Royal Caribbean cruise ships undergo a dry dock every few years for routine maintenance and refurbishment, but why are dry docks necessary and how does the process work?

Whether you've read about it online or heard from another passenger or crew member about a ship's upcoming dry dock, you might be wondering what this entails.

Just like when your car needs to get service and they hoist it up on a lift, cruise ships need to get "under the hood" work done to keep them working properly.

What is a cruise ship dry dock?

A dry dock is a narrow basin that can be filled and drained of water to allow for maintenance and repairs on a ship’s hull.

Because the hull remains underwater at all times, it’s necessary to remove the ship from water occasionally to clean the hull and work on routine maintenance of the ship. Royal Caribbean ships usually have dry dock once every five years.

For a ship to enter a dry dock, the basin must first be filled with water, allowing the ship to sail in safely. Once the ship sails into the dry dock and is situated in the correct position, the gate is closed and water is drained.

Dry docks are also used during the construction of new ships. Because ships cannot, of course, be constructed in the water, they are constructed on a dry dock which can later be filled with water to allow the ship to safely sail out once constructed.

What type of maintenance and repairs happen during a dry dock?

During dry dock, ships undergo routine mechanical work as well as checks of the ship’s propeller blades, thrusters, stabilizers, navigation software, etc. If anything needs to be replaced, it will be replaced during this time. The ship’s hull is cleaned during dry dock with a power washing system and typically repainted.

Parts of the ship’s exterior and interior spaces are also repainted during dry dock. When Harmony of the Seas underwent dry dock in 2021, for example, the shipyard estimated they would use around 8,000 liters of paint on the ship!

Dry dock is also a time for interior refurbishments such as adding new coats of paint and replacing flooring, bedding, curtains, etc. Anything that cannot easily be done while a ship is in service will be done during dry dock (deep cleaning of onboard spaces, adding new venues, etc.).

Why does the ship’s hull need to be cleaned?

If routine cleaning of a ship’s hull is neglected, it can lead to the accumulation of marine line on the hull, known as biofouling. Barnacles, shellfish, algae, and other marine life can live on the hull.

The most notorious are barnacles, a crustacean related to lobsters and crabs, who must attach onto a hard surface to develop into adults. In fact, the natural “glue” barnacles use to attach to a ship’s hull is so strong that researchers have been trying to mimic the sticky substance for use commercially and medically.

This, of course, causes a few key problems for ships. First, a buildup of marine life can cause more drag, making the ship’s speed lower, which increases both fuel costs and carbon emissions.

It also means that marine life can be transported from one area of the world to another, causing potential environmental impact as existing ecosystems may be affected by new types of marine life.

Therefore, having routine dry dock maintenance to clean the ship’s hull can help negate this problem and assure that large buildups of marine life do not occur on Royal Caribbean’s ships.

Refurbishments and amplifications

During some dry docks, Royal Caribbean ships will undergo significant refurbishments or amplifications through Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified program.

Royal Caribbean uses two terms for upgrading its cruise ships: refurbishment and amplification.

Refurbishments are smaller enhancements to a ship, such as upgrading staterooms, re-designing an existing venue, switching a specialty restaurant, etc. Amplifications are more in-depth refurbishments where Royal Caribbean “amplifies” an older ship with many of the popular features found on the fleet’s newest cruise ships. 

Related: What was added to each Royal Caribbean ship during its Royal Amplified refurbishment

Amplifications may include adding water slides, new staterooms, renovated pool decks, several new bars and restaurants, and activities like an escape room, laser tag, and bungee jumping.

Dry docks take cruise ships out of service for around two weeks for routine maintenance, but amplifications can take over a month.

When Oasis of the Seas received her amplification in 2019, which included adding waterslides, the Ultimate Abyss, a Caribbean resort-style pool deck, and new dining venues, it took a total of 63 days.

In fact, when Oasis of the Seas was amplified, nearly every single venue was touched by workers to either repair, enhance, or alter the space. About 800 tons were added to the ship when all the work was done.

Every day counts in a dry dock

When a cruise ship needs to go into dry dock, it means the ship will be out of service and that means no revenue for that time.

Similar to how a professional athlete that is injured cannot help the team win, a cruise ship that goes in for work will not improve the cruise line's bottom line.

Over 2,700 contractors were onboard Oasis while the ship was in dry dock in Cadiz, Spain to get the work done in time.

Oasis was out of service for 63 days in order to get all of her work done, which is a significant investment by the cruise line. The amount of time would have been far less had they not decided to upgrade the ship, but the short-term financial impact is offset by the higher revenue and increased bookings down the line when the ship returns to service.

Planning a cruise? Start here:

• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• How much does a cruise cost?
• 8 questions to ask yourself before picking a cruise ship
• What is the best room on a cruise ship?
• What's included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare

There’s nothing quite like relaxing on a Caribbean beach with no worries in the world except deciding which tropical cocktail to order next, and on a cruise vacation, you’ll have the chance to do this at a different beach every day!

With crystal clear, turquoise waters and soft white sand, you’ll find some of the world’s best beaches in the Caribbean Sea, and while you’ll find beautiful beaches on every island, there are a few that outshine the others.

This list could have been hundreds of beaches long, as there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to discover throughout the Caribbean–from the Bahamas to Puerto Rico and beyond.

When visiting on a cruise ship, however, you have limited time to explore each island, so it’s important to make sure the beaches you visit are somewhat close to the cruise port.

Luckily, many of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches are located just a short ride away from cruise ports in the region. Here are the top 11 most beautiful beaches you can easily access from port while on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Trunk Bay, St. John

One of the most idyllic beaches in the Caribbean is Trunk Bay, located in the Virgin Islands National Park in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands.

Trunk Bay is nothing short of a tropical paradise, and it even has an underwater snorkeling trail providing information about marine life and coral formations. Amenities on the island include food and drink stands, bathroom facilities, beach chairs, and snorkel rentals.

You can reach Trunk Bay through an excursion or from the Cruz Bay Ferry Terminal in St. Thomas. A taxi is required to reach the ferry terminal from the cruise port.

Related: Guide to visiting St. John on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Magens Bay, St. Thomas

The most famous beach on St. Thomas is Magens Bay, a one mile stretch of beach with calm waters and fine, soft sand. Due to its beauty and proximity to the cruise port, it’s an extremely popular destination for visitors to St. Thomas.

There are enough amenities on the beach to get you through the day, with bathrooms, showers, a restaurant, concession stand, a bar, and beach chair/umbrella rentals.

Taxis or shuttles are available to reach Magens Bay, which requires a 15 minute drive up and down mountainous terrain, offering stunning views of the island. Taxis are more economical than booking an excursion, especially when traveling with larger groups!

The only downside to Magens Bay is that it can get very crowded, especially when many ships are in port!

Related: Things to do in St. Thomas on your Royal Caribbean cruise

Orient Bay Beach, St. Martin

Located on the French side of St. Martin is Orient Bay Beach, a 1.5 mile long stretch of pristine white sand with turquoise waters.

The southern end of the beach has many beach bars, restaurants, and hotels whereas the northern end has few services but more peace and quiet.

Be sure to taste French cuisine while at the beach, with several French restaurants and bakeries located nearby.

Related: Top things to do in St. Maarten on your Royal Caribbean cruise

While many cruisers flock to Maho Beach in St. Maarten for the chance to view airplanes soaring overhead before landing at the airport adjacent to the beach, Orient Beach provides better swimming and lounging conditions.

Note: The southern end of the beach is clothing optional.

Playa El Cielo, Cozumel, Mexico

El Cielo means heaven in Spanish, and that should be enough of an indication that Playa El Cielo is heaven on Earth!

Located on the southwest coast of the island of Cozumel, Playa El Cielo cannot be reached by road. The best way to reach this slice of paradise is by boat, and you’ll find several excursions visiting the beach.

Most tourists visiting Playa El Cielo tend to snorkel, as this area of Cozumel has incredibly clear water and an abundance of marine life, including starfish and stingrays.

Related: Things to do in Cozumel on your Royal Caribbean cruise

Valley Church Beach, Antigua

The small nation of Antigua and Barbuda has a whopping total of 365 beaches, one for every day of the year!

Valley Church Beach is one of the best on the island of Antigua and is located around 20 minutes by car from the cruise port. Located in Valley Church Bay, the beach has calm seas and unbelievably blue water.

While there are a few hotels and places to eat near the beach, it remains relatively undeveloped, making for a more serene beach experience than many of the others on this list.

Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent at the beach.

Related: Excursion Focus: Valley Church Beach in Antigua

Eagle Beach, Aruba

While visiting Aruba requires a little more travel time compared to visiting islands closer to the United States, it’s certainly an island worth seeing.

Aruba is covered with breathtaking beaches, but the “best” is usually considered to be Eagle Beach, a wide stretch of soft white sand leading to the most turquoise and clear water you’ll experience on the island!

Eagle Beach is also home to two Fofoti trees, a twisted tree that grows on the beach and is shaped by Aruba’s strong wings, leading to the trees always pointing in a south-easterly direction. These trees are an iconic symbol of Aruba and make for a great photo opportunity!

Eagle Beach is located around 3 miles from the cruise port in Aruba, so reaching the beach via taxi is recommended. Some shore excursions may also include a stop at the beach.

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

Seven Mile Beach, located on the island of Grand Cayman, is consistently listed as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. This ~6 mile (not 7 mile!) stretch of white-sand beach is the perfect setting for visitors looking to unwind in paradise.

Due to the beach’s size and popularity, there are plenty of amenities along Seven Mile Beach, with no shortage of restaurants and bars to enjoy during your time on Grand Cayman.

Seven Mile Beach is conveniently located just a 10 minute drive away from the cruise port in Grand Cayman, making the beach accessible via taxi or bus.

West Bay Beach, Roatan

One of the most common port stops on a Western Caribbean cruise itinerary is the island of Roatan, located north of mainland Honduras.

West Bay Beach is a beautiful tropical landscape, with a palm tree-lined sandy beach and incredible snorkeling right off shore. Many beach resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars are found at West Bay Beach, as well as a plethora of activities like snorkeling, diving, and parasailing.

Photo by Billy Hirsch of cruisehabit.com

Roatan is famous for its diving and snorkeling opportunities, and a coral reef is located swimming distance from the beach.

The beach is located around a 30 minute taxi ride from the cruise port. You’ll also find several excursion options providing transportation to and from West Bay Beach.

Barefoot Beach, Labadee

When you arrive at Royal Caribbean’s private destination of Labadee, Haiti, you’ll likely be amazed by the gorgeous scenery of the peninsula. Green mountains and small coves dot the landscape that is surrounded by beautiful and clear water.

While all of Labadee’s beaches make for a wonderful port day, one of the best is Barefoot Beach, reserved for suite guests on Royal Caribbean.

An upgraded lunch buffet and bar are available at the beach, along with cabanas available to reserve. There are more than enough complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas available as well.

Related: First timer’s guide to Labadee

Jalousie Beach, St. Lucia (Sugar Beach)

St. Lucia is most easily recognizable by the Pitons, which are two mountainous volcanic plugs rising over 2500 feet above sea level on the coast.

Situated at the foot of the Pitons is Jalousie Beach (Sugar Beach), a small, white-sand beach located in a cove that offers gorgeous views of St. Lucia’s unique landscape. When you picture St. Lucia, you’re likely picturing the view you’ll see from Jalousie Beach.

At the beach are a few restaurants and the Sugar Beach resort. Snorkelers and scuba divers can enjoy the underwater marine reserve at the shoreline of Petit Piton, the smaller of the two Piton mountains.

Reaching Sugar Beach takes around an hour and a half by car from the cruise port, so it’s recommended to book a tour to the beach, especially if you have limited hours in St. Lucia. Some tours may reach the beach via speedboat instead of by car.

Great Anse Beach, Grenada

Photo credit: Varun Kapoor (no changes made)

The small island of Grenada boasts over 45 beaches, but the most popular beach on the island is Great Anse Beach. Spanning two miles long, Great Anse Beach offers ideal Caribbean beach conditions with plenty of amenities.

A variety of beach activities are available at Great Anse Beach including water-skiing, parasailing, and snorkeling. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach, check out Morne Rouge Beach, located just a 5 minute drive from Great Anse Beach. This beach will have even calmer and clearer waters than Great Anse Beach with fewer crowds.

Great Anse Beach is located five miles from the cruise port in Grenada. You can reach the beach via taxi, public bus, or water taxi. A water taxi is the quickest option, taking only 10 minutes or so to reach the beach from the ship.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Start here:

• 15 countries you didn’t know you could cruise to on Royal Caribbean
• Best Royal Caribbean itineraries with overnight ports
• Bahamas cruise guide
• 10 Royal Caribbean cruise destinations not to be missed

After booking a cruise, the next step in the vacation planning process often involves researching and booking amazing shore excursions around the world.

All too often, however, first-time cruisers or those who are new to a particular port can make rookie mistakes in the shore excursion planning process, which can lead to disappointment and extra money spent later on.

While everyone makes mistakes, it’s easy to be better prepared and have a stress-free day in port by avoiding these 10 common pitfalls when booking a shore excursion!

Booking only through the cruise line

Royal Caribbean offers wonderful shore excursion opportunities, from whale watching in Alaska to guided tours of Rome and catamaran excursions in Mexico.

However, don’t assume you have to book a shore excursion directly through Royal Caribbean. Royal Caribbean shore excursions are typically priced higher than tours you can find through independent tour operators due to the cruise line being the “middleman” between you and the tour company.

Take a look at local tour companies in your port of call to see which excursions are offered and if they’re available at a lower cost.

Related: 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own

Recently I was browsing Royal Caribbean shore excursions for my upcoming Alaska cruise. I was interested in taking the Goldbelt Mount Roberts Tramway in Juneau, and found that the cost for the exact same experience was $59.99 when offered by Royal Caribbean and $45 to book directly on the Goldbelt Tram’s website!

Of course, booking an excursion directly through Royal Caribbean comes with more protection if the tour runs late, so be sure to weigh the pros and cons of booking independently in your planning process.

Related: Is it better to book excursions through the cruise ship?

Assuming you have to book an excursion in the first place

Many first-time cruisers may think they have to book an excursion in every port they visit, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy time on shore without spending extra on shore excursions!

Excursions can surely offer unique opportunities you can’t do on your own, such as helicopter tours, guided ATV tours, etc., but you can have comparably fun experiences in port without breaking the bank.

Related: 7 ways to have a great time in port without a cruise ship shore excursion

Not doing research

Don’t book a shore excursion based solely on the title or pictures without researching what the excursion entails.

If an excursion is titled "Mexico Beach Break," for example, it will likely mean you'll be provided transport to and from the beach with no guided tour in between. If you're interested in a more in-depth sightseeing experience with a guide, this is probably not the best choice for you.

Similarly, don't book the first tour you see. Research different tour operators and prices to see which works best for your preferences and budget.

You also want to check reviews before booking a tour. While reviews should always be taken with a grain of salt, if you notice any major red flags, it’s probably best to search for another excursion.

Waiting too long to book an excursion

Once you’re sure you want to book a particular excursion, it’s best to book the tour as soon as possible to lock in the best price and ensure the tour does not sell out.

One benefit of booking tours through Royal Caribbean is that you can reprice the tour until 48 hours before the cruise. If you book a whale watching tour in Alaska for $160 and later see the price dropped to $130, you’re able to cancel and rebook the excursion at the lower price without penalty.

The main benefit of booking right away, though, is to ensure a tour doesn’t sell out.

Tours are more prone to sell out on cruises to “bucket-list” destinations like Alaska or popular cities in the Mediterranean. Because passengers on these cruises are typically traveling longer to reach a destination–and likely picked the cruise solely for the ports themselves–they’re more likely to book shore excursions.

Related: What to do if Royal Caribbean’s shore excursions are sold out

Booking too many excursions

Some excursions are only 3-4 hours long, meaning that sometimes you can technically fit two excursions in one day if the times line up correctly.

While on paper this may seem like a good idea as it gives you the chance to explore more of port, it’s not always the best idea for a few reasons.

If your first tour runs late, you’ll risk missing the second tour. If both tours are booked through Royal Caribbean you’ll receive a refund for the second tour, but this may not be the case with independent tour providers.

Another reason not to book multiple excursions in one port is that shore excursions can be tiring. Even if you’re just laying in a beach chair in the hot sun, it’s easy to be exhausted and ready to get back onboard after the tour is over.

Instead of booking multiple tours, consider booking a tour in the morning and exploring the port freely in the afternoon. After the tour, feel free to grab lunch, have a few drinks, or shop before getting back onboard.

Not checking transportation logistics

One of the most important things to do before booking a shore excursion is to research how much transportation is required to reach the destination from the ship. Depending on the excursion, transportation time can vary from ~5 minutes to over two hours!

While on a cruise to Greece earlier this year, for example, I booked a 5 hour tour to Shipwreck Beach, named one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. I booked the tour from a local operator when I arrived in port, and the tour looked awesome from the brochure and photos available.

Related: Visiting Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, Greece

I did not ask any questions about transportation logistics before purchasing the tour, though, so you can imagine my surprise when we boarded a bus instead of a boat! The tour required a 1-hour bus journey across the island to reach the boat.

While I did not mind the bus ride as it allowed me to see more of the island of Zakynthos and the tour was fantastic overall, I realized the importance of doing more research on transportation before booking a tour!

Not checking cancellation policies

Be sure to check cancellation policies for your tour before booking, especially if you’re not entirely sure you plan to do the excursion.

Most Royal Caribbean shore excursions can be canceled up to 48 hours before arrival in port without penalty, and full refunds will be provided to guests. Royal Caribbean shore excursions involving flights, trains, overnight stays, special events, and Private Journeys must be canceled at least 30 days prior to the sail date.

Independent tours, however, can have varying cancellation policies depending on the tour operator. Read through the fine print when booking a tour independently to ensure you don’t end up disappointed if you want to cancel the tour later on.

Overestimating fitness level

When browsing shore excursions in the Cruise Planner, you can filter tours by fitness level (mild, moderate, strenuous). Some excursions may require hiking on steep trails, kayaking for longer periods of time, etc.

Be sure to consider your fitness level (and the fitness levels of others in your group) before booking an excursion to ensure you will be able to complete the tour successfully and without too much struggle. 

Not considering others in your group

A dream excursion for one passenger can be a nightmare to another. If you’re traveling with friends or family on a cruise, be sure to communicate your shore excursion interests with each other before booking.

If your idea of an amazing day in port is lounging by the beach with a drink in hand but others in your group want to go zip lining, it can lead to tension during the cruise planning process.

Be sure to communicate which types of excursions you’re interested in with your group. If you cannot find something everyone wants to do, consider splitting up and meeting after separate excursions for lunch or a drink before getting back onboard!

Related: Guide to picking the perfect Royal Caribbean shore excursion

Considering others in your group is extra important if you’re traveling with young kids. While you may want to book a walking tour of historic sites in port, this might not be the best option with energetic kids who want to simply run around and have fun.

Look through shore excursions to determine which works best for your family before booking to avoid problems–and tantrums–along the way.

Related: 12 must have Royal Caribbean tips & tricks for families

Not reading the fine print

The last mistake many cruisers make when booking a shore excursion is not reading the fine print. If you read the fine print, you’ll find that many of these “mistakes” (transportation logistics, cancellation policies, etc.) are listed in the fine print.

Outside of these tips, make sure you read the fine print to check what is and is not included on a tour. Some excursions may include lunch while others may not, so you might want to pack snacks or plan to enjoy lunch in port after the tour.

The fine print may also mention what to wear and what to bring on an excursion. You won’t want to show up to a hike with flip flops or a tour of a church in Rome with shorts and a tank top!

Reading the fine print is a surefire way to ensure you won’t encounter any surprises on the excursion.

More shore excursion tips & tricks:

• Alaska cruise excursions
• Best travel clothes for women on shore excursions
• When should I book my Alaska shore excursion?
• 7 things worth checking again on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• How to save money on cruise excursions

I’m headed to Alaska this week for a 7-night cruise from Vancouver to Seward, and I’ll be live blogging along the way from Radiance of the Seas!

Of all the cruises I’ve experienced thus far, my cruise to Alaska last year has been the one I’ve cherished most, so I cannot wait to head back to Alaska and explore more of the state’s gorgeous scenery, delicious food, and unique culture.

Why I chose this cruise

I did not choose this cruise based on itinerary, time of year, or ship. Instead, I set off to research and book the cheapest Alaska cruise on Royal Caribbean to see just how affordably one can cruise to the state.

My findings led to a 7-night one-way cruise from Vancouver to Seward on Radiance of the Seas, and the price was extremely reasonable.

The total cost of the cruise for one person, including taxes, fees, and pre-paid gratuities, was only $825 (interior cabin).

To add a second guest and pre-pay their gratuities was only $321 more, bringing the total cruise fare for two guests to $1146!

Outside of the cheap cost of this cruise, it gives me a chance to sail on my first Radiance Class cruise ship. I’ve been on every Royal Caribbean ship class so far except the Radiance Class, so I’m excited to check out the similarities and differences onboard.

Related: All about Radiance Class cruise ships

Itinerary

Not only was the cruise fare cheap, but the itinerary is amazing! Over the course of the week, we’ll visit the following ports:

• Vancouver, British Columbia (embarkation port)
• Juneau, Alaska
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska
• Sitka, Alaska
• Skagway, Alaska
• Hubbard Glacier (cruising day)
• Seward, Alaska (disembarkation port)

I love port-intensive cruise itineraries, and this itinerary is certainly port-intensive, with 4 Alaska cruise ports in one week as well as a scenic cruising day at Hubbard Glacier.

It also gives me the chance to visit a number of ports I did not see last year on my Alaska cruise. I’ve never been to Vancouver, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier, or Seward.

I’m traveling to Alaska with my good friend Reeham, who I met in graduate school a few years ago. Reeham is from Egypt but lives in the U.S., and last year I had the opportunity to travel to Egypt and stay with Reeham and her family for ten days.

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza, Alexandria, the Red Sea, and hanging out with Reeham’s family in Cairo was unforgettable, so I’m excited to be the “tour guide” on this trip and show Reeham the beauty of Alaska!

My plans on shore

In the spirit of booking “the cheapest Alaska cruise,” I didn’t book any excursions in port. Instead, Reeham and I plan on exploring ports without spending too much money, whether hiking, walking around town, visiting museums, etc.

Last year I somehow neglected to taste local seafood, so we definitely plan to try local restaurants for lunch in each port. If anyone has any recommendations, let me know!

If the weather looks nice, I plan to purchase a ticket on the Mount Roberts Goldbelt Tram to Mount Roberts in Juneau, which costs $45 round trip. This is definitely TBD if the weather is terrible, but let’s hope for the best! Not only does the tram provide excellent views, but there are several hiking trails at the top which should be extremely scenic!

Last year I cruised to Alaska with my dad on Ovation of the Seas in October, and while the experience was certainly amazing, the weather was, frankly, terrible! While it did not ruin the cruise whatsoever, I am hoping I’ll finally see the sun this year in Alaska.

While the end of August may not be as warm or sunny as June or July, I’m remaining optimistic that we will have better weather than last fall!

My plans onboard

One of the things I’ve heard most about Radiance Class ships is how there are so many windows onboard. I’m excited to sit back and relax with amazing ocean views around every corner!

I consider my cruising travel style onboard to be… quite lazy. I don’t plan on attending tons of activities and will likely spend the majority of my time at sea viewing Alaska’s scenery from the pool deck or indoor spaces.

Dining-wise, I did not purchase a dining package for this cruise, so Reeham and I will be dining primarily in the Main Dining Room and Windjammer.

Radiance of the Seas also has complimentary options at Park Cafe, Cafe Latte-tudes, and the Dog House, so we’ll certainly find plenty to eat onboard without spending anything extra.

I also do not have a beverage package, but the 4 free drinks a day I receive by being a Diamond member in the Crown & Anchor Society are always enough for me.

What’s next

I’m based in the western U.S., so I absolutely love when cruising does not require an extremely long travel day! I’ll be flying to Vancouver early on Thursday morning and plan to spend the day sightseeing in the city.

Funny enough, while I’ve been to 25 countries on 5 different continents, I’ve only spent about 3 hours total in Canada! I’m excited to check out the sights, nature, and culture in Vancouver this week.

We will spend Thursday night in Vancouver before boarding the ship on Friday afternoon, and I’m sure Reeham and I will both be extremely eager for the cruise to begin!

I’ll be live blogging every day throughout the cruise, so be sure to check in on Royal Caribbean Blog or through our Facebook and Twitter accounts for updates. I'll also be filming a video for the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube channel on this cruise, so make sure to subscribe so you'll be notified when we post the video!

Thanks for following along and welcome aboard to another wonderful Alaska adventure!

More Alaska cruise information:

• 50 tips for planning your Alaska cruise
• Tips for taking an Alaska cruise on a budget
• How to choose the right Alaska cruise itinerary
• Top ways to avoid crowds on an Alaska cruise
• Best things to do on an Alaska cruise

You can make embarkation day fast, easy, and simple with the right tips and tricks.

While it’s tempting to get onboard and immediately start partying and enjoying the day, there are a few things you can do to maximize your time, money, and vacation time later on.

From arriving at the cruise terminal to making dining reservations, exploring the ship, and finding the best spot for sailaway, here are some of the best do’s and don’ts for the first day of your Royal Caribbean cruise.

Do: Explore your embarkation port

If you arrived at your embarkation port the night before, take some time in the morning on embarkation day to explore the city. Walk around South Beach in Miami, visit the Opera House in Sydney, or shop at Pike Place Market in Seattle.

Treat the morning of embarkation day as an extra port stop as opposed to waiting around in your hotel.

Do: Have required documents easy to access at the terminal

Be sure to keep items like passports, birth certificates, vaccine cards, etc. easily accessible at the terminal on embarkation day.

You’ll likely be asked to show these items several times throughout the check-in process, so keeping them all in one place is helpful.

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

Do: Drop off luggage with the porters

When you arrive at the cruise terminal on embarkation day, leave your luggage with the porters. We recommend taking a small carry-on bag (backpack or purse) on the ship with you, but leaving bigger luggage with the porters.

Bags will be delivered to your stateroom later in the day, so you won’t have to worry about lugging your big suitcase or duffel bag around the ship. It's customary to give a small tip for each bag you leave with the porters.

Related: Should you use the porters to take your luggage on your cruise ship?

Do: Pack important items in your carry-on

If you’re leaving your luggage with the porters at the cruise terminal, be sure to pack important items into your cruise carry-on. Passports, money, credit cards, medication, phone chargers, etc. should all be packed in a carry-on bag to ensure you have access to the items if your luggage encounters any delays getting to your stateroom.

Do: Bring wine, soda, or water bottles onboard

Royal Caribbean allows guests to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne onboard per adult of drinking age.

In addition, guests can bring up to 12 standard (17 oz.) cans, bottles, or cartons of non-alcoholic beverages like soda or water per stateroom.

Keep these beverages with you in the cruise terminal instead of placing them in the luggage you give to the porters.

Read more: What food or drinks you're allowed to bring on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Do: Finish the eMuster drill early in the day

Royal Caribbean’s eMuster drill is easy and convenient, so be sure to complete all three steps early in the day once you get onboard. Don’t be the cause for constant announcements reminding guests to complete the drill!

Related: What to expect with Royal Caribbean’s virtual safety drill

Do: Reserve entertainment

As soon as you get onboard, open Royal Caribbean’s app and reserve entertainment shows for the week. Not all shows require a reservation, but the most popular productions (Two70 shows, AquaTheater shows, etc.) will require reservations.

Our recommendation is to make entertainment reservations for the first day of the show each week. Shows can be canceled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, so making reservations for early in the week will ensure you have plenty of time to see the show if it has to be rescheduled.

Do: Make dining reservations

If you have a dining package, be sure to make reservations as soon as you get onboard to ensure you can select the restaurants and dining times that work best for you. You don’t have to visit each individual specialty restaurant to make reservations, as the crew member at one restaurant can make reservations for other restaurants onboard.

The only exception to this is at Izumi Hibachi/Teppanyaki. Reservations for hibachi can only be made at Izumi, so it’s a good idea to head there first for dining reservations.

Related: Royal Caribbean specialty dining packages guide

Do: Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on

Pools, whirlpools, and water slides are available to use on embarkation day, and you’ll often find that they are much less crowded than other days onboard. Make sure to pack a swimsuit in your carry-on bag so you can start your vacation right away with a sunny afternoon at the pool.

Related: The Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Do: Enjoy lunch onboard

One of the first things many passengers do once onboard is eat lunch. Many venues are open on embarkation day, including the Windjammer, Park Cafe, Cafe @ Two70, Cafe Promenade, Sorrento’s Pizza, some specialty restaurants, and more!

Do: Confirm Main Dining Room reservations

While exploring the ship on embarkation day, be sure to head to the Main Dining Room to confirm your dining reservation and table. If you would prefer your own table but are seated at a table with other passengers, see if the staff can accommodate your request.

If you have any dietary restrictions that you informed Royal Caribbean of in advance, be sure to confirm that the request has been received.

Related: Top 10 insider tips for Royal Caribbean’s Main Dining Room

Do: Meet your stateroom attendant

Your stateroom attendant will visit your cabin once a day for housekeeping service. It’s recommended to meet your stateroom attendant on the first day of your cruise to introduce yourself.

Stateroom attendants will go door to door to try and meet everyone in the cabins they service on embarkation day, so take a minute to say hello!

Do: Check your cabin

Once cabins are ready on embarkation day, do a quick check to make sure everything is working properly. Test the lights, outlets, television, etc. If you need beds separated or have any additional preferences, make sure to let your stateroom attendant know.

Related: 8 things you should know about your cruise ship cabin

Do: Walk around the ship

Taking some time to explore the ship on embarkation day can give you a better sense of what is available onboard and where everything is located.

Exploring the ship will probably come naturally throughout the day as you make your way to and from your cabin, the pool deck, lunch, entertainment shows, etc.

Do: Register kids at Adventure Ocean

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean programming for kids holds an “open house” on embarkation day where you can explore the facilities and sign your children up for Adventure Ocean.

It only takes a few minutes to register kids for Adventure Ocean, so it’s a good idea even if you aren’t sure that your kids will attend.

Plus, sending your kids to Adventure Ocean on the first day of the cruise can allow them to make friends right away, as the first day is a prime time for making new friends onboard.

Read more: 7 Best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for Kids

Do: Unpack

Once your luggage is delivered to your stateroom, take some time to unpack your belongings. While it’s acceptable to live out of your suitcase all week, taking time to unpack clothes and other personal items into your stateroom’s closets and drawers can help you feel more “at home” in your cabin.

Do: Enjoy an embarkation day drink

Nothing screams “cruise vacation” quite like a tropical cocktail by the pool, and that’s exactly what you should enjoy on embarkation day!

After having lunch onboard, head to one of the many bars on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship to order a cocktail (or mocktail!) and get your vacation off to a fantastic start.

Related: 8 mocktails to try on your next Royal Caribbean cruise

Do: Find the best sailaway spot

Each class of Royal Caribbean cruise ships differ in layout and design, so be sure to scope out the best sailaway spot on embarkation day to ensure you have the best views of your ship leaving port.

Here are some of our favorite spots for sailaway:

• Vision Class ships: deck 10 forward
• Radiance, Voyager, and Freedom Class ships: helicopter pad
• Quantum and Oasis Class ships: Solarium bridge wings
• Icon Class ships: Chill Island

Do: Take time to relax

Embarkation day can be a bit hectic onboard, with thousands of passengers navigating their way around the ship. From getting through the cruise terminal to making reservations, completing the eMuster drill, and unpacking, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Remember to take some time to relax on embarkation day, whether lounging on a pool chair, enjoying the hot tubs in the Solarium, or simply sitting in a lounge with a drink.

Do: Order multiple items in the Main Dining Room

One of our top tips about the Main Dining Room on a Royal Caribbean cruise is that you can order as much as you’d like. If you’re having trouble deciding between appetizers, main courses, or desserts on embarkation day, order multiple items!

After all, why choose between the key lime pie and chocolate hazelnut cake when you can have them both!

Related: 7 cruise ship Main Dining Room rules to follow– Plus 1 to break

Do: Sign up for onboard activities

While most onboard activities do not require making a reservation in advance, there are a few that do: RipCord by iFLY, North Star, Zone Zero, and the escape rooms.

Open the Royal Caribbean app on embarkation day and make reservations for these activities to ensure you can select the date and time that works best for your schedule.

RipCord by iFLY and North Star offer both complimentary and extra cost options, so if you don’t want to pay for these activities it’s recommended to reserve the activity ASAP once onboard.

Do: Take a spa tour

The Vitality Spa offers free tours of its facilities on embarkation day, which can be a nice way to see what the spa has to offer and learn more about which treatments are available.

This is also a good time to confirm your existing spa reservations or book an appointment.

Do: Download the Royal Caribbean app

The Royal Caribbean app is an extremely useful tool on your cruise, as it’s where you’ll find a list of daily activities, your billing information, deck maps, and more.

Having the Royal Caribbean app downloaded on your phone in preparation for the first day of your cruise is recommended so that you don’t waste any time once onboard.

Now that we’ve reviewed what you should do on the first day of your cruise, let's take a look at the don’ts.

Don’t: Fly to the port the same day as your cruise

One of the most critical things not to do is fly to the cruise port on the same day as your cruise. Unexpected delays, missed connections, and cancellations are extremely common in air travel, so be sure to arrive the day before your cruise to allow for some extra wiggle room.

Related: Why you shouldn’t fly to your cruise the same day it begins

Don’t: Arrive at the port before your check-in time

While it is hit or miss whether a departure port strictly adheres to the scheduled check-in time you picked when checking in online, it’s still best practice to show up to port at your scheduled check-in time.

If your check-in is at 12PM and you arrive at 11:15, you’ll probably be allowed to board. If your check-in time isn’t until 2PM, however, and you arrive at 10AM, you’ll most likely have to wait a while.

Don’t: Go to Guest Services on the first day

Guest Services is an extremely valuable service throughout the cruise, as crew members can answer any questions you may have, settle billing discrepancies, etc.

On the first day of the cruise, however, Guest Services can be prone to long lines. It’s best to save any questions for the second day of the cruise or go to Guest Services during less busy times of the day such as during dinner.

Don’t: Only consider the Windjammer for lunch

While the Windjammer buffet offers nearly endless choices, it can be extremely busy for embarkation day lunch. Consider skipping the crowds and eating at another venue instead, such as Park Cafe or Sorrento’s.

If you are hoping for a more relaxed feel to embarkation day lunch, make a reservation at a specialty restaurant for a much calmer atmosphere than what you’ll find at the buffet.

Related: Guide to Royal Caribbean’s Windjammer Cafe buffet

Don’t: Leave your phone service on

Remember to put your phone on airplane mode before sailaway! Even if you have international service, it most likely does not count cruises into the phone plan. Avoid extremely high phone bills by placing your phone on airplane mode.

Don’t: Try to do everything

It can be tempting to pack the first day of your cruise with activities. There are so many fun things to do on a cruise, from watching Broadway musicals to indoor skydiving, bumper cars, zip lining, surfing simulators, mini golf, and more.

Don’t try to do everything on the first day, though, and remember that you can spread out activities throughout the cruise. You are onboard to relax, after all, so don’t make yourself exhausted by trying to fit everything in one day!

Don’t: Wait to book excursions

Every Royal Caribbean ship has a Shore Excursions area onboard where you can learn more about which excursions are available, talk to crew members specializing in excursions, and book tours for your cruise itinerary.

It’s recommended that you book excursions in advance instead of waiting to do so on the ship so that the excursions you are interested in do not sell out. While it can be helpful to talk to crew members about the tours in more detail, you run the risk of far fewer tours being available compared to booking ahead of time.

Who is Bill W. and… why does he have so many friends?

When browsing the Cruise Compass onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ll likely come across a daily-scheduled event called Friends of Bill W.

If you’ve never heard of Friends of Bill W. before, you’ll probably be confused. No, Bill W. is not a passenger on your cruise ship, but he has plenty of “friends” onboard.

What is Friends of Bill W.?

Friends of Bill W. is an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting found onboard a cruise that is named after William Wilson (Bill W.), one of the founders of the organization. Alcoholics Anonymous was founded to help members achieve and maintain sobriety throughout their lives.

Cruises can be a tough environment for those passengers in recovery, so cruise lines offer Friends of Bill W. onboard as a non-judgemental, helpful support group. At Friends of Bill W., passengers can meet fellow guests in recovery and form a support network once onboard.

The name “Friends of Bill W.” gives a subtle way for guests to know there is a support group onboard while maintaining privacy and anonymity.

When and where are Friends of Bill W. meetings located?

You will generally find Friends of Bill W. meetings every day on a Royal Caribbean cruise. The time may change based on ship and itinerary, with some meetings held in the morning and others around 4PM.

Friends of Bill W. meetings are held in quiet, less crowded areas of the ship, are complimentary, and are open to any passengers. The meetings are often located in places like the Library, offering a more secluded spot where guests can feel comfortable.

Passengers in recovery as well as family members may find the meetings helpful. You do not have to sign up for the meetings in advance. The meetings are self-led, so there are no Royal Caribbean staff members present.

Why is Friends of Bill W. on a cruise ship?

Friends of Bill W. is found not only on Royal Caribbean cruises but also on many other cruise lines. Cruise ships tend to have a significant drinking culture onboard, with many guests enjoying cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits throughout the day.

While relaxing with an alcoholic beverage in hand is common for many passengers, it can be a challenging environment for those recovery. 

Friends of Bill W. meetings help passengers in recovery avoid the temptation of drinking by having regularly scheduled meetings. Having a support system on a cruise is huge, as many passengers will find themselves without the support network they have built at home, such as local AA meetings and online forums.

What is Friends of Dorothy on a cruise ship?

Royal Caribbean cruises also used to have a meetup called “Friends of Dorothy” onboard, which was for those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Similar to how Friends of Bill W. is used as a more abstract name for an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting, Friends of Dorothy was used as a name for the LGBTQ+ meetups on a cruise ship.

In recent years, though, Royal Caribbean has stopped using the name Friends of Dorothy. There are still LGBTQ+ meetups on all Royal Caribbean cruise ships, but they are listed as "LGBTQ+ Meet (self led)" in the Cruise Planner. Like Friends of Bill W. meetings, these meetups also tend to occur nearly every day of the cruise.

If you book a Royal Caribbean suite, there are a number of perks that can really enhance your cruise.

The range of benefits include an exclusive suites-only lounge, to private dining experiences, and priority embarkation.

Royal Caribbean suites are impressive, with some even spanning two levels with a private jacuzzi, multiple bedrooms, and a personalized Royal Genie service.

Many guests opt to book a suite for a more comfortable living space, but they might not be aware of all the perks suite guests receive onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise. Knowing which benefits come with a suite can help you maximize the value of your vacation and get the most out of your time onboard.

Here’s everything you need to know about the perks you can receive with a Royal Caribbean suite.

Junior Suite Perks on Royal Caribbean

The “stepping stone” into the world of Royal Caribbean suites is with a Junior Suite.

Despite the name, however, Junior Suites are more similar to a balcony stateroom than a suite. They don’t come with many of the benefits you’ll find in Grand Suites and above. Nonetheless, there are a few perks of staying in a Junior Suite.

First and foremost, a Junior Suite will provide more room in both the cabin and balcony, leading to more comfort for guests. You’ll also have a full sized bathtub and walk-in closet in a Junior Suite.

In addition to extra square footage, Junior Suite guests receive the following benefits:

• Priority boarding
• Royal Caribbean bathrobe
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine
• Pillow Top Mattress
• Dinner at Coastal Kitchen on select ships
• Double Crown & Anchor Society points

Related: Royal Caribbean’s Junior Suites: What you need to know

Note: The benefits listed below are for guests staying in Grand Suites and above. Junior Suite guests do not have access to most suite benefits on Royal Caribbean such as the Suite Lounge, Concierge Service, etc.

Onboard experience benefits for suite guests

Suite Lounge/Concierge Club

A major perk of staying in a suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise is having access to the Suite Lounge (also known as the Concierge Club on select ships). Suite Lounge access is available to guests staying in a Grand Suite and above.

The Suite Lounge is a relaxing, exclusive getaway on an otherwise busy cruise ship. At the Suite Lounge, guests can enjoy complimentary snacks and hors d’oeuvres throughout the day and complimentary alcoholic beverages in the evening.

The Suite Lounge is open 24/7 and can offer a nice way to mingle with other suite guests onboard or simply enjoy the peace and quiet with a beautiful ocean view.

Related: Is a suite on Royal Caribbean worth it?

Concierge Service

A convenient service available for suite guests on Royal Caribbean is the Suite Concierge, a crew member who acts as a suite guest's own (enhanced) Guest Services during the cruise.

The Suite Concierge can help with booking shore excursions, dining reservations, show reservations, answering any questions, and settling billing discrepancies.

The Suite Concierge can help you check-in to your flight and print documents if you do not have an internet package. They are also available to escort you off the ship on disembarkation day.

Related: 10 Surprising things you didn’t know the Royal Caribbean concierge can do for you

Suite Sun Deck

Voyager, Freedom, Quantum, and Oasis Class ships have a designated area of the pool deck reserved just for suite guests. Usually the Suite Sun Deck is located on the deck above the main pool area. Suite Sun Decks can be a really nice benefit for suite guests, as they have comfortable, reserved seating away from the crowds on the pool deck below.

Wonder of the Seas even has its own Suite Neighborhood with a large private Sun Deck with a plunge pool, private bar, and comfy loungers.

Reserved entertainment seating

Suite Guests won’t have to worry about finding a seat for shows onboard, as they will find a reserved seating area in the main theater, Studio B, AquaTheater, and Two70 for main entertainment lineups.

Complimentary pressing on First Formal Night

If you’re splurging on a suite, you’ll want to take advantage of as many benefits as you can to maximize your value. A relatively small benefit that can be a nice extra perk is complimentary pressing on your itinerary’s first formal night.

Sending evening gowns or a suit to be pressed can run between $7.50-$15 per item, so this is a nice extra perk for suite guests.

Tours and Suite Parties

Another perk of staying in a suite are the complimentary backstage tours and events offered to suite guests. Backstage tours can vary by ship and sailing, but you can expect to see tours of the ship’s bridge, galley, or theater.

You’ll receive an invitation to a tour in your suite. If you do not see one, ask the concierge if any tours will be available on your sailing.

Priority bookings

Another nice benefit for suite guests is that they can have priority bookings on spa appointments and specialty dining reservations. 

If you did not book dining reservations or a spa treatment ahead of time, speak to the Suite Concierge before your cruise (they will send you an email a few days before the sail date) about making reservations.

2 Crown & Anchor Society points per night

One of the best suite perks on Royal Caribbean is that you will receive double Crown & Anchor Society points on your cruise. The Crown & Anchor Society is Royal Caribbean’s Loyalty Program which can lead to fantastic benefits once you accrue enough points.

When you stay in a normal category room (interior, ocean view, balcony), you’ll receive 1 point per night of your cruise. In a suite, however, you receive 2 points per night.

Related: Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program info, tips & secrets

Embarkation & Disembarkation benefits for suite guests

Priority boarding & departure

Suite guests have priority boarding on embarkation day, meaning they will be the first guests able to board the ship. They also have a dedicated check-in line at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.

On disembarkation day, suite guests have priority departure, so they won’t have to wait for their luggage tag number to be called and can disembark whenever they choose.

Guests in Royal Suites and Villa Suites will not only receive priority embarkation, but an officer will meet them at the terminal to escort them on the ship.

Welcome gift

Once you enter your suite, you’ll find a welcome gift, which can change depending on suite tier. Guests in Grand Suites, Panoramic Suites, and Owner’s Suites will receive complimentary Evian water and a fruit amenity whereas those in Royal Suites and Villa Suites receive Moët & Chandon champagne.

Sign-up fee waived for luggage valet service

On select itineraries, Royal Caribbean offers a luggage valet service. This service enables guests to bypass the airport check-in process, as guests will receive boarding passes, luggage tags, and baggage claim checks while onboard the ship. Luggage will be delivered directly from your suite to the airport and onto your flight.

This service is currently only available in Seattle, Washington.

Benefits while in port for suite guests

Priority tendering

While most common cruise ports have a dock, there are some ports which require tendering on a smaller boat to get to and from port from the ship.

For non-suite guests, it’s necessary to get up early and grab a tender ticket as soon as possible in order to maximize your time in port. Suite guests, however, have priority tendering access, so you can bypass the line and get to port without a wait.

Barefoot Beach at Labadee

If you’re staying in a suite on a cruise itinerary visiting Royal Caribbean’s private destination of Labadee, you’ll have access to Barefoot Beach, the port’s suites-only beach.

Barefoot Beach offers a relaxing getaway with calm, clear waters and plenty of lounge chairs perfect for sunbathing. The beach also has cabanas available to rent at an extra cost as well as a complimentary lunch which offers more upgraded options than buffets elsewhere on Labadee.

In-suite benefits

More space

One of the primary reasons many guests book a suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise is for the extra space. Cruise ship cabins are known for being small, and suites can offer a more comfortable living space with extra perks.

Depending on the suite, you can find an extra large couch, dining table, walk-in closet, larger balcony, etc. Some suites may even have 2 or 3 bedrooms, allowing for more privacy for guests.

Nicer bathroom

Another in-suite perk is a larger bathroom. Suite bathrooms all have a bathtub and upgraded toiletries. Some suites even have a separate shower, double sinks, and bidet!

Additionally, certain suite categories may have two bathrooms in the suite which can be nice for larger families.

Pillow Top mattress

In addition to more living space and an upgraded bathroom, suite guests will also enjoy an upgraded mattress. Beds in Grand Suites and above have a Luxury Pillow Top Mattress instead of the normal mattress you’ll find in interior, ocean view, and balcony cabins.

Dining benefits for suite guests

In-suite dining

Suite guests on Royal Caribbean receive complimentary room service and the ability to enjoy in-suite dining from the Main Dining Room menu. This offers a nice way for suite guests to have a private meal in their suite at any time the Main Dining Room is open (or 24/7 for room service).

Coastal Kitchen

Suite guests on Quantum and Oasis Class cruise ships have access to Coastal Kitchen, Royal Caribbean’s suites-only restaurant. Coastal Kitchen is complimentary for suite guests and offers a more intimate dining experience than venues like the Main Dining Room or Windjammer.

Coastal Kitchen is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a rotating menu with a focus on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Guests in Grand Suites and above can eat at Coastal Kitchen at any time during the week, but the restaurant is only available for dinner for Junior Suite guests.

Private dining & disembarkation breakfast

Select ships without Coastal Kitchen offer private breakfast and lunch seating for suite guests. These meals take place in a specialty restaurant onboard, although the menus are more similar to the MDR or Coastal Kitchen than the specialty restaurant menu offerings.

Royal Suite Class Benefits

If you thought Royal Caribbean’s suite benefits couldn’t get any better, there’s more: the Royal Suite Class, available only on Quantum and Oasis Class ships.

The Royal Suite Class has three tiers: Sea Class, Sky Class, and Star Class.

Sea Class

Sea Class is the Junior Suite Class in the Royal Suite Class and comes with the same benefits as staying in a Junior Suite on other Royal Caribbean ships, with the addition of dinner at Coastal Kitchen.

Sea Class benefits:

• Dedicated Check In Line
• Priority Boarding
• Coastal Kitchen Dinner
• Royal Caribbean bathrobes
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• In-room Lavazza Espresso Coffee Maker/Tea Service

Sky Class

Sky Class benefits are for guests staying in a One Bedroom AquaTheater suite, Crown Loft Suite, Owner’s Suite, Royal Family Suite, Superior Grand Suite, and Grand Suite.

In addition to the Sea Class benefits, Sky Class guests receive:

• Complimentary VOOM internet: 1 device per guest
• Concierge Serve
• Exclusive Signature Activities
• Suite Lounge Access
• Priority Departure
• Coastal Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Related: 10 things to know about Sky Class suites on Royal Caribbean

Star Class

Star Class is the most luxurious experience you can have on Royal Caribbean and is available to passengers staying in Royal Caribbean’s biggest suites: the Royal Loft Suite, Owner’s Loft Suite, Four Bedroom Family Suite, Grand Loft Suite, Sky Loft Suite, Ultimate Family Suite, and Two Bedroom AquaTheater Suite.

The biggest benefit of staying in a Star Class suite is having a Royal Genie, a crew member who is your own personalized concierge and “magic maker” throughout the week. Royal Genies can cater their services to your cruise preferences, whether that means delivering Starbucks to your room every morning, reserving you seats at a specialty restaurant, hosting an in-suite dinner in your room, etc.

Related: My advice for someone using a Royal Genie on a Royal Caribbean cruise

In addition to the Royal Genie as well as the Sea Class and Sky Class benefits above, Star Class guests receive:

• Complimentary gratuities
• Complimentary specialty dining (including in-suite specialty dining)
• Complimentary Deluxe Beverage Package
• Complimentary mini bar
• Complimentary pressing and laundry services
• Still and sparkling water replenished daily
• Luxury pillows
• Priority entrance to onboard activities

More Star Class tips & tricks:

• A beginner’s guide to sailing in Star Class
• What is Star Class?

More cruise advice

• What is the best room on a cruise ship?
• Picking a Cruise Line and Ship
• The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean cabins and suites
• 25 best Royal Caribbean tips, tricks & hidden secrets
• 5 Costly lessons learned on a cruise (and how to avoid them!)
• 15 really cool things to do that you can only find on Royal Caribbean cruise ships
• Ultimate Cruise Packing List

Understanding Covid test requirements needed for a Royal Caribbean cruise can be a bit confusing. In reality, though, taking a Covid test before your cruise just requires a little planning upfront.

Certain countries and regions have relaxed Covid-19 requirements whereas others maintain more strict requirements. Because of this, each port may have its own testing requirements, so it's important to ensure you're following the requirements of your cruise departure port.

In this guide:

• Testing requirements by departure port
• What does X days before sail date mean?
• Where can I get my Covid test?

Cruises departing from United States homeports with no port stops in Bermuda or Canada:

Guests sailing from the United States homeports (excluding itineraries visiting Canada or Bermuda) should adhere to the following guidelines:

Cruises 5 nights or less:

• Unvaccinated guests aged 2-11 must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 3 days of the sail date. A second test is no longer required at the terminal.
• Fully vaccinated guests, regardless of age, no longer need to test for sailing lengths of 5 nights or less. 

Cruises 6 nights or more:

• All guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 3 days of the sail date. A second test is no longer required for any guests at the terminal.

Cruises departing from United States homeports with port stops in Bermuda or Canada:

Testing requirement on all cruises regardless of length:

• Vaccinated guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 2 days of the sail date.
• Unvaccinated guests aged 2-11 must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 3 days before boarding day. Only PCR tests will be accepted for unvaccinated kids, and the test cannot be taken on boarding day.
• Unvaccinated guests aged 2-11 will have another COVID-19 test taken at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.

Cruises departing from Vancouver, Canada

• Vaccinated guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 2 days of the sail date.
• Unvaccinated guests aged 2-11 must present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 3 days of the sail date. Only PCR tests will be accepted for unvaccinated kids, and the test cannot be taken on boarding day.
• Unvaccinated guests aged 2-11 will have another COVID-19 test taken at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.

Note: PCR tests for unvaccinated children are the only test to adhere to an hour requirement as opposed to days. Tests must be taken no more than 72 hours prior to scheduled boarding time on embarkation day. For example, if you are scheduled to board at 12PM on Friday, your test must be taken after 11:59AM on Tuesday.

All travelers arriving in Canada by air or sea will also have to fill out a form on the ArriveCAN app.

Related: How to use the ArriveCAN app for your Alaska cruise

Cruises departing from European homeports (Excluding Greece and Spain)

• All vaccinated guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 2 days of the sail date.
• Unvaccinated kids aged 2-17 must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 1 day of the sail date.

Cruises departing from Athens, Greece

• All guests aged 2 and older must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 2 days of the sail date.
• Telehealth tests are not accepted on cruises departing from Athens.

In addition to the pre-cruise test, guests age 12 and up who are considered not up to date with their vaccination, or are not vaccinated with an EMA-authorized vaccine, will require additional testing to be completed onboard at their own expense, in order to go ashore in select countries.

Guests 12 and up that are not up to date with their vaccinations will take an antigen test within one day before disembarkation day. Guests will be notified onboard about how to register for this test. The cost of the test is at their own expense, conducted onboard by a licensed third-party testing provider at a cost of $55 USD per test. Royal Caribbean does not retain any part of the testing costs.

Cruises departing from Spain

• Vaccinated guests who are up to date must show a negative result for a PCR or an antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding day.
• Vaccinated guests who are not up to date will have a 1 day window to take this test. Kids age 5 to 11 who have been vaccinated may follow the testing protocols for vaccinated guests.
• Unvaccinated kids aged 2-11 must present a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or antigen) taken within 1 day of the sail date.

Note: To see if you are up to date on vaccinations, check here.

Cruises departing from Australia

Testing protocols have not yet been released for Australia cruises. However, Royal Caribbean has stated that it is likely that all guests will need to present a negative Covid-19 test.

Cruises departing from Singapore

• All guests must present a negative COVID-19 test result (nasal swab or saliva test) taken within 1 day of the sail date. Test results must be in English.

What does "within X days of the sail date" mean?

Depending on your departure port and vaccination status, you will have to take a Covid test 1, 2, or 3 days prior to your sail date.

Test required within 3 days of sail date:

• If your cruise leaves on Sunday, you can take your Covid test Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
• If your cruise leaves on Monday, you can take your Covid test Friday, Saturday, Sunday, or Monday
• If your cruise leaves on Tuesday, you can take your Covid test Saturday, Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday
• If your cruise leaves on Wednesday, you can take your Covid test Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
• If your cruise leaves on Thursday, you can take your Covid test Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday
• If your cruise leaves on Friday, you can take your Covid test Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday
• If your cruise leaves on Saturday, you can take your Covid test Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, or Saturday

Test required within 2 days of sail date:

• If your cruise leaves on Sunday, you can take your Covid test Friday, Saturday, or Sunday
• If your cruise leaves on Monday, you can take your Covid test Saturday, Sunday, or Monday
• If your cruise leaves on Tuesday, you can take your Covid test Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday
• If your cruise leaves on Wednesday, you can take your Covid test Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
• If your cruise leaves on Thursday, you can take your Covid test Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday
• If your cruise leaves on Friday, you can take your Covid test Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday
• If your cruise leaves on Saturday, you can take your Covid test Thursday, Friday, or Saturday

Test required within 1 day of sail date:

• If your cruise leaves on Sunday, you can take your Covid test Saturday or Sunday
• If your cruise leaves on Monday, you can take your Covid test Sunday or Monday
• If your cruise leaves on Tuesday, you can take your Covid test Monday or Tuesday
• If your cruise leaves on Wednesday, you can take your Covid test Tuesday or Wednesday
• If your cruise leaves on Thursday, you can take your Covid test Wednesday or Thursday
• If your cruise leaves on Friday, you can take your Covid test Thursday or Friday
• If your cruise leaves on Saturday, you can take your Covid test Friday or Saturday

The amount of hours that have passed since your test do not matter. Royal Caribbean counts tests by days, not hours, so there is no need to worry if it has been ~50 hours instead of 48 hours since your test by the time you board the ship.

Where can I get my Covid test?

The easiest and most convenient option for travelers who are eligible to take an antigen test is to order the Abbott BinaxNow Ag Card Home Test. This is a telehealth option in which a proctor watches and guides you through the Covid test. Tests come in packs of 2-6, and it is recommended to order more than you need in case of any discrepancies within the tests (missing items, invalid result, etc.).

Note: Do not use the regular Abbot BinaxNow test sold over the counter, as it does not have a proctor watching you take the test.

Pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens also offer rapid and PCR Covid tests. Search for appointments near you prior to the cruise to ensure you can get one booked. These tests are free. The ease of finding a Covid appointment at a pharmacy can change with demand and your location, so check early to see if this option will work for you.

In addition to the at-home test and pharmacies, Covid tests can be found at urgent care locations, pop-up testing sites, health clinics, and more. Research what is offered in your local area far in advance to ensure you do not run into any surprises when trying to schedule a Covid test.

Our recommendation, when possible, is to take a rapid antigen test as opposed to a PCR test. Results come back much quicker, so there is no need to worry about not receiving the results in time.

Covid test results should include the following:

• Your name
• Date the test was taken
• Type of Covid test
• Negative result
• Lab’s CLIA or Certification number
• Address of the lab

How do I present my test results?

Test results can be shown either on a phone or printed paper at the cruise terminal.

Additional testing requirements by port

Most countries have gotten rid of inbound testing requirements when arriving by land, air, or sea. Before your cruise, however, double check to ensure no negative COVID-19 test results are needed upon arrival to your destination.

Here are the websites of the current protocols by country:

• United States
• Canada
• England
• Greece
• Spain
• Italy
• The Netherlands
• Denmark
• Israel
• Cyprus
• Barbados
• Australia
• Singapore

Mazatlán is the most populous cruise port visited in the Mexican Riviera. Known for its historic city center, beachfront boardwalk, and seascapes, this coastal city offers plenty of activities for any budget and interest.

Unlike other Mexican Riviera cruise ports like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, you may not have even heard of Mazatlán before booking a cruise. Located directly across from the Sea of Cortez in the state of Sinaloa, Mazatlán can offer a more authentic experience than some of Mexico’s busiest resort towns.

Offering a mix of nature, city, history, and culture, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Mazatlán, Mexico on a cruise.

Visit Old Mazatlán

Mazatlán’s most historic district, Centro Histórico, is a walkable district with public squares, monuments, and colorful streets.

The architecture of Mazatlán’s historic district is diverse with Spanish, French, British, and German influences. Colorful buildings line the streets with an abundance of cafes, bakeries, bars, restaurants, art galleries, and museums.

One of the main squares in the Centro Histórico of Mazatlán is Plaza Machado, which is a hub of activity during any day in Mazatlán as both tourists and locals alike spend time relaxing and taking in the culture around them.

Related: Mexican Riviera cruise guide

Hike El Faro

Some of the best views of Mazatlán can be found from El Faro, a lighthouse on the peak of Cerro del Crestón, located over 500 feet above sea level near downtown Mazatlán.

Hiking El Faro is doable for all fitness levels, as you’re able to hike at any pace, although it can be a bit steep. The hike is free, takes around 15-30 minutes to reach the top, and includes about 350 steps! 

It’s recommended to begin the hike in the morning to avoid strong heat. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mazatlán and the Pacific ocean.

Walk the Malecón

Mazatlán’s malecón (boardwalk) is massive, spanning several miles along the waterfront. The boardwalk makes an excellent place to enjoy a peaceful stroll while taking in local culture and scenery.

Along the malecón are restaurants, bars, monuments, shops, and beaches. Visitors can easily spend an entire day strolling along the boardwalk and stopping to taste local cuisine, grabbing drinks, or relaxing on the beach.

Visit Angela Peralta Theater

Visiting a theater may not be the first activity that comes to mind when planning a port day in Mexico, but for culture aficionados, the neo-classical Angela Peralta Theater is not to be missed.

The theater originally opened in 1874 and has been home to a variety of performances since, from operas to burlesque shows, Carnival events, comedy shows, movies, and more.

While it’s not guaranteed that there will be a performance available at the theater while your ship is in port, the theater is open to the public during the day for around $1 per person. While visiting, you’ll be able to explore the intricate design of the opera house while learning more about Mazatlán’s artistic history (and you’ll get a break from the sun!).

Visit Mazatlán’s cathedral

Located in Centro Histórico’s Plaza de la República is La Cathedral Basílica de la Inmaculada, the main religious building in Mazatlán.

This baroque style cathedral is worth a visit when walking through Mazatlán’s historic neighborhood, as visitors can admire the ornate, beautiful architecture both inside and outside the cathedral.

Watch the cliff divers of Mazatlán

Something unique to check out in Mazatlán are the local clavadistas (cliff divers) jumping off a 45 ft. platform into a small, shallow area of water.

Located in downtown Mazatlán, these impressive divers put on a show for visitors as they skillfully leap from the cliffs into the ocean below. It is customary to tip the divers when watching their spectacular skills.

Take a boat tour of the coast

While it might seem silly to disembark a cruise ship and immediately get on another boat for a shore excursion, exploring Mazatlán on the water can actually be an amazing way to spend your day.

Boat tours offer a stress-free, no-planning-needed way to experience Mazatlán with the added bonus of being able to swim, kayak, snorkel, and relax at the beach.

Related: When is the best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera?

Relax at Stone Island

Stone Island is a peninsula located off the south coast of Old Mazatlán and is a wonderful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mazatlán’s city center.

Stone Island has long stretches of sandy beaches that are much quieter than the city beaches just a short distance away. A few hotels and restaurants are found on the island, but with far fewer people and amenities, expect a more rustic, relaxed feel than a busy resort town.

The beach at Stone Island is relatively calm, making for a nice place to swim, rent water sport equipment, or just relax under a beach umbrella. Be sure to enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants located on the beach, too, where you can taste fresh seafood and other Mexican specialties.

Swim in the natural pool

Another unique activity to enjoy in Mazatlán is La Carpa Olivera, a saltwater swimming pool built into Mazatlán’s coastline. Surrounded by rocks and choppy waters, the swimming pool provides a safe swimming environment while maintaining a feeling of swimming in the surrounding ocean.

The pool originally opened in 1915, although it was damaged by a hurricane in the mid 20th century prior to being reconstructed in the 21th century. Today, just like in the early 1900s, the pool is a popular attraction on the malecón in Mazatlán for both locals and visitors.

Eat your way through Mazatlán

While “tasting local cuisine” is included on most of our Top 10 lists, it is always one of the best activities you can do while visiting a new country or port on a cruise.

Mazatlán has no shortage of restaurants, street food, and cafes to choose from during your day in the city. Be sure to try aguachiles, a shrimp cocktail similar to ceviche, and chorreadas, which are thick, fried tortillas with meat, onions, and cheese.

Signing up for a food tour can be another great way to experience Mazatlán’s culinary scene. Both Royal Caribbean and independent tour operators offer food and walking tours where you’ll be able to learn more about Mazatlán while tasting food from a variety of local restaurants and vendors.

The picturesque islands of The Bahamas are among the world’s most commonly visited cruise ports. A neighbor to the United States, the proximity and beauty of The Bahamas makes the country an attractive destination for cruise ships, and you’ll find nearly every Royal Caribbean ship offering cruises to this island nation.

Whether you’re planning your first cruise or are a seasoned cruiser, there’s a pretty big chance you’ll be sailing to The Bahamas at one point or another. Knowing the ins and outs of what it’s like to cruise in The Bahamas, from understanding where you’ll visit to knowing what to pack, can help make your cruise experience the best it can be.

Let’s take an in-depth look at everything you need to know before booking a cruise to The Bahamas.

In this guide:

• Why go on a Bahamas cruise
• Bahamas cruise ports
• Bahamas cruise itineraries
• Best time of year for a Bahamas cruise
• Which Royal Caribbean ships sail to The Bahamas?
• Cost of a Bahamas cruise
• What to pack for a Bahamas cruise
• Bahamas cruise FAQ

Why go on a Bahamas cruise

A major reason to go on a Bahamas cruise is to enjoy the country’s world-class beaches. Turquoise waters, soft sand, and amazing snorkeling are available at any cruise port in The Bahamas. Whether you choose to lounge on a beach chair, enjoy a day pass at a resort, book a catamaran tour, or snorkel at a shipwreck, you’ll find plenty of crystal-clear beaches to discover.

The proximity of The Bahamas to Florida means you can reach the islands on even the shortest of itineraries. Weekend cruises to The Bahamas are extremely popular for this reason, allowing for a quick getaway to relax and unwind.

In addition, visiting the Bahamas means tasting delicious local cuisine, such as conch fritters and rum cake, and observing local culture.

Plus, cruises to The Bahamas are offered on nearly all Royal Caribbean cruise ships and on itineraries as short as two nights to nine nights or longer! Because of this, you’ll see a huge range in cruise fares, so you’ll be able to find the perfect cruise for any budget.

Bahamas cruise ports

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island in The Bahamas, and it’s a favorite port for many cruisers. The island is packed with activities for all interests, from the tallest waterslide in North America to the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

Perfect Day at CocoCay has three main beaches: Chill Island, Harbor Beach, and South Beach. These beaches are free for all guests to enjoy and are lined with complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas. 

Guests looking to splurge can purchase a day pass to Hideaway Beach, an adults-only beach paradise, or Coco Beach Club, an exclusive, private beach club with an infinity pool, overwater cabanas, and an upscale Mediterranean-inspired restaurant.

A major perk of cruising to Perfect Day at CocoCay is that the island offers more than enough to do (and eat!) without spending anything extra. If you’re on a budget, Perfect Day at CocoCay makes for a cheap yet incredibly fun day in port.

Our Perfect Day at CocoCay tips:

• 41 Perfect Day at CocoCay tips, tricks, and secrets
• Coco Beach Club: Cost, tips & review
• Do’s & Don’ts of Perfect Day at CocoCay

Nassau

Nassau is one of the world’s busiest cruise ship ports. Located on New Providence Island, Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas and is known for its upscale resorts and plethora of beaches.

Most passengers visiting Nassau will opt for a beach day. There are a few beaches located within walking distance from port, the most easily accessible being Junkanoo Beach.

Many visitors to Nassau take a taxi to Paradise Island, where they’ll find the famous Atlantis Resort and pristine Cabbage Beach. Day trips to nearby islands, such as Blue Lagoon and Pearl Island, can also be great options when spending the day in Nassau.

Nassau also offers plenty of history to discover, too, with historic forts, monuments, and museums showcasing the island’s history.

Related: Best things to do in Nassau on a cruise

Grand Bahama Island (Freeport)

Grand Bahama is the most northwestern island in The Bahamas, located only 64 miles from Palm Beach, Florida. Cruises on Grand Bahama dock in the city of Freeport, the second largest city in The Bahamas with a population of around 24,000 people.

Like other Bahamas cruise ports, most passengers will spend the day on Grand Bahama Island at the beach. Beaches are located outside the port area, so an excursion or taxi ride is necessary to reach the island’s best beaches. 

Nature lovers can enjoy a tour of Lucayan National Park, where they’ll kayak through mangroves and learn about the park’s diverse ecosystem and geology. Tours of downtown Freeport are also available, which bring passengers to local markets and nearby beaches.

Other passengers may prefer to simply explore the port area, where there are plenty of food, drink, and shopping opportunities.

Bimini

Bimini is the closest island in The Bahamas to the United States, located around 50 miles from Miami, and comprises two main islands: North Bimini and South Bimini. The cruise port is on North Bimini, which is home to beaches, resorts, restaurants, and local shops in the island’s main town of Alice Town.

While Bimini is not the most common port stop on Royal Caribbean Bahamas itineraries, it offers a low-key, relaxing getaway for visitors looking to sunbathe, snorkel, or ride a golf cart around the island.

Popular shore excursions in Bimini include snorkeling at the SS. Sapona, one of the Caribbean’s most famous shipwrecks, spending the day at a beach resort, and tasting local cuisine.

Related: 21 best things to do in Bimini, Bahamas

Bahamas cruise itineraries

Shorter cruises

If you’re searching for a short getaway, you’ll find several Royal Caribbean ships offering 3 and 4-night cruises to The Bahamas. These itineraries visit both Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas, and are offered on Voyager or Freedom Class cruise ships.

These itineraries happen weekly (Monday-Friday for 4-night cruises and Friday-Monday for 3-night cruises) and are offered most commonly on Independence of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, and Liberty of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, only offers 3 and 4-night cruises to The Bahamas. Every cruise on Utopia of the Seas visits Perfect Day at CocoCay and most sailings visit Nassau, Bahamas. 

Southeast coast cruises

You don’t have to fly to Florida in order to cruise to The Bahamas. Several Royal Caribbean ships sail from the ports of Cape Liberty and Baltimore to The Bahamas.

Most cruises departing from the northeast will stop at a few ports along the southeast coast of the United States before visiting The Bahamas, such as Charleston, South Carolina and Orlando, Florida. These itineraries tend to be 7 or 8 nights.

Related: Guide to cruises from New York

Miscellaneous itineraries

Outside of short getaways and cruises from the northeast, you’ll find a variety of other itineraries visiting The Bahamas, most commonly with a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Both Western and Eastern Caribbean cruises often include a visit to The Bahamas in combination with stops in ports like Cozumel, Roatan, San Juan, St. Maarten, and Labadee. 

Best time of year for a Bahamas cruise

Weather

While The Bahamas is a year-round cruising destination, it’s important to remember that The Bahamas is located much further north than Caribbean cruise ports like Labadee and St. Thomas. In fact, The Bahamas is not technically even located within the Caribbean! Because of this, the islands can be prone to more temperature fluctuation than more southerly islands.

That being said, you’ll more than likely encounter comfortable temperatures at any time of year on a Bahamas cruise. Drier weather can be expected between November and April, with the rainiest months between June and September.

Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with the highest chance of storms between August and September. However, you shouldn’t necessarily avoid booking a cruise during hurricane season. Cruise ships will not sail through a hurricane. Instead, itineraries will be adjusted to avoid the storm.

Related: Cruising during hurricane season: Should you do it?

December and January can occasionally encounter colder temperatures due to the possibility of a cold front bringing choppy seas, strong winds, and temperatures in the 60s or low 70s.

While there’s no perfect time to cruise The Bahamas in terms of weather, the months of March, April, May, and November can see comfortable temperatures with less chance of rain.

Crowds

The Bahamas is a popular tourist destination at any time of the year, and you can usually expect multiple ships in port on any given day. Nassau alone can accommodate up to 7 cruise ships at one time!

The busiest times to cruise The Bahamas coincide with the school holiday calendar, so expect more crowds onboard and in port during spring break, summer, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, as well as during 3-day weekends throughout the year.

Additionally, if you’re choosing between a 3-night weekend cruise to The Bahamas and a 4-night cruise during the week, you’ll often find that the weekend cruises are much busier. Not only can there be a higher capacity onboard, but weekend cruises often have more of a party atmosphere compared to a relaxed vibe during the week.

Related: I tried my first 3-night weekend cruise, here’s how it went

Which Royal Caribbean ships sail to The Bahamas?

Due to the proximity of The Bahamas to Florida, you’ll see a large number of Royal Caribbean ships sailing to the islands year-round. In fact, you can currently book itineraries to The Bahamas on 23 Royal Caribbean ships (out of the fleet’s 28 ships!)

Therefore, when planning a Bahamas cruise, you have nearly endless possibilities when picking a cruise ship. If you are looking for the latest and greatest ship Royal Caribbean offers, you can visit The Bahamas on an Icon, Oasis, or Quantum Class cruise ship. If you’d prefer a more laid-back holiday, you’ll find even the smallest Royal Caribbean cruise ships visiting The Bahamas.

Related: 8 questions to ask yourself before picking a cruise ship

Cost of a Bahamas cruise

One of the best parts of cruising to The Bahamas is that you can often find fantastic deals, especially on shorter cruises. It’s not uncommon to find 3 or 4-night Bahamas cruises for as little as $575 for 2 adults in an interior room, including all taxes and fees.

Weeklong cruises often run around $1500-1700 total for 2 adults in an interior cabin on newer Royal Caribbean ships, whereas you can sometimes find prices as low as $1000-1200 for 7-night Bahamas cruises on older ships.

Because there are so many ships sailing to The Bahamas at any given time, you might even find cheap last-minute discounts available on sailings departing in the next few days or weeks.

Outside of cruise fare, you’ll also want to budget for gratuities as well as any cruise add-ons you plan to purchase, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, and dining packages.

Cruise add-on advice:

• Guide to picking the perfect Royal Caribbean shore excursion
• Is a cruise drink package worth it?
• How to know if you should buy a Royal Caribbean dining package

What to pack for a Bahamas cruise

Packing for The Bahamas usually means packing lightweight, breathable clothing perfect for a warm day at the beach or sunny day onboard. A swimsuit is a must as well as sundresses, shorts, and t-shirts. It can get extremely warm in the summer months, so packing breathable, more loosely-fitting clothing is recommended.

If you’re visiting The Bahamas in the winter, it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket and a pair of jeans. While you’ll most likely encounter favorable temperatures, there can be occasional cold fronts leading to temperatures around 70°F. This can feel chilly when at sea or near the beach, so packing layers can be helpful.

For a more in-depth look at what to pack (including a packing list!) read our guide on what to pack for a Bahamas cruise.

Bahamas cruise FAQ

What currency should I use in The Bahamas?

The official currency of The Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar, and the exchange rate between USD and Bahamian Dollar is 1:1. There’s no need to take out Bahamian Dollars ahead of time, as you can make purchases in USD (although you might receive change back in Bahamian Dollars).

Do I need to purchase shore excursions on a Bahamas cruise?

Like in all other cruise ports, it’s not necessary to book a shore excursion. However, we recommend having a general plan for your day in port before getting off the ship.

Ports like Nassau and Freeport aren’t the best ports for simply walking off the ship with no plan, as it can be confusing to figure out where to go and what to do. Doing research beforehand on what activities are available in port can help you better plan your day.

There are, however, many shore excursions available in Bahamas cruise ports. These usually involve visiting a beach, resort, snorkeling, island hopping, etc. You can book shore excursions through Royal Caribbean, which tend to be more expensive yet offer more security, or through an independent provider.

Planning a cruise? Check out our best tips & tricks:

• 8 cruise tips for first-time Royal Caribbean cruisers
• What’s included in your Royal Caribbean cruise fare
• 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own
• Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise
• Which is the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship?
• What is the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise?

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