Matt

https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2023/08/16/when-will-royal-caribbean-release-new-sailings-2025

This week's podcast episode coming out on Wednesday is all about how to pick a travel insurance plan.

I'm just surprised Grandeur isn't going around Cuba the long way to Cozumel

Yup, travel insurance is a lot cheaper than most people think

All insurance is a waste of money until you need it, and then it's the best money you ever spent. When I started cruising I never bought travel insurance because I was cheap and thought being young we had low risk factors. Then one cruise my wife felt ill and I had to weigh getting her care vs the big bill waiting for me since we didn't have travel insurance. I didn't want to go through that kind of gut check again. Now, we always sail with travel insurance.

Please don't use profanity (abbreviated or not). Rules

Wont be a factor if this model shared by Royal Caribbean's chief meteorologist holds up

Same here

Asking the Suite Concierge to make specialty restaurant reservations (if you have a dining package) is a great use of their services

You'll get an email from the suite concierge a few days before the cruise explaining what time you can arrive.

Both. The last time I parked myself at Terminal 1, we were there early and it was already slim pickings on the very top deck of the garage. Later in the afternoon, they were just parking people in the fields on either side. Terminal 5's issue was paying for parking after the cruise, but I hear they fixed that now. I think if you drive and get there before 11 or 11:30am, I bet you can find a spot in the garage. But taking a lyft over is really easy when they drop you off and you walk right in.

My experience trying it: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2018/02/20/experiences-izumi-sushi-making-class-royal-caribbean

You can always go to any specialty restaurant, and they can book any other specialty restaurant for you. I also keep an eye open when I board the ship for a specialty restaurant reservation desk on the Promenade. There's almost always one, and they could save you time since they are right there.

The Icon of the Seas hype train has left the station. I think this is one of many moves they'll make to market that ship as much as possible leading up to her launch.

Hotel list: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2023/04/05/best-hotels-near-port-canaveral-the-cruise Yes

Wont be ready soon enough. I've started taking Lyft to the port to avoid dealing with parking. Is it cheaper than parking? Nope. But I really hate starting my cruise off annoyed at trying to find a spot.

Yes, but you need to call in and request this. It can't be done online

That tip @Xaa recommended worked for me

Yup!

I think this article should be helpful: https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2023/07/22/the-clever-reason-bring-european-power-adapter-your-cruise-ship

Welcome to the message boards! I highly recommend booking with a travel agent instead of directly with the line. The price is never higher with a travel agent, and often agents can get access to special rates that you couldn't book through the website (such as group discounts and agency rates). This article should also be helpful: How to get the best cruise deals: 15 easy tips

Welcome to the message boards! I assume you mean the Splashaway shown in the thumbnail? If so, that's Wonder of the Seas