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).

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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.

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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.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

Is this the best cruise line for first-time cruisers?