Harmony of the Seas Has New Thrills, a Brazilian Steakhouse, and a Bar Called “Pesky Parrot”

By: - September 9th, 2025
lime and coconut bar on harmony of the seas
The Lime and Coconut bar on Harmony of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean has unveiled the newly Amplified Harmony of the Seas, a ship reimagined for summer 2026 with bold new dining, nightlife, and family attractions. The 1,188-foot Oasis-class vessel, already one of the world’s largest cruise ships, is set to debut its upgrades in Barcelona next May before homeporting in Port Canaveral later in the year.

The news comes as Royal Caribbean has just begun sailing its new Star of the Seas ship.

A New Era of Dining

Among the biggest changes is the addition of the Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, where servers carve roasted meats tableside. Casual dining expands too, with El Loco Fresh serving tacos and burritos poolside. In total, Harmony will feature more than 20 dining options, including returning favorites like Izumi Hibachi & Sushi, Jamie’s Italian by Jamie Oliver, and the signature Chops Grille steakhouse.

Nights That Never End

The nightlife offering has been expanded significantly. The new Pesky Parrot bar joins a lineup of 12 venues, while Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade brings big screens and pub fare to the Royal Promenade. The ship’s Casino Royalehas doubled in size, now the largest in the fleet, with 37 table games and more than 500 slot machines. Entertainment continues across ice, air and water, from Broadway productions to stunt-filled shows at the AquaTheater.

Thrills and Chill

Families will find an expanded roster of activities. Highlights include a new laser tag arena, the nine-deck zip line, and the twisting slides of The Perfect Storm. The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, drops guests ten stories in seconds. For adults, the redesigned Solarium offers panoramic sea views and quiet whirlpools.

Destinations to Match

The refreshed Harmony of the Seas will launch a short season in the Western Mediterranean from Barcelona in May 2026, followed by a full program of Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral starting in August. Ports of call include Cozumel and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. Fares start from $297 per person, with seven-night Western Caribbean itineraries priced from $648.

About the author

Karen Udler is the Deputy Travel Editor of Caribbean Journal. A graduate of Duke University, has been traveling across the Americas for three decades. First an expert on Latin American travel, Karen has been traveling with CJ for more than a decade. She likes to focus on wellness, luxury travel and food.
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