Embark on thrilling adventures to some of the world’s best holiday hotspots with the wow-worthy Explorer of the Seas. Discover endless ways to make unforgettable memories with fleet favourites like the FlowRider surf simulator, the Rock Climbing Wall, and The Perfect Storm: the boldest waterslide duo at sea. The excitement doesn’t stop there, though; the eats on Explorer of the Seas will whisk you away on a culinary adventure around the world. Whether you’re craving authentic Italian eats from Giovanni’s Table, Asian-inspired flavours from Izumi, or steakhouse classics from Chops Grille, options like these ensure every meal is memorable. And, after you’ve treated your taste buds, you’ll be able to keep the party going with more than 15 bars, clubs, and lounges to choose from. It’s safe to say there’s nothing like a cruise adventure aboard Explorer of the Seas.
Top Explorer of the Seas Deals
The ship in numbers
- Launched 2000
- Tonnage 137308
- Wheelchair accessible cabins 26
- Decks 14
- Lifts 14
- Pools 3
- Restaurants 10
- Formal nights Yes
- Kids clubs Yes
- Maximum capacity 4290
- Crew 1185
- Refurbished 2025
What's onboard
Dining
Dining onboard Explorer of the Seas
Onboard Explorer of the Seas, there’s an eatery for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a casual meal throughout the day or a formal dining experience, Explorer of the Seas has you covered.
Top dining highlights on Explorer of the Seas include:
Complimentary Dining
- Main Dining Room - spanning 3 levels, you can enjoy a range of delicious dishes here
- Windjammer Cafe - tuck into a selection of international dishes at this vibrant buffet restaurant
- Cafe Promenade - delight in light bites from sandwiches to freshly made pastries
Speciality Dining
- Chops Grille - indulge in mouthwatering steak and seafood dishes
- Giovanni’s Table - relish Italian cuisine in this modern and inviting restaurant
- Izumi - treat yourself to a variety of Japanese delights, from sushi to sashimi
- Johnny Rockets - popular amongst Royal Caribbean guests, you can enjoy hearty American favourites at this quirky 1950s diner
Entertainment
Entertainment onboard Explorer of the Seas
Explorer of the Seas has an equally impressive line-up of night time entertainment providing quality, choice and diversity. Dance the night away to great music in The Chamber nightclub or nurse a pint in the Crown and Kettle, a traditional pub. Put your luck to the test or pit your nerves in Casino Royale, Explorer of the Sea's vibrant casino that captures all the spirit and excitement of the famous Vegas casinos.
For a more relaxed evening’s pleasure head to the Schooner Bar, a nautical themed piano bar where you can listen to the music while enjoying great conversation. For something a little different you won't believe your eyes when you step into this onboard ice-skating rink. Here you'll find professional ice shows that will thrill and inspire you so that when the ice is opened up during the numerous passenger skating sessions, you'll be gliding as gracefully as the professionals that went before you. Whether you want to party into the night or enjoy a quieter evening there is so much to do onboard Explorer of the Seas that each evening will be different to the next.
Family
Family activities onboard Explorer of the Seas
Explorer of the seas is a great ship for children and caters for young cruisers aged between 6 months and 17 years, with a huge range of activities including scavenger hunts, painting, parties, discos, sports competitions and much, much more. The Royal Caribbean trained youth staff will ensure all kids are entertained for hours on end, leaving the adults with some time for themselves.
In addition, if you want to get the family back together again, the onboard arcade and fun swimming pools are sure to put a smile on everyone’s faces.
Things to do
Recreation
There's always something exciting for you to do or be a part of on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. From sunrise to sunset good times are waiting to be had around every corner.
For those who relish in the active lifestyle, set yourself the challenge of conquering the rock climbing wall that towers 200ft above sea level and 30 ft above the deck, or why not attempt a vigorous work out under the watchful instruction of qualified personal trainers? In addition to these features you can also choose to swim, jog, practice your in-line skating, work on your golf swing or shoot some hoops at the sports court whilst on your way to the next destination.
If your idea of a perfect holiday isn’t all about being active, there is also a luxurious onboard Spa, offering everything from massages to facials and body wraps, meaning that you can leave your cruise feeling well and truly pampered.
From taking in the wonderful art exhibitions, relaxing in the quiet of the library or enjoying a little bit of shopping in Explorer of the Seas boutique, days onboard with Royal Caribbean’s Explorer of the Seas will make you feel like you never want to leave.
To up that holiday feeling even further, there is a main pool, two smaller pools and several jacuzzis, so you can sit back and soak up the sun from the comfort of the deck. There's also the Perfect Storm and Storm Surge waterslides for those looking for something a little more exhilarating!
Explorer of the Seas Image gallery
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Explorer of the Seas
I had read a lot of reviews about the Ship Explorer of the Seas sailing around the Greek Islands and was aware it wasn’t one of the newer bigger ships. We found there was very few signs of wear and it it was always clean and tidy. Plus points The staff were brilliant and the balcony cabin I had was very good. We enjoyed the food in the main dining room and we also used Chops Grill which was excellent. The only downside was the entertainment choices were less than the bigger ships but we liked the headline shows. Would I sail again yes definitely.
Don’t get ill, no serbice or support
Did a combined trip with lake Garda, Venice and then a week on explorer of the seas. Enjoyed the while itinerary though weather definitely cooler at the end of sept so need to bear that in mind. Ship was lovely plenty of sunbeds which is unusual so never had to fight for one and had the whole top deck to ourselves in port one day. Lots of entertainment throughout the day and night even if you don’t want to join in it’s good fun to watch. Family room is a pull down bed above the double so consider that as we had our 22 year old on that which wasn’t ideal! Really enjoyed the food loads of choice in windjammer buffet though does get very busy and had to walk round a few times to get a table more than once. Staff are very attentive and friendly. We had the drinks package so enjoyed not having to worry about costs and enjoyed a few drinks during the day and on an evening, wine was very good! Husband doesn’t drink so relies on 0% alcohol beer which they ran out of on more then once occasion during the day so they must restock for the evening so that was disappointing as he pays the same for the deluxe package. Did one RC excursion to Santorini which I wouldn’t recommend as you spend 2 hours queuing for the cable car. Other than that really enjoyed it and would recommend it!
Although the ship was the largest we had sailed on there was plenty of room for sun beds on deck although vey crowded in the buffet especially in the morning so much so we opted to have breakfast in the dining room. The dining crew staff both at breakfast and dinner were exceptional often going out of there way to ensure we were happy with our food especially as I am gluten-free and informed the chef who often adjusted the dish to suit me. The state rooms could do with being upgraded but the bed was comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cabins
What are the main types of cabins on Explorer of the Seas?
Options range from Interior (some with Virtual Balconies) and Ocean View to Balconies and expansive Royal Suite Class accommodations.
Families and Kids
Is Explorer of the Seas family-friendly?
Yes, it is exceptionally family-friendly. The ship features dedicated kids' clubs, youth staff, and family-focused entertainment.
Does Explorer of the Seas have waterslides?
Many Royal Caribbean ships feature The Perfect Storm waterslides, but we recommend checking specific deck plans for older vessels.
Food and drink
What are the main dining options on Explorer of the Seas?
Dine in the multi-level Main Dining Room (with traditional or flexible My Time Dining) or the casual Windjammer Cafe.
What speciality dining is there on Explorer of the Seas?
Premium options typically include Chops Grille (steakhouse), Izumi (Asian), and Giovanni's Table. Cover charges apply.
Itineraries
Which ports does Explorer of the Seas usually sail out of?
Departures vary by season, commonly sailing from major hubs like Miami, Port Canaveral, Barcelona, Rome, or Southampton.
Ship Features
What are the top highlights onboard Explorer of the Seas?
Its massive scale, the indoor Royal Promenade, and incredible entertainment venues like the AquaTheater or Ice Rink.
On our blog
Read the latest articles about Cruising. Visit the blog
