Before Cruising

• Travel Documents: U.S. citizens sailing on a closed-loop cruise departing from and returning to the same U.S. port may generally travel with an original or certified birth certificate and a government-issued photo ID. A valid passport book is still strongly recommended in case an emergency requires you to return home by air from a foreign country.
• International Itineraries: Cruises that begin or end in different countries, along with many international itineraries, require a valid passport book. Some destinations also require passports to remain valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
• Non-U.S. Citizens: Passport, visa, and residency document requirements vary depending on your citizenship, residency status, itinerary, and ports of call. Review the latest requirements well before your sailing date.
• Name Matching: The name on your reservation must exactly match your government-issued identification. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or another legal reason, carry the appropriate supporting documentation during your trip.
• Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended, particularly for international cruises. Third-party policies often provide broader medical, cancellation, baggage, trip interruption, and emergency transportation coverage than plans purchased directly through the cruise line.
• Research Your Ship: Royal Caribbean's fleet ranges from intimate Vision-class ships to the world's largest cruise ships. Entertainment venues, attractions, restaurants, and amenities vary considerably, so reviewing your ship's deck plans before sailing can help you make the most of your vacation.
• Pre-Cruise Savings: Beverage packages, VOOM internet, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, and The Key are frequently available at discounted prices before sailing. Purchasing these items in advance often provides the best value.
• Luggage Tags: Print your luggage tags before leaving home and attach them securely after arriving at the cruise terminal. This helps prevent them from becoming damaged or detached during your travels.
• Carry-On Essentials: Keep medications, passports, electronics, valuables, swimwear, and a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage. Checked luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until later in the afternoon.

Royal Caribbean App

• Your Cruise Companion: The Royal Caribbean App is the primary tool for managing your cruise before and during your vacation. Download it before sailing and sign in using your Royal Caribbean account to access the latest features.
• Before You Sail: Complete online check-in, receive your digital SetSail Pass, upload travel documents, purchase beverage packages, reserve specialty dining, book shore excursions, and review your itinerary before arriving at the terminal.
• Once Onboard: The app provides the daily Cruise Compass schedule, deck maps, dining hours, entertainment listings, onboard account information, and reservation details. Depending on your ship and sailing, you may also be able to reserve entertainment, modify dining reservations, and communicate with members of your travel party.
• Stay Updated: Entertainment schedules, dining hours, and activity times occasionally change during the cruise. Checking the app throughout the day is the easiest way to stay informed and avoid missing popular events.

Tipping / Gratuities

• Automatic Gratuities: As of July 2026, Royal Caribbean's recommended gratuities are $18.50 per person, per day for standard staterooms and Junior Suites, and $21.00 per person, per day for Grand Suites and above. These gratuities recognize the crew members who help make your cruise enjoyable both behind the scenes and in guest-facing roles.
• Prepay or Pay Onboard: Gratuities may be prepaid before sailing or automatically added to your onboard account during the cruise. Guests wishing to discuss adjustments may do so through Guest Services before disembarkation.
• Additional Service Charges: An automatic gratuity is also added to beverages, specialty dining, spa and salon services, and other applicable onboard purchases. These charges are separate from your daily gratuities.
• Exceptional Service: While never required, many guests choose to provide additional cash tips for crew members who deliver exceptional service throughout the cruise.

Embarking

• Online Check-In: Complete online check-in through the Royal Caribbean App or website before arriving at the terminal. During check-in you'll upload travel documents, choose an arrival time, and receive your digital SetSail Pass for boarding.
• Arrival Time: Plan to arrive during your selected terminal arrival window. Many terminals now use facial recognition technology to speed the boarding process for eligible guests.
• Carry-On Beverages: Guests of legal drinking age may bring one unopened 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person in their carry-on luggage on embarkation day. A corkage fee may apply if consumed in public dining venues. Beer, hard liquor, and boxed wine are not permitted.
• Carry-On Essentials: Keep medications, travel documents, valuables, electronics, swimwear, and a change of clothes with you. Checked luggage may not arrive outside your stateroom until later in the afternoon.
• Embarkation Day Lunch: Most guests head directly to the Windjammer, making it one of the busiest venues onboard. Many ships also offer complimentary lunch at other restaurants, providing a quieter and more relaxing way to begin your vacation.
• Safety Drill: Complete Royal Caribbean's eMuster safety requirements as soon as possible after boarding using the Royal Caribbean App and by visiting your assigned muster station. Completing it early allows you to enjoy the remainder of embarkation day uninterrupted.
• Airplane Mode: Switch your phone to Airplane Mode before the ship departs and connect only to the ship's Wi-Fi if you've purchased an internet package. This helps avoid expensive international roaming charges.
• All-Aboard Time: Royal Caribbean strictly enforces all-aboard times at every port. Plan to return at least 30 to 60 minutes before the published departure time, as the ship cannot wait for late-arriving guests.

Cabin

• Stateroom Amenities: Every Royal Caribbean stateroom includes a private bathroom, individually controlled climate settings, television, mini refrigerator, hair dryer, in-room safe, closet space, and under-bed luggage storage. Available amenities and outlet configurations vary by ship and cabin category.
• Power Outlets: Most staterooms provide a combination of North American and European power outlets, while newer ships also include USB-A and USB-C charging ports. A cruise-approved non-surge-protected USB charging hub can be helpful if you're traveling with several devices.
• Stateroom Attendant: Your stateroom attendant services your cabin each day and can assist with extra towels, pillows, blankets, ice, or other reasonable requests throughout your cruise.
• Room Service: Continental breakfast is complimentary on most sailings, while an expanded room service menu is available throughout the day for an additional delivery charge. Suite guests receive additional room service benefits depending on their suite category.
• Storage Space: Place suitcases under the bed after unpacking to maximize cabin space. Most staterooms also include generous closet storage, shelving, and drawers for longer cruises.
• Mini Refrigerator: Mini refrigerators are ideal for keeping bottled water, snacks, or leftovers cool during your cruise. If your refrigerator arrives stocked, ask your stateroom attendant if the contents can be removed for personal use.
• Balcony Cabins: Keep the balcony door completely closed whenever the air conditioning is operating. Opening the balcony door disables the air conditioning system on most Royal Caribbean ships until the door is fully closed again.
• RoyalUp: Before sailing, eligible guests may receive invitations to participate in RoyalUp, Royal Caribbean's stateroom upgrade program. While upgrades aren't guaranteed, it can be an affordable way to move into a higher cabin category.

On Deck

• Pool Deck: Royal Caribbean's pool decks feature multiple pools, whirlpools, live music, movies, games, and poolside bars. The atmosphere ranges from lively family fun to quieter adults-only relaxation depending on the area of the ship.
• Solarium: Most Royal Caribbean ships include the Solarium, an adults-only retreat featuring pools, whirlpools, comfortable seating, and a more peaceful atmosphere away from the main family pool areas. Age restrictions vary slightly by ship.
• Signature Attractions: Depending on your ship, attractions may include the FlowRider surf simulator, Rock Climbing Wall, Zip Line, Ultimate Abyss dry slide, AquaTheater, ice skating rink, North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY, bumper cars, laser tag, escape rooms, and more. Attractions vary considerably throughout the fleet.
• Sports & Recreation: Many ships also feature sports courts, jogging tracks, miniature golf, fitness centers, pickleball, splash zones, and family recreation areas. Newer Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships generally offer the widest selection of onboard activities.
• Chair Etiquette: Royal Caribbean asks guests not to reserve lounge chairs for extended periods without using them. During busy times, unattended belongings may be removed by crew members to make seating available for other guests.
• Morning On Deck: Early mornings are one of the most peaceful times onboard. They're perfect for enjoying ocean views, taking photographs, walking the jogging track, or simply relaxing before the day's activities begin.
• Something For Everyone: Whether you prefer relaxing beside the pool, trying adrenaline-filled attractions, or simply enjoying the ocean views, Royal Caribbean offers one of the widest selections of onboard activities available on any mainstream cruise line.

Dining

• Main Dining Room: Royal Caribbean's Main Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch on select sea days, and dinner with rotating menus throughout your cruise. Guests may generally order multiple appetizers, entrées, and desserts at no additional charge.
• Dining Options: Most sailings offer Traditional Dining with early or late seating, along with My Time Dining for guests who prefer flexible dining hours. My Time Dining reservations are recommended and can often be managed through the Royal Caribbean App.
• Specialty Dining: Royal Caribbean offers one of the largest selections of specialty restaurants at sea. Depending on your ship, venues may include Chops Grille, Giovanni's Italian Kitchen, Izumi, Wonderland, Hooked Seafood, Jamie's Italian, 150 Central Park, Chef's Table, Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade, and more.
• Dining Packages: Guests planning to enjoy several specialty restaurants should consider one of Royal Caribbean's dining packages, which often provide significant savings compared to purchasing meals individually.
• Dietary Requests: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, low-sugar, and many other dietary needs can usually be accommodated. Notify Royal Caribbean before sailing whenever possible and remind your dining team once onboard.
• Reservations: Specialty restaurants and popular dining times often fill before sailing, particularly on newer ships. Booking early provides the greatest selection of dates and times.

Food & Beverage

• Included Dining: Complimentary dining varies by ship and may include the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Marketplace, Sorrento's Pizza, Café Promenade, Park Café, Solarium Bistro, El Loco Fresh, Dog House, Boardwalk Dog House, Pearl Café, and other casual venues.
• Complimentary Beverages: Coffee, hot tea, iced tea, lemonade, flavored waters, select breakfast juices, and fountain water are available throughout your cruise at no additional charge.
• Specialty Coffee: Café Promenade, Café Latte-tudes, and other coffee venues serve specialty coffees, espresso drinks, pastries, and desserts for an additional charge unless included with an applicable beverage package.
• Room Service: Continental breakfast is complimentary on most sailings, while additional menu items are available throughout the day for a delivery fee. Suite guests receive additional room service benefits depending on their suite category.
• Hydration: Spending long days in the sun, combined with salty ocean air and alcoholic beverages, can lead to dehydration more quickly than many guests expect. Drinking plenty of water throughout your cruise will help you feel your best.

Deluxe Beverage Package

• What's Included: The Deluxe Beverage Package includes cocktails, spirits, beer, wine by the glass, premium coffees, bottled water, fresh juices, fountain soda, mocktails, milkshakes where available, and many other eligible beverages.
• Pricing: Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing, so package prices vary considerably by ship, sailing, and promotional offers. Purchasing before your cruise almost always provides the lowest available price.
• Daily Limit: Unlike many cruise lines, Royal Caribbean does not currently impose a fixed daily limit on alcoholic beverages, although responsible service policies always apply.
• Where It's Accepted: The Deluxe Beverage Package is accepted throughout the ship and also at Perfect Day at CocoCay, making it especially valuable on itineraries visiting Royal Caribbean's private island.

Refreshment Package

• What's Included: The Refreshment Package includes premium coffees, bottled water, fresh juices, fountain soda, mocktails, milkshakes where available, and other non-alcoholic beverages without including alcoholic drinks.
• Ideal For: This package is popular with guests who don't consume alcohol but still enjoy specialty coffees, bottled water, smoothies, premium teas, and soft drinks throughout the day.

Classic Soda Package

• Unlimited Fountain Soda: The Classic Soda Package provides unlimited fountain soft drinks throughout the ship using a complimentary souvenir Coca-Cola cup.
• Freestyle Machines: On ships equipped with Coca-Cola Freestyle machines, guests have access to dozens of additional soft drink flavors and combinations.

Water Package

• Convenient Delivery: Royal Caribbean offers bottled water packages that are delivered directly to your stateroom before or shortly after embarkation, providing a convenient way to stay hydrated throughout your cruise.

Private Destinations

• Perfect Day at CocoCay: Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island in The Bahamas features complimentary beaches, the Caribbean's largest freshwater pool, Oasis Lagoon, Splashaway Bay, beach sports, live entertainment, and several complimentary dining venues. Premium experiences include Thrill Waterpark, Up, Up and Away helium balloon, Coco Beach Club, zip line, and private cabanas.
• Labadee: Located on Haiti's northern coast, Labadee is Royal Caribbean's private destination offering beaches, water sports, shopping, complimentary dining, the Dragon's Tail Coaster, Dragon's Breath Flight Line, and private cabanas. Access is reserved exclusively for Royal Caribbean guests.
• Food & Beverage: Complimentary lunch is available at Royal Caribbean's private destinations, allowing guests to enjoy a full day ashore without returning to the ship for meals.
• Drink Packages: Royal Caribbean's Deluxe Beverage Package, Refreshment Package, and Classic Soda Package are accepted at Perfect Day at CocoCay. Beverage packages are not currently accepted at Labadee.
• Beach Towels: Complimentary beach towels are available onboard and may be taken ashore at private destinations. Remember to return them before the end of the day to avoid replacement charges.
• Internet Access: VOOM internet service is available throughout Perfect Day at CocoCay using your onboard internet package. Internet availability at Labadee may vary.

Onboard Planning & Reservations

• Royal Caribbean App: The Royal Caribbean App displays your Cruise Compass schedule, entertainment, dining reservations, deck maps, onboard account, and many other cruise details. Checking it throughout the day helps you stay informed as schedules occasionally change.
• The Key: The Key is an optional program that bundles benefits such as priority embarkation and departure, reserved seating at select entertainment venues, an exclusive welcome lunch, internet access, and other perks. Whether it's worth the additional cost depends on your sailing, ship, and the value you place on convenience.
• Entertainment Reservations: Broadway-style productions, AquaTheater shows, comedy performances, and other entertainment may require reservations on many ships. Reserve performances as early as possible for the best selection of show times.
• Spa Appointments: Sea days are generally the busiest at Vitality Spa. Booking treatments early in the cruise or choosing a port day appointment often provides the greatest availability and occasional discounts.
• Daily Planner: Royal Caribbean offers activities throughout the day including trivia, dance classes, demonstrations, live music, sports competitions, game shows, and family events. Reviewing the Cruise Compass each evening makes it easier to plan the following day's schedule.

Ports / Shore Excursions

• Royal Caribbean Excursions: Booking shore excursions through Royal Caribbean provides added peace of mind because the cruise line coordinates your return if a sponsored excursion is delayed for reasons beyond your control.
• Independent Tours: Independent tour operators often provide smaller groups, unique experiences, and competitive pricing. Research operators carefully and always allow plenty of time to return before the published all-aboard time.
• Ship Time vs. Local Time: Some destinations operate in a different time zone than the ship. Always verify whether your ship is observing local time or ship time before exploring independently.
• Return Early: Plan to return to the ship at least 30 to 60 minutes before the published all-aboard time. Ships cannot delay departure for guests who return late.
• Port Day Opportunities: Port days are often the best time to enjoy popular onboard attractions with shorter lines. The pools, FlowRider, rock climbing wall, spa, and many restaurants are noticeably less crowded while most guests are ashore.
• Local Currency: Many Caribbean destinations readily accept U.S. dollars, although change may be returned in local currency. Carrying a small amount of cash in smaller denominations is helpful for tips and small purchases.

Casino

• Casino Royale: Royal Caribbean's Casino Royale features slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, poker tournaments, and numerous table games. Gaming is generally available only while the ship is sailing in international waters.
• Club Royale: Guests earn reward points while playing in Casino Royale. Frequent players may qualify for complimentary cruises, onboard offers, casino tournaments, discounts, and other promotional benefits through Club Royale.
• Smoke-Free Gaming: Many ships provide designated non-smoking gaming areas, although the size and availability vary throughout the fleet.
• Cash & Charges: Casino transactions may be completed using cash or eligible SeaPass account charges. Additional fees may apply to certain account advances.

Wi-Fi / Internet Access

• VOOM Internet: VOOM is Royal Caribbean's high-speed internet service, offering one of the fastest internet experiences currently available at sea. Plans are available for one or multiple devices.
• Pre-Cruise Savings: VOOM internet packages are frequently discounted before sailing and usually cost less than purchasing them onboard.
• Performance: Internet speeds vary depending on your ship, itinerary, weather conditions, and the number of guests online, but Starlink technology has significantly improved connectivity across much of the fleet.
• Perfect Day at CocoCay: VOOM internet packages continue to work throughout Perfect Day at CocoCay, allowing guests to stay connected while enjoying the island.
• Disconnecting: Many guests choose to skip purchasing an internet package altogether, using their cruise as an opportunity to disconnect from work, email, and social media for a few days.

Families & Kids

• Adventure Ocean: Royal Caribbean's complimentary Adventure Ocean youth program offers supervised activities for children ages 3 to 12 with age-appropriate games, science experiments, crafts, themed events, and educational activities led by trained youth staff.
• Teen Programs: Teens have dedicated spaces designed specifically for their age group, offering video games, sports, music, movies, dance parties, and supervised social activities where they can meet other guests their age.
• Royal Babies & Tots: Select ships offer nursery services for children ages 6 to 36 months for an additional fee, along with dedicated play areas and family activities for younger cruisers.
• Family Activities: Families can enjoy ice skating, FlowRider, miniature golf, rock climbing, escape rooms, laser tag, carousel rides, water parks, sports courts, trivia, scavenger hunts, and numerous family-friendly activities depending on the ship.
• Youth Registration: Register children for Adventure Ocean soon after boarding to avoid delays and ensure they're ready to participate when activities begin.

Complimentary Extras

• Ocean Sunrises & Sunsets: One of the best complimentary experiences on any Royal Caribbean cruise is simply watching the sunrise or sunset over the open ocean. Every sailing offers different views, making each voyage unique.
• Entertainment: Royal Caribbean includes an impressive variety of complimentary entertainment, including Broadway-style productions, ice skating shows, AquaTheater performances, live music, comedians, game shows, and outdoor movie nights. Entertainment varies by ship.
• Fitness Center: Modern fitness centers are available on every ship and include cardio equipment, weight machines, and free weights. Fitness classes may be offered for an additional charge.
• Daily Activities: Trivia contests, dance lessons, cooking demonstrations, sports tournaments, scavenger hunts, pool games, and enrichment programs are offered throughout each cruise and are included with your fare unless otherwise noted.
• Ocean Views: Whether relaxing on your private balcony or one of the ship's many outdoor decks, some of the best moments onboard cost nothing at all. Take time to enjoy the scenery between ports of call.
• Crown & Anchor Society: Royal Caribbean's complimentary loyalty program rewards returning guests with benefits that grow over time, including onboard discounts, priority services, exclusive events, and other member perks. Enrollment is automatic after completing your first Royal Caribbean cruise.

Disembarking

• Self-Assist Departure: Guests carrying all of their own luggage may choose Self-Assist Disembarkation, allowing them to leave the ship earlier than standard departure groups.
• Standard Departure: Guests placing luggage outside their stateroom the night before departure receive luggage tags with an assigned departure group. Wait in the designated public area until your group is called.
• Final Morning: Staterooms are generally vacated early on disembarkation morning. Breakfast is available before leaving the ship, and public lounges remain open while departure groups are called.
• Customs & Immigration: Many U.S. cruise terminals now use facial recognition technology to speed the arrival process for eligible travelers. Guests traveling with passports often experience the quickest processing.
• Porters: Porters are available inside most cruise terminals to assist with luggage. A gratuity of approximately $1–2 per bag is customary for this service.
• Ground Transportation: Whether using Royal Caribbean transfers, ride-share services, taxis, rental cars, or personal vehicles, review your transportation plans before leaving the terminal to help ensure a smooth trip home.
• Before You Leave: Check your stateroom safe, closets, drawers, charging outlets, and under the bed before departing. Taking a final look around can help prevent leaving behind passports, medications, electronics, or other valuables.