Explorer of the Seas Pools: What To Expect on Board

Explorer of the Seas® is a Voyager Class favorite with plenty of pools and activities to fill every sea day with fun. In fact, the pool deck is among the most popular spots on the ship.

Cruising on Explorer of the Seas, you can also expect incredible experiences, like diverse dining options, captivating entertainment that rivals the best theater productions on land, interactive activities for all ages and sizzling nightlife that keeps the party going long after the sun goes down. Keep reading to learn about Explorer of the Seas pools and some of the best things to do on board.

Key Takeaways: Explorer of the Seas Pools

● Pools on Explorer of the Seas: There are two main pools on this cruise ship, as well as numerous whirlpools, an adults-only pool in the Solarium, a kids’ pool and thrilling waterslides.

● Fun poolside activities: Every day you’ll find something different going on by the pools, including contests, games, music and even poolside movies.

● Bars and quick bites: There’s no shortage of refreshment options near the pools. Grab a drink at the Solarium Bar or the Pool Bar, or have quick bites at the Windjammer Café.

● Other exciting activities: Get involved with dance classes, mini golf, stellar theater shows and a huge selection of other incredible Explorer of the Seas activities.

● Start planning your cruise and discover the best things to do on Explorer of the Seas for yourself.

What Pools Are on Explorer of the Seas?

Explorer of the Seas features two main pools, an adults-only Solarium pool and four whirlpools, all located on Deck 11. Head on up to Deck 12, and you’ll find waterslides for the whole family – including the Perfect Storm® waterslide duo, Cyclone and Typhoon.

● Main pools: In the center of the pool deck, you’ll find two main pools running adjacent to one another. Both pools host fun activities, like friendly water sports, belly-flop competitions and live music. You’ll even find a large cinema screen for movie nights.

● Whirlpools: There are four whirlpools on the main pool deck, where you can relax and unwind with stunning views over the ocean.

● Solarium pool: If you’re in need of an adults-only tropical oasis to slow down, head to the Explorer of the Seas Solarium pool.

● Waterslides: Round up the kids and race them down the waterslides for an afternoon of family fun and adventure.

No doubt, you can imagine that the pool deck is among the most popular places to be — especially during sea days. It’s a space that’s buzzing with activity, laughs and new memories waiting to be made. However, if you’re feeling like a slower, quieter place to unwind, the Solarium offers the perfect ambiance. 

What Amenities Are Near the Pool Deck?

There are plenty of amenities near the pools on Deck 11 and Deck 12, providing refreshments and quick poolside bites for the whole family. Some of the most popular ones include:

● Windjammer Café: Here, you’ll find casual buffet-style dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving cuisine from around the globe.

● Chops Grille: This is a specialty restaurant serving a selection of premium cuts of meat and seafood.

● Solarium Bar: Here, you can get refreshing drinks in the adults-only pool and lounge area.

● Pool Bar: Treat yourself to a frozen refreshment while lounging in the sun by the main pools. 

● 24-hour beverage station: Help yourself to complimentary coffee, tea and flavored water.

● Soft-serve machine: Serve up cool ice cream for the kids — the perfect addition to poolside fun.

● Sky Bar: Located on deck 12 and overlooking the main pools, this alfresco bar offers a higher vantage point.

You’re definitely not short on dining and beverage options when you hit the Explorer of the Seas pools — but you’re guaranteed to stay entertained from morning to night with a range of fun activities to do nearby, too.

What Activities Can You Do at Explorer of the Seas Pools?

There’s always something going on at the Explorer of the Seas pools. If you’re landing on the pool deck for a day or two, here are some of the fun activities you can expect:

● Competitions, like the bellyflop contest.

● Games, like water volleyball.

● Poolside movie nights.

● Live music performances. 

● The FlowRider® surf simulator.

● Waterslides.

● Sun loungers and umbrellas for relaxing.

What Are the Best Activities on Explorer of the Seas?

1. Soak Up the Sun at the Main Pool

What’s a cruise vacation without some laid-back fun in the sun? The main pool on board Explorer of the Seas is perfect for family bonding — just grab a couple of lounge chairs and settle in by the water or hop in for a refreshing dip. 

The pool deck often sets the stage for all kinds of cool events and activities, like belly flop competitions and dance contests accompanied by a DJ. Admission is complimentary to all guests on board.

2. Fuel Your Competitive Fire on the Sports Court or the Mini Golf Green

Explorer of the Seas has a sports court where you can join a volleyball match or get in on a little one-on-one basketball action. There is also Explorer Dunes, a mini golf course where every game comes with stunning views of the surrounding sea and shores. Play whenever and as often as you like, no reservation needed. And guess what? It’s all included in your cruise cost.

3. Unwind Poolside at the Adults-Only Solarium

Craving a little bit of time with the grown-ups? The Solarium is an adults-only retreat where the vibe is always set to maximum relaxation. Kick back and lounge in the sun or the shade, or go for a dip in the Solarium’s lagoon-like whirlpools. It doesn’t cost anything to enter this tranquil oasis, and you can stay as long as you like. There’s even a bar nearby in case you want to use your Deluxe Beverage Package to order a glass of sparkling wine, a pint of your favorite ice-cold beer or an expertly crafted tropical cocktail.

4. Enjoy a Movie Night Under the Stars

Some nights, Explorer of the Seas plays classic flicks and modern blockbuster hits on the 220-square-foot movie screen located on the pool deck. Screenings are totally free and open to all guests on board — just check show times, grab some complimentary snacks at the Windjammer Café or Café Promenade and cozy up on a lounger for the coolest movie night at sea.

It’s the perfect way to wind up after a long day of fun during your family vacation.

5. Watch an Original Production or an Ice Show

If you love toe-tapping musicals, thrilling theatrics and anything that has to do with the performing arts, you’re on the right cruise ship. Explorer of the Seas is a great place to watch some of the amazing original productions that have helped win Royal Caribbean awards for its onboard entertainment.

Head to the ice skating rink for dazzling performances by a talented team of figure skaters or hit the main theater to catch show-stopping numbers that blend song, dance and top-notch acting. All the shows on board are included in your cruise fare.

6. Taste Your Way Around the World in the Main Dining Room or Windjammer Café

Explorer of the Seas has some great dining options on board, but if you’re looking for delicious eats that won’t cost you anything extra, head to the Main Dining Room or the Windjammer Café. The Main Dining Room offers breakfast every day and lunch on sea days, but it’s most popular as a place to dial up dinner. At this sweeping upscale venue, you’ll get to sample dishes inspired by the world’s top culinary capitals, from France to Thailand and beyond — and it’s all included in your cruise cost. 

The Windjammer Café, on the other hand, is a more casual option. You’ll find familiar comfort foods here, plus rotating flavors that spotlight cuisine from different countries. Like the Main Dining Room, meals here are complimentary.

7. Sign Up for a Dance Class

There are plenty of options for late-night dancing on board the Explorer of the Seas, so you’ll want to make sure your moves are on point. Sign up for a complimentary lesson led by a pro and learn the basics of salsa, merengue, swing and more before hitting the dancefloor after hours.

8. Conquer the Rock Climbing Wall

It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned speed climber; you’ll love the rock climbing wall on board Explorer of the Seas. It’s a great — and free — way to get in a workout while you’re on vacation, and those who make it all the way to the top are rewarded with some of the most captivating views of the surrounding sights. 

You don’t need a reservation to try this complimentary activity. All you need to do is show up, strap in and start climbing.

Make a Splash on Your Next Family Vacation

These are just a few of the activities you’ll find on board Explorer of the Seas. There are plenty more eats, thrilling attractions and family-friendly experiences — not to mention stunning destinations to visit.

You’ll find it’s super easy to have an amazing poolside adventure with your squad on this fan-favorite Voyager Class ship.