This Iconic Royal Caribbean Ship Is Getting a $100 Million Update — What to Know

08.08.2024 - 19:38 / travelandleisure.com / Royal Caribbean / Jay Schneider

Royal Caribbean first introduced the Allure of the Seas in 2010, but now nearly 15 years later, the cruise line's Oasis Class ship is getting a significant makeover.

The more than $100 million “glow-up” as Royal Caribbean puts it, will feature over 35 bars and restaurants, resort-style pools on a reimagined pool deck, racing waterslides, a NASA-themed escape room, and more. The revamped ship — a long time coming with original renovations planned for 2020 — will hit the high seas in April 2025 with trips to European hotspots like Marseille in France and Palma de Mallorca in Spain.

“Allure will be reimagined with the best of Royal Caribbean and what travelers love,” said Jay Schneider, the chief product innovation officer at Royal Caribbean International, in a statement. “Between new favorites, like the Pesky Parrot tiki bar, and experiences that unlock core memories time and time again… Allure will have even more of everything that makes it a standout favorite.”

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

As part of the transformation, Royal Caribbean will up the onboard thrills, including adding its “Ultimate Abyss” 10-story dry slide and “The Perfect Storm,” made up of racing water slides and a circular champagne bowl. 

Kids aren’t forgotten either with a new Splashaway Bay complete with child-friendly slides, water cannons, drench buckets, and more. Another new pool area, complete with in-pool loungers and daybeds, will appeal to even the most discerning adult guests.

The cruise line will also up the ante on indoor fun with a new Apollo 18-themed escape room, a glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena (which will take place on a transformed ice rink), and revamped kids club spaces.

In addition, Royal Caribbean will update its onboard eateries, adding a Caribbean tiki bar called the Pesky Parrot, a new sports bar and arcade, and a southern comfort food spot, The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar, which is currently only available on two of the company’s newer ships, the Wonder and Utopia of the Seas.

Michel Verdure/Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

Regarding staterooms, the cruise line will welcome guests to stay in its brand-new Ultimate Panoramic Suites, which will feature breathtaking 200-degree ocean views above the ship’s bridge.

Currently, the Allure of the Seas welcomes 5,496 guests at double occupancy and includes some of Royal Caribbean’s signature features, such as a zip line, an AquaTheater, a carousel, and an outdoor Central Park in the middle of the ship.

The Allure will sail across Europe next spring before heading to Fort Lauderdale in November 2025.