First-Time Cruisers? Tips and Tricks for Royal Caribbean Cruise
First Time Cruisers
John David

First-Time Cruisers? Tips and Tricks for Royal Caribbean Cruise

You’re planning your first Royal Caribbean cruise, and you’re full of anticipation and questions. What to pack? How to get the best deals? What to expect on board? This guide will help you through your first cruise experience.

Royal Caribbean is known for innovation, world-class service, and a variety of activities and destinations. From the moment you step on board, you’ll find yourself in a floating city with everything from Broadway shows to rock climbing and surfing. With ships for every kind of traveler, Royal Caribbean makes sure your first cruise is both memorable and fun.

Tips for Booking Your First Royal Caribbean Vacation

1. Pre-Cruise Planning: Get Ready for a Smooth Sailing

Your cruise experience starts before you even get on the ship. Proper planning is key:

  • Book early and Look for Deals: Royal Caribbean offers early booking discounts and promotions, especially for first-time cruisers. Look for first-time cruise discounts to save on your vacation.
  • Choose the Right Ship: Royal Caribbean has a fleet of ships, each with its unique features. If you’re traveling with family, you might want to choose an Oasis-class ship with water parks, zip lines, and youth programs. For a more intimate experience, choose a smaller ship that focuses on cultural enrichment and quieter environments. Check out the different Royal Caribbean sailings to find the one that suits your vacation.
  • Know the Itinerary: Royal Caribbean sails to many destinations, from the Caribbean and Bahamas to Europe and beyond. Review your ship’s itinerary so you know what ports you’ll visit and can plan your excursions accordingly. For first-time cruisers, the Caribbean is a popular choice with its beautiful beaches and vibrant culture. Check out the different Royal Caribbean destinations to find the one that excites you most.

2. Packing Essentials: What to Bring on Your Royal Caribbean Cruise

Packing for a cruise can be a bit tricky, especially if it’s your first time. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Travel Documents: Make sure you have your passport, cruise documents, and any required visas. It’s also a good idea to have a printed copy of your travel insurance.
  • Clothing: Pack casual clothing for day-to-day activities, formal attire for formal nights, and swimwear for pool days. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking around the ship and during shore excursions.
  • Toiletries: While the ship will provide basic toiletries, it’s a good idea to bring your own. Remember to pack sunscreen, motion sickness remedies, and any medications you might need.
  • Technology: While Royal Caribbean offers internet packages, it’s a good idea to download any entertainment or reading material before you board. Don’t forget your chargers and consider bringing a power strip for extra outlets in your cabin.

3. Embarkation Day: Getting Settled on Board

Embarkation day is the start of your cruise. Here’s how to make it as smooth as possible:

  • Arrive Early: Getting to the port early can help you avoid long lines and give you more time to get settled on the ship once you board. Most ships start boarding around midday, so plan to arrive early for a quick check-in.
  • Explore the Ship: Once on board, take some time to get to know the ship. Royal Caribbean ships are huge, so knowing where the main dining room, pool, and entertainment venues will help you navigate better.
  • Check-In Your Luggage: Your luggage will be delivered to your stateroom, but it might not arrive until later in the afternoon. Pack a small carry-on with essentials like swimwear, a change of clothes, and any important documents so you can start your day as soon as you get on board.

4. Dining Options: Something for Everyone

One of the best parts of a Royal Caribbean cruise is the dining. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a quick bite, the options on board won’t disappoint.

  • Main Dining Room: The main dining room has a rotating menu with international and regional cuisine. It’s included in your cruise fare, so it’s a popular choice for dinner. If you prefer a more relaxed dining experience, opt for “My Time Dining” and choose your own dining time.
  • Specialty Restaurants: For a more upscale dining experience, book a reservation at a specialty restaurant. Options include steakhouses, Italian trattorias, and sushi bars. There is a fee, but it’s often worth it.
  • Casual Dining: For quick meals, head to the Windjammer Café for a buffet-style dining experience with a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also grab snacks at the Café Promenade or Sorrento’s Pizza.

Also read: What are the best Royal Caribbean ships for young adults?

5. Onboard Activities: Something for Everyone

Royal Caribbean has loads of activities, so you’ll never be bored:

  • Entertainment: Broadway shows, ice skating, and live music throughout the day. Check the Cruise Compass for showtimes and special events.
  • Adventure and Sports: Rock climbing, surfing simulators, and zip lines are available for thrill-seekers. Mini-golf, shuffleboard, and pool time are available for the laid-back.
  • Relaxation: If you’re looking for relaxation, head to the Vitality Spa for a massage or one of the adult-only solariums. The library and card room are quieter spaces to read or play board games.

6. Shore Excursions: Make the Most of Your Time in Port

One of the best parts of cruising is exploring new destinations. Royal Caribbean has a wide range of shore excursions to suit every interest:

  • Book Early: Popular excursions sell out fast, so book them in advance. Whether you want to snorkel, go on a historical tour, or have a cultural experience, there’s something for everyone.
  • Consider Independent Tours: While booking through Royal Caribbean ensures you’ll be back on board in time, independent tours can offer more personalized experiences, sometimes at a lower cost. Just make sure you check the time so you get back to the ship before it sails.
  • Explore on Your Own: If you prefer more freedom, you can always explore the port city on your own. Just make sure you bring a map, a sense of adventure, and an eye on the clock.

7. Disembarkation: End of Cruise

As your cruise comes to an end, here’s what to do:

  • Settle Your Bill: Before you settle your account, make sure all charges on your SeaPass card are correct. You can do this through guest services or the Royal Caribbean app.
  • Pack Ahead: Pack your bags the night before disembarkation and leave them outside your cabin for collection. You’ll pick them up at the terminal after you disembark.
  • Plan Your Departure: Depending on your travel plans, you might want to book a post-cruise excursion if you have a late flight or arrange for transportation back home.

Also Check: Tips for First-Time Royal Caribbean Cruisers

Conclusion

Your first Royal Caribbean cruise will be an experience you’ll never forget, full of adventure, relaxation, and memories. By planning, knowing what to expect, and making the most of the resources on board, you’ll be set for a great vacation. Whether you’re island hopping or enjoying the ship’s endless activities, Royal Caribbean has something for everyone, so your first cruise won’t be your last.

For more tips and to book your first Royal Caribbean cruise, Visit Cruise Booking.

FAQs for First-Time Cruisers

1. What if I get seasick?

Seasickness is a big worry for first-timers. Royal Caribbean ships have stabilizers to minimize the motion, but if you’re prone to seasickness, take over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or wear acupressure wristbands. Being midship on a lower deck can also help with motion.

2. Are tips included in my cruise price?

Tips are not included in the base price but are added to your onboard account daily. You can prepay them before your cruise if you want to. Tips cover your stateroom attendant and dining staff.

3. Can I get internet at sea?

A: Royal Caribbean offers VOOM, its high-speed internet. You can buy packages for the duration of your cruise. While it’s great to stay connected, remember that speeds may vary depending on your location.

4. What’s the dress code?

Royal Caribbean’s dress code varies by venue. The main dining room is formal on nights when cocktail attire or suits are required; other nights, it is casual or smart casual. Specialty restaurants may have their dress code, so check before you dine.

5. Can I bring my alcohol?

Royal Caribbean’s policy is two bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom. Any additional alcohol purchased onshore will be stored until the end of the cruise.

Image Source: Michelle_Raponi at Pixabay