Royal Caribbean International to refresh Utopia of the Seas with new non-smoking casino

Royal Caribbean International’s Utopia of the Seas is set to debut several onboard updates this May, including the addition of a larger non-smoking casino and a redesigned loyalty lounge.

The enhancements are intended to refine the guest experience aboard the newest ship in the Oasis Class, which currently sails short cruises from Port Canaveral.

The most significant change involves the creation of a new non-smoking casino, scheduled to open by May 9^th, 2025, replacing The Attic, which currently serves as a nightclub and comedy club. 

Once the transformation is complete, comedy programming will shift to the Royal Theater, the ship’s main entertainment venue.

Also underway is the relocation and expansion of the Crown Lounge, a dedicated space for Royal Caribbean’s most loyal guests. 

The lounge will move to a larger location currently used as the teen club. While the teen area will be reduced in size, the relocation is expected to provide an upgraded lounge environment for frequent cruisers. 

The new Crown Lounge is projected to open between May 30th and June 2^nd, 2025. The current lounge will remain open throughout the renovation period, with all of the ship’s refurbishment work being down while she remains in service.

These updates reflect a broader shift in Royal Caribbean’s strategy for its Oasis Class vessels operating in the short cruise market. A

ccording to Mitch Merucci—formerly a cruise director and now part of the company’s sales team—similar upgrades are planned for Wonder of the Seas, which is set to begin offering three- and four-night Bahamas cruises from Port Canaveral in August 2025.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, Utopia of the Seas entered service in July 2024 as the sixth Oasis Class ship and the first to be dedicated entirely to short itineraries. 

The vessel accommodates 5,714 guests and sails year-round from Port Canaveral, offering three- and four-night cruises that include calls in Nassau and at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

With the upcoming changes, Utopia of the Seas is positioned to enhance its appeal to both casual travellers and returning Royal Caribbean guests seeking a short, high-quality cruise experience with expanded entertainment and upgraded loyalty amenities.