Jewel of the Seas Cruise Reviews

Jewel of the Seas is a Radiance-class ship from Royal Caribbean offering a unique cruising experience. It blends traditional cruise favorites such as extravagant stage shows with Royal Caribbean’s signature innovations, including a 40-foot rock-climbing wall. There is ample opportunity for active cruisers to work out under the sun with the sports courts and upper-deck jogging track. Luxury-minded travelers can pamper themselves with a massage at the full-service Vitality spa or relax in the ship's adults-only Solarium. Jewel also boasts world-class nightlife, and almost every passenger deck contains a lounge or bar. Younger cruisers will find plenty to do with Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean program, an onboard arcade, kid-friendly pool, and teen disco.

Jewel of the Seas was refurbished in 2016 undergoing a $30 million modernization. In addition to cosmetic updates, it received three new dining and bar venues Giovanni’s Table, Vintages wine bar, and Japanese restaurant Izumi. 42 staterooms were also added. The renovation also included the addition of a poolside movie screen.

This ship offers magnificent views at every turn. There are more than 3 acres of windows throughout the ship. This includes numerous floor-to-ceiling windows and several ocean-facing glass elevators. The ship's innovative design brings sun, sea, and sky into many of its interior spaces.

Jewel of the Seas itineraries and cruises

Like many of Royal Caribbean’s smaller ships, Jewel of the Seas is all about the destinations. In 2019 and 2020, the ship will hail from Dubai, offering 7-night voyages to the Middle East. Maiden calls will include Sir Bani Yas, Doha, and Bahrain. Additional cruises depart from Miami, San Diego, Puerto Rico, and Rome. These will sail to destinations throughout the Arabian Gulf, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Panama Canal.

Before you book

Why sail? This Royal Caribbean ship appeals to travelers looking for a traditional cruising experience. One that includes onboard staples such as original stage productions, interactive game shows, and dance classes. Accommodating only 2,110 passengers, this midsize ship has fewer crowds and fewer children. This makes it easier to navigate than many of Royal Caribbean’s mega-ships. It's an ideal venue for seniors and other travelers looking for a laid-back vacation.

What you should know: Thrill-seekers and cruisers craving onboard adventure should probably look elsewhere. There is not a variety of revolutionary onboard activities that many Royal Caribbean ships do. Families and other travelers looking for water slides, laser tag, and surfing simulators would likely prefer one of the fleet’s newer mega-ships.

What is there to do on Jewel of the Seas?

There is a refreshing blend of traditional and innovative onboard activities. Jewel has 3 pools, mini-golf and a 40-foot high rock-climbing wall promises a jolt of adrenaline for adventurous travelers. Passengers looking to learn a new skill can try their hand at towel folding or take a Latin dance class. From its full-service Vitality Spa to its choice of whirlpools, Jewel also offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation.

At night, cruisers can sit back and enjoy one of Jewel’s original productions. These include City of Dreams and West End to Broadway. Take a visit one of the ship’s lounges for an after-dinner cocktail, or boogie under the stars at the poolside dance party. There’s plenty for the kids, too. Children ages 3 to 11 can participate in Royal Caribbean’s award-winning Adventure Ocean. Older kids and teenagers can attend pool parties, karaoke, and kid-friendly game nights.

Jewel of the Seas ship highlights

• Adults-only Solarium
• Adventure Ocean kids’ club for ages 3 to 11
• 40-foot high rock-climbing wall
• Full-service Vitality spa
• Basketball and volleyball courts
• Live bands featuring world-class musicians
• Interactive game shows like Battle of the Sexes
• After-dark pool party with DJ, drinks, and a midnight buffet
• Mini golf
• Mystery dinner theater
• 3 pools and 3 whirlpools
• Original productions, such as City of Dreams and West End to Broadway
• Adventure Beach kids’ pool and waterslide
• Casino Royale
• Structured activities including culinary classes, dance lessons, and scrapbooking workshops
• Teen disco

Jewel of the Seas cabins

Jewel of the Seas cabins offers four categories, including interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite staterooms. Almost half of the ship’s 1,085 guest rooms have balconies, and over 70 percent offer ocean views. For extended families, several of the ship’s staterooms connect, providing room-to-room access. For honeymooners and other lovebirds, Couples Retreat staterooms offer spa-like luxury. Available amenities include turndown service, Voom Surf & Stream internet, and 24-hour room service. A stateroom attendant is always available to assist passengers with special requests.

Jewel of the Seas dining

With eight dining options, including several specialty eateries, Jewel of the Seas’ food choices should appeal to all tastes. Complimentary options include the ship’s main dining room and the Windjammer Café buffet. Surf-and-turf lovers can enjoy prime steaks and seafood at Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse, Chops Grille. Those with more global tastes should try Izumi for artfully prepared Asian cuisine or dine family-style at Giovanni’s Table for a taste of Tuscany. For cruisers craving a caffeine fix, Café Latte-Tude serves a variety of coffee drinks. Passengers who prefer a cooler treat can grab a cone at Ben & Jerry's.