Weather 
You can live out your Swiss Family Robinson fantasy, but it will cost you.
This week, Royal Caribbean revealed Hero of the Seas, the newest vessel in the brand’s Icon class, the cruise line’s newest generation of ships, which also includes Icon, Legend, and Star of the Seas.
Along with being the biggest cruise ship to ever sail the high seas, Hero is home to The Ultimate Family Treehouse, a sprawling accommodation that sleeps twelve, spans three decks, and includes a rooftop terrace with a private whirlpool, a spiral staircase, a two-deck ‘teen room’, and a hideout game room.
Royal Caribbean is billing the Treehouse as ideal for families, as it offers multiple shared and private spaces and sweeping ocean views.
While Hero, which departs from Miami, won’t debut until August 2027, Royal Caribbean opened bookings on April 1, and prices are no joke, folks.
Because Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, costs can fluctuate.
Still, Royal Caribbean blog, an unaffiliated news outlet, has reported that certain sojourns clock in at more than $200,000 a week for two people.
According to the blog, the highest premiums will be charged during the vessel’s debut month and on certain holidays.
The Hero’s maiden voyage on August 14 will allegedly set a couple back a cool $224,493, while a New Year’s Eve trip will cost a pair of cruisers $375,320.
While these prices may seem staggering to some, die-hard, deep-pocketed fans are undeterred.
The Ultimate Family Treehouse is already booked out for key weeks, including the Dec. 30 New Year’s Eve cruise.
However, lower prices are available for sun seekers willing to sail during the shoulder season.
For example, if you’re willing to cruise the week of December 11, the cost is a mere $89,640 per couple, over budget for many but still under six figures.
If you’ll allow a car comparison, shoulder-season rates are equivalent to the cost of a Tesla sedan, while holiday rates are close to that of a Rolls-Royce Phantom.
The Hero of the Seas also boasts a record-breaking water park, the most pools at sea, 28 dining options, and a kinetic sculpture.
“Icon Class truly set a new standard for family vacations, and Hero of the Seas takes that vision even further,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean, in a press release.
“With more water, more thrills, and more choices for all ages, we’re continuing to build on what our guests love about Royal Caribbean and delivering the experiences families are looking for when vacationing together.”
The 250,000 gross ton vessel can accommodate up to 5,654 guests and 2,350 crew members.
In terms of itineraries, guests can choose between a weeklong Western Caribbean passage featuring stops like Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel, and Costa Maya, Mexico, or an Eastern Caribbean itinerary with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten, and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.
Both routes include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.
