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The Trip
Gr8escape26
Join other Louisiana families on Gr8escape26, a 4-night hosted group cruise aboard Royal Caribbean®’s brand-new Utopia of the Seas® sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, May 25–29, 2026. This is more than just a vacation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students graduating from K–8 schools across Ascension Parish, Baton Rouge, and surrounding areas.
With so many feeder schools in the area, consider this the ultimate high-school ice breaker, giving kids the opportunity to connect with future classmates and enjoy epic adventures with their friends one last time before high school starts.
The Ship
This ship is an adventure in itself, with something for every member of the family. You can brave the Ultimate Abyss, the longest dry slide at sea, or challenge your friends on the Perfect Storm waterslides.
When it's time to relax, you can find your perfect spot among the five pools and eight whirlpools, including an adults-only Solarium. For a unique experience, explore the ship's distinct neighborhoods, from the lush, open-air Central Park to the nostalgic Boardwalk.
The culinary scene is just as impressive, with over 20 dining options ranging from complimentary favorites like the new poolside food truck, The Spare Tire, to specialty restaurants like Royal Railway – Utopia Station, a one-of-a-kind immersive dining experience.
And as the sun goes down, the ship comes alive with world-class entertainment. You can be mesmerized by the high dives and acrobatics at the AquaTheater, enjoy a spectacular ice show, or find a cozy spot for live music at one of the 23 bars and lounges. Utopia of the Seas is designed for non-stop fun and unforgettable moments.
When it's time to relax, you can find your perfect spot among the five pools and eight whirlpools, including an adults-only Solarium. For a unique experience, explore the ship's distinct neighborhoods, from the lush, open-air Central Park to the nostalgic Boardwalk.
The culinary scene is just as impressive, with over 20 dining options ranging from complimentary favorites like the new poolside food truck, The Spare Tire, to specialty restaurants like Royal Railway – Utopia Station, a one-of-a-kind immersive dining experience.
And as the sun goes down, the ship comes alive with world-class entertainment. You can be mesmerized by the high dives and acrobatics at the AquaTheater, enjoy a spectacular ice show, or find a cozy spot for live music at one of the 23 bars and lounges. Utopia of the Seas is designed for non-stop fun and unforgettable moments.
The Itinerary
To ensure a smooth and stress-free start to our adventure, our group will stay the night of May 24th, 2026, in a hotel before we embark. You have two options for this pre-cruise stay, and the choice is entirely up to you and your travel party!
- Stay in Orlando: This option is perfect if you'd like to arrive early and add on an optional activity, like a theme park visit or an outing to an Orlando attraction.
- Stay in Cape Canaveral: If you prefer to arrive, relax, and be as close as possible to the ship for a quick and easy morning embarkation, this is the perfect choice.
The final group hotel location will depend on the preferences of our travelers. I am here to help you find the best fit for your travel plans, regardless of which option you choose.
May 25, 2026 | Depart Port Canaveral
Start the trip with a bang at our Sail Away Celebration — hosted in a private lounge just for our group (yes, it’s a complimentary group perk!) or let’s take over part of the open-air deck and vibe with the sea breeze. The ship departs at 4:00 PM.
May 26, 2026 | Nassau
For our day in Nassau, you have a choice of three exciting options. You can be one of the first to experience the new Royal Beach Club, an optional all-inclusive day pass that includes food, drinks, and access to unique pools and beaches. Alternatively, we can plan a private group excursion to see the swimming pigs, or you can explore the island on your own.
May 27, 2026 | Teen Takeover
Get ready for the ultimate day of fun! On our day at sea, the ship is our playground, and it's time for a "Teen Takeover." This is a day dedicated to letting our 8th graders explore, hang out, and take on the most thrilling activities Utopia of the Seas has to offer. They can challenge themselves on the rock climbing wall, catch a wave on the FlowRider®, or battle it out in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag match. Our group will have a full day to experience all the included adventures, meet up with new friends at the teen club, and make unforgettable memories before we even reach our first port!
May 28, 2026 | Perfect Day at CocoCay®
No matter your speed, CocoCay® has something for everyone! You can race down waterslides, relax on pristine beaches, or float in the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas. Optional paid experiences include the thrill waterpark, a helium balloon ride, and a day pass to the luxurious Coco Beach Club.
May 29, 2026 | Disembarkation Day
Arrive back in Port Canaveral at 6:00 AM with our camera rolls and hearts full, ready to start the next chapter.
The Cabins
Our special group rate is available for select cabin types and is based on double occupancy (2 people per cabin). These featured cabins offer fantastic value and are the best way to travel with our group.
If your family has more than two people or you prefer a different type of room, don't worry! More cabins are available to book on the ship (such as rooms for 3, 4, or even 5 people). While these may not be part of our special group rate, I can still help you find the perfect accommodations to fit your family's needs.
If your family has more than two people or you prefer a different type of room, don't worry! More cabins are available to book on the ship (such as rooms for 3, 4, or even 5 people). While these may not be part of our special group rate, I can still help you find the perfect accommodations to fit your family's needs.
The Host
My name is Chelsi & I began my career as a registered nurse in 2011 after graduating from Nicholls State University. After working in pediatrics, oral surgery, and later, the operating room, I began working from home in 2022 for a medical device company. In 2023, I started Yall Trippin to follow my passion for travel, and earlier this year, in 2025, I made it my full-time job.
The inspiration to create this trip (and hopefully a new tradition) is my daughter, who is in 8th grade this year in Ascension Parish. She will soon be leaving many of her K-8 friends to attend high school in Baton Rouge.
Truly, our favorite family activity is exploring new places, and we hope to have the opportunity to do that with you.
The inspiration to create this trip (and hopefully a new tradition) is my daughter, who is in 8th grade this year in Ascension Parish. She will soon be leaving many of her K-8 friends to attend high school in Baton Rouge.
Truly, our favorite family activity is exploring new places, and we hope to have the opportunity to do that with you.
Get more detailed information about each day by viewing the official Travefy itinerary.
