Navigator of the Seas at Labadee, Haiti
Navigator of the Seas at Labadee, Haiti / Royal Caribbean International
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Izumi
Izumi / Royal Caribbean International
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Outdoor Movie Screen
Outdoor Movie Screen / Royal Caribbean International
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Royal Promenade
Royal Promenade / Royal Caribbean International
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FlowRider
FlowRider / Royal Caribbean International
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Virtual Balcony
Virtual Balcony / Royal Caribbean International
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Cruise

Navigator of the Seas

Our Ship Review
by John Roberts
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

Able to accommodate 3,388 guests at double occupancy (and 3,968 at full capacity), Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas is big, but not as big as they come. The ship, which was built in 2002 and refurbished in 2014 and 2019, features tons of eateries and activities, including a surfing simulator, ice skating rink, and rock-climbing wall. Of course, that's in addition to all of the dancing and swimming offered on board.

The 2019 refit was part of  Royal Caribbean’s “Amplified” program to update its older ships with activities and amenities found on its newer, larger megaships, such as 2018’s Symphony of the Seas (an Oasis-class ship) and 2016’s Ovation of the Seas (a Quantum-class ship). As a result, Navigator of the Seas now features a transformed pool deck with a vibrant The Lime & Coconut bar, two adrenaline-rush waterslides (The Blaster aqua coaster and Riptide mat racer), Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, the Bamboo Room Polynesian-themed lounge, and several new specialty dining venues including Jamie’s Italian and Hooked Seafood.

What We Love

The Royal Promenade: Serving as a Main Street for the ship, the Royal Promenade buzzes with activity most of the day. The space is lined with shops, bars, lounges, and eateries, and is home to parades, dance parties, and the welcome aboard captain's toast. t also features To Dry For, Royal Caribbean’s first blow-dry bar for pre-evening pampering.

Plentiful Dining Options: There are 11 places to dine on this ship — four of them complimentary venues (Main Dining Room, Windjammer, Café Promenade, and El Loco Fresh for fast-casual Mexican) included in your cruise fare. For-fee venues include Chops Grille steakhouse, Hooked Seafood for fresh fish and raw bar, Izumi for Japanese cuisine, and Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver. There is also a Starbucks located in the Royal Promenade and a Johnny Rockets Express located poolside and featuring a more limited menu without the 1950s diner ambiance.

High-Octane Activities: Adrenaline junkies will love to test themselves on the FlowRider surfing simulator, the rock-climbing wall, the pickleball court, and the ice-skating rink (where you can also play Battle for Planet Z laser tag). Navigator of the Seas also features the Royal Escape Room: The Observatorium for couples and families who love a good mental challenge. Adults who prefer to chill, can head to the pool and hot tubs in the age-18+ Solarium.

Best Known For

Virtual Views: Navigator of the Seas was the first cruise ship to offer "virtual balcony" staterooms. These inside cabins have no windows but offer a live view replicating a real balcony via a full-length, high-resolution screen mounted on a wall. The screen shows images captured from an outside camera.

Who It's Best For

Deal Seekers: Budget-conscious cruisers who want plenty of options for fun activities while on board will enjoy this ship.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Eating Well Will Cost You: The best food on board is at the specialty restaurants — Chops Grille, Hooked Seafood, Izumi, and Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver — which come with an added charge. These meals are leaps ahead of the main dining room, but they'll add up quickly. If you want to eat well, look into purchasing a discounted specialty dining package when you book your cruise.