Grandeur of the Seas

What is the Grandeur of the Seas?

The Grandeur of the Seas is a Royal Caribbean cruise ship that's been making waves since 1996. This Vision-class vessel strikes a perfect balance between classic cruise ship charm and modern amenities. With a capacity for around 2,440 passengers and 760 crew members, it's what many consider the sweet spot for cruise ship size - big enough to offer plenty of entertainment and dining options, but not so massive that you feel lost in the crowd.

At 916 feet long and weighing in at 74,140 gross tons, the Grandeur maintains that traditional cruise ship feel that many passengers absolutely love. The ship received a major makeover in 2012, breathing new life into its facilities while preserving that nostalgic maritime atmosphere that sets it apart from today's floating cities.

How many passengers does the Grandeur of the Seas hold?

The ship accommodates approximately 2,440 to 2,446 passengers across 997 cabins spread over 21 different categories. This passenger count puts the Grandeur in the mid-size range, which creates a really nice atmosphere - lively enough to feel energetic, but intimate enough that you might actually recognize faces by the end of your cruise.

The crew-to-passenger ratio is quite good too, with about 760 crew members working to keep everything running smoothly. This translates to roughly one crew member for every three passengers, which typically means more personalized service than you'd find on the mega-ships.

What cabin options are available on the Grandeur of the Seas?

The Grandeur offers a solid variety of accommodations to fit different budgets and preferences:

Suite Categories

The ship features 95 suites that come with premium perks like private balconies, spacious living areas, and full-sized tubs. These suites can accommodate larger families or groups, with Royal King beds that convert to twins, sofa beds, and additional Pullman beds when needed.

Balcony Cabins

There are 122 balcony cabins that give you your own private outdoor space - perfect for morning coffee or evening drinks while watching the sunset. These rooms offer more space than interior cabins and that coveted ocean view.

Ocean View Cabins

With 380 ocean view cabins available, you can enjoy natural light and sea views without the balcony price tag. These rooms typically range from 140 to 190 square feet.

Interior Cabins

The ship has 400 interior cabins, which are the most budget-friendly option. While they don't have windows, they're still comfortable and you'll probably spend most of your time exploring the ship anyway.

What dining options does the Grandeur of the Seas offer?

The dining scene on the Grandeur really improved after the 2012 refurbishment. The main dining room, called the Great Gatsby Dining Room, can seat about 1,171 people and serves traditional cruise fare with a touch of elegance.

For more casual dining, the Windjammer Cafe offers buffet-style meals throughout the day. It's usually busy during peak hours, but the selection is pretty impressive.

The specialty restaurants added during the renovation really elevated the dining experience:

• Giovanni's Table serves Italian cuisine in a cozy, family-style setting
• Chops Grille is the go-to spot for premium steaks and seafood
• Izumi offers fresh sushi and Japanese dishes

These specialty venues do come with additional charges, but many guests find them worth the splurge for special occasions or when they want something beyond the standard cruise fare.

What entertainment and activities are available?

The heart of the Grandeur is its impressive multi-deck Centrum atrium. This central hub buzzes with activity throughout the day and hosts various entertainment events. Fair warning though - if you book a cabin near the Centrum, you might hear the festivities, especially during evening events.

Pools and Relaxation

The ship features two outdoor pools for general use, plus an adults-only Solarium with its own pool and hot tubs. The Solarium is particularly popular because it offers a quieter, more refined atmosphere away from the main pool deck chaos.

Entertainment Venues

• Palladium Theatre hosts the main production shows and guest entertainers
• South Pacific Lounge offers a more intimate setting for live music and performances
• Viking Crown Lounge sits high up on the ship and provides stunning 360-degree views - it's especially magical during sunset
• Casino Royale keeps the games going late into the night

Spa and Fitness

The onboard spa offers the usual treatments and services, while the fitness center provides equipment for those who want to work off all that cruise food.

What makes the Grandeur of the Seas special?

What really sets the Grandeur apart is its classic cruise ship personality. While newer ships wow with rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and robot bartenders, the Grandeur focuses on what many consider the essence of cruising - relaxation, good food, entertainment, and that wonderful sense of being pampered while sailing to beautiful destinations.

The ship was actually one of the first passenger vessels equipped with a Dynamic Positioning System, which helps with maneuverability and keeps things stable at sea. You might not notice this technology, but it definitely contributes to a smoother sailing experience.

Where does the Grandeur of the Seas cruise?

The Grandeur typically sails popular routes in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, taking advantage of its size to visit ports that might be challenging for larger vessels. The ship's 22-knot cruising speed ensures you reach your destinations comfortably without feeling rushed.

Is the Grandeur of the Seas right for you?

This ship appeals to cruisers who appreciate a more traditional cruise experience without sacrificing modern comforts. It's an excellent choice for first-time cruisers who want to experience what cruising is all about without being overwhelmed by massive ships and endless activity options.

The Grandeur works well for couples seeking a romantic getaway, families who want quality time together, and groups who prefer a more intimate setting where they can actually find each other. It's often positioned as a value option compared to Royal Caribbean's newest ships, making it attractive for budget-conscious travelers who still want the Royal Caribbean experience.

The ship might not be the best fit if you're looking for the latest and greatest cruise ship innovations, or if you prefer the energy and endless activities that come with the mega-ships. But for many passengers, the Grandeur's blend of classic charm and modern amenities hits just the right note.