Royal Caribbean Blog

Hurricane season will begin soon, and experts expect there to be a lot of storms.

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, and researches from Colorado State University (CSU) are calling for an "above normal" season.

Tropical storms have the potential to disrupt cruise travel plans, as every year a number of ships get re-routed because of them.

You shouldn't change any of your plans or cancel a cruise.  Rather, it's a good idea to monitor the weather leading up to your vacation and prepare for possible disruptions.

"Above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall"

CSU is forecasting 17 named storms in 2025, with 9 becoming hurricanes. Four of them will be a major hurricane.

The forecast is based on the fact the La Niña conditions that are present now to transition to ENSO neutral conditions in
the next couple of months.

The question is when that will occur, because an earlier transition means more storms.

Another factor are ocean temperatures. While sea surface temperatures across the Atlantic are warmer than normal, they aren't nearly as warm as they were at this time last year.

When you combine warm Atlantic waters and ENSO neutral conditions, it's a combination poised for a "dynamic and thermodynamic environment for hurricane formation and intensification."

"We anticipate an above-average probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean."

There's a 26% chance of at least one major hurricane making landfall along the U.S. East Coast (including Florida, but excluding the panhandle).

You can read the full forecast is available on Colorado State University's website. 

What to know about going on a cruise in hurricane season in 2025

Cruising during hurricane season is about having the right expectations, and a plan in place.

Your cruise ship won't sail through a storm, but it might change itineraries.

It's a smart idea to invest in a robust travel insurance plan that covers incidentals in case a named storm impacts your vacation.

Remember, hurricanes disrupt air travel just as much as cruise ship plans.

Purchasing an insurance policy will provide protections and peace of mind should your plans be disrupted because of a tropical disturbance.

An important thing to know about travel insurance is when the policy kicks in.  Most policies do not cover cancelling your cruise because you no longer want to travel because of a hurricane. Travel insurance requires you to physically be unable to travel for it to work.

If you want to be able to change your mind in the days leading up to a cruise, you need a "Cancel for any reason" clause. Otherwise, you'll forfeit the entire cost of the vacation for cancelling if the cruise is still scheduled to sail.

Royal Caribbean very rarely cancels an entire cruise because of a hurricane.

What's more likely is the sailing could be lengthened, shortened, delayed, or re-routed.  But the cruise is very likely to still happen, which means travel insurance won't cover you cancelling because you no longer want to go.

You should also know that cruise ships are able to "outrun" a storm.  The average speed of a hurricane is around 10 knots, but Royal Caribbean ships can reach speeds of 22 knots or higher.  

Plus, storms are forecasted and tracked for many days before they reach the areas ships typically visit.  So there's a lot of advanced warning to prevent a ship from being anywhere near a storm.

Port plans could change, so be flexible

When a tropical storm forms, cruise ship itineraries get moved around.

Royal Caribbean's top priority is the safety of guests, crew, and the ship. So they'll change plans to avoid a hurricane.

As an example, if you're booked on a 7-night eastern Caribbean cruise that visits St. Thomas, St. Kitts, and Puerto Rico, it could be moved to a western Caribbean cruise that visits Cozumel, Costa Maya and Roatan.

It's important to book shore excursions that are refundable.

The good news is all Royal Caribbean shore excursions would automatically be refunded if the itinerary changed.  So double check any plans you make with third parties has a clause to allow last-minute cancellations.

In my experience, most tour operators in the Caribbean understand if your ship cancels a visit to the island that you're entitled to a refund. But you'll want to verify the policy.

Cruising in hurricane season could save you a lot of money

The upside to picking a cruise in late summer and early fall in the Caribbean is there are usually low rates and good deals.

For example, a 7-night cruise on Harmony of the Seas in early July is $1,578.96 per person for an inside room.  But the same cruise in early September is just $837.71 for an inside room.

By booking a cruise later in the season, you could save over $700 per person! 

These low cruise fares are a result of the summer vacation season coming to a close, and the higher risk of hurricanes.

Travel plans can change, but it's a great time to sail

Travelers should always be flexible, but this is especially true with hurricane season.

Before you jump on those rates for a September or October cruise, be prepared for changes.

Veteran cruisers that pick to vacation in the summer and autumn understand the risks, but also recognize how safe it is to cruise.

A storm barreling towards Florida means an impact to a land resort.  But a cruise ship can zig zag away from the storm, enjoying much more favorable weather.

Happy April! It was a busy week with Royal Caribbean news, and we have a summary of all of the news from this week so that you don't miss any details.

A new travel warning has been issued for The Bahamas by U.S. officials.

A Level 2 travel advisory was issued for the popular cruise destination by the U.S. State Department, warning travelers to “exercise increased caution” due to crime and possibly shark attacks in The Bahamas.

Many Royal Caribbean cruise ships visit The Bahamas, and it's a reminder for tourists to use caution and be vigilant about their safety when going ashore.

Royal Caribbean News

• Mass layoffs at HHS include CDC's cruise ship inspection program, report says
• What is Perfect Day at CocoCay and what you should expect
• Alaska shore excursions you can book for cheap or free
• Hideaway Beach vs Coco Beach Club
• 9 things to do differently on your Royal Caribbean cruise for a smoother vacation
• Royal Caribbean offers up to 40% drink package prices if you buy at the right time
• 8 Things I wish I knew about taking a baby on a cruise ship

New RCB Video: Foods to NEVER eat on a cruise!

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 — Foods to NEVER eat on a cruise! — and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel.

What every aspect of a cruise on Utopia of the Seas costs

Allie detailed every single cost for her recent Utopia of the Seas.

Ever wonder what the total cost is of a vacation, from start to finish?

Cruise fare is just the beginning, as there's add-on costs including flights, hotels, taxis, souvenirs, and more.

Royal Caribbean now enforcing a rarely charged fee

Bringing your own wine on a cruise is a great money saving tip, but expect to pay for it.

Based on several reports from guests on ships this week, Royal Caribbean is now enforcing the corkage fee on bottles of wine opened in restaurants or bars.

There's been no policy change. Rather, the policy is actually being enforced now.

Royal Caribbean passenger shares vital warning for all cruisers

Consider yourself warned: flying the day of your cruise is a mistake.

A reddit user shared how five flight delays and two cancellations caused them to miss their cruise.

"This is why you fly in the day before," the person wrote and it's a good reminder for all of us when planning a cruise vacation.

I planned too many beach days and it was a mistake

Matt thought spending four days at the beach would be the perfect spring break vacation, but it turned out to be too much.

While sailing on Icon of the Seas, three port days in a row doing the same kind of activity felt repetitive.

While the beach facilities did not disappoint, having multiple port days in a row should have included different plans to break it up.

Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast

The 559th episode of the Royal Caribbean Blog Podcast is now available! In it, Matt lists the must-do 5 Royal Caribbean cruises everyone should try at least once.

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

This weekend is the perfect time to re-price that cabana, day pass, or jet ski tour at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Royal Caribbean is advertising a "24 Hour Flash Sale", with up to 30% off cruise favorites and it applies to new purchases made April 5, 2025 and applies to select sailings departing April 8, 2025 - December 31, 2026. 

There are a lot of pop up sales like this, but the difference is this one seems to be targeting add-ons at the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas.

In comparing prices that different cruisers have spotted, there are some seriously good deals out there for your visit to Perfect Day, even if you're on the brand new Star of the Seas.

Here's what we found and why you want to run and book something while you can.

Deals on CocoCay faves

It seems a lot of people are finding really good prices on extras you can reserve at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Prices there have notoriously gone up, where some cabanas can run as much as $4,000 or $5,000 each. But this weekend, it's a heck of a lot cheaper.

Here are some example prices for the pre-inaugural showcase sailings on Star of the Seas.

• Hideaway Day pass: $37.38
• Coco Beach Club pass: $98.98
• Coco Beach Club Overwater Cabana: $1,758.90
• Thrill Waterpark pass: $53.88
• Zip line: $37.38
• Chill Island Cabanas: $658.90

These prices are significant not only because they're cheap, but because they're cheap on a brand new ship.

Usually Royal Caribbean charges a premium for new ships, where CocoCay add-ons get marked up quite often.

"I just saved $200"

Booking fever has taken over on the Royal Caribbean reddit subforum, with many netting great deals.

"$53 for the waterpark is an amazing price. I've seen that as high as $200. For $53, I'm grabbing that," wrote gerrygebhart.

"I checked our Icon trip for next year and same thing. Grabbed an overwater cabana. Thank you," posted Sea_Voice_404.

Humble_Fishing_5328 added, "I got hideaway beach reserved for cheaper than last time! Great deal."

Keep in mind that not all sailings may see the sale applicable, nor are all offers significantly cheaper than previously posted.

What's a good price for CocoCay extra costs?

Before you hit the buy button, you might wonder what exactly is a good price for these add-ons.

Prices vary from sailing to sailing, so there's no guarantee you'll see a super good rate for your sailing. Nonetheless, it's helpful to know what to look for.

In my experience, here's what I'd consider a "good price" for the fun extras around Royal Caribbean's private island:

• Hideaway Day pass: Under $50 per person
• Coco Beach Club pass: Under $100 per person
• Coco Beach Club Overwater Cabana: Under $2,000
• Hideaway Beach Hideout Cabana: Under $1,500
• Chill Island, South Beach, or Oasis Lagoon Cabanas: Under $900
• Thrill Waterpark pass: Under $75 per person

I'm sure some readers may disagree with me on this, but I base these estimates on what we typically see advertised.

I'd also add a caveat that it's irrelevant what someone else thinks is a "good price" because it's your vacation and if it's your first (and maybe only) opportunity to visit CocoCay, why not indulge and enjoy the experience you really want?

How to check if there's a lower price for your cruise

Eligibility does varies depending on the sailing, so check on your particular cruise by logging into the Cruise Planner on Royal Caribbean's website and looking for available offers. 

Not all sailings may have an applicable sale, and not all offers will be significantly cheaper than previously posted.

If you already purchased an item but see a better discount during this sale, you are able to cancel the purchase and then re-purchase the same item under this promotion. 

In almost all cases, buying an add-on before the cruise will save you money compared to waiting to book it onboard. It's quite rare for the price onboard to be cheaper than if you had pre-purchased.

Royal Caribbean built arguably the best private island experience with Perfect Day at CocoCay, but what should you know before you arrive?

This private island is exclusive for Royal Caribbean passengers, and there's so much to do, ways to relax, and exciting add-ons.

I've been here over 50 times so far, and explored just about every corner of it to determine the best things to do and how to maximize your visit. Get ready to fall in love with Perfect Day at CocoCay!

A day spent here is about having fun within a tropical playground. There are beaches to visit, water park to conquer, cabanas to rent, and lots of food to try.

Your cruise fare includes admission to the island, with some areas included at no additional cost, and some aspects having an extra cost.

If you're ready to learn everything you can do, how to make the most of your time, and whether it's something you should be excited about, here’s everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay.

What Is Perfect Day at CocoCay?

Many Caribbean cruises include a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is an island in The Bahamas owned and operated by Royal Caribbean.

Unlike other ports your cruise may visit, this one is just for Royal Caribbean passengers. Your ship pulls up to the pier and docks with up to one other ship.

Expect to be docked at the island for about 8 to 10 hours. You'll get a schedule of times you can disembark and the time to be back onboard by.

You can then walk off the ship and explore at your leisure.

The island is divided up into different zones, with each trying to provide a different vibe or experience. 

It's easy enough to walk around the island, but there is free tram service to take you around if you prefer. I'd estimate you could walk off your ship and to the furthest point in about 15 minutes at a leisurely pace.

Top things to do at CocoCay

It's up to you which area of Perfect Day at CocoCay you want to visit. Aside from an excursion or specific activity you book, you can roam the island as you see fit.

Nearly all the activities involve being in, around, or near the water.  The beach is number one activity, and you'll find a few different beaches to choose from:

• Chill Island: The traditional beach day experience
• South Beach: Beach day meets music, activities nearby, and even a floating bar
• Harbor Beach: An inlet that has little to no waves, great for young swimmers
• Breezy Bay: Another beach option that's convenient to other areas of the island
• Cove Beach: The place to go if you want to get away from everyone else because of it's remote location

There's also a giant freshwater pool at Oasis Lagoon which has a really fun swim-up bar. There's music playing here, and it has more of a pool party vibe to it.  

There are two aquatic play areas for young kids that you won't want to miss if you have children under the age of 8.

Captain Jill's Galleon is a pirate ship themed playground. There are slides, geysers, fountains and plenty of excuses to climb, descend, and get wet.

Right behind that is Splashaway Bay, which is an extra large version of the kids water play area found on many ships. There are even a few kiddie water slides here.

There are so many ways to get absolutely soaked, but luckily there are comfortable Adirondack chairs around it for parents to sit and watch while staying dry.

Thrill Waterpark is home to the giant water slides and wave pool. There's an admission cost, but you'll find all sorts of slides to challenge your sense of excitement.

The waterpark is quite popular with teens, but there's enough here for all members of the family.

If you prefer an upscale beach day, check out the Coco Beach Club.  

The beach club has a limited capacity and elevated features. The chairs are nicer, there's a wonderful sit down lunch offered in its own restaurant.

Another popular option is the adults-only area of Hideaway Beach.  Admission requires you to be at least 18 years old, and there's an enormous temperature-controlled pool, DJ playing music, and a few casual restaurants.

What’s included (and what costs extra)?

It's your choice if you want to spend extra on the optional add-ons for your day at CocoCay.

There's enough included for free by Royal Caribbean that you don't need to pay for other things.

Included with your cruise fare:

• Oasis Lagoon pool access
• Chill Island beach access
• Breezy Bay beach access (including sports courts & games)
• South Beach beach access (including sports courts & games)
• Harbor Beach beach access
• Cove Beach beach access
• Captain Jack’s (for seating, not food)
• Splashaway Bay
• Captain Jill's Galleon
• Towels (from ship), beach chairs, umbrellas, hammocks
• Buffet-style lunch at Skipper’s Grill and Chill Grill
• Food from Snack Shack
• Tram service
• Lockers
• Beach access wheelchairs

Optional Add-Ons:

• Thrill Waterpark
• Zipline
• Up Up & Away helium balloon
• Cabanas
• Day Beds
• Snorkel gear
• Jet skis
• Coco Beach Club
• Hideaway Beach
• All bars and self-serve beer stations (Your drink package still works on the island)

Prices for these add-ons vary depending on your sailing. There isn't a standard cost, because Royal Caribbean uses variable pricing based on demand.

Here are some example prices for the new Star of the Seas, which debuts this summer:

• Hideaway Beach pass: $37.38 per person
• Coco Beach Club pass: $98.98 per person
• Thrill Waterpark day pass: $53.88 per person
• Zipline: $37.37 per person
• Up Up & Away helium balloon: $42.88 per person
• Breezy Bay Full-Day Beach Bed Rental: $218.88 each
• Floating Beach Mat: $9.88 each
• Chill Island Cabanas: $658.90 each

These prices are on the lower end of the spectrum, and priced well because of a pre-cruise sale.

Dining choices around Perfect Day at CocoCay

After all the fun you'll have around the island, you're going to want lunch (and a few snacks).

There are four Snack Shack locations you can visit, and it's a great grab-and-go option. Be sure to try the best mozzarella sticks ever. 

Alternatively Chill Grill and Skipper's Grill have a buffet, including a taco bar. There's also more typical island fare, like burgers, hot dogs, and salads.

If you go to the paid areas (Hideaway Beach, Coco Beach Club, or Thrill Waterpark), there are restaurants in each of those areas too.

In terms of food quality, my favorite is the Coco Beach Club restaurant.  Filet mignon, lobster, fried shrimp, and it's specialty restaurant level good stuff. 

In terms of free food, I really like the taco bar because I can make a taco bowl and load it up with so many toppings. It's the perfect beach day refresh.

There are no shortage of bars, and some are really fun. 

The floating bar in South Beach requires a short swim to reach, but it's worth the effort. Far easier to get to, the swim-up bar in Oasis Lagoon is a party and has lots of shade. If you're more of a beach bar person, try the Wacky Seagull (Chill Island) or Coconut Willie’s Bar (South Beach).

Do you need to book in advance?

The free areas require no advanced reservations or bookings. It's all first-come, first-reserved.

But if you want to purchase any of the optional add-ons, I would recommend booking it in advance because they sell out often.

Demand for these activities has been higher because Royal Caribbean has done a better job at marketing them.

Plus, the cost is always cheaper if you pre-book, rather than waiting to book it onboard the ship or even on the island. In fact, I think it's a mistake to wait to book these items because of the elevated risk of it selling out.

You can book anything at Perfect Day at CocoCay before the cruise begins on the Cruise Planner site or in the Royal Caribbean app.

I prefer to use the Cruise Planner site because it's easier to quickly navigate. Log into your Royal Caribbean account and then find your upcoming sailing.

There is a Perfect Day at CocoCay section, and from here you can find every single add-on to purchase.

What to bring with you

Visiting CocoCay is a lot like any cruise port in that you should bring certain items with you.  

You absolutely need to bring your SeaPass card with you to get on and off the ship. Plus, it's the only way to pay for drinks or add-ons around the island.

Before you head ashore, here's what you should have with you.

• Swimsuit & cover-up
• Shoes (flip flops or water shoes)
  • Closed-toe shoes if you're doing the zip line
• Sunscreen
• Seapass card
• Towels (provided on ship)
  • If you are in a cabana or Coco Beach Club, towels are provided for you.

Of course, I'd recommend bringing a hat, sunglasses, rash guard, and a beach bag to help make your day more enjoyable.

One thing you definitely don't need to bring is your passport. Leave it on the ship.

Is CocoCay kid-friendly?

Without a doubt, you'll find lots for kids to do at Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Thrill Waterpark is an obvious choice for families, given the water slides are such an inviting option.  You can buy day passes for everyone, or opt for a Thrill Waterpark cabana because it includes admission for up to six people.

Keep in mind there are height requirements for the water slides, ranging between 42 inches and 48 inches.

Families with young children will love the two splash areas that are near the entrance to the island. 

Not only are both free, but it's perfect for kids to run around and get drenched. There are life guards here (and at every pool and beach), so it's a safe environment for them to play and splash.

If you want a family beach day, Harbor Beach is a great choice if you have swimmers that aren't very strong. There aren't big waves at CocoCay top begin with, but the cove here is almost like a pool because of how calm the water is.  

Plus, it's the least crowded beach you're likely to find.

In terms of food, there's no shortage of the usual foods picky eaters love. There's no excuse for your kids being hangry given how much food is offered, and that it's all included.

Hot dogs, burgers, tacos, and more are available at both Skipper's Grill and Chill Grill. 

Tips for your first visit

Before you head off the ship and start your day, here's my top recommendations for Perfect Day at CocoCay do's and don'ts.

Get off the ship as early as you can: You really should arrive early to claim a spot for your family.

There are lots of chairs and umbrellas, but they do go quickly. The first area to run out of chairs is Oasis Lagoon, followed by Chill Island.

I'd recommend disembarking the ship before 10am to get a shady spot in the area you want.

Bring a waterproof phone case for pool/beach pics: You're going to want to take photos, so I'd recommend a good waterproof case. (This link contains an affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra)

Buy cabanas or passes early: No matter the price, most of the extra cost options around CocoCay will sell out before your cruise begins.

Plan ahead and book your shore excursions beforehand! 

You can always cancel and rebook later if there's a price drop, but waiting to book it is usually a mistake.

Your beverage and WiFi package work on the island: If you bought a Voom internet package or drink package, those benefits work also on CocoCay. It's a huge amunt of added value.

Best times for the water park slides: Lines are worst from mid-morning to about lunch time.  

Try to hit the slides before 10:30am or after 2pm.

Swimming with the pigs is overrated: Trust us, as cute as it sounds, it's a waste of money and you're going to end up surrounded by pig poop.

Swap your wet towels out: There are towel stations around the island, so there's no reason to bring back wet towels.

One of the most frequently visited ports by Royal Caribbean cruise ships has a new travel warning.

The U.S. State Department issued an updated travel advisory "Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution" for to the Bahamas.

This country was already at a level 2 prior to the update.

With any travel warning, it comes with a list of concerns that tourists should take into consideration. In the case of The Bahamas, the warming cites violent crime, swimming risks and firearm warnings.

Considering Royal Caribbean ships visit ports around The Bahamas a lot, here's what you should know.

What the new warning says

In reading through the State Department guidance, there's an outline of gang violence that travelers should be aware of.

To be clear, the warning is not telling Americans to avoid going to The Bahamas. Rather, it's urging caution. 

“Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands."

Specifically, it warns of issues in the "Over the Hill" area in Nassau, where gangs have killed residents.

The warning also has other areas of concern that could be useful for cruise ship visitors.

New swimming-related risks were split into two categories: jet skis and boating, and beach safety.

"Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms."

This warning is a result of reports of sexual assault by some jet ski operators , along with sexual assault reports on or near downtown Nassau beaches. 

There are also concerns over watercraft operators who may be unlicensed or uninsured or who may ignore weather warnings.

In addition, the warning contains things you should be aware of at any beach: never swim alone, watch out for watercraft, beware of sharks.  

More ships than ever are visiting The Bahamas

This travel warning is particularly interesting for cruisers because of how frequently Royal Caribbean ships go to the island nation.

Nassau, Bahamas is among the most common cruise ports you'll find, especially on Royal Caribbean.

Short 3- and 4-night cruises only visit The Bahamas, with stops in both Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay.

In fact, the line is doubling down on visits to Nassau, as more big ships will soon switch to short cruises.

Limited sailings will visit Bimini or Freeport, but they're not that common.

Nassau is the capital of The Bahamas, and it's also where Royal Caribbean is working to open a new beach club.

Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will open in December 2025 on a 17-acre piece of land on the western end of Paradise Island near Nassau.

The beach club has beaches and pools, three swim-up bars, seven beach bars, and more than 40 cabanas.

It will have a separate admission cost to enter, but will only be sold to Royal Caribbean passengers exclusively.

Is it safe to cruise to The Bahamas?

There's risk with anywhere you visit, including your own hometown. The key is being prepared and vigilant about your safety.

The purpose of the warning is to remind tourists to use caution, and to not arbitrarily go on tours without vetting them.

The warnings about jet ski operators, boating, beaches are the sort of things everyone should have been thinking about and apply to any beach in the world.

Part of planning a cruise vacation is researching your shore excursions, and working with vetted tour operators.

Excursions sold through the cruise line are advertised as third-party operators who are licensed and reputable, "ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience."

No matter who you work with, you'll always want to be mindful of your surroundings and not take unnecessary risks.

While the warning applies to the entirety of The Bahamas, the reality is visits to the cruise line's private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay are not as applicable given the reality of the experience there.

Only Royal Caribbean passengers are allowed onto CocoCay, and the staff working there are a mix of Royal Caribbean crew members from the ship, as well as locals hired by the cruise line.

Since random people cannot access CocoCay, it's likely the risk factor is mitigated with visits there.

Thousands of federal employees were informed they would be laid off this week, which include divisions that inspect cruise ships.

Beginning on Tuesday, mass layoffs began at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of a plan to cut 10,000 jobs at the Department of Health and Human Services.

It's all part of an initiative by President Donald Trump to shrink the size of the federal workforce.  So far, more than 100,000 workers have been let go over the last two months.

Several internal agencies are being closed as part of this week's sweeping change, and the cuts have impacted one area that has the potential to impact cruise ships.

According to a report in Wired, workers in the Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice (DEHSP) received a reduction in force notification on Tuesday. Other divisions received similar notices, such as the Division of Population Health, the Division of HIV Prevention, the Division of Reproductive Health, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, and the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control.

The CDC's DEHSP center director sent an email saying its division would be "slated to be eliminated in its entirety."

Among the work DEHSP conducted, included the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program. The VSP was created to develop and implement a comprehensive sanitation program in order to minimize the risk of outbreaks on cruise ships and provide the public information on these health issues.

The report says it's unclear if the program’s work involving cruise inspections, or the lists of outbreaks on cruises, will continue. 

What the VSP does

CDC random inspections of cruise ships are meant to ensure cruise lines meet the standards expected of them and to mitigate the chances someone would get sick on a ship.

In each check, a cruise ship is given a rating on a scale of 0-100 once the inspection is complete.

In 2024, the CDC conducted a total of 151 inspections and most scored a 95 or better. Of those, 29 were Royal Caribbean ships.

After each inspection, crew members respond to the results and offer corrective actions to remedy the issues inspectors found.

As an example, a recent inspection of Symphony of the Seas revealed over 50 violations that raised serious concerns about the ship's hygiene and safety protocols.

Royal Caribbean swiftly implemented 57 fixes to address those issues.

Cost savings measure

The specific cuts within the Department of Health and Human Services was delegated by President Donald Trump, who sees this as part of a strategy to save money for taxpayers, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

"The president has given the responsibility to his Cabinet secretaries to hire and fire at their respective agencies," Leavitt said in a press conference on Tuesday.

"You saw the secretary of Health and Human Services announced more layoffs today. This is all part of the administration’s effort for a mass reduction in force in the federal bureaucracy here in Washington, D.C., to save American taxpayers money."

In a recent press release, HHS secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that these layoffs, along with early retirements and deferred resignations, would reduce the agency workforce from 82,000 to 62,000 full-time employees.

Ship safety and health goes beyond inspections

With or without the the inspections, the health and welfare of guest and crew members is work that is more than what federal workers account for.

The inspection reports are not the only factor in ensuring a cruise ship is clean.

No cruise line wants negative press because of sick passengers. Not only is that sort of attention bad for business, Royal Caribbean wants its customers to have a wonderful vacation so they'll come back and book another one.

Every ship features several health awareness tactics and oversight of outbreak prevention.

If guests do fall sick, Royal Caribbean has a series of health protocols to prevent further infection, no matter the source.

1. Stop buffet self-service if the onboard norovirus rate exceeds 1.5%
2. More crew training on acute GI symptoms and avoiding cross-contamination
3. More GI training for onboard medical teams
4. Increased oversight of the Outbreak Prevention Plan
5. Switching to PDI SaniCloth Prime hospital-grade disinfectant wipes, which carry a claim against norovirus (Contains an affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use)
6. Contactless tap technology, so crew members don't have to handle SeaPass cards

Guests on Royal Caribbean ships will spot hand-washing stations, free hand sanitizer, health awareness signs, and even crew members reminding guests to clean their hands.

 It's true things cost more to do in Alaska, but there are a few great ways to enjoy time in each port without spending a lot.

When I took my first Alaska cruise in 2018, I was astounded by how much shore excursions cost.  Many tours cost hundreds of dollars per person to go on, and that's money on top of the cruise fare and airfare.

While Alaska is an amazing place that many people seek to visit at least once, it's also expensive and a lot of people want to keep their vacation budget in check.

And to be clear, some of the very expensive tours are totally worth it considering it might be your only opportunity to try it. As an example, taking a helicopter to land on a glacier is pricey, but it might be your only chance to try it. We also have a list of recommended tours in each Alaska port that cruisers swear by.

There are lots of ways to save money on an Alaska cruise. Before you shell out hundreds of dollars for your family to go on an expensive tour, here are a list of inexpensive or free tour ideas in each of the Alaska cruise ports.

A quick note, the links to paid tours contain affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you book it, but it costs you nothing extra.

Juneau

Juneau is a popular port for expensive excursions like whale watching tours and helicopter rides to glaciers. 

Free Activity: Downtown Juneau Stroll

Right in front of where cruise ships dock downtown is a boardwalk perfect for taking a stroll and admiring the views.

Downtown Juneau is walkable and full of hidden gems. Visit the historic Red Dog Saloon, browse local galleries, and snap a photo in front of the Alaska State Capitol. 

Don’t forget to stop by Taku Smokeries for free samples of smoked salmon.

Affordable Excursion: Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour

Want to see Juneau’s most famous glacier without the hassle of public transportation? The Mendenhall Glacier Trolley Tour is a great value at $79 per person, offering scenic views and plenty of time to explore the glacier area.

Website

Skagway

Skagway is a small town located at the northernmost part of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Situated on mainland North America just 14 miles from Canada, Skagway is stunning, with tall, snow-capped peaks dominating the landscape.

The town is most known for its role in the Klondike Gold Rush, and many attractions in Skagway showcase its gold rush history, including the famous White Pass & Yukon Route Railway and the Gold Rush Cemetery.

Free Activity: Gold Rush Stroll & Lake Trail

Alaska is well known for its Gold Rush history, and Skagway is one of the best places to see it's impact.

Downtown Skagway has many restored 1890s-era buildings you can easily walk and see as you explore the town.

Reward yourself with a pint from Skagway Brewing Company or a peek inside the Red Onion Saloon.

Free Activity: Lower Dewey Lake Trail

You can enjoy a scenic hike along the Lower Dewey Lake Trail., This is a 2.5-mile loop trail that meanders through pine forest around Lower Dewey lake. 

If you want a shorter hike, try the hike to Yakutania Point. It's only 1.5 miles and it overlooks Tailya Inlet. It's the perfect selfie spot on the rocks.

Affordable Excursion: Skagway City and Summit Tour

If a city walk isn't enough, try one of the tours that offers much more of the history.

The Skagway City and Summit Tour costs $72 per person, and will take you up to the White Pass Summit, providing views and entertaining you with stories from Alaska's history.

Website

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is known as Alaska’s “First City” as it is the first Alaskan city you’ll encounter while traveling north. Due to its southerly location, Ketchikan is usually the first or last port of call in Alaska on a cruise.

Although there are several excursions you could book in Ketchikan, such as a visit to the Misty Fjords National Monument, many of the town’s most popular activities are free of charge.

Free Activity: Self-Guided Walking Tour & Salmon Spotting

There's a great (and free) app you can download from the App Store or Google Play Store that takes you around Ketchikan to see its history.

The tour takes you through the town and it's self-paced, so you can go as quickly or slowly as you like.  You’ll pass colorful buildings, totem poles, and Creek Street — the historic red-light district turned quirky shopping lane.

As you near the end of Creek Street, the boardwalk continues upwards into the rainforest, which is known as the Married Man’s Trail. Once used by married men to conspicuously reach the red-light district, the path is now a free way to explore Ketchikan’s nature.

Affordable Excursion: Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show & Axe Throwing

A very Alaska show that is quite popular is the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show.

At $68 per person, you'll enjoy a rowdy demonstration of axe tricks, log rolling, and a high-energy competition. You can even try your hand at axe throwing!

Website

Affordable Excursion: Dolly’s House Museum

Dolly’s House Museum was one of the most famous madams working on Creek Street between 1919 and 1954. After prostitution was deemed illegal, she continued living in the house until moving to a nursing home. Her colorful, historic house has been maintained throughout the past few decades, transporting visitors to another era altogether.

Admission to tour Dolly’s House is just $10, making it an affordable way to spend an hour or so during your port day.

Icy Strait Point

Free Activity: Boardwalk Stroll & Wildlife Watching

One of the best spots for a nature walk that you can access right off your cruise ship is in Icy Strait Point.

The boardwalks are free to walk, and you might be able to see bears or whales during your stroll.  Plus, the scenery around you is lovely.

Affordable Excursion: Shuttle to Hoonah

You can take the shuttle to nearby Hoonah for just $5 each way.

Grab some halibut tacos at The Fisherman’s Daughter, then unwind with a cold brew from Icy Strait Brewing. Bonus: There’s a shuttle stop right outside the brewery!

Sitka

Sitka offers a quintessential Alaska experience, as the town allows visitors to easily explore nature, spot wildlife, and stroll through the charming downtown area.

Because most tourist attractions are located within close proximity to each other, it’s easy to explore Sitka without an organized tour. Not only that, but many of these attractions have a low cost, making it easy to enjoy your day without ruining your budget.

Free Activity: Downtown Sitka walk

Once you get into the town of Sitka, it's incredible easy to walk around and explore on your own. Many of the streets allow you to walk along the beautiful harbor, providing great coastal views.

The Visit Sitka site has a map you can use to identify the key spots that have historical and cultural significance.

Affordable Excursion: Sitka Scenic Tour

A great small-group tour that hits the major highlights of Sitka:

• Fortress of the Bear sanctuary
• Walk overlooking Indian River to learn about life cycle of salmon
• Totem pole viewing
• Learn about Sitka’s role in World War II

At $89 per person, it brings you to the major attractions within the area.

Website

Sitka Sound Science Center

The Sitka Sound Science Center is just ten minutes from downtown by foot and has an admission cost of $7 for adults and $5 per child.

At the science center you can get up close to aquatic creatures in the center’s aquarium—which include touch tanks—and take a tour of the facility, which teaches visitors the role of salmon and aquaculture in Southeast Alaska.

The Sitka Sound Science Center is one of the best kid-friendly activities in Sitka, and you can purchase admission online ahead of time or once you arrive.

Which extra cost area of Royal Caribbean's private island is a better choice: Hideaway Beach or the Coco Beach Club?

When you visit Royal Caribbean's private island of Perfect Day at CocoCay, you could spend extra money to access certain areas of the island that offer a premium experience.

Royal Caribbean wants to offer something for everyone, so it's expanded CocoCay over the years with an elevated experience and an adults-only area.

Hideaway Beach is the newest expansion, and it offers a kid-free alternative to the rest of the family-focus elsewhere. Or you could head to the Coco Beach Club, which is a reduced capacity and better amenities enclave.

Each has a cover charge to access it, which brings up the question of which one is a better buy.

Hideaway Beach overview

Only guests 18 years old or older are allowed into Hideaway Beach, and it's intended to be an escape for any adult that wants a break from kids.

You'll find a large temperature-controlled freshwater pool, semi-circle beach, reserved cabana area, and various complimentary food choices.

Royal Caribbean designed this area to infuse a pool party vibe along with the fact there aren't kids. They wanted there to be a lot of energy and a place adults could have their own fun in the sun.

You'll find a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, catering to adults seeking a lively beach party environment. There are five bars, which is the the largest concentration of bars on the island.

The top highlights of Hideaway Beach include:

• Private beach with lounge chairs and umbrellas
• Heated infinity-edge pool with in-water seating
• Multiple bars, including a swim-up bar
• Dining options like Hideaway Hut and Slice of Paradise offering casual food choices
• Sports bar with multiple televisions to watch, and a live band that performs
• Two different types of cabanas

The primary appeal of Hideaway Beach is the no kids feature. Everything else is secondary to that. You can have a drink in hand, listen to live music, and have incredible views.

Hideaway Beach also has a fairly large capacity about 1,500 - 2,000 guests.

Coco Beach Club overview

The idea behind the Coco Beach Club is to offer an exclusive, upscale retreat that limits the amount of guests that can buy a pass here.  Think velvet rope meets beach day.

This high end experience allows guests of all ages in, including children, and it offers a freshwater infinity pool, large beach area with plush loungers, cabanas to rent, and a sit down complimentary restaurant.

The overarching concept at the Coco Beach Club is luxury of being on the beach. 

Highlights of Coco Beach Club include:

• Private beach with complimentary premium lounge chairs and umbrellas
• Infinity pool with in-water loungers
• Complimentary upscale dining at the Coco Beach Club restaurant, featuring dishes like lobster and steak.
• Two different types of cabanas

When you spend the day at Coco Beach Club, you can expect a serene day that is less crowded than the rest of the island while also a bit more luxurious. It's ideal for guests seeking a tranquil and refined beach experience.

Differences between Hideaway Beach and Coco Beach Club

Before you can choose one over the other, you'll need to know the key differences between each area.

Age Restrictions

Hideaway Beach is exclusively for guests aged 18 and over. 

Because there are no kids allowed here, you'll need to figure out plans for what to do with your children otherwise.

Coco Beach Club welcomes guests of all ages, including kids.

Ambiance

At Hideaway Beach, it's meant to be a party-like atmosphere. Think Las Vegas pool party vibes, DJ dancing, drinks, grab and go food options.

Hideaway Beach is perfect for couples, friends traveling together, maybe a bachelor/bachelorette party.

Coco Beach Club is a lot more relaxed, focusing on tranquility and luxury.

Amenities and Services

Both areas have cabanas you can rent, and each has an impressive top tier cabana choice.

The Hideout Cabanas at Hideaway Beach have a heated plunge pool at the front of each cabana to give you that ultimate VIP feeling.

These cabanas are also set further back from the pool and party area, meaning you can enjoy your own party.

At Coco Beach Club, the Overwater Cabanas are truly impressive for how large they are and their sense of exclusivity since they are accessible only by walking across a pontoon bridge.

Each Overwater Cabana has a private slide into the ocean, overwater hammocks, and even a shower.

You'll find food included at both clubs, but Hideaway Beach's options are far more casual. Pizza, fried shrimp, burgers and mozzarella sticks are the type of food you can get here.

At the Coco Beach Club, there's only one dining venue, but it's some of the best food Royal Caribbean serves. Filet mignon, lobster, peeled shrimp and all served to you tableside.

Both clubs have a temperature controlled heated pool.

Pricing

You'll need to pay extra to access either area, and pricing will vary depending on your sail date.

Both clubs offer a day pass admission cost, or a cabana rental that includes admission.

The Hideaway Beach entry fee will almost always be less than what you see at Coco Beach Club.

Typical Hideaway Beach day passes run between $48 - $97 per person. 

You can expect to find the price of a Coco Beach Club pass to be between $98 - $250 per person.

How to choose between Hideaway Beach and Coco Beach Club

Depending on your priorities and whom you're traveling with, the choice of which pass to buy can lean in one direction or another.

If you want an adults-only day, then the choice is Hideaway Beach. Royal Caribbean added it because of overwhelming requests from its customers for this kind of an offering.

Plus, Hideaway Beach is going to be a lot cheaper than the Coco Beach Club.

• Coco Beach Club
  • All Ages
  • Luxury
  • 1 Upscale Restaurant
  • 1 Bar
  • Private Cabanas
• Hideaway Beach
  • Adults-Only
  • Pool Party Experience
  • 2 Casual Food Spots
  • 5 Bars
  • Private Cabanas

Whether you're on a budget or simply want to spend less, day passes and cabanas usually cost significantly less at Hideaway.  Even the cabanas are going to be likely half the cost of a Coco Beach Club cabana.

The reason to choose Coco Beach Club is if you're someone that prioritizes having a relaxed atmosphere and without crowds.  Plus, you're looking for the finer things during your beach day.

Families or mixed-age groups may prefer Coco Beach Club simply because they can't go to Hideaway Beach together.

One other consideration between the two is if you're in the market for a cabana rental.

The Overwater Cabanas are even better than they look, and there's simply nothing like them elsewhere. Plus, they're way more private and quiet than the Hideout Cabanas.

On the other hand, the Hideout Cabanas have their own plunge pool.  If you prefer pool over ocean, this is a great choice.

Ultimately, your budget and who you're traveling with will likely point you in one direction or another.

If you take the cost out of the equation, the party atmosphere of Hideaway Beach vs the chill vibe of Coco Beach Club may be a reason to choose one or the other.

However, it's hard to ignore the price difference.  More often than not, a day pass at Coco Beach Club is going to cost a lot more.  You could knock down either price with a well-timed Royal Caribbean sale before the cruise begins.

No matter which one you choose, be sure to book admission before the cruise begins.  It's common for both areas to sell out, especially the cabanas.

I'd recommend booking a day pass or cabana at least three months before your cruise begins to avoid the risk of it selling out.

Simple changes can have a major impact on making your cruise vacation better.

Having sailed on almost 100 cruises, I've found doing things slightly differently improves the efficiency or value you get from the experience.

Think of it like learning a new shortcut on your drive home from work. Shaving a few minutes isn't a big deal, but it gets you there faster.

Plus, these little tricks could save you money or reduce the stress of a cruise.

I came up with a list of 9 ideas to do things differently on your next Royal Caribbean cruise.

Walk to the further gangway

When your ship is docked in port, there's almost always two gangways open at the middle and forward sections of the ship.

Most people go for the first gangway they encounter, but I've found the line to get back on the ship is almost always far less crowded on the gangway further down the pier.

The truth is this tip is less about the wait on the gangway as it is for the elevators.

After you scan back onto the ship and go through security, you have to wait for an elevator. Wait times for an elevator can get pretty high when everyone is coming back to the ship in the afternoon, and it's always worst at the first entrance back onto the ship.

It's worth the extra steps if you can hop right onto an elevator and get to your room (or the pool) faster.

Apply sunscreen before you disembark the ship

Getting sunburned is such an easily avoidable problem, and yet, it happens all too often because people don't apply soon enough.

It's amazing how quickly you can get sunburned, even when just walking off the ship and down the pier.  That sun can beat down on your neck, head, and shoulders, and leave you with a red burn before you even get to to the beach.

Even if you do avoid a burn off the bat, you're supposed to apply sunscreen at least 15-20 minutes before diving in the water.

If your kids are like mine, they'll want to go right in and not wait.  

Instead, apply the sunscreen in your cabin before you depart for your shore excursion.

Pick up beach towels at the gangway instead of the pool deck

I never remember to pick up towels for my time ashore the day before, so inevitably I'd be the one to go in the opposite direction to get towels from the pool deck on an already busy morning trying to get everyone ready to disembark the ship.

Royal Caribbean seems to have figured out there's a lot of people like me doing this, and they started putting towel pick up locations right near the gangway.

You'll almost always find a towel station right before the gangway location.  They're usually near the staircase when you reach the gangway deck. Occasionally it's on the Royal Promenade, like on Icon of the Seas.

To be fair, there's a slight chance there won't be one, but I've seen them consistently offered on Caribbean sailings near the gangway for quite some time.

This is so much more convenient than going up to the pool deck.

Plus, on your way back on the ship, they're in the same spot near the gangway taking towel returns!

Of course, another idea is to check out towels the day before your port day and have them ready to go, but that requires more forethought than I'm capable of while on vacation!

Get a theft-proof bag

I've always been "that guy" that puts his wallet and other valuables in my pockets, but I had to change that when I went to Europe.

Pickpocketing is a problem in some European countries (and elsewhere), so experts recommend getting an anti-theft backpack.

I never liked the idea of these because they look too much like fanny packs, but fashion sense aside, they really do work well.

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. No embarrassing '90s vibes here.

These bags work because there are hidden/well concealed openings and zippers that aren't as inviting to a pick pocketer as your pant pocket.

Pick pocketers are looking for easy prey, not to undertake a Mission: Impossible endeavor.  They want to get in and out quickly, so an anti-theft bag has enough protection to cause them to probably look elsewhere.

I'd put your phone, SeaPass card, cash, credit card, and pretty much anything else valuable in the bag while you're ashore.

Get to shows early, even if you have a reservation

Royal Caribbean provides free reservations you can make for shows on its big ships, but you shouldn't roll in at the last minute.

Where you sit in the theater makes a difference, so I'd recommend arriving to the theater at least 30 minutes before show time to ensure you get the best seats.

This is especially important at the Broadway shows available on certain Royal Caribbean ships. There's no cost for the seats up front, so why not get the prime location?

There's bar service offered before the show begins, so take advantage of a drink or two while you wait.

Eat lunch on embarkation day at a specialty restaurant

It seems everyone has the same idea when they board the ship: head to the buffet for lunch.

Rather than compete with everyone, a more relaxing alternative is to book a specialty restaurant.

Depending on your ship, the options will vary, but there's usually one or two specialty restaurants open on the first afternoon. Chops Grille is almost always the standard offering.

I've eaten at Giovanni's a few times on embarkation day when checking out Utopia of the Seas, and it's so nice to start off with a seated meal that puts me in "cruise mode" with that level of service right off the bat.

An ancillary benefit of eating lunch is it's usually cheaper. You can experience the exact same, or similar, menu as dinner, but at a lower cost.

Stay on the ship on a port day (or hurry back early) for low crowds at the pool

The Flowrider, water slides, pools, and sports courts are so much emptier on a port day.

Most people on your cruise ship will be off the ship doing something on shore. But all those fun ship activities are open while your ship is docked.

It’s possible to ride waterslides with no wait on port days, climb the rock climbing wall several times in a row, and slide down the Ultimate Abyss without waiting in a long line. 

Trying activities on a port day doesn’t mean you have to skip going ashore, either. Even if you spend the majority of your day in port, you can do an activity immediately after getting back onboard.

I'd still recommend trying a fun port activity, but if you're on a longer sailing with multiple stops, you might consider staying onboard one day.

Tip a waiter in cash when you order a drink

While I agree tip culture has gotten out of hand, I still thinking tipping a dollar when you order a drink is a smart idea for speedier service.

While it's true your drink package includes gratuity, and if you order a drink individually without a package you're charged 18% gratuity, tipping a dollar for each drink ordered makes a difference in how quickly they come back to you.

When I cruise, I keep bunch of dollar bills in my pocket to tip when I order a drink. Not only do I think the crew members deserve a little something extra, but I've noticed it makes a difference when you want speedy refills.

Bars get busy, especially at night or by the pool deck.  But a little extra tipping usually gets the bartender to come to you first.

Order the free breakfast room service

While room service has a service charge, you can have a continental breakfast option that costs nothing extra.

Continental breakfast items, such as pastries, fruit, coffee, and juice are complimentary and can be delivered to your stateroom free of charge. 

It's fun to have a casual start to your morning with a table of light food and coffee in your cabin, especially if you have a balcony cabin.

There are door hanger order sheets with the included continental breakfast menu on one side and room service breakfast menu on the other. You choose what items you want then hang it on the door before you go to sleep. The earliest delivery time is 6 or 6:30, and they give you a wake up call before delivery.

This is a fun way to start your morning and no need to compete with everyone else at the buffet!

Spending the day on a beautiful beach in the Caribbean seems idyllic when you're at home planning it all, but multiple visits ended up feeling like a mistake.

I took my family on a 7-night cruise on Icon of the Seas to the western Caribbean, which included four port stops.

The sailing began with with three port stops in a row: Roatan, Costa Maya, and Cozumel.  And there was a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay at the end of the cruise.

I like spending time at each of these ports on their own, and even have a few must-dos in each port.  

However, three beach days in a row is not only a "first world problem", it also felt like a missed opportunity. By the end of the cruise, we were all "beached out" and it felt like we overdid it.

Fun, but repetitive

I booked three separate beach days: Turquoise Bay, Maya Chan, and Paradise Beach.

Don't get me wrong, I had a good time at each of the beaches we visited.  The issue was the getting up early, getting everyone ready, and then getting to and from the beach.

One of the top reasons I love to cruise are the places I visit, but I wish I had mixed up the activities instead of doing all beach.

Right after our second day in a row of beach time, the reality began to sink in.

It started with my kids asking what we had planned the next day because they were hoping for time to sleep in and rest after two early days in a row.

Ordinarily I don't take my kids complaining about getting up early seriously at all, but I had to admit they might have a point as I considered the ramifications of another early day.

My wife and I started talking about it and we realized that our plan made sense in a vacuum, but combining so many port days doing the same activity felt a bit tiresome.

We could have spent more time on the ship

Not only would have skipping a beach day been a way to relax more, it also would have been perfect on a ship as impressive as Icon of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean added so many fun things to do, including some of the best pools on any ship. I love the Swim & Tonic bar because it's a swim-up bar, but I never got a chance to go in.

The ship also has six different water slides to try within its water park.

Something experienced cruisers do often is stay onboard while a ship is in port to take advantage of these fun things without big crowds.

Those same pools and slides get crowded on sea days, and we only had two sea days on this itinerary.

In retrospect, we could have slept in and then hit the pools and waterslides in the morning.

I could have also booked a different activity

Something else I considered was doing something different from a beach.

I could have skipped the beach in Cozumel and taken a taxi downtown for shopping and eating. Or tried an ATV tour in Roatan.

I think mixing up activities is equally important to the rate of when you are on or off the ship.

In thinking about this, I might have gotten off the ship in the morning with my wife to enjoy some time in Cozumel and get some food, before coming back to the ship to take the kids to the pools and waterslides.

The other idea was to try something different in our first port stop of Roatan so it wouldn't be beach right off the bat.

Plan your shore days with the big picture in mind

My advice to myself and anyone planning a Caribbean cruise in the future is look at the itinerary in totality, and not just in a silo.

If variety is the spice of life, it applies to shore excursions as well. I didn't regret any single beach I visited, rather, the combination in a short span of time added up quickly.

While some people might absolutely love nothing but beach day after beach day, don't forget to take into consideration wake up times, prep time, and travel distances to and from the beach.

This is especially important when you're cruising with kids, as multiple early starts in a row takes their toll.  And that applies to aging adults too, who enjoy late nights around the ship.

If you're sailing on a big Royal Caribbean ship that has so many activities, it makes the decision to embrace skipping a port day a good plan.

When we repeat this itinerary in November on the soon-to-be-launched Star of the Seas, I'll be sure to change plans to avoid so many beach days while also taking advantage of what the ship has to offer.