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How to Make the Most of Your Royal Caribbean Cruise
At Cruise Ready, we’re excited to share our top Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks with you.
Royal Caribbean offers an incredible array of experiences, from thrilling onboard activities to gourmet dining options and exotic destinations.
Our guide will help you navigate the vast offerings and make the most of your cruise vacation, ensuring you create unforgettable memories at sea.
How to Plan Your Royal Caribbean Adventure
Selecting the Ideal Itinerary
Royal Caribbean offers over 300 destinations worldwide, providing a vast array of choices for your cruise vacation. You should consider factors such as cruise duration, ports of call, and onboard amenities when making your selection. Do you prefer Caribbean & The Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Europe, Asia, South Pacific, North America, or Specialty Cruises? Research each destination to align it with your interests and budget.
Families should explore itineraries that include stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island. This destination appeals to travelers of all ages with its record-breaking waterslides, massive wave pool, and beautiful beaches for relaxation.
Booking Essential Experiences
After selecting your cruise, you need to secure your onboard experiences. Popular restaurants and shore excursions often fill up quickly, especially on newer ships like Wonder of the Seas or Icon of the Seas.
Make reservations for specialty restaurants as soon as they become available. This strategy ensures you won’t miss unique culinary experiences like the Empire Supper Club or Wonderland.
Early booking is essential for shore excursions. Royal Caribbean provides a wide range of options at over 300 cruise ports. Whether you prefer cultural tours, adventure activities, or relaxing beach days, booking in advance guarantees your spot in your preferred experiences.
Utilizing Technology for a Smooth Journey
The Royal Caribbean app (available for both iOS and Android devices) streamlines your entire cruise experience. Use this tool to:
- Manage your reservations
- Explore and book shore excursions
- Make dining reservations
- Check in for your cruise
The app also provides a digital SeaPass card, allowing you to open your stateroom door and make onboard purchases with your smartphone. You can stay connected with fellow travelers using the app’s chat feature, all without purchasing an internet package.
Packing Smart for Your Voyage
Efficient packing enhances your cruise experience. Try to include versatile clothing suitable for various onboard activities and shore excursions. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and any necessary medications.
Pack a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save on drink costs throughout your cruise. Consider bringing a small day bag for shore excursions to carry essentials like sunglasses, camera, and sunscreen.
Preparing for Onboard Activities
Familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and available attractions before boarding. This preparation helps you optimize your time onboard and ensures you don’t miss out on unique experiences.
Research the onboard activities offered on your specific ship. Royal Caribbean vessels often feature innovative attractions like the FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing walls, and ice-skating rinks. Some ships even boast the RipCord by iFLY (a skydiving simulator) or the North Star (a glass capsule that extends over the ship’s edge for panoramic views).
With these planning strategies in place, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Royal Caribbean adventure. Now, let’s explore the exciting world of onboard activities and entertainment that awaits you on your cruise.
What Thrills Await Onboard?
Royal Caribbean ships transform into floating entertainment hubs, packed with activities for every taste and age group. The FlowRider surf simulator stands out as a must-try attraction. This exhilarating experience allows you to catch waves without leaving the ship. There is no additional charge for the activity, but you need to complete a waiver. Boogie boarding rules are rather short, making it accessible for many guests.
Soar to New Heights
Quantum-class ships offer the RipCord by iFLY, a skydiving simulator that provides a safe way to experience freefall. Book your session immediately after boarding, as slots fill up quickly. You can head to the iFLY® desk or use the Royal Caribbean app once onboard. Paid sessions are usually less crowded and offer more flight time.
Broadway at Sea
Royal Caribbean brings world-class entertainment to the high seas. Shows like “Hairspray” and “Grease” rival their Broadway counterparts. Book your show times through the Royal Caribbean app as soon as they become available. Arrive at least 30 minutes early for prime seating, especially for popular productions.
Adult Retreats
The adults-only Solarium offers a perfect escape from the main decks’ hustle and bustle. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the most serene atmosphere. (Don’t forget to try the complimentary fruit-infused water available in this area.)
Active Adventures
The rock climbing wall and zip line challenge your physical abilities. These activities come included in your fare, so take full advantage. Participate in these activities on port days when most passengers leave the ship, resulting in shorter wait times.
Royal Caribbean’s innovative attractions ensure constant excitement at sea. From heart-pumping thrills to world-class entertainment and relaxation spots, the onboard experience caters to all preferences. As you explore these exciting activities, your appetite for adventure will likely grow. Let’s turn our attention to the culinary delights that await you on your Royal Caribbean cruise.
What’s on the Menu at Sea?
Royal Caribbean’s culinary offerings match the diversity of its itineraries. From casual bites to gourmet feasts, the dining options cater to every palate and occasion. We recommend you explore the full spectrum of dining experiences to maximize your cruise enjoyment.
Specialty Restaurants: A Culinary Adventure
Specialty dining venues offer a chance to elevate your culinary journey. Chops Grille, Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse, serves prime cuts and seafood in an upscale setting. For a truly unique experience, Wonderland plays with your senses through innovative dishes. Book these restaurants early in your cruise (or even before boarding) to secure your preferred time slot.
While these venues come with an additional cost, many cruisers find the experience justifies the price. A smart strategy involves booking specialty dining on the first night of your cruise when main dining rooms often experience peak busyness. Some ships offer dining packages that can save you up to 40% compared to booking restaurants individually.
Complimentary Dining: Beyond the Buffet
The Windjammer Marketplace, Royal Caribbean’s buffet restaurant, offers a wide variety of cuisines for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You should visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. The Main Dining Room serves multi-course meals with changing menus each night, all included in your cruise fare. Don’t miss out on formal nights for a chance to dress up and enjoy a more elaborate menu.
For quick bites, check out Sorrento’s Pizza or Café Promenade (both offering complimentary snacks and light meals throughout the day). These venues provide perfect options for a late-night snack or a quick lunch between activities.
Bars and Lounges: Sip and Socialize
Royal Caribbean ships boast an impressive array of bars and lounges, each with its own atmosphere and specialty drinks. The Bionic Bar, featuring robotic bartenders, demands a visit for its novelty and perfectly mixed cocktails. For stunning views, head to the Viking Crown Lounge, typically located on one of the highest decks.
Consider purchasing a beverage package if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks daily. These packages can offer significant savings, especially on longer cruises. However, calculate your potential consumption carefully – packages prove worthwhile only if you use them fully.
Check the Cruise Compass (the daily newsletter) for happy hour specials and drink of the day offers. These options provide a great way to try new cocktails at a discount.
Final Thoughts
Royal Caribbean cruise tips and tricks enhance your voyage experience. You’ll create unforgettable memories by balancing relaxation and adventure. The key lies in planning ahead, using technology, and staying open to new experiences.
Royal Caribbean cruises offer something for everyone. You can conquer the FlowRider, attend a Broadway-style show, or sample exotic dishes at specialty restaurants. These unique experiences will make your cruise truly extraordinary.
For more expert advice on cruise planning, visit Cruise Ready. Our comprehensive guides will help you navigate every aspect of your cruise vacation (from packing essentials to avoiding hidden costs). Book your next Royal Caribbean voyage and prepare for an extraordinary journey filled with excitement and relaxation.
