Royal Caribbean Blog

Imagine sailing on a cruise ship where robots move alongside talented performers, help clean hard-to-reach windows, and even scrub the hull underwater. 

Royal Caribbean has found a way to use technology to add to the overall entertainment experience and improve efficiency.

"We have always been acutely focused on delivering the best possible experience using technology... We are constantly trying to innovate and improve it," says Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, in a recent YouTube video.

Enter collaborative robots, AKA cobots. These cobots aren't tucked away in a back room like traditional industrial robots that purposely work behind the scenes. Rather, they work side by side with crew members to enhance every part of the cruise experience. 

Here's a look at how Royal Caribbean uses robots aboard its newer cruise ships. 

Cobots help create immersive and unforgettable shows

"We've been working with robots for years at Royal. Obviously, on the Quantum Class ships, we have these amazing robots on [a] gantry with these giant 7x4-foot LED screens. We thought, okay, how can we bring those into the mix again?" explains Alex Marchant, Senior Director, Entertainment Creative & Strategy at Royal Caribbean.

In addition to the impressive robots in Two70, robots have been integrated into the enclosed AquaTheaters aboard Icon Class ships. 

On Icon of the Seas, for example, there are four robots located on the three-meter upstage area that help to set the scene. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

They aren't just props or something there for street cred — though they certainly do wow the audience. Instead, they serve as a point of connection for a lot of the show's signature pieces and are just as important as the entertainers. 

"It isn't our classic AquaTheater. It is truly kind of the reboot and reimagination. And the robots being integrated into it is an amazing transformation of our AquaTheater experience," remarks Jay Schneider, Senior Vice President, Chief Product Innovation Officer at Royal Caribbean. 

In the Royal Theater, Royal Caribbean continues to evolve the entertainment experience with advanced features, such as a giant LED wall, six motorized platforms that move dynamically, and side stages with additional LED screens.

"[O]ur visual for the audience has just grown immensely. The audience is not going to know what's hit them," Marchant boasts. 

Cobots also help keep cruise ships running smoothly

Other robots help keep the ship running smoothly. This makes operations more efficient and sustainable for crew and guests. For example, aboard Star of the Seas, robotic cleaners help keep the ship clean. 

"We do not want to decrease crew members; we want to increase their productivity and their interaction with the guests. And that's the whole idea of getting the robots on board to help them... We wanted to add to the quality of our work, and [the robots] offer us that," explains Johanita Jacobs, Senior Director, Housekeeping Operations at Royal Caribbean. 

When the robots were added on board, every area of the ship was mapped and assigned a QR code, which tells the robotic cleaners — named Bob and Betsy — what duty is expected of them in different places. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Jacobs also confirmed that robotic cleaners will be coming to all Icon Class ships, and she can see them potentially being added to new developments in the future. 

Something else innovative aboard Icon Class ships is the use of underwater hull-scrubbing robots. 

"We have our hull scrubbing vessel [robots] on board Icon Class. This underwater robot is like a drone, and it has brushes... [to] scrub the hull. Keeping the hull clean is everything to do with fuel consumption and efficiency," says Rob Hempstead, Captain of Star of the Seas. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Harri Kulovaara, Executive Vice President, Maritime, added that keeping a hull as clean as possible is essential for the ship’s performance and sustainability. 

Since nearly half of the ship’s energy is used for propulsion — and 80% of that energy is spent overcoming friction with the water — a clean hull can significantly reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

Read more: Technology that changed cruises: 5 of the best uses of tech on Royal Caribbean today

This year's Atlantic hurricane season is right around the corner, with experts predicting up to 16 named storms, including as many as four major hurricanes.

Tropical storms can quickly disrupt cruise itineraries and travel plans. However, staying informed and purchasing travel insurance can help cruisers navigate the season's unpredictability with greater confidence. 

AccuWeather's forecast points to a slightly near to below-average season, but still warns that anywhere from 11 to 16 named storms are predicted to develop. Additionally, three to five storms could make direct landfall in the United States.

"It's very important that everybody from South Texas all the way to Maine prepares equally for each and every hurricane season, regardless of what the official forecast is," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

"Even if it's expected to be a slightly below average hurricane season, we can still see major hits across the United States."

11 to 16 named storms in 2026, with four to seven becoming hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes, defined as Category 3 or higher

According to AccuWeather, this year's hurricane season will be shaped by a shifting climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean. 

El Niño is one phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which also includes La Niña and ENSO-neutral. The ENSO cycle plays a key role in global climate patterns and can affect everything from weather to wildfires, ecosystems, and economies. 

Last month, meteorologists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that the likelihood of an El Niño developing by mid-summer significantly increased. 

Read more: El Niño watch issued, what it means for cruise ships during hurricane season

Typically, El Niño creates stronger upper-level winds across the Atlantic, which makes it more difficult for tropical storms to develop. This could mean there are fewer named tropical storms during the most active weeks of the season compared to the first half. 

Still, the presence of El Niño doesn't guarantee a below-average hurricane season. In fact, during the most recent El Niño in the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, 20 named storms formed. 

"What made 2023 very special is it was also the warmest year on record if we take a look at the average sea surface temperatures across the Atlantic basin," DaSilva explained. 

AccuWeather's forecast predicts that the Atlantic waters will be warm throughout 2026, though not reaching the same record highs seen in 2023.

Concerned about rapid intensification

Storms draw a lot of their energy from warm water, which is why experts are worried about rapid intensification during this year's hurricane season. 

"This year we are very concerned about rapid intensification, very similar to the last couple of years," DaSilva said.

It's not just the surface temperatures that play a key role in storm development, either. Deep ocean heat content waters, which are hundreds of feet deep across most of the hurricane basin, can also intensify storms. 

"Those waters are also exceptionally, exceptionally warm. That is why once again we are very concerned about rapid intensification this upcoming hurricane season," DaSilva added. 

Another factor raising concerns is the possibility of the Atlantic hurricane season starting earlier than the official start on June 1.

AccuWeather's report says that warm weather in places where storms typically develop early in the season means that it may not take much for tropical activity to kick off. 

Early in the hurricane season, "homegrown development" is most frequent, which occurs when a storm or front moving across North America stalls over the Gulf, western Caribbean, or western Atlantic. As it sits over the warm water, it could develop into a tropical depression, tropical storm, or even a hurricane.

What to know about going on a cruise during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season

You shouldn't avoid cruises during hurricane season. In fact, with proper planning and expectation management, it can be a great time to go.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may adjust itineraries to avoid storms, making it a safe option for travelers. The only caveat is that you must remain flexible. If you want to visit the Eastern Caribbean, you might be disappointed if your itinerary is changed at the last minute to call at Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatán, Honduras. 

Additionally, cruisers can take advantage of lower prices during hurricane season. As an example, a 7-night cruise on Icon of the Seas in early July 2026 starts at around $1,586 per person for an inside room. However, the price for the same itinerary in October drops to $1,393 for an interior cabin. 

Regardless, having a good travel insurance policy that covers incidentals in case a named storm impacts your vacation is key. Hurricanes, for instance, can disrupt air travel as much as cruise itineraries, which could put a damper on your vacation before it even begins!

This year, experts say the northern and northeastern Gulf Coast and the Carolinas are at the highest risk for direct impacts, making flexibility and solid preparation crucial for travelers coming to or from these areas.

Read more: Why your Caribbean cruise forecast says rain every day (and why it usually doesn’t matter)

One of the top reasons people book a cruise ship vacation is to explore the destinations it visits, but no one wants to book a tour that leaves you disappointed.

I asked our readers for what shore excursions they booked and instantly regretted, and I was surprised the general consensus wasn't one specific excursion, but a type of tour. 

We had over 500 responses to my question in just a few days. What surprised me wasn't just how many people had regrets, but how often they came from the excursions that seemed like the safest choices.

Large sightseeing tours were by far the most commonly mentioned kind of cruise excursion that were filled with regret.

On paper, these tours sounded like a sure thing.  But after taking them, the reality was many tours were the type cruisers wish they could do over.

Here is why this type of cruise ship shore excursion was lackluster, and the other tours our readers say they'd never book again.

City tours and long bus tours

The shore excursion most people regretted the most were bus tours, and it wasn't even close to the rest.

An excursion that takes you around a city seems like a safe and easy way to see a destination. In reality, many cruisers said they felt like they spent most of their port day staring out a bus window instead of actually experiencing anything.

• "We sat on a bus for hours and barely got out."
• "It was basically a drive-by tour with a few photo stops."
• "Felt like we saw everything… but experienced nothing."
• "Too much talking, not enough doing."

I've experienced this sort of regret too when I took a bus tour around a fjord in Norway. I wanted my family to see them, but so much of the tour is on the bus, with little outdoor time.

Our readers felt the same way, because a big frustration was how little time people actually had off the bus. Stops were often rushed, with just enough time for a quick photo before moving on.

• "Every stop felt rushed... like ‘take your picture and get back on.'"
• "We had 15 minutes here, 20 minutes there… it wasn’t relaxing at all."

Other issues with a bus tour can be the guide, and how easy it is (or not) to understand them. Or how knowledgeable they are of what you're seeing.

• "The guide talked nonstop, but none of it was memorable."
• "Half the time I couldn’t even hear what they were saying."

Ultimately, the issue with a bus tour is it feels like most of the time is spent in transit, rather than experiencing something. 

Our readers lamented that it left them like they wasted port time.

I recommend doing research before your visit to any port and honing in on an activity, place, or major sight.  Hop in a taxi, walk there, or book an excursion that only visits that place.

If you want to experience more of a destination rather than feel like you sat on a bus, you could hire a private driver or small group tour.  Because these excursions have less people, you can be more nimble and customize the experience.

Overcrowded and underwhelming beaches

The second most-mentioned regret was going to the beach, but this was more about one simple issue: expectation vs reality.

The complaint isn't against all beaches. Rather, a beach that didn't match up to expectations. People booked beach excursions expecting a pristine, relaxing escape, but what they got instead often felt crowded, expensive, and underwhelming.

• "It was packed—chairs right on top of each other."
• "Not worth what we paid at all."
• "I could’ve gone to a public beach for a fraction of the price."
• "Didn’t look anything like the photos."

Crowding was a major theme, especially at popular beach clubs tied to cruise traffic.

Tours that include a beach break will often end up at beaches that cater to cruise ship excursions because they have a large facility. 

• "Way too many people for the space."
• "Felt more like a resort pool deck than a beach day."

I've been to a few of these types of beaches, such as one in Jamaica that I would have volunteered to return to the ship within five minutes of arriving had that been an option.

When service and amenities don't live up to the marketing, it feels like you've been bamboozled.  It's one thing if you get sunburnt, drink too much, or have an annoying uncle with you.  But it's another when it feels like your day never had a chance to be fun.

The good news is beaches are easy to do on your own without an organized tour. You can easily search for the best beaches in any port your ship visits, and find lots of good recommendations.  

I would also look for reviews that speak to the location, exclusivity, or service components.  Find one that has exactly the vibe you're looking for.

Snorkeling photos look great, but the experience doesn't match the hype

Snorkeling tours was repeated a number of times, and it's primarily because the the idea sounded better than what they experienced.

Snorkeling can be very rewarding, but if it's too crowded or the weather doesn't cooperate, then it's lackluster.

• "The water was murky. You couldn’t see anything."
• "Too many people in the water at once."
• "We were all kicking each other trying to see fish."

Another issue is someone brand new might struggle to get the hang of how to properly snorkel.

• "I didn’t realize how hard snorkeling would be."
• "Spent more time trying to breathe than enjoying it."

Weather conditions are a major factor, and that's not the fault of the tour operator. A good snorkeling excursion relies on group size and instructors that can help everyone, even if they're brand new.

A small-group snorkel tour might be a good idea for minimizing those risks.  Also, if you can practice before the tour so breathing through a mask doesn't feel so foreign, that would help a lot.

Swimming with dolphins is expensive and overproduced

Dolphin swims are controversial, and also underwhelming for many readers.

Many cruisers said the experience felt overpriced and underwhelming. Dolphin encounters are usually a group event that involves very little individual time with the animal.

• "It was over so fast."
• "You spend more time waiting than actually with the dolphins."

A common complaint was how structured and limited the interaction felt.

• It felt very staged... like you’re just moving through a line."
• "You get your photo, your quick interaction, and that’s it."

Another issue is the ethical concerns of these tours.

• "It didn’t feel right once I saw the conditions."
• "After doing it, I wouldn’t do it again because of how the dolphins are kept."

I've never liked the idea of a dolphin encounter in a caged environment, so if you want to see marine life, I recommend booking a viewing tour of some kind in the open ocean.  You won't get a selfie with them, but it's best for both of you.

Glass-bottom boat tours sound so much more fun than they really are

Just like bus tours, taking a glass-bottom boat ride sounds great in theory, but rarely matches up.

The problem with this kind of a tour is how little you actually see.

• "The water wasn’t clear enough to see anything."
• "We were all squinting trying to spot something."
• "Definitely not what the brochure made it look like."

Like other tours on this list, the boats were crowded.  So when you add a small viewing area, that's a recipe for frustration.

For many, it ended up feeling like a passive, underwhelming ride.

There's so much luck involved with a glass-bottom boat ride in terms of the chances your boat passes over something interesting (or something interesting passes under your boat).  I'd much rather take my chances snorkeling.

Mariner of the Seas will no longer sail from Southampton, England, in 2027. 

Originally, the Voyager Class cruise ship was supposed to offer an impressive lineup of sailings from England. However, Royal Caribbean decided to swap the ship.

Now, Freedom of the Seas will sail from Southampton, while the updated Mariner itineraries have yet to be announced.

Royal Caribbean informed guests and travel advisors about the sudden deployment change in an email, which was shared with Royal Caribbean Blog. 

"As part of our ongoing itinerary planning process - which sometimes requires flexibility due to scheduling, port agreements, or operational needs, Mariner of the Seas will be redeployed for our Summer 2027 season. As a result, your clients' sailing has been redeployed," it begins. 

"We know how much effort goes into planning their vacation and apologize for the inconvenience. We've put together some alternative options that we hope will work for your clients and those in their party."

Passengers who were looking forward to their European adventure on Mariner of the Seas have three options:

1. Automatically move to a new sailing onboard Freedom of the Seas departing on the same day as their original reservation
2. Re-book any other Royal Caribbean International sailing
3. Receive a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare

Guests don't have to take any action if they decide to stick with the same sail date aboard Freedom of the Seas. Royal Caribbean will automatically move them to a like-for-like stateroom, and the original stateroom category price will be protected. If the booking was already paid in full, the company will refund any price difference between the two sailings. 

Additionally, Royal Caribbean will waive non-refundable deposit change fees for those who want to re-book another cruise. Guests, however, are responsible for the difference between the cruise fare and taxes, fees, gratuities, and other non-cruise fare items (such as shore excursions, specialty dining reservations, drink packages, and Wi-Fi). 

Finally, if there's no good replacement option, impacted guests can request a full refund of any paid portion of the cruise fare, along with non-refundable deposits and prepaid amenities. The email adds that all airfare booked through Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea program will also be automatically refunded. 

If a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) was used to pay for the sailing aboard Mariner of the Seas, Royal Caribbean will refund any new funds paid above the FCC's amount and reinstate the original certificate. 

Passengers have until April 14, 2026, to let Royal Caribbean know of their decision. However, those who wish to remain on the same sailing date aboard Freedom do not need to take any action; the switch will automatically happen.

"Thank you for your understanding and support. We hope your clients find another cruise with us. Whether they are celebrating a special occasion or looking to explore, relax, and recharge - we have no doubt their time with us will be nothing short of amazing," the email concludes. 

Read more: Freedom of the Seas cruise ship redeployed to the UK in 2027 after Royal Caribbean abruptly changes plans

Last month, Royal Caribbean canceled over 20 cruises on the Freedom of the Seas cruise ship from Florida

In March, Royal Caribbean canceled the entirety of Freedom's 2027 summer schedule from Miami, impacting sailings from 5-night cruises to the Dominican Republic and Perfect Day at CocoCay to 4-night Bahamian getaways, as well as 9-night itineraries that include stops in Aruba and Curaçao.

At the time, the cruise line did not provide a specific reason for the cancellations beyond citing the line's "ongoing itinerary planning process."

A few weeks later, they revealed plans to redeploy the 3,926-passenger Freedom of the Seas to Europe, as reported by Cruise Critic. 

"The UK & Ireland is an incredibly important market for Royal Caribbean, and as a result, we’re excited to announce that we'll be upsizing our Southampton deployment in 2027 with Freedom of the Seas, following our long-standing success here with this class of ship," said Aaron Langford, Senior Sales Director UK & Ireland, Royal Caribbean.

"Freedom Class has consistently resonated strongly with British and Irish guests, and following a recent amplification, Freedom of the Seas offers a fantastic mix of scale, innovation, and guest-favourite features that deliver the ultimate family holiday," he added.

It's not really a huge surprise that Royal Caribbean decided to send one of its most popular ships to Southampton, especially with demand for Northern European cruises, particularly to destinations like Norway, Denmark, and the United Kingdom, at an all-time high. 

Freedom of the Seas measures 156,271 gross tons, is 1,111 feet long, and can accommodate 3,926 passengers at double occupancy, making her a desirable mid-sized cruise ship that offers a solid balance of amenities at a reasonable price point.

Onboard, guests will find everything from a Caribbean-themed pool deck to a kid-friendly Splashaway Bay aqua zone, Perfect Storm water slides, FlowRider surf simulator, Lime and Coconut Bar, Social 003 teen hangout, a non-smoking casino, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and Izumi Hibachi.

Read more: After 3 sailings on Freedom of the Seas, I’m convinced this ship offers the best value Royal Caribbean has to offer

Still, passengers are upset with the abrupt change 

Those who had already invested time and money into planning a European cruise on Mariner of the Seas feel cheated, especially since the new Freedom itineraries do not match what they originally booked.

"[M]y transatlantic [cruise] is MUCH less interesting now. 12 nights instead of 17, ending in Miami instead of NOLA. Bummer. We had La Coruna, Vigo, Lisbon, Madeira, Nassau, and New Orleans. I even got a decent Royal Beach Club price. Now it's just La Coruna, Vigo, and Ponta Delgada," KristiZ shared on the Royal Caribbean Blog Discussion Forum. 

Mel added, "Our June itinerary is changed also. No Porto and no Mariner." 

"Honestly, this kind of last-minute redeployment is pretty frustrating. I specifically chose Mariner of the Seas because I wanted to try something different, especially since I’ve already sailed on Freedom of the Seas before. Even though the replacement itinerary still looks solid, the overall experience won’t feel the same," senpaistream said. 

"The lack of clarity about where Mariner is going also makes it more confusing, since it feels like we’re missing part of the picture... At this point, I’m still undecided—leaning toward rebooking just to get a new ship experience."

Royal Caribbean got a lot of attention when it announced it would offer a 3-story treehouse suite on its new cruise ship, and the price is just as eye-opening.

Cruise fares for Hero of the Seas went on sale today and the Ultimate Family Treehouse suite is well over $200,000 for a week.

The fourth Icon Class ship was revealed earlier this week, and will introduce a number of firsts.

The triple-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse suite is new, as is an immersive train car dining experience, an expanded adults-only area, two new family raft slides, and a New Orleans-themed supper club.

The changes are part the next phase of the Icon Class ships, which will introduce the most significant changes to the Icon Class since the launch of the first ship in 2024.

The Ultimate Family Treehouse suite is not only new, but comes with an equally high price tag.

What's special about the Ultimate Family Treehouse suite?

This $200,000 treehouse suite might be Royal Caribbean's wildest cabin yet.

Designers wanted it to be the ultimate family living space with great spaces to hang out, great spaces to watch movies, and gorgeous views of the ocean.

It has a private whirlpool and sweeping ocean views. Two main bedrooms each include their own bathroom and balcony. Plus, a two-story hideout with game room, spiral staircase, and more.

Two of the floors will be for teens, with two main bedrooms, ensuites, and balconies.

• Space for up to 12 guests
• Three decks, including a rooftop terrace
• Private whirlpool and lounge area
• Outdoor kitchen for al fresco dining
• Game room hangout

There's only one of these suites on Hero of the Seas.

How much does the Ultimate Family Treehouse cost?

Royal Caribbean opened bookings for Hero of the Seas on Wednesday, and not unexpectedly, the Treehouse suite is expensive.

The cruise line uses dynamic pricing, so the cost differs from sailing to sailing, but here's a quick look at a few example prices:

Ultimate Family Treehouse prices per person (double occupancy)

• August 14, 2027: $112,246.86
• August 21, 2027: $90,223.21
• August 28, 2027: $90,223.21
• November 20, 2027: $114,494.43
• December 23, 2027: $105,877.98
• December 30, 2027: $187,660.14

The highest prices that cost well over $200,000 for two people are for holiday cruises and the first full sailing.

Despite the cost, this suite is already booked up on certain sailings. For example, the December 30th (New Years Eve) cruise is listed as having the suite sold.

There are somewhat lower prices if you're willing to sail during the shoulder season.

• September 11, 2027: $47,142.71
• October 9, 2027: $48,612.71
• November 27, 2027: $46,310.20
• December 11, 2027: $44,820.20

On Reddit, there was a mix of disbelief, shock, and thought provoking commentary.

"They wouldn’t keep building them if they didn’t sell," said one person. "Yeah I’ll never be able to afford it, but it’s still interesting to me," added another.

For comparison, the Ultimate Family Townhouse is also available on Hero of the Seas and costs a bit less.

This mega suite has an in-suite slide, movie-viewing room, karaoke machine and a "backyard" with a ping pong table, outdoor seating and a white picket fence leading directly to the Surfside area.

This cabin is a 1,772-square-foot space that is also three decks high, and sleeps up to eight people.

• August 14, 2027: $68,346.86
• August 21, 2027: $62,466.21
• August 28, 2027: $43,782.71
• November 20, 2027: $48,853.43
• December 23, 2027: $72,868.98
• December 30, 2027: $79,905.64

A record breaking new ship

Hero of the Seas will have nine swimming pools, the most we've seen on a cruise ship to date.

In fact, Royal Caribbean is adding a new pool, Coconut Cove, and expanding the Hideaway to have a second pool.

The ship's waterpark is getting a new family raft slide, as well as extending the ride duration of the other slides. The kid-friendly waterpark Splashaway Bay will have new features too.

Plenty of thrills are returning from the other Icon Class ships, such as skywalk-zip line Crown's Edge experience, Flowrider surf simulator, golf courses and rock climbing walls.

The sailings will include seven night sailings from Miami from August 2027, including stays at the private Perfect Day at CocoCay island.

Bookings are open now for Hero of the Seas.

Demolition at Royal Caribbean's new private destination in Mexico is now cleared to move forward following court rulings that lifted earlier injunctions.

On March 27, a hearing was held regarding the injunction, with the Mexican judge granting Royal Caribbean a suspension against the closure carried out by Procuraduría Federal de Protección al Ambiente (PROFEPA), the federal agency responsible for enforcing environmental laws and regulations, in January.

Earlier this year, PROFEPA halted demolition at one of three sites after inspectors found "landfilling and compaction activities on a dirt road in a low-lying coastal jungle area with mangroves, as well as demolition and debris removal, all without the required environmental impact authorization from the competent federal authority." 

(Credit: Francisco Javier Hernández / Facebook)

The provisional suspension was issued after environmental activists raised concerns about the large-scale project, claiming that Mahahual's drainage and sewage management problems could be worsened by the proposed water park. There was a debate over whether Perfect Day Mexico could damage the nearby mangroves, too. 

However, despite the environmental concerns, the judge ruled in Royal Caribbean’s favor, demolition work of dilapidated structures on the port the brand now owns to continue, a local news outlet reported.

(Credit: Francisco Javier Hernández / Facebook)

While critics argue that this ruling places corporate policies and economic interests above community and environmental protection, Royal Caribbean has made it clear that it cares about the environment and will do what it can to safeguard mangrove areas, coastal ecosystems, and local wildlife. 

Royal Caribbean has consistently said it plans to follow all regulatory requirements and minimize environmental impact as the project moves forward.

For example, when questioned about the project by El Financiero last year, Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President and Chief Product Innovation Officer, said, "We are not going to touch anything at all in the mangrove conservation area," adding that the mangroves are already dying due to pollution from the municipal water treatment plant.

The company has also said it is committed to transparency and compliance with Mexican regulations as the legal process unfolds.

Why this matters

A project as ambitious as Perfect Day Mexico was bound to get the attention of a lot of people, and developing projects anywhere has its challenges.

On the surface, cruise fans can look forward to the eventual opening of a massive new private destination experience that builds upon the tremendous success of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Just as important is this legal maneuver proves how committed Royal Caribbean is to improving the local community around Mahaual and protecting the environment.

Just last week, the company announced plans to build a new, state-of-the-art solid waste management facility in the area. This is an example of a win-win opportunity for company and community.

The current trash management that serves the area is less than ideal, and Royal Caribbean needs something more robust to support building Perfect Day Mexico.  Significantly strengthening local waste infrastructure in Mahahual not only gets them what they need, but ensures the people living in the community have access to it too.

The new solid waste facility will incorporate advanced sorting technologies, closed-loop processing systems, high-efficiency material recovery solutions, and best-in-class environmental controls, enabling more efficient waste handling, resource recovery, and reduced reliance on landfills.

Plus, they're working with Maritime Procurement Services (MPS), which is a local company and that boosts the economy there.

In October, Royal Caribbean announced plans to clean up the mangroves in the area because for years, the coastal wetlands have been used to discharge wastewater from the municipal treatment plant.

According to Mr. Schneider, the antiquated sewer plant was leaking into the surrounding mangrove ecosystem, contaminating both the mangroves and the beach adjacent to the cruise ship pier.

In turn, Royal Caribbean will build their own reverse osmosis system to provide drinking water as well as a treatment plant to clean up the area, which will later be transferred to the municipal government to serve the entire community.

Royal Caribbean gives you drink vouchers, Celebrity hands you an open bar for a couple hours, so which perk actually feels like the better deal once you're onboard?

Royal Caribbean Group offers some of the best loyalty perks in the cruise industry, and one of the most valuable benefits for top-tier members is complimentary drink vouchers. While both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises reward loyal guests with free beverages, each cruise line has its own approach to how those drinks are offered and used onboard.

After cruising extensively with both cruise lines, I’ve had the chance to experience their loyalty drink perks many times. With Royal Caribbean Group's status match program, I have Diamond Plus status with Royal Caribbean and Elite Plus status with Celebrity Cruises. While my status qualifies me for drink perks on both cruise lines, each one takes a different approach to how those benefits are offered, with its own pros and cons.

For instance, Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program offers a ton of flexibility with daily drink vouchers that can be used almost anywhere at any time. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises hosts a nightly happy hour with unlimited drinks from a set menu during a two-hour window.

Depending on how you like to drink on a cruise, one loyalty program might work better for you than another.

I was reminded of these differences during my recent 14-night cruise with Celebrity Cruises aboard Celebrity Equinox across South America. During that sailing, I was able to experience the Elite Happy Hour each night of the cruise.

We ended up going to Ensemble Bar every evening before dinner. We had an excellent waiter who was extremely attentive night after night and provided fantastic service. It was something we looked forward to each evening as a family!

More importantly, I was able to see how Royal Caribbean and Celebrity’s drink perks differ, especially when it comes to how and where you can use them throughout your cruise. What’s included with each loyalty perk also varies significantly, which can make a big difference depending on your drinking preferences. 

Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers are very flexible

Royal Caribbean currently provides drink vouchers to Crown & Anchor members at the Diamond level and above. One of the biggest perks of reaching Diamond status is receiving these daily drink vouchers that can be used throughout your cruise. Even kids receive the benefit, although they are limited to non-alcoholic drinks.

Once you reach Diamond status, you’ll receive 4 drinks per person, per day on every Royal Caribbean cruise you take. Similarly, Diamond Plus members receive 5 drinks per person, per day, while top-tier Pinnacle Club members receive 6 drinks per person, per day.

Royal Caribbean specifically states that Diamond members and above receive: “Complimentary daily drinks up to $14 in value ($13 on Singapore sailings, $15 on UK and Australia sailings — excludes Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and Desserted). Each drink voucher can also get you 40% off on wine bottles less than $100, and 20% off bottles more than $100.”

The vouchers are loaded directly onto your SeaPass account, so there are no paper coupons to carry around. When you order a drink, you simply tell the bartender or server that you would like to use one of your Diamond drinks.

The vouchers are good only for that day, so it is very much a use-it-or-lose-it system. Once you reach 6 a.m. the next day, the voucher total resets. You cannot save vouchers for another day or borrow them from future days.

One of the biggest advantages of Royal Caribbean’s system is where the drinks can be used. You can redeem your drink vouchers at pretty much any bar, restaurant, or lounge onboard. The drink vouchers even work at Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is a huge benefit. This flexibility is what makes the drink perk so useful, as you are not stuck in one venue or forced to wait until a certain time each evening.

Royal Caribbean used to offer a nightly happy hour instead, similar to Celebrity

If you’re newer to cruising with Royal Caribbean, you might not realize that the cruise line hasn’t always used the now-popular voucher system. The cruise line actually used to have a nightly happy hour for Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members. This perk offered unlimited drinks in the Diamond Lounge each night from a more limited menu that included basic well drinks, wine, beer, and soda.

This was the system for a long time, and after my sister and I turned 21, we were frequent visitors in the Diamond Lounge with our parents! Going to the lounge each night was a highlight of the cruise.

After my husband inherited my Diamond Plus status when we got married, we also became big fans of the happy hour. The limited menu was not always our favorite, but it was better than paying higher prices for drinks.

(Enjoying Happy Hour in the Diamond Lounge during our honeymoon in 2018)

And as newlyweds with a smaller vacation budget, we definitely took advantage of the unlimited drinks during happy hour! Although the menu was limited, the drinks were unlimited. And if you found a good bartender working hard for a tip, you might even be able to get drinks that were not technically on the menu.

After the shutdown, Royal Caribbean revamped the perk. The cruise line wanted to deter people from crowding in the lounge every night for drinks, so it replaced the old happy hour with the drink voucher system. With the new system, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members could get drinks from any bar up to $14. The drinks could be used at any time of day, which meant you no longer had to wait until happy hour every evening.

For most cruisers, the change was positive. The vouchers provided much more flexibility and allowed people to order from a wider range of drinks than the limited happy hour menu once allowed. And you can use the drinks ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay, which was not an option before with the lounge-only happy hour!

Of course, some people were disappointed about losing the unlimited aspect of the old system. The voucher setup created a hard daily cap that did not exist before. In some ways it became more flexible, while in other ways it became more limited. However, I think most people overall are very happy with the voucher system.

Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour allows unlimited drinks, but with more limitations

Comparatively, Celebrity Cruises has a nightly Elite Happy Hour for Elite, Elite Plus, and Zenith members. This takes place in certain bars from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. each night, and you can order unlimited drinks from a set menu. The menu includes a selection of basic cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and some non-alcoholic drinks. Not all bars participate, although most onboard do.

This is where Celebrity’s system differs significantly from Royal Caribbean’s. You cannot order drinks elsewhere using the perk. Instead, you have to wait until happy hour each night and order from the designated menu at a participating bar.

For example, if you want to order a piña colada by the pool during the day, you will be paying out of pocket. And even if you wait until happy hour, you still wouldn’t be able to get a piña colada, as it is not on the Elite Happy Hour menu.

On the other hand, Celebrity’s happy hour does technically allow for unlimited drinks during that two-hour period. If quantity matters most to you, that is a huge advantage. You can theoretically drink as much as you want during happy hour. However, you have to be in a participating bar, which means you cannot use the perk on the pool deck or in a restaurant.

Most people would agree that any free drink is a good drink. But, if you prefer more elaborate cocktails or top-shelf liquor, you might be disappointed by the menu. 

However, one nice advantage is that you can order bottled water and soda during happy hour. This doesn’t count against a daily threshold like it would on Royal Caribbean, as Celebrity isn’t tracking how much you order.

Celebrity’s embarkation day rule used to make the perk more frustrating

When I first started cruising with Celebrity in 2023, Elite Happy Hour was not available on embarkation day. You had to wait until the second night of the cruise to enjoy the perk. This felt unnecessarily restrictive, especially if you were only taking a short sailing.

For instance, my sister and I took a 4-night cruise on Celebrity Silhouette, so we could only enjoy the happy hour for three nights. Similarly, my parents took their first Celebrity cruise that same year, and they were disappointed when they went to the bar on the first night and found out they could not order a drink.

When they asked why the happy hour was not available on embarkation day, no one could really provide a good answer. Now, within the last year or two, Celebrity has extended the happy hour to include embarkation day. That was a very welcome change!

Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour menu is decent, but not expansive

One of the most important things to understand about Celebrity’s loyalty perk is that the drink options are more limited than the ship’s overall bar menus. You cannot order a Lychee Martini or an Old Fashioned, for example. The included menu is much more basic.

The menu features a mix of basic spirits like Absolut vodka, Bacardi rum, and Jim Beam, along with beers such as Heineken and Bud Light, plus wines and classic cocktails like a Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, or Mimosa. While there’s a range of standard options, it’s limited to simple drinks and select brands, meaning anything more premium or specialty would cost extra.

If you’re content with simple cocktails, beer, wine, or basic mixed drinks, the perk can be sufficient. However, if you prefer frozen beverages, more elevated cocktails, or premium spirits, the limited menu may feel somewhat underwhelming.

Royal Caribbean’s biggest advantage is versatility

Personally, I prefer Royal Caribbean’s drink voucher system compared to Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. For instance, I don’t always want my free drinks during a two-hour window in a specific bar each night. Sometimes I want a cocktail by the pool in the afternoon! Other times, I might want a glass of wine with dinner or a beach drink while visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay.

There’s so much flexibility with Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers, and it can save you hundreds of dollars if you’re someone who likes to drink daily.

Another major benefit is that the vouchers work more like a mini drink package. Since they can be used on a much broader range of beverages up to the price cap, you are not limited to one tiny loyalty menu. You can use them for cocktails, bottled water, premium coffee, soda, and more.

I love to have a drink or two each day of my cruise, but I rarely use all five of my Diamond Plus drinks each day of a cruise, especially on a longer itinerary. If I still have drinks left at the end of the evening, I usually stock up on bottled water for the next day.

Finally, it’s also a major perk that you can share your drink vouchers. When I have cruised with friends who do not have the same voucher perks, I have been happy to share my drink vouchers with them. When my parents have cruised with my aunt and uncle, they usually share their 10 combined drink vouchers each day so everyone can enjoy a drink or two.

However, one downside is that Royal Caribbean's vouchers are not unlimited

The biggest drawback of Royal Caribbean’s system is obvious. The drinks are flexible, but they are not unlimited.

For some people, the daily voucher amount is more than enough. For others, it might seem too restrictive. If you are someone who likes to drink throughout the day and into the evening, you may run out of vouchers and have to pay out of pocket.

The vouchers can either feel very generous or very restrictive depending on your habits. If you order a specialty coffee, soda, or bottled water, you aren’t using the full value of the vouchers. I’ve even asked for these to be charged to my account so I can save my vouchers for more expensive drinks throughout the day.

Celebrity’s happy hour offers unlimited drinks and a social atmosphere

If you care most about being able to order as many drinks as you want during those two hours, you might prefer Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. You do not have to count drinks the way you do with Royal Caribbean’s vouchers, as you can technically order as much as you’d like during the two hours.

There is also a social element to Celebrity’s happy hour that a lot of people enjoy. Since the perk happens in the same bars at the same time every night, you tend to see the same people over and over. This creates more of a nightly ritual and lounge atmosphere. On my recent Celebrity Equinox cruise, going to Ensemble Bar each evening became part of our routine, and having the same attentive waiter each night really enhanced the experience.

I find that Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour can be underwhelming

The main problem with Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour is how restrictive it can feel compared to Royal Caribbean. You have to wait until happy hour each night to get your free drinks, and you have to visit a participating bar to order from a limited menu.

If you want a drink earlier in the day, you are paying out of pocket. And, if you want a more elaborate cocktail, you are paying out of pocket. If you are traveling with people who do not have loyalty status, you can't share your benefit with others. This can make Celebrity’s drink perk feel more limited, even though it is technically unlimited for those two hours.

In fact, I have seen recent discussion online where cruisers asked why Celebrity has not changed to drink vouchers. Personally, I have wondered the same thing!

But I was surprised by how many people said they prefer Celebrity’s happy hour over Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers. More than half of the comments said they liked the happy hour because it’s actually unlimited. Additionally, you can order soda and water without using one of a limited number of drinks.

Celebrity fans also liked the social aspect of seeing the same people every night. I saw multiple comments saying, “Celebrity is not Royal Caribbean, it doesn’t need to change, we like how it is.” I thought that was interesting, because I personally tend to prefer Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers.

Which loyalty drink perk is better?

I understand why some people prefer Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. If your top priority is unlimited drinks and you enjoy the social aspect of going to the same bar each evening, Celebrity can be a better option. There is also value in not having to count your drinks during those two hours.

But personally, I still prefer Royal Caribbean’s vouchers. I appreciate being able to order from almost anywhere, at any time, from a much wider drink selection. I also like that the vouchers work at Perfect Day at CocoCay, making the day feel even more inclusive. Finally, it’s great that you can use them for cocktails, bottled water, specialty coffee, soda, or whatever else makes the most sense that day.

Celebrity’s happy hour is still a good perk, and I enjoyed it on my recent Celebrity Equinox cruise. But it feels more restrictive to me. Royal Caribbean’s vouchers feel more practical, more flexible, and more in line with how I like to drink on a cruise.

If your priority is unlimited drinks during a set happy hour and you enjoy the built-in social atmosphere, Celebrity may be the better fit. If you value flexibility, broader drink selection, and the ability to use the perk on your own schedule, Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers are likely a better fit.

At the end of the day, both loyalty perks can save cruisers hundreds of dollars and reduce the need for an expensive drink package.

Royal Caribbean announced plans for Hero of the Seas to launch in 2027, but I found a few tidbits about this ship that will make it different from other cruise ships.

Every new ship is always a bit different from the previous ones. Even when they're the same class, Royal Caribbean takes every opportunity to refine and improve a ship.  They capture so much guest feedback that their product development team seeks to improve ships going forward.

The cruise line has already marketed the major changes coming to Hero: an expanded adults-only area, two new family raft slides, and a New Orleans-themed supper club. Plus, it will introduce an immersive train car dining experience and a two-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse suite.

However, if you didn't dig through every piece of news released, there are a couple of tidbits I discovered about Hero of the Seas worth sharing too.

According to Jennifer Goswami, Senior Director of Product Development, Hero of the Seas, "marks the beginning of the next phase of the Icon Class". With that in mind, changes are abound.

Swim & Tonic will be larger

Since the launch of Icon of the Seas, these ships have been focused on providing a connection to the water.  This includes pool access.

The Swim & Tonic pool has easily been one of the most popular ideas, and it will be bigger on Hero of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean says they will expand its footprint to be "refreshed and 30% larger". That means more space to be in the water and enjoying the bar experience.

As one of the adults-only areas on the ship, the Swim & Tonic is far less loud than The Hideaway.  On Hero, that area will also get an upgrade with a second pool that will have a DJ booth.

It's clear with both changes, Royal Caribbean wants more guests to be able to enjoy either venue by expanding the pool space.

Longer length water slides

Another example of listening to guest feedback is in the water slides.

Category 6 waterpark on Hero of the Seas will add the first-ever funnel raft slide at sea. But the other slides are getting changes too.

"Our guests are so happy with this water park," Ms. Goswami explained "The only thing they told us is they wish they were there longer."

"So, we've switched out some of our raft slides to make sure that the time that guests are on the ride is now longer and is even more thrilling."

Not only do we get a new slide, but we're also getting more time on the slides.

Food hall will no longer be cuisine specific

Aquadome Market quickly became my favorite included restaurant, and it's going to change for the better on Hero.

Royal Caribbean's Senior Vice President of Food & Beverage, Linken D'Souza revealed that while the Aquadome Market will have new food cuisine choices on Hero, they'll periodically change.

"We will always debut with five really well- tested concepts, but we're also going to design the stalls to no longer be so specific to a cuisine so that we can start to bring in different ideas and test it with guests as time goes on," he said.

This means when Hero of the Seas starts sailing, it will start with four new stall concepts, plus desserts at Crème de la Crêpe and freshly squeezed juices at Simply Pressed.

Later, we could see the stalls swap out cuisines for something new.

Personally, I'd love to see a food and wine, or rotating showcase of food from various countries.   

A better outdoor Chops Grille experience

Restaurants in Central Park offer indoor and outdoor seating, but if it's humid or rainy, then sitting outside isn't so great.

That's why Royal Caribbean will introduce new climatized outdoor seating at Chops Grille.

We don't have specifics yet, but it's likely this means enclosing the outdoor seating to offer not only protection from rain, but potentially also air conditioning. That would be a helpful change for a ship that will be sailing around the Caribbean.

Ultimate Family Treehouse will replace a different suite?

Deck plans aren't available yet as of the publishing of this article, but it looks like the new Ultimate Family Treehouse will take the place of where the Royal Loft Suite is located on the first three Icon Class ships. Don't worry, the Royal Loft Suite is being moved to another location.

Initially, I assumed it would replace the Ultimate Family Townhouse.  However, the renderings we've seen clearly show the Treehouse in the location that the Royal Loft Suite is located on other Icon Class ships.

This new type of stateroom is three decks high, and has a rooftop terrace, private whirlpool and dedicated teen space spanning two decks.

It sleeps up to 12 people.

Royal Caribbean Chief Product Innovation Officer Jay Schneider thinks it will be "designed for families with younger children, but really meant to be the ultimate family hangout."

Royal Caribbean is about to roll out two new credit cards that that are going to be offer more incentives to consumers.

For the first time, the company is introducing a single credit card that works across all three of its cruise brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. The new cards, called Royal ONE and Royal ONE Plus, are part of a bigger push the company has had to build customer loyalty.

Instead of earning rewards tied to just one cruise line, this new program is designed to let you earn and redeem across all of them.

The cards are expected to launch in the coming weeks, although an exact date hasn’t been announced yet.

Here's what has been announced and what you can expect with the new cards.

The first tri-branded cruise credit card

Not only is there a new credit card, but it's different how you can use it to redeem rewards.

Instead of being locked into just Royal Caribbean rewards, you'll be able to earn points whether you’re sailing on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, or Silversea,  and then use those points across any of those brands.

The company says their goal is to make make rewards more flexible and easier to use as guests move between different lines. This is important given the recent changes to loyalty programs to make earning points between the lines easier.

It further reduces being siloed by brand. Instead, you can mix and match which cruise line you sail on and how you redeem your points.

This new card is designed to follow how people actually cruise today.

There's no word yet when you start applying for the card.  Current cardholders will receive the new terms and conditions and then begin the conversion process automatically. 

Two cards are launching

Royal Caribbean is launching two versions of the card to provide a choice in how they opt to travel.

Royal ONE (no annual fee)

The base version of the card comes with no annual fee and focuses on straightforward rewards:

• 3X points on purchases with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea
• 2X points on groceries, gas, and EV charging
• 1X point on all other purchases

It also includes a few travel perks, such as:

• Priority boarding on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises
• A $100 anniversary reward after qualifying spend
• No foreign transaction fees

This version is clearly aimed at casual cruisers who want to earn rewards without paying a yearly fee.

Royal ONE Plus ($99 annual fee)

The upgraded version of the card adds more earning power and additional perks, especially for frequent cruisers.

• 4X points on purchases with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea
• 2X points on groceries, gas, EV charging, plus air, hotel, and dining
• 1X point on all other purchases

Extra benefits include:

• Priority suite boarding across all three brands
• Priority luggage handling (Royal Caribbean and Celebrity)
• A $200 anniversary reward after qualifying spend
• A $120 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit every four years
• No foreign transaction fees

This card carries an annual fee, but it also has more perks and you can earn points more quickly to help justify it.  I think it's aimed at people that love to cruise already and who travel often enough to justify the annual fee.

Here are a few other important differences about these cards:

• The anniversary reward is recurring each year
• Points don't expire
• The old card has a maximum cap on points, but the new card doesn't
• The minimum point redemption will move from 1,000 to 5,000 points

Better rewards

Another improvement over the current credit card is what you convert your points into as you sail.

Points earned with the Royal ONE cards can be used for cruise fare discounts or onboard credits that can be redeemed for:

• Shore excursions
• Beverage packages
• Specialty dining
• Wi-Fi packages
• Onboard experiences

That flexibility is key. It aligns the credit card more closely with how people actually spend money on a cruise. They want rewards that save them money on how they already like to cruise.

What happens to the current Royal Caribbean credit card

If you already have the existing Royal Caribbean credit card, you won't be left behind.

Royal Caribbean Group says current cardholders will be automatically converted to the new Royal ONE card. From there, they’ll have the option to upgrade to the Royal ONE Plus version if they want the additional perks.

Is the new Royal Caribbean Royal ONE card worth it?

Ever since Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty mentioned a new credit card was in the works, plans are revolved around the idea of offering more to loyal cruisers.

When asked about the Royal Caribbean credit card during an earnings call, he said they were working on something better.

"We do have a co-branded credit card. It is tied today to our loyalty program, but not in the way that fits our ambition."

That ambition is evident in how this credit card offers more incentives than before, and it's part of a larger journey of empowering loyal cruisers.

Royal Caribbean Group introduced status matching in 2024, and then added Points Choice so you could earn points no matter which cruise line you sailed on. 

The credit card is the third step, because now you can earn credit card points and not be limited if you use them for a Royal Caribbean, Silversea, or Celebrity Cruise.  And whichever line you choose, you can earn points for that sailing back in the loyalty program of your choice.

That kind of flexibility didn’t exist before in this way.

"I think people want to be recognized," Mr. Liberty explained. "They and not just recognized for their spend today, but recognized for all that they have done in the past."

"And then we need to make sure we're creating an environment across our brands to make sure that in their lifetime of vacation, we have the right vacation experience that is relevant to them, and that they're benefiting from continuing to stay inside our ecosystem."

Both of these cards were made for those who love cruising and sail on Royal Caribbean brand ships pretty much every year.

That's because the reward earning potential is so much higher for booking a cruise and using the card to pay for any extras.

The Royal ONE Plus card certainly is best for anyone that cruises more than once a year, and the annual fee is negated by the $200 anniversary reward (with qualifying spend).

I think the genius of this card is you can earn points and then later decide if you want to redeem the points towards any one of the Royal Caribbean Group brands. That flexibility offers more freedom in how you can jump between lines more easily than in the past.

Of course, for those who don't foresee a cruise vacation in their future or are more immersed in the world of credit card rewards, it may not make sense to add this card to their wallet.

You will see tables filled with colorful cups on embarkation day. But what exactly are they? And how do you get one?

The Royal Caribbean soda cup is available for an extra charge and allows guests unlimited access to the ship's Freestyle Coca-Cola machines. 

The Freestyle machine is a convenient touch-screen interface that allows guests to choose from over 100 drink combinations, from classic sodas to unique flavored variations and no-sugar options. 

Royal Caribbean Freestyle cups are included with the Classic Soda Package. However, as of March 15, 2026, they are no longer included with the Royal Refreshment and Deluxe Beverage Packages. 

While soda from bars, lounges, and restaurants is still included, guests who'd like access to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine must purchase a souvenir cup onboard for $4.99.

Freestyle machines are located in high-traffic areas, such as the Royal Promenade and Windjammer Marketplace. You may find them in other spots, too. For example, there are Coca-Cola Freestyle machines in the Surfside Neighborhood on Icon Class vessels. 

If you are worried about carrying your soda cup around, consider purchasing a convenient sling. This will keep your hands free as you navigate from deck to deck. Some drink holders also have a slot for your SeaPass card — and no, you won't get as many strange looks as you think! 

Unfortunately, Royal Caribbean soda cups are programmed for your specific voyage. As such, you cannot reuse them on future sailings. Moreover, Freestyle machines are not available on Brilliance of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

Is the Royal Caribbean soda package worth it?

Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package is the cheapest beverage package offered by the cruise line. However, it's also the most restrictive. For example, you cannot pick up bottled water, order a specialty coffee, or indulge in premium cocktails. 

"With the Classic Soda Package, you enjoy non-stop cans of soda, fountain soft drinks, and more Coca-Cola favorite beverages, for one low price. Unlock the endless variety of Coca-Cola® Freestyle machines as you explore and pour all you want with a Coca-Cola souvenir cup to take home," reads the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner. 

Unlimited soft drinks ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas, are also included. 

That said, while the Freestyle cup is included, there is a $4.99 charge if you misplace it on the ship. Additionally, packages cannot be shared and are non-transferable. 

So, is a Royal Caribbean soda package worth it? It depends on your drinking habits. For starters, it is the most affordable beverage package, which is an advantage for budget cruisers. 

Generally speaking, you can pre-purchase a soda package through the Cruise Planner for anywhere from $9.99 to $18.00 per person per day, plus gratuity.

Comparatively, the cost of a single soft drink aboard Royal Caribbean ships is $3.50, before the mandatory service charge. As such, if you can find a deal for about $10 per day, the package can help you save money as long as you consume at least three soft drinks each day of your sailing. 

Another perk is that the Royal Caribbean soda cup is included with the package. This means that you don't have to shell out an additional $4.99 per person for access to the Coca-Cola® Freestyle machine. 

For a family of four, this could potentially mean shelling out another $20 — on top of what was already paid for the packages.

That said, if you plan to enjoy specialty coffees, energy drinks, mocktails, and more, opting for the Royal Refreshment Package is a better choice. You don't have to buy a soda cup, after all. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean soda package review