As someone that cruises for a living, there are a few things I'd never buy for my cruise.

There are many choices in what extras you can purchase for a cruise. Many are aimed at adding convenience, or simply an experience you cannot otherwise enjoy. 

To be clear, I'm not someone who shy's away from spending money on add-ons.  There are many I've come to relish, and some I pick up once in a while.

In my opinion, the items on this list are either cruise add-ons I think overall are not worth it, as well as some that simply do not mesh with my style of cruising.  Consider this a glimpse into my thought process, and perhaps it's something consider before you purchase something in the Cruise Planner.

Arcade credits end up being wasteful

I have two kids, but I never buy the pre-purchased arcade credits prior to the cruise.

Royal Caribbean sells arcade credit packages that save a few dollars off the total price, but my issue with arcade credits is how you actually get to use them.

You won't know which arcade games are actually on the ship until you board, which means your kids might love or hate the options there.  More problematic is the fact quite often there are a subset of arcade games that are out of order.

It's not unusual for a handful of games to be broken, thus reducing the choices available.

The other problem is that all games have different credit requirements, and I've found with the arcade packages you end up with unused credits and it becomes a challenge to use them all.

Instead of buying arcade credit packages, I'll just swipe and play games a la carte.  It ensures I don't have any leftover credits, and there are games to play my kids actually enjoy. Plus, if we run out of time or just never make to the arcade, I'm not worried about losing that arcade credit investment.

Photo packages are restrictive

I think a photo package might be a good purchase for larger families, but it's something I stopped buying.

I have no issue with the photo package value, but I've found we stop taking that many professional photos while we cruise. On an average cruise, if we take two or three photos, it's a miracle.  This is partly because we cruise often enough we aren't worried about getting photos since we can always get another later, and partly because of the long lines in the evening for photos.

The other lesser known detraction of a photo package is someone in your cabin needs to be in the photo for it to be included.  Meaning, if you're traveling with friends or family, unless one person from your cabin is in the photo, that would not be included in the package, even though they are part of your traveling party.

If you're new to cruising or do not cruise very often, a photo package can be a great purchase. But I stopped buying it.

Bus tours are disappointing

Of all the shore excursions you can take, a bus tour is arguably the least worthwhile purchase.

Bus tours sound like it could be a good way to see a port, but you're going to be in a large group and the bus may not stop at the places you want to stop at.  Moreover, the time you have at each stop inevitably is either too short or too long. What if you want to linger longer and explore more? Or completely skip that tourist trap souvenir shop near the scenic view?

Plus, you may not need a bus tour to enjoy your day. You could take a cab, walk and explore on foot, or book a smaller tour without the crowds.

I don't like the idea of animal encounters

My views on the use of animals for purpose of tourist meets has changed, and I don't have any desire to book a tour involving captive animals.

I'm referring to dolphins and other marine wildlife that you can meet in an enclosure.  I have no problem with whale, bear, or other animal watching tours in the wild. 

Besides the crazy high prices charged for these excursions, I find issue with them and won't book any.

The Key isn't as good as it looks

Royal Caribbean's VIP program to get you special benefits for a price simply sounds better than it really is.

I have found repeatedly guests can achieve similar results on their own with a bit of advanced planning, and I think the money is better spent elsewhere.

Priority embarkation on embarkation day? Just get an early check-in time when check-in times become available 45 days before the cruise starts and you'll be among the first to board the ship.

Chops Grille lunch on embarkation day? Book it on your own.

Priority for signature activities? It's always for the less desirable activities (Flowrider, rock wall, etc) and the times are never convenient. It's either early in the morning or around dinner time, and these are times when lines are naturally shorter anyway.

The appeal of The Key is to buy it and then not have to do anything else. It includes WiFi, and sometimes the price is barely more than buying just the WiFi package. But I think the benefits look better on paper than they are in practice.

Casitas are pricey and distant

No one likes to compete for a deck chair on a sea day, but casitas are expensive for what you get.

Beyond the price, I think casitas are located too far away from the actual pool (usually they are on the upper pool deck) and the have no walls, which means there isn't always shade provided.

The price is cheaper on port days, but you probably don't need to worry about finding a seat at the pool on a port day because so many other passengers are off the ship.

I find Up, Up, and away balloon ride to be unreliable

The chances the Up, Up, and away helium balloon ride is actually operational the day you visit Perfect Day at CocoCay are pretty low.

The Up, Up and Away helium balloon takes guests 450 feet above the ground, providing the highest vantage point in The Bahamas. While this sounds really neat, it rarely operates.

The balloon seems to require near perfect weather conditions to operate, and it's quite rare to see it working.

The reason I don't buy it is because you can't count on it, and I'd hate to pass up something else in favor of the balloon.

If you want to try your luck, I'd skip buying it in advance and if you spot the balloon in the air on the day you visit CocoCay, head over and buy a ticket on the spot. There's less disappointment in that scenario.

Watches are notorious for being a poor value

I have yet to buy a watch on a cruise, but stories from other cruisers will likely ensure that never happens.

Many people have a watch addiction, and you'll find plenty of watches in the onboard jewelry stores. The problem is how much they are actually worth.

There are lots of stories of guests feeling bamboozled after buying a watch on a ship.

Just like the art auction, I think you should buy something because you think it will look nice to own, and not primarily for an investment.

While a lot is included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare, there are extra costs that can add up to your final bill.

The base cruise fare you pay includes your cabin, most meals, and entertainment.  It represents an excellent value, and it's attractive to many people who want to try cruises for how much you get.

However, a Royal Caribbean cruise is not all-inclusive and there are things that will cost extra. Some may surprise you, but it's part of the modular approach to cruise ship pricing.

While you may not be shocked to see a spa treatment or souvenir costs extra, there are fees that will encounter that are not as obvious.

The more you know in advance of your cruise means there is less to be surprised by later on.

Gratuities

With the exception of Australia, Royal Caribbean does not include gratuities for crew members in its cruise fare and you'll be expected to pay it later.

Royal Caribbean charges an automatic gratuity to every passenger, regardless of age, that covers the services provided by your stateroom attendant and dining room staff. These crew members work extremely diligently to ensure you have a great cruise experience, and the gratuity is a way to recognize their hard work.

Decades ago, gratuities were paid by hand in the form of cash at the end of the cruise and it was always a bit awkward. To make it simpler, these have become automatic to be charged to the guest. 

If you were to book a cruise and then do nothing else, you'll see a daily charge of $18.00 per person, per day for standard cabins and $20.50 per person, per day for guests in Grand Suites and above. 

The best way to avoid paying gratuities onboard is to pre-pay them prior to the cruise beginning. Simply ask your travel agent (or Royal Caribbean if you booked directly with the cruise line) to add it to your account.  This ensures you pay the gratuities before the cruise begins and there are no surprises once onboard.

Before someone comments on this post and points out you can go to Guest Services to remove gratuities from your account all together, it's important to note that ability is so that the guest can then turn around and pay gratuities in cash "the old fashioned way".  It is not meant as a money-saving strategy.

Internet

When you're on a cruise ship, expect to have to pay to use the internet on mainstream cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean.

Unlike hotels on land, the cost of satellite internet is significantly higher. Internet on land relies on cables, whereas cruise ships don't have that ability.

Internet access on Royal Caribbean will cost you about $22.99 for one device at a time onboard, although you can get a discount if you pre-purchase it on Royal Caribbean's website.  Likewise, there are WiFi discounts offered for Crown and Anchor Society members.

You could avoid internet charges by waiting until you get to a port of call to use the internet. Quite often there are restaurants, bars, or cafes that include free internet for their visitors. Some cruise terminals offer complimentary WiFi as well.

Another option is to book a suite (Grand Suite or higher category suite) on an Oasis, Icon, or Quantum Class cruise ship.  Suites on these big ships include a complimentary one-device internet package for each guest in the cabin, regardless of age.

Onboard attractions

Royal Caribbean is known for the amazing things you can do on a cruise ship, and some come with an extra cost.

There are private lessons at the Flowrider surf simulator, rides on the North Star, and private karaoke sessions that all have an extra cost.

The good news is you can avoid these extra costs by taking a more DIY approach.

The Flowrider has plenty of complimentary sessions throughout your cruise. While you won't have an instructor, the crew members working are happy to offer tips and advice when it's your turn.  A few falls and you'll probably pick it up.

Read more: I learned how to surf on a weekend cruise

North Star costs money if you go for a ride while the ship is at sea, but it's complimentary while in port.  In my experience, there's no reason to pay for the sea day sessions.  You'll get a very similar experience while docked in port.

Newer Royal Caribbean cruise ships with private karaoke rooms can be rented at Spotlight Karaoke, but this is a luxury you don't need to buy. In the main venue, karaoke is complimentary, so you just need to sign up for a turn.

Some onboard activities have no workaround to the cost, such as the escape room or Crown's Edge experience. If you really want to try these, you'll have no choice but to pay them.

Room service fee

Royal Caribbean charges for room service to have food delivered to your cabin, and it's a $7.95 service fee with a 18% gratuity that brings the total price to $9.40. This is per order, not per item.

The continental breakfast has no service fee, and it offers toast, bagels, coffee, donuts, cereal and more. It's perfectly suitable for a light meal.

If you really love room service, then you could book a suite. Grand Suites and above include room service as part of the suite experience.

Specialty restaurants

No matter which cruise ship you sail on there, there will be a few restaurants that have an additional cost to dine there.

Read more: How does specialty dining work

The appeal of these restaurants are cooking styles and/or food quality you cannot find elsewhere on the ship.

Before you assume these restaurants are necessary, you shouldn't overlook the included restaurants. Most people find the Main Dining Room, Windjammer buffet and other included options satisfactory and an enjoyable experience too.

While there's nothing wrong with choosing to pay extra for a specialty restaurant meal, be aware there is more than enough food included with your cruise fare that you do not have to pay for the extra cost restaurants.

Read more: 7 reasons to eat at specialty restaurants instead of the Main Dining Room on your cruise

If you think you will eat at a specialty restaurant, be sure to pre-book before the cruise because there are discounts offered regularly off the onboard price.

Beverages

Just like dining, there are some drinks included with your cruise fare and others that cost extra.

Royal Caribbean includes coffee, water, tea, and flavored water in its cruise fare, so you don't need to pay extra for bottled water or specialty coffees.

If you want soft drinks or alcoholic beverages, you'll probably save money if you purchase those in the ports your ship visits.

Many times the cost of a beer, latte, or margarita is cheaper in the ports you visit than on the ship.

Another option for those that want to enjoy unlimited drinks without the surprise bill later is to buy a drink package. Pre-purchasing one could save you hundreds of dollars later.

Shore excursion prices

Royal Caribbean will offer many shore excursions in the ports you visit, and while these organized tours are a great way to see the place you are visiting, they're optional.

You could very easily walk off the ship and explore on your own. There's no requirement to have a tour booked in order to disembark a cruise ship.

By doing a little research prior to your vacation, you could come up with a walking tour on your own.  Or you could just walk around and see what you can find on foot.

A less-expensive option is to book a shore excursion through a third-party (rather than Royal Caribbean). Sometimes this gets you a similar tour at less of price. Be sure to vet the tour operator and ensure you have ample time to return to the ship before it is scheduled to depart.

Read more: Simple tips to safely take a cruise ship shore excursion

An oversold cruise ship isn't unheard of in the cruise industry.

Travelers may be used to hearing about oversold flights or hotels, but cruise lines do sometimes overbook their ships anticipating last-minute cancellations. It's much less likely for an oversold cruise ship to result in someone being booted off the ship, but it does rarely occur.

Unlike a flight, being out of a cruise vacation means a multi-day plan change and it's not like there are as many cruise ships as airplanes in service to pick up the slack.

In case you're wondering, here's how Royal Caribbean handles overbooked cruises so you know what to expect.

Looking for volunteers

In the weeks leading up to the cruise, Royal Caribbean monitors its bookings as part of its inventory management process.  If it sees a potential issue, the cruise line reaches out proactively to remedy the situation.

Guests sailing on Symphony of the Seas June 14, 2024 cruise received an email last week to ask select cruisers if they would consider rebooking.

Royal Caribbean did not come out and use words like "oversold" or "overbooked", but the email appears to be a way to free up cabins so the ship will not be oversold.

"Ahead of your Symphony of the Seas June 14, 2024, sailing, we are looking to see if you and your travel party have flexible travel plans," the email to booked passengers said.

The cruise line was quick to add that if you are committed to sail, to disregard the email.  The idea is to ideally find people booked on the cruise that might cruise a lot and can change their plans because this isn't their one and only major cruise they have booked.  Or, they are looking to find an opportunistic deal hunter that wouldn't mind deferring their trip in exchange for a good reason.

The exact compensation offered will depend on the situation, so don't take this example to be the most likely scenario you could expect.

In the case of Symphony of the Seas, guests had two choices:

1. Change to another Symphony of the Seas cruise departing from Cape Liberty, New Jersey in the same room category originally booked, plus get a full refund.

2. Cancel and get a 100% refund, plus 100% value of the cruise fare in the form a Future Cruise Credit.

With both scenarios, you'll get all your money back and a free cruise (or at least the value of a free cruise).

Usually forecasts work out

Why do cruise lines oversell cruises to begin with? It's because it's a practical approach to their business, Billy Hirsch, author of CruiseHabit, told Royal Caribbean Blog.

The reality is based on historical data there are usually people that either cancel at the last-minute or don't show up to the cruise.

"Even if a sailing is totally booked weeks out, there will almost always be some number of guests who cancel at the last minute or fail to show up. Trying to fill cabins at the last minute is risky and can harm price integrity," Hirsch said.

What cruise lines do is make a prediction, based on history, of how many empty staterooms they'll likely have ahead of sailing and sell that many extra rooms ahead of time.

"To cruise lines, cabins on a cruise are perishable commodities - if they aren't sold by sailing, they're worthless."

Read more: Royal Caribbean cabin and suites

As was the case with Symphony of the Seas, if those predictions are off, a lucrative offer can balance things back out, "If just before sailing it appears some guests will be turned away, lines tend to make, 'too good to refuse' offers, like a full refund, a 100% future cruise credit, and sometimes even additional credits or cash. 

"Usually forecasts work out, but when they don't, if those offers are so good that people are happy to accept them, then everyone leaves the port feeling good - whether on the ship or in a cab."

Can you be booted off a cruise?

It's extremely rare for a cruise to be oversold and not enough volunteers to make enough room, but it has happened.

In December 2023, guests on Quantum of the Seas sailing from Australia ran into a situation where a few passengers were left behind when the ship ran out of cabins.

Avoid guarantee cabins if you're worried about oversold cruises

In all my years of covering Royal Caribbean, the amount of oversold cruises occurring resulting in someone being kicked off a cruise can likely be counted on my hand. Nonetheless, there's one simple step to take to avoid the situation.

Guaranteed cabins (known as "GTY") are rooms sold without a specific assignment at a lower rate.  The idea is Royal Caribbean will assign you a room later from one of the unsold cabins.

Read more: What are the different types of cabins on a cruise ship?

While not an official policy that has been announced by Royal Caribbean, it stands to reason those with an unassigned room would be at a higher risk in this hypothetical situation.

If you're concerned about booking a guarantee cabin in the future, I would personally recommend you not worry about it. 

I've booked plenty of guaranteed cabins over the years, and will continue to do so. I believe the risk of an oversold cruise is so remote that it's not worth worrying about. Plus, the additional savings of a guarantee cabin are hard to overlook.

How can you cancel a cruise if a problem surfaces or you change your mind?

It's never ideal to cancel a vacation you were looking forward to, but there are all sorts of reasons to want to cancel.

Whether a family emergency comes up, you need to spend money elsewhere, or traveling isn't feasible anymore, life can unfortunately get in the way.

In case you need to cancel or modify a cruise booking, you should know the options Royal Caribbean offers.

Every cruise line has important policies when it comes to modifying a cruise booking and not all bookings are equal in terms of refunds.

No matter how excited you are for an upcoming cruise, it's crucial that you know the terms of the booking and cancellation policies.

Preparing yourself with this knowledge will prevent any expensive surprises later on.

This informational guide will provide an overview of Royal Caribbean's cancellation policy, ensuring that you know exactly what you're agreeing to when you book.

What if I have a nonrefundable deposit?

Refunds and penalties for cancellation depend on the type of fare purchased, the length of the cruise, and how long before the cruise you attempt to cancel.

Two different deposit types can affect your cancellation fee, and you agree to the terms of cancellation when you choose a particular deposit type.

When you book a cruise, you first make a deposit, without being required to pay the full amount right away. 

Royal Caribbean has both refundable and nonrefundable cruise fare deposits.

Some promotional and exclusive fares require a nonrefundable deposit.

This means that a booking made under this fare requires guests' full names and a paid deposit at the time of booking. 

This deposit cannot be refunded at any time but often comes at a lower price overall.

If you cancel a cruise booked with a non-refundable deposit, you'll lose the deposit amount.

Moreover, to change the sail date and/or ship, you'll incur a $100 per person fee for any change in the that aspect of the reservation.

What if I have a refundable deposit?

Refundable cruise fares are more flexible, promising almost a full refund when you cancel.

if you book your cruise under a refundable cruise fare, you can still receive a full refund of your deposit and any other payments made, as long as you haven't yet made the final payment.

Guests currently have up to 90 days before the sailing to make their final payment.

Once the final payment is made for a cruise, guests can be subject to cancellation fees that vary depending on how close it is to the sail date.

Typically, you will still receive a refund but with a penalty fee.

What is Royal Caribbean's cancellation fee?

You will get a full refund if you notify Royal Caribbean at least 75 days before the first day of the cruise (60 days for 3 and 4-night cruises or 90 days for holiday sailings). 

For cruises lasting 1 to 4 nights (including holiday sailings), the cancellation fee is as follows:

• 75 days or more before the first day of the cruise: No charge (except for Nonrefundable Deposit amounts)
• 74 to 61 days: 50% of the total price
• 60 to 31 days: 75% of the total price
• 30 days or less: 100% of the total price (No refund)

For cruises 5 nights or over (including holiday sailings and CruiseTours), the cancellation fee by days prior is:

• 90 days or more before the first day of the cruise: No charge (except for Nonrefundable Deposit amounts)
• 89 to 75 days: 25% of the total price
• 74 to 61 days: 50% of the total price
• 60 to 31 days: 75% of the total price
• 30 days or less: 100% of the total price (No refund)

For cruises and CruiseTours, the taxes and fees will be completely refunded.

Essentially, if a guest cancels their cruise 90 or more days before the first day of the sailing, they'll receive a complete refund (excluding any nonrefundable deposits).

But if a guest cancels 30 days or less before the cruise, there is no refund.

How can I cancel a cruise?

If you've decided you need to cancel your cruise, that can be accomplished using the same method that you booked the cruise.

If you booked the cruise directly with Royal Caribbean or on the website, you can call the cruise line to cancel your reservation.

If you used a travel agent or another type of website, you should inform and consult with your travel provider to cancel the booking. Travel agents can handle any changes, delays, or cancellations for you.

Read more: How to cancel a Royal Caribbean cruise

Does my travel insurance cover a cancellation?

In general, travel insurance does not usually cover a canceled cruise.

Unless it is because of an illness or another covered scenario, most travel insurance will not kick in.

However, Royal Caribbean offers a Travel Protection Program for its cruisers.

If plans change and you need to cancel your cruise vacation, this cancellation penalty waiver will allow you to waive the non-refundable cancellation portion and receive the unused value of your cruise vacation.

You also can be eligible for credit toward a future cruise, ranging up to 90% of the non-refundable, prepaid cruise fare.

A "cancel for any reason" credit can be added at an extra cost.

To be eligible for this credit, you must purchase the travel protection plan prior to making your final payment for the cruise. Also, you must notify Royal Caribbean of this cancellation before the ship departs for the cruise.

Read more: Royal Caribbean will increase price of travel insurance policy

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise? The answer depends, and could be yes and no.

Before you book that cruise you're eyeing and leave for your trip, it's important to make sure all of your documents are cleared for travel.

Can you cruise without a passport? What kind of birth certificate is required? Will an enhanced driver's license do?

You might be able to go on the cruise without needing a passport, but there are certain requirements to be able to do so. 

U.S. citizens can cruise without a passport and with just a birth certificate and photo ID, but only on certain cruises. It gets confusing for someone new to cruising.

Just because you can cruise without a passport doesn't mean you should, and there's plenty of misinformation out there about the identification needed to cruise.

Take this post as your informative guide to cruising without a passport—and if it's a recommended method.

Can I cruise without a passport?

United States citizens can cruise without a passport on certain sailings.

As proof of citizenship, they need to bring a state-certified, United States birth certificate, issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where they were born.

Additionally, cruisers aged 16 and older need a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID that denotes the correct photo, name, and date of birth.

Enhanced Driver's Licenses (EDL) are also taken as proof of citizenship and accepted in place of a birth certificate.

However, very few states currently offer enhanced driver's licenses, so don't assume that yours qualifies as proof of citizenship.

The only states that currently issue enhanced driver's licenses are Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington.

All documentation must have the same name, match the identification on the reservation, and be valid for the dates of the cruise. 

Guests who do not bring the required documentation will be denied boarding.

Read more: Guide to cruising with a birth certificate

Where can I cruise without a passport?

United States citizens can cruise without a passport, but only on specific sailings.

The only itineraries where U.S. citizens can cruise without a passport are closed-loop sailings departing from United States home ports.

Closed-loop sailings are round-trip cruises that embark and disembark from the same U.S. port. 

A one-way cruise that embarks from a U.S. port but disembarks in a different U.S. port does not qualify.

These ports must be in the U.S., and include the following:

• Baltimore
• Boston
• Cape Liberty
• Fort Lauderdale
• Galveston
• Los Angeles
• Miami
• New Orleans
• Port Canaveral
• San Diego
• San Juan
• Seattle
• Seward
• Tampa

United States citizens on these closed-loop cruises are required to travel with proof of citizenship and a government-issued photo ID.

Should I cruise without a passport?

Even though US citizens can cruise without a passport, we don't recommend it.

If you have a cruise coming up, I would think twice before trying to board with just a birth certificate and identification.

A passport is the very best option for any method of travel, including cruises.

Royal Caribbean's website also recommends that cruisers try to bring along a passport, writing: "A passport is the hassle-free, gold standard for traveling between countries."

A passport must be valid for at least six months after the last day of the cruise (it shouldn't expire anytime close to the date of travel).

The name on the passport must also match the name on the cruise reservation.

If you're planning a cruise, it's not too late to go ahead and renew or apply for a passport.

Even for guests who aren't required to, Royal Caribbean and veteran cruisers alike recommend that you travel with a passport.

Read more: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

The U.S. Department of State also recommends that everyone taking a cruise out of the United States have a passport in case of emergency, such as a medical air evacuation or the ship docking at an alternate port.

Why is it better to cruise with a passport?

Using a passport opens up the number of itineraries you can cruise on, and makes the process of boarding and disembarking through customs and immigration much faster.

Not only that, but a passport protects you in case of any travel issues or emergencies while exploring a foreign port.

Traveling to any foreign country (even on a closed-loop cruise) places you in the position of possibly needing a passport.

If you miss the cruise ship and are left at port or require emergency transportation back to the U.S., you'll be left in a stressful situation without a passport.

Read more: Will a cruise ship wait for me if I'm running late at a port stop? Here's what a captain has to say.

Both immigration at foreign ports and air travel back to the U.S. will require a passport. 

In the case of an emergency, you'll first have to travel to a U.S. embassy or consulate to obtain a passport, further delaying your trip and increasing travel expenses.

A vacation could quickly turn into a nightmare if you become stranded in a foreign country without a passport.

Not only that but disembarking the ship once the cruise is over becomes much less of a hassle with a passport.

When cruisers exit the ship into the cruise terminal, there are separate lines for passengers with U.S. passports and passengers with birth certificates.

Cruisers traveling with a U.S. passport merely have to take a photo for security and facial recognition. The process takes less than two minutes, and there are usually multiple lines to choose from.

In contrast, cruisers with a birth certificate are delegated to just one or two lines, where they must wait for a security officer to thoroughly look over their documentation. This process takes anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes.

In case of emergency, it's much better to travel with a passport to speed up the travel process and open up a wider selection of cruise itineraries and international ports.

How do you check in for a Royal Caribbean cruise?

While the process is easy, there aren't tutorials immediately available.

Plus, you may not know the hacks to get the earliest boarding times and step on that gangway faster.

To begin your cruise vacation as soon as possible, you'll want to have an efficient check-in process.

Here are all your pressing questions answered in one handy guide.

How do I get the earliest boarding time?

Boarding early means that you get onto your cruise ship earlier and can begin your vacation right away.

You can get the earliest boarding time by checking in early.

Check-in opens online 45 days before your cruise and closes the day before.

Cruisers can check in online, either through Royal Caribbean’s app or website. 

Check-in will involve entering identifying information, scanning your passport or ID, and taking a security photo. 

Cruiser should also add an emergency contact and a payment method for any onboard expenses.

Once check-in is completed, you will be able to choose an arrival time to enter the terminal.

The arrival times will be listed in half-hour slots, usually ranging from 10:30 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.

These arrival times are first-come, first-served, so the earlier you check-in, the more time slots will be available.

Does check-in open at midnight? 

If arrival time depends on when you check in for your cruise, how early can you check in? 

Online check-in opens 45 days before your cruise and is available on both the app and the website.

If your cruise leaves from the United States, online check-in will open at midnight in the time zone of the departure port.

While you can use both the app and the website to check in, the app provides a few more benefits.

In the Royal Caribbean app check-in, you can scan your passport, upload a security photo, and answer required health questions to receive a mobile boarding pass.

This saves you time at the cruise terminal since the terminal agent just has to verify your travel documents and scan your mobile boarding pass.

Of course, you still have to bring travel documents such as your passport and Set Sail Pass.

But, ultimately, checking in on the app as early as possible means you'll spend less time boarding, and more onboard the ship, beginning your vacation!

When are Royal Caribbean luggage tags available? 

Luggage tags are available before your cruise, usually at the 30-day point when your vacation documents are available.

To access them, go to the Royal Caribbean website, log into your account, view your cruise, and select "view more details."

Cruise documents and luggage tags will appear under this toggle, and you can download and print the luggage tags from there.

These tags ensure that porters and cruise ship staff know where to leave the luggage on embarkation day, and that no bags get lost.

To save time at the cruise terminal, guests can print out their luggage tags beforehand and affix them to their larger bags.

When you get to the port, it will be a quick hand-off of the bags to terminal porters.

Do I need my travel documents to complete check-in?

In order to complete check-in online, you will need your passport, birth certificate, or other ID.

Passengers will also be adding their Crown and Anchor number and a payment method.

Additionally, snapping a security photo will make the boarding process go smoother at the port.

Because of these requirements, it's best to check in while at home where you have access to all your essential documents and a plain white background.

Read more: 15 Royal Caribbean boarding process tips for a fast embarkation

Can I check someone else in?

Guests can check-in for any other passengers on reservations linked to their account.

The check-in page will list the reservation with all added guests sailing on the same cruise.

You can click on their name to begin the check-in process.

However, keep in mind that you'll need their travel documents on hand, and it's best if the passenger is available to take their security photo.

If these are unavailable, you can enter in some of the information and have your fellow guest complete the rest later.

Do I need a check-in time if I bought The Key?

The Key is an optional, extra-cost add-on that Royal Caribbean offers for embarkation and debarkation day.

Cruisers can purchase The Key before their cruise on the Cruise Planner website and receive special access and VIP perks while boarding.

Here is a list of the benefits you get with The Key:

• Early access at the terminal (between 11:00-11:30 A.M.)
• Drop off your carry-on luggage in the Main Dining Room
• Carry-on luggage is hand-delivered to your stateroom
• Exclusive welcome lunch in the Main Dining Room featuring the Chops Grille menu
• Complimentary room service for your entire cruise, along with 25% off all onboard dining purchases
• Private time at some of our onboard activities such as rock climbing, FlowRider, etc.
• Priority departure from ship-to-shore at tender ports
• Early access to shows in the Main Theater
• VOOM Surf & Stream package, now including high-speed internet, for one device (1 package per guest)
• On debarkation day, enjoy a private á la carte breakfast and choice departure

If you have The Key, you aren't required to select a check-in time at all. Before the cruise, guests with The Key will receive an email with instructions for boarding day.

The add-on includes a VIP early check-in time that usually runs between 11:00-11:30 A.M., the same as the earliest time available to other passengers.

To take advantage of the free Chops Grille lunch and less crowded amenities, Royal Caribbean does recommend arriving at the terminal before 12:00 P.M.

However, if a guest can't make the early access window, they can arrive during a selected appointment time and still receive priority access to the terminal.

Read more: I tried The Key on an Oasis Class ship to see if it's worth it

What is Royal Caribbean's wellness check, and why is it required before your cruise?

The check-in process encompasses a few steps, with the wellness check being the final step.

Royal Caribbean’s app provides an efficient guide to checking in online. Similar to how airlines provide online check-in, you can prepare for your cruise all on the app.

Before your cruise, you can create an account on the app or website, and use your information to prepare for the cruise.

The cruise line heavily emphasizes the importance of completing all the steps of the check-in process before your cruise to make embarkation day as smooth as possible.  No one likes waiting in line, especially if they could get that time back being on the cruise ship.

Read more: 15 Royal Caribbean boarding process tips for a fast embarkation

For guests’ health and safety, the wellness check is one of those steps.

The wellness check involves a series of health questions

Essentially, the wellness check is to ensure you're not getting on the cruise ship in poor health. 

Unlike the rest of the check-in process, you can only do the wellness check the day before your cruise.

At noon on the day before embarkation day, you will receive a notification from the app to complete the wellness check and answer some required health questions.

Until you complete this questionnaire, a message in the app will read “not yet cleared to board.” All guests must complete these health questions to be allowed to board.

Again, adults can fill in the information for any passenger under 21 years old.

Royal Caribbean’s website states that “It is required that each guest answers the set of questions within 24 hours of arrival at the port for their sailing in order to qualify to board.”

Once you are prompted, open up the app by touching the notification.

The health questions will vary depending on the requirements of the port you’re sailing from. All the COVID-19 specific questions have been removed from the wellness check.

Be sure that you answer these questions accurately—you should be honest and keep in mind that you can’t change your answers after submitting.

Over the years, the exact questions have changed.  When Royal Caribbean restarted sailings in 2021, there were many more questions. Most guests currently report they are being asked the following: 

1. Will you be 23 or more weeks pregnant at any point in your cruise?
2. Have you experiences any of these symptoms within the past 24 hours: Fever Chills, Muscle Aches, Fatigue, Sore Throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose, Cough, Difficulty Breathing, New Loss of, Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea?

You should answer the questions truthfully, as lying about it sets yourself up for disappointment onboard the ship should your condition worsen. Plus, you're putting others at risk by knowingly being sick and spreading germs.

Once you complete these questions, your wellness check is done!

Simply press submit and you will have access to your SetSail Pass.

From here, you can add it to your Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, or Samsung Pay for quick access on embarkation day.

If you are completing check-in on the Royal Caribbean website, you can print out your Set Sail Pass.

Your SetSail pass is your temporary card until you get your SeaPass on embarkation day. 

Even if you’re not able to add the SetSail Pass to your phone—or the battery dies—the check-in agents will still be able to look up your reservation.

At the cruise terminal, all you need to do is show up and proceed through security.

At the terminal, the gate agent may ask if your answers on the questionnaire are still accurate, or if you’re currently experiencing any cough, fever, or chills.

Either way, you’ve already completed your wellness check by answering the questionnaire on the app.

Will I be denied boarding if I answer "yes" to any of the questions?

If you answer yes to any question, the app will deny your ability to board, but that's not necessarily the end of the story.

If you accidently selected "yes" and instead of "no", you can call Royal Caribbean's Resolutions Department at 1-800-205-9812. Alternatively, you can simply explain your situation when you arrive at the cruise terminal.

If you're more than 23 weeks pregnant, it's not safe for you to go on a cruise. Cruise ships don't have the proper facility to care for a pregnant woman and/or her baby for someone that far along in their pregnancy.

When getting the best price for your cruise, getting the timing right is critical.

Vacationers are used to seeking last-minute deals on cruises when planning their cruise, but bookings for cruises has been so red-hot for the past few months that new booking records are being set and then eclipsed regularly.

In a call with Wall Street analysts, Royal Caribbean Group President and CEO Jason Liberty shared how 88% of cabins for all of 2024 are booked up, leaving spares choices for a 2024 cruise.

"We only have about 12% load factors left to build for the year," Mr. Liberty said during an earnings call with Wall Street analysts.

That leaves very few rooms left for this year's cruises, but the incredible demand this year is opening the door for Royal Caribbean to take advantage of this by raising prices even more next year.

"That will provide opportunity for us to a degree this year. But what that I think means in terms of the opportunity into 2025 and beyond is very appealing," he went on to say right after sharing the fact about load factors.

Later in the meeting, Mr. Liberty pointed out that new cruise bookings for 2025 would soon eclipse bookings for this year, "we're getting close to the point where we'll soon be taking more bookings for '25 than we are for 2024."

Why you should book a 2025 cruise now after Royal Caribbean's comments in their meeting

If there's one takeaway for cruisers from Royal Caribbean Group's earnings call, it's that new cruise bookings aren't slowing down, and you're going to be competing with more people than ever for a cruise.

Here are the big reasons why you should book a 2025 (or 2026) cruise following last week's meeting:

More people than ever are cruising

The cruise market is attracting new cruisers more so than ever before. 

The amount of people who have never taken a cruise and booked one grew by 16% year over year. On top of that, the rate of repeat customers returning is over 30% higher compared to 2019. 

When you have loyal customers coming back over and over again and add onto it a healthy serving of new customers, it leads to very full cruise ships.

Read more: Millennials are taking over cruise ships

High demand means higher prices

Cruise ship inventory is fixed, so as inventory drops, prices tend to go up.

Cruise fares can change at a moment's notice based on demand, which means as more cabins are booked up for a given sailing, the price of remaining cabins can go up.

In May 2023, Mr. Liberty divulged the company withholds cabins to manage prices and ultimately drive up revenue.

"We used to kind of put everything out there and all the suites would be sold basically right off the bat. And then you would kind of work your way down to the inside cabins," he explained.

Read more: What are the different types of cabins on a cruise ship?

"Now we hold back inventory and we release it, based off of the much more sophisticated revenue management models that we have today."

With this approach to pricing, you can expect higher prices the closer to the sail date you get.

Generally speaking, the best prices for a cruise are when a new sailing is put on sale and all the cabins are open to book. Inventory is at its highest, and prices only go up as rooms get booked.

Cruise itineraries are usually released around two years in advance. The first batch of new cruises go on sale around November and December, and the rest come out in February, March or April.

In short, booking a 2025 cruise now is probably going to get you a lower price than if you wait.

Read more: 15 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Less cabin choices later

Prices aside, the other reason to book a 2025 cruise now is to get the stateroom type you want.

One major disadvantage to waiting for the last-minute to book a cruise is you're at the mercy of the leftover cabins that haven't sold yet.

Suites are usually the first cabin category to sell out, because there are relatively far fewer than any other cabin category.  Those that would be in the market for a suite would want to book earlier than ever to be able to get one.

Moreover, other desirable cabins that are not in a bad location or simply offer enough space for everyone also sell out quickly.

Read more: The rare cruise ship cabins that everyone wants to book immediately

Being able to get the right stateroom choice that you prefer is a compelling reason to lock in a booking now.

Bottom line

In just the last two quarters, Royal Caribbean Group has reported gangbuster demand for cruises, and that trend doesn't show any signs of slowing down.

Higher demand means it's less likely there will be a last-minute deal and more likely sailings will sell out far earlier than usual. 

Consumers looking to secure a cruise vacation in 2025 will want to act quickly in order to head off higher prices down the road while getting the stateroom category they prefer.

And if you're really smart, you'll book that early 2026 cruise now too.

So you want to cruise with a friend, but can’t stop imagining everything that could go wrong.

Traveling with someone else can be awkward, or even disagreeable, without the right preparation.

You might be used to your own habits, but they can be jarring to someone who’s never shared a home or cabin with you before.

Maybe you prefer to sleep in a dark cabin late into the morning, while your friend jumps out of bed as soon as the sun rises.

When two people have different preferences or budgets for a vacation they’re both looking forward to, they’re likely to clash.

Whether you’re planning a trip with a friend, relative, or romantic partner, there are a host of things that could go wrong and create conflict.

Personal etiquette and communication are key to ensuring smooth sailing. 

After many cruises with friends and family, I’ve learned a few etiquette tips that help create harmony within a cruise cabin.

Here are the top mistakes you should avoid to prevent any awkward moments with the people you love.

1. Not splitting the beds

Did you know that you don’t have to share a bed?

Royal Caribbean staterooms have at least one bed that can be adjusted. You can either bring the beds together to create a Royal King or split them into two twin beds.

For friends who are sharing a cabin, but need some personal space, splitting the beds apart is a great hack.

You may have to request it beforehand or ask your stateroom attendant to help you move the beds apart, but it is worth it.

This ensures that you don’t have to argue over the pillows, blankets, or mattress space.

Anyone who loves their personal space will find that separate beds will go a long way toward improving the energy of their vacation.

For added privacy, be sure to use the provided curtains between spaces. 

If there are none, you can always create your own.

Read more: I tried the best inside cruise ship cabin hacks to see how well they worked

2. Forcing them to buy a drink package

The Royal Caribbean drink packages aren’t for everyone, so be sure that you discuss them beforehand with your cabin mate.

If you go ahead and purchase a deluxe drink package, every other adult in your stateroom is also required to buy one.

Royal Caribbean does not allow guests to share a drink package between multiple adults. 

Each adult of drinking age will be required to purchase one if one adult in their party does so.

This means that you shouldn’t just go ahead and purchase one without their agreement!

Not only is it expensive, but the drink package also works best for guests who are going to have 5-6 drinks a day on their cruise.

It doesn't work for every lifestyle, so be sure that you communicate beforehand about what you’d prefer.

Don’t leave one person stuck, required to purchase an expensive beverage package.

3. Keeping your budget a secret

One of the biggest blows to a trip with friends is the clash between personal budgets.

Some people might have been saving for years, ready to blow it all, while others are hoping they’ll only spend $100-200 on their trip.

When two different budgets collide, the fallout can be intense. 

I’ve heard horror stories: one friend complaining that the other is too worried about money to have any fun, while the other feels that they’re being inconsiderate and selfish.

To avoid a friendship breakup, discuss your budgets beforehand.

While you don’t need to have the exact same budget as your friend, having a similar level of planning and communication ensures that you can stay on the same page.

Having an open, honest conversation before even booking the cruise is the best way to meet in the middle on money.

I like to call my friends even before we start planning, and honestly let them know how much I’m hoping to spend on the cruise. 

Once they reciprocate, you both can come to a compromise and discuss your various priorities.

Honesty is really the best policy when it comes to spending on a cruise. Otherwise, resentment can quickly build up and destroy a relationship, not to mention a cruise vacation. 

4. Hogging the charging ports

Cruise ship staterooms, even on Royal Caribbean, are notorious for never having enough charging ports available.

Most cabins only have a couple sockets, located by the desk, and none by the beds at all.

And we live in a time where most people have multiple electronic devices to charge, from phones to laptops to cameras. 

If you’re not careful, one guest could start to hog all the charging space. 

To avoid fighting over the phone charger, plan ahead by bringing a cruise-safe power strip or a power bank.

Personally, I like to bring along a portable charge that I can charge every couple of days, and then use to power my devices in between.

Don’t be greedy! Make sure that everyone gets a chance to charge their devices.

Read more: What to bring on a Caribbean cruise? 23 essentials to pack

5. Denying yourself alone time

Not setting aside any time alone can be the most exhausting part of a cruise, especially for those of us who are introverts.

On a cruise, you’ll often travel with at least one other person, and come into contact with many other guests, bartenders, waiters, and tour guides.

If you’re not careful, you could go the whole length of the cruise without a single quiet moment alone.

And that social exhaustion can sneak up on you quickly, making a fun vacation feel more like a chore. 

To avoid turning into a cranky, antisocial mess, make sure you prioritize your alone time from the beginning.

Start your cruise by finding a few quiet spots onboard. I like to sit in Central Park, find a quiet hot tub, or chill at a dark bar alone.

If you need an excuse, bring along a book to read, or plan a quick phone call.

But it’s best if you can be honest with your travel buddy, and let them know whenever you need a quiet moment alone.

Chances are they’d be grateful for one, too.

6. Setting unrealistic expectations

Everyone dreams big for their first cruise. 

You may have hopes of huge parties, delicious food, incredible tours, and warm beaches.

But it’s important to set realistic expectations, both for yourself and with the people you’re traveling with.

For example, if you’ve selected to sail on a bigger ship, don’t expect to be delivered right to unique, smaller ports.

Or if you’re traveling with a homebody who prefers quiet evenings, don’t expect them to suddenly join you at every late-night event.

You can’t have everything, so set priorities of what’s most important to you, and release control of the rest.

Otherwise, you may accidentally build up a sense of disappointment and resentment, and end up ruining the cruise for yourself. 

How can first-timers book a cruise without making a vital mistake?

The answer is to arm yourself with information.

Royal Caribbean offers fun, elegant family cruises. The cruise line promises a great vacation for guests of all ages.

But before you book, you’ll want to prepare yourself with all the necessary knowledge on Royal Caribbean cruises.

There are endless things that can go wrong if you jump into cruising without the proper education, such as wasting money or picking a ship you don’t end up enjoying.

Booking your first cruise comes with a daunting amount of options: itineraries, cruise lines, destinations, ships, and cabins.

To help you face your first cruise with confidence, we’ve put together a guide with the most important things first-time cruisers should know before booking.

Read more: 7 surprising things I learned when booking a cruise for the first time

Use a travel agent

When it comes to gathering knowledge before booking, a good travel agent will be one of your best resources.

We always recommend using a good travel agent, whether this is your first cruise or you’ve already been on many.

Travel agents are paid by the cruise line to help you make your vacation planning easier. This means that their services don’t cost you anything.

They have a wealth of information on Royal Caribbean and can get to know you and answer all your personal questions. Travel agents can even use their own experience and network to get the answers you need.

They can also help you save money by finding all the discounts and offers available, and even snagging you onboard credit. 

Onboard credit (or OBC) is like a gift card for use onboard the ship. When you book through a travel agent, they can get anywhere from $50-100 in credit.

If you have pricing questions, changes to your reservation, or any further questions, your agent will be the one to call Royal Caribbean directly and sort out the details.

They become your advocate for everything surrounding your cruise, even when you’re onboard the ship.

Not only will they become your library of information, but their assistance will also free you up to focus on the more fun and interesting parts of preparation.

Read more: 12 things I'd tell anyone new to cruise ship travel

Book as early as possible

When to book your Royal Caribbean cruise? As early as possible.

You’ll find the best prices for your cruise when the cruise line first opens bookings.

Because of supply and demand, the closer you get to the sail date, the more prices will rise. As soon as people begin to book the cruise, the price will increase. 

Also, Royal Caribbean wants to fill up their ships, so they encourage guests to book early and even offer early bird incentives.

Read more: The best time to book cruises by day, month, and last-minute

Waiting to book can be a costly choice.

Don’t just wait for a deal or a sale to come along, because it may never show up.

Royal Caribbean cruises are top-rated, and ships frequently fill up. You’re better off booking as early as you can.

However, because bookings usually open 1-2 years before a sailing, this requires a lot of forethought.

If you can’t plan that far ahead because of work or school, you can book your sailing with just a deposit. This gives you the flexibility to grab that low price, but also change the booking later if you need to.

Those living in the US, Canada, or Australia can usually rebook without any penalty if the price drops after booking.

Know the lingo

Who gets a SeaPass card? What does ‘Alpha Alpha Alpha’ mean? What is the lido deck?

The cruising world has many specific terms and phrases that can be strange and confusing for newcomers.

It’s important to learn the meaning of each of these phrases so that you can understand what’s going on during your cruise.

We have a Royal Caribbean cruise ship glossary to help you understand these unfamiliar phrases.

This will help you have clarity during your planning process and onboard the ship.

Check airfare prices

Before booking your cruise, you’ll also want to check how you’ll travel to the cruise port. 

If you don’t live close enough to drive, make sure to consider the cost of a flight.

Airfare can be extremely unpredictable, with prices quickly climbing into the hundreds.

Before you book your cruise, check which airports you’d be flying into, and how much flights cost for the dates you’re considering. 

Read more: How to prepare for a cruise: Last minute things you should do

You’ll want to ensure you are not picking a sailing that requires expensive or impractical flights.

When you do book your flight, remember that, like cruise lines, airlines seem to reward earlier bookings rather than later.

Also, keep in mind that you should fly into the cruise port the day before your cruise leaves. If you experience any delays, the ship will not wait for you!

In short, you should be looking to book a flight as early as possible, to arrive the day before the cruise begins. 

Make sure you look at all nearby airports to find the cheapest option.

Compare classes and ships

Not all Royal Caribbean ships are made equal.

When booking your cruise, you’ll choose from a fleet of 28 ships. 

While there are similarities and a core experience across all of them, features vary between classes and ships.

Just like cars are separated into types like trucks, sedans, and minivans, Royal Caribbean has designed different types of ships. 

These groupings of ships are called classes, and each class shares a common structure, layout, and design. 

Royal Caribbean’s fleet is broken up into 8 classes: Icon, Quantum Ultra, Quantum, Oasis, Freedom, Voyager, Radiance, and Vision.

Each class has its own distinct size, entertainment, activities, and amenities. Individual ships also have their own distinctions.

To book the best cruise for you, you’ll want to consider what features are a priority for you, and then explore which Class might have your favorite features.

For example, if you want to cruise on a ship with water slides, then the Icon, Oasis or Freedom Class might be the best fit.

But if you value visiting more unique ports of call, you might want to look into a smaller ship, like the Radiance or Vision Class.

This is another area in which your travel agent can help you out. They can choose the best ship for you based on your desires and budget.

Just keep in mind that even within a certain class, ships can be different. 

Read more: First time cruise tips for Royal Caribbean

Consult a Cruise Compass

Once you decide what your vacation priorities are, how do you find what’s available on each ship?

Onboard activities can play a major role in which ship you end up booking

If you’re looking for specific activities before you book, or just wondering what there is to do onboard, we have a hack to help you find that information.

Royal Caribbean does not usually publicly share its activities or entertainment for specific cruises before the cruise.

Instead, you can consult previous Cruise Compasses to see what was available on similar sailings on the same ship.

A Cruise Compass is a daily planner or itinerary distributed for each day of the cruise. It lists exactly what activities are available, and when and where they’ll be happening. This can give you a strong idea of what will be offered on a particular sailing.

Understand cabin categories

Depending on which ship you’ve picked, there are many different cabin categories to choose from.

Especially on bigger ships, there’s a variety of options and prices for staterooms.

Make sure that you research before booking a cabin. The best fit for you depends on your goals for the cruise.

Looking for a place to crash at night? Try a cheap interior cabin.

Have a large family with kids who want privacy? You can look into the suite categories.

Read more: What are the Royal Caribbean suite perks?

If you’re concerned about noise or seasickness, you’ll always want to look into the best cabin locations.

For the cheapest option, you can book a guarantee stateroom, in which you allow Royal Caribbean to assign you a less desirable cabin for a lower price.

Confirm what’s included in the fare

When I first started cruising, one of the most surprising things was how much ended up being included in the base fare.

As part of your cruise experience, you’ll receive free room cleanings, access to high-quality food venues, child care, pool and hot tub access, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and many exhilarating activities.

Before my cruise, I like to go online and read Royal Caribbean’s Fact Sheet for the ship. That usually lists which venues are complementary and which cost extra.

However, it’s also important that you’re aware of the extra fees that come with a cruise.

Items like WiFi, specialty drinks, room service, gratuities, and shore excursions all cost extra.

As a general rule, it feels like a lot is included in the cruise fare, but items that cost extra come at a high price.

You can expect specialty items (like alcoholic drinks or spa packages) to cost more than they might on land.