Cruise ship restaurants are going well beyond a dining room, buffet, or steakhouse.

The supper clubs available exclusively on Royal Caribbean's Icon Class blend fine dining, crafted cocktails, and live music into a must-see-to-believe "eatertainment" experience.

Unlike traditional specialty restaurants, the supper clubs were designed to blend three pillars — food, beverage, and music — into an elevated, immersive take on "dinner and a show."

"As we thought of experiences that we want to create for Icon Class ships, we really thought about this series of supper clubs and bringing unique and special experiences to each ship that tells the history of great food [and] great cocktails, and ties together the amazing entertainment of live music paired in a very unique and special way," said Linken D'Souza, Senior Vice President, Food & Beverage for Royal Caribbean International. 

Empire Supper Club was the first to debut aboard Icon of the Seas. Along with other record-breaking firsts, the upscale specialty restaurant quickly became a defining feature of the line’s newest class of vessels — despite its $200-per-person price tag. 

However, developing a concept that intertwines a 10-course tasting menu, handcrafted cocktail pairings, and choreographed live music was no small feat.

"Creating the recipes, testing them, checking ingredients, bringing in the ingredients to check, it was a big team effort. So, it took really everyone, from equipment to product development to inventory [to pull it off]," explained Bruce Venter, Royal Caribbean's Senior Executive Chef.

If that does not sound difficult enough, the Royal Caribbean team took it upon themselves to shift to new themes and effectively reimagine the restaurant from the ground up for each Icon Class vessel. 

Empire Supper Club on Icon of the Seas is based on New York City, while the Lincoln Park Supper Club on Star of the Seas transports guests to the windy city of Chicago, Illinois. 

The Lincoln Park Supper Club has an entirely different menu, new music, and an overall themed experience compared to the original supper club on Icon of the Seas — all while adding their own memorable twists. For example, while Chicago is known for having more wind and brass instruments, they added a trumpet to give the music sets another layer of flair. 

"[It delivers on] the notion of 'eatertainment,' but in a whole new way," exclaimed Royal Caribbean's Senior Director of Product Development, Jennifer Goswami.

The upcoming Legend of the Seas will also have an entirely new supper club inspired by the birth of the golden age of cinema. 

"The supper club is a very unique, upscale celebration-type experience in really exquisite surroundings. The atmosphere is really phenomenal. It really gives you a great evening out," said Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International. 

Each course is paired with a handcrafted cocktail

Pairing cocktails with food isn't as easy as it might sound, Alex Palmeri, Senior Manager of Beverage Operations for Royal Caribbean, explained:

"[It is] a very intense process because you have to make sure you have the right cocktail with the right food, and it's at the right pace. We want these cocktails to be great and crafty." 

The Royal Caribbean team brought in master mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim to ensure that each pairing met the same elevated standard as the fine dining cuisine.

Abou-Ganim loved pairing cocktails with the menus. However, the task wasn't without its challenges. "Sometimes, pairings can be difficult with cocktails," he explained.

"Sometimes, it's not the most obvious. A lot of times, we have to tweak things. You know, we don't always hit a home run, but that is the fun part, kind of the journey getting to that end."

Cocktails are only one aspect of the three-part winning formula

"We've blended what we call 'eatertainment,' where we've got both live music and food together. And that live music and food will be very choreographed, so it'll feel like an intimate yet very luxurious fine dining experience — something we've never done before," said Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean's Chief Production Officer.

Regardless of whether you dine at Empire, Lincoln Park, or Hollywoodland Supper Club, you'll notice that music is integrated into the experience, with songs carefully synchronized with the dishes and cocktails served.

Vanessa Fourla, the Manager of Live Music and Entertainment for Royal Caribbean, said she begins by taking notes on things like the timing, theatrical aspects, instrumentation, volume, intensity, and thickness of the musical texture. After that, they'll spend hours fine-tuning everything until they get what they deem is "an absolutely seamless experience." 

"[A]s we look at the big idea, we also have to look at the very minute details, anything from the menu design to the table and chairs that are in the venue to the venue itself, the lighting levels, the sound levels, the smells that you have. We'll spend hours debating that minutia of detail to make sure that every time our guests enjoy a new experience, they're blown away," added Jay Rosser, Senior Manager of Product Development for Royal Caribbean International.

Hollywoodland on Legend of the Seas is themed after Hollywood, California

For Hollywoodland, Royal Caribbean is centering on the glitz, glamour, and fame of the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s in Hollywood. 

While many details are still under wraps, we can expect an exciting new menu that visually showcases the transformation of cinema throughout the years. For example, the meal starts with dishes presented in sepia-like tones, transitions through a series of black-and-white courses, and culminates in a vibrant, colorful explosion.

Guests will also feel like celebrities for the evening, with every aspect (i.e., good food, beverages, and music) designed to make them feel like they're an A-list movie star. 

Did you know that you can match your Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society status to other cruise lines?

While Royal Caribbean wants you to continue sailing with them, they also understand the evolving needs of today’s cruisers.

Rather than forcing loyal guests to start from scratch, the parent company, Royal Caribbean Group, created a cohesive ecosystem that rewards brand loyalty across its entire portfolio — from Royal Caribbean International to Celebrity Cruises and Silversea.

This offers cruisers a way to instantly earn perks and benefits with another Royal Caribbean Group line, despite never having sailed with them before.

Through the Royal Caribbean status matching program, Crown & Anchor Society members can receive equivalent tier recognition in Celebrity’s Captain’s Club and Silversea’s Venetian Society. This ensures that guests stay within the Royal Caribbean Group network.

The program has recently gotten even better. Now, instead of automatically earning loyalty points with the brand you sail, guests can choose which line’s loyalty program they want their points to be added to.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Royal Caribbean status match program, including how it works, how the different tiers align, and how to choose where you want your loyalty points to accrue.

Read more: Royal Caribbean introduces a new way to status match between its other cruise lines

Does Royal Caribbean Status Match?

You can only match your Royal Caribbean loyalty status to other brands in the Royal Caribbean Group umbrella, including Celebrity Cruises and Silversea. This means that you can’t take your American Airlines or Delta Airlines status and hope to cheat your way up the loyalty ladder.

Effective June 2024, cruisers can enjoy reciprocal status across the brands — this even includes the top-tier levels. That means if you’ve reached Pinnacle Club with Royal Caribbean International, you can sail as a Zenith member of Celebrity’s Captain’s Club.

In other words, your hard-earned loyalty isn’t diluted from one brand to another. That said, the perks within each program aren’t identical.

For example, while Diamond Crown & Anchor Society cruisers get four complimentary drinks per day, Elite Captain’s Club members get access to a limited happy hour from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

This means that, on Royal Caribbean, you can redeem your drink vouchers for a beachside piña colada at Perfect Day at CocoCay or a morning mimosa, but you’re limited to a set window in the evening when sailing with Celebrity Cruises.

Moreover, whereas Celebrity offers a complimentary bag of laundry for Elite cruisers and above, only Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club members are eligible for a free bag when sailing on voyages that are 5+ nights.

Some perks cannot be attained through the Status Match Program, as they're exclusively reserved for those who earned their status by sailing with the brand directly. These include:

Crown & Anchor Society

• Complimentary Pinnacle Club milestone cruises
• Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club amenities
• Single supplement cruise fare reduction
• Cheers with an Officer onboard event
• Milestone recognition (Crystal Block)
• Upgraded bathroom amenities
• Pinnacle Club milestone kits
• Chef’s Choice amenity 

Captain’s Club

• Complimentary Zenith cruises
• Zenith milestone kits
• WWF® donations
• Retreat Lounge access when not staying in the Retreat (Status match members will only be permitted to access the Retreat Lounge when not staying in the Retreat, based on availability and at the sole discretion of Celebrity Cruises) 

Venetian Society

• "Sail with Us: referral offer before your first Silversea voyage
• Complimentary cruises
• Milestone recognition during the Venetian Society Party

Here’s how each loyalty status tier within the Royal Caribbean Group aligns across the three programs:

How To Match Your “Royal Caribbean Loyalty Program” Status

If you're currently a member of one or more Royal Caribbean Group brands’ loyalty programs, the company will automatically verify your information and determine whether you qualify for a status upgrade. Those who are eligible will receive an email confirming their new status — typically within one week.

If it’s been more than seven days since you’ve enrolled, you should call to further review your information. According to Royal Caribbean, those who do not receive an automatic status match may have different names, addresses, or phone numbers listed on the accounts.

Here are the best numbers to call to help get your status match sorted before your next cruise:

• Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society: 1-800-526-9723 or (541) 285-9723 if outside of the U.S. and Canada (charges may apply)
• Celebrity Cruises’ Captain’s Club: 1-800-760-0654 or 1-316-554-5961 if outside of the U.S. and Canada (charges may apply)
• Silversea Cruises’ Venetian Society: 1-888-978-4070 (North America) or call your local Silversea Office (charges may apply)

Royal Caribbean MGM Status Match

Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society members can get a complimentary tier match into MGM® Rewards and benefit from the perks at all MGM destinations nationwide. You must visit an MGM Rewards desk at any MGM Rewards destination to validate your Crown & Anchor Society status.

Here’s how each of the Crown & Anchor tiers matches across MGM’s loyalty program:

MGM Rewards destinations in Las Vegas, Nevada, include the Bellagio, ARIA, Vdara, MGM Grand, The Signature at MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, W Las Vegas, Park MGM Las Vegas, NoMad Las Vegas, New York-New York, Luxor, and Excalibur.

The regional MGM Rewards destinations are the Beau Rivage, Borgata, Empire City Casino, MGM Grand Detroit, MGM National Harbor, MGM Springfield, and MGM Northfield Park.

Read more: How do Royal Caribbean and MGM Resorts' shared benefits work?

What is the MSC Status Match program?

While you can't use other loyalty statuses to climb the Royal Caribbean Group ladder, you can leverage your existing status with Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, or Silversea to gain a head start through the MSC Status Match program.

Thanks to MSC Cruises' status match initiative, you can sail as a top-tier member in their Voyagers Club immediately, unlocking lucrative benefits like 20% off spa treatments, priority check-in, a complimentary picture, specialty restaurant dinner, and more. 

Enrollment is easy. All you have to do is submit the one-time request on MSC's website. Note that you will need to attach a scan or screen capture of your current loyalty status for proof. 

Read more: I cruised on Royal Caribbean's and MSC's biggest cruise ships. One was a better experience, but the other was a better value

An Israeli man was arrested at PortMiami on Monday after he was found with child sexual abuse material on his cellphone, according to a report from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office. 

Basilios Grayeb, 29, of Haifa, Israel, was detained after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers received a "suspicious activity report" regarding "the purchasing of child sexual abuse material," CBS News reported. 

Grayeb was sailing aboard Freedom of the Seas. Rather than waiting for him to disembark and pass through the terminal, federal agents boarded the 156,271 gross-ton ship to take him into custody. 

According to the arrest report, an officer conducted a border search on the suspect's phone and found a video showing a man sexually assaulting a girl who appeared to be younger than five years old. 

(Credit: Miami-Dade County Corrections and Rehabilitation)

Grayeb confessed to viewing and possessing the material after being read his Miranda rights. He was then brought to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Facility, where he was booked on February 16, 2026, around 4:00 p.m.

He is being held on a $2,500 bond as of Tuesday morning, The Times of Israel reported, and was also placed on an immigration hold. 

According to Cruise Mapper, Freedom of the Seas had just completed a 4-night Bahamian cruise to Freeport and Nassau, departing on Feb. 12. 

(Credit: Mugshots Zone)

The 19-year-old ship set sail on her maiden voyage in May 2006. She measures 1,111 feet long and has a passenger capacity of 3,926 at double occupancy. Freedom will remain in Miami, Florida, through at least April 2028, embarking on a series of cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean. 

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

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

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

What is included on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

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

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

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

Do you have to pay gratuities on a cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What should I leave off my cruise packing list?

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

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

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

Read more: 115-item Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I beat the cruise chair hogs?

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

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

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

What is a guarantee cabin on a cruise?

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

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

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

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

How do you not get seasick on a cruise?

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

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

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

Where does the crew sleep on a cruise ship?

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

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

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

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

How strict is the dress code?

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

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

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

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

What happens if you fall off of a cruise ship?

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

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

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

How much does a cruise ship captain make?

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

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

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

What are the best cruise activities?

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

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

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

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

Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas successfully rescued six people from a small boat in the Western Caribbean.

According to social media posts, the Radiance Class vessel came to a "full stop" off the coast of Cuba on Sunday, February 15, 2026, to respond to a vessel in distress. 

"Current status on Radiance of the Seas. We are at a full stop pending rescue of 6 people," shared Mike Hoglander in the Crown and Anchor Society Facebook group. 

One Redditor also provided context on the situation, claiming that the captain saw the vessel and was forced to stop. Under international maritime law, vessels are legally required to assist anyone in distress at sea — so long as doing so doesn't endanger their own ship. 

(Credit: Mike Hoglander/Facebook)

According to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), vessels must proceed "with all possible speed" to assist persons in distress, provide help regardless of immigration status or nationality, and coordinate with rescue authorities. 

"[W]ere waiting for the Coast Guard to pick them up but I don’t think they could come," explained Junior-Front-5544. 

"At around 5:45-6 [the crew] decided to get them and there were 6 people. Captain said they will stay [on board] until port tomorrow at [Grand Cayman]."

(Credit: Junior-Front-5544/Reddit)

Hoglander updated his original post to share that all six people were successfully rescued from the small vessel that had begun taking on water. 

Cruise Mapper shows that Radiance of the Seas arrived in Grand Cayman on Monday, Feb. 16, as planned. 

The 90,090 gross-ton Radiance Class vessel is currently on a 6-night Western Caribbean cruise that departed on Feb. 14, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. 

(Credit: Junior-Front-5544/Reddit)

The first port of call on the itinerary is Grand Cayman, followed by Cozumel, Mexico, on Feb. 18. Radiance is expected to return to Florida on Friday, Feb. 20. 

Radiance of the Seas is a 24-year-old cruise ship that launched in 2001. She measures 962 feet long and can accommodate around 2,140 guests at double occupancy. 

Through April 2026, Radiance will offer Bahamian voyages from Fort Lauderdale. She'll relocate to Tampa, Florida, in April, where she will remain through at least April 2028. 

(Credit: Junior-Front-5544/Reddit)

Itineraries range from 4-night getaways to 8-night Western Caribbean cruises that visit ports like Grand Cayman, Cozumel, Roatán, and Costa Maya. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean ships by age — Newest to Oldest

It's not uncommon for cruise ships to rescue passengers in distress

(Credit: @AileenCD/TikTok)

A few years ago, Odyssey of the Seas rescued 77 migrants off the coast of Greece while on a 7-night Greek Isles cruise. 

The sailboat was first spotted by a Maltese-flagged cargo ship roughly 112 nautical miles (129 miles) southwest of Pylos. Then, Greece's search and rescue authority helped coordinate the rescue operation.

A few months later, Voyager of the Seas rescued 4 adults, 2 children, and a black lab off a disabled sailboat drifting off the coast of Marrakesh, Morocco.

(Credit: Karen Fraser)

In Oct. 2025, Norwegian Epic rescued over 60 people from a boat in the Ionian Sea, USA TODAY reported. 

"The individuals were brought on board and tended to by the ship’s crew who provided a medical evaluation, food and other items for their comfort," said Norwegian in an emailed statement. 

"Following a mandatory directive from the Rescue Coordination Centre, the ship proceeded to Kalamata, Greece where the rescued individuals were turned over to the Greek authorities."

Enchantment of the Seas, one of Royal Caribbean's oldest and smallest vessels, also saved a group of people from a raft that was "falling apart" in international waters between Mexico and Cuba. 

As reported by NBC News, Enchantment of the Seas launched two lifeboats and successfully rescued the distressed people. Afterward, the captain announced that everyone was in good health. 

Although cruising has gotten more expensive, it's still possible to find a good deal on a Royal Caribbean cruise — but if you're only looking for the cheapest option, you may end up disappointed.

While establishing a budget and sticking to it is an important planning step, it shouldn't be the only factor guiding your decision-making. 

Oftentimes, the cheapest sailings are on older ships in windowless inside cabins. Not only that, but the dates may be during the shoulder season, which might limit your flexibility when it comes to choosing itineraries or taking time off work. 

Balancing cost with your priorities and expectations is the best way to ensure that you have an unforgettable vacation at sea. In this article, we'll break down five reasons you should never choose a cruise solely based on the cost. 

Cheap cruises tend to be on older ships with fewer amenities 

New cruise ships are packed from bow to stern with activities, restaurants, and entertainment options. However, while ships like Icon and Star of the Seas might be the focus of the cruise line's advertising, the fleet encompasses far more than mega-ships, and the older vessels are still popular among loyal fans — though some are nearing 30 years old. 

Still, if you're someone who was captivated by a commercial with water slides, surfing simulators, zip lines, and ice skating rinks, you may find that Royal Caribbean's oldest ships don't have the same WOW factor. 

Older vessels, like the Vision and Radiance Class ships, are still a solid choice for travelers who prioritize value over the latest amenities. However, if you're traveling with kids who need constant stimulation or consider yourself an adrenaline junkie, a newer ship, even if it's a Voyager or Freedom Class vessel, may better meet your needs and expectations. 

Read more: What you gain (and lose) by choosing an older cruise ship

The cost per day on shorter cruises is higher, even if the overall price is lower than a weeklong sailing

"Cheap" isn't synonymous with "value." As such, it’s important to look beyond the total price and consider the cost per day to ensure that you are getting the best bang for your buck. 

To give you an example, we'll compare the cost of short and long Royal Caribbean cruise sailings on similar ships and itineraries. Note that these prices were accurate at the time of publication but are subject to change based on demand and availability.

Utopia of the Seas, June 4-7, 2027

• Interior: $1,010/person (~$337 per night)
• Outside View: $1,080/person (~$360 per night)
• Balcony: $1,150/person (~$383 per night)
• Suite: $1,878/person (~$626 per night)

Allure of the Seas, June 6-12, 2027 

• Interior: $1,258/person (~$210 per night)
• Outside View: $1,408/person (~$235 per night)
• Balcony: $1,485/person (~$248 per night)
• Suite: $3,346/person (~$558 per night)

At first glance, the 3-night cruise on Utopia of the Seas appears to be the better deal due to its lower total price, starting at just around $1,000 per person for an interior cabin. However, when broken down by night, the 6-night Allure of the Seas sailing offers double the time on board for only a modest increase in overall cost. This results in a lower per-day price and a greater overall value. 

In fact, you could book a balcony cabin on Allure of the Seas for a lower per-night cost compared to a windowless interior stateroom on Utopia of the Seas. 

Read more: Should you take a short cruise from Florida? Pros and cons of cheap weekend getaways

You could travel during a region's shoulder season and experience unfavorable weather

Sailing to The Bahamas in January, for example, is much cheaper than in June, July, or August. That's because winter weather in The Bahamas is cooler and less predictable. 

In January and early February of 2026, multiple ships had their scheduled visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay canceled due to high winds and rogue waves. Some guests ended up with an extra sea day, while some missed out on all scheduled ports, resulting in "cruises to nowhere." 

While taking a cruise during hurricane season is risky, inclement weather isn’t limited to just one time of year, and sailing during shoulder season can still lead to itinerary changes, missed ports, or cooler-than-expected temperatures that put a damper on your Bahamian beach day. 

The lowest rate on any sailing is often for tiny interior staterooms

There are many factors to consider when choosing the right cruise room, and price is only one of them. Generally speaking, windowless inside cabins are the most affordable, and while they may be perfect for some travelers, others avoid them at all costs. 

Do you want to wake up and admire the passing scenery or have the morning sunlight illuminate your cabin? If so, an outside view stateroom or balcony will be a better fit, even if they cost a bit more.

Other considerations include cabin size, location, and proximity to public venues. For instance, you may not want to be located near the casino or nightclub. As such, it might be in your best interest to pay to select your specific stateroom, rather than rely on luck with a cheaper guaranteed room rate. 

Read more: Cruise ship rooms on Royal Caribbean: How to choose the best cabin

Royal Caribbean cruises are not all-inclusive, so you'll need to budget for other add-ons

Finally, Royal Caribbean's base fare only covers your accommodation, complimentary meals, select beverages, transportation, entertainment, and most onboard activities. However, it does not include add-ons like drink packages, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi. 

These extras can significantly increase the total cost of your vacation, regardless of whether you're eyeing a 3-night getaway or a weeklong adventure. For example, Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package costs anywhere from $56 to $115 per person, per night. 

As such, booking the cheapest cruise does not necessarily mean that your entire vacation will be inexpensive, so planning ahead for the additional expenses is essential to avoid any last-minute surprises. 

Read more: When should you buy Royal Caribbean drink package, wifi, tours & other add-ons

Royal Caribbean's third Icon Class ship will have its very own Chief Dog Officer: Skipper. 

Earlier this month, Michael Bayley, Royal Caribbean's President and CEO, announced that the then-unnamed puppy had been born. 

Within hours, Bayley's Facebook post had over 400 comments with cruise fans weighing in on what the cruise line should name the soon-to-be Chief Dog Officer of Legend of the Seas. 

Some of the ideas include nautical-inspired names like Anchor and Schooner. Others, such as Norway, paid tribute to Royal Caribbean's history and private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

(Credit: Michael Bayley/Facebook)

In the end, Bayley revealed the winning name in a playful post alongside an AI image of himself, the recently born puppy, and Rover and Sailor, the respective Chief Dog Officers of Icon and Star of the Seas. 

"ChatGPT A.I. with my true loves!  Rover, Sailor, and baby Skipper! Thank you to all who suggested some wonderful names for our growing group of Chief Dog Officers. After an exhaustive process, our distinguished panel (🤪me) chose Skipper," Bayley shared on Facebook. 

Skipper was mentioned a few times in the previous comment section by fans, including Amy Sue, Diane Cushman, Maria Jodoin, Bridgette Hope Spence, Amanda Davis, and Christy Collins. 

Read more: New puppy born that will live on Royal Caribbean's next new cruise ship

With the name now official, cruisers can look forward to Skipper following in the previous "paw" prints of the other Chief Dog Officers. 

Icon of the Seas was the first ship to feature a full-time Chief Dog Officer

Icon of the Seas is record-breaking in more ways than one. While the massive mega-ship broke records as the world’s largest cruise ship and for having the largest waterpark at sea, the vessel was also the first in the fleet to introduce a Chief Dog Officer.

Rover, an adorable Golden Retriever, made history as Royal Caribbean’s first-ever Chief Dog Officer when Icon debuted in January 2024. She lives on the ship full-time with her handler (talk about a dream job!) and became a celebrity before the ship even set sail. 

The following year, Royal Caribbean welcomed Sailor aboard Star of the Seas, continuing the trend of having a "family dog" on its family-focused cruise ships. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean will have a dog that lives on Star of the Seas

With Rover joining the Icon of the Seas' crew around six months old, Skipper will likely follow a similar time frame. This will give Royal Caribbean ample time to properly train her and help her develop her much-needed sea legs. 

If this is true, based on Sailor's birthday, she won't embark on Legend of the Seas until around August 2026, after the ship's maiden voyages in July. This, however, is just speculation; Royal Caribbean has not confirmed anything about when Skipper may make Legend her full-time home — other than that she will definitely be on board while the Icon Class ship is in Europe. 

Legend of the Seas' maiden voyage is scheduled for July 2026

Legend of the Seas is the next highly-anticipated Icon Class ship. While the bones are nearly identical to the other two vessels, what makes Legend so special is that she's the first Icon Class ship to offer European cruises. 

When Legend debuts in July 2026, she'll sail on a series of round-trip voyages from Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. Then, she'll move to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for the winter season before returning to Europe in May 2027. 

Combining a sailing on an Icon Class ship with bucket-list destinations like Marseille, France; Naples, Italy; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain, gives travelers the chance to pair Royal Caribbean’s newest, most groundbreaking hardware with some of the Mediterranean’s most iconic destinations. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean adds an even earlier first sailing on Legend of the Seas

One cruise ship just made history after earning the first-ever Five-Star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide for one of its fine dining restaurants at sea.  

Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud aboard Celebrity Xcel, the cruise line's newest Edge Series ship, earned the prestigious honor and joined an elite group of restaurants that hold Five-Star accolades across the globe. 

The upscale restaurant, which was created in partnership with Celebrity Cruises’ global culinary ambassador and Michelin-starred Chef Daniel Boulud, first debuted in Celebrity Beyond. It's more than just a fine dining experience, too. Each meal is a cultural journey that invites guests to experience flavors from around the world, all inspired by Chef Daniel Boulud's travels. 

Le Voyage offers diners a choice between expertly prepared à la carte dishes and a carefully crafted five-course tasting menu. The meal isn't cheap, costing over $100 per person. However, the recently-awarded Forbes Five-Star distinction reinforces that this isn't just another specialty steakhouse on a cruise ship. It's one of the best culinary experiences in the world — that just so happens to be at sea. 

"We are extremely proud and honored to earn Forbes Travel Guide's first Five-Star rating for a restaurant at sea. This industry-leading recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to culinary excellence," said Laura Hodges Bethge, President of Celebrity Cruises. 

Chef Daniel Boulud added, "I have the honor of being Celebrity Cruises’ global culinary ambassador, supporting their delivery of elevated culinary experiences. Throughout the years of partnership, I recognized Celebrity’s drive for culinary innovation and dedication to quality service. We began expanding our collaboration, first featuring my menus for their Suite guests, then trusting Celebrity to launch my first-ever restaurant at sea.

"Le Voyage is the culmination of our years-long partnership, and we are thrilled to be recognized with Forbes Travel Guide's Five Stars. Together, we look forward to continuing to redefine the possibilities of dining at sea."

Forbes Travel Guide is widely regarded as the gold standard for excellence in hospitality. It remains the only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, spas, restaurants, and ocean cruises. In fact, every Forbes Travel Guide Star Rating comes from anonymous evaluations that are measured against hundreds of objective standards that prioritize exceptional service. 

Le Voyage's award isn't the first time that Celebrity Cruises has made history with the travel guide, either. In 2023, the premium cruise line was the first to earn a prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Star Award. 

Read more: 9 things I wish I knew before setting foot on a Celebrity ship

Three other restaurants earned Four-Star ratings

"At Celebrity Cruises, elevated hospitality is in our DNA. Guided by our guests, we dream up and deliver experiences that create memories and stories they cannot experience anywhere else," explained Hodges Bethge. 

As such, it should not come as a surprise to learn that not one, not two, but three other Celebrity restaurants walked away with Four-Star ratings from Forbes Travel Guide: Le Voyage on Celebrity Ascent, Fine Cut Steakhouse on Celebrity Ascent, and Fine Cut Steakhouse on Celebrity Apex. 

Additionally, four Celebrity Cruises ships earned an overall rating in 2026, including Celebrity Xcel (recommended), Celebrity Ascent (Four-Stars), Celebrity Apex (recommended), and Celebrity Flora (recommended). 

These eight awards are a testament to Celebrity's promise that "Nothing Else Comes Close." From world-class dining to elevated service and transformational accommodations, the cruise line continues to set new standards for what travelers can expect at sea. 

The outlook for the line remains strong, with the first river ships expected to debut in 2027. These first-of-its-kind vessels are taking a lot of inspiration from the Edge Series — three of which walked away with Forbes overall ratings in 2026. 

Read more: I ate my way through a luxury cruise ship. These are the 6 dishes I'm still thinking about

Weeks after Royal Caribbean quietly updated its prohibited items list to tighten onboard safety and cybersecurity, the cruise line clarified that certain smart glasses are now restricted in specific areas of its ships.

Like other cruise lines, Royal Caribbean has a long list of prohibited items that aren't allowed aboard its fleet of ships. Many of the items, including illegal drugs and explosives, are common sense. 

Sometimes, however, the line between what's banned and what guests consider harmless isn't very clear. For instance, many passengers assume they can bring extension cords and steamers, but they are actually banned on Royal Caribbean ships. 

Recently, Royal Caribbean updated the verbiage on its prohibited items list to read: "'Smart' glasses from any of several manufacturers that can record video and audio are not allowed to be used in certain areas onboard the ship, including, but not limited to, public restrooms, Youth Program areas, medical areas, as well as the casino."

While the change was only recently made official on Royal Caribbean's website, passengers began noticing the updated policy online in late January. 

"Now RCL is apparently not allowing smart glasses even if just used as prescription glasses or sunglasses," catlovingcryptofella posted on the r/royalcaribbean Reddit thread, along with a screenshot from the Cruise Compass on Royal Caribbean's mobile app. 

"Smart glasses with video and audio recording capabilities are not permitted onboard. If a guest fails to abide by this policy, the chief security officer and captain are authorized to confiscate the smart glasses," the discreet notice reads. 

(Credit: @catlovingcryptofella/Reddit)

Since smart glasses can discreetly record video and audio, the devices invade the privacy of passengers and crew in public areas on its ships, particularly in spaces where individuals may not realize they are being filmed.

The prohibited items list continues to specify that guests who have prescription smart glasses should bring a backup pair that isn't smart-enabled. 

Royal Caribbean tightened the rules on cybersecurity and electronic interference equipment

Sometime after December 10, 2025, Royal Caribbean updated its previously vague "cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment" clause to include "satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, any other deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity."

Because cruise ships rely on high-tech digital systems for navigation, communication, and entertainment, the clarification ensures that the critical systems are protected from unintended (or intended) interference. 

For example, the precise wording explicitly targets devices intended to hack, disrupt, or manipulate the onboard systems. These include signal jammers, hacking toolkits, and unauthorized travel Wi-Fi routers.

While some devices, such as satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, were previously listed on the banned items list, the recent addition zeros in on the purpose of the item. 

Travel routers, for instance, were once used to save money by extending the connectivity of one internet package to multiple devices. Though seemingly harmless, they can also be used to create rogue networks that interfere with the ship’s Wi‑Fi system or even bypass security controls.

According to a survey released by the consulting firm Protiviti, cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses. 

Cybersecurity Drive reported that corporate leaders, including board members, chief financial officers, and chief operating officers, are "increasingly aware that cyber resilience must be embedded into enterprise strategy."

"This widespread prioritization underscores the almost universal recognition that cybersecurity is no longer a siloed IT issue but rather a strategic enterprise risk with implications for brand reputation, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance," Protiviti said.

As such, Royal Caribbean’s updated policy highlights the company's recognition that cybersecurity at sea is equally important as on land.

Read more: Royal Caribbean adds cyber threat equipment to its list of banned items on cruise ships

Royal Caribbean isn't the first cruise line to ban smart glasses

In December, MSC Cruises confirmed that smart glasses were banned from its ships, with its website saying, "devices capable of covertly or discreetly recording or transmitting data (e.g. smart glasses) are not allowed in [the ship's] public areas."

The news did not exactly come as a surprise, given MSC's reputation for being strict about filming on board its ships. In 2024, popular YouTubers Ben & David were banned from filming during a cruise on the MSC World Europa. The trip wasn't sponsored by the cruise line, as the couple had paid for the sailing themselves. 

While MSC eventually apologized to Ben & David, the incident highlighted just how seriously the cruise line takes privacy and why smart glasses, including Meta Ray-Bans or Google Glasses, suddenly appeared on the prohibited list.

Read more: MSC Cruises' unexpected ban angers passengers

The first day of your cruise marks the beginning of your vacation, and there's plenty you'll want to see and do upon embarkation.

It's a busy day, too. From checking out of your pre-cruise hotel to navigating the terminal, exploring the ship, and enjoying a well-deserved cocktail during sailaway, embarkation day is filled with activity from morning until night. 

Amid all the excitement, however, you must know what to expect to help make embarkation smoother and less stressful. With a little preparation, you can move through the physical check-in process more efficiently, make the most of your first day on the ship, and finish any last-minute cruise planning before you pull away from the pier. 

Here's an in-depth guide as to what you can expect on your Royal Caribbean embarkation day. 

Read more: 16 Do's and Don'ts of taking a Royal Caribbean cruise

Royal Caribbean Check In Process

Before embarkation day arrives, you should complete the online check-in process through Royal Caribbean's mobile app. This will ensure that your terminal express is as painless as possible!

45 days before your cruise, you can access the online check-in portal, where you'll input your travel documentation, credit card information for onboard purchases, and select your desired arrival time.

Once you’ve completed the online check-in, be sure to download your SetSail Pass. This serves as your boarding pass and will be scanned throughout the physical check-in process. Having it ready and downloaded will save you time and stress on embarkation day, as terminals typically do not have the best cellular service. 

Online check-in closes 48 hours before your sailing. If you forget to complete it, you can do it at the terminal. However, this will slow down your overall check-in process and delay your boarding time.

Read more: Royal Caribbean check-in process

Royal Caribbean Cruise Terminal Arrival

More often than not, your Royal Caribbean ship will arrive in port early in the morning, with hundreds of crew members, port agents, and suppliers working behind the scenes to prepare the vessel for its next sailing. While you call it embarkation day, it's often referred to as "turnaround day" in the cruise industry. 

All passengers from the previous sailing must be off the vessel before new guests are allowed on board. Generally speaking, boarding passengers can access the terminal around 10:00 a.m., though the exact time can vary by itinerary, ship, and port. 

Keep in mind that entering the terminal doesn’t necessarily mean you can step onto the ship right away. The first guests are typically able to board somewhere around 10:30 or 11:00 a.m.

Each cruise terminal has on-site parking. However, you can sometimes save money by using a third-party parking service. If you aren't parking a car, rideshares, taxis, and shuttle services are convenient options for getting you to the terminal and often drop you off closer to the entrance. 

No matter how you arrive at the terminal, you’ll hand your larger bags to a porter, who will ensure they make it onto the ship. This is done before you enter the building. Since you won't see your bags again for at least an hour or two, you need everything important for the first part of your day in a carry-on. This includes things like travel documents, medications, and electronics.

To speed up this process, you can print your Royal Caribbean luggage tags in advance. If you forget, however, make sure you have your cabin number handy, as porters will need it to properly label your suitcase. 

Royal Caribbean Embarkation Process

Once a porter has your bags, you will make your way inside. This is where you will go through security, have your travel documentation checked, take an embarkation photo, and finally board the ship. 

As mentioned earlier, you'll want to keep your SetSail Pass handy throughout this time, as it will be scanned to pull up your reservation, and before you head to the gangway. You will receive your physical SeaPass card once staterooms are ready, generally around 1:00 or 1:30 p.m.

Royal Caribbean Embarkation Lunch

The first stop for many guests is the buffet, as embarkation typically falls somewhere around lunchtime. As such, the Windjammer is busier than it otherwise might be on port days or at other times during the sailing. 

If you want to avoid the masses, consider reserving a low-key specialty lunch at a restaurant like Giovanni's or Chops. Making a reservation ensures that you can sit down and enjoy a relaxed meal before diving into the first day of your cruise vacation. 

Plus, specialty restaurants offer better lunch deals than dinner. It's not uncommon to find deals for multi-course specialty meals for around $20 per person on embarkation day. 

Depending on your ship, you can also have lunch at spots like Sorrento's, Café Promenade, El Loco Fresh, Boardwalk Dog House, or Playmakers. 

Royal Caribbean Embarkation Tips

Wondering how to spend your time after lunch before the festival sailaway party? The first thing you’ll need to take care of is the mandatory muster drill. This safety drill can be completed on your own time by watching a few videos on the Royal Caribbean app, then visiting your in-person assembly station for a short safety briefing. 

Once that's done, you have a few options. You can register your children at Adventure Ocean, check out your Main Dining Room table assignment, make specialty reservations, purchase a drink package, take a spa tour, or simply explore everything that is on board. I'd highly recommend taking a few moments to ensure that you have reservations for popular shows, too. 

Your stateroom should be ready anywhere from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. Once available, you can drop off your carry-on bags and grab your SeaPass card. If your luggage has already been delivered, you can take a few minutes to unpack and settle in. 

Read more: What to expect in Royal Caribbean's Main Dining Room

The most exciting part of embarkation day is the sailaway party. The exact timing will depend on your itinerary, so check the Cruise Compass to figure out where you need to be! The party is best enjoyed with a fruity cocktail or beer in hand as you watch the skyline disappear from the horizon. 

After that, your vacation is in full swing. Typically, the casino will open a little bit after departure, though it may not open until the following day if you're cruising from somewhere like Seattle or Baltimore. The same goes for the onboard stores. 

Dinner tends to be more casual on the first night, with many passengers still sporting their embarkation outfits. After you eat, you can take in the first night's entertainment lineup, which may consist of anything from high-diving AquaTheater performances to ice skating shows, comedy acts, and live music.