Royal Caribbean Blog

I've taken 8 cruises in the past 12 months, and each one taught me something.

As a new cruiser, I knew I had a lot to learn from personal experience.

Not only was cruising a new form of travel when I started, but my cruises also took me to regions I'd never visited before.

Although all my sailings took place on Royal Caribbean ships, I sailed different ships each time; Wonder of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Enchantment of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, and Oasis of the Seas.

Each different itinerary and ship type introduced me to a new aspect of cruising.

From choosing the right stateroom to saving money on shore excursions, I'll explore the top lessons I learned from each sailing. 

Read more: I've never been on a cruise, but spent a week researching what I need to know. My top 11 important lessons I think I learned

Your cabin selection has a huge influence on the experience

Cruise: Wonder of the Seas

My first cruise took place on Wonder of the Seas, sailing a 7-night Eastern Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay itinerary.

Any Oasis-class ship would make for the perfect first cruise.

I was blown away by the amount of dining, activities, and amenities onboard, and felt like I barely had enough time to experience it all.

But while we splurged on specialty dining and shore excursions, we also tried to save money by booking a guarantee stateroom.

It turned out that this cheaper cabin selection had a huge influence on the entire cruise.

We were assigned a windowless interior cabin at the very front of the ship, and I quickly learned why other cruisers tend to avoid that location.

The room was consistently dark, without a view, and we often heard the noise of the anchor chain banging on the ship's hull.

I also learned that I suffer from seasickness while cruising, and the forward location of the stateroom left me even more susceptible to the vessel's rocking motion.

If I hadn't packed Dramamine, the nausea would have been unbearable.

Although I've booked interior cabins since this cruise, and find that the darkness makes for a good night's sleep, I regret not picking a better cabin for my first cruise.

For a first cruise (or the first one in a while), splurging on a better cabin will upgrade your experience.

Snorkeling is worth it, and you don't always have to pay extra

Cruise: Freedom of the Seas

My Freedom of the Seas cruise took place over a few short days, sailing to Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

For this trip, I decided to invest in my experience on Royal Caribbean's private island. 

I purchased the snorkel shore excursion, which turned out to be an amazing way to see the beaches of the Bahamas.

After renting the snorkel equipment, I took a self-guided tour of the shipwreck and natural life near the shores of CocoCay.

I saw sea snakes, tropical fish, and a jellyfish!

It was a cool experience, and I later realized that there was nothing stopping me from purchasing and bringing my own snorkel equipment to the island.

At any visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, you could experience the snorkel shore excursion for free.

Cruising smaller ships is a marvelous way to relax

Cruise: Radiance of the Seas

My third cruise was my first on a smaller ship—the 961-foot Radiance of the Seas.

The 5-night getaway sailed the Western Caribbean, taking me to ports I hadn't visited before.

While I wasn't sure what to expect, I learned that a smaller ship makes for a great way to relax.

The cruise was a calming getaway. The pool areas were always clear, and the elevators were easy to navigate.

I also noticed a more distinct ship culture; the crew members all seemed to know each other, and the captain even walked around to meet cruisers onboard.

Despite all the flack that smaller ships get, I found the cruise a quiet, enjoyable experience.

Plus, we got to visit exciting ports of call that the large ships can’t visit. 

Research thoroughly before sailing a new region

Cruise: Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment took me to new regions as well: I cruised a 7-night Athens to Barcelona Mediterranean sailing, having never visited the continent before!

I tried to have a more flexible mindset for this cruise, assuming that I'd learn things as I went along.

While I'm usually a big researcher, I did less preparation beforehand and expected to learn from experience.

This isn't the best move when it comes to visiting a new country.

I found myself at a loss when it came to Greek culture or Spanish phrases. Also, when I visited some historical locations such as the island of Crete, I wished that I'd read up on their impact. While the tour guides did give us a lot of information, more reading beforehand would have enhanced my experience.

Read more: 8 lessons learned after trying a European cruise for the first time

The suite life is very sweet indeed

Cruise: Allure of the Seas

My 3-night weekend cruise on Allure was my first time staying in a suite—and it was luxe.

For the first time, I realized just what a huge difference splurging on your cabin could make.

We were greeted with champagne and snacks, and our own coffee machine.

The stateroom had a huge balcony we could eat dinner on and a deep bathtub I used twice during the 3-day cruise.

Plus, the Grand Suite granted access to the suite lounge and other great benefits.

Once again, I saw that splurging on your stateroom really makes a difference.

Purchase shore excursions separate from Royal Caribbean to save money

Cruise: Anthem of the Seas

For the majority of my cruises, I was a loyal to Royal shore excursion buyer.

As soon as the cruise was booked, I would hop on the website to peruse the cruise line's sponsored tours.

While I knew that it was more expensive to purchase through Royal Caribbean, I figured the safety and security it gave me would be worth it.

However, on my Anthem of the Seas Bahamas and Perfect Days sailing, I decided to branch out and find an excursion on shoreexcursions.com.

I purchased a Glass Bottom Boat Ride with a stop on Pearl Island for about $50 per person.

When we arrived at the tour, we had an amazing time, and I discovered that the guests who paid for the same excursion through Royal Caribbean had spent $100-$150 on the excursion.

That means they spent double or even triple for the same tour!

The guides winked and told us not to tell anyone how much we'd saved.

Try as many different dining venues and dishes as you can

Cruise: Icon of the Seas

My next cruise took place on the much-hyped Icon of the Seas, and I truly believe she deserves all the praise she gets.

On this 7-night Western Caribbean and Perfect Day sailing, I was grateful that I made it a priority to try all the different cuisines onboard.

The ship blew me away with its range of dining options and upgrades to previous Royal Caribbean venues.

Read more: 10 lessons learned after trying Icon of the Seas for the first time

It was the best food I'd had on a Royal Caribbean ship—and I only tried the complimentary venues!

If you're planning on cruising Icon, be sure to try as much of the food as you can, and I'd recommend splurging on the specialty dining as well.

A summer trip to Europe is rough, but a positive attitude will take you far

Cruise: Oasis of the Seas

On my second European cruise, I was determined to learn from my past mistakes, and I did tons of research beforehand.

I told myself it would be a great cruise, and it was one of my favorites!

However, sailing to Spain, Italy, and Greece during June is a sure-fire way to run into crowds of tourists, and I did.

Although my research told me I could expect huge crowds, I was unprepared for how much that affected my experience.

When I visited museums, I only got a few seconds in front of the paintings before a group would get in my way. And traffic on the roads cut into our time at port.

Although it ended up being an amazing experience, I would have much preferred a less crowded season.

Oasis of the Seas shook up the cruise industry when she launched over 15 years ago, and she still has many amenities cruisers will love.

Royal Caribbean's goal with the Oasis Class mega-ships is for families to travel together, separate to enjoy their interests, and then meet again in the evening for a quality dinner and a show.

With seven distinct neighborhoods, there's something for everyone.

The Boardwalk appeals to North American nostalgia and childlike fun, while Central Park offers a quiet, natural area for relaxation.

For the sports and thrill-lovers, the Pool and Sports Zone houses the ship's pools, hot tubs, slides, and other activities.

Cruisers of all ages can find shops, dining venues, and parties on the main thoroughfare, the Royal Promenade.

For kids and teenagers, the Youth Zone hosts Adventure Ocean and teen programs.

The Vitality Spa and Fitness Center offers a self-care moment for the body, whether a hot rock massage or an afternoon in the gym.

Oasis' Entertainment Place is the hub for nightlife onboard, from the comedy club to the casino to ice skating shows.

These are our top 13 favorite features onboard Royal Caribbean's first Oasis Class ship.

1. The Bionic Bar

Royal Caribbean's unique technological wonder, the Bionic Bar, is certainly different.

Guests can order drinks on a tablet and watch robot bartenders mix cocktails.

Drinks at the Bionic Bar cost the same as in other venues, and provide an exciting opportunity to see robotic arms creating alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

2. Ultimate Abyss

When Oasis of the Seas was Amplified in 2019, she received a number of new features, including the then-tallest dry slide at sea.

Read more: What was added to each Royal Caribbean ship during its Royal Amplified refurbishment

The huge purple slide spans 10 decks, taking guests down a 100-foot drop.

Not only is the slide 150 feet above sea level, but it also features exciting twists and turns, and a glass platform that reveals just how high up its riders are.

Kids, families, and thrill-seekers will appreciate free access to this slide while onboard Oasis.

3. Portside BBQ

Oasis' Royal Amplification also added the cruise line's first barbecue restaurant, Portside BBQ.

It is a specialty venue, priced a la carte, per dish.

The food is worth it: cruisers can choose from tender brisket, pulled pork, chicken, beef ribs, burnt ends, and turkey legs.

Sides include homestyle cornbread, mac 'n' cheese, and baked beans.

4. Aqua80 Show

Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships go above and beyond with aquatic shows that combine high diving, swimming, and acrobatics.

The Aqua Theater onboard Oasis of the Seas was the first-ever aquatic amphitheater on a cruise ship. 

The show, Aqua80, features a soundtrack of '80s classics that all generations will love.

In fact, Aqua80 has been called the best show in the fleet.

5. Central Park

Central Park is a personal favorite—a gorgeous, open-air venue modeled on New York City's famous park.

The area is meticulously maintained, with a 25-foot tall plant wall and an accompanying soundtrack of birdsongs or crickets, depending on the day.

The Central Park on Oasis of the Seas also has access to the library, upscale dining at 150 Central Park, Park Cafe, the Vintages wine bar, Giovanni's Table, and several classy shops.

6. Laser Tag

Did you know you could play laser tag on a cruise ship?

Both children and adults can face off in an exciting Clash for the Crystal City.

Access to the laser tag is free but may require reservations.

Guests should wear close-toed footwear and will receive all other necessary equipment when they arrive.

7. Splashaway Bay

Made especially for kids, the Splashaway Bay Aqua Park features exciting cruise water adventures.

Children of all ages can experience waterslides, fountains, pools, whirlpools, and water cannons.

Two drench buckets also tip over for more splashing fun, and tethered hammocks offer a place to lay down nearby.

Read more: Oasis of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

8. CATS: The Broadway Musical

Musical lovers will be excited to find CATS onboard Oasis of the Seas.

The Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is performed live in the Royal Theater.

With an incredible stage setup and cast costumes, the show tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles.

9. The Rising Tide Bar

The Rising Tide is another unique, awe-inspiring bar onboard.

The drink station with live bartenders functions much like an elevator, moving slowly between the Royal Promenade and Central Park (decks 5 to 8).

Comfortable seats and stools provide plenty of room for passengers to sit with a drink and enjoy the ever-changing view.

10. Ice Skating Rink

Studio B hosts the vessel's ice skating rink, and features "Frozen in Time," a gorgeous, colorful performance.

The show is based on the fairytales of Hans Christen Anderson and includes a lights show alongside talented ice skaters.

And this rink doesn't just host performances, either—guests can book an ice skating experience of their own on the Royal Caribbean app.

11. Zip Line

When she first launched, Oasis had the first zip line on a cruise ship.

Cruisers can still ride the zip line today, taking a thrilling 82-foot ride suspended in the air.

9 decks of open space will stretch below your feet as you glide above the Boardwalk.

For thrill-seekers and anyone looking to try something new, this free ride is an exciting amenity.

12. The Solarium

The adults-only pool area on Oasis of the Seas is a relaxing venue with comfortable seating, a shallow wading pool, a bar, and several hot tubs.

A large outdoor sundeck is available through the back of the Solarium, where guests can tan and read.

Glass walls and windows allow the light to come in and for guests to see the beautiful ocean view all around.

Read more: I chose an inside cabin on my recent Oasis of the Seas cruise because it was the cheapest option, and I actually loved how much space it had

13. The Escape Room

Oasis' Amplification also added the Apollo 18 escape room.

Inside, you work as a team with other passengers to quickly solve clues and figure out how to escape before time runs out.

The activity does cost extra and must be reserved.

A cruise in Europe is unlike a Caribbean cruise in many ways, including things you should bring with you on the trip.

I'm headed to Europe for a 7-night Royal Caribbean cruise to Spain and France, and in the weeks leading up to the cruise, I wanted to make sure I have everything I need.

There are a lot of similarities between a Caribbean cruise and an European cruise, but there are a few items that I think are different or more important to have when going to Europe.

After trying Europe last year, I came away with a few takeaways to apply. Plus, I'm headed to different destinations than last time.

Read more: 7 mistakes & 3 things I did right on my Norwegian fjords cruise

Here's the list of things I bought for my European cruise that I think will greatly benefit me.  This is of course in addition to the usual assortment of cruise packing list items that I think everyone should rely on as well.

eSim

Staying connected is really important to me, and I want to make sure I have a very easy time being able to not only work on this site while on another continent, but be able to easily communicate with friends and family.

Rather than rely on an international cell phone plan from my home carrier, I went with an eSim that covers all of Europe.

When I went to Europe last year, I was turned onto Orange Travel eSims and it worked flawlessly.  

In the old days, you had to get a physical sim card and have your phone unlocked and it was all super cumbersome.  With modern phones, it's all virtual.

Basically, you buy a travel plan that is good for 7, 14, or even 28 days. When you get to Europe, scan a QR code and it downloads the eSim information to your phone and you have a second cellular connection ready to go!

It's really simple, and I bought the 30GB plan that works for 14 days from the time of activation. I think it's probably more data than I need, but I can always top it off if I need more. Total cost is €39.99.

It works in all the countries I'll be visiting, and I can avoid having to constantly try to find a WiFi signal somewhere.

UK/EU power adaptor

One of the best things to pack for any cruise is downright essential on a European cruise.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships don't always have a lot of power outlets, so a USB hub is very useful.  In Europe, you're going to need that and a good power adaptor to go with it.

Between your phone, laptop, and any other electronic you pack, the outlets in Europe are very different.

The EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter (this is an affiliate link, which means I get a small commission but there's no extra cost to you) is great because it's small, and it can work with US, EU, or UK power outlets.  Plus, it has USB outlets on the side!

It's an all-in-one adapter that has 4 USB-A ports (2.4A), 1 USB-C port (3A), and 1 AC socket.

I've been able to bring this on cruise ships and use it around Europe, and it's a solid investment.

Better walking shoes

When I'm at home, I wear basic shoes that are far from perfect for walking, so I needed a better pair for Europe.

Between exploring London and the shore excursions I have planned in France and Spain, there's going to be plenty of walking involved.  Getting a blister or just sore feet sounds is not something I want, so I decided to invest in better shoes for walking.

There are lots of sneakers out there, but I ultimately went with the Nike Men's Sports Low Top Shoes. For the ladies, my friend Sheri recommends the adidas Women's Cloudfoam sneakers. (this is an affiliate link, which means I get a small commission but there's no extra cost to you)

If you do buy sneakers for your cruise, be sure to break them in before the cruise begins.  Don't wear brand new shoes around Europe. Instead, wear them around your house and town so they are worn-in and ready to tackle the old streets of Europe.

Theft-proof bag

Rather than stuff all my personal belongings in my pockets, investing in a good bag that doubles against pickpockets seemed like a good idea.

A lot of travel experts recommend a crossbody bag as something to take with you on shore, and I wanted to go one step further to ensure it is theft-proof.

Pickpockets are a concern in Europe, and while I won't pretend to know how likely a threat, I figure it's better to be safe than sorry.

Ultimately I went with the Wander Plus Anti Theft Travel Bag (this is an affiliate link, which means I get a small commission but there's no extra cost to you) because it can be worn as a crossbody bag or as a sling bag.

I've never worn a crossbody bag, and I'm still traumatized by the fanny pack craze of the 1990s.  So while I won't wear Zubaz pants anytime soon, I'm willing to give crossbody bags a try.

Apple AirTags

I think everyone has a small panic attack contemplating what happens if their luggage would get lost, so that's why I bought Apple AirTags.

Air travel is especially notorious for lost bags, and I would have far more peace of mind knowing where my bags are located.

An AirTag is a small, button-shaped tracking device that weighs just 11 grams. AirTags can be tracked using Bluetooth in the Find My app on my iPhone.

A single AirTag will cost $29 and a 4-pack costs $99. (These links contain an affiliate link. I earn from qualifying purchases that costs you nothing extra)

It's an easy and affordable add-on for my trip, and I think I'll have less anxiety about my luggage not making it with me.

Read more: I tried AirTags to track my luggage on a Royal Caribbean cruise

One thing I'm not packing: toiletries

Don't worry, I'm planning to shower regularly during my European cruise.  But I won't bother buying them at home and bringing them with me.

First, they take up space in my luggage and add weight.  If they're travel size, not that much weight and space, but it all adds up.

But the real reason I'm not packing toiletries is because I'm always paranoid of them opening/exploding in my luggage.  Sure, I can put them in a zip lock bag, but then we're back to the first issue I talked about.

Instead, I'll buy them when I get to London and then toss them when I'm ready to come home.

And if you're concerned I'll forget or get lazy, the included 3-in-1 mystery liquid in Royal Caribbean's shower is a non-starter for me, so I'll definitely find the motivation to get it.

Hurricane Ernesto has affected the itinerary for another Royal Caribbean cruise ship.

With the storm's anticipated path headed for Bermuda, Royal Caribbean has altered the plan for Liberty of the Seas August 15, 2024 cruise.

The original plan was for Liberty to sail a 9 Night Bermuda and Eastern Caribbean cruise.

Instead, Liberty of the Seas will skip its visit to Bermuda and go west of the storm and south to Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos.

An email sent to booked passengers explained the change, "Along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, we've been monitoring the track of Hurricane Ernesto along our intended path. 

"In order to stay safe and clear of this hurricane, we will now skip our visit to Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda, and travel west of the storm and south to Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos. While not the original itinerary planned, we're excited to have an extra day to enjoy Grand Turk with you!"

Any pre-booked shore excursions through the cruise line will be automatically refunded.

The new itinerary includes a visit to Grand Turk twice on consecutive days, followed by the resumption of their original itinerary.  

Cruise lines will alter the itinerary of a cruise ship to avoid bad weather, especially tropical storms. Usually an itinerary change similar to what has happened to Liberty of the Seas is all that's needed.  

It's rare for a cruise to be cancelled because of a hurricane.

The cruise line apologized for having no choice but to change its original plans, "We're terribly sorry for this last-minute change caused by the weather - your safety is our top priority. Please know, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather."

Liberty of the Seas is a Freedom Class cruise ship, capable of sailing with up to 4,960 passengers at maximum capacity.

Read more: What I liked (and disliked) about my Liberty of the Seas cruise

Liberty of the Seas is still on schedule to return to Cape Liberty on August 24.

Fourth Royal Caribbean cruise ship affected by Ernesto

Liberty of the Seas is the fourth Royal Caribbean cruise ship to change its itinerary this week.

Icon of the Seas had to swap itineraries, going from an Eastern Caribbean cruise to a Western Caribbean sailing.  

Sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rhapsody of the Seas reversed its port order to avoid the path of the storm and went to Barbados first.

Symphony of the Seas replaced a port visit to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic with a visit to Nassau, Bahamas.

These changes were made before Ernesto had become a hurricane.

Other cruise lines changed their plans too.

Carnival had to alter the itinerary for Carnival Magic and Carnival Pride, and is monitoring the itineraries for the Carnival Freedom and Mardi Gras.

Norwegian Cruise Line had three ships change plans, including Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Sky, and Norwegian Joy.

Hurricane Ernesto's path

The National Hurricane Center says Hurricane Ernesto is a Category 1 Hurricane centered about 600 miles south-southwest of Bermuda and is moving north.

The storm moved through Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, and it's now past those islands.

While not a threat to the United States mainland, it appears headed straight for Bermuda.

Ernesto is heading north at 13 mph early Thursday with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph, the hurricane center said.

Ernesto could become a major hurricane by Friday, which means it would have to reach Category 3 or higher.

The National Hurricane Center that Bermuda will see a "dangerous storm surge" that will produce significant coastal flooding and destructive waves. The island nation will see about half a foot of rain and in some areas, up to a foot, possibly resulting in "considerable life-threatening flash flooding."

It might sound crazy, but booking a cruise ship cabin for two people if you're sailing alone is actually a good idea.

The cruise industry's sales model assumes double occupancy and it's been that way for decades.

Cruising is by nature, a social form of travel, but solo cruises are rising in popularity.

According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 8 to 13% of cruisers are traveling solo in 2024. Plus, millennials and Gen Z are more likely to travel solo than other generations.

As they continue to age and earn more money, they're likely to travel solo more and more.

Royal Caribbean's Quantum Class ships, for instance, boast over 10 studio balcony cabins and more than 10 studio interior cabins (not available on Odyssey of the Seas) onboard.

However, the availability of solo cabins doesn't mean you should book them straight away.

It's a better idea to book a cabin for two, even if you know you'll be traveling alone—here's why.

How to avoid the single supplement fee

Cruising who travel alone in a double-occupancy cabin are subject to a single supplement fee.

Royal Caribbean's website states that the typical fee is 200% of the category rate.

"All rates posted on this website are based on double occupancy. A single guest who wishes to have a stateroom to themselves will be expected to pay 200% of the category rate, unless otherwise noted in the pricing."

Essentially, you'll pay the same price as two travelers.

For example, on a May 2025 7-night Anthem of the Seas Alaska Experience Cruise, oceanview balcony cabins are marked at $1430 per person for two people in a room.

If you select the same room, for only one person, the price goes up to $2,515.

Because of this, it's actually cheaper to book your cruise with two people in a cabin.

Plus, by booking a bigger, double-occupied cabin, you'll have more space all to yourself!

Royal Caribbean's studio staterooms range from 101 to 199 square feet, while typical two-person cabins measure 150 square feet and above.

Solo cabins may not be available on your desired cruise ship

Studio cabins allow you to cruise alone without paying the single supplement fee, but they're not on every cruise ship.

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's current largest ship, does not have any studio cabins onboard. This is likely an indication that the rest of the Icon Class won't feature many single cabin options.

Utopia of the Seas, the latest iteration in the Oasis Class, also not does feature any studio staterooms.

And the ships that do have studio cabins have a limited inventory.

If you prefer a certain cabin location to prevent seasickness or avoid noise, it's unlikely you'll be able to book a studio cabin in that location.

Plus, popular sailings or cruises during peak times might be completely sold out.

On the Anthem of the Seas May 2025, oceanview balcony studios (listed at $2,030) are already sold out, and there are only 8 interior studios still available (which cost $1,222).

Booking a studio cabin severely limits your choices.

Read more: I took my first solo cruise on Royal Caribbean's biggest cruise ships. After 7 nights, here are the pros and cons of cruising alone

Booking a cabin for two is cheaper

Even if you're planning to cruise solo, booking a second person on your reservation gives you a cheaper price.

You can put in the name and information for any one of your friends or family members without actually bringing them on the cruise.

That person can skip checking in and turn out to be a "no-show" on embarkation day.

I've had no problem doing this on my solo cruises. 

When I arrive at the cruise terminal, I say that my travel buddy couldn't make it and that I'll be sailing alone.

The only disadvantage to booking a second person on your reservation is that seat assignments (done for traditional dining) at the Main Dining Room are usually already assigned, based on your travel party.

I've often showed up to a cruise by myself at a traditional, assigned dining time, and found that I was seated at a table for two or more.

If you find dining alone (especially at a bigger table) awkward, you can ask for a different table or skip traditional dining times altogether.

Read more: I tried eating alone in the Main Dining Room on my cruise. I was worried it would feel awkward, but I liked it a lot more than I expected

Is it worth it to cruise by yourself?

There are pros and cons to cruising solo, the most obvious con being the potential for loneliness.

But that doesn't mean you should pass up on a cruise just because you might have to sail alone.

Besides the fact that you get to experience a fantastic vacation, cruising solo allows you to sail at your own pace.

If you prefer wandering art museums, but your partner is an active beach-goer, a solo cruise is the perfect chance to indulge in your preferences.

Read more: 5 things that surprised me about going on my first solo cruise, from enjoying my own stateroom to conversing with others

A solo cruise also pushes you to make conversations and meet new people, rather than relying on the friends you bring with you.

If you're up for the adventure, it's the perfect chance to make the most of your experience and get out of your comfort zone.

I was able to take advantage of a few smart strategies to help make my money go further on my first Celebrity cruise.

While I’m usually a budget cruiser, my recent cruise on Celebrity Silhouette initially proved otherwise.

I upgraded from my typical interior cabin to a balcony room, and I booked my airfare way too late, which set me back a staggering $1,400.

Additionally, my cruise itinerary was set to visit Norway, a country frequently listed as one of the most expensive in the world. I felt as if I were setting myself up for failure as far as budget was concerned, but I was still determined to save money wherever I could.

By utilizing Celebrity’s loyalty status perks, forgoing splurges onboard, and keeping in-port spending to a minimum, I was surprised with the savvy ways I was able to save money throughout my weeklong cruise.

Here are the five ways I saved money on my first Celebrity cruise.

I took advantage of Celebrity’s loyalty status matching program, maximizing benefits to save as much as possible

One of the easiest ways I saved money on my Celebrity cruise was through matching my Crown & Anchor Society status on Royal Caribbean to Celebrity’s Captain’s Club program.

Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean allow guests to match their loyalty status from one cruise line to the other, allowing passengers to reap the benefits of the reciprocal loyalty program—even if it’s their first time on the cruise line.

Related: Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club loyalty program info, tips & secrets

As a Diamond Plus member on Royal Caribbean, I matched my status to Celebrity’s Captain’s Club when I booked my cruise. My status matched Celebrity's Elite Plus status, the second-highest tier of the loyalty program.

This led to lucrative benefits during my cruise, including discounts on wifi and drink packages, a 15% discount at specialty restaurants, two complimentary bags of laundry, one free scoop of gelato, a day in the thermal suite, and access to exclusive events.

Although I didn’t take advantage of every benefit offered, a few select benefits led to great savings. The Elite Happy Hour, for instance, allowed me to enjoy complimentary alcoholic beverages from 5-7PM every evening, and I could also start each day with a complimentary latte from the onboard coffee shop, Café Al Bacio.

I was grateful for these benefits as they enabled me to minimize my onboard spending. I didn’t need to worry about paying for laundry or spending $15 for a single cocktail, and saving nearly $40 on the wifi package was an awesome perk, too.

I planned my own activities in port because Celebrity’s excursion prices were steep

Norway and budget-friendly don’t necessarily go hand in hand, but I was still surprised by the prices of shore excursions offered by Celebrity Cruises.

Having never been to Norway before, I was looking forward to exploring the four ports of call on my itinerary. The Norwegian fjords looked spectacular, and I knew I wanted to see as much as I could in each destination. As an active traveler, I was particularly interested in excursions involving hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor pursuits.

Related: Is it better to book excursions through the cruise ship?

Unfortunately, looking at Celebrity’s excursions ahead of my cruise left me disappointed. Organized tours to destinations like Briksdal Glacier and Pulpit Rock (Norway’s most famous hike) were over $200 or $300 a person. Even independent tours I found on GetYourGuide and Viator were expensive. Norway was already living up to its pricey reputation, and hadn’t even arrived in the country yet!

Before shelling out nearly $1,000 on excursions, I checked whether or not I could get to each port's top attractions on my own. Luckily, I found economical ways to do the same activities I wanted to book with a cruise-sponsored excursion.

Instead of booking a $170 excursion to hike Pulpit Rock, I booked a $40 shuttle bus that departed from central Stavanger and dropped me off at the trailhead. The return trip left five hours later, giving me more than enough time to finish the trail (and grab a well-deserved ice cream at the basecamp).

In Olden, I booked the Loen Skylift on my own to enjoy enchanting views of Norway’s Nordfjord. The cable car’s ticket was $53 for a roundtrip ride, and I got to and from the skylift in just six minutes on a local bus (just $3 each way).

My port days in Ålesund and Molde were easier to plan independently, as I planned to stay within the city centers. Each town offered charming, historic streets, quaint cafes, and gorgeous views from the waterfront. My expenses were minimal in both of these destinations.

I took public transportation to the port instead of a taxi or shuttle

One of the hidden expenses of a cruise vacation is the expense of getting to and from your cruise port. Although you might book airfare far in advance, it’s easy to forget about planning transportation logistics to the ship itself.

My cruise itinerary departed from Rotterdam in the Netherlands, but my flight arrived at the country’s main airport outside of Amsterdam. As always, I arrived a day prior to my cruise. I spent the night in Amsterdam with a plan of traveling to Rotterdam on embarkation morning.

Related: How to prepare for a cruise: Last minute things you should do

One of the most convenient aspects of cruising in Europe is the extensive public transportation network in major cities. In most circumstances, there’s no need to book expensive private transfers or call an Uber to the port when cheaper—and arguably more convenient—options exist.

So instead of booking Celebrity’s $40 transfer or shelling out over €100 for a taxi, I searched for directions to the port on Google Maps. An $18 train ride from Amsterdam brought me to Rotterdam’s central station in under an hour. From there, a short, $2 metro ride brought me just a 5-minute walk away from the city’s cruise port.

If you’re traveling with more than two people, or if you have large suitcases, there’s an argument to be made for private transfers. In my scenario, though, taking public transportation made the most sense whilst also saving money.

I kept souvenir shopping to a minimum and avoided expensive meals in port

After reading how fellow cruise writer Allie spent over $800 on souvenirs on her recent European cruise, I was worried about whether or not I could keep my shopping budget to a minimum. She stated how the cost of souvenirs in Norway was exorbitant, with $40 t-shirts and $60 crewnecks.

Reading this beforehand, I made a mental note to keep souvenir spending to a minimum. Of course, traveling with a carry-on suitcase helped, as I couldn’t fit much more into the bag anyway. So instead of purchasing heavy knickknacks and clothing, I bought small souvenirs like magnets, which were cheaper and easier to pack.

Related: Top 30 extra cruise costs that aren't included

Furthermore, I saved money by avoiding the more expensive dining options in port. On long port days, it’s inevitable that you’ll spend some money on food, whether a sit-down meal or grab-and-go snack.

Most restaurants in Norway are anything but budget-friendly; sit-down meals seemed to average around $25 for an entrée. I could see these prices breaking my budget on a land-based trip, but because I only had four days in Norway, spending $100 on four lunches while in port wasn’t a huge deal.

Even still, I tended to choose more casual dining venues instead of the fancier sit-down options. One of my best meals, in fact, was from a Thai food truck in Ålesund, and the meal only set me back $13. If I needed a quick snack, I could find a scrumptious pastry at a local bakery for around $3-5.

Staying budget-conscious with souvenir and food purchases in port helped me avoid spending more than I wanted to. Luckily, I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by doing so.

I stuck to only included dining options, despite the intriguing specialty restaurants

Although I usually cruise on a budget, one of the add-ons I frequently splurge for on a cruise is specialty dining. There’s not anything wrong with the included food on a cruise ship, but I prefer the enhanced dining experience of specialty venues, both in ambiance and cuisine variety.

Yet on Celebrity Silhouette, I forwent the specialty options and dined at only included restaurants. I split my meals between the Main Dining Room and Oceanview Cafe buffet. Outside of these venues, the ship offered complimentary burgers at Mast Grill, grab-and-go pastries at Café Al Bacio, and health-focused fare at Spa Café.

Related: What's included on a Celebrity cruise?

I also made sure to avoid food and beverage classes offered by Celebrity. Although the pizza making class they offered onboard was probably fun, I couldn’t fathom spending over $70 for the experience.

The included restaurants provided enough variety that I didn’t feel the need to spend extra at specialty restaurants. By spending nothing extra for food onboard, I could allocate these savings toward meals and snacks in port instead.

Sometimes splurging is worth the convenience, but I was happy to keep to a budget on my Celebrity cruise

At the end of the day, I’m glad I used these savvy tricks in order to save money on my Celebrity cruise. That being said, there’s a time and a place for using these budget-saving strategies.

There’s no denying that booking shore excursions through the cruise line is convenient, for example, and not all travelers want to deal with the hassle of planning port days on their own. Sometimes, spending an extra $100 on an organized tour is worth it for a stress-free trip.

Plus, add-ons like drink packages and specialty dining can greatly enhance a passenger’s onboard experience. There were times I wanted to try those picture-perfect cocktails at the Martini Bar, or that steamy bowl of ramen from Raw on 5, without thinking about the cost of each purchase.

At the end of the day, though, saving money on a cruise enables me to cruise more often. Every cruiser has a different travel style, and I’ll stick to even the tightest budget if it means I can continue booking cruises to far-flung destinations around the world.

With so many destinations to choose from in the Caribbean, it’s easy to see why these itineraries are so popular with cruisers. From mountainous regions to the sandy beaches, there is a little bit of something for everyone.

Since I was a toddler, I have been cruising around the Caribbean. Even growing up in the Midwest, my parents would take me and my sister on a yearly Royal Caribbean cruise, typically over spring break or summer vacation.

I’ve been able to visit nearly all of the Caribbean destinations reachable by cruise ship. With the exception of a few islands - such as Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao - and a few countries, like Colombia, I’ve enjoyed exploring this region of the world over the last two decades.

Overall, I’ve been to 25 Caribbean destinations by cruise ship. Therefore, it’s pretty rare when I sail on a cruise that visits a new port of call. Anytime I can visit a new destination in the Caribbean, I am giddy like a little kid.

Last year I was able to visit two new countries while cruising: Honduras and the Dominican Republic. I also visited Turks and Caicos for the first time - and I loved the experience. However, at this point, I’ve done almost all of the touristy excursions throughout the Caribbean that you can possibly do.

I’ve held a stingray in Grand Cayman, zip-lined in Costa Rica, swam with the dolphins in Mexico, snorkeled with sea turtles in Barbados, and lounged on all of the picturesque beaches. Finally, I’ve been lucky enough to transit through the Panama Canal by cruise ship, which was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Read more: How to choose the right Caribbean cruise sailing

Of course, there is always a new experience to be had regardless of how many times you’ve visited the Caribbean! There are some destinations that I can’t wait to return to while others are fine as one-and-done.

Here are the four Caribbean destinations I would visit again in a heartbeat, along with three ports that I would skip.

St. Maarten

One of my all-time favorite ports in the Caribbean is Philipsburg, St. Maarten. The island is actually owned by both the Netherlands and France, with the northern part of the island being French and the Southern part being Dutch. As such, St. Maarten has a unique blend of varying cultures and so much to offer.

I’ve been to St. Maarten multiple times and one of my all-time favorite activities is visiting Maho Beach. Being married to a pilot, my husband absolutely geeks out over this iconic beach where the runway approach is right over the beach. The planes land so close to the beach it almost seems like you can touch them!

Is Maho Beach the nicest beach in St. Maarten? Not necessarily, but it’s certainly one of the most memorable and unique beaches you’ll find in the Caribbean. For me and my family personally, this is such a fun place to visit while cruising.

Moreover, there is so much to do in St. Maarten, including relaxing on the island’s many pristine beaches, shopping on Front Street, and hiking to Mount Concordia. The island feels quaint, clean, and easy to navigate.

Whenever I am looking to book a Caribbean cruise, I look to find an itinerary with a port stop in St. Maarten. It’s one of those places that I find myself always excited to visit again after countless good experiences ashore.

Dominica

Nicknamed "The Nature Island," Dominica is one of the prettiest Caribbean ports I’ve ever visited. Although I’ve only been to Roseau once, I’ve been wanting to return ever since. The island has such a diverse, mountainous landscape with hot springs, beaches, and tropical rainforests.

While cruising on Jewel of the Seas a few years ago, my husband and I took an excursion through Royal Caribbean to Morne Bruce, Trafalgar Falls, and the Emerald Pool. We marveled at the Trafalgar Falls before swimming in the freshwater Emerald pools, surrounded by more cascading falls.

We were able to see so much of the island, but I wished we had more time to explore! Dominica was lusciously green with beautifully blue ocean water. I also appreciated that we were the only ship docked, as Dominica can only accommodate one cruise ship each day. It didn’t feel like the island was overtaken by cruisers!

Roseau is a more rare cruise port for Royal Caribbean. You’ll either need to fly to San Juan, Puerto Rico, or book a longer itinerary from Florida that visits the Southern Caribbean. However, I highly recommend booking an itinerary with a stop in Dominica if you can.

St. Thomas

I’ve been able to visit St. Thomas multiple times over the years and it continues to be one of my favorite Caribbean destinations.

The first time I visited St. Thomas was in middle school on a family reunion cruise. We booked a sailboat tour and sailed around the island - my mom still makes the sailor’s homemade guacamole recipe to this day! I remember thinking it was one of the bluest ocean waters I had ever seen.

Typically, I like to head over to the famous Magens Bay for a lovely beach day. Magens Bay has soft sand and crystal-clear ocean water for swimming. Because the bay is shaped like a horseshoe, you don’t have to worry about rough seas. There are plenty of other beautiful beaches on the island too.

St. Thomas also has great shopping and quaint villages! During my last visit to St. Thomas, my dad purchased a stunning emerald ring for me as a special keepsake. I wear it every day with fond memories of St. Thomas! The island has so much to do, including visiting Blackbeard’s Castle or the Skyride to Paradise Point.

Overall, I’ve had only positive experiences during my time in St. Thomas. Look to book either Southern or Eastern Caribbean sailings with Royal Caribbean if you want to visit St. Thomas on your future cruise.

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Perhaps unsurprising, I truly love visiting Royal Caribbean’s private island in the Bahamas: Perfect Day at CocoCay. If I am being honest about which destinations in the Caribbean that I look forward to returning to, Perfect Day at CocoCay is at the top of my list.

I’m not alone in this either, as Royal Caribbean has stated that CocoCay is the cruise line’s highest-rated destination! First, visiting CocoCay is not only extremely convenient, but also so relaxing.

The private island feels all-inclusive with so many beaches, pools, and restaurants included in the cost of your Royal Caribbean cruise. As a Diamond Plus loyalty member, I love that I can use my free drink vouchers while ashore. Anyone with a drink package can also take advantage of their purchase at CocoCay as well, which is a huge perk!

The island has a little bit of something for everyone, including Thrill Waterpark, the adults-only Hideaway Beach, the exclusive Coco Beach Club, Oasis Lagoon swim-up bar, a floating tiki bar, and multiple beaches with loungers.

Overall, Perfect Day at CocoCay really feels like a beach getaway. There is no denying you are on vacation when you’re docked here. I love being able to truly unwind and not have to worry about how I am going to spend my day.

Royal Caribbean sails to Perfect Day at CocoCay on nearly every Caribbean itinerary. Currently, the cruise line has 144 itineraries with stops scheduled in CocoCay. If you’re hoping to visit this private destination, there’s a good chance your itinerary already includes a stop!

Honorable Mention: Key West

While not necessarily in the Caribbean, one of my all-time favorite cruise destinations is Key West, Florida. Known as the southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West is a lovely destination while cruising.

The port of Key West is right in the city center, so you hardly have to venture far if you’re looking for shops and restaurants. The city is so charming with pastel-colored buildings, wandering chickens, and live music coming from the many beach bars.

Key West is laid-back and easy to walk around. I love visiting all of the shops and bars around the port. My sister and I recently visited Key West during our cruise on Celebrity Silhouette and walked to the Southernmost Point Buoy and enjoyed leisurely strolling the side streets. I would never turn down a port stop in Key West.

Skip: Jamaica

Perhaps my least favorite destination in the Caribbean, Jamaica is one port of call that I would be fine skipping for the foreseeable future. In fact, I am surprised cruise ships continue sailing to Jamaica. Royal Caribbean cruise ships typically dock in Falmouth, Jamaica, although I’ve also visited Ocho Rios, Jamaica by cruise ship.

First, the area outside of the port and touristy area is very rough. The last time I visited Jamaica, I remember thinking that I’d be fine if I never visited the island again. Generally speaking, the area outside of the cruise port feels unsafe once you leave the secure area. It’s not uncommon to be offered drugs for purchase, sometimes by pushy sellers. Unless I book an excursion, I typically stay on the ship when docked in Jamaica.

Read more: Caribbean tourist traps to avoid on a cruise

Even on an excursion, you can expect to spend nearly two hours driving to and from the cruise port. Many cruisers find their excursions run behind schedule or deviate from the planned agenda, although this hasn’t been my experience. If you’re visiting Dunn’s River Falls, which is one of the main tourist attractions for cruisers, you can expect to find a massive tourist trap upon arrival.

Overall, I am glad that Jamaica is crossed off my bucket list of countries that I’ve visited, but it’s certainly not a destination that I need to visit again.

Skip: Nassau

Located in the Bahamas, Nassau is one of the most common cruise ports for Caribbean sailings. It seems like every cruise I book these days has a port stop in Nassau! However, it’s one port that I would be fine never visiting again.

To start, the cruise port is always jam-packed with cruise ships, as the port can accommodate up to six ships in a single day. Nassau can even accommodate up to three Oasis Class ships! This leads to a very crowded port with tens of thousands of cruisers taking over the city. Last year, Nassau set a record for having almost 30,000 cruise passengers visiting the port in a single day!

Also, the excursions in Nassau are super expensive. If you want to visit Atlantis, be prepared to fork out hundreds of dollars per person for a few hours at the resort. Those choosing to visit a resort for the day will likely spend $100 per person. I’m always shocked by the inflated excursion costs in Nassau!

Unless you book an excursion or take a taxi to Paradise Island, Nassau itself feels disingenuous. If you wander too far outside of the port area, you can find yourself in tough areas very quickly. I’ve never run into an unsafe situation while visiting Nassau, but it’s not a port that I look forward to visiting.

Even after visiting Nassau close to 12 times, the port has never left me very impressed. I consider Nassau one of those port days where I stay on the ship and take advantage of everyone being ashore. Staying onboard during a port day allows you to enjoy a quiet ship and all of the amenities to yourself.

Skip: Belize

One port in the Caribbean that I don’t need to visit again anytime soon is Belize. Royal Caribbean’s ships dock in Belize City, which certainly isn’t the safest destination in the Caribbean. Unless you decide to visit the Mayan Ruins or tube down the caves, Belize doesn’t have much else to offer.

The port area for Belize is very lackluster, not to mention you need to tender to and from the ship to get ashore. I first visited Belize back in elementary school during a cruise on Enchantment of the Seas. We walked around the port area and decided there wasn’t much to see before tendering back to the ship.

Although I’ve visited Belize by cruise ship, I also traveled to the country for a mission trip back in high school. After seeing so much of the country in a very different light, I haven’t had much desire to return for vacation.

Overall, Belize isn’t a destination that I feel the need to visit again on a cruise ship. I find the tender ride to and from the ship to be the most exciting part of visiting this destination. Again, I am happy to cross this off my list of countries visited, but Belize City leaves little to be desired for me.

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A short weekend cruise is a great getaway, but how much will it cost?

A 3-night cruise provides a short, sweet, and affordable vacation that is perfect for those on a budget.

Because the cruise is only a few days, you'll spend less on onboard expenses and shore excursions because there's simply less time on the ship.

Royal Caribbean offers 3-night cruises for as little as $400 per person.

But exactly how much can you save by cruising a shorter sailing?

Prices vary greatly depending on a ship's size and age, the stateroom category you chose, and the sailing date.

A really good last minute deal might come in closer to $500 for two people, but you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $2,500 for a 3-day cruise as a median price.

What's the average cost of a 3-night cruise?

The price of any cruise can vary greatly from one sailing to another. 

As a starting point, our team estimates you'll spend about $150 per night, per person on a base cruise fare.

This base price can increase or decrease depending on cabin category, time of year, the popularity of the sailing, and the ship you choose.

A 3-night cruise on an older ship will probably cost less than a newer ship, but both will cost more during Spring Break than the third week of January. In short, there are a lot of factors that determine the price of a cruise.

Additionally, while 3-night cruises are cheaper than week-long sailings, a cruise over the weekend tends to cost more than a 4-night cruise during the week. Why? Weekend cruises are generally more popular.

Read more: How different is a 3-night vs 4-night cruise?

This base cruise fare for a 3-night cruise includes accommodations, meals and snacks at complimentary venues, Adventure Ocean children's programs, entertainment and activities, complimentary drinks, and access to ship amenities such as pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers.

Prices in the U.S. now include all taxes and fees (such as port fees), but exclude the cost of gratuities, add-ons, and your other transportation.

The ship's size and age also impact the cost

You'll want to start planning your weekend cruise by choosing a ship to sail on.

As a general rule, newer and bigger ships have more amenities but come at a higher cost.

For example, a 3-night Bahamas and Perfect Day weekend cruise on Oasis of the Seas costs $480 per person. That's if you choose an interior room in November 2024, coming out to $160 per night, per person.

In contrast, a Bahamas weekend cruise on Grandeur of the Seas, a smaller Vision class ship, costs $422 per person in April 2025. For an interior stateroom, you'd be paying around $140 per person, per night.

However, if you wanted to sail on Royal Caribbean's newest ship, Utopia of the Seas, cruises start at $582 per person.

Before you book a weekend cruise simply based on price, be sure that you'll enjoy all the ship has to offer.

You should choose a vessel based on the itinerary, amenities, and entertainment you appreciate.

Stateroom category has the biggest influence on price

Your cabin category will be one of the biggest influences on your final price tag.

It's one of the aspects that make cruising so adjustable to each budget. Whether you'd like to save money by choosing a smaller room or splurge on a suite, the category is completely your choice.

When booking a cruise, you'll want to carefully decide which has the most value to you: are you looking to save money for shore excursions at port, or do you want to splurge on a lavish suite?

Your choice can mean the difference between thousands of dollars.

Looking at a 3-night sailing on Anthem of the Seas in January 2025, a Penang Cruise costs $432 per person in an interior cabin.

The cheapest cabin, an interior room is a smaller space with no windows.

Upgrading to a balcony room on this sailing takes you up to $572 per person, while a Junior Suite starts at $1,300 per person.

For the biggest leap in price, the huge Royal Loft Suite comes in at $3,820 per person.

Read more: I'm a new cruiser and tried a weekend cruise on one of the biggest cruise ships. It was filled with lots in a short amount of time

Sailing during peak season and holidays raises your cruise fare

Cruise fares also vary depending on the time and season.

The most expensive sailings will fall during holidays, 3-day weekends, spring and summer break, and the weeks from Christmas to New Year's.

On dates like these, when adults are off work and children have a break from school, supply and demand tend to affect the price.

Cruising during peak dates like these can increase your cruise fare to nearly double what the same sailing might cost in the low season.

To save money on your 3-day cruise, you'll want to cruise during the shoulder season.

Each region has a different season in which you'll find the lowest fares and fewer crowds. 

Additionally, if you're planning a cruise further in advance, it's still better to purchase the sailing as early as possible.

Prices increase as the sailing date gets closer, and from one year to the next.

Add-ons are your choice, but they increase the final bill

In addition to the cruise fare, you have the opportunity to add on optional amenities.

Since Royal Caribbean cruises aren't all-inclusive, it's up to you whether you'd like to purchase add-ons like WiFi, drink packages, specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, and souvenirs. 

Prices on these cruise add-ons vary depending on the item and sailing, but they are typically cheaper for shorter cruises.

Though drink packages and spa treatments can be pricey, you'll find that the cost is less for your shorter, weekend cruise.

Royal Caribbean keeps its cruises non-inclusive so that cruisers can choose which add-ons to purchase based on their preferences.

Your overall base is cheaper overall, and you won't end up paying for anything you don't want.

In 2022, Royal Caribbean Group noted that the average cruisers spent between $90-100 per person, per day on cruise add-ons.

You'll also have to pay for transportation to and from the cruise port

Additional travel (before and after the cruise) is another factor to include in your cruise budget.

Getting to and from your cruise port will be your responsibility; another added expense.

When planning for your cruise, include in your budget the cost of flights, taxis, and baggage if you need to fly to the cruise port, or gas, parking, and tolls if you need to drive.

It's important to consider how and when you'll travel to the cruise port before purchasing the cruise.

We always recommend arriving at the embarkation port a day early, in case any travel delays occur. This will require you to find lodging or book a hotel room the night before embarkation day—another added cost.

Read more: I tried my first 3-night cruise, here's how it went

Royal Caribbean is among the cruise lines already changing their plans due to Hurricane Ernesto.

Royal Caribbean has begun re-routing a number of ships to avoid the path of the hurricane.  

Ernesto was first a tropical storm affecting the U.S. Virgin Islands on Wednesday, but has now strengthened to a hurricane.

"We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change caused by weather," a letter from the cruise lines to guests booked on Icon of the Seas read informing them of the change.

"Your safety is our top priority. Please know, being onboard is one of the safest places because we are faster and can move out of the way of any inclement weather."

Icon of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship, and is one of the first cruise ships to change plans due to Ernesto.

The original plan was for Icon to visit the Eastern Caribbean cruise ports of  St. Thomas, St. Kitts and then the Bahamas. Instead, Icon will switch to a Western Caribbean itinerary and visit: Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Roatan, Honduras.

In addition, guests will have an additional two hours to enjoy at the private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

A second Royal Caribbean cruise ship has also had to change itineraries due to Ernesto.

Rhapsody of the Seas is sailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico and will reverse its itinerary to avoid the storm.

Rhapsody will start the cruise by going to Barbados instead of St. Croix.  She'll return to St. Croix on Saturday, August 17th.

Ernesto's formation coincides as we are nearing the peak of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season.

It started out as Invest 98L, and then became Potential Tropical Cyclone Five. As it moved moved over the warm waters of the tropical Atlantic Ocean it became better organized and eventually became what is now Hurricane Ernesto.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), Hurricane Ernesto is located about 180 miles northwest of Grand Turk Island and about 765 miles south-southwest of Bermuda. It's moving off to the northwest at 16 mph and has maximum sustained winds of 75 mph with higher gusts.

It should become a Category 3 hurricane by Friday.

The storm is likely headed towards Bermuda next.

How Royal Caribbean plans changes

When there's bad weather in the world, Royal Caribbean will always monitor it to ensure their ships avoid it.

Along with Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, the ship's Captain makes the decision for the best course of action.

Tropical Storm Ernesto may not be a weather event for the mainland United States, but it's enough of a threat to change ship plans.

Mr. Setzer posted on Twitter/X on Monday, "Thanks to a deepening upper trough near the east coast, the US mainland threat from what will become Ernesto is very low. The exact details of impacts to the northeast Caribbean are a little less certain but a hurricane strike is unlikely there. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about Bermuda around week's end."

In the case of Icon of the Seas, the letter explained changing from an Eastern Caribbean to a Western Caribbean itinerary made the most sense, "Along with our Chief Meteorologist, Craig Setzer, we’ve been monitoring inclement weather along our intended path. Due to the adverse weather, we’ve modified our itinerary to provide you with the most enjoyable sailing experience."

Radical itinerary changes are not ideal for passengers given the original plans they booked, but avoiding the path of a tropical storm is the right decision every time.

One thing I really love about a cruise is when you can share the experience with friends and family, and it's one of the best kind of vacations when you're accounting for different ages.

When I've taken a land vacation with my extended family, it seems inevitably some people end up "doing their own thing" because what others are doing isn't to their liking.  And that usually means more separation from everyone because of distances involved.

I find a cruise vacation lends itself more towards being together, and even when you're not, you're never too far away.  Royal Caribbean is in that sweet spot for large families because they have lots for kids, parents, grandparents and weird uncles to enjoy.  It doesn't lean too heavy into one particular demographic.

I don't necessarily want a vacation where my entire family feels like we're "joined at the hip", but it's still important to feel like we spent time together.

Regardless of which type of vacation you pick, it's not easy balancing the needs of every family member and everyone coming home satisfied at the end of the trip.

Planning a multigenerational cruise

I think it's important early on to get buy in from everyone involved.

When you're picking the cruise ship, dates, itinerary, and travel arrangements, you want to make sure everyone is on the same page.

One of the top challenges of planning a family trip is not defaulting into the "travel czar" for everyone.  You don't want the family thinking one person has taken over the trip planning and it's become "their trip".

While some degree of decision making will ultimately need to be made by one person, the more you can include others in the decision making process, the better it ends up going.

Cruises are great because families have options for staterooms, depending on their budget.

Read more: Ways I Save Money on Cruises With Family

An easy idea to make this work is to start the planning process the next time your family is together.  Christmas, Thanksgiving, someone's birthday, or any time you can have the principles in the same room makes for simpler choices and less passive aggressive texts later.

Everyone's family dynamic is different, but the more inclusion you start off with, the better you are later.

Work with a travel agent

You know what starts more arguments among family members? Money.

Everyone has grandiose visions of that perfect family trip, but handling money is not pretty. You don't want to be the "bad guy" reminding everyone to pay, and you definitely do not want to be a middle man for taking payments.

My advice is loop a travel agent in as soon as you want to book so they can deal with collecting payments and making other arrangements.

Not only can a good travel agent ensure everyone is paid up and there's no confusion about who owes who money, but they could be a great asset as well.

If you book enough cabins, you might qualify for a group discount.  Even if you don't, travel agents have access to special rates that could save everyone money.

Read more: 10 secrets Royal Caribbean travel agents wish you knew

Plus, travel agents are there to take care of any problems anyone encounters with the cruise line.

One you think a multigenerational trip is possible, I'd contact a travel agent to get the ball rolling.  

Read more: 7 Best Royal Caribbean cruise ships for Kids

Plan on time together at least once a day

One secret to a great multi-gen cruise is not planning out every minute of every day.  

Some of your family will be up at dawn, and others will emerge around lunch.  Don't worry about trying to be together all the time.

Instead, plan on having one time per day you are together, and I think dinner is the perfect opportunity.

Not only will everyone be awake for dinner, but it's the perfect time to see everyone and talk about what everyone did.  Plus, the Main Dining Room is conducive to handling large groups.

Beyond that one time together a day rule, make it clear there's no hard feelings for what happens the rest of the day. It's their vacation as much as yours, and sometimes you want to do your own thing.

To help avoid drama later on related to "I didn't know you were doing that", a group text is a good idea (along with paying for an internet package for at least one person per family).

Read more: Royal Caribbean wifi guide

Book shore excursions early

Once you have a cruise booked, I think the next thing to tackle are shore excursions.

It's not easy finding tours that work for everyone, but you'll want to start on it before some of them start to sell out.

Beach days are the simplest and most popular choice for a multigenerational trip, so that's always an easy starting point (especially in the Caribbean).

Read more: 11 of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean

No matter which tour you pick, it's also good to split the costs evenly. If someone wants to pay for the entire family, that's fantastic, but if not, plan on everyone paying for their share so that there's no arguments later who paid for what.

Going back to the first tip, you'll also want to get buy in for which shore excursions you pick. It's not a big deal if some family members do their own thing, but I find a tour I do with everyone feels a lot more special.

Focus on what will make memories

After you get home and the trip is over, the most important takeaway will be the memories you make.

What that means is having first experiences that create family bonding moments with memories. The sort of things that happen that everyone talks about for years later because it was funny, loving, or just a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

A lot of families elect to buy matching t-shirts for the trip. Not only is it something to wear together on the first day of the cruise, but you can wear it for months or years later.  It's like a rock concert shirt that commemorates that you were there.

Beyond souvenirs, focus on things you can all do together. While there's no guarantee going to the CocoCay waterpark or singing karaoke will make a memory you'll think about for the rest of your life, it's more likely than just not doing anything at all.

I've rented a yacht in St. Thomas on one trip and while not cheap, it's been a tour we've talked about a lot over the years because we had an epic day.

When I cruise with my parents, I've noticed they much prefer big family dinners where we can all sit together and share stories. 

Mixing in different opportunities to foster memories is a good priority for any multigenerational trip.