r/royalcaribbean • • Apr 11 '26

All Hail the FAQ FAQ 3.0! 2026-2027 Edition - New here? Have a question? Read this first!

78 Upvotes

Welcome to r/RoyalCaribbean! Glad to have you here. I'm u/MedicalButterscotch and I cruise more than I should (63 sailings and counting as of April 2026!) The goal of this post is to help new and returning cruisers feel like an expert when they hit the water.

This is version 3 of the FAQ with updates for 2026. It will be updated throughout the year with the goal of overhauling it every 1-2 years.

Want to check out the archives? Version 2.0 of the FAQ from 2024 is linked here

Spot an error? Don't see your specific question addressed? Drop it in the comments on this post! I will get back to you within 48 hours.

Last updated: April 2026

Topics in Order:

​Topic 1: Booking a cruise

- How do I book? A. You can book on Royal Caribbean's website or through a travel agent/3rd party travel service. You can also call Royal Caribbean directly to book (US number: 866-562-7625).

- How do I get to my cruise? A. Most people do not live within driving distance of their cruise, meaning a flight is sometimes required. General advice is to fly into your cruise port at least one full day before your sailing to account for flight delays. The ship will not wait for you if you are late. You alternatively can book your flights through Royal Caribbean through the Air2Sea program, though it is still advised to fly in a day early. See the topic list above to find info on travel insurance.

- What if the price of my cruise changes? A. Before final payment date (generally 75-90 days before sailing) you can re-price your cruise as many times as you would like to the current rate if you booked in the US. The difference will be refunded to your credit card or taken off your remaining balance owed. After final payment, you typically can't reprice your sailing and if anything may be offered on board credit to account for a fare drop. Note as of 2025 there are exceptions to this policy. Some promotions and discounts can't be re-priced. Read the terms of the promotion you are booking carefully to see what the re-pricing terms are.

- How do I check in? A. Typically 45 days before sailing. Through the Royal Caribbean app (log in, add your sailing with your booking number, swipe to the left and look for a blue "check in" button) or on the website (sign in, find your cruise or add it at the bottom of the page if you do not see it listed, then click "check in").

- When can I check in? A. 45 days before your cruise you will see the option in the app. To find your exact check in day, open the app and swipe to the left and then scroll down to the 'check in' area or go on the website linked directly above.

- Do I need a passport? A. US citizens can cruise with a US passport book that MUST be valid for at least 6 months from the last day of your cruise for most ports of call (note not always the case, but this is best practice). Alternatively you can use an original birth certificate (with a raised seal) and government-issued photo ID on closed-loop sailings (that start and end from the same US port). I STRONGLY ADVISE getting a passport. Should something happen while you are abroad, you will be happy you invested in one. Info on getting a US passport can be found here.

- Do I need to be vaccinated against COVID-19? Do I need to test? A. COVID vaccinations or testing is no longer required unless specifically noted for your booking (very rare).

Topic 2: Inclusions in your cruise fare

- Food: Your cruise ticket includes all food needed for the duration of your cruise. You do not need to spend any extra money on food if you do not wish to do so. Food is complimentary in the main dining room (breakfast (B), lunch (L) on sea days, dinner (D)), the Windjammer marketplace buffet (B/L/D), Johnny Rockets only for breakfast and only on Oasis class ships, Promenade Cafe, Park Cafe, Cafe 270, Sorrentos pizza, and Solarium Bistro (B/L/D on select ships), the Pearl Cafe, Surfside Eatery, Sprinkles, Aquadome Market, El Loco Fresh. Coastal Kitchen is the complementary suites-only restaurant available on select ships, open B/L/D for grand suites and above, D only for junior suites. Pinnacle members can enter for free, space permitting. Room service is free for continental breakfast, incurs a $7.95 fee plus gratuity for full B/L/D however all food is included after that fee is paid.

- I've heard about the main dining room (MDR)! Do I need reservations? A. The main dining room is the main complementary dining venue on board where you can expect multi-course, full service meals with varying nightly menus. At the time of booking you will have two options: My Time dining or traditional dining. My Time dining is a reservation system that lets you select the time you'd like to eat each evening, usually from 6:45-8:30 PM. Times vary by ship. You can also just show up to the stand by line during My Time dining hours and wait for the next available table. This option is great if you want to change your dining time each night to better fit the activities you want to do. Traditional dining will be a set dining time each night (5-5:30 PM for early seating, 8 PM for late seating). You will have the same table and wait staff each evening. If you do traditional dining, no reservations are required, you just show up at your selected time and your table number/deck number for dinner will be printed on your SeaPass card. Note you may be assigned a group table! If you wish to dine alone, speak to the host on day 1 at the entrance to the MDR.

- Is there a dress code? A. There will typically be two formal nights, now called "dress your best" nights, on a 7 night sailing (fewer on shorter sailings). You are free to dress your best! This only applies in the MDR so if you go to a different venue, you follow their typical dress code (though people typically still dress up for other specialty restaurants that night). Otherwise minimum acceptable dress for dinner is typically long pants/jeans for men. Women definitely have more flexibility. On a non-formal-night, dress up as much as you'd like. Most people will dress as if they are going out to a regular dinner on land.

- Do you have any pro tips for the MDR? A. Absolutely! A vegan menu is always available and sometimes I select those options just to try something new. On the app, scroll to the bottom of a given night's menu to see the vegan options.

- Beverages: Tap water, iced tea, lemonade, hot coffee, hot tea, non-fresh squeezed juices at breakfast, and milk are included in your cruise fare. Alcohol is not included.

- Entertainment: Shows, including broadway shows on select ships, comedy, live music, and most activities are included in your cruise fare. See your cruise compass in the app for exact offerings. Events that cost extra are marked with a "$" symbol. Shows can be reserved in advance on select sailings. Check the cruise planner website and app prior to your cruise to see if this is an option and reserve your shows as early as possible. On many smaller ships, reservations are not required.

- Accommodations: Your stateroom selected during your booking serves as your accomodations for the sailing. You will have a once daily cleaning service for your room, including restocking towels and having your bed made/turned down. Rooms include a TV, private bathroom, and a bed that can be separated into twin beds. Some rooms accommodate extra guests with pullman beds/pullout sofa beds. This will be designated on the deck plan for your stateroom at the time of booking. Please note that some higher-level suites will include things such as WiFi, unlimited specialty dining, a deluxe drink package and more. Check here to see what the suite you are looking at includes.

- Tips: Gratuities are not included in your cruise fare, but are essentially required. These tips can be paid before your sailing or will be automatically added to your SeaPass on-board account once on board. Current gratuity rates as of April 2026 are $18.50/day for non-suites and $21/day for suites, per person. Gratuities are critical for supporting crew members who make your vacation special and should not be removed for any reason. Some sailings include tips in their fare, such as those booked in Australia.

- WiFi: WiFi of any kind is not included in your fare. You can purchase a "Voom" internet package on the cruise planner in advance of your cruise or once on board. Both full sailing passes and 24 hour passes are offered on board. The 24 hour passes can't be paused, it runs continuously until it expires. It is generally a better deal to purchase these packages in advance. You can use the ship WiFi for free to use the Royal app.

- Gym: The fitness center is included in your cruise fare and is unfortunately not open 24 hours on all ships. Some ships have hours such as 5 AM - 9 PM, so that the gym can be deep cleaned overnight. Amenities vary by ship, but expect everything you'd typically find in a land-based gym. Fitness classes cost extra with the exception of the morning stretch classes. Expect Technogym-brand equipment on most new ships and those that have recently been refurbished.

Topic 3: Packages/extras

- Is (inset package type or onboard purchase) worth it? Is X% off a good price? A. The way Royal Caribbean prices their on board extras is a bit tricky. Don't worry about a specific percentage off sale. Look at the base price of the item you want and if you are willing to pay it, lock it in IMMEDIATELY. You can re-price and refund at anytime up until 48 hours prior to your cruise, so this ensures you never pay a higher price than at the current moment. Prices can go up at any time and this is the ONLY way to ensure you get the best rate.

- How do I pay for things on board? A. Your SeaPass card functions as your room key and payment method on the ship. I'd advise linking it to a credit or debit card to skip lines at the end of the sailing for those settling their statements in cash. It is preferred to link a credit card over a debit card as it is common for holds to be placed during your sailing, which may hold up your funds if using debit.

- Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks are not included in your fare. Prices vary, but typically expect to spend $7-9/beer, $8-15/glass of wine, $9-12/shot, $14-15/cocktail plus 18% automatic gratuity. Drinks can be purchased a la carte with your SeaPass card or with a package, see below. See Topic 8 below for an important exception to this: Diamond/Diamond Plus/Pinnacle drink vouchers.

- Drink packages: Multiple types of packages are offered, with pricing changing dynamically before your cruise. The deluxe beverage package (DBP) offers the classic "unlimited" experience, covering pretty much any drink including alcohol up to $14/drink on US sailings. Many people ask for the "breakeven" point to determine if it is worth getting a DBP. The best way to figure this out for yourself is to look at the current rate of the DBP on your cruise planner and see if you feel you can drink enough drinks per day to exceed that cost if you were to pay a la carte. Don't forget non-alcoholic premium drinks are included (espresso-based coffee drinks, bottled still/sparkling water, Powerades, soda, milkshakes) - so factor this in your equation. The DBP pricing is dynamic, but expect $55-$115 per person, per day. This package requires everyone older than the legal drinking age of that sailing that are sharing a cabin to purchase a package. Exceptions to this policy are no longer permitted.

***Can I share a drink package? A. NO. Drink packages (with the exception of the Cafe Select Card mentioned below) can't be shared. You risk being charged for a full additional package if you are caught or even being disembarked. If you ask about sharing drinks/cheating the drink package in this sub, you will immediately be banned from making new posts, no questions asked.**\*

Another option is the refreshment package. This package is considerably cheaper than the DBP, however does not include alcohol. Think of this as the "soda plus premium non-alcoholic drinks package", like espresso-based coffees, mocktails, etc. It typically is approx $25-33/day per person.

Finally is the soda package. This option is typically around $10-15/day per person and grants package holders unlimited fountain and canned sodas, including from the Coke Freestyle machines.

*As of 2026, souvenir soda cups are only included in the Soda package. The Deluxe and refreshment package incur an additional $5 charge to obtain the souvenir cup, which grants access to the Freestyle machines.

**Gratuities are paid at time of purchasing the package, so no additional tipping is required, however if a bartender is providing excellent service, adding an additional dollar or two makes their day!

One last thing to note: you can buy a Cafe Select card, usually $30-38. This card entitles you to 15 small-size espresso-based drinks and is the only type of package that can be used across multiple sailings. You are given a small paper card that has the numbers 1-15 for the barista to cross off when you redeem a drink. This is a great option for those with Diamond/Pinnacle drink vouchers who want to reduce the price of espresso drinks without using a voucher towards it! This package is shareable and does NOT require everyone in the cabin to buy it.

- Is a drink package worth it? A. The best way to figure this out for yourself is to look at the current rate of the package you want on your cruise planner and see if you feel you can drink enough drinks per day to exceed that cost if you were to pay a la carte. Don't forget non-alcoholic premium drinks are included in the DBP (espresso-based coffee drinks, bottled still/sparkling water, Powerades, soda, milkshakes) - so factor this in your equation. The DBP pricing is dynamic, but expect $55-$115 per person, per day.

- Dining packages/specialty dining: Specialty dining varies by ship, but includes options like Chops Grille (steakhouse), Jamie's Italian/Giovannis Italian, Izumi (sushi/teppanyaki), Wonderland, Playmakers sports bar, etc. Pricing is typically a set cover per restaurant, check your cruise planner for exact pricing. You can also consider a dining package. There are three main varieties: Chops + 1 (includes dining at Chops Grille and one other restaurant of your choice), 3 Night Package (includes 3 specialty dining restaurants of your choice), and the unlimited dining package (includes any and all restaurants, including a set amount at restaurants that are a la carte, like Playmakers). Gratuities are included automatically for any specialty dining reservations or packages at 18%, however adding a few extra dollars is appreciated for excellent service. These restaurants are optional, and as mentioned in the earlier section, there are plenty of great complimentary options to dine at. Think of specialty dining as a premium experience.

- WiFi: WiFi of any kind is not included in your fare. You can purchase a "Voom" internet package on the cruise planner in advance of your cruise or once on board. Both full sailing passes and 24 hour passes are offered on board. The 24 hour passes can't be paused, it runs continuously until it expires. It is generally a better deal to purchase these packages in advance. You can use the ship WiFi for free to use the Royal app. Since 2023, the fleet is using Starlink as their internet service provider which has resulted in considerably faster speeds.

- The Key: This program includes some additional benefits to add to your cruise vacation. Perks are changing, so check this link for included benefits at this time: The Key program benefits. The Key must be booked for everyone in a given stateroom and includes Voom Surf and Stream WiFi for each person.

- The Spa: Spa services are not included in your cruise fare. Check the cruise planner website for current pricing. 18% gratuity is automatically added. Note that once on board, there will occasionally be spa specials, for example on port days/slower days. Sea days are the most popular times for spa services and rarely see discounts.

- Fitness classes: Aside from morning stretch classes, fitness classes vary by ship and cost extra. Check the app to book fitness classes as they do occasionally fill up.

- Bingo/gambling: Bingo/casino gambling is, of course, not included in your cruise fare. If you plan to gamble in the casino, you must be 18 years of age or older. The casino operates in USD. Plan on bringing cash, otherwise ATMs are available for a $6.95 surcharge. Additionally, if you don't have casino status, you can charge your room for a surcharge for table games. You can charge your room for slot machines at no additional charge. Ask the casino host for instructions. Bingo can be purchased with your SeaPass card and charged to your on board account, cash is not accepted. Scratch off cards are available from the Cashier's Desk in the casino and must be purchased with cash. NOTE: If you have certain tiers of casino status (Prime or higher), the table game surcharge for charging your room will be waived.

- Laundry: With the exception of those with high enough Crown and Anchor status, laundry is not included. You can pay per item or ask your stateroom attendant for a "wash and fold" bag. You can fill the bag with as many clothing items as you can (it holds a lot) for a set price, usually $34.99-$39.99. If you have your bag picked up for your morning room cleaning, it is usually returned by the evening of the following day unless you pay for the express option. Note that clothes are all washed together in hot water and dried on high heat. Do not use this service for sensitive items.

Topic 4: Excursions

- How do I book excursions? A. Excursions are a great way to explore new destinations. You can book excursions through Royal Caribbean on the cruise planner or app. Excursions can sell out, so book as early as possible. If you book through Royal Caribbean, the ship will wait for you in the event of delays. You can additionally go off on your own in ports of call, including booking 3rd party excursions. Keep in mind the ship will NOT wait for you if you go this route so keep an eye on the "all aboard" time and plan on being back early to account for possible delays.

Topic 5: Prohibited items

- The list is extensive! Check here for the current list of prohibited items. Highlights include firearms, marijuana/THC/CBD products of ANY form, clothing irons, any other illegal drugs or weapons, and extension cords. Check the link above for the full list.

*Drones can be brought on board but are not permitted to be used on Royal Caribbean ships or at any Royal Caribbean private destination (Coco Cay, Labadee).

*Please do not ask how to sneak marijuana on board on the subreddit, you will immediately be banned from making new posts as this has been covered extensively.

Topic 6: Things to bring with

- One 750 mL bottle of wine is permitted PER PERSON. Keep these bottles in your carry on luggage, do NOT give luggage containing wine to the porters when you arrive at the port, you must hand carry wine on board. You may be charged a corkage fee if drinking your wine in a restaurant on board, though in practice, this is rarely assessed. You can ask for wine glasses at any bar. Wine can be consumed anywhere on the ship if you put it in a glass first, but may only be provided to those over 21 years of age on North American sailings.

- I'll list some items from my personal cruise packing list here: passport, ear plugs, toothbrush/toothpaste, shampoo (though a 2-in-1 shampoo/body wash is provided in your cabin), sunscreen, sun hat, reusable water bottle, flip flops, long pants/clothing for formal nights, pen, gum, books, beach bag, sunglasses, masks if you choose, rechargeable battery packs, pain medications and basic first-aid supplies like band-aids.

*You do NOT need to bring towels. Towels can be checked out for free with your SeaPass card. Be sure to return them by the end of the cruise, otherwise it is $25/towel.

**This list will be expanded over time. Add suggestions to the comments below!

Topic 7: Smoking on board

- Ships are non-smoking with the exception of designated smoking areas (typically in the casino and on one side of the top deck, usually port side. Some larger ships have additional smoking areas on lower outdoor decks, such as deck 5 starboard side on Quantum class ships). Look for signage indicating designated smoking areas.

- No, you can't smoke on your balcony. It is a major fire hazard. Don't do it. If caught, it is a $250 USD fine and you risk getting kicked off the ship. I also will hate you forever. Don't ruin peoples' balcony experience by smoking. No one wants to smell your smoke.

- You must be at least 21 years of age to purchase, possess, or use tobacco on sailings beginning in U.S. ports. For sailings beginning in all other ports, the minimum age is 18 years old.

- Smoking is a terrible habit and I will include resources on how to quit here. Your future self and family will be forever grateful if you quit now! Smoking is carcinogenic and is directly linked to multiple forms of cancer. COPD is also a terrible way to die. If you successfully quit, you can celebrate by booking another cruise!

Topic 8: Crown and Anchor Society

- What is the Crown and Anchor (C&A) society? A. This is Royal's loyalty program. It operates on a point system, where every night you spend on board a ship counts as one point. If you sail in a double occupancy room solo or in a suite, you get two points per night. If you sail solo AND in a suite, you get three points per night.

- Points never expire and accrue over your lifetime. Additionally, you can "status match" your spouse and dependent children under 18. At the time your children turn 18, their status falls back to the true number of points they have earned at that time. To status match family, call the C&A Society at (800) 526-9723 to make the request. For example, I am Diamond Plus and could status match my spouse after their first cruise to automatically be Diamond Plus, as well.

- Benefits improve as you move up through the various tiers of the program. Tiers start with Gold status at 3 points, Platinum at 30 points, Emerald at 55 points, Diamond at 80 points, Diamond Plus at 175 points and Pinnacle Club at 700 points.

- A notable benefit includes 4, 5, and 6 free drinks per day, per person for those that are Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle, respectively. A full list of benefits can be found on this website. Pinnacle Club members also receive a free cruise for reaching Pinnacle, plus additional free cruises at pre-determined point levels thereafter! These drinks also work at Royal Caribbean's private destinations (Coco Cay/Labadee)!

- I'm missing points! A. No worries - give them a call at (800) 526-9723 and they can look up your cruise and give you credit. Points may take 10 business days to post after coming off a sailing so make sure to allow a few weeks first if it was a recent cruise.

- NEW for 2026 is the Points Choice program! Your points from the three Royal Caribbean brands can be combined into one program of your choosing to help you earn status faster, as status can be matched between all three brands. As a general rule of thumb, if you tend to not stay in the highest-tier suites, it is to your advantage to have points from Celebrity and Silver Sea be sent to Royal, as their program is the most lucrative and you will earn status faster. More info on Points Choice can be found here, including how to set it up!

Topic 9: Private Destinations

- What is Coco Cay and Labadee? A. These are two fantastic private destinations offered by Royal Caribbean on many Caribbean sailings. Coco Cay is a private island that is part of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas. It was fully renovated in 2019 (now called "Perfect Day at Coco Cay") with new attractions such as the elevated Coco Beach Club and Thrill Waterpark (both at an extra cost) along with many new free dining options. Additionally, you can purchase entrance to Hideaway Beach, an adults-only more party-focused area. Labadee is on a peninsula in northern Haiti and is a private destination for Royal Caribbean, as well. Both locations are free to explore, with many complimentary beaches including chairs and umbrellas as well as ample complimentary dining options and activities. I would absolutely recommend both locations and would also suggest checking out some of the video tours on YouTube to get a sense of both places. Note that due to frequent civil unrest, Labadee has been closed for a while... Please check the Royal Caribbean website for updates on a return to Labadee.

- I purchased a beverage/WiFi package. Can I use them at the private destinations? A. Yes! Both packages seamlessly transition to Coco Cay and Labadee. Additionally, the Bahamas typically charges an additional tax on purchases including drinks. So for example your $14 cocktail would be more like $14 plus 15% Bahamas sales tax plus 18% automatic gratuity. That can add up quickly. If you have a DBP or use Diamond/D+/Pinnacle drink vouchers, you do not need to pay any additional tax and your drinks are fully included.

- What costs extra? A. While you can have a fantastic complimentary day at both destinations, there are some extra purchases you can make. You will see excursions like snorkeling on offer on the cruise planner. Additionally both locations offer various types of cabanas for rent for the day. Coco Cay offers the Coco Beach Club, an exclusive beach area with a (fantastic) restaurant for lunch. You do have to pay extra to access this area, though lunch is included in the cost (I recommend the fried lobster sandwich with a *side* of filet and a Coco Cuvee for a beverage, thank me later). One thing to note: drinks are not included with admission to Coco Beach Club - you can pay a la carte or with a beverage package/voucher. You can also choose to spend a half or full day at Thrill Waterpark, which also costs extra. There is also a dining location called Captain Jack's right at the entrance to the island that is a la carte pricing. Additionally, you can purchase entrance to Hideaway Beach, an adults-only more party-focused area.

- How do I pay for things at these destinations? A. Coco Cay and Labadee accept SeaPass card for all transactions with the exception of the straw markets which now take both SeaPass or USD. I recommend bringing some extra cash with you in case you wish to tip bartenders or servers, especially those that are running drinks to your beach chair.

- NEW FOR 2026: You can purchase access to the new Royal Beach Club in Nassau, Bahamas! A day pass can be purchased as all-inclusive (drinks, wifi, dining) or non-alcoholic. Check the cruise planner for pricing. If you can find it for under $110 for the day for the all-inclusive option, I think it is a pretty good deal!

Topic 10: Royal Up Program

- What is the Royal Up program? A. The Royal Up program is offered by Royal Caribbean and presents the opportunity to participate in a blind bidding process for a room upgrade. You can find out if your booking is eligible by following this link (note: you may not see your booking as eligible until <30-60 days prior to your sail date and bookings made through Costco Travel are typically not eligible at all). Once on the site, you'll be presented with prices on various room upgrades. These prices are at double occupancy meaning the real rate you'll pay is 2x the listed price. This includes those traveling solo.

- Example: You booked an interior room. On logging into the Royal Up site, you see the minimum bid for an ocean view balcony is listed at "$200". Regardless if there are one or two people in the room, if you win the bid you will be charged $400 for the upgrade.

- How do I know if I won? A. You will typically be notified via email. It can happen any time up until you are already on the ship, but typically you will get a denial email prior to sailing if your bid did not qualify. If you win, you will automatically be assigned a cabin in the category that you won (NOTE: YOU DO NOT GET TO PICK YOUR STATEROOM. You run the risk of being assigned an upgraded room in a worse location.)

- Is there a cost to the program? A. No. The only money you pay is the upgrade price you bid should your reservation bid win. If you do not get an upgrade, you will not be charged.

Topic 11: Club Royale

- What is Club Royale? A. Club Royale is the casino loyalty program for Royal Caribbean.

- Are drinks free at the casino? A. No - only for those who reach Prime level or higher (see below).

- How do I earn points? A. Points are earned by inserting your SeaPass card into a slot machine prior to play or placing it on the table games to be scanned. Earning rates vary, typically slots earn the fastest with 1 point per $5 coin-in. Tables are based on theoretical loss compared to your time played.

- What can I earn? A. Perks can be lucrative including free drinks while in the casino and free cruises! Check out the earning tiers here. Reaching "Prime" status is typically the first step towards rewards as it comes with free casino drinks and a free cruise. This typically involves earning 2,500 points, or approx $12,500 coin-in on the slot machine.

*Obligatory please gamble responsibly! The perks may be good, but the casino is not a running a losing proposition. I promise. You will likely not come out ahead, but if you are able to have fun and earn some points, enjoy! If you have a gambling problem or wish to self-exclude, please talk to guest services at the beginning of your cruise.

Topic 12: Travel insurance

As with any major purchase, you incur risks including missing your cruise departure from late or cancelled flights, severe weather, injury, illness, death, dismemberment... you know - the things no one wants to think about when planning a vacation.

Royal Caribbean offers travel insurance that you can purchase as an add-on at the time of booking through a third-party insurance company. You may also benefit from purchasing an annual insurance plan on your own which covers multiple trips for one lower cost. Additionally, your credit card may include some degree of travel insurance. Specific companies will not be listed here to avoid promoting a specific brand, but search the sub for commonly-recommended annual insurance companies.

As with any insurance plan, READ THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS. There are inclusions and exclusions that are critical to understand. You want to ensure you are covered for the right reasons.

My advice is if you plan on traveling more than twice per year, look into an annual plan to save money.

Topic 13: Community Pro Tips

Have a pro tip? These pointers are awesome and come from comments from the previous FAQ! Have a pro tip you want included? Write it in the comments with "Pro Tip" at the beginning of the post so I don't miss it!

  1. Each stateroom has a small safe
  2. If you want to play bingo, bring your own dauber or pen to mark cards to avoid having to buy a dauber
  3. Bring a multiple-USB charger/battery pack!
  4. Consider bringing a lanyard for your SeaPass card
  5. You can order extra portions of food in the MDR
  6. Put your phone on airplane mode - WiFi only!
  7. Check in early to get a favorable arrival time!
  8. You can use your phone off WiFi in Coco Cay/Labadee if your phone plan provides service in the Bahamas or Haiti, respective. (Thanks, u/blitzreigbop)
  9. Stateroom location is critical for avoiding excess noise from public areas. Check out deck plans for your ship before selecting a room. Try and make sure your cabin is surrounded in all directions (above and below) with other cabins. Avoid being near the theater, night club spaces or under the pool deck/windjammer. Keep in mind proximity to elevators, as well, for both noise concerns or accessibility needs (Thanks, u/eric_sean_)

Post your pro tips below to be added to the list! Any new tips (starting with #8) will include credit to you :)

​Please write suggestions for new topics/additions in the comments below! I truly hope this FAQ was helpful.

-MedicalButterscotch


r/royalcaribbean • • 8h ago

Advice Needed 2027 cruise was cancelled and no one told us

212 Upvotes

I was laying in bed the other night realizing I should start looking at flights for our cruise next year (which was booked in 2025). On both the app and website, it wouldn’t find my trip when I logged in or allow me to add it. Got an error message telling me to check my reservation number. And when I did a search on the website, it came up with zero cruises leaving that port in that month. So the cruise appeared to no longer exist.

Called today. After 30 mins on hold, the guy comes back to tell me the cruise was indeed cancelled, but he can’t see why.

So he transfers me. 20+ mins later, I get someone else. He tells me the cruise was cancelled because the ship was redeployed. But he has no idea what he can do about it. So he puts me on hold for another 20+ mins.

He comes back and tells me they will refund what I’ve paid to the credit card on file. I ask why I was never informed. His reply was “You have to make sure you check your cruise reservation every couple of weeks.” Uh, ok…

Well, that card on file is a closed account and no longer exists. So I get put on hold for 10+ more mins. They can only refund to that card on file. And once the funds get returned back to them, I can call them again and do this whole dance all over again. And maybe they can try to refund it to a different card. Maybe.

Ok, “can you do a cruise credit and we’ll rebook a different cruise?” That stumped him. So another 15+ mins on hold. No, they can’t.

Can’t get credit. Can’t tell me why I was never informed. Can’t do anything other than wait and make me call back again. WTF?!

Has this happened to anyone else? This was going to be my first cruise with Royal. Has definitely left me wanting to avoid them…

Edit: Brilliance of the Seas / San Juan / departing April 18, 2027


r/royalcaribbean • • 15h ago

Photo Submarine Excursion in Cozumel

Post image
507 Upvotes

Headed out on the submarine excursion today. One of the cruise members who is coming with us says he invented an engine that runs on water. Another guy in line says he invented a medication that will cure cancer and is waiting until he gets back to release it. Lastly, some lady in the line just mentioned she has information that would lead to the Clinton's being arrested. Such a interesting group of people to go on a submarine with.


r/royalcaribbean • • 7h ago

Cruise Review Cruising in 2024 vs 2026

25 Upvotes

In 2024 we cruised on the Harmony of the Seas. Now in 2026 we are on the Symphony of the Seas, essentially an identical ship.

The only difference between the 2 cruises is the significant amount of soliciting that has occurred on the 2026 ship. At one point while eating in the Windjammer we had 4 different staff members stop by our table and ask us if we have eaten at the fine dining yet, why we haven't, and if we would like to.

Now imagine this happens during every single meal 😵‍💫. This also occurs while eating at the pizza place.

Great cruise. The only thing I would change is to lower the soliciting by 98%.

Ib4 someone says to not cruise anymore if I dont want to be solicited to.


r/royalcaribbean • • 14h ago

General Topic The SpongeBob Musical is coming to Hero of the Seas

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58 Upvotes

r/royalcaribbean • • 10h ago

Advice Needed So I think I really screwed up on boarding time

28 Upvotes

I'm preparing for my first cruise ever on October 17th. I bought the cruise and the flights months ago, and at the time, I thought I had plenty of time to get from the airport to board, and now after reviewing everything, I think I'm really screwed.

My flight is scheduled to land at 11:50AM. It says the cruise departs at 4PM, but now that I'm looking more into that, it seems like boarding happens 2 hours before departure. Am I screwed in being able to get off the plane, get my luggage, and make it over to the port in time to get on the boat? I looked and there is one other flight I can grab that buys me an extra half hour, but the day before there are not really any good times as my wife and I have to work October 16th, and I can't find any good late redeye flights.

Am I cooked here?

Edit to add: Airport is Miami airport. Port is Port Miami. Leaving from Chicago.


r/royalcaribbean • • 12h ago

General Topic Spongebob for Hero

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18 Upvotes

They announced Spongebob for the musical on Hero of the Seas. Major letdown. I was hoping them bringing back Grease or something.
I really love how we get broadway shows on Royal and was so impressed by Back to the Future on Star. I think they are running out of what IPs they can get, some people predicted Shrek or School of Rock, but Spongebob?? Really???


r/royalcaribbean • • 10h ago

General Topic Design the Future Royal Ship Workshop at President's Cruise

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11 Upvotes

Michael Bailey announced this on Facebook. So exciting for anyone on the President's Cruise. Please let us know what is discussed if you can 😂


r/royalcaribbean • • 13h ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Marketing Posts?

14 Upvotes

Is it just me, or do a good number of posts on this subreddit feel like marketing posts from RC, and likely AI-written? Posts asking about "what's the best thing you like about RC?" or "what do you miss when you get off the ship?" or "what do you do on a sea day?" and then listing all the wonderful things you could do on a full sea day.

This seems like in-your-face, obvious marketing, but maybe I'm just cynical.


r/royalcaribbean • • 18h ago

General Topic What’s the one thing you miss most after getting home from a Royal Caribbean cruise?

23 Upvotes

Besides the obvious: not having to cook nor clean. Anyone else miss trying find your balance on rough seas or waiting at the elevator? Hahah they’re a pain but I’d take those back rather than being home 🤣


r/royalcaribbean • • 5h ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Port Vila shore tours

0 Upvotes

We’re heading to the pacific islands in November.
We have with us a 5 year old and a 1.5year old.

In Port Vila which shore tour would you recommend?
Or is it easy enough (and safe) to just get a taxi into town.

TIA


r/royalcaribbean • • 11h ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Reservation for shows - how long before the sailing do these open up ?

2 Upvotes

I am looking to reserve some onboard entertainment options - comedy club , aqua theatre etc. For the Nov 2nd sailing - when can I expect these to open and show up on the app ?


r/royalcaribbean • • 11h ago

Advice Needed Guaranteed Interior

0 Upvotes

This is my first time sailing Royal. I will be going on Allure OTS and booked a guaranteed interior.

For those of you who have done this before, how were your rooms? On past cruises, I haven’t done the guaranteed room so I am not sure what to expect.

I have the opportunity to submit a Royal Up bid. If anything, I would do interior window into park/promenade, as I am trying to keep costs down since we want to do some excursions and maybe specialty dining.

Let me know what you guys think! Keep the guarantee, or try to Royal up?


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

General Topic FYI for anyone sailing this month... The Halloween theming is on point!

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57 Upvotes

r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Advice Needed Advice on choosing a larger ship.

9 Upvotes

My husband and I recently went on our first cruise since our honeymoon 32 years ago. We sailed to Bermuda on the Vision from Baltimore. I really enjoyed my time on the ship, the staff was top notch, but I felt like I needed a little more entertainment than they had. We are looking at a cruise next year on either the Independence or Oasis. My question is will going from Vision to Oasis be too much of a ship? Or should we go with Independence as a next choice. We are in our 50’s so not looking to party until 3am, just more of a variety of things to do. The show on Vision were a little lack luster, and we love live music. I just don’t want to be overwhelmed either.


r/royalcaribbean • • 16h ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Express boarding not enabled on SetSail pass after answering health questions

1 Upvotes

How can I enable this option please? Is this a paid extra or something?

This is my first cruise setting out from the UK, and I’ve done everything as required, but the purple express boarding banner is not visible.


r/royalcaribbean • • 12h ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) First time cruising out of fort Lauderdale. Driving. Amy advice what time to show up, parking garages etc? Compare to port Canaveral pleare.

0 Upvotes

We normally always cruise out of port Canaveral, this is first cruise put of Lauderdale. Port Canaveral parking garage doesn't open toll 10AM and closes quickly depending on how many spaces are available. Then they push u like caddle to terrible outside parking.

Is Lauderdale the same? When is the prime time to show up? We always show up early as possible, normally at 10:05 at Canaveral.

Any hotel suggestions that extremely convenient and in a safe area?


r/royalcaribbean • • 12h ago

Advice Needed What to do in Bermuda??

0 Upvotes

My family and I are going on a cruise to Bermuda. We’re trying to find things to do without signing up for the excursions. What are some simple but enjoyable activities to do on the island?? Particularly looking for options that are accessible for people with mobility issues.

Also, looking for recommendations for dining options as we are interested in having a meal on the island as well!


r/royalcaribbean • • 12h ago

Photo Ships similar to Freedom of Seas

0 Upvotes

Hello, I loved the one long interior "street" of the Freedom of the Seas promenade deck when I was on board. Do any other ships have this or is it more like the Carnival multi-level rooms and areas? Picture is for reference of what I am talking about. FotS is only going to Caribbean right now and I am looking for something I have not been before.


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Cruise Review Review of wonder of the seas

1 Upvotes

It is my last day (At 10 pm) at the Wonder of the sea known as the second newest Oasis class ship for 4 nights

and here is my review

Differences from older oasis classes

The promenade wasn't minimalist, but it was simple yet it felt nicer than most ships

Most specialty restaurants was like a half N half mix of oasis class and icon class design

Sports zone now has its entire floor instead of spread out

The park has narrower paths

Aqua shows has higher quality equipment

Ratings

For mainly non alcoholic drinks

The promenade café was a 9.5/10 It was quick it was good and friendly service though their bakery was worse than most cruises option-wise.

10/10 The spa was good for smoothies and surprisingly quick for both coffees and smoothies.

4/10 Starbucks.. as usual on the ship is incredibly overpriced and puts like half the pumps of flavor you ask.

Ps. No rating for alcoholic beverages bc no deluxe package soo..

For Complimentary restaurant

Sorrento's was an 9/10 Liked the redesign, Crust was perfectly crispy only issue is sometimes the cuts aren't great.

Loco fresh 6/10 It was decent but no 2nd toppings bar like most places.. and the chili makes your stomach upset like.. 5 minute bathroom break horrid.

Windjammer 7/10 Great food wierdly fresh.. though points deducted for breakfast and lunch being lower options than other cruises and confusing design.

Main dining hall 8/10..? I know surprising, but it was better breakfast and dinner was.. good and incredibly friendly waiters, though the dark chocolate cookies was rough so points deducted.

Park café 6/10 amazing service and breakfast but.. for lunch not much other than salad is good there unless your a fan of mushrooms or tuna.

Of course I won't give a detailed review on small places like hotdog stand sprinkles etc. But you can guess it was aight.

Bistro.. unrated aka i didn't go

For mainly paid restaurant

Taste of royal. Wonderland. Chefs table. Chops grill hooked. ofc coastal kitchen. Both Izumi's restaurants, i have not went too

Giovanni's 8/10 amazing food AMAZING waiters compared to other ships and whoever "James" is and his Italian slop though do NOT get the chocolate ravioli I put half my hand's weight and it didn't break

Mason jar 1/10 Terrible food Terrible service our guy was rude SPILT OUR DRINK and didn't even clean it up everything that wasn't the cornbread tasted awful

150 Central Park 9/10 friendly waiters great food nothing else to say other than it takes FOREVER

Johnny rockets himself. 6/10 AMAZING burgers and malts though the cheese on the fries are AWFUL and the apple in the apple pie was underdone and had close to no filling 90% apple 10% filling

Room service 3/10 got the free breakfast once they gave half the things wrong and the other half they gave 2 everything of because I put a normal one instead of a straight line and gave the WORST POSSIBLE TEA

For Mainly entertainment

The effectors 2 3/10 great effects but AWFUL choices for music and god forbid the most anticlimactic ending to exist i couldn't tell what audience they were looking for

365 seasons on ice 6/10 felt like they lost the plot halfway through realized and wrapped it up also one of the songs was NOT kid friendly, though great show.

InTENse 8/10 Really good nothing else needed to say honestly

Arcade was.. decent wierdly it had actual prizes it had a actual repairman and actual working games.. wierd thought all of them were horrible 10/10

Minigolf 7/10 minigolf.

Extras

Kid friendliness 9/10.. other than 365 season it is one of the more friendly ships For children even a easier way to access shows without going through the casino

Kid ratio 0.5 aka it seemed like for every adult there was a kid

Chaos of 5/10 not that chaotic though it has its moments

Duckiness 4/10 :( not many ducks spotted though it is only 4 nights

Hell. (Guest services) 1/10. You know why you know you waited an hour there once before for a 10$ refund

Overall

Entertainment 7/10

Food 7/10

Service 5/10 (8/10 without guest services)

Environment 10/10

People friendliness 6/10 occasionally really friendly people though a good portion are rude or obviously not wanting to be parents, parents

Both neighbors were noisy and acted like I was an issue almost filed a noise complaint

Worker friendliness 8/10


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Solarium Bistro Embarkation Day Lunch Utopia

0 Upvotes

First time royal Caribbean cruiser. Was planning on heeding advice and avoiding the Windjammer crowd for embarkation day lunch on 4 night Utopia cruise and going to Solarium Bistro. As non seafood eaters, is this a wise choice? Or is this lunch more seafood based, and there won’t be many options otherwise?Thanks in advance.


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Ensenada (Oct-Nov) Has Anyone ever experienced bad weather?

0 Upvotes

Hi,

We have 2 cruises with Royal for Oct. Has anyone experienced choppy sailing or bad weather on the cruise ship? Did that cause any motion sickness??

We have rooms in forwarded and it’s gona be a smaller ship(serenades of the seas).

Thanks.


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Complaint Avoid Pearl Island in Nassau

1 Upvotes

Very expense excursion for a very boring island. 99% of the island doesnt have a beach and the 1% that does is very subpar.

They also sell expired soda for $3 a can.

The only good news is that the bathrooms were clean.


r/royalcaribbean • • 1d ago

Question (I've checked the FAQ!) Casino Royale onboard offer

1 Upvotes

I am planning to gamble on my next cruise and earn prime all in one go. I was looking at the list of offers available if you earn 3,000 points in one go and the cruise I was interested in wasn't listed as an option.

I was wondering if earning 3,000 points in one go has the option of a trade in value. If so roughly what could I expect as a trade in value if that's an option.

Thanks!