Royal Caribbean Blog

I booked what is technically the cheapest of the top tier suites on Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas so we could get the best perks that would spoil us.

A handful of suites fall into the Star Class category, which has practically everything included, priority access, and the services of the Royal Genie. If your goal is to splurge and treat yourself, this is the best way to go about it.

I booked the two bedroom Aquatheather suite for me and my wife, along with our two kids. The total cost of the room was $11,437. Steep, but a cheaper price than some of the much larger and lavish suites.

Since this was going to be my wife's birthday, I decided to book this type of a cruise ship stateroom so we could celebrate in style. After all, she misses out on some of my cruises I go to for work, so I wanted to treat her to something extra nice.

We sailed on a 3-night weekend cruise that departed from Port Canaveral with stops in Nassau, Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.  A quick escape, so we wanted to maximize our time onboard with a really nice place for our family and friends to congregate.

Here's what it's like to stay in this mega suite, and what you get for the cost.

Aquatheater suites are massive, with lots of room for everyone

The first thing you'll notice about an Aquatheater suite is how giant this room is overall.

There are two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and an even larger wraparound balcony. 

For families, this is easily the best suite option given that there are separate sleeping areas and two full bathrooms. That's a luxury not often found in many other suites.

At 823 square feet, plus 772 square feet of balcony space, you can spread out.  Not to mention we can easily invite friends to join us in the room and still not come close to making the room feel crowded.

The balcony is the real highlight of this cabin

The first thing you'll notice about this suite are the amazing views all around you.

From the living room, there are near panoramic views of the ocean and Boardwalk neighborhood. Stepping outside to the balcony, you're greeted with something to see all around you.

Aquatheater suites have a balcony that extends to both sides, offering a traditional ocean balcony experience on one side, and then a view of the Aquatheater and Boardwalk on the other.

At night, you have the perfect view for the aqua shows below.  

On Utopia of the Seas, the "Aqua80s Too" is the show that was performed two times per night on two nights of the cruise.

While your seating is to the side, it is an amazing vantage point to have and really gives you the proper perspective of the performance. Plus, there's no rush to get a seat or trying to squeeze your way out when the show is over.

Plus, our Genie brought the kids a DIY ice cream bar, while the adults had popcorn too.

During the daytime, there are loungers, a full table and chairs, plus a couple chairs on both sides of the balcony so you can enjoy the view from anywhere.

I only regret we didn't have a meal outside, but otherwise, the balcony was one of the top reasons we gravitate towards this type of suite.

The living room has lots of space, and doubles as a backup bedroom

Back inside the suite, the living room has a giant television that you can watch from the dining table or couch.

Because the living room is wrapped by the balcony, you'll find lots of living space here, which is perfect for entertaining friends.

The fridge is stocked with complimentary beers, soft drinks, and water. One of the many perks you get with a Star Class suite is having the beverage package included with your fare, along with a stateroom attendant that keeps your fridge stocked.

Plus, there's a coffee and espresso machine that you can use too. Personally, I prefer to have my Genie deliver Starbucks to my suite because that's another included benefit.

The couch can be expanded into a bed, allowing for a greater capacity or maybe just having the kids enjoy a "sleepover" there.

The master bedroom is the perfect enclave

Whenever we've stayed in an Aquatheater suite, we love having our friends come to visit and hang out.  However, it's equally nice to have a dedicated area just for me and my wife.

The master bedroom is as large as many interior cabins, but furnished much nicer.

There are two sets of massive closets on one side with more than enough storage space for all your clothes. Even if we were cruising for a week, there would have been ample space for everything.

There's even a door to the balcony, along with a window here.

There is a TV in this room as well.

Nearby is the vanity and seating area.  Not only is the large mirror located here, but you will find lots of power outlets too.  In fact, there are so many power outlets around this suite.  

I love that there are USB outlets on both sides of the bed. Dare I say, this is one suite you don't need to bring a power adaptor onboard.

The attached bathroom has a tub and shower, instead of a standup shower.

The bathroom isn't massive, but it's nice to have the tub.

There's a separate room for the kids, which is the kind of separation we look for in any cabin

A few steps away is a second bedroom that can sleep up to 4 people.

This is perfect for kids (or even their friends) because there are two beds on the ground (it can be combined into one bed), along with two pullman beds that fold down from the wall.

It has its own TV and vanity as well, which makes this room almost like an inside room within the suite.

There's no attached bathroom, so instead anyone sleeping in this room would need to walk across to the secondary bathroom of the suite.

This bathroom is your typical cruise ship bathroom.  Because it's accessible from the living room, it means anyone visiting can use it without needing to go into any of the bedrooms.

The best thing about this suite isn't the room at all

The balcony is massive and has great views, and even the suite itself has lots of space for a family. But the top reason to book this suite is for the Royal Genie services.

Star Class suites come with a Genie that you share with 2 or 3 other suites.

Think of the genie as a magic maker that's job is to ensure you get everything you want or need without much waiting.

They can arrange almost everything onboard for you, including shows, meals, room service, and more.  Since pretty much everything onboard is included with your cruise fare, the genie takes care of the rest.

Here are some examples of things the genie did for us on this sailing:

• Took care of my cabana location request for Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Arranged for Starbucks and breakfast to be delivered each morning
• Sent up afternoon snacks
• Booked all of our specialty restaurants
• Met us at the shows and dinner to escort us in
• Arranged for private elevator rides disembarking the ship

Of course, I could do most of these things myself.  But the point here is it's nice to let someone else take care of you instead.

Our genie really made us all feel like family while we were onboard and treated us as such. Having a genie is the "easy button" to how to cruise.

Our suite was massive and very expensive. But it's the perfect way to splurge

I would never try to convince anyone an Aquatheater suite is some kind of a good value, but I do think it's the perfect way to go big on vacation.

Everyone has different budgets, needs, and tastes when it comes to cruising. And there are always going to be some people that want an all-out celebration in an epic kind of suite.

Because this was only 3-nights, the $11k price tag was manageable. Had this been a weeklong cruise, I'm not sure I would have been able to justify the cost.

No one needs a suite like this, but my goodness, is it an incredible way to enjoy a cruise.

Soda isn't included on most mainstream cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Carnival. As such, guests can either buy a pricey drink package or purchase soft drinks individually. 

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival have soda-only drink packages, making it easy (and affordable) to sip on unlimited soft drinks during your vacation. 

Unlike the lines' respective alcoholic packages, the soda packages are more restrictive, including only fountain beverages. This means that bottled water, specialty coffee, and zero-proof cocktails all cost extra. 

Historically, I quickly glanced over a cruise line's soda package, assuming it wasn't something I'd benefit from since it didn't include alcohol. 

However, after beginning my sobriety journey earlier this year, I quickly discovered the freedom of a cruise soda package, even if it isn't the most inclusive option available. 

On the surface, Royal Caribbean and Carnival's soda packages seem nearly identical since both offer unlimited fountain soda for a set daily price. However, there are a few important — but subtle — differences between the two packages. 

Soda package Royal Caribbean price: How does it compare to Carnival?

For starters, it's important to understand how each cruise line prices its soda packages. 

The Carnival soda package has a set price, coming in at $11.99 per adult and $6.95 per child per day. This means that on a seven-night voyage, you could expect to pay around $58 to $100 for the line's Bottomless Bubbles soda package — after including the mandatory 20% service charge. 

Recently, I paid $79.80 for the soda package on a seven-night cruise on Carnival's Mardi Gras. This breaks down to roughly $11.40 per day. However, this was before Carnival suddenly raised the price of its soda package — along with its nightly gratuity rate. 

Comparatively, Royal Caribbean does not have a set price for its soda package. Instead, the cruise line dynamically prices its drink packages. As such, the price depends on factors such as the cruise ship, itinerary, and duration. 

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $9.99 and $18.00 per person per day, plus gratuity, for the Royal Caribbean soda package. 

To give a better example, I priced out the package for an upcoming three-day cruise aboard Utopia of the Seas. 

At the time of writing, the Classic Soda Package cost $10.99 per person per day. Once the mandatory 18% gratuity is added, the total cost comes out to just under $13 per day, or $38.88 for the full sailing.

Read more: Royal Caribbean soda package review: What you get and if it's worth it

Royal Caribbean soda package vs. Carnival soda package: What's included?

Both Royal Caribbean and Carnival stock their ships with Coca-Cola® products, including Coke, Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Seagram's, and Mr. Pibb. 

Although the cruise lines have the same preferred beverage partner, Royal Caribbean enhances its soda package experience aboard many ships with its Coca-Cola Freestyle® machines.

The Classic Soda Package includes one Freestyle® cup per person, granting immediate and seamless access to over 100 drink combinations, from classic sodas to unique flavored variations and no-sugar options. 

Read more: What you need to know about the Royal Caribbean soda cup

Freestyle® machines are located in high-traffic areas aboard Royal Caribbean ships — think the Royal Promenade, Windjammer Marketplace, and teen clubs. On Icon Class ships, they're also found in the Surfside Neighborhood.

That said, Freestyle® machines are not available fleetwide and are not on Brilliance of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, and Vision of the Seas.

On these ships, the soda package experience will feel similar to Carnival's, with guests ordering fountain drinks from bars and restaurants. 

Read more: Is the Carnival soda package worth it? What's included, cost, and review

That’s where Carnival's Bottomless Bubbles package feels most comparable. In most cases, drinks are simply ordered at the bar, with the available selection covering the major Coca-Cola® brand staples (i.e., Coke, Diet Coke, Coke Zero Sugar, Sprite, Sprite Zero Sugar, Fanta Orange, Barq's Root Beer, Mr. Pibb, Seagram's Ginger Ale, Seagram's Tonic, and Seagram's Seltzer). 

However, the Lido Marketplace buffet also features self-service drink stations, where guests can quickly grab a drink by simply tapping their Sail & Sign card and filling any cup. 

Personally, I found this option more convenient. Although the flavor combinations are more limited than those of Freestyle® machines, I didn't have to worry about hauling around the bulky compatible cup. 

Moreover, guests don't need a drink package to use Carnival's fountain soda machines, either. Those without a soda package will be charged per ounce. However, on Royal Caribbean, a drink package is required to use the Freestyle® machines, and guests with the Royal Refreshment or Deluxe Beverage Package must pay an extra $4.99 for the Freestyle® cup.

In terms of what's included, Royal Caribbean and Carnival are pretty similar, with the soda packages offering unlimited fountain beverages for the duration of the cruise. This means that other drinks, such as bottled water, mocktails, energy drinks, and specialty coffees, are only available for an extra charge. However, Carnival's soda package also includes select juices by the glass. 

Another big difference is that Carnival's soda package doesn't work at its private destinations in The Bahamas. In comparison, Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package can be used ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Labadee, Haiti. 

Also, note that on Carnival cruises, you may be charged tax when ordering soda in port. For example, I ordered a Diet Coke while the ship was still in Port Canaveral and was charged $0.26. 

Can you share a drink package on a cruise?

According to the terms and conditions for both Carnival's Bottomless Bubbles and Royal Caribbean's Classic Soda Package, drink packages cannot be shared between guests. Each package is linked to a specific Sail & Sign or SeaPass account and is intended for individual use only.

"Non-transferable and may not be shared. Guests or family members who would like to enjoy soft drinks through this program must purchase their own sticker," reads Carnival's website. Similarly, Royal Caribbean's website says, "All packages are for single guest use and cannot be shared by multiple people."

If you get caught sharing beverages with someone who does not have a cruise drink package, your package could be canceled without a refund. You could even be charged for the drinks you previously ordered.

How to add a drink package to your cruise

It's easy to pre-purchase a soda package before your cruise. All you have to do is log into your cruise line's respective online planning portal (Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner or Carnival's Cruise Manager) and navigate to the drink package section. 

If you're sailing with Royal Caribbean, it's smart to purchase your drink package ahead of time, as the cruise line offers pre-cruise discounts through the Cruise Planner. On the flip side, the Carnival soda package costs the same whether you buy it three months in advance or on embarkation day.

Royal Caribbean also has an earlier cutoff for pre-cruise purchases than Carnival. Reservations must be made at least two days before embarkation through the Cruise Planner. Carnival, on the other hand, allows online pre-purchases up until 11:59 p.m. the night before your cruise, or until 10:00 p.m. EST if booking through their call center.

Is a cruise soda package worth it?

Soda packages aren't for everyone. In my case, I've found myself to become an avid user of the soda package, whether aboard a Royal Caribbean or Carnival cruise. 

The package doesn't necessarily dramatically change the overall experience. However, as someone who is trying to cut out alcohol, it makes it easier to avoid the temptation of cruise drinking. 

Other soft drink fans will appreciate being able to freely order a beverage throughout their sailing without worrying about their final bill.

That said, both lines offer appealing zero-proof package options that are more inclusive, allowing guests to enjoy mocktails, specialty coffees, non-alcoholic beer, soda, and more for one set price. 

On the other hand, if you're someone who primarily drinks tap water, iced tea, lemonade, or only enjoys the occasional soda, you likely won't break even, making the package harder to justify. 

In the end, there's the perfect cruise drink package for everyone — it just depends on your personal drinking habits while on vacation. 

Happy weekend! In case you missed any Royal Caribbean news, here is a look at everything that happened this week!

Royal Caribbean has a new option for anyone booking a guaranteed cabin to find out their cabin for a fee.

For $30, the new Early Assign program offers a way to know your cabin assignment weeks earlier than normal.

The new option is being tested out as a way to give cruisers peace of mind while also generating extra revenue.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean just changed its casino comp cruises
• Royal Caribbean is planning a month-long party at sea with deals, giveaways, and surprises
• No, Royal Caribbean isn’t replacing lunch with brunch at one of it's restaurants
• Meet the most famous crew member on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• What happens if you miss the cruise ship safety drill?
• I always make a point to meet these 7 crew members on every cruise
• What are the biggest, longest, and tallest cruise ships in the world?
• I stayed in the cheapest cruise rooms on two major cruise lines. Here's how they compared, and which I liked better

New RCB Video: Five Forbidden Electronics Royal Caribbean Security Is Confiscating From Staterooms This Year

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! 

This week, we are sharing our latest video—Five Forbidden Electronics Royal Caribbean Security Is Confiscating From Staterooms This Year—don’t forget to subscribe to our channel!

Legend of the Seas begins sea trials

The next new Royal Caribbean ship is finally at sea.

Legend of the Seas has started her sea trials, which is a major milestone in the ship's progress.

This is when certain navigation and technical systems are put to the test.

Royal Caribbean is about to open a beach club in Santorini. Here's how it will be different

One of the designers of the new Royal Beach Club Santorini shared how this private destination will be different.

In a few days, a new Royal Beach Club will open in the Mediterranean, and it addresses a need in the market.

Royal Caribbean believes it will offer the ultimate way to experience the Greek islands.

I spent 12 days on Royal Caribbean's smallest ship

Ira spent almost two weeks on one of Royal Caribbean's smallest and oldest ships.

Vision of the Seas doesn't have all the features you'll find on a big ship, but it makes up for it in other ways.

Cruising on an older ship gets you a much lower price, as well as a more intimate cruise experience.

Inside an interior room on Symphony of the Seas

For $1,400, Elizabeth stayed in the smallest cabin for a week.

You'll pay a premium to sail on a bigger and newer ship, but this cabin has plenty of storage space.

At just 149 square feet, it's not big by any means, but there's so much happening onboard the ship, so how much time would you spend in it?

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 605th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! 

Matt lists three features he wants to see on the Discovery Class ships, and three he doesn't want onboard.

Please feel free to subscribe via YouTube, iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast! We’d appreciate it.

Royal Caribbean’s annual casino loyalty perks are starting to hit accounts, and longtime players are noticing something feels different right away.

Every year in April, those that gambled enough on Royal Caribbean ships to reach a higher tier are eligible to receive a complimentary cruise.

The complimentary cruise certificates that once followed a predictable set of rules have been replaced with a new system that, for some members, offers more flexibility than ever before, while others don't see as much return value.

For some, the update opens the door to longer sailings and even higher-tier cabins.

Here's what has changed.

Royal Caribbean gives you a free cruise every year, if you play enough in their casinos

Royal Caribbean offers perks for gambling in its casinos through the Casino Royale program.

This is a separate loyalty program from Crown & Anchor Society, and it resets every year.  Based on how many points you earn in a calendar year, you can reach higher tiers.

Prime is the level that offers perks, and it includes complimentary drinks in the casino while playing, no fee for cash advances, and a complimentary cruise each year.

The annual complimentary cruise offerings are different from last year

On April 21st, members who obtained the highest tier started to see their annual certificates appear in their account. 

In years past, you could choose any cruise that wasn't listed on an exclusion list. The excluded sailings were typically holiday sailings or event cruises. It was also limited to any sailing for 7 nights or less.  

The framework was simple: if a sailing wasn’t on the excluded list and was seven nights or less, it was fair game.

Craig Hart reached the highest casino status at Masters, and he said the Master’s list has changed from a list of excluded cruises to a list of included sailings up to 25 night and ranged from balcony to Grand Suite. 

On paper, that sounds like a major upgrade. Longer cruises and higher-end accommodations were rarely part of the annual certificate conversation before.

He thinks some people may see this as a great change, but others may not as much value in it.

Within the email sent out by Casino Royale, there were also talks of "new limited-time bonus offers and special perks throughout the year, so you have the chance to upgrade your annual cruise benefit." 

What this means, no one knows yet, but it may create more value for the casino players.

Win or lose? Casino players debate if they like the change

For some casino guests, the expanded list represents a clear win. Access to longer voyages opens up options that simply didn’t exist under the old rules, particularly for travelers who prefer repositioning cruises or extended itineraries.

The inclusion of higher-category cabins also suggests Royal Caribbean is willing to offer a more premium experience to certain players, at least on select sailings.

At the same time, the move from an "exclusion list" to an "inclusion list" changes how flexible the benefit feels. Instead of browsing the full range of sailings and ruling out a handful, players are now limited to a curated selection chosen by the cruise line. Even if that list is extensive, it can still feel restrictive compared to the previous system.

That perception matters, especially for a loyalty program built around repeat play and predictable rewards.

Craig is curious to see how these changes impact how cruisers look at the value in the program, "While more people obtain status in the casino because of the value in years past, Royal Caribbean ships are sailing at or over capacity.  As this new casino year progresses, new ships start sailing and ships continue to sell out, it will be interesting to see other changes that will be made this year."

Depending on your cruising preferences, the available ships and sailings are either useful or not.  Newer ships, such as the Icon Class are not very prevalent. On Reddit, there were plenty of opinions.

• "Prime used to be any 7 day in an interior with a list of exceptions (usually just new ships and holidays). Now its a 500 cruise list. Huge downgrade. Boo!"
• "Mostly older ships and shorter sailings."
• "Highly disappointing. Most of these are older ships that I get an offer for in the mail 3 times a week."
• "No Icon for prime. Mostly older ships ships and short trips."

The sentiment shared by some is they gambled last year with a certain expectation, but feel the new change wasn't expected.

One person on Reddit posted, "I purposely gambled far more than I normally do to achieve Prime in anticipation for an interior on any 7 day cruise, 2+ year old boat, minus holidays."

"Not getting that is being bait and switched."

If you’re cruising with Royal Caribbean this September, your vacation is about to come with a lot more than just the usual shows and pool days. 

The cruise line is bringing back its Royal Birthday Bash with special events, surprise giveaways, and even some deals that could save you money before you ever step onboard.

The promotion centers on sailings departing between September 1 and September 30, 2026, on cruises to the Caribbean and Mexico.

The Birthday Bash was first introduced last year, and this year's version leans heavily into both the onboard experience and the pre-cruise savings.

Here's what Royal Caribbean has planned if you happen to be cruising in September.

Royal Caribbean picked the month with the most birthdays

According to Royal Caribbean's research, the month of September has the most birthdays of any month. Therefore, they want to make every sailing feel like a birthday party.

Guests can expect themed events and pop-up surprises throughout their cruise, including special birthday cocktails, raffles and giveaways, and one of the more visible additions—a balloon drop party that turns a public venue into a full-on celebration.

Importantly, you don’t need to be celebrating your own birthday to take part. Royal Caribbean is opening the festivities to anyone sailing during the month. If you are celebrating a birthday, though, expect a few extra touches that lean into the theme.

Look for a special pre-cruise sale

Royal Caribbean is pairing the onboard celebration with a limited-time sale that runs from April 24 through May 7, 2026. 

During that window, there is a mix of discounts and incentives aimed at both new bookings and guests who already have a September cruise reserved.

One promotion is familiar: third and fourth guests sailing free. For families or groups booking a single stateroom, that can represent a meaningful savings, especially on shorter Caribbean sailings.

On top of that, the cruise line is adding up to $200 off stateroom pricing for September departures.

This isn't Kids Sail Free, it's any third and fourth passengers (taxes, fees, and overall pricing still apply). It's a good opportunity to bring friends and sail together.

For guests who already have a cruise booked in September, Royal Caribbean is also rolling out a set of pre-cruise deals that run slightly longer, from April 21 through May 12, 2026. These discounts focus on add-ons that many cruisers end up buying anyway.

Some of the notable discounts include:

• 50% off the Unlimited Dining Package
• 50% off admission to Thrill Waterpark
• 50% off admission to Hideaway Beach
• 40% off onboard Wi-Fi

Guests ages 12 and under can get up to 50% off refreshment and soda packages, along with 35% off arcade access.

One detail that may appeal to more experienced cruisers is that Royal Caribbean says these Birthday Bash offers can be combined with other promotions. That stacking potential is where some of the better deals tend to emerge.

A fun excuse to cruise

Whether you have a birthday or not in the month of September, Royal Caribbean is looking to give folks a reason to try a cruise.

While September may statistically have the most birthdays of any months, it's likely no coincidence that there are deeper savings for a cruise during the peak of hurricane season.

Early fall has traditionally been a shoulder season for Caribbean cruising, with lower demand compared to peak summer and holiday periods. Promotions like this can help fill that gap, while also giving guests an added reason to book a sailing that might already be priced more competitively.

Still, for guests already booked (or those considering a September trip), the Royal Birthday Bash adds an extra layer to the experience. It might save money or just add extra fun to everyone's vacation.

After multiple cruisers reported spotting a new brunch option aboard Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise line clarified that the new menu is simply being offered in addition to the affordable specialty lunch deal — not replacing it. 

The "Chops Grille — Brunch" option was first spotted on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean Blog previously reported, with Cruise Planner listings stating the experience costs $60 per adult and $40 per child. The brunch also comes with an additional $30 upcharge per person for guests with the Unlimited Dining Package. 

Unsurprisingly, the new brunch option sparked immediate backlash among cruisers, with many stating that the price was too steep to justify. 

"That menu doesn’t look like anything special and certainly not something I would pay an extra $50 pp to experience," wrote one Redditor on the r/royalcaribbean thread. 

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Someone else added, "Nothing on that menu would cause me to choose over the [Main Dining Room]. You already paid [for] food. Is that menu worth a $50/pp premium over what you already get? I think not."

"Chops Lunch you at least get steak and it's usually less than $20. This is just paying $40+ for windjammer food with better seating," said another cruiser. 

Not only that, but many guests feared that the new brunch menu would replace the specialty lunch deal available at Chops Grille. 

"Chops and Giovannis lunches on sale are the best values you'll ever get on the cruise," chimed in one fan, while another guest noted that the specialty lunches are one of the best ways to avoid the embarkation crowds in the Windjammer buffet. 

Thankfully, a Royal Caribbean spokeswoman confirmed that the standard specialty lunch will not be phased out to accommodate the new brunch. 

"Brunch does not replace the lunch option, it is scheduled once a week only. Standard lunch at Chops remains an option," they said in a statement given to Royal Caribbean Blog. 

They did not specify which ships across the fleet will offer the new brunch menu. However, it's been spotted on vessels like Star of the Seas, Utopia of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Mariner of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas.

How much is Chops Grille on Royal Caribbean?

Pricing for Royal Caribbean's specialty steakhouse varies. However, it's more expensive for dinner than lunch, explaining why the afternoon deal is so popular among cruisers. 

For instance, on my upcoming Liberty of the Seas cruise, lunch is priced at $17.99 per person, while dinner skyrockets to $46.99 per person. 

These prices reflect current pre-cruise sales, meaning I could end up paying more for lunch or dinner at Chops if I wait until onboard to make my reservation.

It's cheaper to book Chops new specialty brunch through the Cruise Planner, too. On the same aforementioned Liberty of the Seas sailing, the brunch is offered for just $47.99 per adult, compared to the onboard pricing of $60 per person. 

Read more: Chops Grille: I visited the steakhouse that's on every Royal Caribbean cruise, and I was impressed by the quality of the steaks

What is the Chops Grille lunch menu like?

Compared to the dinner menu, the Chops Grille lunch menu is a little more simplified, offering just four appetizers, six entrées, and three desserts, along with six shareable sides. 

Despite the smaller selection, the Chops Grille lunch remains popular among cruisers for its strong value, with options like a colossal shrimp cocktail, filet mignon, Atlantic salmon, and warm chocolate cake for typically less than $20 per person. 

Lunch isn't available at Chops every day, either. While it's open nightly for dinner, it is usually only available for lunch on sea days. 

Chops Grille Royal Caribbean Brunch Menu (NEW 2026)

The new brunch menu is divided into eight different sections, giving guests a wide range of options from classic breakfast favorites to elevated steakhouse offerings. 

"Gather your crew for an irresistible specialty brunch experience at Chops Grille℠, featuring bold flavors and elevated favorites. Start with cheese and charcuterie selections, avocado toast, and freshly baked breads and pastries," reads the Cruise Planner's brunch description. 

"Dig into a variety of family-style sides like gooey mac and cheese and more. Then indulge in mouthwatering brunch favorites including the succulent Royal Crab Benedict or the Very Berry Waffle. And don’t forget to save room for crave-worthy desserts like the luscious Cherries Jubilee and fudgy Vegan Chocolate Brownie."

Beverages:

Aperol Spritz — Sparkling wine, Aperol, club soda, orange wheel garnish ($14)

Shirley Temple — Sprite, grenadine, cherry garnish ($7)

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Bakery (Selection of freshly baked breads and pastries):

Loaves

Croissants

Muffins

Danishes

Starters (Served family style):

Sliced fruit selection

Cheese and charcuterie selection

Scallops wrapped in bacon

Toast:

Avocado toast — Feta cheese, arugula, and cherry tomatoes 

Brunch sweets (Served à la carte):

Buttermilk pancakes — Fluffy, served plain, banana, and chocolate

Very Berry Waffle — Fresh buttermilk waffles topped with whipped cream, berries, and honey dairy-free whipped cream and caramel drizzle

(Credit: Rick Rettinger / Facebook)

Hearty bowls (Served à la carte):

Steak & Eggs — Cooked to perfection tender filet mignon, topped with fried egg

The Royal Crab Benedict — Crab cake, two poached eggs, spinach, hollandaise, and English muffin

Grilled beef short ribs — Fork tender short ribs served with Romesco sauce 

Shrimp tortellini alfredo — Homemade Alfredo sauce poured over golden shrimp and cheese tortellini 

Grilled tofu — Peppers, shelled edamame, and sweet chili 

Desserts (Served à la carte):

Floating island — Silky meringue floating on vanilla cream sauce with spun caramel sugar

Cherries jubilee — Red cherry cooked in a wine cinnamon served with vanilla ice cream

Chocolate brownie — Rich, dark fudge with dairy-free whipped cream and caramel drizzle 

Sides (Served à la carte):

Mac & cheese

Roasted baby vegetables 

Mashed potatoes

Arugula and Parmigiano salad with lemon vinaigrette 

Royal Caribbean is known for all the fun you can have while sailing, but does that experience match up on one of its smaller ships?

Guest writer Ira Winkler is a longtime cruise fan who has been sailing with Royal Caribbean for years. He recently sailed on Vision of the Seas and shared his thoughts about what it's like to sail on one of the smallest and oldest ships in the fleet.

It's an annual tradition to take a cruise for my birthday, which is New Year's Eve. On a 10-day cruise aboard Anthem of the Seas across Southeast Asia the previous year, my wife suggested we try Vision of the Seas, as it is based in Baltimore, just 40 minutes from my home. 

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

We found a 12-day cruise on Vision, with six sea days and five port days. It also stopped at four ports I had never visited before. However, with six sea days, and the Liberty being the smallest ship I had previously cruised, it seemed like a risk. Turns out, it was one of the best cruises ever. 

While it ranked among my favorites, there were a few areas where we missed the larger ships. Perhaps my lessons will help you decide if small ships are an option for you.

Read more: I've cruised on one of Royal Caribbean's smallest ships and one of its biggest. I was surprised how much I liked the small ones

The price is really hard to beat

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

I noticed an immediate difference while booking the cruise at the Next Cruise desk on the Anthem. The cost of sailing on Vision of the Seas was impossible to beat. 

I usually travel in a suite, and sometimes in Star Class, for my birthday. If you cruise over a holiday week, it can easily cost well over $30,000. However, I booked the Royal Suite for 12 days for less than $15,000. The lower prices are consistent for all cabin classes. 

As such, I learned that small ships can provide you with experiences that you may otherwise not be able to afford or justify. 

It is important to set the right expectations

I was going to be nine points short of Diamond status before the 12-day cruise. So, my wife and I decided to take a five-day cruise on Vision of the Seas in a Junior Suite to get ten points before my birthday cruise and achieve Diamond status. This had the side effect of allowing us to know what to expect on the longer cruise. 

We knew we were not going to get the same Broadway-caliber shows that newer vessels, such as Oasis of the Seas, offer. As such, we leaned more into the daily schedule and took advantage of the trivia sessions and other contests. 

My wife and I also knew that we shouldn't expect the same facilities as the larger ships, including expansive pool decks, updated staterooms, and numerous dining venues. 

In short, you don't have to take a separate trip to know what to expect, but if you accept enjoying the ship for what it offers, as opposed to focusing on what it doesn't, you can thoroughly enjoy what is there.

Nothing beats sailing from a local cruise port

Traveling out of a local port provides benefits that I did not understand until I did it. Being able to wake up at my convenience and choose when to drive to the ship decreased my stress more than anything else on the cruise. I can now understand why people who live in Florida can cruise so frequently!

There is much less stress than flying in the day before, settling into a hotel, and then getting another form of transportation to the ship the next day. It is also significantly less money as you don’t pay for airfare and hotel rooms. Getting to a cruise can cost more than the cruise itself for many people. 

Even the departure from the ship is stress-free, as you can choose when to disembark the ship and not have to rush to the airport and deal with flights home.

Baltimore is easy and convenient 

Baltimore itself is a very easy port. You're dropped off just steps from the terminal. And even if you park your car, you're probably less than 100 yards from the entrance. 

The security line usually takes less than ten minutes, too. The longest part of the boarding process is walking from the check-in area up the ramp and onto the ship.

Read more: Essential tips for Baltimore Maryland sailings

You feel the ocean more

One of the downsides of a smaller ship is that you feel the waves more than on large ships. Sailing out of Baltimore for three days to the Southern Caribbean meant we were sailing through the North Atlantic for a good portion of the time. 

We dealt with the ship rocking while walking and lying in bed. It wasn't terrible, but if you are prone to seasickness, you will need to take precautions. We were also in the Royal Suite, which on Vision is at the front of the ship. As such, we felt the waves more, especially at night.

Tips to quiet the cabin

Given the age of the Vision of the Seas and the sounds that come with sailing through the open ocean, you can experience more cabin creaking than on other ships. It can be especially annoying if you are a light sleeper. 

The maintenance team, however, is used to complaints, and they placed pieces of cloth in the wall joints when we complained. This does cut down on the creaking. They can also tighten the doors and other parts of the cabin that have some movement.

Additionally, I'd recommend putting unused hangers on the floor of the closets to stop the rattling and look to secure any other items that are moving freely.

Read more: Noise-Free Cabins: How to Avoid Loud Rooms on Your Cruise

Vision of the Seas is an intimate ship

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

Given the size of the vessel, you will run into the same people a lot. Obviously, this can be a blessing and a curse — depending on the people. There was one woman on our cruise who was clearly a little rude, but most people were great. 

We also ran into the staff on port days, who were great to catch up with. A salesman from the jewelry shop ran over to help us take a picture, while our assistant waiter told a water taxi to wait for us. Overall, there was much more of a community vibe on a smaller ship.

Something else that was unique was that Vision's bridge wings were not enclosed, like they are on larger ships. This meant the bridge crew was basically on the balcony as they docked the ship. 

Being in the Royal Suite, we were immediately behind the bridge. From our balcony, we exchanged pleasantries with the Captain and his team on the mornings when they docked the ship. These are the types of experiences that truly make a cruise memorable!

Read more: I spent 5 nights onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s oldest cruise ships

Easy-to-navigate layout

We didn't appreciate it as much as we should have on this cruise, but after being on Allure of the Seas two months later, it was much easier to get around the ship. 

Our cabin was on Deck 8, and even though it was in the very front of the ship, we were at most a ten-minute walk away from anything. We rarely had to climb or descend more than four decks to get anywhere!

The size of the ship never caused us to rush. If we left anything in the cabin, it was not an inconvenience to go back and get it. This resulted in a much more relaxed experience than we have on larger ships.

Friendly crew

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

There's a motto to Vision of the Seas that what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heart. After 12 days onboard, and having traveled on nine other ships, I found Vision's crew to be the most friendly and personable. 

Our cabin attendant, Aladin, was a joy to see every day, and we never had a more responsive attendant who anticipated our needs better. This was not our first time in a Royal Suite, and having traveled in Star and Sky class as well, Aladin’s quality of service went above and beyond any other service team we previously had.

Likewise, the wait staff was exceptional. They were incredibly personable, and we looked forward to seeing them every night. They had our drinks ready for us. They knew our preferences and had everything prepared. If we showed up late, they found a way to accommodate us. 

The Cruise Director’s team also recognized us by name. While departing the ship, I ran into the Captain, face to face for the first time, and he turned to shake my hand and thank me for being on his ship. I told him about how friendly the crew was, and he smiled and said, "It's our heart."

Read more: I always make a point to meet these 7 crew members on every cruise. They matter more than you think

Fewer children and teenagers

I would probably recommend other ships to parents with children and teens. Although there definitely were children on this ship, the children on board apparently met others through the ship's programs, and they frequently wandered the ship as there were fewer things to do. 

My wife overheard some of them arguing over whether the Royal Suite actually existed, and she invited them back and gave them a tour of the cabin.

Overall, if you're a cruiser who wants to avoid children and teens, this is the ship to do it!

Entertainment was lacking

On the downside, there are no major Broadway shows. There is no ice-skating rink. There is no AquaTheater or Two70. That aside, the band, singers, and dancers in the production shows were outstanding. The headliners were, however, hit or miss.

Vision of the Seas does have the Centrum, which is best described as a small promenade. It is open to most decks of the ship and hosts bands and other entertainment. The band was Rockport and is one of the best cover bands you will experience. 

Otherwise, there are the typical cruise ship activities. In general, entertainment is one of those areas that requires setting the proper expectations, as the experience differs greatly from massive Quantum, Oasis, and Icon Class ships. 

Suite benefits were also lacking 

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

We had some nice perks staying in the Royal Suite. The Suite Concierge, for example, met us at the security checkpoint before boarding and escorted us through the check-in process, onto the ship, and directly to our cabin. He also checked in with us daily to see if there was anything we wanted. He was in many ways a Star Class genie and did a good job at it.

However, if you do frequently travel in suites, you will notice a few downsides compared to larger ships. For example, Coastal Kitchen does not exist below Quantum Class ships. For breakfast, they do open Chops Grill for suite guests, but unfortunately, there was only one very overworked waiter. 

There is no free WiFi, either, and the Suite Lounge is small, but sufficient in size compared to the small number of guests who appeared to use it. There is also no dedicated suite sun deck. They do save seats for suite guests at shows, but it was unnecessary as the theater was never even close to full.

Good itineraries

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

Possibly the most intriguing part of the cruise was the itinerary. Smaller ships can go to ports with smaller capacity. This trip stopped in St. Kitts, St. Maarten, Antigua, St. Croix, and Dominica. 

These are not the most common ports for Royal Caribbean. It did provide for a more diverse cruise than most and was a welcome change!

Easy disembarkation process

Like embarkation, departure was just as easy. Given the smaller number of passengers, debarkation seemed faster. The Suite Concierge escorted suite guests off the ship at their leisure, but even non-suite guests were able to depart at a reasonable pace. 

And much like the embarkation, going through Customs and Border Patrol was fast, and it was then a few steps back to cars or other transportation. 

Vision of the Seas isn't perfect, but the pros of a smaller ship make up for the cons

(Credit: Ira Winkler)

I love traveling on large ships; however, Vision of the Seas sets herself apart. The departure port, the lower cost, and the unique itinerary overcame the downsides. 

The large number of sea days provided a more relaxing experience. Likewise, the fact that the ship is smaller and less crowded allowed for a much more relaxed cruise.

Whether it's right for you or not depends on what you value. With the proper expectations and the right mix of what you are looking for, even the smallest and oldest ships can provide an awesome experience. 

While I admit that it sounded like a cliché before the cruise, I can attest that what Vision lacks in size, she makes up for in heart.

For seven days, my home on one of the biggest cruise ships in the world was an inside room.

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas in 2023, and although she had lost the title of world's largest cruise ship to Wonder of the Seas, her Oasis Class charm was impressive and mind-boggling. 

During my seven-day voyage from Miami, Florida, I visited St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas. 

Although the itinerary was appealing, I was more concerned with the onboard experience, having visited St. Thomas and St. Maarten countless times growing up. 

From the Ultimate Abyss dry slide to Broadway-caliber productions, soaring zip line, jaw-dropping AquaTheater performances, and more, Symphony of the Seas definitely delivered nonstop thrills — and at a reasonable price. 

The mega-ship has countless different room categories to pick from, from spacious multi-deck suites to ocean-view balconies. However, I went with the cheapest available option: a standard inside cabin. 

The week-long cruise in a windowless interior stateroom on Deck 7 cost $1,400, including taxes, gratuities, and port fees. 

Take a look inside the 149-square-foot space and see why, despite its cramped size, it was a comfortable retreat during a busy Caribbean cruise. 

The cabin's layout made great use of a small space

Although my tiny cruise room was less than 150 square feet, it was one of the most contemporary-feeling cabins I had ever stayed in.

For starters, there was a large couch sandwiched between the room's two closets. Having this additional seating area was a major perk, as many inside cabins don’t offer anywhere to sit other than the bed and a small vanity chair/stool. 

There was even more storage available in the built-in dresser next to the desk. The shelves and hangers in the closet made it easy to unpack and settle into my home away from home. 

I utilized the dresser, too, which contained three empty — but deep — drawers, a fourth with a box of tissues and a room service information pamphlet, and a fifth that was home to the hairdryer, as well as a large cabinet with the stateroom's mini-fridge.

Moving on, Symphony of the Seas is a newer cruise ship, having set sail in 2018. As such, the cabin was outfitted with modern perks. For example, I had to insert my SeaPass card into a small key slot that powered on all the electricity within the cabin to preserve energy. 

There was also an abundance of outlets for charging electronics. On older Royal Caribbean ships, you are lucky if you have more than two standard American outlets by the vanity. However, my room on Symphony of the Seas had four American and one European socket, as well as two USB ports. 

Most of the outlets were concentrated at the desk and vanity area, but there was one American plug located beside the bed. This made charging my phone at night much easier since I didn't have to remember to move it before falling asleep. 

Speaking of the bed, I could have requested that the two beds be pushed apart to create two twin-sized beds and make the room feel more spacious. 

Instead, I opted to keep them together since I was traveling alone. Having extra room to stretch out was more important than a walkway between the beds, though I did sometimes notice the gap where the beds met. 

However, even with the beds together, the cabin's layout was surprisingly functional — I never tripped over miscellaneous shoes or felt cramped during my 7 nights at sea. 

The bathroom was tiny but modern

As expected, the bathroom inside my cruise stateroom was small; however, it was modern and clean. 

There was a shocking amount of counter space, as well as three shelves to the right-hand side of the mirror. More storage was available underneath the sink, too. 

On the back of the door were two hooks for wet towels, swimsuits, and hanging toiletry organizers.

Inside the shower, there was a soap dispenser that distributed Royal Caribbean's signature Salt + Breeze bath scent. I'm not a fan of this 2-in-1 product, so I always bring my own toiletries from home, including shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. 

I was disappointed that there was only one small ledge in the shower. If I were traveling with one more person, it would have been a tight squeeze to fit all of our products there.

Additionally, the shower's water pressure was neither awful nor great; it was just okay. I did have issues with the temperature that never got resolved, though. 

In the mornings, it was nearly impossible to get any hot water. Sometimes, I had to wait 25 minutes for the water to heat up to lukewarm! In the evenings, I had the opposite problem: the temperature was scalding hot.

I did not choose my cabin's location

Because I booked the cheapest available rate, I could not pick my exact cruise room. Instead, Royal Caribbean randomly assigned a cabin to me closer to the sailing date. 

If this sounds risky, that's because it is. You could end up in a less desirable location, like near the nightclub, far from elevators, or tucked away at the very front of the ship, where movement is more noticeable.

In my case, the latter proved true. My stateroom was located at the forward of Deck 7 on a "secret" hallway full of other interior cabins between the port and starboard sides of the ship. It felt like a maze when I was trying to locate my stateroom on embarkation day!

While the forward elevator bank was somewhat close, the aft elevators were far from where I was located.

Not having a window wasn't a dealbreaker

Initially, I was worried that the lack of natural sunlight would cause me to feel cramped, sleep in on accident, or that I would just miss waking up to a sprawling ocean view.

Although nothing beats watching the seafoam form against the hull of the ship as it glides through the ocean, my inside cabin was such a good deal that it more than made up for not having a view.

Sailing on one of the world's largest ships meant that I was rarely in my stateroom. Most of my time was spent exploring the ship, watching an original show, or enjoying the activities and dining options on board. 

The room definitely served its purpose of being a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the Oasis Class neighborhoods — and a comfortable one at that. 

Royal Caribbean is just days away from opening its newest private destination with a beach club in the Mediterranean.

Royal Beach Club Santorini is opening for the summer cruise season in Greece, and it looks very different from anything the cruise line has done before.

Speaking during a recent webinar, Keri-Ann Chin-Sang, Senior Director of Product Development, pulled back the curtain on Royal Beach Club Santorini ahead of its debut. What she described isn't a scaled-down version of Perfect Day at CocoCay, but something far more intentional, and far more exclusive.

"In five days, we'll be celebrating the debut of Royal Caribbean's first ever Royal Beach Club in Europe," Chin-Sang said during her explanation.  She's actually spent the last few weeks in Greece working on it. "We're super excited… we are here in the final days of adding the finishing touches and making sure everything's just perfect for guests."

One thing is clear from her overview of the new beach club: Royal Caribbean is taking a completely different approach to what a "private destination" looks like in Europe.

This beach club will be smaller, and more exclusive

Unlike a private island experience, the Royal Beach Club is not meant to be anything like CocoCay.

"What you're seeing here is… probably a little bit smaller than what everyone typically thinks of when you think of a Royal Caribbean private destination," Chin-Sang explained.

Whereas CocoCay can accommodate over 10,000 people, Royal Beach Club Santorini has a smaller footprint.

"Royal Beach Club Santorini is truly an exclusive experience in this first season for really just about 300 guests at a time."

"Currently the plan is 300 guests at a time… in a day we're looking at 900 guests for the day. But at any one time, we're planning for an intimate group of 300 guests."

That limit is intentional as a way to to respond to one of Santorini’s biggest challenges.

Royal Caribbean is trying to solve Santorini's major problem

Royal Caribbean's research showed them that while Santorini is one of the most popular cruise ports in Europe, it's also been frustrating for guests.

"Santorini always has high appeal with guests, but somehow came back with low satisfaction," Chin-Sang revealed.

"In digging into that, we realized that it's mostly about the transportation, the crowds, the wait times."

If you’ve ever visited, you've probably experienced long tender lines, packed streets in Fira, and the infamous cable car queues.

Royal Caribbean sought to design a beach club experience that fixes those problems.

"We thought really long and hard about how we could fix that and enhance the guest experience and make sure that guests are really able to maximize their day on the island."

You'll have a "build your own adventure" approach when in Santorini

Admission to the club goes beyond a beach day. Royal Caribbean is bundling the beach club into what it calls the "Ultimate Santorini Day" tour.

"This three stop build your own adventure… allows people to plan their day," Chin-Sang explained.

Guests will be able to experience multiple parts of the island in a structured, seamless way.

"Some guests will be able to start their day at the beach club. Some guests will start their day with the towns… Oia and Fira, and every stop along the tour has its own unique charm."

That includes:

• Oia
• Fira
• The beach club

"You can enjoy a relaxing afternoon on a black sand beach with an unlimited Greek buffet… like who wouldn't want this perfect tour in Santorini," she said.

The biggest difference, though, is how easy it's meant to be.

"You don't have to think hard about waiting in a long line, or waiting in the sun to ride the cable car… you are ushered from location to location on a cozy, air conditioned bus."

In other words, Royal Caribbean is trying to make a port notorious for crowds and waits into a much easier experience.

This club was designed to fit in, not stand out

Another major shift is how the destination looks, because it's not using bright colors or incorporate attractions.

"We didn't want to make this your traditional beacon, bright colors of a Royal Caribbean destination," Chin-Sang said.

Their goal was to make it feel like part of Santorini itself.

"We wanted to really make sure that we were developing a property that felt like it was part of Santorini, authentic to the local architecture."

A day at the beach club is meant to be picture perfect

The beach club includes many of the amenities cruisers expect, in addition to the backdrop of being on a beautiful Greek island.

"It is the kind of scenery guests dream about," Chin-Sang said, describing the setting.

"It's set at the southern coast of Santorini, with a backdrop of these unreal volcanic cliffs."

Here's what's included:

• A black sand beach
• Loungers and umbrellas
• Changing huts and showers
• A main bar and buffet

"All of the amenities that guests are looking for are just a few steps away… it's pretty much a hassle free day."

In fact, small details have been refined to ensure it's a great experience, "The beach is at a lower elevation than the restaurant, so all of the restaurant seating is the best seat in the house."

Food will be a focal point to embrace being in Greece

Food is another area where Royal Caribbean is leaning into the destination.

"We've worked for several months… with local chefs to really pour that authentic Greek vibe into the menu."

You can expect to find on the menu gyros and souvlaki, Greek burger, vegetarian moussaka, and more.

"My personal favorite… the unlimited Greek frozen yogurt," she said.

Drinks are also included, with a strong local focus.

"We're very, very excited to be able to offer a Royal Beach Club exclusive craft beer… it's called Lava Lager."

Guests will also find custom wines made specifically for Royal Caribbean visitors. There will be custom red, white, and rosé wine varietals.

Royal Caribbean is doing something different in Santorini

If there’s one theme that comes through in this preview, I think it's that they're taking a far different approach with this beach club.

Their goal isn't to build the biggest or most feature-packed destination. Instead, they're trying to solve a problem their research tells them exists and then deliver a better version of Santorini.

"We found the most gorgeous site that we could possibly find on the island," Chin-Sang said.

"And we've made it into an experience where the transportation is curated, it's included… you don't have to think hard."

Considering Royal Caribbean has a reputation of going big, they're building something much more tailored to the destination.

If it works, it could usher in a new approach to how it tackles private destinations in other parts of the world.

Royal Caribbean is offering a new way to book a guaranteed cabin without having to wait as long for the room assignment.

Appealing to a common frustration among cruise ship passengers that let the cruise line pick their room in exchange for a cheaper price, the "Early Assign" program will ensure you aren't waiting months to have one picked for you.

Traditionally, there's no telling how long it could take before your room would be assigned after booking a guaranteed room. It could be days, weeks, or months. In fact, the exact room could technically be assigned on the day of embarkation.

Instead, there's a new program out to let you bypass the waiting by paying a nominal fee.

You pay for Early Assign, and it's like front-of-the-line access

Not actual logo, just something we made up!

Royal Caribbean announced a pilot program on Wednesday called, "Early Assign", where you pay a fee to have your guaranteed cabin assignment much faster than usual.

The cost is $30 per cabin.

As of right now, it's a pilot program and available only to U.S. bookings during specific pre-sailing windows:

• Cruises five nights or less: 30-60 days before sailing
• Cruises six nights or longer: 50–80 days before sailing

It's available for these room categories:

• WS
• XB
• XQ
• XN
• NQ
• YO
• YQ
• ZI
• ZQ

Guests will receive their stateroom assignment within 24 business hours of Royal Caribbean's receipt of payment in full.

In addition, Early Assign that lets you switch to another open cabin in your category, based on availability. This means if you prefer a different room location than the one you were assigned and there's an unsold room left in the same category as yours, you can switch to it.

To be fair, that's something anyone can do, regardless if they booked a guaranteed room or not. But perhaps Royal Caribbean is highlighting this because taking advantage of Early Assign provides more time so there would still be other unsold rooms.

If you opt in and pay the $30, the cabin is assigned immediately.

Early Access is not available for casino fares.

The $30 payment for Early Assign is non-refundable, regardless of cancellation. If a cruise booking is canceled, the Early Assign fee is forfeited and not refunded, regardless of cancellation timing.

Travel agents can book it on behalf of their clients, but there's indication that someone booking without a travel agent couldn't book it.

Is Early Access worth it?

It's clear that Royal Caribbean wants to address a complaint among cruisers who feel waiting until the last minute to know which room they've been assigned is less than ideal.  Moreover, they're going to turn that need into a revenue generator.

While some cruisers may not care how long it takes to get a room assigned, others are less care-free.  The question of "how long does it take to get a cabin assigned" is one of the more common frequently asked questions on the Royal Caribbean message boards.

The reason guarantee cabins exist is to help fill in unsold rooms.  Royal Caribbean essentially offers you a lower price in exchange for letting them pick your room location.

It's also a tool cruise lines use to oversell cruise ships with the assumption last-minute cancellations typically occur.

By reducing the wait time involved in a guaranteed booking, it's like the "easy button".

The program reminds me of how some airlines offer early boarding if you pay extra.

One thing it won't do is allow you to pick a specific room or location.  The cruise line says the new program does not guarantee deck, location, view, or specific stateroom attributes. Really, it's just a way to know your room location sooner.

I've booked guarantee rooms with mixed results

Over the years, I've occasionally booked guarantee rooms as a way to save money.

I primarily relied on it when I'm cruising solo, because my room location isn't as important when it's just me.  Not only am I okay with a smaller room, but I'm not that particular. Plus, my kids aren't with me, so I don't need to have my cabin be near theirs.

In my experience, I've always ended up with a cabin at the end of a hallway and often a connecting room.

There's usually a reason unsold cabins remain unsold in the final months before the cruise begins, largely because it's further away from the elevators. Or it's attached to a connecting cabin with someone they don't know on the other side.

Still, the money saved by going this route is difficult to overlook. 

Those that aren't susceptible to getting seasick and don't mind a longer walk to elevators may find the trade-offs well worth it.

I won't book a guarantee room for every cruise, but it is a useful option when I'm flexible in my travel plans.