Royal Caribbean reveals huge upgrades coming to three cruise ships
The cruise line invested more than $100 million into a transformation of Allure of the Seas ahead of its summer season in Europe. The revamped ship is now sailing western Mediterranean cruises offering new experiences and enhancements on board, including a reimagined resort-style pool deck, thrilling new slides, and popular new restaurants and bars.
Related: Royal Caribbean gives casino gamblers a gift that benefits all cruisers
Now, three more Royal Caribbean ships will get their own makeovers in 2026 as part of Royal Caribbean's Royal Amplified fleet modernization program, which was first introduced in 2018.
To develop the Royal Amplified program, Royal Caribbean examined years of guest satisfaction ratings, venue utilization data and crew interviews to center its ship upgrades around key features and experiences that matter most to its passengers.
Following this next wave of amplifications, three fan-favorite Royal Caribbean ships will debut revamped pool decks and new nightlife, bars, and dining venues, as well as new accommodations to enhance passengers' onboard experiences.
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Through the Royal Amplified program, elevated cruise experiences will come to Ovation, Harmony, and Liberty of the Seas in 2026.
The amplification of Ovation of the Seas will bring a refreshed pool deck with private casitas and a new whirlpool, plus enhanced nightlife including new venue Sound Cellar and an expanded Casino Royale.
Fan-favorite tiki bar Pesky Parrot will come to a Quantum Class ship for the first time on Ovation of the Seas through the modernization project. The ship's overhaul will also add new accommodations like the Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suite.
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Following its amplification, Ovation of the Seas will take vacationers to the Last Frontier on seven- to 13-night Alaskan adventures beginning in May 2026. After completing its 2026 Alaska cruise season, Ovation of the Seas will reposition to Los Angeles to sail Mexican Riviera cruises.
Like Ovation, Harmony and Liberty of the Seas will also debut their new enhancements just in time for the summer 2026 cruise season.
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As Allure of the Seas did this year, both Harmony and Liberty of the Seas will bring new onboard experiences to Europe cruise adventures in summer 2026.
Harmony of the Seas will sail from Barcelona with upgrades including a new Caribbean-inspired pool deck, refreshed Solarium, and new dining options The Lime & Coconut, El Loco Fresh, Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, and Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade. Additionally, an expansion of the ship's Casino Royale will give Harmony of the Seas the largest casino in the fleet.
Related: Royal Caribbean cruisers sound off on reckless cruise port stunt
Following its summer in Europe, Harmony of the Seas will sail cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean from Port Canaveral, Florida, offering visits to Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. On cruises to Nassau, passengers will also have the opportunity to purchase day passes to Royal Caribbean's new all-inclusive Royal Beach Club Paradise Island.
Related: Royal Caribbean cruisers sound the alarm on a major ship problem
The amplified Liberty of the Seas will sail European cruises from Southampton, England in summer 2026, offering refreshed onboard spaces. The ship will also feature new experiences, including a transformed pool deck with The Lime & Coconut and new casitas, as well as a brand-new Royal Escape Room concept.
Liberty of the Seas' passengers will also enjoy new dining options including Mexican flavors at El Loco Fresh and Japanese cuisine and hibachi at Izumi Teppanyaki. The ship's refresh will also add a new Starbucks café on board.
For the winter 2026-2027 season, Liberty of the Seas will sail western Caribbean cruises from Galveston, Texas, featuring opportunities to visit Royal Caribbean's new Royal Beach Club Cozumel in Mexico.
(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)
Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.
Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
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