Cruising has changed a lot each decade, and some aspects of what it was like to go on a cruise are now reserved to stories from those that experienced it over 40 years ago.
Royal Caribbean has been making history for decades. While many, myself included, weren't alive when Royal Caribbean first set sail, the company has consistently been a pioneer in the cruise industry.
From the launch of Song of Norway in 1970 to the introduction of the world's largest and most innovative cruise ships at sea today, Royal Caribbean has continued to redefine what a cruise vacation should be.
Along with creating bigger and bolder ships, the cruise line has adapted to societal changes and responded to cultural shifts and passenger expectations. As such, many traditions that were once prevalent on their fleet have disappeared to meet the demands of a new generation of cruisers.
Here are some traditions that you will no longer find aboard Royal Caribbean ships.
Casino Night
While Royal Caribbean hasn't gotten rid of casinos, the tradition of Casino Night on two-week cruises, where guests would take on the role of dealers, is no longer offered.
Passengers could see what it was like to be a blackjack dealer or croupier with lowered bet amounts (10 cents per bet) for other guests who wished to try their luck. However, the special event wasn't held in the regular casino. Instead, crew members would set up blackjack tables and wheels of fortune in the Main Lounge.
Today, Royal Caribbean continues to evolve the overall casino experience by introducing non-smoking areas and more electronic gaming options than ever before.
Read more: What it was like to go on a Royal Caribbean cruise in the 1970s
Souvenir Passenger List
All guests sailing on a Royal Caribbean cruise would be given a list with the names and hometowns of all fellow passengers onboard. The booklet would also detail specific information about the crew, including the Captain's and Cruise Director's names, the itinerary, and more.
The souvenir passenger lists would be printed during the sailing and delivered to everyone's cabins. Of course, this would not fly today with heightened privacy and safety concerns.
Believe it or not, I've seen passenger lists from former voyages for sale on eBay!
Masquerade Events
Theme nights are still popular aboard Royal Caribbean ships. However, the old-fashioned masquerade events have disappeared. At the costume gala, guests with the Most Humorous, Most Original, and Most Artistic costumes were awarded prizes.
While, like today, passengers were encouraged to bring costumes from home, crew members could provide materials to have guests create their own on board. Unfortunately, you won't find a slew of 80s-themed clothing available at the last minute for the party in the Royal Promenade.
It also wasn't uncommon for cruise companions, such as dinner tablemates, to decide to participate together.
Ladies Night
Like Casino Night, Ladies Night was offered on two-week cruises. While you might see a "Ladies Pamper Party" advertised in today's Cruise Compass, the two couldn't be more different.
The special event had four rules:
- Ladies must ask the gentlemen to dance, and they must not refuse
- Ladies must escort the gentlemen to the dance floor and return them to their seats
- Ladies must buy the gentlemen drinks
- Ladies must light the gentlemen's cigarettes
Read more: Vintage photos show what life was like on a Royal Caribbean cruise before the megaships
White Elephant Auction Sale
It's easy to get caught up in the fun of buying souvenirs ashore or onboard. Sometimes, however, cruisers may regret their $15 t-shirt or random necklace.
Royal Caribbean used to host a White Elephant Auction Sale at the end of every cruise. Passengers could bring unwanted goodies to the Main Lounge, and an auctioneer would try to sell them to another guest.
If your item went unsold or didn't beat the price you listed, it would be returned to you.
Skeet Shooting
It's almost unbelievable that guns were once kept on cruise ships for recreational activities.
Still, skeet shooting was offered on Royal Caribbean cruises on sea days. Passengers could shoot clay pigeons off the back of the ship for an extra charge.
Unfortunately, it's now a thing of the past, as the activity was removed from ships due to safety and liability concerns. Not only that, but it's prohibited to throw objects into the ocean today.
Read more: 15 free things to try on your next cruise
Passenger Talent Night
Passenger Talent Night was almost like an evening in the Spotlight Karaoke lounge with a broader range of performances.
Guests could sing, dance, perform magic tricks, play a musical instrument, or anything else they were brave enough to confidently do in front of other passengers and crew.
Today, while karaoke remains a favorite activity, Royal Caribbean has shifted towards more structured entertainment, including Broadway-style performances, ice skating shows, game shows hosted by the activities team, and more.
Afternoon Tea
Unless sailing on a premium or upscale line (including Princess and Cunard), you likely won't find afternoon tea on the daily schedule.
However, Royal Caribbean used to offer tea and pastries every afternoon. It was a beloved tradition where guests could relax with a cup of tea and chat with fellow passengers.
While there may not be a dedicated tea service, tea is still included in your cruise fare. You will find tea bags and hot water in venues like the Windjammer and Cafe Promenade.
