The Black Friday deal I've bought on all my cruises, even though I get it for free

In:
18 Nov 2024

I've been impressed with the discounts offered by Royal Caribbean on its cruise add-ons, especially one super useful add-on.

Black Friday deal with ship

Internet access on a cruise ship is a must-buy for me. I've been buying WiFi packages for years because of how critical and useful it is for me.  

Not only do I do work from the ship, but I value being connected with friends and family at home.  It's also a source of entertainment, no different than if I brought a few good books to have.

As a Pinnacle Club member in the cruise line's loyalty program, I get a one device package of internet on every cruise that is complimentary. 

Matt turning Pinnacle

Because I work from the ship, throughout the day I'll need to be connected on my laptop and phone at the same time.  While I could easily swap the free internet package I receive between my phone and laptop, the issue I run into is missed messages on my phone while I'm doing work on my computer.

On most cruises I "bite the bullet" and pay for an extra internet package, but I'm planning ahead thanks to this year's Black Friday deal.

Black Friday discount on WiFi

Black Friday ad for internet

Royal Caribbean has discounted many things for Black Friday, including its Voom internet packages.

The advertised discount is "up to 55% off", and I've observed prices for a one device package as cheap as $15.99 per day.

Voom price

The price range seems to be between $15.99 and $21.99 per day for a one device package, and those savings add up when you consider onboard prices for the same package start at $27.99 and could easily go up from there.

Voom prices

By buying an additional internet package now, I'll save money across my cruises remaining this year and even into 2025.

The important takeaway for anyone reading this post is to understand there are good prices available for an add-on, such as the internet.

Royal Caribbean's Voom package discounts are illustrative of the general notion that the Black Friday sale happening now is a good opportunity to not just search for deep discounts, but take advantage of better than average prices on other items as well.

Working remote on a laptop from a cruise ship

Depending on your sailing, there may be really good prices on other add-ons, such as drink packages that cost about half of what you'd pay onboard.

Our readers have shared their success in finding great prices too.

The soda package has been spotted as cheap as $6.99 per day, and waterpark on Perfect Day at CocoCay for $38.99 per person.

Aerial view of CocoCay

It's also worth noting you can book something today and still take advantage of a price decrease later. 

Royal Caribbean allows for cancelling and rebooking pre-cruise purchases without a penalty. Cancel, re-buy it at the lower price, and you'll get the refund from the original purchase in a few business days. In my experience, it almost always ends up being on the same credit card billing cycle as the revised purchase.

Don't overlook the drink and WiFi packages

Soda wifi package

It's worth noting Royal Caribbean brought back drink package & internet bundles for the first time in a long time.

As it implies, you can pay one price to get a drink package and a one-device internet package together.

This is really useful if you're a solo traveler, or just want to get this for one person in your cabin.

Truthfully, you're probably better off buying a drink package and Voom package separately if you need it for more devices, as the multi-device discount on Voom packages ends up being cheaper than the combo package.

Maximizing WiFi on a cruise

ebook reader

If you do purchase an internet package, there are a few easy ways to get the most value out of it.

With any internet package, it limits how many devices may be connected at once, not how many devices may use the package in total.

This means you can log out of the internet on one device, and back on with another.  And switch on an off as you see fit. Moreover, you can share the internet package with anyone else. You're just limited by how many devices can be logged on at the same time.

Starlink logo

If you're at least a Diamond member in Crown and Anchor Society, you get a free day of internet access that can only be redeemed onboard (two days if you're Diamond Plus).

For a cruise of four nights or less, you might still be better off by waiting to book onboard the ship and redeeming your free day, especially if you can wait until midnight on the first day to avoid paying for embarkation day and only paying a prorated amount for the rest of the sailing.

While satellite internet can have intermittent issues, Royal Caribbean's Starlink connection is usually reliable enough to support streaming video while on the ship.  You could watch a sporting event, catch up on TV shows, or keep up with new YouTube content.

Royal Caribbean Black Friday deals 2024: Early discounts, what to expect, and more

In:
15 Nov 2024

If you're looking for a chance to save on a Royal Caribbean cruise, a Black Friday sale might be the perfect opportunity.

Icon of the Seas front night

Black Friday falls on the Friday after Thanksgiving, which this year is November 29.  Royal Caribbean is getting the ball rolling with sales leading up to the holiday.

The cruise line has begun rolling out "preview sales", with more promotions to follow. In fact, there will be "offers every week" that extend all the way until Travel Tuesday. It's important to note these sales do not begin until the dates specified, and calling in before the sale begins won't get you anything.

You can expect all sorts of promotions during Black Friday cruise deals and Cyber Monday savings times. Most commonly, there are instant savings and onboard credit offers. Instant savings are deducted directly from your total vacation cost the moment you book.

This post will be updated with new Black Friday offers as soon as they are revealed.

A month of sales

Anthem of the Seas at dusk

Royal Caribbean began the Black Friday bonanza on November 8, 2024.

The Black Friday Beat the Rush is the third Black Friday offer in 2024, and it runs between November 22 – 25, 2024.

We're listing the major bullet points of each sale, but please remember there are terms and conditions, and special rules about combinability with each sale. Refer to them at the time the sale begins.

Before the Black Friday promos hit, the monthly offer for November offers buy one guest, get second guest 60% off & 30% off on third and fourth guests.

That's coupled with a Kids Sail Free deal that runs between November 8 – December 9, 2024 on sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024. As usual, Kids Sail Free comes with a lot of blackout dates and fine print.

Thanksgiving Sailings (Departing between November 22, 2024 – November 29, 2024); (Departing between November 20 - November 28, 2025), Holiday Sailings (Departing December 20, 2024 – January 3, 2025); (Departing between December 18, 2025 – January 1, 2026), Spring Break Sailings (Departing between March 7, 2025 – March 28, 2025); (Departing between March 6, 2026 – April 9, 2026), Holy Week/Easter sailings (Departing between April 12, 2025 – April 24, 2025), Radiance Alaska Cruise Tour Sailings (Departing May 16, 2025 – September 12, 2025); Summer sailings (Departing between May 22, 2025 – August 29, 2025); Anthem of the Seas sailings (Departing November 21 – December 28, 2024) and Chinese New Year sailing on Anthem of the Seas (Departing January 27, 2025).

There are a series of Black Friday promotions, that began November 8.

The Black Friday Beat the Rush Sale offers extra instant savings on cruises booked during this period.

The Black Friday Beat the Rush applies to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made November 22 – 25, 2024, on sailings departing on or after November 23, 2024, and provides an instant savings per stateroom, varying by stateroom category booked, sailing length:

  • 5 nights or less
    • $100 USD for Inside and Ocean View
    • $175 USD for Balconies
    • $300 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer
    • $175 USD for Interior and Ocean View
    • $250 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

Expired Black Friday sales

2024 Black Friday sale

The Black Friday Preview Sale adds on extra savings to the November month offer.

The Black Friday Early Access Extension Sale applied to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made November 19 – 21, 2024, on sailings departing on or after November 16, 2024, and provides an instant savings per stateroom, varying by stateroom category booked, sailing length:

  • 5 nights or less
    • $100 USD for Inside and Ocean View
    • $175 USD for Balconies
    • $300 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer
    • $175 USD for Interior and Ocean View
    • $250 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

The Black Friday Early Access offers extra instant savings on cruises booked during this period.

The Black Friday Early Access applied to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made November 15 – 18, 2024, on sailings departing on or after November 16, 2024, and provides an instant savings per stateroom, varying by stateroom category booked, sailing length:

  • 5 nights or less
    • $100 USD for Inside and Ocean View
    • $175 USD for Balconies
    • $300 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer
    • $175 USD for Interior and Ocean View
    • $250 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

The Black Friday Preview Sale Extension applied to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made November 12 – 14, 2024, on sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024, and provides an instant savings per stateroom, varying by stateroom category booked, sailing length:

  • 5 nights or less
    • $100 USD for Inside and Ocean View
    • $175 USD for Balconies
    • $300 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer
    • $175 USD for Interior and Ocean View
    • $250 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

The Black Friday Preview sale applied to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made 11/8 – 11/11/24 on sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024 and provides an up to $750 instant savings per stateroom varying by stateroom category booked and sailing length.

  • 5 nights or less
    • $100 USD for Inside and Ocean View
    • $175 USD for Balconies
    • $300 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer
    • $175 USD for Interior and Ocean View
    • $250 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

BOGO60 and Kids Sail Free are combinable with each other and Black Friday sales.

What about a Black Friday sale on Cruise Planner purchases?

Cocktails at the pool

Just as important as a deal on cruise fares are discounts on add-ons for the sailing.

The deals for purchases made on Royal Caribbean's Cruise Planner site began on November 8.

The sale is valid on purchases made from November 8, 2024 through November 29, 2024 and applies to select sailings departing November 13, 2024 - December 31, 2025. 

  • Beverage: Up to 50% off
  • Shore Excursions: Up to 50% off
  • Internet: Up to 55% Off
  • Dining: Up to 50% Off
  • Spa: Up to 30% Off Select Times
  • Gifts & Gear: Up to 45% Off
  • Photo Package: Up to 65% Off
  • Onboard Activities: Up to 30% off
  • Bundles: Black Friday Exclusive

In short, any of the prices offered during Black Friday are sure to be cheaper than if you waited to book them onboard the ship.  They might even be cheaper than any sales in the coming months.

Top 5 early Black Friday deals

Deluxe Beverage Package
Starting at $54.99

In water hammocks at CocoCay

Hideaway Beach Day Pass
Starting at $38.99

Coco Beach Club infinity pool

Coco Beach Club Day Pass
Starting at $113.99

Coffee card

Cafe Select Card
$23.99 per card

Wifi on the balcony

VOOM SURF + STREAM Internet Package
Starting at $15.99 for one device

Celebrity Cruises Black Friday sale

Celebrity Xcel

Celebrity Cruises will have a similar sale to Royal Caribbean, offering a month of savings for cruises booked from November 8 through December 9.

The second passenger in a cabin can save up to 75% on cruises departing from now through May 10, 2027.

Black Friday savings are not applicable to Galápagos sailings or Alaska cruise-tours on Celebrity Summit departing May 9 through Sept. 5, 2025.

When is the real Black Friday sale?

Wonder of the Seas

While there will likely be other offers leading up to Black Friday, we know there will be a sale for certain over the actual holiday.

Royal Caribbean hinted to travel agents Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales will begin on Thanksgiving, November 28, 2024. 

More details to follow, but we should expect an offer then.

Radiance of the Seas departing Vancouver

In addition, there will be a new offer in early December.

"Mark your calendars for December 3, 2024 — our Travel Tuesday sale is kicking off," is what travel agents were told.

"It's the perfect chance for your clients to start planning their 2025 vacations with unbeatable deals. Don't let them miss out on the fun."

Royal Caribbean is selling its drink packages for as low as $54.99 per day during its Black Friday sale

In:
08 Nov 2024

The lowest prices of the year on a cruise drink package are here.

Cocktails at the pool

Royal Caribbean kicked off its Black Friday preview sale today, which has new discounts for both cruise fares and add-on purchases.

While Black Friday isn't for a few more weeks, Royal Caribbean wants to get in on the sale with discounts now.

There are many aspects of the sale to consider, but the prices for the fun extras passengers can optionally purchase are seeing lower prices and even a few new options.

Black Friday offer

Perhaps the most popular add-on you can buy for a Royal Caribbean cruise is a drink package, and select sailings are seeing prices as low as $54.99 per person, per day.

Drink Package price

Perhaps the absolute lowest price we've seen in a decade is for the Panama Canal repositioning cruise of Radiance of the Seas that begins April 19, 2025.  The Deluxe Beverage Package is only $48.99 per person, per day on that sailing, although that sailing is fifteen nights.

No matter which sailing you pick, it's likely a substantial discount considering Royal Caribbean is regularly charging over $100 per person, per day for the same package when purchased onboard ships. In fact, all purchases made online are cheaper than waiting to book during the sailing.

Drink package price

The Cruise Planner sale runs between November 8, 2024 through November 29, 2024 and applies to select sailings departing November 13, 2024 - December 31, 2025. 

  • Beverage: Up to 50% off
    • Evian Water Package: 50% off onboard prices
    • Refreshment Package: 35% off onboard prices
      • Kids (12 and below): 50% off Refreshment
    • Classic Soda Package: 35% off onboard prices
      • Kids (12 and below): 50% off Classic Soda
    • Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship.
      • Interior/Oceanview Stateroom: Additional 5% off Deluxe (excluding Asia and Reposition
        sailings).
      • Seniors (65+): 40% off Deluxe Beverage (excluding Asia and Reposition sailings).
      • Diamond & above CAS members: 40% off Deluxe Beverage (excluding Asia and Reposition).
Paddle boarding in CocoCay
  • Shore Excursions: Up to 50% off
    • Shorex: Discount varies by ship.
    • Wynwood Walls tour: 10% off onboard prices
    • Perfect Day Passes: 50% off onboard prices
    • Perfect Day & Labadee Cabanas: Up to 50% off onboard prices
      • Seniors (65+): 25% off Shorex (excluding Caribbean, Alaska & Europe sailings).
      • Platinum & above CAS members: 25% off Shorex on Caribbean sailings.
  • Internet: Up to 55% Off
Giovanni's Table on Allure of the Seas
  • Dining: Up to 50% Off
    • Unlimited Dining Package on 3N – 14N sailings: Discount varies by ship.
  • Photo Packages: Up to 65% Off
    • Photo Packages from 5 - 100 Photos: Discount varies by ship.
    • Private Photo Session: 60% off onboard prices 
  • Onboard Activities: Up to 30% off
    • All Access Ship tour
    • Observatorium
    • Mission Control Apollo 18
    • Escape the Rubicon
    • EscapeU: Freshman Year
    • RipCord by iFLY Two Minute Experience
    • North Star Extended Experience
    • FlowRider Private Lesson
    • FlowRider Group Lesson 
Spa
  • Spa: Up to 30% Off Select Times 
  • Gifts & Gear: Up to 45% Off
    • Strawberries with Champagne: 35% off onboard prices
    • Anniversary Decorations with Champagne: 40% off onboard prices
    • Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries: 40% off onboard prices
    • Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries: 40% off onboard prices
    • Happy Birthday Bright Style: 30% off onboard prices
    • Happy Anniversary Decorations: 35% off onboard prices
    • Bon Voyage Decorations: 30% off onboard prices
    • 9 Chocolate Covered Strawberries: 30% off onboard prices
    • White Wine and Cheese: 35% off onboard prices
    • Red Wine and Cheese: 35% off onboard prices
    • Soft Octopus Travel Set: 25% off onboard prices
    • Royal Caribbean Beach Towel: 40% off onboard prices
    • Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe): 40% off onboard prices
    • Inky Beach Set: 35% off onboard prices
    • Inky Octopus Family Travel Set: 25% off onboard prices
    • Winter Blanket: 25% off onboard prices
    • Luxury Robe: 35% off onboard prices
    • Alaska Polar Bear Hat: 40% off onboard prices
    • Cooler Bag with Water: 35% off onboard prices
    • Cooler Bag with Coca Cola: 35% off onboard prices
    • Cooler Bag with Diet Coke: 35% off onboard prices
    • Cooler Bag with Bud Light: 35% off onboard prices
    • Cooler Bag with Truly: 35% off onboard prices
    • Utopia Blue/Pink Towel and Tumbler Set: 25% off onboard prices
    • Icon Blue/Pink Towel and Tumbler Set: 25% off onboard prices
  • Onboard Activities: Up to 30% off
    • All Access Ship tour
    • Observatorium
    • Mission Control Apollo 18
    • Escape the Rubicon
    • EscapeU: Freshman Year
    • RipCord by iFLY Two Minute Experience
    • North Star Extended Experience
    • FlowRider Private Lesson
    • FlowRider Group Lesson

New bundles

Bundle options for Black Friday

An interesting twist to this year's Black Friday sale is the addition of bundles.

These bundles offer combinations of popular add-ons. These appear to be Black Friday/Cyber Monday exclusive, so it may be a limited-time offering.

Here's a look at what's being offered:

Perfect Day Bundles

Chill Big Bundle

These combos include a Deluxe Beverage Package, one device WiFi access, and admission into either Hideaway Beach (Royal Caribbean's adults-only area of Perfect Day at CocoCay), Coco Beach Club, or Thrill Waterpark.

  • Thrill Big Package
  • Chill Big Package
  • Party Big Package

Drink Package + WiFi Bundles

Drink package and wifi bundle
  • Deluxe and Voom
  • Refreshment and Voom
  • Soda and Voom 

You can still take advantage of a better price on cruise add-ons

Soda cup

If you’ve already purchased add-ons like an internet package or spa service for your upcoming cruise, be sure to check the price of the add-on under the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale.

If the price is lower, you can cancel and rebook the add-on with no penalty up to 48 hours before your cruise date.

To check if your sailing has this new offer available, log into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean's web site look for any available offers. Keep in mind that not all sailings may see the sale applicable, nor are all offers significantly cheaper than previously posted.

If you spot a better discount on something you already pre-purchased, you should be able to cancel the purchase and then re-purchase the same item under this promotion.

Sale begins today on cruise fares too

2024 Black Friday sale

In addition to the cruise planner extras you can buy, Royal Caribbean is also discounting its fares beginning today.

The Black Friday Preview sale begins today, November 8 through November 11 and offering up to $750 off base fares. 

The Black Friday Preview Sale is combinable with a monthlong offer – BOGO 60% off a second guest and Kids Sail Free, which starts today, November 8. 

BOGO60 applies to new, individual, and named group bookings at prevailing rates made 11/8 – 12/9/24 on sailings departing on or after November 9, 2024, and provides 60% off the cruise fare of the second guest booked in the same stateroom as the first, full fare paying guest, as well as 30% off any additional guests. Savings applied to cruise fare at checkout.

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale is here and you could save big on drink packages, shore excursions and more

In:
09 Nov 2023

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale has deals on add-on extras for your cruise.

Wonder of the Seas

The Black Friday offer has begun, and it could have discounts on pre-purchased cruise packages, with savings of as much as 50% for some items.

Many cruisers look to the Black Friday sale as the most lucrative point in the year to get the best prices.  It can vary how good the sale is, but now is the time to price it out.

While the Black Friday offer for booking a new cruise has yet to appear, Royal Caribbean is getting an early start on discounting its pre-cruise purchases.

Royal Caribbean Black Friday 2023 sale details

Black Friday sale

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale on booking a new cruise offers up to $750 instant savings, plus 30% off everyone in the cabin.

Black Friday Sale applies to new bookings made between November 23 – 24, 2023 on sailings departing on or after December 23, 2023, and provides instant savings of up to $750 USD per stateroom.

Savings amount varies by stateroom category booked and sailing length as follows:

  • 5 nights or less
    • $75 USD savings for Interior and Ocean View
    • $150 USD for Balconies
    • $250 USD for Suites
  • 6 nights or longer 
    • $150 USD savings for Interior and Ocean View
    • $225 USD for Balconies
    • $750 USD for Suites

Black Friday Sale is combinable with 30% Off Every Guest and Kids Sail Free as well as with promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, Instant Savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Promo Code driven offers, Free Upgrades, Shareholder Benefits, but not combinable with Ultimate World Cruise and Crown and Anchor discounts. 

Cruise Planner sale

Black Friday cruise planner sale

Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday sale applies to Cruise Planner purchases made between November 9, 2023 and November 24, 2023, and applies to select sailings departing November 13, 2023 — December 31, 2024.

Here is what is included during the sale:

Beverage: Up to 50% off

  • Refreshment Package: 35% off onboard prices
    • 50% off for Kids (12 and younger)
  • Classic Soda Package: 35% off onboard prices
    • 50% off for Kids (12 and younger)
  • Cafe Select Package: 55% off onboard prices
  • Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship.
  • Evian Water Package: Discount varies by ship.
Paddle boarding in CocoCay

Shore Excursions: Up to 50% off

  • Shore Excursions: Discount varies by ship.
    • Up to 50% off — all PDI sailings except Icon, Utopia, Ultimate World Cruise and Holiday sailings will only receive up to 30% Off shorex offer
    • Up to 30% Off — all other non-PDI sailings

Internet: Up to 55% Off

  • VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship.

VIP Pass: Up to 40% Off

  • The Key: Discount varies by ship
Giovanni's Table on Allure of the Seas

Dining: Up to 45% Off

  • Unlimited Dining Package on 3N – 14N sailings: Discount varies by ship.
  • Chops Grille — Lunch: 40% off onboard prices
  • Giovanni's Table — Lunch: 40% off onboard prices
  • Hooked — Lunch: 40% off onboard prices
  • Izumi Hibachi Experience — Lunch: 20% off onboard prices
  • Jamie's Italian Restaurant — Lunch: 40% off onboard prices
  • The Mason Jar — Brunch: 40% off onboard prices
  • Lunch at Hot Pot: 40% off onboard prices
  • Lunch at Sabor: 40% off onboard prices
  • Lunch at Sichuan Red: 40% off onboard prices
  • Lunch at Wonderland: 40% off onboard prices
Spa

Spa: Up to 30% Off

  • Spa Packages

Gifts & Gear: Up to 45% Off

  • Strawberries with Champagne: 35% off onboard prices
  • Anniversary Decorations with Champagne: 45% off onboard prices
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries: 35% off onboard prices
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries: 35% off onboard prices
  • Happy Birthday Bright Style: 35% off onboard prices
  • Happy Anniversary Decorations: 35% off onboard prices
  • Bon Voyage Decorations: 45% off onboard prices
  • 9 Chocolate Covered Strawberries: 30% off onboard prices
  • White Wine and Cheese: 30% off onboard prices
  • Red Wine and Cheese: 30% off onboard prices
  • Soft Octopus Travel Set: 30% off onboard prices
  • Royal Caribbean Beach Towel: 30% off onboard prices
  • Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe): 30% off onboard prices
  • Inky Beach Set: 30% off onboard prices
  • Inky Octopus Family Travel Set: 30% off onboard prices
  • Winter Blanket: 25% off onboard prices
  • Luxury Robe: 40% off onboard prices
  • Cooler Bag with Water: 30% off onboard prices
  • Cooler Bag with Coca Cola: 30% off onboard prices
  • Cooler Bag with Diet Coke: 30% off onboard prices
  • Cooler Bag with Bud Light: 30% off onboard prices
  • Cooler Bag with Truly: 30% off onboard prices

Photo Packages: Up to 65% Off

  • Photo Packages from 5 - 100 Photos: Discount varies by ship
  • Private Photo Session: 65% off onboard prices
  • Photo Package: All Digital: 65% off onboard prices

Onboard Activities: Up to 50% off

  • All Access Ship tour: 25% off onboard prices
  • Casitas Sea Day: 20% off onboard prices
  • Casitas Port Day: Discount varies by ship.
    • Up to 40% off onboard prices
  • Ocean View Day Bed – Sea Day: 20% off onboard prices
  • Ocean View Day Bed – Port Day: 40% off onboard prices
  • North Star Extended Experience: 20% off onboard prices
  • FlowRider: 20% off onboard prices
  • FlowRider Private Lesson: 20% off onboard prices
  • RipCord by iFLY Two Minute Experience: 20% off onboard prices
  • Escape the Rubicon: 20% off onboard prices
  • Mission Control: Apollo 18: 20% off onboard prices
  • Observatorium: 20% off onboard prices
  • Sprinkle Time Cupcake Decorating Class:
    • Up to 25% off onboard prices
  • Sip.Tour.Brunch.: 25% off onboard prices
  • Cooking Class Guacamole: 15% off onboard prices
  • Introduction to Pickleball Clinic: 40% off onboard prices

You can still take advantage of a better price on cruise add-ons

Soda cup

If you’ve already purchased add-ons like an internet package or spa service for your upcoming cruise, be sure to check the price of the add-on under the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale.

If the price is lower, you can cancel and rebook the add-on with no penalty up to 48 hours before your cruise date.

To check if your sailing has this new offer available, log into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean's web site look for any available offers. Keep in mind that not all sailings may see the sale applicable, nor are all offers significantly cheaper than previously posted.

If you spot a better discount on something you already pre-purchased, you should be able to cancel the purchase and then re-purchase the same item under this promotion.

Royal Caribbean announces 2022 Black Friday cruise deals

In:
17 Nov 2022

Royal Caribbean has revealed its Black Friday and Cyber Week sale with savings of up to $600 on cruise fares.

Royal Caribbean Black Friday 2022 offer

Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday cruise deals will run between November 18 - November 22, 2022. The sale will open a day early on November 17, 2022 for Crown and Anchor guests.

Anyone looking to book a cruise or purchase pre-cruise add-ons like drink packages and shore excursions may have to wait a bit longer.

Casita on Wonder of the Seas

The new offer includes instant savings on cruise fare, 30% off every guest, and a Kids Sail Free promotion. Additionally, the Cruise Planner sale includes savings up to 50% on dining, 35% on internet packages, and 50% on drink packages.

While the promotion’s name will change throughout the course of Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, the promotional offer remains the same during the sale.

Royal Caribbean Black Friday 2022 sale details

Dates:  November 17, 2022 for Crown and Anchor preview and November 18, 2022 - November 22, 2022 on sailings departing on or after December 18, 2022.

Cruise Fare deals

Instant Savings up to $600 per stateroom on sailings departing departing on or after December 18, 2022.

  • Sailings 5 nights or less: $75 for Interior and Ocean View, $125 for Balconies and $200 for Suites
  • Sailings 6 nights or longer: $100 for Interior and Ocean View, $150 for Balconies, $600 for Suites

30% off every guest: 30% savings off the cruise fare for all guests in the stateroom. Savings will be applied to cruise fare at checkout.

Kids together on Wonder of the Seas

Kids Sail Free: Kids Sail Free provides free cruise fare for the 3rd guests and higher in a cabin. Guests must be 12 years or younger as of cruise departure date and booked in the same stateroom as the first two qualifying guests in a triple or quad-occupancy stateroom.

  • Kids Sail Free applies to new bookings made between November 1 – 30, 2022 on sailings departing on or after December 1, 2022 – April 30, 2025, providing free cruise fare for third guests and higher who are 12 years old and younger as of departure date on sailings 3 nights or longer booked in the same stateroom as the first two qualifying guests in a triple or quad- occupancy stateroom.
  • Kids Sail Free excludes Thanksgiving sailings departing November 18, 2022 – November 25, 2022; November 17, 2023 – November 24, 2023; November 22, 2024 – November 29, 2024, Holiday sailings departing December 18, 2022 – January 6, 2023; December 16, 2023 – January 5, 2024; December 20, 2024 – January 3, 2025, Spring break sailings departing March 10, 2023 – March 24, 2023; March 8, 2024 – March 22, 2024; March 7, 2025 – March 28, 2025, Holy Week/Easter sailings departing April 1, 2023 – April 11, 2023; March 22, 2024 – April 4, 2024; April 12, 2025 – April 24, 2025, Summer Sailings departing May 24, 2023 – September 1, 2023; May 22, 2024 – August 30, 2024 and Radiance Alaska Cruisetour sailings departing May 19, 2023 – September 15, 2023. 

Related: Royal Caribbean Kids Sail Free 2022-2023 Dates & Tips

Cruise Planner deals

Royal Caribbean Refreshment Package

In addition to sales on cruise fare, Royal Caribbean has also announced its Black Friday deals on Cruise Planner purchases. Drink packages, dining packages, internet, and other pre-cruise add-ons all qualify for discounts.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner site

The Cyber Week sale is valid on purchases made Friday, November 18, 2022 – Friday, November 25, 2022 and applies to sailings departing between November 24, 2022 – December 31, 2023.

Here is what is included during the sale:

All Access Ship Tour: 30% Off Onboard Prices

  • All Access Ship tour: 30% Off Onboard Prices

Beverage: Up to 50% off

  • Classic Soda Beverage Package: 40% Off onboard prices
  • Classic Soda Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device.
  • Water Bottle Pacakage: 50% off onboard prices.
  • San Benedetto Water Cans: 50% off onboard prices.
  • Evian Water Bottles: 50% off onboard prices.
  • Deluxe Beverage Package: Discount varies by ship
  • Deluxe Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device: Discount varies by ship.
  • Refreshment Package: Package: 40% off onboard prices. Discount varies by ship.

Shore Excursions: Up to 50% off

  • Shore Excursions: Discount varies by ship

Internet: Up to 35% off

  • The Key: Discount varies by ship
  • VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship
  • VOOM Surf Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship

Dining: Up to 50% off

  • Unlimited Dining Package on 3N – 9N sailings: Discount varies by ship.
  • Lunch at Chops Grille: 30% off onboard prices
  • Lunch at Jamie's Italian Restaurant: 30% off onboard prices
  • Dinner at Jamie's Italian Restaurant: 25% off onboard prices
  • Dinner at Giovanni's Table: 25% off onboard prices
  • Giovanni's Italian Kitchen: 25% off onboard prices
  • Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar: 25% off onboard prices

Activities: 30% off

  • All Access Ship tour: 30% Off Onboard Prices

Gifts & Gear: Up to 20% off

  • Anniversary Decorations with Champagne
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries: 35 % off onboard prices
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries: 35 % off onboard prices
  • Inky Beach Set: 30% off onboard prices
  • Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe): 35% off onboard prices
  • Inky Octopus Family Travel Set: 30% off onboard prices
  • Red Wine and Cheese : 30% off onboard prices
  • Royal Caribbean Beach Towel: 45% off onboard prices
  • Strawberries with Champagne: 30% off onboard prices
  • White Wine and Cheese: 30% off onboard prices
  • Happy Anniversary Decorations: 40% off onboard prices
  • Happy Birthday Bright Style: 40% Off onboard Prices
  • Winter Blanket: 30% off onboard prices

Photo Packages: Up to 65% off

  • Photo Packages: From 5 - 100 Print and/or Digital Options: Discount varies by ship.
  • Photo Package: Private Photo Session: Discount varies by ship.
  • Photo Package: All Digital: Discount varies by ship.

Spa: Up to 30% off

  • Spa Packages: Discount varies by ship

What to do now to prepare for Black Friday

Royal Promenade on Adventure of the Seas

Book a cruise now

If you have your eye on a Royal Caribbean cruise, it’s best to book it now regardless of which sale is currently available. One of the best ways to save money on your cruise is to book a cruise now and re-price the cruise fare up until the final payment date.

If you book a cruise during the Black Friday sale for $1500, for example, and see that the price later lowers to $1200, you will pay the lower fare provided you have not yet made final payment on the cruise. You must contact your travel agent or Royal Caribbean to take advantage of the new cruise fare.

Therefore, there’s no harm in booking a cruise you’re interested in during the Black Friday sale. Although there's no guarantee Black Friday will bring the best sales during the year, it’s better to book early and re-price than wait to book and see that the cruise fare has increased.

Check if the price is lower on your booked cruises

Person using computer

If you already have a cruise booked, have not made final payment, and want to check if the cruise fare has lowered with the Black Friday sale, your best bet is to make a mock booking.

To make a mock booking, go to Royal Caribbean’s website, find your cruise, and go through as much of the checkout process as you can. By doing this, you’ll see the current cruise fare with gratuities, taxes, and fees added.

You can compare Royal Caribbean’s current price for this sailing with what you originally paid. If the price is lower, contact your travel agent or Royal Caribbean directly to re-price your cruise and save money.

Another option is to contact your travel agent and ask them to check if the price of your booked cruise is lower under the new sale.

Cancel and rebook Cruise Planner add-ons if the price is lower

Adventure of the Seas sailing into Nassau

If you’ve already purchased add-ons like an internet package or spa service for your upcoming cruise, be sure to check the price of the add-on under the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale.

If the price is lower, you can cancel and rebook the add-on with no penalty up to 48 hours before your cruise date.

More helpful information:

Black Friday and Cyber Monday cruise deals: What to expect

In:
04 Nov 2022

We’re only a few weeks away from countless plates of turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, and that also means Royal Caribbean will soon be announcing their 2022 Black Friday sale.

While Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday sale changes year to year, you can expect to see savings on both base cruise fare and add-ons purchased through Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner. 

Let’s take a look at what you should expect for Royal Caribbean’s 2022 Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.

Does Royal Caribbean offer a Black Friday sale?

Black Friday–a major sales event on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States–is the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season. Retailers typically offer their most elusive deals during this time of the year. These sales continue on Cyber Monday, the online equivalent of Black Friday.

Because of this, you’ll find Royal Caribbean combining Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales into a weeklong “Cyber Week Sale”. 

While Black Friday sales are standard within the cruise industry, the best offers typically come during Wave Season (the first three months of the calendar year). That being said, you can expect to see some savings during the cruise line’s Cyber Week Sale.

When will Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale be announced?

Side of Navigator of the Seas

Royal Caribbean typically releases its Cyber Week Sale information a few days before Thanksgiving. Last year, the sale for pre-cruise add-ons began Tuesday, November 23 and the sale on cruise fares began Wednesday, November 24.

We can expect to see Royal Caribbean’s 2022 Black Friday and Cyber Monday cruise deals announced around November 20, 21, or 22 (Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday) this year. The sale will likely run for one week, from around Wednesday, November 23 to Tuesday, November 29.

What types of deals are offered on Black Friday?

The exact deal offered on Black Friday can change by year, but you can expect to see both savings on cruise fares and savings on pre-cruise purchases like shore excursions and dining packages.

Last year’s Black Friday sale on cruise fare allowed guests to save up to $550 in instant savings + 30% off every guest. The promotion ran from the Wednesday before Thanksgiving to the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.

It also had many discounts offered on pre-cruise add-ons, including the following:

  • Soda or Refreshment Package: up to 50% off onboard prices
  • Deluxe Beverage Package: 30% off onboard prices
  • Shore excursions: up to 50% off
  • Internet: up to 60% off
  • Discounts on Unlimited Dining Package (discount varies by ship)
  • Dinner at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen: 25% off onboard prices
  • 30% off spa treatments (discount varies by ship)
Chops top view

If you’re interested to see what types of Black Friday deals have been offered in recent years, check out our article on Royal Caribbean’s past Black Friday deals.

NOTE: Royal Caribbean will change the name of the promotion on the website depending on which day you visit the site (Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, etc.), but the promotion remains the same.

Should I book my cruise now or wait until Black Friday?

Royal Caribbean allows you to reprice your cruise until final payment date, meaning you can take advantage of a lower price even after booking*. Final payment is due 75 days prior to the sale date for 1-4 night cruises and 90 days prior to the sale date for cruises 5 nights or longer.

If you book a cruise in early November for $1,500 and later find the same sailing offered for $1,200 during the Black Friday sale, you can reprice the cruise and save $300 (provided the cruise is not within final payment).

Why is this important? Despite Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales offering the potential for savings, this isn’t always the case. Let’s look at an example of how waiting to book a cruise during Black Friday can sometimes be more expensive than booking beforehand.

Sample scenario

Owner suite balcony

It’s early November and you are interested in booking a 7-night cruise on Symphony of the Seas. Royal Caribbean is offering a standard promotion, and the cruise fare for 2 adults in a balcony stateroom is $2,200.

However, you decide to wait to book the cruise. Black Friday is coming up in only two weeks, so you assume the deal will be better then.

Symphony of the Seas in PortMiami aerial

Unfortunately, when you go to book the cruise on Black Friday, the price of that same balcony room is now $2,500! In the two weeks since you last checked, more staterooms sold on that sailing, and Royal Caribbean increased prices for the remaining staterooms.

There’s no guarantee a Black Friday deal will be better than any other promotion offered by Royal Caribbean during the year. Because of this, it’s best to book as soon as possible to lock in the best price for your sailing.

Related: Did Black Friday sales save you money on your cruise?

*NOTE: While Royal Caribbean’s website states that “Our Best Price Guarantee lets you take advantage of a better price within 48 hours from the time you booked,” we’ve confirmed with a travel agent that you can still reprice a cruise up until final payment.

What about booking cruise add-ons like drink packages and internet?

Playmakers

Just like your cruise fare, it’s always better to book cruise add-ons as soon as possible rather than waiting for the chance of a better deal.

You can cancel and rebook any add-ons on Royal Caribbean’s Cruise Planner up to 48 hours before sailing. If you book a drink package at $75/day and later see the price drop to $65/day, you can cancel and rebook at the lower price with no penalty.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to the Royal Caribbean Cruise Planner site

Therefore, it’s best to book cruise add-ons now and check the Cruise Planner on Black Friday to see if the add-ons you purchased are being offered at a lower price. There’s no guarantee that you’ll find a better price on Black Friday, but if you do, you can easily cancel and rebook to save money.

Planning a cruise? Check out our best money saving tips:

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday sale includes up to $550 in savings

In:
23 Nov 2021

Royal Caribbean has revealed its Black Friday sale details ahead of the major shopping holiday.

Anyone looking to book a cruise between Black Friday and Cyber Monday can save up to $550 in savings when you combine the Cyber Week sale with the month-long kicker of up to $150 instant savings.

The new offer includes 30 percent off every guest and instant savings on cruises departing in 2022.  

Royal Caribbean will change the name of the promotion between Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday, but the promotion is exactly the same.

Beginning on Tuesday, Crown & Anchor Society members can take advantage of the Cyber Week promotion. Then on Wednesday, it opens up to the general public.

This offer is in addition to the sale that begins on November 23 for drink packages, wifi and other add-ons.

Here's the details for Royal Caribbean's 2021 Black Friday offer:

The Cyber Week sale is valid on new bookings made between November 24 – 30, 2021.

Up to $400 off Cyber Monday Extension Sale provides instant savings of up to $400 USD per stateroom on select sailings departing on or after December 23, 2021.

Savings amount varies by category booked and sailing length:

  • Sailings 5 nights or less, $75 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $100 for Balconies and $200 for Suites
  • Sailings 6 nights or longer, $100 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $150 for Balconies and $400 for Suites

2022 Kicker applies to new bookings made between November 2 – 30, 2021.

2022 Kicker provides instant savings of up to $150 USD per stateroom on select sailings departing between January 1 – December 31, 2022.

Savings amount determined by category booked and sailing length:

  • Sailings 5 nights or less, $25 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $50 for Balconies and $75 for Suites
  • Sailings 6 nights or longer, $50 savings for Interior and Ocean View, $75 for Balconies, and $150 for Suites

Combinability: 30% Off Every Guest and 2022 Kicker are combinable with each other as well as promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Promo Code driven offers, Free Upgrades, Crown and Anchor discounts and Shareholder Benefits. Up to $400 off Cyber Monday Extension Sale is combinable with 30% Off Every Guest and 2022 Kicker as well as with promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, Instant Savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Promo Code driven offers, Free Upgrades, Shareholder Benefits, but not combinable with Ultimate World Cruise and Crown and Anchor discounts.

Offer available to residents of United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and select countries in the Caribbean. 

How to check if the price is lower

The most straight forward method for seeing if there is a price drop is to go to Royal Caribbean's website and do a mock booking. 

Be sure to go through as much of the checkout process as you can to ensure you are comparing exactly what you have booked, as things like cruise fare (refundable vs non-refundable), gratuities, taxes and other fees may not be levied until later in the checkout.

Another option is to let you travel agent handle this for you.  Some travel agents (the really good ones) will take it upon themselves to check for lower prices on behalf of their clients.

I recommend this travel agency for booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, and they will reprice for you during sales like this. If you are not convinced using a free travel agency right for you, read this post discussing the benefits travel agents offer.

Royal Caribbean’s Black Friday sale for drink packages, WiFi and more announced

In:
21 Nov 2021

The first of Royal Caribbean's Black Friday deals is revealed, beginning with its Cruise Planner sale.

The Cyber Monday sale is being advertised as the "biggest sale of the year" with up 55% off onboard prices.

Royal Caribbean has not yet announced the details of its cruise fare sale for Black Friday.

The Cyber Monday sale is valid on purchases made November 23 - December 1, 2021. The sale prices do not begin until November 23.

You can sign up to be alerted of Royal Caribbean's Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals | Royal Caribbean Blog

It applies to sailings departing between November 23, 2021 - December 31, 2022.

Here is what is included during the sale:

Beverage: Up to 50% off

  • Classic Soda Beverage Package: 50% off onboard prices.
  • Classic Soda Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device: Over 45% off onboard prices.
  • Dasani Water Cans: 50% off onboard prices.
  • San Benedetto Water Cans: 50% off onboard prices.
  • Evian Water Bottles: 50% off onboard prices.
  • Deluxe Beverage Package: 30% off onboard prices.
  • Deluxe Beverage Package + VOOM Surf & Stream 1 Device: Over 35% off onboard prices.
  • Refreshment Package: 50% off onboard prices.

You will only be able to book cruise line shore excursions on Adventure of the Seas cruises | Royal Caribbean Blog

Shore Excursions: Up to 50% off

  • Shore Excursions: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.

Internet: Up to 60% Off

  • The Key: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.
  • VOOM Surf + Stream Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.
  • VOOM Surf Voyage Package 1, 2, 3, 4 Device(s): Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.

Giovanni's Italian Kitchen | Royal Caribbean Blog

Dining: Up to 55% Off

  • Unlimited Dining Package on 3N – 9N sailings: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.
  • Lunch at Jamie’s Italian Restaurant: 30% off onboard prices. (only on SC)
  • Dinner at Jamie’s Italian Restaurant: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.
  • Dinner at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen: 25% off onboard prices.
  • Dinner at Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar: 25% off onboard prices.
  • Dinner at Giovanni’s Table: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off.

Activities: 40% Off

  • All Access Ship Tour (excl. Grandeur of the Seas)

Gifts & Gear: Up to 55% Off

  • Anniversary Decorations with Champagne
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Chocolate Cake & Strawberries
  • Happy Birthday Decorations with Vanilla Cake & Strawberries
  • Happy Birthday Bright Style
  • Inky Beach Set
  • Inky Beach Towel (TicTacToe)
  • Inky Travel Set
  • Red Wine and Cheese
  • Royal Caribbean Beach Towel
  • Strawberries with Champagne
  • White Wine and Cheese
  • 9 Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Photo Packages: Up to 70% Off

  • Photo Packages: From 5 - 100 Print and/or Digital Options: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific packages and percentages off.
  • Photo Package: Private Photo Session: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific packages and percentages off.
  • Photo Package: Picture This Private Studio: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific packages and percentages off.
  • Photo Package: All Digital: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific packages and percentages off.

Spa: Up to 30% Off

  • Spa Packages: Discount varies by ship. Please see spreadsheet for specific percentages off

To check if your sailing has this new offer available, log into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean's web site look for any available offers. Keep in mind that not all sailings may see the sale applicable, nor are all offers significantly cheaper than previously posted.

If you spot a better discount on something you already pre-purchased, you should be able to cancel the purchase and then re-purchase the same item under this promotion.

More helpful information

Royal Caribbean's past Black Friday deals

In:
08 Nov 2021

Black Friday is not only a major retail sales event, but the cruise lines get into the action as well with their own set of deals and promotions.

Royal Caribbean has not revealed what its 2023 Black Friday deals will be, nor if we can expect any kind of Black Friday promotion.

While we wait to see what deals might be offered in 2021, here is a look back at the last few Black Friday offers to get a sense of what has been offered in the past. It is important to note that past promotions are not indicative of what might be coming this year.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday sign

If you are unaware, Black Friday is a major sales event in primarily the United States, where there are major sales the day after the Thanksgiving holiday to kick off the unofficial start to the holiday shopping season.

Traditionally, retailers offer their best deals of the year on Black Friday in order to kick-start their best sales times, and you typically see crazy low prices on consumer electronics and other goods.

The cruise lines have gotten into the spirit of the event, by offering their own promotions.  Cruise lines typically have their best offers in the early part of the year during Wave Season, but since so many consumers are looking for new sales, Royal Caribbean has offered some too.

Black Friday 2022

Royal Caribbean Black Friday 2022 offer

Royal Caribbean's Cyber Week Sale in 2022 ran between November 17 - November 22, 2022.

There was a 30% off every guest and Kids Sail Free offer. 

The Cruise Planner sale ran between November 18, 2022 and November 25, 2022. It had:

  • Up to 30% Off all access tour
  • Up to 50% off beverage packages
  • Up to 50% off shore excursions
  • Up to 35% off internet packages
  • Up to 50% off specialty dining
  • Up to 20% off gifts and gear
  • Up to 65% off photo packages
  • Up to 30% off spa

Full 2022 Black Friday offer details

Black Friday 2021

Black Friday 2021

The Cruise Planner sale ran between November 23 - December 1, 2021. It offered:

  • Up to 50% off beverage packages
  • Up to 50% off shore excursions
  • Up to 60% off internet packages
  • Up to 55% off specialty dining
  • Up to 55% off gifts and gear
  • Up to 70% off photo packages
  • Up to 30% off spa

Full 2021 Black Friday offer details

Black Friday 2020

Royal Caribbean's Cyber Week Sale in 2020 ran between November 24 - December 1, 2020 and offered a bundle of savings, with up to $550 off cruise fares.

Guests could combine the Cyber Week Sale with the November monthly offer, which provided 60% off the second guest, and kids sail free.

In addition, there was a Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale on pre-cruise add-ons, like drink packagesshore excursions, wifi and more.

Black Friday 2019

Royal Caribbean offered a Black Friday and Cyber Monday deal in 2019, although it was effectively the same offer. 

The Cyber Weekend sale ran between November 27 - December 2, 2019.

  • 60% off second guest
  • Instant savings up to $300 off
  • Kids Sail Free

In addition, there was a Black Friday sale on pre-cruise purchases such as up to 50% off Beverage Packages. Plus, up to 65% off Internet, up to 30% off Shore Excursions, up to 55% off Dining Packages, and up to 40% off Gifts and Gear.

The Cyber Monday Cruise Planner sale runs between November 27 - December 3, 2019.

Black Friday 2018

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday and Cyber Monday deal in 2018 offered a very similar deal to the 2019 offer.

The Cyber Weekend sale ran between November 22, 2018 – November 27, 2018.

  • 60% off second guest
  • 30% off third guests and higher in same room as first two qualified guests
  • Instant savings up to $300 off
  • Kids Sail Free

The 2018 Cyber Monday Cruise Planner sale offered up to 40% off pre-cruise purchases, including up to 40% off drink packages, up to 25% off excursions, up to 60% off internet and 20% off specialty dining.

The pre-cruise planner sale ran between November 23, 2018 - November 27, 2018.

Black Friday 2017

The Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal in 2017 had a sligtly different combination compared to 2018-2019.

  • 50% off second guest
  • 25% Savings for 3/4 guests “Kids Sail for Less”
  • Up to $400 Onboard Credit per stateroom
    • The extra $100 was for booking more than six months in advance

The 2017 Black Friday Sale on Cruise Planner purchases offered up to 30% off everything in the store, such as beverage packages, shore excursions and more.

Black Friday 2016

The 2016 Black Friday through Cyber Monday Super Sale ran between November 26 - 28, 2016.

  • 50% Reduced Deposits
  • Up to $300 Onboard Credit per stateroom
  • BOGO 50% off with 25% savings for 3rd and 4th guests
  • up to $100 Onboard Credit per stateroom

There was also a Cruise Planner sale in 2016 for pre-cruise purchases on beverage packages, shore excursions and more.

Black Friday 2015

In 2015, Royal Caribbean offered slightly different offers for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Black Friday offered:

  • 50% off second guest
  • 50% reduced deposit
  • Up to $300 per stateroom onboard credit
  • 25% off 3rd and 4th guests in a room
  • One Voom internet package for one device on Anthem, Harmony, Allure, Oasis, Freedom, and Enchantment of the Seas on sailings departing between May 1 - September 30, 2016.

The Cyber Monday sale was essentially the same as the Black Friday sale, but with a bit more onboard credit.

  • 50% off second guest
  • 50% reduced deposit
  • Up to $400 per stateroom onboard credit
  • 25% off 3rd and 4th guests in a room
  • One Voom internet package for one device on Anthem, Harmony, Allure, Oasis, Freedom, and Enchantment of the Seas on sailings departing between May 1 - September 30, 2016.

Should you wait until Black Friday to book a cruise?

If you want to get the best possible deal, your best bet is to actually book a cruise or cruise planner purchase now and rebook if the price goes down later.

There is no telling what Royal Caribbean's Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals will be in 2020, but the best strategy for getting the lowest price is to book now at current rates and then compare to thee new prices if/when a deal is announced later.

By booking now, you can lock in the current rates. If there is a better sale between now and Black Friday, you can always get a price adjustment.

One of the overlooked, yet quite significant, benefits of the Cruise with Confidence program is Royal Caribbean's Best Price Guarantee has been expanded.

This means guests can now take advantage of price drops after final payment date, up until 48 hours before the cruise, and it applies to all countries.

Price variances will result in a rate adjustment if requested outside of final payment or a non-refundable onboard credit when inside final payment period.

Pre-cruise purchases for drink packages or excursions are even easier to cancel and rebook to take advantage of a lower price.

Since you can take advantage of price drops later, you do not have to worry that you missed a better deal in the weeks leading up to Black Friday.

Did Black Friday sales save you money on your cruise?

In:
27 Nov 2020

Royal Caribbean joined in on the Black Friday offers with its own offers, but the question is did it save people money on their cruise vacation?

Royal Caribbean has two Black Friday offers that run the entire week between Thanksgiving and Cyber Monday, and offer deals on cruise fares as well as pre-cruise purchases.

Each year, many cruise fans wait in anticipation of what offer might be available, and until the actual promotion begins, it is impossible to know how significant the actual savings will be.

Royal Caribbean's Black Friday 2020 offer

Royal Caribbean's Cyber Week Sale runs between November 24 - December 1, 2020 and offer a bundle of savings, with up to $550 off cruise fares.

Guests can combine the Cyber Week Sale with the November monthly offer, which provides 60% off the second guest, and kids sail free.

In addition, there is a Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale on pre-cruise add-ons, like drink packages, shore excursions, wifi and more.

Both the cruise fare sale and the Cruise Planner sale run through early next week, so you do not have to book on Black Friday or Cyber Monday to take advantage of the offer.

Did anyone save money?

Like most Royal Caribbean promotions, savings vary from person to person. There is rarely any one promotion that gives an across the board discount.

Depending on if you had something booked already, or were looking to book a new cruise today, the perceived discount differed.

RoyalCaribbeanBlog readers shared their experiences on the message boards, and the general consensus was there were deeper discounts on the cruise add-on purchases, than the cruise fare promotion.

Luckily for USFFrank, the deal on the non-alcoholic beverage package came out quite cheap, "For my Harmony of the Seas cruise next November, the refreshment package is $18.00. That's the cheapest I've ever paid for that particular beverage package going back several cruises and I'm surprised it's this low nowadays."

Lovetocruise2002 bought a drink package as the only deal she ran across, "Nothing stands out on any of my sailings either.  All I did was grab the drink package for 2 sailings (later in 2021) in case what some of us suspect holds true (that those prices will jump once sailings resume)."

USCG Teacher did not find better deals today because they had take advantage of previous sales, "So far this Black Friday has been a bit of a dud for me.  The All Access Tour went from $130 to $90, so that was great, but no savings to be found anywhere else.  That said, I had already repurchased most of my items back during the past Cruise Planner sale and found some really terrific deals then."

Most people that talked about what they found indicated prices for cruises were at what they paid already, or higher, because these smart planners had booked earlier and taken advantage of previous price drops.

Royal Caribbean allows guests to take advantage of a price drop and reprice their cruise with no penalty up until final payment date. This includes guests from around the world, thanks to a more flexible Best Price Guarantee program that was altered earlier this year.

As long as the price drops for the same ship and sail date that has been booked previously, and it is before final payment date, you can take advantage of the lower price while simultaneously ensuring the price does not jump up.

Why were there not better deals?

While Black Friday conjures up notions of bargain-basement super low prices on appliances, clothing, or electronics, cruise fares do not have such drastic price swings.

In fact, the cruise industry sees its most aggressive pricing during the early part of the year in what the industry refers to as "wave season".

Wave season takes place between January and March, and is a reflection of the fact most people book their cruise vacations during the early part of the year. Essentially, unpleasant winter weather and an empty calendar for the coming year lead many to look to book a cruise.

In order to jump on the increased demand, cruise lines tend to roll out their better promotions during wave season in order to convince people to book.

In addition, Royal Caribbean has monthly sales and promos throughout the year that keep the prices moving.

Certainly Royal Caribbean is not one to shy away from joining in the Black Friday buzz, but cruise fare pricing is not the same as televisions, phones, or video games.

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