Royal Caribbean’s New Ship: Utopia of the Seas [Details + Review]

I recently had the pleasure of attending Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas preview party, and I’m here to share everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s latest ship.  

Kicking off with 3-night weekend and 4-night weekday getaways, the ship is built to give vacationers the ultimate cruise experience. From the 40+ ways to dine and drink to the amazing onboard entertainment and facilities, there’s so much to see and do on Utopia! 

To learn more about his incredible vessel and its offerings, check out my review and photos as we explore the Utopia of the Seas ship together.

Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas Ship Guide

Utopia of the Seas Design and Features

Utopia of the Seas is the sixth ship in Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class and the second-largest cruise ship in the world alongside its sister ship Wonder of the Seas. 

The ship boasts 8 different neighborhoods: Royal Promenade, The Boardwalk, Entertainment Zone, Pool & Sports Zone, Central Park, Youth Zone, Vitality Spa & Fitness, and the Suite Neighborhood. 

Utopia of the Seas has beautiful modern, coastal design which feels fresh and inviting. 

Ship Quick Facts

• Decks: 18 
• Crew: 2,290 
• Capacity: 5,668 (double occupancy)
• Size: 1,188 feet (362 meters) long and 211 feet (64 meters) wide
• Maiden Voyage: July 2024

Utopia of the Seas Cabins and Suites

There are 2,834 staterooms on Utopia of the Seas spread across 20 categories. Whether you book an interior stateroom or splurge on a suite, all cabins have the following amenities: 

• Luxurious bedding 
• Two twin beds or one queen-size bed
• Sitting Area
• Private bath with shower and vanity area
• 24-hour room service (late night service fee applies) 
• Round-the-clock stateroom attendant
• Nightly turn-down service
• Interactive TV & movies
• In-room safe
• Phone and voicemail service

My Stateroom

I stayed in balcony stateroom #6584 which is in the heart of the ship. The Vitality Spa & Fitness Center and the Boardwalk are on the same deck along with a couple of bars, eateries and shops. .

As for the cabin, it was well appointed and spacious. There was a long vanity area with drawers and a mini fridge. Two closets, one with a large hanging space and the other with a smaller hanging space and cubbies and two drawers underneath. The bed can be configured into twin beds or one double bed. There’s also a flatscreen TV in front of the bed that can be pulled out from the wall and adjusted to face towards the cabin’s seating area. 

The balcony is accessed via a large sliding glass door. On the balcony, there’s two adjustable lounge chairs with footstools and a small table. 

Suites on Utopia of the Seas

There’s a bunch of different suite’s on Utopia, but here’s two I thought I’d call out:

AquaTheater Suite

While on board, I had the chance to view the AquaTheater suite. The suite has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a spacious living room and dining room, as well as a wrap around balcony. From the balcony, you can see AquaTheater where you can catch the aquatics show AQUA80too.

Solarium Suite

If you’re looking for an ultra-luxurious experience, book one the all-new Solarium Suites which feature floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning panoramic views. I missed out on seeing this one in person, but the photos look stunning. 

Dining Onboard Utopia of the Seas

There are over 15 dining options on Utopia of the Seas covering a wide array of cuisines. Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience or the classics, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste buds.  

Free/Included Dining Options

• Main Dining Room: The dining room is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Your Seapass will tell you what time and dining room and table you’re meant to eat at for dinner. If you’d like to eat outside your dining time you’ll want to head to which ever dining room is offering My Time dining. 
• Windjammer Marketplace: Windjammer is Utopia’s buffet-style dining option. There’s different stations serving everything from burgers to Indian food. 
• Solarium Bistro: If you’re looking for some lighter fare, Solarium has some healthful options in a pretty dining setting. 
• Park Cafe:  Located on deck 8, Park Cafe offers made-to-order deli items like salads, sandwiches, and paninis. 
• Sorrento’s: Sorrento’s is Utopia’s pizza parlor. It’s open late which makes it a great place to grab a bite after hitting up one of the bars or lounges. 
• Boardwalk Dog House: Like the name suggests, Boardwalk Dog House is where you can grab a hotdog. They have a couple of different dog options and your typical toppings. 
• Cafe Promenade: Cafe Promenade is in the Royal Promenade and is open 24 hours a day. You can read more about the cafe down below
• El Loco Fresh: Head to El Loco Fresh for tacos, burritos, nachos and more. 
• The Spare Tire: A food truck on board Utopia that offers quick-bites like beef and cheese tornados, cheesecake chimis, and chicken sandwiches. 
• Sprinkles: Located near the pool area, Sprinkles where you can grab a complimentary ice cream cone 

Specialty Dining

• 150 Central Park: 150 Central Park is only available on Oasis-class ships and offers 6-8 course tasting-style menus.  
• Chef’s Table: A five-course dinner with wine pairings hosted by one of the ship’s Executive Chefs and Sommeliers. Up to 16 guests can enjoy this private dining experience at once which is offered nightly.  
• Chops Grille: Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse offering succulent steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant atmosphere. 
• Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: Family-style dining Italian restaurant with a new al fresco dining space overlooking the Boardwalk. 
• Izumi: Teppanyaki, sushi, and other Asian cuisine. You can dine in or stop by Izumi in the Park for some quick-service options. 
• Hooked Seafood: Fresh seafood and your favorite raw bar staples. 
• Playmakers: Onboard sport’s bar with classic game-day foods and an arcade. 
• Johnny Rockets: The American classic diner joint is available on board and serves up fries, burgers and shakes. 
• The Mason Jar: Southern classics like fried chicken and BBQ. 
• Royal Railway: A multi-course  immersive dining experience.
• Coastal Kitchen: Complimentary and exclusive to suite guests, Coastal Kitchen serves up a mix of Mediterranean cuisine and Pacific Coast favorites. 

Where to Get Coffee Onboard

Cafe Promenade

Location: Deck 5, midship

Cafe Promenade is open 24 hours a day and complimentary to all guests. There you can grab pastries, savory breakfast options, and coffee. During lunch they also have wraps and sandwiches. The menu rotates daily so check back to see what’s new on the menu. 

Starbucks

Location: Deck 5, forward

Yes, there is a Starbucks on Utopia of the Seas! They serve all your favorites including Frappuccinos. Just note that beverages and food at Starbucks are paid even if you have the Cafe Select Coffee Card. 

More About the Coffee Select Card

While your Coffee Select Card does not work at licensed Starbucks stores and cafes, you can still get your fix at Cafe Promenade. Cafe promenade serves Starbucks’ coffee, although the menu is not as extensive as the freestanding shop. 

The Coffee Select Card gives you 15 punches to enjoy specialty espresso-based drinks. 1 shot of espresso = 1 punch. 

Utopia of the Seas Bars and Lounges

There are 23 bars and lounges onboard Utopia of the Seas. 13 are designated as such in the Royal Caribbean app because others are located within venues such as the Music Hall, specialty dining restaurants and exclusive to suite guests. 

I tried to visit as many of the bars I had access to on my 4-Day Cruise, so I’ve included my personal recommendations where applicable. Each one offers a unique atmosphere and an assortment of drinks. Depending on the vibe you’re going for and where you are on the ship, you may favor one over the other.

That being said, here’s what you can expect at some of the bars and lounges on Utopia of the Seas:

Pesky Parrot

Location: Deck 5, midship

The Pesky Parrot is a vibey, modern tiki bar serving up fruit based cocktails and frozen drinks. My favorite was the Painchiller which was a frozen version of the classic painkiller. If you’re looking for something on the rocks, try the Pretty Bird.

Bell & Barley 

Location: Royal Promenade – Deck 5, midship

Located in the Royal Promenade, Bell & Barley serves an assortment of beers, UK-themed cocktails and has a nice selection of spirits. With its British pub theming, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported across the pond. Also, if you’re looking for a little bit of entertainment with your pint, there’s live musicians that perform at Bell & Barley as well. 

Boleros

Location: Deck 5, forward

If you’re looking for somewhere to dance all night long, Boleros is the place to be. This Latin themed bar features a live band playing a variety of hip shaking groves. Salsa or Samba your way over to the bar for a Cuban mojito or Brazilian caipirinha. 

Cantina Fresca

Location: Deck 16, aft

Mezcals, Mexican beers, and margaritas rule the menu at Cantina Fresca. The pineapple jalapeño margarita is a perfect mix of sweet and spicy, but you also can’t go wrong with a classic strawberry marg. Cantina Fresca is right next to El Loco Fresh, so you can have yourself a little Mexican moment on deck 16. 

Casino Bar 

Location: Deck 4, midship

The Casino Bar services those playing in the Casino Royale area. Try your luck at the tables and servers will keep the mocktails or cocktails flowing. There’s a smoking section and non-smoking section of the casino. 

Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade 

Location: Deck 6, aft

Worried about missing your favorite team’s big game? No worries, Playmakers has you covered. They have tons of big screen TVs so you can enjoy a pint and some wings while you cheer your team on to victory. Even if you’re not into sports, you may want to pop in for their signature Playmaker’s Burger or Touchdown Sundae.  

Crown Lounge 

Location: Deck 4, midship

The Crown Lounge is reserved for Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club Crown & Anchor Society members. According to Royal Caribbean app, 

Rising Tide Bar

Location: Deck 8, midship 

Deemed the world’s first moving bar at sea, Rising Tide ascends and descends between the Central Park neighborhood and the Royal Promenade. I recommend going at night when the ceiling is illuminated with tiny lights that look like stars.

Schooner Bar 

Location: Boardwalk – Deck 6, midship 

Schooner’s is a classic piano bar. There’s often live musical entertainment but you can also join in on some trivia if that’s something you like. The bar offers an array of cocktails, spirits, beer and wines. I enjoyed the Kentucky Summer (bourbon, st-germain liquor, mango, lime juice, and mint).it was surprisingly refreshing for being a bourbon based cocktail. 

Spotlight Karaoke 

Location: Deck 5, midship

Sing your heart out or just watch others do so at Spotlight Karaoke. 

The Lime & Coconut 

Location: Deck 15, midship

The Lime & Coconut is a tropical-themed pool bar covering three levels. The first two levels are where you can grab a Passion Spritz (Aperol, vodka, passion fruit syrup, lemon juice, and sparkling wine) or the signature Lime & Coconut (Malibu, coconut milk, coconut and guava syrup, and lime juice), before heading to the third level rooftop sun deck. Note: since this bar is located on two floors it’s considered two different venues when counting to 23

The Vue Bar 

The Vue Bar is the place to be at sunset. Located on top of the ship, this bar offers stunning panoramic views and yummy cocktails. Order “The Perfect Vue,” a delicious mix of pink gin, Campari, orange juice, strawberry mix and sparkling wine.

Trellis Bar 

Location: Central Park – Deck 8, midship

Located in the Central Park neighborhood, Trellis Bar is a great place to grab pre-dinner drinks. The Pineapple Guava Sangria (pinot grigio, guava and passion fruit syrups, pineapple juice, and lime juice) is a delicious tropical twist on a classic. But if you’re looking for something a little stronger and a little different they also have a toasted marshmallow  old fashioned.

Wipeout Bar

Location: Deck 16, aft

Enjoy a drink or alcoholic shaved ice at Wipeout Bar while watching others attempt to ride the waves of the nearby FlowRider surf simulator. The strawberry and piña colada with toasted coconut rum is delicious!

Activities and Amenities on Utopia of the Seas

There’s a little bit of everything for everyone on Utopia. Whether you’re with your family, friends, or partner. 

Kid-Friendly and Family Amenities and Activities 

• Adventure Ocean: Games, activities, and science projects to entertain kids onboard.
• Adventure Ocean for Juniors (ages 3-5): Finger painting, building block and other activities for smaller children. 
• AO Workshop: Arts and crafts projects for parents and kids
• Social100 and Social 100 The Patio (ages 13-17): Cool hangouts for teens including the latest game consoles, movies to watch, and music to jam out to. 
• Luckey Climber: Interactive, three-dimensional jungle gym 
• Play Place: Climbing fun for everyone
• Splashaway Bay: Waterslides, water cannons, pools, fountains, and whirlpools for younger cruisers.
• Carousel: A classic ride located in The Boardwalk Neighborhood  

Fun For Everyone

• Aqua Dunes: Putt-putt golf 
• Arcade: Classic and modern video games 
• Escape Room: Work out puzzles, discover hidden clues, and solve brain teasers to escape in 60 minutes or less.
• Flowrider Surf Simulator: Try to catch a wave or watch others give it a go from the stands. 
• The Perfect Storm: A trio of waterslides where you can race your friends to see who reaches the bottom first.
• Ultimate Abyss Slide: The longest dry slide at sea. Descend 10 decks as you slide 259 feet through 300 LED lights.
• Zip Line: Zip line across the Boardwalk for a one-of-a-kind view
• Rock Climbing Wall
• Sports Court
• Table Tennis Court

Vitality Spa and Fitness Center

If you’re looking to pamper yourself or want to get a gym sesh in at sea, Vitality Spa and Fitness Center is where you want to head. The spa offers your typical treatments like facials, massages, mani/pedis, etc. The fitness area has state-of-the-art equipment and offers some gorgeous views to take in as you work up a sweat. There are also workout classes like yoga and pilates available.

Pools and Hot Tubs on Utopia of the Seas

There are 8 hot tubs and 5 pools on Utopia. The top deck features two resort style pools where you can find semi submerged loungers that allow you to enjoy the water without getting completely wet. There’s typically DJs or music being played in this area, which gives it a fun and energetic vibe.

If you’re looking to relax, check out the Solarium Pool which is tranquil and adults only.

Entertainment Onboard Utopia

Music Hall

If you love live music, then you’ll want to stop by the Music Hall. You can hit the dancefloor and rock out to some awesome cover bands as they play some popular hits. There’s also pool tables and a lounge area, where you can enjoy a drink from the venue’s bar. 

AquaTheater

The AquaTheater is only available on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships. It’s the deepest pool at sea and where you can see AQUA80Too, a fun show which mixes diving, dancing and more!

The Attic

The Attic is an intimate adults-only comedy club. Pop in for a drink, or too, and some laughs. 

Boardwalk 

The Boardwalk is where you can find the carousel, Johnny Rockets, Playmakers, and Dog House. It’s also where the Abyss slide ends. 

Studio B

Studio B is a multi-use theater on Utopia of the Seas. It can be configured into a TV studio for game shows to be broadcast shipwide, and as an ice skating rink for shows and recreational skating. 

Royal Theater

The Royal Theater is where Utopia’s All In Show occurs. We unfortunately missed the show due to scheduling conflicts, but I heard amazing things about it. We did manage to catch a comedy show in the theater, and it was a really nice space. As you wait for your show to start, you can order a drink from one of the waiters walking around.

My Utopia of the Seas Ship Review

I really enjoyed my time on Utopia of the Seas. There’s so much to see and do, and each day onboard brought new opportunities for adventure and relaxation. From the delicious dining options to the amazing shows and cozy lounges, this ship has definitely raised my standards when it comes to cruising.

If I lived in Florida or within driving distance of Cape Canaveral, I could definitely see myself going on another sailing. However, with the cost associated getting to Florida from Phoenix plus the cost of the sailing, it’s a rather pricey 3/4 night getaway. Especially, for an experience I’ve already had. 

But, if you haven’t had the opportunity to sail on one of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships, it’s definitely worth checking out. 

Between the 3-night and the 4-night sailing, I would definitely recommend taking the 4-night option. Between all the activities on board, the dining options and bars, and just the magnitude of the ship having an extra day to explore the ship and its offerings would be ideal. 

However, if you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require you to take a bunch of time off then the 3-night weekend sailing is perfect for you. 

That being, I hope you found this Utopia of the Seas ship guide helpful! I’m grateful I had the opportunity to be one of the first people onboard this amazing ship, and I look forward to more opportunities like this in the future. 

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