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3 ways to maximize the new Royal Caribbean double points offer

In:
By: 
Allie Hubers

Royal Caribbean has revived one of its most rewarding loyalty promotions: double Crown & Anchor points. For a limited time, cruisers can move up the loyalty ladder twice as fast, making this a rare opportunity to reach the next loyalty tier sooner.

With the new Double Points offer, Crown and Anchor members can earn 2 points per night in a standard cabin, 4 points per night when cruising solo or staying in a suite, and 6 points per night when cruising solo in a suite.

For cruisers within reach of the next loyalty tier, a little planning could make this promotion even more lucrative. For instance, choosing the right cabin, adjusting who stays in each room, or taking a quick weekend cruise could help you reach the next Crown and Anchor tier even faster.

Double Points promotion

The promotion applies to new bookings made between July 21 and July 31, 2026, for eligible cruises departing from September 1, 2026, through April 30, 2027. Each member can use the promotion on up to two cruises, while Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings are excluded.

The Double Points promotion might seem straightforward, but the details of your reservation can significantly change how many points you earn. If you’re trying to make the most of this latest promotion, here are three booking strategies to consider.

How Royal Caribbean cruise points normally work

With Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, you’ll earn points based on the number of nights you cruise. As you earn more points, you’ll receive more lucrative benefits and perks when cruising with Royal Caribbean.

Under the standard earning structure, members receive one Cruise Point for every night sailed. Staying in an eligible suite or cruising alone in a double-occupancy cabin increases that to 2 points per night. A solo traveler staying in a suite receives 3 points per night.

Under Royal Caribbean’s Double Points promotion, members earn the following totals:

  • A standard cabin earns 2 points per night.
  • A solo traveler earns 4 points per night.
  • A suite guest earns 4 points per night.
  • A solo traveler in a suite earns 6 points per night.

Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society benefits become substantially more valuable at the higher tiers. Depending on their status, top-tier members can receive perks such as daily drink vouchers, complimentary internet access, priority services, reserved entertainment seating, complimentary photos, and access to exclusive onboard venues.

In addition, your Royal Caribbean loyalty status does not expire, so the points earned during this promotion can provide benefits for years to come. That is why cruisers who are close to Diamond, Diamond Plus, or Pinnacle status might be interested in maximizing the offer.

Crown and Anchor has six published membership levels:

  • Gold: 3 Cruise Points
  • Platinum: 30 Cruise Points
  • Emerald: 55 Cruise Points
  • Diamond: 80 Cruise Points
  • Diamond Plus: 175 Cruise Points
  • Pinnacle Club: 700 Cruise Points

Let’s dig into the three different strategies for optimizing your earned points during this promotion.

1. Book a suite as a solo traveler

utopia-owner-suite-7

If you’re looking to maximize the number of points you can earn with this offer, you should consider booking a suite as a solo traveler.

Under the usual Crown and Anchor earning structure, a solo traveler in a suite receives 3 points per night: one base point, one for staying in a suite, and one for cruising solo. With the new Double Points promotion, your earnings will double to 6 points per night.

This means a 7-night solo suite cruise would earn 42 points! By comparison, the same sailing in a standard cabin, when shared with another guest, would normally earn just 7 points.

Living room

Earning 42 points could make a major difference in your Crown & Anchor status. For instance, a Gold member with 3 points would finish with 45 points and earn Platinum status. Similarly, a Platinum cruiser with 38 points would finish with 80 points and become Diamond.

Of course, this strategy will not make sense for every budget. Suites are already very expensive, and booking one alone can increase the cost even more. Also, paying thousands of dollars extra just to earn more points won’t be worth it for most cruisers.

However, if you were already thinking about booking a solo suite, this promotion makes the decision more rewarding. It could also help justify upgrading when the price difference between a balcony cabin and a Junior Suite is reasonable.

2. Book the household’s points leader in a cabin alone

Families traveling together can also use the promotion to help one person reach the next loyalty tier faster. One strategy is to book the household member with the most Cruise Points in a cabin alone, allowing that person to earn the solo bonus.

Here’s how it works. Let’s say your family of four is cruising together, and one spouse has more cruise points than the other. Instead of booking everyone in a single cabin, the family could reserve two rooms. The person with the most Cruise Points would be booked alone in one cabin, while the other adult and children would be booked in the second.

Under the promotion, the cruiser with more points would earn 4 points per night in the solo cabin. On a 7-night cruise, that person would receive 28 points instead of the 14 they would earn while sharing a standard cabin.

Because Royal Caribbean allows eligible family members in the same household to receive equivalent Crown & Anchor status, earning a higher tier can benefit the whole family. Although the points remain with the person who earned them, a linked spouse or significant other, along with verified children under 18 who share the same address, can usually receive the same tier status.

Surfside View Cabin on Legend of the Seas

Once the accounts are properly linked, qualifying household members can take advantage of the higher status and its benefits, even though their individual point totals may be different.

There are a few exceptions to consider. For instance, Royal Caribbean has separate rules for Pinnacle Club, and children do not inherit Pinnacle status from a parent. Before booking, you’ll also want to make sure all eligible household members are correctly linked through the Crown and Anchor Society.

Moreover, the cost of booking two cabins needs to make sense financially. This strategy may be difficult to justify if the second room adds thousands of dollars to the vacation. However, it could work well for a family that already wants more space or was planning to reserve two cabins anyway.

For example, if you are considering one balcony cabin for your family, compare its price with the cost of booking two interior cabins. The total price might be similar, allowing you to gain extra space and privacy while taking advantage of the Double Points offer.

3. Sneak in a weekend cruise

If a solo suite or two-cabin family arrangement is too expensive, the easiest strategy might be adding a short weekend cruise to your vacation plans.

Royal Caribbean says members can take advantage of the Double Points offer on up to two eligible cruises. Someone who already plans to book a longer vacation could use the second opportunity for an inexpensive 3-night or 4-night getaway cruise.

Even a short sailing can provide a useful boost to your loyalty points balance. For instance, a 3-night cruise would earn 6 points in a standard cabin. A solo cruiser or suite guest could receive 12 points, while a solo traveler in a suite could collect 18 points over one weekend.

On a 4-night cruise, those totals increase to 8, 16 and 24 points, respectively. While it may not seem like much, that extra boost could put the next loyalty tier within reach.

Consider a cruiser with 68 points who needs only 12 more to reach Diamond status. By booking one qualifying 3-night solo cruise during the Double Points promotion, they could earn exactly the 12 points needed to reach that next tier.

Diamond members receive four complimentary drink vouchers each day on Royal Caribbean cruises. For some cruisers, this benefit could eliminate the need to purchase a drink package on future sailings and save hundreds of dollars per cruise.

Short cruises can also require fewer vacation days and may have lower starting fares than weeklong itineraries. Cruisers who live within driving distance of a Royal Caribbean home port are in the best position to capitalize, as airfare and pre-cruise hotel expenses can quickly add up.

Check the terms before booking

Star of the Seas exterior shot

You’ll want to review the terms and conditions of this new promotion before trying any of these strategies.

Royal Caribbean’s Double Points offer applies only to new reservations, so existing reservations do not qualify. Members must include a valid, verified Crown & Anchor number on the reservation. Once the reservation is paid in full, qualifying points should post within 30 days after the sailing ends.

Also, the bonus points cannot be transferred through Royal Caribbean’s Points Choice program. Submitting a transfer request would forfeit the promotional points. Complimentary cruises, casino offers, employee cruises, seminar rates, and certain reduced travel-agent rates are also excluded from the offer. The promotion is not applicable to the Best Price Guarantee, either.

Fortunately, the Double Points promotion can be combined with several other offers, including BOGO60, Kids Sail Free, Free Third and Fourth Guests, eligible onboard credit, NextCruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (such as Senior, Military, or Resident), Crown and Anchor discounts, and shareholder benefits.

Ultimately, the right strategy will depend on your budget, current Crown & Anchor status, and your travel plans. Booking a solo suite will maximize the number of points you can earn on a single cruise, while reserving two cabins can help the person closest to the next tier get there faster. If neither option makes sense, a short weekend cruise can still provide a boost toward your next status tier.

Since the offer is limited to two qualifying cruises, it is worth choosing those bookings carefully. A little planning now could help you unlock valuable Crown & Anchor benefits much sooner, allowing you to continue enjoying them for years to come.

I've stayed six kinds of cruise rooms, and the cheapest was never worth it. Here's what to book instead.

In:
By: 
Elizabeth Wright

After over three dozen cruises, it's safe to say that I've stayed in my fair share of accommodations at sea, ranging from windowless interior cabins to lavish suites with butler service. 

Elizabeth, Cabin Comparison Split

Throughout my cruising career, I've learned that not all cruise cabins are designed equally. As such, although booking the cheapest room might seem like the easiest way to save money on your vacation, that doesn't mean you'll have the best cruise experience.

In fact, splurging on higher-category rooms, like ocean-view balconies and suites, has often made my cruises more enjoyable and memorable. 

Based on my experiences, here are a couple of the cruise rooms I've tried and would skip— and the ones I'd recommend in a heartbeat. 

Tiny interior staterooms with limited space and no views

Liberty of the Seas Inside Cabin

Growing up, my family never stayed in interior rooms, which perhaps spoiled me a little too much. Still, once I began traveling as an adult and paying for my own vacations, it was hard to stomach always splurging on balconies. 

That said, I quickly learned why my parents were always adamant about booking balconies. Inside cabins are the smallest accommodations onboard and lack the natural light, fresh air, and connection to the ocean that I crave while at sea. 

On Caribbean itineraries, this isn't the worst since most of the views at sea are just endless blue water. However, I really regret booking interior rooms on both my Alaska cruises

Harmony Inside Cabin

Although I spent most of my days exploring the ship and ports of call, like Juneau and Skagway, having a private balcony to enjoy Alaska's scenery in privacy would have been worth the extra cost — especially on scenic cruising days. 

Read more: I went on a 7-night Alaska cruise and stayed in a windowless cabin for $1,900. Here's what our 166-square-foot room was like

Ocean-view staterooms provide a little more space but lack fresh air

Ocean-view room

Wanting to find a middle ground between a windowless inside cabin and a pricey balcony, I tried an ocean-view stateroom. These cabins are generally larger than interior staterooms and have a view of the outside world, but they still lack fresh air. 

Plus, some ocean-view cabins have smaller windows or obstructed views, meaning you won't get the sweeping view you imagined. In that case, the biggest advantage is the natural light, rather than the view itself. 

There's no denying that ocean-view staterooms are a step up from interior cabins, but I still found myself missing the ability to step outside without having to leave my room. 

Interior-facing balconies feel enclosed and are often noisy

Boardwalk Playmakers Harmony

Next, I've sailed in a handful of interior-facing balconies on Oasis and Icon Class ships, including Central Park and Boardwalk-view rooms. These staterooms technically have private balconies, but they offer a different experience from traditional ocean-facing cabins. 

For starters, the biggest downside of these rooms is the lack of privacy. As implied by the name, Boardwalk balconies overlook the Boardwalk Neighborhood on Oasis Class ships (this neighborhood was replaced by Surfside on Icon, Star, and Legend of the Seas). 

This means that, rather than having a direct oceanfront view, you're looking inward at the ship's public areas. Not only that, but these cabins can be surprisingly noisy, especially at night during AquaTheater shows. 

Icon, Central Park Infinite Verandah

Central Park is a little better since you're looking at a neighborhood with trees, bushes, and other vegetation. However, it's still a little awkward looking directly into other guests' staterooms. 

Plus, I discovered that these cabins are still noisier than you might think. On Icon of the Seas, my fiancée and I stayed in an Infinite Veranda above Izumi and Trellis Bar. 

As such, we could hear the sounds of Central Park's popular dining and entertainment venues, along with music drifting down from the pool deck during the day, from our stateroom.

Read more: I paid $3,800 for a controversial balcony on the world's largest cruise ship. The space was larger than expected, but it didn't have an ocean view and lacked privacy

Connecting staterooms are great for families and give everyone more privacy 

Connecting door

My family quickly discovered that connecting cabins worked well for us. I'd stay in one room with my sister, while my parents had the room next door. 

The reason connecting cruise rooms work so well is that they provide the three major things families need: space, privacy, and value.

For example, having two bathrooms was a huge perk of our connecting cabins. With two teenage girls, there's no way the four of us could have shared one tiny bathroom and made it out without fighting. 

Liberty Bathroom

I also appreciated that we weren't stuck on pullman or sofa beds. Instead, we'd each have our own twin-sized bed. This made the cabin feel less cramped, especially at night. 

I've never regretted splurging on a balcony cabin

Balcony cabin

Finally, the one type of cruise room I've never regretted booking is an ocean-view balcony. They may not seem necessary on every voyage, such as a short weekend getaway to The Bahamas, but they serve as a constant reminder that you are actually at sea. To me, that's worth every penny. 

Instead of only feeling like I'm on a cruise while standing on the top deck or exploring the ship, I can take advantage of my own private outdoor space whenever I want, whether that's first thing in the morning or late at night.

Even on Caribbean getaways, I love starting my morning with free room service and a hot cup of coffee on the balcony, watching the ship glide through the open ocean. 

Norway Balcony Cabin

However, a balcony feels even more necessary on scenic sailings, like on my cruise to Norway a few years ago. During that weeklong sailing, my fiancée and I used our balcony way more than we thought, watching the dramatic fjords, mountains, and coastal landscapes pass by. 

Ultimately, the best cruise cabin depends on your budget and travel style. However, after staying in different kinds of staterooms over the years, I've learned firsthand that extra space and private balconies make a huge difference. 

The best way to spend just 72 hours on a cruise

In:
By: 
Matt Hochberg

The first time I went on a three-night cruise, I treated it like a race.

Matt on Utopia of the Seas

I was determined to milk every minute of every activity from that ship because I had just a few days onboard instead of the usual week.

I woke up early, and tried to make it to every bar, show, activity, and restaurant before disembarking.

While I did experience a lot, it left me exhausted. I felt like I had spent more time trying to get everything done instead of enjoying any of it.

I've taken a lot of 3-night cruises since then (I'm up to nine on Utopia of the Seas), and I've completely changed how I approach a shorter sailing. I stopped trying to squeeze a full week into 72 hours, and I definitely enjoy them more.

If you're going to take a three-night cruise, here's how I'd recommend enjoying it.

You need a different mindset

Utopia of the Seas

If you've taken longer sailings already, you're going to need to change how you think about a short cruise.

The best analogy I have is like going to a restaurant and only ordering appetizers to share instead of a full meal. You get a taste, but it's not what you're used to typically.

I think people that treat a short cruise like a seven-night cruise are often disappointed because they try to cram so much into a short period of time.

Wonder-Central-Park-split

When I step aboard, I go in knowing I won't be able to do everything and there will be areas of the ship I never see. But that's okay, because I can come back again for another short cruise.

The pace of the trip will feel different, so you need to adjust how your priorities accordingly.

Short cruises are perfect for booking an inside room

Wonder-Inside-Cabin-1

I've stayed in inside, balcony, and suite cabins while sailing on short cruises. My takeaway is there is just not enough time in your cabin.

There's an argument to book a less expensive inside room of, "how much time will you actually spend in your room? So why pay more for a nicer one you'll barely be in?" and it really applies for short cruises.

The first day of the cruise is a blur because you're running around a lot trying to see and do things.  But Royal Caribbean ships pack two port days after that, meaning there are no sea days on a three-nighter. When you're off the ship early in the morning and then come back to shower and change for dinner, that leaves barely any time in the cabin.

Wonder-Interior

I've started leaning towards cheaper inside staterooms so that I can save money. I'd rather take that extra couple hundred dollars I'd save from not booking a balcony and instead use it towards a cabana rental or admission to a beach day pass.

Or you can just pocket the savings. Either way, it feels like there is less time in your cabin.

Board the ship as early as possible

Port Canaveral line

When you only have 72 hours of a cruise, don't waste it in your hotel room.

Check-in for a cruise begins around 10am and guests have between then and 2-3pm to get onboard.

Royal Caribbean assigns check-in times via the app, so I'd recommend getting the earliest check-in time possible so you can get on the ship sooner.

Utopia of the Seas docked in Port Canaveral

Getting an extra few hours will make embarkation day feel much longer, and it's also the best time to hit the Windjammer, water slides, or other popular areas before they get slammed with other passengers later.

I've made it a habit of mine to check-in for my cruise 45 days before embarkation so I can get an early check-in time.

Make reservations immediately

Show in Aquatheater

While I said you have to change your mindset for short cruises, that doesn't mean give up on doing anything.

Check the Royal Caribbean app to make reservations for comedy, stage shows, dining, escape room, and anything else limited.

Here's a tip that works very well: I'll always pick the first Aquatheater show to see instead of ones later in the sailing. This is because if bad weather plays a role in postponing shows, you want to see it early for the best chance of not missing out.

Comedy show

Royal Caribbean will cancel shows if the winds or rocking motion are too strong. So never assume you'll have a chance to see the show later.

Once onboard the ship, certain activities open up reservations once you connect to the ship's Wi-Fi. Laser tag and additional reservations for shows are examples of this.  Connect to the Wi-Fi and check for any extra reservations once you have a minute on the ship.

Do a half day at CocoCay or Nassau so you enjoy the ship

Wonder of the Seas in CocoCay

An underrated cruise tip is to find something to do in either of your cruise ports, but return to the ship before everyone else.

If you can get a few hours at either Perfect Day at CocoCay or Nassau, Bahamas and then go back onboard, you will be able to enjoy a less crowded ship.

In fact, this works best if you're wearing your swim suit already and go immediately back onboard to the pool or waterslides.  Those venues will be far less busy because most people are off the ship.

Royal ONE or Royal ONE Plus? A side-by-side comparison

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By: 
Elizabeth Wright

Royal Caribbean credit cards unlock special onboard perks, high welcome bonuses, and other travel benefits. However, the two cards serve different types of travelers. So how do you know which one is actually worth it?

Wonder of the Seas aerial rear

To help you decide, we've created a detailed breakdown comparing the new Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® and Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® credit cards across the factors that matter most.

At the end of the day, loyal Crown & Anchor fans can't go wrong with either card, as both options offer a straightforward way to earn rewards toward future Royal Caribbean vacations. 

Still, you may find that the premium Royal ONE Plus card better meets your needs as a frequent cruiser with enhanced benefits, while the no-fee Royal ONE Visa could be a smarter choice for occasional travelers. 

Methodology for comparing Royal Caribbean credit cards

Royal one credit cards

For this comparison, we'll compare the Royal ONE and Royal ONE Plus credit cards across six categories: 

  • Annual fee 
  • Current welcome offer 
  • Ways to earn points 
  • Redemption options 
  • Cruise benefits
  • Travel perks/protections 

Editor's note: This analysis is based on the everyday traveler, rather than dedicated cruise enthusiasts who may place a higher value on Royal Caribbean perks and benefits. Additionally, information related to the Visa Signature® cards collected by Royal Caribbean Blog has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the cards. 

Royal ONE vs. Royal ONE Plus comparison

CardAnnual FeeWelcome Offer (7/15/2026)Ways to Earn PointsAnniversary BonusCruise Benefits
Royal ONE™ Visa Signature®$030,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 in the first 90 days of account opening3 points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean Group purchases (including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea) AND 2 points per dollar spent on groceries, gas, and EV charging AND 1 point per dollar on other everyday purchases$100 anniversary cruise discount if you spend $10,000 or more on the card annuallyPriority boarding on embarkation day AND special event access
Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature®$9960,000 bonus points after spending $2,500 in the first 90 days of account opening4 points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean Group purchases (including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea) AND 2 points per dollar spent on dining, hotels, airlines, groceries, gas, and EV charging AND 1 point per dollar spent on other everyday purchases$200 anniversary cruise discount if you spend $20,000 or more on the card annuallyPriority boarding on embarkation day (suite line) AND priority luggage delivery AND special event access

Annual fee

Royal One Plus

When evaluating any credit card's annual fee, you must weigh the included benefits and statement credits to see whether you can justify the cost. The key is determining if you think it's worth it, as your spending habits and travel preferences may differ from your aunt's, coworker's, etc. 

In this case, the Royal ONE credit card allows cardholders to earn Royal Caribbean rewards without paying an annual fee, while the Royal ONE Plus comes with an annual fee of $99 in exchange for additional perks and better point earning rates. 

Although the $99 annual fee isn't as hefty as some other premium travel cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum, you still need to make sure you will use the card's benefits enough to offset the cost. Otherwise, you're better off going with the no-fee Royal ONE card. 

Welcome offer

Pool Deck on Legend of the Seas

Both cards come with welcome offers that can help get you closer to your next cruise vacation, though offers can change, and eligibility restrictions apply. If, for instance, your previously held Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises credit card was replaced by a Royal ONE credit card, you can't get a new welcome bonus. 

At the time of publication, the Royal ONE card offered new cardholders 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 within the first 90 days of account opening, while the Royal ONE Plus card offered 60,000 bonus points after spending $2,500 within the first 90 days of account opening.

Along with the annual fee, you'll need to consider whether you can comfortably meet the spending requirements for the Royal ONE Plus card within the designated timeframe. 

Ways to earn points

Royal One Credit Card

Another important factor to compare is each card's points-earning potential. 

Although both cards offer opportunities to rack up points, the Royal ONE Plus card comes with a few extra bonus categories that allow cardholders to earn points faster on certain purchases. 

The points multiplier for the no-fee Royal ONE card is as follows:

  • 3 points per dollar spent on eligible Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea purchases
  • 2 points per dollar on eligible grocery, gas, and EV charging station purchases
  • 1 point per dollar on other everyday purchases
Liberty docked in Southampton

If you decide to go for the Royal ONE Plus card, you can expect the following point earning rates:

  • 4 points per dollar spent on eligible Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea purchases
  • 2 points per dollar on eligible airline, hotel, dining, grocery, gas, and EV charging station purchases
  • 1 point per dollar on other everyday purchases

Overall, the Royal Caribbean Visa Signature® cards have pretty solid points multipliers, with a heavy emphasis on Royal Caribbean Group purchases. 

Holding card

For example, with the Royal ONE card, you will earn three points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. So if you spend $1,500 on your cruise fare, you'll earn 4,500 points. 

Royal ONE Plus cardholders, however, will earn four points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, turning that same $1,500 fare into 6,000 credit card points. The premium card also offers bonus point earnings on categories such as airlines, dining, and hotels.

One important caveat to keep in mind is that third-party bookings don't qualify for the bonus. In other words, if you book a Royal Caribbean cruise through a travel website like Expedia, the purchase won't be eligible for the point multiplier rate. 

Redemption options

Icon of the Seas Cocktail

Unlike other credit cards that have multiple transfer partners, the Royal ONE and Royal ONE Plus cards focus on Royal Caribbean-related rewards. 

This means that if you want a travel card that offers flexibility between airline and hotel transfers, you won't get the same level of versatility from these cards. 

However, the ability to redeem rewards directly toward cruises and pricey add-ons can make a Royal Caribbean credit card a valuable addition to your travel strategy – if you're a frequent cruiser. 

Credit card

That said, there isn't a difference in how redemption works between the two cards. Each point is equivalent to one cent that you can apply toward cruise discounts, add-ons, or onboard credit on Royal Caribbean Group-operated sailings, including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. 

The minimum redemption is 5,000 points, which comes out to $50. As mentioned, points can be used to pay for a cruise, get extra onboard credit, or cover pre-cruise purchases. 

Point redemptions can be completed online, through the app, or by calling Royal Caribbean at 888-305-4626, Celebrity Cruises at 800-760-0654, or Silversea at 888-978-4077. 

Surfside View Cabin on Legend of the Seas

The biggest difference comes down to the annual anniversary bonus. This, however, is subject to meeting the credit card's minimum spending requirements — and they aren't exactly easy to reach.

Royal ONE cardholders receive a $100 anniversary credit after spending $10,000 or more on the card annually, while Royal ONE Plus cardholders get a $200 anniversary credit after spending $20,000 or more each year.

Cruise benefits

The Royal Caribbean credit cards come with a few onboard perks aboard Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea cruises. 

All cardholders, for example, receive access to special events during their sailings and priority boarding at the terminal (subject to availability). This ensures that you aren't stuck wasting valuable vacation time in line and can start enjoying everything onboard sooner. 

Those with the Royal ONE Plus card also benefit from expedited luggage delivery, along with access to a dedicated suite boarding lane that makes the embarkation process even faster.

Travel perks/protections  

Royal One Credit Card

Both credit cards offer perks that are useful for land-based travel, including no foreign transaction fees. As a Visa Signature® cardholder, you'll have access to the Visa Signature® Luxury Hotel Collection and receive special rates and VIP status at select hotels worldwide. 

The cards also include 24-hour travel and emergency assistance, car rental coverage, access to emergency roadside assistance, trip delay and lost luggage expense reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, and extended warranty protection. 

Finally, Royal ONE Plus cardholders will receive a $120 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry enrollment or renewal once every four years.

Is the Royal ONE credit card or the Royal ONE Plus credit card better?

Legend tendered in La Spezia, Italy

There isn't a right or wrong answer when it comes to which Royal Caribbean credit card is better. At the end of the day, the better card depends on how often you cruise and how much value you can squeeze out of the card's benefits

The no-fee Royal ONE card is a solid option for occasional cruisers who want to earn rewards for future vacations without paying an annual fee. On the flip side, Royal ONE Plus is designed for frequent travelers who want to maximize their rewards and take advantage of additional benefits. 

With higher earning rates on Royal Caribbean Group purchases, extra bonus categories, priority suite boarding, expedited luggage delivery, and a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit, it is easy for some to justify the $99 annual fee. 

Royal Promenade on Legend of the Seas

That said, the Royal ONE Plus card really only makes sense if you travel enough to use the benefits to offset the cost. Occasional cruisers may get more value from the Royal ONE card's no-fee structure and simple rewards.

Choose Royal ONE if...

  • You aren't a frequent cruiser
  • You don't want to pay an annual fee
  • You want a simple way to earn rewards toward future Royal Caribbean vacations

Choose Royal ONE Plus if... 

  • You cruise multiple times per year 
  • You spend regularly in the card's bonus categories, including dining, hotels, and airlines
  • You'll take advantage of the TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday in July sale is on and a lot of add-ons are are 50% off or more

In:
By: 
Matt Hochberg

Royal Caribbean is getting a very early start on the holiday shopping season with a new sale that could save you lots on your next cruise.

Black Friday Sneak Peek sale

Their Black Friday Sneak Peek sale reflects the eagerly anticipated hottest shopping day of the year in November, but instead it's being offered in July.

The sale is live now through July 28, 2026 on select sailings departing July 24, 2026 - June 30, 2027.

Royal Caribbean prices all of its extras dynamically, which means the price will vary from sailing to sailing and ship to ship.

Up to 50% off discounts

Black Friday Sneak Peek

The Black Friday Sneak Peek sale spans every category of things you can pre-purchase for a cruise, including drink packages, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and more.

Royal Caribbean advertises you can expect up to 50% off select items, but the percentage off varies depending on the category of item.

  • Shore excursions: up to 40% off
  • Royal Beach Club bundles: up to 50% off
  • Royal Beach Club day passes: up to 35% off
  • Beverage packages: up to 40% off
  • Unlimited Dining Package: up to 50% off
  • Internet package (multi-device plans): up to 50% off

It's important to note that just because there is a Cruise Planner sale doesn't mean the prices of items you see has gone down. Cruise add-on prices aren't marketed the same as apparel or electronics, where prices are marked down across the board.

What's the best price for the popular things

Two Oasis Class ships in CocoCay

Royal Caribbean offers a lot of add-ons you can buy for a cruise, but a handful are my favorites that are worth checking for a price drop.

Drink packages

Drink package

Arguably the most popular add-on to buy for a cruise, Royal Caribbean's drink packages are the most sought after discount because the onboard prices are as much as $100 per person, per day.

Royal Caribbean offers a number of beverage packages, but the Deluxe Beverage Package and the Refreshment Package are the two most commonly purchased ones.

aperol spritz on the pool deck

A good price for a Deluxe Beverage Package is if you can get it below $75.00 per day.  If you can get it for less than $60 per day, it's a great deal.

The Refreshment Package is usually around $30 per day when pre-purchased.  Anything less than that is a great deal.

Internet packages

Voom internet sign

Royal Caribbean loves to deeply discount its Wi-Fi packages before the cruise begins, but it's best if you are buying a multi-device package.

You can buy up to a 4 device package, and yes, you can share Wi-Fi packages with other people. There's no rule against that.

It's important to do some math here, because often the per device price is better if you buy those.

For example, my upcoming Utopia of the Seas cruise is priced as follows:

  • 1 device package: $65.97
  • 2 device package: $104.97
  • 3 device package: $134.97
  • 4 device package: $143.97

The percentage off gradually increases, from 35% off the 1 device plan, but 50% off for per device for the 4 device plan.

Beach day passes

Hideaway Beach vs Coco Beach Club

I'll always check with any Royal Caribbean sale if the price of a day pass to any of its beach clubs has gotten better.

There are four day passes Royal Caribbean sells to its beach clubs:

Generally speaking, a really good price for each of these is if you can find it as follows:

  • Coco Beach Club: Less than $150 per person
  • Hideaway Beach: Less than $60 per person
  • Royal Beach Club Paradise Island: Less than $125 per person
  • Thrill Waterpark: Less than $70 per person

I'm sure some of our readers will disagree with me, but based on where prices have been most recently, this is the threshold I look for.

Specialty restaurants & packages

Giovannis

Discounts on specialty restaurants can be more hit or miss with pre-cruise sales, but I'll check for discounts on specific restaurants or packages.

I've found better discounts on dining packages, especially the Unlimited Dining Package, which can take the sting out of eating at multiple restaurants.

The closer you can get the per-night rate down to $30 per night, the better the deal.

Buy now because you can reprice later

Navigator of the Seas in Ensanada

You can log into the Royal Caribbean app or Cruise Planner website to check for what the prices are for your sailing.

Please keep in mind that the sale may not actually discount more what you have previously seen. Royal Caribbean's sales aren't across the board discounts.  

The cruise line uses AI to price their items based on a specific ship and sailing's demand, length, ship age, and even demographic of who's sailing on it.

Freedom-Cruise-Planner-2

I recommend buying anything you see that is at a reasonable price that you are comfortable with. Remember, it will cost you more if you want to book it onboard.

The other advantage of buying these items now is you can lock in the price and guard against a price going up.  

If you spot a better discount on something you already pre-purchased, you should be able to cancel and then re-purchase the same item. There's no cancellation penalty.

Mechanical issue delays Royal Caribbean ship from leaving until next day

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By: 
Matt Hochberg

A mechanical issue delayed the start of Utopia of the Seas on Monday.

Utopia of the Seas at Port Canaveral

One of the largest cruise ships in the world, Utopia was originally scheduled to depart at 3pm, but an announcement quickly warned guests that it would be delayed.

Guests onboard the ship posted updates on social media as the delays began to mount.

Utopia of the Seas was scheduled to sail from Port Canaveral, and offer a 4-night cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas.

Utopia of the Seas docked in Port Canaveral

Utopia of the Seas launched in 2024 and is 225,282 gross tons. It has 2,834 staterooms and can accommodate 5,668 passengers at double occupancy.

While the ship was able to depart eventually, there's been an update to its schedule

The Captain announced a maintenance issue

Utopia docked at CocoCay

Initially, the delayed departure was supposed to only be a few hours, with a revised departure time of 6pm.

"We are on it too and the [Captain] just announced ongoing issue," one person wrote on Facebook.

Another person added, "They made an announcement that they had a delay with maintenance and it would be a 2 hour delay before departure."

But the hours started ticking away.

Utopia of the Seas in Port Canaveral

Utopia of the Seas remained safely docked in Port Canaveral until the undisclosed issue was resolved.

The ship eventually was able to depart Port Canaveral sometime in the early morning, between 3 and 5am. Different cruisers reported varying times that the ship finally left.

A revised itinerary

Utopia of the Seas

The good news is Utopia of the Seas had very little distance to travel in order to make its ports of call in The Bahamas.

According to passengers onboard, the new itinerary was to have a sea day on Tuesday, followed by Nassau on Wednesday, and Perfect Day at CocoCay on Thursday.

The original plan was for Utopia to be at CocoCay on Tuesday.

Royal Caribbean changed plans for Wonder of the Seas too

Wonder of the Seas in Nassau

According to Cruise Fever, Wonder of the Seas also changed its plans as a result of Utopia's change.

Wonder is a similar size ship as Utopia and sailing a similar itinerary from Miami.

Read more: Utopia of the Seas vs. Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas

Royal Caribbean also changed Wonder's plan to visit CocoCay on Thursday instead of Tuesday.

Why did they change Wonder's plans too? It's likely to keep all the pre-booked tours and rentals in place without having to cancel and rebook everything.

Typically when a cruise ship changes plans, any pre-booked excursions have to be cancelled and refunds issued. But by keeping the same ships in port at Royal Caribbean's private island on a day in which no other ships were scheduled to visit, it allows for them to keep everything booked.

What happens onboard when a ship is delayed?

Unlike an airplane, a cruise ship with maintenance issues can still operate normally for guests.

Royal Caribbean keeps nearly all of its venues open and its activity schedule executing as planned.

There are bars, restaurants and shows to enjoy even while the ship remains docked in port.  Guests would likely not notice much of a difference other than the ship not moving.

Ultimate Abyss on Utopia of the Seas

The two areas of the ship that cannot legally be open while a cruise ship remains in port are its casino and onboard shops.

Cruise lines have an agreement with the countries they visit to usually keep both of those venues closed while in port, as not to compete with the local options.

Once the ship departs and is sufficiently far away from land, then the casino and shops can open.

I tested 6 cruise food hacks on Royal Caribbean. Some were surprisingly good

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By: 
Jenna DeLaurentis

When sailing on Royal Caribbean’s newest and biggest cruise ship, I tried 6 food hacks to make the most of my meals onboard. From loaded tater tots to a gourmet lunch at the buffet, I discovered a few tasty hacks you’ll want to try yourself.

Jenna smiling with a plate of tapas on Legend of the Seas

I recently spent a week aboard Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s latest Icon Class ship. In addition to offering a wide selection of entertainment options, thrilling activities, and spacious cabins, the ship also offers an extensive lineup of restaurants.

There are 28 dining venues around the ship, with 16 complimentary and 12 extra-cost options.

Food is an important part of any cruise vacation, and I wanted to make the most of everything to eat onboard. I got creative, looking beyond the usual options to see how I could “hack” my way to the most delicious snacks and meals around the ship.

After trying numerous food hacks aboard Legend of the Seas, these were my favorite, along with one I wouldn’t try again.

Food Hack #1: Embarkation Day Gourmet Lunch

Seafood buffet in the Windjammer

The Windjammer buffet is a staple restaurant in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, but it’s usually not associated with fine dining. Although the venue offers a wide array of options, it’s generally seen as a quick, no-frills place to dine while onboard.

However, what if I told you that the buffet offers perhaps the most luxurious meal of the entire cruise?

Related: Guide to Royal Caribbean's Windjammer Cafe buffet

All of Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships offer gourmet food options in the buffet for embarkation day lunch. You’ll find options like filet mignon, lobster tails, calamari, mussels, crab legs, and more, and it’s all included in your cruise fare.

Plate of lobster tails in the Windjammer buffet

I headed to the Windjammer right after boarding to see whether this upgraded buffet meal lived up to the hype. My travel party and I sampled items like lobster tails with lemon caper sauce and filet mignon with chimichurri.

Everything was excellent, and I was impressed with the quality of the food. It was a major upgrade compared to the typical offerings of hamburgers and fries, pasta stations, and Asian stir-fry.

If you’re someone who skips the Windjammer on embarkation day to avoid crowds, you might want to reconsider the restaurant when sailing on Legend of the Seas. Not all cruisers know about this complimentary, gourmet “food hack,” and it’s a fun way to start your cruise with just a little bit of luxury.

Food Hack #2: Tapas & Wine

La Española food stand in the AquaDome Market

I love any food hack that feels fancy, and Legend of the Seas’ complimentary tapas stand is an easy way to turn a quick snack into a sophisticated aperitif.

Inside the AquaDome Market on Legend of the Seas are five food stands that are included in guests’ cruise fares. The stands offer everything from Korean rice bowls to Cajun gumbo, sweet crêpes, street tacos, and my personal favorite—Spanish tapas.

Related: Ranking every food stand at Legend of the Seas' AquaDome Market

La Española, the Spanish-inspired stand, offers a variety of bite-sized tapas along with gazpacho. Tapas include marinated Spanish olives, patatas bravas, tortilla de patatas, and pan con tomate.

This is the first time Royal Caribbean has offered a dedicated tapas menu on one of its cruise ships. Although the Trellis Bar, located in Central Park, offers finger foods like truffle fries and steak bites, these come with an extra charge.

Spanish tapas on Legend of the Seas

I wanted to see if I could “hack” the system to enjoy an aperitif, complete with a drink and bite-sized snacks, without spending extra on food.

So, I grabbed a selection of tapas from La Española and headed next door to The Overlook, an observation lounge complete with a bar and spectacular ocean views. I ordered a glass of wine, which paired perfectly with the savory and crunchy pan con tomate.

Even though the food came from a casual, quick-service food hall, the experience felt much more luxurious, and I would definitely try this hack again.

Food Hack #3: Mexican-Style Loaded Tater Tots

Loaded tater tots from Basecamp and El Loco Fresh

One lunch venue that’s always busy on Legend of the Seas is El Loco Fresh, the ship’s grab-and-go, complimentary Mexican restaurant. If you’re in the mood for quesadillas, nachos, burritos, tacos, and more, this is the spot to visit.

Right above El Loco Fresh, however, is Basecamp, another complimentary restaurant that offers quick-service snacks like pretzel bites, tater tots, and chicken fingers. Given the proximity of these two venues, I decided to try a food hack that would combine them.

Related: I tried a free food hack on my Royal Caribbean cruise that I couldn't believe was so good

I grabbed a bowl of tater tots from Basecamp before heading downstairs to the salsa station at El Loco Fresh. Then I proceeded to top my tater tots with salsa, cheese, guacamole, and lettuce, creating a potato-filled twist on traditional nachos.

El Loco Fresh salsa stand

It was a fun way to level up my tater tots, but next time, I’d reconsider my choice of toppings. The salsa, lettuce, and cheese cooled the tater tots quite quickly. I also wished I’d topped the tater tots with some type of protein to make the dish more substantial.

If you plan to try this food hack, I’d recommend loading the tater tots with warm options from El Loco Fresh, such as chicken, nacho cheese, and black beans, and later visiting the salsa station to add additional toppings.

Overall, this food hack has great potential, but I’d make a few changes next time I try it.

Food Hack #4: Giovanni’s Wine Bar Pizza

Giovanni's Wine Bar on Legend of the Seas

If you want to try a specialty restaurant on Legend of the Seas without a hefty cover charge, there’s a hack you’ll want to try.

Adjacent to the ship’s Italian restaurant, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, you’ll find Giovanni’s Wine Bar. This bar offers classic and Italian-themed cocktails, and it also offers an à la carte menu for food. Menu items range from $7 margherita pizzas to a $9 Italian stromboli and $6 tiramisu.

Related: 6 restaurants on Royal Caribbean we recommend over and over

If you just want to try one or two items, eating at the wine bar will save you money compared to the restaurant’s lunch and dinner cover charges for all-you-can-eat dining, which usually run around $25 and $50, respectively.

Giovanni's Italian Kitchen pizza

One evening of my cruise, I headed to Giovanni’s Wine Bar for a budget-friendly specialty meal. My travel party and I each ordered a margherita pizza, which we enjoyed with an Aperol spritz.

Not including the cocktails, our total bill was only $18.52 with gratuity. The pizzas were large enough to fill us up for the rest of the evening, and they were much higher quality than the pizza at Sorrento’s.

Not only that, but the ambiance of the wine bar—located in the middle of the Royal Promenade—was great for people-watching, and I also enjoyed the live music that accompanied our meal.

Food Hack #5: Ice Cream Crêpe

Crepes from AquaDome Market

One hack I wouldn’t recommend trying on your Legend of the Seas cruise is a soft-serve ice cream-topped crêpe.

Judging by the endless lines of hungry passengers, Crème de la Crêpe is, by far, the most popular food stand in Legend of the Seas’ AquaDome Market. Day and night, this stand serves up four sweet crêpe options, ranging from Salted Caramel to the ever-popular Hazelnut & Bananas crêpe.

The crêpes certainly live up to the hype. I’m not sure I’ve gone one day sailing on an Icon Class ship without ordering one myself.

Yet one evening, I had an idea to “elevate” the standard crêpe. I took my freshly-made crêpe just a few steps away to Sprinkles, the soft-serve ice cream stand onboard. I asked the crew member to top my crêpe with chocolate ice cream, thinking it would make the sweet treat even tastier.

Sprinkles ice cream on Legend of the Seas

Unfortunately, though, my ice cream crêpe was not what I imagined. The ice cream overpowered the crêpe’s flavor, and it quickly made the dish cold and soggy.

It was fun to try something new, but I’ll be skipping this hack next time.

Food Hack #6: Surfside Eatery for Breakfast

Surfside Eatery on Legend of the Seas

Legend of the Seas has over 6,000 passengers, so you’re guaranteed to encounter crowds here and there. Yet with a little planning, you can find quiet areas of the ship that almost feel like you have the place to yourself.

One of my favorite food hacks I tried on Legend of the Seas was eating breakfast at Surfside Eatery instead of the Windjammer buffet. The Windjammer gets extremely crowded during peak meal times, especially at breakfast.

I was determined to avoid these crowds, so I searched for other options. Surfside Eatery, an included, smaller buffet located in the ship’s family-friendly Surfside neighborhood, seemed like the perfect fit.

Food at Surfside Eatery

Many guests don’t even know this venue exists, or if they do, they think of it as a kids-only venue. Yet Surfside Eatery offers a large selection of breakfast foods, albeit not quite as extensive as the Windjammer’s.

Related: Icon of the Seas Surfside neighborhood: What to expect

I visited Surfside Eatery for breakfast on the third morning of my cruise, and I was one of only a few passengers in the restaurant. I enjoyed the same foods I would have eaten in the Windjammer, including an omelet, pastry, and fruit, but without the chaos of the latter.

Throughout my cruise, I kept returning to Surfside Eatery for breakfast. It was a more peaceful way to start my morning rather than navigating the crowds in the Windjammer.

Royal Caribbean brought back its best double points promotion

In:
By: 
Matt Hochberg

Double points is back for the first time in many years.

Legend of the Seas

You have now until the end of July to get double loyalty points when booking a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Royal Caribbean is offering guests bonus loyalty points, in which they can earn double the normal amount of points.

This promotion was originally offered during the cruise industry shutdown of 2020 and 2021 as a way to entice new bookings at a time when cruise ships weren't sailing and the company needed an influx of money.

It was quite popular with passengers, because extra points makes it easier to get to the next loyalty tier.

Double points is back for new cruise bookings.

Double points offer

Double Points promotion

Beginning July 21, new cruises booked qualify for the double points offer.

Targeting the cruise line's loyalty members, the Double Points offer is just what it sounds like: Customers who book a cruise during the promotion will get double the normal amount of Crown & Anchor loyalty points when cruising.

Every category of cabin on Royal Caribbean ships is eligible for the promotion.

crown-lounge-2

New cruises booked between July 21 - 31, 2026 on sailings departing September 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027 will receive double the cruise points to Crown & Anchor Society members.

Here is the breakdown of the points you will receive under the Double Points offer:

 Standard Cruise PointsDouble Cruise PointsTotal Number of Cruise Points Awarded
Cruise1 point per night1 additional point per night2 points per night
Single Cruiser2 point per night2 additional point per night4 points per night
Suite2 point per night2 additional point per night4 points per night
Single Cruiser & Suite3 point per night3 additional point per night6 points per night

A 7-night cruise in a standard cabin will earn 14 points, instead of the regular 7 points.

Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings are excluded from this offer, because they would potentially earn too many points.

Double Points is available to Gold, Platinum, Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Crown & Anchor Society members.

Double Points Offer is combinable with BOGO60, Kids Sail Free and Free 3rd & 4th Guests, as well as promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Crown & Anchor discounts, and Shareholder Benefits. Not combinable with any offer or promotion including but not limited to complimentary cruises, employee cruises, casino offers, seminar rates, or travel agent reduced rates. 

One caveat is you cannot earn double points through this promotion and then apply to transfer them to a different cruise line through the Points Choice program.  You would forfeit the bonus points in such a situation.

Why this is such a good offer

Freedom of the Seas

Being able to get double the amount of points than normal is both lucrative to cruisers and rare.

Anyone that takes advantage of this new offer can reach the higher tiers of Crown & Anchor Society faster, such as Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club. These are the tiers when more freebies are available and perks start to really add up.

This includes complimentary drink vouchers, Wi-Fi, reserved seating at shows, photos, and more.

Since Royal Caribbean loyalty status doesn't expire, it's a benefit that never goes away.  Anyone that's serious about attaining higher status will likely find great value since you can shoot up the loyalty ladder.

For example, someone staying solo in a suite could get 42 points for that voyage. That would allow a new cruiser to get to Platinum or Emerald in just one sailing (depending on how many points they had before the sailing).

The number of points you need for Royal Caribbean's tier levels breaks down like this:

  • Gold: 3 Cruise Points
  • Platinum: 30 Cruise Points
  • Emerald: 55 Cruise Points
  • Diamond: 80 Cruise Points
  • Diamond Plus: 175 Cruise Points
  • Pinnacle Club: 700 Points

The catch is it's for new cruises only

Star of the Seas docked in port

Before you start planning out your Pinnacle party, there are two catches.

This offer applies to new bookings only. Any existing bookings you have do not qualify for double points. 

Second, you can only book up to two cruises with the offer. 

Just like five years ago, Royal Caribbean is using this new offer as a way to spur new bookings. The company is in a much better financial situation today, so it's likely they want to simply help their bottom line.

Odyssey of the Seas

During a press event aboard Odyssey of the Seas in 2021, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley outlined exactly this sort of a situation to offer double points.

When he was asked if double points would return, he answered they would use it "strategically."

"You'll see more of that coming, but it's not going to be a blanket open book."

5 absolute musts when cruising with casual friends and people you don't know well

In:
By: 
Matt Hochberg

You're going on a Royal Caribbean cruise with your neighbor, the family of your kids' friend, or a coworker. This will either be a great vacation to enjoy together or an exercise in awkwardness.

Friends at a wine bar

It seemed like a good idea when you proposed booking the same cruise with friends, but suddenly you realize you don't know them very well and have no clue what they're like for more than a couple hours at a time. Plus, you don't want to ruin your friendship.

I've certainly had these types of cruises, where people I know from my everyday life want to come on a cruise and as the sailing approaches, I'm unsure what to expect in terms of the overall dynamic we will have. 

The good news is I think with the right approach, you can have a great vacation, spend time with them, and not put your entire relationship in jeopardy afterwards.

Don't treat the cruise like a group project

Pool Deck, Liberty of the Seas

I think the biggest mistake you can make when cruising with friends is to act like you have to do everything together.

The beauty of a cruise vacation is you're together on the ship, but you don't have to do the same things all the time. Unlike visiting a city together, a cruise allows for more independence while still feeling like you're experiencing the same things.

One mantra of all the advice in this article is you shouldn't feel guilty about doing your own thing.

trivia-symphony-of-the-seas

You'll likely pick up on your friends cruise differently than you. They might wake up at 6am to go to the gym, or they might sleep until 10am.  You might want to try all the trivia events, but they want to hang out at the pool all day.

That's completely normal, and you should avoid the temptation to over plan how you spend your days together.

You don't have to book every excursion together

On a catamaran

Sometimes the best idea is to split up.

I think sharing a group excursion is actually a great idea, especially to lower the costs. But you shouldn't feel obligated to always do every tour together.

When I cruised to Alaska with friends, I had a different idea of a fun excursion than my friends. While I did look to see if there was something else we could do, ultimately we chose to do our own tours and meet up later in town. 

We split up, but then met back onboard and shared stories about it.

I would start by looking for excursions you can enjoy together, but don't be afraid to say "we'll do our thing, and you do yours" if tours don't line up.

Give each other permission to say "no"

Price is Right

Before I book a cruise with casual friends, the first thing I'll say is they don't have to do everything with us all the time.

It's important to normalize phrases like, "I'm going to skip this one" or "You guys go ahead".  

There shouldn't be any guilt if you'd rather not participate in something. 

Roboscreens

For example, I can't stand magic shows or the Battle of the Sexes game shows, but it seems like a lot of first-time cruisers really enjoy it.  So when they bring up the idea of going to that, I'll politely decline.

The important thing is not to guilt anyone who opts not to try something, but still invite them to join you. I find everyone is happier when there's less regiment and more freedom to join in or not.

Buy an internet package to make communicating easy

Message waiting

I think if there's one thing to buy for your cruise, it's an internet package to make it simpler to be able to message each other.

Royal Caribbean's app has a free messaging feature, but notifications can be tricky. Moreover, using the texting app you're used to at home is just plain easier.

Being able to easily and quickly message each other is essential to avoid the problem of feeling like someone disappeared.

I've cruised with friends and then realized after a day or two no one has heard from them.  Then you start playing the game of do they want to be left alone? Or are they waiting for you to contact them?

Agree on a messaging app before the cruise and check-in regularly to keep the lines of communication open. You cannot rely on the idea you'll run into each other when cruising together.

Book the cruise with the same travel agent

Wonder of the Seas docked in Cococay

There are a lot of good reasons to use the same travel agent when booking a cruise with friends.

You do not want to be your friends' personal reminder to make final payment, help them solve payment issues, or assist with getting your dining times coordinated.  Let a travel agent do all of that, especially the billing issues.

Family Oceanview Balcony on Legend of the Seas

If you are traveling with a large group, using the same travel agent could get everyone group benefits if there are enough of you sailing together. You'd need at least 6 cabins, but speak to your travel agent about further details on this idea.

Ultimately, I'll recommend my friends use a travel agent so when they have changes, questions, or issues to deal with, the travel agent can handle it all. Those are the sort of issues that people get frustrated with, and I don't want to be the "middle man" in that.

Royal Caribbean opened a secret garden bar at Perfect Day at CocoCay

In:
By: 
Matt Hochberg

There's a new hidden escape to find on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Secret Garden Bar is now open

The cruise line quietly opened a new section that offers guests a tranquil escape from the party atmosphere you might find elsewhere around the private island.

The Secret Garden Bar opened over the weekend as a secluded area that has shaded places to sit, a bar, books to read, and more.

This new area looks like it would appeal to cruisers that want to bring their own book, grab a drink, or enjoy more Zen time.

Secret Garden Bar

It's part of Perfect Day at CocoCay island in The Bahamas.  Many Royal Caribbean ships visit CocoCay during their Caribbean and Bahamian sailings.

Here's our first look at what you can expect to find at the Secret Garden Bar.

A hidden hangout spot

Entrance to Secret Garden Bar

With the name "Secret Garden Bar", Royal Caribbean clearly created a special space that isn't meant to be everyone's first stop.

Gina Warren shared photos of the new bar that opened over the weekend and is now welcoming guests who come across it.

A archway welcomes guests in as they walk down a sandy path to lead to the garden area.

Secret Garden Bar

It's not a large area, but you'll find a wooden walkway with chairs and umbrellas to sit and enjoy.

There appear to be about a half dozen pairs of chairs along the walkway, with a reflecting pool in the middle.

As the name implies, there is indeed a bar in the middle.

Secret Garden Bar

The bar has a rustic tiki theme to it, and it's not large at all.  It reflects the nature of this entire section, as it's a spot off the beaten path.

There are about five chairs at the bar, with a few more seats nearby.

Book nook

The other fun feature here is a small sitting couch, surrounded by books.

Not quite a cabana, this looks like a reader's perfect refuge for laying down with a book that's borrowed or brought with them.

Books

You'll find inside fun quips and sayings related to reading.

How to find the Secret Garden Bar

Cococay zoomed in map

Royal Caribbean added the Secret Garden Bar on the north side of the island.

As you walk towards South Beach, there's now a sign that welcomes guests in.

There's no admission cost

The Secret Garden Bar has no cost to enter, but any drinks you order would be extra.

Of course, guests with an unlimited drink package can enjoy beverages here because beverage packages work at CocoCay.

If you want a hidden beach, try Cove Beach

Cove beach

I know what some of you are thinking, "This looks great, but I want a secluded beach too," and that wish has already been granted.

Located past South Beach is an area called Cove Beach, and it's also a relatively new option that's been added to the island.

Cove Beach is small, but it's an area to walk to if you want as quiet a beach area as exists on CocoCay.

There's no DJ, bar, or activities. Just sand, some chairs, and the ocean to enjoy.

One area within Royal Caribbean's private destination

CocoCay Aerial from Ship

The Secret Garden Bar is one small part of a very impressive private island experience.

Perfect Day at CocoCay has quickly become one of Royal Caribbean's most popular destinations among cruisers, given its tremendously high guest satisfaction scores.

It has everything from resort-style pools and over-the-water cabanas to an adult-only retreat, beautiful beaches, a massive water park, and more, ensuring that everyone has their "perfect day" ashore. 

There's no cost to enter CocoCay, and most of what's available to do is included in your cruise fare.