In September 2024, I set sail on a Mediterranean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s massive "Oasis of the Seas"!
This 7-night, 8-day itinerary departs from Barcelona and tours Spain, France, and Italy. The real magic of cruising is waking up in a new country every morning! The biggest advantage? You can visit multiple countries in a single trip without the hassle of lugging heavy suitcases from hotel to hotel.
🚢 Essential Tips Before You Board
1. Arrive a Day Early!
Ships won’t wait for delayed flights. To avoid missing your departure, it is highly recommended to arrive in Barcelona at least one day in advance. Also, keep in mind that you must participate in a mandatory safety drill once you board.
2. Download the Official App Ahead of Time
The Royal Caribbean app is a lifesaver for checking onboard schedules, activities, and booking shows. Since there is very limited multilingual support, having the info at your fingertips beforehand will give you peace of mind.
🎭 A City at Sea: You Can’t See It All in One Day!
Oasis of the Seas is less like a ship and more like a floating metropolis.
· Over 10 restaurants, various bars, and even a Starbucks
· An ice skating rink
· Three different venues, including a main theater and an AquaTheater
· A wide range of pools and sports activities
· Note: Facilities and services vary by ship.
Some shows require advance reservations through the app, so I recommend checking the schedule as soon as you can. For dining, start with the complimentary options like the buffet. There are also paid specialty restaurants (Japanese, Italian, etc.), so you might want to book those for a special night.
🌊 Make the Most of Your Sea Days!
"Sea Days" are days spent entirely on the water. While it’s a great time to relax and explore the ship, popular activities can get crowded. To have a fulfilling day, decide which shows and activities are your top priorities and plan accordingly.
🗺️ Exploring Ports of Call
At each stop, you can either explore the city on your own or join an excursion organized by the cruise line. Since excursions typically cost extra, choose the ones that best fit your budget and interests.
Keep in mind that large ships are limited in which ports they can dock. If there is a specific city you are dying to visit, double-check that the itinerary allows for easy access before you book.
🧳 What to Pack for Your Cruise
Besides the basics, here are a few personal recommendations:
· Small Magnets: Cabin walls are metal, making magnets perfect for hanging notes or small items.
· Motion Sickness Medication: If you’re prone to seasickness, bring your preferred brand just in case.
· Small Crossbody Bag: Ideal for port excursions. In Europe, wearing it in front is best for security.
· Sunglasses & Swimwear: Essential for the sun and the pools/hot tubs.
· Cold-Brew Tea Bags: Great for when you crave a familiar drink during a long trip.
· Extension Cords & Personal Meds: Don’t forget these travel staples!
✨ Final Thoughts
The beauty of a cruise is that the journey itself is the destination. You can play, dine, and travel to a new country all while you sleep. Being able to see multiple countries efficiently without ever having to repack is a luxury only a cruise can offer.
If you want to maximize both the onboard fun and the port excursions, preparation and early booking are key. Find the style that works for you and enjoy your adventure on the high seas! 🚢