Royal Caribbean has revived one of its most rewarding loyalty promotions: double Crown & Anchor points. For a limited time, cruisers can move up the loyalty ladder twice as fast, making this a rare opportunity to reach the next loyalty tier sooner.

With the new Double Points offer, Crown and Anchor members can earn 2 points per night in a standard cabin, 4 points per night when cruising solo or staying in a suite, and 6 points per night when cruising solo in a suite.

For cruisers within reach of the next loyalty tier, a little planning could make this promotion even more lucrative. For instance, choosing the right cabin, adjusting who stays in each room, or taking a quick weekend cruise could help you reach the next Crown and Anchor tier even faster.

The promotion applies to new bookings made between July 21 and July 31, 2026, for eligible cruises departing from September 1, 2026, through April 30, 2027. Each member can use the promotion on up to two cruises, while Transatlantic and Transpacific sailings are excluded.

The Double Points promotion might seem straightforward, but the details of your reservation can significantly change how many points you earn. If you’re trying to make the most of this latest promotion, here are three booking strategies to consider.

How Royal Caribbean cruise points normally work

With Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society, you’ll earn points based on the number of nights you cruise. As you earn more points, you’ll receive more lucrative benefits and perks when cruising with Royal Caribbean.

Under the standard earning structure, members receive one Cruise Point for every night sailed. Staying in an eligible suite or cruising alone in a double-occupancy cabin increases that to 2 points per night. A solo traveler staying in a suite receives 3 points per night.

Under Royal Caribbean’s Double Points promotion, members earn the following totals:

• A standard cabin earns 2 points per night.
• A solo traveler earns 4 points per night.
• A suite guest earns 4 points per night.
• A solo traveler in a suite earns 6 points per night.

Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society benefits become substantially more valuable at the higher tiers. Depending on their status, top-tier members can receive perks such as daily drink vouchers, complimentary internet access, priority services, reserved entertainment seating, complimentary photos, and access to exclusive onboard venues.

In addition, your Royal Caribbean loyalty status does not expire, so the points earned during this promotion can provide benefits for years to come. That is why cruisers who are close to Diamond, Diamond Plus, or Pinnacle status might be interested in maximizing the offer.

Crown and Anchor has six published membership levels:

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

Let’s dig into the three different strategies for optimizing your earned points during this promotion.

1. Book a suite as a solo traveler

If you’re looking to maximize the number of points you can earn with this offer, you should consider booking a suite as a solo traveler.

Under the usual Crown and Anchor earning structure, a solo traveler in a suite receives 3 points per night: one base point, one for staying in a suite, and one for cruising solo. With the new Double Points promotion, your earnings will double to 6 points per night.

This means a 7-night solo suite cruise would earn 42 points! By comparison, the same sailing in a standard cabin, when shared with another guest, would normally earn just 7 points.

Earning 42 points could make a major difference in your Crown & Anchor status. For instance, a Gold member with 3 points would finish with 45 points and earn Platinum status. Similarly, a Platinum cruiser with 38 points would finish with 80 points and become Diamond.

Of course, this strategy will not make sense for every budget. Suites are already very expensive, and booking one alone can increase the cost even more. Also, paying thousands of dollars extra just to earn more points won’t be worth it for most cruisers.

However, if you were already thinking about booking a solo suite, this promotion makes the decision more rewarding. It could also help justify upgrading when the price difference between a balcony cabin and a Junior Suite is reasonable.

2. Book the household’s points leader in a cabin alone

Families traveling together can also use the promotion to help one person reach the next loyalty tier faster. One strategy is to book the household member with the most Cruise Points in a cabin alone, allowing that person to earn the solo bonus.

Here’s how it works. Let’s say your family of four is cruising together, and one spouse has more cruise points than the other. Instead of booking everyone in a single cabin, the family could reserve two rooms. The person with the most Cruise Points would be booked alone in one cabin, while the other adult and children would be booked in the second.

Under the promotion, the cruiser with more points would earn 4 points per night in the solo cabin. On a 7-night cruise, that person would receive 28 points instead of the 14 they would earn while sharing a standard cabin.

Because Royal Caribbean allows eligible family members in the same household to receive equivalent Crown & Anchor status, earning a higher tier can benefit the whole family. Although the points remain with the person who earned them, a linked spouse or significant other, along with verified children under 18 who share the same address, can usually receive the same tier status.

Once the accounts are properly linked, qualifying household members can take advantage of the higher status and its benefits, even though their individual point totals may be different.

There are a few exceptions to consider. For instance, Royal Caribbean has separate rules for Pinnacle Club, and children do not inherit Pinnacle status from a parent. Before booking, you’ll also want to make sure all eligible household members are correctly linked through the Crown and Anchor Society.

Moreover, the cost of booking two cabins needs to make sense financially. This strategy may be difficult to justify if the second room adds thousands of dollars to the vacation. However, it could work well for a family that already wants more space or was planning to reserve two cabins anyway.

For example, if you are considering one balcony cabin for your family, compare its price with the cost of booking two interior cabins. The total price might be similar, allowing you to gain extra space and privacy while taking advantage of the Double Points offer.

3. Sneak in a weekend cruise

If a solo suite or two-cabin family arrangement is too expensive, the easiest strategy might be adding a short weekend cruise to your vacation plans.

Royal Caribbean says members can take advantage of the Double Points offer on up to two eligible cruises. Someone who already plans to book a longer vacation could use the second opportunity for an inexpensive 3-night or 4-night getaway cruise.

Even a short sailing can provide a useful boost to your loyalty points balance. For instance, a 3-night cruise would earn 6 points in a standard cabin. A solo cruiser or suite guest could receive 12 points, while a solo traveler in a suite could collect 18 points over one weekend.

On a 4-night cruise, those totals increase to 8, 16 and 24 points, respectively. While it may not seem like much, that extra boost could put the next loyalty tier within reach.

Consider a cruiser with 68 points who needs only 12 more to reach Diamond status. By booking one qualifying 3-night solo cruise during the Double Points promotion, they could earn exactly the 12 points needed to reach that next tier.

Diamond members receive four complimentary drink vouchers each day on Royal Caribbean cruises. For some cruisers, this benefit could eliminate the need to purchase a drink package on future sailings and save hundreds of dollars per cruise.

Short cruises can also require fewer vacation days and may have lower starting fares than weeklong itineraries. Cruisers who live within driving distance of a Royal Caribbean home port are in the best position to capitalize, as airfare and pre-cruise hotel expenses can quickly add up.

Check the terms before booking

You’ll want to review the terms and conditions of this new promotion before trying any of these strategies.

Royal Caribbean’s Double Points offer applies only to new reservations, so existing reservations do not qualify. Members must include a valid, verified Crown & Anchor number on the reservation. Once the reservation is paid in full, qualifying points should post within 30 days after the sailing ends.

Also, the bonus points cannot be transferred through Royal Caribbean’s Points Choice program. Submitting a transfer request would forfeit the promotional points. Complimentary cruises, casino offers, employee cruises, seminar rates, and certain reduced travel-agent rates are also excluded from the offer. The promotion is not applicable to the Best Price Guarantee, either.

Fortunately, the Double Points promotion can be combined with several other offers, including BOGO60, Kids Sail Free, Free Third and Fourth Guests, eligible onboard credit, NextCruise offers, instant savings, restricted discounts (such as Senior, Military, or Resident), Crown and Anchor discounts, and shareholder benefits.

Ultimately, the right strategy will depend on your budget, current Crown & Anchor status, and your travel plans. Booking a solo suite will maximize the number of points you can earn on a single cruise, while reserving two cabins can help the person closest to the next tier get there faster. If neither option makes sense, a short weekend cruise can still provide a boost toward your next status tier.

Since the offer is limited to two qualifying cruises, it is worth choosing those bookings carefully. A little planning now could help you unlock valuable Crown & Anchor benefits much sooner, allowing you to continue enjoying them for years to come.

Prime Day deals are officially live, and this is the perfect opportunity to buy things for your next cruise!

As someone that cruises a lot, this is a great time to pick up travel essentials that could make your trip more comfortable and less stressful.

This year’s Amazon Prime Day starts today and runs through June 26, making it the longest Prime Day event yet.  

New deals will be added throughout the 4-day event, with limited-time offers dropping regularly. 

Over the years, I’ve discovered plenty of travel products that have earned a permanent place on my packing list, and many of them tend to go on sale during Prime Day.

For instance, a portable charger can save the day during a long excursion when your phone battery gets low. In addition, I also love using packing cubes to keep your small cabin organized and your suitcase from feeling cluttered. And of course, a waterproof phone pouch can protect your phone while you’re relaxing at the beach or exploring a port.

Because cruise fares, flights, hotels, and excursions can quickly add up, Prime Day offers a chance to save on the travel accessories you’ll use time and time again. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your luggage, replace worn-out travel gear, or finally purchase a few items you’ve been meaning to add to your packing list, it’s a great time to shop on Amazon!

Here are some of the best cruise essentials and travel must-haves worth watching during Amazon Prime Day 2026. 

Note: This article contains affiliate links and we earn a small commission on purchases. These cost you nothing extra to use, but it does help support our site! All products featured were on sale at the time of publication, though prices and availability may change as Prime Day deals are updated throughout the event.

E-Reader

Link: Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Essentials Bundle including Kindle Colorsoft (16 GB) – With color display - Black, Fabric Cover-Black and Power Adapter

An e-reader is one of the most underrated cruise essentials. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, enjoying a quiet sea day on your balcony, or unwinding before bed, an e-reader lets you bring an entire library without taking up valuable suitcase space. Many cruisers also appreciate the glare-free screen and long battery life, making it easier to read outdoors than on a phone or tablet.

Apple AirTags

Link: Apple AirTag (2nd Generation) - 4 Pack: Tracker for Keychain, Wallet, and More; Locator with Sound; Simple One-Tap Setup with iPhone or iPad; Key Finder with up to 1.5X Precision Finding Range*

Apple AirTags are one of my favorite travel accessories because they provide extra peace of mind when traveling. I place one in every checked suitcase so I can easily track my luggage if it gets delayed or misplaced during flights to and from my cruise. They’re also useful for keeping tabs on backpacks, carry-on bags, or even items you bring ashore during port days. 

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Link: BAGSMART Toiletry Bag Hanging Travel Makeup Organizer with TSA Approved Transparent Cosmetic Bag Makeup Bag for Full Sized Toiletries, Medium-Black

Cruise cabin bathrooms are notoriously small with minimal counter space, which is why I never sail without a hanging toiletry bag. Instead of cluttering the tiny vanity, you can hang the toiletry bag on a hook or towel rack. It keeps all of your toiletries organized and easy to access. It also makes unpacking a breeze since you can simply hang the bag up and you’re ready to go!

Magnetic Hooks

Link: Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks, Heavy Duty 30lb+ Strong Magnet Hook for Cruise Cabins, Cruise Essentials 2026 for Hanging, Metal Wall Refrigerator Hangers (Silver White, 10 Pack)

Magnetic hooks are one of the most popular cabin essentials for a reason. Since most cruise cabin walls are magnetic, these hooks give you extra space to hang hats, lanyards, bags, jackets, swimsuits, and other small items around the room. They take up almost no space in your luggage but can make your cruise stateroom feel way more organized.

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

Link: Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean Ships & Celebrity, 6Pack Clear Tags Cruise Travel Essentials for 2026-2027

Printed luggage tags for a cruise can easily rip, tear, or get soaked before your suitcase makes it onboard. Because of this, clear luggage tag holders are popular because they keep printed tags protected and securely attached throughout embarkation day. After experiencing rainy embarkation days and seeing paper tags fall apart, I won’t cruise without them anymore!

Portable Fan

Link: Warmco 10000mAh Portable Travel Fan 7-inch, Up to 24H Runtime, Ultra-thin Quiet Rechargeable Battery Powered Desk Fan with Digital Display for Camping, Office, Bedroom, Cruise Essentials

Some cruise cabins can feel warmer than others, especially on older ships or warm-weather itineraries. A portable fan can improve airflow in your stateroom and help keep you cool while sleeping. Their compact size also makes them easy to bring ashore on hot port days. Many cruisers consider them a must-have, especially for Caribbean itineraries and summer sailings.

Motion-Activated Night Light

Link: 2 Pcs Magetic Night Light Motion Sensor Cruise Ship Approved with USB Cable LED Rechargeable Battery for Indoor Use in Bathroom Hallway Cabin Toilet Bed Stair for Travel Cruise Essentials 2026

Interior cabins can get incredibly dark at night, which makes it difficult to navigate the room without turning on bright lights. A motion-activated night light provides just enough illumination for bathroom trips in the middle of the night without disturbing everyone else in the cabin. It’s a must-have item that can make your stateroom feel much more comfortable.

Pop-Up Mesh Hamper

Link: Handy Laundry Collapsible Mesh Pop Up Laundry Hamper 2-Pack – Large Foldable Laundry Basket with Side Pocket, Breathable & Durable, Space-Saving for Clothes, Toys, Travel, Dorm, Bedroom, Blue

One of the easiest ways to keep a cruise cabin organized is by bringing a pop-up laundry hamper. It takes up almost no space in your suitcase but provides a designated spot for dirty clothes throughout your trip. Instead of having laundry piled on chairs or on the floor, everything stays neatly contained. It's a must-bring item for me.

Cruise Door Magnets

Link: Cruise Door Decorations Looking for Cabin, Funny Magnetic Cruise Decorations for Cabin Door or Stateroom

Cruise door magnets are a fun way to personalize your stateroom and add some personality to your vacation. They’re easy to pack, don’t damage the door, and can make it easier to find your cabin in long hallways. In addition, decorating cabin doors has become a popular tradition on many cruise lines, so it’s fun to participate!

Travel Toiletry Bottles

Link: Travel Bottles for Toiletries, Tsa Approved 3oz Travel Size Containers BPA Free Leak Proof Refillable Liquid Silicone Squeezable Travel Accessories for Shampoo Conditioner Lotion (4 Pack)

Travel toiletry bottles are perfect if you prefer bringing your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or skincare products from home. They save space compared to full-size bottles and are especially useful if you’re flying to your cruise. I prefer bringing my own products from home, as the cruise-provided ones can be lower quality. Leak-resistant bottles can also help prevent messy spills inside your luggage.

Quality Luggage

Link: Away Amazon Exclusive Medium Checked Luggage - 26-Inch Lightweight Hardside Suitcase with Custom WhisperGlide 360° Wheels, Interior Compression System, TSA-Accepted Lock - Sky Blue

Whether you’re flying to your cruise port or driving, reliable luggage makes traveling much easier. Smooth wheels, sturdy handles, and durable construction can make a huge difference when you’re navigating airports, train stations, hotels, and cruise terminals. Quality luggage is one of the best long-term travel investments you can make. I’ve convinced my entire family to purchase Away luggage for their travels, as the hard-shell is very durable and the wheels roll like a dream!

Luggage Scale

Link: Luggage Scale 2 Pack Dr.meter Travel Scale Essentials Backlight LCD Display 110lb/50kg Luggage Weight Scale Portable Handheld Scale with Rubber Paint, Temperature Sensor, Battery Included

A luggage scale is especially helpful if you’re flying to your cruise port or planning to shop during your trip. I find it’s too easy to exceed airline weight limits after buying souvenirs or packing for longer itineraries. A small luggage scale can help you avoid costly overweight baggage fees before heading to the airport after your cruise.

Packing Cubes

Link: BAGAIL 8 Set Packing Cubes Luggage Packing Organizers for Travel Accessories-Cream

Packing cubes are one of my favorite travel essentials because they keep my suitcase organized and make unpacking in a cruise cabin much easier. I usually dedicate separate cubes to shirts, swimsuits, workout clothes, and evening outfits. Once onboard, I can easily transfer the cubes directly into the cabin drawers or closet. At the end of my cruise, I usually dedicate one or two packing cubes for dirty clothes, which makes laundry easy when I get home.

Compression Packing Cubes

Link: BAGSMART Compression Packing Cubes - 6 Set Travel Packing Cubes for Suitcases, Compression Suitcase Organizers with Shoe Bag

Compression packing cubes offer the same organizational benefits as regular packing cubes while also helping you save space. They’re especially useful for bulky items like sweaters, jackets, or cold-weather cruise clothing. If you’re trying to travel with only a carry-on, compression cubes can be a game changer to save space. 

Electronics Organizer

Link: FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch Electronic Accessories Carry Case Portable Waterproof Double Layers All-in-One Storage Bag for Cord, Charger, Phone, Earphone Black

Between phone chargers, camera cords, power banks, headphones, and adapters, tech accessories can quickly become a tangled mess in your suitcase. An electronics organizer keeps everything neatly stored in one place while traveling. I use mine both in transit and throughout the cruise to keep my cabin clutter-free.

Travel Pill Organizer

Link: FYY Daily Pill Organizer, 7 Compartments Portable Pill Case Travel Pill Organizer,[Folding Design] Pill Box for Purse Pocket to Hold Vitamins,Cod Liver Oil,Supplements and Medication-Pink

A travel pill organizer is an easy way to downsize your medicine bag before a cruise. Instead of packing full bottles of pain reliever, vitamins, supplements, or over-the-counter medicine, you can organize everything in one compact case. This one includes multiple compartments and easy-to-use labels, which makes it especially useful for keeping different medications separated while traveling.

Travel Jewelry Organizer

Link: BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer Case Foldable Small Jewelry Roll for Journey Rings, Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets,Mini,Soft Pink

A jewelry organizer keeps necklaces, earrings, rings, and bracelets secure while traveling. It helps prevent tangled necklaces and lost earrings, which can be frustrating when you’re getting ready for dinner or formal night. This can make packing your jewelry much easier, and I like the peace of mind that all of my accessories are securely in one place.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Link: Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch, IPX8 Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone 17/16/15/14 Pro Max, Cell Phone Dry Bag for Beach & Cruise Essentials, Touch Screen, Lanyard Included, 2 Pack (Fits Up to 8.9”)

A waterproof phone pouch is one of those items you don’t realize you need until you’re standing on a beach, snorkeling, or lounging by the pool. It protects your phone from water or sand while still allowing you to take photos and access your screen. It’s especially useful for Caribbean cruises and beach-focused itineraries.

Belt Bag

Link: BAGSMART Fanny Packs for Women Cross Body, Quilted Puffy Belt Bag with Pockets, Fashion Waist Packs for Traveling Hiking Black

A belt bag is perfect for port days when you want easy access to your essentials without carrying a bulky backpack. It helps keep your phone, cruise card, sunscreen, wallet, and passport secure while exploring ashore. They’re comfortable, lightweight, and have become one of my favorite travel accessories because of their versatility!

Wireless Charging Station

Link: Anker MagGo 3 in 1 iPhone 17 Charging Station, MagSafe-Compatible Wireless Charger Stand, Qi2 Certified 15W Foldable Charger for iPhone 17/16/15/14/13/12, AirPods, Apple Watch Ultra(Adapter Included)

A wireless charging station is very convenient if you travel with multiple devices that need charging, such as a phone, smartwatch, and earbuds. Instead of packing separate chargers for everything, you can keep all your devices charged in one compact spot. It’s especially helpful in cruise cabins where outlets may be limited. 

USB Charging Station

Link: USB C Charging Blocks, 60W USBC Wall Fast Charger Block, Type C iPhone USB C Charger Fast Charging Brick, 5-Port Multiport Charger Plug Power Adapter for iPhone 17/16/15/14/13 Pro Max, iPad, GalaxyS25 

Cruise cabins, especially on older ships, often have limited outlets available. A USB charging station provides additional charging options for everyone in the stateroom without violating cruise line rules regarding surge protectors. If you’re traveling with family, this can quickly become one of your most-used cabin accessories. Just make sure you follow Royal Caribbean's guidelines for multi-plug outlets, which only allow for USB ports. 

Portable Charger

Link: Portable Charger with Built-in Cables, Slim 10000mAh Power Bank with USB C, Travel Essentials External Battery Pack 5 Outputs 2 Inputs LED Display Compatible with iPhone/Android & More(Black)

A portable charger is essential for long port days, excursions, and travel days. Not to mention, cruise line apps, navigation, photos, and social media can drain your phone battery very quickly. Having backup power means you won’t need to worry about your phone dying while exploring. It's a cruise essential that I always have on-hand.

Extra-Long Charging Cord

Link: iPhone 17 16 15 Charger Fast Charging, 10 FT Long USB C Charger Cord with 20W Type C Fast Phone Charging Block for iPhone 17/17 Pro/17 Pro max/Air, for iPhone 16 15 Pro Max Plus, iPad, Android

You never know how far the outlet will be from the bed in your cruise cabin. An extra-long charging cord makes it much easier to charge your phone while still being able to use it comfortably. I never cruise without mine, especially when I am sailing on an older ship with limited outlets in a cabin.

Wireless Headphones

Link: TAGRY Bluetooth Headphones True Wireless Earbuds 60H Playback LED Power Display Earphones with Wireless Charging Case IPX5 Waterproof in-Ear Ear buds with Mic for TV Smart Phone Laptop Computer Sports

Whether you’re flying to your cruise port, relaxing by the pool, working remotely, or watching a movie in your cabin, a good pair of wireless headphones is worth having. They take up very little space and are something I find myself using throughout every trip.

Portable Sound Machine

Link: Color Noise Sleep White Noise Portable Sound Machines with 30 Soothing Sounds 32 Levels Volume Compact 4 Timer Options Auto-Off and Memory Function for Travel Home Everyone

Cruise cabins are not always as quiet as you hope, especially if you’re near an elevator, public space, or noisy hallway. A portable sound machine helps drown out background noise and creates a more relaxing sleep environment. It’s one of the few travel items that I won't leave home without.

Sunscreen

Link: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen Spray SPF 70 Broad Spectrum UVA UVB Protection Lightweight Water Resistant up to 80 Minutes Oil PABA Oxybenzone Free, 3-pack of 5 oz

Sunscreen is one of the most important things you’ll pack for a cruise, particularly if you’re sailing somewhere warm and sunny. It’s often more expensive onboard and in port, so purchasing it ahead of time is usually the better option. I always recommend bringing more than you think you’ll need!

Motion Sickness Medicine

Link: Dramamine Motion Sickness Relief Less Drowsey Formula, 8 Count (Pack of 2)

Even if you don’t usually get seasick, it’s smart to pack motion sickness medication just in case. Rough seas can happen on any itinerary, and it’s much easier to be prepared than search for medicine once you’re onboard. I always bring some, even though I rarely need it.

Handheld Fan

Link: Portable Handheld Turbo Fan - 5 Gear High Speed 4000mAh Rechargeable Mini Personal Hand Fan Blow Cold Air, Battery Operated Travel Essentials, Beach Vacation, Gifts for Women, Men (Black)

If you’re cruising somewhere hot and humid, a handheld fan can make a huge difference during port days. I find them especially useful in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Mediterranean during the summer when temperatures can be brutal. I’ve even used them during travel days when the plane gets a little too stuffy for my liking.

Federal officials are investigating after an endangered fin whale was discovered on the bow of Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas when the ship arrived in Seward, Alaska.

The discovery was made on June 19, 2026, when the Quantum Class cruise ship docked in Seward following an Alaska cruise. According to NOAA Fisheries Alaska, the vessel arrived with a dead 61-foot female fin whale “on top of the ship’s bulbous bow.”

NOAA Fisheries is the federal agency responsible for protecting and managing marine mammals and fisheries in U.S. waters. According to NOAA, a local company later towed the whale to a nearby beach where marine mammal experts began preparing for a necropsy, which is the animal equivalent of an autopsy. The necropsy will be used to help determine how the whale died.

(Image of fin whale in Seward, Alaska following the incident. Photo shared by NOAA Fisheries Alaska on Facebook)

Officials had not determined yet whether the whale was killed in a collision with the ship, was already dead before becoming lodged on the bow, or died from other causes.

Royal Caribbean Group issued a statement to the press, "We are saddened to hear that one of our ships struck a whale while on its way to Seward." 

"We take any impact to marine ecosystems very seriously. The ship immediately reported the incident to the proper authorities."

In a statement, NOAA Fisheries said, “We are working with the Alaska SeaLife Center to perform a necropsy on the 61-foot, adult female fin whale to determine the cause of death.” 

The agency added that “initial findings indicate the whale was pregnant.”

Ovation of the Seas arrived in Seward, Alaska on June 19 after completing a one-way Alaska cruise from Vancouver. The 7-night sailing included visits to Sitka, Juneau, and Skagway, along with scenic cruising at Hubbard Glacier before concluding in Seward.

NOAA has launched an investigation

(Image of fin whale in Seward, Alaska following the incident. Photo shared by NOAA Fisheries Alaska on Facebook)

NOAA Fisheries confirmed that its Office of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident and is asking anyone with information to contact its 24-hour enforcement hotline.

The agency also urged members of the public to stay away from the necropsy site “for your safety and to allow space for the team to perform the examination and collect samples.”

At the time of publication, officials had not determined whether the whale died as the result of a collision with the vessel, was already deceased before becoming lodged on the ship, or whether other factors contributed to its death.

Investigators are expected to rely on findings from the necropsy and additional evidence gathered during the investigation to determine the whale’s cause of death.

Similar whale strike incidents have occurred before in Alaska

While seeing a whale lodged on the bow of a cruise ship is uncommon, incidents involving vessel strikes have occurred before in Alaska waters.

According to the International Whaling Commission, "over 300,000 whales, dolphins, and porpoises are killed globally each year due to incidental bycatch and entanglement in industrial fishing gear, including trawlers."

One of the most notable cases occurred in 2001 when a pregnant humpback whale known as “Snow” was struck and killed by a cruise ship departing Glacier Bay National Park. Snow had been photographed and studied by researchers and visitors for decades, and her death became a turning point for whale-protection efforts in the region.

National Park Service scientist Scott Gende later told KTOO that Snow’s death “served as a catalyst to a lot of the efforts to reduce the probability of collision between ships and whales in the park.”

Since then, researchers, marine pilots, cruise lines, and federal agencies have worked together to better understand whale behavior and reduce the risk of vessel strikes. According to KTOO, federal officials documented 77 whale-vessel strikes in Alaska waters over a 10-year period, with endangered humpback whales accounting for roughly three-quarters of those incidents.

Experts acknowledge that whale strikes can occur even when ships are following established procedures. Marine pilot Larry Vose, who has spent decades navigating vessels through Southeast Alaska, told KTOO that avoiding whales is not always straightforward.

“Just like a deer running out in front of a car, you may or may not have time to react,” Vose said.

For example, a Princess Cruises ship arrived in Ketchikan in 2017 with a dead humpback whale across its bow. Carnival Corporation executive Eric Chamberlin later said the collision was not discovered until daylight and that the crew had followed established whale-avoidance procedures.

Whale conservation group calls for answers

The incident has drawn criticism from whale conservation advocates. Cooper Freeman, Alaska director for the Center for Biological Diversity, described the situation as tragic and called for a thorough investigation into the whale’s death.

“It’s heart-wrenching that this endangered pregnant fin whale was likely killed by this monster cruise ship,” Freeman said in a statement provided to USA Today.

He continued, “This deserves a full investigation, with hard questions asked about how it happened. But the real solution is mandatory speed limits in whale hot spots, which have been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of tragedies like this.”

While vessel speed reductions have been shown to reduce the likelihood and severity of whale strikes, collisions can still occur even when ships are operating within established guidelines.

According to findings from a 2016 whale-strike investigation involving a Holland America Line vessel in Alaska, the ship was operating in compliance with applicable speed and wildlife-protection regulations at the time of the incident.

NOAA released the following statement about the incident: "The OLE investigation determined that the vessel and operator are not liable for the 'take' of the fin whale in question. While the necropsy results identify the cause of death as related to a boat strike, it's unknown if the whale was in good health at the time of the collision (as fin whales have numerous documented health concerns)."

What are fin whales?

Fin whales are the second-largest whale species on Earth, surpassed only by blue whales. According to NOAA, fully grown fin whales can reach lengths of up to 85 feet and weigh between 40 and 80 tons.

The species is classified as endangered and is found in oceans around the world, typically inhabiting deep offshore waters in temperate and polar regions. Like many large whale species, fin whale populations were heavily reduced during the era of commercial whaling. Although conservation efforts have helped populations recover in some areas, NOAA says the species continues to face significant threats.

Today, NOAA states the biggest threats to fin whales include vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, underwater noise, and the effects of climate change. Fin whales, along with all marine mammals in U.S. waters, are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, which makes it illegal to disturb, harass, feed, hunt, or capture marine mammals.

Legend of the Seas is still weeks away from welcoming its first passengers, but the world’s newest Icon class ship has already navigated one of the most complex parts of its delivery voyage.

The brand-new Legend of the Seas recently passed beneath Denmark’s Great Belt Bridge with just 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) of clearance, according to images and video shared by Royal Caribbean and fan site Loyal to Royal.

The transit comes just a few days after Royal Caribbean officially took delivery of the world’s largest cruise ship from the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. Legend of the Seas is now making her way to Cádiz, Spain, where final touches will be added before she welcomes her first passengers in July. Following her debut, Legend of the Seas will spend her summer sailing across the Mediterranean.

Royal Caribbean wrote on social media, “Legend of the Seas made it under the Great Belt Bridge with CENTIMETERS to spare. Now she’s on her way to the Euro summer of the century, sailing from Rome in just 14 days.”

Although Legend of the Seas' transit may look effortless in the video, navigating beneath the Great Belt Bridge requires extensive planning and careful coordination. More specifically, Legend of the Seas sits approximately 70 meters above the sea under normal conditions, while the navigational clearance beneath the bridge is roughly 65 meters.

To safely pass underneath the Great Belt Bridge, Legend of the Seas relied on several innovative engineering solutions.

Similar to other Royal Caribbean ships that completed the same transit, Legend of the Seas utilized retractable funnels and additional ballast water to pass under the bridge. The retractable funnels used during the crossing are not unique to the Icon Class. Similar systems can also be found aboard Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class and Quantum-class ships.

The vessel also relied on carefully calculated speed to temporarily reduce the ship’s overall height. By increasing the ship’s draft and sitting lower in the water, the vessel was able to safely clear the bridge with only centimeters to spare.

Royal Caribbean has previously explained that transits like this involve teams across multiple disciplines, including navigation officers, engineers, operators, and meteorology specialists who monitor conditions leading up to the crossing.

Video shared by Royal Caribbean captures just how close the clearance really was

The cruise line shared video of Legend of the Seas’ bridge crossing on social media. The video offers a closer look at the carefully planned transit, including the moment Royal Caribbean’s newest ship passed beneath the bridge with only about 12 inches to spare.

Aerial drone views show Legend of the Seas approaching the bridge, with the ship’s massive AquaDome appearing to nearly fill the available space beneath the structure.

Several close-up angles show the lowered funnels as Legend of the Seas approaches the Great Belt Bridge. As the ship passes underneath, passengers can be seen gathering along the railings to watch the rare transit unfold.

One angle of the video shows the bridge directly above the Royal Caribbean Crown and Anchor logo, which is mounted near the ship’s open-air neighborhoods. From the camera’s perspective, the bridge appears almost close enough to touch!

Footage captured from behind the vessel showcases Legend of the Seas’ Category 6 waterpark and expansive upper decks as the ship passes beneath the bridge. The angle highlights the massive size of the ship and the narrow margin involved in this kind of transit.

Legend of the Seas isn’t the first Royal Caribbean ship to make the crossing

Several other Royal Caribbean ships have completed similar crossings beneath the Great Belt Bridge. In late 2023, Icon of the Seas completed a similar transit while sailing from Finland to begin preparations for her debut in Miami.

More famously, Allure of the Seas passed beneath the bridge in October 2010 with less than 20 inches of clearance while heading toward Fort Lauderdale ahead of her inaugural season.

Like Legend of the Seas, both ships relied on retractable funnels and careful ballast adjustments to temporarily reduce their height.

The Great Belt Bridge, which is locally known as Storebæltsbroen, is one of Denmark’s most recognizable engineering landmarks. The bridge opened in 1998 and stretches approximately 18 kilometers, or 11 miles, across the Great Belt Strait. The bridge connects the Danish islands of Zealand and Funen and serves as a vital transportation link between eastern and western Denmark.

What’s next for Legend of the Seas?

The bridge crossing comes shortly after Royal Caribbean officially welcomed Legend of the Seas into the fleet during a delivery ceremony at the Meyer Turku shipyard in Finland. More than 1,200 crew members, shipyard workers, executives, and project partners attended the event, which marked the transfer of ownership from Meyer Turku to Royal Caribbean.

Legend of the Seas is the third ship in Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking Icon Class, following the debut of sister ships Icon of the Seas and Star of the Seas.

The vessel will soon arrive in Spain, where final touches will be added before she begins her inaugural season in Europe. Beginning July 4, 2026, Legend of the Seas will operate 7-night Western Mediterranean cruises from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

In November 2026, the newest Icon class ship will reposition to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she will sail 6-night Western Caribbean and 8-night Southern Caribbean itineraries. Every cruise will include a visit to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in The Bahamas.

Legend of the Seas features eight distinct neighborhoods with 28 dining options, seven pools, a Category 6 waterpark, Crown’s Edge thrill attraction, the AquaDome, and a redesigned Ultimate Family Townhouse. The vessel is also Royal Caribbean’s fourth ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), a cleaner-burning fuel that helps reduce emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.

Royal Caribbean has expanded access to one of its most exclusive onboard dining venues. The cruise line is now allowing select suite guests to invite non-suite passengers to dine at Coastal Kitchen for an additional fee.

The cruise line recently introduced a new policy that permits guests staying in Sky Class and Star Class suites to bring friends or family members who are not staying in suites into the exclusive restaurant. Royal Caribbean Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Service Vicki Freed shared details of the new benefit during a travel advisor webinar on June 17, 2026.

According to information shared onboard, Star Class suite guests may invite up to four non-suite guests per meal, while Sky Class guests may invite up to two non-suite guests per meal. Based on the new policy, invited guests must dine together with the suite guest, and access remains subject to restaurant availability.

The new program includes a per-person fee structure depending on the meal being served. For instance, breakfast is priced at $15 per person while lunch costs $20 per person. Dinner for invited guests in Coastal Kitchen will be available for $25 per person.

Children are also eligible under the new policy to dine as non-suite guests in Coastal Kitchen. Royal Caribbean’s pricing indicates that children ages 6 and younger may dine free of charge, while children ages 7 to 12 are charged $15 per meal.

Royal Caribbean notes that all charges will be applied to the onboard account of the inviting suite guest rather than the invited passenger. Additionally, an 18% gratuity and VAT may apply depending on the sailing.

Coastal Kitchen has become one of the signature perks of Royal Caribbean’s suite experience. Exclusively available to qualifying suite guests, the restaurant showcases Mediterranean influences with the fresh flavors of California’s agricultural regions. Royal Caribbean describes the venue as offering everything from Pacific Coast favorites to Mediterranean-inspired dishes, paired with an extensive wine selection featuring vintages from regions such as Napa Valley and Tuscany.

How passengers can request access for non-suite guests

The process for inviting non-suite guests to Coastal Kitchen differs slightly depending on the suite category.

Royal Caribbean organizes its suite accommodations into three categories: Sea Class, Sky Class, and Star Class. Sea Class includes entry-level suites and more limited suite benefits, while Sky Class offers enhanced perks such as access to Coastal Kitchen and suite concierge services.

Finally, Star Class is Royal Caribbean’s highest suite tier and includes additional benefits such as a Royal Genie and complimentary specialty dining throughout the cruise.

To invite non-suite guests to dine at Coastal Kitchen, Royal Caribbean states that Star Class passengers can arrange access through their Royal Genie. This can be done before their sailing or once they're onboard. Requests may also be made through the suite concierge or Coastal Kitchen manager.

Guests staying in Sky Class suites can request access onboard through the suite concierge or directly with the Coastal Kitchen manager.

While reservations have always been required for Coastal Kitchen, availability for invited non-suite guests is limited. As a result, guests hoping to share the experience with friends or family may want to coordinate access as early as possible.

Access to Coastal Kitchen is one of the most popular suite perks

For many suite guests, access to Coastal Kitchen is one of the most valuable benefits included with their cruise fare. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a more intimate setting than the ship’s main dining room. In addition, menus rotate throughout each sailing to highlight seasonal ingredients.

Star Class passengers receive complimentary specialty dining throughout their cruise, along with access to Coastal Kitchen for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Similarly, Sky Class suite passengers enjoy access to Coastal Kitchen for all three meals, while Sea Class passengers receive dinner-only access based on availability.

The restaurant offers a quieter dining experience for passengers with more personalized service. In addition, the menu provides higher-quality dishes and more refined entrees than guests will find in the main dining room.

According to Royal Caribbean’s website, Coastal Kitchen’s breakfast selections often include items such as feta and spinach frittatas, French toast topped with caramelized bananas, and Mediterranean-style plates featuring pan tomàquet, hummus, prosciutto, and Manchego cheese.

Moreover, lunch offerings might include dishes such as a Margherita flatbread topped with Buffalo mozzarella, sun-ripened tomatoes, and fresh basil, along with herb-crusted chicken breast served with roasted squash and Provençal tomatoes.

Dinner is a highlight for many suite passengers and typically features more elevated options. This might include Escargots à la bourguignonne prepared with garlic butter and parsley, roasted veal tenderloin with vin jaune sauce, and desserts such as rosewater panna cotta or fresh seasonal fruit.

Access to Coastal Kitchen is restricted to suite guests, although top-tier Pinnacle Club members may also dine in the restaurant based on availability.

A passenger sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas has been charged following an alleged incident during a recent Caribbean cruise. Authorities say the man attempted to photograph beneath a teenage girl’s dress while onboard the ship.

According to USA Today, an affidavit from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office states that 25-year-old Matthew Stilwell of Pawnee, Illinois, was charged with three counts of video voyeurism following an incident that allegedly occurred aboard the cruise ship on May 31, 2026. Video voyeurism is a criminal offense involving the alleged use of a recording device to secretly capture images of another person without their consent.

WPLG Local 10 News reported that the alleged victim was a 13-year-old girl sailing aboard Allure of the Seas. The teen reported that Stilwell had attempted to use his cellphone to photograph underneath her dress while the two were inside one of the ship’s onboard shops.

The incident reportedly took place during an Eastern Caribbean sailing aboard Allure of the Seas, which departed from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale on May 30, 2026.

At the time, CruiseMapper shows Allure of the Seas was sailing an 8-night round-trip Eastern Caribbean cruise from Fort Lauderdale. The itinerary included visits to Basseterre, St. Kitts; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay before returning to Florida.

According to the affidavit, the alleged incident occurred on May 31, 2026, while the ship was at sea en route to St. Kitts.

Alleged incident occurred inside ship gift shop

According to deputies, the girl told investigators she was browsing jewelry inside Allure of the Seas’ gift shop when she became aware of Stilwell’s behavior.

An arrest report states that the victim noticed Stilwell was “standing unusually close behind her with the camera application open on his cellphone.”

Authorities said the victim reported that Stilwell attempted to take photographs underneath her dress on three separate occasions. The girl eventually ran to her mother and reported what had happened, according to investigators.

The arrest report also indicated that Stilwell and the alleged victim were known to each other prior to the incident.

Investigation began after Allure of the Seas returned to Florida

According to CruiseMapper, Allure of the Seas returned to Port Everglades on June 7, 2026, at the end of the 8-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary. Following the ship’s arrival back in Fort Lauderdale, Broward Sheriff’s Office deputies boarded the vessel and began investigating the allegations.

As part of the investigation, authorities reviewed surveillance footage from onboard cameras. According to the affidavit, CCTV footage from the ship corroborated the victim’s account of the incident.

Following the review of surveillance footage, deputies also interviewed Stilwell. According to reporting by WPLG Local 10 News, details regarding an alleged confession were redacted from the publicly released arrest report.

Based on the investigation, Stilwell was arrested and charged with three counts of video voyeurism. Court records reviewed by USA Today did not list an attorney for Stilwell at the time of publication.

According to WPLG, Stilwell was taken into custody on June 7, 2026. The station reported that he was being held at the Paul Rein Detention Facility in Broward County. Jail records cited by WPLG showed his bond was set at $22,500.

Royal Caribbean has not publicly commented on the alleged incident, and the cruise line did not immediately respond to USA Today’s request for a statement.

Talks appear to be happening behind the scenes between Royal Caribbean and the Mexican government regarding a new private destination.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum says government officials are discussing the possibility of relocating Royal Caribbean’s proposed Perfect Day Mexico development. 

According to an article published by El Universal and translated from Spanish to English, Sheinbaum discussed the future of Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day Mexico project during a May 27 press conference.

The president said the federal government remains in talks with Royal Caribbean to determine whether there may be another location in Mexico where the project could be developed. She added that any potential future site would first need to be evaluated for environmental viability and assessed to ensure it would not create the same concerns identified in Mahahual.

“We are in talks with the company to see if there are any locations where the project could be developed without these environmental impacts, and we will first analyze whether it truly has environmental viability,” said the president.

Sheinbaum added, “In this area (Mahahual), the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) and the governor herself are evaluating the possibility of granting it an additional protection category, for example, allowing ecotourism only under certain conditions.”

The comments mark the latest development in an ongoing saga surrounding Royal Caribbean’s planned Perfect Day Mexico destination. The project was expected to become one of the cruise line’s largest private destination investments near Costa Maya, Mexico.

However, while Mexican officials say discussions are taking place, Royal Caribbean has not publicly commented on the possibility of relocating the project. The cruise line’s most recent public statement came after Mexican regulators rejected the original proposal on May 20, when Royal Caribbean said it was ‘disappointed’ by the decision but remained optimistic about advancing its investment in Mexico responsibly.

Government says environmental protection and investment must be balanced

During the press conference, Sheinbaum defended the role of Mexico’s environmental regulators, explaining that Semarnat evaluates both environmental concerns and economic investment opportunities when reviewing major developments. According to the president, projects can ultimately be modified, relocated, or rejected depending on the findings of the environmental review.

“They envision both issues: on the one hand, that there be investment in the country, but at the same time, in areas where a project is not suitable, the project is redefined so that it does not have those impacts, or it is relocated to another place, or it is simply rejected,” she said.

Sheinbaum also revealed that Mexican officials are evaluating added protections for the Mahahual area itself. According to the president, Semarnat and Quintana Roo Governor Mara Lezama are discussing whether the area should receive an additional category of environmental protection beyond the protected natural areas already established there.

One possibility mentioned by Sheinbaum would involve limiting future development in the area and allowing only certain ecotourism activities under specific conditions. She said officials are currently considering what protections may be necessary to prevent tourism developments that could negatively impact the local environment.

Perfect Day Mexico plans were rejected earlier this month

The latest comments come less than two weeks after Mexico’s Environment and Natural Resources Ministry (Semarnat) announced that Royal Caribbean’s proposal would not be approved in its current form. 

On May 19, Environment Secretary Alicia Bárcena confirmed that the project would not move forward after regulators completed their environmental review. According to the government, the proposed development was considered too invasive for the area.

Valued at approximately $600 million, Perfect Day Mexico was expected to include beaches, pools, restaurants, bars, an adults-only area, and a massive water park with more than 30 waterslides. The project represented one of Royal Caribbean’s largest destination investments to date.

Sheinbaum reiterated that Semarnat determined the project was not suitable for the location and that Royal Caribbean had already been notified that three portions of the proposal were deemed unacceptable. According to Reuters, the three denied permits included one associated with the project’s proposed pier infrastructure.

The government’s decision followed growing scrutiny from environmental organizations, activists, and members of the public who argued that a project of this size could permanently alter the area’s ecosystem. Some activist groups also argued that large-scale tourism developments in the region could amount to the privatization of natural spaces and cause irreversible environmental damage.

Why did regulators reject the project?

According to findings released by Semarnat, officials identified multiple environmental concerns during their review of the proposal. One of the primary concerns involved mangroves located within and around the project area.

Mangroves are considered critical to coastal ecosystems because they help prevent erosion, improve water quality, and provide habitat for wildlife. Mexican regulators specifically cited concerns about the presence of mangroves near portions of the proposed development and their importance to the area’s environmental health.

Prior to the project’s rejection, Royal Caribbean had repeatedly emphasized that it did not intend to develop within protected mangrove conservation areas.

Jay Schneider, Royal Caribbean’s Senior Vice President of Product Innovation, said in a 2025 interview, “We are not going to touch anything at all in the mangrove conservation area.”

The cruise line also argued that portions of the region’s mangroves were already being impacted by pollution from local wastewater infrastructure and said the project would include environmental improvements aimed at restoring mangrove health. According to previous project materials, Royal Caribbean planned to leave roughly 64% of the property undeveloped because of mangroves and other environmentally sensitive areas.

Regulators also raised concerns about the project’s potential impact on the Mesoamerican Reef System, which is one of the largest coral reef networks in the world. Other concerns involved groundwater systems and underground hydrological networks located beneath the region.

According to the agency’s findings, officials believed the size and scale of the proposed development could create environmental risks that were difficult to mitigate.

Another factor involved the way the proposal was submitted. Rather than evaluating the water park, beach facilities, cruise infrastructure, restaurants, and entertainment venues separately, regulators assessed the entire proposal as a single integrated development. 

As a result, officials concluded that the cumulative environmental impact of the overall project was too significant to approve.

The review process has also attracted substantial public attention. According to Semarnat, more than 14,000 public comments were submitted regarding the project between February and March 2026. Environmental organizations, including Greenpeace Mexico, publicly campaigned against the proposal and urged regulators to reject it. 

The group warned that the project and its connection to expanded cruise tourism could have significant environmental consequences for the region. Following the government’s decision, Greenpeace said it would “remain vigilant” regarding the possibility of the project being relocated elsewhere in Mexico.

Royal Caribbean says it still believes in Mexico

Following the government’s rejection, Royal Caribbean issued a statement expressing disappointment while also emphasizing that it remained committed to investing in Mexico.

“We are disappointed by SEMARNAT’s decision and respect the role of Mexico’s environmental authorities,” the company said. “Mahahual is a special place that deserves care and protection. We continue to believe in Mexico, and are optimistic in the potential to advance our investment responsibly.”

The company also stated that it planned to continue engaging stakeholders while exploring ways to move forward that support environmental infrastructure, local jobs, and community programs.

"Over the coming weeks, we will re-engage stakeholders to move forward in a way that delivers shared prosperity through the development of essential environmental infrastructure, the creation of thousands of local jobs, and community programs that support the people of Mexico."

More recently, reports indicated that Royal Caribbean withdrew portions of its original proposal, including plans for the massive water park component. That move reportedly allows the company the opportunity to potentially submit a revised proposal in the future. However, Royal Caribbean has not publicly detailed what any revised project might include.

Perfect Day Mexico was first announced in 2024

Royal Caribbean first announced Perfect Day Mexico in 2024 as part of an ambitious expansion of its private destination portfolio. The project was planned for Costa Maya near the village of Mahahual on Mexico’s Caribbean coast after Royal Caribbean acquired the Costa Maya cruise port.

The cruise line envisioned a destination similar to Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas, but on an even larger scale. The proposed development would have covered approximately 230 acres and carried an estimated cost of roughly $600 million.

“Perfect Day at CocoCay has been a gamechanger for both our guests and our business. With travelers prioritizing unique experiences and destinations driving their booking decisions, we’re excited to expand our Perfect Day Collection by creating Perfect Day Mexico to super serve guests who want to explore the Western Caribbean,” said Jason Liberty, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean Group. 

“Our momentum for reimagining the ultimate vacation experience for guests of all ages continues as we help guests turn the vacation of a lifetime into a lifetime of vacations across our brands," he continued. 

Among the headline attractions was Jaguar’s Peak, which was meant to be a 170-foot-tall slide tower that Royal Caribbean said would feature several record-breaking experiences. This included the tallest waterslides in the Americas and the longest coaster-style waterslide.

The project was designed to accommodate thousands of cruise passengers per day. Additionally, Perfect Day Mexico was expected to become a major attraction for Royal Caribbean ships sailing from Florida, Texas, and other Gulf Coast homeports.

“Since the introduction of Perfect Day at CocoCay in 2019, our top-rated destination, the memories made by millions have paved the way for the unbelievable experience that will be Perfect Day Mexico,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International at the time of the project's announcement. 

“Destinations are a big part of why families and adventurers vacation with Royal Caribbean, and in collaboration with Mexico’s state of Quintana Roo, we are unlocking new and unparalleled ways to make memories in a destination known and loved for its natural beauty, warm culture and prime location," Bayley added.

Some passengers aboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship were very upset after a last-minute itinerary change was announced for their Alaska cruise.

While sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas, a group gathered at Guest Services to complain about the fact their scheduled visit to Hubbard Glacier would be cancelled. The massive tidewater glacier is considered one of the biggest highlights on many Alaska cruise itineraries.

Videos and photos shared on social media show guests gathering outside of Guest Services while chanting, “We want Hubbard!” Some passengers were also seen holding handmade signs expressing frustration over the last-minute itinerary change. According to the post, it resembled a protest.

Ovation of the Seas was sailing a 7-night, one-way Alaska cruise from Vancouver to Seward on the affected itinerary. The itinerary departed Vancouver on May 15, 2026, with stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, and Skagway before the scheduled scenic cruising visit to Hubbard Glacier on May 21, 2026. The voyage was originally expected to end in Seward on May 22, 2026, but the itinerary was rerouted last-minute to disembark in Whittier, Alaska instead.

According to a post shared in a Royal Caribbean Facebook group, the captain announced the cancellation of Hubbard Glacier on the second-to-last day of the cruise.

The guest shared, “JUST REPORTING: Protests currently on Ovation of the Seas at guest services Alaska bound. Chants saying ‘We Want Hubbard’ after the highlight of the trip (Hubbard Glacier) was cancelled at last minute.”

Passengers said the cancellation was tied to Ovation of the Seas finishing the cruise in Whittier instead of Seward following ongoing delays with Seward’s new cruise terminal project.

The post continued, “The captain announced on the second to last day that the glacier had to be cancelled on the itinerary. Originally the ship was suppose to end in Seward, Alaska but on the night before the ship left, it was switched to Whittier, Alaska due to port repairs.”

The same post said guests were told operational constraints and timing requirements into Whittier played a role in the decision.

“The captain now announced there is too much traffic in Whittier because the passage is so narrow and the ship would now have to arrive there at 1am. Some passengers claim crew members told them that they knew in advance that Hubbard Glacier [would be canceled]…adding to frustration. That claim was not confirmed by the captain or any [Royal Caribbean] spokesperson however.”

Hubbard Glacier is a major highlight for many Alaska cruisers

The backlash from passengers onboard Ovation of the Seas undoubtedly reflects how significant Hubbard Glacier is for many Alaska travelers. In fact, Hubbard Glacier is one of Alaska’s most iconic cruise destinations, and for many guests, glacier viewing days are among the biggest highlights of taking an Alaska cruise.

Located within Disenchantment Bay near Yakutat, the massive tidewater glacier stretches roughly 76 miles from its source. Hubbard Glacier is known for having dramatic ice calving events, where large chunks of ice break away and crash into the water below.

Unlike a traditional port stop, Hubbard Glacier is a scenic cruising destination where ships slowly sail into Disenchantment Bay. Most cruise ships will typically spend several hours scenic cruising near the glacier, which gives passengers time to watch wildlife, photograph the glacier, and enjoy close-up views from open decks and balconies.

Passengers onboard Ovation of the Seas echoed this disappointment online, with several people describing the missed glacier visit as one of the most frustrating aspects of the sailing.

Additionally, most of Royal Caribbean's Alaska itineraries that include Hubbard Glacier operate as one-way sailings between Vancouver and Seward. This means travelers often pay more for multi-city airfare and land tours compared to traditional round-trip sailings from Vancouver.

“Incredibly frustrating. Myself and thousands of other passengers paid significant premiums to fly home from Anchorage vs a round-trip to Vancouver. The compensation doesn’t come even close to addressing this and the crew seems powerless to make things right. A future cruise discount would go a long way to making this a win-win for both passengers and RCL who would get significant future business,” shared one passenger on Reddit.

Others noted the sailing had already experienced disruptions earlier in the voyage, including delays related to immigration processing and operational requirements after the ship repositioned from Asia.

“Onboard now as well, a bit of a bummer, but fortunately on the B2B which doesn’t seem to be impacted yet. This sailing has had a few hiccups - the ship came from Tokyo to Vancouver, and the crew did not clear immigration until they reached Ketchikan + had a coast guard drill - which is why we were delayed leaving by almost 2.5hrs.”

Passengers speculate mechanical issues may have played a role

In addition to frustration surrounding the cancellation of Hubbard Glacier, some passengers mentioned that Ovation of the Seas seems to be sailing at a reduced speed, which could have contributed to the itinerary change.

It's important to note that Royal Caribbean has not confirmed any propulsion issues, and the cruise line has not linked mechanical concerns to the itinerary change. However, one passenger onboard claimed the captain previously mentioned speed restrictions earlier in the sailing.

“The other issue - and the main reason we’re missing the Hubbard Glacier - is because the ship is down 1 or 2 engines (I know the captain mentioned at least 1 on the first day). As such, the ship is still safe and functional, but (from my understanding) can’t reach its full speed - making it difficult to reach the glacier in time,” shared the guest.

“Because of logistics, they want to dock in Whittier around 1am, to ensure luggage and supplies are offloaded/loaded for the turnaround, which gives them even less time. This also subsequently caused the delay into Sitka combined with leaving Ketchikan late,” the post continued.

Other passengers aboard Ovation of the Seas referenced other maintenance issues onboard, including elevators being reportedly out of service during the voyage. However, at this point, any engine-related explanation remains passenger speculation.

Guest Services reportedly remained packed after announcement

As news spread across the ship about Hubbard Glacier being canceled, passengers reported large crowds of angry guests outside of Guest Services. One passenger wrote, “I briefly heard a ‘WE WANT HUBBARD’ chant after dinner, line at guest services was packed.”

Others described long lines continuing throughout the evening as guests sought clarification and asked whether additional compensation would be offered. One guest shared on Reddit, “I heard [the chant] as well! Seems like the line at guest services has been packed non-stop. I’m curious to see if they go beyond the onboard credit they automatically issued to everyone today."

Cruisers said that Royal Caribbean automatically issued onboard credit compensation following the cancellation. According to detailed shared online, compensation reportedly included:

• Inside and ocean view staterooms: $150 onboard credit

• Balcony cabins: $200 onboard credit

• Suites: $400 onboard credit

• Third and fourth guests: $25 each

Guests indicated the credits appeared automatically without requiring visits to Guest Services. Despite the automatic credit, many guests still reportedly visited Guest Services to voice their frustrations and ask for additional compensation.

Seward construction delays continue impacting Alaska sailings

The Hubbard Glacier cancellation comes as multiple Alaska sailings adjust to disruptions caused by delays at Seward’s new cruise terminal project.

Seward’s highly anticipated “Port of Tomorrow” redevelopment was originally expected to welcome cruise passengers beginning May 14, 2026. However, officials later delayed the opening until May 22, 2026 after inspections identified remaining pile clusters that needed to be removed before larger ships could safely use the facilities.

As a result of the delay, affected ships temporarily shifted operations from Seward to nearby Whittier. Although the two ports are less than 90 miles apart by road, the change still created transportation challenges for passengers with independent plans.

Because many Alaska cruise passengers extend their vacations with land tours before or after sailing, the last-minute swap created a logistical headache for thousands of passengers. For instance, many travelers had already arranged Alaska Railroad tickets departing and post-cruise hotel stays.

Royal Caribbean previously stated guests booked on cruise tours would continue seamlessly, with train service and transfers automatically adjusted where applicable. Shore excursions and cruise-line transportation were also updated to reflect the temporary move to Whittier.

However, travelers who booked independently faced a more complicated situation.

For example, one passenger previously shared that they had already reserved Alaska Railroad tickets from Seward to Anchorage, booked hotels in Seward, and arranged private excursions before learning their cruise would now end in Whittier instead.

Ovation of the Seas was not the only ship impacted

Ovation of the Seas was one of several ships impacted by the temporary Seward closure and subsequent move to Whittier, alongside Silver Moon, Celebrity Summit, and Viking Venus. The Quantum Class vessel is scheduled to operate one-way Alaska itineraries between Vancouver and Seward throughout the summer.

The disruption stems from Seward’s massive $137 million redevelopment project, which aims to modernize the city’s aging cruise infrastructure and prepare for larger vessels in future Alaska seasons.

The project includes a new floating double-berth pier, upgraded transportation areas, expanded bus operations, and a new 41,500-square-foot cruise terminal designed to handle increasing passenger volume.

Royal Caribbean Group has been one of the project’s key partners and is expected to receive preferential berthing access once the facility opens, although the terminal will continue serving multiple cruise lines.

Seward’s highly anticipated new cruise terminal won’t open as scheduled after a recent inspection uncovered issues that still need to be resolved before larger cruise ships can safely dock.

The delay has impacted several Alaska sailings across multiple cruise lines. As a result, several vessels were forced to temporarily reroute to nearby Whittier instead of Seward, including Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas.

The new terminal was originally scheduled to welcome passengers beginning May 14, 2026, but officials have now pushed the opening date back to May 22, 2026. During the delay, cruise ships that were expected to embark or debark in Seward will instead use Whittier, temporarily changing homeport operations during the start of Alaska’s busy summer cruise season.

The opening delay impacts Seward’s major “Port of Tomorrow” redevelopment project, which has been years in the making. The initiative was first announced in 2022 as a partnership between the Alaska Railroad Company, Royal Caribbean Group, Turnagain Marine, and the Seward Company.

The project essentially rebuilt Seward’s cruise infrastructure with a new double-berth floating pier and upgraded marine facilities. The 41,500-square-foot cruise terminal is also designed to support larger vessels and growing passenger numbers.

The massive investment cost an estimated $137 million and is expected to play a major role in future Alaska cruise operations. However, the project needs a little more time before opening.

“Port of Tomorrow” project hits an unexpected setback

According to the Seward Chamber of Commerce, a recent inspection found “several large clusters of piles” that still need to be removed before cruise ships can safely use the new facilities. In a social media post, Seward Chamber of Commerce shared:

“The Cruise Ship Terminal will delay opening and receiving passengers until May 22nd (rather than the originally scheduled date, May 14th). The ships that were to dock in Seward prior to May 22nd will be rerouted to Whittier, AK.”

“The delay is due to a recent inspection that revealed several large clusters of piles that need to be removed prior to receiving ships. Beginning May 22nd, the dock will remain fully functional for the remainder of the season with the temporary trestle and mooring dolphin in place.”

These pile clusters are associated with marine dolphin structures, which help support docking and mooring operations. Officials determined the remaining clusters must be removed before the port can begin receiving larger ships.

Once operations begin, the port plans to use this temporary trestle and mooring dolphin system for the remainder of the season. The setup will allow larger vessels to dock safely, including Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships.

Ovation of the Seas temporarily moves operations to Whittier

During the delay, impacted vessels will dock in Whittier, Alaska, instead of Seward. The two ports are located about 88.5 miles apart by road, with the drive typically taking just under two hours.

One of the biggest impacts involves Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas. The 168,666-gross-ton Quantum Class ship was scheduled to split Alaska homeport operations between Vancouver and Seward. The vessel will be sailing one-way, 7-night itineraries between the two destinations throughout the Alaska season this summer.

Instead, guests sailing from Vancouver on Ovation of the Seas’ May 15, 2026 itinerary will now end their cruise in Whittier rather than Seward. Royal Caribbean informed passengers of the change just one day before embarkation, according to a post on Reddit.

“Due to port construction in Seward, Alaska, debarkation for your sailing will now take place in Whittier, Alaska,” the cruise line shared with guests.

The next sailing will also be affected. Guests booked on Ovation of the Seas’ May 22, 2026 departure must now board the ship in Whittier instead of Seward for their southbound Alaska itinerary. Luckily, those travelers received roughly one week of notice to adjust transportation and post-cruise plans.

Royal Caribbean emphasized that the change is strictly related to port construction and not the ship itself. The cruise line confirmed there are no propulsion issues, mechanical problems, or technical concerns impacting Ovation of the Seas.

At this time, sailings departing Vancouver on May 29 and Seward on June 5 have not been modified. If construction stays on schedule and the terminal opens on May 22, those voyages should still operate normally.

Guests scramble to adjust Alaska Railroad plans and post-cruise travel

The unexpected switch from Seward to Whittier created logistical challenges for many guests, especially those who had pre-arranged transportation independently. In communication sent to impacted passengers, Royal Caribbean explained that guests booked on cruise tours would still be accommodated despite the port change.

The email stated, “For guests joining one of our Cruise Tours, your journey will continue seamlessly, with your train service now taking you directly to Whittier for embarkation.”

Additionally, Royal Caribbean stated that shore excursions and post-cruise transfers booked through the cruise line would be adjusted automatically.

“All Royal Caribbean shore excursions and post-cruise transfers will be adjusted to reflect the updated times. Revised information will be communicated directly to you by our Shore Excursions team and through our onboard As You Depart Flyer. If you previously reserved a Royal Caribbean coach transfer, train transfer, or shore excursion, no action is required on your part, as we will make the necessary adjustments for you.”

However, the situation is proving more complicated for travelers who made their own arrangements.

Royal Caribbean advised that “guests with independent transportation or privately arranged excursions are encouraged to contact their providers directly,” leaving some passengers scrambling to adjust plans.

One guest explained they had built their entire trip around ending in Seward before receiving the unexpected update.

“We originally planned everything around ending in Seward and already booked the Alaska Railroad train from Seward to Anchorage at 6 PM the same day,” the impacted cruisers wrote. “Now I’m trying to figure out what to do.”

The passenger added that they booked directly through Alaska Railroad rather than Royal Caribbean and discovered their tickets were non-refundable. “I’m supposed to get off now in Whittier, but have two nights booked in Seward with two non-Royal excursions and the train from Seward to Anchorage afterward,” the passenger wrote.

Multiple cruise lines have been impacted by the delay

Royal Caribbean is not the only cruise line affected by the delay. Several other ships that were expected to use Seward have also been redirected to Whittier. According to Seward Folly, three vessels have been impacted by the last-minute delay: Silver Moon, Celebrity Summit, and Viking Venus.

One passenger sailing aboard Silver Moon on a one-way Alaska cruise to Vancouver shared in a Facebook group that they had already arranged transportation before learning of the port change.

“[Silversea] just announced departure from Seward to Whittier,” the guest wrote. “We had made arrangements for transfer from Anchorage to Seward. Purchased bus tickets on Alaska transit. Canceled. Now I have to ask for refund of lost money. Just a little put out about last minute change. Just frustrated.”

Celebrity Cruises passengers reported similar changes aboard Celebrity Summit. One guest who sailed on the May 8 to May 15 itinerary warned future passengers to double-check embarkation details as work continues around the port area. 

“There was a change from Seward to Whittier,” the guest wrote on Facebook. “For next cruise, the terminal for Seward is under complete construction. It has been under construction for a while. Check your final destination.”

Several passengers praised Celebrity’s handling of the situation, saying transportation plans and rail arrangements were automatically updated.

“We found out on Tuesday afternoon that we’d be boarding in Whittier,” another cruiser shared. “Celebrity has handled it well. Train tickets were automatically switched from Seward to Whittier. On board now and life is good.”

Another passenger echoed that experience, noting the transition just added extra travel time.

“Celebrity took care of our transportation from Seward to here,” the passenger wrote. “Just took a little longer to get to the ship.”

Seward’s “Port of Tomorrow” project aims to transform Alaska cruise operations

The delayed terminal is part of Seward’s larger “Port of Tomorrow” redevelopment project, an ambitious effort to completely modernize the city’s aging cruise infrastructure ahead of future growth in Alaska cruising. The project is led by The Seward Company in partnership with the Alaska Railroad, Royal Caribbean Group, and Turnagain Marine. 

The partnership aimed to replace Seward’s existing dock facilities with a new floating cruise berth and upgraded terminal complex designed to handle larger ships and streamline passenger operations.

The redevelopment features a 41,500-square-foot enclosed cruise terminal along with an additional 27,000 square feet of open luggage transfer and flex space. During the Alaska cruise season, the building will support embarking and debarking guests, while the space can transition into community and storage use during the winter months.

The project features a floating double-berth pier measuring approximately 748 feet long and 100 feet wide, creating one of the largest cruise docking facilities in Alaska. The floating design allows the berth to rise and fall with Alaska’s extreme tides while accommodating ships on both sides of the structure.

The terminal complex also incorporates a transportation hub spread across roughly 13 acres of upland space with dedicated areas for buses, passenger loading, and parking. The redesigned layout includes 32 bus stalls, 48 vehicle spaces, dispatch-style loading lanes, and improved connections intended to streamline transfers between cruise ships, Alaska Railroad service, and ground transportation.

Royal Caribbean Group serves as the project’s anchor partner and will receive preferential berthing rights under long-term agreements, although the port will continue operating as a multi-line facility open to other cruise operators.

After taking more than 30 Royal Caribbean cruises, I’ve learned that embarkation day lunch can either be a relaxing start to your vacation or a stressful one.

Like many cruisers, the first thing I usually want to do after stepping onboard is grab something to eat. Between the excitement of finally boarding, exploring the ship for the first time, and carrying around my luggage after a long travel day, lunch quickly becomes a top priority.

While Royal Caribbean’s Windjammer Marketplace buffet is the most popular choice for embarkation day lunch, it’s often packed with passengers dragging luggage through crowded buffet lines. When staterooms aren’t ready yet and everyone is trying to start their vacation at the exact same time, many people naturally head straight to the Windjammer.

Last year, I sailed on Utopia of the Seas for the first time with my parents and grandparents. After completing our muster drill, we made the mistake of heading straight to the Windjammer for lunch. It was an absolute zoo! My poor grandma struggled to navigate through the crowds with her walker, and finding a table large enough for all of us felt nearly impossible.

Because of experiences like this, I usually try to avoid the Windjammer if the ship has enough alternative dining venues. Thankfully, Royal Caribbean’s newer ships make this much easier with more dining options.

For instance, I recently sailed on Odyssey of the Seas and chose to dine at El Loco Fresh on embarkation day. I love the selection of Mexican options here, so I grabbed a quesadilla for lunch. It was much quieter than dealing with the buffet crowds and ended up being a more relaxing way to start the cruise.

Of course, not every ship has endless dining choices. If you’re sailing on an older Vision or Radiance Class ship, the Windjammer may still be your best option for embarkation day lunch. 

With fewer complimentary dining venues onboard, your choices are more limited. Smaller spots like Park Cafe or Cafe Latte-tudes are often available too, although seating and menu selections can be minimal.

If you’re wondering where to eat after boarding your Royal Caribbean cruise, here are the restaurants that are usually open on embarkation day and the spots I personally think are worth trying first.

Complimentary restaurants open on embarkation day

The good news is that Royal Caribbean always has several complimentary dining venues open once passengers begin boarding, although what’s available depends on the ship you’re sailing on.

Windjammer Marketplace

The Windjammer Marketplace is the main embarkation day lunch venue across Royal Caribbean’s fleet. This large buffet typically opens first and remains available throughout most of the boarding process until sailaway approaches.

You’ll find a huge variety of food, from salads and sandwiches to pasta, burgers, international dishes, desserts, and fresh fruit. Some ships even offer special embarkation day food events, like Utopia of the Seas’ Seafood Extravaganza, which some passengers don’t realize is only available on the first day.

For first-time cruisers, the Windjammer can feel exciting because there are so many choices immediately after boarding. However, it’s also usually the busiest dining venue during embarkation day. On larger Oasis, Icon, and Quantum Class ships, I personally think it’s worth seeking out smaller venues instead.

Park Cafe

One of my favorite alternatives is Park Cafe, especially on Oasis Class ships. Located in Central Park, this complimentary cafe serves lighter options like sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts.

Many passengers forget about it on embarkation day, which means it’s usually less busy than the Windjammer. You can also enjoy the fresh air in Central Park while visiting this restaurant on Oasis and Icon class ships, making it one of my favorite spots for embarkation day lunch.

Cafe Promenade and Cafe Latte-tudes

Cafe Promenade and Cafe Latte-tudes can also be good options if you only want something quick after boarding. Depending on the ship, you’ll typically find pastries, pizza, finger sandwiches, cookies, and coffee drinks. Seating can be limited, but these venues are often much less chaotic than the buffet.

If you’re sailing on an older Royal Caribbean ship, this will be your main alternative to the Windjammer Marketplace on embarkation day.

Sorrento’s Pizza

Sorrento’s Pizza is another great option for embarkation day lunch after boarding your ship. If you board later in the afternoon and don’t want a large meal, grabbing a few slices of pizza while continuing to explore the ship can be an easy option.

In my experience, Sorrento’s Pizza can still be pretty busy on embarkation day. Since passengers typically enter the Royal Promenade area when boarding the ship, Sorrento’s Pizza is a convenient place to grab a bite to eat. Because of this, many people tend to gravitate here for a slice of pizza, as it’s one of the first places they see after boarding.

El Loco Fresh

On select ships, El Loco Fresh has become one of my favorite embarkation day lunches on Royal Caribbean. Available on Icon and Oasis class ships, along with select Quantum and Freedom class vessels, the casual Mexican venue serves tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos near the pool deck. The atmosphere usually feels much more relaxed than the Windjammer during boarding.

Solarium Bistro

Another hidden gem on some Oasis and Quantum Class ships is the Solarium Bistro. While many passengers head straight to the buffet, the Solarium Bistro often has a quieter atmosphere and lighter buffet-style offerings for lunch on embarkation day. I’ve found it to be one of the best places to escape the crowds while still enjoying a full meal.

AquaDome Market

Royal Caribbean introduced the AquaDome Market on its Icon Class ships as a food hall-style dining venue with several different food stations. It’s quickly become one of the best embarkation day lunch spots in the fleet because it helps spread passengers out while offering far more variety right after boarding. Depending on the station, you can find everything from crepes and Mediterranean dishes to Asian specialties, BBQ, and South American favorites.

Other venues

Depending on your ship, you can also find complimentary venues like Dog House, Wipeout Cafe, Surfside Eatery, Surfside Bites, or Basecamp open during embarkation day lunch hours. Royal Caribbean’s newest ships generally offer the widest variety of complimentary dining choices on the first day.

Is the Main Dining Room open for lunch on embarkation day?

In most cases, Royal Caribbean’s Main Dining Room is not open for embarkation day lunch, so this won’t be an option for most passengers.

However, there is one major exception. Guests who purchase The Key program typically receive a complimentary embarkation day lunch in the Main Dining Room. This can be one of the more relaxing dining experiences onboard during the busy boarding process.

Specialty restaurants open on embarkation day

If you don’t mind paying extra, several specialty restaurants may also open for lunch on embarkation day.

One advantage of booking a specialty lunch on the first day is that these restaurants are often far less crowded than complimentary venues. If you purchased a specialty dining package, you can usually begin using it immediately after boarding as well.

Common specialty restaurants that may open for lunch include Chops Grille, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen or Giovanni’s Table, Jamie’s Italian, Johnny Rockets, and Playmakers Sports Bar. Unlike dinner reservations, embarkation day lunch at specialty restaurants is usually first-come, first-served.

Personally, I avoid the Windjammer buffet whenever possible on embarkation day

After many cruises with Royal Caribbean, I have a pretty basic embarkation day routine. After boarding, I’ll arrange specialty dining meals for the cruise, complete my muster drill, and then grab a bite to eat.

If I’m sailing on a newer Oasis, Quantum, or Icon Class ship, I avoid the Windjammer whenever possible. Instead, I usually head straight to one of the smaller complimentary venues because they’re significantly less chaotic during the first few hours onboard.

For instance, I cruised across Asia last year aboard Anthem of the Seas. As a Quantum class ship, we were able to visit The Cafe at Two70 for lunch on embarkation day.

This is one of my favorite places on the entire ship, as it’s located inside the stunning aft-facing Two70 venue with massive floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean. During the day, the space is typically very calm and relaxing compared to the busy pool deck. This makes it a great place to grab a snack any time, but especially on embarkation day. The cafe serves lighter options like sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries on embarkation day.

However, if I am sailing on an older ship with fewer dining venues, the Windjammer buffet is often unavoidable. In those cases, I try to board early before the buffet becomes completely packed. If that’s not possible, I try to wait until staterooms are announced as being open, as this usually clears out the crowds in the Windjammer.

I’ve also learned that embarkation day can feature unique menu items or special food events that don’t happen later in the cruise. For example, Utopia of the Seas offers a Seafood Extravaganza in the Windjammer Marketplace, but it’s also usually available in the Solarium Bistro.

How to check what restaurants will be open on your ship

One of the easiest ways to see what will actually be open on embarkation day is by checking the Royal Caribbean app for your specific sailing. You can click on the dining section and scroll through the different restaurants to view each venue’s hours. In my experience, most dining venues are open for lunch on embarkation day, including both complimentary spots and specialty restaurants.

Royal Caribbean tends to keep embarkation day dining schedules fairly consistent between sailings, so you can also review recent Cruise Compasses online. This can give you a good idea of what to expect before you board if the app hasn’t updated yet for your sailing.

Dinner on the first night is less confusing

By dinnertime on embarkation day, Royal Caribbean’s dining operations are usually fully running. That means nearly all complimentary and specialty restaurants onboard will be open as normal, including the Main Dining Room.

By this point in the day, most passengers have already dropped off their luggage in their staterooms, explored the ship, and settled into vacation mode. Instead of everyone rushing to grab food immediately after boarding, passengers are more spread out across the ship during dinner service.

Whether you choose traditional dining, My Time Dining, specialty restaurants, or casual venues, dinner on the first night is usually much less confusing and chaotic than embarkation day lunch.