On the Utopia of the Seas you can experience train dining without the bumps and spilled drinks. | Image: Royal Caribbean
The new 5,668-passenger Royal Caribbean Utopia of the Seas is docked in Florida, where sites like Cruise Critic have gotten a preview of the amenities before it enters service on July 19th. That includes a unique experience called Royal Railway Utopia Station, where passengers dine on a virtual train ride while staring at simulated scenery zipping by on giant screens.
The restaurant is built to look like two full-size rail cars with a lavish interior featuring four-person booths lining the sides, each with its own giant display serving as a virtual window. What diners see out those virtual windows will rotate throughout the year. The first experience is Western-themed, with views of mountains, canyons, and gold rush towns.
Subwoofers in the seats simulate vibrations as the virtual train rumbles down nonexistent tracks. (Again, this is inside a cruise ship.) And in addition to a meal and moving scenery, there will be a live show with themed characters interacting with each other and guests.
The last time we checked in on Royal Caribbean’s growing fleet, the Quantum of the Seas was introducing USB charging ports in every room, tablets for the ship’s crew, RFID guest tracking, and a robotic bartender. A decade later, passengers can have an entirely separate vacation experience without leaving the ship.
The restaurant’s capacity is limited to 48 guests, and according to the Royal Caribbean Blog, the experience isn’t included in the cost of the cruise. Pricing will be an extra $119.99 for adults and $59.99 for kids, although passengers paying for an Ultimate Dining Package will only pay a $49.99 upcharge.
