ElizabethW

I can't vouch for this hotel yet, but we're staying at The Tribune before our Greek Isles cruise this summer. We booked via points (36,000 for two nights). I've never had a bad experience while staying at a Hyatt! For a party of six, I think Dave's idea of a VRBO or Airbnb is smart! You could rent an apartment with multiple bedrooms and a kitchen.

On my upcoming Symphony cruise (Jan 7-14), I noticed that while I was unable to book shows online through the Cruise Planner, I had the option to do so through the app. The show times were not made available for booking until fairly recently. I have another sailing on the Symphony in mid-February, and I'm currently unable to book any shows via Cruise Planner or app. Depending on your sailing, you might have to wait until closer to when you depart/when you get onboard to book your shows.

Hey, Joe! Freedom was my first Royal cruise, too--way before it was amplified. When you arrive at the port, there will be porters outside who will take your luggage before entering the terminal. If you don't print your bag tags, they usually have them on hand to fill out; it definitely helps speed up the process if you bring them, though. You go through security and check in similar to how you check into a hotel (with longer lines), and while your passports are never taken and kept by the staff, they will be checked. No duty free stores or anything like that. Spend time exploring the ship when you board! It helps to get your bearings before the ship embarks. If you have children, you should look into getting them registered for the youth clubs. I like to avoid the Windjammer for lunch because it gets so crowded. You can look on the app to see what other options are available. A few at Royal Caribbean Blog are a fan of Playmakers if you're willing to pay extra. None of the onboard stores or casino will be open until after setting sail. Hope this helps and happy sailing :)!