Royal Caribbean Blog

When sailing on Royal Caribbean’s newest and biggest cruise ship, I tried 6 food hacks to make the most of my meals onboard. From loaded tater tots to a gourmet lunch at the buffet, I discovered a few tasty hacks you’ll want to try yourself.

I recently spent a week aboard Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s latest Icon Class ship. In addition to offering a wide selection of entertainment options, thrilling activities, and spacious cabins, the ship also offers an extensive lineup of restaurants.

There are 28 dining venues around the ship, with 16 complimentary and 12 extra-cost options.

Food is an important part of any cruise vacation, and I wanted to make the most of everything to eat onboard. I got creative, looking beyond the usual options to see how I could “hack” my way to the most delicious snacks and meals around the ship.

After trying numerous food hacks aboard Legend of the Seas, these were my favorite, along with one I wouldn’t try again.

Food Hack #1: Embarkation Day Gourmet Lunch

The Windjammer buffet is a staple restaurant in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, but it’s usually not associated with fine dining. Although the venue offers a wide array of options, it’s generally seen as a quick, no-frills place to dine while onboard.

However, what if I told you that the buffet offers perhaps the most luxurious meal of the entire cruise?

Related: Guide to Royal Caribbean's Windjammer Cafe buffet

All of Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class ships offer gourmet food options in the buffet for embarkation day lunch. You’ll find options like filet mignon, lobster tails, calamari, mussels, crab legs, and more, and it’s all included in your cruise fare.

I headed to the Windjammer right after boarding to see whether this upgraded buffet meal lived up to the hype. My travel party and I sampled items like lobster tails with lemon caper sauce and filet mignon with chimichurri.

Everything was excellent, and I was impressed with the quality of the food. It was a major upgrade compared to the typical offerings of hamburgers and fries, pasta stations, and Asian stir-fry.

If you’re someone who skips the Windjammer on embarkation day to avoid crowds, you might want to reconsider the restaurant when sailing on Legend of the Seas. Not all cruisers know about this complimentary, gourmet “food hack,” and it’s a fun way to start your cruise with just a little bit of luxury.

Food Hack #2: Tapas & Wine

I love any food hack that feels fancy, and Legend of the Seas’ complimentary tapas stand is an easy way to turn a quick snack into a sophisticated aperitif.

Inside the AquaDome Market on Legend of the Seas are five food stands that are included in guests’ cruise fares. The stands offer everything from Korean rice bowls to Cajun gumbo, sweet crêpes, street tacos, and my personal favorite—Spanish tapas.

Related: Ranking every food stand at Legend of the Seas' AquaDome Market

La Española, the Spanish-inspired stand, offers a variety of bite-sized tapas along with gazpacho. Tapas include marinated Spanish olives, patatas bravas, tortilla de patatas, and pan con tomate.

This is the first time Royal Caribbean has offered a dedicated tapas menu on one of its cruise ships. Although the Trellis Bar, located in Central Park, offers finger foods like truffle fries and steak bites, these come with an extra charge.

I wanted to see if I could “hack” the system to enjoy an aperitif, complete with a drink and bite-sized snacks, without spending extra on food.

So, I grabbed a selection of tapas from La Española and headed next door to The Overlook, an observation lounge complete with a bar and spectacular ocean views. I ordered a glass of wine, which paired perfectly with the savory and crunchy pan con tomate.

Even though the food came from a casual, quick-service food hall, the experience felt much more luxurious, and I would definitely try this hack again.

Food Hack #3: Mexican-Style Loaded Tater Tots

One lunch venue that’s always busy on Legend of the Seas is El Loco Fresh, the ship’s grab-and-go, complimentary Mexican restaurant. If you’re in the mood for quesadillas, nachos, burritos, tacos, and more, this is the spot to visit.

Right above El Loco Fresh, however, is Basecamp, another complimentary restaurant that offers quick-service snacks like pretzel bites, tater tots, and chicken fingers. Given the proximity of these two venues, I decided to try a food hack that would combine them.

Related: I tried a free food hack on my Royal Caribbean cruise that I couldn't believe was so good

I grabbed a bowl of tater tots from Basecamp before heading downstairs to the salsa station at El Loco Fresh. Then I proceeded to top my tater tots with salsa, cheese, guacamole, and lettuce, creating a potato-filled twist on traditional nachos.

It was a fun way to level up my tater tots, but next time, I’d reconsider my choice of toppings. The salsa, lettuce, and cheese cooled the tater tots quite quickly. I also wished I’d topped the tater tots with some type of protein to make the dish more substantial.

If you plan to try this food hack, I’d recommend loading the tater tots with warm options from El Loco Fresh, such as chicken, nacho cheese, and black beans, and later visiting the salsa station to add additional toppings.

Overall, this food hack has great potential, but I’d make a few changes next time I try it.

Food Hack #4: Giovanni’s Wine Bar Pizza

If you want to try a specialty restaurant on Legend of the Seas without a hefty cover charge, there’s a hack you’ll want to try.

Adjacent to the ship’s Italian restaurant, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, you’ll find Giovanni’s Wine Bar. This bar offers classic and Italian-themed cocktails, and it also offers an à la carte menu for food. Menu items range from $7 margherita pizzas to a $9 Italian stromboli and $6 tiramisu.

Related: 6 restaurants on Royal Caribbean we recommend over and over

If you just want to try one or two items, eating at the wine bar will save you money compared to the restaurant’s lunch and dinner cover charges for all-you-can-eat dining, which usually run around $25 and $50, respectively.

One evening of my cruise, I headed to Giovanni’s Wine Bar for a budget-friendly specialty meal. My travel party and I each ordered a margherita pizza, which we enjoyed with an Aperol spritz.

Not including the cocktails, our total bill was only $18.52 with gratuity. The pizzas were large enough to fill us up for the rest of the evening, and they were much higher quality than the pizza at Sorrento’s.

Not only that, but the ambiance of the wine bar—located in the middle of the Royal Promenade—was great for people-watching, and I also enjoyed the live music that accompanied our meal.

Food Hack #5: Ice Cream Crêpe

One hack I wouldn’t recommend trying on your Legend of the Seas cruise is a soft-serve ice cream-topped crêpe.

Judging by the endless lines of hungry passengers, Crème de la Crêpe is, by far, the most popular food stand in Legend of the Seas’ AquaDome Market. Day and night, this stand serves up four sweet crêpe options, ranging from Salted Caramel to the ever-popular Hazelnut & Bananas crêpe.

The crêpes certainly live up to the hype. I’m not sure I’ve gone one day sailing on an Icon Class ship without ordering one myself.

Yet one evening, I had an idea to “elevate” the standard crêpe. I took my freshly-made crêpe just a few steps away to Sprinkles, the soft-serve ice cream stand onboard. I asked the crew member to top my crêpe with chocolate ice cream, thinking it would make the sweet treat even tastier.

Unfortunately, though, my ice cream crêpe was not what I imagined. The ice cream overpowered the crêpe’s flavor, and it quickly made the dish cold and soggy.

It was fun to try something new, but I’ll be skipping this hack next time.

Food Hack #6: Surfside Eatery for Breakfast

Legend of the Seas has over 6,000 passengers, so you’re guaranteed to encounter crowds here and there. Yet with a little planning, you can find quiet areas of the ship that almost feel like you have the place to yourself.

One of my favorite food hacks I tried on Legend of the Seas was eating breakfast at Surfside Eatery instead of the Windjammer buffet. The Windjammer gets extremely crowded during peak meal times, especially at breakfast.

I was determined to avoid these crowds, so I searched for other options. Surfside Eatery, an included, smaller buffet located in the ship’s family-friendly Surfside neighborhood, seemed like the perfect fit.

Many guests don’t even know this venue exists, or if they do, they think of it as a kids-only venue. Yet Surfside Eatery offers a large selection of breakfast foods, albeit not quite as extensive as the Windjammer’s.

Related: Icon of the Seas Surfside neighborhood: What to expect

I visited Surfside Eatery for breakfast on the third morning of my cruise, and I was one of only a few passengers in the restaurant. I enjoyed the same foods I would have eaten in the Windjammer, including an omelet, pastry, and fruit, but without the chaos of the latter.

Throughout my cruise, I kept returning to Surfside Eatery for breakfast. It was a more peaceful way to start my morning rather than navigating the crowds in the Windjammer.

Double points is back for the first time in many years.

You have now until the end of July to get double loyalty points when booking a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Royal Caribbean is offering guests bonus loyalty points, in which they can earn double the normal amount of points.

This promotion was originally offered during the cruise industry shutdown of 2020 and 2021 as a way to entice new bookings at a time when cruise ships weren't sailing and the company needed an influx of money.

It was quite popular with passengers, because extra points makes it easier to get to the next loyalty tier.

Double points is back for new cruise bookings.

Double points offer

Beginning July 21, new cruises booked qualify for the double points offer.

Targeting the cruise line's loyalty members, the Double Points offer is just what it sounds like: Customers who book a cruise during the promotion will get double the normal amount of Crown & Anchor loyalty points when cruising.

Every category of cabin on Royal Caribbean ships is eligible for the promotion.

New cruises booked between July 21 - 31, 2026 on sailings departing September 1, 2026 to April 30, 2027 will receive double the cruise points to Crown & Anchor Society members.

Here is the breakdown of the points you will receive under the Double Points offer:

A 7-night cruise in a standard cabin will earn 14 points, instead of the regular 7 points.

Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings are excluded from this offer, because they would potentially earn too many points.

Double Points is available to Gold, Platinum, Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Crown & Anchor Society members.

Double Points Offer is combinable with BOGO60, Kids Sail Free and Free 3rd & 4th Guests, as well as promotional OBCs, Next Cruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (for example, Seniors, Residents, Military), Crown & Anchor discounts, and Shareholder Benefits. Not combinable with any offer or promotion including but not limited to complimentary cruises, employee cruises, casino offers, seminar rates, or travel agent reduced rates. 

One caveat is you cannot earn double points through this promotion and then apply to transfer them to a different cruise line through the Points Choice program.  You would forfeit the bonus points in such a situation.

Why this is such a good offer

Being able to get double the amount of points than normal is both lucrative to cruisers and rare.

Anyone that takes advantage of this new offer can reach the higher tiers of Crown & Anchor Society faster, such as Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle Club. These are the tiers when more freebies are available and perks start to really add up.

This includes complimentary drink vouchers, Wi-Fi, reserved seating at shows, photos, and more.

Since Royal Caribbean loyalty status doesn't expire, it's a benefit that never goes away.  Anyone that's serious about attaining higher status will likely find great value since you can shoot up the loyalty ladder.

For example, someone staying solo in a suite could get 42 points per night. That would allow a new cruiser to get to Platinum or Emerald in just one sailing (depending on how many points they had before the sailing).

The number of points you need for Royal Caribbean's tier levels breaks down like this:

• Gold: 3 Cruise Points
• Platinum: 30 Cruise Points
• Emerald: 55 Cruise Points
• Diamond: 80 Cruise Points
• Diamond Plus: 175 Cruise Points
• Pinnacle Club: 700 Points

The catch is it's for new cruises only

Before you start planning out your Pinnacle party, there are two catches.

This offer applies to new bookings only. Any existing bookings you have do not qualify for double points. 

Second, you can only book up to two cruises with the offer. 

Just like five years ago, Royal Caribbean is using this new offer as a way to spur new bookings. The company is in a much better financial situation today, so it's likely they want to simply help their bottom line.

During a press event aboard Odyssey of the Seas in 2021, Royal Caribbean International President and CEO Michael Bayley outlined exactly this sort of a situation to offer double points.

When he was asked if double points would return, he answered they would use it "strategically."

"You'll see more of that coming, but it's not going to be a blanket open book."

You're going on a Royal Caribbean cruise with your neighbor, the family of your kids' friend, or a coworker. This will either be a great vacation to enjoy together or an exercise in awkwardness.

It seemed like a good idea when you proposed booking the same cruise with friends, but suddenly you realize you don't know them very well and have no clue what they're like for more than a couple hours at a time. Plus, you don't want to ruin your friendship.

I've certainly had these types of cruises, where people I know from my everyday life want to come on a cruise and as the sailing approaches, I'm unsure what to expect in terms of the overall dynamic we will have. 

The good news is I think with the right approach, you can have a great vacation, spend time with them, and not put your entire relationship in jeopardy afterwards.

Don't treat the cruise like a group project

I think the biggest mistake you can make when cruising with friends is to act like you have to do everything together.

The beauty of a cruise vacation is you're together on the ship, but you don't have to do the same things all the time. Unlike visiting a city together, a cruise allows for more independence while still feeling like you're experiencing the same things.

One mantra of all the advice in this article is you shouldn't feel guilty about doing your own thing.

You'll likely pick up on your friends cruise differently than you. They might wake up at 6am to go to the gym, or they might sleep until 10am.  You might want to try all the trivia events, but they want to hang out at the pool all day.

That's completely normal, and you should avoid the temptation to over plan how you spend your days together.

You don't have to book every excursion together

Sometimes the best idea is to split up.

I think sharing a group excursion is actually a great idea, especially to lower the costs. But you shouldn't feel obligated to always do every tour together.

When I cruised to Alaska with friends, I had a different idea of a fun excursion than my friends. While I did look to see if there was something else we could do, ultimately we chose to do our own tours and meet up later in town. 

We split up, but then met back onboard and shared stories about it.

I would start by looking for excursions you can enjoy together, but don't be afraid to say "we'll do our thing, and you do yours" if tours don't line up.

Give each other permission to say "no"

Before I book a cruise with casual friends, the first thing I'll say is they don't have to do everything with us all the time.

It's important to normalize phrases like, "I'm going to skip this one" or "You guys go ahead".  

There shouldn't be any guilt if you'd rather not participate in something. 

For example, I can't stand magic shows or the Battle of the Sexes game shows, but it seems like a lot of first-time cruisers really enjoy it.  So when they bring up the idea of going to that, I'll politely decline.

The important thing is not to guilt anyone who opts not to try something, but still invite them to join you. I find everyone is happier when there's less regiment and more freedom to join in or not.

Buy an internet package to make communicating easy

I think if there's one thing to buy for your cruise, it's an internet package to make it simpler to be able to message each other.

Royal Caribbean's app has a free messaging feature, but notifications can be tricky. Moreover, using the texting app you're used to at home is just plain easier.

Being able to easily and quickly message each other is essential to avoid the problem of feeling like someone disappeared.

I've cruised with friends and then realized after a day or two no one has heard from them.  Then you start playing the game of do they want to be left alone? Or are they waiting for you to contact them?

Agree on a messaging app before the cruise and check-in regularly to keep the lines of communication open. You cannot rely on the idea you'll run into each other when cruising together.

Book the cruise with the same travel agent

There are a lot of good reasons to use the same travel agent when booking a cruise with friends.

You do not want to be your friends' personal reminder to make final payment, help them solve payment issues, or assist with getting your dining times coordinated.  Let a travel agent do all of that, especially the billing issues.

If you are traveling with a large group, using the same travel agent could get everyone group benefits if there are enough of you sailing together. You'd need at least 6 cabins, but speak to your travel agent about further details on this idea.

Ultimately, I'll recommend my friends use a travel agent so when they have changes, questions, or issues to deal with, the travel agent can handle it all. Those are the sort of issues that people get frustrated with, and I don't want to be the "middle man" in that.

There's a new hidden escape to find on Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay.

The cruise line quietly opened a new section that offers guests a tranquil escape from the party atmosphere you might find elsewhere around the private island.

The Secret Garden Bar opened over the weekend as a secluded area that has shaded places to sit, a bar, books to read, and more.

This new area looks like it would appeal to cruisers that want to bring their own book, grab a drink, or enjoy more Zen time.

It's part of Perfect Day at CocoCay island in The Bahamas.  Many Royal Caribbean ships visit CocoCay during their Caribbean and Bahamian sailings.

Here's our first look at what you can expect to find at the Secret Garden Bar.

A hidden hangout spot

With the name "Secret Garden Bar", Royal Caribbean clearly created a special space that isn't meant to be everyone's first stop.

Gina Warren shared photos of the new bar that opened over the weekend and is now welcoming guests who come across it.

A archway welcomes guests in as they walk down a sandy path to lead to the garden area.

It's not a large area, but you'll find a wooden walkway with chairs and umbrellas to sit and enjoy.

There appear to be about a half dozen pairs of chairs along the walkway, with a reflecting pool in the middle.

As the name implies, there is indeed a bar in the middle.

The bar has a rustic tiki theme to it, and it's not large at all.  It reflects the nature of this entire section, as it's a spot off the beaten path.

There are about five chairs at the bar, with a few more seats nearby.

The other fun feature here is a small sitting couch, surrounded by books.

Not quite a cabana, this looks like a reader's perfect refuge for laying down with a book that's borrowed or brought with them.

You'll find inside fun quips and sayings related to reading.

How to find the Secret Garden Bar

Royal Caribbean added the Secret Garden Bar on the north side of the island.

As you walk towards South Beach, there's now a sign that welcomes guests in.

There's no admission cost

The Secret Garden Bar has no cost to enter, but any drinks you order would be extra.

Of course, guests with an unlimited drink package can enjoy beverages here because beverage packages work at CocoCay.

If you want a hidden beach, try Cove Beach

I know what some of you are thinking, "This looks great, but I want a secluded beach too," and that wish has already been granted.

Located past South Beach is an area called Cove Beach, and it's also a relatively new option that's been added to the island.

Cove Beach is small, but it's an area to walk to if you want as quiet a beach area as exists on CocoCay.

There's no DJ, bar, or activities. Just sand, some chairs, and the ocean to enjoy.

One area within Royal Caribbean's private destination

The Secret Garden Bar is one small part of a very impressive private island experience.

Perfect Day at CocoCay has quickly become one of Royal Caribbean's most popular destinations among cruisers, given its tremendously high guest satisfaction scores.

It has everything from resort-style pools and over-the-water cabanas to an adult-only retreat, beautiful beaches, a massive water park, and more, ensuring that everyone has their "perfect day" ashore. 

There's no cost to enter CocoCay, and most of what's available to do is included in your cruise fare.

Over the past several years, Royal Caribbean has rolled out numerous policy changes that have reshaped everything from loyalty benefits to gambling, specialty reservations, and more. 

Some updates have improved the overall cruise experience, while others have sparked debate among loyal passengers who have seen perks scaled back and stricter rules enforced. 

Someone that hasn't cruised in a while would be interested to know what to expect, while casual cruisers may be unaware of the updated rules.

We sought to list the biggest changes Royal Caribbean has made in the post-Covid era of cruising. It might not be every single change, but it's the changes with the biggest impacts on how you cruise.

Whether you're nearing Pinnacle Club status or are planning your first cruise, these changes have had a lasting impact on the Royal Caribbean experience. 

Wine policy changed to per adult instead of per stateroom

The Royal Caribbean wine policy used to state that each cabin could bring up to two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne on embarkation day, regardless of how many adults were staying in the cabin. 

In 2023, however, the cruise line revised the policy to make the allowance per adult instead of per stateroom. Now, each adult may bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne. So, for example, if four adults are sharing a cabin, they can bring up to four bottles onboard.

Enforcing the corkage fee

On that note, while you can bring wine on Royal Caribbean ships, the cruise line has become more consistent about enforcing its corkage fee. 

If you decide to drink the wine you brought onboard in one of the ship's restaurants, bars, or lounges rather than in your cabin, you'll be charged a $15 corkage fee per bottle.

Cruise gratuities increased

Effective November 2024, Royal Caribbean raised the daily gratuity rate by 50 cents per day, bringing the new rate for standard cabins to $18.50 per person, up from $18.00, and suites to $21.00 per person, up from $20.50. 

The cruise line also increased the mandatory service charge for salon and spa services from 18% to 20%. This matches Celebrity Cruises' salon/spa policy.

Souvenir soda cups aren't included with every drink package anymore 

The Deluxe Beverage Package and Royal Refreshment Package are Royal Caribbean's two priciest drink packages. Yet, these packages no longer automatically include a Coca-Cola souvenir cup for every guest who purchases them.

Instead, guests with a package who would like access to the Coca-Cola Freestyle machines can purchase a souvenir cup onboard for $4.99.

Dropped drink package exception rule

When someone purchases the Deluxe Beverage Package, all other adults in the same stateroom must also purchase the package. In the past, a common workaround was to call and request that the other guest purchase the Royal Refreshment Package instead.

Unfortunately, effective August 2025, Royal Caribbean no longer grants exceptions to its policy requiring all guests in a stateroom to purchase the Deluxe Beverage Package. As such, if one person wants the alcoholic package, you should be prepared to have to buy it for everyone in your stateroom, even if some guests don't drink a lot of alcohol.

Pre-book meals with a specialty dining package 

One popular change was the new feature that allows guests with dining packages to pre-book their specialty restaurants via the online Cruise Planner. 

Previously, one of the major caveats with the packages was that guests had to wait until they were on the ship to confirm their reservations. Now, you can book specialty reservations before embarkation day. 

No-show fee for specialty dining reservations

With specialty restaurants in such high demand among guests, Royal Caribbean implemented a policy to reduce no-shows and free up tables that might otherwise sit empty during peak dining times. 

Under the policy, guests cannot modify their reservation within 24 hours of their scheduled dining time. Those who cancel within that window or don't show up may be charged a cancellation fee, which starts at $25 per person and increases to $50 for premium restaurants like Empire Supper Club and Izumi Hibachi. 

Introduced a third seating time in the dining room

In the past, Royal Caribbean offered two traditional dinner times on its ships, seating guests around 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Although the traditional seating is a popular option for many guests, others thought the times were either too early or too late. 

As such, the cruise line added a third dining time to fit other passengers' schedules, ensuring that dinner remained a convenient and enjoyable part of the daily cruise experience. The exact time of the extra seating depends on the ship and itinerary, but it typically starts between 6:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Changes to Adventure Ocean prices for nursery and late-night care

Adventure Ocean is free for kids between 3 and 12 until 10:00 p.m. After that, there's an hourly charge for those staying for the late-night party. This now costs $15 per hour, per child, up from $10. 

Adventure Ocean Babies, the daycare spot for infants and toddlers between 6 and 36 months, also got more expensive. The new nursery rates are $9 per hour per child until 6 p.m., up from $6 per hour, and $12 per hour after 6 p.m., up from $8 per hour.

Priority tendering for Pinnacle Club members

With Priority Digitized Tendering, top-tier Pinnacle Club members don't have to worry about waiting in line to collect a ticket or rushing to secure a spot on a tender boat. 

Instead, when visiting La Spezia on Harmony of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, or Legend of the Seas, Pinnacle Club cruisers can simply head to the designated tender boarding area.

Banned multi-plug outlets

According to Royal Caribbean's website, electrical items and electronic equipment not designed for personal grooming are banned from its ships. 

Previously, this excluded multi‑plug outlets. However, the cruise line updated its prohibited-items policy to ban multi-plug outlets, alongside extension cords and power strips.

Video poker gets fewer casino points

Royal Caribbean increased the earning requirement for video poker to $15 per point. This means that you now have to wager more money to earn the same number of casino points.

They also started charging a convenience fee for onboard casino withdrawals at slot machines if you aren't Prime or above. It's $3.00 per transaction, so you're better off transferring one large sum rather than multiple smaller ones during your sailing. 

Surfside Family Suites downgraded to Sea Class 

The Surfside Family Suites, available exclusively on Icon Class ships, overlook the Surfside neighborhood. Although they come with a high price tag, these cabins are part of the entry-level tier of the Royal Suite Class.

As such, effective May 2026, they no longer have access to the Suite Lounge, Concierge services, complimentary internet access, complimentary beverages in the Suite Lounge, and can only dine at Coastal Kitchen for dinner.

Sunset Junior Suites upgraded to Sky Class 

On the flip side, Sunset Junior Suites received a welcome upgrade, moving from the Sea Class tier to Sky Class within the Royal Suite Class program. 

As such, guests staying in these suites have access to additional perks and amenities, including all-day access to Coastal Kitchen, Concierge services, and more, that were previously reserved for higher-tier accommodations.

Refreshed crystal block design

Royal Caribbean's crystal blocks are awarded to guests who have earned at least 140 cruise points. After that, members earn additional crystal blocks for every 70 cruise points accumulated.

Before February 2023, the crystal block elements were etched into the crystal, giving them an elegant, timeless look. The updated design features a colorful image of the ship with the Crown & Anchor logo in the upper-left corner and the ship's name in the lower-right corner.

Better Diamond drink rollover time 

One of the best Crown & Anchor Society perks is the complimentary drinks awarded to Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle guests — and now the benefit is even more flexible for night owls. 

Effective December 2022, Royal Caribbean changed the rule so that these vouchers can be redeemed from 5:00 a.m. one day until 4:59 a.m. the following day. This means that unused drinks no longer expire at midnight. 

Changes to Crown & Anchor welcome snacks and beverages 

Unfortunately, Emerald members and above can no longer pre-select welcome beverages. Instead, all guests will receive complimentary water in their stateroom on embarkation day. Emerald and Diamond passengers will get two bottles per person, whereas Diamond Plus and Pinnacle Club cruisers will get three per person. 

Additionally, the cruise line removed the welcome snack as a loyalty benefit, so there won't be cookies waiting in your stateroom anymore. 

Multiple cruise passengers found themselves in handcuffs after law enforcement officers arrested travelers with outstanding warrants. 

Six cruise guests were arrested at Port Canaveral on Friday, July 17, while either embarking or disembarking from cruises, for outstanding warrants and probation violations, law enforcement officials confirmed. 

"To start the day off was Martell Murray out of Georgia and his cabin mate, Kenderia Burney out of Leon County, Florida. Murray had a warrant reference a violation of his release conditions for his Murder charges…yes you read that correctly, and Burney had [a] warrant for Violation of Probation!!" shared the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, Florida (Official) Facebook page. 

"Luckily these two still got to vacation together at the Lodge even though they got accommodations with separate sleeping quarters."

Veronica Hamlet of Tampa, Florida, and James Brewton of Allendale, South Carolina, were also arrested on outstanding warrants for failure to appear and violation of probation, respectively.

The Facebook post continued, "To put the cherry on top of the piña colada, two passengers disembarking from their cruise were stopped as they are currently on Felony Probation and did not have approval to leave the country!!"

According to the arrest reports, both Murray and Burney are being held without bond. Hamlet, however, was released on a $1,000 bond, while Brewton was released on a $500 bond on Saturday, July 18.

The final two arrests involved unnamed passengers who were serving felony probation and had not received permission to leave the country. As such, they violated the terms of their probation by going on a cruise. 

The Brevard County Sheriff's Office didn't specify which ships the guests had sailed on or intended to sail on. However, according to CruiseMapper, there were three ships in port on Friday: Utopia of the Seas, Disney Wish, and Carnival Glory. 

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas had just finished up a four-night Bahamian voyage and was about to embark on a short weekend cruise to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

Similarly, Disney Wish had returned to Port Canaveral after completing a four-night Bahamian itinerary featuring a visit to Disney's private island destination, Castaway Cay, and a stop in Nassau. The 144,000 gross-ton Wish Class ship later on another Bahamas cruise to the line's private island and Nassau. 

Finally, Carnival Glory just completed a four-night sailing that included stops at Nassau and Celebration Key. Like the other two vessels, she then departed on a weekend cruise to Carnival's newest private destination. 

Can you go on a cruise with a felony?

Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can't go on a cruise, but there are a few important factors to consider.

Generally speaking, there's no law prohibiting felons from boarding a ship. However, Ron Harper, a Licensed Paralegal and owner of OTD Ticket Defenders Legal Service, told Royal Caribbean Blog that lines can deny boarding to individuals with felony convictions.

Some countries also have strict entry restrictions and may refuse entry to felons, which further complicates the issue. 

"Although there is no federal law that prohibits someone convicted of a felony from boarding a cruise ship, several large cruise lines (e.g., Carnival, Royal Caribbean) perform criminal background checks," Harper explained. 

Royal Caribbean's website, for example, states that the cruise line checks booking details against law enforcement registries and its internal records to ensure the safety of all customers.

"We check booking details against law enforcement registers and Our internal records for the safety of all customers. With your consent to do so, we compare any photo you provide before your cruise with images taken during embarkation to help identify you and to speed up the boarding process for you," Royal Caribbean says.

"We also use closed-circuit television ("CCTV") cameras onboard Our ships, and We may match images against the photograph We have of you if We need to identify you."

Carnival conducts criminal background checks, too. However, its website adds that felons convicted of physical and/or sexual assault, armed robbery, and other violent crimes may be denied boarding.

Moving on, while convicted felons can cruise to places like The Bahamas and the Caribbean, countries may restrict entry to people with a criminal record.

"Most of the travelers believe that if they remain aboard the ship when they visit a port, they are not in trouble, but the fact is that the border agencies know about the ship by its manifest at least 96 hours before arrival," Barry Nussbaum, Owner and Senior Lawyer at Nussbaum Law in Ontario, said.

For example, countries such as Canada, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand have strict entry requirements that may prevent individuals with felony convictions from visiting, even if their cruise departs from the United States.

Finally, Harper said that those on probation may face even more issues, with international travel (or even intrastate travel) requiring authorization from the probation officer who is responsible for supervising the individual. 

Happy Sunday! We hope you are having a great weekend! Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and catch up on all the Royal Caribbean news from the week!

Royal Caribbean has extended its suspension of visits to Labadee, Haiti through June 2027.

A spokesperson for the cruise line confirmed it has cancelled all visits to the private beach destination and re-routed the ships.

The announcement means there will be at least another year before passengers can return.

Royal Caribbean News

• These 7 things are worth buying on every cruise
• I saw so many cruisers ruin their summer trips by making these 10 mistakes
• 11 small things experienced Royal Caribbean cruisers do. I tried them and it's made a difference
• 7 things I loved and hated about Legend of the Seas
• The biggest differences between Royal Caribbean's cheapest and newest cabins
• Inside vs ocean-view room: Nice to have light, but won't pay for it
• I found 8 ways to get more from the new Royal Caribbean Visa cards
• Mistakes to avoid at Perfect Day at CocoCay

New RCB Video: So Many First-Time Cruisers Are Disappointed. Here's Why

Have you subscribed to the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel? We share some great videos there regularly, all about taking a Royal Caribbean cruise! This week, we are sharing our latest video — So Many First-Time Cruisers Are Disappointed. Here's Why — and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Couple learns they're expecting hours before cruise, welcomes baby the next day

A woman was ready to get on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship until she discovered she was in labor.

Stomach pains sent her to the hospital, where she learned it was actually labor pains.  

Hours later, a baby was born.

Royal Caribbean already wants to build another Galveston cruise terminal

A new report says Royal Caribbean is interested in building a new cruise terminal to double its presence in Galveston, Texas.

A director from the port claims the cruise line has shown interest in building a new terminal next to the existing one.

This would potentially add more Royal Caribbean ships sailing from Texas, which has become a hot spot for cruising.

Video captures scary moment cruise passenger falls off pier at CocoCay

A cruise ship passenger fell off the pier at Royal Caribbean's private island.

The incident occurred where the ship docks, leading to the person falling between the pier and the vessel.

Witnesses captured the tense moments on video, showing the rescue efforts.

Meet the youngest person to work aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

There's an 11-year-old working on the biggest cruise ship in the world.

Edward is part of the cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory aboard Legend of the Seas. 

He shares the duty with a 13-year-old boy, so that each of them can perform but also have time for school.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 617th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available.

While there are benefits of booking a cruise line excursion, Matt has all but sworn it off.

Please feel free to subscribe via YouTube, iTunes or RSS, and head over to rate and review the podcast on iTunes if you can! We’d appreciate it.

Royal Caribbean offers lots of extras you can buy for a cruise, but a few of them are the kind of splurges I'll get every single time.

Part of my job is to try everything out that the cruise line offers. Most of them are enjoyable, but the kind of optional add-ons that you might try once or something that appeals to a certain person.

When I tried a new whiskey tasting aboard their new train restaurant, I appreciated the insight and various drink options, but immediately decided this was a "one and done" for me.  Glad I did it, but no need to come back again.

However, other experiences have been much better and they usually end up in my cart for every sailing I take.

If you're looking for the things to buy on your cruise that are worth every penny, here are my 7 favorites of all time.

I always buy travel insurance to avoid a financial mess later

After a medical scare on one cruise, I've always bought travel insurance going forward on every sailing.

Moreover, I've heard so many stories from other cruisers who encountered unexpected illnesses, accidents, or last-minute emergencies that would have left them in a terrible financial hole if not for insurance.

Travel insurance policies usually don't cost very much, around $40 to $250 per person (depending on your policy needs). 

It's become a non-negotiable cost that I buy every time without question. I probably will never use it, but it lets me sleep better at night knowing I have it.

I need internet access on any cruise for work and pleasure

I cannot remember the last time I didn't have internet access on my cruise, because it's so much easier to sail with it.

Royal Caribbean sells internet packages for unlimited use during your cruise. A one device package for a 7-night cruise when bought before the vacation starts is usually around $170.

Wi-Fi on Royal Caribbean is far from cheap, but I've found it to be incredibly helpful to have.

Besides the need I have for doing my work onboard the ship, it makes communicating with friends and family so much easier.  Royal Caribbean has a free messaging service within its app, but it's clunky and won't allow you to message anyone at home.

Plus, having internet access makes it easy to check weather forecasts, keep up with news, and generally pass the time.

It certainly helps when you get to a higher tier of Royal Caribbean's loyalty program and get free days of Wi-Fi access.  But, even paying out of pocket for the entire sailing is a must-buy for me.  Heck, I'll buy extra plans so I don't have to swap connections between my phone and laptop.

I'll almost always book at least some specialty restaurants

The debate of if it's better to eat at the included restaurants or the specialty ones always results in the same answer: why not both?

Sometimes I'll buy the unlimited dining package because a ship has lots of my favorite restaurants, but the cost of the UDP has gone up a lot in recent years.

However, I'll almost always book at least one specialty restaurant just to mix things up.  Most often, I buy the 3-night dining package because it's priced more reasonably and allows me to enjoy a few extra options, while still enjoying my favorite dining spots included in my cruise fare.

There's no question the specialty restaurants offer a great dining experience, especially considering they have cuisines you can't find elsewhere. But I don't think you need to spends hundreds extra. That's why sometimes I'll go with just a specialty restaurant or three, so I can mix things up.

Renting a cabana is pricey, but it's always a satisfying experience

Royal Caribbean's cabana rentals at Perfect Day at CocoCay have gone up in price a lot, but when the pricing isn't sky high, I never regret a cabana.

This is the very definition of a splurge, but you can't deny that Royal Caribbean knows how to deliver a great way to spend the day. 

I love renting a cabana because it has shade, extra service, and no concerns over finding a spot. It's the "easy button" to a beach or pool day, and has been a boon for my family.  Having shade and food delivered has been a winning recipe.

The prices are much more palatable if you can split the cost with someone else. So if I can find a price that isn't sky high, then I'll usually book one.

Booking a private trainer session made my gym workouts so much better

I've been on a journey to improve myself over the last year and a half, centered around going to the gym regularly.  Royal Caribbean's fitness centers are impressive, but getting started and taking full advantage of what's offered isn't easy.

I booked a private training session on one cruise to see if the trainer could give me some pointers, show me where I can improve, and help give me new ideas for breaking up the monotony of exercise.

I've since booked private trainers many more times because it's cheaper than hiring a coach at home, but still gives me the right guidance to keep me on track.  I think of it like a refresher course, as well as someone to push me to go harder.

A single session for an hour costs between $60-99, but it's absolutely helped me along the way.

Paying for onboard laundry has been the best packing hack I've found

If you want to know the secret to packing less for a cruise and being able to go with smaller luggage, the answer is Royal Caribbean's onboard laundry.

There are no self-service laundry machines on Royal Caribbean ships, so the only option is to send dirty clothes out for wash and fold or dry cleaning.

It's a couple of dollars per item, but it's worth it on sailings longer than 4 days so I can re-use clothing.

The smart play is to look for the wash and fold special, where you can stuff clothes into a bag for a fixed price.

I'll send out laundry every cruise instead of trying to pack tons of outfits, which is very helpful on summer cruises when I sweat through more clothes than I expect.

Paying for child care is the best money I ever spent

When my kids were younger, I paid the hourly costs for the nursery and late-night at kids club, and it was worth every penny.

Adventure Ocean is the kids club that's complimentary during the day and most of the night. But if your kids want to stay past 10pm, there's a $15 hourly charge.

Likewise, the nursery onboard for kids under the age of 3 costs $9-12 per hour.

Trust me when I tell any parent out there that this is the best money you'll spend.  It allows the kids to have fun, while you get to enjoy adult time.

My wife and I focus a lot of our onboard fun at night seeing shows, having dinner, and going to bars. Being able to drop the kids off, even if it costs money, allows us much needed alone time.

You should pre-book to save money

If you decide to also book any of these things, pre-purchase it before the cruise begins to save money.

Royal Caribbean offers nearly everything on this list to book at a discount if it's done prior to the cruise.

Open the Royal Caribbean app or check out the Cruise Planner site and reserve it quickly.

When you head out on a cruise, you expect to return with tan lines, a few extra pounds, and lifelong memories — not a newborn baby.

However, one couple's vacation took an unforgettable turn when they learned they were expecting a baby just hours before setting sail.

Gary "David" Glenn and Lauren Siwinski, of Rhode Island, arrived in Tampa, Florida, ahead of a five-night Royal Caribbean cruise to Mexico.

However, Siwinski told Tampa Bay News that she began experiencing severe stomach pain before the cruise and went to an urgent care clinic in Apollo Beach, Florida, where she learned she was pregnant and in labor. 

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

An ultrasound later revealed that Siwinski was about 33 weeks pregnant and already having contractions.

"I had no symptoms at all, nothing whatsoever. I had no idea there was a human inside of me," Siwinski said. 

She later added that she did feel some flutters but didn't think anything of it, claiming she thought it was her stomach settling from something she had eaten. 

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

"I had her working out and stuff in the gym with me, and she's sitting there pregnant. I had no idea. She's like bouncing this bar off her chest. I'm surprised the baby didn't shoot out right there, you know what I mean?" Glenn shared. 

Due to the surprising news, their cruise was put on hold. The couple, who recently got engaged in May, traveled to HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, where Siwinski delivered their son, Sebastian, on Monday, July 13 — less than 12 hours after learning they were expecting. 

While uncommon, hospital staff said pregnancies that remain unnoticed until the later stages do occasionally occur.

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

"They were absolutely amazing," OB Coordinator Elyse Fahey said. 

"Being outside their element, not knowing anybody here, and just with such grace — they’re both happy, excited, a little nervous, I’m sure, but just [an] amazing couple."

Now, the couple gets to go home and begin this new chapter of their lives, including heading to the courthouse to get married, which is vastly different than returning home after the Royal Caribbean cruise they didn't get to take.

(Credit: Tampa Bay News)

According to CruiseMapper, Radiance of the Seas was the only Royal Caribbean ship scheduled to depart on July 13. 

The five-night cruise visited Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and is expected to return to Tampa on Saturday, July 18. 

Can you go on a cruise while pregnant?

While Siwinski’s situation was highly unusual, many expecting parents do take cruises while pregnant. However, cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, have strict policies regarding how far along a passenger can be during the sailing. 

According to the cruise line's website, "Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will be more than 23 weeks pregnant at any time during the cruise or CruiseTour."

"All guests are required to fill out a Public Health Questionnaire prior to arrival or at the pier attesting that they are not more than 23 weeks pregnant."

This means pregnant travelers must be 23 weeks pregnant or earlier for the entirety of their voyage, and guests who reach their 24th week of pregnancy during the cruise won't be permitted to sail. 

Moreover, pregnant cruisers are typically required to bring a doctor's note confirming that they're fit to travel. 

Expectant guests should understand that ships do not have obstetricians onboard, and complications may be difficult to manage at sea without access to specialized medical care or hospitals.

For example, although every cruise ship has medical facilities, they are not properly equipped to handle premature births. As such, without a NICU onboard, a premature baby born at sea could face serious risks without immediate access to specialized care.

When vacationers think of a summer cruise, they likely picture lazy days on a pool deck passing through the sea with a fun cocktail in their hand. However, they often forget the season also brings high temperatures, crowds, and logistical challenges.

I've taken a few cruises already this summer, and have a couple more to go. 

In my experience, the difference between a dreamy summer trip and a frustrating one often comes down to how prepared you are for the realities of what summer brings.

After taking a couple of summer cruises, I wanted to share the things vacationers should avoid while cruising in the summer months.

Spending too much time in the direct sun on the first day

After the stress of traveling and dealing with port agents during embarkation, you'll likely want to switch gears into vacation mode immediately after stepping aboard the ship. However, a word of warning: don't overdo it in the sun before sailaway. 

It's more than tempting to head straight up to the pool deck and sip on a fruity beverage. However, you'll want to continuously reapply sunscreen while outside, so you don't end up with a painful sunburn before the trip even begins.

If you're like my fiancée, the sun can also make you feel extremely tired. Because of that, you may want to pace yourself and avoid wearing yourself out on the first day of your cruise, especially with long port days ahead.

Not packing enough sun protection

Speaking of the sun, it's important to pack a lot of sunscreen. In fact, I'd argue that you should have more than you think you'll need, rather than not enough. 

The reason is simple: sunscreen on the ship is way more expensive than at retailers like Target, Amazon, or your local drugstore. For example, I've seen prices as high as $35 for a bottle on Royal Caribbean ships and private destinations. 

The last thing you want to happen is to make it to the last day of your vacation, which happens to be a sunny port day in The Bahamas, run out of sunscreen, and have to spend a premium price just so you don't turn into a lobster (yep, that happened to me!). 

Packing only swimsuits, flip-flops, and other beach-appropriate attire

Even if you're on a warm-weather cruise to somewhere like The Bahamas, Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Mexican Riviera, you'll want to ensure you're packing for more than just days spent at the beach or by the pool.

For example, if you plan to eat in the ship's Main Dining Room, you will need appropriate dinner-time clothing, such as sundresses, khakis, jeans, and blouses. You don't have to dress overly formal or anything, but you will want to have outfits that are a step above your poolside attire.

Additionally, think about how you plan to spend your days ashore. Mediterranean cruises, for instance, often involve more sightseeing, so comfortable shoes and lightweight clothing that are suitable for long walking tours are recommended. 

Thinking the best summer cruises are to warm-weather destinations 

Speaking of cruises to warm-weather destinations, you don't have to limit your summer cruise plans to places with beaches and above-average sunshine. 

Although tropical destinations are popular during the summer months, I can personally attest that some of the most memorable cruises take you to cooler climates and offer different — and just as memorable — experiences. 

For example, on cruises to Alaska and Northern Europe, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, delicious cuisine, and unique outdoor adventures that you won't find in ports like Costa Maya, San Juan, or Aruba. 

Not planning for crowded summer ports

Summer is one of the busiest times of year for tourism, which means popular ports of call can see an influx of land-based tourists, along with thousands of cruise passengers. 

As such, you'll want to adjust your expectations and plan appropriately. For instance, when I visited Santorini, Greece, in July, the streets of Oia were so crowded that it was difficult to walk at times. Although beautiful, it was a far cry from the picturesque photos of dramatic calderas and blue-domed buildings.

My advice? Take your pre-cruise planning seriously. Research your stops ahead of time, browse port schedules to see how many ships will be docked during your visit, and plan accordingly. Additionally, don't wait until the last minute to book excursions, especially in popular destinations where there will be multiple ships visiting at the same time. 

Waiting too long to book your pre-cruise accommodations

On a similar note, if you haven't already, I'd highly suggest finalizing your pre-cruise travel plans. Booking your accommodations and transportation in advance helps ensure a smoother start. Plus, you won't have to worry about inflated last-minute fares. 

Domestic flight prices have increased by 23.2% between March and June 2026, while international flight costs have increased 11.5% in the same time period, Fortune reported. 

While the increase is partly due to ongoing political issues in the Middle East, higher demand for summer travel has also enabled airlines to keep prices higher. As such, you really shouldn't delay making those plans!

Arriving at the port on the same day as departure

When planning your travel, it's important that you don't arrive the same day as your ship leaves. Although this is a common warning, it becomes even more important during the summer months, when afternoon storms can wreak havoc on flight schedules. 

Even if you aren't sailing from South Florida, weather-related delays and unexpected travel disruptions can happen anywhere. Your aircraft, for example, could be delayed due to inclement weather along its inbound route. 

For that reason, I'd highly advise against booking the latest flight of the day. If anything goes wrong, you'll be left scrambling to make last-minute arrangements on departure day, with very little wiggle room if things continue to work against you.

Drinking too much, especially in the sun

Deluxe Beverage Package holders beware: just because you have an unlimited drink package doesn't mean you should abuse it. It is easy to get caught up in vacation mode, sipping fruity piña coladas by the pool and throwing back shots at late-night parties. 

However, overindulging in alcohol while in the direct sun is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Heat, humidity, and prolonged sun exposure can intensify the effects of alcohol, leading to dehydration and fatigue. As such, it's important to pace yourself and drink plenty of water. 

The last thing you want is to be dealing with an insufferable hangover in port on an all-day excursion with limited access to a bathroom. Trust me, it's as bad as it sounds. 

Forgetting to check the weather before your cruise

One of the easiest mistakes to make before a cruise is forgetting to check the weather forecast. Weather can impact everything from what you pack to your travel plans, so it's something you should do in the days leading up to your vacation. 

It's even more important during the peak of Atlantic hurricane season, which typically runs from late August through mid-October. Storms don't always impact cruise itineraries, but keeping an eye on the forecast can help you prepare for potential changes. 

For example, my Bermuda cruise turned into a Canada cruise thanks to Hurricane Erin, which caused my ship to change course. Consequently, the weather was chillier than expected. Had I checked the weather and considered the possibility of a major itinerary change, I would have packed a little differently. 

Overscheduling yourself with activities

Finally, you don't want to do too much on your cruise. With so many activities, entertainment options, and excursions available, it's tempting to try to stay booked and busy from dawn to dusk. 

However, packing your schedule, especially on mega ships like Legend of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas, can leave you feeling exhausted. This is even more true during the warmer months, when spending hours in the heat can quickly wear you down. 

Instead, I try to build in time to relax and recharge in the air conditioning during the hottest part of the afternoon. I won't lie, I used to feel guilty doing this, but I quickly learned that a little downtime can make everything feel more enjoyable, rather than feeling as though you're dragging your feet from one activity to the next.