Coordinating family travel for large groups is possibly one of the most ardurous, thankless tasks a person can undertake. Finding food options that work foe everyone, coordinating everyone's geographic location, and making time for "a little bit of everything" that keeps everyone happy can be a nightmare. Not everyone is a beach person, some people are pool people, but kids need a slide, of course. Food is such a chore for large groups and you always run the risk of someone wandering off and wasting time trying to reign them back in.
Cruises are a natural solution. Everyone has time to "do their own thing" but everything is close enough to coordinate and manage. From America, the cruising options mostly depart from Florida or Texas. This review is for Royal Caribbean's Caribbean island routes, including the infamous Coco Cay.
When it comes to cruising through the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Royal Caribbean International stands as a pioneer, offering travelers unforgettable journeys and a chance to discover some of the most captivating islands in the region. With its fleet of state-of-the-art ships, Royal Caribbean takes passengers on immersive adventures to multiple Caribbean destinations, allowing them to experience the unique culture, natural beauty, and vibrant flavors of each island. Let's dive into the enticing routes that Royal Caribbean offers, promising an unparalleled voyage through this tropical paradise.
Eastern Caribbean: Enchanting Islands and Pristine Beaches Embarking on an Eastern Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean sets the stage for a voyage filled with breathtaking beauty. Typically departing from ports such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or San Juan, Puerto Rico, this route takes travelers to a variety of stunning destinations. Imagine exploring the idyllic beaches of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where crystal-clear waters invite you to snorkel among colorful marine life. Discover the captivating history and vibrant atmosphere of Old San Juan or indulge in duty-free shopping in Charlotte Amalie. A stop at Royal Caribbean's private island, CocoCay, adds an exclusive touch to the journey, offering thrilling water sports, pristine beaches, and the perfect setting for relaxation.
Western Caribbean: Adventures and Natural Wonders For those seeking adventure and natural wonders, a Western Caribbean itinerary with Royal Caribbean is the ultimate choice. Departing from ports like Miami, Galveston, or Tampa, this route promises excitement and exploration. The journey might include stops at Cozumel, Mexico, where ancient Mayan ruins and vibrant coral reefs captivate visitors. Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush rainforests of Costa Maya or embark on a jungle adventure in Belize, encountering exotic wildlife along the way. Roatán, Honduras, offers breathtaking diving opportunities with its magnificent coral reefs, while Jamaica's Montego Bay or Falmouth invites you to experience the rhythm of reggae and enjoy the laid-back island vibes.
Southern Caribbean: Unspoiled Gems and Cultural Richness A Southern Caribbean cruise takes travelers off the beaten path to discover unspoiled gems and immerse themselves in the region's cultural richness. Setting sail from ports like San Juan, Barbados, or Antigua, this itinerary leads to lesser-known Caribbean islands with their own unique charm. Explore the colorful Dutch architecture and vibrant markets of Curaçao, or soak up the French-Caribbean ambiance on the picturesque island of Martinique. Be enchanted by the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls of Dominica or dive into the underwater wonders surrounding the island of Bonaire, known for its pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life. Each stop on this route offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture.
Bahamas: A Tropical Playground Royal Caribbean's Bahamas itinerary is perfect for those looking for a quick getaway or a shorter cruise experience. Departing from Miami, Port Canaveral, or Nassau, this route combines the excitement of Nassau's vibrant city life with the serene beauty of the Bahamas' outlying islands. Immerse yourself in the famous Atlantis Paradise Island resort, enjoy water sports on Nassau's Cable Beach, or explore the vibrant local markets for authentic Bahamian crafts and cuisine. A visit to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, completes the Bahamian adventure with its thrilling water park, pristine beaches, and a range of exciting activities.
Regardless of the chosen route, Royal Caribbean's Caribbean island cruises ensure an unforgettable journey, combining luxurious onboard amenities, exceptional dining experiences, and a plethora of activities and entertainment options.
The route I selected for my 15-something large group took us through the Eastern Caribbean and also stopped at Royal Caribbean's private-island-turned-beach-club, Coco Cay. In keeping with Royal Caribbean's "something for everyone" theme, the sprawling island had several playground/swim pad areas (for the younger children/toddlers), additional cost theme-parks (for the older kids) ($79 pp), and cool, Cancun-esque beach clubs for the adults with many chairs for lounging and sunbathing, and plenty of food stations.
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking landscape of white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees. The island boasts an extensive shoreline, allowing visitors to find their own slice of paradise and unwind on a beach chair or in a private cabana. The pristine beaches offer a tranquil escape, perfect for basking in the sun, building sandcastles with the family, or simply enjoying a refreshing swim in the warm Caribbean waters.
For adventure enthusiasts, CocoCay is a haven of exciting activities. Thrill-seekers can head to Thrill Waterpark, featuring an array of heart-pounding slides, including the tallest waterslide in North America, the Daredevil's Peak. The waterpark also offers a wave pool, a lazy river, and an adventure pool for all ages to enjoy. Zip lining across the island provides a unique and exhilarating perspective, offering panoramic views of the island's natural beauty.
If you're in the mood for relaxation, CocoCay has you covered. The island features a tranquil oasis called Chill Island, where you can unwind in hammocks, enjoy a peaceful swim, or simply soak up the sun while sipping on a refreshing tropical drink. For an extra touch of luxury, the Coco Beach Club offers exclusive beach access, an infinity pool, and an upscale restaurant serving delicious cuisine with stunning ocean views.
One of the highlights of CocoCay is the dining experience. From beachside grills serving up mouthwatering burgers and barbecues to the buffet-style options at the Snack Shack, there's no shortage of delicious food to satisfy your cravings. For a unique culinary adventure, don't miss the floating bar, the floating food truck, or the overwater cabanas that offer a private dining experience with breathtaking ocean views.
CocoCay is also home to a thriving marine life. Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and marine creatures. Guided snorkeling tours provide an opportunity to discover the underwater wonders and learn about the ecosystem. Additionally, guests can embark on a kayak or paddleboarding excursion, gliding along the tranquil waters and admiring the stunning surroundings.
All that being said, to be very fair, Cococay did not provide a necessarily luxury experience despite its many amenities. This is a decidedly mid-tier experience. The benefit is that there is indeed something for everyone, but I wouldn't expect a "Rosewood" or "Four Seasons" type of experience, even if you do pay for the many add-ons. It wasn't particularly instagrammable, and had a slight Margaritaville vibe, if you catch my drift!
Still worth plodding off the boat, but not somewhere I'd spend more than 4-5 hours, personally.
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