Explorer of the Seas Cruises & Sailings

Connect with fellow cruisers and explore 81 upcoming sailings aboard this popular Royal Caribbean ship.

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Upcoming Sailings

$511

From

The Story

Explorer of the Seas has been a Royal Caribbean favorite since launching in 2000. As one of the line's innovative Voyager-class ships, this 137,308-ton vessel carries up to 3,938 passengers across some of the world's most sought-after ocean cruising destinations. Whether you're planning your first voyage or you're a seasoned cruiser looking to connect with others who've sailed aboard, CruiseHuddle brings together the community and insights you need.

This ship splits its time between two incredible regions. You'll find Explorer of the Seas sailing the sun-soaked Caribbean and exploring the historic ports of the Mediterranean. Departures from Port Canaveral in Orlando, Florida make Caribbean getaways convenient for North American cruisers, while European sailings from Barcelona, Spain and Ravenna, Italy open up the wonders of the Mediterranean. With 81 upcoming sailings and prices starting at just $511, there are plenty of opportunities to experience this ship's blend of classic Royal Caribbean features and ocean-going adventure.

What makes Explorer of the Seas special is its versatility. The ship appeals to families seeking active vacations, couples looking for romantic escapes, and groups of friends ready to explore together. Voyager-class ships introduced features that changed cruising when they debuted, and Explorer continues that tradition of offering something for everyone. The size strikes a nice balance—large enough for varied dining and entertainment options, yet manageable enough that you won't feel lost aboard.

Ready to see where Explorer of the Seas can take you? Browse the sailing options, compare itineraries and prices, and connect with other CruiseHuddle members who've experienced this ship firsthand.

Onboard Highlights

🧗

FlowRider Surf Simulator

Catch waves on the ship's signature surf simulator, a Voyager-class staple for thrill seekers.

🏀

Full-Size Basketball Court

Play pickup games or watch matches on the open-air sports court high above the sea.

🎳

Onboard Bowling Alley

Roll a few frames at the ship's bowling lanes, a rare find at sea.

🌳

Royal Promenade Boardwalk

Stroll the indoor Royal Promenade lined with shops, bars, and parading entertainment.

🧊

Ice Skating Rink Shows

Watch professional skaters perform in Studio B, the ship's dedicated ice rink venue.

🍸

Schooner Bar Piano Lounge

Sip classic cocktails while enjoying live piano tunes at the nautical-themed Schooner Bar.

Departures

Oct 10, 2026 · Ravenna, Porto Corsini, Italy

→ Mediterranean

See all 80 sailings

By the Numbers

Ship Specifications

📅 Year Built

2000

👥 Passengers

3,938

👨‍✈️ Crew

1,180

🏢 Decks

🛏️ Cabins

1,641

⚖️ Gross Tonnage

137308 gt

📏 Length

311 m / 1020 ft

↔️ Beam

49 m / 161 ft

⚡ Speed

24 kn / 44 km/h / 28 mph

🏳️ Flag

Bahamas

🔧 Builder

Kvaerner Masa-Yards (Turku, STX Finland)

🏷️ Ship Class

RCI VOYAGER

🎀 Christened By

Jackie Joyner-Kersee

⚓ Sister Ships

Adventure OTSMariner OTSNavigator OTSVoyager OTS

Questions

Explorer of the Seas has a passenger capacity of 3,938 guests at full occupancy. This Voyager-class ship from Royal Caribbean offers a mid-to-large size experience, providing plenty of onboard activities and dining options while maintaining a manageable feel for guests navigating the ship.

Explorer of the Seas primarily sails to the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Caribbean cruises typically depart from Port Canaveral in Orlando, Florida, while Mediterranean itineraries embark from European ports like Barcelona, Spain and Ravenna, Italy, giving cruisers access to diverse ocean destinations throughout the year.

Explorer of the Seas was built in 2000, making it one of Royal Caribbean's Voyager-class vessels. Despite being over two decades old, the ship has maintained its popularity and continues to offer the signature Royal Caribbean experience across Caribbean and Mediterranean routes.

Cruises aboard Explorer of the Seas start at $511 based on current available sailings. Prices vary depending on itinerary length, cabin type, departure date, and destination. Booking early or choosing off-peak sailing dates can often help you secure better rates on this popular ship.

Explorer of the Seas is operated by Royal Caribbean International, one of the world's largest cruise lines. As part of Royal Caribbean's fleet, the ship features the line's signature blend of activities, dining venues, and entertainment designed for ocean cruising enthusiasts of all ages.

Beyond the fare

What Royal Caribbean International actually costs

These rates apply fleetwide across Royal Caribbean International.

Verified July 2026

Gratuities

$18.50

per person, per day

Couple, 7 nights

$259

before a single drink

Service charge

18%

bar · dining · spa

Wi-Fi from

$25

per device, per day

Drink packages run roughly $70–$105 per person, per day — and on most lines every adult in the cabin must buy one if anybody does.

Has NOT raised gratuities since Nov 2024, while Carnival, Princess and Holland America all did in 2026. VOOM internet runs roughly $25-30/device/day. The Key ($25-50pp/day, all guests 6+ must buy) is mostly worth it for the included Wi-Fi, not the priority boarding.

Calculate your total What a cruise really costs →

Published rates, not a quote. Cruise pricing changes frequently — confirm with the cruise line before booking.