How To Have The Best Family Cruise Onboard Explorer Of The Seas
Looking for a cruise ship that’s filled with kid-friendly thrills and activities? Explorer of the Seas is the perfect option for an unforgettable family cruise.
By Amanda Mesa | Published on January 14, 2022
Sometimes, the trickiest part about planning a great family getaway is making sure the vacation offers something for everyone in the group — from tots to teens and even grandparents, if you’re bringing the whole crew along. That’s why Royal Caribbean is a such a great choice when it comes to family vacations — the cruise line has won awards for its kid-friendly experiences, onboard attractions, activities for teens, amazing dining and spectacular entertainment. Each cruise ship has its own unique thrills, but if you’re looking for a balanced blend of grown-up fun and activities for little ones, Explorer of the Seas is a great choice. Keep reading to learn how you can maximize your family time onboard.
1. Make Some Family Memories Poolside
The main pool onboard Explorer of the Seas channels major island vibes. It’s also the center of all the action on the pool deck. Claim some loungers and settle in to soak up the sunshine while you watch belly flop competitions and dance contests with a DJ during the day, or cozy up for a movie under the stars at night. In between dips in the cool water, kids can sip soft drinks or virgin piña coladas while parents enjoy Mai Tais and more from the pool bar.
2. Team Up — Or Tee Up — And Get In The Game Together
Want to indulge in a little friendly competition with your family? Head to the sports court on the pool deck. Home to basketball and volleyball courts, it’s the perfect spot to show off your skills and burn off some energy while bonding with your loved ones. If you prefer to put your putting skills to the test, head to the Explorer Dunes mini golf course. Even if you’re not a pro, the captivating sea views you’ll score courtside and on the green will make you want to come back again and again.
3. Chill Out On The Ice Skating Rink
At night, the ice skating rink onboard Explorer of the Seas becomes the stage for dazzling ice shows by world class figure skaters — but during the day, it’s open to anyone who wants to lace up a pair of skates and go for a whirl. You don’t need to be a pro to get in on the fun here — newbies are just as welcome as skilled skaters, so bring the whole family along for a cool — and complimentary — experience at sea.
4. Treat Kids To A Day Of Unforgettable Activities At Adventure Ocean
A mainstay across the fleet, Adventure Ocean is all about keeping kids entertained and engaged with fun and educational activities — like arts and crafts, storytelling, science experiments, interactive theater, themed parties and more. Onboard Explorer of the Seas, this award-winning youth program groups kids according to their age, so that every participant has an opportunity to make friends and unforgettable memories during their vacation.
5. Soak Up The Serenity At The Adults-only Solarium
While the kids are having a blast at the sports court or Adventure Ocean, kick back and indulge in a little “me” time at the Solarium. Open to adults only, this tranquil retreat is all about laid back vibes. There’s plenty of comfy seating in the shade and the sun, plus lagoon-like pools and whirlpools that are perfect for a dip in between naps. And if you’re craving an expertly crafted cocktail, an ice-cold brew, or a glass of your favorite wine, the well-stocked Solarium Bar is just steps away.
6. Savor The Ultimate Family Dinner In The Main Dining Room
One of the most popular complimentary dining options onboard Explorer of the Seas, the Main Dining Room is the perfect venue to dial up a family dinner at sea. The menu in this sweeping, upscale restaurant spotlights elevated cuisine from around the world. You’ll find some classic staples available every night, like baked French onion soup, tender New York strip steak, and traditional spaghetti Bolognese — plus rotating global entrees like vegetarian moussaka, Moroccan-spiced ahi tuna, Caribbean jerk pork chops and more. Little ones will love the kids’ menu, which includes crowd pleasers like chicken fingers, pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers and tasty sweet treats.
7. Catch A Spellbinding Original Production Onstage
When it comes to family activities, nothing beats a night out at the theater — and the performances onboard Explorer of the Seas are truly spectacular. If you love a great musical, don’t miss Wild, Cool & Swingin’, an upbeat, toe-tapping extravaganza that features music and dance styles from some of the most iconic entertainment capitals in the United States. And if you love the hit TV show Dancing with the Stars, make time for Invitation to Dance, a mesmerizing production that combines sweeping ballroom-style moves, theater and fashion into one captivating experience.
8. Enjoy A Family Movie Night Under The Stars
Some the best family-friendly experiences you’ll find onboard Explorer of the Seas are the cruise ship’s iconic movie nights on the pool deck, where you can watch classic blockbusters on a 220-square foot movie screen while enjoying the cool sea breeze and the twinkling stars above. Check your Cruise Compass for show times, then grab a towel or a blanket and cozy up with your loved ones. The best part? Movie night is totally free to guests. There’s no need to make a reservation, either — loungers on the pool deck are first come, first serve.
Now that you have the insider’s scoop on all the best family-friendly activities onboard Explorer of the Seas, it’s time to start planning your next getaway. Keep in mind, these are just some of the amazing experiences that await on deck — this fan-favorite cruise ship has plenty more shows, restaurants, attractions and even nightlife for you to explore once you come aboard. Whatever kind of experience you’re in the mood for, you’ll find this ship delivers on every level.
