Royal Caribbean's Monarch of the Seas, launched in 1991 (refit in 2003), is 880 feet long and can accommodate 2,390 passengers. With its refit came a rock climbing wall and emphasis on activities for kids. There are two outdoor pools, whirlpools, an open-air basketball court, a day spa and fitness center. Dining options range from a Ben & Jerry's to fine dining in an Asian-fusion restaurant. Broadway-type shows provide evening entertainment.
Monarch of the Seas sails three- and four-night round-trip cruises from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas, with stops in Nassau and Coco Cay. The four-night cruise includes an additional day at sea.
Royal Caribbean
1050 Caribbean Way
Miami, FL 33132
800-256-6649
royalcaribbean.com
The Carnival Sensation, launched in 1993 (refit in 2008), is 855 feet long and can accommodate 2,052 passengers. With its refit in 2008 came an emphasis on kids programs. Notable on the Sensation is the Grand Atrium Plaza, similar to an enclosed luxury shopping mall.
Sensation sails round trip from Port Canaveral on three- and four-day excursions to the Bahamas. The three-day cruise includes one day in Nassau and one day at sea. The four-day cruise adds a day in Freeport, Bahamas.
Carnival Cruise Lines
3655 NW 87th Ave.
Miami, FL 33178
305-599-2600
carnival.com
The Disney Wonder, inaugurated in 1999 (refit in 2010) is 964 feet long and can accommodate 2,400 passengers. With the refit comes a new kids pool and renovation to the adult-only pool, as well as a 24- by 14-foot LED screen for outdoor movies. Meeting and conference space also are part of the Wonder's renovation. Dining ranges from fine dining to casual fast food. The variety of entertainment runs from kids programs to Broadway-style shows.
The Disney Wonder travels round trip from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas on three-, four- and five-night excursions. Three-night trips involve a day at Castaway Cay (Disney's private island) and Nassau. The four-night itinerary adds a day at sea. Five nights cruises include a stop in Nassau and two nights at Castaway Cay or stops in Nassau, Castaway Cay and Key West, Florida.
Disney Cruise Line
P.O. Box 10238
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830-0238
800-951-3532
disneycruise.disney.go.com
