Explorer of the Seas – Royal Caribbean

Explorer of the Seas is one of those classic cruise ships that’s been around for a while but still knows how to show guests a great time. She was first launched back in 2000, so yeah, she’s got some years behind her—but don’t let that fool you. She’s had some upgrades over the years to keep things fresh.

This ship sails under Royal Caribbean International, one of the biggest cruise lines out there. She can hold a little over 3,100 guests, not counting the crew. That’s a good mid-size range, so you’re not feeling like you’re stuck in a floating city, but there’s still plenty to do onboard.

Most of the time, Explorer of the Seas is cruising around the Caribbean, especially during winter. You’ll also catch her doing some itineraries around the Mediterranean or Alaska, depending on the season. Basically, she follows the sun.

Onboard, expect all the Royal Caribbean staples—rock climbing, an ice skating rink (yup, on a ship), pools, bars, and lots of food options. It’s not the newest or flashiest ship in the fleet, but it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a fun, laid-back vacation with all the essentials. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone just wanting to kick back and enjoy the ocean breeze.