Over the past several years, Royal Caribbean has rolled out numerous policy changes that have reshaped everything from loyalty benefits to gambling, specialty reservations, and more. 

Some updates have improved the overall cruise experience, while others have sparked debate among loyal passengers who have seen perks scaled back and stricter rules enforced. 

Someone that hasn't cruised in a while would be interested to know what to expect, while casual cruisers may be unaware of the updated rules.

We sought to list the biggest changes Royal Caribbean has made in the post-Covid era of cruising. It might not be every single change, but it's the changes with the biggest impacts on how you cruise.

Whether you're nearing Pinnacle Club status or are planning your first cruise, these changes have had a lasting impact on the Royal Caribbean experience. 

Wine policy changed to per adult instead of per stateroom

The Royal Caribbean wine policy used to state that each cabin could bring up to two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne on embarkation day, regardless of how many adults were staying in the cabin. 

In 2023, however, the cruise line revised the policy to make the allowance per adult instead of per stateroom. Now, each adult may bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne. So, for example, if four adults are sharing a cabin, they can bring up to four bottles onboard.

Enforcing the corkage fee

On that note, while you can bring wine on Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise line has become more consistent about enforcing its corkage fee. 

If you decide to drink the wine you brought onboard in one of the ship's restaurants, bars, or lounges rather than in your cabin, you'll be charged a $15 corkage fee per bottle.

Cruise gratuities increased

Effective November 2024, Royal Caribbean raised the daily gratuity rate by 50 cents per day, bringing the new rate for standard cabins to $18.50 per person, up from $18.00, and suites to $21.00 per person, up from $20.50. 

The cruise line also increased the mandatory service charge for salon and spa services from 18% to 20%. This matches Celebrity Cruises' salon/spa policy.

Souvenir soda cups aren't included with every drink package anymore 

The Deluxe Beverage Package and Royal Refreshment Package are Royal Caribbean's two priciest drink packages. Yet, these packages no longer automatically include a Coca-Cola souvenir cup for every guest who purchases them.

Instead, guests with a package who would like access to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines can purchase a souvenir cup onboard for $4.99.

Dropped drink package exception rule

When someone purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults in the same stateroom must also purchase the package. In the past, a common workaround was to call and request that the other guest purchase the Royal Refreshment Package instead.

Unfortunately, effective August 2025, Royal Caribbean no longer grants exceptions to its policy requiring all guests in a stateroom to purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package. As such, if one person wants the alcoholic package, you should be prepared to have to buy it for everyone in your stateroom, even if some guests don't drink a lot of alcohol.

Pre-book meals with a specialty dining package 

One popular change was the new feature that allows guests with dining packages to pre-book their specialty restaurants via the online Cruise Planner. 

Previously, one of the major caveats with the packages was that guests had to wait until they were on the ship to confirm their reservations. Now, you can book specialty reservations before embarkation day. 

No-show fee for specialty dining reservations

With specialty restaurants in such high demand among guests, Royal Caribbean implemented a policy to reduce no-shows and free up tables that might otherwise sit empty during peak dining times. 

Under the policy, guests cannot modify their reservation within 24 hours of their scheduled dining time. Those who cancel within that window or don't show up may be charged a cancellation fee, which starts at $25 per person and increases to $50 for premium restaurants like Empire Supper Club and Izumi Hibachi. 

Introduced a third seating time in the dining room

In the past, Royal Caribbean offered two traditional dinner times on its ships, seating guests around 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Although the traditional seating is a popular option for many guests, others thought the times were either too early or too late. 

As such, the cruise line added a third dining time to fit other passengers' schedules, ensuring that dinner remained a convenient and enjoyable part of the daily cruise experience. The exact time of the extra seating depends on the ship and itinerary, but it typically starts between 6:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Changes to Adventure Ocean prices for nursery and late-night care

Adventure Ocean is free for kids between 3 and 12 until 10:00 p.m. After that, there's an hourly charge for those staying for the late-night party. This now costs $15 per hour, per child, up from $10. 

Adventure Ocean Babies, the daycare spot for infants and toddlers between 6 and 36 months, also got more expensive. The new nursery rates are $9 per hour per child until 6 p.m., up from $6 per hour, and $12 per hour after 6 p.m., up from $8 per hour.

Priority tendering for Pinnacle Club members

With Priority Digitized Tendering, top-tier Pinnacle Club members don't have to worry about waiting in line to collect a ticket or rushing to secure a spot on a tender boat. 

Instead, when visiting La Spezia on Harmony of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, or Legend of the Seas, Pinnacle Club cruisers can simply head to the designated tender boarding area.

Banned multi-plug outlets

According to Royal Caribbean's website, electrical items and electronic equipment not designed for personal grooming are banned from its ships. 

Previously, this excluded multi‑plug outlets. However, the cruise line updated its prohibited-items policy to ban multi-plug outlets, alongside extension cords and power strips.

Video poker gets fewer casino points

Royal Caribbean increased the earning requirement for video poker to $15 per point. This means that you now have to wager more money to earn the same number of casino points.

They also started charging a convenience fee for onboard casino withdrawals at slot machines if you aren't Prime or above. It's $3.00 per transaction, so you're better off transferring one large sum rather than multiple smaller ones during your sailing. 

Surfside Family Suites downgraded to Sea Class 

The Surfside Family Suites, available exclusively on Icon Class ships, overlook the Surfside neighborhood. Although they come with a high price tag, these cabins are part of the entry-level tier of the Royal Suite Class.

As such, effective May 2026, they no longer have access to the Suite Lounge, Concierge services, complimentary internet access, complimentary beverages in the Suite Lounge, and can only dine at Coastal Kitchen for dinner.

Sunset Junior Suites upgraded to Sky Class 

On the flip side, Sunset Junior Suites received a welcome upgrade, moving from the Sea Class tier to Sky Class within the Royal Suite Class program. 

As such, guests staying in these suites have access to additional perks and amenities, including all-day access to Coastal Kitchen, Concierge services, and more, that were previously reserved for higher-tier accommodations.

Refreshed crystal block design

Royal Caribbean's crystal blocks are awarded to guests who have earned at least 140 cruise points. After that, members earn additional crystal blocks for every 70 cruise points accumulated.

Before February 2023, the crystal block elements were etched into the crystal, giving them an elegant, timeless look. The updated design features a colorful image of the ship with the Crown & Anchor logo in the upper-left corner and the ship's name in the lower-right corner.

Better Diamond drink rollover time 

One of the best Crown & Anchor Society perks is the complimentary drinks awarded to Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle guests — and now the benefit is even more flexible for night owls. 

Effective December 2022, Royal Caribbean changed the rule so that these vouchers can be redeemed from 5:00 a.m. one day until 4:59 a.m. the following day. This means that unused drinks no longer expire at midnight. 

Changes to Crown & Anchor welcome snacks and beverages 

Unfortunately, Emerald members and above can no longer pre-select welcome beverages. Instead, all guests will receive complimentary water in their stateroom on embarkation day. Emerald and Diamond passengers will get two bottles per person, whereas Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club cruisers will get three per person. 

Additionally, the cruise line removed the welcome snack as a loyalty benefit, so there won't be cookies waiting in your stateroom anymore. 

Multiple cruise passengers found themselves in handcuffs after law enforcement officers arrested travelers with outstanding warrants. 

Six cruise guests were arrested at Port Canaveral on Friday, July 17, while either embarking or disembarking from cruises, for outstanding warrants and probation violations, law enforcement officials confirmed. 

"To start the day off was Martell Murray out of Georgia and his cabin mate, Kenderia Burney out of Leon County, Florida. Murray had a warrant reference a violation of his release conditions for his Murder charges…yes you read that correctly, and Burney had [a] warrant for Violation of Probation!!" shared the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Florida (Official) Facebook page. 

"Luckily these two still got to vacation together at the Lodge even though they got accommodations with separate sleeping quarters."

Veronica Hamlet of Tampa, Florida, and James Brewton of Allendale, South Carolina, were also arrested on outstanding warrants for failure to appear and violation of probation, respectively.

The Facebook post continued, "To put the cherry on top of the piña colada, two passengers disembarking from their cruise were stopped as they are currently on Felony Probation and did not have approval to leave the country!!"

According to the arrest reports, both Murray and Burney are being held without bond. Hamlet, however, was released on a $1,000 bond, while Brewton was released on a $500 bond on Saturday, July 18.

The final two arrests involved unnamed passengers who were serving felony probation and had not received permission to leave the country. As such, they violated the terms of their probation by going on a cruise. 

The Brevard County Sheriff's Office didn't specify which ships the guests had sailed on or intended to sail on. However, according to CruiseMapper, there were three ships in port on Friday: Utopia of the Seas, Disney Wish, and Carnival Glory. 

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas had just finished up a four-night Bahamian voyage and was about to embark on a short weekend cruise to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Similarly, Disney Wish had returned to Port Canaveral after completing a four-night Bahamian itinerary featuring a visit to Disney's private island destination, Castaway Cay, and a stop in Nassau. The 144,000 gross-ton Wish Class ship later on another Bahamas cruise to the line's private island and Nassau. 

Finally, Carnival Glory just completed a four-night sailing that included stops at Nassau and Celebration Key. Like the other two vessels, she then departed on a weekend cruise to Carnival's newest private destination. 

Can you go on a cruise with a felony?

Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can't go on a cruise, but there are a few important factors to consider.

Generally speaking, there's no law prohibiting felons from boarding a ship. However, Ron Harper, a Licensed Paralegal and owner of OTD Ticket Defenders Legal Service, told Royal Caribbean Blog that lines can deny boarding to individuals with felony convictions.

Some countries also have strict entry restrictions and may refuse entry to felons, which further complicates the issue. 

"Although there is no federal law that prohibits someone convicted of a felony from boarding a cruise ship, several large cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) perform criminal background checks," Harper explained. 

Royal Caribbean's website, for example, states that the cruise line checks booking details against law enforcement registries and its internal records to ensure the safety of all customers.

"We check booking details against law enforcement registers and Our internal records for the safety of all customers. With your consent to do so, we compare any photo you provide before your cruise with images taken during embarkation to help identify you and to speed up the boarding process for you," Royal Caribbean says.

"We also use closed-circuit television ("CCTV") cameras onboard Our ships, and We may match images against the photograph We have of you if We need to identify you."

Carnival conducts criminal background checks, too. However, its website adds that felons convicted of physical and/or sexual assault, armed robbery, and other violent crimes may be denied boarding.

Moving on, while convicted felons can cruise to places like The Bahamas and the Caribbean, countries may restrict entry to people with a criminal record.

"Most of the travelers believe that if they remain aboard the ship when they visit a port, they are not in trouble, but the fact is that the border agencies know about the ship by its manifest at least 96 hours before arrival," Barry Nussbaum, Owner and Senior Lawyer at Nussbaum Law in Ontario, said.

For example, countries such as Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand have strict entry requirements that may prevent individuals with felony convictions from visiting, even if their cruise departs from the United States.

Finally, Harper said that those on probation may face even more issues, with international travel (or even intrastate travel) requiring authorization from the probation officer who is responsible for supervising the individual. 

When you head out on a cruise, you expect to return with tan lines, a few extra pounds, and lifelong memories — not a newborn baby.

However, one couple's vacation took an unforgettable turn when they learned they were expecting a baby just hours before setting sail.

Gary "David" Glenn and Lauren Siwinski, of Rhode Island, arrived in Tampa, Florida, ahead of a five-night Royal Caribbean cruise to Mexico.

However, Siwinski told Tampa Bay News that she began experiencing severe stomach pain before the cruise and went to an urgent care clinic in Apollo Beach, Florida, where she learned she was pregnant and in labor. 

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

An ultrasound later revealed that Siwinski was about 33 weeks pregnant and already having contractions.

"I had no symptoms at all, nothing whatsoever. I had no idea there was a human inside of me," Siwinski said. 

She later added that she did feel some flutters but didn't think anything of it, claiming she thought it was her stomach settling from something she had eaten. 

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

"I had her working out and stuff in the gym with me, and she's sitting there pregnant. I had no idea. She's like bouncing this bar off her chest. I'm surprised the baby didn't shoot out right there, you know what I mean?" Glenn shared. 

Due to the surprising news, their cruise was put on hold. The couple, who recently got engaged in May, traveled to HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, where Siwinski delivered their son, Sebastian, on Monday, July 13 — less than 12 hours after learning they were expecting. 

While uncommon, hospital staff said pregnancies that remain unnoticed until the later stages do occasionally occur.

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

"They were absolutely amazing," OB Coordinator Elyse Fahey said. 

"Being outside their element, not knowing anybody here, and just with such grace — they’re both happy, excited, a little nervous, I’m sure, but just [an] amazing couple."

Now, the couple gets to go home and begin this new chapter of their lives, including heading to the courthouse to get married, which is vastly different than returning home after the Royal Caribbean cruise they didn't get to take.

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

According to CruiseMapper, Radiance of the Seas was the only Royal Caribbean ship scheduled to depart on July 13. 

The five-night cruise visited Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and is expected to return to Tampa on Saturday, July 18. 

Can you go on a cruise while pregnant?

While Siwinski’s situation was highly unusual, many expecting parents do take cruises while pregnant. However, cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, have strict policies regarding how far along a passenger can be during the sailing. 

According to the cruise line's website, "Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will be more than 23 weeks pregnant at any time during the cruise or CruiseTour."

"All guests are required to fill out a Public Health Questionnaire prior to arrival or at the pier attesting that they are not more than 23 weeks pregnant."

This means pregnant travelers must be 23 weeks pregnant or earlier for the entirety of their voyage, and guests who reach their 24th week of pregnancy during the cruise won't be permitted to sail. 

Moreover, pregnant cruisers are typically required to bring a doctor's note confirming that they're fit to travel. 

Expectant guests should understand that ships do not have obstetricians onboard, and complications may be difficult to manage at sea without access to specialized medical care or hospitals.

For example, although every cruise ship has medical facilities, they are not properly equipped to handle premature births. As such, without a NICU onboard, a premature baby born at sea could face serious risks without immediate access to specialized care.

When vacationers think of a summer cruise, they likely picture lazy days on a pool deck passing through the sea with a fun cocktail in their hand. However, they often forget the season also brings high temperatures, crowds, and logistical challenges.

I've taken a few cruises already this summer, and have a couple more to go. 

In my experience, the difference between a dreamy summer trip and a frustrating one often comes down to how prepared you are for the realities of what summer brings.

After taking a couple of summer cruises, I wanted to share the things vacationers should avoid while cruising in the summer months.

Spending too much time in the direct sun on the first day

After the stress of traveling and dealing with port agents during embarkation, you'll likely want to switch gears into vacation mode immediately after stepping aboard the ship. However, a word of warning: don't overdo it in the sun before sailaway. 

It's more than tempting to head straight up to the pool deck and sip on a fruity beverage. However, you'll want to continuously reapply sunscreen while outside, so you don't end up with a painful sunburn before the trip even begins.

If you're like my fiancée, the sun can also make you feel extremely tired. Because of that, you may want to pace yourself and avoid wearing yourself out on the first day of your cruise, especially with long port days ahead.

Not packing enough sun protection

Speaking of the sun, it's important to pack a lot of sunscreen. In fact, I'd argue that you should have more than you think you'll need, rather than not enough. 

The reason is simple: sunscreen on the ship is way more expensive than at retailers like Target, Amazon, or your local drugstore. For example, I've seen prices as high as $35 for a bottle on Royal Caribbean ships and private destinations. 

The last thing you want to happen is to make it to the last day of your vacation, which happens to be a sunny port day in The Bahamas, run out of sunscreen, and have to spend a premium price just so you don't turn into a lobster (yep, that happened to me!). 

Packing only swimsuits, flip-flops, and other beach-appropriate attire

Even if you're on a warm-weather cruise to somewhere like The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Mexican Riviera, you'll want to ensure you're packing for more than just days spent at the beach or by the pool.

For example, if you plan to eat in the ship's Main Dining Room, you will need appropriate dinner-time clothing, such as sundresses, khakis, jeans, and blouses. You don't have to dress overly formal or anything, but you will want to have outfits that are a step above your poolside attire.

Additionally, think about how you plan to spend your days ashore. Mediterranean cruises, for instance, often involve more sightseeing, so comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing that are suitable for long walking tours are recommended. 

Thinking the best summer cruises are to warm-weather destinations 

Speaking of cruises to warm-weather destinations, you don't have to limit your summer cruise plans to places with beaches and above-average sunshine. 

Although tropical destinations are popular during the summer months, I can personally attest that some of the most memorable cruises take you to cooler climates and offer different — and just as memorable — experiences. 

For example, on cruises to Alaska and Northern Europe, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, delicious cuisine, and unique outdoor adventures that you won't find in ports like Costa Maya, San Juan, or Aruba. 

Not planning for crowded summer ports

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for tourism, which means popular ports of call can see an influx of land-based tourists, along with thousands of cruise passengers. 

As such, you'll want to adjust your expectations and plan appropriately. For instance, when I visited Santorini, Greece, in July, the streets of Oia were so crowded that it was difficult to walk at times. Although beautiful, it was a far cry from the picturesque photos of dramatic calderas and blue-domed buildings.

My advice? Take your pre-cruise planning seriously. Research your stops ahead of time, browse port schedules to see how many ships will be docked during your visit, and plan accordingly. Additionally, don't wait until the last minute to book excursions, especially in popular destinations where there will be multiple ships visiting at the same time. 

Waiting too long to book your pre-cruise accommodations

On a similar note, if you haven't already, I'd highly suggest finalizing your pre-cruise travel plans. Booking your accommodations and transportation in advance helps ensure a smoother start. Plus, you won't have to worry about inflated last-minute fares. 

Domestic flight prices have increased by 23.2% between March and June 2026, while international flight costs have increased 11.5% in the same time period, Fortune reported. 

While the increase is partly due to ongoing political issues in the Middle East, higher demand for summer travel has also enabled airlines to keep prices higher. As such, you really shouldn't delay making those plans!

Arriving at the port on the same day as departure

When planning your travel, it's important that you don't arrive the same day as your ship leaves. Although this is a common warning, it becomes even more important during the summer months, when afternoon storms can wreak havoc on flight schedules. 

Even if you aren't sailing from South Florida, weather-related delays and unexpected travel disruptions can happen anywhere. Your aircraft, for example, could be delayed due to inclement weather along its inbound route. 

For that reason, I'd highly advise against booking the latest flight of the day. If anything goes wrong, you'll be left scrambling to make last-minute arrangements on departure day, with very little wiggle room if things continue to work against you.

Drinking too much, especially in the sun

Deluxe Beverage Package holders beware: just because you have an unlimited drink package doesn't mean you should abuse it. It is easy to get caught up in vacation mode, sipping fruity piña coladas by the pool and throwing back shots at late-night parties. 

However, overindulging in alcohol while in the direct sun is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Heat, humidity, and prolonged sun exposure can intensify the effects of alcohol, leading to dehydration and fatigue. As such, it's important to pace yourself and drink plenty of water. 

The last thing you want is to be dealing with an insufferable hangover in port on an all-day excursion with limited access to a bathroom. Trust me, it's as bad as it sounds. 

Forgetting to check the weather before your cruise

One of the easiest mistakes to make before a cruise is forgetting to check the weather forecast. Weather can impact everything from what you pack to your travel plans, so it's something you should do in the days leading up to your vacation. 

It's even more important during the peak of Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from late August through mid-October. Storms don't always impact cruise itineraries, but keeping an eye on the forecast can help you prepare for potential changes. 

For example, my Bermuda cruise turned into a Canada cruise thanks to Hurricane Erin, which caused my ship to change course. Consequently, the weather was chillier than expected. Had I checked the weather and considered the possibility of a major itinerary change, I would have packed a little differently. 

Overscheduling yourself with activities

Finally, you don't want to do too much on your cruise. With so many activities, entertainment options, and excursions available, it's tempting to try to stay booked and busy from dawn to dusk. 

However, packing your schedule, especially on mega ships like Legend of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, can leave you feeling exhausted. This is even more true during the warmer months, when spending hours in the heat can quickly wear you down. 

Instead, I try to build in time to relax and recharge in the air conditioning during the hottest part of the afternoon. I won't lie, I used to feel guilty doing this, but I quickly learned that a little downtime can make everything feel more enjoyable, rather than feeling as though you're dragging your feet from one activity to the next. 

Passengers on at least eight Royal Caribbean cruises have had their visits to the cruise line's private destination in Haiti suddenly canceled. 

According to an email sent to guests, Legend of the Seas will no longer call at Labadee, Haiti, on its February 14, 2027, cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 

"As you prepare for your vacation, we wanted to share an update to your February 14, 2027, itinerary. We've reviewed our sailing plans and made an adjustment to the ports of call we will visit," reads the email.

Originally, the six-night cruise was slated to call at Perfect Day at CocoCay; Labadee, Haiti; and Falmouth, Jamaica, according to CruiseMapper. Now, however, the Icon Class ship will visit Costa Maya, Mexico, and Cozumel, Mexico. 

(Credit: Michelle Gillespie / Facebook)

"Instead of visiting Labadee, we'll now enjoy a day in Costa Maya, Mexico. We'll arrive at 8:00 AM and depart at 5:00 PM. Additionally, we'll now visit Cozumel, Mexico, from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM instead of Falmouth, Jamaica," the email continues. 

Another passenger shared that their March 28, 2027, cruise aboard Legend of the Seas was also changed. Now, they'll call at Ponce, Puerto Rico, and Samaná, Dominican Republic. 

No explanation has been given for the change, but the email concludes by saying they're sorry for the inconvenience, adding that safety is the cruise line's top priority. 

Royal Caribbean last visited the private destination in April 2025, marking a brief return to the destination after earlier unrest in Haiti forced itinerary changes. Shortly after that, however, the cruise line began to cancel visits to Labadee again. 

More recently, the cruise line axed all calls to Labadee through January 2026, which seems to indicate that the cruise line is keeping guests away from the private destination longer than previously expected. 

Although Royal Caribbean has not publicly revealed a specific cause for the change to the February 14 sailing, it is likely due to the ongoing gang violence in the island nation, which has resulted in widespread violence, hunger, and displacement.

Other Ships Also Pull the Plug on Haiti

(Credit: davidisai0707 / Reddit)

Guests aboard at least five more Royal Caribbean ships — Adventure, Allure, Independence, Freedom, and Star of the Seas — have also reported that their upcoming cruises will no longer stop at Labadee, Haiti. 

"I really wanted to visit Labadee... apparently is not coming back for 2027," shared davidisai0707 on Reddit. 

They were supposed to call at Labadee on Independence of the Seas' March 14, 2027, cruise out of Miami, Florida. Now, however, they'll visit Nassau, Bahamas. 

Similarly, Star of the Seas' May 2, 2027, voyage will steer clear of Haiti, instead replacing the Royal Caribbean destination with its private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in The Bahamas.

The original itinerary had the 248,663-gross-ton ship visiting St. Thomas and Labadee on a seven-night cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida. 

In an email sent to booked guests, Royal Caribbean explained the change, stating, "We've reviewed our sailing plans and made an adjustment to the ports of call we will visit. Instead of visiting Labadee, we'll now enjoy a day in Perfect Day at CocoCay. We'll arrive at 7:00 AM and depart at 5:00 PM."

(Credit: Pie Crust Travels / Facebook)

Another traveler shared that their five-night cruise aboard Freedom of the Seas will no longer be visiting Haiti. 

"Instead of visiting Labadee, we'll now enjoy a day in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. We'll arrive at 8:00 AM and depart at 5:00 PM."

No changes were made to the ship's other stop in Nassau, Bahamas, on March 21. 

According to comments on a Reddit post in the r/royalcaribbean community, sailings on Allure of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas have also been impacted. 

"Adventure of the Seas on Feb 21st swapped out Labadee for Grand Cayman. Not the worst reschedule!" wrote salmcap. 

UnsubstantialGoat added, "My Allure cruise just swapped out Labadee and Falmouth with Cozumel and Costa Maya. I'd much rather go to the new ports than Falmouth an additional sea day. It sucks to not go to Labadee but I'm happier with my itinerary change."

Another comment states that the April 25, 2027, sailing on Independence of the Seas swapped Labadee, Haiti, for Grand Cayman. 

Is Labadee Haiti Safe?

As of July 2026, the U.S. Department of State's website lists Haiti at its highest warning level, Level 4: "Do Not Travel."

Reasons for the harsh warning include rampant violent crime, limited law enforcement, widespread kidnapping, and anti-gang vigilante attacks. 

In mid-May, a new wave of gang violence in the country's capital forced hundreds to flee their homes over the weekend, as reported by The Associated Press. 

The outlet reports that gangs have overtaken more than 90% of Port-au-Prince since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in July 2021. Violence has expanded into the countryside, too. 

Although Labadee is far from the capital of Port-au-Prince, safety concerns have shaped Royal Caribbean's decision to steer clear of Haiti for now. 

Previous emails have explained that the cancellations were implemented "out of an abundance of caution" to ensure the safety and well-being of guests and crew members. 

If you've been holding out on making Cruise Planner purchases for your upcoming Royal Caribbean vacation, now might be the time to finally pull the trigger. 

The cruise line's "Sun's Out Sale's On" promotion offers some of the lowest prices of the season on CocoCay add-ons, namely admission to the adult-only Hideaway Beach. 

You'll have to act fast, though. According to the terms and conditions, the sale applies to purchases made through July 14, 2026, on select voyages departing from July 10, 2026, through June 30, 2027. 

Even if you've already bought your Perfect Day at CocoCay add-ons, this sale is a good opportunity to review your bookings, as Royal Caribbean allows guests to cancel eligible purchases and rebook them at the lower price before their sailing. 

Hideaway Beach for as low as $43.99 per person

One of the most popular add-ons at CocoCay is Hideaway Beach. This adult-only enclave is available to guests 18+ and features an infinity-edge pool with a swim-up bar, exclusive dining options, hammocks, and more. 

During the "Sun's Out Sale's On" promotion, select sailings are seeing day passes to Hideaway Beach for as low as $43.99 per person. 

On an upcoming voyage aboard Odyssey of the Seas, for example, the onboard price is listed at $89 per person. 

With the current discount, however, the price drops to just $43.99 per person —a savings of more than 50% compared to the onboard rate!

That said, prices vary by sailing and demand. On another upcoming voyage on Utopia of the Seas, the onboard rate for Hideaway Beach is advertised at $99 per person. 

With the 50% discount, the "Sun's Out Sale's On" promotion brings the price of Hideaway down to $48.99. 

Regardless, paying less than $50 for Hideaway Beach is definitely a steal. Day passes often cost upwards of $70, depending on the sailing, so seeing prices dip this low is pretty uncommon. 

For example, I paid $51.68 per person when I visited Hideaway Beach in April 2024. Another travel writer paid over $80 per person when they visited in February 2025. 

Other add-ons worth checking out during the sale

The "Sun's Out Sale's On" promotion applies to more than just Hideaway Beach. As such, it's worth browsing your Cruise Planner to see what other discounts are available for your sailing.

Here are a few other deals available on an upcoming three-night cruise on Utopia of the Seas:

• Hideaway Cabana and Day Pass — Onboard Price: $1,849 / Cruise Planner Price: $1,108.99 (40% Off)
• South Beach Cabanas — Onboard Price: $1,369 / Cruise Planner Price: $820.99 (40% Off)
• Perfect Day CocoCay Zipline — Onboard Price: $69 / Cruise Planner Price: $33.99 (50% Off)
• South Beach Full-Day Beach Bed Rental — Onboard Price: $469 / Cruise Planner Price: $280.99 (40% Off)

Don't worry if the website is slow

If you're planning to take advantage of the sale, don't be surprised if the Cruise Planner website is slower than usual. 

Both Royal Caribbean Blog's Head Honcho, Matt Hochberg, and I experienced frustrating delays while browsing the Cruise Planner on Tuesday, July 14. 

This isn't surprising, though, as major promotions tend to drive a surge in traffic, and it is common for pages to load slowly.

If that happens during your time on the Cruise Planner website, be patient. Don't immediately try to refresh the page, as repeatedly reloading can interrupt the process and cause it to start over. 

Alternatively, you can call Royal Caribbean at 1-800-398-9819 for assistance with making pre-cruise purchases. However, keep in mind that wait times may also be longer than usual during the sale. 

Most pre-teens spend their days attending school, hanging out with friends, or enjoying their favorite hobbies, but one 11-year-old is living out his wildest dreams as a cruise ship performer.

Edward Jones, 11, of Wolverhampton, England, has made history as one of the youngest performers to appear in a Royal Caribbean production, joining the cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory aboard the new Legend of the Seas.

This isn't Jones' first time performing as Charlie, either. According to his Instagram, he took the stage as Charlie Bucket at The Grand in Wolverhampton in March 2025 and had "the best time ever." 

He was also part of the D-Day Juniors, a young troupe of performers inspired by The D-Day Darlings, with whom he gained valuable stage experience. While with the group, Jones performed live on ITV's This Morning and even took part in the No. 10 VE Day Street Party, hosted by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. 

(Credit: Edward Jones / Instagram)

During an interview aboard Legend, Jones said that performing as Charlie in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on the ship is his first professional gig. 

He continued, "[It's a] big step up from all the amateur stuff I've been doing," then joked that Sorrento's has been his favorite part of the ship so far. 

Still, just because he is working aboard a cruise ship doesn't mean he can neglect his studies. In the mornings, Jones is expected to pop down to Adventure Ocean to work with a tutor. 

(Credit: Edward Jones / Instagram)

Then, in the afternoons and evenings, he trades the makeshift classroom for the stage, entertaining thousands of passengers aboard one of the world's largest cruise ships. 

According to a recent Instagram story, Jones will be on board Legend from July 15 to August 13, 2026. After that, another young performer will take the Royal Theater stage. 

Jones isn't the only child performer on Legend of the Seas

(Credit: Oliver Dawson / Instagram)

To help young performers balance their careers with their education, Royal Caribbean rotates child cast members every 30 days, allowing them to continue their schooling while another young performer steps into the role.

In this case, Jones shares the role of Charlie with Oliver Dawson, 13, of South London, England. 

Jones isn't new to the professional stage, having performed the role of young Harry Potter in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on the West End, as well as Edwin Cratchit in A Christmas Carol — A Ghost Story at the Alexandra Palace Theatre in London.

(Credit: Oliver Dawson / Instagram)

"I’m so grateful to be living a dream I once only imagined. Having the opportunity to play Charlie Bucket in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory aboard the biggest cruise ship in the world is something I will never take for granted," Dawson wrote on Instagram, captioning a split image showing him today alongside a photo of himself dressed as Willy Wonka when he was just three years old.

"Every performance is a reminder of how lucky I am to do what I love, surrounded by incredible people and sharing such a magical story with audiences from all over the world. This journey has taught me that dreams really can come true with passion, perseverance, and a little bit of faith."

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a musical based on the 1964 children's book by Roald Dahl. It premiered on the West End in June 2013, running for over three years before the final curtain closed on January 7, 2017. 

Afterward, the musical was reworked for Broadway, opening in April 2017 at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre. The production had a short run, though, closing just nine months later in January 2018. 

In October 2025, it was revealed that Royal Caribbean would bring the beloved tale to the high seas aboard its newest Icon Class ship, Legend of the Seas. 

The musical, like the book, focuses on Charlie Bucket, who wins a golden ticket to Willy Wonka's mysterious candy factory. 

There, he and the other winners explore the factory and learn valuable lessons about kindness, honesty, humility, and most importantly, the true meaning of family. 

About Legend of the Seas

Legend of the Seas embarked on her maiden voyage on July 4, 2026. The 248,663 gross-ton ship measures 1,196 feet long and can accommodate over 5,600 passengers at double occupancy, according to the cruise line. 

She will be based in Europe through November 2026, offering sailings from Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. Then, she will relocate to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for the winter season. 

While in Florida, Legend of the Seas will alternate between six- and eight-night Caribbean cruises before finally making her way back across the Atlantic in April for another seasonal European stint. 

Highlights aboard this Icon Class ship include the Hollywoodland Supper Club, Royal Railway — Legend Station, the Category 6 Waterpark, two-deck Casino Royale, Dueling Pianos bar, family-friendly Surfside neighborhood, and, of course, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the Royal Theater. 

At the time of publication, a six-night Western Caribbean cruise aboard Legend starts at $1,033 per person in 2027, while a weeklong Mediterranean voyage increases to over $1,700 per person. 

I've cruised enough to know that Royal Caribbean programs its ships to deliver a lot of fun, but the cabin design is where you might notice differences on an older vessel. 

Generally speaking, accommodations on older vessels are simpler and often lack modern comforts such as bedside outlets and contemporary décor. Comparatively, newer staterooms feature more efficient layouts, smart storage solutions, and more. 

I've sailed on both ends of Royal Caribbean's fleet spectrum, embarking on a five-night cruise aboard Vision of the Seas to Bermuda and a weeklong Caribbean sailing on Icon of the Seas. 

Experiencing these ships highlighted just how much cruise ship design has evolved, particularly in accommodations and passenger comfort. 

After sailing in Royal Caribbean's oldest and newest cabins, it was fascinating to see just how much the cruise line's cabin design has changed from the 1990s to today. 

That contrast is even more apparent when comparing notes with other Royal Caribbean Blog team members, including Matt Hochberg and Jenna DeLaurentis, who have also had the opportunity to sail across a wide range of cruise ships, both old and new. 

Their experiences on older Vision Class ships and newer Icon Class ships further reinforce just how varied cruise cabin design is.

Here's a look at how cabins compare onboard the oldest and newest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. 

My interior cruise room on Vision of the Seas was outdated but cleverly designed to maximize the available space.

Having sailed on some of the newest and oldest ships at sea, ranging from Disney Magic to Carnival Elation, Brilliant Lady, and Norwegian Aqua, I've become quite good at managing my expectations for cruise cabins. 

As such, I wasn't surprised when I stepped into my interior stateroom on Vision of the Seas. The cabin featured many design elements common in the 1990s, such as darker accents and traditional wood finishes. 

Basic features of the cabin include a Royal King bed, vanity, closet, safe, television, ensuite bathroom, small loveseat, two nightstands, and a full-length mirror. 

The storage situation was pretty average, especially for an older cruise ship. My friend and I managed to comfortably unpack during our five-night cruise, hanging our dresses in the closet and utilizing the vanity's drawers for undergarments, t-shirts, and bathing suits. 

Moving on, one downside of this older cruise room was the limited number of charging options. Unlike newer ships designed with today's device-addicted travelers in mind, my cabin aboard Vision of the Seas offered just a few power outlets, all located near the vanity. 

With only two American and two European outlets, I was super thankful that I had packed multiple European adapters. Without them, we would have been stuck sharing just two outlets for the entire cruise!

Another con was the bathroom. It served its purpose, but it was definitely lacking in some areas. For example, there wasn't a plexiglass shower door. Instead, there was a clingy shower curtain that did a poor job of actually keeping water in the shower. 

However, the bathroom itself was pretty spacious, and there was a good amount of storage for toiletries and cosmetics thanks to the built-in cubbies. It was also exceptionally clean and well-maintained by the ship's crew. 

On a similar note, I was surprised by how spacious the tiny room felt. In particular, I loved that Royal Caribbean designed the stateroom to include a loveseat. This became our catch-all place for things like souvenir bags and raincoats, and it was nice that the vanity could stay relatively clutter-free. 

Overall, the room prioritized practicality, with a straightforward layout and tired furnishings. Considering the ship's age, she could greatly appreciate some sort of Royal Amplification. However, even if Royal Caribbean were to significantly upgrade its older vessels, the staterooms likely would not receive much TLC.

Inside cabins on Star of the Seas are bright, colorful, and modern. 

Royal Caribbean Blog's video editor, Jenna, stayed in an inside stateroom on Star of the Seas in 2025, and it's easy to notice how much the experience differs from older ships like Vision of the Seas.

For starters, rather than darker tones and traditional furnishings, her cabin had a sleeker, contemporary design with lighter colors and improved lighting. 

She remarked that the color scheme and décor exuded a calm, relaxing atmosphere. This made the cabin a great place to rest aboard the busy Icon Class cruise ship. 

Additionally, the charging situation has much improved on these newer vessels. For instance, cabins now include a mix of USB ports, standard American plugs, and European outlets near the vanity. There's also a bedside USB port, which makes it more convenient to charge your phone overnight. 

On the flip side, Jenna said that one of the biggest downsides of her inside cabin on Star of the Seas was the storage options. In fact, she found it challenging to properly unpack her belongings. The closet, for example, didn't have any built-in shelving, and there weren't any traditional drawers — just wire baskets. 

The vanity area also lacked any useful storage solutions. Rather, there were just two narrow drawers that had an awkward diagonal configuration. As such, they were pretty useless. 

Next time, Jenna would pack items like magnetic hooks and an over-the-door shoe organizer to help better organize her belongings while aboard Star of the Seas. 

That said, the bathroom is unlike any other in the fleet, and it's clear Royal Caribbean put a lot of thought and care into designing Icon Class ensuite bathrooms. 

The layout, for example, features a larger-than-average shower with a plexiglass door and a small, rectangular seat. There's also thoughtfully placed shelving that makes the space feel more functional than normal cruise bathrooms. 

In the end, the most affordable cruise rooms are far from the fanciest cabins on the ship. However, the newer the ship, the more modern the stateroom will feel. In addition to fresh aesthetics, you will typically find that newer cabins have better charging options, upgraded bathroom layouts, and more. 

Older ships were built with fewer balconies and suites.

Regardless of which class of ship you book, you'll find four basic stateroom categories: Interior, Outside View, Balcony, and Suite. However, there are far fewer sub-categories on Vision Class ships, and the options tend to be pretty straightforward. 

Royal Caribbean Blog's Head Honcho, Matt Hochberg, sailed on Enchantment of the Seas in a spacious ocean-view balcony cabin — and he definitely was impressed by its roominess. 

There was ample storage space and a noticeably open layout, which made his stateroom a comfortable place to relax during his low-key four-night Western Caribbean voyage. 

However, similar to the interior cabin aboard Vision of the Seas, the room showed clear signs of aging and felt dated. It had the same dark color scheme and darker finishes. 

The lighting had a yellowish tint to it, too, which made the space feel dimmer. There wasn't a mini-fridge in Matt's balcony stateroom, either.

Moreover, although the cabin had a nice sitting area next to the bed, there weren't any convenient charging options; all of the outlets were located near the vanity. 

To his surprise, the bathroom was bigger than he expected, and he thought it was akin to standard bathrooms you'd find aboard Voyager or Freedom Class ships — minus the shower curtain. 

That said, not all bathrooms on Enchantment of the Seas are created equally. He had a friend on the same cruise and toured his interior room, discovering that their bathroom felt noticeably more compact and basic. 

Of course, the highlight of this specific cabin was the balcony. It was carved out of the ship’s superstructure rather than built extending outward from the hull. As such, its view is slightly obstructed by the surrounding structure. 

Still, Matt enjoyed taking in the ocean breeze from the 39-square-foot balcony.

Icon Class ships have more categories of balcony rooms to choose from. 

Finally, older Royal Caribbean ships don't have many unique stateroom options. Icon Class ships, however, have an extensive selection of balcony types, suites, and other family-focused layouts designed to suit different budgets and needs. 

For example, I stayed in an Infinite Central Park-view balcony cabin. This type of stateroom is exclusive to Icon Class ships since it features the controversial infinite verandah design (more on that in a second). 

Overall, I thought this room had a boutique hotel-style feel, complemented by the funky lamps mounted on either side of the bed. The extra-large couch was another benefit, as we had plenty of space to stretch out and keep our miscellaneous items that somehow were never properly put away. 

There was also a good variety of outlets near the vanity, including USB ports, European plugs, and American outlets. My one quarrel was that there was just one USB port beside the bed, which meant my fiancée and I couldn’t both have a convenient charging spot at night.

Moving on, between the two closets, four wire basket drawers, numerous shelves, and dresser, we had lots of space to unpack. In fact, I'd argue that there was enough room to unpack for a two-week cruise with room to spare!

The bathroom was identical to the one in the inside cabin aboard Star of the Seas with the same spacious shower, plentiful shelving, and functional layout. 

The highlight (or drawback) of the balcony on Icon of the Seas was the interior-facing infinite verandah. Instead of having a private outdoor space, this particular stateroom had a floor-to-ceiling window, with the top half sliding open to create a seamless transition between the indoor living space and the outdoors. 

Because this wasn't an ocean-view cabin, we had less privacy than anticipated, so we had to be careful whenever leaving the curtains open. This led to a feeling of disconnect and exposure, especially when napping in the afternoons, as it almost felt like we were in an extra-large inside cabin.

On the flip side, the additional living space was nice, and the "balcony" furniture was of a higher quality than standard outdoor furniture since it did not have to withstand rain, wind, and the salty sea air. 

Overall, I wasn't upset with my infinite verandah on Icon of the Seas. However, nothing compares to waking up and seeing the open ocean stretched out, with front-row views of the sunrise peeking over the horizon.

Royal Caribbean's new credit cards offer better cruise perks and rewards, and you can maximize their value by earning points strategically and making the most of key cardholder benefits.

For some people, the words "credit card" bring up concerns about overspending, debt, and managing timely payments. However, when used responsibly, credit cards can be a valuable tool for earning rewards. 

Truthfully, I can't remember the last time I used my debit card. Instead, I'm always calculating which of my five credit cards will help me earn the most rewards on any given purchase and get me closer to my next travel goal.

That said, the key to being a responsible credit cardholder isn't to spend more; it's to make the most of everyday purchases you're already going to make, such as groceries, gas, and restaurants. 

Not to toot my own horn, but I've gotten good at maximizing credit cards without changing my spending habits, redeeming rewards to help offset the cost of pricey vacations I likely wouldn't pay for out of pocket. 

In this article, I'll provide a detailed breakdown of how to maximize cruise-related perks and annual credits for Royal Caribbean's new Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® and Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® credit cards. 

Editor's note: This article was updated on July 15, 2026, to reflect the new welcome bonus offer. 

Earn the welcome bonus

First, you should strive to meet the requirements for the welcome bonus of whichever card you apply for. It's important to stay in the loop about current offers since they're subject to change. 

At the time of writing, the Royal ONE™ Visa Signature®, which has no annual fee, offered a welcome bonus of 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 on purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. According to the company, those points can be redeemed for $300 in cruise rewards!

For the Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature®, which has a $99 annual fee, new cardholders can earn a bonus of 60,000 points after spending $2,500 in the first 90 days of account opening. This comes out to around $600 in cruise rewards that can be redeemed for onboard credit, discounts, and more. 

Pro tip: I'd recommend waiting to apply for a new rewards card until you have larger purchases or planned expenses in the foreseeable future. This generally makes it easier to reach the minimum spending requirement for sign-up bonuses without changing your spending habits or buying things you don't really need. 

Use your card for Royal Caribbean Group purchases

Regardless of whether you're eyeing the Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® or Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® credit card, you'll want to use it on cruise spending, as you will earn extra points per dollar on purchases with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. 

With the Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® card, you will earn three points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. So, if you buy a drink package for $500, you'll automatically earn a whopping 1,500 points! 

Additionally, Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® cardholders will earn four points per dollar spent on Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea, turning that same $500 drink package into 2,000 credit card points. 

One important caveat to keep in mind is that third-party bookings may not qualify. In other words, if you book a Royal Caribbean cruise through a travel website like Expedia, you shouldn't expect that purchase to count toward the bonus spending.

Book cruises for family and friends

On that note, if you are planning group travel, consider using your Royal ONE™ card to pay for eligible cruise expenses for family and friends and ask to be reimbursed. 

For example, if you are organizing a big family cruise and cover everyone's initial deposit, you could easily rack up thousands of points without spending more than you normally would.

The same strategy also applies to final payments and pre-cruise purchases. Of course, you want to trust the people you're booking for, so you aren't stuck chasing down payments or covering other people's vacations.

However, as long as everyone is prompt with their reimbursements, this can be a simple way to quickly build your rewards balance! 

Earn additional points on everyday spending and non-cruise purchases

While Royal Caribbean Group purchases are the best way to rack up points with the new credit cards, cardholders can also earn bonus points on other purchases in select categories.

For instance, with either card, you'll earn two points per dollar spent on gas, groceries, and electric vehicle charging purchases. This means that certain everyday spending will help you build your rewards balance — even when you aren't planning your next cruise.

All other eligible purchases earn one point per dollar, allowing you to continue accumulating points on everyday spending. Over time, those random shopping trips, movie tickets, and oil changes add up! 

Additionally, those with the Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® will earn two points per dollar on eligible purchases with airlines, hotels, and restaurants.

Make the card your default option with Apple Pay

With tap-to-pay becoming increasingly common, adding your Royal ONE™ card to Apple Pay is an easy way to make sure you're earning points on purchases you already make — even if you forget your physical card at home. 

By setting the card as your default payment option, you can quickly pull the card up on your mobile device without fumbling through your wallet. 

This small convenience makes it easier to use your card consistently, rather than handing the cashier the first card you stumble upon. 

Take advantage of cruise-related benefits and perks

As a branded credit card, you'll also enjoy a slew of onboard benefits aboard Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, and Silversea cruises. 

All cardholders, regardless of whether you have the Royal ONE™ or Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® card, can take advantage of priority boarding at the terminal. This means you can get on the ship faster and start enjoying your hard-earned vacation sooner.

Those with the Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® card will also benefit from expedited luggage delivery, so you won't be stuck waiting hours for your suitcase to finally make its way on board. 

Finally, all cardholders should keep an eye out for special events during their sailings. 

Use the card's travel credits and benefits

Aside from cruise-related benefits, both credit cards offer perks that are useful for land-based travel. As a Visa Signature® cardholder, you'll have access to the Visa Signature® Luxury Hotel Collection and receive special rates and VIP status at select hotels worldwide. 

Moreover, the cards include 24-hour travel and emergency assistance, car rental coverage, access to emergency roadside assistance, trip delay and lost luggage expense reimbursement, trip cancellation and interruption coverage, and extended warranty protection. 

Those with the Royal ONE Plus™ Visa Signature® card can also take advantage of the $120 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry enrollment or renewal. The benefit is available once every four years.

This is a huge benefit for frequent flyers since it makes it easier to breeze through airport security and re-enter the U.S. after an international flight. Since many travelers already plan to pay for one of these programs, the statement credit also helps offset the annual fee by covering a purchase you likely will make anyway.

Take advantage of the anniversary credit

Personally, I don't like to keep all my eggs in one basket when it comes to credit card spending. In other words, I strategically spread my spending across several rewards cards to maximize the value I earn from different loyalty programs.

However, that isn't everyone's jam — and that's okay! If you're someone who loves Royal Caribbean cruises, you may find yourself drawn to these credit cards more than others. 

Enter the anniversary credit. Those with the Royal ONE™ Visa Signature® card who spend at least $10,000 in one year will receive a $100 cruise discount. Meanwhile, Royal ONE Plus™ cardholders who spend at least $20,000 in one year will earn a $200 discount. 

There are a few caveats to keep in mind when redeeming this credit. First, it can only be applied to future cruise bookings purchased directly with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, or Silversea. As such, travel agent bookings or those made with third parties, like Expedia or Vacations To Go, won't count. Additionally, you must use the discount before your next card anniversary. 

Bottom line: Is the Royal Caribbean credit card worth it?

Royal Caribbean's new credit card options are a huge upgrade from the existing offering, as they let cruisers earn rewards across the entire Royal Caribbean Group portfolio.

Before Royal ONE™ launched, the program wasn't as flexible, and all rewards were tied to a single brand. Now, cruisers can earn and redeem rewards seamlessly across all three brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea.

In my opinion, the no-annual-fee Royal ONE™ card is a solid option for occasional cruisers. On the flip side, the Royal ONE Plus™ card has better earning rates, priority suite boarding, a higher anniversary reward, and a generous TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry credit.

As such, it's easy to justify the premium card's $99 annual fee if you cruise with Royal Caribbean Group regularly and can take advantage of its added perks. 

Over the weekend, a Royal Caribbean passenger fell off the pier into the ocean at the cruise line's private island. 

Witnesses captured the terrifying moment when a guest plunged from the pier into the water, as well as the harrowing rescue that followed, on Saturday, July 11, at Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Two cruise ships visited CocoCay on Saturday: Adventure of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas. Although it's unclear what ship the passenger was sailing on, he fell from the pier into the water between the dock and Adventure of the Seas.

(Credit: Don Goldstein)

According to passenger reports, the secret code word "Oscar, Oscar, Oscar" was broadcast around 1:25 p.m., indicating a man-overboard incident. 

Supposedly, the guest was on a mobility scooter that suddenly malfunctioned, causing him to veer off the designated path and into the water. However, that has not been confirmed by the cruise line. 

(Credit: @dogsfamily_love / TikTok)

Moments after the guest fell into the water, a security guard immediately jumped in after him, and other crew members rushed into action, gathering life rings and other rescue equipment. 

Another crew member climbed onto one of the fenders to get a closer look at the scary situation and help coordinate the rescue with those on the dock.

(Credit: @dogsfamily_love / TikTok)

In the end, over two dozen cruise line employees took part in the rescue effort, ranging from senior officers to maintenance workers and medical staff. 

One video shows that the elderly passenger was eventually pulled from the water on a spine board stretcher before being moved to another stretcher for easier transport. He was then covered with blankets and urgently rushed on Wonder of the Seas to receive further medical treatment. 

(Credit: @dogsfamily_love / TikTok)

As he was rescued, cheers erupted from witnesses, both ashore and on the ships, who had watched the dramatic overboard incident unfold. 

Wonder of the Seas was on a three-night cruise to The Bahamas from Miami, returning to Florida on Monday, July 13, according to CruiseMapper. CocoCay was the first port of call on the short itinerary, followed by Nassau on Sunday, July 12. 

(Credit: @dogsfamily_love / TikTok)

Adventure of the Seas, on the other hand, had just kicked off an eight-night Caribbean cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the Dominican Republic, Aruba, and Curaçao. The Voyager Class ship is scheduled to return to Port Canaveral, Florida, on July 18. 

At the time of publication, Royal Caribbean International had not provided a comment regarding the incident at its private island. 

Social media response

The videos quickly went viral on social media, with many viewers expressing concern for the passenger's well-being and wishing him a speedy recovery. 

"Thanks for sharing WOW hope he is ok," said Lisa Fazio Frelier on TikTok. 

user3168693269714 added, "I hope he is ok saw this yesterday we're on the adventure of the seas."

"I pray he is okay truly my family and I watched and we're really concerned ♥️♥️♥️," Brittany added. 

Not the first time someone fell off the cruise pier at CocoCay

(Credit: Henry Yeany / Facebook)

Last year, a child fell off the pier into the ocean at Perfect Day at CocoCay. The incident occurred near the area where the cruise ships are tied up to the moorings, with the fenders leaving a small gap between the vessel and the dock, as Royal Caribbean Blog previously reported.

Thankfully, passenger reports indicate that the young child was quickly rescued and brought back on Symphony of the Seas for medical treatment. 

A few months later, another Royal Caribbean passenger fell into the ocean while visiting the island. The incident happened after the guest reportedly walked too close to the edge of the dock while filming Star of the Seas, triggering "man overboard" protocols around 8:00 a.m. 

Crew members quickly responded, throwing a life ring to the passenger, who then grabbed and clung to it while awaiting rescue from the water. A rescue team on a jet ski quickly approached and safely returned him to shore.