Royal Caribbean Blog

Within the past three months, I've sailed on two of Royal Caribbean and Disney’s oldest ships: Vision of the Seas and Disney Magic. Though both ships launched in 1998 just months apart, they couldn’t be more different. From the onboard amenities to the cabin experience, one is undeniably better than the other—at least in terms of modern-day appeal.

Royal Caribbean and Disney are two of the leading family-friendly cruise lines in the industry. While Royal’s fleet is larger, there’s something special about embarking on a ship with classic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy.

Both brands cater to families, but Disney goes above and beyond in creating immersive, magic-filled experiences for guests of all ages. Being in my mid-20s and childless, I was worried that I might feel out of place and overwhelmed by the younger kids onboard. 

However, I was immediately brought back to my childhood within seconds of stepping on the ship. In fact, Disney Magic was the first-ever ship I sailed on in 2005! 

Still, I loved my time onboard Vision of the Seas. Having primarily sailed on Royal Caribbean's larger ships, I wondered if I'd enjoy the more intimate experience that Vision offered. And to my surprise, I did! The Main Dining Room's food was delicious, and I grew fond of the spacious, enclosed Solarium. 

However, Vision caters to guests seeking a quieter, more traditional cruising experience. While there are still activities and entertainment for families, Disney Magic takes the cake when it comes to family-centric experiences. 

I stayed in interior cabins on both cruises, the cheapest stateroom available. These no-frill accommodations had basic cruise ship cabin amenities, including an ensuite bathroom, television, vanity area, and closet. 

The price of my 5-night sailing on Vision of the Seas in September 2024 was $1,396.76, while my fiancée and I paid $1,585.78 for our 3-night cruise aboard Disney Magic to the cruise line's new private destination in The Bahamas: Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. 

On Vision, the price felt like a good value for what we received. Though older, the amenities, activities, dining, and service were solid. However, my experience onboard Disney Magic justified the higher price. 

While the cruise was shorter, we felt like we got more out of every moment, whether waiting in line to meet a character or attending a Broadway-style musical in the Walt Disney Theater. Plus, visiting the relatively new Lookout Cay was a standout. 

Here's my comparison of the cheapest cabins on two of Royal Caribbean and Disney's oldest ships.

Read more: 8 cruise ship cabin rules to follow — Plus 1 to break

Price

The difference between the fare of both cruises, including gratuities and port fees, was just $189.02, or $94.51 per person. 

This wasn't too shocking, as Disney Cruise Line is known for some of the highest fares in the industry, even on its oldest vessels. Additionally, with Lookout Cay welcoming its first guests in June, I knew we'd be paying a premium to visit the private destination within its first few months of operation. 

However, Disney's base fare is slightly more inclusive than Royal Caribbean's. For example, soda is included with meals in the main dining rooms, as well as at several beverage stations throughout the ship. 

Moreover, in addition to utilizing Disney's Wi-Fi to connect to the app for free, you can stay connected with friends and family back home through iMessage and WhatsApp for no extra charge. 

Read more: I spent 5 nights onboard one of Royal Caribbean’s oldest cruise ships. I liked the amenities but didn't enjoy the inconsistent buffet

Cabin overview

Inside cabins are typically cozy, so I wasn't taken aback by the snugness of my stateroom on Vision of the Seas. Measuring just 132 square feet, cabin 3543 was compact but functional. It also felt more spacious than it was, probably because we separated the beds to create a small walkway in the middle of the stateroom. 

In comparison, my stateroom on Disney Magic, 5633, measured around 185 square feet. No inch of the cabin was wasted either, from the plush couch that could be converted into an additional bed to the shower-tub combination in the bathroom. 

Both cabins are over 25 years old, so it wasn't surprising to find signs of wear and tear, particularly in the bathroom. However, my stateroom on Disney Magic felt newer, or at least more refreshed. 

To start, there were far more outlets than I anticipated. The vanity area alone had eight outlets, including two USB ports, five standard American plugs, and one European outlet. 

That wasn't all, either! There were three additional American outlets beside the bed, making it easy to charge our phones at night. Because of all the charging options, my European adapters went unused, unlike my experience on Vision of the Seas. 

The 26-year-old Royal Caribbean ship had just four outlets in the entire stateroom, all near the vanity. Plus, only two were American, so if you didn't bring European adapters, you'd be limited to just two outlets for the voyage. 

When I sailed on Vision, I used my portable charger at night to keep my phone near the bed. Otherwise, I would have had to leave my phone on the vanity. While minor, having bedside outlets made Disney Magic seem newer, even though she's the same age as Vision of the Seas. 

Storage

The nightstands in my interior cabin on Vision had more storage, whereas the nightstands in my Disney stateroom had just one drawer each. 

Still, neither cabin skimped on providing enough space for clothing, shoes, toiletries, and other miscellaneous items. The closet space on both ships was comparable, and plenty of cabinets were located throughout helping to keep our belongings concealed. 

Read more: The 1-item upgrade for a better cruise ship cabin experience

Royal Caribbean definitely provided more bathroom storage, but I appreciated the size of Disney's shower-tub combo, though it still had a clingy shower curtain. 

With just one hook on the bathroom door, I was glad I brought my hanging toiletries organizer, which helped keep all my products within reach while getting ready. 

Bathroom

Speaking of the bathroom, both had their strengths and weaknesses. As mentioned, Disney Magic's lacked storage, whereas my bathroom on Vision had built-in shelving next to the sink. 

However, the tub-shower combo on Disney was far superior to the tiny capsule shower on Vision of the Seas which was more functional than comfortable. And while cruise ship bathrooms aren't known for being luxurious (unless in a top-tier suite), the bathroom on Disney Magic felt more spacious and well-designed. 

In addition to the tub-shower situation, Disney provided better toiletries, including liquid (yes, liquid!) hand soap. There was also body lotion and separate body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. It felt so nice to have actual body wash instead of the shampoo-body wash hybrid that's standard on Royal ships. 

Though the upgrades on Disney Magic, including the liquid hand soap and tub-shower combination, were a nice touch, my bathroom on Vision of the Seas wasn't far behind in terms of cleanliness and functionality. It was evident Disney and Royal Caribbean put a lot of thought into the practicalities of their bathrooms. 

Location

I loved my location on Disney Magic and Vision of the Seas! While sailing to Bermuda with Royal Caribbean, my inside stateroom was in the front of the ship on Deck 4, making it easy to access many popular amenities like Cafe Latte-tudes, the Main Dining Room, Masquerade Theater, and Casino on Decks 4, 5, and 6. 

Though my interior cabin on Disney Magic was located towards the back of the vessel on Deck 5, it was also in a prime location. Families with younger children would especially love it since it was on the same deck as the youth clubs, including Disney's Oceaneer Club, Oceaneer Lab, and "it's a small world" nursery. 

Not only that, but it was a short walk to the atrium, Buena Vista Theater, Animator's Palate, Lumiere's, and D Lounge. With only three nights onboard, I appreciated how fast I learned my way around the ship. I was feeling like a Disney pro on night one! 

Final thoughts

Inside staterooms aren't for everyone. Growing up, my family only sailed in balconies; however, as I've begun to fund my cruising addition, I've learned that inside cabins have their own advantages, despite lacking natural light and ocean views. 

Cruisers who love to stretch their vacation budget as far as possible will love the value of interior rooms. They come with the same standard amenities as ocean-view and balcony cabins. Plus, you can enjoy the same onboard amenities, from multi-course meals in the Main Dining Room to production shows, youth programming, and more. 

While I had pleasant experiences in my staterooms on Vision of the Seas and Disney Magic, the upgraded features, from the multitude of outlets to the spacious shower, made the cabin on my Disney cruise stand out the most. 

However, because of Disney's price point, I'd argue Vision offers better overall value. Combined with my Diamond Crown & Anchor benefits, sailing with Royal, even on an older ship, is a great way to travel without breaking the bank. 

For cruisers seeking a no-frills vacation with good dining, quality entertainment, and friendly crew, you can't go wrong with an interior stateroom on Vision of the Seas. At the end of the day, though, I prefered Disney Magic's inside cabin over Vision's. 

Happy Sunday! Temperatures may be dropping, but there is plenty of Royal Caribbean news to share. This is your weekly summary of all the Royal Caribbean news from this past week, perfectly fitted for your consumption.

How can you prepare for the worst on your sailing? 

Matt has cruised at least once a month for the entirety of 2024, so he's learned the most common mishaps that can ruin a cruise.

From seasickness to airplane delays, here's how Matt solves in advance for key cruising problems.

Royal Caribbean News

• Royal Caribbean Black Friday deals 2024
• Royal Caribbean delays cruise ship return from maintenance work and shortens next sailing
• Cruise ship rescues 6 people and a dog from disabled sailboat off Africa
• My $1,600 stateroom on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas was cheap, but it had constant noise
• I’ve been on 5 Alaska cruises, and one itinerary was far better than the rest
• I went on a cruise with my baby and used the babysitting service multiple times. It was the best thing ever for parents
• These 16 editor-tested cruise products are up to 55% off for Black Friday, from AirTags to cabin essentials
• Second cruise ship slams into Atlantic storm causing damage, but it's not as scary as you think
• I cruised by myself on two different Royal Caribbean ships, but there were stark differences in the experiences
• 6 Royal Caribbean items you should buy now during Black Friday that will cost you more onboard

New Video: Things I Cut Since I Started Cruising

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—Things I Cut Since I Started Cruising—and don’t forget to subscribe here.

Royal Caribbean won't cancel Haiti stops even after FAA ban on flights

Royal Caribbean isn't deterred from visiting its private beach in a remote area of Haiti.

Three airliners were shot at this week at Haiti's capital, and that compelled the Federal Aviation Administration to ban flights to the country for 30 days. 

Nonetheless, cruise ships visits will continue as scheduled.

Royal Caribbean made the dining package easier again

Royal Caribbean has made another functional update to its Unlimited Dining Package, allowing cruisers to change or add reservations after booking online.

Last month, the cruise line finally added a change that allows guests to book Unlimited Dining Package reservations online before the cruise, instead of waiting until they get onboard.

However, the online feature only gave the chance to pre-book restaurants at the time of purchasing the dining package. Now, cruisers can also add or change reservations after booking.

Going home: How disembarkation day works on a Royal Caribbean cruise (and how to beat everyone else home)

Disembarking from a cruise ship can be a confusing process, as it's more complicated than checking out of a hotel room or exiting a plane.

There are regimented steps to ensure that guests exit quickly, so it's important to prepare for your last morning aboard.

Here's how to disembark the quickest. 

I saved money by buying the coffee package. I liked the drink selections, but the coffee was mediocre

Is the coffee card worth it? 

Calista likes excellent coffee, so she saved money on specialty drinks by buying the coffee package. The $31 card allows guests to purchase 15 special coffee drinks over the length of a sailing. 

While she liked the ability to try different beverages, Calista thought the beans tasted mediocre.

Best Royal Caribbean Cruises for Families of Five

Travel groups of 5, or families with three kids, may find it difficult to book proper activities, cabins, and sailings that suit everyone's needs. 

The cruise industry is built for 2, and families have additional conflicts to handle when it comes to cruising—from different schedules to activities.

So what are the best ships, itineraries, and staterooms for a family of five?

This year's torrential rain and floods in Spain have delayed another cruise ship's return to service.

Royal Caribbean's Adventure of the Seas is undergoing routine maintenance work in Cadiz, Spain, which typically occurs every five years.

Guests booked on Adventure of the Seas were informed of a change in plans as a direct result of the bad weather in the region.

Guests booked on the transatlantic sailing returning the ship to the United States received an update their voyage has been pushed back two days and as a result, had to change up its itinerary.

"Due to adverse weather impacting our ability to complete our current drydock operations; Adventure of the Seas will be arriving in Barcelona two (2) days later than we initially planned," an email to booked passengers read.

The ship was originally scheduled to depart Barcelona, Spain on  Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Instead, Adventure will now depart Barcelona on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

The change in departure date also means a change to the ship's itinerary.  Adventure will skip Valencia, Malaga, and Seville, Spain and instead spend those days at sea.

This means the only port of call for her revised 11-night crossing will be Madeira (Funchal), Portugal on Friday, November 29th.

Any pre-paid Royal Caribbean International shore excursions booked for Valencia, Malaga & Seville, will automatically be refunded to your original form of payment.

Adventure of the Seas is scheduled to arrive to Port Canaveral, Florida as originally scheduled on December 7, 2024.

Once the ship returns to Port Canaveral, she will return to offering 6- and 8-night Caribbean cruises through April 2025.

Compensation for the change

To make it up to passengers, Royal Caribbean is offering some money back.

Royal Caribbean is providing:

• A refund of two (2) days of your Cruise Fare paid as an onboard Credit
• A pro-rated refund as an onboard Credit for daily packages (Beverage, Dining, VOOM) and pre-paid gratuities.

All Onboard Credits can be used anywhere onboard, and any remaining refundable amounts at the end of the sailing will be refunded to the card on file up to 14 business days from final disembarkation.

For travel plans that need to be changed, Royal Caribbean will cover any air change fee up to $200 USD for domestic travel and $400 USD for international travel, per person OR one (1) night hotel accommodations, up to $250 USD, per stateroom if needed.

Royal Caribbean will also honor the original amount of nights in the sailing, as it relates to Crown and Anchor Society points.

"You’ll receive loyalty points for the original sail nights, instead of the nights sailed. For this sailing, you’ll still receive 13 nights worth of loyalty points."

Second shipyard delay this fall

Adventure is the second Royal Caribbean ship in a few weeks to have a delay in returning to service following a drydock.

Voyager of the Seas had a similar situation when it had to delay its return by a day.

Just like Adventure, the reason for Voyager's work delay was because of the rain and floods in Spain.

Voyager took an extra day to return, and replaced a visit to Valencia, Spain with Palma De Mallorca.

Shipyards are typically outdoor facilities, and severe weather can impact timelines.  Spain, however, is suffering through 
severe thunderstorms and torrential rain along its coast. 

Thousands of people had to be evacuated just two weeks after the country experienced deadly flooding in Valencia and other nearby communities.

Voyager of the Seas rescued 4 adults, 2 children, and a black lab off a disabled sailboat drifting off the coast of Marrakesh, Morocco. 

According to a passenger, Voyager's crew couldn't repair the inoperable boat, so they brought the stranded passengers onboard. Other social media reports claim the sailboat had lost its masts and had engine troubles. The 137,276 gross registered ton vessel is en route to Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, where they're expected to arrive tomorrow morning. 

The Voyager Class ship is on a 16-night transatlantic cruise from Barcelona, Spain, to Port Canaveral, Florida. The cruise hasn't been without its challenges, though. 

The original itinerary included seven scheduled ports of call: Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena, Malaga, Funchal, Gran Canaria, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife City. However, Valencia was canceled before sailing due to the catastrophic flooding that devastated the region earlier this month. 

Then, Malaga was battered by severe thunderstorms and torrential rain ahead of Voyager's visit, resulting in another canceled port. Most recently, the 4,000-passenger ship couldn't call at Madeira, Funchal, Portugal, due to rocky seas. Instead, guests were told they'd stay overnight in Gran Canaria on Saturday, departing for Tenerife on Sunday afternoon. 

After successfully rescuing the stranded passengers, Voyager of the Seas resumed sailing at 17 knots and is heading toward its next port of call. 

Photos shared by Karen Fraser show the rescued sailors huddled together on the lifeboat, with a black lab sporting a pink lifejacket. The crew's professionalism and training helped ensure a safe transfer of passengers from the sailboat to the lifeboat before returning to Voyager. 

Neither Royal Caribbean nor the local authorities have released a statement providing information about the rescued individuals.

It's not uncommon for cruise ships to rescue stranded passengers in distress

Earlier this year, Odyssey of the Seas rescued 77 migrants off the coast of Greece while on a 7-night Greek Isles cruise. The packed sailboat was first spotted by a Maltese-flagged cargo ship roughly 112 nautical miles (129 miles) southwest of Pylos. Afterward, Greece's search and rescue authority helped coordinate the rescue operation. 

One passenger documented the incident in a nearly ten-minute-long video, during which the crew can be seen telling the stranded migrants to pause boarding, presumably because the lifeboat had drifted. Once safely repositioned, the crew continued to help transfer passengers to the lifeboat. The overpacked sailboat had been filled with adults and even infant children.

Additionally, Oceania Insignia rescued 68 migrants from a drifting fishing boat off the Canary Islands in June. After being spotted by an oil tanker en route to Brazil from Spain, the Spanish authorities diverted Oceania Cruises' Insignia to assist with the rescue operation. 

Once onboard, an Oceania spokesperson confirmed the migrants received medical assistance and were provided food, drinks, and clothing. 

Voyager of the Seas will begin offering cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean from Florida

After arriving in Port Canaveral, Voyager will call Florida home through May 2025, where she'll operate 4- and 5-night cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean. 

The 1,020-foot-long vessel is slated to return to Europe following a 10-night transatlantic cruise beginning on May 16. Throughout 2025, Voyager will embark on a variety of exciting itineraries from ports like Civitavecchia, Athens, Ravenna, and Barcelona. 

However, she won't return to the United States following the conclusion of the 2025 European season. Instead, Voyager of the Seas will head to Australia, making it a sought-after option for those looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific without sailing on a Quantum Class ship. 

With the holiday season right around the corner, you might be looking for the perfect gift ideas for cruisers and travelers alike. Even if you’re a seasoned cruiser, it’s never too early to start shopping for your next cruise.

Those with cruises in the new year should definitely look for deals on travel-related products - from practical cruise gadgets to cabin essentials. In fact, this is my favorite time of the year to stock up on cruise essentials for upcoming travels in the new year.

In the coming weeks, online retailers will be running their biggest sales of the year for Black Friday. Prices on thousands of products will be substantially discounted as Christmas approaches. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect gift or simply want to stock up on some much-needed cruise gear, now’s the time to shop for some great deals.

Over the last year, our team of Royal Caribbean Blog editors has tested many different cruise items to find the best products for travelers to bring on their next cruise vacation. These top-rated products came highly recommended by many cruise veterans - so we put them to the test.

From casual Caribbean cruises spent at the beach to adventure-packed itineraries through the Norwegian Fjords, our team visited almost every continent by cruise ship this year. Here’s our list of editor-tested and approved cruise products that you should purchase this holiday season. With big savings in the coming weeks, you can rest assured these products come highly recommended by our team of cruise experts.

Note: The products below contain an affiliate link to Amazon. If you purchase from this link, we receive a small commission that costs you nothing extra. This helps support our site. Shop more on our Amazon Storefront.

1. Apple AirTags

One of the most popular travel products in recent years has been the Apple AirTag. These small, versatile tracking devices pair easily with your iPhone (or other Apple products) and provide real-time location information. This pack of four is on sale for Black Friday for 20% off.

Considering I almost always fly to my cruise embarkation port, I pack one of these AirTags in my checked luggage to ensure I can monitor my bag’s location. The AirTag also provides peace of mind once I hand my suitcase to the cruise porters knowing I can track the location if needed.

Link: Apple AirTag 4 Pack

Price: $79.89 (20% off)

2. Magnetic Hooks
 

Considered a cabin essential for many, magnetic hooks are an easy way to optimize the space in your small stateroom. Because cabin walls are magnetic, these easy-to-pack hooks help you stay organized instead of cluttering the vanity or closet in your cabin.

Magnetic hooks have a variety of uses, mostly for hanging smaller or lighter items on your cabin walls. This could include your cruise lanyard, bags, jackets, towels, and more. The magnetic hooks are small enough to pack easily in your suitcase without taking up too much space, too.

I recently used these magnetic hooks on my 15-night Australia cruise, in which my sister and I shared an inside cabin for the duration of the sailing. Although our cabin was spacious enough, we both packed an excessive amount for the 3-week vacation. We used ten different hooks throughout our stateroom to stay organized and it was a game-changer!

Link: Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks,30lb+ Heavy Duty Earth Magnets with Hook for Refrigerator, Extra Strong Cruise Hook for Hanging, Magnetic Hanger for Cabins, Grill (Silver White, Pack of 10) 

Price: $7.60 (37% off)

Link: DIYMAG Magnetic Hooks,100LBS Strong Heavy Duty Neodymium Magnet Hooks with Swivel Carabiner Hook,Great for Your Refrigerator and Other Magnetic Surfaces,Pack of 7

Price: $18.99 (10% off)

3. USB Charging Station

Charging all of your devices on a cruise ship is an age-old struggle for many. Our editors particularly struggle with this, as we all travel with work-essential devices, such as laptops, cameras, phones, and more.

Older ships are especially prone to charging issues, as most cabins only have one or two outlets for everyone in the stateroom to share. To make matters worse, Royal Caribbean recently banned certain outlet extenders.

Because of this, our team has started using USB charging stations onboard, which provide multiple charging ports. This top-rated charging station is on sale for Black Friday and it’s one of our tried-and-true travel products for cruising. I’ve also included a second option with USB-C ports.

Link: Anker Desktop Charger, Fast Charging USB C Charger, 112W Max 6-Port Charging Station, for iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Samsung and More (Cable Not Included).

Price: $35.99 (22% off)

Link: Anker Charger, 60W 6 Port Charging Station, PowerPort 6 Multi USB Charger for iPhone 15/Pro/Pro Max/14/13, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, Galaxy S23/S22/S21, Note 20 Ultra, LG, HTC, and More. 

Price: $19.99 (33% off)

4. Wrinkle Release Spray

One of our team’s favorite products to pack for a cruise is a travel-sized bottle wrinkle release spray. Because steamers and irons aren’t allowed on cruise ships, wrinkle release spray is the next best thing! This handy spray gets out the pesky wrinkles from your clothes, which inevitably seems to happen when packing.

Wrinkly release spray not only combats wrinkles, but also eliminates odors, refreshes your fabric and removes static. The small travel size ensures it won’t take up too much space in your cabin or suitcase, either.

Link: Downy Wrinkle Release Spray, Travel Size Spray, All In One Formula, Removes Wrinkles, Static and Odor Eliminator, Crisp Linen Scent, 3 Fl Oz, Pack of 3. 

Price: $9.99

5. Motion-Sensing Nightlight

Our team of editors almost exclusively cruises in interior cabins. These affordable cabins are perfectly functional, with everything you need for a comfortable stay. However, the one thing these interior cabins lack is natural light, which makes the room feel perpetually dark.

While perfect for napping and sleeping in on sea days, it’s hard to navigate the pitch-black cabin in the dark, especially in the middle of the night. Many cruisers prefer to have this magnetic, motion-sensing nightlight to automatically illuminate the cabin when it detects motion. Because of its small size and versatility, this light is the perfect addition to your inside cabin.

Link: Motion Sensor Light Indoor [Powered Battery Operated Lights] Magnetic Night Light with Rotating Base - for Closet, Bathroom, Hallway, Under Cabinet Lights, Led Stick On Lights Cruise Ship Essential 

Price: $17.99 (25% off)

6. Cruise Luggage Tags

The editorial team at Royal Caribbean Blog is a big fan of these cruise luggage tag holders. In addition, these tags were one of the most popular items purchased from our Amazon Storefront in 2024.

If you’re worried about your luggage tag getting torn or damaged, these luggage tags are the perfect solution. Moreover, these tags help prevent your bag tag from getting lost or ripped off your suitcase, which could cause a prolonged separation from your luggage.

The luggage tags linked below are ones I personally used on my recent cruise - and I was impressed by the quality and durability. Considering it was pouring rain in Sydney, Australia when I boarded Celebrity Solstice, I was pleased to see my luggage tag remain dry and intact. These would make the perfect stocking stuffers for Christmas.

Link: Highwind Luggage Tags for Suitcases - Durable and Waterproof Cruise Accessories, Secure Tags for Suitcases, Ideal for Celebrity Cruise Luggage Tags and Other Cruise Lines - 8 Pack 

Price: $8.99 (18% off)

7. Binoculars

If you’re sailing to a destination focused on wildlife, you should consider packing these highly-rated binoculars for your next sailing. Sailings through beautiful, remote, and scenic areas, such as Alaska, Iceland, Norway, South America, Canada, and New Zealand, will put binoculars to good use.

These are lightweight and compact for travel, making them the perfect addition to your packing list. You’ll be able to see whales, dolphins, seals, and so much more from the comfort of your balcony. These binoculars are the best we’ve tried - and they’re on sale for Black Friday this year.

Link: Occer 12x25 Compact Binoculars for Adults and Kids - Large Eyepiece Waterproof Binoculars for Bird Watching - High Powered Easy Focus Binoculars with Low Light Vision for Outdoor Hunting Travel. 

Price: $35.99 (30% off)

7. Travel First-Aid Kit

No one wants to imagine getting sick or injured during their cruise vacation, but it’s always wise to be prepared. Although cruise ships have doctors and fully equipped medical facilities onboard, the cost of using these services can be extremely high. Any visit to the ship’s medical center typically comes with a hefty price tag.

This way, minor injuries or health concerns can often be handled in your stateroom with a simple first-aid kit. Having basic supplies, like band-aids and antiseptic, on hand offers both convenience and immediate access to care when you need it most.

Likewise, over-the-counter medications are notoriously expensive on cruise ships, so it’s a good idea to pack any essentials you might need. For this reason, our editor staff always recommends packing some medicine and first-aid supplies. Personally, I pack a small pharmacy with a variety of over-the-counter medication on every cruise I take.

Link: General Medi Mini First Aid Kit, 110 Piece Small First Aid Kit - Includes Emergency Foil Blanket, Scissors for Travel, Home, Office, Vehicle, Camping, Workplace & Outdoor (Red). 

Price: $8.99 (55% off)

8. Seasickness Medication

When planning for your cruise vacation, it’s always a good idea to pack seasickness medication, even if you don’t think you’ll need it. Rough seas can occur unexpectedly on any itinerary, regardless of the season or destination. Certain regions, such as Alaska, New England, and the North Sea, are more prone to unpredictable weather and choppy waters, but even calmer destinations can occasionally experience turbulence.

Even if you don’t typically experience motion sickness, it’s wise to be prepared for the possibility of rocky seas. Additionally, you might encounter motion sickness during shore excursions, such as taxi rides, ferries, or long bus journeys. As mentioned earlier, purchasing seasickness remedies on board can be extremely expensive, so bringing your own ensures you’re prepared without overspending.

Having medication readily available can quickly alleviate symptoms and help you get back to enjoying your trip. Popular options among cruisers include Bonine and Dramamine, particularly the less drowsy or non-drowsy versions, which are highly effective and easy to pack.

Link: Non-Drowsy Bonine for Motion Sickness Relief, Sea Sickness, Car Sickness, Nausea, & Vomiting - Meclizine HCI 25mg, Travel-Sized - 16ct Raspberry Chewable Tablets (Packaging May Vary). 

Price: $5.94 (26% off)

Link: Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief Less Drowsy Formula, 8 Count (Pack of 1). 

Price: $3.90 (35% off)

9. Travel Laundry Packets

Laundry isn’t fun at home or on vacation! If you’re on a longer cruise, you might be looking for laundry options to refresh your wardrobe. Unless you want to splurge on professional wash, fold, and press services, you’re likely stuck doing your laundry in your cruise cabin. Royal Caribbean doesn’t provide self-service laundry machines either.

Luckily, it’s easy enough to wash your clothes in your cruise cabin though, either in the sink or in the shower. If you need to quickly wash something, these laundry packets are handy to pack for your cruise.

One of the most popular products on our storefront is this travel pack of laundry detergent. In fact, I used these packets exclusively when I sailed on Semester at Sea in college and lived on a ship for 100 days. These packets allowed me to wash my clothes for three months in my cabin sink so I didn’t need to pay $30 per load of laundry.

Link: Tide Sink Packs Laundry Detergent Does 3 Loads (3 packs of 3). 

Price: $6.47 (8% off)

10. Electronics Organizer

Like most people, our editing staff travel with many different devices and electronics. It’s hard to keep track of all the charging cords needed these days! As such, one of my favorite investments for my travel gear has been this electronics organizer.

I am able to keep all of my charging blocks, cords, converters, memory cards, and technology gadgets in one organized location for travel. This is so handy for cruise travel and airline travel, as all of the necessities are neatly kept in a compact case.

In addition, I find this electronics organizer keeps my stateroom less cluttered while onboard. The vanity space in a cruise cabin can get messy very quickly between all of the guests in one stateroom, so I appreciate having my cords neatly kept in the organizer to alleviate some of the mess.

Link: BAGSMART Electronics Organizer Travel Case, Small Cable Organizer Bag for Essentials, Tech Organizer as Accessories, Cord Organizer for Phone, Power Bank, SD Card, Black. 

Price: $13.99 (36% off)

11. Pop-Up Laundry Hamper

One cabin essential that our team has been raving about lately is a pop-up laundry hamper. A mesh hamper fits seamlessly on the bottom of a suitcase and provides a convenient location for all of your dirty clothes.

Is it necessary for your cruise? Not necessarily. Will you appreciate having one during your cruise? Probably.

I used one of these hampers on my 15-night Australia cruise. Instead of having an unorganized closet with dirty clothes all over, we kept everything neatly in one of these mesh pop-up hampers. At the end of our cruise, it was so easy to stuff all of the dirty laundry into one packing cube, which was immediately washed upon returning home.

Link: Handy Laundry Collapsible Mesh Pop Up Hamper with Wide Opening and Side Pocket – Breathable, Sturdy, Foldable, and Space-Saving Design for Clothes and Storage. (Black).

Price: $13.99 (36% off)

12. Compression Packing Cubes

In terms of organization, our editorial staff is obsessed with packing cubes. Multiple editors on the staff rave about the functionality of packing cubes for staying organized and optimizing luggage space. In particular, compression packing cubes are a great investment this holiday season for your upcoming travels.

While regular packing cubes are useful, compression packing cubes allow you to pack more efficiently by saving space. It’s a breeze to unpack in your cabin too, as all you need to do is place the packing cube in your stateroom drawer, shelf, or closet.

Link: BAGSMART 6 Set/4 Set/2 Set Compression Packing Cubes for Travel, Lightweight Vacation Travel Essentials, Travel Accessories for Suitcase Organizer Bags Set, Durable Luggage Organizer Travel Bags

Price: $39.99 (7% off)

13. Portable White Noise Machine

Cruise ships are inherently noisy, especially if your cabin is next to a rowdy neighbor. Early morning announcements and noises around the ship can prevent you from getting a good night’s rest. For this reason, one of my favorite purchases in 2024 for my cruises was this portable white noise machine!

This tiny white noise machine fits in the palm of my hand. The small size makes it easy for travel, even carry-on only cruises! Although small, the sound is mighty to blast through your stateroom and drown out the ruckus. I’ve used it on every single cruise since purchasing and I won’t cruise without it!

Link: White Noise Machine Babelio Mini Sound Machine for Adults Kids Baby | 15 Non-looping Sounds | Timer | Easy to Pocket and Travel - White. 

Price: $19.99

14. Before-You-Go Toilet Spray

All that cruise food has to go somewhere! Although not glamorous, our editorial staff loves to pack this Poo-Pourri spray for cabin bathrooms. If you’re sharing the extremely small space, you will appreciate keeping the bathroom smelling clean and fresh!

This travel-sized spray is one of our top-recommended products on Amazon. It’s also one of the most popular purchases from our readers. If you want to keep your cabin from having a stench, consider ordering one of these spray bottles before your next cruise.

Link: Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray, Fresh Air, 2 Fl Oz - Jasmine, Fresh Air and Mint. 

Price: $9.21 (8% off)

15. Tide Stain Remover Pen

There’s nothing worse than staining on your favorite cruise shirt while on vacation! Everything from coffee to red wine and chocolate can easily stain a light-colored shirt. Our editors never cruise without packing one of these stain-removing pens in their suitcase to take onboard.

This stain-removing pen is pocket-sized and compact, so it travels easily. You don’t have to worry about it taking up too much room in your cruise cabin either. The pen works almost instantly, lifting stains from your shirts and drying quickly. My husband travels for work and swears by these!

Link: Tide Pen Stain Remover for Clothes, Tide To Go Pen, Instant Stain Remover Pen & Spot Cleaner, Portable & Travel-Friendly, Works on Food & Drink Stains, Fits in Purses & Bags, 3 Count (Pack of 1). 

Price: $6.49 (20% off)

16. Beach Towel Clips

Our editors are big fans of towel clips for cruising to keep your towel perfectly in place while lounging on the beach or relaxing on the top deck of the ship. These clips can be used for multiple purposes, such as hanging up clothes in the shower and clipping curtains together in your stateroom.

The only downside to these clips is the size. The larger size makes them quite functional, but you’ll want to make sure you have enough room in your suitcase for storage. Regardless, these towel clips were one of the most popular purchases on our Amazon Storefront in 2024 - readers love them!

Link: Danmu Beach Towel Clips, Beach Clips, Towel Clips for Beach Chairs Cruise, Heavy Duty Clothes Pins-Keep Your Towel from Blowing Away, Beach Accessories for Vacation Must Haves (Multicolor-8pcs). 

Price: $5.55 (21% off)

Cruises have a unique appeal when it comes to vacationing with little ones. 

There’s no packing and unpacking between destinations, plenty of activities for all ages, and, crucially, opportunities for parents to have some alone time. Unlike other vacations that can feel like nonstop parenting marathons, a family-friendly cruise like those offered by Royal Caribbean allows parents to unwind and recharge.

Royal Caribbean markets itself as the ultimate family-friendly cruise line, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re looking for a more adult-centered experience, there are other cruise lines to explore. But for families, especially those with babies, Royal Caribbean’s setup is ideal. 

Our 7-night sailing on Icon of the Seas was my baby’s first cruise and my first time navigating a vacation with a child in tow. Thankfully, the ship’s thoughtful amenities and the Adventure Ocean program helped make the experience unforgettable.

Adventure Ocean: A game-changer for parents

Over my years of cruising, I’ve come to know and love most of what Royal Caribbean has to offer, but this trip brought me into new territory as I explored their renowned youth program: Adventure Ocean. Specifically designed for families, this program offers activities and babysitting services for children aged 6 months to 12 years, with age-appropriate groupings to ensure every child has a fun experience.

Adventure Ocean’s Royal Babies & Tots (or Adventure Ocean Babies on the Icon of the Seas) is designed for children from 6 months to 36 months. It includes activities and playtime that keep little ones engaged, allowing parents to enjoy some time to themselves. 

For older kids, there are even more options: Aquanauts (ages 3-5), Explorers (ages 6-8), and Voyagers (ages 9-12), each with spaces and programs geared to their interests.

What to love about Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean is a fan favorite among families, and it’s easy to see why. It’s not uncommon to hear that parents often find that their children prefer spending time here over accompanying them around the ship. 

Between the vibrant play spaces and the expertly crafted activities, it’s no wonder kids beg to return. From black-light puppet shows to bedtime stories under the stars in Surfside, the programs are entertaining and enriching, making Adventure Ocean a true win-win for parents and children alike.

During our cruise, there were endless activities for kids, including a haunted house experience just for little ones and themed play sessions. These features set Adventure Ocean apart, showcasing Royal Caribbean’s dedication to creating a memorable family-friendly experience.

Babysitting services

For parents of babies, one of the most valuable services is the Adventure Ocean Babies program, available on select Royal Caribbean ships. 

While there is a small hourly fee—$6 per hour until 6 p.m. and $8 per hour from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.—it’s an affordable rate compared to the cost of babysitters on land. Where I live, babysitting can cost upwards of $20 an hour, so this onboard service felt like an amazing deal.

Reservations are required for the baby program due to the need for a safe ratio of caregivers to children. On our sailing, the Icon of the Seas’ baby and toddler room could accommodate ten children during sea days and eight on port days, with multiple staff members in the room at all times. Knowing my baby was in good hands with qualified staff made it easy to relax and enjoy some much-needed time for myself.

Registration for Adventure Ocean Babies

One of the best tips I received was to go directly to Adventure Ocean for registration as soon as we boarded. It’s a small but important step, as registration ensures your little one is on the list for the program and avoids any last-minute hiccups. Additionally, for the Adventure Ocean Babies program, early registration lets you book time slots before they fill up.

After completing the mandatory muster drill, we went straight to the Adventure Ocean area. There were no lines, and we were greeted by a friendly staff member who walked us through the registration process on a tablet. 

The form allowed us to share essential information about our daughter’s eating and sleeping habits, as well as any special needs. We also designated who in our party was allowed to check her out of the program.

One helpful feature we received during registration was a DECT phone. This phone allowed the staff to reach us anytime while we were on the ship, which brought tremendous peace of mind. 

However, it’s worth noting that this phone only works on board, so we were unavailable if we took a shore excursion. We signed an agreement acknowledging a replacement fee if the phone was lost or damaged, ranging from $25 to $300 depending on the condition.

Booking time slots

Once we completed registration, we were ready to book our initial time slots. Initially, families are limited to reserving six hours at a time, with the option to check back after Day 3 to see if additional hours are available. 

Knowing in advance when we wanted baby-free time was helpful, and we used the Cruise Planner to map out activities. This way, we maximized our experience and secured the care slots we needed.

An added bonus we learned about was nursery access for families booked on Royal Caribbean excursions during port days. This option allows parents to use the service even when nursery capacity is limited. 

By reserving spots specifically for families on Royal Caribbean excursions, Royal Caribbean ensures parents can enjoy these special activities without concern for their little ones’ care. While we briefly considered booking a nursery slot on a port day to take an excursion that involved bus transportation (which we wouldn’t do without a car seat), we ultimately decided against it.

Still, this option is fantastic for families with older kids, especially since many excursions have a minimum age limit of around 4 years old. I was surprised that even beach breaks, which seem ideal for small children, were often restricted by age requirements. 

Knowing that parents of toddlers can still enjoy these excursions without worry, thanks to the nursery, is a big plus for families looking to make the most of their trip.

Exploring Adventure Ocean

After completing registration and chatting with the friendly nursery staff, we took a quick tour of Adventure Ocean. The spaces designed for older kids were impressive; it was easy to see why children would love spending time there. 

Because no children were currently present in the nursery, we were allowed to take pictures—something we couldn’t do otherwise, and we appreciated the thoughtfulness behind that policy.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Adventure Ocean Babies room, but I was genuinely pleased with what we found. Right as we entered, a half-wall partition with a door separated the main nursery area from the entrance. This setup kept the space safe and clean by preventing people from walking through unnecessarily. The partitioned area allowed us to handle drop-off and pick-up procedures while still being able to see clearly into the main room.

For added safety, the door leading into the room is locked and can only be opened by staff members from the inside. The room was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully arranged with features for little ones’ enjoyment and comfort. A large playmat in the center, surrounded by toys and a rocking chair, was designed for play and comfort. 

To one side, there was a small table for toddlers, along with a row of lockers for storing any items brought from our stateroom. The bathroom was designed specifically for small children, with pint-sized toilets that even the youngest could use.

Beyond another half-wall, we discovered a quiet area with cribs and a changing station. This part of the room was kept dim, with a low-level sound machine playing softly for children who needed to nap during their stay. It was clear that a lot of thought went into making the space as functional and cozy as possible.

Toy lending bags

One surprise we discovered was the availability of toy lending bags through Adventure Ocean. These bags, available to families with young children, are filled with age-appropriate toys, books, and activities to keep little ones entertained in the cabin or around the ship. It’s an excellent option for parents who don’t want to pack a ton of toys but still want their child to have engaging activities on board.

We picked up a toy bag on the first day, and it included a variety of fun, safe, and clean items like a light-up piano, rattles, squeaky toys, and more—all of which kept our daughter happily occupied during downtime in the cabin. 

Each bag is carefully curated by age group, so parents can feel confident that the toys are suitable and safe. These are not only free to borrow, but you can exchange the bag for a new one as often as you like, so there’s always something fresh and exciting for your child.

This service really added a special touch to our family cruise, and it’s a great example of how Royal Caribbean has thought through the details to make traveling with young kids easier. The toy lending bags allowed us to pack lighter and still have all the entertainment essentials we needed for a relaxing family vacation.

Our first reservation: smooth sailing on a sea day

Our first nursery reservation was scheduled for the second day of the cruise, a full day at sea. We had reserved the 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. slot, hoping to experience the record-breaking water park—something we couldn’t fully enjoy with our baby in tow. We arrived a few minutes early, just in case there was a line.

The check-in process was quick and straightforward, which put us at ease. The staff verified our reservation times and then asked to see our SeaPass card for scanning. 

They provided a small label with our baby’s name, stateroom number, and reservation time, which we were instructed to place on her back. Next, they inquired about her last feeding and diaper change and whether she would need to be fed or put down for a nap while in the nursery.

Parents can leave a prepared bottle or bring formula in pre-portioned containers to be mixed as needed for bottle-fed babies. 

If bottles aren’t labeled, staff will mark them with tape and your child’s name to ensure they’re only used by your baby. Parents are also asked to provide diapers, wipes, and other essentials, such as a favorite toy or pacifier. We even had the option to leave our stroller with them, making it easy to enjoy the water park without extra baggage.

The check-in process took under five minutes, and then we were off. Since our baby attends daycare during the week, she was comfortable in the nursery environment, which resembled our daycare’s setup back home. Thanks to the time change we had experienced the night before, her nap schedule aligned perfectly with our reservation.

One of the conveniences of Royal Caribbean’s nursery is the DECT phone system, which allows parents to stay connected without interrupting their activities. 

Between each water slide ride and exploration of the ship, we made a point to check the phone for missed calls, which gave us great peace of mind. Knowing we could be reached immediately made it easier to relax and enjoy our time together.

When our two-hour session at the water park was over, we made our way back to Adventure Ocean. By then, the nursery was busier, and another family was checking their child in. We learned that the nursery only allows one family in the room at a time, which keeps the space from getting crowded and adds an extra layer of safety for the children.

The pickup process was just as smooth as check-in. After scanning our SeaPass card to confirm we were authorized to pick up our baby, the staff shared a quick overview of her time there. They noticed she loved the bouncer chair and spent a good part of the session happily playing. 

When she began showing sleepy cues, as noted in our registration, they laid her down in one of the cribs, where she napped. This attention to detail and personalized care reassured us that she was in excellent hands.

Since she was still sleeping, they allowed one of us to go into the room to get her. They quickly buzzed me in, and I was able to pick her up from the crib to try to preserve the nap. We really appreciated this, as anyone who has dealt with a sleeping baby knows that waking them early can end badly.

After starting off with a positive experience, we were able to breathe a sigh of relief. Even though our daughter is used to childcare, you never know how they may react in a new environment, and with this room having a larger age range than our home daycare, we weren’t sure if that would impact anything.

Following experiences

Since the next day was Day 3 and we were feeling confident, we called them in the morning to see if there were any extra time slots available. We were in luck! While they didn’t tell us exactly how much time was available, they asked what hours we were looking for. We reserved a dinner slot that night, so we could relax and enjoy the Main Dining Room without feeling rushed.

Later that evening, we also took advantage of some post-dinner time. My husband tried out the thrilling Crowns Edge experience, while I spent some time meeting the Chief Dog Officer, Rover. It was refreshing to share some “grown-up” time together without worrying about our little one.

This experience was very similar to our first, and when we returned, our daughter was napping again. This time, they mentioned they initially tried to put her in a crib, but she had trouble settling. So they placed her in her stroller, rocked it a bit, and she drifted off. The staff even pushed her stroller into the dimly lit crib area, letting us roll her out peacefully, which was a nice touch and something we’d pre-approved as a backup option.

Our third reservation was on Day 4, and it was our first time testing a past bedtime drop-off. Normally, we stick to a strict bedtime routine, but we decided to loosen the reins and go with the flow.

We dropped her off at 7 p.m. so we could catch the 7:30 p.m. adult comedian show. We made sure to do our usual pre-bed routine, including bath time and changing her into pajamas but saved her evening bottle for Adventure Ocean Babies. 

When we picked her up later, we were glad to hear she had settled in, finished her bottle, and fallen asleep in a crib. I managed to transfer her back to our cabin without waking her up—something I’m sure fellow parents can appreciate as a small victory!

Our last reservation was on Day 6 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., so we could catch a favorite show, Love & Marriage. However, I’d mistakenly remembered it as a 2 p.m. reservation and didn’t realize until we showed up at 1:50 p.m. Luckily, since they weren’t at capacity, they extended our reservation, letting us stay until 4 p.m.

Half an hour later, however, our phone rang—alarming us, since it had been practically inactive the entire cruise. The staff informed us that our daughter was crying, and they couldn't soothe her. We immediately left the show and headed over to pick her up.

When we arrived, I found one of the staff holding her, trying to calm her down. It was uncharacteristic of our daughter to be so upset, and I wondered if she might have taken a small tumble since she’s still learning to sit up unassisted. 

They assured me that she was physically fine but was simply unable to self-regulate at that moment. I took her into the hallway to soothe her while the staff helped gather our stroller and diaper bag. Once she calmed down, we returned to our cabin, where she napped and woke up as back as her usual self.

Reflecting on this, I realized she might have been experiencing early signs of separation anxiety, a typical stage for infants. She was also starting to teethe, which has made her a bit more irritable than usual, a pattern we noticed even after returning home.

Overall thoughts

Even though our last session at Adventure Ocean Babies was cut short, I felt relieved knowing she was in capable, caring hands. 

Babies cry—it's how they express themselves. I've seen plenty of adults shed tears on a cruise (especially later in the evening after a few drinks), so it’s all part of the experience! What matters most is how children are responded to, and Royal Caribbean has clearly taken the time to vet their Adventure Ocean staff, prioritizing professionalism and warmth.

Cruising with a baby might seem daunting, but Royal Caribbean’s family-friendly approach and well-designed Adventure Ocean program make it an enjoyable experience for parents and little ones alike. 

Whether you’re a first-time parent cruiser or seasoned sailor, you’ll find that this combination of amenities and thoughtful services allows for a memorable, relaxing trip that everyone in the family can enjoy.

Is it possible to get quality coffee onboard a Royal Caribbean ship? As a caffeine addict, I’ve often found myself disappointed by the coffee offerings throughout the fleet.

I’ll admit it—my standards are high. I grew up in Indonesia, on the island Java is named after. 

I also worked as a barista for two years, learning how to make popular drinks day after day. I've grown used to fresh beans, ground daily and roasted to perfection.

I’ve learned that good coffee doesn’t taste bitter or burned; it has enough depth that you can start identifying fruity, flowery, or even chocolate undertones.

When I started cruising, I quickly realized that I wouldn’t be finding excellent coffee onboard—especially not for free.

The complimentary brewed pots churn out bitter, burned hot drinks, either regular or decaf. 

Cruisers have multiple options for finding coffee onboard

Cruisers looking for a tastier solution to their caffeine fix have two extra-cost options. (Spoiler alert: both of them are Starbucks).

The first option is to purchase directly from the Starbucks booth on many Royal Caribbean ships.

The following ships have Starbucks kiosks onboard:

• Oasis of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Wonder of the Seas
• Utopia of the Seas
• Icon of the Seas
• Mariner of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Odyssey of the Seas

The second option cruisers have is buying specialty coffee at the bars and cafes onboard, such as Cafe Promenade or Park Cafe.

The specialty coffee served in Royal Caribbean’s cafes is actually identical to Starbucks. They source the same beans, feature the same syrups, and sell almost all of the same coffees, including matcha, chai lattes, and fruit refreshers.

Additionally, these cafes can spike coffee drinks with a shot of alcohol upon request.

Royal Caribbean has several different iterations of cafes across the fleet, such as Cafe Promenade, Cafe Latte-tudes, Cafe @ Two70, Park Cafe, Vitality Cafe, and Splash Away Cafe.

Many complimentary venues have coffee pots and tea stations in the corner, including the AquaDome Market, the Windjammer, and the Solarium Bistro. 

You can also receive complimentary coffee in the Main Dining Room, specialty restaurants, and through room service.

I saved on specialty coffee by purchasing a coffee card package

If you’re like me and know that you’ll have at least two coffee drinks in a day, you can invest in the coffee card.

It's a sort of drink package offering for those that just want espresso drinks.

The card, often called the "coffee package," is a $31 punch card that can be purchased before the cruise online, or on day one at any onboard cafe. Gratuities are automatically added to the card, so the total cost was $36.58.

It features fifteen total punches to be used over the course of the sailing. However, the card is shareable, and multiple orders can be redeemed at a time. If you don’t use all of your punches on the cruise, no worries! It is transferrable to any other Royal Caribbean ship and sailing.

Before my cruise, I tried to research how many punches were charged for each drink, but the information online was conflicting.

When I arrived onboard, I received my physical card, and the limits were listed on the back.

Tall (small) coffees, single espresso shots, and chai lattes are all one card punch. Any large coffees or drinks with two espresso shots are two card punches each.

The coffee card is only redeemable at Royal Caribbean cafes, for specialty coffee drinks. It cannot be used at actual Starbucks locations, on or offboard.

I used the coffee card on my recent Freedom of the Seas cruise

Over the length of my cruise, I ordered iced caramel lattes, chai lattes, cappuccinos with vanilla, iced mochas, and mocha and caramel frappuccinos.

I thought the quantity of drinks on the card was perfect. For a 7-day cruise, I allowed myself two drinks a day—one in the morning, and one after my afternoon nap.

Avid coffee drinkers like myself will enjoy the 15 punches, as well as the convenience of ordering.

I could go to any complimentary cafe to order my drinks. On Freedom of the Seas, this ended up mostly being the Cafe Promenade and the large bar in the center of the Windjammer.

My drinks were always made quickly and accurately, and having them tick off a punch card was faster than swiping a SeaPass every time.

I loved being able to treat myself. Going to a cafe to order coffee is an enjoyable, special experience of its own, and buying the coffee card brought that experience to a cruise ship.

At any time of day, I could walk over to a cafe, place my order, spell out my name for the cup, and wait for them to call my drink.

It felt just like a cafe back home, with the added novelty of being on a cruise ship.

I also liked knowing that I could bring the card along on any future cruises. There was no pressure to over-caffeinate myself by finishing all the drinks in a single sailing. 

If I’d been cruising for only 3 or 4 nights, for example, I could have still bought the coffee card and felt it a good investment.

While the coffee tasted average, I was impressed by the supplies onboard

The coffee was of an average quality, like most Starbucks drinks. 

It had the over-roasted, burnt flavor typical of Starbucks drinks. When masked with a sweet syrup, it was drinkable. 

However, it was definitely better than the complimentary Lavazza coffee Royal Caribbean serves.

I still felt like I was treating myself, instead of forcing down the gross complimentary coffee to get my fix.

The Royal Caribbean cafes also had an impressive selection of non-dairy milk available: almond, soy, and oat milk. I was surprised at the options available because getting non-dairy milk in the Windjammer is usually a long process that ends in finding the last dregs of almond milk at a drink station.

The cafe also never seemed to run out of any milk or syrup—impressive for a water-bound vessel!

When I worked at a cafe, we struggled to get a reliable, consistent supply of syrups, milk, and three different roasts of beans, so I admired Royal Caribbean’s reserve.  

Passengers onboard Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas were told to brace for strong swells as the ship encountered increasingly rough seas during its transatlantic voyage.

The Captain of the 169,300 gross registered ton ship told guests they were going to change directions because of a powerful storm front, which brought 6-7 meter waves and 50-knot winds. He advised passengers to remain seated, as the ship would be changing course and there was a possibility it could list. 

Videos taken from the 14-night transatlantic cruise show powerful waves crashing over the windows of the ship’s lower decks. 

Photo stills from Deborah Sahli

Other images reveal that the Crown & Pub Compass, one of the ship’s popular gathering spots for live music, had suffered significant damage, with alcohol bottles and broken glassware shattered across the floor. 

CruiseMapper shows Odyssey of the Seas' navigational path, including an obvious course diversion resulting from the sudden storm. 

Guests onboard took to Facebook to share their experiences. 

"There's no way we could've avoid[ed] this storm, it's just too big," wrote Michael Ducharme. 

David Naputi added, "You can definitely feel the movement. I’m not the best gauge, but at its worst maybe around a 20-30 degree tilt? (Imagine walking up a [20-degree] slope sideways and then it reverses - [that's] pretty much the intermittent worst of the rocking)." 

Overall, the vibe remains positive, with passengers spending the day indoors gambling or grabbing a drink at Playmakers, indicating the incident wasn't as scary as it might have seemed at first.

"Perfect day for eating and napping! No complaints from me," said Ja Narke.

Still, some guests aren't enjoying the excessive motion, highlighting the importance of coming prepared with seasickness remedies, including over-the-counter medication like Bonine/Dramamine or acupressure bands.

Second transatlantic cruise to be hit with adverse weather

Last week, a powerful squall struck Explorer of the Seas en route to Miami, Florida, injuring several passengers onboard.

The vessel was roughly 750 miles off the coast of Morocco during the incident. Ron Warren, a guest onboard, shared that the ship listed severely for "somewhere between 5 and 10 minutes." Afterward, Explorer was left in shambles, with furniture overturned and glass and merchandise scattered across the floors. 

Guests were ordered to remain in their stateroom while crew accounted for all guests. Medical announcements were also made for passengers who were injured during the list.

The squall delayed Explorer's return to Florida. Due to a medical emergency, the ship was diverted to the Canary Islands, where it also refueled. The vessel is now expected to arrive in Miami on Nov. 17, rather than the 14th as scheduled. 

Odyssey departed from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, on Nov. 3

The Quantum-Ultra Class ship is slated to arrive in New Jersey on Nov. 17 to begin a seasonal stint offering cruises to Florida and The Bahamas. 

This transatlantic repositioning voyage comes as the ship transitions following the conclusion of the European ship's deployment. Odyssey will return to Europe in May, sailing from Civitavecchia to Italy, Greece, and Turkey.

With a packed itinerary, the ship is set to continue providing guests with signature experiences, such as the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, SeaPlex multi-purpose venue, FlowRider surf simulator, and North Star observation capsule, while sailing to stunning European destinations. 

The last morning of your cruise can feel like a confused rush as your vacation comes to an end, but it's a lot easier to manage if you know what to expect.

No matter how long or short your cruise is, the final morning is when you disembark the ship and end your voyage.  Nearly all passengers are on their way home, although some might be extending their vacation in another way.

Getting off a cruise ship is not like checking out of a hotel.  There's a few more logistical hurdles to overcome, and it's far more regimented to keep lines moving.

While the end of the cruise is disappointing, it doesn't have to be a disaster either. You might not be smiling walking off the ship for the final time, but at least you can be content.

What time do I have to depart the cruise ship?

There are two options for walking off your cruise ship on the final morning.

If you put luggage out the night before to have Royal Caribbean deliver your luggage down to the cruise terminal, then you have a luggage number that indicates the earliest time you can disembark and your bags will be ready.

The time associated with each luggage tag is listed on a piece of paper that was left in your cabin along with the luggage tags.  Every sailing is different, so don't assume a particular number will always correlate to the same time.

The time listed is the earliest time you can leave the ship and your bags will be ready.  You could disembark the ship earlier, but you'd be waiting in the cruise terminal for the bags to be delivered.  Alternatively, you can always leave later than that time and pick up your bags.

The other option is to bring your own luggage off the ship with you instead of having it delivered. With this option, you can disembark the ship as soon as local authorities clear the ship.

The exact time a ship will begin allowing passengers off the ship will depend on a variety of factors, but it's usually around 7am. Sometimes earlier, sometimes later. 

Regardless of your luggage situation, you can always stay on the ship later than the disembarkation time.  That time is just an indication of the earliest time you can stay on for.

Royal Caribbean's app will ask you a few days before the end of the cruise your disembarkation plans and assign you a disembarkation time as well.  Keep in mind that's the earliest time, not the exact time you need to leave.

So what time can you stay on a Royal Caribbean ship until? Not as late as you'd find at a land-based hotel.

Royal Caribbean asks all passengers to be out of their cabins by 8am on most sailings. The crew needs to turn the ship over and prepare it for the next voyage, and they need all previous passengers off the ship.

By about 9am, you're going to start hearing a lot of announcements encouraging passengers to disembark.  Sooner or later, they'll start paging individuals to leave. 

In my experience, the latest you can stay onboard is about 9:30am without getting in trouble.

What's open and what can you do on the final morning

The last morning of your cruise is a blend of finishing out the first voyage and preparing for the next one.

As soon as you leave your cabin, you'll see crew members working to turn over cabins and prepare them for the next journey.

While a lot of work is being done to prep the ship, there are some areas still operational for passengers.

Coffee and breakfast will be open at select venues on the last morning of the cruise.

You can expect at the very least the Windjammer buffet, Main Dining Room, and the quick service coffee location (Cafe Promenade) to be open.

If your ship has a Coastal Kitchen restaurant for suite guests, that will be open too.

Most other venues are closed, including the pool.

Guest services is open to settle any final billing issues you might have. Keep in mind you have to have a zero dollar balance in order to get off the ship.

What is the earliest flight I should book after the cruise is over?

Ideally, you want to book a flight that gives you enough time to easily disembark your ship and get to the airport and through security without being at the airport for many more hours than you need.

The problem is if you book a flight too early, you risk missing the flight because you couldn't get to the gate in time.

There are a lot of factors why it might take longer to actually disembark your ship, thus delaying your arrival to the airport:

• What time exactly your ship docks
• What time local authorities start the inspection process
• How long the inspection process takes
• How long a line there is to disembark the ship
• Unforeseen circumstances, such as a technical problem or guest blocking exiting the ship

If you look at your Royal Caribbean cruise itinerary, it lists a time your ship arrives back to the terminal. That's an estimate, and not when you can actually walk off the ship.

Plus, the actual disembarkation process may not begin for another hour or two after that time.

The fastest way off a Royal Caribbean ship is to take your own luggage off with you (known as self-assist disembarkation), but you're still at the mercy of when local authorities clear the ship and your ship begins allowing passengers to leave.

Another factor to picking the earliest flight home is how far the airport is from the cruise terminal.  

As a general rule of thumb, I recommend times after 11am. International flights and/or airports an hour or more from the cruise terminal should probably require a flight no earlier than noon.

What every passenger should do before leaving the ship

It will likely seem like you're in a rush to leave your ship, but there are a few important things to do before you disembark.

This may seem obvious, but so many people don't check they took everything out of their cabin with them.  

Double and triple check you have all your belongings.  Once you leave the ship, getting lost items back can be a challenge.

Common items left behind on the ship include children's toys (check under the bed), chargers in wall sockets, and valuables in the safe.

The next thing to do is verify your onboard balance is zeroed out.  If you have a credit card on file, that's pretty much assured.  But if you had a cash account, you'll need to settle up with Guest Services.  They won't let you off the ship until you do.

Speaking of your account, I'd recommend taking one last look to review any charges on there to verify it's all correct.  You want to correct any erroneous charges before you disembark.

If you ordered photo prints, this is your last chance to grab them.  Likewise, if you want to book another cruise at NextCruise, you can do so that final morning.

Be sure to return any pool towels that are still in your room, or you'll risk a $20 per unreturned towel fee.

What happens after you leave the ship?

After walking off the ship and back into the cruise terminal, the experience is somewhat like an airport when you fly home after an international trip.

You'll first make your way to pick up your luggage.  Only luggage that has been called will be available to pick up, and you'll see bags grouped by luggage tag numbers.

There are porters available to help with your luggage.  There is no cost to use the porters services, but they do expect a tip at the end.  Usually a dollar or two per bag is the norm.  

My advice is take advantage of the porters and use them. Not only will it be easier on you if you have a lot of bags, but in some cruise terminals the porters have their own special line for customs.

After retrieving your luggage, your next stop is the clear immigration.

In the U.S., there are two lines: people traveling with passports and people traveling with birth certificates.

In most U.S. ports now there is facial recognition is reserved for those with passports, and it's a fast and efficient process. You simply walk to the machine, it scans your face, and tells you if you're good to go or need to speak with someone.

The birth certificate line is slower because it requires an agent to inspect your documentation manually.

After you clear immigration, you'll depart the cruise terminal.  At this point, you're on your own to find a way home.  

There will be a mix of taxis, shuttle services, ride shares and more to get you home.  You should have a plan in place prior to that morning of how you'll get on your way to avoid complications or unexpected delays.

How to disembark before everyone else

If your goal is to be the first one off your ship and on your way home, then you'll need to have a proper plan of action.

In order to be the first one off a ship at its conclusion, you're going to need to carry your own luggage off.  Self-assist luggage guests have up to an hour head start on those waiting for luggage.

This express departure method will beat most of the crowds that come later, especially those that opted to have breakfast. Plus, there will be less people to contend with in the customs line or waiting for a taxi.

Prior to the final morning, you'll get an estimate of what time your ship expects to start the disembarkation process.  It could be around 6:30 or 7am.

It's a rough guess at the time, but my advice is to get in line at least 30 minutes before that estimate.  You'll be surprised how many other people are already there waiting to walk off the ship too.

Remember, if you opt for this, you'll need to carry all of your own luggage off the ship and there won't be any assistance available with it.  It's ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families without young children.

No two cruises are the same. Even if you are sailing on a similar ship, such as Royal Caribbean's Navigator and Mariner of the Seas, factors like the crew, itinerary, and weather conditions all foster new experiences. 

Within the past year, Jenny Reineck embarked on two solo cruises aboard Mariner and Enchantment of the Seas. Her sailing on Mariner departed from Port Canaveral, Florida, and called at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Cozumel, Mexico, whereas her cruise on Enchantment sailed from Tampa to the Western Caribbean. 

"I had a great time on both of the cruises, but there were some similarities and some differences," Reineck says. 

Similarities

Great service

She begins by talking about the service. From the servers in the Main Dining Room to her cabin steward and the bartenders, "...the crew on [Royal Caribbean was] fantastic, and they [went] above and beyond to make [my] cruise vacation fun."

Those aren't the only crew you'll meet while onboard. Everyone from the Cruise Director to the Casino Host, Loyalty Ambassador, and the Youth Program Director plays a vital role in shaping your cruise experience. 

Speaking of Cruise Directors, "...the passion, excitement, and energy brought by the Cruise Director on both ships was phenomenal." They are often considered the "face of the ship," helping to coordinate onboard events and activities that keep passengers entertained throughout their sailing.

Read more: 7 most important crew members to meet on your cruise ship

Complimentary pizza

Whether you're grabbing pizza from Cafe Promenade, Park Cafe, or Sorrento's, indulging in at least one slice of included pizza is a rite of passage on Royal Caribbean cruises. 

When sailing on Mariner, Reineck ventured to Cafe Promenade for pizza, while on Enchantment, she found herself at the Park Cafe in the Solarium. 

"Regardless of where I got it, the pizza tasted the same and was delicious! In fact, the quality of the food in general was very similar across both ships," she remarks. 

Read more: Sorrento's pizza on Royal Caribbean cruise ships

Main Dining Room

Reineck explains how the service, menu options, and food quality were similar in the Main Dining Rooms on Mariner and Enchantment. 

In early 2023, Royal Caribbean introduced new dining room menus to speed up the dinner service. Each night focuses on a certain cuisine, from Italian to Mexican and British. While the rotation of the menus may vary based on the length of your cruise (i.e., a 4-night cruise won't have as many options as longer sailings), the standardized dining experience ensures that guests can expect consistent quality and service no matter which ship they’re on.

That said, Reineck says the main difference between the Main Dining Rooms was her seat: "In both cases, they sat me at a two-person table by myself, but that is where the similarities ended."

"On Mariner, my table was against a wall at the end of a row of tables. It felt more private, but I didn't have a great view. On Enchantment, my table was sandwiched between a bunch of other two-person tables, but I could sit facing the window. While it felt less private, the view was much better," she adds. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean Menus 2024

Onboard activities

The onboard activities and entertainment often drive passengers to book a Royal Caribbean cruise compared to competing lines. While older ships lack Broadway-style musicals, the essence of the daily schedule is the same.

"Whether it was trivia in Schooner Bar, a theater show, or the infamous Crazy Quest, ...I noticed that many of the onboard activities that I had enjoyed on Mariner were also going to be happening on Enchantment," she says. 

"This was great because I already knew which activities I wanted to [attend], including the belly flop contest, the world's sexiest man contest, and other fun activities throughout the ship." 

Read more: What's included in a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Stateroom

Whether you want to save money and book the cheapest interior cabin or are in the mood to splurge on a lavish suite, cruise ships have staterooms to meet various needs and preferences. 

On both Mariner and Enchantment, Reineck booked an interior cabin. However, her room on Mariner was different in that it overlooked the Royal Promenade. There was no window, even an interior-facing one, on Enchantment.

"Other than that, the rooms were very similar in size, storage space, bathroom, etc.," Reineck explains. 

"As a solo traveler in a double occupancy room, an inside cabin [had] more than enough space for all of my things, and in both cabins, there were at least two other places to sit down other than the bed." 

Read more: Royal Caribbean cabin guide

Differences

Ship layout

Enchantment of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean's oldest ships in service. Part of the Vision Class, she debuted in 1997. Not only is she one of the oldest ships in the fleet, but she's also one of the smallest, measuring just shy of 83,000 gross registered tons. In comparison, Icon of the Seas is over 245,000! 

Mariner of the Seas is a little newer, having launched in 2003. As such, she's part of the line's Voyager Class, which was the first to feature the Royal Promenade, a thoroughfare filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. 

Since both vessels belong to different classes, their layouts are different. Different doesn't equal bad or disappointing, though. 

"While I thought I might miss the Royal Promenade, I actually enjoyed some of the ship activities [more] on Enchantment due to the layout of the Centrum," Reineck says. 

"Particularly for things like the balloon drop and the Parade of Nations, the Centrum gives off a 'round the campfire' vibe where we [could] all gather and celebrate together, whereas the Royal Promenade [felt] more like we were all in a long hallway looking at a stage."

She adds that she also enjoyed watching sail away from Mariner's helipad, which was absent on Enchantment. 

Read more: After 12 sailings on Mariner of the Seas, I’m convinced this ship offers the best value Royal Caribbean has to offer

Ship amenities

Since Mariner is larger and part of a newer class, she features more onboard amenities compared to Enchantment, including water slides, a FlowRider surf simulator, an ice skating rink, and an escape room. 

Not only that but Mariner also had a working television screen on the pool deck, which played holiday movies during Reineck's December 2023 sailing. 

"Unfortunately, while I was on Enchamtnent [in April 2024] the big screen on the pool deck was not working, and I missed out on pool deck movies." 

Dining options

While on Mariner, Reineck decided to try Royal Caribbean's Izumi Hibachi. In addition to the interactive Teppanyaki meal, she found that Mariner had more options, such as the hot dog stand on the pool deck. She said she'd have to brave the crowds at Windjammer if she wanted a quick bite to eat on a sea day while on Enchantment. 

However, both ships had a specialty coffee shop where she could fuel up with a cold brew each morning: "...On Mariner, I headed down to Cafe Promenade...whereas on Enchantment, I got it from Cafe Latte-tudes."

"Both cafes had the same food options though, with small items such as ham and cheese sandwiches, chocolate donuts, and cookies." 

Read more: One food item you need to order from each restaurant onboard Enchantment of the Seas

Itinerary and port schedule

With one ship departing from Port Canaveral and the other from Tampa, both had different itineraries. While both visited Cozumel, her sailing on Enchantment also took her to Roatán, Honduras; Belize City, Belize; and Costa Maya, Mexico. In addition to Cozumel, her cruise on Mariner from Port Canaveral only visited one other port of call: Perfect Day at CocoCay.

On Mariner, her schedule included a sea day followed by a port day, another sea day, and another port day. In contrast, her itinerary on Enchantment had a sea day followed by four consecutive port days, then another sea day.

"While I loved all of the ports that we stopped at on Enchantment, four port days in a row can be pretty exhausting, especially when you've been out [on] an all-day excursion," explains Reineck. 

"I enjoyed the schedule I had on Mariner better because the sea days gave me time to recover from my excursions."

Weather

"This may seem obvious, but the weather in December is different than the weather in April," Reineck says, "In fact, on my December cruise on Mariner, my excursion in Cozumel ended up getting canceled because it was too windy, and while I enjoyed my day at CocoCay, there were many moments where I was quite cold."

In comparison, when traveling on Enchantment in April, Reineck expresses how each port was hot and humid. That said, the sun was shining, and she didn't have any excursions canceled due to inclement weather. 

Reineck's experience on Mariner in December proves that cruise ships can be impacted by weather throughout the year, not just during hurricane season. Though her port stop wasn't canceled, the weather conditions shaped her experience. 

Read more: What experienced cruisers do differently during hurricane season