Royal Caribbean Cruises has long been a leader in the mass-market cruise line category. Back in l988, when Royal Caribbean introduced its Sovereign of the Seas, she was the first ship to offer a multi-level lobby. Then came other innovations and features, such as dome-covered pool areas, in addition to the regular outdoor pools, as well as two level dining rooms with its "Vision" class ships.

Then Royal Caribbean Cruises began building its "Voyager" class ships, offering innovative touches like ice skating rinks, rock climbing walls, miniature golf, atrium view staterooms, and Mardi Gras-type parades. A variation is the "Radiance" class, which includes some of the trademark features found on earlier built ships, but also includes more elegant touches. Smaller than the "Voyager" class ships, these "Radiance" class ships use extensive glass throughout, with specialty restaurants also featured.

Royal Caribbean began enhancing its "Voyager" class ship concept even more when it introduced Navigator of the Seas in December 2003. And when Royal Caribbean International launched its Freedom of the Seas in June 2006, had even more innovative features. Its FlowRider R has been featured in their television ads, and the H2O Zone is a water park designed for kids to splash and be splashed. Even more alternatives for dining and entertainment are also onboard - remember, Freedom of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship. Royal Caribbean has their Project Genesis ships debuting in Fall 2009.

Although Royal Caribbean still offers more traditional seatings in its dining rooms, reservations-required specialty restaurants and numerous casual dining are also available for cruising groups. Currently Royal Caribbean International's fleet includes 20 ships, including Freedom of the Seas. Destinations include Caribbean, Alaska, Bermuda, Bahamas, Europe, Far East, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal, and Canada/New England.