Explorer of the Seas: Ultimate Guide

Explorer of the Seas is one of five sister cruise ships in the Voyager Class of Royal Caribbean. Thrill-seekers will revel in twisting waterslides, and the ship is packed with must-do activities designed for the families, while the adults can escape and unwind in adult-only areas.

Musical buffs adore Explorer’s original stage productions while foodies indulge in new flavours and timeless treats. True to her name, Explorer of the Seas charts a course around the world, through Europe’s distinctive enclaves to the island vibes of the Caribbean and icy waters of Alaska. She is also contributing to busy performing – exploratory work – an onboard climate and marine science research lab gathers oceanographic and atmospheric data every voyage, to help future-proof the environment. 

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Ship Overview

Explorer of the Seas is a Voyager-class cruise ship owned and operated by Royal Caribbean International and built by STX Finland. The ship was built in 2000 at the STX Finland shipyard and underwent extensive renovations in 2015 plus further maintenance in 2023, when the iconic Perfect Storm water slides were installed.

Explorer of the Seas boasts 1,641 staterooms, accommodating more than 3000 passengers at double occupancy plus 1,180 crew. Her naming ceremony was on October 21, 2000, and the ship’s godmother is Jackie Joyner-Kersee, a US athlete and Olympic medallist. Integrated across Explorer of the Seas‘ 15 decks are fleet favourites including a rock climbing wall, complete-court basketball facility and state-of-the-art performance venues.

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At a Glance

Stay Active

Explorer of the Seas delivers adventure with loads of heart-pumping activities. Stay active on the sports deck, catch waves on the FlowRider surf simulator or polish your salsa skills at a dance class. Tee-off with stunning sea views on the mini golf green or join the Seas Explorer Program’s whale watching or snorkelling excursions.

Science Explorer

Onboard is an atmospheric science and oceanographic laboratory, designed for studying the climate and marine environments. It’s a groundbreaking collaboration between the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, and RCI. Equipped with advanced monitoring systems, the lab studies air quality, ocean currents, and marine ecosystems.

After Hours

Evenings on Explorer of the Seas are lively. Relax at the R Bar, a vintage-style cocktail lounge. Indulge in late-night bites at Café Promenade, or join the non-stop action at Casino Royale. Whether you’re looking to crack a craft beer, dance to live music or sip a cocktail, Explorer venues have you covered.

Relax and Rejuvenate

Unwind in style aboard Explorer of the Seas. Take time out with a treatment at the luxurious Vitality Spa or pull up a lounge at The Solarium, an adults-only retreat with pool, hot tubs and Solarium Bar. For retail therapy, stroll the Royal Promenade, lined with boutiques and designer duty-free treasures.

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Destinations and Itineraries

4-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise

The perfect way to dip your toes into the Caribbean cruising scene, this short and sweet loop starts and ends in Miami, Florida. Enjoy a couple of relaxing sea days immersing yourself in onboard fun, then make a splash at Labadee, a RCI private destination on Haiti’s northern coast.

5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise

Set off from Orlando for fun-filled days at sea en route to Mexico. In Cozumel explore sacred Mayan ruins or soak up beach vibes at Playa Palancar. Venture into the colourful Maya Reef in Puerto Costa Maya –— an unmissable snorkel spot –— and savour spicy beer cocktail, called michelada.

11-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Cast off from memorable Miami on a 12-day exotic adventure. At wildly beautiful Puerto Limon, Costa Rica, glide in a canoe on the Tortuguero Canals or surf the Salsa Brava reef break, an hour from the port. Unearth Cartagena’s architectural marvels and visit one of the 38 beaches at pretty Curaçao.

5-Night Western Caribbean and Perfect Day

Explorer of the Seas will depart to the seas from Orlando for sun-soaked ocean sea days by the pool deck days on the way to Mexico. In Cozumel tour the secret island treasures or take a snorkelling tour of Palancar Reef. Make a splash at Royal Caribbean’s private beach haven, Perfect Day at CocoCay, with tropical scenery and a Thrill Water Park.

5-Night France and Italy

Depart from Barcelona and explore Ajaccio, Corsica – an island gem of France. Admire Rome’s storied landmarks, taste Sicily’s delicious cuisine, and navigate Venice’s romantic waterways. This voyage blends Mediterranean beach life with European icons for an enriching trip.

7-Night Greek Isles Cruise

This classic European getaway takes in most iconic ports in Italy, Greece and Croatia. The departure port is historic Venice, with its water-bound alleyways and Gondola rides. In Santorini, marvel at the sheer beauty of the sunset, visit the Acropolis in Athens and kick back at a beach club in Mykonos.

7-Night Greece and Croatia Cruise

Set sail from Venice, Italy, through the best of Greece and Croatia with ports of call including Dubrovnik and Zadar in Croatia, as well as Athens and Santorini in Greece. Don’t miss the distinctive Old Town in Dubrovnik, encircled with gigantic 16th-century stone walls, and the cosy tavernas in Santorini.

8-Night Italy, France and Croatia

Start in Ravenna, Italy, before sailing to Zadar on the spectacular Dalmatian Coast. Tour Dubrovnik’s Game of Thrones filming locations, then enjoy a sea day relax at sea en route to Rome. Admire beautiful art in Florence, spy the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa, and navigate to the French Riviera before docking in vibrant Barcelona for phenomenal food and gothic architecture.

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Things to Do on Explorer of the Seas

FlowRider

Test your wave-catching ability on the FlowRider surf simulator, where you can ride or watch as others wipe out. With more than 100,000 litres of rushing water, the FlowRider creates epic swells all day.

The Perfect Storm

Brace yourself for the Perfect Storm duo of waterslides. See who splashes out first on the racer slides, Cyclone or Typhoon. Take off from three stories high and watch the world whiz by through translucent panels.

Ice Skating Rink

Lace up your skates and practise figure eights on Explorer’s ice skating rink. Whether you’re a first-timer or a pro, kids and adults alike can try their coolest moves. Don’t miss the ice skating shows too!

Sip, Tour, Brunch

See how onboard culinary magic happens on your cruise with a morning tour of the galley kitchen with the chef. Take a peek at how the kitchen runs, then take pleasure in brunch with unlimited sparkling wine.

Meet The Captain

Don’t miss the Captain’s ‘Welcome Aboard’ Reception. Included in your fare, it’s a fabulous opportunity to get a selfie with the captain of the ship. Dress in formal attire, meet your fellow passengers and make a toast!

Wine Tasting

Led by expert sommeliers, this refined wine-tasting experience features world-renowned labels and rare vintages only found onboard RCI. Sample varietals like Argentinian malbecs and Californian cabernets.

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Fun for Kids on Explorer of the Seas

ExplorerExplorer of the Seas‘ Adventure Ocean program is where littlest cruisers make the biggest memories. Whether you’re cruising with toddlers or teens, ExplorerExplorer of the Seas is a firm favourite with families.

Adventure Ocean Youth Program

The award-winning Adventure Ocean Youth Program on Royal Caribbean cruise ships has been reimagined with free play space and whimsical activities tucked into each corner. Adventure Ocean groups kids by age, so littlies are sure to make friends. For curious would-be scientists, Aquanauts sparks wonder with science experiments and dinosaur-themed discoveries.

Teen Lounges

For teens who want to chill with kids their age, there are plenty of relaxed hangouts. There’s an arcade where iconic games sit alongside high-tech crowd-pleasers. There’s a teen club named Optix, with a dancefloor, refreshments and nooks to chat. Teens can also take part in fun activities happening throughout the day, including trivia, basketball, teen dining, and dancing.

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Dining Onboard Explorer of the Seas

Enjoy tempting taste sensations and global flavours on Explorer of the Seas. Savour fresh-rolled sushi, buttery Maine lobster, or late-night pizza – all served alongside endless ocean views.

Complimentary Restaurants

Main Dining Room
At the heart of Explorer of the Seas culinary offering is the multi-level Main Dining Room. Warmly welcoming passengers at breakfast, lunch and dinner, expect rotating world-class dishes bursting with freshness.

Windjammer
Open for breakfast, lunch and evening meals, Windjammer serves fresh favourites from across the globe. The Windjammer buffet features and ever-changing array of international dishes from Asian cuisines, to Italian-inspired menus to deli-style sandwiches.

Café Promenade
If you like the sound of late-night bites or an early morning coffee all in one place, try this 24/7 cafe located in the Royal Promenade.

Speciality Restaurants

Chef’s Table
$$$$ – Prix Fixe
Don’t miss Chef’s Table on Explorer of the Seas – an elevated epicurean experience designed and hosted by ship’s Chef de Cuisine. Savour five exceptional courses perfectly paired with wines.

Izumi
$$ – A La Carte
A chic Asian at-sea eatery, Izumi has an imaginative Japanese menu. With exotic flavours and fresh ingredients, passengers enjoy four courses including a starter, two mains and dessert.

Johnny Rockets
$ – Fast Food
Jitterbug into Johnny Rockets, Explorer of the Seas‘ retro diner. Munch crispy fries, bite mouth watering Angus burgers and slurp hand-spun shakes in a nostalgic atmosphere.

Chops Grille
$$ – Prix Fixe
Graciously welcoming guests for dinner every night and lunch on sea days only, Chops Grille prides itself on hand-cut steaks cooked to perfection in a contemporary-style steak house.

Room Service
$ – A La Carte
Craving a midnight snack or easy morning with breakfast in bed? Order delicious in-room dining 24/7 on Explorer of the Seas.

Giovanni’s Table
$$ – Prix Fixe
Gather your whole tribe and pull up a chair at Giovanni’s Table for authentic Tuscan favourites. Order the house-made focaccia studded with artichokes and olives or the velvety veal osso buco.

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Bars and Lounges

Schooner Bar

Be entertained by live piano and a pint of your favourite brew at the Schooner Bar. With an inviting nautical aesthetic, sit and relax with an Old Fashioned cocktail – they mix five versions.

Solarium Bar

Soak up the adults-only vibe at the Solarium Bar while sipping a tropical spritz. Try the Washington Apple, a blend of Crown Royal, sour apple liqueur and sweet cranberry juice.

Viking Crown Lounge

The Viking Crown Lounge isn’t just a lounge – it’s the must-visit spot on nearly every RCI ship. With floor-to-ceiling windows, the Viking Crown Lounge serves drinks with a side of views.

Suite Lounge

Exclusively reserved and complimentary for guests of Grande Suite-level cabins and above, the Suite Lounge whets your appetite with everything from a morning macchiato to evening drinks.

English Pub

Laden with English tradition and a vast selection of beers, the vibe here is raucously regal! Settle in and listen to a live pop-up music performance while you sip.

R Bar

With a nod to vintage vibes, this lounge bar takes you back to the decadence of decades past. Try a retro-inspired cocktail such as Let’s Get Fizzical, with passion fruit and prosecco.

Pool Bar

This poolside haven is one of the coolest spots to chill after a class in the fitness centre, a deck stroll or a refreshing swim. Try a tropical treat like the zingy Royal Citrus Ritatini.

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Entertainment and Activities

Ice Show: Spirits of the Seasons

This is a visually stunning ice show, with each season brought to life with intricate costumes, colourful lighting and talented ice dancers. Watch as skaters glide under falling snow in the winter segment, or dance in bright flower-hued costumes for spring.

Invitation to Dance

Get swept up in the energy of ‘Invitation to Dance’, showcasing ballroom and Latin dance with bold dance couture. The show title says it all: passengers are welcomed to go on stage, creating an interactive experience.

Wild, Cool and Swingin’

‘Journey to the cities of New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami and Las Vegas and appreciate the legendary music and dance styles of each place and different eras.

Fast Forward

This original production takes you back in time to the incredible movies and musicals of the 80s. What a decade of smash hits – think Fame, Footloose and Flashdance!

Game Shows

Test your skills and battle it out with other passengers over games like Love & Marriage, Crazy Quest, Majority Rules, and more. Be a game show star or spectator!

Outdoor Film Nights

Forget movie nights on the couch – this is entertainment reimagined with movies by the pool. Soak in a hot tub while you watch a new release or have a splash while you follow a live sporting event.

Shush! Silent Party

Many of us like to groove to different tunes, so choose your own DJ channel and make some moves at the Explorer of the Seas silent disco.

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Accommodation on Explorer of the Seas

Redefining the art of cruise, Explorer of the Seas‘ staterooms are more than just a place to rest. Wake up to ocean views and breakfast in bed with 24-hour room service. Enjoy smart in-room technology: watch movies on demand with in-room HD-TV, connect to Voom High-Speed Wifi, feel free with a virtual balcony, and be comfortable with stateroom climate control.

Interior Staterooms

Explorer interior staterooms offer a comfortable oasis after a busy day with a separate sitting area, queen bed or two twin beds and an array of thoughtful inclusions. Accommodating up to four guests, interior staterooms are fitted with 80-inch ‘virtual balcony’ displays.

Ocean View Staterooms

This room with a view has a large picture window for ocean vistas and similar amenities to iinterior rooms. Accommodating up to four guests, admire passing scenery from the cosy sitting area.

Balcony Staterooms

Now if a virtual balcony is not doing it for you, then a real balcony stateroom will be just for you. Step outside for fresh sea air any time of the day. The balcony cabins sleeps up to four guests and have a queen-sized bed, lounge area, floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors and ample storage.

Suite Staterooms

For the suite life, select from Explorer‘s luxurious suites with upgraded amenities and exclusive perks for a premium at-sea experience. Suite guests enjoy concierge service, priority boarding and disembarkation, VIP pool deck seating, complimentary in-room dining, and reserved seating for performances. The four types of suites on Explorer of the Seas are:

Junior Suites: Entry-level suites with a larger living area and a private balcony. Choose a Sunset Junior Suite for a private balcony at the stern of the ship.

Grand Suites: More spacious than Junior Suites, with upgraded furnishings and access to suite-exclusive amenities. Choose from a one-bedroom or two-bedroom Grand Suite.

Owner’s Suites: Luxurious accommodations with separate living and sleeping areas, a large balcony, and premium perks.

Royal Suite: The pinnacle of luxury on Explorer of the Seas, featuring the most spacious layout, high-end furnishings, and exclusive benefits.

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Safety and Security

Onboard Explorer of the Seas, safety and security are paramount. With decades of maritime expertise, RCI ensures the well-being of guests, crew, and the vessel itself through cutting-edge safety measures and strict adherence to international maritime regulations.

Every cruise begins with a mandatory safety drill, where guests are guided through emergency procedures, ensuring they feel prepared and informed. The highly-trained officers and crew undergo rigorous and ongoing training programs to handle a variety of scenarios, from evacuation protocols to medical emergencies. The ship is equipped with advanced safety systems, including state-of-the-art navigation tools and comprehensive CCTV surveillance for enhanced monitoring.

Explorer of the Seas is fully compliant with the U.S. Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA), guaranteeing robust measures such as proper railing heights, controlled access points, medical facilities, and a meticulous crime reporting system. Unique to Explorer, the ship also emphasises environmental safety by incorporating eco-friendly technologies and practices to protect the surrounding marine ecosystems.

Royal Caribbean’s steadfast dedication to safety allows you to relax and enjoy an extraordinary voyage, knowing your peace of mind is always their top priority.

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Accessibility and Special Needs

Onboard Explorer of the Seas, Royal Caribbean has created an inclusive environment to ensure all guests, including those with additional needs, enjoy a seamless and comfortable cruise experience. Thoughtfully designed features cater to a variety of mobility, visual, and hearing impairments, showcasing the line’s dedication to accessibility.

The ship offers 27 wheelchair-accessible staterooms equipped with extra turning space, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower sink and vanity heights for ease of use. Public areas are fully navigable with wide gangways, ramps, and elevators designed to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters, ensuring easy access to all parts of the ship.

For guests with visual impairments, Explorer of the Seas is equipped with braille signage, tactile elevator buttons and deck numbers clearly positioned on hand railings. Meanwhile, those with hearing impairments can use assistive listening devices in entertainment venues, and staterooms can be outfitted with visual-tactile alert systems for added convenience. Videos and safety briefings include captions where needed, ensuring no detail is missed.

To ensure personalised accommodations, Royal Caribbean encourages guests to submit a Guest Special Needs Form upon booking – at least 30 days in advance, or 60 days if a sign language interpreter is required. This proactive system guarantees that needs are met from the moment guests board the ship.

With its incredible accessibility features and thoughtful planning, Explorer of the Seas reflects Royal Caribbean’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, ensuring every guest can enjoy an extraordinary and unforgettable voyage.

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FAQs