Inside the Wonder of the Seas Solarium

What Is The Solarium On Wonder Of The Seas?

You’ll find the Wonder of the Seas Solarium at the very front of the ship, and walking in feels like entering another world. The glass dome fills the space with light while shielding you from wind and weather, and the air is filled with a sense of calm that’s hard to come by on a ship carrying nearly 6,000 passengers at double occupancy.

I loved how it felt open and lush at the same time. Plants line the walkways, creating a garden atmosphere that’s rare on a cruise ship. (Except for Royal Caribbean ships that also feature the lush, open-air Central Park!) The cascading pools and in-pool loungers make it easy to spend hours here without feeling like you’re missing out on the rest of the ship. Unlike the main Wonder of the Seas pools, which are lively and family-focused, this area is for guests 16 and older only, making it a true Wonder of the Seas adult-only area.

Dining is another perk. The Solarium Bistro is tucked right into this space, and I found myself returning often for its lighter, Mediterranean-inspired meals. Breakfast here felt calmer than the main buffet, and at dinner, the view through the glass dome was hard to beat. And yes, it’s included in your fare, no extra charge.

Getting there is simple: Just head forward on the upper decks and you’ll find the Solarium waiting. Once you’re in, you don’t really need to leave. Pools, whirlpools, dining and bars are all right here.

Exclusive Tips For Making The Most Of The Solarium

After spending so much time here, I picked up a few tricks for really enjoying the Solarium to its fullest.

1. Magical Solarium Mornings

Mornings are magical. The glass canopy lets in the first light of day and it’s easily the quietest time to visit. I often grabbed a coffee and simply sat by the window watching the horizon on sea days.

2. The Solarium’s Pools

Unlike the bustling Wonder of the Seas pool deck, where music and activities dominate, the Solarium’s plunge pools are about calm. The tiered layout means there’s usually space to find your own spot, and I loved the option of sliding into the whirlpools when I wanted something warmer.

3. Complimentary Dining At The Solarium

Mornings are magical. The glass canopy lets in the first light of day and it’s easily the quietest time to visit. I often grabbed a coffee and simply sat by the window watching the horizon on sea days.

4. Under The Solarium’s Dome

The Solarium Bistro was easily one of my favorite dining spots onboard, and it’s a nice alternative to some of the larger restaurants on Wonder of the Seas when you want a quieter meal. It’s not a typical buffet — the menu leans toward fresh, lighter dishes — but there’s still plenty to keep you full. I especially appreciated it at lunch when I didn’t want a heavy meal before heading back to the pools.

And to answer a common question: Yes, it’s free, and no, it’s not just for suite guests. The Solarium Bistro on Wonder of the Seas is open to all adults and offers a more intimate atmosphere than the larger dining venues. Between meals here and the Solarium Bar for a cocktail, I often spent an entire day in the Solarium without needing to leave.

Plan Your Wonder of the Seas Escape

After spending so much time in the Wonder of the Seas Solarium, I can say it’s one of the ship’s greatest strengths. It’s proof that even on one of the world’s largest cruise ships, there’s always a place to escape the crowds.

With its exclusive adults-only cruise lines atmosphere, tiered pools and whirlpools and one of the best hidden gems in dining with the Solarium Bistro, this space is the perfect balance between lively fun and quiet relaxation when sailing.