I was at a party recently and the topic of cruise vacations came up, and that's when one guest asked if cruises were just something old people went on. 

I've been asked or heard similar statements many times over the years, so I'm not new to this line of thinking, but it's surprising that so many hold onto this misconception about cruises. Especially given how prolific new ships have been in garnering all sorts of press for being anything but conventional and dull.

The Cruise Lines International Association says 22% of all cruisers were millennials and 14% were Gen Z. Those numbers are much higher on Royal Caribbean, where the average age of a cruiser is a millennial now.

A study last year by Morning Consult Intelligence showed Gen Z and millennial respondents were showing a greater interest in booking a cruise on one of the mainstream lines, with a 2-5% jump year-over-year.

Unfortunately, despite these growing numbers of young people wanting to cruise, the narrative has not yet caught up with the facts. 

Targeting younger cruisers

Like all myths, there's a source of truth to them. But that's greatly changing with Royal Caribbean.

While some cruise lines may still retain an older demographic, the mainstream lines are moving forward to appealing to the younger generations.

"More than half of the millennials tell us they are more likely to consider cruising today compared to two years ago," said Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty last year.

He says that up-tick in interest is because of, "the attractive value proposition of a cruise."

The result is almost 1 in 2 guests sailing on Royal Caribbean ships are millennials or younger.

The Royal Caribbean app has undergone tremendous updates and feature additions to make it more useful and more engaging. Not only does it contain activity information, but it has been designed to be more useful for younger cruisers.

Mobile badges make tracking which sailings and destinations you've visited more personal. There are "Netflix-style recommendations" for dining, nightlife, and excursions based on personal preferences.  And push notifications make it easier to browse add-ons that could be of interest (and save money too).

Younger travelers see a cruise ship as an easy way to explore different places in one trip, "Consumers place significant value on visiting multiple destinations and this is even more important to Millennial and Gen Z consumers; something that cruising is uniquely positioned to deliver on."

More parties, less formality

Beyond the stats, what you can experience on a cruise has changed over the years and many of the trends lean towards people that want more than classic cruise activities.

Royal Caribbean made waves when it launched a brand new ship specifically aimed at attracting new cruisers and those that want a party vibe.

Utopia of the Seas was designed to be the weekend party cruise ship, and other ships have shifted to this dynamic as well.

In addition to the traditional things to do, there are more parties and themed events than ever before.

Royal Caribbean dropped the "formal night" moniker years ago, instead opting to lean into theme nights. While wearing a tuxedo is quite rare to see on a ship, families dressing up with matching outfits for Y2K night, white night, and Caribbean night are all much more popular than ever before.

Royal Caribbean went even deeper with appealing to families with building out an entire area of Icon of the Seas to be dedicated to young families.

Offering more than ever for parents and children to do together draws younger cruisers to try a cruise.  Plus, their parents can opt for the party fun later in the evening after dropping their kids off at kids club.

"I'll be bored on a cruise"

Tangentially related to the idea only the "nearly wed and nearly dead" go on cruises is the idea it's a boring vacation.

This is probably rooted in the idea you wake up and go to the pool deck every day.  In truth, there's so much more to do.

Cruise ships offer shopping, surfing, water slides, ice skating, laser tag, and deck parties. There are Broadway shows you can see, video games to play, gambling in the casino, karaoke and so much more.

If you look through the daily activities on Royal Caribbean, you'll quickly see how much is available to try.

Royal Caribbean designs its ships to compete with Las Vegas or Orlando. They want it to be a floating destination with more to do and try. So much of what you can do on land is available to do on a cruise ship too. And odds are even more.

First-time cruisers likely have questions about what to expect once they're onboard the ship. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by everything, from the embarkation process to the main dining room and kids' club. The best way to feel confident before your vacation is to ask questions, even if they seem silly or like basic common knowledge. 

Every cruiser, even the most experienced, had to start somewhere — anxiously trying to figure out which line, ship, cabin, and itinerary were perfect for them, and learning about the nuances of cruise culture. 

In other words, there’s a definite learning curve to cruising for the first (second, or even third) time. To help smooth the transition, we’ve rounded up some of the most common cruise questions that first-time guests are often too embarrassed or shy to ask, so you can act like a pro before you set foot on a ship.

What is included on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Cruises remain one of the most popular ways to vacation because of their convenience. The base fare is more inclusive than your standard hotel, meaning that you pay one upfront price for accommodations, transportation between ports of call, and a variety of onboard experiences.

Generally speaking, Royal Caribbean cruises include your stateroom, meals in complimentary dining venues, select beverages, most entertainment, access to pools and fitness facilities, youth programming, and transportation between destinations. 

Some amenities, such as specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi, cost extra, which can catch first-time cruisers by surprise if they aren’t prepared and budget accordingly. 

Do you have to pay gratuities on a cruise?

Speaking of add-ons, gratuities are another cost that often confuses first-time cruisers. While they aren't included in the base fare, they are typically considered mandatory and can either be prepaid before your sailing or automatically added to your SeaPass account.

The gratuity charges (or tips) go toward hardworking crew who help ensure that your vacation is memorable, including your cabin attendant, dining room servers, and other behind-the-scenes team members. 

As of February 2026, Royal Caribbean charges $18.50 per person per day for guests in standard or Junior Suite staterooms. The charge increases to $21.00 per person per day for suites. 

Read more: Tipping on a cruise ship: what you should and shouldn't do

How much food can I order in the cruise ship dining room?

The main dining room is one of the complimentary restaurants available fleet-wide. Nearly the entire menu is included in your cruise fare, minus a few premium add-ons. As such, you can order as much food as you want. 

Many passengers enjoy eating in the dining room because they can try new dishes that they may not otherwise pay for at a standard restaurant — think escargot, chicken saag, lentil soup, and seafood cakes. 

In fact, many servers will encourage cruisers to order multiple appetizers, entrées, and desserts if they’re torn between options or want to sample a few different dishes. Regardless of how much you order, you don't have to sweat anticipating a large bill at the end of the meal!  

What should I leave off my cruise packing list?

Packing for your cruise can feel overwhelming. Since you don't have easy access to drug stores and supermarkets, many first-time guests are tempted to overpack. 

Instead of frantically throwing everything you think you might need into your suitcase, take a minute to familiarize yourself with Royal Caribbean's prohibited items list. Common household items like irons, steamers, and extension cords cannot be brought on board. 

Additionally, you can leave your bulky beach towels at home, as Royal Caribbean provides towels for guests to use on the ship and at ports of call. 

Read more: 115-item Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise?

Passports are recommended for all cruises, regardless of whether you are eyeing a short getaway on Utopia of the Seas or an immersive voyage to The Last Frontier. That said, passports aren't always required for cruises. 

Technically, United States citizens can sail on certain cruises without a passport — so long as you can obtain a valid birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. The only stipulation is that you must be embarking on a closed-loop (or round-trip) voyage that departs from the U.S.

For example, a U.S. citizen wouldn't need a passport on a 3-night cruise to The Bahamas from Port Canaveral, Florida. They would, however, need one for a one-way Alaska sailing from Seward to Vancouver, Canada. 

Is the tap water safe to drink on a cruise ship?

Between daytime cocktails by the pool and long days spent ashore in the heat, it's easy to get dehydrated while on a cruise. While water is included in your cruise fare, bottled water typically costs extra — unless you splurge on a pricey drink package. 

That said, the tap water is safe to consume on cruise ships; all water is rigorously distilled or purified according to sanitation standards approved by the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS). Additionally, the USPHS regularly inspects the ship during construction and throughout the year to ensure compliance with its strict standards. 

So, yes, it's safe to drink the water on a cruise ship! You should not be afraid to bring your reusable water bottle and refill it in your cabin or other public areas on board. 

Read more: Is the tap water safe to drink on a cruise ship?

How do I beat the cruise chair hogs?

"Chair hogs" refer to guests who leave their towels or personal items on one or more pool loungers and then walk away for hours without actually using them.

We don't recommend becoming part of the problem and annoying other passengers. As such, the best approach is to be strategic. For example, arrive early to claim a spot and use the pool in the morning, rather than waiting until early afternoon. 

You can also hit the pool on a port day, when fewer guests are on the ship. Don't be afraid to speak up if you see unattended chairs, either. Technically, pool attendants should be removing items from chairs that have been left for an extended period. 

What is a guarantee cabin on a cruise?

Some first-time cruisers are interested in the cheapest fare they can find. This isn't wise for a few reasons, starting with the fact that the lowest fares typically mean you do not get to pick your specific cruise cabin. 

Royal Caribbean's guarantee (GTY) fares may initially seem like a wise trade-off since you're still guaranteed a stateroom on the same ship. However, you won't know the exact location of your cabin until closer to your sailing's departure date. 

Since GTY rooms are often assigned from "leftover" cabins, it's always a possibility that you could end up with a stateroom in a less-than-ideal location, such as near the noisy nightclub or at the front of the ship where motion is more prominent. 

Read more: What does stateroom guarantee (GTY) mean on Royal Caribbean?

How do you not get seasick on a cruise?

Since your stateroom’s location can affect how much motion you feel, choosing the right cabin is especially important for those prone to motion sickness. 

Generally speaking, staterooms toward the front (forward) and back (aft) of the ship tend to feel more rocking, while cabins in the middle of the vessel and on lower decks often experience less movement. 

Other hacks to prevent seasickness include buying over-the-counter medication, such as Dramamine or Bonine, acupressure bands, or behind-the-ear patches. More natural remedies include fixating on the horizon, sipping peppermint tea, staying hydrated, and eating green apples.

Where does the crew sleep on a cruise ship?

Crew members live on board during their contracts, but their living areas are completely separate from guest areas. 

Crew accommodations are vastly different than guest cabins, too. Whereas every guest stateroom has an ensuite bathroom, many crew members have to share with at least one other person. Not every crew member has a private room, either.

Another big difference is that crew cabins are more functional than luxurious. As such, the décor tends to be more minimalistic, with crew members often adding personal touches like photos, LED strip lights, plants, and more. 

Read more: Photos show a tiny crew-only cabin on Icon of the Seas

How strict is the dress code?

The cruise ship dining dress code debate comes up often as lines become more casual and laid-back. Today, many Royal Caribbean passengers prioritize comfort, with dining venues rarely enforcing the formal standards of decades past. 

Still, there are some rules, both implicit and explicit, that you should follow. For example, bare feet and swimsuits aren't allowed in the buffet. You also shouldn't pack any clothing with profanity or offensive graphics. 

Beyond these guidelines, "resort casual" tends to suffice — think simple sundresses, t-shirts, blouses, skirts, and jeans. Formal night isn't a mandatory requirement, either. That said, many cruisers enjoy participating and dressing their best. 

Read more: I packed the wrong clothes for the last day of my cruise, and it's a reminder of the worst cruise ship packing mistakes

What happens if you fall off of a cruise ship?

Falling off a cruise ship is not an everyday occurrence, but it isn't unheard of for guests to go overboard. In reality, if you follow the posted safety guidance, it's very, very unlikely that you'll end up in the ocean. Those who end up making headlines are often doing something they shouldn't be, such as climbing on their balcony's railing. 

In the unfortunate event that someone does go overboard, the situation is treated as an emergency, and the crew jumps into action. One of the first things you may notice is an emergency broadcast of "Oscar, Oscar, Oscar." The secret code alerts the crew to the situation and helps maintain a sense of order without panicking other passengers. 

Then, search and rescue operations will begin to see if they can either rescue the passenger or recover their body. Following the overboard incident, a formal investigation will be launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the event.

How much does a cruise ship captain make?

A cruise ship is nothing without its trusted captain and navigational crew. The captain is responsible for the safety of the ship, crew, and passengers. They also oversee all the daily operations and ensure smooth sailing.

According to Payscale, cruise captains earn an average of $119,000 per year. A younger captain may earn around $68,000 annually, while the most experienced captains at sea could earn up to $223,000 per year. 

Did you know that you can meet the captain of your cruise, too? Check the daily Cruise Compass to see what opportunities are available during your sailing, such as a Captain's Corner chat or welcome reception. 

What are the best cruise activities?

Cruises are more than eating, drinking, and gambling. There’s something for nearly every interest, so you don't have to worry about boredom being an issue. 

Royal Caribbean's mega-ships are filled from bow to stern with endless activities, ranging from water slides to a mini-golf course, rock climbing wall, FlowRider surf simulator, a sports court, ice skating rink, world-class theater, and more. 

Even the smaller ships that lack the same WOW factors have an impressive daily schedule, with activities like trivia, bingo, live music, wine tastings, and original production shows. 

Read more: After 14 cruises in 2025, these are the best things I did on Royal Caribbean cruise ships this year

Because a Royal Caribbean cruise is so personalized, there are important things to always ask when you sail.

Royal Caribbean places such a high importance on guest satisfaction, and often you'll hear crew members asking if everything is as you expected it. This is why I think it's in your best interest as a vacationer to speak up and ask.

I understand no one wants to be a burden or be a problem for the crew. But the questions I think every passenger should ask aren't out of the realms of reasonable. It's about ensuring you're getting what you want, the way you want it.

On a recent cruise, my wife remarked to me there was an item on the Main Dining Room menu she wanted, but she didn't want anything else that came with it. I told her just ask for that one item, and sure enough, they were happy to serve it.

Here is my list of the nine questions you should always ask during your cruise to make your vacation better.

Can you help me with a problem?

Occasionally, something doesn't work the way you expect. Or there's a problem with someone or something on the ship. If that's the case, you should speak up and ask for help.

If you're disappointed with something, I'd reach out to a crew member and ask for help in remedying.

More often than not, I see people just accepting the issue as something they have to live with. A warmer-than-expected cabin, rude guest, missing amenities, or another unwanted situation is worth talking to a crew member about.

I think it's a mistake to "suck it up" and let it potentially ruin your cruise.

What you should do is try to find the crew member who can help directly with the situation. Guest Services is always a solid back-up option if you're unsure who would be best to contact.

When something breaks or you have a problem with something that's happening, this is when it's important to ask for assistance.

Can I have my food with (or without) that?

Within reason, you can have the food you order served the way you prefer it.

Food allergies and dietary needs are always a top priority for Royal Caribbean. It's why you'll be asked when you sit down at any restaurant if you have any of those requests to ensure it's taken care of immediately.

But what about if you prefer not to have gravy served on your potatoes? Or you want extra cheese spread all over your pasta? Yes, you can get those requests too.

Since many dishes in restaurants are prepared freshly, you have the opportunity to get it customized. 

There is a limit, so don't expect a completely new dish option. But the crew will work very hard to ensure they can accommodate you in any way they can.

Can I reprice that because it's cheaper now?

Saving money on your cruise feels almost as good as actually going on the cruise. It's why I'll watch the price of my cruise and add-ons like a hawk.

In this age of AI pricing algorithms, Royal Caribbean's pricing can change daily. This is especially true of pre-cruise add-ons.

Luckily, you can re-price a lot of things if you're vigilant about checking for price drops.

The easiest are the pre-cruise add-ons in the app or Cruise Planner site. Drink packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi and more can all be cancelled and rebooked up until a few days before your cruise begins.

For my upcoming cruise on Utopia of the Seas, I've saved hundreds of dollars on repricing the Royal Beach Club in Nassau with this strategy.

You should also be asking your travel agent if you can reprice your cruise fare. Depending on which country you live in, you could take advantage of a price drop before the final payment date.

Repricing is easily the top way to save money on any Royal Caribbean cruise, and it's a question I'd ask myself or my travel agent often.

What other dining choices do I have right now?

Instead of defaulting to eating in the Main Dining Room or Windjammer, always ask what else is open that you could eat at too.

On any ship, there are alternative restaurants open that could be less crowded or offer different cuisines.

An easy example is on embarkation day, when the Windjammer gets busy with everyone headed there. Instead, you could go to a specialty restaurant and have lunch there. Or grab a slice of pizza at Sorrento's, or a crepe at Aquadome Market.

You can ask a crew member for what options are available, or consult the Royal Caribbean app for a list of dining choices.

My three favorite alternative places to eat are Aquadome Market, El Loco Fresh, or Park Cafe. 

All three are complimentary, rarely have lines, and offer good food without much of a wait.

Read more: 7 Royal Caribbean foods that cruisers call the line's best-kept secrets

Should I come back another time?

I freely admit patience isn't a virtue I have a lot of, so waiting in line isn't something I like to do on a cruise.  To that point, I'll question if I'm better off returning later to avoid a wait.

In some cases, waiting in a line is unavoidable.  If I need to be somewhere, like a shore excursion, then I'll wait my turn.

But if my plans are more flexible, I'd recommend thinking twice about leaving to return a different time.

A great example are the water slides. If the line is quite long, consider coming back in the late afternoon or evening.  Or better yet, come back to the ship early from a shore excursion and take advantage of a likely less crowded ship.

Another situation that I'll spin around and try again later is if there's a line at Guest Services.  You can bet any line there will eventually subside, especially during dinner or in the evening.  

In some cases I'll go to a nearby bar and grab a drink and wait out the line so I can enjoy a cocktail while keeping an eye on how long the wait is.

You cannot avoid every wait on a cruise, but you might be able to have less of a wait if you're willing to reconsider when you get in line.

How are you?

Equally important to asking for help is also connecting with crew members and guests alike.

When I'm on a cruise, I'll run into my stateroom attendant, bartender, and activity host almost every day.  When I do, I like to ask them how they're doing because striking up a conversation with crew members can be quite interesting.

There are a number of rockstar crew members out there, but you won't discover them without chatting with them. Not only that, I find it really interesting to hear their experiences and share in an anecdote from their day.

Crew members work hard every day, but they're not robots. They're there to greet you and provided they aren't too busy, getting to know them could be a great opportunity.

You should also feel open to asking your fellow passengers how they're doing, because making friends on a cruise ship has been quite rewarding for me over the years.

There's something communal about a cruise that lends itself to being social, and I've found a friendly question or two to spark a conversation sometimes leads to a new friend onboard.

Are my travel documents up to date?

Even before you book a cruise, you should ask yourself if you have all the proper documentation.

The first thing I check is if my passport is not only valid today, but will it expire before this cruise I'm about to book.  Double check the expiration date that it will not expire before your cruise ends.

If you don't have a passport, I'd go and get one immediately.

The reason this question is important to ask is because not asking it could result in discovering all too late that your passport is expired or you don't have the right paperwork to board.

Most first-time cruisers don't break rules on purpose because they just don’t know them.

The rules on a cruise ship can be very different than what you're used to on land, and that's because of complicated maritime law as well as safety at sea.

Regardless of why the rule is in place, you certainly don't want to do something that could get you in trouble or create any danger. 

Since new cruisers can feel like they're drinking from a firehose of cruise knowledge, here are some commonly broken cruise rules that you should always avoid.

Being too loud in your room

Your stateroom is your "home away from home," but it the walls are far less soundproof than your house.

Noise nuisances aren't allowed, including playing your music loudly.

In fact, the cruise line prohibits boom boxes, loud radios, or other noise nuisance(s). That being said, it's not against the rules to actually bring a Bluetooth speaker with you on the ship.  It's all about the volume level you play it at.

Technically, Royal Caribbean publishes that Bluetooth speakers aren't allowed while ashore on Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

If you do have a speaker with you, keep the volume at a low setting to avoid a visit from the cruise ship's security staff.

That drink package isn't for anyone else

No, you can't buy a drink for your kid with your drink package.

Royal Caribbean has very strict rules about not sharing drink package benefits. Each drink package purchase is exclusively for the person who purchased it.

This means you cannot get a soda with your benefits and give it to your kid. Or let someone else use your souvenir Coca-Cola cup, even if you have no intention of using it.

It might seem like a harmless thing to do, because one drink here or there isn't like a couple trying to share the package outright.  Nonetheless, it's against the cruise line's rules.

You risk having your drink package cancelled with no refund if you're caught sharing drink package benefits.

Weed isn't allowed, even if you have a prescription

When you step aboard a cruise ship, it's almost like stepping onto foreign soil in some respects. How Royal Caribbean views marijuana use is one example of that.

Marijuana is not allowed on Royal Caribbean's ships, regardless of why you have it.

"Marijuana, even in its medicinal form or for medicinal purposes, shall be prohibited," is what the Guest Conduct policy says.

Royal Caribbean aren't prudes or the "fun police". Rather, they have to obey the international laws of the countries they visit.  Many countries a ship visits do not allow it, which is why Royal Caribbean carries this law.

This prohibition includes CBD oil or CBD products.

You shouldn't use your balcony to dry clothes

I'll admit, I've broken this rule without knowing it, but you're supposed to leave anything on your balcony without being there to take care of it.

The issue here is something you're not monitoring could fly off the ship and into the ocean (or elsewhere).

"Guests may not leave items unattended on balconies, as the wind may cause items to fall overboard."

Royal Caribbean takes ocean pollution very seriously, and they don't want anything going into the ocean that shouldn't be there.

If you want to sit on your balcony and read a book while your clothes dry, go for it. But don't leave anything there without you being there to grab it if it were to start drifting away.

Feeding the fish, birds, or anything else that isn't your child

Another "it seems harmless" thing some people do is feed animals.

Feeding animals is against the rules because it encourages the animal to return for more later. Plus, they don't understand "okay, that's it!".  So it disrupts their behavior.

Not to mention some animals have a tendency to defecate when they're fed, especially seagulls.

"Seagulls frequently defecate while being fed, largely because the high-energy, often processed food causes faster digestion and because they are highly social, flock-oriented birds that congregate in large, active, and messy groups."

The issue of feeding birds is much worse when at Perfect Day at CocoCay because the birds get excited and a feeding frenzy commences as they compete with each other for that fry.

Keep those french fries, pieces of bread, and chicken tenders for yourself or simply throw them away when you're done.

You can't reuse dishes at the buffet

Cruise ship or not, you shouldn't bring back a plate to reuse at the buffet.

While it may seem like you're cutting down on how much the crew have to clean, reusing plates can lead to cross-contamination and the spread of germs.

Leave your used plate at the table and go back up and get a new plate, even if it's just for one thing.

Read more: 11 things you should never do at a cruise ship buffet

You love to cruise, but you're taking a first-timer with you, so how do you prevent going overboard with cruise overload?

As someone that's cruised a lot, I love to share this fun with friends and family. Often, we'll invite people that we know to cruise with us, and it's either their first time or it's been many years since their last trip.

It's easy to start bombarding them with everything you think they need to know, along with dozens of questions about how to approach dining, port days, and everything inbetween.

The problem is if you go too deep, you risk turning them off to the entire trip. They might look at a cruise as a logistical obstacle course instead of a fun escape.

I think the important thing is to focus on the big picture, so here are my recommendations not to overwhelm a first time cruiser.

You don't have to figure everything out immediately

After you all booked the cruise, don't feel like you need to plan everything out immediately.

You're excited, they're excited, but cruise planning as a group is kind of like dating. You don't want to come on too strong with everything you want to know and do.

My recommendation is to start off the process by getting them booked on the cruise and assist with picking the right cabin, dining time choices, and the basics.

Unless you convinced them to book a last-minute cruise, you'll have months to get to the rest.  

Sure, planning early is the best approach, but let them enjoy the "I just booked a cruise" feeling before breaking out the planning spreadsheet.

Plan dinners, but leave the other meals open

I think dinner is the most important aspect of any group cruise because it's a single time for everyone to meet up and share in their daily activities.

What you don't want to do is plan out your day like a military operation.

You should leave a certain amount of organic discovery to every day. Let them explore and enjoy things as you once did.  

Certainly if they text you to meet up for breakfast or lunch, go for it. But you don't need to plan for it if they'd prefer to sleep in or do their own thing.

Explain the cruise rhythm, not every activity

You can't wait to show them all the fun stuff to do, but you don't want to hit them with a Wikipedia lengthy explanation.

New cruisers usually have certain misconceptions about what a cruise is like, and they'll probably ask you if they'll be bored, feel trapped, or one of the other tropes.

Start off with giving first-timers an overview of how a cruise day flows, such as the mornings, afternoons, and evening.

It's hard to convey how open-ended a cruise is, because you could do a ton of activities one day but nap and sleep off the next day. So I think it's better they understand that the daily rhythm matters more than knowing the schedule.

Shore excursions: suggest, don't assign

Probably the first pre-cruise booking I'd look into are shore excursion plans.

The destinations a cruise ship visits is among the top reasons anyone books a cruise, so it's a logical starting point for planning.

Let them do some research and you do your own, and come back with 1-2 solid options per port instead of a laundry list of ideas. If you've been to the ports of call, then you can offer a suggestion to guide them.

The last thing you want to do is pick it all without taking into account what they're interested in doing. This is especially true in a port like Cozumel, where you could visit the beach, Mayan ruins, shop, or see a museum.

Set expectations about costs early

I think a cruise is a great value, but there are some upfront costs that you don't want to scare them with.

There are probably three big surprises to anyone's vacation budget after you book the cruise

• Drinks
• Internet
• Gratuities

The fact there's no free WiFi is usually a big surprise to newbies because they're used to ubiquitous internet access on land, especially at hotels.

They don't have to buy an internet package, but they should understand it'll cost money and be cheaper to prebook.

The other big cost that can add up quickly are drinks. Some drinks are included, but most cost extra. 

Drink packages are a convenient budget tool, but they have sticker shock.  A drink package for two people on a 7-night cruise can easily cost over $1,000.

I think clarity upfront prevents awkward conversations later.

Give them one "must-do" per day

Another trick to avoiding falling into the trap of overplanning your day is to highlight a single activity and leave the rest to chance.

On port days, this is easy. Pick a shore excursion, tour, or activity you'll do and make that the primary focus.

But on sea days, choose one activity that should be the group event to highlight.

• A show
• A specialty meal
• A sailaway party

Letting the rest be optional discovery not only allows them to feel like you're not dictating what you'll do, but gives them the chance for relaxation or their own contributions to what you've planned.

Resist the urge to make them cruise like you

My last recommendation is my most important: they don't need do what you do on a ship to have a good time. There's a difference between a great cruise and your cruise, and they're not mutually exclusive.

I think first-timers need space to form their own opinions. You can certainly guide them and offer recommendations, but they're not your kids that you're bringing along.

When I've brought a first timer on and showed them the ropes but set them free to have plenty of time to vacation how they like to, it usually results in them feeling in control of their vacation. Plus, they get to lean into the things they prefer.

Having a relaxed approach to planning tends to lead to repeat cruisers. Cruising sells itself when you don’t overmanage it!

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, and it’s also my personal favorite after 33 sailings with the brand.

My first cruise with them was when I was in fifth grade. My grandparents were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and decided to bring our entire family aboard Enchantment of the Seas. That trip sparked a lifelong love for cruising with Royal Caribbean! 

From that point on, my family continued sailing with the cruise line nearly every year. As we got older, cruising became part of our routine, with spring breaks, summer vacations, and holidays often spent onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise.

By the time I was in high school and college, our family became more destination-focused when booking cruises. We started taking more diverse sailings in Europe and Asia, and cruising allowed us to see more of the world together. Seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris was my biggest travel dream, and it came true when I was just 16 years old aboard Vision of the Seas!

A few years later, I introduced my now-husband to Royal Caribbean during college on Mariner of the Seas for a Southeast Asia cruise. He was immediately hooked on the experience! A few years later, he proposed in Venice while we were cruising the Mediterranean on Brilliance of the Seas. The following year, we honeymooned aboard Rhapsody of the Seas across Greece and Croatia. 

Since then, we have taken bucket-list cruises to Alaska, Iceland, and the Canary Islands with Royal Caribbean. And most recently, I sailed across Asia with my family on Anthem of the Seas from Singapore to Tokyo.

As you can probably tell, cruising with Royal Caribbean has been a constant in my life. I’ve celebrated major milestones onboard, making many of the ships sentimental because of the precious memories made onboard.

But even after trying other cruise lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, I keep coming back to Royal Caribbean. Here’s why Royal Caribbean is my favorite cruise line, even after 33 cruises.

A loyalty program with great perks

One of the biggest reasons I continue cruising with Royal Caribbean is the Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program. I proudly earned Diamond Plus status while I was still in college - I was thrilled to enjoy happy hour after turning 21 in the Diamond Lounge!

After getting married, my husband inherited my Diamond Plus status and started enjoying the same perks. Since then, we’ve also taken full advantage of the reciprocal benefits with Celebrity Cruises to earn Elite Plus status with similar benefits.

One of the best perks we receive is five daily drink vouchers aboard every Royal Caribbean cruise. This alone saves us hundreds of dollars on every sailing, and it’s not something we take for granted. Because of those loyalty drink vouchers, we rarely feel the need to purchase drinks or book a drink package at all.

We also appreciate many of the other benefits, including complimentary Wi-Fi, BOGO specialty dining credit, free photos, complimentary laundry service, and more. I appreciate that Royal Caribbean recognizes my loyalty and provides rewards that are meaningful and valuable.

Looking ahead, I’m especially interested in the new Points Choice program, which will give me even more flexibility to continue building status with the brand that best fits each trip.

Innovative ships that still impress me

Royal Caribbean remains one of the strongest innovators in the cruise industry, and its ships continue to rank among the most advanced in the world. 

I’ll never forget sailing on Mariner of the Seas shortly after she debuted and realizing I could ice skate on a cruise ship! At the time, it felt unbelievable. That moment has always stayed with me, and it forever changed the way I view Royal Caribbean as a brand.

Since then, Royal Caribbean’s innovation has only continued. I love the Oasis and Quantum Class ships, with Quantum Class being my personal favorite in the fleet.

While I’ve only spent a short amount of time onboard an Icon Class ship so far, the ship's massive size and impressive design left me speechless.

Because of this, my family and I gravitate toward the newest and largest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. These vessels are packed with amazing amenities and they’re thoughtfully designed. Royal Caribbean’s innovation continues to surprise me, even after decades of cruising with them!

Entertainment is top-notch

Once you start sailing with other cruise lines, it becomes very clear how strong Royal Caribbean’s entertainment really is, especially on newer ships. While other cruise lines are cutting back on entertainment, Royal Caribbean continues to invest and innovate with its onboard entertainment.

In my opinion, Oasis and Icon ships have some of the best cruise ship entertainment in the entire industry. This is one of the biggest highlights when cruising aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest vessels.

To start, AquaTheater shows feature high-diving stunts and aerialist performances that you can barely find on land, let alone on a cruise ship. Additionally, I’ve always loved the ice skating productions in Studio B with Olympic-style jumps and twirls. The performances are truly impressive and unlike anything else that you’ll find on competing cruise lines.

In addition, Royal Caribbean’s Broadway-style productions and cutting-edge technology take onboard entertainment to another level. Some ships even feature full-length musicals, which have been just as enjoyable as the Broadway shows I’ve seen on land.

However, I’ll be honest that some of Royal Caribbean’s older ships could benefit from refreshed entertainment options. You won’t find the wow-factor that the newer vessels have, mostly because the ships lack the dedicated venues needed for the performances. 

Even still, I appreciate that Royal Caribbean consistently offers a nightly headliner show on every cruise, which isn’t always the case on other cruise lines. For instance, I’ve cruised many times with Norwegian Cruise Line where some evenings lacked any entertainment!

Intuitive and impressive ship design

Royal Caribbean’s newest ships are not only beautiful, but they're also intuitively designed. Even on older ships, I don’t experience the same level of crowding I’ve felt on other cruise lines.

The cruise line has always prioritized forward-thinking ship design, and the introduction of neighborhoods on Oasis Class vessels was truly revolutionary for the industry. These distinct spaces help spread guests out, improve crowd flow, and reduce onboard lines. I also love that each area has its own personality, with dedicated dining, bars, lounges, and attractions.

I’m especially excited about Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Discovery Class ships. Rumors about this new ship class had been circulating for years, with expectations that the vessels would be smaller and designed to replace the aging Vision and Radiance Class ships. That long-anticipated class was finally confirmed this week!

The idea of smaller vessels that can access more ports is exciting, which should bring more diverse itineraries to Royal Caribbean’s fleet. 

A global presence 

Historically, Royal Caribbean offered port-intensive and diverse itineraries. However, there’s no denying that the cruise line has shifted more toward shorter Caribbean sailings in recent years, which has reduced the itinerary variety.

Even still, the past two decades of cruising with Royal Caribbean allowed me to see parts of the world I never imagined visiting.

With Royal Caribbean, I’ve walked the streets of Jerusalem, watched my veteran father be deeply moved by the history of Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, met elephants in Thailand, stood at the Great Wall of China in Beijing, admired the Eiffel Tower in Paris, got engaged in Venice, and finally visited Tenerife as a long-standing bucket-list destination.

Being able to experience so much of the world with Royal Caribbean has been a huge blessing in my life. Those experiences have absolutely shaped how I travel and how I see the world. Cruising with Royal Caribbean inspired me to study abroad on Semester at Sea, where I spent 100 days traveling the world in college on a cruise ship. 

Broad appeal to many demographics

Over the years, I've grown to appreciate how Royal Caribbean has been a good fit for our family at every stage of life. When we were kids, the ships had more than enough activities to keep everyone entertained. The onboard thrills were always so impressive and exciting!

As we grew into teenagers and young adults, cruising together was still our family’s preferred way to travel and spend time together. Royal Caribbean gave us lasting memories, all while allowing us to explore the world as a family.

Whether that means relaxing by the pool, enjoying a show at night, or just spending time together without the stress of constant logistics, cruising makes multigenerational travel easy and convenient.

Now, as adult children traveling with parents in their 60s, Royal Caribbean continues to be our top choice. The ships are accessible and comfortable, with a good balance between activity and downtime. Everyone can move at their own pace, which is perfect for multigenerational travel.

For example, we cruised with my 90-year-old grandparents aboard Utopia of the Seas last winter. It was an incredibly special trip, as it ended up being my grandfather’s final cruise before he passed away later that winter. It’s rare to find a vacation that still works as families change, but Royal Caribbean has continued to fit our lives over time.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is the best private island experience

When it comes to private island experiences, Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is in a league of its own. I remember visiting the island as a kid, when it felt pretty bleak and forgettable, long before its massive transformation. I was shocked the first time I visited the revamped island after the pandemic. 

And after experiencing Amber Cove with Carnival and Great Stirrup Cay with Norwegian, I can confidently say that Royal Caribbean’s private island stands out as the best. Overall, the island feels well designed and everything is spread out nicely, which makes it feel less crowded and easier to enjoy. 

There are many reasons to love Perfect Day at CocoCay, but one of the biggest reasons is how inclusive it feels. I love that I can use my loyalty drink vouchers and internet package on the island, just like I do onboard the ship. 

The included food options are also excellent with multiple options throughout the island. Where else can you enjoy unlimited funnel cakes? In this way, I really don’t feel nickel-and-dimed on Royal Caribbean's private island, even if there are upgraded experiences that you can splurge on.

In comparison, other cruise lines charge extra for food and drinks on their private islands, which adds up quickly. You also need to purchase separate drink packages to use ashore, which is frustrating and feels less inclusive. 

Consistently strong service

Over my 33 cruises, I’ve consistently had excellent service on Royal Caribbean. I’ve never once felt that service was lacking or disappointing. From dining room servers and cabin stewards to bartenders, the crew delivers an attentive, professional experience.

For instance, you never have to go far for a drink, as bar servers are always happy to help. Service always feels efficient without being rushed, and crew members are clearly well-trained and professional. After cruising with other brands, I've noticed Royal Caribbean's high level of service and consistency even more.

Smooth operations and logistics

This is something I didn’t fully appreciate until I started cruising more with other cruise lines. In my experience, Royal Caribbean is simply better at onboard logistics, and the entire ship runs like a well-oiled machine.

For me, this is most apparent on culturally immersive sailings, such as my recent cruise that visited Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea. From the beginning, Royal Caribbean clearly communicated what was required for embarkation, including visas and printed documents. Everyone onboard understood when passports needed to be turned in and how to obtain tender tickets.

For instance, when Jeju Island was experiencing a downpour of rain, Royal Caribbean preemptively offered a refund for our excursion if we decided to cancel. They also provided partial compensation due to the weather, which is completely out of their control anyway!

On the other hand, I’ve found that Norwegian often struggles with operational planning and logistics. Processes like lining up early in the morning for tender tickets, instead of distributing them the day before, don’t make sense to me. There also tends to be more confusion onboard Norwegian’s sailings, especially when itineraries or ports of call change. 

By comparison, Royal Caribbean seems to be more proactive than reactive. Communication tends to be transparent and plans are well explained. Logistics are easy to follow and consistent across the fleet, which I appreciate.

Finally, I also don’t experience the same bait-and-switch feeling with Royal Caribbean. For instance, I’ve had multiple Norwegian sailings with changed or dropped ports of call after final payment, which can be frustrating. On the other hand, Royal Caribbean has never given me that same impression, and I trust the brand with my vacation.

I've taken over 100 cruises on Royal Caribbean ships, but a lot of people will ask what's so great about going on a cruise.

If you think I cruise a lot, I'm just one person in a much bigger world of people that discovered and fell in love with cruises as their preferred form of vacation.

Not only are there fans of cruising, but it continues to grow every year breaking records each time. According to an industry report, 34.6 million went on a cruise in 2024 and that number is expected to swell to 42 million by 2028.

Someone who has never been on one might be curious what's so great about a cruise and why are they so popular.

Here are six reasons why cruises are more popular than ever.

Cruise ships evolve faster than iPhones

One thing about cruise ships is they're constantly changing in an effort to out do each other.

It reminds me a lot of iPhones or cars, which have to push forward with new features in order to stand out. Similarly, each year new cruise ships debut with new ways to wow its customers.

It's exciting to see what the next ship will have onboard, such as Legend of the Seas debuting with a two story casino, new Broadway show, and an immersive train restaurant.

Royal Caribbean and other cruise lines build new ships not only to add capacity, but as incentive to try a cruise in the first place.  Bigger and bolder cruise ships capture the attention of the public and it's lead a lot of people to give it a try.

Unpack once, visit multiple places

Cruise ships may have evolved from ocean liners, but the main premise remains the same: get onboard and see places around the world.

Unlike a hotel or resort, your accommodations travel with you.  It's almost like magic to wake up in a new place each day.

This is something unique to cruises, as no other form of travel offers this without repacking and doing the moving yourself.

Plus, the places you visit are quite impressive. You could be at a beautiful port in the Caribbean, docked near a well-known city, or spending the day at a private port.

So many food choices

Royal Caribbean says the top two reasons people go on a cruise with them is for the destinations you visit and the food.

Cruise ships are packed with so many restaurants that going on a cruise just for the food is reason enough to try it.

You'll find a blend of cuisines and dining options: buffets, hibachi, and supper clubs.

And yes, some of the restaurants are included in your cruise fare and there's no limit to how much you can order.

I think the varied cuisines and cooking styles appeal to many cruisers, as does the opportunity to enjoy dinners each night along with a show.

Just like a city, having "dinner and a show" on a cruise ship is quite popular and it's at the heart of the evening options.

It really is for everyone, regardless of age

It's cliched to say "fun for all ages", but cruises truly do offer more for everyone. I think a cruise is well-suited for catering to all ages in a way land vacations cannot compete with.

Every day there is programming and events that offer things to do for kids, teens, parents, adults, grandparents and more.

• Different pools for lounging and splashing
• Water slides to race down
• Stage production shows to watch
• Musicians performing in bars and lounges
• Hosted trivia for groups to compete
• Fitness centers to get a workout in
• Spa treatments
• Shore excursions to explore and learn

Plus, there are more age-specific events too. You'll find gambling in the casino for adults, supervised care in the kids club, and nightly events at the teen center.

What I love about a cruise is you can go with your family, but not feel like you all have to do the same thing at the same time.  If I'm visiting a city or historical site with my family, we're all walking around and doing the same thing.  On a cruise, we can do our own things before joining back later for family time.

Plus, it's all up to you how much or how little you want to do any of it.  

Sleep when you feel like it, eat when you feel like it, do things when you feel like it, live as if time just isn't a thing.

Still the best bang for your buck

While cruises have gotten more expensive in recent years (but then again, what hasn't?), I still think they're the best vacation value out there.

In fact, the value proposition of a cruise makes it a top reason why people try a cruise for the first time.

Royal Caribbean Group executives talk often about the "value gap" between a land vacation and a cruise and why consumers are attracted to cruising.

"The appreciation of so much more you get out of cruise experience than you do by land based [vacations]", Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty explained during an earnings call this year.

What this means is because cruises include accommodations, travel, entertainment, and most food, you get more the cost than you would staying at a resort.

I recently tried a land vacation at Disneyland Paris and while we had fun, the value of a cruise was quite apparent as I started to count all the extra costs that didn't exist on a ship.

Traveling by sea is undeniably stunning

Lastly, going on a cruise ship and sailing the ocean is a lovely way to travel.

There's something inherently romantic and relaxing about being on the ocean and watching the world sail away.

While I don't think watching the horizon from your cruise ship balcony is necessarily the top reason cruises are so popular, I do believe it's a supporting reason why people come back to it.

Sailing on the open sea shows colors you never knew the ocean could produce, and it's incredibly relaxing.

The other reasons in this article are top reasons to cruise, but when your ship sails across the open vista that is the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Pacific, it's hard not to fall in love with the view.

Going on a cruise is an easy way to travel, but first timers are bound to have questions.

I recently sailed with a group of 100 influencers, media, and vloggers aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. Our group chat was filled with excitement, karaoke seeking validation, and a lot of first time cruise questions.

I think it's natural to have questions, especially once you get onboard the ship. I know when I've traveled to a new country or region I'm never totally certain what to expect.

I compiled all of the newbie questions so someone else new to cruising can benefit from knowing the answers before they board.

How to do muster drill

Before any cruise can begin, an important safety drill is required of every passenger sailing.

It's called the muster drill, and it's similar to the spiel you hear on an airplane before it takes off.  You need to know what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.

One person wrote in the chat, "What was the thing we need to do check into before 4pm otherwise they call us out over the intercom."

They're right that you need to complete it before sail away, but it's really quick and easy.

With the Royal Caribbean app downloaded, click the Safety icon in the bottom menu and then watch the safety video and listen to a recording of the ship's emergency signal.

The last step is to go to your muster station and check-in. 

Your muster station location is listed in the app as well as on the back of your stateroom door. You can ask any crew member for help finding where your muster station is located.

When you arrive at your muster station, a crew member will scan your SetSail pass (or SeaPass card) and confirm you know what to do in case of an emergency.

That's it! You can knock it out quickly in just a few minutes and avoid being paged over the entire ship's public address system!

How to connect to Wi-Fi

As you might imagine, influencers are going to want to be connected to the internet and I've seen plenty of people struggle with it.

It's not complicated, but somewhat confusing how to get started. This is evidenced by the usual line of people on embarkation day at the Voom desk.

Connect your device to the ship's Wi-Fi network and you'll be given a prompt to either just use the Royal Caribbean app and have no internet access, or create an account for internet access.

Whether you prepaid for an internet package or want to buy it onboard, you need to first create an account.  This is your login for how you can switch devices later.

After creating an account, you'll have the choice to leverage the prepaid package you have or buy access on the spot.

Another question was can only one person be connected to Wi-Fi, and the answer is you can have as many devices connected at once as included in your package.

If you bought a one device package, you can have one device connected at at time. But you can log out of device one and then log in with device two.  There's no restriction on people, so if you want to let your spouse, friend, or vlogger friend use your account, you can share the login with them.

Are drinks in pineapples included in a drink package?

It's so tempting when you walk on the pool deck to order a pina colada that comes in a pineapple, but that will cost you extra.

Your Royal Caribbean Deluxe Beverage Package includes most drinks on the ship, but souvenir glasses or specialty drinks that come in fruit are not included.

If you order a drink served in a pineapple, you would only pay the difference for the pineapple. The drink package covers the actual beverage part, so you would pay the difference to cover the souvenir cup or fruit creation.

Do I need to carry photo ID?

In addition to your SeaPass card, someone asked if they needed to have their drivers license or passport with them while around the ship.

You definitely do not need to carry ID with you, as the ship has all your pertinent information associated with your SeaPass account.

With a scan of your SeaPass card, they can verify your name, age, and who you're cruising with.  In short, your room keys act as ID.

Does the ship accept Apple Pay?

Royal Caribbean ships are cashless, and you cannot use a credit card or tap to pay either.

Every transaction is done via your SeaPass card.  You cannot use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit card for a specific transaction onboard.

"I checked and every single show is sold out for the entire cruise"

After boarding the ship, one person in our group was surprised to discover all the shows were already sold out for the sailing.

The truth is you need to prebook entertainment before the cruise begins. About a month before the sailing, you should be able to make reservations for any of the shows on Royal Caribbean's bigger ships.

There's no cost to make a reservation.

If, however, you find yourself in the same situation as this person and there are no more reservations left, there is always a standby line you can go to about 20-30 minutes before the show begins.

The reality is a lot of cruisers will make pre-cruise reservations for shows, but when it comes time for the show, they don't go because they're busy doing something else.

This is why the standby line usually works. But you'll want to arrive early to ensure you can get in.

Where is the shampoo and conditioner?

I think a lot of first time cruisers are genuinely surprised by the lack of included toiletries in standard cabins.

"Are the rooms supposed to have shampoo and conditioner? We can't find any," is what one person wrote.

Every cabin has a 2-in-1 shampoo and body wash in a dispenser that's inside the shower, but that's it. If you're in a suite, then they have upgraded toiletries that include shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.

My recommendation is bring your own toiletries, especially if you have special needs hair.  

I always pack my own shampoo and conditioner for cruising, because the stuff provided isn't high quality. At the very least, it's not the same hair products you're used to at home.

Where can I get something for motion sickness?

I think the chances you will get seasick on a cruise ship are pretty low, but it could happen.

If you find yourself feeling queasy, then you can go to Guest Services and ask for medicine.  Theoretically, they will provide you with free meds to take.

Personally, I prescribe to a "always be prepared" mentality, so I pack my own.  Bonine or Dramamine work quite well and you can get it without a prescription.

What food and drink is included and what costs extra?

Perhaps the top question any new cruiser has is what food is free on Royal Caribbean and what will cost you extra.

There were questions throughout our sailing regarding if certain foods, drinks, or services were included with the cost of the cruise.

A Royal Caribbean cruise includes the basics, so you won't go hungry or thirsty onboard.  But there's some food and drink that has an extra cost to it.

The exact specifics will depend on the ship, but there are few inclusions that are universal, regardless of ship:

• Main Dining Room
• Windjammer buffet
• Coffee shop with light snacks and pizza
• Water
• Milk
• Regular coffee and tea
• Flavored waters
• Hot chocolate (via instant packets)
• Lemonade
• Iced tea

This is a generalization, but the ship you sail on may have more options included.

When in doubt, you can ask a crew member before ordering what's extra.

You're about to take your first Royal Caribbean cruise, but what should beginners know before they board?

Among the multitude of questions our readers share, many have a common theme: they're feeling overwhelmed with how to approach a Royal Caribbean cruise because of all of the options, choices, and things to consider.

I've found knowing what to expect before your cruise begins can really help calm that sort of tension and make it easier to start things off on the right foot.  You should be excited for a cruise, not nervous!

I wanted to share important Royal Caribbean first time cruise tips that will help ease anyone into their vacation without any concerns.

What's included with your cruise

Royal Caribbean cruises aren't all inclusive, but they do include a lot with your fare.

You can expect a lot of the food, entertainment, and activities included at no extra cost.  But there are opportunities to spend extra on other options. 

• Your private stateroom
• Most meals and snacks onboard and at the private destination (breakfast, lunch, dinner, buffets, grab-and-go)
• Included beverages: tap water, tea, coffee, lemonade, iced tea, milk, juices (not fresh-squeezed), and hot chocolate
• Kids/Teens programming via the “Adventure Ocean” club (for ages 3–17) is included until approximately 10 pm
• Onboard activities and shows: theatre productions, live music, comedy, magic, trivia, pool games, scavenger hunts
• Many of the signature onboard activities and games: rock climbing wall, mini golf, waterslides, zipline, bumper cars, sports courts, etc.
• Use of the fitness center, jogging track, and sports court are included (though some fitness classes & spa services cost extra)
• Access to pools, sun decks, hot tubs and adult-only Solarium (on most ships) is included

Read more: What's included in a Royal Caribbean cruise?

If something costs extra, it's usually clearly marked in the Royal Caribbean app or before you order. Crew members are happy to explain if you have any questions, but I've found most of the signage to be easy to understand for things that aren't included.

What you should expect on boarding day

Getting on your cruise ship is an exciting event, and the embarkation process is a lot like going to the airport and getting on a flight.

There are three basic steps:

• Drop off luggage
• Checking-in
• Boarding

When you get to the cruise terminal, there are porters waiting to take your luggage. 

There's no cost to have your bags checked and Royal Caribbean doesn't have bag limits. So feel free to give the porters as much luggage as you like.  Just be sure to keep your travel documents, identification, and valuables with you in a carry-on bag.

Ideally you'll have printed out luggage tags and attached them to your bags, but the porters can do that for you if you didn't.

The next step is to get in line to check-in for your cruise.

You should have gotten a check-in time from the Royal Caribbean app or website. Royal Caribbean's online check-in opens 45 days before your cruise is set to begin. 

Enter the cruise terminal and you'll be directed to go through security, similar to an airport. All your belongings go into a scanner and you walk through a metal detector.

After that, you'll meet an agent to help you check-in.  They'll scan your SetSail Pass that is available in the app or if you printed it out.

The agent is there to verify you have all the proper documentation and everyone is present.  

Boarding usually begins around 10 or 11am, depending on how quickly the ship was able to disembark the previous guests and get clearance from local authorities to start the next sailing.

It's quite likely you'll go straight from check-in to boarding the ship!

3 things you should do before the cruise begins

In the weeks leading up to your cruise, there are a few really important things I think anyone should do before their cruise begins.

1. Complete online check-in

You can check-in for your cruise really easily with the Royal Caribbean app, and I highly recommend you do it to save time later.

The app is free to use and one person can do it for everyone else in your cabin.  It requires having your travel documents handy, taking a photo of everyone, and entering some basic information.

In fact, if you do it right, you should get Express Boarding to make embarkation even faster!

2. Pre-book everything

I cannot stress enough how important it is to pre-book as much as you can, such as shore excursions, drink packages, specialty dining, entertainment and more.

First, pre-booking will save you money. The cruise line heavily discounts these things in the months leading up to the sailing, and you will absolutely pay more onboard.

Second, pre-booking reduces the risk of something selling out.

Waiting to book onboard could mean there's little to no availability.

3. Buy travel insurance

Like all insurance, it seems like a waste of money until you need it.

There are so many variables with a cruise, that I recommend buying travel insurance simply to cover your bases for situations involving someone getting sick, bad weather disrupting your trip, or an accident.

Read more: I do these 14 things before every cruise to make my vacation better

Best cruises for first timers

If you've never cruised before, there are a few types of cruises and ships I'd recommend for a first time cruiser.

Best overall ship for new cruisers: Icon of the Seas or Star of the Seas.

A 7-night cruise on one of Royal Caribbean's Icon Class ships is sure to hit all the high notes and offer the latest and greatest there is today.

These aren't just new ships, they're arguably the best in the industry because of how they're designed to make everything so easy and accessible.

Plus, a weeklong cruise is a great start for a first timer because you get a mix of sea days and port days.

Short “dipping-your-toe” cruises: Utopia of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas 

A very popular option is to take a 3- or 4-night cruise to The Bahamas (including the line’s private island Perfect Day at CocoCay).

These are ideal for first-timers because the itinerary is short, the onboard ship options are plentiful, and there’s minimal time away from home.

European cruises for first-timers: Odyssey of the Seas or Legend of the Seas

7-night Mediterranean sailings from ports like Barcelona or Rome offer the best ships in the fleet along with amazing places to visit.

These are good for newcomers who want a mix of ship experience and sightseeing in Europe without the hassle of separate hotels/transport.

Royal Caribbean tips for first time cruisers

I love planning out a cruise because it extends the excitement of a fun vacation and really builds up the experience.

I wanted to share my favorite secrets for planning a cruise so you can get started the right way.

• Use a good travel agent: Trust me, a good travel agent is worth using.  They can save you money, help answer questions, and solve problems you haven't considered yet. Plus, a good travel agent should cost you nothing extra to use.
• The right cabin for you: There are lots of cabins you could book. It's a question of balancing room size versus price. A balcony cabin is usually a safe bet for a first timer because there's indoor and outdoor space, and the price is usually agreeable.
• Be flexible: No matter how much planning you do, not everything will go exactly as you expect it. Don't let little things ruin your trip.  People that cruise a lot will tell you how important it is to "go with the flow" and not let bad weather, cold food, or a rude guest stop you from having a great time.
• Look up the dress codes: Yes, there are themes for each day of the sailing but don't worry too much. They're suggestions, not requirements.
• Watch a ship tour: I think it's a really good idea to watch a ship tour on YouTube to get an idea of what to expect onboard. It's not only useful for understanding where everything is, but it's a fun introduction to the ship!

There are certain upgrades, perks, or conveniences on Royal Caribbean ships that once you try them, it’s hard to go back to cruising without them. 

I speak from experience there are things you could buy, try, or sample and it will radically alter your future expectations.

Spoiling yourself is part of what makes vacation fun. I think you should be actively looking for ways to splurge so you can truly enjoy time away.

Here's my list of 10 ways you will absolutely spoil how you cruise going forward if you try them. Consider yourself warned (and you're welcome)!

Staying in a Star class suite

There are cruise ship suites, and then there are Royal Caribbean Star Class suites.

Royal Caribbean purposefully designed Star Class to offer the very best benefits on its ships, with an unmatched level of service.

The suites are massive, being the largest ones you can book on Royal Caribbean's biggest and newest ships. These are head turning suites, like the Ultimate Family Suite or Star Loft suites.

The sheer amount of space in these rooms is bigger than many apartments, and it makes going back to standard staterooms seem like a punishment given how much smaller they are.

But the real reason you'll always want to sail Star Class is because of the Royal Genie.

The Royal Genie can deliver on just about any need or want you have during the cruise, and they are the "easy button" to everything.  It's not that you can't get some of these things on your own, it's that why not let someone else do it.

After the first time I tried Star Class, it went from "wouldn't it be nice" to "can we please do that every time".

Private island cabanas

Family cruising has its challenges, but one of the best ways to make it better is to book a cabana at one of Royal Caribbean's beaches.

Ever since trying our first cabana on Labadee, I've been hooked because of how it provides lots of space, good service, and prime location.

There are many types of cabanas now, with each offering access to a different area of CocoCay or Labadee.  Royal Caribbean is planning even more cabanas when they open Perfect Day Mexico and beach clubs.

Cabanas spoiled our family early on because it was a great "home base" for the kids.  They could play, splash, and nap, and gave us all room for it.

As my kids have grown up, cabanas allow them more flexibility if they want to hang out and talk, swim, or sun tan. 

Just like being in Star Class, cabanas are the easy button for a day at the beach.

Eating at specialty restaurants every night

Ever since Royal Caribbean created dining packages, it's made specialty dining so much more accessible and you'll get used to dinners around the ship quite quickly.

I still enjoy the Main Dining Room a lot, but the more you eat at specialty restaurants, the more you'll want to continue.

Quickly you'll discover new favorite dishes and since so many restaurants are available on multiple ships, it's easy to want to return again and again.

Royal Caribbean's check-in process

Royal Caribbean has made checking in for a cruise so darn easy that it will spoil you for any other cruise line.

Over the years, Royal Caribbean has made it easier and easier to do online check-in, and now it's a few clicks in the app and you're good to go.

More importantly, the process in the terminal is fast. 

When I've sailed from lesser frequented Royal Caribbean homeports and the process isn't as efficient as those in Florida, I always shake my head because I grew accustomed to how speedy it can be.

Crown and Anchor benefits

If you can reach Diamond Status in Crown and Anchor Society, it's great because of all the benefits you get. However, it radically alters your outlook on other vacations or cruise lines.

You get four free drinks per day, and that perk alone can save hundreds of dollars on every cruise.  

When a friend and I were talking about a land vacation, the first thought I had was "I won't get free drinks every night there, like I can on Royal Caribbean." It almost sounds like a silly argument, but there's truth to it.

I think Royal Caribbean has the best loyalty benefits in the cruise industry, and I suppose that works for both customer and cruise line. I get what I want, and it steers me back to the line.

Having unlimited internet

Once you get internet access for a cruise, it seems impossible to go back to cruising without it.

Admittedly, I'm a geek and have been buying Royal Caribbean Wi-Fi packages for over a decade.  However, I think having internet access objectively makes your cruise easier to manage.

The best thing about an internet package is it's so much simpler to stay in communication with anyone you want on the ship and back at home.  

The Royal Caribbean app's free chat feature is fine, but I already have everyone I want to chat with in my own apps.  Plus people that aren't on the ship.

Then there's simple pleasure of having internet access for checking social media, passing the time, and otherwise providing entertainment.

Cruises to bucket list destinations

You wouldn't think an itinerary would spoil you, but once you try a cruise to Alaska or Europe, you'll want more.

I had cruised exclusively in the Caribbean for many years before I ventured to Alaska.  After being there a day or two, I instantly realized why everyone talks about this region and I fell in love with it.

Likewise, I was tepid about going to Europe and sailing from the UK, but it turned out to be the kind of trip I instantly wanted to repeat.  And as it turns out, I've taken a cruise from there every year since.

Trying a cruise from a new region opens your eyes to new possibilities, and I think that's incredibly powerful.

Yes, going on a cruise from a bucket list worthy spot will spoil you, but this is more of a reward rather than an indulgence.

Cruising on a new ship

When I walked on Ovation of the Seas last month and reached the elevator bank, my heart sank a little bit when I saw there were no destination elevators.

Going on Royal Caribbean's newest ships will spoil you because of they're filled with the latest and greatest ideas, developments, and forms of entertainment.

It's easy to love a brand new cruise ship because of all the big and small features it offers.  I dare you not to enjoy a sprawling Royal Promenade and coffee with a view at Pearl Cafe on Icon of the Seas and then go back to Cafe Promenade on an older ship and not feel a little sad.

Likewise, I love being on a ship that has Playmakers, the Mason Jar, a suite sun deck, or Dueling Pianos. Heck, just the change in shower dimensions and shapes (and curtains) is a reason I love new ships.

I'll still go on older ships, but the truth is once you try a brand new ship, it's hard to go back knowing all the features and amenities new ships have.

Buying a drink package

Another way to make your cruise easier and thus spoil you is to buy an unlimited drink package.

When you buy a beverage package, you don't have to think if you should spend money on another drink.  It's all included, so you go for it.

I debated getting a drink package for my upcoming cruise because I get 6 free drinks a day with my Pinnacle Club benefits, but I went with the drink package because it's so much more convenient not to constantly be counting my drinks.  Plus, a well-timed 40% off drink package discount helped sway my choice.

The convenience factor with a drink package is what sells me on it more often than not, and that's quite similar to the suite, cabana, or internet ideas mentioned earlier in this article.  When you're on vacation, you want things to be easy.

Booking a private excursion

If you want to ruin shore excursions for yourself, try a private tour.

Group excursions are fine, but their slow pace always bugged me.  So when I experimented with private excursions, it opened my eyes.

Renting a yacht, catamaran, or taking a private van tour allows so much more freedom and flexibility with your day plans.

We get to do what we want at the pace we prefer. Not to mention there's no awkwardness up front sitting with strangers until a few ice breakers (or alcoholic drinks) come out and then it gets sort of comfortable.

You only have a few hours in each port, so I'd prefer to get full use of the experience.