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I’ve just got back from Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas – currently the world’s biggest cruise ship – and was left completely in awe. Passengers who board this brand new Icon class ship are in for a treat.

I went on my first ever cruise back in the summer of 2023 with Royal Caribbean and fell in love with cruising, and even consider myself somewhat cruise-obsessed. Initially I was unsure if I’d like it and never imagined I’d have done seven with plans for an eighth within three years. I’ve learnt that planning is key and soaking up as many tips as possible makes for an even better experience.

Here are five key learnings from my most recent adventure…

1. Dress codes

I wish I had put a bit more thought into my wardrobe when packing. In my mind I was just thinking of the hot weather and waterpark on board, so while I had scores of dresses and swimwear, I didn’t have any trousers. You may think, ‘Why do I need trousers if I’m cruising around the Med?’ but if you’re planning to ice skate, you do.

Plan for the activities you’re hoping to enjoy onboard and check the rules before you pack. For the onboard ice rink, long trousers were mandatory. There were some options in the onboard shops, but I learned my lesson; if you want to avoid the costs of a new pair of jogging bottoms, pay attention when packing.

The thrill-inducing Crown’s Edge where I got to hang off the side of a ship was another spot where I was grateful to have packed trainers, otherwise I would have missed out on one of the best highlights of my holiday.

Royal Caribbean also has themed nights you get told about ahead of time, so keep an eye on those dress codes if you want to take part – we had everything from jungle themes to ‘Dress your Best’.

2. Quiet breakfast spot

The buffet on any cruise ship is often the most popular spot for breakfast. However on Legend of the Seas there are more than 40 eateries, 11 of which are complementary. That helps with the crowds, but not with trying to decide where to go first! Tucked away in the Surfside neighbourhood on deck seven, you’ll find the Surfside Eatery and in my opinion, it’s a hidden gem and one of my favourite places to eat in the morning.

While the ship was not at full capacity when I was onboard, every time I entered for breakfast there were no more than four other people in there. I overheard another guest telling staff it was “a lot quieter than the buffet”, and you still have a variety of breakfast favourites including English breakfast staples, waffles, doughnuts and cereals too. My personal favourite were the pastries on offer.

3. Don’t miss out on cocktails

Every bar on board has its own speciality cocktails and Royal Caribbean pour a lot of effort and thought into their drinks menu. Personally I can find it overwhelming to work out what drinks I may, or may not like. Any of the crew are more than happy to help you choose if you tell them what flavours or spirits you like. Every time I have asked for a recommendation they have been spot on – and it means that I don’t have to just order a pina colada every time. I highly recommend the Miami Spritz, which is part of Legend of the Seas’ Aperitivo Hour and can be purchased for $10 during 4pm to 6pm at places like Giovanni’s.

4. Plan your meals

If you’re in the main dining room and tempted by something on the menu but you’re not sure if you’re like it, let your waiter know and you can either order it for the table to try and share, as well as something you know you love, or you can order it and if you do not like it, your waiter will take it away and bring you something else.

This is also the same for if there are two dishes you like the look of, you can try both. I may have done this with dessert once or twice. But a tip from me, if you’re on a Royal Caribbean ship, order the Key Lime Pie or Royal Chocolate Cake. You won’t regret it.

5. Hidden spots post-show

If you only watch one show on board, let it be Fusion (Shockwave and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory are also both a must-see too though). Once you’ve been wowed by the cast and are leaving,to beat the post-show rush, do not go up through Playmakers as it is incredibly busy.

We stood in a queue for a while before realising those who exited through the lower doors through to the promenade went straight through. You’ll have to be quick though as the promenade doors close quickly after the initial rush. If you exit on the left, you may even catch a gorgeous sunset.

While we’re on show tips, grab a drink before you sit down as it is much easier than having to catch the attention of bar staff walking around. If you’re keen to soak up the atmosphere but don’t want to be in the crowd, get to Giovanni’s bar around 30 minutes before the party starts and you may just get a table that can overlook the promenade. Perfect for those who want to boogie in a chair!

Book the holiday

Sailings on Legend of the Seas start from £1,416 based on two adults sharing an interior stateroom, sailing on a 7-night Western Mediterranean Cruise. Find out more and book on royalcaribbean.com.