Explorer of the Seas

In an effort to satisfy the needs and desires of the modern cruiser, Explorer of the Seas has expanded the dining options aboard ship and revamped some of its signature restaurants. In addition to the classic Giovanni's Table, you'll find the more casual, slightly less fussy Giovanni's Italian Kitchen. Think more hand-tossed pizzas and charcuterie, fewer elaborate pasta dishes. Keeping with the fun, laidback vibe is Playmakers Bar & Arcade, which is the place to go to watch a game, try a craft beer tasting flight, and chow down on some wings. If you want to get a peek behind the scenes while enjoying some bubbles, sign up for the two and a half hour Sip, Tour, Brunch program where you'll get to tour the galley with the chef before enjoying a delicious meal and unlimited sparkling wine. 

Perhaps the most immediately noticeable changes to the Explorer of the Seas are in the ship's outdoor spaces. Whether you crave theme park-level thrills or prefer to spend 90% of your cruise time in a pool lounger with a cocktail in hand, there is something new and exciting for you among the Amplified updates. The reimagined resort-style pool deck features two pools and three hot tubs, but the change that has everyone talking is the Lime and Coconut, a multi-level poolside bar with a decidedly tropical vibe. If you want to cool off and get your adrenaline pumping, challenge a pal to a race down Typhoon and Cyclone, the twin racing slides that together with a one-of-a-kind boomerang slide make up the Perfect Storm. If you prefer to seek your thrills indoors, check out the Clash for Crystal City, an immersive laser tag adventure.

You'll have no trouble sticking to your gym routine while at sea thanks to the Vitality at Sea fitness center. The Explorer of the Seas' 15,000 square foot, state-of-the-art gym is conveniently located on Deck 11 alongside the two main pools, so you can stay close to the action while workout. The ocean-view space is stocked with the latest cardio machines, most of which have personal televisions. You'll also find Reebox strength-training units and free weights as well as a spacious studio where you can book group classes with highly-trained fitness experts.

The gym is certainly not the only place on the ship where you can get moving and work up a sweat. Five laps around the jogging track on the sports deck gets you to a mile, and the climbing wall, ice skating rink, and FlowRider surf simulator are options for those who like their exercise to feel more like play. When you're ready for a break from the action, the freshly updated Solarium offers an adults-only pool and a tranquil environment.

The Explorer's Vitality at Sea Spa on Deck 12 is the ultimate oasis. It's the perfect place for a little me-time or an opportunity to reconnect with your significant other during a couple's treatment. Offering an updated menu of services and refreshed treatment areas, the spa has everything you would expect of a luxury spa on land. If you're looking to relax and recharge, book a signature 90-minute massage. If you're hoping to get a little help with that post-vacation glow, you can schedule a facial or body scrub. Med-spa services like Botox and Restalyne are also available. The salon has a full range of nail and hair services, including Keratin treatments. Teen and tween passengers can get in on the pampering thanks to the YSpa, which offers services just for them.

Located on Deck 5 between the Star Lounge and Sapphire Dining Room, the Promenade Shops are your go-to destination for a little retail therapy. Laid out like an upscale mall, the shopping area contains boutiques selling everything from Royal Caribbean-branded merchandise to luxury watches and high-end beauty products. Thanks to the central location of the boutiques, you have plenty of choices for places to grab a bite or a cocktail if you need a break between stores. The Crown & Kettle Pub and R Bar are just two of the options. If you want to commemorate your trip with a new piece of art, visit the gallery on Deck 4 where trained consultants can help you pick the perfect piece. Everything purchased while the ship is at sea is tax- and duty-free, so you definitely have an excuse to splurge.

Royal Caribbean's beloved and highly-awarded kids' program reaches new heights on the Amplified Explorer of the Seas thanks to a complete redesign of the kid and teen spaces, which makes for even more excitement for cruisers as young as six months old. The reimagined kids' area takes up about a third of Deck 12 and includes a large outdoor area, ensuring that there is plenty of room for a wide variety of organized activities as well as independent play. There are a variety of whimsically decorated rooms that cater to different activities and age groups. Accessed through a secret speakeasy-style entrance, the Hideout Hangout is a hip lounge and outdoor patio just for cruisers between the ages of 13 and 17. The colorful space is packed with video and board games and is a great spot for teens to mix and mingle. The Adventure Ocean program allows parents to drop off kids as young as three so they can enjoy a little down time or make a shore excursion.

Royal Caribbean's signature Casino Royale is located on Deck 4 next to Giovanni's Table. Stocked with 300 slots, 10 blackjack tables, three Caribbean Stud tables, three roulette wheels and a craps table, the casino on Explorer of the Seas has a game of chance for everyone.If you're new to gambling, you can take advantage of complimentary lessons that will have rolling the dice with confidence in no time. More experienced gamblers may want to sign up for a blackjack tournament. Whatever your level of expertise, you'll love this taste of Vegas at sea.