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Bionic Bar ®

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The Bionic Bar: Discover Royal Caribbean's cruise ship robot bartenders

Have you ever had a drink served by a robot? How about a pair of robots? That's the idea behind Royal Caribbean's Bionic Bar, an installation found on several ships in the line's fleet. It offers both classic and custom drinks mixed, shaken and stirred by what looks like something straight out of "The Jetsons."

When it debuted the Bionic Bar, Royal Caribbean was no stranger to groundbreaking bar concepts, having launched its Rising Tide Bar — a levitating watering hole — just a couple of years prior.

The first Bionic Bar rolled out on Quantum of the Seas in 2014, with the metal armlike bartenders going by names like "Shaken" and "Stirred." Since then, the bar has taken up residence on nine ships in the fleet.

Here's what you'll experience during a visit to the Bionic Bar.

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What is Royal Caribbean's Bionic Bar?

The Bionic Bar, developed in partnership with Italian robotics company Makr Shakr, is a bar where the drinks are made by robots — robotic arms, to be exact. They extend from a back wall, where they use shakers to catch liquor dispensed from bottles that hang upside down overhead. Once they've collected all of the requested ingredients from an order, they shake and rotate the metal cups before dumping them, unceremoniously and often sloppily, into plastic ones.

Although many passengers have criticized the bar for taking jobs from real people, crew members still need to clean the area and replenish bottles of spirits as they run low.

The Bionic Bar is a place you'd likely visit once, just to say you did it, rather than a bar that you'd go back to again and again. It piques cruisers' interest for sure, but once the gimmick has worn off, you'll find better-made drinks — and obviously more friendly, personalized service — elsewhere on board.

There can also be a bit of a backlog at peak times, which can make for a frustrating experience.

Royal Caribbean Bionic Bar menu

Since there is no human bartender, the Bionic Bar takes drink orders via tablet-style screens. You can select both preprogrammed options or create your own.

The latter allows you to choose the type of alcohol and mixers you want, how strong you want your drink to be (single or double shot, for example), whether you want ice, and whether you'd like it shaken or stirred. That means the possibilities are nearly endless.

How much do drinks cost at the Bionic Bar?

Prices for drinks at the bionic bar depend on what you order. The more expensive the alcohol you choose and the more ingredients you include, the pricier your beverage will likely be.

If you don't have a beverage package, you'll pay per drink. If you have an Ultimate Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $14 each, most options will be covered.

Simply swipe your card, type in what you'd like to drink and wait for one of the two robotic arms to do its thing. When your drink is done, scan your card at the counter to have it slid to you. (Expect some spillage.)

Which Royal Caribbean ships have the Bionic Bar?

You can find the Bionic Bar on the following Royal Caribbean ships :

• Anthem of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas

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Get Cocktails Made by a Robot at the Bionic Bar

Since the Jetsons premiered in the ’60s, we’ve been waiting for the day when robots would cater to our every whim. When you can just push a button and you’re automatically showered and dressed. Or when you have a robot like Rosie cleaning the house and taking care of the kids. It’s fifty years later, and we’re still far from that goal. But at Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar, you can at least try a drink made by a robotic bartender.

Bionic Bar Debuted on Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean debuted the first robotic bartender at sea in 2014 when it introduced the Quantum of the Seas. The Quantum-class of ships was supposed to represent the epitome of technology in cruising, and so it made sense to be the first to have robotic bartenders. 

Royal Caribbean called on Makr Shakr, a leader in robotic bar solutions, to help bring this dream to the sea. While Makr Shakr has a few other installations on land (you may have seen the one in Las Vegas at the Miracle Mile Shops in Planet Hollywood), Royal Caribbean ships are the easiest places to find this bartender.  

A Futuristic Bar on a Cruise Ship

Royal Caribbean named this new bar “Bionic Bar” and styled it with a futuristic theme. The bar has two robotic arms that whip up cocktails for guests at a rate of two drinks per minute. These six-axis arms resemble the type of robots you might see assembling cars, but they were explicitly designed for muddling, stirring, shaking, and straining cocktails for guests. Each ship’s robot has its own name. Below, you’ll see Mix and Mingle from the Harmony of the Seas. 

In the ceiling above the two robots, 30 different spirits and 21 mixers are suspended overhead. This area is where the “bartenders” will grab the ingredients for the cocktail. The bottles are suspended upside-down, meaning gravity helps dispense the ingredients, eliminating the need for pumps or messy tubing that would have to be clean. Using these ingredients, they can make up to 1,000 cocktails a day. 

Ordering a drink from the Bionic Bar

One nice thing about the Bionic Bar is that you’re not going to have to wait in a long line to give the bartender your order. Tablets are mounted to tables throughout the bar to allow guests to place their orders. You simply tap your SeaPass card to the top and then browse through the premade recipes.

Once you’ve selected what you want, you place your order, and your drink is sent to the queue. The screen next to the robots will show you where your drink is in the line and estimate when it’ll be ready. 

When it’s your turn, your name will come up, and the screen will show the steps the robot takes to make your drink. The screen itself is innovative; it puts the LED display behind a mirror rather than a flat-panel TV/monitor. It gives it a much more futuristic feel. 

You’ll watch as your bartender gathers all your ingredients and then mixes, shakes, or strains it into a glass as requested. Then the robot pours the drink into a plastic cup. Finally, the display will show that your drink is ready. 

You walk up to the bar and tap your SeaPass against the bar. It will verify you are the right person for this cocktail and slide it over to you so you can grab it. 

What kind of drinks are at the Bionic Bar?

The Bionic Bar doesn’t have any blenders, so you’re not going to be getting any frozen margaritas or daiquiris here. The bar has a variety of liquors and mixers though, and you can get your drink on the rocks or straight up. 

With 30 spirits and 21 mixers, thousands, if not millions, of combinations are possible. You can even get non-alcoholic drinks using just syrups and sodas. 

We noticed people who made their own recipes were often unhappy with the quantity they received. The premade recipes are made to be the optimum size. If you make your own and miss things like a mixer or ice, your cup will look empty even though you got what you asked for. So I suggest sticking to the premade recipes.

Bionic Bar Drink Menu

How much do drinks cost at the Bionic Bar?

The price per drink can vary, but on average, it was about $14 per cocktail on my November 2022 sailing on Harmony of the Seas ( you can follow along on your cruise here ). You still have to pay Royal Caribbean’s 18% gratuity here, even though there’s no human bartender, so the total cost is $16.52 per drink. It’s on par with the prices you’ll see for drinks at other Royal Caribbean bars. 

How are the drinks at the Bionic Bar?

Like any drink, there will be some debate over what’s good and bad. Some people like strong drinks, some like weak, some like sweet, and some like sour. One thing you’ll know for sure, though, is that the cocktail is consistent. Because of the precision of the robots, you know you’re going to get the same thing every time. The same can’t be said if you go to two different bartenders on different parts of the ship. 

Which ships have the Bionic Bar?

You can check out the Bionic Bar on any of these Royal Caribbean ships:

• Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Harmony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Odyssey of The Seas
• Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Spectrum of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas
• Royal Caribbean Wonder Of The Seas

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Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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Cruising with Robot Bartenders

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Royal Caribbean's  Anthem of the Seas  features robotic bartenders created by Makr Shakr. These robots can muddle, stir, shake, and strain your drink to perfection. The cocktail combinations are endless with 30 different spirits and 20 different mixers.  The next great adventure has arrived in NYC. It's time you experience #AnthemoftheSeas

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Futuristic cruise ship has robot bartenders that can make 1,000 drinks a day

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Fancy a dAIquiri? How about a Manhattandroid or a Cyborg Sling?

When you’re at Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar, every drink you order has a robot theme, as they have their own crew of cocktail-making automatons that can whip you up what you want in a matter of seconds.

The cruise company features robotic bartenders on nine of its 28 ships, with two Makr Shakr machines in each Bionic Bar shaking and stirring up to 1,000 drinks every day.

The mechanical arms can produce two drinks every 60 seconds, with ‘an almost endless combination’ of cocktails and mocktails ranging from classics and signature serves to design-your-own options.

Passengers can choose from 30 spirits and 21 mixers (including sugar, mint and citrus fruits) and order on a tablet near the counter.

You can even select how strong you’d like your drink, whether you want ice, and how exactly you’d like it prepared.

The robots will then collect the requested ingredients, mix everything together and dispense into a glass, which the customer picks up or is delivered to their table by a human waiter.

While you wait, an interactive wall above the bar displays fun statistics about your order, as well as how many people are in the queue and what the robot mixologists are currently working on.

There’s no time or drink limit here, and cocktails are priced similarly to other bars on board. Better still, if you’ve purchased an unlimited Royal Caribbean drinks package, every futuristic tipple you enjoy is included free of charge.

It’s worth bearing in mind, the Bionic Bars can get busy at peak times, so there may be a slight wait. For a dram with a difference, however, it’s well worth a visit.

Don’t worry about this tech taking crew’s jobs either: even though they’re machines, they’re not perfect, and human staff members are required to refill empty bottles and mop up the occasional spill.

Which Royal Caribbean ships have a Bionic Bar?

• Anthem of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has been shortlisted for the Sailawaze Excellence Awards in the technology category, both for its Bionic Bar concept and a range of other cool features.

Alongside a crowd-busting elevator system (where passengers can input the floor they want into a touchpad and then be shown to the right lift with room left that gets them to their destination quickest) its ships also feature the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture, The Pearl.

In terms of entertainment, robots double up as diving boards and set creators in the high-octane Aqua Action show, with a double 3D flying system that catapults divers, slackliners and aerial performers around the AquaDome for maximum wow factor.

Up against Royal Caribbean in the category there’s some stiff competition.

Scenic’s nomination is all about the world’s first Discovery Yachts: Built for up to 228 passengers, and exploration equipment that features two helicopters, a submersible, Zodiacs, kayaks and paddleboards.

Princess Cruises is nominated for its Medallion, a small wearable device that streamlines embarkation processes, unlocks cabin doors and offers personalised service. Travellers can participate in interactive games and activities, and easily locate friends and family using the Medallion app, too.

Then there’s MSC Cruises’ Helios Wine Bar, which features state-of-the-art multi-touch tables activated by digital coasters where you can learn about and taste 96 featured wines. It also boasts the longest LED dome at sea on MSC Euribia, with virtual reality experiences (Formula Racer VR race, flight simulator, VR motorbikes) and interactive cinema.

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Royal Caribbean cruise ship robot bartender makes 1,000 drinks a day

Fancy a dAIquiri? How about a Manhattandroid or a Cyborg Sling?

When you’re at Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar, every drink you order has a robot theme, as they have their own crew of cocktail-making automatons that can whip you up what you want in a matter of seconds.

The cruise company features robotic bartenders on nine of its 28 ships, with two Makr Shakr machines in each Bionic Bar shaking and stirring up to 1,000 drinks every day.

The mechanical arms can produce two drinks every 60 seconds, with ‘an almost endless combination’ of cocktails and mocktails ranging from classics and signature serves to design-your-own options.

Passengers can choose from 30 spirits and 21 mixers (including sugar, mint and citrus fruits) and order on a tablet near the counter.

You can even select how strong you’d like your drink, whether you want ice, and how exactly you’d like it prepared.

Vote to win a cruise

Do you love cruising? Are you an intrepid traveller? Maybe you just like looking at pictures of luxe ships. No matter which, we want you to vote!

Metro has partnered with the  Sailawaze Excellence Awards , highlighting the very best in cruising when it comes to sustainability, wellness, entertainment and beyond.

And we need YOU to simply select what you’ve been most impressed by.

The best bit? By voting you’ll automatically be in with a chance of winning a cruise for two worth £2,500.

Say bon voyage to the more traditional categories of ‘best large ship’ or ‘best luxury cruise line’ and instead ahoy to innovation, food and drink and showstopping performances.

Vote for your favourite here .

The robots will then collect the requested ingredients, mix everything together and dispense into a glass, which the customer picks up or is delivered to their table by a human waiter.

While you wait, an interactive wall above the bar displays fun statistics about your order, as well as how many people are in the queue and what the robot mixologists are currently working on.

There’s no time or drink limit here, and cocktails are priced similarly to other bars on board. Better still, if you’ve purchased an unlimited Royal Caribbean drinks package, every futuristic tipple you enjoy is included free of charge.

It’s worth bearing in mind, the Bionic Bars can get busy at peak times, so there may be a slight wait. For a dram with a difference, however, it’s well worth a visit.

Don’t worry about this tech taking crew’s jobs either: even though they’re machines, they’re not perfect, and human staff members are required to refill empty bottles and mop up the occasional spill.

Which Royal Caribbean ships have a Bionic Bar?

• Anthem of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean has been shortlisted for the Sailawaze Excellence Awards in the technology category, both for its Bionic Bar concept and a range of other cool features.

Alongside a crowd-busting elevator system (where passengers can input the floor they want into a touchpad and then be shown to the right lift with room left that gets them to their destination quickest) its ships also feature the world’s largest kinetic art sculpture, The Pearl.

In terms of entertainment, robots double up as diving boards and set creators in the high-octane Aqua Action show, with a double 3D flying system that catapults divers, slackliners and aerial performers around the AquaDome for maximum wow factor.

Up against Royal Caribbean in the category there’s some stiff competition.

Scenic’s nomination is all about the world’s first Discovery Yachts: Built for up to 228 passengers, and exploration equipment that features two helicopters, a submersible, Zodiacs, kayaks and paddleboards.

Princess Cruises is nominated for its Medallion, a small wearable device that streamlines embarkation processes, unlocks cabin doors and offers personalised service. Travellers can participate in interactive games and activities, and easily locate friends and family using the Medallion app, too.

Then there’s MSC Cruises’ Helios Wine Bar, which features state-of-the-art multi-touch tables activated by digital coasters where you can learn about and taste 96 featured wines. It also boasts the longest LED dome at sea on MSC Euribia, with virtual reality experiences (Formula Racer VR race, flight simulator, VR motorbikes) and interactive cinema.

Norwegian Cruise Line is up for the gong for its interactive video game arcade, 7D Cinema (yes, SEVEN, with special effects, moving chairs and interactive shooting) and Nascar-style car race.

Sailawaze Excellence Awards – the nominations

Food & beverage.

Virgin Voyages

Aqua Expeditions

TUI River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Explora Journeys

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

P&O Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises

Emerald Cruises

Amawaterways

Swan Hellenic

Princess Cruises

MSC Cruises

Royal Caribbean

SUSTAINABILITY

AE Expeditions

The Majestic Line

Portsmouth International Port

Hurtigruten

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines

Oceania Cruises

Havila Voyages

Pandaw Expeditions

Holland America Line

CroisiEurope

Celebrity Cruises

VIVA Cruises

Disney Cruise Line

Saga Cruises

A- Rosa Cruises

ENTERTAINMENT

Carnival Cruise Line

Marella Cruises

COLLABORATIONS

Ambassador Cruise Line

A-Rosa Cruises

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10 Things You Can Only Do on a Cruise Ship

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There’s no denying that cruising is one of the best types of vacations, and it’s a great way to experience things that you can never do on land. With various unique experiences and offerings, a cruise vacation lets you tick off many items from your bucket list in one trip.

As someone who has been on over 30 cruises, I know first-hand which amazing experiences you will only find on a cruise vacation.

With that being said, here are 10 things you can only experience on a cruise ship.

10 Things You Can Do Exclusively a Cruise Ship

1. eat breakfast on your balcony.

Sure, eating breakfast on your balcony is possible at a land resort. However, it does not compare to eating breakfast on your balcony in the middle of the ocean.

Having a clear view of the beautiful sea as you enjoy a tasty breakfast (and a mimosa) is truly a special feeling.

Furthermore, eating breakfast on your balcony as you sail into port is another unique cruising experience. Starting your day with coffee, pastries and some fresh fruit as you sail into a cruise port of call offers a unique perspective you won’t find on land.

2. Go On a Roller Coaster at Sea

Yes, some cruise ships have theme park like attractions onboard! In fact, Carnival is the first cruise line to feature roller coasters on their cruise ships! The Bolt Roller Coaster is available on Carnival Celebration, Carnival Mardi Gras, and Carnival Jubilee.

With a top speed of 23 MPH (37.3 km), the Bolt Roller Coaster is one of the unique experiences at sea. So, if you’re a thrill chaser, consider booking one of these Carnival cruise ships.

Another cruise line that offers a thrill ride is MSC Cruises . Featured on MSC Seascape , Robotron is a thrill ride designed to offer adrenaline lovers a one-of-a-kind immersive experience.

3. Walk Out of a Restaurant Without Paying

There’s a unique sense of liberation on a cruise vacation, where you can dine without worrying about the bill. Whether it’s a casual restaurant or the main dining room , you can order what you want without worrying about the price.

One of the things I miss most about cruising when I’m not on a cruise is the feeling of ordering food without worrying about the price! Not having to pay for food and ordering as much as you want is an excellent benefit to booking a cruise vacation.

4. Experience Glaciers From Your Balcony

Viewing glaciers from the comfort of your balcony is truly an only-in-a-lifetime experience you will only get on a cruise vacation! The feeling of drinking a warm coffee while watching the stunning glaciers in the distance is something you can only experience on a cruise ship.

For those nature lovers, experiencing a glacier at sea is something you’ll want to do throughout your lifetime. Whether it’s a cruise to Alaska , Antarctica, or the Norwegian Fjords, cruising by glaciers is an incredible experience.

Last year, I had the pleasure of taking an Alaska cruise with Holland America and sailing through Glacier Bay National Park. Visiting Glacier Bay surpassed my expectations and was one of the most special travel experiences.

The glaciers’ beautiful color, sound, and movement is something that everyone should experience at some point in their lives. Furthermore, it was a great chance to take in Alaska’s unique wildlife and learn about the glaciers.

5. Go Zip-Lining

Zip-lining at sea is available on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class, Icon Class , and MSC Seaside. This thrilling activity is one of the most unique experiences that you will find on any cruise ship.

If you’re a thrill chaser, you’ll enjoy taking a zip-line ride while you’re on a cruise ship!

In 2012, I was on Oasis of the Seas , the first cruise ship to feature the infamous zip-line. However, at the time, I was 12 years old and too small to ride it (and too scared!). In 2020, I sailed on Oasis of the Seas and knew I had to conquer my fears and ride that zip-line.

The zip line was definitely scary, but it was a great experience and made for some amazing pictures!

Related: 8 Best Cruises for Young Adults – By a Young Adult

6. Experience a Sunset At Sea

A sunset at sea is truly one of the most exclusive and relaxing experiences on a cruise vacation. Whether you’re winding down on your balcony, sitting at a bar, or relaxing in a hot tub, it’s one of those magical experiences that only cruising can offer.

Sure, you may experience a sunset at home or a hotel. However, being in the middle of the ocean provides an unobstructed view of the ocean. Since no land, structures, or buildings are blocking your view, you can witness the sun setting in its full glory.

The open sea offers a unique and unparalleled sense of peace and relaxation. The soothing sounds of the waves and the gentle rocking of the cruise ship combine to create an incredibly peaceful experience that is truly unique to a cruise vacation.

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7. Order Drinks from a Robot Bartender

A cruise experience exclusive to Royal Caribbean cruise ships is ordering a cocktail from a robotic bartender. Sure, it’s a bit gimmicky. However, it is fun and unique!

If you’re a technology enthusiast, you’ll love the process of getting a drink from the robotic bartender. You’ll order your beverage on a high-tech touchscreen, scan your card, and the robotic bartender will start mixing your drink.

One of the coolest parts about ordering a drink at the Bionic Bar is that you will see many different statistics. You can see the most popular drink order, how many total drinks the robot has made, and how long it takes for your drink to be ready.

It’s important to note that although a robot serves you, you will still be charged a gratuity fee . When I ordered a drink from the robot bartender, I found it funny that I was still charged an 18% gratuity.

8. Watch a Broadway-Style Show at Sea

Cruises are home to some amazing Broadway-style production shows. Whether you’re looking for Broadway classics like Grease, Mama Mia, and Cats, or cruise line original production shows, it’s hard to beat the entertainment you’ll find on a cruise ship.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line , and Disney are known for having amazing production shows. Compared to land-based vacations, the entertainment on a cruise ship is completely different.

Furthermore, cruise lines offer amazing entertainment, ranging from comedians to magicians to live bands. Overall, the included entertainment is one of the things that makes cruising such a special experience.

9. Go Go-Karting

Exclusively available on Norwegian Cruise Line , Go-Karting stands out as one of the most unique activities offered at sea. Picture yourself competing with other cruise passengers in high-speed electric go-karts, all while being surrouded by the breathtaking view of the ocean!

As someone who loves go-karting, I always looked forward to trying this activity. I had the pleasure of going on the Norwegian Joy , where I purchased the unlimited Go-Karting pass.

At a price of approximately $200, the unlimited Go-Karting pass proved to be a fantastic deal, especially considering the 10-day duration of the cruise. I made the most of this pass, by racing for several hours every day of the cruise!

Overall, this is a great activity for teenagers , young adults , and those adventurous cruisers who enjoy doing thrilling activities.

10. Watch an Ice Skating Show

A shocking cruise experience for new and potential cruisers is that you can watch an ice skating show at sea. Yes, certain cruise ships have ice skating rinks!

Ice skating shows are an exclusive Royal Caribbean experience, and they can be found on Royal Caribbean’s Voyager Class, Freedom Class , Oasis Class, and Icon Class. The shows are truly incredible, and the performers are extremely skilled.

As someone who grew up ice skating, I make it a priority to watch the ice skating show. No matter how many times I’ve seen the same show, it’s always impressive!

A bonus of going on a cruise with an ice rink is that you can actually ice skate as an activity during the day. On sea days , there will be select hours where cruise passengers can skate (skate rentals are free) on the ice rink.

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Final Thoughts On Things You Can Only Do on a Cruise Ship

Cruising is a great way to travel and offers plenty of unique experiences. Whether it’s a sunset at sea, glacier viewing, or going on a roller coaster, there’s no denying that a cruise vacation offers a variety of amazing travel experiences.

What’s your favorite experience that is exclusive to cruising? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com .

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• Cruise News

How Robots Are Changing the Future of Cruising

Doug Parker

• July 5, 2023

Anyone who has sailed over the past few years knows that cruise ship technology has advanced, so nearly every aspect of your time on board has been impacted.

From trip-planning apps to robotic bartenders, tech has changed how we look at cruising.

It’s also changing how ships are built as new robotic technology is increasingly being used at shipyards and throughout the maritime industry.

Introducing the Latest Cruise Ship Technology

Under the best circumstances, new technology serves multiple purposes, from decreasing costs to increasing productivity. In the case of the newly-introduced Mobile Robot For Weld — or MR4WELD, all of those factors come together during crucial stages of cruise ship construction.

Remotely controlled by a single operator, MR4WELD offers greater flexibility, better safety, and lower costs for the industry.

As the product of shipbuilding giant Fincantieri and leading automation organization Comau, MR4WELD is currently in the testing phase.

Once fully implemented, the device should be able to take on many aspects of welding — a labor-intensive procedure crucial to the shipbuilding process — and potentially increase productivity threefold. 

Once testing is complete, the device will be deployed in Fincantieri shipyards, where it will autonomously weld together steel structures.

MR4WELD has a welding torch attached to a tracked undercarriage and a “vision system” to help identify welding joints.

As it’s taking on this task, it will also collect welding and production data, essentially tracking and reporting on its own work. Featuring a high payload, MR4WELD can function in any environment and collaborate with workers. 

The robot complies with the latest industry safety regulations, so it doesn’t need to be fenced in when working across different decks and producing superior-quality welds.

The Future of Robotics in Shipbuilding

While a welding robot may be a new development, robotics in shipbuilding has become increasingly common. Before COVID caused a shutdown of cruise lines and many of the yards in which ships are constructed, the development and use of robotics were booming.

And though the shutdown hurt the tech, it is not estimated that by 2028, the global demand for this type of technology will lead to it becoming a billion-dollar-a-year industry.

Unsurprisingly, the two Italian multinationals have set their sights on more than enhancing cruise ship technology.

With the modern-day welder they’ve jointly developed, they are considering expanding its use to other industries that employ sizable steel infrastructures.

Go Deeper: Norwegian Viva Floated Out at Shipyard

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MSC Cruises First Humanoid Robotic Bartender at Sea

MSC Cruises have provided details of the immersive, futuristic MSC Starship Club featuring Rob, the first-ever humanoid, robotic bartender at sea . The MSC Starship Club will be exclusively available onboard the line’s newest flagship, MSC Virtuosa , when she enters service in April 2021.

Also Watch: MSC Seashore – Cruise Ship Preview (2021)

The integrated bar and entertainment experience is inspired by MSC Cruises’ vision of the spaceship of the future. MSC Starliner One is enabled by state-of-the-art technologies to create a futuristic atmosphere with 3D holograms, an immersive digital art wall and a 12-seat infinity digital interactive table, giving guests the opportunity to explore space with their own personalized galactic tour. Rob will mix and serve his signature cocktails — both alcoholic and non-alcoholic — and countless personalized drinks, just like a human bartender would do, while engaging with and speaking to guests and using human-like expressions for a fully immersive bar experience. Rob’s skills and emotional responsiveness, combined with bartenders dressed as if straight out of a sci-fi movie and immersive technology, create a must-visit attraction for all ages at the MSC Starship Club.

Guests will use specifically designed vertical digital cockpits in the area to place their order. Rob will then get to work and use all of his customized robotic skills to prepare the cocktails — pouring spirits, juices and syrups; shaking, building or stirring the concoctions; and garnishing. Rob can not only prepare an impressive range of cocktails, but also speak eight languages (English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Brazilian Portuguese, Chinese and Japanese), according to the language chosen when the guest places an order. He also has a clear personality that evolves with the surrounding setting and atmosphere, using his LED face to convey emotion so guests can enjoy his performance while sipping their cocktails.

The status of the cocktail preparation will be displayed through digital monitors and a ticker-tape- style LED strip above the robotic island while guests are immersed in the space-themed experience. The cosmic cocktails are served in custom-designed futuristic glasses for guests to collect as lasting souvenirs of the MSC Starship Club experience. Cruisers will be able to return to the club multiple times over the course of their cruise, experiencing a new interaction with Rob each time.

The MSC Starship Club has been nearly six years in the making since the first original concept, and the Company has pushed boundaries with the engineering that has gone into making this a reality. During this time, MSC Cruises has worked with leading experts from companies specializing in robotics and automation, interior design as well as entertainment and digital experience solutions to create a custom designed entertainment venue with a humanoid robot as the star.

MSC Cruises has been developing many new onboard technologies over the past several years to assist in making the cruise experience better for their guests. MSC For Me, utilizes smartphone apps, wristbands and onboard portals to create seamless interactions with crew, guests and services. They also launched their virtual personal cruise assistant ZOE in 2019, to bring advanced voice recognition into every stateroom onboard their latest ships MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa and MSC Virtuosa.

For more details on MSC Starship Club and MSC Virtuosa, visit MSC Cruises website .

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Bottoms up: the robot bartender serving up drinks on MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is introducing the first humanoid robot bartender at sea into a new bar concept called the Starship Club. We speak to project head Luca Pronzati to discover the challenges they faced delivering such a unique concept during a pandemic.

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Travel giant MSC Cruises have just welcomed their newest member of staff on their latest ship, MSC Virtuosa. Luca Pronzati, the Chief Business Innovation Officer at MSC Cruises, is delighted to announce the opening of the new Starship Club, and to ensure that Rob the bartender robot was ready to start tirelessly serving passengers, before the ship starts her inaugural season in the UK.

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MSC Cruises have also been able to open sales for three, four and seven-night cruises on the state-of-the-art ship. Originally the ship would have been Mediterranean bound, but with the Covid-19 pandemic ongoing and domestic travel opening in the UK, Virtuosa will join other cruise liners to offer new itineraries in the British Isles from May.

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Although sister ship MSC Grandiosa – also a “Meraviglia Plus” class of ship – has been operating off the coast of Italy from Genoa, after a year of almost no sailings and uncertainty, this is clearly welcome news.

“I’m very happy that we made it and that we’re ready to welcome the first guests on board,” Pronzati says.

Developing a humanoid robot barman for cruise

The project to develop Rob – which is believed to be the world’s first humanoid robot bartender at sea – started in 2015. A pandemic and the ensuing global shutdown was not accounted for in the project timeline, but Pronzati calls the creation of Rob his best achievement.

“This is not me, it’s my team and all of us together,” he says. “Being able to progress in such a hard time of our lives has been a huge challenge. It’s still quite unbelievable that we were able to do it.”

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The journey started with Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago’s zeal for technology. “He’s always passionate about technology and innovation as a way of elevating the customer experience,” explains Pronzati, which led them to look at the potential of robotic automation as a way of offering something new and different on board.

“An express request from Mr Vago was not only to have an industrial robotic arm shaking cocktails,” he explains. “He really wanted to go a step further into robotics and automation and have a humanoid which could offer a kind of humanoid to human interaction, elevating the bar experience.”

As well as a voice, Rob needed to be a fully-functional barman, and show his sympathetic ear with facial expressions and a personality. For inspiration, the team started by researching the technology around Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar, which has two mechanical arms that make drinks to order.

It was clear to them that creating a human-like operation was poles apart from an automation perspective. “It’s a completely different challenge,” he says.

The challenge of finding the right partners

The journey to understanding how to create a robotic barman with two arms, a body and a head led them to the Italian Institute of Technology (IIT), in Genoa.

“They have developed, I think, the most sophisticated robot on the earth today, called the iCub,” says Pronzati, who himself studied robotics in Genoa.

The iCub is the size of a five-year-old child, and can sit, walk and manipulate objects. However, the team soon realised that the robot was so sophisticated that it would not work for a commercial cruise ship setting. Yet the experience provided inspiration and they learned about “the limitations and peculiarities” that had to be taken into consideration.

While researching other avenues, the team had an approach back from IIT. “They were interested to translate the complexity back down into a commercial application that could be delivered on the ship,” explains Pronzati. For the next 18 months they worked together to develop a potential humanoid.

“It was very challenging, we were progressing quite significantly, but the complexity came up when we had to close the deal,” he says. “Being a scientific institution and not a private company they were really struggling to be in a position to offer a service to a private company who will, for example, go over the weekend for maintenance and support.”

With 2,421 staterooms and a capacity for 6,334 guests – as well as five pools, 19 decks, 11 restaurants and 20 other bars – MSC Virtuosa is an enormous operation. As one of the star attractions on the new ship, maintenance and round-the-clock support for Rob and the Starship Club is vital.

“The Italian Institute of Technology doesn’t do this kind of job,” Pronzati continues, “it’s a completely different organisation.”

Unfortunately, IIT and MSC Cruises had to part ways. “I cannot say this was negative,” Pronzati says. “I think this is part of the process and of the progress we’ve made over the years.”

Progressing with partners in a pandemic

After scouting other companies, Pronzati explains that they were able to deliver the experience by combining the expertise of several stakeholders who were involved in different areas. These included Japanese company Kawasaki Robotics, a specialist in robotic automation, and Siena-based Mainit, which develops, manufactures and installs humanoid robots.

The project was progressing well until Covid-19 arrived in Italy last February. “We were not prepared at all, it has been one of the biggest challenges,” Pronzati says. “Since the first lockdown we had to immediately switch to remote working and when you’re having to deal with physical objects it is not the easiest of tasks.”

It was only possible to keep going due to the effort Ponzati’s team made to overcome the setbacks. They were adapting and operating out of their own apartments in order to push ahead with the different activities and one team member had to set up a data centre at home so they could continue with the software development testing.

Creating Rob’s human personality

Finding a human-like personality for Rob was another significant challenge, because as well as being charming and welcoming, they wanted to make him funny. While he can’t reply to guests – this simply isn’t possible in a loud, crowded bar environment – he can speak eight languages.

It was important to find the right tone of voice for each of the languages. They also decided to alter Rob’s personality so it would change throughout the day and programmed his speech to match the expressions on his LED-screen face. The team worked with several different companies to find the right voices, expressions and interactions.

To ensure that Rob’s shaking, stirring and mixing of the cocktails was carried out with the right precision, they brought in an expert barman and fitted him with sensors. “The sensors gathered thousands of pieces of data which were used when programming Rob to ensure that his shaking, shirring and mixing was done with the same force to expertly create the cocktails, just as if they had been made by hand,” says Pronzati.

An immersive inter-galactic experience

In addition to Rob the humanoid robot, the experience at the Starship Club is made up of a network of digital touchpoints that are designed to immerse guests in a vision of the spaceship of the future.

These include 3D holograms projecting futuristic advertisements, an outer space weather forecast and an interactive “infinity” table where guests can explore the solar system or play arcade games.

At an ordering station, guests can request a personalised or a ‘Galactic’ cocktail, which is not available anywhere else on the ship, and takes Rob just two minutes to conjure. Having just experienced a couple of cocktails made by Rob for himself, Pronzati confirms that the experience is very nice and immersive.

“It is another great achievement for the team,” he says, confirming that over 30 stakeholders have been involved overall to create the experience.

“At the start of the pandemic we were in shock because we didn’t know how to move forward, but our different operational model has been successful – you need to have the right people and the right partners.”

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The 9 best party cruises for 2024.

The best party cruises have something fun for everyone.

The Best Party Cruises

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You won't be bored on a party cruise.

The magic of a cruise vacation is created with culinary delights, exotic ports of call, comfortable accommodations, carefully curated spaces and, of course, parties. These onboard celebrations can take many forms: large dance parties and quiet lounges, family-friendly and adults-only, adrenaline-pumping and relaxing activities, elegant and come-as-you-are events, and entire ships transformed into themed cruises .

Prepare for fun times on the following ships hosting the best party cruises at sea.

Royal Caribbean: Oasis of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Explore the eastern and western Caribbean aboard Oasis of the Seas , one of the largest cruise ships in the world. On this 6,771-passenger vessel, 18 decks of fun and 2,109 crew members await your next voyage.

• Bionic Bar: For late-night parties where "mixology meets technology," order cocktails from unexpected bartenders: robots! These two specialized tech creations are well-versed in classic alcoholic and nonalcoholic cocktails, and they can also mix a bespoke drink designed by you.
• Adrenaline-pumping amenities: Get ready for day and night thrills at four separate venues. Ripcord by iFly is billed as the only skydiving simulator at sea; North Star allows cruisers to snap stunning photos from the tallest viewing deck found on any cruise ship; Sky Pad provides a virtual reality experience while patrons jump on a bungee trampoline; and the Ultimate Abyss, named the tallest slide at sea, plunges 10 stories down.
• Surprise events: Scattered throughout the ship are several surprise activities that pop up among the scheduled itinerary of events. Join a toga party; boogie at a disco brigade; dress for a masquerade party; or transport back in time at an '80s-inspired extravaganza.

Book a  Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Carnival: Liberty

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Cruise for two to 14 days through the Caribbean, Bahamas or Panama Canal on the 2,974-passenger Carnival Liberty . In addition to decks of party fun, cruisers can dine at eateries designed by famous chefs, watch live sports and movies under the stars, and enjoy activities with the kids.

• Sailaway Party/Mega Deck Party: Get the party started on launch day at the Sailaway Party, where all passengers can gather for music, dancing, drinks and smiles. Then, see everyone again at the open-air Mega Deck Party under the stars on the Lido Deck, complete with more dancing, games and giveaways.
• RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar: Taste the flavors of the tropics at these two popular venues for drinks, music and good times. Choose from a chill menu of cocktails and specialty beer while you stay cool by the pool.
• Fun and games: If parties with your friends include spirited competition, this is your ship. In addition to showing off your skills on the basketball court and obstacle-filled mini golf course, play cornhole, sign up for the scavenger hunt and compete in art games. Then, try your luck gambling in the casino, playing bingo, and joining the "Deal or No Deal" onboard game show.

Find a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages: Scarlet Lady

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Bring your fabulous self aboard Scarlet Lady , the inaugural ship of Virgin Voyages , an adults-only cruise line . Fares include all food, essential drinks, Wi-Fi access, tips, group fitness classes, entertainment and more than 50 onboard events and activities for 2,770 sailors.

• Drag brunch and dance party: Join the ladies in the Razzle Dazzle restaurant for an early meal seasoned with glitz, glam, humor and style. Then, spend an evening in The Red Room, where drag queens bring the party to life with dances and banter.
• Scarlet Night Party: Wear your best scarlet attire and immerse yourself in the saga of a "mysterious goddess of the sea and the sailor who won her heart." The whole vessel becomes part of the story with games, tales, live music, pop-up performances, a red pool and a late-night dance party.
• The Manor: Bring your dancing shoes and enter this two-level nightclub through a hall of glittery mirrors. Inside are drinks, music and the Festival Stage Acts – a collection of rotating comedy acts that change every few weeks.
• Studio 72: Dance to the beats of the '70s and early '80s at this high-energy venue. Live music, light shows and surprises await.

Explore Virgin Voyages deals on GoToSea.

MSC Cruises: Divina

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

This 4,345-passenger ship combines modern comfort with eco-friendly tech in an atmosphere of Golden Age glamour. You'll enjoy lots of party venues on Divina 's two- and three-night cruises in the Caribbean.

• Bars and lounges: Spend time with friends in your choice of 17 themed spaces, including a cigar bar, a jazz bar, a sports bar, indoor/outdoor/poolside bars, Italian lounges and the casino. Then, try your talents at karaoke (available in multiple languages).
• High-tech spaces: A stocked video arcade, cyber cafe and full-size Formula 1 racecar simulator await.
• Get Together parties: Gather with likeminded cruisers from across the world during special events like the Veterans Get Together, Solo Guests Cocktail Party and LGBTQIAP+ Get Together.
• Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve: Book a cruise that includes a stop at this exclusive private island in The Bahamas. Step off the ship and head to the sand for a day of sun, fun and exploration with your shipmates. Scuba dive, climb the lighthouse, rent a cabana, have a spa treatment or sip your favorite beverage by the sea.

Compare MSC Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Breakaway

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Take a transatlantic voyage or book a cruise in the Caribbean or Mediterranean on this 3,963-passenger ship. Refurbished in 2020, Breakaway offers a quarter-mile oceanfront promenade, unique entertainment venues, and a host of complimentary and specialty dining options.

• Spice H20: Pool party by day; dance party by night. This transformative space, inspired by Ibiza's beach parties, offers cruisers a refreshing dip in the pool, hot tubs and a waterfall when the sun is high. Return after dark to enjoy the venue's dance floor and large video screen.
• Skyy Vodka Ice Bar: Escape the heat in the coolest spot on the ship – a frozen bar. Sip specialty drinks in this adults-only spot inspired by Scandinavian ice hotels. The bar, tables, decor, seats and glasses are all made of ice.
• Syd Norman's Pour House: Step back in time at this classic rock 'n' roll venue built to look like the intimate, gritty clubs of days gone by. Performers bring to life all the top tunes of the '60s, '70s and '80s while the crowd sings along.
• Bliss Ultra Lounge: Stay out on the dance floor all night long at this high energy lounge. The distinctly nightclub vibe is created by DJs spinning up-tempo music, ultraviolet lights, plasma screens and a delicious selection of cocktails.

Book a  Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

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Celebrity Cruises: Apex

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Elevate your celebrations of important life events aboard the sleek Celebrity Apex . Work with a specialist to plan a luxury wedding, vow renewal or engagement party on a sailing through Europe or the Caribbean. Itineraries include the Norwegian Fjords, the Mediterranean, the Cayman Islands , the Bahamas and more.

• Magic Carpet: Gather with friends and family at this unique venue. The cantilevered, floating platform is perched out over the ocean on the starboard side and can move to different decks during the voyage. Room for 100 guests, a full bar, live music and views up to 13 stories above sea level create a memorable experience.
• Resort Deck: Enjoy multiple locations throughout this architecturally pleasing space decorated with various art installations. Intimate cabanas sit near the swimming pool, bar and two-story martini hot tubs, while the covered adults-only Solarium is a luxurious spot to unwind. Additionally, the Rooftop Garden offers cocktails, dining, comfy seating, live performances and games. This venue can accommodate up to 270 guests for day and night fun.
• Eden: Choose this glass-wrapped, three-story, 11,800-square-foot space for your next party. This popular venue features tranquil gardens, constantly shifting views, cozy seating, fresh air and an array of nightly events.

Find a Celebrity Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line: Disney Wish

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Make memories on a multigenerational cruise packed with parties for all the ages aboard the 4,000-passenger Disney Wish . Discover a host of family-friendly sights and sounds to delight everyone on this new Disney Cruise Line ship.

• Oceaneer Club: Entertain cruisers ages 3 to 12 at five Disney-themed spaces: Marvel Super Hero Academy, Star Wars Cargo Bay, Mickey and Minnie Captain's Deck, Imagineering Lab, and Fairytale Hall. The fun includes training as a super hero recruit; an interactive creature challenge; nautical-themed games; hands-on activities; and arts and crafts.
• Edge/Vibe/The Hideaway: Hang out with friends at these three popular clubs for tweens and teens . Counselor-led activities and photo wall backdrops in the chic loft are perfect for cruisers ages 11 to 14. A funky, Parisian art loft awaits those ages 14 to 17, while young adults ages 18 to 20 can plan private parties at The Hideaway.
• Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge/Keg & Compass: Enjoy some adults-only time at two venues created for grown-up gatherings. At night, the ship's Star Wars-themed lounge becomes a destination for signature cocktail tastings. Or, grab a craft beer and cheer on your favorite sports team in the pub space inspired by Viking ships.
• Pirate Night: Dress as your favorite buccaneer for a swashbuckling good time with the whole family. Shows, trivia, dancing with Disney characters, special effects and fireworks with Captain Jack Sparrow create a night to remember.

Explore Disney Cruise Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean: Themed Cruises

Sailing on a themed cruise with Royal Caribbean International is a nonstop party. Pick your favorite pastime, hobby or passion and book an immersive experience on a ship full of fun folks who share your interests.

• Star Trek: The Cruise VII, Mariner of the Seas : Explore the Caribbean alongside an impressive list of stars from STNG, DS9, Voyager and more. Hang out in the Star Lounge, Studio B, pubs, bars and night clubs with your fellow Trekkies.
• The '80s Cruise, Mariner of the Seas: Step back in time and get ready to sing and dance on this seven-day, all-inclusive cruise . More than 50 concerts are planned for this voyage, including '80s music star performances by 38 Special, Debbie Gibson, Ray Parker Jr., Wang Chung, Sheena Easton and many more.
• The Old School Cruise 2024, Navigator of the Seas : Rock with the old school bands of the '60s, '70s and '80s on this cruise sailing from California. Kool & the Gang, Club Nouveau, Midnight Star and more provide the music for this retro dance party.
• Super Legends 2024, Navigator of the Seas: Take an epic musical cruise with the timeless legends of old school, Latin soul, freestyle and Tejano, all on one voyage. This three-night concert at sea sails roundtrip from Los Angeles.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara: Journey

Revel in elegant merriment aboard this mid-sized luxury ship. If stylish celebrations are what you seek, the 690-passenger Azamara Journey is the perfect setting.

• Club Crooner: Enjoy the musical stylings of the great crooners from the past and present at this swanky onboard nightclub. Talented performers channel their inner Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Michael Bublé, Natalie Cole and others for an evening of songs and cocktails.
• And the Beat Goes On: Join in the songs and dances from the greatest hits through time via a musical journey across genres. Set lists include famous tunes by Madonna, Ricky Martin, Katy Perry, Journey and many more.
• Six Strings: Watch the singers and dancers at this venue of classic rock with an acoustic vibe. Reminisce with tunes from The Beatles, Pat Benatar, Aerosmith, Queen, The Rolling Stones and others.
• Onboard fun: For daytime fun, challenge your shipmates to tournaments in darts, table tennis and trivia. In the evenings, enjoy the tunes of pianists, a quartet, a five-piece band and a DJ spinning dance music – or make your own music with a night of karaoke. Be sure to bring white attire to wear at the signature White Night festivities, which include special food and drinks, live music, and dancing on the pool deck.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Angela Minor fell in love with cruising during her first voyage as a teenager aboard the SS Emerald Seas where she performed on the ship. Her voyages have taken her into the Caribbean, the Atlantic, the Pacific and Alaska, where she once lived on an island. Minor used her extensive travel knowledge and research skills to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
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