Royal Caribbean Blog

Royal Caribbean offers a dinner option for guests that prefer flexibility with what time they have dinner each night of their cruise called My Time Dining.

It's one of two choices for dinner in the ship's Main Dining Room (with the other being Traditional Dining), and it's appealing because you can arrange dinner around your plans, rather than the other way around. 

Many cruisers wonder if they should pick traditional or My Time Dining for their family. 

Here's a breakdown of how My Time Dining Works and what you need to know before you choose it.

What Is My Time Dining on Royal Caribbean?

My Time Dining is what Royal Caribbean calls its flexible dining choice for dinner, where you have the choice of what time to make reservations for dinner in the Main Dining Room.

Instead of having the same dining time, table assignment, and waiters, My Time Dining offers a way to pick from a window of times to eat. Or you could simply show up and wait for the next available table.

My Time Dining is available on every single Royal Caribbean ship, and it's a choice you'll make when you book your cruise.

The best reason to choose My Time Dining is for how flexible it is.  You get to eat when you want, with who you want.

If you have a shore excursion that ends late, you can push dinner back that day.  But on a day when you don't have afternoon plans, opt for an earlier dinner.

How My Time Dining Works

Royal Caribbean offers reservations for My Time Dining between the hours of 6:00 and 9:30 p.m.

You can pre-book a time online before the cruise begins, once on the ship, or show up and wait for an available table.

Ideally, you'll make reservations before the cruise begins on Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner site or the Royal Caribbean app.

There is a maximum of 10 guests per reservation.

For example, you could have dinner at 8:30pm on the first night of the cruise and then have dinner at 6pm on the second night. Just like traditional dining times, you can skip the main dining room all together and eat at a specialty restaurant or the buffet.

There are two lines for My Time Dining: those with a reservation, and those without. If you don't have a reservation, you can get in the standby line and get the next table that opens up.

You can make requests with your reservation, such as specific location or even to have certain waiters.  Not only does My Time Dining offer flexibility on when you dine, but it also offers a choice in where and with whom.

Pros and Cons of My Time Dining

Pros

The top reason a lot of cruisers love My Time Dining is for the flexible schedule it offers.

You can customize your dinner time to match shows, excursions, naps, and anything else. You can even skip your reservation and show up later if you're simply having a fun time and aren't ready to eat yet.

This allows better handling of conflicts, as Royal Caribbean ships are filled with activities and things to do. From shows, to trivia, to time at the pool, and tours too, fitting dinner in is not always simple.

Another advantage of My Time Dining is it works well handing different routines.

If you're cruising with a group of friends or a multi-generational family, you may find My Time Dining a simpler approach to finding a time that works for everyone.

Cons

I think the chief downside to My Time Dining is it requires more planning and possibly longer waits.

Ideally, you'll make reservations for each time you want to dine, but that takes away from the spontaneity of the whole point of it.

I've also found there are longer wait times during peak hours. Even with a reservation, lines for dinner can be long.  And even if it's a short wait, there's no line to wait in with Traditional dinner.

If you want to eat a popular times, it requires more planning. Not a big deal, but seems to contradict the point of "flexible" dining.

Another potential issue is you may not have the same waiters each night.  That means inconsistent waiter service if you don’t request the same table.  

Step-by-step guide how to reserve My Time Dining

It is recommended that you make reservations in advance of your sailing if you prefer to dine at the most popular times, between 6:30pm and 8pm.

The easiest way to make a My Time Dining reservation is go to the Cruise Planner for your sailing and then click Dining.

Scroll down to the bottom, and look for My Time Dining.

From here, select the people and choose a day and time to make a reservation.

Alternatively, you can make reservations on the ship.  The risk with waiting to make reservations until on the ship is the peak times may be sold out.

How tipping works with My Time Dining

If you select My Time Dining, then you're required to pre-pay gratuities.

The reason Royal Caribbean requires gratuities be included with My Time Dining is because of the logistics with crew members, since you may be changing tables and waiters each night. 

There's no sense in you trying to track down each waiter to tip them.

Of course, you can always offer additional tips to a specific waiter at your discretion.

FAQs About My Time Dining

Now that we covered the basics, let's answer questions about My Time Dining you might still have.

Do I have to reserve every night in advance?

No, it's up to you to if you'd like to make any reservations.  

You could book every night, some nights, or no nights.  Without a reservation, you can just go to the Main Dining Room when you want to dine and wait in the standby line for the next available table.

Can I show up without a reservation?

Yes, there are two lines: one for people with a reservation and one for those without a reservation.

Those with a reservation are given priority for an open table.

Can I request a specific table or waiter?

Yes, when it's your turn at the check-in station, you can request a specific table or waiter.

If you do this, there may be an additional wait for that table to become available.

Can I switch back to Traditional once onboard?

Probably, but it all depends on availability.

You can switch between traditional or My Time Dining on the ship, but you'll need to speak to the head waiter to see if they have space for you.

Is My Time Dining worth it?

If you prefer to have the choice of different times for dinner than what is available through traditional dinner, I think My Time Dining is worth the extra effort.

Because traditional dining times have no wiggle room, My Time Dining is a great alternative.

If you're going to try My Time Dining, I'd recommend following these tips:

• Make reservations early—times fill up quickly
• Show up on time to avoid losing your slot
• Ask the head waiter if you want the same waiter/table each night
• Try to avoid peak dinner hours (6:30–7:30pm) for faster seating

My Time Dining is a great choice for families, solo cruisers, and anyone on a port intensive itinerary with late afternoon port visits.

I'd skip My Time Dining if you prefer simplicity and no waiting.  With traditional, you can go right to your table every evening and there's no line or reservations needed. 

I usually pick traditional dining instead of My Time Dining because I don't want to deal with lines.  If there's a day I want dinner at a different time, I'll go to the Windjammer or book a specialty restaurant.

Ultimately, My Time Dining offers more variance in when you eat dinner. Reservations are easy and free to make, and it might be the solution to balancing dinner with everything else you have planned onboard.

Cruise ships have evolved over the years, including how technology has been leveraged to make the guest experience better.

I've always admired how Royal Caribbean has leaned into tech to bring more choices and make the cruise better overall. Some are quality of life improvements, while others add a different dimension to fundamentally alter what it's like onboard.

Plus, some of the tech we see on cruise ships are undeniably fun. Royal Caribbean's primary focus is creating memories for families, and if tech can help that along, it's a win-win for cruise line and passenger.

I came up with my list of five of the best cruise ship experiences that are possible because of Royal Caribbean's use of tech onboard.

Faster internet

It's amazing how far cruise ship internet has come in just the last few years, but we finally have reliable and fast WiFi on Royal Caribbean as we do on land.

Cruise ship internet is not new, but it had been traditionally slow, expensive, and disappointing.

A few years ago, Royal Caribbean struck a deal with Starlink to bring true high speed internet on ships that would be similar to what we have on land.

It took a little ironing out, but when I sail on Royal Caribbean ships today, I no longer cringe when I open my web browser to see how long it will take to load.

The reality is reliable internet access is a must-have for most passengers, simply from a casual communication standpoint.  While some people conduct work on ships, most just want to be able to stay in contact with friends, check social media, or keep up with what's happening around the world.

Shows with robots

Royal Caribbean's best implementation of technology that improves a traditional experience is Two70 on its Quantum Class ships.

Two70 is a theater at the very back of the ship, but you'll quickly notice there's much more to this area than its location.

Within this amazing theater space are screens attached to robot arms that can move, swivel, and dance to match the performers and music.

Each of these roboscreens is programmed individually so it can move in sync or independently of the others.

According to Royal Caribbean, at the time of their development, it was the most complex robotics project that was happening outside of Mars.

Behind them are windows that transform into a 100 foot wide, 20 foot tall, screen known as Vistarama. Vistarama's 12K resolution is nearly twice that of any IMAX screen.

When you see the shows in here, it's easy to get lost in the spectacle of everything happening.

Royal Caribbean adopted the robot idea and put it on its Icon Class ships within the Aquatheater venue.  

There are 4 six-axis robot cast members on Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, and Legend of the Seas. They can do more than hold up a screen. They can even assemble and disassemble stage equipment.

The performers are still the focus of each show, but the venue adds a dimension to the experience that is sure to wow its audience.

Mobile check-in

I don't think Royal Caribbean gets enough credit for how easy it is to check-in for a cruise and then subsequently board the ship.

The cruise line has progressively worked on improving its check-in process to get guests from "car to bar" in a matter of minutes.

The secret sauce for this has been the development of the Royal Caribbean app.

The app makes check-in as easy as checking into a hotel or flight, and quickly takes you through the process.  The more you do in the app, the less necessary to do inside the cruise terminal.

There's even an express boarding option that rewards those that complete all the steps within the online check-in process with a faster way to get onboard.

One thing I hear from our readers consistently is how much better check-in is on Royal Caribbean compared to other cruise lines. Royal Caribbean has optimized their check-in and boarding process so there's far less standing and waiting.

Elevators with less waiting

Among the 14 specific advances Royal Caribbean came up with just for Icon of the Seas, the most noticeable and enjoyable one is how much better the elevators are.

Destination elevators were a must for a ship as big as Icon of the Seas.  Royal Caribbean built the world's largest cruise ship, and they knew elevator wait times were a pain point on other ships.

The elevators on Icon Class ships use an optimization algorithm to assign elevator cars.

Instead of pressing a button to wait for an elevator, guests push a button for which floor they want to go to and are assigned an elevator.

The result has been exactly what it sounds like: less time waiting for an elevator. This means you can get to where you want to go and keep the fun going.

While elevators may not be the most exciting or tantalizing aspect of a cruise, technology has clearly solved a long-standing problem.

Immersive dining unlike anything else

While it's still in its infancy, I think Royal Caribbean used tech to come up with a game-changing idea.

Royal Railway at Utopia Station is an immersive dining experience that combines the two things people love about cruising: food and destination.

More than just another specialty restaurant, guests are transported to different time by entering a classic train station to board their train.

You dine in a train car that looks and feels like the real thing, along with a story that you're part of.

Royal Caribbean's top priority is delivering an unforgettable family vacation that creates memories, and this is all but guaranteed to do that.

As you dine, you see from the digital windows scenery going by, you feel the rumble of the train in your seat, and interact with the performers and waiters during your meal.

Technology is what makes all of this possible, but it's not the focal point.  It's symbolic of the evolution of how tech is used onboard from "hey, look at this shiny thing" to a supportive means that improves the experience.

Waiting to book a last minute Royal Caribbean cruise could result in a great deal or possibly frustration with a lack of choices.

It's understandable wanting to get the lowest possible price for a cruise, but waiting to book comes with risks and rewards.

Time it just right and take advantage of a price drop, but wait too long and you miss out completely.

Royal Caribbean cruise prices sometimes feel like the stock market: up one day, down the next.  

Here are the pros and cons of booking a last minute cruise so you can decide the right course of action.

Possible savings on a vacation sooner

There are two really good reasons to book a last minute cruise: it might be a great deal and it means less waiting for the vacation to start.

Most people that wait for a last minute cruise are usually looking to get in on a good price.

Depending on the ship and sailing, there could be a lower price for unsold cabins.

Royal Caribbean uses dynamic prices for its fares, which means the price can change minute-to-minute based on supply and demand. 

When a cruise doesn't sell very well, the result is sometimes a great deal.

The other reason some will book last minute is because that's when they start their vacation search.

Ideally, you'll plan out a cruise as much as a year in advance because I've found the best prices are usually early on before most of the rooms are taken.

However, booking that early may not be feasible.  Or you simply thought "wouldn't it be nice to go on a cruise soon" and started looking for options.

Booking a cruise that departs less than 90 days from now means you don't have to wait as long to get onboard and enjoy it.  That's a great feeling when you suddenly have a vacation to look forward to without a long delay.

Waiting for a last minute cruise could leave few options

The biggest negative to waiting to book a last minute Royal Caribbean cruise is you may find few options and high prices.

Cruises are like airlines in that there's limited seating on any given trip, and the quicker they get booked up, the higher prices go.

There's no guarantee that waiting for the last minute will save you money or get you a deal. In fact, Royal Caribbean recently told investors it raises prices in the final months before a cruise.

I'd argue the bigger risk with waiting to book a Royal Caribbean cruise is what options you have to choose from.

You may find the remaining choices are sail dates, ships, or cabins that you don't love.

High demand cabins will likely be sold out, such as suites.  Likewise, cruises over holidays sell faster.

What I've found is the choices are usually older cruise ships, sailing over dates that may or may not work with your schedule.

The other consideration is airfare and other logistics to get to your cruise. 

If you get in on the ship and cabin you want, you may find very high airfare, sold out hotels, or booked up kennels that create a different issue to factor.

Are there last minute Royal Caribbean cruise deals?

Demand right now for cruises is red hot, as Royal Caribbean has reported strong booking trends to its investors. That's good news for Wall Street, but not so much for consumers looking to get in on a low price.

Those macroeconomic numbers don't tell the entire story, as a particular sailing could have lagging demand, and that could spur better prices.

In short, there are still deals out there for a last minute sailing, but you're going to have to be nimble to find them.

The days of $99 cruise fares seem to be behind us, but I think there's still some flexibility in pricing from time to time.

Finding them is another challenge, but savvy consumers should be able to find lower prices with the right strategies.

Flexibility is critical

If you are thinking about taking advantage of a last minute cruise, you need to have maximum flexibility with ship, itinerary, and cabin.

Once a sailing passes the final payment date, the clock starts ticking on what availability is left and how good the price will be.

If you're okay sailing off season, on an older cruise ship, and don't need to be in a specific type of stateroom, you may find excellent choices for a fun vacation.

This strategy favors those not beholden to a school calendar, strict work holidays, and live close enough to a cruise port to easily hop onboard.

I often hear from Royal Caribbean fans that take advantage of last minute cruises that can drive to their cruise, such as those living in Florida.

Regardless of where you live, the more open you are to where your ship goes, the size and age of the ship, and where you stay, the more it's a good idea.

What to expect if you wait to book a last minute cruise

It's not always a good or bad idea to book a last minute cruise, but if you have the choice, I'd book early.

The top reason not to book at the last minute is the lack of choices, and I think new cruisers would potentially be stuck with less than ideal options.

Not only does booking early get you more choices in ships, it's usually also the lowest prices.  Cruise prices tend to rise over time, and that's why I always try to book my cruises as early as I can, even two years early.

If you're reading this with many months to go, I'd recommend booking your cruise now and locking in the price and room you want rather than risking waiting.

However, if you're seized with the inspiration to book a cruise suddenly and are close-in, prepare for low inventory.  You might be able to get a great price, or not at all. Sometimes there are cruises left at higher prices and it's that or no cruise at all.

After going on almost a dozen Royal Caribbean cruises alone, I've learned a thing or two about solo travel.

It can feel daunting to go on a cruise without friends or family because you're worried you'll feel lonely, bored, or simply regret the trip.

By preparing for the trip ahead of time and coming in with the right mindset, I think my trips have been successful and allowed me to fully enjoy them.

Here's what I wish I knew about traveling alone before my first solo cruise.

Cruising alone for the first time can feel intimidating, but that shouldn't stop you.

I took my first cruise alone after many sailings with family, and the truth is it's more liberating than scary.

I think it makes it worse when you tell friends that you're going alone, and they fuel any doubts you may have because it's definitely not the usual approach to a cruise.

Ultimately, I thought to myself how bad could it be going on a cruise ship for a few days? If all I did was eat, sleep, and watch a few shows, that still sounds better than being at home.

Of course there's the potential for an awkward moment or strange feeling when you miss having someone to chat with, but I think part of enjoying life is pushing boundaries a bit.

I chatted with crew members, met people around the ship, and got to see bucket-list destinations.

Plan out more of your days to ensure smooth logistics

I always advocate planning your cruise out, but it's even more important when cruising solo.

One of the methods I found for combatting the sense of loneliness is keeping yourself busy. Cruise ships are great for this, because there are activities and things to do pretty much all day long.

I start out with picking shore excursions, because these tours take up a majority of your day. Plus, you're surrounded by others in your group and that contributes to making you feel more connected, rather than alone.

Not only do I pick out ship tours to try, but I will lean towards activities that my kids likely wouldn't be interested in. It's all part of the solo travel mantra of embracing what you want.

I'll also look at what the ship offers and pick out things to try onboard. 

You probably won't feel alone as you think

There's something about a cruise that feels more communal than other travel.

When I'm on an airplane or staying in a hotel, I never want to talk to other travelers. Not only does it never occur to me to strike up a conversation, but it's practically an annoyance when it occurs.

On a cruise, it's a totally different situation.

Many cruisers are happy to start chatting, and the crew members will chat you up too. I think it's a combination of the fact everyone is "living" there for a few days that contributes to making it feel more open for it, plus the cocktails and beer too.

If you sit down at a bar, attend trivia, or go on a shore excursion, I think it's really easy to meet other cruisers. Not everyone is going to be the life of the party, but I've found most people openly engage in talk while onboard.

Dining is the most daunting part, but embrace it

I bet if you're going alone on a cruise ship, eating by yourself seems like the worst part.

Dining solo conjures up fears of feeling ostracized. You imagine being at a table by yourself and others gawking at you.  Or potentially worse, being seated with strangers.

The truth is I've eaten alone at every single restaurant, from the Main Dining Room to the buffet. It's not nearly as bad you might think, and I actually enjoy it.

When I tried the Main Dining Room alone, I quickly realized a truth: no one cares what you do. 

After sitting down to a table alone, it became clear others around me were oblivious to it.  Or at the very least, no one asked or bothered me.

Plus, eating alone means you get in and out quicker. In seated restaurants, it feels like I get faster service. I think that may be because they sense I am ready sooner.

In casual restaurants, I can get in and out of the buffet as fast as I can chew. 

I avoided specialty restaurants for a while, until I just decided to go with it. Table for one meant I could get almost any reservation I wanted. Plus, Izumi is fantastic for solo cruisers because I'm either sitting at the sushi bar or hibachi table in a communal setting. 

Just like jumping into a cold pool, getting it over is the way to go, as you'll realize it's not so bad.

The freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want is a luxury

Want to know why I love traveling on a cruise ship solo? The liberating feeling it provides.

When I cruise solo, I get to do what I want, when I want. That's an incredible feeling and it changes the dynamic of how I cruise.

While I'll always prefer to cruise with my family, a part of me also really likes to embrace the selfish side of travel.  I go to the activities I want, book the tours I like, and eat when I want.  

This might sound very self-centered, but if you're going to go on a ship alone, I think you really ought to double down on it. 

While I love to cruise with my family, if I'm solo, I'll take full advantage of doing what I want, when I want to do it.

Book more group shore excursions instead of on your own touring

My wife knows that I dislike group excursions because of their slow pace, but if I'm solo, I've started to embrace them.

One trick for not feeling as alone is to go on tours while in port.  Because you're with a large group, conversations inevitably occur and it's nice to meet people and converse.

When I sailed in Europe alone, I booked group excursions in each port.  I even tried a "free" shore excursion, where it was a small group.  In both cases, I got an opportunity to be more social.

Just like going to events around the ship, going on group tours opens up the opportunity to talk with others. 

You need to learn to adapt to moments of discomfort on solo trips

You need to be flexible while traveling, regardless of how many people you're with.

It may seem like solo cruising is fantastic, but there are times when it's not so great too. You may find the plans you laid out didn't work out as well as you liked, and it can feel more problematic without someone with you to confide in.

I think there needs to be a certain level of self-reliance to bounce back from these moments. I've learned to let more of what happens slide off your back and move onto the next (and probably better) thing.

Buying an internet package is must

If there's one thing you pay extra for on a solo cruise, it should be a Royal Caribbean internet package.

Having access to the internet is a godsend when I cruise by myself because it's a portal for communication.

I can call, text, and video chat with friends and family when I have the internet, and I truly cannot imagine not having that option when I'm cruising alone.

Plus, an internet package allows me to pass the time more easily when I'm at a restaurant, bar, or relaxing somewhere on the ship. I could watch a movie, check social media, or do some work.

I'm all for immersing yourself in the places you visit, but a solo cruise needs internet access far more than group travel.

Traveling solo can be addicting, and you may even prefer it in certain situations

I never thought I'd cruise solo as much as I do now.

In fact, there are certain cruises where I tell my wife it would probably be better if I went alone, because of the nature of the trip.  Specifically, when a new ship comes out and I'm running around trying to capture everything.

I would welcome my family to sail with me, but the truth is on a cruise where I need to do more work for this blog than usual, it's an advantage to be able to quickly dip in and out of places so I can get more done.

Assuming you don't run a blog, cruising solo can be addicting as a methodology to get what your family wants out of cruising. 

For example, you could go alone in order to earn more Crown and Anchor points so that your entire family gets to benefit from a higher tier status. Not exactly "falling on your sword" in terms of great sacrifices, but it's definitely a good strategy when other family obligations prevent your spouse or kids from traveling with you.

Looking for a cruise that goes beyond the usual places? Royal Caribbean is known for visiting some of the top tropical destinations, but there are a few hidden gem cruises that go even further.

With the Bahamas and Caribbean being a year-round destination, it's easy to visit the same ports of call over and over. While there's nothing wrong with that, sometimes you begin to crave something different, especially as you become a more experienced cruiser. 

There are plenty of overlooked itineraries that don't get enough attention, particularly on a family-friendly line that hyper focuses on private destinations. In other words, if you're willing to branch out, you will find that Royal Caribbean’s 2025 lineup goes beyond the usual beach destinations.

Whether you're itching to visit countries like Portugal, Japan, or South Africa, or simply want extra time for R&R at sea, there's a cruise that offers a refreshing change from basic itineraries to St. Maarten, CocoCay, and Cozumel. 

If you haven't planned your next voyage for 2025, look no further than these special sailings.

Editor's note: Cruise pricing can change at any time based on demand, availability, and promotional offers. All fares mentioned were accurate at the time of publication. However, for the most current pricing, check directly on the cruise line's website or with your travel agent.

Celebrity Silhouette — 14-Night Greenland & Iceland, August 15, 2025

Dates: August 15 - August 28, 2025

Embarkation port: Reykjavik, Iceland

Disembarkation port: Boston, Massachusetts

Lowest rate: $1,542 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Isafjordur, Iceland
• Akureyri, Iceland
• Qaqortoq, Greenland
• Corner Brook, Newfoundland
• Sydney, Nova Scotia
• Halifax, Nova Scotia

Brilliance of the Seas — 8-Night Spain & Portugal, August 22, 2025

Dates: August 22 - August 30, 2025

Embarkation port: Barcelona, Spain

Disembarkation port: Southampton, England

Lowest rate: $1,594 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Palma De Mallorca, Spain
• Valencia, Spain
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Porto (Leixoes), Portugal
• La Coruña, Spain

Brilliance of the Seas — 15-Night Iceland & Greenland, August 30, 2025

Dates: August 30 - September 14, 2025

Embarkation port: Southampton, England

Disembarkation port: Boston, Massachusetts

Lowest rate: $2,490 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland
• Reykjavik, Iceland (overnight)
• Qaqortoq, Greenland
• Nuuk, Greenland
• Sydney, Nova Scotia
• Halifax, Nova Scotia

Serenade of the Seas — 5-Night Pacific Coastal, September 14, 2025

Dates: September 14 - 19, 2025

Embarkation port: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Disembarkation port: San Diego, California 

Lowest rate: $393 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Seattle, Washington
• Astoria, Oregon

Serenade of the Seas — 13-Night Panama Canal Eastward, September 19, 2025

Dates: September 19 - October 2, 2025

Embarkation port: San Diego, California 

Disembarkation port: Miami, Florida

Lowest rate: $1,633 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
• Huatulco, Mexico
• Puntarenas, Costa Rica
• Cartagena, Colombia

Radiance of the Seas — 8-Night Pacific Coastal, September 26, 2025

Dates: September 26 - October 4, 2025

Embarkation port: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Disembarkation port: San Diego, California 

Lowest rate: $595 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Astoria, Oregon
• San Francisco, California (overnight)
• Catalina Island, California 

Anthem of the Seas – 9-Night Hawaii, October 4, 2025

Dates: October 4 - 13, 2025

Embarkation port: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Disembarkation port: Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Lowest rate: $936 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Seattle, Washington (overnight)

Radiance of the Seas — 16-Night Panama Canal, October 4, 2025

Dates: October 4 - 20, 2025

Embarkation port: San Diego, California

Disembarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Lowest rate: $3,450 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
• Mazatlán, Mexico
• Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala
• Puntarenas, Costa Rica
• Colón, Panama
• Cartagena, Colombia
• George Town, Grand Cayman

Ovation of the Seas — 11-Night Tokyo to Singapore, October 9, 2025

Dates: October 9 - 20, 2025

Embarkation port: Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

Disembarkation port: Singapore, Singapore

Lowest rate: $5,111 per person for a balcony cabin

Ports of call: 

• Nagasaki, Japan
• Jeju (Seogwipo), South Korea
• Hong Kong, China
• Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My), Vietnam

Read more: Royal Caribbean is betting big on this exotic destination

Anthem of the Seas — 17-Night Transpacific, October 13, 2025

Dates: October 13 - 31, 2025

Embarkation port: Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii

Disembarkation port: Sydney, Australia

Lowest rate: $3,831 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Papeete, Tahiti
• Moorea, French Polynesia
• Raiatea, French Polynesia
• Tauranga, New Zealand

Odyssey of the Seas — 14-Night Transatlantic, October 22, 2025

Dates: October 22 - November 5, 2025

Embarkation port: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Disembarkation port: Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey

Lowest rate: $4,868 per person for a suite

Ports of call: 

• Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy
• Cartagena, Spain
• Málaga, Spain
• Gibraltar, United Kingdom
• Ponta Delgada, Azores

Allure of the Seas — 13-Night Transatlantic, October 26, 2025

Dates: October 26 - November 8, 2025

Embarkation port: Barcelona, Spain

Disembarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Lowest rate: $1,429 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Palma De Mallorca, Spain
• Alicante, Spain
• Cartagena, Spain
• Málaga, Spain

Voyager of the Seas — 18-Night Barcelona to Cape Town, October 27, 2025

Dates: October 27 - November 14, 2025

Embarkation port: Barcelona, Spain

Disembarkation port: Cape Town, South Africa

Lowest rate: $1,367 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Tangier, Tangier, Tanger-Tetouan-Al Hoceima
• Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
• Walvis Bay, Walvis Bay
• Cape Town, South Africa (overnight)

Jewel of the Seas — 8-Night Ft. Lauderdale to San Juan, October 31, 2025

Dates: October 31 - November 8, 2025

Embarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Disembarkation port: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Lowest rate: $775 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Labadee, Haiti
• Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis
• Castries, St. Lucia
• Roseau, Dominica
• Philipsburg, St. Maarten

Celebrity Ascent — 13-Night Italy & Bermuda Transatlantic, October 31, 2025

Dates: October 31 - November 13, 2025

Embarkation port: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Disembarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Lowest rate: $1,332 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Cagliari, Sardinia
• Gibraltar, United Kingdom
• Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda

Brilliance of the Seas — 7-Night Boston to San Juan, November 2, 2025

Dates: November 2 - 9, 2025

Embarkation port: Boston, Massachusetts

Disembarkation port: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Lowest rate: $1,113 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda
• St. John's, Antigua
• Tortola, British Virgin Islands

Voyager of the Seas — 17-Night Cape Town to Singapore, November 14, 2025

Dates: November 14 - December 1, 2025

Embarkation port: Cape Town, South Africa

Disembarkation port: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Lowest rate: $1,370 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Port Elizabeth, South Africa
• Pointe Des Galets, Reunion Island
• Port Louis, Mauritius
• Singapore, Singapore (overnight)

Celebrity Equinox — 15-Night Portugal to Argentina Transatlantic, November 21, 2025

Dates: November 21 - December 6, 2025

Embarkation port: Lisbon, Portugal

Disembarkation port: Buenos Aires, Argentina 

Lowest rate: $2,159 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
• Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Montevideo, Uruguay

Voyager of the Seas — 12-Night Cape Town to Singapore to Brisbane, December 1, 2025

Dates: December 1 - 13, 2025

Embarkation port: Singapore, Singapore

Disembarkation port: Brisbane, Australia

Lowest rate: $2,241 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Benoa, Bali
• Darwin, Australia
• Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia
• Airlie Beach, Queensland

Read more: I tried my first Australia cruise: here are 7 things that surprised me

Celebrity Ascent — 11-Night Panama Canal & Perfect Day Holiday, December 22, 2025

Dates: December 22, 2025 - January 2, 2026

Embarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Disembarkation port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Lowest rate: $2,732 per person for an interior cabin

Ports of call: 

• Cartagena, Colombia
• Oranjestad, Aruba
• Willemstad, Curaçao
• Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Pros of a longer cruise

If you're like me, you might initially gloss over longer sailings. With my partner's work schedule as an elementary school teacher, it's difficult to get a lot of time off during the academic year. 

Not only that, but we don't like leaving our dog for extended periods. He is older and has a few health concerns. Plus, paying for quality care is expensive! 

However, there are perks to taking longer cruises. First, you have more time to enjoy the ship. Transatlantic and transpacific cruises, especially, include multiple sea days in a row. 

These give guests ample opportunity to relax, rather than feeling rushed to cross everything off their must-do list. 

Additionally, the price per day is often lower than for shorter voyages. That said, it's not uncommon to find high last-minute prices. As cabins sell out, cruise lines might raise rates for unique sailings. 

Another perk of choosing a longer sailing is that the itineraries are more diverse. You can visit more interesting ports around the world, especially if you are willing to sail on a one-way cruise, without sacrificing the Royal Caribbean experience.  

A scary incident occurred aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas when a large glass window suddenly shattered over the pool deck. Fortunately, one crew member’s quick actions likely prevented a more serious outcome.

Nitin Kumar, a waiter at the Coastal Kitchen, is being praised as a hero for alerting guests relaxing on the sun loungers beneath the window. Coastal Kitchen is the suites-exclusive restaurant located on Deck 17 on Symphony of the Seas, with windows overlooking the ship’s expansive pool deck.

When Kumar reportedly noticed small cracks forming in the window, he raced down to the pool deck to clear the area. Guests who watched the incident unfold say that within 15 to 20 seconds, the large window pane completely shattered and shards of glass were sent flying across the pool deck.

Because of Kumar’s quick thinking and courageous action, there were no injuries from the incident.

Symphony of the Seas, an Oasis class vessel, is one of the largest cruise ships in the world. The massive Royal Caribbean cruise ship was sailing a 7-night itinerary from Cape Liberty, New Jersey when the incident occurred on June 8, 2025. The itinerary includes stops in Port Canaveral (Florida), Nassau (Bahamas), and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Bahamas).

According to guests onboard, Symphony of the Seas was positioning to dock at its first port of call, Port Canaveral, Florida, when the scary accident occurred. Guests onboard report the ship was vibrating heavily right before the glass broke, which could have placed strain on the window. Those on the pool deck reported hearing a loud crash when the window shattered.

In a comment on Reddit, one guest onboard shared, “They said they have no idea what happened. Theory is that some micro cracks were in the glass and when we were turning 180 to dock, the vibrations caused it to break.”

“Was definitely a freak accident and shows that you need to ALWAYS listen to crew members when they ask you to do something. It may save your life,” the commenter continued.

Another guest on Reddit shared, "We were in Coastal Kitchen 3 windows over from where it broke. We were in the middle of our 180 spin and the ship was vibrating pretty good. Most people seem to think that the vibrations/micro cracks in the tempered glass caused it. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, other than one person cutting their foot."

Vibrations are not uncommon while cruise ships are docking at ports of call. While a cruise ship is maneuvering with precision to position at the dock, there can be strong vibrations felt onboard. This is typically caused by the use of thrusters and propulsion systems, along with the ship's engines changing speed or direction.

Because the window on Symphony of the Seas was made of tempered glass, the broken pieces shattered into small, pebble-like fragments rather than sharp shards. Tempered glass is designed this way to reduce the risk of serious injury. Cruise ships are built specifically with tempered glass for increased safety and strength, as it’s considered much stronger than regular glass.

Guests onboard Symphony of the Seas state many of the ship’s officers were on-scene immediately to secure the area. In addition, the glass was cleaned up quickly and the window was already replaced by the following day.

The freak accident has many guests online praising Kumar as “Hero of The Seas” for his actions.

In the aftermath of the incident, numerous passengers aboard Symphony of the Seas are praising Kumar for acting quickly and preventing guests from potential injuries. With Kumar clearing the area and warning guests to move from their lounges on the pool deck, no one was seriously injured in the accident. 

For instance, one guest onboard posted on Reddit that they were only a few windows over when the glass shattered. “The waiter, Nitin, saw it cracking and sprinted down to the pool deck and told the people in deck chairs to move. 15 seconds later this happened. Dude saved some lives for sure,” the passenger wrote.

In the same Reddit thread, another guest shared, “I’m onboard. It was a freak thing, but nobody got hurt. A waiter noticed the cracks and moved everybody below about 20 seconds before it fell. It’s tempered, so it wouldn’t have killed anybody, but it could have caused some moderate injuries from that height.”

“We were in Coastal Kitchen when this shattered and for Nitin to have foresight to run to the pool to get everyone out of the way is remarkable. RCCL should give him an accommodation for his actions,” shared another cruiser.

One guest also posted on Facebook, "Thanks to the fast thinking of one of the best Nitin, these seats were vacant when the safety glass gave way. You are truly an asset to Royal Caribbean and a hero to the many people you removed from harm's way.”

“HUGE kudos to Nitin for putting safety first! I was in [Coastal Kitchen] when this happened. I wrote a complimentary letter that included the Vice President of Safety and Marine Operations. Nitin ensured safety when it mattered most,” commented another cruiser aboard Symphony of the Seas.

In the replies section, Kumar responded to the accolades and praise, emphasizing his passion and commitment to Royal Caribbean. He stated, “Thank you so much everyone for appreciation. You all are my family, what I did I did for family.”

“What I did, I learn[ed] from this company how to take care of my guests like family, so thank you so much. Enjoy your vacation,” he continued.

Previous cruisers are also praising Kumar's dedication and service. One prior cruiser shared, “We had that waiter in [Coastal Kitchen] in April on Symphony and that guy is a rockstar. He was the best waiter we have had in [Coastal Kitchen], and now I hope they recognize him for keeping something really bad from happening.”

Another previous cruiser shared, “I hope you get a promotion and a large bonus. You’ve always been a great waiter, I’ve dined with you several times before.”

“Nitin IS wonderful. We were so lucky to have him take excellent care of us on May 16 cruise. Not surprised at all that he took care of everything when needed,” shared another previous passenger.

Although not unheard of, it’s rare for cruise ship windows to shatter.

(Viking Polaris with broken balconies, shared on ABC News by Beverly Spiker)

Modern cruise ships are built to withstand severe weather and rough sea conditions, such as rogue waves and powerful storms. When windows shatter on cruise ships, it’s typically because the ship is navigating stormy waters. Rogue waves are unusually large waves that occur suddenly and without warning.

For instance, the expedition cruise ship Viking Polaris was sailing in South America in December 2022 when it was struck by a rogue wave. The powerful storm caused glass to shatter on the lower decks, impacting multiple cabins and injuring several passengers.

Tragically, one 62-year-old American woman was killed by the glass debris that shattered in her cabin when the rogue wave struck. According to reports, the fatally-injured woman received blows from a glass window that collapsed in the middle of the storm.

A similar situation occurred back in 2016 on Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas. The Vision class ship was hit by a rogue wave while the cruise ship was sailing near Santorini, Greece. In the early morning hours, the powerful wave struck the ship and broke windows in multiple passeneger cabins. 

Some staterooms on lower decks were also partially flooded during the incident. Luckily, there were no serious injuries reported by the cruise line and Rhapsody of the Seas.

Summer is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to cruise to Europe. Whether you’re wandering through Rome’s 2000-year-old streets or watching the sunset from Santorini, there’s a lot to see, do, and experience when cruising the continent.

Although you’ll find cruises all over Europe, two itineraries are more popular than the rest. First are Western Mediterranean cruises, which visit ports like Barcelona and Naples, and second are those to the Greek Isles, which call upon destinations like Mykonos and Athens.

Of the six Royal Caribbean ships sailing to Europe this summer, five are based in one of these two regions.

I cruise to Europe every year, and I’ve been lucky enough to try both itineraries several times. This year alone I cruised to the Western Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas and also boarded Explorer of the Seas for a cruise to Greece and Croatia.

Aside from the obvious differences in ships — the newer Allure of the Seas offers more varied amenities — I largely preferred my experience in Greece and the Adriatic.

This sentiment rang true on previous cruises, too. After three sailings to the Western Mediterranean and two to the Greek Isles, I’d pick the latter every time, and here’s why.

There’s just too much to see in one day in the Western Mediterranean

It’s impossible to see a city like Rome in a month — let alone a single day.

Western Mediterranean cruises may visit bucket-list destinations, but you’d be hard-pressed to see even just the highlights on one port visit.

Take Naples, as an example. Aside from being the birthplace of pizza, there’s a lot more to discover in and around the famous Italian city.

You can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, stroll the cobblestone streets of Sorrento, and marvel at cliffside views from Positano. Those hoping to stay closer to the ship may opt for a street food tour in the city center, or perhaps make a visit to the National Archaeological Museum.

Related: 7 mistakes you'll want to avoid on a European cruise

Even if your ship is docked in the city for twelve hours, there’s no chance you’ll see all of the region’s highlights in that time. I’ve spent several weeks in the Amalfi Coast myself and have barely scratched the surface.

The same could be said about a city like Athens, which is frequently visited on cruises to Greece, but many Greek Isles cruises visit smaller cities and towns, too.

On my recent cruise, the itinerary included a port stop in Split, Croatia. The city, home to just over 160,000 people, is significantly more relaxed than a destination like Rome or Barcelona.

In just eight hours, I felt I saw most of the city’s highlights. I took a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace, tried pastries at a local bakery, and strolled the waterfront promenade, which was lined with dozens of restaurants and bars.

In Mykonos, a short water taxi brought me right into the island’s traditional village of Chora. I walked around the labyrinthine streets, visited a nearby beach, and spent time in a 600-year-old cafe before returning to the ship.

Related: 11 things Americans should know before they travel to Europe this summer

At the end of most port days in the Greek Isles and Adriatic, I feel ready to get back onboard the ship satisfied with what I saw in the destination.

On Western Mediterranean cruises, though, I often find myself wishing I had more time. If anything, it gives a small taste of a region I can explore on a future land-based trip.

Booking excursions is almost a must in the Western Mediterranean, but I like exploring on my own

Speaking of trying to see a city like Naples or Rome in a single day, you'll find that shore excursions help maximize your time.

If your ship visits Rome, you’ll dock in the city of Civitavecchia, located an hour’s drive from Rome’s city center. For first-time visitors, navigating the metropolis can be confusing, so many passengers opt for shore excursions.

Shore excursions can take you to sights like the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel, and Trevi Fountain in a single day without having to worry about how you're going to get there.

Related: 3 times you shouldn't book a shore excursion during your cruise vacation

Many cruise ports in Europe are easy enough to explore without a tour, but even I’d argue the benefits of shore excursions in the biggest Western Mediterranean cities are worth it.

What I enjoyed about my two Greek Isles cruises was that I didn’t feel like I needed to plan excursions in every port.

When docked in Chania, Crete, I took a shuttle bus from the port to the city’s old harbor, which had enough restaurants, bars, and shops to keep me busy on my port day.

Later, when visiting Kotor, Montenegro, I found the town easy enough to explore without a tour. The city’s small size meant there was no need to take trains, buses, subways, or other transit to get around.

Yet on my first visit to Marseille, one of the most popular Western Mediterranean ports, I regretted not booking a tour. I paid $18 for a cruise line bus transfer into the city center, but didn’t find the area particularly interesting.

On my next visit, I splurged on a tour to nearby Aix-en-Provence, which was significantly more charming. I didn’t love feeling like I had to book a tour to make the day more enjoyable, however.

Of course, not all Mediterranean ports require a tour, and, on the contrary, some Greek Isles ports may be better explored with a tour. Some passengers book excursions in Santorini to avoid long waits for tender boats, whereas those visiting Athens may find a tour more convenient to reach the Acropolis.

Nonetheless, I generally find it easier and more interesting to explore Greek Isles and Adriatic ports on my own. Even though I may still book a short walking tour here and there, I enjoy the flexibility to explore without a full-day excursion.

For me, the best of both worlds is to combine a land-based trip with a cruise

Given the option between a Western Mediterranean cruise and a Greek Isles itinerary, I’d choose the cruise to Greece every time. Despite this, I definitely think the most popular Western Mediterranean ports are worth a visit.

Sure, cities like Naples and Palermo can be chaotic, loud, and packed with tourists, but they’re popular for a reason. For first-time visitors to Europe, a Western Mediterranean cruise can be an excellent way to get a taste of the region without worrying about planning transportation logistics from place to place.

Related: 5 things to know before taking a European cruise

Even still, you could regret having such little time in each port. When fellow Royal Caribbean Blog writer Allie cruised to Iceland, for example, she regretted not booking a land-based trip to the country instead. She felt as though four port days were not enough to see all the country had to offer.

When I fly to Europe for a cruise, I want to make the most of the time, money, and effort it takes to get there. Because of this, I always try to add extra days for land-based travel before and/or after my cruise.

When I sailed the Mediterranean on Allure of the Seas in April, I made sure to plan extra time before and after the cruise to explore more of Spain. If I arrived the evening before embarkation day (or worse, the morning of embarkation day!), there would be no time to visit places like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.

So, if you’re cruising from somewhere like Rome, try to plan a few days to see the city before or after your cruise. It’s easy to feel exhausted when exploring these places on port days, so extra days help cut down on feeling rushed.

Ultimately, pick the ports that interest you, but know what to expect

Everyone’s travel style is different, and although I may prefer Greek Isles cruises over the Western Mediterranean, others may think the opposite.

At the end of the day, the most important thing you can do is pick a cruise itinerary with ports you actually want to visit. Ports can be drastically different from one itinerary to another — even within the same region.

While my Greek Isles cruise visited Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Split, others may visit Rhodes, Crete, and Kefalonia. Likewise, a Mediterranean cruise could visit larger cities like Florence and Rome, but others may call upon lesser-visited ports like Ajaccio, Corsica.

Related: 10 reasons people end up disappointed with their cruise vacation

No one wants to be disappointed in their cruise itinerary, so you want to be prepared with the right expectations.

If you’re expecting to see all of Florence in a day, you might regret visiting the city on a cruise. Or, if you’re hoping for a calm, relaxing day in port, the crowds of Santorini could quickly leave you overwhelmed.

Either cruise destination is sure to offer a memorable vacation, but I’ll probably reserve the Western Mediterranean for land-based trips instead.

The number one reason people book a cruise is for the destinations Royal Caribbean ships visit, but you may want to know if you have to book an excursion on a cruise.

I love to explore the ports of call my ship visits because of how much there is to see and do.  Experiencing new cultures, visiting historical sites, and forgetting all my cares at the beach are things I look forward to on every sailing.

The conundrum is often not what to do, but how to book it.  Is it better to book shore excursions with the cruise line? Or can you do your own excursions on a cruise?

Here are the basic things to consider before you book cruise shore excursions so that you can make the right decision.

What are the pros and cons of booking excursions through the cruise line?

You can book shore excursions through Royal Caribbean, and it's clearly the easiest option.

As soon as you book a cruise, you're able to access the Cruise Planner and see the variety of tours sold. The cruise line has gone through and vetted tours and present ones that you can book quickly.

That's the best thing about cruise line excursions: they're simple, easy to book, and come with a few guarantees.

First, it's a tour operator that is reputable.  That means each excursion has to pass an inspection by the cruise line and it's a company that knows what it's doing.

An equally important promise is that you won't miss the cruise ship.

One of the most important rules on any cruise is to be back onboard before all-aboard time, or you'll be left behind.

Royal Caribbean says if you book a tour with them, they'll get you back on the ship. In most cases, this means if the tour is running behind schedule, the tour operator will contact the ship and inform them so the ship can wait.

This is especially important when taking a tour that requires long transportation time back to the ship, such as a nearly 3 hour bus ride to Paris from Le Havre, France.

The disadvantages of booking a cruise line excursion is it's not going to be the cheapest option.

Many veteran cruisers lament the generally higher prices for cruise line excursions. 

Royal Caribbean works with high quality tour operators, and of course they make a commission on the sales too. Objectively, a cruise line excursion will usually cost more.

Another issue is that cruise excursions tend to sell out quickly.

Royal Caribbean has been particularly successful in marketing its app to cruisers, and the result is a higher visibility to book tours.

Decades ago, you could wait until you got on your ship to book tours.  Now, that's practically a mistake because there will be so few options left.

Another problem I have with cruise tours are they tend to include large groups.

Large groups move slowly, require more stops, and it seems to me to have a lot of wasted time.

Royal Caribbean recently introduced Royal Signature Excursions, that feature smaller groups and even skip-the-line options.  Of course, don't expect these to be inexpensive.

Shore excursions are not cheaper on ship

Don't purposefully wait to book a shore excursion until you're on the ship because you're expecting a last-minute deal.

Royal Caribbean actually charges the most onboard.  Think of it like paying the rack rate at a hotel when you walk up, instead of pre-booking online.

There are sales every few weeks on excursions, and the pre-cruise price is almost always cheapest.

For example, I've seen Royal Caribbean advertise up to 30% off excursions booked before the sailing.

Is it safe to book independent cruise excursions?

The short answer is yes, but you need to do your research.

Independent shore excursions offer a much greater variety of tours and at different price points. You can find budget friendly ones, or a lavish all inclusive option.

The important thing is to look up reviews of the tour operator and the specific tour you're considering before booking.

The onus falls on you to vet the tour, rather than the cruise line.

New cruisers may find this to be a daunting task, filled with hesitation regarding making a mistake. In that case, there's nothing wrong with sticking to ship tours.

The primary risks are time and the tour delivering on what you expect.

Certainly, you'll want to get back to the ship on time.  No tour operator wants you to miss the ship, because that kind of bad review is bad for business.

I recommend planning to get back at least 2 hours prior to the all aboard time, so that an unexpected problem (i.e traffic, a medical emergency) doesn't hinder your ability to get back.

Most cruise experts point out that independent tours can save you a lot of money. Plus, if the cruise line doesn't offer the activity you like, you can find one that does with your own company.

Before you book , be sure to also look at the cancellation policy.

Royal Caribbean will refund your money if the ship is unable to dock at a port because of weather or an itinerary change.  Some independent tours may keep your deposit or not offer refunds if you can't make it.

Independent tours don't always offer full refunds if there's an itinerary change, but ship tours always do.

Hurricane season is upon us, and as a Florida resident myself, I’m already starting to prepare for the worst. 

After moving to Florida five years ago, my husband and I were hit with Hurricane Sally just months after we moved into our new home. As Midwesterners who had never lived in the South, this felt like a rite of passage!

Now, with another season underway, it’s important to be prepared, whether you’re getting your home ready or finalizing plans for an upcoming cruise. If you’re planning a Caribbean cruise this summer, you might be wondering how to best prepare for hurricane impacts. One of the smartest steps you can take is to invest in travel insurance to protect your plans in case of unexpected disruptions.

Personally, I have an annual travel policy through Allianz AllTrips, and it’s already paid for itself this year. I combed through my personal policy with Allianz to see what exactly is covered in relation to hurricanes for purposes of this article.

But, all insurance policies have different coverage and it’s important to understand exactly what’s covered in a policy before purchasing. The fine print in an insurance policy is just as important as the stated policy! 

Most travel insurance policies don’t list hurricanes as a separate category. Instead, they’re typically included under broader terms like “natural disasters” or “severe weather.” It’s a good idea to review how your insurance provider defines these terms before buying a policy.

No matter which company you choose, there are a few essential things to look for in any travel insurance plan. Here’s what to pay attention to in your travel insurance policy, and what the experts are predicting for this year's hurricane season. 

Read more: Travel insurance for a cruise: Why you need it for a Royal Caribbean cruise

First, check what’s included under your Trip Cancellation coverage.

Most travel insurance policies will include Trip Cancellation protection. This type of coverage provides reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel your trip for a covered reason. These covered reasons typically include natural disasters and severe storms, such as hurricanes.

If your policy includes Trip Cancellation coverage, you’ll want to see exactly what’s defined for covered reasons and whether natural disasters, including hurricanes, are mentioned. For example, my personal insurance policy provides Trip Cancellation coverage for the following hurricane-related events:

• Your destination or primary residence is uninhabitable due to a natural disaster
• Your travel carrier cannot get you to your original itinerary’s destination for at least 24 consecutive hours due to a natural disaster or severe weather
• Government authorities order a mandatory evacuation at your destination that is in effect within 24 hours prior to departure date

In the event that I experience one of these covered reasons, I can be reimbursed up to my policy limit for nonrefundable expenses. Considering I live in Florida and cruise often, this comprehensive coverage gives me peace of mind. 

Next, consider what’s included for Trip Interruption protection.

Another section of your travel insurance policy that you’ll want to check is the Trip Interruption section. This type of coverage kicks in after your trip has already started, and it helps reimburse for unforeseen costs during your trip. If you encounter a hurricane during your cruise, your Trip Interruption coverage would likely cover related expenses.

In my Allianz policy, I would receive hurricane-related coverage (under the natural disaster terminology) for the following scenarios:

• You miss at least 50% of the length of your trip due to a natural disaster
• Your primary residence or destination is uninhabitable due to a natural disaster
• Your travel carrier cannot get you to your original itinerary’s destination for at least 24 consecutive hours due to a natural disaster or severe weather
• Government authorities order a mandatory evacuation at your destination that is in effect within 24 hours prior to departure date
• A road closure prevents you from arriving to your final destination for at least six consecutive hours

When it comes to hurricanes, you might find that your original cruise itinerary has been shortened or extended because of impending storms. In this case, your Trip Interruption policy would cover the unexpected costs related to the natural disaster.

In addition, Travel Delay coverage could provide protection during hurricane season.

Another important coverage that I’ve actually used with my travel insurance policy is Travel Delay coverage. This type of protection kicks in for smaller, but still disruptive, delays. For my specific policy, the Travel Delay coverage provides reimbursement for a delay longer than six consecutive hours. My policy would pay for meals, accommodations, and transportation up to a daily limit due to the delay.

In addition, my Travel Delay policy specifically includes coverage for a delay that would cause me to miss the departure of my cruise. In this instance, reasonable expenses to help rejoin the cruise would be covered if the delay occurred for a covered reason, such as a natural disaster. In this case, any delays due to hurricane activity that cause you unforeseen expenses would likely be covered.

You could also purchase missed port coverage.

Although not as common, some insurance companies provide coverage for missed ports or cruise diversions. For instance, Travel Guard’s Preferred Plan appears to cover cruise diversions and river cruise diversions (based on the policy provided online). According to the policy guideline, cruisers would receive $250 for a missed port during their cruise.

However, missed port coverage isn’t as common as it used to be. As explained on Allianz’s website, travel insurance is meant to cover financial loss. Missing a port or having an itinerary change, even when caused by a storm or hurricane, is still providing the same value without financial loss.

For example, Allianz states on its website that, “If a hurricane causes a cruise line or tour operator to offer an alternate itinerary — whether a different destination or different dates — you must accept the change.”

“Travel insurance is designed to protect you from financial loss, and if the substitute itinerary is the same value as your original trip, you haven't suffered a loss,” continues Allianz. However, the insurance provider notes that if the itinerary change causes you to incur additional costs, such as purchasing new airline tickets, those expenses may be covered under your travel insurance.

Finally, consider opting for a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy.

Your standard travel insurance policy will provide a list of covered reasons that will protect you under specific travel mishaps and problems named in the plan. But, not every possible thing that could go wrong with your trip will be covered.

Most importantly, if you decide to cancel your cruise because you’re worried about a potential hurricane or bad weather, that fear alone typically isn’t covered under a standard policy. For this reason, you might want to consider purchasing a policy called “Cancel for Any Reason” type of coverage. 

This type of insurance can help reimburse prepaid expenses when you cancel a trip for any reason that isn’t named specifically in your plan. Generally, Cancel for Any Reason insurance is an add-on option to a standard travel insurance policy. 

There are other guidelines you need to follow too. You often need to buy this type of coverage within a specified window after making your first deposit, typically around 10 days to 21 days after booking. You can normally cancel your trip for any reason up to approximately 48 hours before scheduled departure.

But, this type of policy isn’t cheap. If you want the maximum flexibility, you’ll need to pay a significantly higher premium. This type of coverage can increase your policy cost by 50% due to increased flexibility. 

For example, if you book a cruise for $4,000, your travel insurance policy might cost around $200. To add Cancel for Any Reason coverage, you might need to pay an additional $100, bringing your total premium to $300. If you decide to cancel and receive reimbursement of 75% of your prepaid expenses, you would receive $3,000 back. In that case, instead of losing the full $4,000, you’d lose $1,000 on the cruise fare and $300 for the insurance, a total loss of $1,300.

With this type of policy, you have the flexibility to decide whether or not to travel in the event of a hurricane. Everyone has a different level of risk tolerance, and a vacation should feel enjoyable, not anxiety-inducing. For many travelers, the extra peace of mind is well worth the added cost.

Unfortunately, the experts are predicting an active hurricane season this year.

Each year, The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issues its outlook for the coming Atlantic hurricane season. This year, NOAA’s outlook indicates we are likely to experience an above-normal season with a 60% chance and only a 10% chance for a below-normal season. That leaves just a 30% chance for a near-normal season.

NOAA’s 2025 outlook shares there is a 70% change for 3-19 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes, and 3-5 major hurricanes this year.  NOAA states in their report, “These expected ranges are centered above the 1991-2020 seasonal averages of 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes.”

In addition, NOAA explains the prediction is based on two main factors, including an unusually warm temperature in the Atlantic Ocean and neutral El Niño conditions. Both of these factors create an environment that favors stronger storm formation and intensification.

So, what does this mean for cruisers? Royal Caribbean Group’s Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, recently spoke on the subject of hurricane activity at the 2025 Seatrade Cruise Conference in Miami, Florida. 

During one of the sessions, Setzer explained, “They’re calling for an above-normal season. But from a marine perspective, we prepare every year with the possibility we could have an impact.”

“We don’t say, ‘This year it’s a low number, so we’re going to relax now.’ Every year it’s the same level of preparation because even in low years like 1992, South Florida got [Hurricane] Andrew. In high years like 2022, we didn’t get anything. So you never know,” he concluded.

Read more: Meet the meteorologist who decides if your cruise gets rerouted

And of course, timing is important when buying travel insurance.

Like any insurance, travel insurance is meant to cover unforeseen circumstances. That means you shouldn’t plan to purchase coverage for your cruise after a hurricane has already been forecasted. By this time, the hurricane is usually considered a "named event" and it’s probably already too late to purchase travel insurance coverage.

Instead, it's better to be proactive and purchase insurance when you start planning your cruise and place a deposit. As we mentioned above, if you want Cancel for Any Reason coverage, you will need to purchase this shortly after you make your first deposit, typically within 14 to 21 days (depending on the policy).

If you want to have full protection and flexibility, it’s best to purchase a policy at the time of booking your cruise. This ensures you will be covered for unforeseen incidents, including hurricane-related cancellations, delays, or interruptions.

Some credit cards also include travel insurance as one of the main card perks, including the American Express Platinum Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve. Although these might not be as comprehensive, this additional coverage can be helpful if you’re already paying the annual fee for one of these cards.

Finally, you could consider purchasing an annual travel insurance policy. My policy through Allianz Travel Insurance costs less than $300 for the year and covers all trips when I am at least 100 miles from my primary residence. Because I travel almost every month, this insurance is well worth the investment. 

I’ve even convinced my parents to purchase annual travel insurance policies considering they cruise a few times each year. Knowing I am covered for hurricane-related events, or any other unforeseen circumstances, gives me peace of mind while traveling. It's also one of the best ways to protect yourself financially while traveling or cruising. 

Disclaimer: This post is based on my personal experience and interpretation of my Allianz travel insurance policy. Coverage details can vary depending on your provider, plan and purchase timing. Always review your policy documents carefully and consult directly with your travel insurance provider for questions about your specific coverage. Nothing in this article should be considered legal or insurance advice.

I recently sailed on the biggest cruise ship to ever sail from Los Angeles, Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas.

If you think all balcony cabins are the same, you might be surprised to know some key differences.

Royal Caribbean invited me to be their guest on a 3-night preview sailing, and I was thrilled when I saw I'd have a balcony room all to myself.

If you're like me, then you find a balcony room is in that sweet spot of value and living space. I don't mind an inside room, but it's usually worth it to me to move up to a balcony for the outdoor verandah and natural light.

While I'm no stranger to a balcony stateroom, I quickly discovered I preferred this style of balcony room over the ones on the world's largest cruise ship because of a few important design choices.

Royal Caribbean invited me on the Ovation of the Seas' complimentary three-night preview sailing

I was assigned one of the ocean-view balcony cabins on deck 11, a few decks away from the buffet.

Balcony rooms are the most common type of stateroom on cruise ships today because of how popular they are with cruisers.  They can accommodate up to 4 people, depending on the configuration.

I was assigned cabin 11616, which is a category 2D ocean view balcony room. Royal Caribbean allows to 2 guests in this particular cabin.

There's 198 sq ft of living space, along with 55 sq ft of space on the balcony.

There's more storage than you can use

The sheer amount of storage space in this balcony cabin is impressive, and it's what immediately stood out to me as I walked in.

Quantum Class ships were the first to introduce this look to cabins that continued with newer Oasis Class ships too.

You'll walk past the full length mirror and air conditioning controls as you enter, opening up to the cabin itself.

In this particular cabin, the sofa and vanity are closest to the door, but it alternates with the bed depending on the exact cabin.

The vanity has a desk and chair to sit at, with a mirror and electrical outlets.  There are even two hidden USB-A outlets available (you need to lift the guard up to plug in your device).

There was an electric kettle with tea in my cabin, but that might have been the result of the fact the ship had just completed a series of cruises in Asia.

Next to the vanity are drawers, along with a cooler to use to keep drinks or small plates of food.

Across is a sofa.  This one does not open up to become a bed, but it was nice to have somewhere to sit.

On either side of the sofa are two giant closets.

One closet is meant to hang garments, while the other has shelves.  It also has the safe you can use during your stay.

Even the bed has storage options

Like nearly all cabins, there's a king bed that can be separated into two separate twin beds.

On both sides of the bed are a nightstand, with the nightstand near the balcony having a power outlet.

This ship entered service in 2016 and you can tell fact it has extra power outlets and a few USB outlets represented a shift in stateroom design to begin adding more power options.  Cruise ships that debuted just a few years earlier lacked these luxuries.

Each nightstand has a shelf to it, and there are two overhead storage bins above the bed as well.

Even if I was sailing for two weeks on Ovation of the Seas, I seriously doubt I could use all of this space.

The balcony is an oasis to enjoy great views of the ocean

If it's not too hot outside, I love sitting on the balcony to enjoy the views and fresh air.

There's a door to access the balcony, where there are two chairs and a table.

I appreciate there are foot stools provided for each chair, because almost instantly you'll want to put your feet up.

At 55 square feet, there's just enough room for two adults to both enjoy being outside.

The shower is better on Icon, but this is a very close second

Each cabin has its own private bathroom, and it's quite functional.

Bathrooms on cruise ships have evolved a lot over the years, and they've gotten bigger and updated.

The shower is made of glass and it's curved, providing more space for the shower occupant.

I prefer the shower design on Icon of the Seas, but this isn't bad at all.

Once again, there's plenty of storage space along the walls and below the sink for your toiletries.

Final thoughts

After spending a few nights in this room, I think I prefer it over the Icon of the Seas balcony.

Royal Caribbean sought to develop the look of its staterooms on Icon, but I think Ovation's is better.

First, there's significantly more storage space around the room.

It's my opinion that the balcony room on Icon seeks to rely too much on design and gave up some practicalities.

As an example, there are metal bins in the wardrobe that are cumbersome (they make noise as they move in and out), and I don't want my clothes on display.

Plus, there's no over bed storage, and it lacks the amount of closets Ovation has.

Icon of the Seas is still my favorite cruise ship in the fleet, but I'll at least take solace in my cabin with its look and feel.