By Amanda Mesa | Published: March 7, 2024 | Updated: May 7, 2026
One of my favorite cruise ships for the pools is Grandeur of the Seas®. Part of the much-loved Royal Caribbean Vision Class, this mid-sized classic offers lots of pools, onboard activities, dining options and nightly entertainment.
Because it’s a smaller, older ship, it also provides the laid-back, intimate vibe I prefer on family vacations. Getting to know fellow cruisers is a breeze on this ship, and most of the activities on board emphasize relaxation and connecting with your loved ones.
If you’re cruising with kids, adults, grandparents or any generation in between, you’ll find a happening Grandeur of the Seas pool scene that hosts parties and events on a daily basis, a towering 40-foot rock-climbing wall that yields stunning views and so much more.
Here’s an insider’s guide to the Grandeur of the Seas swimming pools and other onboard amenities.
Grandeur of the Seas has two swimming pools: the main pool and the Solarium pool, all located on Deck 9. These areas are equipped with refreshments and whirlpools to keep you happy throughout the day.
Here’s everything you need to know about Grandeur of the Seas pools:
The main pool is an open-air, uncovered swimming pool, surrounded by whirlpools and space to relax and stretch out. On the Grandeur of the Seas pool deck, there are plenty of lounge chairs, and you can also head up to Deck 10 overlooking the pool for additional loungers.
You’ll find nearby:
The pool area also hosts plenty of fun activities for the whole family, including:
Note that Grandeur of the Seas does not have waterslides like many other Royal Caribbean ships, giving it a relaxed, open-view atmosphere.
The main pool is a guest-favorite gathering spot to refresh and cool down in the morning after a jog or a yoga session, during your days at sea and in the evenings for entertainment and refreshments.
The Solarium is an adults-only indoor-outdoor retreat, featuring a smaller pool, two whirlpools and plenty of lounge chairs to grab a nap or read your favorite holiday books. It has a retractable shade roof, making it perfect for swimming regardless of weather conditions. Its tropical feel is ideal for a quiet swim or a few moments away from the kids.
Near the Solarium, you’ll find a bar serving beers, wines and cocktails. While the Solarium area doesn’t have a large restaurant, you can find light snacks there — or bring some bites from the surrounding restaurants.
The Solarium is also close to the onboard VitalitySM Spa, so the pool is a great transition from a busy day of fun, to a rejuvenating sauna or spa treatment.
I’ve said it a thousand times in my articles, and I’ll say it again — nothing beats spending a few hours poolside on any cruise ship, especially this one. The vibe at the pool on board Grandeur of the Seas is chill in the morning, making it a great go-to spot to catch up on your reading or just enjoy the sunshine on your family cruise vacation.
Linger throughout the day, though, and you’ll be treated to all kinds of fun events and activities, from bellyflop competitions to dance-offs and pool parties hosted by a talented DJ.
If you’re cruising with other adults (or just want a little bit of alone time), you can grab a comfy lounge chair at the Solarium. This tranquil haven is open to guests aged 16 and older and features its own whirlpool and lagoon-like pool, plus plenty of space to unwind in the shade or the sunshine.
It has its own bar, too, so you can indulge in your favorite vacation libations at any time during your visit. Like the main pool deck, admission to the Solarium is included at no additional cost.
You’ll also want to look out for any themed nights taking place during your cruise getaway. These can range from decades-inspired extravaganzas to masquerades and beyond. Sometimes they’ll be listed via your Cruise Planner app ahead of your sailing, allowing you to pack themed accessories and even costumes.
If you don’t have anything other than your vacation wardrobe to wear, don’t worry — you’ll typically see performers handing out accessories and props to cruise guests during these super-fun onboard parties. The best part? Admission is free for cruise guests.
Grandeur of the Seas is home to several top-notch restaurants, including specialty and complimentary, so you can easily indulge in delicious meals throughout your escape. Some of the top free places to eat on board include the buffet-style Windjammer, which features a rotating selection of international fare, and the casual Park Café, where you can snack on delicious deli sandwiches, steaming bowls of soup, crisp salads and decadent desserts.
For an upscale, multi-course dinner that’s also included in your cruise fare, head to the main dining room. It’s the best formal dining on board and it won’t cost you a cent.
Royal Caribbean cruises are known for incredible onboard entertainment, and every show on this beloved cruise ship is a total winner. Grandeur of the Seas hosts two spectacular musicals on board, including:
The ship also hosts hilarious game shows for adults in the evenings, pop-up performances poolside and so much more, at no additional cost.
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