.

You can do a short cruise to try before you buy

It’s no secret that cruising is not for everyone. But it has appeals that may surprise and delight more people than give it credit. In other words, cruising could be just your ticket.

Probably the most nerve-racking part of joining a cruise for the first time is the thought of being ‘stuck’ on a ship if you’re not enjoying yourself. Royal Caribbean’s sampler cruises are just the ticket to discovering if you’re a cruiser or not. Departing from Sydney, these two- and three-night cruises simply head out into the South Pacific Ocean and back to Sydney, giving you a couple of days to explore the ship and see what cruise life is all about. And if it doesn’t, er, float your boat, then you are back on land in no time. But for many, it’s the start of a whole new world of exploration and three nights is simply not enough! It’s important to remember that it gives you a taste of the experience but not the entire experience – it only gets better from these starter cruises when you get to explore different destinations and have more time to enjoy the entire ship experience.

You are never going to be bored when on board

Aerial view of Anthem of the Seas out at sea — *Anthem of the Seas* will be making its debut in Australian waters in 2025. (Image: Supplied)

Royal Caribbean’s fleet is the biggest in the world and has been at the forefront of turning the ship experience into a resort destination in its own right… and no, we’re not talking just bingo and buffets. In Australian waters, cruisers will get to travel on board Anthem of the Seas or Voyager of the Seas.

Anthem of the Seas debuts in Sydney in November 2025, offering 24 holidays from short getaways to longer journeys to New Zealand, South Pacific islands and beyond. It will be the largest ship in the Southern Hemisphere during the season. It is part of Royal Caribbean’s newest class of ships (Quantum Class), which takes the entertainment to an even higher level of wonder. The rock climbing wall, kid-friendly water park and FlowRider surf simulator are just the start. The North Star observation pod soars 90 metres into the sky, and then there’s the skydiving simulator RipCord by iFly. In the full-size indoor basketball court, you can jump into bumper cars, roller skating and trapeze circus school. Plus the tranquil adults-only Solarium, luxury spa facilities, the ‘We Will Rock You’ musical, and extensive dining and activity options. Bored? We think not.

The North Star observation pod provides breathtaking views of the ocean.

Voyager of the Seas returns Down Under in December, sailing from Brisbane with 20 different itineraries. The ship underwent a US$97 million refurbishment in 2019, adding several new features, including the Perfect Storm duo of racer waterslides – Typhoon and Cyclone – that is sure to keep kids entertained for hours. The reinvigorated Vitality Spa and redesigned kids and teens spaces, and 72 new inside and balcony staterooms, a Suite Lounge and outdoor area – exclusively for guests in Grand Suites and above.

Perfect Storm — The perfect storm is new to Royal Caribbean’s *Voyager of the Seas*.

You don’t have to cook and clean

In a world where holiday home rentals are all the rage, it’s nice to have a (real) holiday where all the boring day-to-day chores (i.e. cooking and cleaning) are done for you. Royal Caribbean prides itself on award-winning service. From the moment you board to the moment you disembark, you’ll be well looked after by your stateroom attendant who does a daily housekeeping and turndown service and your dedicated waiter in the main dining room who will know your dietary requirements and preferences. Of course, there are hundreds of other staff members onboard who are there to help you with any questions or needs during your cruise.

You will bond as a family

Bumper cars, Ovation of the Seas — *Anthem of the Seas* has a bumper car track, a full-size basketball court and a trapeze circus school space in one.

This is at the heart of the Royal Caribbean experience: giving families the time and choice of activities to have fun together. You are spoilt for choice with family-friendly activities onboard – and it’s all designed to make sure big kids and little kids will have fun.

Spend time splashing about in the different pools onboard; watch a film together in the dive-in movie theatre; let the kids burn energy at H2O Zone water park (Anthem of the Seas only); challenge each other on the rock climbing wall; play a round of mini golf; have fun with old-school arcade games; enjoy a Broadway-style show together; see who can stay standing the longest on the FlowRider; or partake in a number of fun classes such as jewellery making, cupcake baking, and the art of folding towels (into goofy-looking animals, not Marie Kondo-style).

You won’t have to worry about the kids

Ovation of the Seas Wave Rider — The wave rider onboard Anthem of the Seas.

Happy kids, happy everyone, right? And let’s be honest, the kids want to do their own things without Mum or Dad from time to time. And if that can be guilt-free for mums and dads then that’s even better (if not the Holy Grail). Royal Caribbean’s kids’ programs are designed to give Mum and Dad a break while entertaining the offspring with fun and immersive activities.

Kids aged three to 11 will love the Adventure Ocean program, which blends fun with education through science, art, imaginative play, storytime and more. Teens won’t get bored in their own dedicated area that has a 3D theatre, an arcade with classics such as Pac-Man and table hockey, a lounge and a dance floor. Meanwhile, the Royal Babies and Royal Tots program is an interactive 45-minute session for your littlest loves, aged six to 36 months.

Trapeze, Seaplex, Ovation of the Seas — The trapeze onboard *Anthem of the Seas* in action.

You see a different destination every day without having to do anything

That’s the beauty of cruising. You only have to unpack once while visiting new places almost every day. Stick to the homeland with Australia-based cruises such as the Queensland coast, which stops in Brisbane and Airlie Beach, or head down south on a cruise to Tasmania, visiting Hobart and Melbourne.

Say hello to our neighbour with a cruise to New Zealand and wake up in places such as the picturesque ‘Sounds’ (Milford, Doubtful and Dusky), NZ’s only French settlement Akaroa and the capital Wellington. Or if you have more of a penchant for tropical weather, there are a number of South Pacific cruises, which include ports such as Noumea in New Caledonia, Mystery Island in Vanuatu, and Lifou in the Loyalty Islands.

You don’t have to spend any money on board if you don’t want to

Everything you need onboard is included: meals in the main dining room and the buffet; juice, tea and coffee; entertainment such as Broadway-style shows, live music and comedy, lounge games and contests; activities such as rock climbing, ice skating, mini golf and even the FlowRider; as well as access to the fitness centre and kids’ clubs.

But if you do, it’s really easy to keep track

All onboard expenses are charged to a SeaPass account, which you can monitor on the TV in your stateroom or at the guest services desk. It’s also best to pre-pay for your optional extras (shore excursions, spa treatments, even alcoholic drinks packages) beforehand.

You don’t have to dress up

The general dress code for Royal Caribbean is casual; you’re on holiday, so shirts, shorts and thongs are totally acceptable during the day. For dinner, take it up a notch to smart casual – i.e. no shorts or thongs. There are formal nights on each cruise, but this refers only to the main dining room and is a suggested dress code. Theme nights, such as toga, disco and masquerade, are also optional.

You can digital detox…. or not

Of course, there’s wi-fi onboard all Royal Caribbean ships (at a cost), and it’s considered ‘the fastest at sea’. Or you can go old-school and head to the internet cafe onboard. Alternatively, you can choose to live the life of a seafarer and disconnect completely. Some digital detoxing needs to be done on a cruise, right?

You will get some peace and quiet

Vitality Spa, Voyager of the Seas — The Vitality Spa onboard *Voyager of the Seas.*

Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships may look busy, but there’s definitely some chill-out zones where you can get some peace and quiet. The adults’ only Solarium is positioned at the front of every ship, and comprises swimming pools, whirlpools, a lounge area… and not a whippersnapper in sight. Or set some time aside and pamper yourself with a treatment at Vitality Spa – try a massage, facial, body wrap, or a more intensive medi-spa treatment. If you fancy curling up and reading a good book, head to the ship’s library – perfect for days when the weather’s not so good.

You can stay active while cruising

Your active life doesn’t need to be thrown overboard when you go cruising, and fitness fanatics won’t be disappointed onboard Royal Caribbean. Each ship boasts a fitness centre with a selection of group classes, including yoga and spin, as well as equipment to do your own thing. There’s also a running track on the top deck and rock climbing if you want some fresh air while working out. If you prefer to do something a little more fun, hit up the FlowRider surfing simulator; take a dance lesson; and choose more active shore excursions such as snorkelling, scuba diving, hiking or bike riding.

You don’t have to eat at the buffet

Contrary to popular belief, onboard dining is not just buffets. Royal Caribbean’s dining offering spans different cuisines and styles, from the main dining room where you are served cuisine inspired by the destination you’re visiting to the casual Windjammer Cafe (AKA your buffet) to snacks such as hot dogs, pastries and sandwiches. There are also specialty restaurants (our favourites) where you can dine at an additional cost, including Izumi (Japanese cuisine), Chops Grill (American steakhouse), Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver (Anthem) and 1950s-style diner Johnny Rockets (Voyager).

Jamie's Italian, Ovation of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines — Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has opened his Jamie’s Italian restaurant onboard the Quantum class of ship (*Anthem of the Seas* in Australia).

You know your holiday is going to help the oceans

What can be better than cruising with a conscience? Royal Caribbean has partnered with WWF Australia to protect the Hawksbill turtle, a critically endangered species found in the Great Barrier Reef, among other coral reefs around the world. Royal Caribbean is working alongside WWF Australia to educate passengers, as well as working towards other sustainability goals to protect the world’s oceans.

What are you waiting for?

Check out the available itineraries from Royal Caribbean for Aussie cruisers. And make sure you have checked out our advice on how to book your first cruise.

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.