Royal Caribbean FAQ: 25 Answers to the Most Common Cruise Questions

If you’re cruising with Royal Caribbean and feel like your head’s spinning with questions, you’re not alone. This Royal Caribbean FAQ guide covers the most common questions I get from first-timers and seasoned cruisers alike.

Whether you’re wondering what’s actually included, how early to check in, or if the drink package is even worth it, I’ve got you. I’ve been cruising since I was 10 years old, and over the years, I’ve learned what matters, what’s optional, and what can quietly drain your wallet if you’re not paying attention.

This guide is updated for 2025 and organized by topic, so you can skip straight to the info you need. I’ve included real-world tips, insider advice, and my honest opinions at the end. If you’re planning your first sailing or just want to cruise smarter, keep this one bookmarked.

Let’s get to the questions cruisers ask the most.

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Booking & Pricing Tips

This section of the Royal Caribbean FAQ tackles the biggest questions every cruiser asks before they book. Timing, pricing, and what’s included can make or break your cruise budget. Let’s dive into the smart stuff.

When should I book a Royal Caribbean cruise?

If you want the best deal and the best cabin, book as early as possible. I’m talking 12 to 24 months in advance for most sailings. Royal Caribbean typically releases new itineraries about 18 months ahead, and that’s when prices are often at their absolute lowest.

As ships start to fill, prices go up. Waiting until the last minute might save you a few bucks, but you’ll lose out on cabin selection, and sometimes pay more for a worse location.

Pro tip: Newer ships like Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas sell out fast. If you’re eyeing one of those, don’t wait. Book early and lock in your price.

This is one of the most common Royal Caribbean frequently asked questions for a reason: early planning almost always pays off.

How do I get the best deal?

There are several smart strategies that come up again and again in any Royal Caribbean cruise FAQ:

• Book early. This is still the #1 tip for scoring a lower fare.
• Be flexible. Shoulder seasons like early December, January, and early May usually have lower prices.
• Try older ships. Voyager and Radiance Class ships offer amazing value if you care more about ports than the latest bells and whistles.
• Use a travel agent. A good one will watch for price drops and get you extras like onboard credit or reduced deposits.
• Look for guarantee cabins. You don’t choose your exact room, but you’ll save money upfront.

If you’re wondering how to get cruise deals without spending hours digging through websites, I made a free resource to help. Grab the Cruise Deal Playbook here to learn the same strategies I use to pay less and cruise more.

What’s included in my cruise fare?

Here’s what’s actually included in your base fare—something people are constantly asking in Royal Caribbean FAQs and forums:

• Accommodations: Your cabin and daily housekeeping service
• Meals: All-you-can-eat dining in the Main Dining Room, Windjammer buffet, and a few grab-and-go spots
• Drinks: Water, iced tea, lemonade, coffee, tea, and juices at breakfast
• Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, aqua theater performances, live music, game shows, and more
• Activities: Mini golf, FlowRider, rock climbing, trivia, dance classes, pool games, and more
• Adventure Ocean: Supervised kids’ programming for ages 3 to 11
• Fitness Center: Access to gym equipment and basic group classes like stretch and abs

You can absolutely cruise without spending a dime extra. But Royal Caribbean does offer plenty of optional add-ons like:

• Specialty dining
• Beverage packages
• WiFi packages (VOOM)
• Shore excursions
• Spa treatments and thermal suites

If you’re on a budget, skip the upgrades. Everything you need for an amazing cruise is already built into the base fare.

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Embarkation & Check-In

This part of the Royal Caribbean FAQ covers the first step of your vacation: getting on the ship. The check-in process has gotten way easier in recent years, but there are still a few things you’ll want to know to make embarkation day smooth and stress-free.

What’s the Royal Caribbean check-in process?

The Royal Caribbean check-in process is smoother than ever—especially if you use the Royal Caribbean app.

You’ll be asked to:

• Upload a photo of yourself
• Scan your passport or travel ID
• Add a credit card for onboard purchases
• Choose your arrival time at the cruise terminal

Once you arrive, you’ll go through security, show your documents, and board the ship. If you’ve completed check-in ahead of time, the whole process usually takes under 30 minutes.

Tip: If you’re sailing from a newer terminal like Terminal A in Miami or Terminal 3 in Port Canaveral, the experience is even faster and more streamlined.

Don’t wait until embarkation day to complete check-in. You can do it as early as 45 days before your cruise, and the sooner you check in, the better your choice of arrival times.

How early can I board?

Boarding typically starts between 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM, depending on the ship and port.

During online check-in, you’ll be assigned an arrival window—and yes, it matters. If you show up too early, you may be asked to wait outside.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Choose one of the earliest time slots during check-in
• Arrive on time, not early or late
• Head straight to lunch or the pool once onboard to beat the crowds

Bonus tip: If you’re staying in a suite or you’re a Pinnacle Club member, you’ll usually get priority boarding with a dedicated line and shorter wait times. It’s one of those perks that makes embarkation feel a little more VIP.

Should I use a porter at the terminal?

Yes—and definitely tip them. Porters are the team members at the curb who collect your large checked bags and make sure they get delivered to your stateroom later in the day.

It’s fast, easy, and saves you from dragging a suitcase through security and onto the ship.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Tip $2 to $3 per bag (in cash)
• Attach your luggage tags before arrival
• Keep essentials in a carry-on like swimsuits, meds, electronics, or valuables

You won’t see your checked bags again until late afternoon, so don’t pack anything you’ll need right away.

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Cabins & Ship Classes

This part of the Royal Caribbean FAQ breaks down two of the most important decisions you’ll make: which ship to sail on and which cabin to book. Both can seriously affect how much you enjoy your cruise, so let’s get into the details.

What are the different Royal Caribbean ship classes?

One of the most common Royal Caribbean FAQ questions is about ship classes. Royal Caribbean organizes its fleet into eight ship classes, each offering different sizes, experiences, and features. Think of them like car models — all cruise ships, but some are made for luxury, others for adventure, and some for pure relaxation.

Want a full breakdown? Check out my complete guide to Royal Caribbean ship classes to see how they compare and which might be right for you.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Royal Caribbean ship classes:

• Icon Class (newest):Icon of the Seas, Star of the Seas, Legend of the Seas (2026)
  • Massive ships with eight neighborhoods, Surfside family zone, Category 6 waterpark, and jaw-dropping design
• Oasis Class:Wonder, Symphony, Harmony, Allure, Oasis
  • Huge floating cities with the AquaTheater, Central Park, zip lines, and multiple neighborhoods
• Quantum Class:Odyssey, Anthem, Spectrum, Quantum, Ovation
  • Tech-forward ships with North Star observation capsule, skydiving simulator, and bumper cars
• Freedom Class:Freedom, Liberty, Independence
  • Mid-size ships with plenty of action and value
• Voyager Class:Voyager, Mariner, Navigator, Explorer, Adventure
  • Great for budget-conscious cruisers who still want activities and water slides
• Radiance Class:Radiance, Jewel, Brilliance, Serenade
  • Smaller ships with lots of glass and ocean views, ideal for scenic itineraries
• Vision Class:Vision, Enchantment, Rhapsody, Grandeur
  • Intimate ships with a laid-back vibe and unique ports
• Empress & Majesty (retired): No longer part of the active fleet, but you may still find old reviews or references online

Want to compare ships by size? Check out my full guide to Royal Caribbean ships by size for tonnage, length, passenger capacity, and more. That article breaks down every ship from biggest to smallest, so you can pick the one that fits your style.

How do I pick the right ship?

This Royal Caribbean FAQ wouldn’t be complete without answering the biggest cruise planning question: How do I choose the right ship?

It depends on your vibe and your travel crew:

• Traveling with kids? Icon or Oasis Class ships are loaded with family zones, water play areas, and non-stop entertainment
• Want a quiet, scenic trip? Radiance Class ships offer panoramic ocean views and fewer crowds
• Looking for a good deal? Voyager and Freedom Class ships pack in fun without the premium price tag
• Love tech and thrills? Go Quantum Class for skydiving, North Star, and SeaPlex action
• Sailing to unique ports? Smaller ships like Vision and Radiance Class can reach destinations the big ones can’t

Your itinerary also matters. Some ports require smaller ships due to docking limitations, so don’t just choose based on size. Read reviews, look at deck plans, and think about what kind of cruise experience you want.

If you’re brand new to cruising, this part of the Royal Caribbean frequently asked questions can save you from booking the wrong vibe. Your ship is more than a hotel — it’s the destination.

What is the RoyalUp upgrade program?

RoyalUp is Royal Caribbean’s bid-based upgrade system, and it comes up a lot in cruise planning forums and FAQs. After you book your cruise, you may get an email inviting you to place a bid for a cabin upgrade.

Here’s how the RoyalUp upgrade program works:

• You choose how much to bid per person to move to a higher cabin category
• Royal Caribbean accepts or denies your offer (typically within a few days of sailing)
• If accepted, you get upgraded automatically — but you won’t choose the exact room

You can go from inside cabin to oceanview, oceanview to balcony, or even balcony to suite depending on availability. Just know it’s a gamble, and once your bid is accepted, your card is charged and the room is locked in.

I’ve scored some solid upgrades through RoyalUp by bidding on the low end, but only bid what you’re actually willing to pay. You can’t back out once it’s accepted. Overall, not to be a bummer, I don’t think its really worth it.

What do cabins include?

Another top search in Royal Caribbean FAQs is what’s included in my cabin? Even the most basic staterooms come with everything you need for a comfortable cruise.

Here’s what every cabin includes:

• Beds (can be configured as two twins or pushed into a queen)
• Private bathroom with a shower and basic toiletries
• Closet and drawers for storage
• Flat-screen TV with limited channels and ship info
• Mini fridge, hairdryer, and safe
• Daily housekeeping service
• Pool towels and fresh linens on request
• Ice service, if requested from your stateroom attendant

Power outlets are limited, so bring a non-surge power strip if you need to charge multiple devices. USB ports are available on newer ships, but not all older cabins have them.

Balcony cabins add private outdoor space, and suites come with added perks like:

• Priority boarding and debarkation
• Larger living space and bathrooms
• Access to the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen
• Dedicated concierge service

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly inside cabin or going all-in with a suite, there’s a room that fits your needs. And now that you know what each class offers, you’re in a much better spot to choose the right one.

Still deciding which stateroom to book? Here’s my full guide to Royal Caribbean cabins with photos, pros and cons, and tips for every budget.

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Dining, Drinks & Dress Codes

Dining is a huge part of the cruise experience, and this Royal Caribbean FAQ section breaks down what’s free, what costs extra, and how to dress for dinner without overthinking it.

What food is included?

You’ll never go hungry on a Royal Caribbean cruise — and yes, a ton of food is included in your base fare. You can easily eat every meal of your cruise without spending an extra dime.

Want to know exactly what dinner looks like each night? From lobster night to dessert menus, I’ve got the full scoop in my Royal Caribbean main dining room experience guide. It covers the vibe, sample menus, and how it compares to specialty dining, so you know what to expect before you even sit down.

Here’s what’s included at no extra charge:

• Main Dining Room: Multi-course meals for breakfast, dinner, and lunch (on sea days)
• Windjammer Buffet: Open daily with a massive variety of hot, cold, and international options
• Grab-and-Go Spots(varies by ship):
  • Café Promenade
  • Sorrento’s Pizza
  • Park Café
  • El Loco Fresh
  • Boardwalk Dog House
• Room Service: Continental breakfast is free, but all other orders have a $7.95 delivery fee plus 18% gratuity

Even on mega-ships like Wonder of the Seas or Icon of the Seas, you could cruise all week eating only included food and eat really well.

What’s the dress code onboard?

Royal Caribbean has three recommended dress codes for dinner in the Main Dining Room.

These apply mostly in the evening — casual wear is fine throughout the day.

• Casual: Jeans, polos, sundresses, casual tops — comfortable and relaxed
• Smart Casual: Collared shirts, blouses, slacks, skirts, or cocktail dresses
• Formal: Suits, evening gowns, cocktail attire, or even a tux if you’re going all-out

The truth? Most people keep it semi-formal or dressy casual, even on formal nights. You won’t get turned away unless you show up in swimwear or tank tops.

Tip: Longer cruises usually have 2–3 formal nights. On 3–5 night sailings, expect just one.

What drinks are free?

This is a big one in most Royal Caribbean frequently asked questions, so let’s keep it simple.

You can get unlimited access to the following drinks without buying any package:

• Tap water
• Iced tea
• Lemonade
• Hot chocolate packets
• Regular and decaf coffee
• Hot and iced tea
• Milk
• Basic juices (mainly at breakfast)

These are available at drink stations, buffets, and the Main Dining Room. Everything else — sodas, specialty coffee, cocktails, bottled water — is extra.

Is the drink package worth it?

This one depends entirely on how much you drink — and what. If you average 5 to 7 alcoholic drinks per day, plus premium coffee, bottled water, and juices, the Deluxe Beverage Package may be worth it.

Here’s a quick overview of drink package options:

• Deluxe Beverage Package: Alcoholic drinks, sodas, specialty coffees, water, and more
• Refreshment Package: Non-alcoholic drinks like mocktails, soda, fresh juice, and bottled water
• Classic Soda Package: Just fountain soda and a souvenir cup

Important note: If one adult in a stateroom buys the Deluxe Package, every other adult in the room must also buy it. Sharing is not allowed — and yes, they enforce it.

Tip: Buy your drink package before the cruise using the Cruise Planner. Prices are usually lower than onboard rates, and sales happen often.

Want to see exactly what’s free and what each package covers? Here’s my full breakdown of the Royal Caribbean drink package

Can Royal Caribbean accommodate dietary needs?

Yes — and they’re really good at it. Royal Caribbean can accommodate most special diets and allergies, including:

• Gluten-free
• Vegetarian and vegan
• Kosher
• Dairy-free
• Low-sodium
• Food allergies

Submit your dietary request at least 45 days before sailing (90 days for some international cruises). You can do it through:

• Your travel agent
• The Royal Caribbean website
• Email: special_needs@rccl.com (include your name, ship, sail date, and reservation number)

You’ll also find vegetarian options on every menu — no special request needed.

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Onboard Life: Entertainment, WiFi & More

This part of the Royal Caribbean FAQ covers what life is actually like once you’re onboard the ship. From shows to WiFi, this is where Royal Caribbean really earns its reputation as a floating resort. Whether you’re into Broadway, rock climbing, or just need to check email mid-ocean, here’s what you need to know.

Are shows and entertainment included?

Yes — most entertainment on a Royal Caribbean cruise is included in your base fare. This is a common Royal Caribbean FAQ because people are often surprised at just how much you get without spending more.

Here’s what’s free to enjoy:

• Broadway-style musicals like Hairspray and Mamma Mia! on select ships
• AquaTheater shows featuring divers, acrobats, and stunts
• Ice skating performances on ships like Symphony and Harmony of the Seas
• Live music, karaoke nights, game shows, and comedy clubs

Reservations are required for popular shows, especially on Oasis Class and Icon Class ships. Use the Royal Caribbean app to book your seats as soon as you’re onboard — or even before you sail.

Tip: While most shows are free, some specialty venues may charge extra for things like dining theater or escape room-style experiences.

What free activities are available?

This is one of the most exciting parts of the Royal Caribbean onboard experience — and one of the most searched parts of the Royal Caribbean FAQ. There are dozens of things to do every day, and many of them are completely free.

Here are just a few complimentary activities:

• FlowRider surf simulator
• Rock climbing walls
• Mini golf courses
• Water slides and splash zones
• Zip line (on Oasis Class ships)
• Scavenger hunts, dance classes, trivia, and game shows
• Fitness center access (note: group fitness classes like spin or yoga may cost extra)

Kids and teens can enjoy free programming in Adventure Ocean and teen lounges, with options like sports tournaments, movie nights, and video game contests.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just want to lounge by the pool, there’s no shortage of included fun.

Is there internet onboard? What does it cost?

Yes — Royal Caribbean offers internet through a satellite-based service called VOOM, which they market as the fastest internet at sea. It’s surprisingly solid for things like social media, streaming, and video calls.

You’ll choose between two VOOM internet packages:

• Surf: Basic internet for checking email, web browsing, and messaging apps
• Surf + Stream: Higher speeds for streaming video, video calls, and uploading content

Prices vary, but you can expect to pay $15 to $25 per day, per device if you purchase ahead of time through the Cruise Planner. It’s usually more expensive if you wait to buy it onboard.

Pro Tip: If you’re a Diamond, Diamond Plus, or Pinnacle Club member in the Crown & Anchor Society, you may receive complimentary VOOM WiFi minutes or device access as part of your loyalty perks.

This Royal Caribbean FAQ section wouldn’t be complete without one final note: you don’t need WiFi to have an amazing cruise. But if you do need to stay connected, VOOM can get the job done — especially if you plan ahead.

Want more details? Here’s my full guide to Royal Caribbean WiFi with tips on which plan to buy, how to save money, and what to expect for streaming and video calls at sea.

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Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perfect Day at CocoCay is Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas, and trust me—it’s not your typical beach stop. Whether you want to chill with a drink in a hammock or shoot down the tallest waterslide in North America, this place has something for everyone. But not everything is free, so let’s break it down.

What’s included at Perfect Day at CocoCay?

The good news? You don’t have to spend a dime to have a great time. Many of the island’s best experiences are totally included in your cruise fare:

• Access to the beach areas like Chill Island and South Beach
• A huge freshwater pool at Oasis Lagoon (with a swim-up bar)
• Complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and hammocks
• A variety of included dining options like:
  • Chill Grill
  • Snack Shacks
  • Skipper’s Grill
• Free access to beach games like volleyball, basketball, and paddle sports
• Free use of your Royal Caribbean drink package on the island (if you have one)

You can easily make this a budget-friendly beach day if you skip the paid extras.

Is the CocoCay waterpark worth the money?

Here’s where it gets a little spicy. The Thrill Waterpark at CocoCay is not included and can cost anywhere from $50 to over $100 per person, depending on demand. So… is it worth it?

Here’s what’s inside:

• Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet
• A giant wave pool
• Multiple body and tube slides
• Adventure-style obstacle courses

It’s a blast if:

• You’re traveling with teens or adrenaline junkies
• You want a full day of waterpark fun without lines like you’d see at a land-based park

But if you’re more of a relax-on-the-beach-with-a-margarita kind of cruiser, you might want to skip it and enjoy the free areas instead.

Tip: Sometimes you’ll find discounted waterpark passes in your Cruise Planner before sailing, especially during holiday sales.

Want the full scoop on the island? I’ve got a detailed guide to Perfect Day at CocoCay right here.

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Kids & Teens Onboard

This part of the Royal Caribbean FAQ covers everything you need to know about cruising with kids, tweens, and teens. Royal Caribbean is one of the most family-friendly cruise lines out there, and they’ve built their ships with every age group in mind. Whether you’re bringing toddlers or hard-to-impress teenagers, there’s a full lineup of onboard options that go way beyond shuffleboard and chicken fingers.

Want a full breakdown by age? Check out my complete guide to Royal Caribbean for kids with tips for toddlers through teens.

What’s Adventure Ocean?

One of the top Royal Caribbean FAQ topics from parents is about the kids’ club. Adventure Ocean is Royal Caribbean’s complimentary, award-winning youth program. It’s split into age-appropriate groups, each run by trained and background-checked youth staff who keep things fun and structured.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Aquanauts (3–5 years): Arts, crafts, games, and story time
• Explorers (6–8 years): Scavenger hunts, science experiments, and themed parties
• Voyagers (9–12 years): Sports, talent shows, challenges, and creative projects

All of these activities are included in your cruise fare, and sessions usually run during the day, in the evening, and even during dinner hours — giving parents a chance to unwind.

Important note: Kids must be fully potty trained to join Adventure Ocean. No diapers or pull-ups are allowed.

What’s available for teens?

Teens aren’t left out either. This is one area where Royal Caribbean shines compared to other cruise lines. Most ships feature a dedicated teen lounge and exclusive teen activities that feel more like a cool hangout than a daycare.

Here’s what’s available for teens onboard:

• Silent discos and themed parties
• Basketball tournaments and pool games
• Video game nights and movies
• Arcade competitions and social mixers

The best part? No sign-ups or set schedules. Teens can come and go as they please, giving them a sense of freedom that’s built into the program — something both parents and teens appreciate.

If you’re researching Royal Caribbean frequently asked questions about teen options, know this: It’s one of the best teen programs at sea, hands down.

Is there babysitting for toddlers?

This is a maybe, and it’s a common Royal Caribbean FAQ for parents of little ones. Some ships offer nursery services through the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery for kids ages 6 months to 36 months. It comes with a fee (usually around $6–8 per hour), and spots are limited — so booking early in the Cruise Planner is a must.

If the nursery isn’t available on your ship, you’ll often find open play sessions where parents and toddlers can enjoy soft play zones and interactive activities together, usually hosted in the Adventure Ocean area.

Tip: Check your ship’s amenities in advance if you’re traveling with a baby or toddler. Not all Royal Caribbean ships have nursery facilities, especially smaller or older classes.

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Cruise Rules, Packing & Policies

This part of the Royal Caribbean FAQ dives into all the nitty-gritty rules that could catch you off guard. From what you can (and can’t) pack, to policies around drinks and dress codes, this is your go-to guide for avoiding rookie mistakes.

What should I pack?

One of the most common Royal Caribbean FAQ questions I get is what to pack. And the answer depends on your itinerary, but a few staples are true across every ship.

Here’s a quick cruise checklist:

• Passport or approved travel ID
• Two swimsuits (one’s always drying)
• Formal night outfit if you want to dress up
• Magnetic hooks (the walls are metal)
• Refillable water bottle
• Over-the-door organizer for toiletries
• Non-surge protected power strip
• Day bag for excursions

Need a complete list? Download my free printable cruise packing guide here for everything I bring on every cruise.

What’s banned from bringing onboard?

Another big one in this Royal Caribbean cruise FAQ is: What’s not allowed on the ship? Here’s what Royal Caribbean bans:

• Irons, steamers, and hot plates
• Surge-protected power strips
• Candles or anything with an open flame
• Weapons or anything that looks like one
• CBD or marijuana products
• Hard liquor or beer (you can bring one 750ml bottle of wine per adult)

These rules are taken seriously. If you pack restricted items, security will remove them at the terminal—and you might not get them back.

Can I share my drink package?

Nope. This comes up all the time in Royal Caribbean forums and FAQs, but the rule is crystal clear: Royal Caribbean drink packages are non-shareable.

If one adult in a stateroom buys the Deluxe Beverage Package, every other adult in that stateroom must also purchase one. Sharing drinks can result in your package being canceled without a refund.

You can call the cruise line and request a Refreshment Package for someone who doesn’t drink alcohol, but you’ll need to explain why (medical, religious, etc.).

What’s the deal with formal nights?

If you’re wondering about dress codes, this Royal Caribbean FAQ has you covered. Formal night shows up on most sailings 5 nights or longer—usually once on short cruises and twice on longer ones.

• Men: Slacks and a button-down or full suit (no tank tops)
• Women: Cocktail dress, skirt and top, or something fancier if you want

There’s no requirement to go full tuxedo or gown, but you’ll want to avoid swimwear, flip flops, or graphic tees in the Main Dining Room during formal night.

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Working with a Travel Agent

One of the most underrated tips in any Royal Caribbean frequently asked questions guide? Use a travel agent. It might seem old-school, but travel agents can unlock deals, upgrades, and planning help you’d never find on your own.

Should I use a travel agent for Royal Caribbean?

Absolutely. In most cases, using a travel agent costs you nothing extra and can actually save you money. Agents often have access to group rates, booking incentives, or onboard credit offers that aren’t available through the main Royal Caribbean website.

Here’s what a great cruise travel agent can help with:

• Finding the best cabin location for your needs
• Spotting price drops after you book
• Explaining cruise terms and cancellation policies
• Applying Crown & Anchor loyalty offers
• Rebooking if anything changes before sail day

Some agents even monitor your reservation for sales and re-price it automatically. That alone can save you hundreds.

Does it cost anything?

Nope. For most travelers, using a travel agent is completely free. Royal Caribbean pays the agent’s commission, not you.

The only time you might pay a small fee is if you cancel last-minute or switch agents after booking, but that’s rare. And if you already booked your cruise directly with Royal Caribbean, you can often transfer your reservation to a travel agent within 30 days of booking (as long as it’s not paid in full).

This section of the Royal Caribbean FAQ exists because so many first-time cruisers think booking direct is the best deal—but that’s not always true. A good agent can do the legwork for you and keep an eye out for better perks or pricing.

Additional FAQs

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Jim’s Take: Final Thoughts for New Cruisers

If you’ve made it this far in the Royal Caribbean FAQ, you’re already ahead of most first-time cruisers. Nice work.

The truth is, cruising with Royal Caribbean can feel a little overwhelming at first. There are a lot of choices, a lot of upgrades, and a lot of fine print. But once you understand how things work, it’s honestly one of the most fun, affordable, and relaxing vacations you can take.

I’ve been cruising since I was a kid, and I still get that same rush every time I walk onto the ship. The music, the welcome smiles, the ocean views… it just hits every time.

Here’s what I’d tell any first-time cruiser:

• Don’t stress about getting it perfect. You will forget something. You will laugh at yourself. That’s part of the magic.
• Learn the basics before you board. Knowing how to check in, what to pack, and what to expect goes a long way.
• Watch your spending. It’s easy to load up on the drink package, specialty dining, excursions, and WiFi without realizing how much is already included.
• Get to know your ship ahead of time. Use the Royal Caribbean app. Peek at deck plans. Read up on shows, restaurants, and neighborhoods. It’s worth it.

Whether you’re cruising solo, as a couple, with kids, or in a big group—Royal Caribbean gives you the freedom to cruise your way. Your trip can be packed with activities or totally chill. That’s the beauty of it.

Still choosing your stateroom? You’ll definitely want to read this before you book.

Here’s my full guide to Royal Caribbean cabins so you don’t end up stuck next to the nightclub (been there).