People often wonder what to do with their downtime when cruising, but there’s no need to worry since their options are wide and diverse. With a full roster of entertainment spanning air, water, ice and stage, onboard surfing and sky diving simulators, escape rooms, pools and waterslides (not to mention bars and lounges), you may not even know which activity you want to try first on board.
Whether you’re looking to take in the view or seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills, here are the top five worthwhile—and definitely unexpected—favorites that keep guests coming back.
North Star elevates you high above the ship for unrivaled 360-degree views of the world as you wander.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
North Star
The North Star is designed to give guests an extraordinary view of the ocean from an entirely new perspective. Its spherical glass capsule extends 300 feet above sea level, offering 360-degree views as it stretches out over the surrounding sea—making it an optimal spot to watch the sun rise or set.
Buckle up and take the wheel for nonstop fun on the only bumper cars at sea.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
Bumper Cars
No matter how many times you ride them, bumper cars never get old; they’re timeless. Guests of all ages can take advantage of this classic ride at the large and enclosed SeaPlex sporting complex, where neon lights and music blast above the crashing chaos. That’s not all that goes down in the SeaPlex, though: roller skating, basketball, trapeze school and dance parties with a floating DJ booth all take place there too.
Get ready to tackle hair-raising twists, turns and adrenaline-amping fun on The Perfect Storm, the boldest waterslides at sea.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
The Perfect Storm
Why settle for one waterslide when you can have three? The Perfect Storm on Harmony of the Seas boasts a triple threat of intertwining slides, known as the Cyclone, Typhoon and Supercell, which together create an unbeatable water adventure. Bonus: The glass landing at the top gives riders an impressive view of the ocean before they rush into the pool waters waiting below.
FlowRider is a 40-foot-long surf simulator that gives everyone a chance to catch a wave right on board.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
FlowRider
We’ve added FlowRider surfing simulators to several ships, so more guests can get in on the excitement. Challenge yourself to hang ten with traditional stand-up surfing or boogie boarding through the rapid, rushing water. Try upping your water sports skills with tricks to guarantee bragging rights—and then join the crowd in the stadium seating for prime wipeout views.
RipCord by iFLY allows guests to feel what it’s like to fly, floating on air within the safe confines of this groundbreaking simulator.
Credit: Royal Caribbean
RipCord by iFly
For those tried-and-true adrenaline junkies, RipCord by iFly may be the ultimate heart racer: a true skydiving experience without the need to jump out of a plane or strap on a parachute. Riders don a blue jumpsuit, head into the wind tunnel powered by a wind turbine, and take their vacation to new heights—literally. Licensed instructors are on hand to train riders and encourage air tricks for those looking to up their game.
Of course, these highlights aren’t all our ships have to offer: you can go rock climbing, ice skating, zip lining and get your scuba certification and more if you need extra excitement during your vacation.
Is your heart beating a bit faster? If you’re ready to treat yourself to more thrills, find your next cruise here.
