There are weekends, and then there’s “the world’s biggest weekend.” If you love party cruises (or have always wanted to try one) but don’t have the time to book an extended voyage, grab your passports and gather your crew for an unforgettable three- or four-night itinerary aboard Royal Caribbean’s newly minted Utopia of the Seas, the world’s second-largest cruise vessel, which made its much-anticipated maiden voyage in July of 2024. 

The Utopia of the Seas originates and disembarks from the cruise terminal at Port Canaveral, Florida. Fly into Orlando International Airport and grab an airport shuttle directly to the port. If you’ve got kids or are a kid at heart, it’s also easy to book-end your cruise with a few extra days at nearby Universal Studios or Walt Disney World Resort. 

The perfect platform for a bridesmaid getaway, groomsmen’s weekend, a quick “just-because” indulgence, or family and friends pre- or post-wedding celebration—if you are down for a good time, the Utopia of the Seas is your boat. This ship packs so much onto its 18 decks, you may have trouble accomplishing everything you’d like to while you’re onboard. BEST ADVICE: Resistance is futile. Just relax and go with the flow. Five pools, three water slides, two kids’ aqua parks, 10 complimentary restaurants plus another dozen specialty eateries, 23 bars and a pair of casinos. And that’s just scratching the surface of this sparkling ship that has something for everyone.

The Utopia sets sail on your first night, followed by a day cruising at sea—a prime opportunity to explore the decks, chill poolside, or take in some of the stellar onboard entertainment. Sunrise brings your “Perfect Day at Coco Cay,” an exclusive island accessible only to Royal Caribbean guests. Featuring seven sandy beaches (Seaside Point is available to rent for private events and weddings), shady coves and sparkling pools, the private destination also amps up the adrenaline with waterparks, helium balloon rides, ziplining, the Caribbean’s biggest wave pool and tallest water slide, plus plenty to eat and drink. You’ll return to the ship at the end of the day dazed by everything you packed into your visit.

PRO TIP: Don’t make the rookie mistake of leaving the sunscreen onboard in your cabin—the combination of sun and sea can sneak up on you.

Back on board, continue to enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and experiences of the ship. Odds are you’ll meet new friends and already be thinking about booking your next voyage. 

The jewels in this ship’s crown are, without a doubt, the enthusiastic international crew, always ready with a smile, a suggestion or recommendation, or to point the way if you find yourself lost, which can happen on a ship of this size. This diverse family of ambassadors genuinely seems to be enjoying themselves as much as the passengers and they add to the fun and friendly vibe. 

Make no mistake—there is a lot happening onboard the Utopia of the Seas, and you may experience sensory overload in the best possible way.

DON’T MISS

Among the ship’s specialty dining venues, The Royal Railway presents an immersive 90-minute “Wild West Train Trip.” You’ll swear you’re time-traveling through the American frontier as mountains, buffalo and cacti whiz by your window, with some surprises along the way. The savory five-course menu features American favorites such as short ribs and cast-iron skillet cornbread. Reservations are required; this attraction has limited seating and books up quickly. 

If you’re more of a quiet cruiser, or you just crave a respite from the revelry, Utopia’s adults-only Solarium includes a pool, bar, hot tub and plenty of places to lounge beneath an enclosed glass canopy. It’s the perfect spot for a snooze, a good read, or sipping your favorite cocktail as you take in the panoramic ocean view.

With a panoply of watering holes to wet your whistle, your favorite may be The Pesky Parrot, Utopia’s laid-back tiki bar offering fruit-based concoctions made with rum, tequila and gin—and a wise-cracking animatronic bird that serves up the avian equivalent of dad jokes. Try the Teqkil-ya Zombie, a lip-smackin’ cocktail of tequila, mezcal, cinnamon syrup, grenadine, lime and grapefruit juices. It packs a punch. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. 

Just because you’re indulging your senses around the clock doesn’t mean you can’t take a stab at being healthy during your time at sea. Whatever your skill level, try Utopia’s 40-foot-high rock-climbing wall or break a sweat at the state-of-the-art fitness center. Post-workout, the full-service Vitality at Sea Spa stands ready to revive you. A hidden gem is the Deck 5 jogging/walking track that encircles the perimeter of the ship. Cheeky overhead signage keeps you motivated and there’s even a chart to gauge how many laps you need to work off last night’s dessert.