When planning a perfect vacation at sea, many cruisers wonder: “Are whirlpools free Royal Caribbean?” It’s a valid question—after all, relaxing in a bubbling hot whirlpool while gazing at endless ocean views is one of the best parts of being on a cruise ship. But do these whirlpools come with an extra charge, or are they included in your cruise fare?
The good news is that yes, Royal Caribbean whirlpools are completely free to use, located throughout the ship, and available to guests as part of the standard base fare. Whether you're lounging on the pool deck, soaking in the adults-only Solarium, or unwinding in cantilevered hot tubs overlooking the ocean, you can enjoy all these whirlpools at no additional cost.
This comprehensive pillar guide covers everything you need to know: how many whirlpools are on each ship, where they’re located, who can use them, whether the spa whirlpools cost extra, what temperatures to expect, and tips for enjoying them to the fullest.
Let’s explore every essential detail to help you plan your perfect Royal Caribbean whirlpool experience.
The question “Are whirlpools free Royal Caribbean?” often pops up among first-time cruisers. The answer is simple but has a few important distinctions.
All standard whirlpools located on:
Main pool deck
Adults-only Solarium
Overlooking ocean-view decks
Cantilevered glass hot tubs (Oasis & Quantum Class)
Family pool areas
are included at no extra cost.
You can use them anytime during operating hours without making reservations or paying a fee.
There’s only one exception:
🔹 Spa whirlpools inside the Vitality Spa are NOT freeThese are part of thermal suite amenities, which require:
A paid day pass, OR
A cruise-long thermal suite pass
However—most ships do not offer spa whirlpools unless part of the thermal suite, and these are separate from the free outdoor hot tubs.
Royal Caribbean includes whirlpools as part of the guest pool experience, similar to:
Pools
Splash zones
Sun loungers
Pool deck access
Using whirlpools is considered a standard onboard amenity, thus included in your fare.
Royal Caribbean ships are designed with many whirlpools spread across decks to prevent crowding and give guests multiple relaxation options.
These are the most popular whirlpools and are available to all guests. They offer:
High ocean views
Large seating areas
Strong bubble jets
Comfortable warm temperatures
These hot tubs are typically located beside or near the main swimming pools.
The Solarium (ages 16+) is a quiet, relaxing retreat offering beautifully designed whirlpools, often:
Warmest on the ship
Featuring powerful hydrotherapy jets
Surrounded by tropical landscaping
Under a glass-covered or climate-controlled dome (on many ships)
The Solarium hot tubs are one of the biggest perks of cruising with Royal Caribbean—and entirely free.
These unique whirlpools extend beyond the ship’s side, offering breathtaking panoramic sea views.
Features include:
Glass walls
Elevated ocean views
Warm, relaxing bubbles
Sunset-perfect seating
These are among the most Instagram-worthy spots onboard—and completely free.
Some ships have additional hot tubs tucked away near:
The Sports Pool
The H2O Zone
Upper decks
Lounge areas
These tend to be quieter, depending on passenger flow.
The total number varies by ship class. Because cruisers often search for this before booking, here’s a helpful overview.
(Oasis, Allure, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder)These mega-ships offer 14+ whirlpools, including:
Main pool deck hot tubs
Solarium whirlpools
Cantilevered hot tubs
Specialty deck whirlpools
(Quantum, Anthem, Ovation, Odyssey, Spectrum)These ships feature around 10–12 whirlpools, including:
Large Solarium whirlpools
Indoor/outdoor options
Cantilevered hot tubs
These mid-sized ships offer 6–10 whirlpools, with:
Solarium hot tubs
Pool deck whirlpools
These ships offer 4–8 whirlpools, depending on layout.
Regardless of class, every Royal Caribbean ship includes whirlpools that are complimentary.
One of the biggest questions guests ask is whether whirlpools are warm enough for comfort. Royal Caribbean maintains all whirlpools within an ideal temperature range.
Typically:100°F – 104°F (37°C – 40°C)
This is consistent with luxury resort standards and offers:
Relaxation
Muscle relief
Warmth during cool weather
Soothing bubble massage
Yes, whirlpools remain heated continuously during operational hours, regardless of itinerary climate.
Even on chilly itineraries like Alaska or Northern Europe, hot tubs remain warm, making them a guest favorite.
Royal Caribbean maintains some age guidelines to ensure safety.
Kids & teens can use whirlpools on the main pool deck
Solarium whirlpools are for ages 16+
Infants and toddlers are NOT allowed in any whirlpool (due to temperature and health codes)
Parents should supervise children at all times.
No. Whirlpools operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
There is no enforced time limit, but guests are encouraged to be mindful of others waiting.
This is where confusion happens, so let’s clear it up.
All the following are free:
Pool deck hot tubs
Solarium hot tubs
Cantilever hot tubs
Specialty deck whirlpools
Inside the Vitality Spa, some ships feature:
Thermal whirlpools
Mineral whirlpools
Aromatherapy hydrotherapy tubs
These require a paid spa pass.
Absolutely not. The spa hot tubs are entirely separate from onboard whirlpools.
Royal Caribbean whirlpools come with impressive amenities depending on ship class.
Designed to:
Relieve muscle tension
Support circulation
Provide a gentle massage sensation
Many whirlpools feature:
Open ocean views
Sunset panoramas
Glass walls
Elevated decks
Most whirlpools seat:
6–14 people, depending on size and location
You can choose between:
Fully open-sky whirlpools
Semi-covered Solarium whirlpools
Indoor climate-controlled whirlpools (Quantum Class)
Whirlpools are especially relaxing at night with:
Soft deck lighting
Starry skies
Warm temperatures
The ship’s gentle movement
Make the most of your whirlpool time with these practical tips.
For a quieter experience, choose:
Early mornings
Late evenings
Port days (when most guests go ashore)
Whirlpools are busiest:
12 PM – 4 PM
Sea days
Choose comfortable, well-fitting swimwear because whirlpool jets can create water movement.
Whirlpools are warm, and it’s easy to get dehydrated—especially on sunny days.
This is the most magical time for breathtaking photos and relaxation.
Keeps water clean and extends the comfort for everyone.
Yes, all outdoor and Solarium whirlpools are free to use.
No. Spa hydrotherapy pools require a paid pass.
No official limit, but guests should share space considerately.
Yes, except in the adults-only Solarium.
Yes, they stay warm whenever they are open.
Peak times can be busy, but early mornings, late evenings, and port days are quieter.
Yes. Even mid-size ships have several, ensuring guests can find space.
Recent Guide
Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.
Quick Links
Cruise Types
© 2025 Cruisefinderpro.com. All rights reserved. | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service