Royal Caribbean has been around since 1969 and currently operates 16 ships. The line is perhaps best known for having some of the largest passenger ships in the world (142,000 tons); these are the ships with rock-climbing, ice-skating, and in-line skating facilities; Johnny Rockets diners; promenade shopping malls; and more. In fact, the rock-climbing walls have proven to be so popular that RCI has added them to the entire fleet. All in all, it's a moderately priced cruise line, with rates varying by itinerary.

In 1997, Royal Caribbean purchased Celebrity Cruises—a premium line to appeal to an upscale audience—for a total fleet of 25 ships and a capacity of more than 40,000 berths.

Life Onboard
A little of everything can be found on Royal Caribbean ships. Across the board, food is amazingly consistent and well-prepared—from the dining room to the buffet to the 24-hour room service—especially considering the capacity of the ships.

Larger ships have alternative restaurants that carry a cover charge and require reservations. And, just recently, Royal Caribbean began addressing special dietary needs, including food allergies, vegetarian, kosher, and more. With prior notice, RCI ships can provide passengers with flavorful meals—presented with flair and style—that accommodate their very specific dietary requirements.

Entertainment falls into two categories: traditional cruise productions and goofy passenger-inspired acts, such as take-offs of The Newlywed Game. Bar venues offer a variety of musical options, including classical guitar, country/western, and jazz. All ships have Internet cafés, and some have cabins wired for Internet use.

One nice touch with Royal Caribbean: They don't layer on the extra fees for equipment rental. Use of everything from ice skates to roller blades to climbing equipment—even the shoes!—is free of charge.

"Adventure Ocean" is the children's program, with daytime activities while at sea and in port, as well as evening events and in-cabin baby-sitting. RCI also has an "Accessible Seas" program: An extensive list of amenities includes automatic doors, hydraulic pool lifts, beach wheelchairs, pull-down closet rods, and stair handrails with Braille deck numbers.

Fellow Passengers
Royal Caribbean typically attracts singles and couples in their 30s to 50s, as well as families of all ages; its cruises are especially appealing to passengers looking for an affordable, active vacation. The median age on any given cruise is usually a reflection of the itinerary's length: the shorter the cruise, the younger the clientele.