Five Things to Know About Royal Caribbean International's Explorer of the Seas Cruise Ship

During a refurbishment in 2015, many of the interior staterooms were upgraded with Virtual Balconies: The real-time view outside is projected onto a screen on one of the cabin walls, creating the illusion of a real verandah. Interior staterooms start at 150 square feet, while Royal Suites, the largest on the ship, top out at 1,087 square feet and come with a baby grand piano. Groups gravitate toward the 561-square-foot Royal Family Suites, which come with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a sofa bed in the living room.

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Passengers who like to keep moving will love this ship.  There’s a FlowRider surf simulator, ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall, basketball court, and mini golf course. And if you’re in the mood for a workout, you can always hit the fitness center where you’ll find lots of classes to help you work off that buffet.

This four-deck-high atrium is the heart of the ship. Lined with shops and bars, this indoor mall was built to look and feel like a charming city street, complete with street parties and parades. For optimal people watching, book one of the ship’s Promenade staterooms, which have views of all the action.

Parents who want a little time to themselves can hand their charges over to the Adventure Ocean club, which keeps kids busy with scavenger hunts and science-themed activities. Teens have a spot to hang out, too: They get their own lounge and disco.

When you’re not sampling the local cuisine onshore, you’ll have plenty of onboard options to choose from. During the day, grab a sandwich at Café Promenade, head to Johnny Rockets for a burger, or stop at Ben & Jerry’s for a scoop. For dinner, you can head to one of the main dining rooms or a for-fee specialty restaurant: Try Giovanni’s Table for Italian, Izumi for Japanese, or Chops Grille for a steak.