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.

No one wants to get seasick on a cruise, and I've discovered it really does matter where your cabin is located.

Over the years, I've gone on plenty of cruises and stayed in cabins across high decks and low decks, forward and aft, starboard and port side. Despite all my cruising, I still get seasick from time to time.  I'd estimate one or two cruises a year it happens to me.

When the weather cooperates and the seas are smooth and winds calm, you won't even notice any movement and there are times you have to remind yourself you're on a ship moving through the ocean. But when the seas are swaying, it serves as a constant reminder.

Picking a cabin in a good location can have a significant impact on how much sensation you feel as the ship moves. In my experience, any relief is welcome.

Knowing which part of the ship has the least motion can not only lessen the chance of getting seasick, but also reduce any anxiety about it.

A cruise ship is like a seesaw

I think the chances of you getting seasick are pretty low to start with, but a lot of new cruisers are understandably worried about it because it's new to them.

The best analogy I ever heard about movement on a cruise ship is its akin to being on a seesaw.

If you imagine a seesaw, the least amount of movement is at the center, but the ends experience the most. By far the greatest movement is felt at the front and back of the ship.

The deck you're on also plays a factor.  Most experts recommend being on a low deck (instead of a high deck) because if the seas are rolling (side to side), then it helps being lower on the ship.

In short, being on a low deck and midship is the best spot to be in to minimize the feeling of movement.  Royal Caribbean is known for building the biggest cruise ships in the world, so you don't have to worry about being on an old vessel that would truly be problematic. But of course, no spot is necessarily going to be immune to the movement.

Most people do fine as cruise ships are massive vessels that can deploy stabilizers to reduce rolling to tolerable levels in most situations. Unless you are highly susceptible to seasickness, you should be okay.

How each part of the ship compares

When you consider where your cabin is located, there are advantages and disadvantages to picking cabins in different areas.

Conventional wisdom says the best spot is a cabin midship and on a low deck, but what this advice doesn't take into consideration is the room type.

In almost all cases, your choice of staterooms on a low deck and mid ship is going to be either an inside cabin or an oceanview cabin.

These are usually the least expensive rooms to book, but they also lack space or amenities that you'll find in other room categories.

Besides being in an area with less movement, they're also near the middle elevator bank, and that's convenient for simply getting around the ship.

If you want a balcony or suite, you're going to need to move to the upper decks.

Royal Caribbean begins offering cabins with a private balcony about halfway up the ship, sometimes as low as deck six. The higher up on the ship, the better the view you'll have.

However, if you compared the sensation of movement on deck 10 vs deck 2, you'd likely find it better on the lower deck.

Deciding between the front or back of the ship also plays a factor.

People that cruise a lot tend to love picking cabins on the back of the ship for the amazing views you can get.  Keep in mind, they mean cabins that face backwards, and not cabins that are still on the side of the ship, but towards the rear.

Some special cabins at the very rear corners of a ship might even feature a balcony that wrap around the vessel in an L-shape, giving you views on two sides.

Movement at the back can feel like you're going up and down.

Taking a cabin at the front is like being in the front seat of a car.  It has great views of what's coming up, assuming your cabin faces forward.

I think cabins at the very front are the worst for risk of movement.  The higher the deck, the more noticeable that rolling and swaying motion tends to feel. 

Because this part of the ship is what's encountering the waves first and it's far from mid-ship, it seems to always generate the sensation of seasickness in me the most.

Of course, these are generalizations based on my cruises.  Everyone's body handles it differently and the weather will play a major role in how good or bad the sea conditions are.

Picking a cabin midship is still the best advice if you're worried about getting seasick

Sometimes conventional wisdom is outdated, but I think picking a cabin towards the middle of the ship still makes the most sense.

When I try to save money and go with a guarantee cabin that puts me towards the front, I usually regret that decision if the seas are rough.

In those situations, I'll be in the ship's casino or a restaurant that is mid ship and then go back to my cabin to suddenly feel the difference.

You probably won't even get seasick, but if you have the choice in where your room is located, picking one midship helps with that.  Plus it's just more convenient to get around.

Staying in a balcony can help too

While your room location is a factor, I also think being in a room that has access to a private verandah helps too.

Being able to see the horizon and having access to fresh air are two things that can settle your brain if there's movement.

It helps me to have fresh air if I am feeling seasick.

To be fair, if you were in an interior room you could go out to a public deck and achieve the same thing. But if I'm feeling miserable, I'd rather be in private.

Prepare for seasickness with the right remedies

No matter which stateroom I book on any deck, I'll always bring the right seasickness medication with me.

I prefer to rely on over-the-counter medications to help and I always pack Bonine. (This is an affiliate link, which means I get a small commission if you buy from it, but it costs you nothing extra)

There are other medications you could take, such as getting a prescription before the cruise from your doctor for scopolamine, which is a patch behind your ear that you wear throughout the cruise. Benadryl also works for some people.

Be sure to bring your own medications with you, because the ship may or may not offer them onboard. And even if they do, I'm betting it's going to be cheaper at home.

Something else that can work well is to consume ginger.  

Ordering a ginger ale or taking a ginger supplement helps. You might also consider going to the Windjammer and see if you can find green apples, peppermint tea, or even a lemon. Everyone's physiology is different, and these can assist in reducing the symptoms.

If you've never taken a cruise, Royal Caribbean is the perfect choice for most people because of its wide appeal.

I've been cruising with Royal Caribbean for over 20 years, and I've taken my family on dozens of cruises to places around the world.  It's an incredible vacation, and I think it offers something for just about everyone.

The new to cruise market is the single biggest untapped market of customers, and all cruise lines want to attract new customers to give it a try.

When considering the best cruise line for first timers, I think Royal Caribbean has fantastic choices that you won't regret.

A weekend getaway for first timers

Based on Royal Caribbean's marketing, it's clear a lot of people who have never cruised want to try a short weekend cruise as their first.

In this case, the marketing isn't wrong. Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas offer 3 and 4 night cruises to The Bahamas and they're billed as not only a short sailing, but two amazing ships to try.

The reason why these ships stand out is they're very new cruise ships that offer some of the best things you can do onboard, and because they're among the biggest ships in the world, there's also so much to do onboard.

You'll find lots for kids and adults to do on these ships, along with stops in The Bahamas every day. You'll visit Nassau, Bahamas and the cruise line's private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

A day at the private island is about enjoying time in the sun and surf, and it's a kind of "walled garden" that offers just about everything you'd want in a beach or pool day. Most of what you can do here costs nothing extra, but there are some extra costs, like a waterpark or adults-only area.

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas, and what you need to know about going here is Royal Caribbean is on the verge of opening a brand new option that no other cruise line can match.

The cruise line is building its first ever beach club, Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, near where the cruise ships dock.

It will open in December 2025 and is like a Royal Caribbean owned and operated shore excursion available exclusively for its customers.

The beach club will have beaches and pools, three swim-up bars, seven beach bars, and more than 40 cabanas to rent. Plus, it's all-inclusive!

What you get with a cruise like this is a packed few days to try out not just a cruise, but sail on one of the best ships in the world and indulge in incredible days on shore and onboard.

Your time onboard will fly by, but as a new cruiser, this is perfect for someone that wants to dip their toe into the proverbial pool and try things out without compromising on what they get with the ship experience.

First time cruisers who want to see Europe

Maybe you're looking to combine seeing Europe for the first time with a cruise vacation.

Royal Caribbean not only offers cruises to just about every corner of Europe, but it's a convenient way to see a lot of places without the hassle of packing, unpacking, re-packing and getting around.

One advantage of a European cruise is it's far more port intensive than a Caribbean cruise because of all the time you'll want to spend ashore seeing these cities.  This is a boon for a new cruiser, since they'll be less ship dependent.

A Mediterranean cruise is among the top choices for first time cruisers in Europe, because it takes you to the places most people dream about.

The newly updated Allure of the Seas sails 7-night cruises from Barcelona, Spain that visits France and Italy. It'll not only cover the quintessential spots in the Med, but also get you on an impressive ship that will fit the needs of families too.

An underrated ship is Odyssey of the Seas, and it is sailing from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

Odyssey is a new ship, and visits Italy, Greece, and Turkey.  

I love sailing on Odyssey because of how much there is to do.  It's a bit smaller than Allure, but still offers plenty for families to do onboard.  

If you're taking a European cruise, the ship is arguably less important given how much time you'll be in port. However, the evening is when you'll want a ship that has lots happening.

Plus, both of these ships have upgraded kids club areas too. 

When picking a European cruise in the Med, I'd recommend going during the months of May, June or September because the weather is better (less hot) and the popular tourist attractions in the cities you visit will be far less crowded.

Empty nesters looking to try a cruise

The kids are off to college and now is the perfect time to try a cruise! If that's where you're at, there are a few kinds of cruises to try for the first time.

An Alaska cruise should be at the top of your must-see list, and you should go in the shoulder season when other families still have their kids in school and cannot travel.

Ever since I tried my first Alaska cruise, it blew me away with how impressive and majestic this part of the world is. 

The towns you'll visit are quaint with so much to see.  You're going to want to return almost immediately to experience more.

Even when you're not in port, there's so much to see around you.  Cruise ships sail the Inside Passage in Alaska, and that takes you on a scenic route with wildlife viewing opportunities and simply stunning landscapes.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to Alaska from Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. There are advantages to taking an Alaska cruise from either port, but I generally recommend first timers start with a Seattle-based ship simply because it's easier to get to and (probably) cheaper too.

Once again, I think the ship choice matters, and you'll get bigger ships in Seattle.  Ship size isn't everything, but someone that has never cruised is likely expecting more of what they imagine and see commercials cruise ships can offer.

The family reunion trip

In many cases, the idea of taking an extended family vacation comes up and without a doubt, a cruise is the way to go.

When you have cousins, uncles, grandparents, and nieces involved, there are lots of competing needs. With a cruise, it allows you all to be together, but not feel like you're joined at the hip.  You're vacationing together without "being on top of each other."

A short cruise might make a lot of sense for the same reasons I outlined earlier for the weekend getaway. You get to sail on a big ship that has something for everyone, it will cost less overall than a longer cruise, and you can squeeze it into everyone's schedule.

Weekend cruises on Utopia of the Seas are so popular with family gatherings because taking a long weekend is palatable for just about everyone.

I'd also point a family reunion style trip to 5-7 night cruises because you can get to spend time with each other and not feel like it's over just after it started.

If you've seen a television commercial for Royal Caribbean, it's probably for Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas and these ships are incredible.

Experiencing the very best Royal Caribbean has to offer is even better with loved ones, and it's the kind of family cruise that you'll talk about for years to come.

Icon Class ships are not only the biggest in the world, but they are a leap in cruise ship development.  It's the latest and greatest, and that means you're not compromising on what there is to see, eat, or do onboard. Plus, it caters to kids just as much as adults.

The one thing you don't want to do for your first cruise

I'd caution anyone picking their first cruise to avoid one pitfall to avoid disappointment later.

Chasing the lowest price is rarely going to deliver the best vacation for your needs, but some people will simply try to find the cheapest cruise available. Later they realize that low price compromises in too many places.

I'm all for finding a good deal, but you need to weigh what kind of vacation you're looking for, and then focus on cruises that highlight that while also balancing price.

By simply sorting the cruises by lowest price first, you could end up on a ship that lacks the activities, restaurants, or shows that matter to your family.  Or it could visit places you have far less interest in going to.

Worse yet, you might book a stateroom that is noisy, small, or inconvenient.  

If you're looking to get a great deal, I'd advise following our advice outlined in this article, but try to take a cruise during shoulder season. That will get you to the places you want, on the ship you'll love, without spending the most for it.

Going on a cruise ship is unlike other kinds of vacations, especially when it comes to preparing and packing for the trip.

In truth, it's easy enough to go on a cruise and plenty of people go on cruises without much planning and have a good time. However, the difference between a "good vacation" and a "great vacation" lies with good prep.

Royal Caribbean cruises are an inviting family vacation choice that packs so much for families to enjoy, both onboard the ship and ashore in the places you'll visit.

While I don't think you need to spend a fortune on a new wardrobe, accessories, and travel add-ons to have a really good cruise, there are some things I'd recommend to anyone going on their first Royal Caribbean cruise to get started. Think of these as a starter pack for your first cruise.

Grab your online shopping cart, as I share the seven things I'd recommend anyone going on a Royal Caribbean cruise for the first time should buy.

Motion sickness remedies

You probably won't get seasick on your cruise, but just in case, it's smart to have things with you to combat it.

A lot of first time cruisers worry about getting seasick, but the reality is the ship won't move as much as you think.  But just like anytime you've ever been motion sick in the past, it was probably a surprise that it happened.

The good news is even if you do get seasick, it's easy to treat.

I'd recommend buying over-the-counter medications that you can take either proactively or once seasickness symptoms begin.

Bonine and Dramamine are the two brands most people buy, and I've used them too.  They work quickly and the only side effect is usually feeling sleepy. (This link contains an affiliate link)

There's also kids formulas that have less of the active ingredient.

Be sure to look at the various forms, especially if you want to drink alcohol.

There are other alternatives, such as seabands or even a prescription from your doctor to take.

I bet this will end up being a waste of money, but it's smart to have some, just in case.

Packable beach bag

It's easy to overlook a beach bag as something you can use on a cruise.

Having a beach bag or small backpack is so helpful getting all your stuff on and off the ship in port.  You'll need to bring towels, identification, books, spare clothing, and electronics with you and a bag is so much easier than pockets.

Plus, you can use this bag when you're going to the pool deck as well.

You don't need to go crazy with buying something expensive, because it's going to accumulate sand and water as you use it. It's merely a vessel to easily organizing all your stuff into one bag.

There are some good and inexpensive beach bags you can buy for your cruise that you'll be able to re-use on many future sailings. (This link contains an affiliate link)

Casual and theme night attire

I think a lot of first time cruisers are concerned with having the right clothing with them for the cruise.

While Royal Caribbean does have dress codes, they're rarely enforced and pretty casual.  However, a lot of families love to get into the spirit of things with the theme night attire.

Every evening there will be a theme night, and it's up to you if you want to dress up for it or not.

Of course, it helps to know before the cruise begins what clothing you'll need. You can figure out the theme nights before you board and then shop appropriately to have the right stuff.

Remember, these themes are optional. So if you see Caribbean night or Red night listed, it's up to you if you want to get matching outfits for the entire family.

If you plan to eat in the Main Dining Room or a specialty restaurant, you will need to pack nicer clothing for those meals. Don't worry, it doesn't have to look like a black tie affair.

There are lots of outfit ideas, but something nicer than what you'd wear to the pool deck is pretty much the minimum.

Sunscreen and aloe vera gel

If you don't have sunscreen, you're asking for a problem later.

Even in the winter months, the Caribbean sun is very strong and there's always a few passengers that are burnt by the second day.

Be sure to bring sunscreen and apply it early and often. I'd recommend re-applying every couple of hours because it washes off easily in the water. 

Sunscreen is a good start, but also buy aloe vera for when the inevitably sunburn occurs. (These links contains an affiliate links)

Aloe vera makes the pain and discomfort that comes with sunburn more bearable, and it's a good backup in case you do get burnt.

Magnetic hooks

Ask anyone that cruises a lot what they always pack, and the answer is probably going to include magnets.

Your cruise ship cabin is a lot smaller than most hotel rooms, and definitely smaller than your bedroom at home.

Storage space can be at a premium on a cruise, but magnetic hooks are so helpful. These magnets can be placed just about anywhere in your room because the walls and ceiling are made of metal.

It's great for keeping clothes off the ground. Plus, you could also get magnets that have clips to help with papers and receipts.

Be sure to get heavy duty magnetic hooks so that it can handle the weight of wet clothes. (These links contains an affiliate links)

Cruise approved outlet extender

Older Royal Caribbean cruise ships (anything built before 2010) don't have nearly as many power outlets as you'll need.

In fact, only the newest ships even have USB outlets onboard, and most are USB-A plugs.

I'd recommend buying an outlet extender, but be sure it's one that is permissible by the cruise line.

Royal Caribbean recently restricted the type of outlet extenders you can bring, and they'll confiscate it if it doesn't adhere to the requirements.

Essentially, you can bring any outlet extender that only has one A/C outlet, but as many USB outlets as you like.  This is one such device I recommend, and is allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. (Yes, another affiliate link!)

Buying a USB hub means you can keep all your devices charged without fighting over outlets.

Travel alarm clock or nightlight

There are no clocks in your cabin, so a travel alarm clock is quite helpful.

I use my phone for an alarm, but it's so much more useful to have a clock you can open one eye and check the time.

This is especially helpful in an inside cabin.  Interior rooms have no natural light, so you'll have no idea if it's 4am or 4pm.

A fun idea is to buy a sunrise alarm clock, because it has a gradual light that mimics the sun rising.  Plus, it even has noise you can sleep to: birds, running water, white noise, and more.

There are all sorts of emotions new cruisers experience in the lead up to their first sailing: excitement, anxiety, impatience, and hope. 

When you're new to cruising, you're probably imaging warm sunny days on the beach, visiting incredible places, and making new memories with your family.

Every week I take questions from new cruisers on our YouTube channel and it's clear to me someone that has never cruised before wants to have a fabulous vacation but is also concerned they might be making a big mistake in the process.

I've been cruising for over twenty years, so I don't go through the same set of emotions anymore that a new cruiser does because of my familiarity with the process. My family has pretty much established our cruise routine.

However, I make my share of mistakes along the way.  Most people learn by experience, and it's part of the process sometimes.

I remember the concerns and internal debates I had early on in cruising as I dealt with the various decisions to be made with a cruise vacation.

If you've never been on a cruise before, I want to share the 10 tips I'd tell anyone new to cruise ship travel to avoid some of my early mistakes.

Use a good travel agent

It might sound strange when you hear people still use travel agents, but they're incredible useful for a cruise vacation.

Because of how personalized cruises are, it's not as simple as booking a hotel room. There are so many considerations: inside or balcony room; Traditional or My Time Dining; Refundable or non-refundable cruise fare.

Plus, travel agents have access to special rates and discounts.

As soon as someone tells me they want to try a cruise, I tell them to get with a good travel agent so they can get started on the right foot. Someone brand new to cruising is bound to have lots of questions that pertain to their situation, and a travel agent can answer so many of them.

How do you find such an agent? Ask friends and family for a recommendation. Here is one such recommended travel agency that specializes in Royal Caribbean. 

Choose your cruise ship based on what is important to you

When you start looking at all the ship options, it's easy to get overwhelmed with the choices.  

To narrow it down, take a step back, and think about what things you want on a cruise. 

New ships are flashy and enticing because they're the latest and greatest.  It's just like an iPhone: the newest model gets all the commercials and attention, but the iPhone from 3-4 years ago still works incredibly well and is cheaper to buy.

Opting for a new ship because it's new means you're paying more for it, and if you don't care there's a water park because you'll never go on a slide, maybe you'd be better off with a different ship.

The other thing to think about is not just looking for the cheapest cruise. 

If you shop by price alone, you might get onboard and realize there are no water slides, Broadway shows, or Aquatheater. 

Research before your cruise starts

The more you know about your ship, places you're visiting, and handy tricks, the better your cruise will be.

Being prepared means you'll waste less time and money and set yourself up for a great vacation. To do that, you just need to start researching your trip.

Don't worry, you don't need to spend tons of time doing this.  It's vacation, not an amphibious landing operation.

A very easy way to get started is hop on YouTube and search for your ship or ports you're visiting and just watch a few videos.

We have our own YouTube channel with ship tours, and tons of tips and advice for a great cruise.

Get travel insurance

Technically, you don't need to get travel insurance, but I'd recommend anyone trying a cruise to buy it anyway.

Travel insurance is more than just glorified medical coverage. It protects you in many unforeseen, yet common scenarios.

• Your flight is delayed or cancelled
• Your luggage gets lost
• You lose your job right before the cruise and can't travel
• Bad weather (i.e. hurricane) delays your ship returning on time
• You miss a port of call because of bad weather
• Death in the family

There are many more reasons to get travel insurance.  Even though you probably won't need it, it's worth the peace of mind that comes with it.  

It's such a handy add-on to have that you really ought to get it.

Get your travel documents in order

Did you know you need a passport to cruise? Or that you could travel with just a birth certificate and state issued ID under certain circumstances?

Either before or after you book a cruise, you want to double check you have the right travel documents to travel.  There's no wiggle room if you don't and you will be denied boarding and lose your money if you don't have it.

Besides verifying you have a passport, verify the expiration dates and renew them, if necessary, now. Or if you don't have one, apply for a passport and get the ball rolling on that.

It's a major mistake to wait until close to your cruise only to realize you're missing something or need to renew it.

Be flexible

In all forms of travel, you need to embrace the mantra of being as flexible as you can.

I won't sugar coat it: something is going to go wrong on your trip.  

If you do a little research and plan accordingly, it's probably going to something minor, like it could rain on your beach day in Cozumel.  Or dinner could take way too long one night.  

The secret is to go with the flow.  Some things are just bad luck, like a rainy day or the bar running out of your favorite liquor.

Even if a problem is more man made, my advice is make the best of it. When my kids throw tantrums and wont cooperate, or my excursion is cancelled at the last minute, I have to take a step back and remind myself I'm on a cruise and a bad day here is better than any day at home.

One time I was in St. Thomas and my plans for the day fell through when I couldn't get a ride to the ferry port for our adventure to a nearby island.  

I was fuming because of how incompetent I felt the logistics were, but I paced for a minute and then went to a nearby bar for a drink. My wife and I sat there and drank together, and we ended up laughing it all off because we realized there was no sense in getting irate over it.

While you shouldn't let major problems just go by, don't sweat the small things either.

Check-in as early as you can for your cruise

Everyone wants to get on their ship as early as possible, and it's actually really easy to do.

All you need to do is complete the online check-in within the Royal Caribbean app right when check-in opens at exactly 45 days before your cruise.

Set a calendar reminder to do you check-in and grab a time for everyone in your group.

So many people are unaware and do online check-in later and get check-in times later in the day.

Walk and tour the ship on your first day

No matter if you've never cruised or not, I recommend walking around the ship on the first day to better understand where everything is.

I think inevitably you're going to be excited anyway and want to see as much of the ship as possible, but sometimes people get onboard and run into a bar or area that is appealing and neglect to explore more.

I'd recommend spending a little time after you eat lunch to walk the ship's public areas and see where the major attractions and venues are located.  It will make navigating the ship much easier later.

Be more social than you would at a resort

Another major difference between a cruise and a hotel is how much more social people are on a ship.

If I'm at a hotel, it's rare to ever strike up a conversation with other people staying there.  But on a cruise, there's a more communal feel to the experience.

You don't have to be everyone's best friend, but in elevators, on shore excursions, or at the bar, I find people are much more open to conversation.

I've actually met a few people that are now good friends in this manner. I truly believe this is a matter of us being on a cruise rather than on land.

Don't be afraid to ask for help with a problem

Royal Caribbean wants you to have a great cruise, but if you're not, then say something.

I'll see people post online after their cruise problems they had, but it seems like they didn't say anything about it on the ship.

If you're waiter is slow, talk to the head waiter.  If something is broken in your cabin, tell your stateroom attendant. If you notice an issue with how something is being handled, go to Guest Services to inform them.

New cruisers sometimes have this fear they are being a bother, but I think in many cases alerting a crew member to an issue is warranted.

While you shouldn't complain about the weather to a crew member (yes, some people do this), be sure to ask for help when you need it.