Serenade of the Seas: Ultimate Guide

Serenade of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class ships, which, true to their name have a light-filled radiance due to the extensive use of glass in their sleek design. A mid-sized vessel, Serenade of the Seas offers a more personalised and curated experience than the sprawling Royal Caribbean mega ships. Her smaller size grants Serenade of the Seas access to ports the larger ships can’t reach, offering itineraries with alluring destinations like Alaska and the Panama Canal. Onboard, the ship strikes a welcoming balance between adventure and sophistication, with peaceful places to relax, diverse dining from casual to chic, and enough adventures to entertain the whole family.

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Ship Overview

A notable feature of the Serenade of the Seas is its unique glass-centric design, with more than three acres of exterior glass plus translucent elevators providing panoramic views. Weighing 90,090 gross tons and stretching 293 metres in length, the ship can accommodate up to 2476 passengers, with a crew of approximately 860 to ensure excellent service. The ship’s medium size paired with the expansive glass ensures a uniquely inviting and airy ambiance that sets it apart from the enormous scale of mega-ships. Serenade of the Seas has a comfortable cruising speed of 25 knots, and while navigating the ocean guests can relax with a cocktail poolside, ascend the rock climbing wall or watch a Broadway-style show.

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At a Glance

Lively Connections

Serenade of the Seas delivers unforgettable entertainment and vibrant social experiences. Enjoy dazzling Broadway-style shows in the main theatre, unwind at the lively Safari Club, or for panoramic views enhanced by live music, the iconic Viking Crown Lounge is just the spot.

Events and Conferences

With plenty of dedicated venues for meetings, conferences and events, Serenade of the Seas seamlessly blends productivity and maritime adventure. Event organisers have the choice of flexible room layouts and can consult with professional onboard planners, whether it’s a wedding or conference.

Radiant Design

The ship’s translucent and futuristic design creates a seamless blend of indoor-outdoor experiences for passengers. It maximises natural light throughout the vessel and ensures guests are always connected to the changing ocean. Built at the Meyer shipyard in Germany, Serenade of the Seas features advanced engineering solutions, such as ‘cold-press’ technology, an innovative joining method without heat.

Relaxation and Wellness

There are several wellness options aboard Serenade of the Seas to balance the extraordinary onshore excursions and more active pursuits. Soak away any stress at the adults-only hot tub in the Solarium precinct. Rejuvenate your body with a spa treatment at Vitality Spa, or bend and stretch at a yoga class in the fitness centre.

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Itineraries and Destinations

With a diverse destination portfolio, Serenade of the Seas offers itineraries that unveil wild views of Alaska, the scenic Northwest Coastline of Canada and California, and the tropical allure of Mexico and the Caribbean. Trips range from one-night getaways to multi-week journeys departing from Vancouver, San Diego, Los Angeles, Tampa, Cartagena in Colombia and Colón in Panama. Seeking a global voyage? The ship’s extraordinary 274-day Ultimate World Cruise includes a summer sojourn through Europe as part of its itinerary spanning 60 countries.

3-Night Ensenada Cruise

This three-night getaway starts and ends in San Diego, with a relaxing day at sea and time to explore Ensenada, perched on the craggy Baja California coastline of Mexico. Stroll one of the main streets, Avenida López Mateos, lined with bustling cantinas. Travel just minutes to La Bufadora, a natural geyser where seawater surges 30 metres into the air.

7-Night Cabo, Mazatlan and La Paz

In the departure port of San Diego, explore the world-renowned Balboa Park, boasting the San Diego Zoo, lush gardens and Spanish-Renaissance architecture. From there, cruise to Cabo San Lucas and discover electrifying nightlife or stunning beaches like Medano. Next, savour fresh seafood in Malecón, enjoy wonderful watersports and marine life in La Paz, then return to San Diego.

7-Night Southern Caribbean Cruise

Begin in Colón, home to Panama Canal’s Atlantic Ocean entryway. Here, watch ships being raised by lifts to the canal’s higher elevation. Cruise onwards to the coastal beauty of Cartagena in Colombia, where locals dance to the lively beat of the salsa. In the port town of Oranjestad admire brightly painted houses, then extraordinary pink salt flats fringed by turquoise ocean in Kralendijk.

5-Night Pacific Coastal Cruise

Vancouver, a thriving cultural hub encircled by majestic mountains, is your starting point. After a day at sea, Serenade of the Seas docks in Astoria, Oregon where you’ll see Victorian architecture and taste top-notch local brews. Next, the ship navigates the Californian shoreline, stopping at San Diego with its world-class zoo, and San Francisco, famed for its crimson Golden Gate Bridge.

7 Night Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

Pass through the breathtaking corridor of Alaska’s Inside Passage lined with towering glaciers and dotted with wildlife. At Sitka, see the remnants of Russian architecture, rugged coastlines and lush rainforests. In the lively capital of Juneau explore its historic downtown with boutique shops and Alaskan-inspired cuisine. The final stop before Vancouver is Prince Rupert nestled in north coast wilderness.

13-Night Panama Canal Eastward Cruise

From San Diego, sail to Puerto Vallarta and explore Zona Romántica with cobblestone streets and colourful houses. Navigate to Huatulco for serene bays fringed by lush vegetation, then spot extraordinary wildlife in Puntarenas, Costa Rica. Cruise the legendary Panama Canal, visit Cartagena’s Old Town, and conclude in stylish Miami, soaking up its art deco allure and endless energy.

7-Night Alaska Inside Passage Cruise

Set sail from picturesque Vancouver and glide through Canada’s breathtaking Inside Passage. Discover Sitka’s rich Russian heritage, then marvel at the icy blues of Tracy Arm Fjord. Explore Icy Strait Point’s untamed wilderness and Ketchikan, the salmon capital of the world. Return via the Inside Passage, for memorable vistas, before ending your unforgettable Alaskan adventure back in Vancouver.

5-Night Pacific Coastal

This west coast voyage features impressive cities and serene coastal scenery. Setting off from the glamorous sprawl of Los Angeles, soak up the Hollywood allure and sun-kissed style. Cruise to Seattle, where you’ll see iconic landmarks like the Space Needle, then dock at Victoria, British Columbia, famed for its picturesque waterfront and whale watching. This cruise finishes in the stunning city of Vancouver.

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Things to Do on Serenade of the Seas

Outdoor Fun

Get ready for endless adventures onboard Serenade of the Seas. Catch blockbuster hits on the outdoor movie screen. Sink a hole in one at the mini golf course or reach new heights on the Rock Climbing Wall, soaring 12 metres above deck. Feeling competitive? Hit the basketball court or challenge your crew to a game of pickleball.

Hands-on Classes

Expand your mind on the Serenade of the Seas with learning activities from dance classes to wine tasting, art seminars to sushi rolling. Listen as a sommelier takes you through different vintages in the onboard wine tasting class, or brush up your culinary skills at a cooking class.

Make a Splash

Cool off in pools with panoramic views on Serenade of the Seas. The main family pool is always bustling with activity, with two whirlpools and a bar for snacks. At night, it transforms with an outdoor movie screen. The Solarium is open 24/7 and has an adults-only pool with retractable glass roof so grown ups can swim rain or shine.

Party Time

Make some moves at the 70s Dance Party, Latin Fiesta or top deck pool parties. The 1970s-themed night is all about disco tunes. Not your style? At the Shush! Silent Party, wear headphones and tune in to your own favourite beats. For an elegant evening outside, dress in white for Dancing Under the Stars.

Game Time

Whether you’re contemplating your next move in the Serengeti Card Club, trying your luck at Casino Royale, or sizing up your next shot at the pool table, it’s game on. There’s even a video games arcade where guests can reminisce over favourite games from the 1980s and 1990s.

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Fun for kids on Serenade of the Seas

Serenade of the Seas is where the littlest cruisers make the biggest memories. Whether you’re cruising with toddlers or teens, Serenade of the Seas is a firm favourite with kids and their parents. The youth facilities are integrated into Deck 12, and littlies have their own toddler pool and slide.

Adventure Ocean Youth Program

The award-winning Adventure Ocean Youth Program groups kids by age, so littlies have fun and teens will find their tribe. Children can hang out in the Adventure Ocean space until 10pm each evening, and after 10pm it becomes a paid babysitting area.

Royal Babies & Tots Program (6-36 months)

A welcoming nursery setting where parents can drop off their babies to highly trained staff for sessions packed with age-appropriate activities and engaging toys.

Aquanauts (3-5 years)

For curious would-be scientists, Aquanauts sparks wonder with science experiments and dinosaur-themed discoveries.

Explorers (6-8 years)

This program is designed to light up the imaginations of six to eight year olds with a world of creativity. From dynamic themed parties that transport them to magical kingdoms or roaring jungles, to hands-on crafts that spark their curiosity.

Voyagers (9-11 years)

Whether they’re doing cool science experiments, tackling escape-room-style challenges, or exploring the natural world through interactive activities, Voyagers are constantly finding new ways to learn.

Teens

On Deck 12 of Serenade of the Seas, teens can find their haven at FUEL, a vibrant hangout spot designed just for them. This dedicated space comes alive with its own dance floor, cosy seating areas, computer games, table football setup, plus a juice/coffee bar.

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Dining onboard Serenade of the Seas

Enjoy delicious dining all day and night on Serenade of the Seas. Slurp chilled watermelon gazpacho, savour buttery Maine lobster, or Southern fried chicken — and food is always served alongside panoramic views.

Complimentary Dining

Main Dining Room
The Main Dining Room on this Radiance class ship spans two levels, with a cascading waterfall as its centrepiece. Passengers can savour global delights such as an artisan cheese plate, Waldorf salad and herb-crusted salmon, from a multi-course, rotating menu. The Main Dining Room has three dining choices: fixed seating, My Time Dining, and My Family Time Dining.

Café Latte-tudes
These cosy cafes are found on the smaller Royal Caribbean ships and offer complimentary snacks, desserts and coffee from 7am to 11.30pm. Try a Raspberry Chiffon Cake or speciality coffee.

Windjammer Café
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Windjammer Café serves fresh favourites from across the globe. Bite into sweet breakfast waffles, tuck into Caribbean curries or feast on crunchy fish and chips.

Park Café
For dialled-up deli delights, Park Café serves fresh-pressed paninis and crunchy salads. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, don’t miss the legendary Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwich.

Specialty Restaurants

Izumi
$$ – A La Carte
One of the hottest at-sea eateries, Izumi has an imaginative Japanese menu. With exotic flavours and fresh ingredients, guests enjoy four courses including a starter, two mains and dessert.

Chops Grille
$$ – Prix Fixe
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 slow morning with breakfast in bed? Order delicious dining to your stateroom 24/7 on Serenade of the Seas.

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

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Bars and Lounges on Serenade of the Seas

Schooner Bar

Schooner bar is home to old-world cocktails and good times. With an inviting nautical aesthetic, sit amongst the maritime-style decor 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 cocktail. Try the Washington Apple, a blend of Crown Royal, sour apple liqueur and sweet cranberry juice.

Vintages

Whether you’re a novice or a pro, like it red or white, Vintages will take you on a tantalising journey of fine wines. An extensive array of wines is available through exclusive partnerships with top winemakers.

The Vortex

Formerly the Viking Crown Lounge this is the must-visit lounge and nightclub on Serenade of the Seas. The Vortex opens up at night with fantastic cocktails, the latest tunes and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Castle 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.

The Safari Club

The Safari Club on Serenade of the Seas is a unique and versatile entertainment space located on Deck 6. It features a cluster of four themed lounges: The Games Reserve, Serengeti Card Club, The Congo Bar and Zanzibar Lounge.

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 on Serenade of the Seas

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 an outdoor movie screen 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.

Stage to Screen: Original Production

Experience the magic where the bright lights of Broadway collide with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Celebrate iconic musicals that have gracefully leapt from the stage to the screen.

Vibeology

Vibeology brings a freshness to tunes that shaped generations. This electrifying show pays tribute to music legends – think Elvis and The Beatles – with a modern remix that keeps the vibe of the originals.

Live Orchestra

Every performance, every note, every ship. A full ensemble orchestra, complete with conductor, strings, and winds, elevates every main theatre show to a breathtaking live experience.

Small-Venue Performances

Wherever you find yourself on Serenade of the Seas, there’s a good chance live music is setting the mood. Whether it’s a pianist playing as you sip cocktails or a guitarist strumming while you watch the sunset, live tunes make every moment a little more special.

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Accommodation on Serenade of the Seas

With a modern nautical style and thoughtful amenities, the 1073 staterooms on Serenade of the Seas range from classic interior cabins to generous suites for the ultimate in comfort. Choose from balcony staterooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, suites with a plush lounge room, or family-friendly staterooms with up to four additional bunk beds. All rooms have in-room HD-TV, Voom High-Speed Wifi, and customisable climate control. Selected staterooms have one double sofa bed, while others fit up to five guests with a combination of a single sofa bed and a Pullman bed. 

Interior Staterooms

Interior staterooms offer a comfortable oasis after a busy day with a sitting area, generous writing desk and Royal King Bed that can convert to twin beds. This entry-level room has ample storage and a pleasant aesthetic with fresh navy and natural wood tones.

Ocean View Staterooms

This room with a view has a large porthole window for ocean vistas so you can admire the passing scenery. The Ocean View has a similar layout to the Interior, with sitting area, writing desk, large closet and private bathroom.

Balcony Staterooms

The balcony cabins have floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors leading to a private balcony with modern patio furniture. Inside, there’s a Royal Caribbean King bed that can convert to twin beds, a sitting area, private bathroom and writing desk.

Suite Staterooms

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

Junior Suite: Entry-level suite that’s more of a deluxe stateroom – while it boasts additional space and private balcony, it doesn’t come with the full-suite VIP benefits.

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 accommodation with separate living and sleeping areas, whirlpool bath, large balcony and premium perks.

Royal Suite: There’s only one Royal Suite on the ship and it’s the pinnacle of luxury. Step through double doors to an elegant tiled foyer, opulent lounge and dining, a grand piano and huge private balcony.

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Safety and Security

Onboard Serenade of the Seas, the safety and security of guests, crew, and the ship itself are top priorities. With decades of maritime expertise, Royal Caribbean delivers peace of mind through rigorous safety measures and strict adherence to international maritime regulations.

Every voyage on Serenade of the Seas begins with a mandatory safety drill, where guests are familiarised with emergency procedures to ensure they are prepared and confident in any situation. The highly trained officers and crew participate in ongoing, advanced training programs, equipping them to manage a variety of scenarios, from medical emergencies to evacuation protocols.

Serenade of the Seas is outfitted with advanced safety systems, such as state-of-the-art navigation tools, fire suppression technologies, and extensive CCTV surveillance for secure monitoring throughout the ship. The vessel operates in full compliance with the U.S. Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act (CVSSA), ensuring features like accessible medical facilities, proper railing heights, controlled access points, and a thorough crime reporting system are always in place to protect everyone onboard.

Additionally, Serenade of the Seas emphasises environmental safety by incorporating sustainable technologies, including energy-efficient systems and waste management practices designed to minimise the ship’s impact on marine ecosystems. These efforts are part of Royal Caribbean’s dedication to protecting both passengers and the planet.

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Accessibility and Special Needs

Royal Caribbean is committed to creating an inclusive cruising experience for all guests, and onboard Serenade of the Seas, this commitment is clear. The ship is thoughtfully designed to ensure seamless access and comfort for guests with additional needs, offering features that accommodate a wide range of mobility, visual, and hearing impairments.

Accommodation for Mobility Impairments
Serenade of the Seas features wheelchair-accessible staterooms that provide ample turning space, roll-in showers, grab bars, and lower sink and vanity heights for effortless use. Public areas are designed with inclusivity in mind, with wide gangways, ramps, and elevators that can easily accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Support for Visual and Hearing Impairments
Guests with visual impairments will find braille signage throughout the ship, conveniently placed tactile elevator buttons, and deck numbers clearly marked on hand railings. For those with hearing impairments, Serenade of the Seas offers assistive listening devices in entertainment venues, visual-tactile alert systems in staterooms, and captioning on videos and important safety briefings.

Personalised Services for Special Needs
To ensure every guest’s unique requirements are met, Royal Caribbean encourages submitting the Guest Special Needs Form when booking. Guests are advised to submit the form at least 30 days in advance (or 60 days if a sign language interpreter is needed). This process ensures all necessary accommodations are arranged, from mobility aids to tailored dietary needs, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their vacation.

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FAQs