Florida Thrill & Icon Caribbean Chill: We Did it All - Here's the Truth

• Tested by the Experts: Follow Cruise.co.uk Product Executive Marie Turner and her family as they provide an honest, day-by-day account of our exclusive "Florida Thrill & Icon Caribbean Chill" package.

• The Ultimate Hybrid Holiday: Discover how to perfectly balance the high-octane energy of Universal Orlando Resort with the record-breaking luxury and "chill" of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas.

• Insider Pro-Tips: From navigating theme park crowds and the best "hidden" attractions to swimming with pigs at CocoCay and exploring the Everglades, get the inside track on making the most of every holiday minute.

When it comes to planning a family cruise holiday, finding the perfect balance between action-packed excitement and laid-back relaxation can feel like an impossible task. That’s exactly why we put together the ultimate adventure on land and at sea - our Florida Thrill & Icon Caribbean Chill cruise package.

From heart-pounding rollercoasters in entertainment capital Orlando to lazy sea days onboard one of the biggest ships in the world, Icon of the Seas, this cruise holiday has it all! But don't just take our word for it!

Cruise.co.uk Product Executive Marie Turner, and her family, took on the mega task of thoroughly testing out this cruise holiday. In this blog, she gives her honest opinion on the whole experience, including detailing the best things to see and do in Orlando, how to spend a leisurely day or two in Miami, and what it's really like onboard Icon of the Seas!

Day 1

We had a fantastic travel day! It was our first time flying with Norse, and we were very impressed. The journey was efficient, clean, and the staff were incredibly helpful; even accommodating picky eaters and finding Ben a nut-free meal.

The transfers were a breeze, and Universal's Cabana Bay hotel is absolutely brilliant, with its retro 50s vibe. Now it's time to sleep...

Day 2

We were up and out nice and early (hello, jet lag!) to meet our tour leaders Kata and Saskia. After grabbing our Universal theme park passes, we were ready!

We kicked things off with an hour of early access to Islands of Adventure, so we wasted no time and headed straight for breakfast at Cinnabon to fuel up for the day. We also grabbed our Freestyle drink cups!

Tip: The Freestyle cups are totally worth it! For a daily charge, you get unlimited refills with over 100 drink options. Seriously, it’s a lifesaver when you’re walking around in the theme parks

The park was definitely buzzing with half-term crowds, but that didn’t stop us from getting all the big rides done before lunch including Hulk, VelociCoaster, Spider-Man, Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure, and Forbidden Journey. We were on a roll! What a way to kick things off! Let’s just say, we were all smiles (and maybe a little bit of adrenaline) by noon!

After a much-needed afternoon nano nap, we headed back to the park and made our way to our fave CityWalk restaurant Bubba Gumps! The coconut-shrimp and mummas fried chicken was, as always, amazing, and we were ready to dive back into the fun.

We hit a few more rides, soaking in every last bit of the day. The perfect way to end the day full of thrills, good food, and family time!

Day 3

Today began with a short taxi ride to International Drive for some American blueberry pancakes at TODAY Cafe, fueling up before heading to Universal Studios.

Controversially, within my family, Universal Studios is my top pick. I’m a huge fan of movie-themed attractions like E.T., Men in Black, and The Mummy.

Plus, Diagon Alley is one of my favourite parts of Universal Studios - it’s like stepping right into the Harry Potter world with all the amazing details. The shops are so realistic, and the Escape from Gringotts ride is amazing. The whole area really captures the magic of the films.

Day 4

Today was a reminder that there’s always something fresh to explore in Orlando!

We checked out two new restaurants we’d never been to before: Denny’s for a classic pancake breakfast, and NBC Sports Grill & Bar at CityWalk for dinner such a great spot for sports fans and great food.

We got to meet some new characters, including Doc from Back to the Future and a Minion was such a fun addition to the day, plus we watched the Frog Choir in Hogsmede!

Also, we had our first experience with Mardi Gras this year, and it was fantastic! The celebration was full of vibrant floats, lively music, and energetic performers. The parade was a highlight, with beads flying through the air and delicious, New Orleans-inspired food. Such a fun day!

Day 5

On our final day in Orlando, we revisited our favorite attractions at Universal Studios Florida, ensuring we experienced everything the park has to offer. For our last day, we treated ourselves to an Instagram-worthy milkshake from the Toothsome Chocolate Emporium (I had the confetti!).

During a trip to Universal, here are some attractions that are easy to miss but a must-try:

- Bourne Stuntacular - A high-octane stunt show that brings the action of the Bourne films to life.

- Raptor Encounter - Get up close with a life-sized Velociraptor in this interactive experience.

- Hogwarts Express - Ride both ways between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure for a complete Harry Potter experience. Each was is a different show!

- Beat Builders - Enjoy a lively street performance featuring a percussion ensemble.

- The Blues Brothers Show - Experience a musical performance by the iconic duo.

- Knight Bus - Interact with the conductor and shrunken head from the Harry Potter series.

With Universal Studios now behind us, we’re excited to head to Miami tomorrow to embark on our cruise aboard the Icon of the Seas!

Day 6

Embarkation day was an absolute dream, smooth from start to finish! We met Saskia at reception and left Universal’s Cabana Bay at 8am. The coach journey was around four hours, with a comfort break halfway, and before we knew it, we were arriving at the port. I was seriously impressed by how quick and easy the check-in process was. From dropping off our luggage to stepping foot on the ship, it was only 20 minutes!

And then… ICON OF THE SEAS! Wow, just wow. This ship is truly something else. We were absolutely blown away. There was so much to take in, we didn’t even know where to start!

As soon as you step on board, the first thing you notice is the ship’s amazing “pearl”, a stunning design that replaces the traditional atrium. It’s breathtaking!

We were in a Surfside view balcony cabin at the aft, while Meg had an inside cabin. Both rooms are spacious and comfortable with lots of storage, and Meg’s cabin even has the cutest little dressing room.

The modern touches in the rooms were fantastic. I loved how we can control everything from the temperature to the lights right from our phones using the app. It’s so convenient.

After the virtual muster drill, we decided to explore the ship a bit more. We had lunch at the Windjammer (always a great choice), and Ruby even tried out rock climbing for the first time! While wandering through Central Park, we met Rover, the Icon’s Chief Dog Officer. She was so cute and well behaved, and the girls absolutely had to give her a good fuss.

Afterward, we grabbed a few cocktails and made our way to the top deck to enjoy sail away. And to top off the day, we caught the evening show. Adam Kario, the world champion juggler, took the stage and completely wowed us.

Day 7

A sea day on the Icon of the Seas means eat, explore, eat, repeat!

We spent the day exploring this huge ship. We started with breakfast at the Windjammer, grabbed some morning coffee at The Pearl Coffee, and squeezed in a snack at Surfside Cafe (because, well, holiday calories don’t count).

Ben, Meg, and Harry had a go at the FlowRider (they might need a bit more practice before they’re pros), while Ruby hung out at Social020, the teen club hideout. The rest of us made the most of the adults-only hideaway pool and bar.

The first formal night means lobster for dinner, and as always, Royal didn’t disappoint! After dinner, we headed to the Aqua Dome for “Finish That Lyric” which was good fun. The girls and I finished the night with cocktails at Spotlight Karaoke and, of course, a slice of pizza from Sorrento’s (because on Royal Caribbean, pizza is a must!).

Day 8

Today was a mix of fun activities! We went from relaxing in the sun to ice skating, then tried bodyboarding. After some competitive Jenga, we tested our knowledge with a Disney quiz.

The day ended with a stunning acrobatic show in the Aquadome. Tomorrow, we’re off to St. Kitts for a port day!

Day 9

Our first stop today was St. Kitts. We disembarked around 10am and, after some negotiation, caught a taxi to Carambola Beach. On the way, our driver made a stop at Timothy Hill, where we were treated to an amazing view of where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea.

After a few hours of relaxation, a bucket of beer and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters, we made our way back to the port. That night, we enjoyed Caribbean night, complete with delicious food and great entertainment. However, the highlight of the evening for us was the dueling piano bar, which was definitely the top spot of the night.

Day 10

Our second port of call was St. Thomas. With only a brief half-day stay, I got off early for a quick stroll the shops & market around the port and enjoyed some live music plus a surprise iguna sighting before returning to enjoy the empty ship.

In the afternoon, Ben, Abbie, and Ruby enjoyed a game of laser tag, while I relaxed and soaked up some sun.

After dinner, we went to watch “Royal Family Feud,” RCCL's take on “Family Fortunes.”. We ended the evening, for the second night in a row, at the dueling piano bar. The two pianists were amazingly talented and so funny creating an entire show from audience request (with some good banter in between)!

Day 11

Wow, “Perfect Day at CocoCay” truly lived up to its name! What an amazing day we had! After enjoying breakfast at the Windjammer, we got an early start to make the most of our time there.

Walking down the pier to CocoCay was breathtaking, especially with the Icon of the Seas next to the Voyager of the Seas!

As soon as we arrived, we headed straight to Chill Island, since Ben had read it was the best spot for snorkeling — and he was absolutely right! We swam out into the ocean, spotting wild stingrays and hundreds of different fish.

We had also pre-booked a swim with pigs and stingrays, which was a total bucket-list experience. We spent an hour interacting with the stingrays and cuddling the playful, adorable pigs — plus, we even got to swim with them!

After our speedboat ride back from the swim, we explored the all-inclusive food options Royal Caribbean offers on the island, which were absolutely delicious. There was so much choice from taco bar, burgers, chicken, and huge sandwiches.

The afternoon was filled with more snorkeling and sunbathing until it was time to return to the ship. After a quick change and some packing, we enjoyed an early last dinner. What a day!

Day 12

The holiday that just keeps on giving! After bidding farewell to the Icon of the Seas at 9am, our amazing tour guide, Saskia, was there to greet us with a warm welcome and a smile.

Our first stop was Sawgrass Mills, where we indulged in some retail therapy. Naturally, I couldn’t resist picking up a new Kate Spade handbag! It’s the perfect souvenir from this amazing adventure.

Next, we boarded the coach and made our way to the Everglades for an exhilarating airboat ride. We zoomed through the water, keeping our eyes peeled for alligators, turtles, and a variety of wildlife. The highlight was definitely getting the chance to hold a baby alligator (and got a free photo with our tour)! It was a thrilling experience that left us all smiling.

After the airboat adventure, we continued our journey to our hotel in Miami. With the sun shining, we took a peaceful stroll along the beach, feeling the warm ocean breeze. As we walked, we watched the Icon of the Seas sail off with its new, excited passengers already looking forward to their own adventures.

Day 13

On our last day exploring Miami, we kicked things off with a walk along what’s probably the most beautiful beach I’ve ever seen. It had clear waters and white sand right on the doorstep of our hotel.

Next, we hopped on the free city trolley and made our way to South Beach, where we were blown away by all the million-dollar homes and yachts.

Finally, after 20 years of planning and always being too stuffed to eat there, we finally made it to the Cheesecake Factory - it was definitely worth the wait!

Day 14

We spent our final morning soaking up the last of the Floridian sunshine and beautiful white sand beaches before our tour guide Kata, and the coach showed up to take us to the airport.

This holiday has been absolutely unforgettable, and I might be a little biased, but it really was a perfect trip. From start to finish, every detail of the package went off without a hitch, making it a seamless and stress-free experience! We have loved every second (apart from coming home).