From learning to cha-cha and meringue to creating a traditional mask for a Venetian masquerade ball, Royal Caribbean guests cruising the Mediterranean and Northern Europe will find that their European experience doesn`t stop at the gangway. New activities, amenities and entertainment designed to bring the culture and customs of Europe onboard await guests sailing on Brilliance of the Seas, Splendour of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas this fall and throughout the 2005 European season.

One of the main attractions of European cruising is the chance to explore many different countries and cultures in a single vacation, said Maria Sastre, vice president, Hotel Operations, for Royal Caribbean International. Now, we are able to elevate this to a new level by offering guests authentic European experiences onboard, allowing them to further immerse themselves in the destinations visited.

Savoring the Mediterranean aboard Brilliance of the Seas and Splendour of the Seas

In the Mediterranean, Royal Caribbean offers three cruise itinerary options. Brilliance of the Seas offers 12-night Mediterranean/Venice and 12- night Mediterranean/Greek Isles cruises through Oct. 29, while Splendour of the Seas sails seven-night Mediterranean itineraries until Nov. 13.

Guests on both ships will begin to enjoy the new enhancements before they board; performers from Barcelona`s famed Las Ramblas have been engaged to entertain in the terminal during embarkation. Once onboard, guests can explore regional languages, music and dances through complimentary Italian and Spanish classes, as well as rumba, cha-cha and meringue lessons. Other activities include game shows and trivia contests reflecting the ports of call, as well as movie nights featuring box-office hits, such as Gladiator and The Italian Job. In addition, on the evenings when the ships depart Rome, guests will be invited to create their own costumes for a festive toga party.

In the evening, both ships` sports bars are transformed into cozy tapas bars, where diners can enjoy live flamenco music as they sample authentic Spanish fare. Flavorful chorizo, Serrano ham and saucisson, tangy cheeses, olives, roasted garlic and flaky breads are served with fine Spanish olive oils and balsamic vinegars.

Guests on Brilliance of the Seas will enjoy a taste of Italy with pizza- tossing demonstrations at poolside, including a chance to sample the final product. Those going on to Greece will be invited to participate in the syrtos, or circle dance, to traditional Greek folk music when Brilliance of the Seas docks in Santorini and Mykonos.

Guests on the Venice itineraries will share an unforgettable moment when the music of famed Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti is broadcast over the ship`s audio system as Brilliance sails into the captivating city of canals. They will learn how to make traditional Venetian masks at a complimentary class and be encouraged to wear their creations during a masquerade ball.

Exploring Northern Europe on Jewel of the Seas

In Northern Europe, Royal Caribbean`s third ship in the region, Jewel of the Seas, sails 12-night British Isles/Norwegian Fjords itineraries and 12- night Scandinavia/Russia cruises from Harwich, England, through Sept. 1. Jewel`s guests also are treated to street performances in the British tradition as they embark in Harwich.

Onboard, they can participate in a British murder-mystery game; compete in regionally inspired trivia challenges; throw back a pint during pub-themed nights; and enjoy movies reflecting their destinations, such as Sense and Sensibility, Notting Hill and Dr. Zhivago. Ship musicians also will treat guests to a classical concert on formal night.

The staff aboard all three ships also are getting into the European spirit. Each day, they will greet guests in the language of that day`s port of call, play regional music in bars and venues throughout the ship, and send guests off to explore ashore -- and welcome them back -- with special gangway events including local flags, music and attire.