Royal Caribbean Blog staff members cruised over 50 times in 2024, sailing on dozens of vessels to countless ports around the world. As professional cruisers, we certainly know the ins and outs of cruising. That being said, there are always lessons to be learned on any cruise vacation.

Whether sailing on the world’s largest ship, Icon of the Seas, or on one of Royal Caribbean’s smallest ships, Vision of the Seas, our team followed a wide range of cruise tips throughout the year.

From stocking up on cheap cruise essentials to opting out of Royal Caribbean's shore excursions, here are the top 10 cruise tips that worked for our Royal Caribbean Blog staffers in 2024.

Calista booked non-Royal Caribbean shore excursions to save money

Royal Caribbean Blog writer Calista took 7 cruises in 2024, trying out new ships like Utopia of the Seas and smaller, older vessels like Brilliance and Rhapsody of the Seas.

Her cruises took her around the Caribbean and Europe, visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, and Barcelona, among other ports.

Related: 8 lessons I learned from every Royal Caribbean cruise I took this year

On most itineraries, Calista booked shore excursions directly through Royal Caribbean. Yet while this was convenient, Royal Caribbean’s excursions are typically more expensive than tours booked through independent operators.

So, during a visit to Nassau, Calista branched out and booked an excursion through shoreexcursions.com instead of through Royal Caribbean.

She paid just $50 per person for an excursion to nearby Pearl Island, whereas Royal Caribbean charged over $100 for a similar tour!

There are several advantages to booking directly through the cruise line, including a guaranteed return to the ship even if the tour runs late. Nonetheless, Calista had a great experience booking a shore excursion on her own.

Matt packed USB hubs and a long charging cable for his cabin

Matt boarded Allure of the Seas in February for a short 3-night cruise—one of his 14 (and counting) cruises in 2024. While packing, he made the mistake of assuming his cabin would have abundant outlets. Instead, due to the cabin's older design, he found himself struggling to charge all of his electronics throughout the cruise.

After this experience, he packed extra USB hubs and a long charging cord for the rest of his cruises in 2024. Even though cabins on new ships like Icon of the Seas have more than enough charging ports, this is not the case for cabins on older ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet.

Note: While Royal Caribbean banned multi-plug outlet adapters earlier this year, USB hubs are still allowed.

Angie reserved entertainment shows before her cruise to ensure she had a seat

On select Royal Caribbean ships, guests can reserve entertainment shows ahead of their cruise on the Cruise Planner website. Because popular productions like Broadway shows can book up quickly, it’s recommended that guests reserve entertainment prior to embarkation day.

Earlier this year, social media strategist Angie took advantage of this advice while preparing for her Harmony of the Seas cruise. She made reservations online for the Broadway production of Grease and other popular events, which guaranteed her a seat.

During the cruise, Angie was grateful she took the time to make entertainment reservations ahead of time. When entering the theater, she noticed a long line of passengers waiting for standby seats at these events.

Related: 7 mistakes I saw passengers make on Harmony of the Seas

Instead of waiting in line and hoping for a seat at a fully-booked show, Angie could walk directly into the theater with her reservation.

Speaking of lines, Angie reserved Traditional Dining over My Time Dining to save time and hassle

The Main Dining Room is a staple of any cruise, and Angie enjoyed dozens of meals in the restaurant on her 8 cruises this year.

While booking a Royal Caribbean cruise, guests must choose between Traditional Dining and My Time Dining. Traditional Dining means passengers dine at the same time each evening with the same table and wait staff. My Time Dining, on the other hand, gives guests flexibility to reserve different dining times each evening.

Related: Royal Caribbean My Time Dining Versus Traditional Dining

Although My Time Dining allows for more flexibility, guests must remember to make dining reservations in advance. If not, they’ll be stuck waiting in line for an open table.

Angie almost always chooses Traditional Dining, and she was glad to have a guaranteed table and dining time each evening of her cruises. There was no need to make reservations individually for each dinner, and she never had to wait in a long line to enter the Main Dining Room.

Elizabeth tried an extra-cost activity on a port day for free

When writer Elizabeth cruised to Alaska earlier this year on Quantum of the Seas—one of 11 cruises in 2024—she was excited to try RipCord by iFLY, the ship’s indoor skydiving simulator. This activity is only available on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships, so trying the activity was a must for Elizabeth while onboard.

Related: I went on a 7-night cruise to Alaska. Here are 16 things that surprised me the most

However, RipCord by iFLY is unlike most Royal Caribbean activities in that it offers varied price options. On port days, the activity is complimentary for a 1-minute flight experience. Sea days, meanwhile, offer a 2-minute flight for nearly $100 per person.

Elizabeth wanted to save money, so she tried the skydiving simulator when her ship was docked in Icy Strait Point. The complimentary 1-minute experience allowed her to get a taste for the activity without spending extra.

Jenna booked her 2024 cruises with a travel agent, leading to savings and extra perks

Perhaps the most tried-and-true cruise tip we share at Royal Caribbean Blog is to book with a travel agent, and I followed this tip on each of my cruises in 2024.

As Royal Caribbean Blog’s video editor, I sailed on Royal Caribbean’s two newest ships this year: Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas. Although I typically book most travel, such as flights and hotels, on my own, I always book cruises with a trusted travel agent.

Related: Why first-time cruisers should use a Royal Caribbean travel agent

Booking with a travel agent meant I didn’t need to do anything myself, and I got extra perks like onboard credit and discounted rates along the way. On my Utopia of the Seas cruise, in fact, my travel agent scored an upgraded balcony cabin in a more central location than what I originally booked.

A good travel agent will cost you nothing extra, and it’s one of the most helpful cruise tips to follow.

Allie stocked up on cheap cruise essentials from Dollar Tree

Packing for a cruise can feel overwhelming, especially if you follow every packing list on the internet to a tee. That $30 pair of sandals and $300 underwater camera would be nice, of course, but there’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars on your cruise packing list.

Nonetheless, there are some essentials you do need to pack for a cruise, such as toiletries, and many cruisers also enjoy packing fun items like door decorations, too.

When Royal Caribbean Blog writer Allie was preparing for a cruise this year, she decided to shop at Dollar Tree for her cruise essentials. She purchased items like over-the-counter medication, magnetic clips, and travel-sized toiletries for just $1.25 each instead of spending significantly more at a store like Target.

Related: 5 Dollar Tree Items Cruisers Should Stock Up on Before Their Sailing

Sure, items may be more limited, but Allie was surprised how well this packing tip worked while cruising on a budget.

When sailing on the world’s largest cruise ship, Calista tried as many dining venues as possible

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas was, undoubtedly, the most anticipated cruise ship of 2024, and Calista had the opportunity to sail on the vessel this past summer.

As the biggest cruise ship in the world, Icon of the Seas boasts mind-blowing entertainment venues like the AquaDome and endless thrills at the ship’s Category 6 Waterpark. Aside from activities, though, are an abundance of dining venues, from casual grab-and-go spots to high-end restaurants.

Related: Icon of the Seas restaurant and dining guide

During Calista’s week on Icon of the Seas, she made it a point to try the ship’s diverse dining options. She loved the Mediterranean bowls at AquaDome Market and grab-and-go snacks at Pearl Cafe.

It’s easy to get into a routine of dining at only the Main Dining Room and Windjammer buffet, but trying a variety of restaurants while cruising ensures that each day’s dining experience is different from the last. Plus, you might discover a new favorite dish!

Elizabeth tried Royal Caribbean’s coffee card, allowing her to try new beverages

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package might be the most popular drink package—who doesn’t love unlimited cocktails, after all—but coffee lovers shouldn’t overlook the cruise line’s Cafe Select Coffee Card.

Elizabeth skipped a drink package on her recent cruise to Bermuda, instead opting for Royal Caribbean’s coffee card. For $36.58, the punch card entitled her to 15 espresso-based beverages throughout the cruise. As a plus, the card could be shared between Elizabeth and her travel partner (unlike a drink package).

Related: I tried the Royal Caribbean drink package nobody talks about. Why it's worth the money

With the card, the price per specialty coffee came out to around $2.43 per drink. Considering each drink could cost over $5 without the card, Elizabeth was pleased she gave it a try.

Matt arrived to his embarkation city with more than enough time to spare

European cruises are all the rage during the summer, and Matt was excited to head across the pond this past August for his own European adventure. Matt’s 7-night Spain and France cruise was set to depart from Southampton, so he made sure to arrive in London with plenty of time to spare before embarkation day.

If there’s just one piece of advice to follow when planning a cruise, it’s to always fly into your cruise embarkation city at least one day ahead of time.

Related: The worst part of flying to Europe could easily ruin half your cruise

Our staff members have heard far too many horror stories of cancelled flights, missed connections, and other travel mishaps en route to a cruise. Booking a flight the same day your cruise begins is risky; no one wants to risk missing their cruise altogether due to a travel delay.

Therefore, Matt arrived in London two days before embarkation day. Not only did this ensure he would make it to the port even if he encountered delays, but it also gave him time to recover from jet lag. As a plus, Matt had time to enjoy London’s highlights, too!

First-time cruisers may be scared of falling overboard, but veteran cruisers know there are far more frightening (and plausible) things to be afraid of on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

We wanted to find out the biggest fears among cruisers, so we posed the question to members of the Royal Caribbean Blog message boards. Over 40 cruisers responded, sharing their biggest rational—and irrational—fears.

Some cruisers are panicked at the thought of getting left behind in port, while others are more concerned about what they would do if they forgot their underwear at home.

Forget falling off a cruise ship—these are the 11 things cruisers are actually scared of while onboard.

Leaving their passport at home

If there’s one thing that can ruin a cruise vacation before it even begins, it’s forgetting your passport at home.

Lost luggage? Forgot your sunscreen? These mishaps may be unfortunate, but at the end of the day, items like clothing and toiletries are easily replaceable. Your passport, on the other hand, is the single most important item you need for a cruise vacation.

Related: Can I cruise without a passport?

Message board member BXcruiser mentioned how forgetting their passport at home is their ultimate cruise fear; they constantly check to make sure the passport is packed before leaving home.

User loki007 added to the discussion by explaining what happened when they once forgot their passport. Fortunately, they realized their mistake while staying at a hotel the evening before embarkation, but the 7-hour round trip drive to retrieve the passport was far from enjoyable.

Evacuating the ship in an emergency

Every cruiser knows they must complete Royal Caribbean’s safety drill on embarkation day, but for most, the thought of a real emergency never crosses their mind. Cruise ships rarely encounter major issues at sea, after all, and emergency evacuations are largely unheard of.

Nonetheless, there’s a reason that millions of passengers complete safety drills each year—an emergency is always a possibility. Whether the ship is taking on water or a fire starts onboard, some cruisers stress about what an emergency evacuation could entail.

Message board member Geezer Of The Seas expressed his concerns, stating that “somehow, I don’t envision the real thing going as smoothly as the drills the crews perform periodically.”

Being left behind in port

We’ve all seen videos of frantic cruisers sprinting back to their cruise ship before it leaves port. Dubbed pier runners, these cruisers are frequently the target of jokes in the cruise industry. Several Royal Caribbean Blog message board members mentioned missing the ship as their biggest cruise fear.

It’s important to be cognizant of time while in port, as it’s crucial to return back to the ship in time. With the exception of those on shore excursions booked through Royal Caribbean, the cruise ship will not wait for late passengers. Those guests who miss the ship’s departure will need to make their own arrangements to meet up with the ship in the next port of call.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship?

Moral of the story? Keep an eye on the time in port, and make note of whether your ship is following the port’s local time or ship time to ensure you get back onboard with plenty of time to spare.

Not making it to the embarkation city

Not getting back to your cruise ship before it leaves a port of call is a common cruise fear, but what about missing your cruise ship’s first departure altogether?

User smokeybandit explained how their biggest concern is getting to the port in the first place, particularly during the winter. User JimnKathy shared a similar remark, stating how “I never feel comfortable until the plane lands at our port of departure. Commercial air travel is SO unreliable these days.”

One of our most tried and true cruise tips at Royal Caribbean Blog is arriving at your embarkation city at least one day before your cruise begins. Even still, some veteran cruisers remain wary of travel delays that could cause them to miss the ship despite proper planning.

Something bad happening at home

Royal Caribbean Blog message board user RockerDom31 mentioned how their biggest cruise fear is something happening at home, such as an injury or death in the family. Many cruisers can relate to this fear, and it’s important to always be prepared for the worst case scenario.

No one wants to think of an emergency occurring at home while on a cruise, but it’s always a possibility. To be prepared for the worst, we recommend purchasing travel insurance before your cruise.

Related: Travel insurance for a cruise: Why you need it

Many travel insurance policies offer trip interruption coverage in case of the death of a family member back home, which may cover costs associated with an early departure from your ship when possible.

Plus, travel insurance will keep cruisers covered if something happens to themselves on a cruise, whether a sudden illness or emergency medical evacuation.

Losing luggage before (or after) boarding the ship

Frequent cruisers are meticulous when packing for a cruise, ensuring they pack the perfect outfit for each formal night or a day at the beach. Yet what if your luggage goes missing?

For several users on our message boards, losing luggage takes the top spot on their list of cruise fears.

Member asquared17 wrote how one of their biggest fears is watching their luggage float on the water as the ship pulls away from the cruise terminal. Traveling Mike shared similar sentiments, explaining how he would have trouble finding well-fitting clothing at the last minute if his luggage were to be lost.

Related: 6 tips to help keep a cruise line from losing your luggage

PhantomWolf shared a tip for those with luggage concerns, recommending that cruisers place AirTags in their luggage prior to leaving for a cruise. This way, cruisers can track down their bags on the chance they are misplaced.

Bad weather before, during, and after the cruise

Everyone wants a cool breeze and sunny skies when cruising, but weather will always be somewhat unpredictable regardless of where a cruise takes place.

From heat waves in the Mediterranean to hurricane season in the Caribbean, cruisers often express concern about encountering bad weather on a cruise.

Board user SPS explained how bad weather is his biggest fear on a cruise. Storms, winter travel, and cooler-than-expected weather can cause travel delays, missed ports of call, and miserably cold days at sea.

Royal Caribbean tries its best to complete every itinerary as scheduled, but out-of-the-ordinary weather patterns can occasionally put a damper on even the most anticipated cruise vacations.

The bar running out of a favorite drink

On a lighter note, what if your favorite beverage is out of stock on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

You can try dozens of unique drinks onboard a Royal Caribbean ship, whether a classic Cucumber Martini or tropical-inspired Parrot Punch. Some cruisers, though, prefer sticking to their favorites.

Related: 21 drinks to order if you have a cruise drink package

Message board user Ryan79 stated how the scariest thing that could happen on a cruise would be “the bar running out of Kraken for my lava flow!” and, after 55 cruises, Mike45orlando mentioned that “all the bars running out of your beer of choice is our biggest nightmare.”

Fortunately, even if the cruise ship does run out of your favorite drink, there are more than enough other intriguing choices available.

Getting food poisoning

There’s nothing glamorous about food poisoning—no one wants to spend their entire cruise in the bathroom! As expected, many cruisers are fearful of catching norovirus or another gastrointestinal illness onboard.

User Pattycruise said her biggest fear is learning about multiple cases of food poisoning through her sailing’s Facebook group.

“Reading in the Facebook group for your sailing that numerous people have food poisoning... I had the ‘joy’ of norovirus on disembarkation day on one of those sailings.”

Our advice? Make sure to wash your hands frequently while onboard. It’s a good idea to carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you, too, which you can use after handling commonly-touched items like buffet tongs and door handles.

Losing car keys for the way home

In all the excitement of embarkation day, some cruisers may toss their car keys into the first convenient place they find in their luggage. Come disembarkation day, however, remembering where they put their car keys can be challenging.

Member Auto mentioned losing his car keys as one of his biggest cruise fears, having experienced this himself after one sailing.

“We got to the parking garage to go home and I can’t find the keys anywhere,” he explained. “After about 10 minutes of searching, I finally found them in a pocket of a backpack I have never used before (or since). Not a great feeling.”

For those driving to the cruise port, make sure to put your keys in an easy-to-remember place.

Looking at your bill at the end of the cruise

Finally, one of the scariest moments all cruisers can relate to is looking at the final bill at the end of the cruise.

While onboard, it’s easy to swipe your SeaPass card without much thought. Another $15 cocktail? Sure, why not! The $200 spa treatment is only $150 today? What a steal!

Related: How much does a cruise cost?

After days of spending—and treating yourself—comes the dreaded moment of receiving your final bill.

To avoid intense sticker shock at the end of the cruise, keep an eye on your onboard charges via the Royal Caribbean app. If the number frightens you just halfway through the cruise, that’s a great reminder to cut back on your spending.

This year I tried my first Celebrity cruise after over twenty Royal Caribbean cruises, and there were a few things I wish I knew before setting foot onboard.

It’s easy to stick to the status quo when it comes to cruising. Even still, I always aim to try something new on every cruise vacation, whether trying a new-to-me cruise line or simply booking a type of cabin I haven’t booked before.

Exploring something new, of course, comes with learning curves. So when I booked my first-ever Celebrity cruise this past summer—a 7-night Norwegian Fjords itinerary on Celebrity Silhouette—I expected to encounter a few growing pains.

I wasn’t sure what to expect with the cruise line’s atmosphere, dining experience, and onboard activities, but I was excited to see what Celebrity Cruises was all about.

After my week onboard, these are the seven things I wish I knew before I set foot on a Celebrity ship.

Loyalty perks are plentiful, but be sure to read the fine print

Before I set foot on a Celebrity cruise, I made sure to match my loyalty status with Royal Caribbean to Celebrity Cruises. The two lines offer a status matching program, and my Diamond Plus status with Royal Caribbean meant I qualified for Elite Plus, the second highest tier in Celebrity’s Captain’s Club program.

As an Elite Plus member, I received excellent perks during my Celebrity cruise, including free drinks during the ship’s daily happy hour, access to exclusive events, and discounts on extras like specialty dining and wifi packages.

Even with these lucrative perks, I wish I knew to read the fine print of each loyalty benefit. The happy hour, for instance, only offers a very limited menu of beverages, and not every bar onboard participates in the daily event.

Related: Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club loyalty program info, tips & secrets

In addition, while I could receive two complimentary bags of laundry with my status, I didn’t realize the benefit’s stringent limitations. As I was about to send a bag of dirty clothes to the ship’s laundry services on the fifth day of my cruise, I realized the benefit had expired—it was not offered within three days of disembarkation.

If I knew to read the fine print, I would have had a better idea of the ins and outs of each loyalty benefit.

I wish I knew not to wait until the end of the cruise to try new venues

Like most of today’s modern cruise ships, Celebrity Silhouette boasts numerous bars, lounges, entertainment venues, and onboard activities to keep passengers busy during their time onboard.

Throughout my weeklong cruise, however, I found myself sticking to the same venues, whether catching a game at Craft Social—Celebrity Cruises’ sports bar—or enjoying a gorgeous view of Norway from the Sunset Bar.

It wasn’t until the final night of my cruise that I came across the Ensemble Lounge, a low-key, cozy bar offering live music and an elegant cocktail menu.

The Ensemble Lounge was far less busy than venues like the Martini Bar and Café al Bacio, and I was impressed by the performance from the instrumentalist and vocalist.

Related: Celebrity Cruises Drink Package Info, Tips, Pros & Cons

Almost immediately, I regretted not finding the lounge sooner, and it made me wonder what else I missed out on by sticking to the same familiar lounges all week long.

On my next Celebrity cruise, I’ll be sure to check out more venues around the ship at the start of the cruise rather than the end.

I wish I knew the price was comparable to Royal Caribbean

Celebrity Cruises is a premium cruise line, which is generally considered a step above mass market lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

Knowing this, I expected cruise fares on Celebrity ships to be moderately higher than those on Royal Caribbean. As someone who often cruises on a budget, I wrote Celebrity off as “too expensive” for my travel style.

Related: How much does a cruise cost?

As it turns out, my preconceived notions about Celebrity Cruises’ pricing was completely wrong. I began planning my European cruise, and I was surprised to see Celebrity’s pricing comparable to Royal Caribbean’s.

When I first booked the cruise, I paid just $1,830 for two guests in an interior cabin, which was comparable to the $1,858 I spent on a Royal Caribbean cruise to Europe two years prior. Although I ended up adding a third guest to the cabin and upgrading to a balcony, I was still impressed with Celebrity’s pricing.

I only wish I knew to check Celebrity Cruises’ prices for previous cruise vacations instead of assuming the premium line would be out of my budget.

I wish I knew about all of the live cooking stations at the buffet

One regret from my Celebrity cruise is that I didn’t know about all of the diverse cooking stations at Oceanview Cafe, the cruise line’s signature buffet.

Buffets are a staple on any cruise ship, but Celebrity’s buffet is particularly impressive, offering a wide selection of made-to-order cooking stations. Everything from a panini station to custom pastas and charred-to-order crème brûlées were available on Celebrity Silhouette.

Prior to embarking the ship, I didn’t realize the breadth of stations that would be available. I unknowingly overlooked these stations during my first few buffet meals, and it was only later in the cruise that I realized just how many choices were offered.
Next time, I’ll know to try all of the various stations to better customize my dining experience.

I wish I knew to try more restaurants

Speaking of dining, one of my regrets from my Celebrity cruise was not trying one of the cruise line’s specialty restaurants.

Like most cruise ships, Celebrity Silhouette offers a mix of restaurants that are included in guests’ cruise fares and those that come with an extra charge.

I often treat myself to specialty dining meals when cruising, but I decided against it on my first Celebrity sailing. Having already spent a hefty chunk of change flying to Europe and booking three nights in Amsterdam, I wanted to save money by sticking to included dining venues.

I stuck to this money-saving plan during my week onboard, but I occasionally found myself regretting my choice. It wasn’t until I got onboard that I realized the variety of specialty dining available, from technology-focused meals at Le Petit Chef to outdoor dining at The Porch.

Related: 5 savvy ways I saved money on my first Celebrity cruise

Prior to my cruise, I wish I knew I might want to try these dining options. If I had, I would have budgeted for a few specialty meals or purchased a dining package ahead of time.

I wish I knew there was limited storage in the cabin

I had few complaints about the spacious balcony cabin I booked for my Celebrity Silhouette cruise. Despite the cabin’s slight obstructed view, it was a comfortable place to rest and unwind during my week onboard.

Nonetheless, there was one aspect of my cabin I didn’t love—the storage space.

Related: 30 cruise cabin hacks that cruisers love

Although older cruise cabins tend to lack features like storage and ample electrical outlets, cabins on ships built after 2010 usually boast more modern features. Celebrity Silhouette was built in 2012, so I assumed there would be adequate storage space in the cabin.

Unfortunately, I was disappointed with the storage space available. While there were three drawers in the cabin’s dresser, the only other storage space—aside from the closet—were two shelves above the bed. I found these shelves too high for easy access.

Sharing the cabin with two relatives, it was difficult to keep our belongings separated and organized. Looking back, I wish I had brought easy-to-pack items like a hanging shoe organizer and magnetic hooks to keep the cabin less cluttered during the week.

Finally, I wish I knew to arrive at activities earlier

Having cruised with Royal Caribbean so many times, I’ve become accustomed to the cruise line’s regularly scheduled programming. Whether the Quest adult game show, Harry Potter trivia, or live guitar music at the pub, most Royal Caribbean cruises offer similar activities.

While onboard my first Celebrity cruise, though, I was pleased to see new-to-me activities when browsing the Cruise Planner. I was intrigued by activities like the Musical Murder Mystery game show and Olympic curling, and I couldn’t wait to try them out.

Yet if I had known beforehand, I would have arrived at onboard activities significantly earlier than I did. When I tried to attend the watercolor painting class, for example, I was turned away due to the activity reaching maximum capacity.

On my next Celebrity cruise, I’ll make it a point to show up to activities at least twenty minutes before they are set to begin.

I’ve cruised to Alaska five times—each on a different route—and I thought one cruise itinerary was far better than the rest.

Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, with over 1.5 million passengers visiting the state this past season. The vast majority of Alaska cruises, and all of Royal Caribbean’s itineraries, depart from either Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia.

Itineraries vary from sailing to sailing, but all cruises offer a somewhat similar experience. Virtually all itineraries visit Juneau, with most stopping at ports like Skagway, Sitka, and Victoria, too. Yet even though itineraries are similar, the slight differences in each are enough to make them distinguishable from one another.

Related: 10 things to know before you book an Alaska cruise

Having cruised to Alaska five times in the past four years, I’ve found I prefer certain ports and itineraries over others. While I wouldn’t go as far to say there’s a “bad” Alaska cruise itinerary, one of my five cruises to Alaska offered the most spectacular itinerary of them all.

I tried a roundtrip Alaska cruise first, and I was immediately hooked

Back in 2021, I headed to Seattle to board my first Alaska cruise, a 7-night itinerary on Ovation of the Seas. It was my third cruise ever, and my first outside of the Caribbean region. Compared to the tropical Caribbean, I found that Alaska offered a totally unique cruise experience.

During my week onboard, I was astonished by Alaska’s landscapes and historic ports. I marveled at glaciers amongst the state’s narrow fjords, hiked through the Tongass National Forest, and caught a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway.

Related: Best things to do on an Alaska cruise

Alaska’s plethora of outdoor activities—along with its stunning nature—really opened my eyes to what a cruise could be. I found I preferred the itinerary over Caribbean cruises, and I couldn’t wait to head back the following year.

For my second Alaska cruise, I booked a one-way, port-intensive itinerary

I loved my first Alaska cruise experience so much that I planned to book a second sailing to the Last Frontier. So, when I came across an ultra-cheap Alaska cruise deal the following summer, I booked the itinerary without hesitation.

The second time around, however, I would be trying something new. Instead of a roundtrip cruise from Seattle, I booked a one-way itinerary on one of Royal Caribbean’s oldest ships, Radiance of the Seas.

Related: I tried the cheapest Alaska cruise I could find: here's how it went

The cruise was set to depart from Vancouver, British Columbia and end in Seward, Alaska. Not only would the itinerary offer an additional port stop in Alaska, but it also included a scenic sailing around Hubbard Glacier. As another plus, ending the cruise in Seward meant I could explore Alaska’s interior after disembarking, whether on a Royal Caribbean Cruisetour or on my own.

All that being said, I still had hesitations. I wondered whether or not the one-way itinerary would be worth the extra travel time. There were no direct flights available from my home airport to Vancouver, and getting home after the cruise would be more challenging, too, as it required a long travel day from Anchorage.

Nonetheless, the itinerary intrigued me, and I figured it would be worth the longer travel times to and from the ship.

Luckily, the one-way itinerary was just as majestic as I hoped it would be

As it turned out, the minor inconveniences of getting to and from the ship were well worth the effort.

The one-way itinerary meant I visited four Alaska cruise ports in one week—Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, and Icy Strait Point. I felt this offered a better value than roundtrip cruises from Seattle, which usually only visit three ports in Alaska.

Related: Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise guide

I also loved ending the cruise in Seward, which brought me closer to some of the most famous national parks in the United States. Even though I didn’t have time to spend extra days in Alaska, I loved spending disembarkation day in Anchorage before my flight home. For those interested in exploring Alaska’s interior before or after their cruise, booking a one-way itinerary is a no-brainer.

Unfortunately, our scheduled visit to Hubbard Glacier was canceled due to poor weather. This was, of course, out of our control, but I’m sure visiting the glacier would have made the one-way itinerary even more remarkable.

The next year I cruised to Alaska three more times, but the one-way itinerary remained my favorite

Somewhat unexpectedly, I ended up cruising to Alaska three separate times in the summer of 2023. An early-season cruise deal in May and two family vacations in June brought me back to the state again and again—all on roundtrip itineraries from Seattle.

All three itineraries were relatively similar, stopping at three ports in Alaska along with a visit to Victoria, British Columbia. Two of the cruises included a glacier viewing day, with a Princess Cruises’ itinerary visiting Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve.

Related: Royal Caribbean vs Princess to Alaska: Which cruise line is better?

Glacier Bay is often considered the crown jewel of Alaska port visits, and the park certainly lived up to the hype. Our ship sailed past multiple glaciers in one day, and National Park Service rangers joined the ship to give lectures about the park. Nevertheless, I found I still preferred cruising to Alaska on a one-way itinerary over these roundtrip sailings.

To me, you can’t beat the chance to start or end your cruise in Southcentral Alaska, providing convenient access to Denali National Park & Preserve and Kenai Fjords National Park.

Plus, despite my bad luck with the weather, the scheduled visits to Hubbard Glacier are a major drawing point of one-way cruises. This is especially true if cruising on Royal Caribbean; the cruise line does not have access to Glacier Bay, so Hubbard Glacier is a great alternative.

All in all, Alaska’s remote location makes one-way itineraries worth the extra effort

For many cruisers, visiting Alaska is something they will do just once in their lifetime, and truthfully, there’s no right or wrong Alaska cruise route. When I cruised to Alaska for the first time, I was awestruck by the state’s geography, culture, and cuisine. I could have cared less about whether or not I picked the “right” itinerary for the cruise.

Related: Best Alaska cruises for every travel style

So, if you’ve booked an Alaska cruise on a roundtrip itinerary from Seattle, don’t feel as if you’ve made the wrong choice. For most passengers, these itineraries offer a perfect first glimpse into what the state has to offer. In addition, the majority of these cruises are on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships, which offer countless activities, dining options, cabin categories, and entertainment onboard.

Personally, though, after cruising to Alaska five times, I would choose a one-way itinerary for my next sailing. There are downsides, of course, including fewer direct flights to board the ship and the fact that only older ships tend to sail these itineraries.

Despite these drawbacks, I still find one-way itineraries to offer a more in-depth, immersive Alaska cruise experience.

2025 is set to be an exciting year for Royal Caribbean’s Alaska cruises. Four ships will sail in the region from May to September, visiting historic ports and magnificent glaciers throughout the Last Frontier.

If you’re considering an Alaska cruise in 2025, it’s helpful to know the ins and outs of each ship sailing to the region. Not all Royal Caribbean cruise ships are created equal, after all. Understanding the key differences between the vessels will help you pick the best ship for your cruise vacation.

Let’s jump in and compare the four Royal Caribbean cruise ships sailing to Alaska in 2025.

Quantum of the Seas

Homeport: Seattle, Washington (Monday departures)
Ports: Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Victoria, Sitka, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, Skagway

Quantum of the Seas will return to Alaska in 2025 for her fourth consecutive cruise season in the region, offering 7-night roundtrip itineraries from Seattle. Each week, itineraries visit three Alaska cruise ports along with a stop in Victoria, British Columbia. One shorter, 5-night itinerary is offered in May.

Related: All about Quantum Class ships

Most itineraries include a scenic sailing to Dawes Glacier. To get there, passengers will transit through the stunning Endicott Arm fjord.

As a Quantum Class ship, Quantum of the Seas boasts Royal Caribbean’s most popular amenities and attractions, making the vessel an excellent choice for families.

Adults will love features like the thermal suite—perfect for staying warm in chilly Alaska—along with technology-focused production shows in the Two70 venue.

Kids, on the other hand, can enjoy thrilling attractions like the indoor skydiving simulator, rock climbing wall, and bumper cars.

Quantum of the Seas is well-appointed with pool options for a cold-weather cruise, too. Aside from an outdoor pool is an indoor pool for guests of all ages, as well as an indoor pool in the adults-only Solarium.

Anthem of the Seas

Homeport: Seattle, Washington (Friday departures)
Ports: Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, Juneau, Victoria, Sitka, Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier, Skagway

Anthem of the Seas will make her Alaska debut in 2025, marking the first Alaska cruise season for the vessel. Like Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas will also sail from Seattle on 7-night roundtrip itineraries.

Related: Anthem of the Seas Guide & Review

Itineraries are nearly identical to those offered on Quantum of the Seas. Guests hoping to visit Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier should double check their itinerary choice, however, as not all sailings include a glacier viewing day.

Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas are both Quantum Class vessels, and passengers will notice little variation between the two ships. It’s worth noting that Anthem of the Seas features a Broadway show—We Will Rock You—and offers Johnny Rockets on the pool deck instead of Quantum’s Asian-inspired Noodle Shop.

Serenade of the Seas

Homeport: Vancouver, British Columbia (Sunday departures)
Ports: Inside Passage (Canada), Sitka, Tracy Arm Fjord, Ketchikan, Prince Rupert, Icy Strait Point, Haines, Skagway

The third ship sailing to Alaska in 2025 is Serenade of the Seas, departing every Sunday on roundtrip cruises from Vancouver, British Columbia.

Embarking an Alaska cruise in Vancouver gives guests the opportunity to sail through Canada’s Inside Passage. As the ship departs the city, guests can enjoy mountain landscapes surrounding both sides of the ship. This provides a sneak peek into the remarkable scenery yet to come.

Related: All about Radiance Class cruise ships

7-night itineraries on Serenade of the Seas visit four ports along with a visit to Tracy Arm Fjord, home to the twin Sawyer Glaciers. Most port visits are to common destinations like Juneau and Ketchikan, but some itineraries include visits to less-frequented ports, such as Haines, Alaska and Prince Rupert, British Columbia.

Serenade of the Seas is a Radiance Class cruise ship, which makes her significantly smaller in size and capacity compared to Quantum and Anthem of the Seas.

The core Royal Caribbean features, including the Windjammer buffet, Schooner Bar, and Chops Grille, are still onboard, but there are fewer amenities compared to the fleet’s newer ships.

Related: I've been on every class of Royal Caribbean cruise ships: here's what I like about each

Because of this, families may not find as many options for kids onboard. That being said, there are still amenities like a rock climbing wall, mini golf court, and a kid-friendly splash area. The only indoor pool on Serenade of the Seas is found in the adults-only Solarium, but this area is open for family swimming during select hours.

Radiance of the Seas

Homeports: Vancouver, British Columbia and Seward, Alaska (Friday departures)
Ports: Inside Passage (Canada), Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Hubbard Glacier, Sitka

Those hoping to visit Alaska’s interior before or after their cruise should choose a sailing on Radiance of the Seas. The ship will offer one-way itineraries in 2025, departing from Vancouver and ending in Seward, Alaska (and vice versa).

Of all Royal Caribbean’s Alaska itineraries, those on Radiance of the Seas are the most unique.

Related: Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise guide

Unlike itineraries from Seattle, Radiance of the Seas’ itineraries include four, not three, port stops in Alaska. It’s possible, for example, to visit Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, and Icy Strait Point or Ketchikan on a 7-night cruise. Plus, most itineraries include a scenic glacier viewing day of Hubbard Glacier, and visiting this spectacular destination is only possible on Radiance of the Seas.

Another benefit of one-way cruises is the chance to explore Alaska’s interior. Because cruises start or end in Seward, passengers are just a stone’s throw away from destinations like Denali National Park and Preserve and Talkeetna. Royal Caribbean offers Cruisetours to these destinations, which can be added to the start or end of most one-way itineraries.

Like Serenade of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas lacks Royal Caribbean’s newest amenities and onboard thrills. The layout and experience is similar to that of Serenade, but Radiance has an additional specialty dining venue, with Brazilian cuisine available at Samba Grill.

Deciding between a Quantum Class and Radiance Class ship for Alaska

One of the most important choices a prospective cruiser can make when planning an Alaska cruise is deciding between a Quantum Class and Radiance Class ship. Despite both classes being part of Royal Caribbean’s fleet, they are quite different from one another.

If you value options and convenience, pick a Quantum Class ship

It’s hard to go wrong with a Quantum Class cruise ship. These mega-ships are filled to the brim with restaurants, bars, entertainment venues, pools, and onboard thrills. Whether it’s a game of laser tag in the SeaPlex or a surfing lesson on the FlowRider, these ships provide endless ways to have fun for guests of all ages.

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

Beyond thrills, Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas offer state-of-the-art amenities. The vessels are more modern than Radiance Class ships, having been launched over ten years after the latter.

Interior cabins, for instance, feature a virtual balcony, which displays a floor-to-ceiling live video feed of the view outside the ship. Passengers won’t want to miss the North Star, either, which is an observation pod that takes guests 300 feet above sea level. There’s no better way to witness Alaska’s beauty onboard!

Because Quantum Class ships depart from Seattle instead of Vancouver, travel times are typically more convenient for American travelers, as there are numerous direct flights to Seattle available from around the United States.

If you value in-depth itineraries and a low-key vibe, sail on a Radiance Class ship

Radiance Class ships may lack the bells and whistles of the Quantum Class ships sailing to Alaska, but that doesn’t mean they should be overlooked. Some passengers prefer the laid-back atmosphere found on these ships, along with the Alaska-intensive itineraries offered.

Calling Serenade and Radiance of the Seas small is relative—at maximum capacity, both ships can accommodate around 2,500 passengers. Unlike Quantum Class ships, you won’t find skydiving simulators and robotic bartenders onboard, but you can rest assured that there are more than enough activities, bars, and restaurants to stay satisfied.

Related: Does it matter how old your cruise ship is?

The main reason to book a Radiance Class ship to Alaska is for the itinerary. Departing from Vancouver on a Radiance Class ship means passengers can enjoy a more in-depth itinerary once in Alaska. For those interested in one-way cruises, a Radiance Class ship is the only option.

Outside of the itinerary, these ships are renowned for their abundance of windows. Over three acres of glass are found throughout both Serenade and Radiance of the Seas, meaning you’re never far from a panoramic view of Alaska’s beauty.

Any ship is sure to provide an excellent Alaska cruise experience

At the end of the day, any of the four ships sailing to Alaska in 2025 will make for a memorable vacation.

Most Alaska itineraries are relatively similar to one another regardless of the ship, so you can visit attractions like Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau or the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway in Skagway regardless of the ship you choose.

Nonetheless, it’s important to know the key differences between Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Radiance of the Seas before choosing one over another. Knowing what to expect helps ensure your vacation is off to a fantastic start once you board the ship on embarkation day and set sail to Alaska.

An Alaska cruise is one of the most popular Royal Caribbean vacations available. You'll get to see magnificent natural beauty and experience local culture, and there's simply nothing like it in the world.

But you need to have the right approach before booking an Alaska cruise, because there are a number of factors to consider: itineraries, best time of year, costs, and destinations your ship will visit.

We've come up with a comprehensive guide that has everything you need to know about cruising to Alaska to ensure you have a perfect adventure.

On This Page

• Best Time to Cruise Alaska: Seasonal Weather, Wildlife, and Pricing
• Royal Caribbean Ships to Alaska: Features & Why Pick Each
• Alaska Cruise Ports: Must-Visit Destinations
• Alaska Cruise Itineraries: Sailing The Inside Passage
• Alaska Shore Excursions: Glacier Tours, Wildlife Encounters & More
• Alaska Cruise Tours: Land & Rail Packages
• Alaska Cruise Cost: Prices Vary Depending On Time Of Year and Ship
• Alaska Cruise Tips for the Perfect Experience

Best Time to Cruise Alaska: Seasonal Weather, Wildlife, and Pricing

The Alaska cruise season runs between April and October, with each month having advantages and disadvantages. 

While there is no best time to cruise to Alaska, knowing what to expect in terms of weather, wildlife, and activities is helpful before booking your cruise or shore excursion.

Cruising to Alaska in the early season, April and May, brings lower crowds and prices. Expect to see daily temperatures with highs in the mid 50s and lows around 40 degrees. Less rain is expected during the early season, as April, May, and June are among the driest months of the year in Alaska. (However, this is Alaska, so don’t forget to pack a rain jacket!). Daylight hours will increase each day leading up to the summer solstice, with daylight hours from 4AM to 10PM in late May.

Alaska’s peak cruise season is from mid-June to August, coinciding with the school vacation schedule. During the summer, visitors can expect to see the warmest temperatures and most hours of daylight. More crowds are to be expected during the summer, both onboard and in port.

Make sure you book shore excursions early when cruising to Alaska to ensure tours do not sell out.

The fall shoulder season in Alaska is during the month of September. As days become shorter and temperatures cool down, cruise crowds and prices tend to be lower. In fact, September is the cheapest month for an Alaska cruise.

Wildlife is harder to spot during the fall and rainier weather is likely. That being said, it’s possible (though not guaranteed) to see Alaska’s northern lights in September, which is a plus for those planning an Alaska cruise in the fall.

The key is to prioritize if weather, crowds, or price is the most important to you.

Royal Caribbean Ships to Alaska: Features & Why Pick Each

Royal Caribbean sends 4 cruise ships to Alaska each summer, with each ship offering a different layout, amenities, dining options, entertainment, and stateroom options. Some of Royal Caribbean’s smallest and largest cruise ships sail to Alaska, so it’s important to consider which ship works best for you before booking an Alaska cruise.

The following ships will sail to Alaska in 2025:

• Ovation of the Seas (Quantum Class)
• Quantum of the Seas (Quantum Class)
• Radiance of the Seas (Radiance Class)
• Serenade of the Seas (Radiance Class)

The following ships will sail to Alaska in 2026:

• Ovation of the Seas (Quantum Class)
• Anthem of the Seas (Quantum Class)
• Voyager of the Seas (Voyager Class)
• Serenade of the Seas (Radiance Class)

Both the most technologically advanced, large Quantum Class ships and the smaller, more traditional Radiance Class ships will offer a wonderful Alaska cruise experience. 

Most ships Royal Caribbean sends to Alaska offer plenty of indoor features, meaning the ship can be enjoyed in all types of weather. From each ship’s enclosed, temperature-controlled Solariums to the indoor pools on Quantum Class ships, guests can enjoy their ship even in the chilliest of temperatures.

Quantum Class ships can be a great choice for families, as they feature the SeaPlex, an indoor sports court and arcade where guests can enjoy activities like bumper cars, circus school, rollerblading, basketball, volleyball, and more. They also feature RipCord by iFLY, an indoor skydiving simulator, and the North Star, a 360 degree observation pod taking guests 300 feet above sea level.

Radiance Class ships offer a more traditional cruising experience. While there are still activities for guests of all ages onboard, there are less options overall for dining, staterooms, entertainment, etc. Smaller cruise ships offer more itinerary options in Alaska, though, visiting destinations such as Haines, Icy Strait Point, and Hubbard Glacier.

Alaska Cruise Ports: Must-Visit Destinations

Cruises to Alaska visit ports primarily along the Inside Passage, visiting small, picturesque towns, some of which are inaccessible by road.

Juneau is the most commonly visited Alaska cruise port and state capital. It is the largest town visited in Alaska on a cruise and offers the most excursion options of any Alaska port. 

Activity highlights in Juneau include whale watching, exploring Mendenhall Glacier, and riding the Goldbelt Tramway up Mount Roberts. Don’t forget to taste local seafood, either, with Juneau’s king crabs, salmon, and halibut among the best in the world.

Ketchikan, the southernmost Alaska cruise port, is a quaint waterfront town surrounded by the Tongass National Forest. The town’s gold rush history alongside its Native culture offers a chance for visitors to experience Alaska through history.

Walking through Creek Street can give insights into the town’s historic red light district, and visiting the Saxman Totem Park provides a lesson on the Native Tlingit peoples’ culture and traditions. Kayaking, hiking, the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, and walking through downtown are all great options for a day in Ketchikan as well.

Skagway is further north in Alaska’s Inside Passage and, while small, is filled with Alaska's gold rush history.

Located on the Lynn Canal, panoramic vistas surround Skagway and the town is a gateway into Canada’s Yukon Territory. Many passengers choose to ride the White Pass & Yukon Railroad, taking visitors through a mountain pass once climbed by those hoping to strike it rich in the gold-rush era.

Others may choose to cross the border into Canada, kayak the Lynn Canal, or rent a scooter and explore Skagway on their own.

Sitka is home to a blend of American, Tlingit, and Russian influences and was once the capital of Russian Alaska.

A visit to the Baranof Castle State Historic Site is an option for spending the day in Sitka, which was where the formal transfer ceremony of Alaska from Russia to the United States took place. Strolling along the forest at the Sitka National Historical Park is a popular activity, too, which preserves the site of a battle between the Tlingit people and Russian traders.

Downtown Sitka is a charming place to walk around, where you can view the city’s cultural influences on every street.

Icy Strait Point, while less commonly visited on an Alaska cruise, offers a chance to get closer with nature in a tranquil environment. The port, near the town of Hoonah, is Alaskan Native owned-and-operated, founded by the Huna Tlingit Native Alaskans in 2004.

Getting close to nature and wildlife is recommended while in Icy Strait Point, with whale watching and ziplining popular activities to book. Cultural excursions are another option, where guests can learn more about the Huna Tlingit people through song and dance at Icy Strait Point’s Native Heritage Center Theater.

Haines, Alaska is a relatively new port for Royal Caribbean cruises to visit. Located on the way to Skagway along the Chilkoot Inlet, Haines is a small port accommodating just one large cruise ship at a time. 

Kayaking, hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing are all popular activities in Haines. Flightseeing tours can be booked from Haines to visit sights like Glacier Bay, one of the most beautiful glaciers in Alaska.

Victoria, British Columbia is a port visited on Alaska cruises from Seattle. While in Canada and not Alaska, Victoria still offers an array of landscapes and culture to explore. Visiting the Butchart Gardens is a popular destination in Victoria, where visitors can wander among 55 acres of floral display that date back to 1904.

Alaska Cruise Itineraries: Sailing The Inside Passage

There is no “perfect” itinerary for an Alaska cruise, and one itinerary is not inherently better than another.

While cruise ports do differ in history, local attractions, and size, many ports offer the same type of excursions to book. Activities like whale watching, kayaking, nature walks, gold rush towns, museums, and food tours are available in nearly every cruise port.

Likewise, every Alaska cruise will sail through the Inside Passage, meaning you won’t miss the state’s beautiful scenery on any itinerary. Oftentimes it’s just as enjoyable sitting on the pool deck and watching Alaska’s scenery pass by as it is to explore the ports you visit!

Being flexible on an Alaska cruise is important, especially when it comes to your cruise itinerary. High seas and storms can change your port stops at the last minute. Oftentimes another port is visited in place of your original destination. If this happens, be flexible! You may end up enjoying the replacement port even more than you would have enjoyed the original itinerary.

Alaska Shore Excursions: Glacier Tours, Wildlife Encounters & More

An Alaska shore excursion will allow you to explore what each of the ports have to offer, including taking in the natural beauty of this part of the world.

Alaska cruises tend to favor outdoor activities, whether getting active on a hike or taking a relaxing canoe ride down a river. Exploring the state’s mountains, glaciers, trails, and lakes is a fantastic way to spend a day in port, although choosing the best tour to book can be a tough decision.

Whale watching tours are one of the most popular shore excursions to book on an Alaskan cruise, as many visitors hope to catch a glimpse of some of the largest mammals on Earth. A variety of whales are able to be spotted on an Alaska cruise, including grey whales, killer whales (orcas), and humpback whales.

Certain ports, such as Juneau and Icy Strait Point, tend to offer better whale watching opportunities than other Alaska cruise ports.

Be sure to read our whale watching guide before booking your whale watching excursion to ensure you book it at the right port and time of year.

Visiting glaciers is another recommended activity on an Alaska cruise. Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau is the most easily accessible glacier for cruise passengers, where visitors can view the glacier from easy walking trails and visit the Nugget Falls waterfall. Most cruise itineraries to Alaska will include a scenic cruising day at a glacier as well, such as Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier or Hubbard Glacier.

Active cruisers will enjoy kayaking through Alaska’s fjords and lakes, hiking on glaciers, and biking through the rainforest. Magnificent scenery can be viewed on day hikes up Alaska’s dramatic mountain peaks or when paddling a kayak near glaciers.

Animal lovers are in luck on an Alaska cruise, too, as they can choose from a plethora of wildlife-viewing excursions. Outside of whale watching tours, cruisers can visit the Fortress of the Bear to observe Alaska’s black bears, the Sitka Raptor Center to learn about the state’s birds of prey, and wildlife cruises during which seals, sea otters, salmon, and bald eagles may be spotted. Dog lovers will enjoy learning about dog mushing, Alaska’s state sport, and go dog sledding on top of a glacier!

Other popular excursion options on an Alaska cruise include:

• Salmon bakes
• Cultural tours to learn about Alaska’s Native Tlingit people
• Ziplining through the rainforest
• Rafting
• Fishing
• Walking around historic towns
• Relaxing at restaurants and saloons

Alaska Cruise Tours: Land & Rail Packages

In addition to a 7-night Alaska cruise, you can extend your trip with a land-based tour.

Known as pre or post-sailing Cruisetours, these extended trips can range between 9 and 13 nights, including the 7-night cruise. These land tours are arguably the best way to see Alaska's interior and the most popular destinations.

Highlights of a Cruisetour include visiting Alaska’s biggest city of Anchorage, going back in time at a former gold mining boomtown, traveling by train on the scenic Wilderness Express, or marveling at the unbelievably high mountain peaks of Denali National Park.

Cruisetours in Canada are also offered, which feature a comfortable overnight train ride through the Rocky Mountains and visits to Jasper and Banff National Parks, including an overnight stay at Lake Louise.

While Alaska’s Inside Passage provides awe-inspiring views of Alaska’s fjords, glaciers, and mountains,  cruisetours offer the opportunity to see more of Alaska or Canada, which you can book before or after your one-way cruise in Alaska.

Alaska Cruise Cost: Prices Vary Depending On Time Of Year and Ship

Your budget for an Alaska cruise can affect your ship choice, sailing date, stateroom category, excursion options, and onboard add-ons. Knowing how much Alaska cruises costs in advance is helpful to ensure you can budget and save for such an incredible vacation.

Cruise fares to Alaska are dynamic, with prices constantly shifting based on demand. The shoulder seasons of May and September will see the lowest prices whereas June, July, and August see the highest cruise fares.

A 7-night cruise for two adults in an oceanview stateroom on Serenade of the Seas in July may be around $2200 whereas the same cruise in September can be around $1600. Newer ships, such as Ovation of the Seas, will often be priced $300-500 more expensive than smaller ships on a similar itinerary.

Newer cruise ships have more balcony staterooms available, though, so balcony staterooms on ships like Quantum of the Seas are not usually significantly more expensive than interior or oceanview cabins.

As smaller ships like Radiance of the Seas have far fewer balconies available, booking a balcony stateroom on a small ship can be much more expensive than other cabins.

Shore excursion prices can quickly add up while on an Alaska cruise. While booking early will help lock in a low price, some Alaska shore excursions are simply more expensive than others. Activities like helicopter tours, luxury whale watching, and dogsledding can easily cost a few hundred dollars per person.

Exploring ports through independent tour operators or on your own is another option. All Alaska cruise ports have complimentary attractions and nature activities right near where the ship docks, so it’s not always necessary to book an excursion.

Alaska Cruise Tips for the Perfect Experience

Arrive a day or two before your cruise

Our first Alaska cruise tip is if you're flying to your cruise port, make sure to fly the day before your cruise begins. Airline delays are common, and you don't want to miss your cruise because of a canceled or delayed flight! 

Spending the night at a hotel in Seattle or Vancouver before your cruise can help ensure your vacation is off to a great start.

Spend extra for travel insurance 

In addition to booking travel, we recommend purchasing travel insurance before your cruise. Travel insurance can protect you in case of any unexpected travel delays or medical emergencies during the sailing. While most travelers who purchase travel insurance won't end up using it, you will definitely be happy to have it if you need it!

You can purchase a travel insurance plan directly through Royal Caribbean upon booking or through an outsider provider. If you travel frequently, we recommend an annual travel insurance plan that covers you all year round.

Pack in layers

Your Alaska cruise packing list should focus on layers, as the weather can change rapidly… and several times per day!

Having the following layers is recommended, especially on port days:

• Base layer: t-shirt, jeans, yoga pants
• Warm layer: fleece, down jacket, sweater, long sleeve shirt, sweatshirt
• Waterproof layer: thin waterproof jacket

This approach provides a lot of versatility, and you can even come up with some good outfit ideas when you start mixing and matching.

Do Royal Caribbean's online check-in

Check in online 45 days prior to your cruise via Royal Caribbean's website or the Royal Caribbean app. The earlier you check in, the better chance you have at selecting an early boarding time at the cruise terminal. Getting onboard early means more time to enjoy your vacation!

Once onboard your cruise, be sure to complete Royal Caribbean's eMuster safety drill as soon as possible. This safety drill consists of three parts:

• Watching a lifejacket demonstration video on the Royal Caribbean app
• Listening to the emergency horn sound on the Royal Caribbean app
• Visiting your muster station on the ship to confirm you have completed the muster drill

Every guest must complete the eMuster drill before your cruise ship can depart, and getting it done quickly on embarkation day is recommended.

The size of your ship matters, especially if you have kids

Most people going on an Alaska cruise are most interested in the destinations, with the ship choice a secondary consideration. Given the long hours spent in port, having a ton of activities or whizz-bang features may not be as important.

However, families with kids are always going to appreciate having more options available to them, especially on sea days.

Royal Caribbean's customer loyalty program provides exclusive benefits at sea, but it also entitles members special offers while on land.

Most cruise lines offer loyalty programs, but the Crown & Anchor Society is among the most enticing. With onboard benefits like complimentary drinks, a private lounge, and free wifi at higher tiers, the loyalty program is undeniably useful while on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

Related: 11 of our favorite under-the-radar Crown & Anchor perks

Most cruisers know they can utilize Crown & Anchor Society benefits onboard, but did you know there are also a variety of benefits to use on land? Even if you’re not on a cruise ship, you may be able to take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s partnerships with hotels, car rental services, and airlines to save money on an upcoming vacation.

If you're cruising often and earning loyalty points faster, you could take advantage of your benefits even when you're not cruising.

Here’s a list of Royal Caribbean’s partnerships you should know about in order to make the most of your Crown & Anchor Society benefits.

First, Royal Caribbean’s partnership with MGM Rewards provides perks and savings at select resorts

Planning an upcoming trip to Las Vegas or another casino destination? Don’t forget to take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s partnership with MGM Rewards.

MGM Rewards is the loyalty program of MGM Resorts, and the program allows members to receive perks at select MGM Rewards Destinations. Crown & Anchor Society members can take advantage of a status matching program, entitling them to MGM Rewards benefits even if it’s their first time staying at an MGM Rewards property.

What are the benefits of MGM Rewards?

Three MGM Rewards tiers are available to Crown & Anchor Society members: Sapphire, Pearl, and Gold.

Gold members in the Crown & Anchor Society can match their status to MGM Rewards’ Sapphire status, the lowest tier in the loyalty program. Benefits in this tier include a dedicated reservations line, member-only offers to MGM Rewards Destinations and partners, and discounts on hotel stays, retail stores, entertainment and sporting events, and Avis car rental rates.

Related: How do Royal Caribbean and MGM Resorts shared benefits work?

Platinum members in the Crown & Anchor Society are matched to MGM Rewards’ Pearl status. In addition to receiving all Sapphire Tier perks, Pearl members also receive invitations to member-only events, complimentary tickets to select MGM Rewards concerts in Las Vegas, complimentary self-parking, and no expiration of MGM Rewards Points and Slot Dollars, among other perks.

Those with higher status in the Crown & Anchor Society—Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club—are matched to MGM Rewards’ Gold Tier. In addition to Sapphire and Pearl Tier benefits, Gold benefits also include an expedited reservations line, tier appreciation events, VIP line access to select nightclubs in Las Vegas, a waived resort fee when booking direct, enhanced room upon check-in, and complimentary valet parking at participating locations.

The most lucrative benefits could save Crown & Anchor Society members hundreds of dollars during a stay at an MGM Rewards Destination. Resort fees, for instance, can cost around $50 per night, but the fee is waived for those with Emerald status and above.

A full list of benefits for each tier can be found here.

How do you status match to MGM Rewards from Royal Caribbean?

To match your Crown & Anchor Society status to MGM Rewards, members should first create an MGM Rewards account online.

Once the account has been created, contact MGM Rewards through the Member Services number at 1-866-761-7111. You will be asked to provide your Crown & Anchor Society number, at which point MGM Rewards will confirm the information and match your status to the applicable MGM Rewards tier.

Alternatively, those near an MGM Rewards location can do this step in person.

Where are MGM Rewards Destinations?

The majority of participating MGM Rewards Destinations are in Las Vegas. Crown & Anchor Society members who match their status to MGM Rewards can enjoy benefits at the following Las Vegas hotels and resorts:

• Bellagio
• ARIA
• Vdara
• MGM Grand Las Vegas
• The Signature at MGM Grand
• Mandalay Bay
• Delano Las Vegas
• Park MGM Las Vegas
• NoMad Las Vegas
• New York-New York
• Luxor
• Excalibur

Outside of Las Vegas, other MGM casinos around the United States participate in MGM Rewards:

• Beau Rivage (Biloxi, Mississippi)
• Borgata (Atlantic City, New Jersey)
• Empire City Casino (Yonkers, New York)
• MGM Grand Detroit (Detroit, Michigan)
• MGM National Harbor (Oxon Hill, Maryland)
• MGM Springfield (Springfield, Massachussets)
• MGM Northfield Park (Northfield, Ohio)

A new partnership with Hard Rock International started in 2024

In April 2024, Royal Caribbean announced a new partnership with Hard Rock International. In this partnership, members of Royal Caribbean’s casino loyalty program—Club Royale—can receive benefits through Hard Rock’s Unity loyalty program.

There are four tiers in Royal Caribbean’s Club Royale program: Choice, Prime, Signature, and Masters. Hard Rock International benefits vary by tier, but each level includes, at a minimum, a discount on one hotel room per stay at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino properties in Hollywood and Tampa, Florida.

Choice members receive a 5% discount, Prime receive 10%, Signature receive 15%, and Masters members receive a 20% discount on each stay.

The hotel discount can be applied an unlimited number of times during the qualifying year. The discount does not apply to resort fees at the selected property.

In addition, those with higher status in Club Royale—Signature and Masters members—will appreciate an annual 3-night complimentary stay at a Hard Rock Seminole gaming property in either Hollywood or Tampa.

During the stay, Signature members receive a $300 property credit whereas Masters members receive $600 to spend throughout the stay.

How to earn loyalty in Club Royale to receive perks with Hard Rock International

In order to take advantage of Hard Rock International benefits, Crown & Anchor Society members must first earn status in the Club Royale program.

Status can be earned by gambling in Royal Caribbean’s casinos as long as guests tap their SeaPass card at slot machines or present the card to casino staff at table games. All passengers start at the Choice tier. One Reward Point is earned for every $5 played into slot machines and every $10 spent at Video Poker machines. Points earned on table games vary by the average bet and length of play.

For more detailed information on Royal Caribbean’s Club Royale loyalty program, check out the following article:

• I gambled enough in Royal Caribbean's casino to get free drinks and a cruise

Crown & Anchor Society members also save on Hertz car rentals

If you plan to rent a car on an upcoming trip, consider renting with Hertz to earn perks. Through Royal Caribbean’s partnership with Hertz, Crown & Anchor Society members receive Hertz Gold Plus Rewards status, which allows members to save time through the program’s Skip the Counter and E-Return access.

Additionally, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards members can earn points toward free rentals and save on base rental rates.

To book a car rental through Royal Caribbean’s partnership with Hertz, Crown & Anchor Society members should use this link.

Lastly, guests in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Ireland can earn Avios airline points when booking Royal Caribbean cruises

This August, Royal Caribbean International announced a brand-new partnership with IAG Loyalty, which allows cruisers booking their next sailing through Royal Caribbean’s U.K., Spain, and Ireland websites to earn Avios points on balcony and suite bookings.

Avios are the currency of several major airlines, which can be used to book flights, upgrades, hotels, car rentals, and other experiences. Currently, Avios are the currency of the British Airways Executive Club, Aer Lingus AerClub, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, Iberia Plus, and Vueling Club. As part of the Oneworld alliance, however, Avios can also be used to book airfare on a wide range of partner airlines, including American Airlines, Finnair, and Alaska Airlines.

Related: Flying to your cruise? 6 things to consider before booking

Guests will earn 3 Avios for every £1/€1 spent on a Royal Caribbean booking, but only if staying in a balcony or suite cabin. To receive the benefit, passengers must input their frequent flyer number on the confirmation page during the booking process.

Currently, this benefit is only available in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Ireland, so guests in other regions cannot take advantage of this partnership.

A cruise ship vacation isn't complete without a memorable shore excursion, but how do you find the best ones?

There are so many choices what to do in the port your ship visits. While Royal Caribbean's shore excursions offer ideas, there are plenty of other options if you look to book something through a third party.

Whether you’re looking for an activity not offered by Royal Caribbean, hoping to find a better price, or want to see the widest range of tours available, it’s helpful to know where to look.

Certainly there are a few good reasons to book a tour with Royal Caribbean directly, because the cruise line vets the operator to ensure they are safe, responsible, and deliver on the promise of what's promised. 

However, booking a tour on your own could save you money, provide smaller tour sizes, and greatly expand the choices you have. The benefits of booking a tour not through the cruise line often outweigh the drawbacks, especially when you are able to read reviews from those who booked the tour in the past and know that you are booking with an experienced tour company.

I wanted to provide you a few easy places to start looking to find a shore excursion that you can do on your own without having to dig too deep down a rabbit hole of searches.

Day passes from a resort

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach day with all the amenities of a resort, look no further than Resortforaday.com.

Resort for a Day is a service that sells day passes at resorts and hotels for cruise passengers. You can book resorts across the Caribbean, Europe, Florida and more.

The exact amenities and inclusions of a day pass through Resort for a Day vary, as offerings are subject to the resort’s policies. Some resort day passes include all-inclusive food and drinks whereas others give a food and beverage credit. Likewise, some resorts are kid-friendly and include access to a waterpark or kids club whereas others are adults-only.

A day pass at the Westin Cozumel, for example, includes unlimited food and beverages, beach and pool access, a kids club for children aged 4-12, outdoor showers, wifi, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle-boarding.

Margaritaville Beach Resort & Waterpark in Nassau, on the other hand, is not all-inclusive. Food and drinks must be purchased individually, but pool, beach, and waterpark access are available to day pass guests.

It’s important to choose a day pass wisely to ensure the resort’s offerings and ambience fit within your travel style. If you want a relaxing, quieter day in port, an adults-only resort may be the best fit. If you’re traveling with kids, though, a resort offering a waterpark or kid-friendly activities would be a better choice.

Most resorts allow access to day pass guests from around 9 or 10am until 5pm.

Guided tours around the world

Tripadvisor is an excellent research option due to its lists of things to do in cruise ports around the world. To search for tours and activities in your port of call, go to Tripadvisor’s front page and click the “Things to Do” button.

Input the name of your cruise port and you’ll be taken to a page with a wide range of tours available. One of the best benefits of Tripadvisor is the amount of reviews available on the website. Reading reviews from those who have booked the tour in the past is helpful, as it allows you to learn more about the excursion’s benefits and drawbacks.

Not only does Tripadvisor list tours you can book directly through their website, but it also lists the essential things to do and eat at each location. These lists can be helpful for passengers planning a DIY excursion. Knowing the best beaches, restaurants, and attractions in your port of call can make exploring on your own a whole lot easier.

Viator, like Tripadvisor, allows you to book tours from independent tour operators, and has a wide range of tour categories available. From Arts & Culture to Classes & Workshops and Food & Drink, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your interests on Viator.

Shore Excursions Group

While similar to Tripadvisor and Viator, Shore Excursions Group focuses solely on shore excursions for cruise ship passengers. Tours are offered all around the world, from the Caribbean to the Arabian Gulf and Asia.

Shore Excursions Group makes it easy to pick a tour that fits within your cruise ship’s itinerary, as tours are filtered by your cruise ship’s specific departure date and ports of call. There’s no need to check your calendar or worry about accidentally booking the wrong day, as Shore Excursions Group has all Royal Caribbean itineraries listed on their website.

Shore Excursions Group features several different types of tours: small group tours, private tours, scenic tours, cultural tours, active tours, and city tours. Each type of tour comes with its own style, whether traveling to Alaska’s glaciers on a scenic tour or cycling through small towns in Europe on an active tour.

Recommendations from other cruisers

Online message boards are a great way to find more information about your cruise ship, and they can also be a useful research tool when deciding what to do in port. 

Hearing from those cruisers who have been to your destination before is valuable, as they are able to offer their recommendations on what to do (and what not to do) in a particular port.

The Royal Caribbean Blog message boards, for example, have a shore excursions board where you can ask questions to fellow cruisers and learn more about what each port of call offers. If you’re wondering if a certain tour is worth it or you're trying to choose between two separate tours, odds are someone on the message boards has first-hand experience with your port of call and can help you make a decision.

Google (“port name + tour”)

Sometimes the easiest way to find a shore excursion on your own is through a simple Google search.

If you’re looking for something to do in St. Maarten, for example, search “St. Maarten tour” on Google. You can customize this further if you wish, searching “St. Maarten tour kid friendly” if you’re traveling with kids or “St. Maarten tour catamaran” if you want to sail around the island.

Google will list the most top-rated websites where you can book shore excursions and read reviews from those who have done the tour previously. It’s hard to go wrong with a Google search when researching shore excursions, and it is a good starting point for those researching activities in their ports of call.

The Port of Galveston has evolved from an industrial port to become one of the busiest cruise ports in the United States, offering year-round sailings to the Caribbean.

With Royal Caribbean's opening of a brand new $125 million cruise terminal, the popularity of a cruise from Texas has never been more popular. The new terminal can handle the biggest cruise ships in the world, as well as expedite the embarkation and disembarkation process.

A cruise from Galveston will likely take you around the Western Caribbean, with stops in destinations such as Cozumel, Mexico; Progreso, Mexico; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Roatan, Honduras.

On top of that, Royal Caribbean is planning a new private beach club to open in Cozumel to open sometime in 2026.

Here's everything you need to know about planning a cruise from Galveston, from booking flights and hotels to arriving at the port.

In this guide:

• Where is the Port of Galveston?
• Which airport should I fly into for a cruise from Galveston?
• How to get from the airport to the Port of Galveston
• What time should I schedule my return flight after the cruise?
• Parking at the Port of Galveston
• Where to stay the night before your cruise
• Which Royal Caribbean ships sail from Galveston?

Where is the Port of Galveston?

Royal Caribbean’s ships operate out of Terminal 10 and is located at 1028 Harborside Dr, Galveston, TX 77550.

Which airport should I fly into for a cruise from Galveston?

Passengers arriving by plane to board a cruise in Galveston will fly into one of two Houston airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

IAH is the busiest airport in Houston, serving all major US airlines, and you’ll often find competitive pricing when flying into IAH.

It is the second-largest hub for United Airlines, meaning there are nonstop flights from nearly every major US city and over 70 international destinations.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

HOU is the smaller of Houston’s airports, but it’s more convenient as it’s located only 7 miles from downtown Houston.

Houston Hobby is primarily served by Southwest Airlines. The vast majority of flights to Houston Hobby will be on Southwest, so if you live near a Southwest hub, you’re likely to find well-priced, nonstop flights to HOU.

Houston Hobby is located closer to the Port of Galveston, so we recommend searching for flights into this airport first. If prices are significantly higher or there are fewer direct options, however, flying into IAH would be the best option.

How to get from the airport to the Port of Galveston

Once you’ve booked a flight to Houston, your next task is figuring out how you’ll travel from the airport to port.

Unfortunately, the airports are located 40 miles (HOU) and 70 miles (IAH) from the Port of Galveston, so getting from the airport to port is not as convenient in Galveston compared to other ports like Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

That being said, there are several recommended ways to reach the port from the airport:

Rideshare service

The most convenient way to reach the Port of Galveston from a Houston airport is through a rideshare service like Lyft.

Lyft is the exclusive rideshare company at the Galveston terminal, so you cannot use Uber.

This option is best for those traveling with larger groups, as the cost of the Lyft is per vehicle and not per person like many shuttle services. Most Lyfts should be able to fit four passengers in addition to the driver. This brings the travel cost per passenger down significantly when compared to booking a shuttle service.

Expect to pay between $50-60 one-way when traveling from Houston Hobby airport to the Port of Galveston and $90-100 one-way when traveling from George Bush Intercontinental airport to the port. Tipping the driver is standard practice.

If you are traveling with large suitcases or have more than four passengers, you’ll want to book a Lyft XL. These are larger vehicles that can better accommodate luggage and higher numbers of passengers. The cost will be a bit higher for this service than a regular-sized vehicle.

Taxi service

Taxi service is also available from both airports in Houston, but the price of a taxi will likely be higher than what you will pay for a rideshare service. Expect to pay at least $125+ one-way from IAH airport and $75+ from HOU airport.

Because the prices of taxis are higher, we recommend using a rideshare service first.

Booking shuttles through Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean offers a shuttle service to and from both the George Bush Intercontinental and William P. Hobby airports, and this can be one of the most convenient options for travelers.

Royal Caribbean’s round trip shuttle service pricing varies by airport and is priced per person. 

• George Bush Intercontinental: $80 roundtrip
• William P. Hobby: $64 roundtrip

Note: These were the prices I was given for a tentative sailing in October 2022, although prices are subject to change. For the most up to date pricing, contact your travel agent or Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea program.

When traveling with one or two guests, a shuttle service can make sense, but the price can get high when traveling with 3, 4, 5, or more guests. In this scenario, booking a rideshare or taxi service usually has a better price-per-person ratio.

Independent shuttle companies

While booking through the cruise line can be convenient, you’ll find a better shuttle price through independently operated shuttle companies in Galveston.

Several companies offer shuttle service to and from both the IAH and HOU airports:

Galveston Express offers shuttles priced at $60-65 roundtrip from HOU airport and $70-75 roundtrip from IAH airport.

Galveston Limousine offers the lowest prices, at $50 roundtrip from HOU airport and $60 roundtrip from IAH airport.

Island Breeze Shuttle does pricing a bit differently than their competitors. They price their shuttle at $150 roundtrip from HOU airport and $190 roundtrip from IAH, but the pricing is for 2 passengers.

The 3rd and 4th passenger from HOU airport cost $60 and $30, respectively, and the 3rd and 4th passenger from IAH airport cost $85 and $50. Group rates are also available.

Should I rent a car to get to the Port of Galveston?

Some passengers may look into renting a car from the airport in Houston and driving to the Port of Galveston themselves.

However, this is typically not going to be the most convenient nor cost effective option, especially if you’re unable to secure a one-way car rental and have to pay to park the car for a week.

It can’t hurt to check pricing and availability, though, especially if you’re traveling with a large family and would prefer having a private vehicle. It can also be a nice option if you plan to explore more of the Galveston or Houston areas before or after your cruise.

What time should I schedule my return flight after the cruise?

Because Houston’s airports are located 40-70 miles from the Port of Galveston, it’s important to budget enough time to disembark the cruise ship, travel to Houston, check-in for your flight, and go through security.

Even if your cruise itinerary says you will arrive at the Port of Galveston at 6 or 7 in the morning on disembarkation day, you may not disembark until 7:30-9AM.

Following disembarkation, you’ll need to catch a rideshare/taxi service or board a shuttle bus to the airport. Factoring in traffic and any potential delays, it might take longer than you anticipate to travel from the cruise ship to the airport.

Therefore, the earliest we recommend booking a flight home from Galveston/Houston is 1PM or later on disembarkation day.

Parking at the Port of Galveston

If you live within driving distance of Galveston and plan to drive to the port yourself, you’ll find many parking options for the duration of the cruise. Here are some of the most convenient and/or best priced options.

Port of Galveston (official parking)

The Port of Galveston offers official parking at Terminal 10, Royal Caribbean’s new cruise terminal in Galveston. Parking can be booked in advance directly from the Port of Galveston’s website.

There are three lots at Cruise Terminal 3: the North Lot, South Lot, and Pier 14 Lot. There are shuttle services offered as well.

The price per day is $22 to $25.

Independently-owned parking lots

There are several independently owned and operated parking lots near the Port of Galveston. All of these lots, however, are located near the original cruise terminals and not Royal Caribbean’s new Galveston terminal.

Most of these parking lots will be about a 7-10 minute drive from the port (or a 30 minute walk). Because Royal Caribbean’s terminal is brand new, it’s best to call the parking companies to check whether or not they will provide shuttles from the lot to Cruise Terminal 3.

Independently owned lots typically offer nice savings when compared to the port’s official parking lots, although prices may be subject to change with the distance required to reach Royal Caribbean’s new cruise terminal.

Here are a few of the best rated places to park near the Port of Galveston:

• EZ Cruise Parking
• Galveston Park N Cruise
• Falstaff Cruise Parking
• Discount Cruise Parking

Where to stay the night before your cruise

We always recommend arriving at the cruise port the day before your cruise begins. Unexpected delays and airline cancellations are all too common, so planning to arrive a day ahead of time gives you more wiggle room in case of any mishaps.

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

If you arrive in Houston late at night, your best bet is to stay near the airport and catch a shuttle or rideshare service to Galveston the following morning. Be sure to still allow yourself plenty of time to travel between Houston and Galveston in case of traffic or other delays.

If you arrive earlier in the day, however, we recommend traveling to Galveston the day before your cruise and spending the night there instead. This ensures you are already at the cruise port and will not have to travel the morning of your cruise.

Several Royal Caribbean Blog readers have shared their best hotel recommendations in our message boards:

• Baymont by Wyndham Galveston
• Springhill Suites by Marriott Galveston Island
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galveston Beach

Which Royal Caribbean ships sail from Galveston?

Harmony of the Seas

Once Allure heads back to Florida in fall 2023, Harmony of the Seas will come to Galveston to offer 7-night Western Caribbean cruises visiting Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Mariner of the Seas

Mariner offers primarily 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Galveston that visit ports in Mexico. There's also a few holiday cruises in December that are 7-nights for Mariner.

With Mariner of the Seas making short sailings to the Western Caribbean from Galveston, it's also convenient for those who live nearby and don't want to have to pay for airfare.

5-night cruises will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, while 4-night voyages will only visit Cozumel. 

Allure of the Seas

Allure of the Seas will return to Galveston after a stint in Florida making longer voyages to the Caribbean following her Royal Amplification in early 2025. 

Allure of the Seas will offer primarily 7-night Western Caribbean cruises visiting Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.

Jewel of the Seas

Beginning in Fall 2024, Jewel of the Seas will call Texas her home.

Between November 2024 and March 2025, Jewel will offer Western and Southern Caribbean itineraries. All of the sailings are on the longer end, with cruises ranging between 8- and 11-night cruises.

Not only will these cruises visit Mexico, but there are stops scheduled in Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, and Grand Cayman.

Planning a Royal Caribbean cruise? Start here:

• First-time cruise tips for 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?

The Royal Caribbean customer loyalty program has different levels of rewards for anyone that cruises multiple times with them.

The frequent cruiser program is called the Crown and Anchor Society, and the more nights you go on a cruise ship, the more points you earn.  With more points, you can reach higher levels.

Some of the most popular perks include priority check-in, onboard discounts, and even complimentary beverages during their cruise. Additionally, members have access to dedicated venues, private cocktail parties onboard the ship, and more.

At the top tier levels, you'll get complimentary drinks every day of your cruise, free photos, internet access, and even a free cruise if you reach the very top tier.

All in all, Crown and Anchor Society provides great incentives for frequent Royal Caribbean passengers who want to take advantage of special offers throughout their cruising experience. It's a great way for guests to be rewarded for their loyalty.

How to earn Crown and Anchor points

You'll earn points for the Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program based on each night of a cruise you sail.  

• 1 point for each night of the cruise
• 1 bonus point per night if you are in a suite
• 1 bonus point her night if you are cruising solo

For example, if your cruise is seven nights, you will earn seven points in a standard cabin that you share with at least one other person.

Staying in a suite or cruising solo will get you a bonus point per night. 

Points are not rewarded until after you have completed a sailing. This means if you technically reach the next tier of the Crown and Anchor Society on day two of a cruise, your upgraded status will not be recognized until your next cruise.

Crown and Anchor points never expire and the status you earn is good indefinitely.

Joining the Crown and Anchor Society is free and we recommend creating an account prior to your first cruise. If you did not have a Crown and Anchor Society account before your cruise, you can create one and link past sailings from the previous 12 months.

Royal Caribbean levels

There are six tiers to the Royal Caribbean Crown & Anchor Society program:

• Gold 3 points
• Platinum 30 points
• Emerald 55 points
• Diamond 80 points
• Diamond Plus 175 points
• Pinnacle Club 700 points

There is also the Pre-Gold level, which is where every guest will start on their first Royal Caribbean cruise. As most sailings are 3 nights or longer, the majority of guests will reach Gold status after their first cruise.

Gold

Ranging from 3-29 points, the Gold level is the first official tier of the Crown & Anchor Society program. As a Gold member, you do not receive an extensive list of benefits, but you will receive the following:

• SeaPass card recognition
• Crown and Anchor Exclusive Rates
• 50% off any glass of wine, beer or soda (two coupons per sailing)
• 50% off a Johnny Rockets milkshake (two coupons per sailing, on select ships)
• Access to a private departure lounge with continental breakfast
• 10% discount on any glass of wine, beer or soda (this is separate from the above coupon offer)
• 25% discount on any coffee beverage, excluding Starbucks coffee
• 10% discount on any internet package purchased on board (not combinable with any other internet offer)
• Crown and Anchor Society Desk for membership inquiries
• $2 in Free Play at shipboard casinos
• One free card when buying a bingo package
• 10% discount on any spa service (excluding medi-spa services)
• 10% discount on Royal Caribbean logo products (with a $25 minimum purchase)
• Priority notice on special offers, new ships and itineraries
• Additional cruise points for purchasing suite accommodations and/or single pricing type
• Exclusive email offers
• Crown and Anchor Society Exclusive member newsletter
• Loyalty match with Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club and Silversea Venetian Society

Platinum

From 30-54 points you will be a Platinum member of the Crown and Anchor Society. If you have accumulated this many points, you are likely a seasoned cruiser compared to your Pre-Gold days. Platinum members receive all benefits listed above with the addition of:

• 50% discount on any coffee beverage, excluding Starbucks coffee
• Buy a specialty restaurant dinner and receive one complimentary non-alcoholic specialty coffee beverage, excluding Starbucks
• 15% discount on any internet package purchased on board (not combinable with any other internet offer)
• Exclusive Top Tier Event on 5+ sailings
• $4 in Free Play at shipboard casinos
• 3 free cards when buying a bingo package
• Robes for use onboard
• $5 off $25 dry-clean or press
• $5 discount on $34.99 wash and fold laundry bag on 5+ nights
• 20% discount on a single photo, photo package, or photobook
• 15% discount on any spa service (excluding medi-spa services)
• Discounts on balcony and suite staterooms

Emerald

An Emerald member does not see a substantial increase in onboard and cruise planning benefits compared to the Platinum level. Emerald members, from 55 to 79 points, receive all benefits listed above with the addition of:

• 2 complimentary welcome waters (per adult)
• $6 in Free Play at shipboard casinos
• 6 free cards when buying a bingo package
• 25% discount on a single photo, photo package, or photobook
• Bigger discount on balcony and suite staterooms compared to a Platinum member

If you took eight week-long cruises in a non-suite cabin, you could reach the Emerald level fastest.

Diamond

Becoming a Diamond member is where the elite benefits really kick in for cruisers. The Diamond level, from 80 to 174 points, is where you begin to receive benefits that will better impact your cruise vacation.

As a Diamond member, one of the best benefits you receive is access to the Crown Lounge. Reaching 80 points means that you now have access to a completely new area onboard and all of the benefits that come with it, like complimentary food, coffee, and access to the Diamond concierge.

Diamond members receive all benefits listed above with the addition of:

• Milestone recognition
• 20% discount on any glass of wine, beer or soda
• 4 complimentary daily drinks up to $14 (excludes Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and Desserted)
• 1 free day of internet (for 1 device)
• Priority waitlist for Shore Excursions/Vitality Spa services
• Priority waitlist seating request in the Main Dining Room
• Entertainment Tour on 5+ sailings
• Crown Lounge access with nightly happy hour
• $10 discount on $34.99 wash and fold laundry bag on 5+ nights
• Stateroom phone discount rate of $2 per minute
• Chef's Choice gift on 5+ sailings
• 30% discount on a single photo, photo package, or photobook
• 1 free digital or printed photo
• 15% discount on Royal Caribbean logo products (with a $25 minimum purchase)
• 20% discount on any spa service (excluding medi-spa services)
• Signature lapel pin
• Milestone crystal block (beginning at 140 cruise points)
• Bigger discount on balcony and suite staterooms compared to an Emerald member

If you took 12 week-long cruises in a non-suite cabin, you could reach the Diamond level fastest.

Diamond Plus

The jump from Diamond to Diamond Plus in the Crown and Anchor Society is a big milestone. Whereas you can reach the Diamond level after “just” 80 points, reaching Diamond Plus requires more than double that at 175 points.

And once you reach Diamond Plus you will likely stay in this tier for a long time, as Diamond Plus ranges from 175-699 Crown and Anchor points.

Solo cruisers are sure to love the 150% reduction (125% for transatlantic, transpacific, and Panama Canal sailings) in the single supplement charge that occurs at 340 points.

Diamond Plus members receive all benefits listed above with the addition of:

• 25% discount on any glass of wine, beer or soda
• 5 complimentary daily drinks up to $14 (excludes Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and Desserted)
• Purchase a specialty restaurant dinner cover charge during the first or second night of your cruise and enjoy complimentary dining for the second guest
  • Valid for dinner reservations on the first or second night only. Excludes Celebration Table, Chef's Table, Empire Supper Club, Hooked, Izumi, Johnny Rockets, Playmakers, Potside BBQ, and Royal Railway.
• 30% discount on Deluxe Beverage Packages
• 2 free days of internet (for 1 device)
• Personalized Gift/Amenity (per household)
• Exclusive Top Tier Event
• Early access to Royal Theater, ice show, and AquaTheater events
• Cheers with an Officer for members with 340+ cruise points on 7+ nights
• Upgraded bathroom amenities for members with 340+ cruise points
• 3 complimentary welcome waters (per adult)
• One free $34.99 wash and fold bag on 5+ nights
• Bonus gift (per household)
• Complimentary add-on spa treatment (excludes medi-spa services)
• Exclusive access to Diamond Plus & Pinnacle Club call center staff members
• Single supplement cruise fare reduced to 150% from 200% for members that have 340+ cruise points
  • This offer is based on availability with certain restrictions. Ocean Voyage Packages, Holiday sailings (Christmas, New Year's, Thanksgiving, Easter/Spring break) and the peak summer months of June 15 through August 15 are not included in this offer.
• Bigger discount on balcony and suite staterooms compared to a Diamond member

Pinnacle Club

The most coveted tier of the Royal Caribbean Crown and Anchor Society is the Pinnacle Club. Making up only a very small percentage of C&A members, a whopping 700 points must be earned to reach the Pinnacle Club level.

Reaching Pinnacle is a huge milestone for Royal Caribbean fans. As Royal Caribbean Blog writer Marcy Miyar explained, though, you don’t necessarily have to spend 700 nights on a cruise ship to reach Pinnacle. Booking suites or cruising solo allows you to earn more than one point per night, thus making your pathway to Pinnacle Club a little bit quicker.

Pinnacle Club members receive the very best benefits of all, including what's been listed above with the addition of:

• 6 complimentary daily drinks up to $14 (excludes Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and Desserted)
• 40% discount on Deluxe Beverage Packages
• Coastal Kitchen access (varies by ship)
• Suite/Concierge Lounge access
• Flexible arrival
• $25 off specialty dining on 5+ nights (Oasis and Quantum Class ships only and excludes the same specialty restaurants as mentioned above)
• Free unlimited internet for 1 device
• Personalized lapel pin for Pinnacle Club
• Daily breakfast at a specialty restaurant
• Milestone cruise certificate valued at the prevailing rate of a 7-night balcony stateroom for 700 and 1,050 cruise points
• Milestone cruise certificate valued at the prevailing rate of a Junior Suite stateroom for 1,400 and every 350 cruise points thereafter
• Bigger discount on Balcony & Suite staterooms compared to a Diamond Plus member

Member benefits for kids and spouses

Your kids can get the same loyalty perks as you up until they turn 18.

Family members in the same household of a Crown and Anchor Society member can be added into a relationship with the member and receive equal tier status. Points listed in the family member’s account will be according to the amount of cruises that individual has taken. However, they will still receive all benefits of the tier level they earned as someone in the household of a Crown and Anchor Society member.

For example, if you are a Diamond Plus member, your kids will automatically be Diamond Plus members as well after their first cruise, even if their own Crown and Anchor Society account only has a few points. 

The only exception to this rule is with the Pinnacle Club. Dependents are not able to receive Pinnacle Club status from their parents or guardians and must achieve that milestone themselves. Spouses and domestic partners are able to reach Pinnacle status through their partners.

Other benefits for youth members of the Crown and Anchor Society include:

• 50% off one scoop of ice cream at the ice cream parlor (on select ships)
• Internet discounts equal to parents' benefit
• Buy 1 movie rental in your stateroom and receive the second free
• Spend $15 in arcade credits to get $5 off your onboard expense account, or spend $50 in arcade credits to get $25 off
• Complimentary daily non-alcoholic drinks up to $14 (excludes Starbucks and Desserted)
  • 4 for Diamond, 5 for Diamond Plus, 6 for Pinnacle

Matching status with other cruise lines

Royal Caribbean guests can status match to perks with Celebrity Cruises and SilverSea Cruises. Cruisers, however, do not earn collective points. Each program is still on its own in terms of accruing points based on nights you sail.

Royal Caribbean Group, which owns all three brands, offers new status matching opportunities that began in June 2024.

Once you attain any status within the Crown and Anchor Society, you can qualify for matching status with Celebrity Cruises' Captain's Club loyalty program or Silversea's Venetian Society.

Depending on your status within Crown and Anchor Society, you could get different benefits across the other sister brands.

You'll get matching status at the Select level in the Captain's Club Program. That will get you benefits such as:

• 25% discount on internet packages
• 30% discount on photo packages
• 10% discount on spa treatments
• Priority status for the shore excursion waitlist

Royal Caribbean's Diamond members and Celebrity's Elite members who match their status to the 250 Venetian Society Days level in the Silversea program will instantly qualify for a 10% discount on Silversea cruises. Additionally, they will enjoy other exclusive perks that are not typically available to first-time Silversea cruisers.

If you can get to Diamond in Crown and Anchor Society, you can match to Elite Level within Captain's Club. Status matching across both lines is a great way to maximize the value of your loyalty because you will get more benefits such as:

• 90 complimentary minutes of streaming
• 40% off a digital or print photo package
• $200 off The Studio photo packages
• Unlimited free drinks from the Captain’s Club menu each day between 5 and 7 p.m. at most bars and lounges on the ship
• Access to the Captain’s Club Coffee Lounge
• Free access to the Persian Garden spa zone on one port day of your choice (Millennium & Solstice Class ships only)
• 30% off Wi-Fi packages and upgrades
• 15% discount on a drink package or a premium drink package upgrade

The best benefits for status matching are for the top-tier guests on each line, who can instantly qualify for top-tier status with the other lines and enjoy the best benefits. Members are now able to match all the way up to the highest tiers, Zenith and Pinnacle.

To qualify for the status matching, cruisers must enroll in a program before receiving a status match.