🚢 How much does a cruise on Ovation of the Seas cost: prices and onboard surcharges

Cruise on Ovation of the Seas is a week at sea without suitcases and moving between cities. The Royal Caribbean International ship carries more than 4,000 passengers and sails from Singapore, Hong Kong, and Sydney (as of 09/2026, Royal Caribbean official website). The ship has an indoor pool, a theater, and a panoramic observation capsule. We broke down what is included in the cruise fare and what is charged separately, and put together ten itineraries across Asia, Australia, and Oceania.

Choosing a cruise is harder than it looks from the outside. Short itineraries run three to five nights and cost noticeably less, while long ones last up to two weeks and cross several climate zones. Below you will find the ship's layout by section, then ten itineraries with ports and durations, and at the end, answers to frequently asked questions.

About Ovation of the Seas

💡 In short:

Ovation of the Seas is the third Quantum-class ship, 348 meters long (ship specifications).
It carries 4,180 passengers in 2,090 staterooms (Quantum class on Wikipedia).
Short cruises last 3-5 nights, longer itineraries run up to 14 nights.
Prices, itineraries, and included services: as of 09/2026, verified on the official website.

Ovation of the Seas was launched in 2016, the third Quantum-class ship. The hull is 348 meters long, and the crew serves 4,180 passengers in 2,090 staterooms (as of 09/2026, ship technical data). Inside there are 18 decks, five complimentary restaurants, a 1,300-seat theater, and a two-deck sports complex.

Instead of a classic key card, each passenger gets a wristband key. It stores your onboard account, and you use it to pay at bars and shops. A separate Royal IQ app shows where your luggage is and lets you book shows and restaurants in advance (onboard services).

Staterooms vary by size and view. There are interior staterooms, options with a window, with a balcony, and two-level suites with a hot tub in the forward section. Every room has a bed, wardrobe, desk, and armchair. If you book an interior stateroom, a virtual balcony replaces the window.

Inside the ship, walls are decorated with paintings, photographs, and sculptures. Along the galleries there are virtual panoramic screens that change their image throughout the day. A separate draw is the three-deck Royal Theatre with 1,300 seats (as of 09/2026, onboard entertainment). In the evenings it hosts Broadway musicals, stage productions, and 3D movies, while during the day the venue is used for rehearsals.

Virtual balcony

In interior staterooms, a floor-to-ceiling screen replaces the window. It shows a live feed from outside the ship, so you still get an ocean view even without a balcony. During the day the screen shows open water and ports; at night the image becomes dimmed. This option suits those who come back to their stateroom late and don't want to overpay for a real balcony.

North Star observation capsule

The upper deck has a glass North Star capsule for 14 people (as of 09/2026, Quantum class). A crane lifts it more than 90 meters above the water and extends it over the side. The capsule offers a 360-degree view. Book a sunset slot if you want to shoot a panorama of the entire port.

Seaplex

Seaplex spans two decks and operates as a sports center. Here you'll find basketball, soccer, and tennis courts, a climbing wall, and bumper cars. For surfing, Seaplex has a dedicated artificial wave machine, and in the wind tunnel you can skydive without a plane. During the day, a circus school also runs here, where jugglers and acrobats teach basic skills. In the evening, the complex turns into a large disco, so lively groups spend time here until morning.

Two70°

Two70° occupies the ship's stern. It's a multi-level lounge with tall panoramic windows, sofas, and armchairs. During the day it's quiet and comfortable for relaxing; in the evening, acrobatic shows take place. Eighteen projectors cast images directly onto the windows, so the venue changes its look between acts (as of 09/2026, Two70 observation area).

My Time Dining

Festively set wooden table with flowers and cake

My Time Dining lets you eat whenever it's convenient rather than at a fixed time. You come to the main dining room any time it's open and sit at an available table. There are five complimentary restaurants on board, and their menus change every day. Guests are served American, Asian, and Indian cuisine (dining on board).

Entertainment and shopping

Pool on the deck of Ovation of the Seas from above

The decks feature a pool with a retractable roof, hot tubs, a spa, and a fitness center. A dedicated running track circles the ship. On deck 14, the outdoor pool is surrounded by loungers and bars, with a large screen across from it showing movies and sports broadcasts.

Outdoors, there are cascading hot tubs and water attractions with waterfalls and artificial waves. A separate area is set aside for a solarium and spa, where you can book a massage. If you're traveling during the rainy season, use the indoor pool with its retractable glass roof: it's open in any weather.

Royal Esplanade runs through the center of the ship like a shopping boulevard. Along the storefronts are boutiques with perfume, watches, jewelry, and clothing. Cafes and regular sales are also located there, so you can combine shopping with lunch.

The Music Hall nightclub spans two levels. Live bands play around the clock, with dance shows and themed parties. The venues have sofas with tables where wine and cocktails are served.

Restaurants

The ship has 18 restaurants and bars in total (as of 09/2026, Ovation restaurants). Some serve food from a fixed menu, while others operate buffet-style. The Bionic Bar is staffed by robot bartenders, and Wonderland serves molecular cuisine. If you're watching your weight, stop by Solarium Bistro with its lighter options. In addition to specialty restaurants, the ship has a pizzeria, pubs, coffee shops, a bakery, and a pastry shop (as of 09/2026, restaurants on Ovation). The interiors feature dark wood, marble, mirrors, and crystal, making dinner here an event in itself.

Gratuities and service charges

Royal Caribbean adds gratuities automatically to your onboard account. The rate depends on your cabin category; suites are charged more than standard rooms. A separate percentage is applied to drinks, spa, and salon services. You can prepay gratuities when booking; check the official website for current terms.

Dress code

Bring three sets of clothing: casual, athletic, and evening. The main dining room and shows generally call for a cocktail dress or suit. Swimwear and flip-flops are fine by the pool but not in the restaurant. Check the evening program schedule in the app so you know the format in advance and don't have to change twice.

Kids' clubs

Colorful mats, table and chairs in a children's playroom

Kids' clubs with age-based programs operate on board for children. Toddlers are kept busy with games and cartoons, teenagers with tournaments and discos. While the kids are in activities, you can calmly head to the spa or on an excursion. You can pick up your child by dinner (family programs).

Water attractions and separate pools are available for children, while sports tournaments and discos run for teenagers. In the evenings, themed masquerades are held on deck, movies are shown, and cartoon character parades take place. If you are traveling as a family, plan dinner after the evening program ends: that way no one has to rush.

1. A short cruise: Asia, 5 nights round trip from Singapore

Night panorama of Georgetown, Penang with tower

The five-night cruise sails along the Malay Peninsula and returns to Singapore. It departs from Singapore, a city of entertainment and shopping. The first stop is the Malaysian island of Penang, covered with forested hills. It is a resort area with sandy beaches, a botanical garden, temples, and local cuisine.

Next, the ship calls at the west coast of Thailand, at the island of Phuket. Here you will find sandy beaches, cliffs, and the warm Andaman Sea, and a national park operates in the center of the island. The ship spends two more days at sea, so you will still have time for the pool and shows. Singapore is convenient as a starting point: direct flights from Europe arrive here, and the city itself can be seen in a day before boarding. Penang should be planned around beaches and local cuisine: near the botanical garden and temples there are evening entertainment venues. On Phuket, part of the time goes to the beaches, part to the national park in the center of the island.

The itinerary suits those going on a cruise for the first time and who do not want to get tired from transfers. Check the price and available dates on the page with current cruise dates.

Itinerary: Singapore / at sea / Georgetown, Penang / Phuket, Thailand / at sea / Singapore.

2. Southeast Asia: 12 nights from Singapore to Tianjin

The twelve-night itinerary sails from Singapore across the South China Sea. The first call is the port of Phu My in Vietnam, from where you travel to Ho Chi Minh City. It is the country's historic and industrial center with wide boulevards and buildings from the French colonial era. In the city, it is worth seeing the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, palaces, pagodas, and museums.

The next stop is Da Nang. You will find the Marble Mountains, dense forests, temple complexes, and beaches with clear water. Next, the ship heads to Hong Kong, one of the world's largest megacities with dense development and shopping centers. After that, the ship calls at Seoul, the capital of South Korea with palace complexes and temples. The itinerary ends at the port of Tianjin, the gateway to Beijing. Check prices and the full schedule on the cruise line's website.

Itinerary: Singapore / at sea / Phu My, Vietnam / at sea / Chan May, Vietnam / at sea / 2 days in Hong Kong, China / 2 days at sea / Seoul, Incheon / at sea / Tianjin, Beijing.

3. A short cruise: Asia, 5 nights round trip from Hong Kong

Panorama of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak

The five-night itinerary departs from Hong Kong and sails along the resorts of Vietnam. The ship calls at the bays of Chan May and Nha Trang, then returns to the port of Hong Kong. During these days you can swim in the South China Sea, see ancient temples, and try local dishes. The ship spends part of the time at sea, so you will definitely have time to relax on deck.

The bays of Chan May and Nha Trang are convenient for beach stops: the water in the South China Sea is warm almost all year. In Nha Trang you can walk through the tropical forest and see ancient temples, and try local delicacies at the markets.

Hong Kong as a home port is convenient for those flying into Asia from Europe: the city is connected by direct flights to many hubs. The cruise is short, so it works well as an addition to a land trip through China. Before boarding, check the visa rules for Vietnam: they change, and without the right stamp you will not be allowed on board. Check available dates, cabin categories, and prices on the Hong Kong boarding dates.

Itinerary: Hong Kong, China / at sea / Chan May, Vietnam / Nha Trang, Vietnam / at sea / Hong Kong, China.

4. China and Japan: 9 nights round trip from Hong Kong

The nine-night itinerary connects Hong Kong with four Japanese ports. Four of the nine days the ship is at sea, so you will have time for onboard entertainment. The ship first docks in Fukuoka, a city with pagodas, museums, and shopping centers. It is also worth seeing the park with ruins of ancient castles and the skyscraper with a rooftop garden.

The next stop is Nagasaki, a major port city among green hills. There are many Christian churches here, some of them listed as UNESCO sites. Then the ship calls at Kumamoto with samurai mansions and an ancient fortress. The last port is Shimonoseki with Japan's largest aquarium. After that, the ship returns to Hong Kong. Check the itinerary and price on the current schedule.

Itinerary: Hong Kong, China / 2 days at sea / Fukuoka, Japan / Nagasaki, Japan / Kumamoto, Japan / Shimonoseki, Japan / 2 days at sea / Hong Kong, China.

5. A short cruise: Asia, 5 nights round trip from Tianjin

Kokura Castle surrounded by red autumn maples

The five-night itinerary sails across the Yellow Sea from the port of Tianjin to Japanese bays. The first stop is Kitakyushu, a former village that became a major industrial city. Robots are assembled here and scientific conferences are held, and the main attraction is Kokura Castle surrounded by a garden. You will spend an excursion day in the city and return on board by evening.

The second port is Fukuoka with temples, theaters, museums, and skyscrapers. A walk through the city's historic and modern districts takes half a day. After Fukuoka, the ship heads back to Tianjin, and you spend the last day at sea. The Yellow Sea is often cooler than southern Asia, so bring a windbreaker for walks on deck. Each port offers a distinct experience: in Kitakyushu you see Kokura Castle surrounded by a garden, in Fukuoka pagodas, museums, and the business district. After returning on board, you still have the evening for shows and dinner.

This itinerary is convenient for those already in Beijing who want a short break at sea. It is a good option for a first sea trip: two ports, short passages, and two days at sea. Check the visa rules for Japan in advance and keep copies of your documents on your phone. Check dates and prices on the onboard schedule.

Itinerary: Tianjin, Beijing / at sea / Kitakyushu, Japan / Fukuoka, Japan / at sea / Tianjin, Beijing.

6. Japan and the Far East: 7 nights round trip from Tianjin

Hakata Port waterfront and Marine Messe exhibition center

The seven-night cruise departs from Tianjin, crosses the Sea of Japan, and calls at three Japanese cities: Fukuoka, Sakaiminato, and Maizuru, the port for Kyoto. In each city you can stroll streets lined with historic and modern buildings. Buddhist temples, mansions with curved roofs, and sculptures stand among gardens and ponds.

Beyond the architecture, these cities have plenty of theaters, museums, bars, and shops, so you can fill your free time without a plan. Two of the seven days the ship spends at sea on the way back to Tianjin. The itinerary suits those who want to see Japan in a single trip without long overland transfers. Check the ports and pricing on the cruise page.

Itinerary: Tianjin, Beijing / at sea / Fukuoka, Japan / Sakaiminato, Japan / Kyoto, Maizuru, Japan / 2 days at sea / Tianjin, Beijing.

7. Southeast Asia: 12 nights from Tianjin to Singapore

Water buffalo cart in shallow water near Okinawa

The twelve-night itinerary runs south from Tianjin and ends in Singapore. Six of the twelve days the ship spends at sea, so bring books and plan some time by the pool. The first stop is the Japanese island of Okinawa, with reefs, white beaches, medieval pagodas, and a pineapple plantation. It is also home to a large aquarium.

Next the ship calls at the port of Taipei in northern Taiwan. The city is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and the Taipei 101 skyscraper rises above the center. After Taiwan the ship heads to Hong Kong with its shopping malls and hotels, then to Manila, the capital of the Philippines, with its fortresses and palaces. Near the Philippine island of Boracay the ship makes a short stop: this is a hub for beach holidays and diving. The final destination is Singapore. See the full list of ports and pricing on the Royal Caribbean website.

Itinerary: Tianjin, Beijing / 2 days at sea / Okinawa, Japan / Taipei, Taiwan / at sea / Hong Kong, China / at sea / Manila, Philippines / Boracay, Philippines / 2 days at sea / Singapore.

8. Australia: 14 nights from Singapore to Sydney

William Street with historic facades and cars

The fourteen-night itinerary crosses the Indian Ocean from Singapore to Sydney. This is the longest option in the selection, and for the first five days the ship sails without stops. The first port, Fremantle, is the western part of Australia with colonial buildings, beaches, and nature reserves near Perth.

Then the ship calls at Adelaide, a quiet city surrounded by parks and vineyards in the hills. There are plenty of restaurants and open-air sports facilities, and the center has retained two-story Victorian-era houses. The next stop is the island of Tasmania with its colonial architecture and wildlife. The journey ends in Sydney with its bays and beaches. This itinerary is worth choosing if you have two weeks and don't mind long stretches at sea. Check dates and pricing in the repositioning schedule.

Itinerary: Singapore / 5 days at sea / Perth, Fremantle / 3 days at sea / Adelaide, Australia / at sea / Hobart, Tasmania / at sea / Sydney, Australia.

9. Australia and New Zealand: 12 nights round-trip from Sydney

Milford Sound: snowcapped peak above dark fjord water

The twelve-night cruise departs from Sydney and crosses the Tasman Sea to New Zealand. Milford Sound greets you first: a winding inlet surrounded by rocky shores and jagged peaks. The ship then enters Doubtful Sound with its rainforest, vines, and waterfalls, followed by Dusky Sound with kilometer-high rock walls.

The next port, Dunedin on green hills, features Gothic buildings and cathedrals. There you can visit a chocolate factory or an old gold mine. The itinerary then continues through Wellington, Tauranga, Auckland, and the Bay of Islands with its bays and parks. After New Zealand, the ship returns to Sydney. This itinerary suits those who want to see the fjords without arranging their own travel between cities. See the schedule and pricing on the cruise page.

Itinerary: Sydney, Australia / 2 days at sea / Milford Sound, New Zealand / Doubtful Sound / Dusky Sound / Dunedin / Wellington / at sea / Tauranga / Auckland / Bay of Islands / 2 days at sea / Sydney, Australia.

10. Australia and New Caledonia: 8 nights round-trip from Sydney

Tropical bay with turquoise water and forest

The eight-night cruise departs from Sydney for the islands of New Caledonia and Vanuatu. You'll visit Lifou in New Caledonia and Mystery Island in Vanuatu, surrounded by emerald sea and coral reefs. These are sandy shores with palm trees, caves, and rocky cliffs, so a swimsuit and snorkel mask will definitely come in handy. The ship spends two days in open sea in each direction.

The ship then docks in Noumea, the capital of New Caledonia. The city is convenient for short walks along the oceanfront, and in the evening bars, nightclubs, and casinos open up. The itinerary is short, so it suits those who want warm seas without long flights from Sydney. Check dates and pricing on the Australia options page.

Itinerary: Sydney, Australia / 2 days at sea / Lifou, Loyalty Islands / Mystery Island, Vanuatu / Noumea, New Caledonia / 2 days at sea / Sydney, Australia.

What's included in the cruise fare

The base cruise fare includes a stateroom in your chosen category, meals in several complimentary restaurants, and most onboard activities. Pools, hot tubs, the gym, and the kids' club are available at no extra charge (as of 09/2026, what's included in a cruise). Theater shows, music programs, and evening events are also included.

Three points are worth remembering separately, as they are most often mistaken for paid extras. The main dining room and buffet cost nothing extra. The indoor relaxation areas on the decks are open to everyone. The Seaplex sports facilities are included in the base fare (fare breakdown).

What costs extra

Outside the base fare are gratuities, drinks, and internet. Alcohol, cocktails, and coffee at the bars are charged per menu, with a service percentage added on top (as of 09/2026, paid services). Drink packages and Wi-Fi are best booked in advance, as that's usually cheaper.

Specialty restaurants, the spa, the salon, shore excursions, and the casino are also paid. Photos taken by the ship's photographers are sold in separate packages. If you plan to take many excursions, budget for them in advance: prices on site are higher than when booking online.

When to go and what to pack

Southeast Asia has two seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season there usually falls in the winter months, while rain is more common in summer. The climate varies from itinerary to itinerary, so check the forecast for each port separately before your trip.

Pack for three situations: everyday sightseeing, sports, and evenings. Bring light clothing for hot days and one warm layer, because the air conditioning on board runs strong. In your luggage, include toiletries, a first-aid kit, chargers, and sunscreen. It's worth bringing at least one formal outfit for an evening dinner.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

How much does a cruise on Ovation of the Seas cost?

The final price depends on the itinerary, season, and stateroom category, so there is no single figure. Short 3-5 night itineraries cost less than long crossings, and suites are noticeably more expensive than standard rooms. Check current pricing on the official Royal Caribbean website before booking.

Where does the ship sail from and where does it go?

Ovation of the Seas is based in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Sydney. From these ports it sails through Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Australia, and Oceania. Some itineraries are round-trip, while others end in a different port, so plan your return flight in advance.

What's included in the cruise fare?

The fare includes your stateroom, meals in the main dining room and buffet, theater shows, pools, the fitness center, and the kids' club. Gratuities, drinks, internet, specialty restaurants, the spa, and shore excursions cost extra. Check the full list of services on the official website.

When is the best time to cruise Southeast Asia?

The dry season in the region usually falls in the winter months, while rain is more common in summer. If you're going for the beaches, plan your trip from December to March. For Australia and New Zealand itineraries, the southern summer is more convenient, meaning December through February.

Can I sail on Ovation of the Seas with children?

Yes, there are kids' clubs on board with age-appropriate programs. Younger children are kept busy with games and cartoons, while teenagers have tournaments and discos. While the kids are in activities, adults can relax at the spa or go on an excursion.

Video: Ovation of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

In short: what's worth booking

The bottom line across these ten itineraries is simple. If you have five days and a port nearby, take a short cruise from Singapore or Hong Kong. If you want to see Japan in a week, look at the seven-night itinerary from Tianjin. If you have two weeks and an above-average budget, choose the longer crossing to Australia or New Zealand. Either way, before buying, check the ports of call, dates, and price on the official Royal Caribbean website.

Ovation of the Seas: ten itineraries and what is included in the cruise fare