Explorer of the Seas is the next of Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships to go into dry-dock for a major refit and refurbishment in a billion dollar project the cruise line is calling Royal Amplified.
Explorer of the Seas is the fourth ship in the Voyager Class to be transformed as part of the cruise line’s Royal Amplified fleet modernization effort, at a cost of US $110-million.
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The ship will receive The Perfect Storm racer waterslides, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, a standalone Starbucks outlet, a redesigned, resort-style poolscape with signature poolside bar The Lime & Coconut and transformed kids and teens spaces.
All of this will be done ahead of her May 7th, 2020, cruise program from Rome (Civitavecchia) offering 7- and 9-night itineraries to the best of Italy and the Greek isles, from Santorini to Mykonos and Crete. Explorer will be the first of the ‘Royal Amplified’ ships to homeport in the Italian capital.
On The Perfect Storm, passengers race each other through three stories of twists and turns on Cyclone and Typhoon
Up on the pool deck, the hugely popular Perfect Storm due of slides that let passengers race each other down several decks, will join the line-up of Royal Caribbean favourites already in play, like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock-climbing wall and mini-golf (in addition to basketball, soccer and volleyball available on the Sports Court).
A re-imagined pool area will be introduced with a new, resort-style look and all-day island vibes, much like those being developed aboard Navigator of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas.
Lime & Coconut (recently introduced aboard Navigator of the Seas as pictured here) will be added to Explorer of the Seas’ pool deck
The intention is to create the ultimate place to unwind under the sun or stars with a wider variety of seating, from hammocks and daybeds to casitas and in-pool loungers. Adults looking for alone time can also escape to the rejuvenated Solarium.
The Lime & Coconut, Royal Caribbean’s signature, poolside bar, will be introduced here. The three-level slice of the Caribbean will serve up live music, cocktails and the best views of the action on board as well as the Mediterranean landscape from the rooftop deck.
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During the refurbishment, Royal Caribbean will expand on the diverse offering of restaurants, bars and lounges, which already include Asian cuisine at Izumi, the popular Chops Grille American steakhouse, Boleros Latin lounge, Schooner Bar and more.
Giovannis to be introduced aboard Explorer of the Seas
Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen (the cruise line’s new take on its signature Italian restaurant) will be added. The reimagined trattoria will welcome guests to a casual setting and offer classics with a contemporary flair, from hand-tossed pizzas fresh out of the oven and made to order, to charcuterie delights.
Playmaker’s Sports Bar
Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, a high-energy spot where guests can root for their home team as the game plays across 52 TVs, will debut on-board, offering an extensive menu of bar fare favourites with a twist and ice-cold brews.
It will also have games of all kinds available, from arcade classics, trivia, and tournaments to pool, and even an Owner’s Box VIP area.
Johnny Rockets Express will be introduced poolside with American favourites and a standalone Starbucks will come aboard with its signature menu of drinks and pastries.
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Then there’s all the new entertainment and activities being introduced. From a new laser tag experience to a top-to-bottom redesign of the dedicated kids and teens spaces, everyone can revel in the excitement.
Glow-in-the-dark laser tag will debut in Studio B, the venue that doubles as an ice-skating rink for guests and jaw-dropping shows. The latest Royal Caribbean challenge, Clash for the Crystal City will bring two clans – the Yetis and Snowshifters – head to head in the ultimate faceoff to escape extinction.
Adventure Ocean Junior
The new Adventure Ocean will come to life following a major makeover. The award-winning program for younger guests and their families introduces an open, imaginative layout with whimsical and immersive activities. Kids 6 to 12 years old can choose their own adventure, while babies and 3- to 5-year-olds enjoy specially designed spaces for each age group.
The new teen’s lounge
Last but not least, an exclusive teens hangout will sport a whole new look and features, including the latest in movies, gaming and music, and the addition of a private outdoor deck.
During its time in the Eastern Mediterranean, Explorer will be joined by the amplified Allure of the Seas, the Oasis-class ship cruising the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona.
Summer 2020 marks Royal Caribbean’s biggest season in Europe yet, with two amplified ships among the line-up sailing to bucket-list destinations filled with culture, history and adventure.
After her Mediterranean season, Explorer of the Seas will reposition to the Caribbean. Guests can choose from 5- and 9-night Eastern and Southern Caribbean sailings, roundtrip from Miami, including visits to Royal Caribbean’s new private island destination – Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Royal Amplified is an investment of more than US $1 billion, across 10 ships in four years, the program touches every facet of the guest experience and introduces a wide range of thrilling adventures spanning one-of-a-kind attractions and experiential dining and nightlife.
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