Our team of taste critics stepped aboard to experience it ourselves, prepared to sample, sip and soak in the atmosphere of every corner on a mission to uncover the best bars this ship has to offer. Whether you're looking for something relaxed and romantic or wild and energized, we've outlined the best bars for any occasion, from people-watching to pre-gaming and everything in between — including the best bar overall.
Most Romantic
If you're looking for a relaxed spot to kick off the first night of your cruise, head to Vue Bar, in its own secluded corner just outside the adults-only Solarium. As the name suggests, it's got a great high-deck vantage point overlooking the ocean — perfect for gazing at the sea as the ship pulls away from port. We also recommend the Rising Tide Bar — a moving platform that travels between decks five and eight. Take it down to head to the bustling Royal Promenade or take it up to wind down before a stroll through the magical evening ambiance of Central Park on the way back to your stateroom.
Most Energized
If you want to be surrounded with cool drinks and hot people, head to The Lime and Coconut®. Although this bar serves drinks and vibes around the clock, early afternoon will put you within dancing distance of the pool deck's biggest day party. Think a DJ spinning house remixes of your favorite top 40 tunes while a megatron projects images of people grooving poolside and bachelorette partiers showing off their matching sparkly swimwear. At night, head to Boleros, the spicy salsa bar where the crowd often floods into the Royal Promenade and you're only steps away from the karaoke bar and a traditional English-style pub.
Best People-Watching
During the day, few places on the ship offer better people-watching than Wipe Out Bar with its prime viewing of the FlowRider® surf simulator. Watch everyone from pro surfers to ambitious novices attempt to hang 10 — and some liquid courage might even inspire you to be one of them. At night, post up at a table along the railing at Schooner Bar, the cozy nautical-themed spot overlooking the Royal Promenade. We were perfectly content watching everyone dressed to the nines making their way to their evening events, but an impromptu flash mob made us extra grateful we'd grabbed a table with a view.
Best for Pre-Gaming
Whether you're pre-gaming or staying for the game, PlaymakersSM Sports Bar & Arcade is a great place for cold beers paired with a platter of nachos bigger than your head. Just off the colorful Boardwalk with its spinning carousel, the atmosphere makes this bar a super fun place to grab a drink before an evening show at the nearby AquaTheater. Crown Lounge is another great pre-show bar that's close to an almost overwhelming number of entertainment options, from pop-up events like comedy shows and theme parties in the Attic to the casino, figure-skating performances at the Studio B ice rink, and late-night shows and nightclubs on deck four.
Best Overall
Of all the bars on board Utopia of the SeasSM, one felt especially like vacation, earning it the title of best overall. Pesky ParrotSM is a tiki bar that's full of delightful surprises, from tropical drinks with edible candy straws to swinging seating under colorful neon lights and an LED window display of pigs frolicking on a Bahamian beach. We kept finding ourselves returning to the fun atmosphere and can personally attest that every single one of the frozen drinks is worth trying.