The cruising world is not immune to the technological advances that are sweeping virtually every other industry on the planet. As such, the world’s most notable cruise lines have been hard at work building newer and better ships, while at the same time giving their older vessels some much-needed upgrades. This has resulted in fleets of ships taking to the seas in 2016 that have some the very best amenities yet, ones that would’ve been unthinkable only several years ago.
Royal Caribbean, for example, has been quite proud of its new bar offering: the robotic bartender. Capable of mixing any drink you can imagine, these robotic bartenders come with a fringe benefit: you don’t have to tip them! But, that’s just one of many technological innovations that have been made in the world’s cruise fleets. In fact, some of the best amenities offered in 2016 aren’t even technological upgrades at all. They’re just examples of cruise lines understanding what travelers want and responding to their needs.
So, what are the new cruise ship amenities for 2016 that you should be excited about? Below, we’re going to look at the seven that we think are the very best…
1. A Spa… In Your Room!
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is incredibly excited about their newest ship, the Seven Seas Explorer, which starts making voyages in July.
The well-heeled are quite excited about the ship’s Regent Suite, which provides an in-room spa in which guests can receive unlimited treatments.
All of that comes at a cost, though, as the starting rate for this world-class suite is $5,000 per person per day. That’s not cheap!
2. A Different Kind of Spa
If that’s too rich for your blood, then perhaps you should check out Norwegian’s latest, the Escape, which started service last fall.
Norwegian is, of course, known for their spas, but the Mandara Spa aboard the Escape is something all together different.
That’s thanks to something known as the Snow Room, which you can think of as the exact opposite of a steam room… Cool!
3. Pool Time In All Weather
Launched at the end of March, AIDA Cruise’s brand new Prima has been drawing rave reviews from critics and travellers alike.
One reason to be excited about boarding this ship? Well, you never have to worry about inclement weather ruining pool time!
That’s because the ship uses a high-tech and virtually invisible membrane, which can keep the rain away from both the pool and the sun deck.
4. Keeping You Connected
Silversea Cruises understands that its passengers want to enjoy their vacations, but not at the cost of losing their connections.
That’s why they’re currently offering free Wi-Fi to passengers aboard their ships. The only catch: you only get one hour a day. (But, isn’t that enough?)
If that’s too little Wi-Fi time for you, then you can always opt for one of their Medallion suites, where the Wi-Fi is both free and unlimited.
5. Robo Bar Tenders
With its new Quantum-class ships, Royal Caribbean has been pulling out all the stops, understanding that bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better.
One thing that you’ll only see aboard these ships are bionic bartenders, robots capable of mixing and serving all of your favorite libations. (No tip required!)
After grabbing a drink or two with the robo bartenders, why not check out the North Star, which will give you views you’ve never seen on a cruise ship.
6. In-Room Bartenders / Butlers
When it comes to offering a high-class experience, the new Quantum-class ships are also raising the bar.
If you book one of the Royal Suites, you can also spend extra to get something known as Star Class service.
With this, you and those you’re traveling with will get to enjoy the experience of having a professionally trained butler tending to your every need. (Including mixing your favorite libations…)
7. Catering to Families
Holland America understands that families need more from cruise ships in this day and age, and so they’ve made some changes with their new Koningsdam.
The ship is offering amazing family staterooms, which are actually suites capable of hosting up to five people and that feature two showers.
Saving on shower time alone should be enough for most families to ensure that they’re spending their time enjoying everything else the ship has to offer.
