My husband and I have been happily married for 8 years, but I cruise multiple times each year without him.

At first glance, that might sound unconventional. For many couples, travel is something you do together, especially after getting married. While I absolutely love traveling with my husband, and it’s something that we’ve bonded over since we met, he isn’t always available to cruise with me.

Instead of limiting how often I travel, our arrangement has allowed me to see more of the world than I ever thought possible.

Early in our marriage, I realized that if I wanted to travel as often as I do now, I couldn’t rely on our schedules always aligning. Cruise itineraries aren’t always flexible, and some of the most unique sailings only happen once or twice a year. As a destination-focused cruiser, I’m typically drawn to itineraries that visit less common ports of call.

Waiting for the perfect overlap in our availability would mean missing out on opportunities that may not come around again for years. So instead of waiting for him to have the opportunity to cruise with me, I started booking the cruises anyway.

For instance, I recently returned from a two-week cruise aboard Celebrity Equinox, where I traveled through Patagonia and South America with my parents and sister. 

This summer, we’re planning another family cruise to Norway aboard Celebrity Apex. I’ve also cruised with friends several times over the last few years, which has been a meaningful way to stay connected with those who live far away while exploring new places together.

Over the last two years, I’ve taken port-intensive itineraries across Australia, Europe, Indonesia, Africa, and Southeast Asia, many of them without my husband. It’s not the most traditional setup, but it’s one that currently works well for us.

I don’t believe marriage means putting your life on hold

One of the biggest mindset shifts for me was realizing that marriage does not have to mean doing everything together, especially when it comes to travel.

I love cruising with my husband, and some of my favorite memories are from the trips we have taken together. But I also value my own independence, and I think that has made our relationship stronger.

We took our first cruise together in college over spring break, quickly followed by a Southeast Asia cruise before graduation. Later that year, we were engaged while cruising in the Mediterranean and returned the following summer for our honeymoon cruise.

From early on, we’ve approached our marriage with the understanding that we are still individuals with our own goals, interests, and priorities. Travel has always been one of mine, and it’s something he’s understood since our very first date.

Just a few months after we met, I left for Semester at Sea, spending four months traveling around the world. It was a lifelong dream of mine, and he supported me from the beginning as I pursued that experience.

At the same time, his goal was to become a pilot. This ultimately led us into the active-duty military lifestyle shortly after we got married. As you might expect, our lives look very different now!

I learned quickly that if I wanted to travel as often as I do, I would have to be comfortable going without him sometimes. That decision has allowed me to continue building a life that feels fulfilling, rather than one that is limited by circumstances outside of my control.

His career comes with limits, while mine is very flexible

My husband’s role as an active-duty military member comes with strict limitations. He cannot take time off whenever he wants, and his leave has to be approved in advance. Some destinations are also off-limits for him to visit, which can further complicate where we are able to travel together. 

On the other hand, my work is remote and flexible. I work multiple part-time jobs remotely, which allows me to travel often. I can build my schedule around travel in a way that simply is not possible for him.

This difference became even more obvious once his military commitments increased. His schedule can be unpredictable with training, deployments, and required travel. This makes planning long or last-minute cruises difficult, as our lives can change at a moment’s notice.

Rather than letting that imbalance hold me back, I made the decision not to tie my travel frequency to his availability. Instead, I wanted to make the most of the flexibility I do have and not turn down opportunities.

We don’t always want the same kind of trips

Another reality is that we do not always want to go to the same places or travel the same way.

I tend to gravitate toward longer, port-intensive itineraries that involve a lot of cultural experiences and bucket-list destinations. These cruises are often more demanding in terms of time and energy, but they are also the ones I find most rewarding.

On the other hand, my husband prefers a different pace. He enjoys travel, but he is more selective about where he goes and how he spends his time off. His ideal vacation involves more downtime and relaxation, which I prioritize for our big yearly cruise together.

There are also destinations that I am passionate about that do not interest him. For example, I had always wanted to visit South Africa for a safari. It was something I felt strongly about, while he had no desire to take that kind of trip. Instead of letting that dream sit on a list indefinitely, I went with a friend during one of his deployments.

Not to mention, these itineraries can be anywhere from 12 to 15 nights long. This would drain most of his vacation time, which we also need to reserve for holidays back home, funerals, weddings, and any other time away.

If I had waited for us to agree on every destination, I would have seen far less of the world.

Traveling without him is cheaper and allows me to cruise more often

Cruising without my husband allows me to travel more frequently because it is more affordable and more flexible. When I travel with my sister or friends, we can split the cost of a cabin and share other expenses, which makes a noticeable difference, especially on longer itineraries.

I also travel differently when he is not with me. My husband has developed a preference for newer cruise ships, upgraded cabins, and specialty dining. He often jokes that he is not meant to live an uncomfortable life (referencing The White Lotus), and I cannot argue with that!

When we travel together, we tend to splurge on upgrades because we’re prioritizing quality time and shared experiences. When I travel without him, though, I’m much more flexible. I’m perfectly happy booking an interior cabin on an older ship if it means I can take more trips throughout the year. I also don’t mind flying economy on a long-haul flight, while his 6’4 frame makes an upgraded seat much more appealing.

This has allowed me to cruise more often than I otherwise could afford. Being able to split costs with my friends or family has likely saved us thousands of dollars over time!

I love spending quality time with friends and family

One of the most special parts of traveling without my husband is the time it gives me with other people in my life.

Without fail, when I cruise with my parents and sister, people will say something like, “That’s so nice your adult children still want to travel with you.” It is rare to see a 31-year-old married adult still traveling with their parents, but I don’t mind the unconventional nature.

Since I live across the country from my family, we do not see each other as often as we would like. I might only get to see my parents a few times each year if we didn’t plan our cruises together. Instead of always traveling home to South Dakota to spend time with them, we have started planning longer cruises.

Spending 10 to 14 days together creates a kind of quality time that’s hard to replicate elsewhere. Over the years, we’ve made lasting family memories on our cruises, whether we’re exploring a new country, playing cards after dinner, or just enjoying the scenery from our balcony.

Sharing a cabin with my sister makes those trips even more special. It reminds me of when we were younger and still living at home together. We end each night laughing over TikToks or watching movies in bed. These moments have become some of my favorite parts of the experience!

The same holds true when I travel with friends. Cruising gives us uninterrupted time to reconnect in a way that everyday life rarely allows.

For example, I met one of my closest friends in the teen club back in 2008, and we’ve continued traveling together ever since. In just a few weeks, I’ll be flying to Europe to cruise across the Mediterranean with her. Over the last five years, we’ve made it a tradition to take at least one trip together each year. It's become a fun way to stay connected, especially as we live across the country from each other.

Freelance writing opened the door for more travel opportunities

Another major reason I often cruise without my husband is because of my freelance writing work. It’s much easier to justify taking a cruise when I know I can turn the experience into content and story ideas.

What started as a side gig has grown into a significant part of my career, and cruising has become one of the ways I build that work. When I started writing for Royal Caribbean Blog in 2021, I had no idea how many opportunities it would open up for me. At the time, it felt like a fun way to share my personal experiences, but it quickly evolved into something much bigger.

Since then, I’ve taken more than 20 cruises that have doubled as “work” trips over the last five years. Whether it’s reviewing a new ship, covering a unique itinerary, or sharing practical cruise tips, each trip becomes an opportunity to create something valuable.

This mindset has also helped justify trips I might not have taken otherwise. A longer itinerary or a more niche destination becomes easier to commit to when I know I can pitch stories or build content around the experience. In many ways, it’s allowed me to travel more frequently while still being productive.

Over time, my freelance work has opened the door to writing for several major publications, including Business Insider and U.S. News & World Report. What started as a small freelance opportunity has turned into a platform where I can share my experiences with a much wider audience.

Because of that, cruising without my husband doesn’t really feel like I’m leaving him behind. Instead, it feels like I’m investing in something that truly matters to me, both personally and professionally. And since his career often requires him to travel as well, we’ve developed a mutual understanding that allows us to support each other in pursuing our own dreams.

This season of life gives me the freedom to say yes

I also recognize that this level of travel is tied to a specific season of life. Right now, we do not have children, and I have a flexible career that allows me to work remotely. This combination gives me a level of freedom that I know will not last forever, so I am taking advantage of it while I can.

I know life won’t always look this way, especially since we hope to start a family in the future. That will likely be the biggest shift in how often I’m able to cruise, although I hope travel will remain an important part of our lives, just in a different way.

Because of that, I feel a strong sense of urgency to embrace these opportunities now. I want to say yes to the trips that truly excite me, whether that’s a two-week sailing through Patagonia with my family or a bucket-list itinerary across the Mediterranean with my friend.

Our arrangement works for us, and that’s what matters

I understand why cruising without my husband might seem unusual from the outside. Choosing to travel without your spouse is not what most people expect when they think about marriage.

However, we’re focused on building a life where we can support each other in pursuing what matters most. My husband supports my love of travel and freelance writing, just as I support his career and commitments. 

If anything, spending time traveling independently has made the trips we take together even more meaningful. We always joke, “You can’t miss me if I’m not gone,” and there’s some truth to that. Time apart makes us appreciate the time we do have together even more.

Royal Caribbean gives you drink vouchers, Celebrity hands you an open bar for a couple hours, so which perk actually feels like the better deal once you're onboard?

Royal Caribbean Group offers some of the best loyalty perks in the cruise industry, and one of the most valuable benefits for top-tier members is complimentary drink vouchers. While both Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises reward loyal guests with free beverages, each cruise line has its own approach to how those drinks are offered and used onboard.

After cruising extensively with both cruise lines, I’ve had the chance to experience their loyalty drink perks many times. With Royal Caribbean Group's status match program, I have Diamond Plus status with Royal Caribbean and Elite Plus status with Celebrity Cruises. While my status qualifies me for drink perks on both cruise lines, each one takes a different approach to how those benefits are offered, with its own pros and cons.

For instance, Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program offers a ton of flexibility with daily drink vouchers that can be used almost anywhere at any time. On the other hand, Celebrity Cruises hosts a nightly happy hour with unlimited drinks from a set menu during a two-hour window.

Depending on how you like to drink on a cruise, one loyalty program might work better for you than another.

I was reminded of these differences during my recent 14-night cruise with Celebrity Cruises aboard Celebrity Equinox across South America. During that sailing, I was able to experience the Elite Happy Hour each night of the cruise.

We ended up going to Ensemble Bar every evening before dinner. We had an excellent waiter who was extremely attentive night after night and provided fantastic service. It was something we looked forward to each evening as a family!

More importantly, I was able to see how Royal Caribbean and Celebrity’s drink perks differ, especially when it comes to how and where you can use them throughout your cruise. What’s included with each loyalty perk also varies significantly, which can make a big difference depending on your drinking preferences. 

Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers are very flexible

Royal Caribbean currently provides drink vouchers to Crown & Anchor members at the Diamond level and above. One of the biggest perks of reaching Diamond status is receiving these daily drink vouchers that can be used throughout your cruise. Even kids receive the benefit, although they are limited to non-alcoholic drinks.

Once you reach Diamond status, you’ll receive 4 drinks per person, per day on every Royal Caribbean cruise you take. Similarly, Diamond Plus members receive 5 drinks per person, per day, while top-tier Pinnacle Club members receive 6 drinks per person, per day.

Royal Caribbean specifically states that Diamond members and above receive: “Complimentary daily drinks up to $14 in value ($13 on Singapore sailings, $15 on UK and Australia sailings — excludes Starbucks, Bionic Bar, and Desserted). Each drink voucher can also get you 40% off on wine bottles less than $100, and 20% off bottles more than $100.”

The vouchers are loaded directly onto your SeaPass account, so there are no paper coupons to carry around. When you order a drink, you simply tell the bartender or server that you would like to use one of your Diamond drinks.

The vouchers are good only for that day, so it is very much a use-it-or-lose-it system. Once you reach 6 a.m. the next day, the voucher total resets. You cannot save vouchers for another day or borrow them from future days.

One of the biggest advantages of Royal Caribbean’s system is where the drinks can be used. You can redeem your drink vouchers at pretty much any bar, restaurant, or lounge onboard. The drink vouchers even work at Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is a huge benefit. This flexibility is what makes the drink perk so useful, as you are not stuck in one venue or forced to wait until a certain time each evening.

Royal Caribbean used to offer a nightly happy hour instead, similar to Celebrity

If you’re newer to cruising with Royal Caribbean, you might not realize that the cruise line hasn’t always used the now-popular voucher system. The cruise line actually used to have a nightly happy hour for Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members. This perk offered unlimited drinks in the Diamond Lounge each night from a more limited menu that included basic well drinks, wine, beer, and soda.

This was the system for a long time, and after my sister and I turned 21, we were frequent visitors in the Diamond Lounge with our parents! Going to the lounge each night was a highlight of the cruise.

After my husband inherited my Diamond Plus status when we got married, we also became big fans of the happy hour. The limited menu was not always our favorite, but it was better than paying higher prices for drinks.

(Enjoying Happy Hour in the Diamond Lounge during our honeymoon in 2018)

And as newlyweds with a smaller vacation budget, we definitely took advantage of the unlimited drinks during happy hour! Although the menu was limited, the drinks were unlimited. And if you found a good bartender working hard for a tip, you might even be able to get drinks that were not technically on the menu.

After the shutdown, Royal Caribbean revamped the perk. The cruise line wanted to deter people from crowding in the lounge every night for drinks, so it replaced the old happy hour with the drink voucher system. With the new system, Diamond, Diamond Plus, and Pinnacle members could get drinks from any bar up to $14. The drinks could be used at any time of day, which meant you no longer had to wait until happy hour every evening.

For most cruisers, the change was positive. The vouchers provided much more flexibility and allowed people to order from a wider range of drinks than the limited happy hour menu once allowed. And you can use the drinks ashore at Perfect Day at CocoCay, which was not an option before with the lounge-only happy hour!

Of course, some people were disappointed about losing the unlimited aspect of the old system. The voucher setup created a hard daily cap that did not exist before. In some ways it became more flexible, while in other ways it became more limited. However, I think most people overall are very happy with the voucher system.

Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour allows unlimited drinks, but with more limitations

Comparatively, Celebrity Cruises has a nightly Elite Happy Hour for Elite, Elite Plus, and Zenith members. This takes place in certain bars from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. each night, and you can order unlimited drinks from a set menu. The menu includes a selection of basic cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and some non-alcoholic drinks. Not all bars participate, although most onboard do.

This is where Celebrity’s system differs significantly from Royal Caribbean’s. You cannot order drinks elsewhere using the perk. Instead, you have to wait until happy hour each night and order from the designated menu at a participating bar.

For example, if you want to order a piña colada by the pool during the day, you will be paying out of pocket. And even if you wait until happy hour, you still wouldn’t be able to get a piña colada, as it is not on the Elite Happy Hour menu.

On the other hand, Celebrity’s happy hour does technically allow for unlimited drinks during that two-hour period. If quantity matters most to you, that is a huge advantage. You can theoretically drink as much as you want during happy hour. However, you have to be in a participating bar, which means you cannot use the perk on the pool deck or in a restaurant.

Most people would agree that any free drink is a good drink. But, if you prefer more elaborate cocktails or top-shelf liquor, you might be disappointed by the menu. 

However, one nice advantage is that you can order bottled water and soda during happy hour. This doesn’t count against a daily threshold like it would on Royal Caribbean, as Celebrity isn’t tracking how much you order.

Celebrity’s embarkation day rule used to make the perk more frustrating

When I first started cruising with Celebrity in 2023, Elite Happy Hour was not available on embarkation day. You had to wait until the second night of the cruise to enjoy the perk. This felt unnecessarily restrictive, especially if you were only taking a short sailing.

For instance, my sister and I took a 4-night cruise on Celebrity Silhouette, so we could only enjoy the happy hour for three nights. Similarly, my parents took their first Celebrity cruise that same year, and they were disappointed when they went to the bar on the first night and found out they could not order a drink.

When they asked why the happy hour was not available on embarkation day, no one could really provide a good answer. Now, within the last year or two, Celebrity has extended the happy hour to include embarkation day. That was a very welcome change!

Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour menu is decent, but not expansive

One of the most important things to understand about Celebrity’s loyalty perk is that the drink options are more limited than the ship’s overall bar menus. You cannot order a Lychee Martini or an Old Fashioned, for example. The included menu is much more basic.

The menu features a mix of basic spirits like Absolut vodka, Bacardi rum, and Jim Beam, along with beers such as Heineken and Bud Light, plus wines and classic cocktails like a Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, or Mimosa. While there’s a range of standard options, it’s limited to simple drinks and select brands, meaning anything more premium or specialty would cost extra.

If you’re content with simple cocktails, beer, wine, or basic mixed drinks, the perk can be sufficient. However, if you prefer frozen beverages, more elevated cocktails, or premium spirits, the limited menu may feel somewhat underwhelming.

Royal Caribbean’s biggest advantage is versatility

Personally, I prefer Royal Caribbean’s drink voucher system compared to Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. For instance, I don’t always want my free drinks during a two-hour window in a specific bar each night. Sometimes I want a cocktail by the pool in the afternoon! Other times, I might want a glass of wine with dinner or a beach drink while visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay.

There’s so much flexibility with Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers, and it can save you hundreds of dollars if you’re someone who likes to drink daily.

Another major benefit is that the vouchers work more like a mini drink package. Since they can be used on a much broader range of beverages up to the price cap, you are not limited to one tiny loyalty menu. You can use them for cocktails, bottled water, premium coffee, soda, and more.

I love to have a drink or two each day of my cruise, but I rarely use all five of my Diamond Plus drinks each day of a cruise, especially on a longer itinerary. If I still have drinks left at the end of the evening, I usually stock up on bottled water for the next day.

Finally, it’s also a major perk that you can share your drink vouchers. When I have cruised with friends who do not have the same voucher perks, I have been happy to share my drink vouchers with them. When my parents have cruised with my aunt and uncle, they usually share their 10 combined drink vouchers each day so everyone can enjoy a drink or two.

However, one downside is that Royal Caribbean's vouchers are not unlimited

The biggest drawback of Royal Caribbean’s system is obvious. The drinks are flexible, but they are not unlimited.

For some people, the daily voucher amount is more than enough. For others, it might seem too restrictive. If you are someone who likes to drink throughout the day and into the evening, you may run out of vouchers and have to pay out of pocket.

The vouchers can either feel very generous or very restrictive depending on your habits. If you order a specialty coffee, soda, or bottled water, you aren’t using the full value of the vouchers. I’ve even asked for these to be charged to my account so I can save my vouchers for more expensive drinks throughout the day.

Celebrity’s happy hour offers unlimited drinks and a social atmosphere

If you care most about being able to order as many drinks as you want during those two hours, you might prefer Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. You do not have to count drinks the way you do with Royal Caribbean’s vouchers, as you can technically order as much as you’d like during the two hours.

There is also a social element to Celebrity’s happy hour that a lot of people enjoy. Since the perk happens in the same bars at the same time every night, you tend to see the same people over and over. This creates more of a nightly ritual and lounge atmosphere. On my recent Celebrity Equinox cruise, going to Ensemble Bar each evening became part of our routine, and having the same attentive waiter each night really enhanced the experience.

I find that Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour can be underwhelming

The main problem with Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour is how restrictive it can feel compared to Royal Caribbean. You have to wait until happy hour each night to get your free drinks, and you have to visit a participating bar to order from a limited menu.

If you want a drink earlier in the day, you are paying out of pocket. And, if you want a more elaborate cocktail, you are paying out of pocket. If you are traveling with people who do not have loyalty status, you can't share your benefit with others. This can make Celebrity’s drink perk feel more limited, even though it is technically unlimited for those two hours.

In fact, I have seen recent discussion online where cruisers asked why Celebrity has not changed to drink vouchers. Personally, I have wondered the same thing!

But I was surprised by how many people said they prefer Celebrity’s happy hour over Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers. More than half of the comments said they liked the happy hour because it’s actually unlimited. Additionally, you can order soda and water without using one of a limited number of drinks.

Celebrity fans also liked the social aspect of seeing the same people every night. I saw multiple comments saying, “Celebrity is not Royal Caribbean, it doesn’t need to change, we like how it is.” I thought that was interesting, because I personally tend to prefer Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers.

Which loyalty drink perk is better?

I understand why some people prefer Celebrity’s Elite Happy Hour. If your top priority is unlimited drinks and you enjoy the social aspect of going to the same bar each evening, Celebrity can be a better option. There is also value in not having to count your drinks during those two hours.

But personally, I still prefer Royal Caribbean’s vouchers. I appreciate being able to order from almost anywhere, at any time, from a much wider drink selection. I also like that the vouchers work at Perfect Day at CocoCay, making the day feel even more inclusive. Finally, it’s great that you can use them for cocktails, bottled water, specialty coffee, soda, or whatever else makes the most sense that day.

Celebrity’s happy hour is still a good perk, and I enjoyed it on my recent Celebrity Equinox cruise. But it feels more restrictive to me. Royal Caribbean’s vouchers feel more practical, more flexible, and more in line with how I like to drink on a cruise.

If your priority is unlimited drinks during a set happy hour and you enjoy the built-in social atmosphere, Celebrity may be the better fit. If you value flexibility, broader drink selection, and the ability to use the perk on your own schedule, Royal Caribbean’s drink vouchers are likely a better fit.

At the end of the day, both loyalty perks can save cruisers hundreds of dollars and reduce the need for an expensive drink package.

Staying connected on a cruise can get expensive quickly. Royal Caribbean’s VOOM internet packages can often cost hundreds of dollars for a weeklong cruise, especially if everyone in your cabin purchases their own plan. But there’s a trick you should know that can save you money when buying internet access.

Although Royal Caribbean’s cruise ships are some of the most technologically advanced in the world, you still won’t find free internet onboard. As such, you’ll need to purchase Wi-Fi access if you want to stay connected throughout your cruise vacation. These days, one of the most popular cruise add-ons is an internet package. 

But, unlike drink packages, Royal Caribbean’s internet packages can actually be shared. While the cruise line strictly prohibits guests from sharing drink packages, Royal Caribbean actually encourages guests to bundle internet devices under a single plan and share the connection to save money.

Essentially, this means you can purchase one internet package for multiple devices and split the connection with others in your travel party. If you're traveling with family or friends, this strategy can significantly reduce the cost of purchasing internet.

Because Royal Caribbean offers discounted pricing when multiple devices are bundled under a single plan, buying one package with several devices is often much cheaper than having each guest purchase their own internet package.

Here’s how sharing an internet package works on a Royal Caribbean cruise, including how much money you can save with this strategy.

How you can share your Royal Caribbean internet package

Royal Caribbean allows guests to purchase internet packages for one, two, three, or four devices. While these plans appear under a single guest’s name on the reservation, the connected devices do not need to belong to the same person.

Instead, the package simply allows a set number of devices to be connected at the same time. Anyone with the login credentials can connect their phone, tablet, or laptop to the internet using that plan, regardless of who originally purchased the package. In fact, you don’t even need to be in the same cabin for this to work, as you can share the internet login with anyone onboard!

For example, two people cruising together could each purchase their own single-device internet package. Another option is for one person to purchase a 2-device plan and share it with the other person. In that case, both guests can be online at the same time, since the plan allows two devices to connect simultaneously.

The same approach works for larger groups. Three friends could share a 3-device package to save money, while a family of four could split a 4-device internet plan.

Because Royal Caribbean discounts internet packages when additional devices are bundled together, sharing a multi-device plan is often noticeably cheaper than having each guest purchase their own internet package.

As always, it’s best to purchase your internet package before your cruise begins. Royal Caribbean typically offers lower pricing in the Cruise Planner than what is available once you’re onboard. Like many onboard extras, internet packages are often discounted in advance, and prices can increase closer to the sailing date or once the ship departs.

Buying ahead of time also allows you to compare different device packages and take advantage of sales that Royal Caribbean frequently runs in the Cruise Planner. If the price drops later, guests can usually cancel their existing purchase and rebook at the lower rate before the cruise, making it easier to snag the best deal.

Comparing the cost of individual plans vs. shared internet packages

To better understand the potential savings, let’s take a closer look at the pricing behind Royal Caribbean’s internet packages. For this comparison, we’ll use the Wi-Fi cost for a 7-night sailing.

For my upcoming 2027 reservation, Royal Caribbean is offering VOOM Surf + Stream for $20.99 per day. This reflects a discount from the original price of $28.99 per day; interestingly, Royal Caribbean marks this as a 25% off discount, although it’s actually slightly more than that.

Either way, for a 7-night cruise, this would be a total cost of $146.93 for one person to have the internet package for one device. Similarly, if two people each purchase their own single-device internet package, the total cost comes to $293.86.

But, if one guest purchases a two-device package with the intent of sharing the login, the total cost comes down to $223.93.

For a 7-night cruise, sharing the internet login would save around $70 compared to each guest purchasing their own package. The difference becomes even more noticeable with larger groups.

If three guests each purchase their own internet package, the total cost reaches $440.79 for the sailing. If we compare the cost to one person purchasing access for three devices, the total cost is only $314.93.

In this case, purchasing three devices for one person saves about $125 compared to each guest purchasing their own package.

For four guests, the price difference is even more substantial!

Based on my 7-night cruise, the total cost for four individuals each purchasing their own package would be $587.72 for the entire cruise. Comparatively, having one guest purchase access for four devices brings the price down to only $405.93.

This means a group of four could save more than $180 simply by purchasing one multi-device package instead of four individual plans. For families or groups traveling together, this difference can be significant, especially if you cruise often!

There are some drawbacks to sharing internet access

Sharing your internet package to save money is pretty straightforward. However, there are a few limitations that you should understand before splitting an internet package with others.

First, you will be sharing the same login credentials with everyone in your group. The internet package is technically tied to one guest’s account, so anyone using the connection will need to log in using that same information. Because of this, you will only want to share the internet package with people that you trust.

Another limitation involves a device limit. If a package allows two devices, only two devices can be actively connected at the same time.

If you log in on a new device without first logging out of another one, the system will automatically disconnect one of the devices that’s already connected.

Essentially, this means someone could unintentionally “bump” another user offline by logging in from another device. This isn’t usually a major problem, but it’s something groups should be aware of when sharing a package.

Other than these limitations, there aren’t many other drawbacks to sharing your internet access during your cruise.

Why Royal Caribbean’s internet is worth purchasing

When it comes to staying connected onboard, VOOM is Royal Caribbean’s only Wi-Fi offering. VOOM is designed to support your everyday activities online, such as browsing the web, sending emails, FaceTime, streaming music or shows, and using social media.

In fact, Royal Caribbean claims that VOOM is the fastest internet at sea, stating, “With six times faster onboard WiFi speed than you’ll find on any other cruise ships in the world, the internet connectivity is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced on a cruise ship.”

For many years, Royal Caribbean’s onboard Wi-Fi was unreliable and laggy, making the added cost not always appealing. When I first started cruising, the only way to get online was by paying to use the ship’s internet cafe - what a throwback! Thankfully, those days are long gone.

Now, the cruise line’s internet service has improved significantly, thanks to the addition of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network across the fleet. The cruise line began installing Starlink technology in 2022, and it has since been rolled out across Royal Caribbean ships worldwide.

Starlink uses a network of low-Earth-orbit satellites that operate much closer to Earth than traditional geostationary satellites. Because the satellites orbit at a lower altitude, data travels a shorter distance. This helps reduce latency and improve speeds. Even better, every single Royal Caribbean ship now offers fast Wi-Fi with Starlink!

Because of this, Royal Caribbean’s internet is now faster than ever and more reliable than the satellite connections cruise ships used in the past.

How to connect once onboard

Guests who purchase internet before their cruise can activate the package once they are onboard the ship. In addition, internet is available to purchase once you’re connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi network.

Connection instructions are available in the Royal Caribbean app. After boarding, guests simply open the app and tap “Join” or select the internet icon. The prepaid package will activate automatically once you create an account. 

From there, guests can log in on their selected devices and begin using the internet immediately. Internet access is unlimited with your package and available 24 hours a day throughout the ship. You can stay connected everywhere, from your stateroom to public areas like the pool deck, buffet, and even the spa.

Because Royal Caribbean uses satellite-powered internet, service is available almost anywhere in the world. This also includes access at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. While connectivity is generally reliable, brief interruptions can occur due to weather or in very remote regions.

Luggage tags are a small but essential part of Royal Caribbean’s embarkation process. If you’re looking for a way to keep your tags secure, protected, and easy to attach, luggage tag holders are a simple solution.

When you arrive for embarkation day, you will send off your checked bags with the cruise porters at the terminal. Every checked bag must be clearly tagged so it can be routed through the ship’s luggage system and delivered to the correct stateroom. After your luggage is whisked off by the porters, you won’t see it again until it’s delivered to your stateroom later that day.

In this way, your printed luggage tag is pretty crucial, as it's the only way the cruise line knows where to deliver luggage. Your luggage tag is essentially the only thing tying your suitcase to your stateroom. If it gets lost or damaged along the way, your bag can be delayed while crew members work to track it down. And you definitely don't want to add unnecessary stress to embarkation day by wondering where your suitcase ended up.

Even after years of cruising, I still find myself printing luggage tags at the last minute. This often involves a quick stop at the hotel concierge to print the tags and hunt down a stapler before heading to the cruise port. In fact, I’ve even arrived at the cruise terminal without printed luggage tags after completely forgetting them.

For many years, I never saw the value of luggage tags for a cruise. I would simply print my luggage tag and either tape or staple it to my suitcase. I never really thought twice about it, until one rainy embarkation changed my entire perspective.

While boarding our cruise in Sydney, Australia last fall, it was pouring rain all morning. Luckily, my dad had packed extra luggage tag holders that I borrowed before heading to the port. As we made our way through the terminal, I was relieved that my luggage tags were secure and protected from the rain. Other passengers had damaged luggage tags that weren’t legible because they were so soaked!

After this experience, I have continued to use luggage tag holders for my Royal Caribbean cruises. They provide me with peace of mind that my luggage tag will remain intact during embarkation. Also, they hardly take up any space for packing.

How Royal Caribbean’s luggage tags work

Royal Caribbean provides luggage tags in your pre-cruise electronic documents after your online check-in is complete. Luggage tags can be found in your eDocs, which are specific to your ship, sailing date, and stateroom. 

Guests are encouraged to print multiple copies of their luggage tags in case of damage or last-minute changes. You’ll fill in your name on each tag as well.

If a luggage tag is forgotten at home, porters at the terminal can still provide generic tags on embarkation day. However, Royal Caribbean recommends printing and securing your tags in advance to avoid delays. Generic tags also lack the color coding and location information crew members rely on, which can slow down how quickly your luggage makes its way to your stateroom.

Royal Caribbean’s luggage tags are printed on paper and designed to be attached to bags before boarding. This allows luggage handlers to sort thousands of bags efficiently and deliver them throughout the ship within hours of embarkation.

When a luggage tag is damaged, illegible, or torn off, this system can fail. Suitcases and bags without readable tags may be delayed, manually inspected, or temporarily set aside until crew members can identify the owner. While most bags eventually arrive, the process can take significantly longer, sometimes well into the evening on embarkation day.

Although Royal Caribbean doesn’t require any luggage tag holders, they are extremely useful. For this reason, you’re likely to see many other passengers at the cruise terminal utilizing them. And after years of cruising, I would consider them a cruise essential.

A protective luggage tag holder keeps the paper tag sealed and securely fastened to the bag handle. They also reduce the risk of tearing or loss from the baggage handlers. More importantly, it helps ensure your luggage moves smoothly through the system and arrives at your stateroom as quickly as possible.

If you’re looking to invest in luggage tags for your Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled our top choices for Royal Caribbean luggage tags and holders that you must have for your next cruise.

Note: Affiliate links are used throughout this article. If you purchase using the links provided in our article, we receive a small commission. This helps support our website and doesn’t cost you anything extra! You can also check out our Amazon Storefront for all of our cruise essentials and favorites.

1. Highwind 4-Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder

Link: Highwind 4 Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Suitcases - Compatible with Celebrity 2025 Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders Travel Essentials Cruise Lanyard

Price: $6.99

This is one of the best-selling cruise essentials from our Amazon Storefront. Cruisers love how easy and convenient these are to use, and they have thousands of 5-star reviews!

Cruisers describe these luggage tag holders as well-constructed and secure, with strong cables that stay in place. Many people also mention their durability, ease of use, and snug fit for Royal Caribbean's printed luggage tags. This makes them a reliable option for embarkation day and luggage handling.

In addition, these tags can apparently be used for other cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line. If you’re wanting a versatile luggage tag holder, this is a great option to consider! Also, there are multiple options for purchasing, including 4-packs and 8-packs. Some options also include ID lanyards — another cruise staple for many!

Cruise On: 4-Pack Luggage Tag Holders

Link: Cruise On Royal Caribbean Cruise Luggage Tag Holder (4 Pack) – Fits All Royal Caribbean Ships, Durable Travel ID Holders for 2026-2027 Cruises, Clear Waterproof Cruise Essentials

Price: $12.99

Another great option is this 4-pack of luggage tag holders from Cruise On. Customers consistently describe these luggage tag holders as high quality and perfect for Royal Caribbean cruises. Reviews note the sturdy plastic construction and heavy-duty cables, which keep their Royal Caribbean luggage tags secure and protected throughout embarkation.

In addition, people also appreciate how easily Royal Caribbean's printed tags fit inside the holders and report that they hold up well over multiple cruises.

6-Pack Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders

Link: Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean Ships & Celebrity, 6Pack Clear Tags Cruise Travel Essentials for 2025-2026

Price: $6.99

If you're wanting a pop of color on your luggage tag holders, look no further! Cruisers describe this 6-pack of Royal Caribbean luggage tag holders as durable and easy to use. Many also note that they hold up well over multiple cruises with little visible wear.

Reviews also highlight the luggage tag’s secure, well-fitting design for Royal Caribbean's printed luggage tags. Many reviewers mention how these tags are consistently useful and functional during embarkation. Moreover, most travelers consider them a worthwhile purchase and recommend them for cruisers. However, these tags will not work with other cruise lines, so you'll only want them for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises.

Seavilla 8-Pack of Luggage Tags

Link: 8 Pack Luggage Tags Travel Essentials & Cruise Essentials for Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruise Ships by SEAVILIA

Price: $6.99

Those wanting a few additional luggage tag holders should consider this 8-pack from Seavilia. Cruisers frequently describe these luggage tags as well made, including the sturdy wire fasteners and durable plastic construction. Reviews also note that the tags stay securely attached throughout the cruise and hold up well during embarkation.

Many travelers appreciate how Royal Caribbean's luggage tags fit neatly inside. Also, several mention that they show little to no wear by the end of their cruise, even after multiple sailings. The brand also offers multi-pack options, with quantities ranging from 8 to 40 holders.

6-Pack Luggage Tag Holders + 3 Lanyards

Link: Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders With Cruise Lanyards - Zip Seal Clear Holders and Badge Holders for Ship Cards (6 Tag Holders + 3 Lanyards)

Price: $8.99

This bundle includes two cruise essentials: Royal Caribbean luggage tag holders and three matching cruise lanyards. This makes it a convenient option for both embarkation day and onboard use!

The clear tag holders fit Royal Caribbean’s printable tags perfectly and attach securely with braided steel rings. In addition, the lightweight lanyards include detachable clips for easy access to your SeaPass card. Both pieces are water-resistant, helping protect printed luggage tags and cruise cards throughout your vacation.

Cruisers describe these luggage tag holders as both practical and reliable during their vacation. Many mention the durable vinyl sleeves, which help protect printed tags and keep them neatly in place. Reviewers also mention the ease of use and secure attachment, noting that the holders stay put while still being simple to remove when needed. Several reviewers also note that they feel the quality justifies the price, especially for frequent cruisers.

4-Pack Colored Luggage Tag Holders and Lanyards

Link: 4 Pack Clear Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Ships, 2 Pack Cruise Lanyards and Waterproof ID Badge Holder Suitable for Cruise Card, Cruise Essential Travel Accessories

Price: $9.99

This is another bundled option if you're looking to invest in luggage tags and cruise lanyards for your vacation. These luggage tags are made from durable PVC that holds up well in the wet, unpredictable weather. The water-resistant material helps protect printed information from moisture during transit. These luggage tags are sized specifically for Royal Caribbean printable luggage tags, along with Celebrity Cruises’ luggage tags. Some reviewers also mentioned these tags worked for their Norwegian cruise.

Finally, the set also includes tropical-themed cruise lanyards with a waterproof ID holder. This will keep your SeaPass card dry and easily accessible throughout your entire vacation. 

6-Pack Luggage Tag Holders, Lanyards, and Magnetic Hooks

Link: Cruise Accessories Works with All Cruise Lines Cruise Travel Essentials Cruise Luggage Tags for Royal Caribbean Ships and Celebrity, Cruise Luggage Tags for Carnival Cruise Ship (12)

Price: $13.99

This is the ultimate cruise-essentials purchase with luggage tag holders, lanyards, and magnetic hooks! Most cruisers describe these cruise accessories as very useful for their vacation. To start, magnetic hooks can be used in your Royal Caribbean cabin, as the walls are usually magnetic. These hooks allow you to hang small items directly on your wall, which can save space and keep your cabin organized.

Similarly, these luggage tag holders are designed to fit luggage tags for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. The zip-top seal helps keep paper tags from getting wet or tearing, and the thicker plastic feels sturdy enough for the way luggage is handled on embarkation day. 

Not to mention, many consider lanyards to be a must-have items for cruises to keep your card secure throughout the day. You'll be carrying your SeaPass everywhere you go, so it's important to have your card in a secure place.

14-Pack Colorful Luggage Tag Holders

Link: ME.FAN 14 Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean & Celebrity, Clear Cruise Tags Holder - Waterproof, Reusable, Zip Seal, Cruise Essentials

Price: $9.99

If you’re looking for a larger set of luggage tags for your Royal Caribbean cruise, this is a great option. These are highly rated with reviewers stating these tags are well-made and reliable. Many note how they like the colorful design!

Reviews also highlight the overall build quality, including screw-on enclosures that keep tags securely in place. Many travelers note that their luggage tags remain protected and intact throughout embarkation. Royal Caribbean cruisers add that printed tags fit well inside the holders and appreciate how easy they are to attach, remove, and reuse on future trips.

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are two of the biggest mainstream cruise lines in the world. While the two brands have always had their differences, the contrast has become even more apparent in recent years.

While Royal Caribbean is thriving financially and seeing massive success, Norwegian Cruise Line has struggled to keep up. More specifically, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ stock prices have been trailing compared to Royal Caribbean’s, especially in the post-pandemic cruising era.

Over the past few years, Royal Caribbean’s stock has surged, but the same hasn’t been true for Norwegian. The cruise line has struggled to find the same momentum. Even as the cruise industry has experienced increased demand and NCL has introduced brand-new ships, the company hasn’t seen the same level of growth.

In 2025 alone, Royal Caribbean shares climbed about 39%, while Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ stock declined roughly 9% during the same period. Investors have taken notice, with Norwegian’s shares down about 20% over the past year.

Adding to the pressure, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has also seen significant leadership changes and growing investor scrutiny. In February 2026, the company replaced CEO Harry Sommer with John Chidsey, a longtime board member and former Subway CEO.

Around the same time, activist investor Elliott Investment Management revealed it had taken a stake of more than 10% in the company and began pushing for major changes to the board and overall strategy.

Elliott argues that Norwegian has fallen behind competitors due to inconsistent strategy, weak execution, and poor cost discipline. Now, Elliott is calling for a new business plan for Norwegian to help close the gap with rivals like Royal Caribbean.

As a longtime Royal Caribbean fan, I’ve also enjoyed cruising with Norwegian over the years. In fact, I’ve often preferred Norwegian’s more port-intensive and unique itineraries compared to Royal Caribbean’s sailings. Overall, I’ve taken six cruises with NCL, with another one actually planned next month. My Norwegian sailings have included various destinations around the world, including Africa, New England, Europe, and the Caribbean.

But in many ways, I’ve found that NCL pales in comparison to Royal Caribbean — and it’s easy to see why Norwegian is under pressure to make changes.

Norwegian offered itineraries it couldn’t execute

Personally, one of the biggest differences I’ve noticed between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line is their itinerary variety.

Over the past decade, Royal Caribbean has increasingly prioritized short Caribbean getaways to its private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. On the other hand, Norwegian shifted its strategy towards destination-focused sailings with longer, more port-immersive itineraries around the world.

This was one of the reasons I started booking Norwegian cruises, as I found Royal Caribbean’s destination list had noticeably dwindled over the last decade. For instance, if I wanted to cruise to Africa for a bucket-list safari trip, I couldn’t book that with Royal Caribbean, even if I wanted to. On the other hand, Norwegian offered unique sailings to places like South America, Asia, the South Pacific, and even Antarctica.

Unfortunately, Norwegian Cruise Line offered many itineraries it simply couldn’t execute. For instance, the cruise line came under fire in 2024 when its Antarctica voyage was rerouted after passengers had already boarded the ship.

The cruise had originally been marketed as visiting Paradise Bay on mainland Antarctica, but passengers later learned the itinerary had changed. Instead of visiting the planned destination, the ship sailed to Admiralty Bay, located on King George Island more than 200 miles north of the originally advertised location. Passengers were outraged by the last-minute change, sharing their disdain on social media and with national media outlets.

Many passengers felt misled after booking what they believed would be a mainland Antarctica experience. However, Norwegian said the change was due to new regulatory requirements and reduced sailing speeds in the region.

This isn’t the only example of Norwegian offering itineraries they couldn’t execute. Throughout 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line made an unusually large number of itinerary changes, canceling dozens of cruises and redeploying multiple ships across its fleet.

Entire seasons in regions like Africa, Asia, South America, and Antarctica were scrapped as vessels were reassigned to more profitable Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries, forcing thousands of passengers to rebook or cancel their vacations. Instead of risking my vacation with Norwegian, I returned to booking more reliable itineraries with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises.

Great Stirrup Cay doesn’t compare to Perfect Day at CocoCay

I visited Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, for the first time while cruising aboard Norwegian Viva in 2024. In all honesty, I was shocked at how it compared to Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, but not in a good way!

Great Stirrup Cay was beautiful, but it was very bare bones. The day started with a short tender ride to the island, which was one of the island’s biggest weaknesses. Unlike CocoCay where you can dock, Norwegian’s tendering operations often led to cancelled ports of call during adverse weather.

And while there was plenty of space to relax on the beach, the entire experience was quite boring. In addition, I was surprised by the lack of dining options available, especially compared to Royal Caribbean’s complimentary Snack Shacks available throughout the island. And if you didn’t want to swim in the ocean, there were no pools to enjoy.

Unfortunately, investors have identified this as one of Norwegian’s biggest failures as a company. While Royal Caribbean’s private island has been a huge source of revenue, Norwegian has failed to capitalize on the same success at Great Stirrup Cay.

Activist investor Elliott Management also pointed to Great Stirrup Cay as an underutilized asset, arguing that competitors have transformed their private destinations into powerful revenue drivers and brand differentiators. In contrast, Elliott says Norwegian has been slower to capitalize on its own island, with missed opportunities and delayed execution contributing to weaker performance compared to rivals like Royal Caribbean.

In response, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced major upgrades for Great Stirrup Cay. The cruise line has already opened a brand-new pier that allows ships to dock instead of tender. Other improvements include a new waterpark, a heated pool, and expanded dining options. The cruise line hopes these improvements will help the island compete better with destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Whiplash policy changes

As Norwegian has struggled in recent years, the cruise line has rolled out a series of unpopular policy changes, many of which appear tied to cost-cutting efforts. The frequent adjustments often felt reactive rather than part of a long-term strategy.

One example is the new fee introduced in Norwegian’s main dining rooms. Starting in late 2025, guests are now charged $5 for a second entrée in the main dining room. While some cruise lines have implemented similar policies to reduce food waste, such as Carnival Cruise Line, the change was not well received.

Many loyal NCL cruisers felt the policy change diluted the cruise line’s dining experience, along with the ability to try multiple dishes without worrying about extra charges.

Another unpopular change came shortly after when Norwegian restricted its room service. The cruise line introduced a policy limiting each guest to just one hot item and one cold item per delivery, even though the same service fees still apply. Previously, passengers could order multiple items under the flat delivery charge.

One of the most controversial changes came when Norwegian announced that drink packages could no longer be used at Great Stirrup Cay. For years, Norwegian allowed guests to use their beverage packages on the private island, similar to Royal Caribbean’s policy.

But, the cruise line later announced that drink packages would no longer be valid ashore, and a separate package would need to be purchased for its private island. As expected, this created immediate backlash from cruisers who had already purchased their drink package under the assumption they could use it ashore.

After the criticism, Norwegian delayed the policy implementation and temporarily allowed drink packages to continue working on the island throughout March 2026 while it reevaluates the change.

Individually, these policy changes might seem minor. But taken together, the frequent adjustments create a sense of inconsistency and whiplash for cruisers. Not to mention, all of these policy changes have dampened the onboard experience with more nickel-and-diming for cruisers.

Bait-and-Switch itinerary changes

For me, one of the biggest frustrations with Norwegian Cruise Line has been the bait-and-switch itinerary changes. This issue has been widely documented across social media and online forums, and it’s something I’ve never experienced with Royal Caribbean.

For my booked sailings, Norwegian would alter the itineraries immediately after final payment. As someone who booked sailings because of the ports of call, this was particularly frustrating. My itineraries would often be altered with shortened time in port, dropped ports of call, and added sea days.

Most of the time, Norwegian used the excuse that the itinerary changes were necessary for “fuel optimization” or to “improve the customer experience”.

This kind of poor itinerary planning has also been criticized by investor Elliott Management. The firm argues that the cruise line has developed a pattern of reactive strategy for deployments by pursuing initiatives misaligned with demand and then scrambling to correct course. The investor specifically pointed to frequent last-minute deployment changes and shifting itineraries as examples of inconsistent execution.

Unfortunately, this often leaves cruisers dealing with disappointing and frustrating itinerary adjustments. As someone who books a cruise based largely on the destination, it creates a sense of reduced transparency. I’ve found it increasingly difficult to book Norwegian itineraries knowing they may change after my final payment locks me into the sailing.

Diluted onboard experience and lack of entertainment

Royal Caribbean has some of the best entertainment at sea, especially aboard their newest and biggest cruise ships. Oasis and Icon class vessels feature entertainment that you can’t find on land, let alone on other cruise lines.

In comparison, I’ve often been disappointed by the entertainment offerings when cruising with Norwegian over the years. Some of my cruises lacked entertainment entirely during several nights onboard. And after cancelled ports created more time onboard, this lack of entertainment was especially noticeable.

Part of that shift may be tied to recent cost-cutting decisions. In recent years, Norwegian Cruise Line has scaled back many of its large Broadway-style productions that once helped define the brand’s entertainment lineup.

Several major shows were discontinued across the fleet, and the company has increasingly moved toward shorter, in-house productions rather than licensing expensive Broadway musicals.

While Norwegian has introduced new original shows in place of those productions, the experience often feels less impressive than what competitors are offering. Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean has continued investing heavily in large-scale entertainment with elaborate theaters, dedicated venues, and productions specifically designed for its biggest ships. This is one of the biggest draws for Royal Caribbean, and it truly differentiates the brand from others.

Beautiful new ships that are too crowded and small

Norwegian’s newest ships are undeniably beautiful, but they don’t feel properly designed to handle the number of passengers onboard.

I sailed on Norwegian Viva in 2024, and while the ship was stunning from a design standpoint, it often felt extremely crowded. The pool deck was one of the biggest pain points. There was essentially one small main pool for everyone to use, and it quickly became packed with guests trying to find a spot. Most of the surrounding deck chairs were filled early in the morning, leaving very little space to relax.

Crowding wasn’t limited to the pool deck either. Popular venues like the buffet frequently had long lines, and it often felt like we were constantly battling crowds to grab food, find seating, or navigate busy areas of the ship. For a brand-new vessel, the overall layout felt surprisingly tight and poorly executed.

Moreover, Elliott Management specifically pointed to Norwegian’s newer Prima-class ships, including Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, as examples of questionable strategic decisions.

The investor group argued that Norwegian prioritized smaller ship designs at a time when competitors were building larger vessels capable of carrying more passengers and generating higher onboard revenue. According to Elliott, the smaller size of the Prima class limits Norwegian’s earning potential compared with the mega-ships being deployed by competitors like Royal Caribbean.

Elliott also criticized what it described as excessive spending tied to the launch of the Prima Class. This included a lavish christening event in Reykjavik, where more than 2,600 guests were flown to Iceland for a ceremony featuring pop star Katy Perry. At a time when Norwegian was already struggling with years of weak financial performance, the extravagant media event raised questions about the company’s priorities.

Norwegian Cruise Line agreed with many of these missteps in its latest earnings call

Ultimately, many of the issues I’ve experienced while sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line mirror the concerns now being raised by both investors and the company’s own leadership - especially when compared to competitors like Royal Caribbean.

During a recent earnings call, new CEO John Chidsey acknowledged that Norwegian has suffered from “execution missteps” and internal misalignment in recent years. Leadership admitted the company expanded Caribbean capacity too quickly, before key infrastructure like upgrades at Great Stirrup Cay and supporting pricing strategies were fully in place. The result has been lower cruise fares and increased pressure on revenue despite strong demand for cruising overall.

Executives also acknowledged that Norwegian invested heavily in new ships while underinvesting in technology and revenue management systems that help optimize pricing and bookings. These decisions have limited the company’s ability to fully capitalize on demand compared to competitors.

Norwegian still has many strengths, including a loyal customer base, modern ships, and globally diverse itineraries. But with investors demanding faster improvement and leadership acknowledging past missteps, the cruise line now faces a critical moment.

In an industry where Royal Caribbean has managed to refine its strategy, Norwegian must now prove it can tighten execution and refocus its direction without losing the elements that once made the brand stand out.

Royal Caribbean is renowned for building the world’s biggest and most advanced cruise ships. However, it wasn’t until last year that my husband and I cruised on an Oasis class ship together for the first time.

Although we’ve traveled the world, most of our sailings have been aboard Royal Caribbean’s older and smaller ships. Our very first Royal Caribbean cruise was aboard Mariner of the Seas in Southeast Asia, followed by our engagement trip on Brilliance of the Seas and honeymoon on Rhapsody of the Seas!

Since then, we’ve cruised together in Alaska, Iceland, New Zealand, Norway, the Canary Islands and the Caribbean many times. Typically, we book our cruises based on the itinerary rather than the ship itself. For many years, we never even cared about the ship at all, as the destinations have always been the highlight.

For instance, our most recent Royal Caribbean cruises have been aboard Jewel of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and Serenade of the Seas. So, when my parents invited us to join them on a 4-night cruise aboard the brand-new Utopia of the Seas, we were eager to experience one of Royal Caribbean’s newest ships.

Not to mention, Luke and I had never cruised together on a brand-new ship before! Even more exciting was the fact that my husband, Luke, would experience an Oasis class ship for the first time. While this wasn’t my first time onboard one of the world’s largest cruise ships, this would be our first time together aboard an Oasis class ship.

Overall, Luke was impressed with the entertainment and dining options, but he hated dealing with the constant crowds. We had a wonderful family vacation, but like any trip, it wasn’t perfect. Here’s what he thought of his first Oasis class experience, and whether we will consider booking another one.

Entertainment was a highlight, which normally isn’t the case for Luke

My husband enjoys cruise entertainment, but it’s usually not his favorite aspect of a cruise. His favorite shows are typically comedy acts, and he won’t turn down a magician or variety act. Instead, Luke typically prefers relaxing in a bar or lounge after dinner, followed by an earlier bedtime.

That really aboard Utopia of the Seas, as Luke was blown away by the entertainment! In my opinion, Oasis class ships have some of the best cruise ship entertainment in the industry. I really hyped up the entertainment, and luckily, it didn’t disappoint.

Luke was especially impressed by the Aqua80Too show at the AquaTheatre. He said the diving, acrobatics, technology, and synchronized elements were unlike anything he had seen at sea. Throughout the entire cruise, he kept commenting on how talented the athletes were and how well-executed the production was.

In addition, he loved the ice skating performance on board. We have seen ice shows on Voyager Class ships before, but the YouTopia show felt elevated in both choreography and overall production quality. 

By the end of the sailing, even the late-night comedy show on the final evening turned into one of our favorite shared moments. The comedian had us laughing so hard that we were in tears!

He loved the wide selection of specialty dining options

When Luke and I took our first cruise together, I knew he would love all of the complimentary dining options. What 21-year-old college kid doesn’t love an all-you-can-eat buffet?

During our early years of cruising together, we only dined at the complimentary restaurants. We were newlyweds on a budget, so we didn’t have a lot of extra cash to splurge. Not to mention, there is already so much included in your cruise fare, so we never felt the need to spend extra.

Over the years, we’ve started to splurge on specialty dining experiences. Now, we really appreciate the elevated ambiance, attentive service, and higher-quality cuisine. We’ve never purchased a specialty dining package, but we always try two or three of the specialty restaurants during our cruises.

On Utopia of the Seas, Luke was shocked by the huge selection of dining options. During our four nights aboard, we managed to dine at Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, and Mason Jar. Each restaurant offered a distinct and memorable experience, although Mason Jar did not quite meet our expectations.

Even still, the dining variety available on an Oasis Class ship is especially impressive. With only four nights aboard, there were still venues we did not have time to try, including Izumi Sushi, which is one of Luke’s favorites.

Compared to the older and smaller ships with only a few places to eat, it’s a completely different dining experience aboard an Oasis class ship.

However, we both found the main dining room to be underwhelming on Utopia of the Seas. This has become a common theme for us in recent years. At this point, we include specialty dining in our cruise budget, as we pretty much always splurge now. While the service is always attentive, the cuisine in the main dining room simply does not compare to specialty venues.

Embarkation day was overwhelming, which wasn’t the best first impression

They say first impressions are everything, but the crowds on embarkation day were particularly off-putting for Luke. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that you might experience crowds while cruising aboard an Oasis class ship. These are among the biggest cruise ships in the world, with Utopia of the Seas holding nearly 6,000 passengers at capacity.

However, it seemed like we were battling the crowds from the minute we arrived at Port Canaveral for embarkation. The crowds only continued as we entered the Royal Promenade after boarding and looked for a quick snack. Sorrento’s was packed with passengers lining up for pizza, and we found ourselves weaving through the busy walkway just to get through.

Once we finally escaped the Royal Promenade, we headed to another packed venue: the Windjammer buffet. Luke loves seafood, so he was especially excited to indulge in lobster during the seafood spread. Embarkation day is always one of the busiest times in the Windjammer, and adding lobster to the menu only seemed to amplify the crowds.

Finding a table proved to be the biggest challenge. Traveling with my grandma, who uses a walker, made navigating the busy restaurant even more stressful. What should have been a relaxed first lunch onboard quickly turned into a frustrating experience. We didn't return to the Windjammer after this, as we wanted to avoid the long lines here. 

At the same time, Luke and I were running around frantically trying to get our dining and entertainment reservations.  He said he hadn’t experienced anything like that on embarkation day before, and it wasn’t exactly relaxing. Unfortunately, securing all of your reservations is crucial aboard an Oasis class ship.

With so many people vying for reservations at the same time, you’ll want to ensure you have all of your plans sorted as soon as possible.  For example, we weren’t able to secure entertainment reservations before boarding, and our Diamond Plus BOGO specialty restaurant can only be redeemed onboard. This meant our first few hours of vacation were pretty chaotic.

Luke loved the thoughtful design and amenities

After sailing on many older ships together, Luke immediately noticed how modern Utopia of the Seas felt. Newer ships naturally come with updated technology and state-of-the-art amenities, but he really appreciated the thoughtful details throughout the ship. Beyond the aesthetics, Luke appreciated how intentional and practical many of the features felt.

For instance, he loved the dedicated jogging track on Utopia of the Seas that wraps around the ship. As a runner, he appreciated being able to run easily without weaving through chairs or loungers on the pool deck. Although I am not a runner, I enjoyed being able to walk around the path with my parents and soak in the ocean views.

Moreover, Luke found our interior stateroom to feel contemporary and functional with many thoughtful design elements. Although we booked the cheapest cabin on board, our stateroom was very comfortable for the four nights on board.

In particular, Luke appreciated the USB port and outlet conveniently located on the nightstand. On many older ships, the only outlets are at the vanity, which usually means relying on a portable charger at his bedside. With phones, watches, headphones, and laptops all needing regular charging, that small design upgrade makes a noticeable difference.

Finally, Luke even noticed the improved bathroom layout in our cabin. As a 6’4 cruiser, he loved having a larger walk-in shower with more space. This was certainly a welcome design improvement compared to older ships, which can often feel outdated and very cramped.

We still prefer smaller vessels, although it was a great vacation!

Despite the ship’s many impressive amenities, Luke still prefers cruising on smaller vessels. As destination-focused cruisers, we prefer visiting new regions and booking sailings to new ports of call. 

Unfortunately, Oasis class ships are limited in where they can sail because of their massive size. In addition, you won’t be able to tender ashore while cruising aboard an Oasis class vessel, further limiting the ports of call that you can visit.

If you’re someone who prioritizes unique ports and longer voyages, you won’t be sailing on Oasis class ships very often. For those wanting to experience new places, Oasis class ships never seem to check the boxes. Additionally, Royal Caribbean has been transitioning its Oasis class ships to focus on shorter, party-centric sailings in the Caribbean.

Additionally, cruising together aboard Utopia of the Seas felt completely different than our recent Royal Caribbean cruises, such as our 12-night cruise to Iceland on Jewel of the Seas. As a Radiance class vessel, Jewel of the Seas is about 60% smaller and holds only 2,191 passengers.

With fewer passengers onboard, Luke and I loved being able to see familiar faces throughout our cruise. This built a sense of community, especially on a longer voyage. Luke and I value those small interactions with both crew members and fellow guests.

This isn’t to say we didn’t enjoy the service aboard Utopia of the Seas, as it was very professional. However, the experience felt less personal, likely because of the ship’s larger passenger capacity. This can make it harder to grow those connections during your sailing.

Essentially, our cruise on Utopia of the Seas was extremely fun and memorable. We loved being able to spend time with my family, including my late grandfather who recently passed away. However, we both prefer the smaller, more intimate cruise ships, such as Celebrity’s Edge class ships.

Royal Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world, and it’s also my personal favorite after 33 sailings with the brand.

My first cruise with them was when I was in fifth grade. My grandparents were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary and decided to bring our entire family aboard Enchantment of the Seas. That trip sparked a lifelong love for cruising with Royal Caribbean! 

From that point on, my family continued sailing with the cruise line nearly every year. As we got older, cruising became part of our routine, with spring breaks, summer vacations, and holidays often spent onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise.

By the time I was in high school and college, our family became more destination-focused when booking cruises. We started taking more diverse sailings in Europe and Asia, and cruising allowed us to see more of the world together. Seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris was my biggest travel dream, and it came true when I was just 16 years old aboard Vision of the Seas!

A few years later, I introduced my now-husband to Royal Caribbean during college on Mariner of the Seas for a Southeast Asia cruise. He was immediately hooked on the experience! A few years later, he proposed in Venice while we were cruising the Mediterranean on Brilliance of the Seas. The following year, we honeymooned aboard Rhapsody of the Seas across Greece and Croatia. 

Since then, we have taken bucket-list cruises to Alaska, Iceland, and the Canary Islands with Royal Caribbean. And most recently, I sailed across Asia with my family on Anthem of the Seas from Singapore to Tokyo.

As you can probably tell, cruising with Royal Caribbean has been a constant in my life. I’ve celebrated major milestones onboard, making many of the ships sentimental because of the precious memories made onboard.

But even after trying other cruise lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, I keep coming back to Royal Caribbean. Here’s why Royal Caribbean is my favorite cruise line, even after 33 cruises.

A loyalty program with great perks

One of the biggest reasons I continue cruising with Royal Caribbean is the Crown and Anchor Society loyalty program. I proudly earned Diamond Plus status while I was still in college - I was thrilled to enjoy happy hour after turning 21 in the Diamond Lounge!

After getting married, my husband inherited my Diamond Plus status and started enjoying the same perks. Since then, we’ve also taken full advantage of the reciprocal benefits with Celebrity Cruises to earn Elite Plus status with similar benefits.

One of the best perks we receive is five daily drink vouchers aboard every Royal Caribbean cruise. This alone saves us hundreds of dollars on every sailing, and it’s not something we take for granted. Because of those loyalty drink vouchers, we rarely feel the need to purchase drinks or book a drink package at all.

We also appreciate many of the other benefits, including complimentary Wi-Fi, BOGO specialty dining credit, free photos, complimentary laundry service, and more. I appreciate that Royal Caribbean recognizes my loyalty and provides rewards that are meaningful and valuable.

Looking ahead, I’m especially interested in the new Points Choice program, which will give me even more flexibility to continue building status with the brand that best fits each trip.

Innovative ships that still impress me

Royal Caribbean remains one of the strongest innovators in the cruise industry, and its ships continue to rank among the most advanced in the world. 

I’ll never forget sailing on Mariner of the Seas shortly after she debuted and realizing I could ice skate on a cruise ship! At the time, it felt unbelievable. That moment has always stayed with me, and it forever changed the way I view Royal Caribbean as a brand.

Since then, Royal Caribbean’s innovation has only continued. I love the Oasis and Quantum Class ships, with Quantum Class being my personal favorite in the fleet.

While I’ve only spent a short amount of time onboard an Icon Class ship so far, the ship's massive size and impressive design left me speechless.

Because of this, my family and I gravitate toward the newest and largest ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet. These vessels are packed with amazing amenities and they’re thoughtfully designed. Royal Caribbean’s innovation continues to surprise me, even after decades of cruising with them!

Entertainment is top-notch

Once you start sailing with other cruise lines, it becomes very clear how strong Royal Caribbean’s entertainment really is, especially on newer ships. While other cruise lines are cutting back on entertainment, Royal Caribbean continues to invest and innovate with its onboard entertainment.

In my opinion, Oasis and Icon ships have some of the best cruise ship entertainment in the entire industry. This is one of the biggest highlights when cruising aboard Royal Caribbean’s newest vessels.

To start, AquaTheater shows feature high-diving stunts and aerialist performances that you can barely find on land, let alone on a cruise ship. Additionally, I’ve always loved the ice skating productions in Studio B with Olympic-style jumps and twirls. The performances are truly impressive and unlike anything else that you’ll find on competing cruise lines.

In addition, Royal Caribbean’s Broadway-style productions and cutting-edge technology take onboard entertainment to another level. Some ships even feature full-length musicals, which have been just as enjoyable as the Broadway shows I’ve seen on land.

However, I’ll be honest that some of Royal Caribbean’s older ships could benefit from refreshed entertainment options. You won’t find the wow-factor that the newer vessels have, mostly because the ships lack the dedicated venues needed for the performances. 

Even still, I appreciate that Royal Caribbean consistently offers a nightly headliner show on every cruise, which isn’t always the case on other cruise lines. For instance, I’ve cruised many times with Norwegian Cruise Line where some evenings lacked any entertainment!

Intuitive and impressive ship design

Royal Caribbean’s newest ships are not only beautiful, but they're also intuitively designed. Even on older ships, I don’t experience the same level of crowding I’ve felt on other cruise lines.

The cruise line has always prioritized forward-thinking ship design, and the introduction of neighborhoods on Oasis Class vessels was truly revolutionary for the industry. These distinct spaces help spread guests out, improve crowd flow, and reduce onboard lines. I also love that each area has its own personality, with dedicated dining, bars, lounges, and attractions.

I’m especially excited about Royal Caribbean’s upcoming Discovery Class ships. Rumors about this new ship class had been circulating for years, with expectations that the vessels would be smaller and designed to replace the aging Vision and Radiance Class ships. That long-anticipated class was finally confirmed this week!

The idea of smaller vessels that can access more ports is exciting, which should bring more diverse itineraries to Royal Caribbean’s fleet. 

A global presence 

Historically, Royal Caribbean offered port-intensive and diverse itineraries. However, there’s no denying that the cruise line has shifted more toward shorter Caribbean sailings in recent years, which has reduced the itinerary variety.

Even still, the past two decades of cruising with Royal Caribbean allowed me to see parts of the world I never imagined visiting.

With Royal Caribbean, I’ve walked the streets of Jerusalem, watched my veteran father be deeply moved by the history of Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City, met elephants in Thailand, stood at the Great Wall of China in Beijing, admired the Eiffel Tower in Paris, got engaged in Venice, and finally visited Tenerife as a long-standing bucket-list destination.

Being able to experience so much of the world with Royal Caribbean has been a huge blessing in my life. Those experiences have absolutely shaped how I travel and how I see the world. Cruising with Royal Caribbean inspired me to study abroad on Semester at Sea, where I spent 100 days traveling the world in college on a cruise ship. 

Broad appeal to many demographics

Over the years, I've grown to appreciate how Royal Caribbean has been a good fit for our family at every stage of life. When we were kids, the ships had more than enough activities to keep everyone entertained. The onboard thrills were always so impressive and exciting!

As we grew into teenagers and young adults, cruising together was still our family’s preferred way to travel and spend time together. Royal Caribbean gave us lasting memories, all while allowing us to explore the world as a family.

Whether that means relaxing by the pool, enjoying a show at night, or just spending time together without the stress of constant logistics, cruising makes multigenerational travel easy and convenient.

Now, as adult children traveling with parents in their 60s, Royal Caribbean continues to be our top choice. The ships are accessible and comfortable, with a good balance between activity and downtime. Everyone can move at their own pace, which is perfect for multigenerational travel.

For example, we cruised with my 90-year-old grandparents aboard Utopia of the Seas last winter. It was an incredibly special trip, as it ended up being my grandfather’s final cruise before he passed away later that winter. It’s rare to find a vacation that still works as families change, but Royal Caribbean has continued to fit our lives over time.

Perfect Day at CocoCay is the best private island experience

When it comes to private island experiences, Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay is in a league of its own. I remember visiting the island as a kid, when it felt pretty bleak and forgettable, long before its massive transformation. I was shocked the first time I visited the revamped island after the pandemic. 

And after experiencing Amber Cove with Carnival and Great Stirrup Cay with Norwegian, I can confidently say that Royal Caribbean’s private island stands out as the best. Overall, the island feels well designed and everything is spread out nicely, which makes it feel less crowded and easier to enjoy. 

There are many reasons to love Perfect Day at CocoCay, but one of the biggest reasons is how inclusive it feels. I love that I can use my loyalty drink vouchers and internet package on the island, just like I do onboard the ship. 

The included food options are also excellent with multiple options throughout the island. Where else can you enjoy unlimited funnel cakes? In this way, I really don’t feel nickel-and-dimed on Royal Caribbean's private island, even if there are upgraded experiences that you can splurge on.

In comparison, other cruise lines charge extra for food and drinks on their private islands, which adds up quickly. You also need to purchase separate drink packages to use ashore, which is frustrating and feels less inclusive. 

Consistently strong service

Over my 33 cruises, I’ve consistently had excellent service on Royal Caribbean. I’ve never once felt that service was lacking or disappointing. From dining room servers and cabin stewards to bartenders, the crew delivers an attentive, professional experience.

For instance, you never have to go far for a drink, as bar servers are always happy to help. Service always feels efficient without being rushed, and crew members are clearly well-trained and professional. After cruising with other brands, I've noticed Royal Caribbean's high level of service and consistency even more.

Smooth operations and logistics

This is something I didn’t fully appreciate until I started cruising more with other cruise lines. In my experience, Royal Caribbean is simply better at onboard logistics, and the entire ship runs like a well-oiled machine.

For me, this is most apparent on culturally immersive sailings, such as my recent cruise that visited Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea. From the beginning, Royal Caribbean clearly communicated what was required for embarkation, including visas and printed documents. Everyone onboard understood when passports needed to be turned in and how to obtain tender tickets.

For instance, when Jeju Island was experiencing a downpour of rain, Royal Caribbean preemptively offered a refund for our excursion if we decided to cancel. They also provided partial compensation due to the weather, which is completely out of their control anyway!

On the other hand, I’ve found that Norwegian often struggles with operational planning and logistics. Processes like lining up early in the morning for tender tickets, instead of distributing them the day before, don’t make sense to me. There also tends to be more confusion onboard Norwegian’s sailings, especially when itineraries or ports of call change. 

By comparison, Royal Caribbean seems to be more proactive than reactive. Communication tends to be transparent and plans are well explained. Logistics are easy to follow and consistent across the fleet, which I appreciate.

Finally, I also don’t experience the same bait-and-switch feeling with Royal Caribbean. For instance, I’ve had multiple Norwegian sailings with changed or dropped ports of call after final payment, which can be frustrating. On the other hand, Royal Caribbean has never given me that same impression, and I trust the brand with my vacation.

Many cruisers consider booking a refundable fare when reserving their cruise vacation, but is the added cost worth the flexibility? 

As an avid cruiser and someone with a degree in actuarial science and statistics, I’m always interested in the math behind everyday decisions. I can't help that my mind is mathematically wired! As you might imagine, this curiosity extends to cruise pricing and travel planning. I love to strategize on the best and easiest ways to save money, and I always aim to make the most informed decisions.

This has included one of the most debated booking questions: Is a refundable cruise deposit worth it?

For many years, I only booked non-refundable deposits to save money. However, my life was a lot more predictable back then. For some context, my husband is in the military, which means our future plans are often very unpredictable. Deployments, cross-country moves, and training are constantly floating around our busy schedule.

Booking a cruise two years in the future with my husband carries a much lower probability of actually happening. In comparison, if I book a cruise with my parents, my sister, or friends, there is a higher likelihood that it actually happens as planned.

Because of that uncertainty, I almost always book refundable deposits when my husband and I are cruising together. As much as I’d love to plan trips years in advance with certainty, that just isn’t realistic for us.

However, I had never actually considered assigning real probabilities to my decision-making. Instead of just considering whether I’ll probably take the cruise or not, I realized I could try to determine the likelihood of a cruise happening. With this, I could make more informed decisions about whether a refundable fare was worth the added cost. 

For example, we booked a Celebrity cruise to India that was scheduled for this fall, and we chose a refundable deposit. Luckily, our MEI travel agent was able to provide a refundable fare with the agency’s group rates, so the cost was minimal for a refundable fare.

But, India experienced some geopolitical tensions over the summer, so we decided the trip no longer felt like the best option for us. We canceled the cruise and rebooked a new sailing to New Zealand instead. Had we booked a non-refundable deposit, we would have either lost a $900 deposit or paid roughly $200 to switch itineraries (which is what most likely would have happened).

For our New Zealand cruise, we again booked a refundable deposit, even though we were only six months away from the sail date. However, this cruise went as planned (and it was amazing!). In the end, we paid a little extra for flexibility and peace of mind for this itinerary, but didn’t actually use the option to cancel.

Looking back, we probably could have booked a non-refundable deposit for our New Zealand cruise. However, we wanted to have the peace of mind that we wouldn’t lose money if we had to change our plans again.

When thinking more about this topic, I recently came across a fascinating thread on the Royal Caribbean Blog Forum where cruisers tried to answer this exact question using math and probability. It’s a great example of how thinking just a little more analytically can help you make a better booking decision. As a data analyst myself, I loved reading through everyone's theories!

So, if you’ve ever wondered whether paying extra for a refundable deposit is actually worth it, you’re in the right place. Here's how you can consider taking a more strategic approach to your decision-making process. 

Taking a mathematical approach to non-refundable deposits

In the forum thread titled “Refundable or Non-Refundable Deposit: A Mathematical Approach,” JFCruise aimed to analyze whether a refundable or non-refundable deposit made more sense financially. 

The poster wrote: “I think this might be one of the most common questions 'Is the Refundable Deposit Worth It'? And I was curious to see how 'worth it' it was, using math and probabilities. So, I fired up Excel and tried to figure out when it's worth it.”

Essentially, JFCruise was looking to determine the breakeven point where paying extra for the refundable deposit makes financial sense. Depending on a person's probability of canceling their cruise and the cost of the refundable fare, sometimes the math doesn't support refundable fares. Let's dig into this a little further!

How Royal Caribbean handles non-refundable deposits

Before diving further into the math, it’s important to clarify how refundable and non-refundable deposits work on Royal Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean offers both refundable and non-refundable fares, each with different pricing and flexibility. In general, non-refundable fares will be the cheapest option, but they come with risk.

If you cancel before final payment, your deposit is not returned and considered forfeited. However, you do have an option to change your sailing for a penalty, usually $100 per person. 

On the other hand, refundable fares are more expensive, but provide you with flexibility and peace of mind. If you cancel your cruise before final payment, you get your deposit back in full and no money is lost. 

Let’s look at an example

To determine whether a refundable deposit is worth the extra cost, JFCruiser introduced a simple idea borrowed from probability theory, known as expected cost. In plain English, this means looking at what a decision is likely to cost you on average, based on how likely you are to cancel your cruise.

One example in the thread looked at an 8-night cruise for two people with these numbers:

Non-refundable deposit (NRD): $250 per person = $500 total "at risk" if you cancel before final payment

Refundable option premium (RD): $250 more per stateroom (the “extra” you pay upfront for flexibility)

From there, the math is pretty simple at a high level:

1. If you book non-refundable and later cancel, you lose $500.
   1. So the “risk cost” = ($500 × probability of cancellation).
2. If you book refundable and don’t cancel, you pay $250 extra for flexibility you didn’t use.
   1. So the “wasted premium” = ($250 × probability of NOT canceling).
3. The breakeven point is when those two expected amounts are equal.
   1. Our equation: $500 × (probability of cancellation) = $250 × (probability of NOT canceling)

Let’s simply assume the “probability of NOT canceling” = (100% − probability of canceling). With a little algebra, this equals a 33% probability of canceling, for this example. 

In other words, once your chance of canceling is more than 33.33%, paying an extra $250 for a refundable fare starts to make sense financially. As you are more uncertain about taking your cruise, the added flexibility is more worth the cost. On the flip side, if your chance of canceling is less than 33.33%, non-refundable fares are usually the better option.

Let’s look at some other scenarios comparing the refundable and non-refundable logic

Royal Caribbean uses dynamic pricing for its cruise fares, meaning the price difference between refundable and nonrefundable options can change frequently.

To make this easier to visualize, here are a few simplified scenarios using real-world numbers. It’s important to consider that the deposit itself isn’t a “loss” if you take the cruise, as it’s applied to the fare. The only money at risk with a refundable booking is the extra amount you paid for flexibility.

Example 1: Very high chance of canceling (80%) | Low chance of sailing (20%)

• Deposit at risk with non-refundable: $500
• Extra cost for refundable: $250

Non-refundable expected loss: (0.80 * $500) = $400

Refundable expected loss: (0.20 * $250) = $50

Conclusion: If there’s an 80% chance you’ll cancel, booking a non-refundable fare means you’re very likely to lose most of that $500 deposit. Paying $250 for a refundable option dramatically reduces that risk. In this case, refundable clearly makes the most financial sense.

Example 2: Very low chance of canceling (5%) | Very high chance of sailing (95%)

• Deposit at risk with non-refundable: $500
• Extra cost for refundable: $250

Non-refundable expected loss: (0.05 * $500) = $25

Refundable expected loss: (0.95 * $250) = $237.50

Conclusion: If you’re almost certain you’ll take the cruise, the refundable option becomes more of an unnecessary expense. You’re far more likely to sail than cancel your cruise, meaning you’ll almost certainly pay extra for flexibility you won’t use. Here, non-refundable is the smarter choice.

Example 3: Refundable costs are very similar to the non-refundable deposit at risk

• Deposit at risk: $500
• Extra cost for refundable: $550

Break-even probability: (Cancellation probability x 500) = (1 - Cancellation probability) x 550 

This equals: 550 / (500+550) = 52.38%

Conclusion: In this scenario, you’d need more than a 52.38% chance of canceling your cruise for the refundable option to make sense. If your plans are fairly solid, booking a non-refundable fare is usually the better option. If your plans are truly uncertain, refundable may still be worth it. Moreover, if you're someone who wants peace of mind with your deposit, the added flexibility and protection could be worthwhile. 

Example 4: Refundable premium is much higher than the deposit

• Deposit at risk: $500
• Extra cost for refundable: $1,000

Breakeven probability = (Cancellation probability x 500) = (1 - Cancellation probability) x 1000

Equation: 1000 / (500 + 1000) = 66.67%

Conclusion: In this scenario, the refundable option only makes sense if there’s a very high chance of canceling. Mathematically, you’d need roughly a two-thirds (about 67%) or greater likelihood that you’ll cancel before final payment for the refundable option to break even.

If your plans are even moderately solid, you’re paying significantly more for flexibility than the amount you’re actually protecting. This makes the non-refundable option the more practical choice in most cases.

A simple mathematical way to think about refundable fares

Spreadsheets might not excite you in the same way they do for me, and that's totally fair! So, if you’re not looking to get your calculator out every time you book a cruise, here’s a simplified approach to determine if a non-refundable fare is worth the potential savings for you.

At a high level, you'll want to ask yourself three questions:

1. How much is the deposit I could lose?
2. How much extra am I paying for a refundable fare?
3. How likely am I to cancel before final payment?

Here’s a simple example. Let’s say your non-refundable deposit is $500 and the refundable fare costs $600 more.

In this case, you’re paying more to protect less. From a purely mathematical standpoint, the refundable option only makes sense if there’s a high chance you’ll cancel (more than 54.50%)

Now flip the numbers. If the non-refundable deposit is $500 and the refundable premium is $200, the math is more favorable towards a refundable deposit. In this case, the breakeven point is 28.60%, and you’d only need to believe there’s a 28.6% chance you’ll cancel

In this case, the math becomes much more favorable toward refundable, especially if you’re booking far in advance or dealing with uncertain schedules.

What caveats should we consider?

Many cruisers in the comment section were intrigued by the analytical approach to the discussion of non-refundable vs refundable fares. In fact, many also provided some helpful caveats and real-world considerations.

To start, several people noted that the fare difference between refundable and non-refundable cruise fares matters more than the deposit itself. Paying an extra $200 to protect a $500 deposit is very different than paying an extra $800 on your cruise fare to protect the same amount.

Others pointed out that timing plays a role during the decision-making process. As cruises get closer to final payment, the price difference between refundable and non-refundable fares often shrinks. As the sail date approaches, most people have a better idea of whether they'll be able to sail. 

A few commenters also mentioned the role of travel insurance, noting that many policies reimburse non-refundable deposits for covered reasons. For travelers who always carry insurance, non-refundable fares can feel like the better choice.

For example, my annual travel insurance policy with Allianz has reimbursed me for nonrefundable deposits in the past. When my husband was deployed and I had to cancel a trip, his deployment qualified as a covered reason under the policy.

Of course, there is also an emotional aspect to making this decision. Even when we try to rationalize our decisions, our emotions can take precedence. For example, even if the math favors choosing a non-refundable deposit, some people simply prefer the peace of mind with refundable fares to protect their deposit.

Is a refundable deposit worth it?

There’s no universal rule for whether a refundable deposit is worth it. It ultimately comes down to the details of your travel plans and personal situation.

For cruisers with predictable schedules and high confidence they’ll be able to sail, non-refundable deposits often make the most sense. If you have a travel insurance policy, this will also provide extra protection for covered reasons.

For those booking far in advance, choosing a refundable deposit can be the best option. This is especially true if you’re juggling uncertain work schedules or have a more unpredictable life (like me). For some, the peace of mind is always worth the added cost for a refundable deposit, even if the math doesn't support the decision. 

Although I’ve typically booked non-refundable deposits in the past, I’ve definitely leaned towards refundable fares in recent years. I’ve discovered that booking refundable group rates with my MEI travel agent is only marginally more expensive than the cruise line’s price.

For instance, I was able to book a refundable group rate with drinks and internet included on my last Celebrity cruise. The price I paid was only a few hundred dollars more than Celebrity was offering directly online. The small cost was absolutely worthwhile in this case!

After a 12-night cruise to New Zealand with my husband, I flew directly to South Dakota to spend a week working in the office. While I normally work remotely from Florida, I always appreciate the opportunity to be in the office and connect with coworkers in person. 

In addition to freelance writing, I also work as a data analyst for my regular job. This meant I needed to plan for my New Zealand cruise and a week in the office while strategizing my packing plans. 

Of course, I absolutely love to shop for my outfits before vacation. Yes, I have a closet full of clothes, but it’s so fun to pick out new cruise outfits for any upcoming vacation. For me, it’s all part of the fun of planning and preparing for a vacation.

All of this meant that my back-to-back trips of cruising to New Zealand, and then visiting the office for work, created a unique packing challenge. As such, I needed to prioritize pieces that could transition easily from cruise wear to office attire. Every item had to earn its place in my suitcase, which meant focusing on versatility rather than packing separate outfits for each part of the trip.

It’s also important to note that my office environment is fairly casual. For example, jeans are definitely considered office appropriate. Needless to say, I wasn’t planning to pack my pencil skirt or blazer!

Moreover, New Zealand and South Dakota were both on the chilly side (although northern New Zealand was warmer). Because of the cooler weather, most of these recommendations would be for cold-weather cruising. This would include destinations like Alaska, Norway, Northern Europe, New England, New Zealand, Iceland, and more.

If you’re looking to invest in clothes that feel stylish and practical for both an upcoming cruise and time in the office, consider this your go-to shopping list. Below are my top outfit recommendations for women that transition seamlessly from cruise vacation to office attire.

Note: If you purchase from our Amazon links below, we receive a small commission. This is no extra cost to you, but it does help support our website. You can always check out our Amazon Storefront for all cruise essentials and must-haves.
 

1. Long Sleeve Swing Dress

Link: MOLERANI Women's Casual Simple Long Sleeve T-Shirt Loose Dress

Price: $19.99

One of my favorite outfits to bring on a cruise is a long sleeve swing dress. It’s comfortable, easy to wear, and works well for a variety of settings. Whether I’m walking around a port of call or getting dressed for a day in the office, this is one of my go-to outfits. 

I wore this style of dress multiple times during our cruise and packed it in a few different colors because it's so versatile. It was especially perfect for our sailaway from Sydney, Australia, which I wore later that evening as a cute, comfortable dinner outfit. Once I returned to South Dakota, I continued wearing the same dress to the office, but I styled it with leggings and boots for colder weather. It ended up being one of the most practical outfits that I packed.

2. Denim Jacket

Link: Amazon Essentials Women's Jean Jacket (Available in Plus Size)

Price: $23.90

Another classic piece in my cruise wardrobe is a denim jacket. I love how easy it is to throw on when exploring ports on cooler days or during breezy evenings onboard. It’s one of those layers that works with almost anything and can be dressed up or down while still providing just enough warmth.

A denim jacket like this is also a staple in my office wardrobe. In the summer, I often layer it over a lightweight dress for an easy, comfortable work outfit. In the winter, it works just as well paired with a casual top and darker trousers for a typical workday. It’s a versatile, reliable piece that every woman should have, in my opinion!

3. Romper with Pants

Link: PRETTYGARDEN Jumpsuits for Women 2026 Spring Summer Casual Dressy Short Sleeve Romper Airport Vacation Travel Outfits

Price: $29.99

Rompers are one of my go-to outfits for cruises because they’re effortless to wear and always look put-together, especially when paired with a simple set of heels. Whether I need an easy dinner outfit onboard or something comfortable for exploring a port, a romper works perfectly. I find it can be dressed up or down with just a few accessories.

I’m also a big fan of wearing rompers like this back at the office. I stick to styles with pants to keep things work-appropriate, and they’re easy to layer for a more professional look. I often pair my romper with a denim jacket or a light sweater. This outfit is easy for the office while still being comfortable enough for a full workday.

4. Lightweight, Button Down Cardigan

Link: Yincro Women's Lightweight Crewneck Cardigan Long Sleeve Soft Knit Cardigans Sweater

Price: $14.99

My mom’s number one rule for cruise packing is always to bring a light sweater. It hardly takes up any space in your suitcase, but it’s one of those items you’ll end up using constantly. A nice cardigan or sweater is an easy layer to throw on in the evenings or inside the ship, and it can quickly pull an outfit together. If you tend to get cold easily, cruise ship air conditioning can feel especially brutal, so a light sweater is a must-have.

In addition, a lightweight cardigan is also something I wear all the time back in the office. It layers easily over just about anything while also adding warmth, without feeling too bulky. In the summer, I love tossing a light cardigan over a dress for an easy, comfortable work outfit that still feels appropriate for the office.

5. Sweatshirt Dress

Link: KISSMODA Womens Sweatshirt Dress Fall Long Sleeve Pullover Tops Patchwork Casual Mini Dresses

Price: $19.99

One of my favorite cruise outfits for New Zealand was this casual sweatshirt dress from Amazon. It was warm, cozy, and easy to wear with a pair of leggings and white sneakers for sea days and cooler port stops. It was one of those pieces I kept reaching for because it was comfortable, but still looked cute.

I’ve also worn this dress plenty since getting back home. In the office, I layer it with leggings and heeled boots to make it feel a bit more professional for the office. It’s been perfect for winter workdays in the cold Midwest, as it’s cozy all day, but still work-appropriate.

6. Dark Wash Jeans

Link: Sidefeel Women's Wide Leg Jeans High Waisted Stretchy Raw Hem Zimbaplatinum Denim Pants

Price: $39.99

Jeans are a great option to bring on a cruise, whether you decide to wear them for dinner or during your time ashore. Whether you pair the jeans with a dressier top or a casual t-shirt, jeans are versatile for your vacation. I prefer a looser pair of jeans when cruising, as there’s nothing worse than a tight pair of pants after a week of cruise food!

For my office, jeans are acceptable for work attire. I try to avoid jeans with lighter wash or holes to maintain professionalism. This style is a great option to wear to the office, especially in the cooler winter months to stay warm!

7. Casual Trousers

Link: IWOLLENCE Women's Wide Leg Pants with Pockets High Waist Adjustable Knot Loose Casual Trousers Business Work Casual Pants

Price: $19.99

If you’re not really a jeans person, casual trousers can be a great alternative for both a cruise and the office. A looser pair of trousers is comfortable but still looks classy. This makes it easy to wear for dinner onboard, or as a more put-together outfit while exploring a port, especially in cooler weather. They’re also easy to style up or down depending on your plans for the day.

Trousers are also a staple for my trips to the office. A pair of trousers is something I can wear to work year-round, whether I’m pairing them with a blouse for a more classic office look, or a simple top for an easier workday outfit. They’re comfortable and versatile!

8. Midi Dress

Link: BTFBM Womens Summer 2025 Casual Midi Maxi Dresses Lightweight Short Sleeve V Neck Elastic Waist Boho Beach Dress Pockets

Price: $49.99

Another cruise staple for me is a midi dress. This is one of those items that I’ll wear both ashore during the day and again for dinner onboard, just styled a little differently. A change of shoes can make all the difference from casual daytime outfit to a dressier look at night.

Like most of my cruise clothes, I usually go for a looser fit so it stays comfortable all day. Most importantly, it doesn’t feel restrictive after enjoying all that great cruise food!

For the office, midi dresses are especially nice in the spring and summer when the weather starts to warm up. While I didn’t really wear my midi dress during colder winter days at work, they’re absolutely something I pack and reach for once the weather starts to warm up. I find midi dresses are easy, comfortable, and work well for the office.

9. Flowy Skirt

Link: HUSKARY Women's Summer Casual Elegant Smock Layered Tiered Maxi Skirt High Waisted A Line Flowy Long Skirts with Pockets

Price: $18.99

While I’m not really a fan of pencil skirts for the office, I do love a flowy skirt! This style is lightweight and comfortable, which makes it especially easy to wear on a cruise, particularly in warmer destinations where staying cool is important. The relaxed fit makes it practical for walking around port or spending a full day exploring without feeling restricted.

Paired with a cute top, a flowy skirt creates an effortless outfit that works just as well for a casual day ashore as it does for dinner onboard. At the office, I like to wear a flowy skirt with a sweater in the fall or spring. It's cute and stylish pretty much all year! It’s a great addition to any cruise or office wardrobe. 

10. Oversized Turtleneck Sweater

Link: LILLUSORY Women's Oversized Batwing Sweaters 2025 Fall Outfits Trendy Crewneck Knit Side Slit Fashion Pullover Tops

Price: $32.99

You might not immediately think to pack a turtleneck sweater for a cruise, but if you’re sailing to cooler destinations like Alaska, Norway, or Iceland, warmer layers are a must. A turtleneck is great for chilly days exploring ports of call and also works well paired with jeans for dinner onboard.

During the winter, I basically live in oversized sweaters when I go to the office. I usually wear my sweaters with a pair of leggings and heeled boots for a comfortable, but still office-appropriate look. You could just as easily pair this type of sweater with jeans or dress pants for a more traditional work outfit, which makes it a really versatile piece to have in your closet.

Royal Caribbean has launched a new feature inside its mobile app called Vacay Market, and it’s not your typical cruise souvenir shop!

Vacay Market is a built-in shopping marketplace that you can now find directly on the Royal Caribbean app. The new marketplace allows users to purchase everything from Royal Caribbean–branded merchandise to vacation outfits, beauty products, kids’ clothing, toys, luggage, and pickleball gear!

Even better, it’s all shipped directly to your home, meaning you don’t need to be onboard now to purchase Royal Caribbean merchandise.

The new Vacay Market appears as a pop-up on the Royal Caribbean app’s homepage. Royal Caribbean describes Vacay Market as a place to “shop for stunning fashion, gifts, branded merch, and travel essentials,” with the added perk of direct, free shipping.

Vacay Market has hundreds of items available for purchase already, making it the perfect place to shop before your next Royal Caribbean cruise.

What you can buy from Vacay Market

Vacay Market is divided into different categories, including Branded Merch, Royal Badges, Apparel, Travel Essentials, Accessories, Home, Beauty & Wellness, Kids, Toys & Games, and Footwear.

While I expected to find mostly Royal Caribbean merchandise, I was surprised by the wide range of items available in Vacay Market. It felt more like shopping on Amazon, with a mix of cruise essentials and vacation necessities.

Of course, this is a great place to stock up on branded Royal Caribbean merch with the classic Crown & Anchor logo. You can find insulated tumblers, wine cups, notebooks, cosmetic cases, tote bags, passport wallets made from real leather, jewelry organizers, fanny packs, cooler totes, embroidered fleece blankets, and more. 

Prices range from the low $20s for smaller items up to $70 for premium drinkware sets and specialty bags. You can even find pickleball equipment, including branded paddles and pickleball bags priced around $55–$60.

Vacay Market offers Royal Badges to bring home your cruise memories

One of the more interesting sections within Vacay Market is the Royal Badges collection. This appears to be Royal Caribbean’s attempt to turn cruise experiences into physical, collectible souvenirs.

Royal Badges include items like pins, T-shirts, premium baseball hats, and shot glasses, all themed around specific destinations or experiences. Currently, Perfect Day at CocoCay is the only available badge option, although we can likely expect to find more options in the future!

For example, the Royal Badges Pin Set of 2 is priced at $14 and labeled as “exclusively available in app” for purchase. The product description leans heavily into collectibility, describing the pins as keepsakes that are meant to showcase “earned badges and bragging rights” from past voyages.

The Vacay Market also includes apparel, beauty, home, and more

In addition to branded merchandise and Royal Badge items, Vacay Market also offers apparel, beauty products, and travel essentials for your upcoming cruise. The apparel section includes dresses, cover-ups, sarongs, jumpsuits, swimsuits, polos, and rashguards, with many items priced between $68 and $98. However, some items are priced close to $200.

Additionally, footwear includes flip-flops, slides, jelly sandals, handmade leather shoes, and loafers, with several items priced between $100–$200.

In the Beauty & Wellness section, you'll find plenty of travel-size beauty products and cruise must-haves. Options include sunscreen sticks and sprays, aloe cooling mists, grooming kits, oral care bundles, hair tools, essential oil rollerballs, and toiletry kits. Many of these items are practical for cruising, although you might find them priced higher in the Vacay Market than other retailers.

Finally, kids’ offerings include cruise outfits, UPF-rated swimwear, toys, puzzles, building block sets, STEM kits, kids’ tablets, headphones, and games.

How checkout works

Purchases from the Vacay Market are completed entirely inside the Royal Caribbean app. Items are shipped to your home and standard shipping is listed as free. The app indicates that shipping is typically within one to five business days after purchase.

In addition, some items will be fulfilled by third-party vendors rather than Royal Caribbean directly. Items will indicate which vendor will fulfill the order. Payment is handled like standard e-commerce checkout, with sales tax applied depending on location.

Some items are labeled app-exclusive, including many of the Royal Badge items, so be sure to check your Royal Caribbean app if you’re interested in beginning your collection!