• My family recently visited Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, home of Potcake Place K9 Rescue.
• A potcake is a mixed-breed street dog in the Caribbean, and the rescue lets volunteers walk them.
• My family loved doing this and plan to volunteer again the next time we visit Providenciales.

Several years ago, my family visited Turks and Caicos as part of a cruise itinerary. While researching things to do there, I read about a dog rescue where volunteers could walk puppies.

Sadly, our cruise port was on Grand Turk and Potcake Place K9 Rescue on Providenciales — two different (and very far apart) islands in Turks and Caicos, which is made up of 40 main islands and cays.

Recently, though, as my family headed to an all-inclusive resort in Turks and Caicos, I was delighted to learn we'd be on the same island as Potcake Place.

So, we made plans to take a taxi from our resort into town and visit the shelter.

Potcakes are mixed-breed stray pups who live on many Caribbean islands

A potcake is a term for a dog native to the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. The name came about because locals once fed the stray animals the remains in their cooking pots.

Although there's no exact formula for a potcake's DNA, the breed is essentially a mixed-breed street dog.

They're social and food-oriented and can be seen roaming the streets throughout these countries as strays. Contrary to popular belief, they are not wild dogs, simply domestic breeds without homes.

Potcake Place runs on donations with a mission to reduce the number of homeless potcakes on the island, in part by adopting rescues out to approved, screened homes.

And, if you happen to be visiting Providenciales, you can volunteer to walk one of its dogs.

We were given helpful instructions for walking our pup

Beyond the $30 cab ride we took into town, the experience was completely free.

To walk a puppy, we got to Potcake Place a little before 10 a.m. and waited in line with many other visitors who were there to volunteer.

After filling out a form and waiting our turn, a volunteer brought Heidi out to meet us.

A sweet black-and-white pup who was just a few months old, Heidi was handed off to us with a leash and a tote full of poop bags, treats, water, and a collapsible bowl.

We were told we could walk her all over the town and given some simple rules: Heidi had to be back to the rescue by 12:30 p.m., and we should stick to dog-friendly parts of town.

A volunteer also suggested some good, dog-walker-friendly spots, including a local coffee shop and the Ritz Carlton in town.

This was an incredible way to soak up the sun and sightsee

After a rundown of the rules, we were off with Heidi in tow.

Not only was she a super-sweet pup, but also this activity was an amazing way to explore downtown Providenciales.

We got coffee at a local shop, shopped for souvenirs, walked on the beach, and rested on the beautiful lawns of the Providenciales Ritz Carlton, all with Heidi leashed up next to us.

She seemed as thrilled to be out and about with us as we were to have her, even if she did get tired of walking a few times and needed to be carried (a possibility the volunteers at Potcake Place warned us about).

Spending a morning exploring Providenciales with my husband, two teenagers, and a puppy was everything I hoped it would be.

What's more, Potcake Place staff can help families adopt the dog they walk and get them home to the US.

I'd have brought Heidi back to Florida with us in a heartbeat, but my particular airline wouldn't allow it. If I visit the island again, I'll be sure to go back — and fly with a dog-friendly airline.

• The CDC randomly inspects and scores cruise ships to prevent the spread of stomach viruses.
• 27 cruise ships received a perfect score in 2024.
• Norovirus can spread quickly on packed vessels.

Not all cruise ships are created — or operated — equally.

In 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 13 bacterial and viral outbreaks (mostly norovirus) on ships. However, not every floating resort is damned to become a floating petri dish.

Quite the opposite — in 2024, the public health agency awarded perfect sanitation scores to 27 vessels.

Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu, is the most common virus to afflict cruises. Crowded ships provide an ideal setting for the highly contagious bug to spread fast, often through contaminated water, food, surfaces, and people.

Just as quickly, it can ruin your vacation — the four predominant symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain.

To help mitigate these incidents, the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program regularly inspects cruise liners and scores them from zero to 100.

The reviews — which include checking heavily trafficked areas like pools and children's activity centers — are random and unannounced.

Vermin and improperly stored food are big no-nos. In addition to the obvious, inspectors also look behind the scenes for more nuanced details, such as the dishwasher's water temperature and the frequency at which the pool's hair and lint strainer is disinfected.

The CDC has performed 151 inspections in 2024, including repeat inspections on 23 ships. The majority scored above 95, and 27 (listed below) have received perfect marks:

• Celebrity Apex — Celebrity Cruises (inspected November 10)
• Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises (inspected October 23)
• Norwegian Jade — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected October 21)
• Carnival Magic — Carnival Cruise Line (inspected October 13)
• Star Pride — Windstar Cruises (inspected September 29)
• Jewel of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International (inspected September 28)
• Serenade of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International (inspected September 10)
• Carnival Spirit — Carnival Cruise Line (inspected September 3)
• Zuiderdam — Holland America Line (inspected August 24)
• Viking Orion — Viking Ocean Cruises (inspected August 18)
• Seabourn Odyssey — Seabourn Cruise Line (inspected August 16)
• Norwegian Jewel — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected July 24)
• Oceania Regatta — Oceania Cruises (inspected July 24)
• Radiance of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International (inspected July 21)
• MSC Meraviglia — MSC Cruises (inspected July 9)
• Norwegian Bliss — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected June 22)
• MSC Seashore — MSC Cruises (inspected May 26)
• Norwegian Sky — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected May 23)
• Brilliance of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International (inspected May 16)
• Viking Polaris — Viking (inspected April 2)
• Celebrity Equinox — Celebrity Cruises (inspected February 25)
• Norwegian Breakaway — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected September 22)
• Norwegian Escape — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected January 27)
• Explora I — MSC Cruises (inspected January 25)
• Disney Fantasy — Disney Cruise Line (inspected January 24)
• Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises (inspected January 7)
• Norwegian Gem — Norwegian Cruise Line (inspected January 2)

In 2023, 24 vessels racked a perfect score.

• Cruise lines are spending millions on private islands and ports exclusive to their guests.
• These private Caribbean properties are money trees for companies like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.
• In-house destinations are becoming increasingly necessary amid rising fuel costs and port restrictions.

About 140 miles east of Miami, Royal Caribbean's private Bahamas island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, receives thousands of eager families virtually every day of the year.

The cruise line and its competitors don't just own ships — they also have land-based portfolios. Across the Caribbean and in countries like Honduras and Belize, almost every major cruise company has snatched up and developed beachfront properties exclusively for their guests.

To travelers, these secluded ports of call are convenient, safe, and cherished: "The vast majority of people love the islands," Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in March.

To cruise lines, they're cash cows. And now, maybe more than ever before, a necessity as operators seek out profits amid rising operating costs and ever-restrictive ports.

The industry is cruising into a private island renaissance

Cruise lines like Princess, Holland America, and MSC collectively own 17 ports and private destinations in the Caribbean (including properties still under development).

Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told analysts in 2023 that the CocoCay had seen robust demand, including from repeat travelers. As such, the financial returns on the $350 million investment have been "exceptionally high and significantly above its target," Naftali Holtz, CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, said a few months prior.

Given travelers' appetite, the cruise giant has continued to grow its splashy Bahamas getaway.

The most recent extension opened in January, adding the adult-only Hideaway Beach to CocoCay's 14-slide waterpark, upscale beach club, massive pool, and umbrella-lined beaches. Perfect Day Mexico is set to open in 2027.

Carnival is also growing its real estate portfolio — next with Celebration Key, a $600 million resort on Grand Bahama Island scheduled to open in 2025, and expansions to its private Half Moon Cay a year later.

Private ports have become a cruise line goldmine for three major reasons.

1. Fuel is expensive

Fuel is a major expense for the cruise industry. Fortunately, most Caribbean private destinations are only a night's sailing from Florida's major ports.

Amid rising fuel costs, it's easy to see why cruise lines are increasingly focusing their itineraries on these nearby stops.

In September 2023, Josh Weinstein — president, CEO, and chief climate officer of Carnival Corp — called the forthcoming Celebration Key a "win-win-win for the environment, our guests, and the people of the Bahamas," citing the property's proximity to its Florida homeports and the subsequent reduced fuel expenditure.

It could certainly be a "win" for travelers: In the same call, he told analysts that a guest-fronted fuel surcharge is "certainly not off the table."

2. Private destinations keep profits in-house

These private ports offer plenty of opportunities for guests to spend big. And with no need for third-party excursion operators, cruise lines can keep more profits in-house.

Before its debut, pre-cruise bookings for CocoCay's new Hideaway Beach surpassed the company's expectations, Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in October 2023.

Admission can cost up to $89 per person during peak season. Nearby, entry to the more exclusive beach club could be shy of triple that cost.

Even the otherwise complimentary parts of the island have splurge-enticing options like rentable cabanas and snorkeling gear.

Travelers content with a basic beach chair and the lunch buffet don't have to ball out on these up-charged luxuries. But they sure are hard to resist, especially as cruisers have become eager to spend more on their vacations.

For families, skipping CocoCay's waterpark could be as sacrilegious as skipping Disney World during an Orlando vacation, Scholes said. A day pass to Thrill Waterpark can exceed $100 per person — that's more than $400 down the drain for a family of four in one afternoon.

3. Some popular ports are saying 'no' to giant cruise ships

The world's largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, can carry 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew.

This sudden influx of travelers could overwhelm smaller destinations and their locals, like the more than 25,000 residents of Santorini, Greece, and 25,600 of Key West, Florida.

With concerns like pollution and over-tourism, it's no surprise the popular Greek island limits daily cruise visitors, while its Florida counterpart has faced a fraught battle to restrict cruise tourism.

They're not alone. Cities across the US and Europe have increasingly limited travelers coming by sea — either through size restrictions, daily visitor limits, or complete bans. This includes desirable ports like Juneau, Alaska, French Polynesia, and Venice, Italy.

Ironically, at the same time, mass-market cruise lines have continued to grow the size of their vessels — so much so that several of these new mega-ships are now simply too big to fit into some ports.

So, if you can't beat the ports, why not join them? Especially if you can outfit your private properties with dozens of profit-growing amenities.

• The CDC randomly inspects and scores cruise ships to prevent the spread of stomach viruses.
• The average score of vessels in 2024 is 95.9 out of 100 — 85 or less is considered failing.
• The nine dirtiest ships scored between 86 to 89. Two others failed but passed in later reviews.

A "B" is considered a passing grade on most exams.

For cruise ships, scoring an 85 out of 100 on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Vessel Sanitation Program review is considered a failure.

In 2024, the CDC reported 13 bacterial and viral outbreaks on ships. Most incidents were of norovirus, a highly contagious bug that quickly spreads through tainted food, water, surfaces, or people.

Best not to be a victim. Its main symptoms — vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain — can quickly ruin a vacation.

To mitigate these outbreaks, the CDC conducts random and unannounced sanitary inspections on cruise ships. The public health agency then scores the vessel from zero to 100, with outcomes of 85 or lower considered inadequate.

The review includes checking common spaces like pools and children's activity centers. Obvious issues like vermin and improperly stored food will cost points. As will subtler problems, such as buffet handwashing stations with lights less than 110 lux and produce stickers left where cleaned cooking equipment is stored.

The CDC has performed 151 inspections in 2024, including repeat inspections on 23 ships. The average score is about 95.9. 27 vessels achieved perfect marks, while two failed but later passed in later reviews.

Nine vessels didn't break into the 90s range, including Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's ultra-luxury Evrima:

1. Hanseatic Inspiration — Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, scored 89 (inspected October 28, previously received a 62 on September 29)
2. Carnival Elation — Carnival Cruise Line, scored 89 (inspected March 14)
3. Adventure of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International, scored 89 (inspected January 23)
4. National Geographic Sea Bird — Lindblad Expeditions, scored 88 (inspected July 25)
5. Carnival Miracle — Carnival Cruise Line, scored 88 (inspected April 21)
6. MSC Magnifica — MSC Cruises, scored 86 (inspected May 17)
7. Evrima — Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, scored 86 (inspected February 9)
8. Carnival Breeze — Carnival Cruise Line, scored 86 (inspected March 21)
9. Caribbean Princess — Princess Cruises, scored 86 (inspected March 20)

Crystal Serenity received an 89 on February 2 but was bumped to a 90 seven months later. Similarly, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise received a failing score of 83 on May 1 but passed a subsequent inspection with a 92 on July 2.

What the cruise lines have said

A spokesperson for Hapag-Lloyd told Business Insider that Hanseatic Inspiration's initial lower score was a "very unfortunate incident" that didn't reflect the company's operational standards. "We have been consistently meeting strict hygiene requirements worldwide for many years with exemplary results," they said.

Following the inspection, the cruise line addressed the ship's "operational aspects" to meet its quality standards, as showcased in the vessel's follow-up passing score in October.

The spokesperson said lingering issues are "being addressed and will be completed in a timely manner," and the company will continue to improve its "quality management processes" particularly with regard to the requirements of the CDC."

Similarly, a spokesperson for MSC Cruises told BI in October it had implemented an "improvement plan" on MSC Magnifica according to the CDC inspector's suggestions. Many of the changes were immediate and only needed "minor" efforts, it said. The cruise line said that it believes Magnifica's score "is not a true reflection of the ship as it is today" and would "welcome any future inspection."

MSC noted that many of its ships frequently achieve above 90, including the MSC Meraviglia and MSC Seashore, which both received perfect marks in 2024.

Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Lindblad Expeditions, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Princess Cruises didn't respond to a request for comment.

• I've been to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, three times.
• The cruise line has seen strong demand for voyages to the profitable resort-like port.
• Royal is set to debut three resorts through 2027 as it competes in the growing cruise-owned destinations market.

Royal Caribbean is poised to build a vast and highly profitable vacation network — driven not solely by its cruise vessels but by its land-based portfolio.

The company's planned three Icon Class ships are expected to launch through 2027, coinciding with the debut of its next three private ports: Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in 2025, Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026, and Perfect Day Mexico in 2027.

At first glance, it may seem ironic for a vacation-at-sea company to invest millions into land-based destinations.

So, to understand Royal Caribbean's real estate conquest, look at the accomplishment of its first private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in October that its continued success can be partly attributed to its highest-rated port, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

I've visited the in-demand destination three times since 2022. It's no surprise the 5½-year-old Bahamian retreat has become the inspiration for the company's quickly growing private port-folio.

I relish the thrill of ultra-planned, stress-inducing travel where my survival relies on Google Maps and Translate.

However, behind this superiority complex, I also secretly love indulging in a vacation.

Not an emotionally taxing trip — a mushy-brained break where I get to rot on the beach and indulge in frivolous luxuries like guiltless naps and sugary beverages.

That about sums up why cruisers love Royal Caribbean's private island.

Some travelers criticize CocoCay for being an inauthentic Bahamian experience. While true, and for better or worse, that was never its promise.

The island was designed as an extension of Royal Caribbean's ships — a beach resort on steroids.

CocoCay is best for travelers who crave the conveniences of an all-inclusive resort: secure confinement, glittery beaches, and easy food and beverage kiosks.

The island has options for every type of paradise-seeking traveler. And much like going on a cruise, there's no need for planning as part of your visit (save for excursions like entry to its beach clubs). It's all set out for you.

For kids, CocoCay has a waterpark, a zipline, a water playground, and easygoing activities like ping-pong tables.

For adults, the island has two pool clubs: a boozy Vegas-style party at Hideaway Beach and a pricier high-end retreat at Coco Beach Club.

For traditionalists seeking a no-frills beach day, CocoCay's sandy waterfront is lined with innumerable lounge chairs and slow-sloping banks.

Plus, the island feels relatively safe.

Several popular cruise ports are in destinations where the US Department of State has issued travel advisories, such as Mexico's Ensenada, Baja (Level 3 — "reconsider travel" ) and Manzanillo, Colima (Level 4 — "do not travel").

The agency also suggests travelers "exercise increased caution" when visiting the Bahamas, home of CocoCay.

Yet, the island felt like one of the safest places I've recently toured.

CocoCay is only accessible by Royal Caribbean Group's ships.

As such, the only people there are its staff and the ship's crew and guests.

My biggest fear there? Getting a sunburn.

That's great news for concerned parents traveling with children or folks who may have read one too many cruise-related horror stories.

Most importantly, for Royal Caribbean, it's a proverbial goldmine.

Travelers love splurging during their daylong visit. The island doesn't require third-party excursion operators, allowing Royal Caribbean to maximize these profits.

Sections like the waterpark and beach clubs cost money to enter, from about $100 per person for the former to upward of $300 for Coco Beach Club.

Free parts of the island also have eye-catching upgrades, such as snorkeling equipment and costly cabanas.

Expect more opportunities to spend big at Royal Caribbean's coming properties.

Liberty told analysts that the cruise giant is "very mindful of having sizable significant returns" as it relates to its private properties. (It recently acquired the land for Perfect Day Mexico for $292 million.)

The company is using what it learned from CocoCay to design the Mexico location, which would also have free and paid amenities.

The same can't be said for the coming Royal Beach Club Collection.

The inaugural Paradise Island resort would accommodate about 4,000 guests a day. All would have to pay to enter, which would it a strong revenue driver.

For travelers, CocoCay is convenient, safe, amenity-rich, and beloved.

For Royal Caribbean, the island is a source of demand and increased revenue.

These private ports are a win-win all around, although competition could soon be stiff.

Carnival Corp is also racing to expand its private port portfolio.

The competing cruise giant plans to debut its $600 million private resort, Celebration Key, in 2025 and expand its existing private island, RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, in 2026. It's already selling 2026 itineraries that include both destinations, starting at about $350 per person for a four-day sailing.

• I spent three nights on Royal Caribbean's new Utopia of the Seas in mid-November.
• The world's second-largest cruise ship is operating short voyages to appeal to first-time cruisers.
• It's overwhelming, overstimulating, and great for cruise-curious travelers who might like action-packed ships.

Utopia of the Seas' list of amenities sounds like a holiday carol: 27 eateries, 18 bars, eight hot tubs, five pools, three waterslides (and a partridge in a pear tree?).

The new 5,668-guest ship's activities are the gifts that keep giving — maybe overwhelmingly so.

Royal Caribbean launched its 28th cruise ship, the world's second-largest, in July. Despite its gargantuan stature and equally sized list of amenities, Utopia is only operating three- and four-night cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida.

If you've traveled on Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis-class vessels, the new ship should feel familiar. If it's your first time on a cruise, Utopia will have succeeded in luring new guests — and you'll likely be overwhelmed.

This was my third Royal Caribbean cruise. Yet, even I was engulfed by its semi-controlled chaos.

The sprawling pool deck has three pools, a children's water playground, and three waterslides.

The music was loud, the unclaimed lounge chairs were sparse, and the waterslide lines were long.

I was especially partial to the two racing slides.

The third option, a toilet bowl-shaped slide, closed for maintenance halfway through my four-day voyage before I could attempt it.

Otherwise, I didn't spend much time at the pool deck. It was too chaotic, and I hated simmering shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers in the overloaded hot tubs.

The mega ship clocks in at 1,188 feet long. Plenty. of room for fun and games.

Lots of those activities are near the pools.

There, you'll find a mini golf course and playground, both great for kids. Or, head to the sports court for events like pickleball and basketball. (The ping pong tables are separate, wind-proofed behind glass walls.)

The surf simulator has viewing platforms for those who want a show.

Be wary of the zipline — you could spend more time in line than on the slow-moving ride. And if you don't look up upon landing, you might break your glasses (as my sister did).

At least the racing dry slides are foolproof (sorry, Ashley).

The slide's twists and turns spit riders out onto the wood-planked Boardwalk.

The neighborhood offers family-friendly activities reminiscent of a beachside pier: a carousel, a kid's netted climbing wall, arcade games, a Johnny Rockets, and a sports bar.

Splurge on sweets from the candy store. Then, sweat out the sugar high at the two rock climbing walls.

Revisit the Boardwalk in the evening for 'Aqua80too.'

The ship's Boardwalk area is anchored by the water-based Aquatheater, home of the swim, dance, dive, slackline, and tightrope-walking "Aqua80too" show.

The unforgettable performance, named after its nostalgic 1980s soundtrack, is as chaotic as the pool deck at 1 p.m., especially if you sit in the splash zone.

Make time for it — you'll regret missing the thrilling performance.

There's also a figure skating show, 'Youtopia.'

Expect impressive twirls, jumps, and calisthenics.

It was an exceptional step up from the ice show on Utopia's predecessor, Wonder of the Seas, which I left early out of boredom.

Depending on the day, the rink also opens for free skating or transforms into a laser tag arena.

For a more traditional song-and-dance show, book 'All In.'

I rarely enjoy these staple cruise shows. However, "All In"'s unexpected acrobatics and detailed high-tech sets wooed me.

Was it as unique as the other two shows? No — but it was an inspired and feverish take on a tired formula.

That said, I'm tired of hearing covers of Walk the Moon's "Shut Up and Dance" on every ship.

Good luck finding a quiet reprieve from Utopia's frenzied energy.

So, you've sent the youngsters to the children's club. Now what?

Well, you're never far from the ship's 16 bars, six of which are in the mall-like Royal Promenade.

The tiki-themed Pesky Parrot is great for frozen drinks and conversing with the animatronic parrot. Or, grab a drink at Rising Tide, a platform that levitates between the Royal Promenade to Central Park throughout the day.

Boardwalk is for excitable children as Central Park is for overwhelmed parents.

Its plant-engulfed benches and restaurants are cocooned from the rest of Utopia, save for the looming echoes from the overhead pools.

It's Utopia's calmest section and a great place to play chess, listen to live jazz, or indulge in a glass of bubbles.

(Most cocktails are about $14. Wines and beers start at about $8 each.)

If the bars aren't enough, the ship also hosts themed parties.

Relive your young 20s with a silent toga and "Royal Kappa Chi."

For a less collegiate affair, lace up your dancing shoes for the cover band-directed Music Hall or the Latin band-led Boleros.

Otherwise, your only option for an adult-only reprieve will be the Solarium.

Utopia has almost no adult-only zones, save for the Solarium lounge's pools and hot tubs.

It's indoors, tucked under a glass-paneled dome. So, if you want to relax without the kids, you'll have to contend with the ever-present smell of chlorine and the lack of unfettered sunlight.

It's located near the Solarium Bistro, a contemporary Mediterranean-Californian restaurant with a breakfast buffet.

Its morning crowds are typically less chaotic than Windjammer, the primary all-day buffet, and El Loco Fresh, the Mexican-inspired buffet with long lunch lines.

The former serves relatively diverse options, such as an Indian-themed night.

You'll have some great meals on Utopia.

I ate most of my evening meals in the main dining room.

The menu rotates daily. Order the prime rib when available — it's one of the best I've had.

Other complimentary venues include the Boardwalk's hot dog stand (pass) and the two cafés (smash, especially the soup at Central Park's café).

Grab a drunk slice of pizza from Royal Promenade's Sorrento's or a mid-swim snack from the poolside Spare Tire.

17 of the ship's 27 dining options cost extra.

They're as small as $6 shave ice and as hefty as $155 per person omakase at Izumi.

Or, splurge on the Japanese restaurant's other options: teppanyaki, sushi, and bento box takeout.

Sit down for a bowl of pasta and glass of wine at the two-deck Giovanni's Italian Kitchen.

The terrace has a great view of the Boardwalk, where you can similarly pay for a burger from Johnny Rockets or wings from the adjacent sports bar.

For American fare, the ship has returning favorites like 150 Central Park (upscale and modern) and Chops Grille (a steakhouse).

Head to The Mason Jar for Southern comfort and Hooked Seafood for coastal classics.

Or, opt for the cruise line's first Royal Railway, an interactive train-themed restaurant that's as hard to book as it is pricey, starting at $120 per person.

You could try a new restaurant and bar every day without hitting any repeats.

The options to pass the time on Utopia are seemingly endless, from the four slides to arcade games to bar-hosted karaoke and trivia.

Not once did I sit still, wondering if I'd run out of things to do.

Instead the opposite — I intermittently retreated to my cabin, overwhelmed with decision paralysis.

If you're a hyperactive child, Utopia will be perfect. If you're seeking a quiet cruise, Utopia could be your worst nightmare.

If your family includes both active children and activity-reluctant parents, the floating summer state fair might still be a great option.

You won't be aboard Utopia longer than four days, enough time for kids to stay engaged with its amenities. It's a great trial run for cruise-curious travelers, especially those who might enjoy giant activity-packed ships.

A four-night Utopia voyage in 2025 currently starts at about $650 per person.

• You can vacation on a private Caribbean island for as cheap as $80 a day, so long as you go by cruise.
• Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival have islands exclusive to guests.
• These companies have been racing to expand their private island and resort portfolio.

Winter blues got you daydreaming about a private Caribbean island vacation? As expensive as they might sound, you don't have to break the bank to go to one.

Some are as cheap as $80 a day. Although, of course, there's a catch.

You'll have to go with thousands of other travelers — on a cruise ship, no less.

Many of the largest cruise companies own and operate private Caribbean islands just a day's sail from Florida's main terminals. These islands are only accessible by cruiseliners and are exclusive to their guests.

Once there, travelers can sunbathe on soft-sand beaches, snorkel with turtles in clear blue waters, and, of course, swim with pigs. Maybe for these reasons, travelers seem to love them — especially Royal Caribbean Group's Perfect Day at CocoCay, the company's highest-rated port, Jason Liberty, its CEO, told investors in October.

Families visiting CocoCay can spend their afternoon at the 14-slide waterpark. About a mile away, at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' larger 270-acre Great Stirrup Cay, adrenaline junkies can fly through the island's six-part zipline course.

At Carnival Corp's whopping 2,400-acre RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, guests can explore the beach by horseback.

Cruise ships generally stay docked at these private ports for less than a day. Yet, the value is comparatively hard to beat.

Carnival's Half Moon Cay itineraries are as affordable as $80 a day — not bad compared to neighboring private islands that could cost upward of $150,000 per night to rent.

But that doesn't mean every amenity at these cruise-owned destinations is cheap. If these savings give you the urge to splurge, a two-bedroom villa at Great Stirrup Cay's Silver Cove resort starts at about $1,430. Similarly, cabanas at CocoCay's luxurious beach club could cost upward of $1,600. (Don't worry — most of their beachside lounge chairs are free.)

The three cruise giants have hundreds of voyages planned to their islands in 2025. Carnival has about 200 scheduled — Royal Caribbean has more than double that.

These numbers are expected to grow in the coming years. Carnival and Norwegian plan to build multi-ship piers at their respective properties, with the latter opening in late 2025. This $150 million investment is expected to double Great Stirrup Cay's visitors the following year.

• Carnival Corp is growing its land-based portfolio with an expanded private island and a new resort.
• Carnival expects to spend $600 million on the coming Celebration Key.
• Popular cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have seen massive success with their private islands.

Carnival Corp is best known for its vacations at sea. Now, it's pouring millions into developing its on-land portfolio in a race to compete with Royal Caribbean's ever-expanding private resorts collection.

The cruise giant announced plans on Tuesday to expand its 27-year-old private island, Half Moon Cay (now renamed RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay), by the summer of 2026. It'll be a busy year for the company, which also expects to debut a new exclusive resort, Celebration Key, in the prior year.

The impending launches are part of a growing trend of land-based destinations to attract more travelers by cruise lines. It may sound ironic at first glance, but the real estate investments have been no laughing matter — the $600 million Celebration Key project is set to be Carnival Corp's largest.

Plans for the mile-long slice on Grand Bahama Island include more than 30 food and drink venues, an adult-only beach club, and a kid-friendly lagoon. So far, 20 of Carnival Cruise Line's 27 ships are scheduled to sail to the exclusive resort-like port.

Celebration Key is being billed as a beacon of exciting entertainment — seemingly antithetical to the peaceful white sand beaches of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.

Don't expect a new waterpark when the Caribbean island unveils its expansion in 2026. Instead, the mile-long beach would be updated with additional food and beverage venues, a new tram, expanded lounges, cabanas, and a second pier to accommodate Carnival's largest Excel class ships. (It plans to debut three larger ships starting in 2029.)

In 2026, Carnival itineraries that include both RelaxAway and Celebration Key start at about $350 per person for a four-day cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Travelers are already booking cruises to Celebration Key, half a year from its debut. With success seemingly impending, Dave Bernstein, Carnival Corp's CFO, told investors in October that the company expects the project to be a "smash hit and provide an excellent return on our investment."

The prediction should come as no surprise — competitor Royal Caribbean Group has already proven the star power of the private port playbook.

The cruise giant's recently expanded island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, is its highest-rated port. Using this momentum, the company plans to launch another private resort, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, in the Bahamas in December 2025.

Like Celebration Key, the 17-acre getaway would have 10 bars and several pools and beaches, including some for families. Travelers would have to pay for admission, but once inside, the resort would be all-inclusive.

Expect to see more from Royal Caribbean's real estate pipeline — Paradise Island will inaugurate its Royal Beach Club Collection. And in 2027, the cruising powerhouse plans to launch Perfect Day Mexico, another private port it recently acquired for $292 million.

• Royal Caribbean's latest ship, Utopia of the Seas, is operating short voyages to attract first-timers.
• In mid-November, I spent three nights on Utopia, the world's second-largest cruise ship.
• Here's what to expect if it's your first cruise.

Royal Caribbean's latest ship, Utopia of the Seas, has more than 40 restaurants and bars across eight neighborhoods and three waterslides. Yet most travelers will only be on the ship for a few days.

The world's second-largest cruise ship, which launched in July, sails exclusively on three- and four-night Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, in a bid to appeal to first-time cruisers and newcomers to the brand.

So far, the strategy is paying off.

Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean's parent company, told analysts in late October that demand for the ship has been "incredible," as fares and onboard revenue have surpassed the company's expectations.

If you're one of the newbies booked on a 2025 Utopia of the Seas cruise, here's my unofficial guide to the mega-ship.

Lace up your walking shoes — the 1,188-foot-long floating resort's cabins and amenities are scattered across 18 decks.

A cluster of the most enticing activities is located on deck 16. There, you'll find a mini-golf course, racing dry slides, a playground, a surf simulator, a zipline, and a sports court next to a table tennis alcove.

Most of these amenities might have long lines during sea days.

The zipline is slow and short but worth trying once.

The mini-golf course is more exciting in the evening when its bright lights are on, and the daytime crowds are at dinner.

2 dry slides will expeditiously transport you down 10 decks to the Boardwalk, a great section for families with young children.

The area looks as its name describes, complete with a carousel, two rock climbing walls, a smaller netted climbing course for young children, and plenty of family programming.

It's a bustling compliment to Central Park, Utopia's most peaceful section.

The lush park is home to several food and beverage outposts.

Grab a glass of bubbles and take a break at one of the plant-lined benches. Or, start a game at the tables with built-in chess and checkerboards.

It wouldn't be a cruise without an afternoon at the pool. You'll have several to choose from.

Utopia of the Seas' busy, chair-lined pool deck is home to three pools, a children's water playground, and three waterslides.

Two are racing slides, while the other looks like a giant toilet bowl.

There are more opportunities to swim or simmer in hot tubs at the Solarium.

Drop the youngsters off at the children's and teens' clubs before heading in — the glass-ceiling-lined retreat is adult-only.

Most of Utopia's amenities are free, save for the arcade, escape room, and casinos.

Access to the large gym is also complimentary, but you'll have to pay for fitness classes or treatments at the adjacent spa and salon.

Wind down your busy day with a show.

Utopia has three primary nighttime productions: figure skating "Youtopia," song-and-dance "All In," and water-based acrobatics "Aqua80too."

Youtopia's ice rink is open to guests on select afternoons. On other days, it also doubles as a laser tag arena.

Reservations for the three shows go fast.

Be sure to book the shows in the app or when you first board the ship.

If you can't grab a seat, other entertainment includes comedy shows and live music, such as nighttime jazz in Central Park and cover bands at the lively Music Hall.

You'll have to reserve some restaurants in advance, too.

Royal Railway — a $120 per person immersive train-themed restaurant — has become a mega-hit on the mega-ship.

It's one of Utopia of the Seas' 27 dining options, 10 of which are complimentary.

Free snacks include a poolside ice cream kiosk and food truck. For more substantial meals, grab a plate from the buffet, a sandwich from the two cafés, or a hot dog on the Boardwalk.

Be prepared to pay extra for fancier dinners.

Dinners at Chops Grille (a steakhouse), Giovanni's (an Italian eatery), and Izumi (a Japanese restaurant) cost extra.

A meal at the seafood restaurant Hooked Seafood comes in at $65 per person, while Izumi charges about $155 for omakase.

Recognizable on-land favorites, like Starbucks and Johnny Rockets, also have an additional fee — as does shave ice at the surf simulator-adjacent bar and sweets from the candy store.

Don't feel pressured to spend big on dining.

If you forgo the buffet or specialty restaurants, the ship's three-deck main dining room will be your go-to for complimentary breakfasts and dinners.

The dinner menu rotates daily, and the food is pretty decent.

Expect to pay extra for drinks, too.

Cocktails cost about $10 to $14 each, with most on the pricier side. Beers and seltzers are $7.50 to $8, while glasses of wine are more expensive at $8 to $16.

If you're a big drinker, consider purchasing the more than $100-a-day deluxe beverage package.

There are plenty of venues for using your drink package.

Utopia has 16 bars.

If you're craving a poolside piña colada, head to one of two Lime and Coconut bars.

Looking to catch the latest game? Grab a pint at Playmakers, the sports bar.

If you're a wine drinker, Giovanni's Wine Bar will be perfect for you.

Prefer something hoppier? Bell and Barley is Utopia's take on an English pub.

It's located in the Royal Promenade, a mall-like walkway with six bars — perfect for a do-it-yourself crawl.

Start with a cocktail at the karaoke bar and end with a frozen "Pain Chiller" at the tiki-themed watering hole.

Feeling the "drunchies" coming on? Take a pit stop at the complimentary pizza slice shop.

There's a good chance your vacation will include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The mega-ship is scheduled for more than 100 voyages in 2025. All but one would include a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The tropical port is separated into several sections, from complimentary beaches to an extra-fee waterpark and pool club.

Unlike being on board Utopia, there's no need to rush from one area to another — you'll likely be docked there all morning through the afternoon.

• Cruise lines are increasingly expanding their land-based portfolio with private islands and ports.
• I've visited Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, three times.
• These are my seven tips to make the most of your day.

If you've booked a Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean, you'll likely visit the company's $350 million private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The Bahamian retreat, located about 140 miles east of Miami, receives thousands of Royal Caribbean Group guests almost daily. It's the cruise giant's "highest-rated destination," Jason Liberty, the company's CEO, told investors in October, adding that it "drives greater demand for the brand."

You'll likely enjoy CocoCay if you're fond of Royal Caribbean's activity-packed ships. Like its floating resorts, there's plenty to do, from riding the helium balloon to snorkeling in the clear blue waters.

Here are my seven tips to maximize your day there, from where to go with kids to where to find the best sweet treat.

1. The best lounge chairs will be claimed if you don't go early.

Don't expect to find a prime lounge chair by the water if you disembark the ship a few hours late. You'll still have options, but they might not be what you daydreamed about during the sea day.

2. Don't feel forced to splurge on the exclusive areas.

CocoCay has different areas for different travelers, whether you're an adult looking for a boozy party or a child looking for waterslides.

I've visited every section of the island, including the upcharged ones. Your experience won't be miserable if you stay in the free zones.

The complimentary beaches will be satisfactory if all you want is to lay in the sun and intermittently cool off in the ocean.

It can get noisy (the shoreline will likely be filled with sandcastle-building children). Still, they'll have everything you need for a proper beach day, including rows of lounge chairs, food stands, and outdoor activities like ping pong.

3. If you're seeking a tranquil retreat, consider Coco Beach Club.

Coco Beach Club is perfect for relaxing with your hands around a piña colada and your legs dipped in the infinity pool. It's the island's highest-end retreat, where visitors can take a quiet nap on the beach after their filling filet mignon and lobster sandwich lunch.

However, peace is a luxury — cruisers have reported entry fees between $200 to $300 per person.

If you're dead set on an upscale and calm experience, no other part of the island will compare. If you're not picky about ambiance or food, save your money.

4. For a party, head to the new adult-only Hideaway Beach.

If Coco Beach Club is for detoxing, Hideaway Beach is for "retoxing."

It's where Las Vegas pool clubs meet the Bahamian breeze — where a visit to the five bars will quickly teleport you to your glorious Greek life days.

Hideaway Beach is boozy, rowdy, and loud. There's no escaping the DJ's booming speakers.

You could drink anywhere around CocoCay — the island has more than 10 bars. But if you're exclusively looking for a Jersey Shore pool club-like ambiance, Hideaway Beach will be perfect.

Admission ranges from about $40 to $90 per person, a spokesperson told BI in February.

5. Looking to tire the kids out? Head to Thrill Waterpark.

The island's complimentary Oasis Lagoon pool, saddled with a water playground and swim-up bar, is popular with families. In my opinion, it looks like every other large resort pool.

For something more memorable, consider the waterpark. There, you'll find 14 waterslides, a wave pool, and another with jungle gym-like activities.

It's as fun, stomach-dropping, and exhausting as any traditional waterpark. Plus, there are plenty of lounge chairs for parents who'd rather sit out the tallest 135-foot-long slide.

Expect to pay around $100 per person.

6. The Snack Shakes have the best sweet treats on the island.

CocoCay has several complimentary buffets and food kiosks. All offer easy bites like salads, hot dogs, and burgers.

If you need dessert, find one of the three Snack Shacks. They're the only stands that serve funnel cakes, presented hot out of the fryer with a snowy sprinkling of powdered sugar.

Delectable, nostalgic, and easy to throw back.

7. Consider heading back to the ship early.

Don't feel forced to spend the full day at CocoCay. Instead, I suggest returning to the ship a few hours before the all-aboard time.

Most guests will still be meandering around the island, giving you free range of the ship. It's the best time to try any popular onboard activities with long lines during sea days, such as the waterslides, zipline, and dry slides.

• I spent three nights on Royal Caribbean's latest Utopia of the Seas cruise ship in mid-November.
• I paid about $155 for an omakase dinner at Izumi, its specialty sushi and teppanyaki restaurant.
• I thought the eight courses were overpriced and a hit-or-miss.

If cruise buffets trigger your decision paralysis, omakase on Royal Caribbean's latest mega-ship could be your dream meal.

Utopia of the Seas, the second-largest cruiseliner in the world, set sail in July with 27 dining venues, 10 of which are complimentary. Several are culinary firsts for the company, including a complimentary food truck and a not-so-cheap "private omakase-inspired" dinner.

Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship does the Japanese prix fixe-style of dining a bit differently. While the eight-course meal had some notable wins, I'm not convinced it's worth $153.40 per person.

Traditional omakase doesn't have a permanent menu.

The meal usually features the chef's preferences, seasonal and high-quality ingredients, a seat at the sushi bar, and, sometimes, a pricey bill.

An omakase dinner at New York City's three-Michelin-starred Masa, for example, costs $750 per person, while "cheaper" options can begin at about $65.

It's a no-brainer addition to Izumi, Royal Caribbean's signature sushi and teppanyaki specialty restaurant.

However, the meal was as rocky waves carrying the vessel.

For starters, I expected to be seated at the sushi bar across from the chefs preparing my meal, as is traditional.

Instead, The five other omakase diners and I — sat facing each other at a communal table.

If you hate making small talk, this could quickly become an anxiety-inducing affair.

Without some chit-chat, the excited yells and cheers from the adjacent teppanyaki venue will be the only noise filling the air.

Thankfully, it'll be ever-present throughout the about two-hour-long meal. As will your self-described "geisha-inspired waitress," who bowed whenever she walked into the small dining room.

She did a great job explaining each dish and providing cultural tutorials on ingredients such as matcha and edomae nigiri.

Several of the plates were standout.

The quality of the three raw fish dishes exceeded my expectations.

The second course, a carpaccio, was excellent.

The yellowtail and tuna were fattier than I expected, cut by their respective allium and jalapeño toppings. The Hokkaido scallops and salmon were just as succulent, served with caviar and gold leaf.

The next course, nigiri, used the same slices of fish sans yellowtail.

I didn't mind the repeat cuts. They were great, and the salmon still came bedazzled.

The fifth dish was the most memorable one.

The two-parter showcased spicy tuna on seaweed tempura and temari.

Despite its uncommon shape — a ball of sushi rice wrapped in salmon, tuna, and avocado — the temari tasted as simple as its four ingredients.

Forgettable, compared to its neighbor.

The tuna wasn't spicy. But the tender, finely chopped fish and avocado were a satisfying textural complement to the crunchy fried seaweed and masago (more fish eggs).

Sesame oil spiked my nose before every bite, and the fry maintained its structural integrity despite its heavy luggage.

Unfortunately, some dishes were uninspiring.

The waitress informed our table that the raw oyster of our fourth course was sweet. I found it to be one of the briniest oysters I've had in a while.

Two dishes later, the miso-broiled black cod tasted under-marinated. I missed the deeply flavorful, savory-sweet balance I associate with the popular preparation style.

The subsequent plate — grilled wagyu beef and shishito peppers — was as disappointing.

Don't expect A5 wagyu. The sweet ginger-forward dressing overpowered the flavor of the beef.

It's for the best — it was overcooked, chewy, and difficult to eat.

Drink away the tough beef-induced jaw pain.

Our meal started with a yuzu-sake refreshment and was interluded with a sweet mix of sake, strawberry, and lime.

You're welcome to sprinkle in other libations throughout the eight-course journey, be it plain Japanese rice wine or the "Spicy Okinawa," a cocktail of Sriracha, grapefruit, and sake.

Order the latter if you enjoy a savory but refreshing pick-me-up.

The seven savory plates were deceptively filling.

Thankfully, I have a second stomach for dessert.

The sakura sorbet was a light and floral palette cleanser. It was more straightforward than the chair-shaped chunk of milk chocolate mousse, matcha, puffed rice, and yuzu jelly.

Enjoy digging through the pillowy mousse. You'll need to search and find the latter two components.

Would I recommend the $155 affair? It depends on who's asking.

The waitress did a great job of providing cultural insight into the eight courses, which were all uncomplicated and palatable.

If you don't have a high-end sushi or omakase experience to compare this to — or if it's not accessible to you on land — it'll likely be a fulfilling meal. I even heard another patron opine that this meal was better than the one he tried in New York City.

Personally, I've had more satisfying omakase dinners for half the price.

The cheaper options I've tried on land also featured more premium ingredients, such as otoro (fatty tuna), uni (sea urchin), and Japanese A5 wagyu beef.

I would've enjoyed the Izumi dinner more if it were $50 less expensive.

Yes, the meal was sprinkled with caviar and gold leaf. And yes, the quality of the raw fish was the best I've had on a ship. But for more than $150 per person, I expected a near-perfect experience inclusive of higher-end ingredients and exclusive of overcooked and under-marinated proteins.

I recommend saving money for another specialty restaurant if you often eat Japanese food.

• Keira Knightley recalled how she was told that she "wanted to be stalked" early in her career.
• Knightley became famous after starring in "Pirates of the Caribbean" and "Love Actually" in 2003.
• Now, she's opening up about how toxic Hollywood was for women in the early 2000s.

Keira Knightley was told she "wanted to be stalked" at the beginning of her career. The actor spoke about the "violent, misogynistic atmosphere" of Hollywood in the 2000s in an interview on Thursday.

The British actor became famous after landing roles in "Love Actually" and "Pirates of the Caribbean" in 2003 at 17-years-old. As a result, Knightley spent her late teens and early 20s under the press's microscope.

Speaking to the Los Angeles Times ahead of her new Netflix series, "Black Doves," Knightley recalled being told that she "wanted to be stalked" during her rise to fame.

In response to a question by the LA Times reporter about the culture of Hollywood back then, Knightley said, "I didn't think it was okay at the time. I was very clear on it being absolutely shocking. There was an amount of gaslighting to be told by a load of men that 'you wanted this.' It was rape speak. You know, 'This is what you deserve.'"

Knightley continued to paint a picture of the negative atmosphere in early 2000s Hollywood that women had to navigate.

She added, "It was a very violent, misogynistic atmosphere. They very specifically meant I wanted to be stalked by men. Whether that was stalking because somebody was mentally ill, or because people were earning money from it — it felt the same to me. It was a brutal time to be a young woman in the public eye."

The star is also conscious that despite the harassment and pressure she faced, her early work gave her "financial stability."

"It's very brutal to have your privacy taken away in your teenage years, early 20s, and to be put under that scrutiny at a point when you are still growing. Having said that, I wouldn't have the financial stability or the career that I do now without that period," she said.

Keira Knightley was 17 when she first starting filming the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise in 2003. She played Elizabeth Swann, the point of a love triangle opposite Orlando Bloom, who was 26 at the time, and Johnny Depp who was 22 years Knightley's senior.

She of said the five-year period of success in her early career, "It totally set me up for life. Did it come at a cost? Yes, it did. It came at a big cost."

The thing that got the actor through her turbulent era of fame was having people around her who were disconnected from Hollywood.

She added, "I had a separate life from the industry, and I've maintained that."

This isn't the first time that Knightley has opened up about the toxicity she endured at a young age.

In November, she recalled how her role in "Pirates of the Caribbean" was the main reason she was "taken down publicly."

In 2018, Knightley told The Hollywood Reporter that paparazzi constantly followed her because they wanted to tear her down.

"It was big money to get pictures of women falling apart because you [consumers] wanted them to be sexy, but you wanted to punish them for that sexuality," she said.

• I spent three nights on Royal Caribbean's new giant cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas.
• The cruise line's second-largest vessel is operating short voyages to attract new cruisers.
• The new ship has more than 40 restaurants and bars.

Where can you go on ziplines, waterslides, and rock climbing walls in the same hour?

Royal Caribbean's new Utopia of the Seas, the world's second-largest cruise ship.

It would be wise to cram all these activities into the same 60 minutes. The 1,188-foot-long vessel is exclusively operating shorter, three- and four-night voyages — hardly enough time to experience all of its amenities, restaurants, and entertainment.

See what a vacation on the 5,666-guest, 236,473 gross-ton floating resort is like. Hang tight — there's a lot to cover.

Like its siblings, Utopia is split into eight districts, or 'neighborhoods.'

Find a calm reprieve at the plant-filled Central Park. There, you can grab a cocktail from the outdoor Trellis bar to enjoy with your takeout from the grab-and-go Izumi sushi window.

Younger children will likely be drawn to the Boardwalk neighborhood.

Its carousel and rock climbing walls could be irresistible to any young cruiser. A milkshake from Johnny's Rocket and a bag of candy from the candy store likely help, too.

Energetic youngsters could frequent the cluster of outdoor activities on deck 16.

The zipline, mini-golf course, surf simulator, sports court, and dual 10-deck dry slides are perfect for sea days.

The zipline is short, and the ping-pong tables can get busy, but at least they're complimentary (unlike the nearby arcade).

Desperate for a break from the kids? Send them to the children and teen clubs.

After, you can perch at a pool or hot tub in the roomy adult-only Solarium.

It's a calm complement to the colorful pool deck, where the loud music, water playground, and three pools and waterslides are as overwhelming as they are crowded.

Utopia has as many pools as it does nighttime entertainment options.

Head to The Attic for comedy shows. The small venue is perched between Studio B, home of Utopia's ice skating show, and the Royal Theater, home of the elaborate song-and-dance production.

Looking for more intimate entertainment options? There's also a karaoke bar (if you consider that a show).

Head to the AquaTheater early if you plan on catching 'Aqua80too.'

Seats fill up fast. And for good reason — the buzzy show features swimmers, divers, dancers, slackliners, and tightrope walkers.

It's a unique and impressive production, perfect for folks who enjoy the energetic, acrobatic flair of Cirque du Soleil shows.

Feeling peckish? You'll have 27 dining venues to choose from.

Options range from an ice cream stand to an upscale steakhouse.

Most will be recognizable to Oasis-class fans, like the Mexican-inspired buffet El Loco Fresh and the specialty Hooked Seafood restaurant.

About one-third are complimentary, including the main dining rooms and the two grab-and-go cafés.

A few are firsts for Royal Caribbean: Royal Railway, Spare Tire, a shave ice stand, and omakase.

If you're lucky enough to snag a reservation at Royal Railway, you'll be greeted with a new American menu, an immersive train-themed setting, and a $120-per-person check.

Omakase, located inside the sushi and teppanyaki restaurant Izumi, is even pricier, at around $155 per person.

For a cheaper treat, shave ice starts at $6.

The Spare Tire snack stand is free, great for poolside guests looking to munch on sandwiches and taquitos reminiscent of 7-11.

Head to Pesky Parrot for a post-dinner drink.

Utopia has 16 bars, including the fan-favorite Playmakers sports bar and the English pub-themed Bell and Barley.

Pesky Parrot is a new standout addition. The immersive tiki-themed pit stop — perched inside the mall-like Royal Promenade neighborhood — is helmed by a talking animatronic parrot.

From the hanging dollar bills to the fake window with beach views, Pesky Parrot looks more like a kitschy neighborhood watering hole than a traditional cruise ship bar.

Cocktails run $10 to $14. Wines cost between $8 and $16 a glass, while beers and seltzers start at about $7.50.

Sleep off all the 'Rye Runners' and 'Teqkil-Ya Zombies' in the comfort of your stateroom.

The ship has 2,834 cabins. The Solarium Suite category, with its expansive views, is a first for the cruise line. Its keycard also unlocks a suite-exclusive neighborhood outfitted with a restaurant, sun deck, pool, and bar.

For a less pricey option, opt for an inside cabin.

Not all are dark and dingy — some have windows facing the Royal Promenade or Central Park.

The ship will spend 2025 sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Most itineraries include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private Bahamian island.

The cheapest is currently a three-night voyage with an additional stop at Nassau, Bahamas, starting at about $615 per person.

Good luck planning your onboard to-do list.

• I spent three nights on Royal Caribbean's latest cruise ship, Utopia of the Seas, in mid-November.
• The company's second-largest ship exclusively operates short voyages in a bid to entice new cruisers.
• My favorite amenities include nighttime mini-golf and an immersive bar.

Royal Caribbean's latest vessel, Utopia of the Seas, is enticing first-time cruisers with quick three- and four-night voyages.

Good luck fitting everything you want to do in those short few days.

The 1,186-foot-long, 236,473 gross-ton floating resort offers a buffet of activities, from rock climbing walls to a zipline. If you have decision paralysis, have fun choosing between the more than 40 restaurants and bars.

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone — I spent my three nights on Utopia the same.

If you need a digestible guide to the mega-ship, here's a list of my eight favorite amenities, including a 295-foot-long dry slide and a bar with a talking parrot.

1. The mini-golf course at night

Mini-golf has become a popular cruise amenity. As such, Utopia of the Seas' nautical-themed course can amass a crowd of eager participants during the day.

For a more unique experience — and to avoid a long wait — go back at night.

At sundown, the nine holes light up like a colorful Christmas tree. The veins of the giant octopus cascade a bright rainbow, while the coral-like blobs become a pinball machine that lights up when hit by golf balls.

2. The 3 waterslides

Almost every Utopia of the Seas itinerary includes a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. There, guests can spend their sunny afternoon at the 14-slide waterpark, where tickets can cost more than $100 per person.

Or, just stay on the ship and entertain yourself with the three free waterslides.

Two are racing slides, perfect for couples and siblings, while the other brings riders around a bright orange toilet bowl-like funnel.

3. The 295-foot-long dry slides

Don't enjoy waterslides? Why not try dry ones, known as the Ultimate Abyss?

The dual racing slides span 10 decks — starting on deck 16's open-air activities area and ending on the Boardwalk.

Throughout the roughly 19-second descent, riders experience twists, turns, transparent tubes, and 300 twinkling LED lights.

It was my favorite way to travel from the ship's upper to lower decks. If I had it my way, I would've spent all afternoon on it.

4. The caged-in tennis tables

Table tennis? One of the most common cruise ship amenities?

Hear me out — the ones on Utopia of the Seas were the best I've seen.

There's nothing worse than running after one of those elusive white balls or trying to play against a windy day.

To prevent both, the new ship's three ping-pong tables are surrounded by tall glass walls, shielding them from the elements while keeping the balls contained in the "arena."

It's a small but thoughtful design, great for novice players who spend more time running around for the ball than actually hitting it (like me).

5. The new bar with a talking parrot

The mega-ship has 16 bars, many of which you can find on other Oasis-class ships.

The one exception to this is Pesky Parrot, a new tiki-themed watering hole.

A few "Teqkil-ya Zombie" and "Pain Chillers" drinks in, and the dollar bills hanging from the ceiling, frozen drink machines, and brightly patterned decor will make you forget you're on a ship.

And yes, there's actually a pesky robotic parrot quipping sassy one-liners.

Cocktails cost $10 to $14, with most on the pricier side. Wines run between $8 and $16 a glass, while beers and seltzers start at about $7.50.

6. The 3 shows

I don't often enjoy cruise shows. Yet, Utopia of the Seas had some of the best entertainment I've seen at sea.

If figure skating is your favorite winter Olympic sport, you'll enjoy the "Youtopia" show on ice. The rink is small — maybe dangerously so — but it still delivers twirls and jumps, along with projections that turn the ice into an ever-evolving set.

Speaking of jumps, if you prefer watching the summer Olympic diving event, head to the Aquatheater for "Aqua80too." The swim, dance, and dive show — set to a nostalgic hit 1980s soundtrack — also sprinkles in some impressive slackliners and tightrope walkers.

Even the "All In" song-and-dance production was better than expected, bolstered by the unexpected acrobatics, detailed costumes, and a high-tech set.

7. The hidden gem of a buffet

When the breakfast lines at Windjammer buffet are too long, head to the Solarium Bistro. There, you'll have the same food options while contending with fewer crowds.

The dining tables also extend into the neighboring adult-only Solarium, mimicking an al-fresco dining experience.

At night, the restaurant adopts a Mediterranean and Californian-inspired menu with options like hummus, Greek salad, and chicken kebab.

8. The café in Central Park

The ship has 27 dining venues, from the poolside ice cream kiosk to the $150 per person omakase.

The cafeteria-style Park Cafe is what the kids might call a "sleeper hit."

At first glance, its soups, sandwiches, desserts, and build-your-own salad bar might not seem craveable. Yet, I found myself repeatedly stopping by, seeking a light afternoon salad to counteract the ship's otherwise heavy meals.

Grab a table outside — Park Cafe is located in Central Park, a calm, plant-filled neighborhood removed from the chaos of the pool deck.

• I spent three nights on Royal Caribbean's latest ship, Utopia of the Seas, in mid-November.
• I used Royal Up to bid $100 for an elevated interior stateroom.
• While not guaranteed, Royal Up is a great way to upgrade your cabin on a budget.

I'm not a gambler, but the one exception is on a cruise.

I'm not talking about the slot machines at the ship's casino. I'm talking about "Royal Up," Royal Caribbean's stateroom upgrade auctions.

Travelers can bid for a higher-end cabin, from upgraded interiors to large suites. In my case, it helped my three-night sailing go from windowless to one with a view — albeit not one you might expect.

If you don't win, nothing changes.

If you do, you could save hundreds of dollars on a more deluxe cabin — like me.

My $100 bet on an upgraded stateroom saved me an estimated $250. It was worth it.

I originally paid about $880 per person (including gratuities and fees) for a dual-occupancy interior cabin on Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas.

The three-night vacation sailed roundtrip from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

I opted for the cheapest accommodation option: an interior cabin assigned by the cruise line. Naturally, I was given a forward windowless stateroom with a "virtual balcony," a TV screen that displays ocean views.

That is, until my Royal Up bet paid off.

I bid $100 on Royal Promenade and Central Park-facing interior cabins.

The minimum bid was $50, while a bet with a "fair" chance of winning fell around $130 to $160. The middle of the dial was $500.

Some bidders online have reported winning with bids $25 to $100 above the minimum, while others said they've never been selected.

I took my chances on $100 ($50 per person)— and it was a success.

I was upgraded to a cabin with a window overlooking the Royal Promenade, an indoor mall-like walkway.

My new cabin didn't have ocean views or natural light, but it was better than no window at all.

For that, it was worth the gamble.

Utopia of the Seas' most affordable 2025 itinerary is a three-night voyage to Nassau, Bahamas, and Perfect Day at CocoCay. Interior, dual occupancy cabins start at about $655 per person.

If you want one like mine — with a view of the Royal Promenade — you'll have to pay $175 more.

Or opt for the thrill of the bid. If you put down as much as I did ($50 per person), and it's a success, you could save $125 per head.

Just don't go overboard. It wouldn't have been worth it if I had bet the suggested mid-tier of $500.

My upgraded 180-square-foot stateroom was slightly larger than a basic interior cabin and one with a virtual balcony.

The two accommodations have nearly identical amenities. Both come with a cramped bathroom, desk, king bed, and couch that can convert into a bed.

Both have closets and wardrobes for storage, too. Mine were particularly spacious for a ship that only operates short vacations (Utopia of the Seas exclusively sails three- and four-night cruises).

One major feature made the $100 worth it: A window.

My upgraded cabin had a real window (yay!). However, it faced the indoor Royal Promenade, which meant I still didn't have any natural light.

With this came an additional sofa, perfect for perching and people-watching.

Was my Royal Promenade-facing cabin as perfect as a day at CocoCay? Not quite.

In retrospect, I would've preferred a window that let in natural light, such as a Central Park-facing cabin.

But a win is a win.

Royal Caribbean's Royal Up is worth trying if you don't love the cabin you had originally booked. Nothing is more exciting than the thrill of a successful gamble. And if you play your cards right, you could save hundreds of dollars.

In the worst case, you keep your original accommodation. In the best case, you'll spend your next cruise luxuriating in a swankier cabin — on a budget, no less.

• Kiera Knightley played Elizabeth Swann in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise.
• The five films collectively made $4.5 billion for Disney between 2003 and 2017.
• Knightley said the films were the reason she "was taken down publicly."

Kiera Knightley said the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise made her career, but it was also the reason she "was taken down publicly."

The actor played Elizabeth Swann, a nobleman's daughter who becomes a pirate, in four of the five movies, alongside Orlando Bloom and Johnny Depp.

She was a main character for the first three adventures, but did not return for 2011's "On Stranger Tides." Knightly reprised the role for a brief cameo at the end of 2017's "Dead Men Tell No Tales."

According to TheNumbers.com, the franchise made Disney $4.5 billion at the box office, but critics said her performance was wooden.

In an interview with The Times of London published Sunday, she said: "It's a funny thing when you have something that was making and breaking you at the same time.

"I was seen as shit because of them, and yet because they did so well, I was given the opportunity to do the films that I ended up getting Oscar nominations for.

"They were the most successful films I'll ever be a part of, and they were the reason that I was taken down publicly. So they're a very confused place in my head."

Knightley said she wouldn't appear in another major franchise following her experience with "Pirates of the Caribbean."

She said: "The hours are insane. It's years of your life, you have no control over where you're filming, how long you're filming, what you're filming."

Knightley previously spoke about the negative side of fame in 2018 when she told The Hollywood Reporter she took a year off from acting at age 22. "I literally felt like I was worthless," she said.

Bloom, who played Swann's love interest Will Turner, has also shared his reservations about starring in the movies.

In 2014, he told Variety that after he finished "Pirates of the Caribbean," he realized he hadn't had the chance to experiment as an actor because he had worked on major blockbusters from the start of his career.

He played Legolas, an elf, in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy around the same time as "Pirates of the Caribbean," and he also worked with Ridley Scott on "Black Hawk Down" and "Kingdom of Heaven."

"And so I did some theater in London," he said. "I traveled a bit. I went to Antarctica on a science research boat just to sort of clear my head. And then I came back and started to try and develop some smaller movies that could stretch me and force me to grow; some worked, some didn't."

• Royal Caribbean launched Utopia of the Seas, the second-largest cruise ship in the world, in July.
• I spent three nights in the ship's Royal Promenade-facing interior cabin.
• It was better than having no window, but don't expect natural light or silent nights.

What do you get when you cross an interior-facing cruise cabin with a window?

On Royal Caribbean's new Utopia of the Seas ship, you get a stateroom with views of the ship's busy neighborhoods and all their meandering patrons.

Interior cabins are typically the cheapest cruise accommodations. These savings come with a trade-off — they're often windowless and dingy, with no natural light to be found.

Royal Caribbean has found a way to give cruisers the best of both worlds, in theory at least. I'm not completely sold, but found the window to be better than nothing.

Royal Caribbean's newer vessels do some interior cabins a bit differently.

Utopia still has classic windowless interior cabins. For guests who want a slight upgrade, the four-month-old mega-ship also has interior staterooms with "virtual balconies" (a large screen displaying a live feed of ocean views) or windows.

The ship also offers several interior cabin options with real windows that look over 'Central Park' and the 'Royal Promenade.'

My 180-square-foot nest for a three-night Utopia of the Seas cruise in mid-November overlooked the Royal Promenade, a wide mall-like walkway lined with stores, bars, and casual bites.

If you like atrium-style hotels, you'll enjoy this stateroom.

Royal Caribbean advertises it as 'perfect for people-watching.'

I'd agree. The small sofa adjacent to the window is perfect for perching and crowd-watching while you quietly contemplate which buffet to hit next.

Want to check the line at the pizza slice shop or Starbucks? No need to leave your room — just peek out the window.

Step away from the sofa, however, and you'll be greeted with a less enticing sight.

The view from the window in an ocean-facing cabin is often the same no matter where you're standing — blue skies and maybe some water.

When I walked away from my window, all I saw was Royal Promenade's ceiling.

If you're a light sleeper or early to bed, expect to be awoken by late-night events.

The Royal Promenade hosted an 11:30 p.m. dance party during my first night on the ship.

I'm convinced I could sleep through a nuclear war. Yet, the affair stirred me awake at least once.

Thankfully, the other two nights were almost soundless.

The walkway between the king bed and sofa is narrow — a potentially tenacious trek for a cruiser indulging in their beverage package.

The other couch can be converted into a double bed, allowing the stateroom to accommodate a family of four.

Don't expect to all squeeze into the bathroom.

There's ample counter space and shelves. However, the room is compact, making it difficult for even two people to maneuver around each other.

The tight floor plan could feel awkward if you're new to cruises.

If this isn't your first Royal Caribbean rodeo, you could be pleasantly surprised by the separate shampoo, conditioner, and body wash minis. (I've sailed on two of its other mega-ships, and neither came with hair conditioner).

You won't fight over storage space.

Utopia exclusively operates short voyages. As such, its guests would only need to pack for a three- or four-night cruise.

The two tall closets, small wardrobe, and row of hooks under the TV could be ample.

The same goes for the outlets and the USB and USB-C charging ports, of which there are nine in the primary living space.

Expect to take advantage of the storage options — you'll likely have to unpack.

My carry-on fit comfortably inside the closet, and I only used two of the surprisingly deep shelves for my clothes.

If you don't want to unpack your luggage (it'll be a short cruise, after all), expect to leave your open bags on the two couches.

Or, if you're feeling a bit chaotic, the sizable desk could double as a defacto luggage rack, which was notably absent from the cabin.

A promenade-facing interior cabin currently starts at about $820 per person for a three-night cruise in 2025.

The voyage would sail roundtrip from Florida's Port Canaveral to Nassau, Bahamas, and Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The same itinerary offers traditional interiors for about $100 less, while its Central Park-view counterpart is about $30 more expensive.

Surprisingly, the starting cost of an ocean-view cabin is about $15 cheaper. However, it wouldn't be conveniently located mid-ship like the Central Park and Royal Promenade-facing options.

My cabin was perfectly functional. I have no major gripes.

Some cruisers prefer interior staterooms — it's easier to sleep in when there's no sunlight streaming through your windows.

If you're one of them, the Royal Promenade-view cabin would be a great upgrade from a classic interior.

However, as much as I love an affordable vacation, I prefer my windows to have natural light.

If you're like me, I'd suggest paying more for a Central Park view or saving money with an ocean-facing cabin.

People-watching is fun — maintaining a natural circadian rhythm is even better. Plus, I much prefer disassociating while staring at the ocean than at other people.